Ten cars revealed at the Detroit Auto Show
Six years after the U.S. auto industry almost collapsed, the North American International Auto Show in Detroit is bigger, better and bolder than ever. The new car unveilings in the Motor City this week reflect that, many powered by incredible amounts of horsepower, decked out with all the high-tech bells and whistles. Here are ten of the more dazzling debuts:
VW Cross Coupé GTE
What is it?
A concept five-seat upscale SUV using a plug-in hybrid system with the manufacturer’s fuel economy rating of 70 mpg. It precedes the seven-seat mid-size SUV slated for production toward the end of 2016 at the company’s plant in Chattanooga, Tenn.
Signature feature
The new front-end design targets the North American market. Painted in a colour dubbed by VW as Grand Pacific Glacier Blue, the long hood is characterized by precise lines. A pair of aluminum bars (polished at the front, brushed on top) frame the radiator grille.
What else is new
Interactive gesture control was the hot new thing at the recent Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, and this car would offer the feature. Both driver and front-seat passenger would be able to manage all infotainment functions with the 10.1-inch touchscreen, using proximity sensors and gesture control to swipe over playlists.
Under the hood
A V-6 plug-in hybrid drivetrain, with 276-horsepower 3, two electric motors (54 and 114 hp) powering all-wheel drive. In e-mode, it would travel about 25 km.
When can we buy it, and for how much
The seven-seater, expected to be produced in Mexico, would be available in 2017. Production isn’t scheduled for the GTE concept.
Cool quotient
Another compact SUV in an increasingly crowded market, albeit with hybrid efficiency.
Mercedes-Benz GLE 63 and GLE 450 Sport Coupe
What is it?
Both the mainstream GLE and performance-oriented GLE 63 are new to Mercedes-Benz. The four-door cross between a coupe and SUV is meant to challenge the BMW X6 SUV. A minimum of practicality is sacrificed, and 4MATIC all-wheel drive comes standard.
Signature feature
Unlike most Mercedes-Benz SUVs, the GLE’s roof slopes dramatically downwards behind the front seat area like a sporty coupe, but still with four doors to keep its rear seat easily accessible. How sporty this makes the GLE look is arguable; it’s a high-riding crossover SUV people-mover with decent trunk space.
What else is new
The GLE 450 will become the company’s first AMG Sports model in North America with all-wheel drive and nine-speed transmission. The sporty trim connotes BMW’s M Sport and Audi’s S-line models. The electronically adjustable suspension offers a Sport and Sport+ setting.
Under the hood
The biggest difference between the GLE 450 and the GLE 63 AMG S Coupe will be under the hood, where a twin-turbo 362-horsepower V-6 in the former defers to the fire-breathing 577-hp V-8 in the latter, a 5.5-litre engine able to power the SUV from rest to 96 km/h in a blistering 4.2 seconds.
When can we buy it, and for how much
Both GLE models will be on sale in the summer, and though Canadian prices haven’t been confirmed, look for them to come in slightly above the current ML that starts just over $60,000.
Cool quotient
Crossovers are popular among buyers, but are you getting better looks from the ML for your increase in price and decrease in practicality?
2017 Ford GT
What is it?
America’s supercar. Ford’s new flagship. A technological tour-de-force. And the latest in a line of Ford supercars dating back to the Ferrari-beating, LeMans-winning Ford GT40 of 1964. This is the new Ford GT.
Signature feature
It’s got everything you’d expect to see in any Italian exotic: mid-engine layout, rear-wheel drive, carbon-fibre structure, carbon ceramic brakes. Power comes from a new twin-turbo V-6 with “more than 600 horsepower.”
What else is new
Ford hasn’t had a proper supercar since the GT ended production in 2006. It was a halo car for Ford: a mid-engined V-8-powered supercar built for two model years only. In terms of styling and mechanical layout it was extremely similar to the original GT40.
Under the hood
The car is built around a carbon-fibre passenger cell with aluminum front- and rear-subframes. Even some body panels will be built out of carbon to keep weight to an absolute minimum. What’s not under the hood? Any sort of hybrid drivetrain.
When can we buy it, and for how much
The new Ford GT will begin production in late 2016. Ford’s calling it a global product, so it will come to Canada. It’ll hit the road just in time to mark the 50th anniversary of Ford’s 1-2-3 victory at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans. No word on pricing, but expect it to cost more than $150,000.
Cool quotient
Built to embarrass far more expensive machinery.
2016 Lexus GS F
What is it?
Lexus showed its aggressive side at the Detroit auto show, taking the wraps off this high-performance version of its GS mid-size sedan. It’s got the BMW M5 and Mercedes E 63 AMG squarely in its sights. But from the spec sheet it looks like the Lexus will be playing catch up right from the get go.
Signature feature
Its engine is taken straight from the RC F coupe. And that’s excellent news because by far the best thing about the RC F coupe was its naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V-8. In the age of downsizing and turbocharging, an engine like this is a rare treat.
