Highlights from the NY Auto Show

Design, technological innovation, energy efficiency, power and performance were just some of the features of the new cars and trucks unveiled by the world's automakers at the 2018 New York International Auto Show.

Here are some of the press conference highlights:

Genesis Essentia: Genesis unveiled its groundbreaking Essentia Concept. The all-electric, high-performance concept that elevates and re-imagines the "Athletic Elegance" design paradigm, while providing a vision of future Genesis product performance and technology.

Toyota RAV4: All the stops were pulled for the world debut of the all-new 2019 Toyota RAV4. The vehicle that created the small sport utility vehicle (SUV) segment makes its fifth-generation debut. Over the last five years, RAV4 volume has doubled, which speaks profoundly to the segment's attractiveness and growth, and ultimately, RAV4's popularity.

Lincoln Aviator: The Lincoln Aviator – a distinctive three-row plug-in hybrid production preview — glided into New York today, offering a preview of Lincoln's newest vehicle along with a glimpse into the brand's future.

Volkswagen Atlas Tanoak: The Tanaok is named after a species of tree that is native to the Pacific Coast in the U.S. (and grows up to 135 feet high in height). Powered by a 276-horsepower V6 FSI® gasoline engine, the Atlas Tanoak uses an efficient eight-speed automatic transmission and the 4MOTION® all-wheel-drive system. Although there are currently no production plans for the Atlas Tanoak, Volkswagen is keen to gauge the reactions of buyers and media, since pickup trucks are one of the biggest volume segments in the U.S.

Cadillac XT4: Cadillac unveiled the first-ever XT4, an all-new compact SUV tailored for the next generation of luxury customers. All models are powered by an all-new Cadillac 2.0L Turbo engine that features new efficiency-enhancing technologies including Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation), coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission with next-generation Electronic Precision Shift.

Nissan Altima: Nissan revealed the all-new Altima, bringing expressive styling, an uplifting interior and two new powerplants to the mid-size sedan segment. Altima is the first Nissan sedan to have available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive in the U.S. and advanced Nissan Intelligent Mobility features, including ProPILOT Assist.

Land Rover F-PACE SVR: Engineered by Special Vehicle Operations (SVO), the 5.0-liter supercharged V8 found in the F-PACE SVR produces 550hp and 502lb. ft. of torque; a 44% uplift in power, enabling it to reach 0-60mph in just 4.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 176mph.

Acura RDX: The 2019 Acura RDX debuted today delivering top-of-class performance, a more spacious and luxurious cabin, and a host of premium technology and features. The ground up redesign includes RDX A-Spec sport appearance variant – distinguished by larger wheels, gloss black accents and unique interior treatment including an available two-tone red and black interior. The new RDX takes power from a direct-injected and turbocharged 2.0-liter, 16-valve powerplant with DOHC VTEC® valvetrain and Dual Variable Timing Cam (Dual VTC).

Hyundai Kona Electric: Hyundai today unveiled the U.S.-market version of its Kona Electric crossover. Kona Electric rides on an all-new CUV platform and is Hyundai's first compact electric crossover for the U.S. market, appealing to consumers with active, eco-focused lifestyles of all kinds. The new model gets a 250-mile estimated range from its high-efficiency 201 horsepower (150 kW) electric motor powertrain.

Audi RS 5 Sportback: Making its world debut, the RS 5 Sportback is powered by a 2.9 liter TFSI V6 biturbo engine that delivers power, efficiency and a distinct RS sound. The new biturbo engine generates 444 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque available in a wide rev range from 1,900 to 5,000 rpm and sprints from 0 to 60 mph in under four seconds and achieves a top track speed of 155 mph, or increased to 174 mph with the optional Dynamic plus package.

Kia K900: Kia unveiled the completely redesigned Kia K900 sedan. The all-new second-generation model combines a dignified and sophisticated exterior design, a beautifully crafted cabin of premium materials, and performance characteristics that befit a world-class flagship sedan.

Atlas Cross Sport concept: The new Atlas Cross Sport is near-production concept car that features a coupe-like profile, an even sportier stance, and a plug-in hybrid drivetrain with 355 horsepower and an anticipated 26 miles of all-electric range. A conventional mild hybrid version of the same powertrain would make 310 hp.

