Held Simultaneously with Tokyo

Porscheinitially announced that the new SUV,the new compact SUV "Macan," would have its world premiere exclusively at the LA Auto Show.This seemed only natural, given that North America is Porsche's largest market, and California has the highest car ownership per capita. The idea of a world premiere at the LA Auto Show felt entirely appropriate.

However, it turned out that the "Macan" was also world-premiered simultaneously in Tokyo at theTokyo Motor Show, although the LA Auto Show venue exclusively occupied the mid-sized Petree Hall, where five "Macan" models were displayed.

Porsche Macan

The highly anticipated world premiere took place not on the press day of the 20th, but on the preceding evening, the 19th, during the Preview Night. This was a strategic move to unveil the car in LA before the Tokyo Motor Show's press day. Indeed, there is a 17-hour time difference between Tokyo and LA.


At 7:55 PM on November 19th (Tuesday), just 20 minutes before theTokyo Motor Show press conference,thePorsche booth at the LA Auto Show(which, as reported, occupied the entire Petree Hall) unveiled the Macan to the world. As previously mentioned, brand ambassador and tennis star Maria Sharapova made a special appearance, driving the Macan onto the stage.

Numerous World Premieres from Japanese Manufacturers

On the press day of the LA Auto Show, which began the following day, the 20th, Honda unveiled the "FCEV Concept," while Subaru globally premiered the new "WRX (US Market)" and the concept car "Legacy Concept."



The "FCEV Concept," revealed exclusively at the LA Auto Show by Honda, is a design concept for their next-generation fuel cell vehicle, slated for global release in 2015. It follows the "FCX" and "FCX Clarity" models. While its futuristic design should be considered a showpiece, the front grille, rear styling, and overall image are expected to be reflected in the production model.

Subaru WRX

Subaru WRX

The new "WRX (US Market)," which graced the center of Subaru's stage, is powered by a 2.0-liter horizontally opposed direct-injection turbo "DIT" engine, producing a maximum output of 268 hp and a peak torque of 35.7 kgm. This is paired with a newly developed 6-speed manual transmission and a Sport Lineartronic with an 8-speed manual mode, featuring improved responsiveness. The body dimensions are 4,595mm in length, 1,795mm in width, and 1,475mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,650mm. The tire size is 235/45R17.



Alongside these clearly defined models, the simultaneous announcement of the "Levorg," the successor to the Legacy revealed at the Tokyo Motor Show, and the "Legacy Concept" at the LA Auto Show cannot be overlooked. While it might seem puzzling to announce seemingly similar models separately for Japan and the US, it offers insight into Subaru's future strategy.

Subaru's Intentions Revealed Through Display Differences

The "Levorg," introduced as "Subaru's first full model change in 25 years," is undoubtedly the successor to the "Legacy.""Levorg"is scheduled for release in spring 2014, with pre-orders beginning in January. This serves as a preview of the production vehicle.



This makes the "Legacy Concept" the key focus. It is significantly larger than the current model, measuring 4930mm in length, 1940mm in width, and 1500mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2880mm. For comparison, the current "Legacy" sedan (B4) measures 4,745mm in length, 1,780mm in width, and 1,505mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,750mm, highlighting a clear difference.

MINI

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT Final Edition

This could be interpreted as Subaru developing a North American market-exclusive model, similar to Toyota, Honda, and Nissan. The larger current "Legacy" and "Forester" are immensely popular in the US market, with the "Outback" being a particularly common sight on the streets. Subaru may be aiming for the next stage, leveraging its strong sales performance in North America. If the "Legacy" were to evolve independently as a North American exclusive model, akin to Toyota's Camry, the significance of this concept model becomes clear.



The third generationnew "MINI", andMercedes-Benz's"S 65 AMG", as well as"SLS AMG GT Final Edition,"and Jaguar's"F-Type Coupe"were among the many models simultaneously unveiled in Japan and the US. However, there were noticeable efforts to tailor the presented models and displayed vehicles to each market.

Local American Brands Showcase Their Vitality

The "Detroit 3" – Ford, GM, and Chrysler – who were absent from the Tokyo Motor Show, made a strong comeback. Particularly, the new models fromFordandLincoln, andCadillac's new models exuded a sense of grandeur, and their booths radiated energy.



Chrysler, whose parent companyFiathas been struggling in the European market, has seen a steady recovery in performance in the North American market. Fiat is now said to be relying on Chrysler's North American profits, with some local media even suggesting that "Fiat made a good purchase at a good time." If Fiat's struggles continue, Chrysler might regain its independence and stand on its own two feet, but it is likely too early to speculate on such a scenario.

Dodge Durango

Maserati Ghibli

The absence of Italian supercar manufacturers likeFerrariandLamborghini, who traditionally had California as their largest market, was truly missed. However, among them, Maseraticommanded a significantly large booth, standing out with considerable effort. The North American premiere of the new "Ghibli" was a highlight, giving the impression of a substantial investment.



Unlike at Asian motor shows, the number of so-called "companions" was not overwhelming. To conclude, and as a visual treat, we present images of the booth models who added to the vibrant atmosphere of the show.


To the Photo Gallery