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2024 LA Auto Show: The Most Impressive and Underwhelming Debuts
Los Angeles Auto Show 2024: The Definitive Winners and Losers
The automotive world descended upon Los Angeles for the 2024 Auto Show, showcasing an impressive array of new models, refreshed designs, and cutting-edge technology. While auto shows may have evolved from their traditional format, the LA event proved there's still plenty of excitement to be found on the show floor. Our team of experts spent days scrutinizing every detail to bring you this comprehensive breakdown of which vehicles truly impressed and which fell short of expectations.
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2011 BMW 1 Series 128i
Chrysler Pacifica Touring L FWD
Toyota Grand Highlander
What Makes a Winner at the LA Auto Show?
In evaluating these vehicles, we considered multiple factors that matter to real car buyers:
- Value proposition: Does it deliver features and quality commensurate with its price?
- Innovation: Does it bring something new and compelling to its segment?
- Execution: How well does the manufacturer deliver on the vehicle's promise?
- Market relevance: Does it address current consumer needs and preferences?
- Comparative advantage: How does it stack up against direct competitors?
2025 Acura ADX: The Entry-Level Luxury Crossover Done Right
Acura's new entry in the competitive compact luxury crossover segment takes the solid foundation of the Honda HR-V and elevates it with premium touches and sportier performance. The ADX fills a crucial gap in Acura's lineup between the Integra sedan and larger RDX crossover.
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Strengths
- Distinctive Acura styling that sets it apart from the HR-V
- Expected 200-horsepower turbocharged engine (a significant upgrade)
- Premium interior materials and technology
- Sharp handling characteristics borrowed from the Integra
- Competitive pricing for the luxury compact segment
Potential Concerns
- CVT transmission as the only option may disappoint enthusiasts
- Some visible Honda DNA in certain design elements
- Cargo space slightly less than some competitors
Why It Stands Out: The ADX successfully executes the luxury spin on mainstream platform formula that made the Integra successful. Early indications suggest Acura has created a compelling package that should attract younger buyers to the brand while offering existing Acura owners a more affordable crossover option.
2026 Honda Passport TrailSport: Rugged Charm Meets Everyday Practicality
Honda's mid-size two-row SUV receives a substantial update for 2026, with the new TrailSport trim positioning it as a legitimate off-road capable vehicle while maintaining its everyday family hauler credentials.
Strengths
- Authentic off-road enhancements (not just cosmetic)
- Striking retro-inspired styling with bold color options
- Available TrailSport Elite package combines capability and luxury
- Improved interior materials and technology
- Strong V6 powerplant with excellent reliability history
Potential Concerns
- Higher price point than mainstream competitors
- Fuel economy suffers compared to turbo-four alternatives
- True off-road capability still limited by unibody design
The Bottom Line: While not every Passport buyer will take advantage of its off-road capabilities, the TrailSport package delivers enough authentic enhancements to justify its existence beyond just appearance. The combination of rugged styling, available premium features, and Honda's reputation for reliability makes this a compelling choice in the growing adventure vehicle segment.
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Rolls-Royce Cullinan AWD
2024 Acura MDX
2014 Toyota 4Runner
2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9: The Three-Row Electric SUV to Watch
Hyundai's answer to the Kia EV9 brings distinctive styling and impressive electric performance to the three-row SUV segment. As Hyundai's flagship EV, the Ioniq 9 represents the brand's most advanced technology and luxurious appointments.
Strengths
- Estimated 300+ miles of range (tops in class)
- Ultra-fast 800V charging capability
- Spacious interior with minivan-like flexibility
- Cutting-edge infotainment and driver assistance systems
- Distinctive parametric design language
Potential Concerns
- Polarizing exterior styling may not appeal to all
- Third-row legroom still tight for adults
- Premium pricing expected at higher trims
Why It Matters: The Ioniq 9 demonstrates how far Hyundai's EV technology has come, offering family buyers a viable electric alternative to traditional gas-powered three-row SUVs. While the design may divide opinions, the underlying technology and packaging solutions position this as one of the most compelling large electric SUVs coming to market.
2026 Kia Sportage: Refinement Over Revolution
Kia's popular compact SUV receives thoughtful updates rather than a complete redesign, maintaining its position as one of the most well-rounded options in its class.
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Strengths
- Three powertrain options (gas, hybrid, PHEV)
- Class-leading interior space utilization
- New curved display enhances tech experience
- Distinctive styling stands out in crowded segment
- Strong value proposition across trim levels
Potential Concerns
- Conservative update may not attract new buyers
- Base engine could use more power
- Some interior materials feel budget-conscious
The Verdict: While the updates to the Sportage may seem modest on paper, they address nearly all the minor criticisms of the previous model. The availability of multiple powertrains ensures there's a Sportage for nearly every type of buyer, from efficiency-focused commuters to those wanting plug-in capability without sacrificing SUV practicality.
