The 2009 New York International Auto Show presented several new and refreshed vehicles for consumers to eye their next possible vehicle purchase. Automakers also unveiled some concept and prototype vehicles to test consumers’ reactions and get a sense of whether their latest design efforts would bode well for future buyers.

While attending the press days that led up to the show, the unveiling put forth by automakers revealed a continued shift towards small cars and crossovers.

2010 Acura ZDX prototype

Going on sale in the fall of this year, the Acura ZDX prototype packs an all-aluminum V6, six-speed sequential automatic transmission and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive under its metal. The vehicle’s wheelbase is only 108.2 inches, with a total length of 192.4 inches, slightly more than six inches longer than the Acura TSX.

BMW also took the wraps off its latest crossover, the 2010 BMW X6 M, a high-performance version of its “Sport Activity Coupe” released last year. It sports a twin-turbocharged, direct-injection 4.4L V8 that pushes out 555 hp. While not likely to attract budget-minded car buyers, these two premium CUVs will most likely lend themselves to wheel and tire upgrades by enthusiasts looking to add a little “bling” to their luxury-vehicle purchase.

Mitsubishi unveiled its Outlander GT prototype, which was given a less restrictive intake that adds 10 hp to its 3.0L V6, totaling 230 hp. In addition to stiffer springs and Brembo brakes, the Mitsubishi topped off its GT prototype with a polished clear-coat aluminum roof. With its wide stance and “EVO-inspired” styling, the Outlander GT could attract EVO-buying enthusiasts looking for a family hauler with some added performance.

Another concept revealed at the New York International Auto Show was a more futuristic design put forth by Hyundai. The automaker’s Nuvis concept is its eleventh concept car designed at its California Design Center in Irvine, California.

Nuvis is powered by Hyundai's Hybrid Blue Drive architecture, a parallel hybrid drive system that mates the company’s 2.4L Theta II engine to a six-speed automatic transmission, a 30kW electric motor and lithium polymer batteries.

In addition to crossovers, several small cars were also shown to the public. Volkswagen unveiled its sixth-generation Golf and GTi, which will hit U.S. dealerships this fall. The enthusiast-favorite GTi comes with a 2.0L FSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine that pumps out 200 hp.

A new small car was also unveiled that will likely come with a price tag sure to attract enthusiasts looking to save a little money at the pump. Kia announced that its latest small car, the Forte, will also have a two-door version known as the Koup. The Koup comes with a 2.0L and 2.4L four-cylinder engine, both achieving more than 30 mpg on the highway while delivering up to 173 hp. With its small size (an overall length of 176.4 inches), Kia says that the new two-door version of the Forte will be “easy to personalize."

Scion unveiled a concept of its own, testing the waters for a microcar to enter its product line. The iQ concept has a 78.7-inch wheelbase and an overall length of 126.9 inches. Powering the iQ concept is a 1.3L, four-cylinder, VVT-I that pushes out 93 hp.

To demonstrate the customization potential of this possible subcompact entrant, the iQ was fitted with a Five Axis widebody conversion, TEIN Super Street coilover suspension, a Five Axis custom stainless exhaust and Five:AD S6:F custom wheels with a nickel finish, prototyped by MetalFX.

Scion claimed that the iQ would be a perfect fit for young urban trendsetters, but its small size (and probable small price tag) and fuel-sipping fuel-economy rating will likely also appeal to frugal enthusiasts looking to add their personal touch to a daily commuter car. — SEMA Research & Information

A high level of disposable income and enthusiasm for Detroit iron make Dubai and the Middle East Gulf region an attractive market for both performance and styling customization. Consider attending or exhibiting at the Automechanika Middle East trade show. Several booths are available in the tuning and performance hall during the May 31–June 2 event in Dubai. All SEMA members traveling to Dubai are invited to attend networking and briefing sessions.

