Hot new cars, concepts highlight Detroit show

The North American International Auto Show began this week in Detroit with media and industry previews. It opens to the public Saturday.

Here are some of the new cars and experimental concept vehicles unveiled at the show:

• CADILLAC ELR: General Motors is trying to take the Chevrolet Volt's electric technology upscale in a new Cadillac. The ELR has the same battery and gas-powered generator as the Volt.

• FORD ATLAS CONCEPT: The Atlas pickup has a chiseled design and a bigger, more elaborate grille. Ford is emphasizing fuel economy. It's likely to be a 2015 model.

• KIA CADENZA: Kia is moving into the North American premium sedan market with the 2014 Cadenza, aiming for buyers looking in the gap between mainstream and luxury.

• CHEVROLET CORVETTE: The 2014 model is the first all-new version of the iconic sports car in nine years. It arrives at showrooms in the fall.

• JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE DIESEL: The top-selling Grand Cherokee is making the jump to diesel power. The SUV's 3.0-liter, EcoDiesel V-6 engine is expected to get 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway in 4x2 models, and 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway for 4x4 models.

• VOLKSWAGEN CROSSBLUE: Volkswagen rolled out a concept SUV called the CrossBlue. It would be a first in the U.S. market: a plug-in hybrid SUV with a diesel engine and two electric motors.