Though some pundits feared that the automotive business would crash and burn after the economic collapse of 2008, it's undergone a transformation the likes of which the nation hasn't seen since the post World War II era. Some brands were reborn, with others handed off to new owners or folded altogether. Some industry giants stumbled badly, while what were once considered upstart companies emerged as major players.
One thing that hasn't changed is that a steady stream of new vehicles helps bring shoppers back into new-car dealers' showrooms, and the 2011 model year is no exception. To that end, here's an inside look at some of the all-new nameplates that will be hitting the streets beginning this fall, including the first mainstream electric cars to reach production in over a decade.
Chevrolet Cruze. This nicely styled and well-equipped compact sedan boasts a relatively spacious, quiet and rich-looking interior and comes powered by either of two fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines, including a 1.4-liter turbocharged version in the "Eco" model that's estimated to net 40 mpg on the highway.
Chevrolet Volt. The Volt is an "extended range electric vehicle," in that a small gasoline engine runs a generator to power the car's electric motor once the onboard batteries have been depleted, which makes it practical for longer trips. Still, it can run solely on electricity for about 40 miles on a charge, which should suffice for most commutes.
Fiat 500. Already a favorite in Europe, this undeniably cute retro-themed subcompact coupe will be sold through a new network of Fiat/Chrysler dealerships by year's end. We'll likely see it fitted with an economical 100-horsepower 1.4-liter engine.
Honda CR-Z. A sleekly styled two-seat hybrid sporty coupe, the CR-Z is Honda's high-tech take on the classic CR-X from the 1980's. Small and lightweight, it promises both pleasing acceleration and nimble handling with an estimated 35-city/39-highway mpg fuel economy.
Hyundai Equus. This V8-powered full-size flagship sedan features a dramatically cast exterior, with a posh and handsome interior and myriad convenience features. It remains to be seen, however, whether luxury-car buyers will embrace a $60,000-plus Hyundai.
Lexus CT 200h. The upscale automaker's latest hybrid luxury car is a sleekly styled compact sedan. It packs a 1.8-liter gasoline engine that combines with an electric motor generator to deliver top fuel economy. A four-wheel independent suspension assures more playful handling than with most hybrids.
Mazda2. The comely Mazda2 subcompact carries the brand's trademark "happy face" front-end treatment, with an efficiently designed interior. While its 1.5-liter engine generates just 100 horsepower, its lightweight design is said to afford peppy acceleration and agile cornering abilities.
Mini Cooper Countryman. The new crossover SUV-like Countryman aims to be the most practical sports car ever. Taller and longer than a Mini Cooper, it's the first modern Mini to offer four doors and available all-wheel drive. Otherwise, it retains all the standard model's go-kart-like goodness, and is likewise available in regular and sportier "S" versions.
Nissan Leaf. Coming wrapped in a distinctively rounded design, this small all-electric vehicle claims a maximum 100-mile range (though it's more like 70 miles in real world use). With a strong initial demand, this could be the first electric car that energizes mainstream motorists.
Nissan Juke. The Juke is a petite four-door hatchback with a clever coupe-like profile that's highlighted by exaggerated wheel arches. A gas-sipping four-cylinder engine resides under the hood and promises entertaining performance, with a full range of amenities, including various high-tech gizmos, offered.
Scion iQ. This "premium micro-subcompact" car is distinctively styled and features oddly juggled seating for three adults with 10 airbags spread around its diminutive cabin. With good fuel economy as its prime virtue, performance is almost an afterthought, though it could become popular among the urban-hip crowd.
