Automotive

Chicago Auto Show 2018 photo roundup

Chicago Auto Show 2018 photo roundup
What would an auto show be without some movie promos from automakers like this Lexus from the Black Panther film?
What would an auto show be without some movie promos from automakers like this Lexus from the Black Panther film?
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The 2019 Ram 1500, which debuted in Detroit just before the Chicago Auto Show, is completely new from the ground up
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The 2019 Ram 1500, which debuted in Detroit just before the Chicago Auto Show, is completely new from the ground up
An all-new chassis and body frame gives the 2019 Ram 1500 a best-in-class two capability
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An all-new chassis and body frame gives the 2019 Ram 1500 a best-in-class two capability
This model of the 2019 Ram 1500 includes the popular Ram Box option for bed storage over the wheel wells
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This model of the 2019 Ram 1500 includes the popular Ram Box option for bed storage over the wheel wells
This chassis sled shows the underpinnings of the new 2019 Ram 1500 and is illustrative of why auto shows like Chicago's are so informative
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This chassis sled shows the underpinnings of the new 2019 Ram 1500 and is illustrative of why auto shows like Chicago's are so informative
Here the Ram's transmission comes off of the 8-cylinder engine while exhaust pipe routing can be seen
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Here the Ram's transmission comes off of the 8-cylinder engine while exhaust pipe routing can be seen
Strength and impact resistance were all improved while weight was shed thanks to 98 percent of the 2019 Ram 1500's frame being high-strength steel
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Strength and impact resistance were all improved while weight was shed thanks to 98 percent of the 2019 Ram 1500's frame being high-strength steel
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio in its Quadrifoglio performance edition, sporting 505 horsepower, is on display in Chicago
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The Alfa Romeo Stelvio in its Quadrifoglio performance edition, sporting 505 horsepower, is on display in Chicago
This engine shows what's under the hood of the Buick Enclave Avenir, a 3.6-liter V6 with direct injection producing 310 horsepower
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This engine shows what's under the hood of the Buick Enclave Avenir, a 3.6-liter V6 with direct injection producing 310 horsepower
This Avenir model from Buick builds on a concept vehicle shown in Detroit about three years ago
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This Avenir model from Buick builds on a concept vehicle shown in Detroit about three years ago 
Buick is also showing the compelling Regal TourX station wagon
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Buick is also showing the compelling Regal TourX station wagon
The Cadillac Escala concept was unveiled last year and is making its debut in Chicago at CAS2018
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The Cadillac Escala concept was unveiled last year and is making its debut in Chicago at CAS2018
Beautiful lines and a very British fastback hatch, invocative of Aston Martin designs, are found on the Cadillac concept
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Beautiful lines and a very British fastback hatch, invocative of Aston Martin designs, are found on the Cadillac concept
The exterior design of the Cadillac Escala Concept is very Caddy, with a strong nose and low profile
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The exterior design of the Cadillac Escala Concept is very Caddy, with a strong nose and low profile
The modern Cadillac grille is seen clearly in the Escala Concept on display at the Chicago Auto Show
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The modern Cadillac grille is seen clearly in the Escala Concept on display at the Chicago Auto Show
Showcases of old cars are also on display at the Chicago Auto Show, including this beautiful Rolls Royce and the unusual '59 Cadillac Broadmoor Skyview behind it
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Showcases of old cars are also on display at the Chicago Auto Show, including this beautiful Rolls Royce and the unusual '59 Cadillac Broadmoor Skyview behind it
Back in the day, concept cars were all about oddities like this 1955 Ford Beatnik Bubble Top
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Back in the day, concept cars were all about oddities like this 1955 Ford Beatnik Bubble Top
The space age rear of the Beatnik is one of many unusual vehicles found in the Klairmont Kollection in Chicago
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The space age rear of the Beatnik is one of many unusual vehicles found in the Klairmont Kollection in Chicago
Strangely shoved in the back of the Chicago Auto Show, near the tour buses, were these beautiful classic touring cars
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Strangely shoved in the back of the Chicago Auto Show,  near the tour buses, were these beautiful classic touring cars
Tucked in a corner of CAS2018 is this beautiful 1939 Buick, which shows the evolution from the '30s to the round-nosed '50s in grille work and design
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Tucked in a corner of CAS2018 is this beautiful 1939 Buick, which shows the evolution from the '30s to the round-nosed '50s in grille work and design
The 1968 Subaru 360, the company's first production vehicle, is on display at the Subaru booth in Chicago as the company celebrates 50 years
