As a not-frequent-enough contributing author, I’m always pleasantly surprised when the team extends along an invitation to one of the illustrious industry events they attend. While five days in January in Detroit doesn’t scream “dream vacation” to most rational people, between me and you, it’s as good as a beach in Tahiti. That’s because the Detroit auto show, more formally known as the North American International Auto Show, prompts automakers to lavish undue amounts of attention on auto-journos in order to promote their wares. Shameless? Sure, sign me up….and hand me another cushy press kit, please!

If a full access pass to one of the world’s best auto shows wasn’t enough, it just so happens that this year shaped up to be one of the best for new releases in recent memory, with nameplates like Corvette, NSX, M6, RS7, E63 AMG, G37 Q50 and even (cough) Corolla (cough) all jockeying for position as the show-stealer. I won’t pick a winner, but you’re welcome to try after a look at my completely amateur, iPhone5 photos in the gallery here.

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