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

Over to the Europeans, Mercedes-Benz showed up with its all-new ML, destined to be a top seller. Longer, lower and

Subaru Canada should be commended for coming to the Vancouver show with its revised 2006 Forester, after only unveiling it to the world the week prior in New York. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

resultantly sleeker, the new ML looks less like a minivan and more like a Mercedes. The three-pointed star brand had its CLS55 AMG displayed as well, one of the most beautifully designed cars currently available. While hardly beautiful, at the other end of the spectrum the German automaker showed off a lineup of brightly coloured smart fortwos, in both coupe and convertible guise. They make you feel as if you've got to take a leash and a pooper-scooper along for the ride. A smart roadster was shown up at an environmental display on the concourse, along with a Daihatsu Copen, MINI diesel and others - very cool.

Speaking of MINI, the diminutive BMW division had its tres hip

Volkswagen showed its new Jetta, a car that has come under criticism from those still in love with the current version. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press)

convertible at the show, looking every bit as well put together as a 3-Series convertible at a fraction of the price, and size.

Volkswagen showed its new Jetta, a car that has come under criticism from those still in love with the current version. No doubt, its many improvements will eventually win over the naysayers.

Saab came to the Vancouver event with its new 9-7X SUV, a model that the Swedish brand hopes will win over loyal customers as well as others looking to move up from the Saturn brand, which is normally sold from the same retailer.