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The 1968 Subaru 360, the company's first production vehicle, is on display at the Subaru booth in Chicago as the company celebrates 50 years
The ever-popular Chrysler Pacifica minivan continues to win awards as it takes families into modern minivan driving
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The ever-popular Chrysler Pacifica minivan continues to win awards as it takes families into modern minivan driving
What would a booth be without some interesting project cars? This Chrysler Pacifica minivan was retooled by VANkulture and debuted at the Chicago Auto Show
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What would a booth be without some interesting project cars? This Chrysler Pacifica minivan was retooled by VANkulture and debuted at the Chicago Auto Show
How much fun are auto shows? How about this virtual drag racing setup featuring two Dodge Demons on reactive chassis frames for a totally realistic experience?
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How much fun are auto shows? How about this virtual drag racing setup featuring two Dodge Demons on reactive chassis frames for a totally realistic experience?
This massive engine, decked out in red, is the SRT Demon powerplant used in the Dodge Demon monster
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This massive engine, decked out in red, is the SRT Demon powerplant used in the Dodge Demon monster
Ford unveiled a new Transit Connect Wagon as a minivan alternative
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Ford unveiled a new Transit Connect Wagon as a minivan alternative
Geared towards baby boomers and other buyers with versatility in mind, the Transit Connect Wagon is the second generation of the people hauler from Ford
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Geared towards baby boomers and other buyers with versatility in mind, the Transit Connect Wagon is the second generation of the people hauler from Ford
This year, along with the van's debut, was the debut of the diesel powerplant that efficiently moves the Ford Transit Connect Wagon along
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This year, along with the van's debut, was the debut of the diesel powerplant that efficiently moves the Ford Transit Connect Wagon along
It might be a box on wheels, but Ford is banking on buyers being more interested in the efficiency and versatility of the Transit Connect Wagon than in its looks
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It might be a box on wheels, but Ford is banking on buyers being more interested in the efficiency and versatility of the Transit Connect Wagon than in its looks
The Transit Connect Wagon's interior is far more comfortable and people-friendly than was the previous generation
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The Transit Connect Wagon's interior is far more comfortable and people-friendly than was the previous generation
Several plug-in and hybrid vehicles are on display in Chicago, including this new Clarity fuel cell car from Honda
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Several plug-in and hybrid vehicles are on display in Chicago, including this new Clarity fuel cell car from Honda
This race-winning Honda-powered racer was the Indycar that Takuma Sato drove to take the 2017 Indianapolis 500 win
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This race-winning Honda-powered racer was the Indycar that Takuma Sato drove to take the 2017 Indianapolis 500 win
Unveiled to celebrate the new Marvel Ant Man film, this Hyundai movie car is on display in Chicago
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Unveiled to celebrate the new Marvel Ant Man film, this Hyundai movie car is on display in Chicago
Unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show 2018 were the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Sonata Plug-in Hybrid models
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Unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show 2018 were the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Sonata Plug-in Hybrid models
Designed to maximize efficiency while improving their on-road presence, the Hyundai hybrid and plug-in hybrid Sonata models were a hit in Chicago
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Designed to maximize efficiency while improving their on-road presence, the Hyundai hybrid and plug-in hybrid Sonata models were a hit in Chicago
The new body lines on the Hyundai Sonata are accentuated by the aerodynamic improvements made for the Sonata Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models
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The new body lines on the Hyundai Sonata are accentuated by the aerodynamic improvements made for the Sonata Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models
The interiors for the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models are virtually unchanged from the standard gasoline models
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The interiors for the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models are virtually unchanged from the standard gasoline models 
Hyundai surprised folks at the Chicago Auto Show with the unveiling of its Elantra GT homologated entry into the Pirelli World Challenge
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Hyundai surprised folks at the Chicago Auto Show with the unveiling of its Elantra GT homologated entry into the Pirelli World Challenge
Some of the new race car's drivers were on hand to talk about the cars, which Hyundai will race through Bryan Herta Autosports
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Some of the new race car's drivers were on hand to talk about the cars, which Hyundai will race through Bryan Herta Autosports
The beautiful Infiniti Q Inspiration unveiled in Detroit as a show stopper and is now gracing Chicago at the auto show
