Geneva's Salon International de l'Automobile is a rare event. Because Switzerland has no auto makers, this show doesn't feature nationalistic, chest-thumping displays by the home team. On neutral territory, global carmakers bring significant new vehicles to show to consumers, the media, and competitors for the first time.

To give you a taste, this slide show features the cars that caught the eyes of BusinessWeek European Auto Correspondent Gail Edmondson and Detroit Senior Correspondent Katie Kerwin, starting with this new convertible from Mazda. Enjoy.

Auto Treats in Geneva

New models combine stunning design and innovative features

Peppy Drop-Top

Mazda MX-5

They may have dropped "Miata" from the name, but this little soft-top two-seater will never be mistaken for anything else. The third generation of the convertible that singlehandedly revived the affordable roadster segment in 1989 remains true to its roots. A new front and rear end, with snazzy round tail lamps signal something new here.

But Mazda bent over backward not to turn the peppy little drop-top into a heavy, chrome-laden behemoth with neck-snapping acceleration. The interior is accented with humble plastic, albeit plastic ridged or pebbled to attractive textures. The Miata is alive and well.