What else is new
All the usual go-fast bits, including special 19-inch alloys, sport-tuned suspension and exhaust, and an electronic torque vectoring differential. You may have also noticed the new, not-so-subtle front grille and flared wheel arches.
Under the hood
Once upon a time, 467 horsepower was a lot. But in 2015, the Lexus will be outgunned by the Mercedes E 63 AMG (577 hp) and the new Cadillac CTS-V (640 hp). Lexus says the GS F weighs 1,830 kg, which actually makes it a bit of a lightweight in this company.
When can we buy it, and for how much
The saving grace for the GS F might be that it’s cheaper than rivals, but without any official pricing announcement, we can only speculate. Somewhere in the $90,000 range seems likely.
Cool quotient
Doesn’t quite have the muscle to back up its looks.
Acura NSX
What is it?
Twenty-five years in the wake of the supercar’s debut, this is a production version of the sports hybrid. Aluminum and ultra-high strength steel are used in the frame and the floor is made with carbon fibre, the combining for a rigid structure to absorb torsional and bending forces, and the placement of the mid-mounted engine and battery pack allow Acura to boast of the lowest centre of gravity in the class.
Signature feature
Air is collected through the side intake and floating C-pillar to feed a mid-mounted engine, and airflow is pushed over the rear deck to produce downforce. The twinturbo V-6 is mounted longitudinally; designers increased vehicle length by three inches in comparison to the concept model exhibited two years ago. The front design is appropriately aggressive, and the tail lights recall the look of the original NSX.
What else is new
Engineers conceived the vehicle from the inside out with priority on the driving experience. The auto maker pledges clean visibility, controls that are simple and intuitive, top-class ergonomics, and an instrument cluster that responds to the driver with pertinent information. The mid-frame is exposed under the leather dash panel to “reflect the design aesthetic of a naken sport bike.”
Under the hood
The new power unit features a twin-turbocharged, 75-degree V-6 engine with a nine-speed dual clutch transmission and three-electric motor hybrid system. The rear direct-drive electric motor is positioned between engine and tranny to support acceleration, shifting and braking. Twin independent high-output electric motors power the front wheels.
When can we buy it, and for how much
Acura will accept custom orders in the summer and deliver the cars later in the year. It will be priced at more than $150,000.
Cool quotient
The car’s been teased for years and now it’s here, a sleek looking machine with hybrid tech. And Jerry Seinfeld was on hand for the launch.
2016 Audi Q7
What is it?
A big luxury SUV with three rows of seats for up to seven passengers. Several engine options will be available including an all-new plug-in hybrid with a six-cylinder diesel – a world first. Audi is breaking new ground in green technology.
Signature feature
The plug-in hybrid diesel powertrain in the Q7 e-tron quattro all-wheel-drive has some impressive numbers. The 3.0-litre turbo diesel coupled to an electric motor will have a range of about 56 kilometres on electric-power alone, a combined fuel rating of 1.7 litres/100 km, and a CO2 emission rating of less than 50 grams/km. Mother Nature will grin.
What else is new
The Q7 sheds serious weight, 325 kg, thanks to the use of lightweight aluminum and steel. It cuts fuel consumption by up to 28 per cent compared to the outgoing model. The interior is more spacious and luxurious as ever with new tech gadgets and electronics.
Under the hood
The 3.0-litre turbo diesel engine combined with the electric motor will deliver a combined output of 373 horsepower and a whopping 516 lb-ft of torque. It’ll be able to hit 0-100 km/h in six seconds flat. The 333-hp turbocharged V-6 gas and the 272-hp turbo diesel V-6 are carryovers. All engines are paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard across the lineup.
When can we buy it, and for how much
The Q7 goes on sale later this year. No word yet on prices. The 2015 Q7 starts at $58,200.
Cool quotient
Make neighbours green with envy by being the first on the block to drive a plug-in hybrid diesel.
2016 Chevrolet Volt
What is it?
The second-generation plug-in hybrid Chevrolet Volt now falls more heavily on the electric side of the gas-electric ledger than almost any other, with a longer all-electric range rated “up to” 80 kilometres. The compact four-door’s current stated EV range is now 61 km.
Signature feature
Once the larger 18.4 kWh lithium-ion battery depletes, the higher displacement but lighter gasoline engine uses less fuel than before – and no requirement for premium. All three measures are designed to save the Volt driver more fuelling dollars, and produce fewer (if any) emissions.
What else is new
Nearly everything, even though the current Volt only arrived in Canada just more than three years ago. The styling is more futuristically sculpted, while the interior receives a mainstream makeover. The Volt finally features a fifth seat, available heated rear seats, and a Cadillac ELR-like regeneration paddle that more aggressively slows it down, for extra juice and downshifting fun.