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The beautiful Infiniti Q Inspiration unveiled in Detroit as a show stopper and is now gracing Chicago at the auto show
Clean lines and a fast, futuristic look dominate the Infiniti Q Inspiration's overall appeal
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Clean lines and a fast, futuristic look dominate the Infiniti Q Inspiration's overall appeal
Infiniti says that the Q Inspiration showcases where the company will be going with designs in the near-future
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Infiniti says that the Q Inspiration showcases where the company will be going with designs in the near-future
Key to the new Infiniti lineup is this all-new variable compression ratio engine that is both scalable and modular
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Key to the new Infiniti lineup is this all-new variable compression ratio engine that is both scalable and modular
Plug-ins abound at the Chicago Auto Show, with Kia showing this Optima PHEV
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Plug-ins abound at the Chicago Auto Show, with Kia showing this Optima PHEV
We couldn't help but notice the awkward placement of the charging station, however
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We couldn't help but notice the awkward placement of the charging station, however
Kia is also showing off the impressive new 2019 Forte EX Launch Edition, which will enter showrooms in limited numbers
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Kia is also showing off the impressive new 2019 Forte EX Launch Edition, which will enter showrooms in limited numbers
The Kia Forte EX Launch Edition features beautiful lines, a great paint job, and a fast-paced look
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The Kia Forte EX Launch Edition features beautiful lines, a great paint job, and a fast-paced look
Before the Chicago Auto Show started, the Concept and Technology Garage allowed members of the automotive press to try some vehicles
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Before the Chicago Auto Show started, the Concept and Technology Garage allowed members of the automotive press to try some vehicles
The Kia Stinger, an instant hit among many automotive journalists, has won several awards since its debut last year
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The Kia Stinger, an instant hit among many automotive journalists, has won several awards since its debut last year
We admit that this yellow color is our favorite for the Stinger, but a few other colors in the stable aren't too shabby either
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We admit that this yellow color is our favorite for the Stinger, but a few other colors in the stable aren't too shabby either
The deep blue show on this Kia Stinger model at the Chicago Auto Show is another favorite
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The deep blue show on this Kia Stinger model at the Chicago Auto Show is another favorite
The Lexus LF-1 Limitless entered the Detroit Auto Show as an eye-grabbing debut and now gets more personal at the Chicago Auto Show
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The Lexus LF-1 Limitless entered the Detroit Auto Show as an eye-grabbing debut and now gets more personal at the Chicago Auto Show
Unlike at Detroit, the Chicago Show lets viewers get much more up close and more in depth with the concepts that stole the show (and crowds) in Detroit
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Unlike at Detroit, the Chicago Show lets viewers get much more up close and more in depth with the concepts that stole the show (and crowds) in Detroit
The lines of the Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept are nearly timeless and very smooth
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The lines of the Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept are nearly timeless and very smooth
Inside, technology abounds within the LF-1 Limitless concept from Lexus
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Inside, technology abounds within the LF-1 Limitless concept from Lexus
Lexus is also showcasing a new Structural Blue color for the LC
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Lexus is also showcasing a new Structural Blue color for the LC
What would an auto show be without some movie promos from automakers like this Lexus from the Black Panther film?
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What would an auto show be without some movie promos from automakers like this Lexus from the Black Panther film?
Adorned with the Black Panther emblem on its hood, this Lexus has details such as claws on its side mirrors and "bulletproof" skin
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Adorned with the Black Panther emblem on its hood, this Lexus has details such as claws on its side mirrors and "bulletproof" skin
Ford's luxury arm unveiled a new Lincoln Navigator, which is on display at the Chicago Auto Show
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Ford's luxury arm unveiled a new Lincoln Navigator, which is on display at the Chicago Auto Show
A smoother look and more in-charge presence marks the new Navigator
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A smoother look and more in-charge presence marks the new Navigator
Luxurious fittings equal to anything Matthew McConaughey might want are found inside the Lincoln Navigator
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Luxurious fittings equal to anything Matthew McConaughey might want are found inside the Lincoln Navigator
Did we mention the supercars found at the Chicago Auto Show? This Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R is only the beginning
