NEW YORK, April 12, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- One of the best  things about a visit to the New York International Automobile Show are the concept cars that hint at our driving future.  Visitors to the Show will see vehicles that have never been seen anywhere in the world that are literally out of this world!

"Concept cars provide car lovers with a fantasy world of possibilities and they consistently top the list of show-goers favorite must-see activities at the Show," said show director Candida Romanelli.  

"These amazing cars are designed to see consumer reactions to innovative design elements or new materials, cool features, future design trends and new interior space configurations and they offer us all a fascinating window into the new cars and trucks that we can expect to be driving in just a few years from now," continued Romanelli.

Here are some of the concept vehicles expected at this year's Show:

Subaru Impreza Design Concept:  The Impreza Design Concept previews the carmaker's new 'Confidence in Motion' design and brand strategy. For the sporty four-door coupe the designers blended two ideas – 'dynamic flow' and 'confident stance' – while also incorporating Subaru's core engineering values of dynamic performance through permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, safety, enjoyment and quality.  The Impreza Design Concept is powered by a combination of the 2.0-litre naturally aspirated Boxer engine with a Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). 

Saab PhoeniX Concept: Sleek, innovative and exceptionally efficient, the Saab PhoeniX concept car showcases design features and technologies which will shape the next generation of cars from Saab. The PhoeniX concept has butterfly opening doors giving easy access to a 2+2.  Inside, it has a minimalist, 'stripped out' feel that reveals Saab's innovative IQon infotainment and communications system. Underneath, the new Saab is powered by an electrically-driven rear axle mated to a sophisticated 200 hp, 1.6-litre petrol turbo engine driving the front wheels. The result is an intelligent, hybrid all-wheel-drive capability that enhances driving pleasure while reducing fuel consumption.

Hyundai Curb: Curb is a compact Urban Activity Vehicle (UAV) for those living an urban lifestyle with an active night life. Hyundai designers wanted to create a vehicle loaded with technology that was at home in an urban environment with potholes and densely packed nightclubs on the streets. The Curb's design starts with the glass that spills into the hood and wraps around the cowl, covering the A pillars. Inside there is a large acrylic screen with multiple zones allowing information to be passed between passengers all via a touchscreen that appears endless. The Curb is powered by a turbocharged 175 horsepower 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine mated to Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG).

Mini Cooper Paceman: The first Sports Activity Coupe in the small premium segment, Paceman features a fresh interpretation of the front wing and side indicator that attracts the eye from the A-pillars down to the unique design 19 inch front wheels. This rugged and sturdy design element is complemented by dark wheel arch surrounds with matching side skirts that emphasize the masculine, sporting nature of this fun new Mini.

Mercedes-Benz Concept A-Class:  The Concept A-Class features an expressive and athletic design and is powered by a new turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine mated to a dual clutch transmission and features a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive Brake Assist.  

Kia KV7:  Conceived as a modern-day "activity MPV," the KV7 is designed to transport a large number of people and their belongings, while also serving as a connected social hub for groups of friends and adventure-seekers.  The lounge-like interior is accessed by a passenger-side gullwing door.  The concept is powered by a 2.0-litre GDI turbocharged engine capable of delivering up to 285 hp and mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. It delivers V6-type power and performance while enhancing fuel efficiency.

VW Bulli: The new 'Bulli' concept is the latest evolution of the iconic VW Microbus.  It is powered by an electric motor and fitted with six seats and infotainment control via iPad.  It is front-engined and front-wheel drive with a driving range up to 186 miles and a zero to 62 mph time of 11.5 seconds.  There is no tachometer (unnecessary with an electric motor) nor a centre console or gear lever.  The latter is replaced by a rotary switch to the right of the driver which is used to select forward and reverse gears.  A push button in the same switch is used to activate and switch off the motor.  

Toyota Prius c Concept: The Prius c is a small "city"-centric hybrid vehicle designed to appeal to young singles and couples who want an eco-sensitive, high-mileage, fun-to-drive Prius. This dynamic vehicle with urban appeal will pursue outstanding fuel efficiency in a compact package, while also providing a surprisingly spacious interior.

Nissan Ellure: The proportions of the new Ellure respect the basic layout and dimensions of a traditional mid-size sedan, while taking advantage of a next-generation compact hybrid powertrain. This allows the wheels to be pushed out to the corners, creating a stable stance and ample interior room, as well as a highly functional trunk.  It is powered by a supercharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with Intelligent Dual Clutch Control (one motor/two clutch design with lithium-ion battery) and 25 kW electric motor, matched with an Xtronic CVT™ and front-wheel drive.

GMC Sierra Truck Concept:  The GMC Sierra All Terrain HD concept is an exploration of heavy-duty truck capability combined with greater off-road versatility. The new 2011 Sierra HD underpins the All Terrain HD concept, with a modified production-based 4WD chassis. It is propelled by a 6.6L Duramax turbo-diesel 397 hp V-8.

Cadillac Urban: Cadillac's Urban Luxury Concept is a design study conceived and designed for city-dwellers in cities like New York where tight, confined parking areas for apartments, office buildings and even suburban homes are part of everyday driving.  The concept seats four, with easy access via a pair of scissor-type doors that extend outward and rotate forward when opened.  It is powered by a turbocharged 1.0L three-cylinder engine employing electric assist technology, engine start-stop function, brake energy regeneration and a dry dual-clutch transmission that is projected to help it get  56 mpg in the city and 65 mpg on the highway.

Ford Vertrek: The Ford Vertrek concept is a sporty, sleek, fuel-efficient and versatile compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) which reflects a convergence of customer demand globally for compact sport utility vehicles. The Vertrek's advanced powertrain technology features a 1.6-liter Ford EcoBoost™ gasoline engine combined with an Auto Start-Stop system to ensure impressive fuel efficiency and low emissions.

About the 2011 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS)

Showcasing the latest automotive trends, the 2011 New York International Auto Show will unveil an extensive collection of the most technologically advanced vehicles on display anywhere in the world. More than four floors of displays, including the new Javits Center North exhibition hall, will house nearly 1,000 stunning new 2011/2012 vehicles as well as sensational futuristic concept cars.  NYIAS is owned and produced by the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association.

Pre-Show Private Group Tours: The price includes a ticket to the show, early access to the floor and a tour by an automotive expert. Visit www.autoshowNY.com for more information or to reserve a place on one of our tours!

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SOURCE New York International Automobile Show