This year’s Detroit Auto Show is remarkable for featuring eco-friendly cars.  Gone are the huge SUVs and gas-guzzling vehicles of the past.  Instead, the show is filled with small autos like the Smart ForTwo.

Fuel economy is one of the major innovations for many of these six new cars.  In addition, performance is also a priority in many models.

The Honda CR-Z, a new hybrid offering from the Japanese automaker, is based on the CR-X of the 1980s.  However, while the CR-Z won’t get the incredible gas mileage of the CR-X, it will have safety and performance features that the old model didn’t have.  And at 38 miles per gallon on the highway, the fuel economy isn’t too shabby either.

Lincoln also has a new offering, the MKX.  The crossover has an impressive 3.7-liter V6 engine, which is capable of 305 horsepower.  In addition to the performance specs, the car boasts a version of Ford’s new Sync software system.  The Sync system provides voice activation and hands-free operation of music players, cell phones, and other mobile technologies.

The redesigned Ford Focus is expected to wow car buyers with both its performance and fuel economy.  Up to 10% more efficient than previous iterations of the Focus, the 2011 model also features a 2.0-liter engine and a six-speed automatic transmission with dual-clutch shifting.

Even though it’s a standby when it comes to American sports cars, the newly redesigned Ford Mustang will probably turn a few heads.  The 5.0-liter V8 engine will generate an impressive 412 horsepower, and the redesign also delivers improved steering and suspension.

The Cadillac CTS-V Coupe was unveiled in November at the L.A. Auto Show, and it already has Cadillac enthusiasts excited.  The car is a lighter, leaner version of the CTS-V sedan will be available with a manual or automatic transmission.

Perhaps the most exciting new development for exotic car fans is the Mercedes-Benz E-class Cabriolet.  The convertible coupe features a cloth top and impressive sound insulation.  It also has several design innovations to protect occupants from wind.  The 382-horsepower E550 Cabriolet will hit showrooms this spring.

Luckily, if you’re anxious to drive a Mercedes, you don’t have to wait for the E550 to go on sale.  You can avoid the expense and hassle of ownership, including car payments, insurance, and vehicle storage, if you join an exotic car sharing club, rent an exotic car, or participate in an automotive dream tour.

Kate Miller-Wilson is a professional freelance writer, specializing in web content and technical writing.

Now, with oil plunging below $60 per barrel and gas hovering comfortably at around $1.50 per gallon, announcements of new ultra-efficient concept cars are becoming less frequent.

Well, just such an announcement came recently.  And it came from an unlikely source.  The Chinese company BYD announced they are releasing a plug-in hybrid called the F3DM. Kudos to the marketing genius that thought up that name.

BYD wasn’t even in the car business until just recently.  They were, for the most part, a battery maker. That may explain the marketing departments knack for memorable car names.

The F3DM will be differ from many plug-in hybrids because of its small price tag.  Initial models are scheduled to go on sale late 2008 or early 2009 for around US$22,000.  The F3DM will reportedly travel approximately 60 miles on a full charge before the backup gasoline engine must kick in.  Charging uses a standard outlet and takes about 9 hours.

On the down side, the F3DM isn’t exactly a stylistic marvel.  With a look that is Toyota Corolla than exotic dream car, the F3DM is not likely to thrill the exotic car aficionado.

To do this, one might be better off looking at the Tesla Roadster, another plug-in that trends more to the Ferrari side when it comes to appearance.  Of course, the downside there is the price tag.  At about US$100,000 the Roadster is definitely targeted towards a different type of consumer.

Many car experts think that the car market is heading towards greater practicality.  More and more families will place a greater emphasis on efficiency in the future.  But what does this mean for the exotic car market?

Well, for those that can afford to, a marriage of both exotic flair and practicality like the Tesla Roadster may be an option.  For the rest of us, it could mean a practical automobile in the driveway and accessing exotic cars through other outlets.

Exotic car clubs, for example, are one way people are finding to enjoy the use of exotic cars without the expense and hassle of direct ownership.  These clubs have been around for a while and are located all over the country.  Check out http://www.exoticcarclubs.com for a nationwide directory.

DFW Elite Car Club (http://www.dfwelitecarclub.com) is a car club that distinguishes itself by offering classic, luxury and exotic cars.  Additionally, the DFW car club allows members to choose their own level of participation by choosing exactly the amount of points to purchase.

These points are then used to drive exotic cars in the Dallas club’s collection.  With no large up front joining fees and monthly membership programs for as little as $700 per month, DFW Elite Car Club is a very practical way to drive exotic cars. The clubs more than 20 car paddock includes a Ferrari F430, a pair of Lamborghini Gallardos and even a 150k newly added bright red 2009 Audi R8.

Yeah baby! Consult your local tax professional, but a corporate car club membership at DFW Elite Car Club.com just might be this year’s most enjoyable tax write off.

Written by G.D. Gregory. If you are interested in having me write stories for you or seeing my SEO web copywriting portfolio, please contact me at ggpsu@yahoo.com.