Currently reading: Detroit motor show 2014: Top five American cars

US brands went toe-to-toe with European rivals at the Motor City show, revealing important new cars and concepts. Here are five of the best American models...

The Detroit motor show marked the public debut of many notable models, including the new Mercedes-Benz C-class.

It wasn't just the Europeans that were out in force, however, with several major new American cars being revealed.

Read on to find out what we thought were the most important American cars at the show.

2014 SRT Viper Grand Touring

If there's one thing that the SRT Viper is not lacking, it's power. Its 8.4-litre V10 produces 640bhp, allowing for 0-60mph in less than 4.0sec and a claimed top speed of 205mph.

The new GT model, however, adds some more advanced features that would have previously only been found on the range-topping GTS variant. So, buyers of the GT benefit from a new five-mode stability control system, electrically adjustable suspension and upgraded interior trim.

Chevrolet Corvette C7 Z06

The new Z06, a high-performance version of Chevrolet's popular C7 Corvette, is designed to take on the world's best sports cars. Unlike its predecessors, it features a supercharged engine that produces "at least" 625bhp and 635lb ft.

Chevrolet claims that it's currently clocking faster lap times than the outgoing Corvette ZR1, indicating that it's a seriously capable car. “The new Z06 delivers levels of performance, technology and design that rival the most exotic supercars in the world,” said Mark Reuss, president, General Motors North America.

Acura TLX concept

The new Acura TLX concept previews the brand's next flagship saloon model. The 'luxury sports saloon', described by senior vice president of American Honda Mike Accavittias as "the next step in our plan to progress the brand", is hoped to reinvigorate interest in Acura.

"We have never put so much technology into one car before," added Accavittias. "The Acura TLX will deliver an unbelievable dynamic experience. It will combine luxurious comfort, advanced tech and stunning performance."

Ford F150

The popular Ford F150 has some serious market clout, with it holding the title of America's best-selling pick-up for 37 consecutive years. So, to say there's a lot of expectation surrounding the new generation of F150 would be somewhat of an understatement.

Besides an economical new turbocharged 2.7-litre V6 engine, the all-new F150 makes extensive use of aluminium alloys to cut weight. Reputedly, it's some 318kg lighter than its predecessor. Ford says both practicality and comfort have been improved too, important for a working truck.

VL Destino concept

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If you ever wanted a Fisker Karma, except with a convertible roof and a V8 engine, then the VL Destino should be at the top of your list. Admittedly few people will have those criteria, but it's interesting to see such a bold model being pushed through to production.

It's based on the sleek Fisker Karma, but instead features a choice of Corvette-sourced V8 engines - instead of an efficient range-extender powertrain. The VL Destino also gets a folding hard top, which should maintain interior refinement, and it's expected to cost around £120,000.

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Tuatara 18 January 2014

The best 5?

Where's the Mustang?
Lewis Kingston 18 January 2014

RE: Mustang

Hello Tuatara. The Mustang had been revealed prior to the Detroit show, on 5 December. It's nonetheless a very important model. We've a complete story on it here: http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/motor-shows/2015-ford-mustang-gets-public-debut