The best cars at Beijing 2012

If there's been a common theme running through recent international motor shows, that theme has been green. Hybrids, electric cars and all manner of innovative efficiency improvements for our old friend the internal combustion engine have packed the stands.

In light of this apparent obsession on the environment that the car industry's been exhibiting of late, Beijing 2012 has come as quite a surprise. There are plenty of economy-focused offerings, of course, but we've also been treated to a series of headline-grabbing cars that major in obscene power, unbridled luxury or both. To be honest, the optimism and extravagance around this Beijing show made a nice change.