Automakers preserve tradition of luxury at Geneva Auto Show

(March 6, 2012) SANTA MONICA, Calif. — A prime selection of luxury and concept vehicles will again take center stage at this year's Geneva Auto Show, reports Edmunds' InsideLine.com. Visitors to this year's show can expect to be greeted by a roster of slick, futuristic vehicles of the kind that has helped build Geneva's reputation as one of the most glamorous events on the auto show circuit.

"Anyone who thinks that the era of austerity has overtaken luxury will think twice when they roam the halls of the Geneva show," says Edmunds.com Editor in Chief Scott Oldham.

"From all-new Ferraris to slick concept designs from BMW and Infiniti and an expected announcement from Bentley there will be no shortage of toys on display in Switzerland this year."

The top vehicle unveilings at the 2012 Geneva Auto Show include:

Ferrari F12 Berlinetta — For now, at least, it's the fastest Ferrari ever built. Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h takes a mere 3.1 seconds, with zero to 200 km/h reached in 8.5 seconds. Ferrari said the new engine also boasts considerably better fuel economy, averaging 16 mpg.

Range Rover Evoque Concept Convertible — This four-passenger SUV gets a fully retractable roof and a drop-down tailgate. Even though there are no production plans yet, it would be a remarkable evolution for the Range Rover Evoque, which won the 2012 North American Truck of the Year prize in January.

Infiniti Emerg-E Concept — Infiniti describes this coupe as an "advanced sports-car concept." Leaked images of the vehicle show a sleek two-seater with massive air intakes and oversize wheels and tires.

2013 Porsche Boxster — The new Boxster makes its first public appearance in Geneva and is expected to go on sale in the U.S. this summer. Porsche says the standard Boxster will accelerate from 0-60 in 5.4 seconds, while the Boxster S will get to the same speed in 4.7 seconds.

Auto executives will be descending on Switzerland this week in a celebratory mood after February's stellar month for U.S. auto sales. A full rundown of the major automakers' sales success last month is now available on Edmunds.com's Industry Analysis page.