With the opening of this years 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show, and Porsches return once again to Petree Hall, I was once again faced with the anticipation of the design layout created for the exhibit space, as well as the content to be found within.

In the weeks leading up to the November 30 opening date, word was out that Porsche had selected the LA Auto Show as the venue for the World debut of their newly redesigned Cayman coupe. There were also speculation regarding whether Porsche would recognize the passing (earlier this year) of Ferdinand Alexander (Butzi) Porsche, and acknowledge his most identifiable automotive designs, in particular the 904 Carrera GTS and the original 911.

Approaching the entrance to Petree Hall, there was no question as to the design and theming for this years show. Visible through the entry row of glass double doors, was the first glimpse of things to come (see below).

A beautifully restored silver Porsche 904 Carrera GTS, with its photographic background, that appeared to have been taken from the start of the 1964 24 Hours of Le Mans race…

Centrally located along the entry corridor, leading into the main exhibit area, were two examples of the recently redesigned Porsche Boxster; the lead car a base model Boxster, while the second was a Boxster S. Both cars were dressed in Platinum silver metallic (silver being the predominant vehicle color for the exhibit). The base model Boxster was even unlocked and available to try on for size…

This lead car also served duty as one of several photo opportunities for aspiring dreamers of all ages…

The new, wider width rear spoiler that integrates into the dimensional detail found on each rear tail light as seen on the Boxster S (below).

And positioned directly behind the Boxster S, sat the first example of the featured model for this years show; just one of the multiple, redesigned Porsche Cayman making their world debut…

And sharing center stage were a pair of Cayman coupes…

One dressed in Racing Yellow,

and the other in Agate Gray Metallic.

Panoramic view, with a trio of Pamamera centrally located, just to the left of the Cayman display (below)…

Located directly across the exhibit from the Cayman display, were a trio of Porsche type 991, 911 Carreras; the model shown below being the new 911 Carrera 4S, with two type 991, Platinum Silver Metallic Cabriolets just off to its right.

The backside of the new type 991, 911 Carrera 4S, complete with a retro design touch unique to both the Carrera 4 and the 4S models: the addition of a red horizontal reflector, bridging the void between the rear tail lights.

And situated over to the far left of the exhibit, were a trio of Porsches latest Cayenne SUV’s.

Leading the trio was the new Cayenne GTS; visually distinct due to its lowered stance and 20″ wheels. Immediately to its right, was an example of the new Cayenne Diesel, powered by a 3.0 liter, 24 valve turbo diesel V6. And off to its right an example of the new Cayenne hybrid.

Given all of the design activity and model updates that have occurred at Porsche this past year, along with their very cool styling study; the Panamera Sport Turismo (a plug-in hybrid wagon) debuted at the recent Paris motor show, not to mention the amazing Porsche 918 Spyder lurking in the shadows awaiting final production, 2013 promises to be an amazing year for Porsche.  They even announced the return of a factory backed Works racing team, fielding two brand new type 991 GT3RSR’s. And who knows what Santa has up his sleeve this year for Christmas; perhaps you’ll wake up Christmas morning and find yourself staring at a crest similar to the one above, but one adorning the hood of your favorite Porsche…

Happy Holidays.

(All photos by the Author)