What to expect

The 2012 North American International Auto Show kicks off next week in Detroit! For those who can't wait, here's a preview of what we can expect from the big players at the show that kicks off on January 9th.

Acura's New Line

Acura is bringing three new models to the show, two production models and one exciting concept. A new compact sedan, dubbed the ILX, is based on the Honda Civic platform. The second production model debuting is the next-generation RDX crossover, which, like its predecessor, is based on the same platform as the Honda CR-V. The new RDX will ditch its current turbocharged four-cylinder for a more fuel efficient V6. The more exciting Acura debuting in Detroit is the NSX concept, which is supposed to be a preview of the next-generation Acura NSX. It's being reported that the concept will feature a hybrid powertrain, with a V6 powering the rear wheels and two electric motors powering the front wheels. For day-by-day news from the show, check out all of our coverage here.

Buick's Encore Crossover

Coming into Detroit, Buick continues revamping its product lineup and adding new models. Its new, small Encore crossover will debut at the show. From the teaser photos, the Encore looks smaller than the Chevy Equinox and GM has said, "Encore will offer contemporary styling, signature QuietTuning technology, and a host of features and amenities customers expect from Buicks today."

Cadillac's XTS & ATS

At the Los Angeles Auto Show two months ago, Cadillac unveiled its new large sedan, the Cadillac XTS. Cadillac is also adding a new compact model at the other end of the its lineup, the ATS, which will go head to head with models like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. The rear-wheel-drive ATS is going on sale this summer and will be offered with a 270 horsepower 2.0L four-cylinder, a naturally-aspirated 2.5L four-cylinder and a 3.6L V6.

Dodge's 2013 Dart

The big news at the Dodge stage this year will be the introduction of the 2013 Dodge Dart compact sedan. With the death of the unloved Caliber, Dodge seriously needs a player in the compact segment. Buyers will choose between three different engines, a 2.0L, 2.4L or 1.4L turbocharged engine. A 9-speed transmission will also be offered in 2013, and Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne has said he expects the Dart to get 40 mpg on the highway.

Ford's 2013 Fusion

The Ford Fusion has been on a roll since it was redesigned for the 2010 model year. Now Ford has an all-new 2013 Fusion that is going to be officially unveiled at the show. Details are scarce about the new Fusion, but we do know that it is set to get new technology like a Lane Keeping Assist system that even tells you when you're too tired to drive. The Fusion's brother, the Lincoln MKZ is also going to debut at the show as a concept.

Honda's New Accord

Not to be outdone by the onslaught of new midsize sedans, Honda is readying an all-new version of its Accord sedan and coupe. The ninth-generation Accord is going on sale this fall, but we'll get a preview of the Accord Coupe Concept next week in Detroit. The base engine in the new model will still be a 2.4L four-cylinder, but an Accord hybrid will also return.

Lexus' 2013 GS Sedan & More

Lexus just launched the all-new 2013 GS sedan, but it's not stopping there. Toyota's luxury division is preparing to revamp its entire lineup with a new design direction. The Lexus LF-LC hybrid coupe concept previews what will hopefully be a more exciting Lexus design language.

Nissan's Pathfinder

How many of us have forgotten about the Nissan Pathfinder? It's been largely overshadowed by the more modern Murano crossover, but it hasn't gone anywhere. For the 2013 model year the Pathfinder will ditch its body-on-frame construction and become a seven-passenger crossover based on the same platform as the new Infiniti JX.

Toyota's Prius c Toyota is the hybrid leader in the industry thanks to its popular Prius. Having just released the larger Prius v model, it's now unveiling another compact Prius, the Prius c, which is about the same size as the Toyota Yaris. Toyota will also unveil a new plug-in hybrid concept dubbed the NS4.

Volvo's XC60

Volvo currently does not offer a hybrid model in the U.S., but that is going to change in the next couple of years. Volvo is giving us a preview of its upcoming hybrid, the XC60 Plug-in hybrid, which is debuting as a concept at the show. It's powered by a 280 horsepower four-cylinder engine and a 70 horsepower electric motor. According to Volvo it has a combined rating of 50 mpg.

VW's Jetta Hybrid

VW is expected to unveil a new hybrid version of its popular Jetta in Detroit. It's being reported that the Jetta hybrid will be powered by a turbocharged 1.4L engine and an electric motor. VW is also planning on unveiling a new electric car concept at the show.

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For full coverage of the Detroit Auto Show and what's new and next in the automotive world, click here.