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Did we mention the supercars found at the Chicago Auto Show? This Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R is only the beginning
It's fast, it's green, it's all about bein' awesome
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It's fast, it's green, it's all about bein' awesome
Mercedes-Benz unveiled the new G Wagon not too long ago and is now showing it at the Chicago Auto Show
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Mercedes-Benz unveiled the new G Wagon not too long ago and is now showing it at the Chicago Auto Show
With celebrities like Arnold Swartzeneggar endorsing it, the new G Wagon must be something
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With celebrities like Arnold Swartzeneggar endorsing it, the new G Wagon must be something
Unveiled for the Chicago Auto Show, the Nissan Armada Snow Patrol project vehicle features suspension lifts and a body wrap, among other things
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Unveiled for the Chicago Auto Show, the Nissan Armada Snow Patrol project vehicle features suspension lifts and a body wrap, among other things
Towed behind the Armada is Nissan's other project car, the 370Zki
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Towed behind the Armada is Nissan's other project car, the 370Zki
Nissan also shows off its ProPilot Assist technology for the new LEAF electric car at the Chicago Auto Show
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Nissan also shows off its ProPilot Assist technology for the new LEAF electric car at the Chicago Auto Show
Nissan's collaboration with Star Wars continues with this X-wing fighter-inspired Murano complete with BB-8 behind the cockpit
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Nissan's collaboration with Star Wars continues with this X-wing fighter-inspired Murano complete with BB-8 behind the cockpit
Millenium Falcon Sentra anyone?
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Millenium Falcon Sentra anyone?
In the Nissan booth at the Chicago Auto Show are things like this aftermarket camper upgrade for the little NV commercial van
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In the Nissan booth at the Chicago Auto Show are things like this aftermarket camper upgrade for the little NV commercial van
Also on display at Nissan in the Chicago show is this aftermarket six-inch lift and customized Titan XD
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Also on display at Nissan in the Chicago show is this aftermarket six-inch lift and customized Titan XD
Built to get things done, this Titan XD with aftermarket fittings is customized for the consumer
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Built to get things done, this Titan XD with aftermarket fittings is customized for the consumer
Here, dirt illustrates the additions made to this aftermarket mod Titan XD
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Here, dirt illustrates the additions made to this aftermarket mod Titan XD
A full six inches of lift were added to the Titan XD project truck being shown at the Chicago Auto Show
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A full six inches of lift were added to the Titan XD project truck being shown at the Chicago Auto Show
Lifestyle collages like this one in the Nissan booth are part-and-parcel for the Chicago Auto Show
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Lifestyle collages like this one in the Nissan booth are part-and-parcel for the Chicago Auto Show
As if Star Wars project cars weren't enough, Nissan also has this Imperial Walker-inspired Titan truck and a cool booth that dresses you as a Storm Trooper in virtual reality
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As if Star Wars project cars weren't enough, Nissan also has this Imperial Walker-inspired Titan truck and a cool booth that dresses you as a Storm Trooper in virtual reality
A big unveil for Nissan at the Chicago Auto Show was the availability of dealer-sold lift kits for the Titan and Titan XD pickups, which retain the manufacturer's warranty
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A big unveil for Nissan at the Chicago Auto Show was the availability of dealer-sold lift kits for the Titan and Titan XD pickups, which retain the manufacturer's warranty
Polaris Slingshot unveiled a new vehicle, but not before showing off a cool kids' retreat at the Chicago Auto Show where little ones can drive tiny little three-wheelers
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Polaris Slingshot unveiled a new vehicle, but not before showing off a cool kids' retreat at the Chicago Auto Show where little ones can drive tiny little three-wheelers
The new Polaris Slingshot Grand Touring unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show as a luxury autocycle option
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The new Polaris Slingshot Grand Touring unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show as a luxury autocycle option
The Slingshot Grand Touring takes the standard three-wheeler model and permanently affixes the otherwise optional roof while adding a few other things as more useful fixtures
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The Slingshot Grand Touring takes the standard three-wheeler model and permanently affixes the otherwise optional roof while adding a few other things as more useful fixtures
Toyota's new 2019 Avalon is on display front-center at the Toyota booth in Chicago
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Toyota's new 2019 Avalon is on display front-center at the Toyota booth in Chicago
Toyota is expecting the new rendition of this full-sized sedan to be a hit
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Toyota is expecting the new rendition of this full-sized sedan to be a hit
Unveiled in Chicago were the new TRD Pro models for Toyota's trucks and sport utilities
