If you’re a car enthusiast in Southern California, you understand how influential the LA Auto Show is. Every year, thousands of people flock to the Los Angeles Convention Center to get a first look at the latest reveals, test drives, and design concepts—and this year was no different. While the 2022 LA Auto Show introduced new designs across all vehicle types, electric vehicles and hybrids dominated the center stage. Here are some of our favorite reveals that we’re excited about.
Our Favorites from the 2022 LA Auto Show
1. Porsche 911 Dakar
If you’re a fan of high-powered sports cars and off-roading, chances are you’ve seen a video of a 911 Safari. Initially built by Porsche for an expedition climb up a volcano in Chile, enthusiasts could only marvel from afar due to there being no factory model available. Until now.
As a successor to the 1984 Paris-Dakar Rally-winning Porsche 953, the new Porsche 911 Dakar is the ultimate embodiment of an “off-road coupe.” With an upgraded sports suspension, thick all-terrain tires, and protective stainless steel throughout, the 911 Dakar is built to handle rugged roads with timeless style.
According to Porsche, the 2023 911 Dakar will begin at $222,000, with only 2,500 units being available.
2. Genesis Convertible X
The Convertible X concept by Genesis takes our win for the most photogenic car of the 2022 LA Auto Show. Completing the manufacturer’s X concept trilogy, the Convertible X provides us with a look into the future of luxury electric vehicles.
According to Genesis Chief Creative Officer Luc Donckerwolke, the trilogy represents the company’s “catalyst to becoming more engaged with the environment.”
Taking advantage of the SoCal sunset, Genesis revealed the Convertible X concept outdoors to give the true feeling of coasting down the Pacific Coast Highway. With stylish lights, concave sides, and a driver-centric interior layout, the Convertible X concept has us excited for the future of luxury EVs.
3. Toyota Prius
Since its introduction, the Toyota Prius has been a significant car for both the automotive industry and Toyota itself. And for this year’s LA Auto Show, the iconic hybrid received a complete makeover.
Featuring a redesigned sleek exterior, a lower body, and starting horsepower of 194, the new Prius is “the perfect blend of fuel efficiency and proven reliability,” says Toyota.
Apart from design changes, Toyota has also worked on improving overall performance. For the plug-in Prius Prime, drivers can reach up to nearly 40 miles on pure electric power, up from the previous 25 miles. In addition, according to Toyota, the new Electronic On-Demand AWD system will allow the Prius to go from 0-60 in under 7.3 seconds.
4. VinFast VF 6 and VF 7
What makes the LA Auto Show special is that we’re able to get a first look at some of the vehicles on their way to our auto market.
During this year’s show, Vietnamese EV startup VinFast introduced two additional SUV models, the VF 6 and VF 7, which will join its roster of SUV EVs.
The VF 6 and VF 7 will hold up to 5 individuals and come in two trims, eco and eco plus, with a starting horsepower of 176 for the VF 6 and 201 for the VF 7. Both models will eventually make their way to the American market, with production expected to start during the second half of 2023, according to VinFast.
5. Hyundai N Vision 74
Last but certainly not least is our win for the most exciting futuristic concept: the Hyundai N Vision 74.
Paying homage to the Hyundai Pony Coupe concept from 1974, the N Vision 74 is a hydrogen fuel cell hybrid. At the 2022 LA Auto Show, Hyundai introduced a fully functional prototype that featured a 62-kWh battery with over 370 miles of range.
Unfortunately, Hyundai was never able to put the 1974 Pony Coupe into production, but it ultimately inspired the famous DMC DeLorean. The Hyundai N Vision 74 is the maker’s latest concept added to the Hyundai N sub-brand, which is committed to zero-emissions technologies.
Don’t Forget About Auto Insurance
When buying a new car, it’s easy to think of all the exciting adventures you will go on. However, it’s important not to forget about purchasing the right auto insurance policy.
While you’re legally required to carry your state’s minimum insurance requirements, they may not provide enough coverage in the event of an accident. And if you’re financing a vehicle, your lender will likely require you to purchase comprehensive and collision insurance.
Before purchasing your new car, it’s best to shop around and compare quotes before heading to the dealership. That way, you’ll know what to expect when purchasing insurance. If you have any questions about how AIS could help you save, give our insurance specialists a call today at (888) 772-4247, or start a quote online.
The information in this article is obtained from various sources and is offered for educational purposes. Furthermore, it should not replace manuals or instructions provided by the manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.
