Despite some rain and heavy traffic, SoCal residents showed up in droves for this year’s L.A. Auto Show, held at the Los Angeles Convention Center, and it’s easy to see why. With a mix of exciting new designs, futuristic concept cars and eco-friendly hybrid creations, it showcased some big advances in driving technology. But more importantly, it gave us a great excuse to “ooh” and “ahh” at 2013’s hottest rides (and the female models posing beside them). If you have a chance to go it runs until Dec. 9, 2012 and costs just $12 to get in. Whether you make it or not, here’s a breakdown of our favorite pieces of automotive eye candy…
Honda EV-STER
Eco-rides were all the rage and Honda has finally us given a sleek design to save the planet with since it’s electric. Their EV-STER concept car is a rear-wheel-drive, two-seater convertible with twin-level steering and adjustable suspension settings. But more importantly, it’s completely badass.
Dodge SRT Viper
Ok, so maybe the beautiful model helped sell us on this neo. But nevertheless, the 2013 SRT Viper proved to be one of Dodge’s most popular attractions. With its sleek design, lighter weight and 640-horsepower, it’s the type of car that’ll get the valet’s jaw to drop every time you park it wherever you go.
Chrysler 300
Once again, the car show model drew us in for a closer look. But after sitting inside the latest Chrysler 300, we were completely sold. This is one of those cars that you can own the road with. It’s luxurious, it’s got a phat V-6 engine and those leather-heated seats are a lot more comfortable than any living room couch.
Ford Fusion
One of the Auto Show’s biggest headliners was the 2013 Ford Fusion. It captured the event’s Green Car of the Year award and offered a stylish new redesign that had the crowds lining up for a closer look. This hybrid can get you 47 miles per gallon on city streets and looks mighty attractive in shiny dark grey.
Lincoln Continental Mark II
Part of the fun of this year’s event was the classic rides that were put on display. Though there won’t be any Continental Mark II’s on the assembly line for 2013, the 1956 model that was showcased made us want to empty our bank accounts for a down payment. This retro beauty has a 368-cubic-inch engine and the opportunity for all kinds of hydraulic modifications, in case you enjoy the art of cruising.
Lexus LF-CC
In the mood for a classy new coupe? Then you’ll probably want to start saving for 2015’s Lexus LF-CC. Looking like something out of TRON, this aerodynamic hybrid has shimmering purple dashboard lights and an amazingly fluid exterior. Clearly it won’t be a cheap ride, but we’re confident that the LF-CC will turn into a Lexus bestseller.
BMW 650i Gran Coupe
Perhaps it was the sparkling chocolate brown color that drew us in to the new 650i. Standing out in a sea of imports, this sexy ride became a massively popular photo opp. So much so, that BMW didn’t even need a supermodel to stand beside it. Instead they let the car speak for itself, via the Turbo V-8, iDrive technology and 19” alloy wheels.