For more information contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

A high level of disposable income and enthusiasm for Detroit iron make Dubai and the Middle East Gulf region an attractive market for both performance and styling customization. Consider attending or exhibiting at the Automechanika Middle East trade show. Several booths are available in the tuning and performance hall during the May 31–June 2 event in Dubai. All SEMA members traveling to Dubai are invited to attend networking and briefing sessions.

For more information contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

Now available: a dynamic new look for www.SEMA.org and a host of new benefits for SEMA members. The modernized site blends new technologies to enhance networking and delivers information more concisely, based on user preferences.

The website overhaul is part of a continuing investment by SEMA in better networking and communications for SEMA members.

“Over the years we heard from the membership about ways that the website could serve the industry better,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “Most recently, the team assigned to building the site reached out to our members to understand specific improvements that could be made.”

Developed in partnership with NFi Studios , the www.SEMA.org site upgrade began with the addition of social networking features, company listings and news feeds. These new features allow visitors to obtain useful data and information at the click of a button, so members can connect with stories, people and tools that are relevant and will enhance their business.

Improvements and updates are continually being added. Most recently, an improved experience was introduced via a member-only portal called "MySEMA." This powerful interface allows members to choose and amplify the types of information most applicable to their business, based on their location, market focus and job type.

Members are able to browse company and user directories, send and receive messages, and tap into SEMA research. Media information about governmental affairs, motorsports, educational opportunities and other sources can be filtered and channeled to members as desired. Enhanced search capability makes it easier to pull up information from every corner of the website.

“The goal is to direct the most relevant information to the right members, at the right time,” said Kersting.

Future iterations will include further enhancements, such as collaboration platforms. Features that allow exhibitors and buyers to connect before, during and after the SEMA Show also are an important part of the new concept. These capabilities will provide a mechanism for enhanced networking and a way to help make time at the Show more productive.

“We’re not looking to push information, we’re looking to connect,” said Kersting. “I want to encourage everyone who hasn't been to the site recently to please check it out and tell us what you think. We'll be fine-tuning the effort in the coming months.”

The site debuted in public beta March 29. Based on member feedback, MySEMA and www.SEMA.org will undergo continuing adaptation and evolution. For more information, contact Tom Myroniak at tomm@SEMA.org, or send a message via Twitter (username: devildawg).

The www.SEMA.org makeover is just one part of an association-wide integration of communications at SEMA on behalf of members. The entire SEMA Membership Directory is now available online, and in February SEMA launched the electronic edition of SEMA News magazine. The print version is delivered to 30,000 businesses around the world; the combined mix of print and electronic now reaches 200,000 readers.

Now available: a dynamic new look for www.SEMA.org and a host of new benefits for SEMA members. The modernized site blends new technologies to enhance networking and delivers information more concisely, based on user preferences.

The website overhaul is part of a continuing investment by SEMA in better networking and communications for SEMA members.

“Over the years we heard from the membership about ways that the website could serve the industry better,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “Most recently, the team assigned to building the site reached out to our members to understand specific improvements that could be made.”

Developed in partnership with NFi Studios , the www.SEMA.org site upgrade began with the addition of social networking features, company listings and news feeds. These new features allow visitors to obtain useful data and information at the click of a button, so members can connect with stories, people and tools that are relevant and will enhance their business.

Improvements and updates are continually being added. Most recently, an improved experience was introduced via a member-only portal called "MySEMA." This powerful interface allows members to choose and amplify the types of information most applicable to their business, based on their location, market focus and job type.

Members are able to browse company and user directories, send and receive messages, and tap into SEMA research. Media information about governmental affairs, motorsports, educational opportunities and other sources can be filtered and channeled to members as desired. Enhanced search capability makes it easier to pull up information from every corner of the website.

“The goal is to direct the most relevant information to the right members, at the right time,” said Kersting.

Future iterations will include further enhancements, such as collaboration platforms. Features that allow exhibitors and buyers to connect before, during and after the SEMA Show also are an important part of the new concept. These capabilities will provide a mechanism for enhanced networking and a way to help make time at the Show more productive.

