Jaguar and Porsche go electric at the 2016 LA Auto Show

Mark Gambino

A new world of automotive luxury and opulence has debuted at this year's LA Auto Show, along with a surprise or two that are bound to turn heads.

The annual auto show is an opportunity for carmakers to show off new concept cars or vehicles previously announced but yet to receive a showcase in a Western market. Others simply want to brag about the latest technological innovation that will improve and update their existing models, a la Tesla.

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While not every carmaker has opted to place futuristic innovation firmly on their roadmap, many did debut new vehicles to take the brand's visual language we all know and love in exciting new directions.

Electrifying luxury

This year, the word on everyone's lips was 'electric', with a number of luxury carmakers making bold new statements on the future direction of their autos, dispelling any doubt our world is about to get a whole lot greener.

Of note was the debut of a number of new hybrid and all-electric luxury vehicles, like the Jaguar I-Pace concept car or the Porsche Panamera. Despite offering a noticeable boost in torque alongside a substantial improvement in economy, don't assume there have been trade-offs in design – these vehicles offer all features, comfort and performance you've come to expect from a prestige brand.

Also, Lexus debuted a limited edition (one only) Sriracha version of the Lexus IS Sports sedan. Yes, Sriracha, the hot sauce. No, it's no joke.

While vehicles on display in LA ranged from 'prototype' to 'available in a few months,' speak to your local dealer now if you want to secure one for yourself.

Check back closer to a vehicle's release date for local pricing.

2017 Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid Executive

Updating its popular line with a plug-in Executive model is a stroke of genius by Porsche. This new four-door Panamera features all the comforts you'd expect in a luxury vehicle, with the performance of a sports car.

2017 Mercedes-Maybach S650 Cabriolet

With unsurmountable style and class, this new Maybach cabriolet from Mercedes is pure gratification on four wheels. Boasting a twin-turbo V12 engine, porcelain interior and a whole lot of chrome, you'd best get in fast - Mercedes will only produce 300 vehicles in total.

Tesla Model X P90D

Certainly the most unique SUV on the block, the P90D version of Tesla's 'wing door' Model X line offers a single-charge range of 350 kilometres and a formidable amount of torque – more than 960Nm with the Ludicrous Mode upgrade.

2018 Audi A5 & S5 Sportback

A five-door hatch available in four cylinder (A5) or V6 (S5), this turbocharged Audi offers many of the features and capabilities found in the popular A5 Coupe. It's ideal for those seeking the look and feel of its sibling with a little more space inside.

Jaguar I-Pace Concept

The first all-electric SUV from a luxury carmaker, the I-Pace features a staggering 500-kilometre range on a single charge. Positioned as a family-friendly alternative to the many petrol or diesel engine vehicles available, this ride will see you arrive in Jaguar's classic style and comfort.

2018 Mercedes-AMG E63/S

If you crave power and torque, it doesn't get much better than this new V8 from Mercedes. Comfortable and opulent on the inside, the S model can achieve 0 to 60mph (96kmh) in just 3.3 seconds (yowzers!), putting it in the same class as sports car makers Ferrari and Lamborghini.

2018 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio

Another luxury SUV to add to your Christmas list, this unmistakeable Alfa Romeo may be a latecomer to the market, but sports a Ferrari engine and lightweight, composite body (carbon fibre/aluminium) – Mama mia!

2017 Porsche 911 RSR

Taking aim at sportscar makers, such as Ferrari and McLaren, this mid-engine update to the iconic 911 line features a lightweight, carbon fibre body, and redesigned engine and transmission – it's definitely not one for the faint-hearted.

2017 Jeep Compass Trailhawk

A stop-start engine and 9-speed transmission makes this new Jeep as economical as it is powerful. With all the features loyal buyers want in an all-terrain vehicle – like hill descent control and raised suspension – don't be surprised to see them in the wild shortly.

2017 Mini Cooper Countryman S E ALL4

Mini goes green with the plug-in hybrid Countryman, packing a three-cylinder turbo petrol engine teamed with an electric motor, and a six or eight-speed transmission. It's an economical way to get around, with a high-performance kick when you need it.

Click through the gallery above to see what your next car will look like.

Executive Style