New York International Auto Show Preview: New Models Coming

The New York International Auto Show is quickly approaching and a number ofautomakers have started to drop information regarding new models. Here’s a quick update on the latest additions. With the exception of the Nissan (grabbed from its Japanese media site) none of the other manufacturers have issued photos – teasers, sketches, full shots or otherwise – so you’ll have to use your imagination when looking at the photos of their current counterparts.

Subaru B9 Tribeca

An appropriate locale for the debut of a crossover named after a Manhattan neighborhood, Subaru will be presenting an updated version of its slow selling B9 Tribeca. The facelift consists of two components, styling and performance. The B9 stirred up controversy for its unusual design, so the awkward nose will apparently be shed for a more conventional grille with wider headlamps. Under its new hood, the Tribeca will gain 0.6 liters in displacement, plus 9 horsepower and 32 lb-ft of torque for a total of 254-hp and 247 lb-ft of torque. Another benefit of the new engine is that it achieves 10-percent better fuel economy while running on regular fuel.

Lexus LX 570

The LX 470 sport utility vehicle is Lexus’ idea of the ultimate luxury SUV,although its old age and Toyota Land Cruiser roots have caused it to come up short against America’s Escalade and Britain’s Range Rover. Still, it’s one of the most accomplished and durable trucks on the market, and in Lexus style features a cabin that is swathed in leather, trimmed in California Walnut, and boasting an awesome Mark Levinson sound system. Lexus will debut an all-new model called the LX 570 in New York, which will feature a new 5.7-liter V8 engine, the largest engine Lexus has ever offered. The upcoming third-generation truck promises elevated levels of comfort, style and safety.

Honda S2000 Club Racer

For its stand in New York, Honda will be bringing a new trim level of the S2000 called the Club Racer. Designed for the weekend track warrior, this package is designed to enhance the S2000’s already impressive performance capabilities. Honda says that the Club Racer model was “engineered around the expectations of performance enthusiasts,” which means that the car will most likely sport an even stiffer, lower suspension for better high-speed control, a potential power increase, and perhaps even a body kit, spoiler and new wheels reflective of its sporting capabilities. We’ll have to wait to see the finished product, but an even sportier S2000 sounds good to us.

Nissan NISMO 350Z

We’re not 100-percent on this one, as no official word from Nissan has been announced, butwe’ve heard from sources that Nissan might unveil the North American version of its 350Z NISMO. The NISMO division is in charge of the brand’s motorsports operations, of which the off-roading branch is reflected by the Frontier NISMO. Already sold in Japan, the highly desirable 350Z NISMO is all about road performance. With its eye-catching NISMO bodykit and spoiler, plus unique alloy wheels and structural reinforcements for improved cornering capabilities, this car is sure to be a hit with 350Z fans everywhere.

With New York being the last major North American auto show of the season, get ready for more big debuts.