2003 Los Angeles Auto Show

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It's no secret that automotive trends get their start in L.A. so it seems only fitting that the city that lives and dies by the automobile would host the first major auto show of the season. This year was no different as the 2003 L.A. Auto Show showcased numerous world debuts and North American firsts.

Concept vehicles are always big crowd pleasers and both Ford and Dodge brought out two all-new vehicles that gave a glimpse into what each of the two automakers have in store for the future. Dodge showed that it still has plenty of its creative juices flowing as it unveiled the toughest-looking station wagon we've ever seen. If past Dodge concepts are any indication, this concept car has a good chance of becoming a real production car soon, so don't overlook this one as just another "show car." Ford came forth with quite a shocker when it took the wraps off its urban car concept. Opinions were mixed, but if you don't get people talking what's the point?

It may look like a concept car, but Scion's xB is the real deal. The first vehicle from Toyota's youth-oriented spin-off brand, the xB was to be joined by the never-before-seen xA at Scion's press conference. With sales slated to begin in California this summer, it's only fitting that Angelenos would get the first look at the fledgling lineup.

Another all-new production car that's sure to cause a stir among L.A.'s "fast and furious" crowd is Mitsubishi's Lancer Evolution. Officially announced for production at last year's show, Mitsubishi finally revealed the production car along with engine specs, options and how many clams you're going to need to get your hands on one.

If the Evo is the darling of the younger set, then Pontiac's GTO definitely made waves with the older folks. Based on a coupe built in Australia by a GM subsidiary, the all-new GTO will use the same V8 that powered the now-defunct Firebird. A fully independent suspension and a more modern interior should help this new Pontiac muscle car earn a reputation as more than just a knuckle-dragging burnout machine.

Even higher up on the price scale was yet another version of Aston Martin's DB7. After quickly selling out the Zagato-bodied coupe earlier this year, Aston brought out another concept to see if it could once again secure some willing buyers.

Even if high-dollar Astons aren't your thing, there were still plenty of other interesting new vehicles on display with slightly more checkbook-friendly price tags. So if you're curious as to what you might see cruising the streets in your town next year take a look inside to see all the latest from this year's Left-Coast extravaganza.