Mercedes-AMG: Powerful V8 engines, thrilling driving dynamics and distinctive, motorsport-inspired equipment have turned the top-of-the-range models of the C-Class from Mercedes-AMG into best-sellers. The C 63 is now available in sedan, coupe and cabriolet with even better dynamics and a more modern interior and extended individualization options. The handcrafted AMG 4.0- liter V8 biturbo engine is available in two output variants rated at 469 hp or 503 hp for all three body styles.

Lexus UX: Making its North American debut, the UX introduces a bold new design, ultra-efficient new powertrains and innovative luxury features. It will be available in two powertrains: the front-wheel drive UX 200 introduces a new 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine coupled with a new Direct-Shift continuously variable transmission (CVT) while the UX 250h pairs an Atikinson Cycle version of the same 2.0-liter gas engine with a new fourth generation hybrid drive system and eAWD.

Subaru Forester: Subaru debuted the all-new 2019 Forester. The fifth generation of the best-selling SUV introduces the roomiest, most capable and most versatile Forester ever made and also features groundbreaking new safety technology. All models are powered by an enhanced direct-injection, 182 hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder BOXER engine featuring Auto Stop/Start and paired with a standard Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission). Also standard on all trim levels is Subaru's legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

Honda Insight: The all-new, production version of the 2019 Insight made its global production debut, providing a first look at the latest entry in Honda's expanding lineup of electrified vehicles. Powered by the third generation of Honda's innovative and efficient two-motor hybrid system, Insight's 151 net system horsepower combines with a lightweight structure to deliver the best power-to-weight ratio in its class as well as up to 55-mpg in the city.

Volvo V60 Wagon: The new Volvo V60 wagon is the latest torchbearer in a long line of Volvo wagons. In the United States, the 2019 V60 will be available with a T5 Front-Wheel-Drive Drive-E powertrain with 250HP, and a T6 All-Wheel-Drive Drive-E powertrain with 316 horsepower. Both will have an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Alfa Romeo: Expanding the 2.0L turbocharged, 280-horsepower Giulia and Stelvio lineup, Alfa Romeo's new Nero Edizione package wraps the Italian brand's sedan and SUV with seductive and striking dark exterior accents.

Volvo XC40 Inscription: The 2019 XC40 Inscription is a luxurious trim on Volvo's new compact SUV with unique styling details. The arrival of the new XC40 means that for the first time in its history, Volvo Cars has three new SUVs in what is the fastest growing segment of the automotive market.

Maserati Levante Trofeo: Maserati revealed the first Levante built around a V8 engine. The Levante Trofeo is equipped with one of the most powerful engines ever fitted in a Maserati. A 3.8-litre Twin Turbo V8 engine capable of accelerating in style from 0-62mph in 3.9 seconds and reaching a top speed of over 185 mph.

Kia Sedona: Kia unveiled the refreshed 2019 Sedona, revealing a more refined minivan that maintains the same functional convenience with ample passenger space and cargo, albeit with more style, technology, and amenities.

Hyundai Santa Fe: Hyundai unveiled the all-new 2019 Santa Fe SUV for the U.S. market. The all-new Santa Fe and Santa Fe Diesel are the third and fourth of eight new or re-engineered crossover utility vehicles (CUVs) Hyundai is debuting by 2020. Both models are bold SUVs that build on previous generations with outstanding driving dynamics and features aimed at technology and comfort.

Acura MDX A-Spec: The 2019 Acura MDX A-Spec made a surprise debut today. The updated model will complete the introduction of A-Spec variants to Acura's core model lineup that includes the ILX A-Spec, TLX A-Spec and the all-new 2019 Acura RDX A-Spec, which also made its world debut today in the Show.

Porsche 911 GT3 RS Weissach Edition:
Porsche 911 GT3 RS Weissach Edition: The Porsche motorsport department presented Weissach's latest model: the Porsche 911 GT3 RS with motorsport chassis and 520-hp, four-liter, high-speed naturally aspirated engine. The Weissach Porsche 911 GT3 RS is expected to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in under 3 seconds.