For someone who a few years ago couldn’t tell the difference between a Buick and a Chevrolet, even when staring directly at both emblems, I’ve learned a lot about cars. Some of my education can be attributed to the weeks I spent interning at General Motors, the acquisition of my driver’s license, and of course my mechanically inclined husband who’s been known to build race cars in his free time; but most of my recent rise in aptitude regarding automobiles I would attribute to the city of Detroit. The change took place slowly, innocuously, and one day I no longer saw cars as a practical tool to be used for mobility purposes; instead, I discovered a world of exteriors, interiors, upgrades, and opportunities for innovation that just so happens to also afford excellent transportation.

The Motor City is still very much alive and evidence of its heartbeat is particularly palpable during the annual Auto Show. The city’s persistent buzz triumphantly crescendos around the arrival of daring concept cars, anticipated reveals, and sleek display models. Thousands flock to the Cobo Center, eager to gain inside information and ogle over their favorite automotive manufacturer’s latest masterpiece. With so much fervor surrounding this region’s historic affection it’s no wonder the passion would be contagious. And now I will leave you to drool over the 2015 A3 Cabriolet.