2025 Nissan Murano: Style Over Substance?
Nissan's stylish two-row mid-size SUV receives its long-awaited refresh, but several critical flaws prevent it from being a true competitor in its segment.
Positive Aspects
- Striking exterior redesign
- High-quality front seat comfort
- Replacement of problematic CVT with 9-speed automatic
- Improved technology interface
Significant Flaws
- Exceptionally uncomfortable rear seats
- Questionable value in a sparse segment
- VC-Turbo engine offers no real advantage over V6
- Cargo capacity lags behind competitors
Missed Opportunity: While the Murano's exterior redesign successfully updates its appearance, Nissan failed to address fundamental packaging issues that have always plagued this model. The terrible rear seat comfort alone makes it difficult to recommend for families, while the lack of meaningful advantages over smaller compact SUVs or larger three-row models leaves the Murano in an awkward market position.
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Tesla Model X 75D AWD
2016 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport 4WD
BMW 6 Series 640i Coupe RWD
2025 Volkswagen Taos: Half-Measures Update
VW's entry-level crossover receives modest updates that fail to address some of the fundamental shortcomings that have kept it from being truly competitive in the hotly contested subcompact SUV segment.
Improvements
- Small power increase for better drivability
- Eight-speed automatic replaces problematic dual-clutch in AWD models
- Updated interior materials in higher trims
- Remains one of the more spacious options in class
Persistent Issues
- Interior still feels cheap compared to rivals
- Base models lack many desirable features
- Driving dynamics uninspiring
- Now overshadowed by the excellent new Tiguan
Bottom Line: While the Taos' updates are welcome, they feel like the bare minimum required to keep it somewhat competitive. The contrast with Volkswagen's excellent updates to the Tiguan only highlights how the Taos feels like an afterthought in VW's lineup. Budget-conscious buyers would be better served by several competitors offering better value and more premium experiences at similar price points.
2025 Volkswagen Tiguan: A Return to Form
Volkswagen's compact SUV receives a comprehensive update that addresses nearly all the criticisms of the previous model, positioning it as one of the strongest contenders in its class.
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Notable Improvements
- Significantly upgraded interior materials
- Return to physical steering wheel controls
- Massage seats available in top trims
- Innovative center console touchscreen knob
- Increased power and reduced weight
Minor Drawbacks
- Top trims may push into luxury brand territory pricing
- Some tech features may have learning curve
- Base engine adequate but not thrilling
The Takeaway: The new Tiguan represents Volkswagen at its best - thoughtful German engineering combined with practical family packaging. By listening to customer feedback about interior quality and control interfaces, VW has created a compact SUV that can genuinely challenge segment leaders like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 while offering a more premium experience. The availability of unexpected luxury features like massage seats in this class demonstrates Volkswagen's commitment to regaining its position as a leader in affordable premium vehicles.
Key Trends from the 2024 Los Angeles Auto Show
The vehicles at this year's show revealed several important industry trends that will shape the automotive landscape in coming years:
The Off-Road Aesthetic Goes Mainstream
From the Honda Passport TrailSport to numerous special editions across brands, manufacturers are doubling down on rugged styling cues and off-road inspired trim packages. While not all these vehicles offer genuine capability, the popularity of the outdoor adventure lifestyle continues to influence design language across segments.
Electric Vehicles Mature
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 demonstrates how EV technology is moving beyond compliance cars to genuinely desirable vehicles that compete on their own merits. Expect to see more electric models with competitive range, faster charging, and packaging that maximizes interior space.
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BMW 2 Series
2018 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus RWD
2023 Jaguar I-PACE
Luxury Trickles Down
Features once reserved for premium vehicles - from advanced driver aids to premium interior materials - are appearing in mainstream models like the Tiguan and Acura ADX. This trend is forcing luxury brands to innovate further to justify their price premiums.
The Death of the CVT?
Notable shifts away from continuously variable transmissions in models like the Nissan Murano suggest manufacturers may be responding to consumer dissatisfaction with CVT driving characteristics, even as the technology has improved in recent years.
Final Thoughts: What These Reveals Mean for Car Buyers
The 2024 Los Angeles Auto Show demonstrated that despite industry challenges, automakers continue to deliver compelling new products across all segments. For shoppers in the market for a new vehicle, several key takeaways emerge:
- More choices than ever: The proliferation of trim levels and powertrain options means buyers can often find exactly what they want without compromising.
- Electric options becoming viable: With improved range and charging infrastructure, EVs like the Ioniq 9 now work for more lifestyles.
- Value propositions shifting: Some mainstream brands now offer near-luxury experiences, while some luxury brands struggle to differentiate.
- Test drives remain essential: As seen with the Murano's uncomfortable rear seats, you can't judge a vehicle by its spec sheet or show floor appearance alone.
As these new models begin arriving at dealerships, consumers will ultimately decide which vehicles truly succeed in the marketplace. Based on what we saw in Los Angeles, the automotive future looks bright with a mix of compelling new options across every segment.
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Last Updated On May, 19-2025