Must-See Cars at This Year's Auto Conventions

June 26th, 2024

8 minutes

Summary

Auto conventions are the ultimate playground for car enthusiasts, industry insiders, and tech aficionados. These events showcase the latest innovations, cutting-edge designs, and future trends that will shape the automotive world every year.

This year is no exception, with a stunning lineup of must-see cars that are turning heads and setting new standards. From revolutionary electric vehicles and autonomous driving marvels to sleek sports cars and luxurious sedans, the 2024 conventions promise to be thrilling.

Join us as we take a closer look at the standout vehicles that are making waves at this year’s premier car events. Whether you’re a dedicated gearhead or just curious about the future of driving, these must-see concept cars will impress.

Mustang’s 60th Anniversary Special-Edition Model

This year, Ford is celebrating the 60th birthday of one of its most well-known and loved cars, the Mustang. The new special-edition model appears to be based on the GT. Here are the key details:

Limited Production: Ford will build 1965 examples of the Mustang with the 60th Anniversary package, paying homage to the car’s debut year in 1965.
Exclusivity: The package is exclusive to GT Premium coupes and convertibles.
Color Options: The 60th Anniversary cars come in red, white, or blue—a nod to the iconic Mustang colors. The exterior trim features shades of gray, red, and silver.
Visual Callouts: Notable visual features include 20-inch dark gravity gray five-spoke wheels with red stamped aluminum center caps reminiscent of the 1965 models. The badges on the fenders and trunk evoke the '65’s “cloisonné” badges.
Headlights and Grille: The 60th Anniversary Mustang also gets smoked Nite Pony headlights and a mesh grille design inspired by the 1964 original.

Mustang’s 60th Anniversary Special-Edition Model

GV60 Magma Concept Car

Car manufacturer Genesis is kicking off its new Magma performance division with a concept based on the GV60 EV. Magma might be their eye-searing color, but it’s also code for Genesis’s red-hot performance aspirations. The concept's styling features include a lowered stance on 21-inch wheels shrouded by large, vented wheel arches, a rear diffuser, and the requisite rear wing.

Design and Performance

The GV60 Magma sits lower and wider than the regular GV60.
It features 21-inch wheels designed to channel air to the brake discs for improved performance during heavy use.
Large holes around the front grille and wheel arches aid airflow, and front bumper canards generate downforce.
The rear end has a more aggressive grille area and a chunky diffuser.
Signature Magma orange paint completes the look.
Inside, supportive bucket seats in Nappa leather and suede replace the standard seats.

Battery and Motor Technology

Genesis suggests that the GV60 Magma has improved battery and motor technology.
It could potentially use the same 84.0kWh (usable) battery pack and 641bhp dual-motor setup as the related Hyundai Ioniq 5 N12.
However, the focus is on a comfortable and confident driving experience, possibly emphasizing refinement and long-distance pace.

Genesis Neolun Concept Car

Picture this: sanding the Kia EV9’s sharp edges and turning it over to a Range Rover designer. What you’ve got is the recipe for the cool new Genesis Neolun. Here are some key details:

Exterior Design

Inspired by the moon, the Neolun Concept follows the Reductive Design philosophy. It features a Midnight Black & Majestic Blue Two-tone color scheme, reminiscent of serene Korean nights.
The minimalistic body design emphasizes essential elements, creating a seamless blend of panels and creases.
Two-line Lamps extend seamlessly from the headlights to the side repeaters and tail lamps, evoking haute couture craftsmanship.
The absence of parting lines adds to its elegance and sophistication.

Interior

The interior complements the electrification model, reflecting the concept of “the beauty of space” inspired by traditional Korean aesthetics.
The B-Pillarless Door ensures passengers a welcoming and effortless experience, streamlining boarding and disembarking.

Size and Purpose

Although technical details haven’t been fully revealed, the Neolun Concept hints at a large, electric SUV that could potentially become the new Genesis GV90.
It represents Genesis’ commitment to providing a thoughtful journey beyond mere transportation.

2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz

While the Hyundai Santa Cruz is not all new, it has received a few small changes inside and outside. These make it more appealing to those who want the form of a small SUV together with the utility of a truck. Here are some key details:

Design: The Santa Cruz boasts a bold yet sophisticated design. Its more aggressive front design creates a strong and wide stance.
Powertrain Options: In an upmarket spec, it comes with four-wheel drive and a 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 281 bhp and 311 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain is better suited for urban driving.
Flexible Bed: The Santa Cruz has a clever FlexBed system, which makes the truck bed flexible and adaptable to various cargo needs.
Connectivity: It offers cutting-edge connectivity features, including standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.
Maneuverability: Equipped with an all-wheel drive platform, the Santa Cruz is at home in urban and adventure-focused environments.

2025 Hyundai Tucson

For 2025, the Hyundai Tucson is getting a refresh that may help it break through and become the pantheon of its class. The Tucson’s mid-life facelift includes the following key details:

Exterior Changes

Subtle refinements include thinner, more angular lines for the radiator grille and a new front bumper.
The distinctive “Parametric Jewel” daytime running lights are still featured.