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Unveiled in Chicago were the new TRD Pro models for Toyota's trucks and sport utilities
The new Toyota Tundra TRD Pro features an exclusive paint option and lots of off-road goodies
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The new Toyota Tundra TRD Pro features an exclusive paint option and lots of off-road goodies
Here, the upgraded shock absorbers and stronger ties can be seen underneath the Tundra TRD Pro
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Here, the upgraded shock absorbers and stronger ties can be seen underneath the Tundra TRD Pro
The blacked dual exhaust tips and improved rumble of the Tundra TRD Pro are seen in the tuning underneath the carriage
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The blacked dual exhaust tips and improved rumble of the Tundra TRD Pro are seen in the tuning underneath the carriage
The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro model is also available in that signature white and black motif
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The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro model is also available in that signature white and black motif
A crowd of Toyota employees looks at the Tacoma TRD Pro on display at the Chicago Auto Show, where it debuted
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A crowd of Toyota employees looks at the Tacoma TRD Pro on display at the Chicago Auto Show, where it debuted
Underneath the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro, the heavy-duty skid plate dominates and nearly hides the unique KDSS sway bar disconnect system
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Underneath the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro, the heavy-duty skid plate dominates and nearly hides the unique KDSS sway bar disconnect system
Up on blocks, the 4Runner TRD Pro shows off its articulation, courtesy of improved springs, upgraded shocks, and more room underneath
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Up on blocks, the 4Runner TRD Pro shows off its articulation, courtesy of improved springs, upgraded shocks, and more room underneath
Extremes of articulation previously only seen on hardcore rock crawlers are available in Toyota's TRD Pro line of trucks and SUVs
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Extremes of articulation previously only seen on hardcore rock crawlers are available in Toyota's TRD Pro line of trucks and SUVs
Volkswagen took the opportunity of the Chicago Auto Show to unveil its new Arteon sedan, which replaces the CC as the company's flagship
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Volkswagen took the opportunity of the Chicago Auto Show to unveil its new Arteon sedan, which replaces the CC as the company's flagship
Beautiful styling and a strong presence define the VW Arteon flagship
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Beautiful styling and a strong presence define the VW Arteon flagship
Unusual colors like this fluorescent green are another thing that could set the VW Arteon apart on the market
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Unusual colors like this fluorescent green are another thing that could set the VW Arteon apart on the market
The clean lines of the Volkswagen Arteon flagship are clear in this photograph
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The clean lines of the Volkswagen Arteon flagship are clear in this photograph
Inside, VW's signature simplicity is augmented by a lot more technology than one might expect from the German make
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Inside, VW's signature simplicity is augmented by a lot more technology than one might expect from the German make
Smooth lines make up the clean opening on the hatch for the fastback of the VW Arteon
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Smooth lines make up the clean opening on the hatch for the fastback of the VW Arteon
The Jeep Wrangler was a huge hit at the Los Angeles Auto Show when it debuted late last year and now grabs attention at Chicago
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The Jeep Wrangler was a huge hit at the Los Angeles Auto Show when it debuted late last year and now grabs attention at Chicago
Our favorite green still dominates the Wrangler, even in this new generation, which also features a snorkel and other options in this rendition
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Our favorite green still dominates the Wrangler, even in this new generation, which also features a snorkel and other options in this rendition
The Jeep Wrangler is the most-accessorized vehicle in the world and Jeep embraces that by including aftermarket outfitters in the design process
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The Jeep Wrangler is the most-accessorized vehicle in the world and Jeep embraces that by including aftermarket outfitters in the design process
The four-door Unlimited variant, which is actually very popular among buyers
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The four-door Unlimited variant, which is actually very popular among buyers
The roofline is smooth and the size not as imposing as we'd expected for the 2019 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited model
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The roofline is smooth and the size not as imposing as we'd expected for the 2019 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited model
Roomy back seats and plenty of cargo space still define the 2019 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
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Roomy back seats and plenty of cargo space still define the 2019 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 
View gallery - 103 images

