The automotive landscape continues changing with a growing appetite for SUVs & trucks. Infotainment screens are bigger than ever. More nameplates are offering electric vehicles, while further exploring the potential of autonomous technology. It’s an exciting time for the industry. Among the many new vehicles at this year’s Chicago Auto Show, here are the top 10 you must see:
1. 2020 Porsche Taycan Turbo S
Porsche is embracing performance for the future with it’s attractive all-electric Taycan. It’s a 4-door, but a very sporty appearance. Although there isn’t a turbocharger (no forced induction powers an electric car), the “Turbo” simply designates performance in the Porsche world. The Turbo S has a 93.4 kWh battery, 754 hp, while clocking a 0-60 mph in 2.6 seconds. About a 250 mile range is expected on a full charge. Such excitement will cost you, with a $185,000 base.
2. 2021 Toyota Tacoma Nightshade Special Edition
This package adds some coolness with a blacked out grille, door handles, wheels, exterior badging, interior. It’s also available for the full sized Tundra pickup, 4Runner and Sequoia SUV. Coming later in the year.
3. 2021 Toyota Tundra Trail Special Edition
New Trail Special Editions of the Tundra, Tacoma and 4Runner come tailored for the outdoors. Camping, fishing and hiking take priority. Features include lockable bed storage with cooler, specialty off-road tires and larger tank. Coming this summer.
4. 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime
Toyota’s Prime is the most powerful RAV4 to date. The new plug-in hybrid, with EV-only capability, has 302 combined hp. The sport-tuned suspension, advanced AWD and unique design features are very appealing. Range expected at 39 miles on battery alone and a combined 90 MPGe. It’ll be available this summer.
5. 2021 All-Electric Mustang Mach-E
If you can look past the unfortunate choice to brand an all-electric 4-door SUV as a “Mustang”, the Mach-E is really a great looking vehicle. Range is 300 miles on full charge with the RWD version. The high performance GT will go 0-60 mph in the mid 3-second range, up to 459 hp. Ford likely built it to compete with Tesla’s model Y. Starting price is $43,895. Availability is later this year, with the GT coming 2021.
6. 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
2020 Motortrend Car Of The Year – Perhaps the biggest change has been made to America’s sports car with the latest generation C8 Corvette Stingray: a mid-engined design! Such a configuration is traditionally reserved for the most expensive, high-end exotics. But better value for performance has always been a Corvette tradition. The coupe starts at $59,995 and convertible $67,495. Both can be seen at the show. The 6.2 liter V8 produces 495 hp/470 lb-ft and controlled by an 8-speed dual clutch. The Z51 package will get 0-60 mph in under 3 seconds. An adjustable ride height & front lift system keeps the underside safe above driveway inclines. I wish that existed when I had my 2008 Corvette! The exterior is fantastic with a practical 2-trunk design – trunk and frunk. The interior is wonderfully sporty with an infotainment screen placed ideal for the driver. A single, vertical strip of buttons is a great throwback to the sideways placement of the radio & station buttons on early Corvettes.
7. 2021 Chevrolet Suburban
8. 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
These celebrated full-size SUVs change for the better this year, meeting the needs and space requirements for all families. Both reflect the look of the Silverado and there’s more cabin room and cargo area. The Suburban grows by 1.3″ while the smaller Tahoe adds 6.7″ to it’s total length. An available 15″ color head up display and automatic power sliding console spice up the interior. The standard powertrain is a 5.3 liter V8. Optional is the 6.2, while the Duramax inline-6 turbo-diesel generates 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of twist. A 10-speed automatic handles the shifts and the new independent rear suspension is a welcome improvement. The Z71 and High Country offer Four-Corner Air Ride Adaptive Suspension. The new Suburban and Tahoe are expected mid-year.
9. 2021 Jaguar F-Type Convertible
The 2-seater sports car’s refreshed exterior has a different grille, new hood, bumpers and elongated LED head & taillights that better compliment the body lines. The Touch Pro infotainment system has Apple CarPlay & Android Auto with a standard 10″ touchscreen. A high-resolution 12.3″ interactive driver display is easy to use. Engine choices are 2 liter I4 (296 hp), 3 liter V6 (380 hp) and top dog 5 liter V8 (575 hp). The coupe starts at $61,600, while the convertible begins at $64,700. Look for it this spring.
10. 2021 Genesis GV80
The first SUV from Genesis grabs attention with refined, yet restrained styling and many luxurious interior elements. From its elegant crest grille to its horizontal design theme, the GV80 has a modern look. Features include remote smart park assist, a 14.5″ infotainment touchscreen and 2nd row heated/ventilated power reclining seats. AWD is optional, while engine choices include a 2.5 turbo or 3.5 twin-turbo generating 300 hp. The GV80 comes this summer with price to be announced. This auto show model looks spectacular!
Honorable Mention: Subaru Outback Display
Subaru brings the great outdoors inside, creating a completely independent environment from the others. The presentation for their Outback is stunning. Equally impressive is their history as a zero-landfill automaker. 100% of all manufacturing waste is either recycled or turned into electricity.
Check out the 2020 Chicago Auto Show at the Windy City’s McCormick Place Saturday, February 8th through President’s Day Monday, February 17th. It’s the nation’s best-attended, and largest auto show. With over 1,000 vehicles, engaging displays and indoor test tracks, there’s entertainment for the whole family. For more information, go to www.chicagoautoshow.com and get social with hashtag #CAS2020
