Despite the economy down turn, manufacturers continue to bring out new cars with features for every driver. At the 2009 Canadian International Autoshow while hybrid vehicles dominate the floor for most manufacturers, attendees will also have a peek into the future vehicle's trends for the North American markets - more European and Asian models which are fuel efficient and more practical.

Nissan Cube

Given the cost of gas and other factors, it does not take much in convincing anyone to get out of the big SUVs and get into something smaller, something friendly to the wallets, something more practical and something greener. Nissan launches the 2009 Cube to the Canadian market hoping to fulfill this new trend. The Cube maybe new to the Canadian market but it has been in production since 1998 for Asian and European markets.

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The 2009 model is Nissan's 3rd generation of the Cube with fuel efficiency of 30+mpg and rumor has it that a planned hybrid model would give the Cube 40mpg. There is no confirmation on the pricing. ShopToronto.com estimates this vehicle pricing would start somewhere between $16,000 to $18,000.

SUV and Crossover

If SUV is your choice of vehicle, the  new Mercedes-Benz GLK series SUV features a design that distinguishes itself from all other SUVs with its unique design that carries a slight G class wagon boldness.
 

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Toyota introduces the new 2009 Venza crossover available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive models. This vehicle is designed and built in the US for the North American market using the Camry chassis with a starting price of $28,270.

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For Hybrid, Toyota Highlander and its Lexus cousin continues to dominate the market. GM's also have a number of hybrid SUV on the market, the Saturn Vue and the Chevy Tahoe, both are on display at the show.

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Sedan

At first glance, it looks like a Mercedes-Benz but it is the Hyundai Genesis. Genesis was voted 2009 North American Car of the Year and AJAC Best Luxury Car Under $50k. Genesis comes in 4-door sedan or 2-door coupe model.

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Sport Cars & Coupe

Audi R8 is the dream sport car for many but getting one would require some waiting time. Since the production begin in 2006, by end of 2007 Audi has built just over 4,000 units. The 5.2 FSI V10 with 525 horsepower all-wheel drive model is on display at the Autoshow with an estimate price tag of over $200,000 Canadian.

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Nissan 2009 GT-R packed with 480 horsepower in a 3.8L V6 featuring ATTESA E-TSª All-Wheel Drive is something you do not have to wait and within reach with an estimate price of $90,000.

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Photo: Dominic Chan / n8n media group