The 2024 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) is still going on, and we expect to see a lot of cool car tech by the end. Concluding on April 7, 2024, we still have a few more days for anything really cool to show up. Until then, we’ve done the research, checked out the presentations, and have a pretty good list of some of the coolest cars at the 2024 NYIAS. Check out our choices below.

Hyundai Motor Group

Hyundai was pretty busy this year, bringing some pretty interesting vehicles to show off at the NYIAS. If looking for an all-electric vehicle that also boasts high performance, then consumers should be taking a good look at the upcoming 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. Able to satisfy the need for speed in all of us, this battery-electric vehicle (BEV) can generate 641 horsepower and comes with all-wheel-drive (AWD) for superior control. All electric, instead of a mechanical transmission, the Ioniq 5 comes with an e-Shift function that mimics the feeling of an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. Able to offer an all-electric range (AER) of 221 miles, that’s not bad.

Another surprise was the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz. Called a sporty adventure vehicle, it would seem that the automaker wants to lean a little more into the pickup truck side of things. Currently offering a 4’4” truck bed, the 2025 model gets a little more rugged with an available XRT trim that offers more capability with new XRT-exclusive front and rear bumper fascia designs, a new XRT-exclusive front grille, front tow hooks, wrench-inspired XRT-specific 18-inch wheels, 245 / 60 R 18 all-terrain tires, an increased approach angle, plus XRT logo debossing on front upper seatbacks inside, a Surround View Monitor, and Blind-Spot View Monitoring. For consumers who want the benefits of an SUV with the utility capabilities of a truck, the Santa Cruz fits the bill.

Making its official debut at the 2024 NYIAS is a Kia model that was all rumors until now. Known as the 2025 Kia K4 sport sedan, this model will be replacing the Kia Forte with a much sharper look and more performance. Powered by a 2.0-liter engine, standard, able to generate 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, consumers can upgrade to a 1.6-liter, turbocharged engine able to generate 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Keeping the Kia GT-Line alive, there will be a GT-Line trim that adds a unique front and rear fascia with gloss black accents, a satin chrome beltline, 18-inch alloy wheels with gloss black mirror caps, and a new window trim and side sills. There will also be a GT-Turbo trim that adds small cube LED projection headlights, LED fog lights, and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Nissan

We also saw Nissan was pretty busy at the show. A prologue to its recent announcement of five concepts for the next three years, including a BEV and next-generation pickup truck for the U.S., there were two Nissan models at the NYIAS that stood out. The first was the new 2025 Nissan Kicks, getting a slick modern redesign for the next model year. Upgrading the vehicle to match the competition, all-wheel drive (AWD) is being added to the Nissan Kicks for the first time ever. Other SUVS in the market better watch out for what comes next with this one.

Also making an appearance is the 2025 Nissan GT-R. The R35-generation GT-R is one of Nissan’s sports cars that have been around for quite a while. A boxy coupé that looks cool and powerful, the GT-R can generate 565 horsepower and 467 lb-ft of torque. There have been rumors of the automaker discontinuing the GT-R to make room for new, electrified models. There is talk of an electric GT-R to carry on the nameplate, but nothing has been confirmed just yet. Just look at the image above, though. If that rear fascia doesn’t scream style, then what does? If Nissan does kick it to the curb, this is one vehicle that will be missed.

We know there were plenty of cool cars at the 2024 NYAIS, but these are our picks. What are some of your favorites? Join the discussion on NowCar social media.

Photo Source/Copyright: Hyundai, Nissan, Kia Media