Must See Vehicles at the 2016 LA Auto Show

The 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show lived up to expectations, featuring some globally significant new car debuts along with a mouth-watering selection of other fascinating automobiles. While the Detroit show gets more international attention, the LA show is far more popular with the public, so manufacturers relish this chance to see how their creations are received in influential California. Also worthy of viewing at the show is Nissan's 21-foot tall replica of the TIE fighter, used to promote their partnership with the upcoming film, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.

Join us now as we reveal Autobytel's list of must-see vehicles from the 2016 Los Angeles Auto show. 

What is it? Honda says this Civic will be "the fastest, most powerful Si yet." No surprise, as it's powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder that almost certainly will produce in excess of 200 horsepower.

What changed? The 2017 Si will be available as coupe or a sedan, exclusively with a 6-speed manual. This is a driver's car, fitted with active dampers, active steering, a limited-slip differential, and high-performance 235/35Y-19 tires.

When available? The fun begins in the spring.

How much? TBD.

What is it? Toyota's new compact crossover is the C-HR (Coupe-High Rider). It's actually a 4-door, and this Honda HR-V competitor is said to "usher in a new era of Toyota style."

What changed? It's a new platform, tuned for fun with Sachs dampers and is even fitted with an onboard g-force meter. A  2.0-liter 4-cylinder sends 144 horsepower to the front wheels via a CVT.

When available? Next spring.

How much? Less than the $24,910 RAV4.

What is it? The Sentra is Nissan’s compact sedan. It’s usually quite humble, but NISMO is short for Nissan Motorsport.

What changed? The body is stiffened and given aerodynamic pieces, the chassis is firmer, a turbocharged 1.6-liter/4-cylinder engine delivers 188 hp to the front wheels through a 6-speed manual transmission (there’s an auto option), and it gets a sporty look.

When available? Early 2017.

How much? Nothing official yet, but $25,000 isn’t a bad guess.

What is it? An all-new premium mid-size crossover suv, based on the same platform that underlies the 2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia sedan.

What changed? It’s all-new, and it’s the first SUV from Alfa Romeo, who claims that Stelvio was challenged “to create the perfect mix of high performance, capability and design.”

When available? Late 2017

How much? Pricing hasn’t been announced yet.

What is it? The Audi A5 and S5 Sportback are four-door versions of the A5/S5.

What changed? Audi is jumping into the four-door coupe market (which is confusing—coupes are supposed to have four doors!) with the A5 and S5 Sportback. Think of them as hatchback versions of the A5 and S5, with plenty of luggage space and seating for five.

When is it available? Spring 2017.

How much? Audi hasn't said, but we expect the A5 Sportback to start around $45,000 and the S5 at $55,000.

What is it? The 2018 EcoSport is Ford's new compact crossover, built in India.

What changed? Ford has sold 1.7 million EcoSports globally since 2003, but this new third-generation model is the first to come to the U.S., where it will be powered by a 1.0-liter EcoBoost 3-cylinder or a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder mated to a 6-speed automatic. 

When available? Early 2018.

How much? Less than the Escape, which starts at $23,600.

What is it? A stunning all-electric concept SUV from Jaguar that has an impressive range of 220 miles.

What changed? Everything's new. Electric motors front and rear are powered by a 90-kwH lithium-ion battery that can be recharged in just over two hours.

When available? The production I-PACE will be revealed next year and be on the road in 2018.

How much? No idea. But with 400 horsepower, we know the I-PACE will be quick.

What is it? The E63 is the new hot-rod version of Mercedes' E-Class sedan.

What changed? If you regard the 369 hp E43 AMG as not powerful enough, this is the car you'll want. A twin-turbo 4.0 liter V8 provides 563 hp in the E63 and 603 hp in the E63 S. Both feature 4Matic all-wheel-drive and will get to 60 MPH in under three and a half seconds.

When is it available? Summer 2017.

How much? Pricing has not been announced.

What is it? An advanced concept vehicle that demonstrates Subaru’s “thinking about how big a future Subaru suv can be.”

What’s changed? It’s a concept vehicle that is the biggest SUV Subaru has ever sold in the US, slightly larger than the Tribeca (2006 – 2014).

When available? Subaru says that they’ll be selling a three-row crossover SUV in North America in early 2018.

How much? Pricing has not been announced.

What is it? This compact electric SUV showcases Mitsubishi's EV technologies, future styling, and autonomous driving capabilities.

What changed? Thanks to improved batteries and an emphasis on light weight, the eX, with electric motors front and rear, has a cruising range of 248.5 miles.

When available? This concept is not for sale. But the next Outlander Sport might get the eX's all-wheel-drive system, which uses cameras to monitor the road surface and select the optimum drive mode.

How much? See above.  

What is it? The fourth-generation electric Smart is here, available for the first time as a coupe, cabrio, and a 4-seat forfour model.

What changed? It goes farther (range is 80 miles) and charges 50 percent more quickly (2.5 hours) than before. A lithium-ion battery powers a 81-horsepower electric motor, which drives the rear wheels. 

