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LOS ANGELES — While auto shows tend to be grab bags — featuring a little bit of this and a little bit of that — a sizable batch of debuts here were swathed in green.

Several automakers used the show to launch vehicles with an Earth-friendly slant, perhaps hoping to grab share in a stagnant market. Here's a look at what worked and what didn't.

ENLARGE The Hyundai Genesis coupe concept, shown, and Nissan Murano were among the standouts at Los Angeles.

Hits

Hyundai Genesis coupe concept: This concept packs serious promise for those who prefer rear-drive performance but are not totally sold on a Ford Mustang or future Chevy Camaro. With the Genesis, Hyundai has its sights set on the "drift" market — a group that's still enamored with the dynamics of the four-cylinder, rear-drive Nissan 240SX, last built in the 1990s. The rear-drive Genesis could be a worthy successor.

Volkswagen Space Up Blue: We like the old split-window Microbus, and this represents a great chance to bring back that '60s favorite on a much smaller scale. In addition, Volkswagen's fuel-cell-powered concept would be far more environmentally friendly than the oil-smoking, oil-leaking flat-four of the past.

Nissan Murano: As redesigns go, this one works. Nissan got rid of the first-generation Murano's angular lines for a far more stylish sled — especially with more chrome in the grille. This Murano won't be such a stealth wagon, which is good, as plenty of other new entries flood the segment.

Pontiac Vibe: Here's another vehicle that benefits from the trend toward softer exterior lines. The 2009 Vibe will get a new powertrain option, with a 2.4-liter four replacing the 1.8-liter supercharged unit. The first Vibe started out hot but then fell off the radar screen. This should put it back on the scope.

ENLARGE The Lincoln MKS, despite some good points, didn't look the part of the flagship sedan.

Misses

Audi Cross Cabriolet Quattro Concept: As a rule, we like convertibles. But this future Audi Q5 is hamstrung by impossible proportions imposed by its inherent SUV-ness. This vehicle never should have had its top chopped. It does have nice paint, though. We say: Just build the Q5 — and leave the roof on.

Lincoln MKS: This was supposed to be the coming-out party for Lincoln's new design theme. There is some good here: a solid platform adopted from Volvo and the promise of a powerful engine — a twin-turbo, gasoline direct-injection V-6.

But as a replacement for the rear-drive, perfectly proportioned Lincoln LS, this large flagship sedan looks odd and ungainly. Then you recall that it's really a front-driver — or all-wheel drive — in a rear-drive segment. In profile, it is too reminiscent of the Nissan Altima or Chrysler Sebring, with none of the tight overhangs of its predecessor. And where are all those Lincoln cues we were told to look for?

Tossup

Honda FCX Clarity: Our opinions range violently on this peacenik-mobile. Some applaud its clean appearance that doesn't scream green car. Others argue that its Prius-ish proportions look as if they were drawn up for a grade school science fair. But the Southern California lease program is sure to be a PR hit.

Hybrid trucks: In Los Angeles, we saw hybrid-powered versions of the Chevy Tahoe, Chevy Silverado, Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen. All the excitement here is under the hood — not your typical auto show fare.

Here's the big question: Is having a huge, functional pickup or SUV that gets 21 mpg a great thing? In most parts of the country, the answer is yes.

But in California, these vehicles remain among the most despised by the environmentally conscious crowd. And now all those Prius drivers will have to share the carpool lane with hybrid Silverados and Durangos. A fate worse than death? c