Why it's cool: In addition to a carbon-fiber hood, this convertible has a removable carbon-fiber roof panel, saving weight and lowering the car's center of gravity for better handling. Power: 625 horsepower from a supercharged 6.2-liter LT4 V-8 engine Available: Early 2015. Benny Migliorino
SHARE

{!! $img_subtitle !!}

Why it’s cool: This concept SUV is all about gesture control. Wave your hands to open the doors, brighten or dim interior lights, use the infotainment system, and switch on turn signals and headlights. The windshield is also a head-up display that can show real-time driving information, as well as live video feed of the ground immediately ahead of the car. A remote control feature allows a driver to maneuver the car—very slowly—from the outside using a smartphone or tablet. Watch a video of the concept here.

{!! $img_subtitle !!}

Why it’s cool: This crossover has a forward collision sensor that can detect two cars in front of you, not just one. The system alerts a driver if there’s a sudden decrease in speed in either the vehicle directly ahead, or the vehicle in front of that one. Power: 260 horsepower from a 3.5-liter V6 engine Available: Late 2014

{!! $img_subtitle !!}

Why it’s cool: In addition to a carbon-fiber hood, this convertible has a removable carbon-fiber roof panel, saving weight and lowering the car’s center of gravity for better handling. Power: 625 horsepower from a supercharged 6.2-liter LT4 V-8 engine Available: Early 2015

{!! $img_subtitle !!}

Why it’s cool: A new sensor deploys side-curtain airbags if it detects an imminent rollover. Other safety features include a new rear vehicle-detection system, lane-change assist, blind-spot detection, and a pedestrian-recognition system. Power: 175 horsepower from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, or 256 horsepower from a 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine Available: Summer 2014

{!! $img_subtitle !!}

Why it’s cool: This small crossover is available with 4G LTE and a built-in WiFi hotspot. Rearview camera, rollover mitigation, and 10 airbags will be standard. Power: 138 horsepower from a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine Available: Early 2015

{!! $img_subtitle !!}

Why it’s cool: Audi’s smallest car will soon be available in the U.S. in diesel. The hatchback’s diesel engine is paired with a six-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission. Power: 150 horsepower from a 2-liter turbocharged diesel engine Available: Summer 2015

{!! $img_subtitle !!}

Why it’s cool: Inside the car is a smartphone storage bin that includes a pad for cordless charging. Tweaks to the window and door seals, insulating materials, and door mirrors make the cabin significantly quieter than previous models. Power: 178 horsepower from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, or 268 horsepower from a 3.5-liter V6 engine. Hybrid also available. Available: Fall 2014