DETROIT, Mich. - SUVs are the most important thing in the world. For those automakers who, earlier in the show, dared to think that the dark era of the Sport Utility Vehicle was passing and that it was safe to introduce such novel things as sedans, compacts and coupes, they were wrong - SUVs, especially luxury SUVs are once again being foisted down the public's pocket book by over eager automakers desperate to get in on the profit margin bonanza. Sure, there are rebels at this year's 2005 North American International Auto Show. Kia, always a rogue, dared to trot out a new Rio compact, -- and General Motors - sated with their large and profitable stable of SUVs - brought out a 'Vette Z06 and the Cadillac STS-V - high performance cars that add flair to the driving experience. There was much more, including a new Toyota Avalon, two new cars from Mitsubishi, a Lincoln sedan and a new Mazda 5. The Subaru Tribeca took the honors for most risky design, while the Land Rover Range Rover kept up the SUV beat.
2005 North American International Auto Show spotlights production vehicles
