Detroit Auto Show: What to Expect in 2011

The Detroit Auto Show 2011 is in its 23rd year as an international event. In those 23 years the show has had, like anything else, good years and bad years and years in between. How will the 2011 version stack up — what can you expect? From Honda and Toyota to Audi and Chevy, the new number of new cars should not disappoint. Here are four examples of what we think might be among the most popular for show goers.

Toyota

Toyota has chosen the Detroit Auto Show to unveil a new entry into its Prius family, a 2012 wagon, said to be larger than the Prius available today. Expect plug-in hybrid technology and the latest lithium ion battery.

Honda

Honda will show a concept version of its next-generation Civic, expected to arrive in showrooms in the Spring. Word is the new Civic will be slightly sportier than today’s model, and about the same size.

Audi

One of the Detroit Auto Show’s most important debuts is the all-new Audi A6. Audi is hoping the new A6 really give its sales a boost. The A6 takes many styling ideas from its just introduced A8. When the A6 goes on sale this fall, just a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 will be available. Audi is said to be thinking about putting a diesel in the car.

Chevy

Chevrolet, still glowing from the popularity of its Chevy Volt, is expected to show the 2012 Sonic, the car that will replace its Aveo next year. The Sonic will come as a sedan and hatchback.

Those are just four automakers’ highlights at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show. There will be many others. If you’d like to go, the show opens to the public Jan. 15 and runs to the 23rd.