Paul Eisenstein

Publisher

2007 Chevrolet Volt Concept  |  

Best production vehicle: Jaguar C-XF. Now wait, I hear folks shrieking, that's a concept vehicle. Yeah, sort of, but it's just a thinly-disguised version of the production Jaguar XF that will replace the aging S-Type and likely determine the long-term viability of a seriously troubled brand. How many other make-it-or-break-it cars were there at this year's Detroit Auto Show?

Most significant: I'm going to go with another GM car here, the Cadillac CTS. The second-generation sedan shows that Caddy's nascent renaissance isn't the proverbial flash-in-the-pan. The original CTS was visually striking, but still not quite up to the best-in-class. From its refined exterior to the lavish interior, it will be hard to ignore the '08.

Predictions for 2007: It's hard to imagine the competitive situation getting any worse, but 2007 is likely to bring a battle royale, especially if sales slump to the 16-million mark, like many predict. That could prove especially troubling for Detroit , whose buyers are more likely to be hurt by a weak economy. On the other hand, luxury makers like Lexus and Mercedes-Benz could set new records as Wall Street reaps huge gains.

Bengt Halvorson

West Coast editor

2008 Dodge Grand Caravan  |  

Best production vehicle: Two of them: Toyota Tundra CrewMax, and the new Chrysler minivans. As the truck market hiccups, Toyota will continue to chip into traditional domestic makers' sacred territory with this very well designed and executed product, especially with the attractive, six-person CrewMax. Meanwhile, Chrysler looks back on track to take a lead in the still-lucrative minivan market, with segment trend-setting features like a six-speed automatic and the Swivel 'N Go seating.

Most significant: Chevrolet Volt. People on the show floor were getting charged up over the Volt, a car that if produced would be revolutionary, with the potential to be the next 'it car' for green-conscious commuters. Although, as with the Saturn Vue plug-in hybrid, the technology is contingent to improved battery technology and reduced cost, let's hope GM builds on its electric car expertise, and builds the Volt.

Predictions for 2007: The auto industry will continue to see hard times, as the market seems to be in the middle of a major segment shift, not just an adjustment. The small-car market may not explode, but as gas prices inflame again come summer, full-size SUVs will see a lasting slump.

Henny Hemmes

Euro bureau chief

2007 Hyundai Veracruz  |  

Best production vehicle: The Hyundai Veracruz. It hits the growing segment of the crossovers spot on, looks good, is well executed, has a roomy interior and extended standard equipment. This crossover has the Honda Pilot squarely in its sights, at a base price well below $30,000.

Most significant vehicle:  With the availability of low-sulfur diesel fuel now in 50 states, America will get more seriously involved with very fuel efficient and torquey dieses, such as the Mercedes-Benz E320 Bluetec. Other DaimlerChrysler models will also get this technology, while Audi and Volkswagen also announced they would bring similar Bluetec clean diesel engines.

Prediction for 2007: The trend away from SUVs and toward station wagon-like crossover vehicles will continue. Sales of cars in the smaller midsize segment will grow gradually.

Richard Yarrow

Very Tall Brit

2007 Volvo XC60 Concept  |  

Best production vehicle: Nissan Rogue. It shows that smaller SUVs can still be practical, and the pop-up storage system in the trunk should be a feature of all cars.

Most significant: Jaguar CX-F. If the company is given the time to pull it off by owner Ford, it could be one of the great motoring comebacks.

Prediction for 2007: The rise of bioethanol as a gasoline alternative. America is showing the way and Europe has to now get on board.