Some sports cars, giant SUVs and electric concepts are trying to spruce up an otherwise dull event due to withdrawal from many carmakers.
The new Toyota Supra has stolen the limelight at this year’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Developed in conjunction with BMW’s latest Z4 roadster, the fifth-gen Supra is being differentiated with a distinctively styled coupe body.
The Supra gets the front-engine/rear-drive format, 340hp 3.0-litre inline-six petrol-turbo, eight-speed torque-converter automatic and rear diff lock from the Z4 M40i.
For the first time, there’s a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol-turbo to choose from for the Supra with outputs of either 258hp or 197hp.
The Supra was easily the talk of the show in Detroit due to a largely reduced number of participants. None of Europe’s finest were at the annual American motor show.
Organisers say next year’s event will be held in June when the weather is better. The sub-zero conditions in January has been one major deterrent in keeping visitors away from the show.
Following are the other highlights of the show, although their sales implications for Thailand are low with some of them nil.
SPORTS CARS: Mean machines with even more attitude
Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
Ford has cranked up the heat on the Mustang with the introduction of the latest Shelby GT500 featuring 700hp-plus 5.2-litre supercharged V8 and circa-3.5sec 0-100kph time. But rather than getting the 10-speed torque-converter auto from the lower Mustangs, the Shelby GT500 receives a new seven-speed twin-clutch unit.
Lexus RC F Track Edition
The RC F has received its mid-life facelift that also includes a more powerful 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 developing 472hp. Joining it for the first time is the so-called Track Edition featuring a carbon rear spoiler and some lighter body parts. There’s even launch control in Track Edition to make the RC F more accelerative from standstill.
Subaru WRX STI S209
A more focused version of the WRX STI now sits on top of Subaru’s Impreza lineup. The S209 sees a 2.5-litre turbo engine with power increased to 341hp making it the most potent WRX STI yet. Racier add-ons like a fixed rear wing feature for both visual and aero reasons. The S209 is being made in only small numbers for the US.
SUVS: Big body and power appealing to American buyers
Cadillac XT6
After making the XT4 and XT5 as rivals for the BMW X1 and X3, Cadillac has developed a new SUV to take on the X5. The XT6 has three rows of seats and is powered by 310hp 3.6-litre V6 and nine-speed automatic. The engine can also run on four cylinders to enhance fuel economy.
Ford Explorer
One of America’s favourite SUVs has been redesigned with an all-new body and platform to accommodate seven persons in comfort. There are two petrol-turbo engines mated to 10-speed auto: 365hp 3.0-litre V6 and 300hp 2.3-litre inline-four. Lots of driving aids feature, too.
Kia Telluride
After previewing its flagship SUV in concept form at this exact motor show last year, Kia has taken the wraps off the production-ready model to rival the likes of the Ford Explorer. The eight-seater is powered by 291hp 3.8-litre V6 and eight-speed auto driving all four wheels.
CONCEPTS: More electrification is coming, although one’s about panache
Infiniti QX Inspiration
After showing experimental cars in sporty forms over the past years, Infiniti is now teasing the public with an electrified SUV that could go head to head with BMW’s pending iX3. The mid-size SUV from the Japanese luxury car maker is being touted with a high-performance electric system and lounge-like cabin.
Lexus LC Convertible
Although still billed as a concept, this is virtually a production-ready model. The roof type of the open-top LC has yet to be revealed, although it’s looking like a folding tin-top last featured in the IS C. Potential power for the LC Convertible include 3.5-litre V6 petrol-electric hybrid and 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8.
Nissan IMs
Like how VV is building on its BEV business with the ID family, Nissan has shown another variation of the IM series. The IMs sedan follows up on the IMx SUV and highlights 483hp of electric power and 600km of driving range. Nissan dubs the IMs a sports sedan since its performance can match those of sports cars.
