Visitor's Guide to the 2012 Detroit Auto Show

After a few slow years, the Detroit auto show is back in full force for 2012. Dozens of new vehicle debuts, additional floor space and more exhibitors than ever have made this year's show one of the best in years.

We were there on press days to cover every last reveal, but once the show opens to the public it's a whole different setup. To help you navigate the show floor we assembled this handy list of the 10 must-see vehicles of the show. Of course, there are dozens of new cars, trucks and concepts to see, but these should get you started on the right foot.

2013 Cadillac ATS: This is an all-new sport sedan from Cadillac. Smaller than the current CTS, the rear-wheel-drive ATS will offer three different engines and many of the same features found on the larger XTS that was revealed late last year.

2013 Dodge Dart: An all-new compact sedan, the Dodge Dart is the company's first entry into the segment since the ill-fated Neon. The Dart features three different engines, slick styling and numerous customization options.

2013 Ford Escape: Another all-new vehicle from Ford, the redesigned Escape features two new EcoBoost engines and dramatic new styling that the company says helps it to deliver improved mileage.

2013 Ford Fusion: It's not often that a mainstream family sedan makes a splash, but the fully redesigned Fusion is hard to ignore. Its new model lineup includes turbocharged versions, a hybrid and even a plug-in hybrid, so there's a little bit of something for everybody. Add in sleek styling and it's definitely a must-see car at the show.

2013 Scion FR-S: This entry-level sports car is headed to showrooms later this year. It features a 200-horsepower engine, rear-wheel drive and an extremely light chassis. Pricing has yet to be announced, but we expect it to start at less than $25,000.

2013 Toyota Prius C: This is the latest new member of the Prius family. Smaller and less expensive than the standard Prius, the compact Prius C is said to deliver 53 mpg in the city. It goes on sale in March with a base price around $19,000.

Acura NSX Concept: This ultra high-tech sports car is an early look at a production car that Acura plans to have on the market within three years. It's expected to feature a hybrid drivetrain that will deliver exotic performance without the guilt. It will also be engineered and built in Ohio.

Chevrolet Tru 140S Concept: This is Chevrolet's idea for an affordable exotic. It's aimed at younger buyers who may not otherwise have considered Chevrolet before. Built on the same front-wheel-drive platform as the Chevy Cruze, the Tru 140S could make it to production if it gets enough good responses from show-goers.

Chrysler 700C: This futuristic take on the minivan was rolled out with little fanfare. Chrysler said it wanted to gauge public reaction to the wildly styled minivan. Make sure to stop by and submit your opinions.

Lexus LF-LC Concept: This futuristic sports car was designed in Toyota's California studio. Although Lexus says it doesn't have plans to produce the car, the LF-LC hints at the future design direction for the brand.

Public days run from Saturday, January 14 through Sunday, January 22 at COBO Hall in downtown Detroit. Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for children and can be purchased online. There's plenty of parking in the area, but the Red Wings will be playing home games on the 14th, 16th and 21st, so expect to see increased traffic on those days.