New York’s International Auto Show opened to the public last Friday, March 25, 2016, and a few pieces caught our eye, courtesy of the wire services. Now, the buzz happens to be about the rechargeable Toyota Prius but for us, we are invigorated by the Mercedes GLC Coupé and the spectacular Audi R8 Spyder. In terms of performance vehicles, a couple of models from brands we don’t normally follow caught our eye. We are thinking of the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and the Nissan GT-R.

Audi R8 Spyder

Loaded with a 540hp V10 engine promising 0 to 62mph (0 to 100km/h) acceleration in 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 198mph (318km/h), the new-generation Audi R8 Spyder caused a sensation at the New York show. It’s expected to land in Europe from September 2016.

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

General Motors unveiled the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, which comes with a 640hp V8 engine and a choice of six-speed manual or 10-speed automatic gearboxes. Surprisingly, the American automaker hasn’t yet announced performances for this car, which is due to land before the end of 2016. A convertible version, also presented at the New York event, should be available in early 2017.

Mazda MX-5 RF

In a worldwide premiere, the Mazda MX-5 RF showed off an automatically retracting roof and rear window, and a new color finish called “Machine Gray.” It should be available in autumn in Europe, in a gasoline version with manual or automatic transmission.

Mercedes GLC Coupé

Daimler presented the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé at the New York event, billed as a cross between a functional SUV and a sports coupé, with a sleek, sporty, off-roader design and a stylish interior. The GLC Coupé is set to land in eight different versions, including gas and diesel options. A rechargeable hybrid version is expected towards the end of 2016.

Mini Clubman All 4

The Mini Clubman All 4 has a lighter build and gets all-wheel drive, promising improved handling, a more comfortable ride in the larger cockpit, and a special mode for boosted efficiency. It’s expected to land in dealerships in the springtime.

Nissan GT-R

The 2017 version of the Nissan GT-R supercar gets a 570hp V6 biturbo engine. It also has a new chrome-finished V-shaped front grille and a redesigned trunk promising increased stability and holding at high speeds, particularly at the front of the car. It’ll be available from summer 2016, with trims including a “Gentleman Edition” with a leather interior.

The New York International Auto Show runs March 25 to April 3, 2016.