2013 Detroit auto show preview (pictures)

Chevrolet's next-generation Corvette (C7) is probably the most hotly anticipated debut of the 2013 Detroit auto show.

BMW is splitting the 3 Series Sedan and Coupe variants into separate models, the latter being renamed as the new 4 Series Coupe. We'll get our first look at this new model at the Detroit auto show. Will the 4 Series Convertible and M4 performance model be revealed as well?

While I'm not a fan of Infiniti's new naming scheme, I am looking forward to checking out its G37 sedan replacement, the Infiniti Q50.

The Dodge Dart GT, which will be powered by a 184-horsepower, 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that outputs 174 pound-feet of torque, will make its debut in the Motor City next week. It looks like a tough little compact, but we're still holding our breath for an R/T or SRT model.

Dodge is expanding its Blacktop Series of styling packages with the announcement of Blacktop Editions of the 2013 Dodge Durango, Grand Caravan, and Journey, because gloss-black wheels and trim with special red exterior paint is exactly what a minivan owner needs to complete his vehicle's sinister look.

Shrink the Benz CL down to the A Class' size and you'll end up with something akin to the Mercedes-Benz CLA. The early pictures are simply gorgeous.

Mercedes-Benz is refreshing the E-Class sedan and convertible at the Detroit show with a new look that's more rounded. The automaker is also launching the hot-rodded new E63 AMG 4Matic, which will come in sedan and wagon configurations.

Nissan's Resonance crossover concept looks to be an aggressive look at the future of the Murano crossover. Hopefully, the CrossCabriolet doesn't make it to the next generation.

Meanwhile, Honda will be giving us a conceptual look at the future of its CR-V when it pulls the wraps off of the Urban SUV concept. Elsewhere at the show, Acura will be giving us a look at the next MDX.

Hyundai's HCD-14 concept is either a look at the next Genesis sedan or a new, future model aimed squarely at the Audi A7.

Cadillac has been promising an electrified sedan based on General Motors' Voltec technology for some time now. At the 2013 Detroit auto show, the automaker is expected to make good on that promise.

Not much is known about the Furia concept itself, but we do know that its unveiling at the Detroit show will involve 30 of Samsung's new 46-inch transparent LCDs. Hopefully, the car itself will be worth such a hullabaloo.

Finally catching up to the hardtop variant, Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible gets updated with a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter W-12 engine that twists its driveshaft to the tune of 616 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. That purple paint color isn't half bad either.

After a few generations of face-lifts and midcycle refreshes, the Lexus IS is getting fully redesigned just in time for its Detroit debut. While CNET's Car Tech editors are split on the new look, we're holding out hope for a possible revival of the model's SportCross wagon variant. Sound off in the comments with your opinion.

Audi's Q5 sport crossover gets 'roided up for the Detroit auto show with the debut of the SQ5. Power from its supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 is bumped to 354 horsepower and reaches the pavement at all four corners. Yes, please!

VW will be hotting up its Passat sedan's image with a concept that is powered by a 250-hp, turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. Lowering the body over 19-inch wheels with a sport suspension helps complete the package.

Smart is releasing yet another special edition of its ForTwo ultra-compact. The Cityflame edition is based on the top trim model and is slathered in unique yellow and black paint.