Under the hood
The Volt now uses two electric motors to power the front wheels, which are lighter and produce more power than the first-gen Volt. A slightly larger 1.5-litre four-cylinder recharges the battery after the grid power is used up, or if it’s too cold. The new powertrain will average about 5.7 litres/100 km when using gasoline, estimates GM.
When can we buy it, and for how much
Will go on sale second half of 2015, but no price yet available.
Cool quotient
Greater range and visual appeal will help it overcome its pricey-for-a-compact car reputation.
2016 Nissan Titan XD Full-Size
What is it?
A full-size pickup truck, available in 4x2 or 4x4 configurations, with seating for up to six passengers. The Titan XD trim will be the first model out of the gate, but a number of options will be offered, including three cab configurations, two frame sizes, and three powertrains.
Signature feature
The signature feature is the new and powerful Cummins 5.0-litre V-8 Turbo Diesel under the hood, which gives it serious hauling and towing capability along with improved fuel economy over its gas-powered sibling. The Japanese auto maker is also pushing its American-made story – the Titan is designed in California, engineered in Michigan, and the Cummins engine comes from Columbus, Ind.
What else is new
What isn’t new should be the question. Everything is redone: the rugged exterior design, posh interior, the smart storage solutions in the cabin and bed, the innovative safety features, the chassis and powertrains. The tailgate illumination is a cool feature as are the dual lockable in-bed storage boxes that are watertight, drain-able, and removable.
Under the hood
Under the hood is an all-new Cummins 5.0-litre V-8 Turbo Diesel engine mated to a six-speed automatic, which delivers 310 hp and 555 lb-ft of torque. It’s a workhorse – when properly equipped it can tow more than 12,000 pounds and has a payload of 2,000 pounds. V-6 and V-8 gas engines will also be available, but details aren’t available yet.
When can we buy it, and for how much
The Titan goes on sale in late 2015 – but mum is the word when it comes to the price – it’s expected closer to the launch date.
Cool quotient
Detroit better watch out, this Japanese made-in-America truck will be hot on the heels of the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500.
Buick Avenir Concept
What is it?
Avenir (from the French for “future”) is a concept for a flagship sedan that emphasizes occupant well-being and technology integration, wrapped in a body that interprets traditional Buick styling cues in new ways. The Avenir is bigger than Buick’s largest current car, the Lacrosse, but is only a four-seater.
Signature feature
In a surprising diversion from the trend to more dynamic, youthful Buicks, the Avenir pursues elegance on the outside and a soothing environment on the inside. It also introduces a new “face” for the brand – a new grille with a large opening accented by the return of Buick’s red, silver and blue tri-shield insignia.
What else is new
The interior strives to achieve a flowing, sculptural quality with surfaces “inspired by nature and sea waves receding on a beach.” At the same time, device-integration technologies operate through a 12-inch touch-screen “to lift the user’s mood and make the details associated with daily life a little easier,” says Buick.
Under the hood
The mechanical ingredients have a “grounded” quality that suggests they are destined for production even if the whole car isn’t. The next-generation V-6 gains cylinder de-activation and stop/start technology, and passes the drive through a nine-speed automatic to a twin-clutch all-wheel drive system. The basic architecture is rear-wheel drive, though the concept has AWD.
When can we buy it, and for how much
This is a concept car, but don’t be surprised if elements of its design appear in the next generation of the Lacrosse, maybe this fall.
Cool quotient
It looks good, but does the emphasis on passenger well-being mean that Buick is going back to its La-Z-Boy-on-wheels roots?
2016 Buick Cascada
What is it?
Buick’s big “surprise” reveal on the eve of the Detroit auto show has actually been around in Europe since 2013; it’s a compact 2+2 convertible based on GM Europe’s Opel Cascada, which is based in turn on the Delta architecture that also underpins the Chevrolet Cruze.
Signature feature
This is Buick’s first convertible since the little-missed Reatta passed on in the early 1990s. Its insulated fabric top lowers in 17 seconds and can do so while the car is moving, at speeds below 50 km/h. And unlike many rag-tops, the Cascada looks almost as good with the top up as with it down.
What else is new
Like the also Opel-based Buick Regal, the Cascada promises European driving dynamics, with body rigidity that Buick claims is a match for the BMW 4 Series convertible. The front seats automatically power forward at the touch of a button for access to the rear seats.
Under the hood
The front-wheel-drive powertrain comes over as-is from Europe, with a mere 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine putting out 200 horsepower and (with temporary over-boost) up to 221 lb-ft of torque. The Opel can be had with a six-speed manual, but the Buick version is a six-speed automatic only.
When can we buy it, and for how much
No plans at this point for Canada, but it goes on sale in the United States later this year. If it was sold in Canada, we estimate pricing in the mid-$40,000 range.
Cool quotient
It’s pretty, and promises an affordable alternative to Audi and BMW cabriolets.