New York International Auto Show prepares for public opening

(New York International Auto Show)

Thousand of visitors are expected to converge on the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York Friday for the public opening of the New York International Auto Show.

Amongst the star attractions will be recently debuted vehicles from major global automotive brands that are expected to hit the US markets later this year. Chevrolet is displaying its new 1.4 liter Cruze Eco, which delivers an estimated 40 mpg (5.88 l/100km) on the highway and underlines the brand's determination to bring down the emissions across its portfolio.

"The Cruze Eco delivers hybrid-like efficiency without the price tag," said Jim Campbell, US vice president Chevrolet marketing. "Along with the Volt electric vehicle, it demonstrates how Chevrolet is working to bring new products to market that range from gas-friendly to gas-free."

Crowds will also be keen to see the new Cadillac CTS-V Sports Wagon, powered by a supercharged 6.2L V-8 engine that is the most powerful engine in Cadillac's history.

Volkswagen's introduction of its new Touareg hybrid SUV is likely to generate some interest, especially as the brand goes head to head with Porsche, which will be debuting its Cayenne Hybrid SUV in the American market. Infiniti's QX SUV completes the lineup delivering 25 percent more horsepower and more than 10 percent better fuel economy than the previous model.

Ford owned-Lincoln gave the press a preview of the first Lincoln hybrid earlier this week - the new MKZ. The car is expected to deliver 41 miles per gallon (5.73 l/100km) in the city, 6 mpg more than its closest competitor the Lexus HS 250h.

For visitors looking for something a little smaller, Toyota-owned Scion is displaying its 2011 iQ micro-sub compact car, newly launched in the US. Dubbed the world's "smallest four seater", the iQ has three doors and an innovative seating arrangement that allows easy access to the rear seats. It will be sold in the US with a 1.4 liter engine.

The show is open to the public April 2-11 at the Jacob K Javits Convention Center in New York.

Website: http://www.autoshowny.com/