2012 New York International Auto Show

Held at the glamorous Jacob Javits Convention Centre beside the Hudson River on Manhattan, the annual New York International Auto Show will feature an array of models new and fresh to the US market.

While not as large as its fellow North American shows in Detroit and Los Angeles, expect to get a peek at some fresh metal before it heads down under, too.

Among these important new models are the next-generation Hyundai Santa Fe medium SUV, which will feature crisper styling and new technology.

Toyota and Lexus will each premiere new sedans - Lexus will show its next-generation ES, which could make a return to Australian showrooms after a lengthy absence.

Toyota will premiere a rakish, coupe-like large sedan concept that many are tipping is the new Avalon for the US market.

Nissan will also debut its new Altima large sedan, which will replace the Maxima here in Australia from 2013.

Keep posted to GoAuto.com.au for the latest updates as they emerge from the Big Apple.

UPDATE - 05/04/2012Most of these models have now appeared in the flesh - look to the right of the page for their corresponding stories - while other models like the new Mercedes-Benz GL, Jaguar F-Type, SRT Viper and the extraordinary Terrafugia flying car have also appeared.