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5 most significant cars from the New York Auto Show

Jeff Bartlett

The massive 2014 New York International Auto Show has hundreds of cars on display and dozens of all-new models and concept cars vying for attention. While much focus this week has gone to the 50th anniversary of the Ford Mustang, as well as numerous other automaker milestones, we think there are five significant introductions that you need to know about.

Alfa Romeo 4C

A super light two-seater, mid-engine sports car, the 4C will mark Alfa’s return to the States when it goes on sale this summer at Maserati dealerships. This striking car is powered by a 1.7-liter turbo four that cranks out 237 horsepower and uses a dual-clutch six-speed automated manual that can be shifted manually. With its light 2,600-lb. curb weight, low center of gravity, and a race-car-like weight distribution, the 4C promises to be an enthusiast-focused car.

Hyundai Sonata

Looking for a bigger slice of the competitive midsized sedan segment, Hyundai has given the Sonata a more mainstream appearance. That conservative sheetmetal wraps a model that aims to be more refined, with a 40-percent stiffer chassis, redesigned suspension, and increased emphasis on noise reduction. The new Sonata has a longer roster of available equipment, including a full suite of active safety systems, and luxury amenities like cooled front seats, heated rear seats, and hands-free trunk release.

Nissan Murano

With aggressive new styling reminiscent of the recently redesigned Rogue, Nissan’s midsize SUV gets a new, airier interior with larger windows, a lower dashboard, and an optional full-length panoramic sunroof. An available eight-inch color display houses the NissanConnect infotainment system, with access to mobile apps, navigation, entertainment, and more. Nissan’s punchy and refined 3.5-liter six-cylinder engine soldiers on under the hood, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission. New electronic safety features, include moving object detection and blind-spot and cross-traffic warnings, along with forward-collision warning with emergency braking.