DETROIT 2008: OUR HOMETOWN SHOW.(News)

A new calendar in Detroit means the spectacle that is the North American International Auto Show isn't far off. Heading into its 20th year with international status, Detroit promises some of the biggest and most anticipated debuts of the year. The show has outgrown its 700,000-square-foot space on Cobo's main floor, squeezing downstairs and out onto the concourse.

A few automakers won't make the trip to Detroit this year, most notably Porsche and Aston Martin. Porsche's excuse: Slipping local market sales are enough to make it forgo this annual launch event of the international show season schedule. Still, there will be something for everyone. Downstairs are more concepts, customs and race cars to see for those whose appetites aren't satiated by the mega-displays upstairs.

The Chinese invasion will continue. Five automakers from the world's most populous country will be displaying their wares in Detroit, three of which will make their debuts. BYD Auto Co., China America Cooperative Automotive and Li Shi Guang Ming Auto Design Co. will make first appearances, while Changfeng Motor Group and Geely International Corp. return for another run.

The preshow charity event again will be held on Friday, Jan. 18, before the show opens to the public; it's a big night for celebrity watching in the city. The ticket price remains $400 for those who want to walk the floor early and benefit a good cause without heavy crowds. Charitable folks also will be treated to music from the Canadian rock band Barenaked Ladies.

If you can't get a ticket to the charity show, there's always a chance you may be invited to the ultraexclusive pre-preshow on Jan. 13. This is only for the superluxury brands (no Cadillac, no Lexus), with top models from Bentley, Rolls-Royce and Ferrari, to name a few. Of course, if you haven't received your invitation yet . . .

* With nearly 750,000 people attending each year, the crowds are massive, especially on the weekends. To see a slightly tamer show floor, get up early during the week, and enjoy more room to walk and take pictures.

* Parking is always a challenge at the NAIAS. Street spots are hard to come by, and nearby lots fill quickly. Luckily, Detroit's Red Wings hockey team will be on a road trip, allowing for full use of the rooftop parking at Cobo Hall. Also consider parking near one of the People Mover stations; Greektown Casino has a new parking garage with plenty of spaces.