The Chicago Auto Show is not known for glitzy debuts or glamorous concept car unveilings. Instead, it's a more laid back, informative show with manufacturers and dealerships showing off their latest models for the new model year as well as a glimpse of what's to come. This year's show had a few new things to reveal; but, for the most part, it's all about the everyday bread and butter of the automotive world. Here are some highlights.

Ford Transit Connect Wagon

Unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show, the Ford Transit Connect Wagon is aimed towards an unexpected demographic: baby boomers. Ford was explicit about its aims with the Wagon, which will be offered in both a five-seat and seven-seat design. The company's belief is that the aging set in the US needs a van that is both highly economical and versatile. The Transit Connect Wagon can be towed behind an RV, used to schlep around the grandkids, and make the occasional hardware store run for some lumber.

Geared towards baby boomers and other buyers with versatility in mind, the Transit Connect Wagon is the second generation of the people hauler from Ford
Geared towards baby boomers and other buyers with versatility in mind, the Transit Connect Wagon is the second generation of the people hauler from Ford

At least, that's the advertising. Powering the 2019 Ford Transit Connect Wagon is a 1.5-liter turbocharged diesel engine that should return around 30 mpg (7.8 l/100km) on the highway. As much as it tried, Ford could only do so much to pretty up what amounts to a box on wheels. That said, the extreme versatility of the Transit Connect Wagon may find its niche regardless.

Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid

Hyundai took the opportunity to unveil some non-surprises in the new Sonata Hybrid and Sonata Plug-in Hybrid models, which will enter showrooms later this year. These are electrified sedans which build on the brand's history of hybrids with more efficiency, more driveability, and better daily use comfort. We covered the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid on their debut.

The new body lines on the Hyundai Sonata are accentuated by the aerodynamic improvements made for the Sonata Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models
The new body lines on the Hyundai Sonata are accentuated by the aerodynamic improvements made for the Sonata Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models

A surprise in the Hyundai booth was the unveiling of its new Pirelli World Challenge in the Americas race car, which will compete in the GT class of the PWC. The car is based on an i 30N TCR, also known as the Elantra GT, as a homologated racer under the Bryan Herta Autosports team's tutelage. Two of the i 30Ns will race in this year's upcoming challenge.

Slingshot Grand Touring

Hearing from manufacturers like Polaris' Slingshot division is an unusual side show for an automotive show like Chicago. The three-wheel maker used the opportunity to showcase its new Grand Touring model as a "luxury autocycle" option for buyers.