“We’re not looking to push information, we’re looking to connect,” said Kersting. “I want to encourage everyone who hasn't been to the site recently to please check it out and tell us what you think. We'll be fine-tuning the effort in the coming months.”

The site debuted in public beta March 29. Based on member feedback, MySEMA and www.SEMA.org will undergo continuing adaptation and evolution. For more information, contact Tom Myroniak at tomm@SEMA.org, or send a message via Twitter (username: devildawg).

The www.SEMA.org makeover is just one part of an association-wide integration of communications at SEMA on behalf of members. The entire SEMA Membership Directory is now available online, and in February SEMA launched the electronic edition of SEMA News magazine. The print version is delivered to 30,000 businesses around the world; the combined mix of print and electronic now reaches 200,000 readers.

Registration for the 2009 SEMA Show, the world’s premier automotive accessories trade show taking place Tuesday–Friday, November 3–6, 2009, in Las Vegas, is now open at www.semashow.com/register.

Buyers, installers, retailers, dealers and media from all over the world attend the SEMA Show to discover new products, trends and profit opportunities. The annual event has evolved over its 40-plus-year history and today offers a number of services to help attendees navigate more than 1 million sq. ft. of exhibit space and to hone in on the products, people and information that are most relevant to their businesses.

Attendees of the 2009 SEMA Show will enjoy a dedicated new-products showcase area, a sectionalized floorplan, personalized matchmaking programs and electronic scanning devices that deliver product details directly to one’s e-mail inbox.

“The SEMA Show provides attendees with everything they need to strengthen and build their core business, particularly for when the economy turns around,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events.

Improved technology is also being used to make it easier for buyers and manufacturers to connect with one another, not just at the Show but before and after as well. MacGillivray emphasizes the idea of connecting buyers and sellers. That’s because the SEMA Show gives the industry an opportunity to connect with thousands of businesses face-to-face, all in one single location.

Last year’s event featured more than 2,000 exhibitors showcasing products to improve and personalize a vehicle’s appearance, safety, comfort, performance and convenience. The event also includes educational seminars, networking receptions and events targeted to segmented niches.

For more information about the SEMA Show or to register for the 2009 event, visit www.SEMAShow.com/register.

Registration for the 2009 SEMA Show, the world’s premier automotive accessories trade show taking place Tuesday–Friday, November 3–6, 2009, in Las Vegas, is now open at www.semashow.com/register.

Buyers, installers, retailers, dealers and media from all over the world attend the SEMA Show to discover new products, trends and profit opportunities. The annual event has evolved over its 40-plus-year history and today offers a number of services to help attendees navigate more than 1 million sq. ft. of exhibit space and to hone in on the products, people and information that are most relevant to their businesses.

Attendees of the 2009 SEMA Show will enjoy a dedicated new-products showcase area, a sectionalized floorplan, personalized matchmaking programs and electronic scanning devices that deliver product details directly to one’s e-mail inbox.

“The SEMA Show provides attendees with everything they need to strengthen and build their core business, particularly for when the economy turns around,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events.

Improved technology is also being used to make it easier for buyers and manufacturers to connect with one another, not just at the Show but before and after as well. MacGillivray emphasizes the idea of connecting buyers and sellers. That’s because the SEMA Show gives the industry an opportunity to connect with thousands of businesses face-to-face, all in one single location.

Last year’s event featured more than 2,000 exhibitors showcasing products to improve and personalize a vehicle’s appearance, safety, comfort, performance and convenience. The event also includes educational seminars, networking receptions and events targeted to segmented niches.

For more information about the SEMA Show or to register for the 2009 event, visit www.SEMAShow.com/register.

Registration for the 2009 SEMA Show, the world’s premier automotive accessories trade show taking place Tuesday–Friday, November 3–6, 2009, in Las Vegas, is now open at www.semashow.com/register.