When available? The smart fortwo Electric Drive arrives in early 2017.

How much? No U.S. price yet, but it will cost $24,000 in Germany.

What is it? A stretched-wheelbase version of the Porsche Panamera.

What's changed? The second-generation version of Porsche's Panamera now offers this stretched version, which provides more back-seat space courtesy of a 5.9” increase in wheelbase. The Executive will be available with four powertrains, including a turbo V6 and a hybrid; power output ranges from 330 hp to 550 hp.

When is it available? January 2017.

How much? Pricing has not been announced.

What is it? A plug-in hybrid version of BMW's venerable 3-series sedan.

What changed? The 330i combines the “Twin Power” four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, for a total output of 248 hp and 310 lb-ft. The car will run on electric power only at speeds up to 75 MPH, with a 14-mile electric-only range. Recharging the battery takes 2.5 hours with a 240V Level 2 charger.

When is it available? Now.

How much? Pricing starts at $44,695.

What is it? The next generation of Chevrolet’s compact crossover vehicle that debuted in 2005, sharing a platform with the GMC Terrain.

What’s changed? Chevrolet Equinox (and Terrain) will be smaller than before, slipping into the compact crossover class. It’ll get an all-new architecture, new exterior and interior design and a choice of three engines including a 1.5-liter turbo, a 2.0-liter turbo and a 1.6-liter diesel.

When available? First quarter 2017.

How much? Pricing has not yet been announced. 2017 models started between $24,000 and $31,000.

What is it? This striking concept is a sneak peak at Infiniti's next midsize SUV.

What changed? First shown at Beijing, the QX Sport Inspiration looks progressive and elegant, but with powerful proportions enhanced by massive 22-inch alloy wheels.  

When available? A production version, with similar styling and a variable-compression engine--a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with 268 horsepower--is in the works.

How much? Too early to say.

What is it? A 7-series with a plug-in hybrid drivetrain.

What changed? Like the 330e, the 740e uses a hybrid powertrain consisting of a two-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, for a total system output of 322 hp. The 740e can be driven on pure battery power for up to 14 miles. Significant use of carbon reinforced fiber plastic (CFRP) helps keep the weight down.

When is it available? Now.

How much? The 740e will start at $90,095.

How much? Around $60,000.

How much? It'll cost you $22,650 to hop onto this turbocharged Soul train.

What is it? A new sporty version of the Elantra GT.

What's changed? We're a bit jaded when it comes to “sporty” compact sedans, but this one's a cracker—it has a 201 hp 1.6 liter turbo engine and either a six-speed manual or a 7-speed twin-clutch transmission. These specs are disturbingly close to those of VW's GTI. We've driven the Elantra GT, and we're still smiling.

How much? $21,650 with a manual transmission and $22,750 in automatic guise.

What is it? A premium midsize sedan. Here it’s in mid-level Sport trim with a 365-hp turbocharged 3.3-liter V6 and a lot — a lot — of standard equipment.

What changed? Genesis is now operating as a standalone brand instead of being a Hyundai model name as it was previously. Think Lexus/Toyota.

When available? Spring 2017.

How much? To be announced. But $50,000 isn’t too far off the mark.

What is it? Jeep's new Compass is based on FCA's "small wide" platform. The U.S. gets one engine, the 2.4-liter Tigershark, which mates to a 9-speed automatic on all 4x4 models or a 6-speed automatic on front-drivers. Expect 30 MPG. Two 4wd systems are available, one with low-range gearing.

What changed? Everything. The refined interior boasts the latest Uconnect infotainment and a full-color 7-in. instrument cluster.

When available? First quarter 2017.

How much? Too early, but current Compass costs $19,595.

What is it? It’s an IS premium compact sedan — revamped for 2017 — given an unusual cosmetic treatment that pays homage to that especially pungent (and trendy) hot sauce.

What changed? The paintwork is Sriracha Red “with flecks of chili-like flakes” says Lexus. The trunk has 43 bottles of the stuff, and there are various saucy bits and pieces.

When available? Probably never. It’s a one-off show car

How much? The regular 2017 Lexus IS starts at $37,825.

What is it? The AMG GT is a sports car from the tuning division of Mercedes-Benz. But it’s remarkable because it’s not a hot version of a regular M-B car. Think of it as a rival to the Porsche 911.

What changed? Now there’s a Roadster version, meaning it’s an open-top car with a fabric roof.

When available? Summer 2017.

How much? Nothing official yet, but don’t expect much change from $130,000.

What is it? Another special Renegade, this one with a mean "blacked-out" look that continues inside, where you'll find black premium cloth seat, and metal diamond accents on the shift knob and door handles.

What changed? Not much, as this is basically a Renegade Latitude model with a substantial appearance package. Two powertrains are available: A 2.4-liter 4-cylinder with the 9-speed automatic, or a turbo 1.4 with a 6-speed manual.

When available? Now.

