2012 Detroit Auto Show: Japanese Automakers Pile It On With Big Expanded New Model Unveilings

Watch Every 2012 Detroit Auto Show Press Only Presentation On The Auto Channel's Exclusive Press Pass Coverage

Detroit January 6, 2012; The AIADA newsletter reported that the Detroit News said that Japan's leading automakers plan to show they're back in the game after a rough year marked by natural disasters that disrupted their operations for months.

At the Detroit Auto Show press preview starting Monday, Toyota Motor Corp., Nissan Motor Co., and Honda Motor Co. will display more than a dozen all-new or refreshed models they plan to launch into the U.S. market.

They include advanced technology vehicles, such as Toyota's Prius and NS4 plug-in hybrids, as well as redesigned versions of mainstream vehicles, including a new Acura RDX crossover. Honda, one of the Japanese carmakers hardest hit by last year's disasters, also aims to recapture some excitement of happier times with the rollout of a concept for a new NSX supercar.

Nissan is returning to Detroit after a three-year absence with a show car for the next Pathfinder SUV. It will also exhibit a concept for a small electric commercial van, the ENV 200.

But Toyota and Honda are putting on the biggest displays, said Michelle Krebs at auto research firm Edmunds.com. "Toyota and Honda are making a strong statement that they're back, they've recovered from the earthquake and tsunami, and they have lots of new products."

For the latest on what to expect from Japanese automakers at next week’s Detroit Auto Show, click here.