Pundits who have attended the Chicago Auto Show have tapped a number of vehicles that they are calling “Winners.” Some of these vehicles include:
• The 2009 Acura RL. A solid refresh of the flagship, the new model has more new technology than the previous RL. It includes AcuraLink Weather reports, which displays real-time weather map and forecasts. The RL is scheduled for release in the spring of 2008
• 2009 Chevrolet Traverse. This crossover is the fourth sibling to join the GMC Acadia, Buick Enclave, and Saturn Outlook.
• GMC Denali XT Concept. Designed by GM's Holden brand in Australia whose previous work includes the stunning Effigy, the XT Concept is being explained as a fuel saving vehicle with the functionality of a pickup truck. It features a hybrid powertrain and 55-inch storage bed as well as adjustable air suspension that lowers the ride height.
• 2009 Hummer H3T. Based on the H3 SUV, the H3T is categorized as a mid-size truck like the Toyota Tacoma and Dodge Dakota.
• 2009 Suzuki Equator. A pickup truck that is built by Nissan and based on the Frontier. Goes on sale this fall.
• Yes! Roadster 3.2. This vehicle is made by an “upstart German engineering firm” that has been hand building a limited number of production roadsters and racing cars since 2000. It is a performance car with horsepower for the base engine at 255 and horsepower for the turbo at 355. The turbo goes from 0 to 60 in 3.8 seconds and it has a top speed of 174. The engine is situated in the middle of the vehicle. Interior is bare boned, but it does have leather trim and luxury options include a navigation system, upgraded stereo, heated seats and removable hard top.
Our take? A lot. General Motors invited one of our bloggers (lucky stiff!) to attend the auto show. As he finishes his impressions and opinions of the various vehicles and interviews, we will post them throughout the week.