It's hard to pick favorites, as many manufacturers were sensible, and I noticed a majority of excellent everyday cars on display. However, there were some aftermarket and high-end showcases that added some bling and excitement.
I also noticed the very creative use of space for not only the aftermarket section, which has grown, but also for the Army showcase, and plenty of food and beverage corners. It's nice to have the option to purchase a snack while perusing the auto show, though I didn't personally partake and can't speak of what sort of offerings were to be had.
Here's a rundown of highlights at this year's auto show:
- More compact offerings: there was a number of manufacturers showcasing compact offerings. These are typically aimed at first-time, young car buyers. Scion is specializing in the very young car buyer interested in color and personality -- and sub-woofers and grills?
- There wasn't as much excess as usual. No Maybach for example. There were only a few Range Rovers and Land Rovers on display. I saw a handful of exotics, but they did have solid presence. There were lots of people gathered around the Nissan Z and GT-R though.
- There were more pinks and that sort of pepped up car versus the old vintage ones such as Shelby, or other lookers.
- Dodge/Chrysler/Jeep kept the fun exhibit that allows attendees to queue up and drive one of the vehicles through a bit of an obstacle course to test struts, breaks, and torque.
Scion xB with Grill | Scion xB Subwoofer |
Maserati Panafarina | Mercedes Benz SLS |
Nissan Z and GT-R | Audi R8 convertible |
2010 Range Rover | Lamborghini |
Pimped '66 Chevy Nova | Pimped Camaro Z28 |
Jeep Wrangler | Jeep/Dodge Showcase |
All around this was a great show, with plenty to do and see, and an excellent array of vehicles to keep kids and car fans busy. To view the entire collection of photos I take at the annual Chicago Auto Show, see my Flickr Auto Show Set.
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