Buyers, installers, retailers, dealers and media from all over the world attend the SEMA Show to discover new products, trends and profit opportunities. The annual event has evolved over its 40-plus-year history and today offers a number of services to help attendees navigate more than 1 million sq. ft. of exhibit space and to hone in on the products, people and information that are most relevant to their businesses.

Attendees of the 2009 SEMA Show will enjoy a dedicated new-products showcase area, a sectionalized floorplan, personalized matchmaking programs and electronic scanning devices that deliver product details directly to one’s e-mail inbox.

“The SEMA Show provides attendees with everything they need to strengthen and build their core business, particularly for when the economy turns around,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events.

Improved technology is also being used to make it easier for buyers and manufacturers to connect with one another, not just at the Show but before and after as well. MacGillivray emphasizes the idea of connecting buyers and sellers. That’s because the SEMA Show gives the industry an opportunity to connect with thousands of businesses face-to-face, all in one single location.

Last year’s event featured more than 2,000 exhibitors showcasing products to improve and personalize a vehicle’s appearance, safety, comfort, performance and convenience. The event also includes educational seminars, networking receptions and events targeted to segmented niches.

For more information about the SEMA Show or to register for the 2009 event, visit www.SEMAShow.com/register.

Registration for the 2009 SEMA Show, the world’s premier automotive accessories trade show taking place Tuesday–Friday, November 3–6, 2009, in Las Vegas, is now open at www.semashow.com/register.

Buyers, installers, retailers, dealers and media from all over the world attend the SEMA Show to discover new products, trends and profit opportunities. The annual event has evolved over its 40-plus-year history and today offers a number of services to help attendees navigate more than 1 million sq. ft. of exhibit space and to hone in on the products, people and information that are most relevant to their businesses.

Attendees of the 2009 SEMA Show will enjoy a dedicated new-products showcase area, a sectionalized floorplan, personalized matchmaking programs and electronic scanning devices that deliver product details directly to one’s e-mail inbox.

“The SEMA Show provides attendees with everything they need to strengthen and build their core business, particularly for when the economy turns around,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events.

Improved technology is also being used to make it easier for buyers and manufacturers to connect with one another, not just at the Show but before and after as well. MacGillivray emphasizes the idea of connecting buyers and sellers. That’s because the SEMA Show gives the industry an opportunity to connect with thousands of businesses face-to-face, all in one single location.

Last year’s event featured more than 2,000 exhibitors showcasing products to improve and personalize a vehicle’s appearance, safety, comfort, performance and convenience. The event also includes educational seminars, networking receptions and events targeted to segmented niches.

For more information about the SEMA Show or to register for the 2009 event, visit www.SEMAShow.com/register.

Registration for the 2009 SEMA Show, the world’s premier automotive accessories trade show taking place Tuesday–Friday, November 3–6, 2009, in Las Vegas, is now open at www.semashow.com/register.

Buyers, installers, retailers, dealers and media from all over the world attend the SEMA Show to discover new products, trends and profit opportunities. The annual event has evolved over its 40-plus-year history and today offers a number of services to help attendees navigate more than 1 million sq. ft. of exhibit space and to hone in on the products, people and information that are most relevant to their businesses.

Attendees of the 2009 SEMA Show will enjoy a dedicated new-products showcase area, a sectionalized floorplan, personalized matchmaking programs and electronic scanning devices that deliver product details directly to one’s e-mail inbox.

“The SEMA Show provides attendees with everything they need to strengthen and build their core business, particularly for when the economy turns around,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events.

Improved technology is also being used to make it easier for buyers and manufacturers to connect with one another, not just at the Show but before and after as well. MacGillivray emphasizes the idea of connecting buyers and sellers. That’s because the SEMA Show gives the industry an opportunity to connect with thousands of businesses face-to-face, all in one single location.

Last year’s event featured more than 2,000 exhibitors showcasing products to improve and personalize a vehicle’s appearance, safety, comfort, performance and convenience. The event also includes educational seminars, networking receptions and events targeted to segmented niches.

For more information about the SEMA Show or to register for the 2009 event, visit www.SEMAShow.com/register.