The 2012 Chicago Auto Show blew into town with a handful of new models and one promising safety innovation.

Hyundai’s Elantra sedan, the North American Car of the Year, adds a pair of companions. The first is the Elantra Coupe - a very sleek 2-door model that is designed to really turn heads. And the second is the new Elantra GT, a sporty 5-door hatchback.

The U.S.-built Acura ILX sedan will replace the TSX as Acura’s smallest car. This new compact will have three engine choices including Acura’s first gas-electric hybrid. Also new is the second generation, 2013 Acura RDX crossover. This compact utility trades the 4-cylinder turbocharged engine for a smooth running, 273-horsepower V6, but Acura says it will still have the best gasoline fuel economy in its class.

The Kia Track’ster concept is a wide-body, track-ready, turbocharged two-door version of the Soul urban utility.

Celebrating 75 years of Mopar, Chrysler rolled out 4 Mopar-tuned show cars: The Jeep Compass True North has upgraded off-road ability, the Chrysler ’12 300 reveals the performance potential of their flagship sedan. The Dodge Dart GTS 210 Tribute showcases many of the factory upgrades that will be offered for this new American compact. Mopar will now handle aftermarket parts for the Fiat brand too, and this 500 Stinger concept is their calling card.

The all-new 2013 Volkswagen Beetle motored into Chicago for the first time with new TDI turbocharged diesel power, rated at 39 miles per gallon on the highway.

Nissan picked Chicago to show the world its latest 370Z sports car. This 2013 model has new styling front and rear along with new wheels and a reworked interior. If you crave more seats, this huge Nissan NV 3500 Passenger van can carry 12 with no waiting.

Fresh styling for GMC’s 2013 Acadia mid-size crossover includes a smoother look and new projector beam headlights. Inside, the Acadia features the industry’s first center airbag, designed to keep front occupants upright and in their seats during violent side crashes.

Toyota’s super-sized Land Cruiser cruised into Chicago with a mild facelift and more infotainment options.

Continuing their Chicago tradition, Mazda unveiled a special edition Mazda MX-5. The 2013 SE offers the first non-body-color folding hard top as well as unique wheels and special interior stitching.

Ford’s Special Vehicle Team celebrates 20 years of super tuning Mustangs, and the 2013 Mustang Shelby GT500 Convertible is their most windblown yet with a supercharged 650-horespower 5.8-liter V8.