NYIAS 2011 Is All About Topless Cars

One week away before the 2011 New York International Automobile Show (NYIAS) opens its doors at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, the organizers dropped a small hint to what visitors should expect this year: topless. Yes, ladies and gents, New York will this year vibe with more new convertibles than ever before in all shapes and sizes, with seating for two, four or five, and offering buyers a choice between models with conventional rag tops or retractable hardtops.

BMW, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Fiat, Mercedes, Nissan, and Volkswagen among others have fresh new convertibles.  Manufacturers like Aston Martin, Bentley, Ferrari, Porsche and Rolls Royce also join the topless frenzy.

The affordable segment is to be represented by Mazda's classic MX-5 Miata, MINI’s Convertible and the Volkswagen Eos. Other models to be showcased include the new Chrysler 200 Convertible, Chevrolet Camaro Convertible, Shelby GT500 Convertible, the new Volvo C70 Convertible, and the 2012 model year 650i Convertible. Finally, when an open top car is a must-have, regardless the price, the Audi R8 Spyder is there to cool you off.

"Convertibles make every journey a special one, and over the last few years the world's auto manufacturers have been quickly responding to America's renewed demand for the open-aired excitement that only a convertible can deliver," said Show Chairman John LaSorsa. "So, is there any sign of an end to the growing popularity of convertibles?  Not as long as there's a sunny day, and an open road ahead."

autoevolution will be attending the 2011 New York International Auto Show, so stay tuned for some real up close and personal shots of the vehicles, as well as for first-hand details of the motorized contraptions presented at the event.