2008 NYIAS Preview
The timing for this year’s New York International Auto Show couldn’t be more appropriate. With a crush of negativity currently hitting the market, how does the auto industry maintain, or better yet increase, sales from the previous year? Historically the answer has been to break open the car wax, turn on the spot lights and roll out the red carpet. With that in mind, step right up ladies and gentlemen; it is Showtime New York style!
The “Big Apple” is always ripe for something new and the 2008 NYIAS promises more than a few shockers. Here are several of the vehicles we expect to see, with much more to be revealed as the show starts later this week.
Acura TSX
It appears Honda is moving forward with plans to further distinguish the Acura brand as high-performance, luxury and All -wheel drive capable. The 2009 Acura TSX set to be uncovered in New York is rumored to offer SH-AWD, Honda’s highly capable version of continuous traction at all four wheels.
Acura is first and foremost a technology driven brand; the original NSX is proof of that. Since arriving in the market, the Acura TSX has been an “Americanized” version of the European Honda Accord. Expect the new version to take the next step forward in changing the perception of what a small Acura sedan is capable of.
Acura is tight-lipped on what they have planned for power underfoot. Reports suggest the possibility of a turbo, a thought that for many industry insiders would seem to make sense. High-revving machinery is the backbone of this company, so why not utilize it here?
Inside, the new Acura TSX is sure to offer a few surprises as well. No doubt the driving environment will be first-class; expectations are always high for any Acura/Honda vehicle. The all-new Acura TSX represents the next step in the evolution of the affordable luxury sedan and is certain to turn the spotlight on technology as well as class-leading fit and finish.
Honda Fit
Speaking of fit, Honda will stroll into New York with the latest version of their highly successful Honda Fit. Though no details are forthcoming at this time, expectations run high. Size matters in this category, as Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda eluded to recently when he stated, "The all-new Honda Fit will reconfirm that small can in fact be big."
Additional Honda vehicles in New York will include a prototype of the 2009 Honda Pilot due next year and the well- travelled FCX Clarity.
Nissan Maxima
The Nissan Maxima is the equivalent in the automotive industry to Janet Jackson of music industry fame. Between new offerings, both have a tendency to get lost in the noise, becoming an afterthought in a crowded market of equally good offerings. When it comes time to release something new, however, each one hits the stage with authority, showing they have what it takes to dominate the market.
Changes to the outward appearance of the new Nissan Maxima are expected to be subtle. A front drive sedan, it is in the areas of drivetrain and chassis where the majority of upgrades will happen. Expect additional performance, better handling, improved fuel economy and further refinements to the already very good CVT, (continuously variable transmission). A driver’s car at heart, the new Maxima offers a disciplined approach to a 4-door sport/luxury sedan.
Suzuki Concept Kizashi 3
Suzuki has been very well received at the various auto shows of late, due in part to their willingness to show something different. The Concept Kizashi and Concept Kizashi 2 showcased a new direction for the company and their latest vehicle to be unveiled at the 2008 NYIAS should prove equally exciting.
Developed by Suzuki's Advanced Design Group, the Concept Kizashi 3 represents the company’s vision for a flagship sport sedan. The last of the Kizashi series, it promises to be a highlight vehicle and a favorite of the many photographers in attendance.
More to Come
The Jacob K. Javits Convention Center is set to once again host what has become one of the preeminent auto shows on the yearly circuit. Which vehicle will ultimately steal the spotlight is anyone’s guess, but you can bet there will be a few surprises. In the city that never sleeps, the show is about to begin. We will, of course, keep you up-to-date on all the latest news beginning this Wednesday. Live from New York, its auto show time!