How much? $22,390.

What is it? This new Jeep is an off-road-ready Renegade Trailhawk inspired by the desert. Unique hardware includes 17-inch black wheels and special decals, plus rock rails and a Trailer Tow Group. Inside, you'll find black leather seats and handy all-weather floor mats.

What changed? No real hardware changes were needed for this talented off-roader, but the Deserthawk is available in an exclusive new  color--Mojave Sand.

When available? January 2017.

How much? $28,140.

What is it? An all-new version of Audi's mid-size SUV.

What's changed? The all-new Q5 follows the lead set by Audi's A4 sedan: The shape remains the same, but the styling is more angular and muscular. An updated 252 horsepower engine cuts about a second from the 0-60 time. Quattro all-wheel-drive is standard, and the optional Virtual Cockpit provides real-time Google maps right on the dashboard.

When is it available? Spring 2017.

How much? Pricing hasn't yet been announced.

What is it? The latest in a long line of Land Rover Discovery vehicles, replacing the outgoing vehicle (known as “LR4” in the United States). The all-new Discovery is a 7-passenger luxury suv with all-terrain capability.

What’s changed? Discovery is completely redesigned, with a new platform, exterior design, interior design, powertrain and electronics. Basically, all-new.

When available? Early 2017.

How much? Base prices $49,990 (gasoline) and $58,950 (diesel).

What is it? A true special edition of Nissan’s best-selling vehicle, the compact crossover vehicle is the first to have an official tie-in with the Star Wars franchise. Limited to 5,400 vehicles.

What’s changed? Special Star Wars badging and exterior trim, floor mats and a numbered full-size Death Trooper collectible helmet, only sold with the Limited Edition Rogue.

When available? Reservations are being accepted now at NissanUSA.com.

How Much? The Star Wars package is $1,990, and can only be added to 2017 Rogue SV equipped with the “Sun and Sound Touring Package.”

What is it? The FIAT 124 Spider is a 2-seater roadster based on the current (and excellent) Mazda MX-5 Miata. Abarth is Fiat’s tuning division with a cool black scorpion badge.

What changed? The Abarth treatment means shaving 100 pounds from the already sprightly curb weight, fitting a turbocharged 1.4-liter engine for 164 hp, limited-slip differential, stiffer anti-roll bars, Bilstein suspension, Brembo brakes and a sporty cosmetic package.

When available? Now.

How much? $28,195

What is it? An updated version of Nissan's subcompact Versa Note hatchback.

What's changed? The Versa Note gets new front-end styling with a V-shaped grille that gives it a closer family resemblance to Nissan's larger and more expensive models. Out back, all Versa Notes get the rear fascia from the sport-themed Versa Note SR. There are new wheels and a few interior improvements, including larger cupholders.

When is it available? November 22, 2016.

How much? $15,480.

What is it? An all-new 7-passenger mid-size crossover SUV from Volkswagen, the biggest VW SUV ever assembled in the US.

What’s new? All-new platform, VW’s Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB). Standard LED headlights, daytime running lights and optional LED taillights. Seating for seven, including two adults in the third row.2.0-liter turbocharged TSI four-cylinder engine or 3.6-liter VR6 six-cylinder.

When available? Spring 2017

How much? Pricing has not yet been announced.

What is it? This stunner is Volvo's outdoor-ready V90. Added ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive help this Volvo cross the country, so to speak, aided by a front skid plate to protect the chassis.

What changed? The Cross Country was developed in and for winter life in rural Sweden, and its Scandinavian heritage shows in the elegant design. A turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder produces 316 horsepower.

When available? Soon, we hope, because production began this autumn.

How much? $55,300.

What is it? The all-new second generation 2017 MINI Countryman is a revised version of MINI’s largest crossover SUV, a compact five-seater, now with an available plug-in hybrid engine.

What’s changed? A newly available 3-cylinder twin-turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric synchronous motor that works in tandem with the gas engine. The new powerplant is a PHEV or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, with four-wheel drive.

When available? Spring 2017

How much? Pricing hasn’t been announced yet.

What is it? The all-new second-generation edition of Mazda’s popular 2-row compact crossover SUV.

What’s changed? New exterior design, new interior design and, in the second half of 2017, a newly available 2.2-liter clean diesel engine. A new color, Soul Red Crystal, is available for the new CX-5.

When available? Spring 2017.

How much? Pricing has not yet been announced.

What is it? A beautiful concept Cadillac sedan of the not-too-distant future, longer than a CT6 and powered by a twin-turbo 4.2-liter V8 engine.

What’s changed? The liftback Escala is a concept, but it's built on a lengthened version of the production CT6's platform. Study the looks, and you'll see Cadillac's future styling direction. The dual-zone interior is extremely techy in front, and dripping with luxury in back.

When available? We'd love to see a production Escala in 2018, but no promises.

How much? It's far too early to talk price, but we could see an Escala starting at around $75,000 and approaching $100,000 when loaded.

How much? Around $30,000.