Los Angeles Auto Show 2012: Hybrid, Electric Cars Steal The Show (PHOTOS)

Electric and hybrid cars seem to hog the limelight at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto show that opens to the public Friday, as a wide array of options appeared to substitute gasoline-burning cars.

Among the cars that made a splash were the i3 electric and i8 plug-in hybrid from BMW. Both the concept cars are scheduled to go on sale 2014.

Toyota was another company that made a mark with the all-electric SUV RAV4 EV, besides showcasing Avalon, Highlander and Camry models with hybrid engines.

The high-end Lexus division from Toyota that is known for luxury put on display the RX mid-sized SUV along with ES, GS and LS sedans.

Ford Fiesta with the three-cylinder engine and 197 horsepower made a compelling proposition for test drive with Jake fisher, automotive tester with Consumer Reports magazine, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Honda was hot on Toyota's trails offering the Insight, Civic and CR-Z hybrids along with the Fit electric and Accord plug-in hybrid.

Among those who bit the “mild hybrid” bullet were Mercedes-Benz with its large S-class and mid-sized E-Class options and Porsche with Cayenne and Panamera models.

Third generation, two-seat mid-engine 2.7-liter, 275 horsepower sports coupe Porsche Cayman also came under the spotlight for being more efficient than the old model. So did the sportier 3.4-liter, 325 horsepower Cayman S that hits 60 mph from a standing start, within 4.4 seconds and goes on sale in spring with a price tag of $52,600, the Associated Press has reported.

The cars on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show are tipped to play a large role in future given the new fuel economy standards announced for cars and light trucks beginning 2017, according to Matthew Emmer of Examiner .

The auto show that opens Nov.30 and ends Dec. 9 will be held at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

Visit the official website to know more about the event and avail discount offers on tickets.