10 Cars Worth Waiting For in 2011

DETROIT -- The first international auto show of 2011 offers something for everyone in the market for a new car. Whether you're looking for the latest in plug-in supercars or mass-produced hypermilers, you're likely to find it within Cobo Hall, the convention center located in the cold, barren tundra that is downtown Detroit.

The reality of the ongoing recession may have stalled car sales in the U.S. market, but Americans still purchased or leased more than 11 million vehicles last year, and by most indications, the economy still has plenty room to grow in 2011. With gas prices on the rise, the spotlights and flashbulbs again turn to electrics, hybrids, and electric-hybrids. This year, the Toyota Prius finally gets plug-in electric capability, Mercedes-Benz showcases its version of an electric sports car, and Porsche promises to bring a car that's "spectacular."

Others are noteworthy for their designs. The upcoming Chrysler 300, a revamped version of Chrysler's iconic rear-wheel-drive sedan, is arguably the most important result of parent company Fiat's work, and its reception in Detroit should prove a bellwether for sales. Ford will introduce a seven-passenger mini-minivan for the masses. Check out the following list of the most significant new models, or click "Next" below to read about them all.

2011 BMW 1-Series M Coupe

Meet Munich's miniaturized version of the M3.

BMW's 135i coupe gets extra horsepower, a stiffer suspension, and wider, more aggressive bodywork. The 335-hp M Coupe is meant to evoke Munich's original, first-generation M3 — a raw, racing-inspired enthusiast's special. Like that car, the 1 M will be expensive, sold in limited numbers (the U.S. allotment is said to be less than 1,000 cars) and offered in just a handful of colors. Call it a wolf in wolf's clothing, or maybe BMW's gift to driving enthusiasts.

Price: $45,000 (est.)
On Sale: Spring

2011 Chrysler 300

New styling inside and out for Chrysler's iconic rear-wheel-drive sedan.

Chrysler has had a rough couple of years. Auburn Hills filed for bankruptcy in 2009 and emerged controlled by Fiat, the Italian company that left America in 1983 because it couldn't grasp what Americans wanted in a car. The 2011 300, a revamped version of Chrysler's iconic rear-wheel-drive sedan, is arguably the most important result of Fiat's work, and its Detroit reception should prove a bellwether for sales. Mechanicals are shared with the previous 300, but styling, interior, and suspension tuning are new.

Price: $28,000 (est.)
On Sale: Spring

2012 Ford C-Max

Ford's miniature minivan is the size of a compact sedan, with seven seats.

Like Chrysler, Ford is in the process of reinventing itself. Most of its recent new products boast a hefty European influence, and the C-Max people-mover is no exception. This is a seven-passenger mini-minivan — at just 178 inches long, it's roughly the size of a compact sedan — that offers a standard six-speed automatic and an available hands-free liftgate. As a bonus, the C-Max shares a platform with the excellent 2012 Ford Focus, so it should be more entertaining than the average kid-wagon.

Price: $20,000 (est.)
On Sale: Fall 2011

2012 Honda Civic Concept

Honda hints at what the new Civic will look like.

As in years past, Honda has been cagey about what it's bringing to Detroit. The few details that have emerged — including the sketch seen here — confirm a concept version of the next Civic, an evolution of the styling used on the brand's CR-Z hybrid. Everything else is speculation, but expect a return of the legendary Civic hatchback and a focus on efficient, four-cylinder power.

Price: Starting at less than $20,000 (est.)

2012 Hyundai Veloster

The replacement for the Hyundai Tiburon sports coupe.