Monday, April 9, 2012 — By Jaime Sorcher

There was eye car candy everywhere at the New York Auto Show, which kicked off its press days April 4 and 5. It opened to the public April 6 and runs through April 15. More than 20 new cars were unveiled on opening day with over 1,000 new vehicles on display at the Jacob Javits Center.

Some of the major—and recurring—trends include advances in technology (for both entertainment and information), Apple and smartphone integration and safety.

One of the big reveals on opening day was Acura’s RLX, a tech-loaded concept car, that is slated for launch in 2013. It has dual LCD touch screens in the dashboard for easy access to music and navigation, as well as the next-generation AcuraLink for stolen vehicle tracking and remote lock/unlock via built-in two-way cellular communication.

For infotainment, Acura has teamed with Aha Radio, part of Harman, for its smartphone app that integrates with the car’s stereo system. It delivers thousands of Internet radio stations as well as audio news feeds from Facebook and Twitter. On the safety side, there are a range of features like Acura’s new lane-keeping-assist system, lane departure system and a forward collision alert.

Honda’s 2013 CrossTour concept, which goes on sale in the fall, will have lane departure and forward collision warning systems. It will be one of the first Honda models to receive the automaker’s exclusive LaneWatch blind-spot display.

Also getting lots of attention was the futuristic Transition Roadable Aircraft—also touted as a flying car—by Terrafugia. The name of the aerospace company, founded by pilots and engineers from MIT, is Latin for “escape the Earth.”

And for those who want their wheels to hug the highway, there is the “Hot Wheels for Real” Chevy Camaro concept in Metallic Green. The head-turning General Motors vehicle was displayed prominently at the entrance to the North Pavilion where plenty of folks were stopping to have their pictures taken.