STAN HONDA—AFP/GETTY IMAGES

U.S. News Chief Business Correspondent Rick Newman provides his take on some of the new cars and trucks unveiled at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

BMW 1 series convertible
BMW's entry-level car, already sold in Europe, comes to the States this year. It's a bit smaller than the 3 series, but still fast and plush--and pricey, starting at about $35,000.