Chicago Auto Show is a big deal. Each year, more people pass through its displays than any other show on the American circuit. Perhaps most impressively, it does so without the help of any major new car debut and this year is no exception. But that doesn’t mean you should write it off. Quite to the contrary, there are still interesting things t see and do in the McCormick Center. These are our top 10 picks.
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First up, Mazda. The Hiroshima home team showed off a specially prepared version of its brand-new 2016 MX-5 Miata. This pint-sized roadster features a special body kit, big Brembo brakes and a carbon-fiber luggage rack that weighs just two pounds! TWO POUNDS! Gas-station burritos are heavier than that!
We also discovered an as-yet unknown species at the Toyota booth. With a single horn and wings we believe this large horse-like critter is a unisus, that’s a combination of half unicorn and half Pegasus. Think of them as the ligers of the sky … they’re pretty much my favorite mythical animal.
What’s better than a thoroughbred performance coupe? Well, if you like driving with the wind blowing through your hair, a convertible. Nissan showed off a NISMO version of its ever-popular 370Z sports car. Among many changes this “concept’s” chassis has been retuned and it gets a more aggressive body kit.
Next up, one vehicle you actually NEVER want to see. Ford unveiled its updated Police Interceptor Utility here in Chicago. Based on the Explorer, it gains an enhanced electrical system better suited to the demands of law enforcement, it also gets new exterior styling and a tons of other small tweaks.
Transitioning from municipal to magnificent, Acura’s popular RDX has been refreshed for 2016. This luxury crossover gains a host of improvements including LED headlamps, new driver-assistance features and even more horsepower. There’s a lot going on here even if it doesn’t look like it on the outside.
Alright, our next recommendation is a little unconventional. We suggest you make it a priority to check out the Alfa Romeo booth … yes, the whole thing. Unlike other automakers they’ve got a variety of classic cars on display, vehicles you normally DO NOT get to see. For this reason and many more make certain you swing by Alfa.
Ram is amping up its new Laramie Limited. This gussied up truck is loaded with all manner of amenities, things like special leather, genuine wood trim and even Berber floor mats. BERBER! Outside it’s been thoroughly restyled, and you’re NOT going to miss it. You could probably read the lettering on its tailgate from Mars.
Honda touched down in Chicago with a brand-new 2016 Pilot crossover. This family-friendly utility rides atop a fresh architecture, features all kinds of innovative upgrades and a much more premium interior. But arguably its signature feature is a weight loss of up to 300 pounds.
Didn’t make it to the North American International Auto Show to see Acura’s hot new NSX? Not a problem. You can check out this production-ready supercar right here in the Windy City. And take it from me, this is one vehicle you do not want to miss.
Alright, now for the most exciting car of the Chicago show. Are you ready? It’s the FORD GT! Yes the darling of Detroit made a special appearance here, swapping its blue paint for silver and gaining a pair of racing stripes. Which look do you prefer? I’d go blue but this one is just as hot.