Interior Overhaul

The cabin prioritizes spaciousness and practicality.
Borrowed from other Hyundai SUVs (like the compact Kona and seven-seater Santa Fe), Tucson’s futuristic interior design includes dual 12.3-inch displays running Hyundai’s latest software.
Physical buttons and climate controls are available on the redesigned center console.

Engine Options

The engine range starts with a turbocharged 1.6-liter petrol engine with either a six-speed manual gearbox or an optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (with mild-hybrid assistance and optional four-wheel drive).
Above that, there’s the more efficient Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and the range-topping Tucson Plug-In Hybrid (fuel efficiency stats pending).

Trim Levels

Available in five trim levels: Advance, Premium, N Line, N Line S, and Ultimate.
Entry-level models include features like LED headlights, wireless Apple CarPlay, keyless entry, and front/rear parking sensors.
Premium trim adds an eight-speaker KRELL sound system, heated seats, smart electric tailgate, and adaptive cruise control.
N Line trim offers a sportier look with aggressive bumpers and larger wheels.
Top-of-the-range N Line S and Ultimate models feature luxuries like matrix LED headlights and a panoramic sunroof.

2025 Kia K4

Kia’s new compact car gets a new name, distinctive styling, and a cabin full of cutting-edge tech features. Key features include:

Design and Accommodation

Modern design with a fastback roofline inspired by the Stinger sports sedan.
Spacious interior with 2nd-row legroom and cargo room rivaling midsize sedans.
Wide rear fenders for a sporty stance.

Technology and Features

11 standard advanced driver-assistance features, with up to 29 features available.
Standard 12.3-inch widescreen digital display with Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.
Available 360° Surround View Monitor and Blind-Spot View Monitor.
Heated and ventilated front seats, standard LED headlights, and more.

Performance

Available turbocharged engine with 190 horsepower for a fun-to-drive experience.

Warranty

Backed by Kia’s industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile limited warranty

New Mini Cooper

Mini has been talking a lot about going EV-only in the future, but it seems a way off yet. The brand's latest release is the Mini Cooper S, making its North American debut with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine paired exclusively with an automatic transmission. Key details include:

Engine: The Mini Cooper S 5-door is powered by a four-cylinder petrol engine with 150 kW/204 hp.
Driving Experience: Hallmark MINI steering and powerful brakes ensure high driving fun, safety, and comfort.
Dimensions: Compact dimensions, short overhangs, and a small turning circle of 11.4 meters make the MINI Cooper 5-door a versatile city model.
Interior Space: The rear interior provides comfortable space for three passengers, and the 60:40 folding rear seats increase the luggage compartment capacity from 275 liters to up to 925 liters.

2025 Polestar 4

Polestar is set to unveil its third vehicle, the Polestar 4 electric SUV. In size, it sits somewhere between the Polestar 2 and Polestar 3. Other key details include:

Powertrain Options

Long Range Single Motor:

Motor: One 200 kW permanent magnetic motor with liquid cooling.
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive.
Power: 200 kW (268 bhp).
Torque: 253 lbf-ft.
0-60 mph: 6.9 seconds.
Top speed: 124 mph.
Range: 385 miles (WLTP)

Long Range Dual Motor:

Motors: Two 200 kW permanent magnetic motors with liquid cooling.
Drivetrain: All-wheel drive.
Power: 400 kW (536 bhp).
Torque: 506 lbf-ft.
0-60 mph: 3.7 seconds.
Top speed: 124 mph.
Range: 367 miles (WLTP)

Battery

400-V Lithium-ion battery.
Capacity: 100 kWh (cell-to-pack, 110 cells)

Chassis and Suspension

Standard dynamic chassis (Long Range Single Motor).
Polestar Engineered chassis tuning (Long Range Dual Motor with Performance pack).
Suspension options: High-capacity passive dampers or continuously controlled active ZF dampers

Dimensions

Ground clearance: 166 mm.
Wheelbase: 2,999 mm.
Car length: 4,840 mm.
Car height: 1,534 mm.

Features

20-inch alloy wheels.
Panoramic glass roof.
Adaptive cruise control

Final Thoughts

As we wrap up our journey through this year’s must-see cars at auto conventions, it’s clear that the automotive industry is pushing boundaries like never before, particularly regarding car safety advancements.

From groundbreaking electric vehicles to luxurious, high-performance models, there’s something to excite every car enthusiast. These events highlight the latest innovations and offer a glimpse into the future of driving.

For those visiting the convention center auto body exhibits, it’s an unparalleled opportunity to experience these advancements firsthand.

Whether you’re dreaming of your next vehicle or simply marveling at the technological progress, these conventions are a testament to the industry’s relentless pursuit of excellence.

Don’t miss out on witnessing these remarkable machines and enjoying the roads ahead.