The Slingshot Grand Touring takes the standard three-wheeler model and permanently affixes the otherwise optional roof while adding a few other things as more useful fixtures
The Slingshot Grand Touring takes the standard three-wheeler model and permanently affixes the otherwise optional roof while adding a few other things as more useful fixtures

"The Grand Touring LE is a fully-loaded, limited-edition model for the driver looking for the latest and greatest in technology, rider comfort and premium styling," said Rachael Elia, brand marketing manager for Slingshot. We'd believe it, given its bold look.

Volkswagen Arteon Flagship Sedan

Also being shown in Chicago is the new VW Arteon, a flagship sedan for the brand. Replacing the CC, the Arteon is a midsize, upscale offering that hit the show with a surprisingly loud response. Unusual for its beauty, the car debuted without a lot of pomp and then began gaining attention once the covers were off and the media saw what was underneath.

Beautiful styling and a strong presence define the VW Arteon flagship
Beautiful styling and a strong presence define the VW Arteon flagship

The 2019 VW Arteon is coming to showrooms in the United States later this year. Longer and wider than the CC it replaces, the Arteon is built on VW's latest platform and utilizes a well-sized 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

Lifted and Off-Road Kits from Ram, Nissan, and Toyota

Three pickup truck makers unveiled various factory tuner and aftermarket options for their trucks.

Ram's own Mopar is showcasing a host of possibilities for upgrades to the new 2019 Ram 1500, which was shown in Detroit. These include cast aluminum running boards, 18-inch off-road wheels with color-matching beadlock strips, massive 5-inch dual exhaust tips, and Katzkin leather seating. Other options include boat racks, under-bumper steps for bed access, and more. As if the stock Ram 1500 wasn't hardcore enough.

A big unveil for Nissan at the Chicago Auto Show was the availability of dealer-sold lift kits for the Titan and Titan XD pickups, which retain the manufacturer's warranty
A big unveil for Nissan at the Chicago Auto Show was the availability of dealer-sold lift kits for the Titan and Titan XD pickups, which retain the manufacturer's warranty

Over at Nissan, pickup trucks have been a serious focus since the debut of the new Titan and Titan XD models a couple of years ago. Now, Nissan offers not only a suite of lift kit options from the dealership (including full warranty coverage) for the Titan XD, but the lifts can be doubled up for a full six inches thanks to approved aftermarket suppliers. Nissan unveiled this with some flair, using snow machines to make it snow on the gathered press corps upon announcing the new options. Off to the side was a Nissan NV van outfitted by an aftermarket supplier as a camper in the Westfalia style. The usual contingent of Nissan Star Wars-themed vehicles were also on display.

Toyota took the opportunity of the Chicago Auto Show to unveil its new TRD Pro lineup of off-road muscle for the Tundra and Tacoma pickups and for the 4Runner SUV. These include lifts, upgraded shock systems, stiffer coil springs, strong underbody protection in the form of skid plates and covers, and exclusive paint offerings.

Concepts and Project Vehicles

Chicago is also well-known for its more personalized appearance of concept vehicles that are often unveiled at other shows and then crowded out by the masses. The more laid back feel of CAS allows a more personal look at these concepts as well as a chance for manufacturers to make one-off fun vehicles just for the heck of it.

The beautiful Infiniti Q Inspiration unveiled in Detroit as a show stopper and is now gracing Chicago at the auto show
The beautiful Infiniti Q Inspiration unveiled in Detroit as a show stopper and is now gracing Chicago at the auto show

Showing at the Chicago show are concepts debuted in Detroit earlier, including the Lexus LF-1 Limitless and the Infiniti Q Inspiration. Also on hand is the Cadillac Escala Concept. Fun snow concepts are also on display, ready-made for Chicago, in the Nissan Armada Snow Patrol and 370Zki.

Chicago is a fun show and well worth the trip if you're in the area. With show floors covering one full level of the massive McCormick center, CAS2018 covers more real estate than just about any other automotive show in the world. The show is open to the public until February 19.

You can check out more of the vehicles that we saw there, in the gallery.

View gallery - 103 images
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