Pacific International Auto Show is Canada's Must See New Vehicle Event

A nice example of the final run of Thunderbirds was also at the Ford display, plus the automaker's Lincoln Mark LT, a

Besides the new Mustang convertible, Ford had a number to tuner cars on hand as well, which included this Biship's-built Steeda Mustang. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

tarted up F-150 that truly deserves the title Alberta limo.

Saturn, putting on a brave new face that will change the face of the brand in coming years, showed a hopped up ION Red Line Coupe that was barely distinguishable beside the stock version. Who ever thought it would be cool to drive a Saturn. Now with boy to men drooling over its upcoming Sky roadster and Aura concept, it's a nameplate on the move upward.

Over at the GM booth, the ultra-hot Cadillac STS-V was highlighted, as was the specially-tuned Chevrolet Cobalt SS coupe. Another Chevy was on the stand, the updated Impala that will no doubt be a massive seller. Buick brought its new Lucerne, which should help the

Over at the GM booth, the ultra-hot new Cadillac STS-V was highlighted. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

brand hold on to its traditional customers while attracting new, younger buyers, while Pontiac's Torrent SUV will offer smaller families something truly functional and fun to drive. Who knows if it will ever be built, but Hummer's H3T concept pickup pulled a crowd, despite already being a year on the auto show circuit.

The Japanese also hit the show in style, the largest bringing its new FJ Cruiser, in concept form just like in Toronto, plus another Toronto repeat, the Lexus LF-X crossover. Will the luxury brand ever build this attractive sport wagon? That's hard to say, but by the response of those in attendance, it should. Lexus also showed off its all-new 5-Series-fighting GS, while Toyota had its stylish new Avalon on hand.