2007 Chicago Auto Show Update 3

On Saturday I posted another update on some of the cool cars that are going to be at the Chicago Auto Show, but there are so many, I can’t help but post again. Here are a few more of the cars that are going to be there in a couple days:

Mazda Ryuga

The Ryuga expands on the “emotion of motion” concept that debuted with the Nagare, and you can see the elements of flow captured in the car’s sheetmetal. The sweeping lines on the doors, for instance, were inspired by the raked pebbles in a Japanese dry garden. The wheels, as well, feature spokes that twist near the hub, as if the torque of the car’s imaginary flex-fuel engine has twisted them. Finally, the color of the Ryuga is meant to evoke flowing lava, with tones and hue that vary from yellow to blue to red depending on the light.

Toyota FT-HS Concept

Called a “suitable sports car for the 21st Century,� the FT-HS is built around a 400 horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine with a sophisticated hybrid system and essential sports car fundamentals. This 2-plus-2 concept is a front-engine, rear-drive sports car with a projected 0-to-60 acceleration in the 4-second range. Futuristic telescoping hub-less steering wheel incorporates semi-automatic paddle shifters.

Lincoln MKR Concept

The Lincoln MKR prototype introduces a new design language of “elegant simplicity� on a 4-door coupe, and debuts the all-new, fuel-saving TwinForce engine. Developed to perform comparable or better than V-8 engines, the 3.5-liter gasoline twin-turbocharged direct-injection V-6 delivers 415 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque on renewable E-85 ethanol. The TwinForce delivers 15 percent better fuel economy than a V-8 with similar performance.

This one-of-a-kind automobile rolls on 21-inch chrome aluminum wheels wrapped in unique Michelin tires that feature the Lincoln star in its treads. Chrome-trimmed gauges illuminated with Ice Blue lighting can be easily viewed in harmony with the concave spoke steering wheel that includes retractable paddle shifters. Visually, the MKR features clean, uncluttered surfaces, with a significant C-pillar that smoothly transitions into the cantilevered roof. Several of the design elements are likely to appear on future production Lincolns, including the double-wing grille inspired by the 1941 Lincoln Continental Cabriolet..

Lexus LF-A Concept

Lexus has released an updated version of the LF-A supercar concept first seen in 2005. Refined styling of the latest LF-A prototype enhances its exotic nature with a greater use of curved surfaces and interesting details. Like the original, the Lexus LF-A for 2007 meets the goal to build a world-class performer. Standing exactly 4-feet high, the dream machine comes armed with a 500 horsepower, V-10. The front mid-mounted engine placement, along with a rear-mounted transaxle and rear-mounted radiators, allows for excellent weight distribution. With runaway horsepower, superior aerodynamics, and revised styling the LF-A has a top speed of 200-miles per hour.

2008 Hyundai Tiburon

I’ve written about the new Hyundai Tiburon multiple times in the past, including a comparison between this one and the current generation. There are a lot of mixed opinions on the design of the new model, and I actually really like the change.

Tiburon’s striking wedge-like body has been handsomely revised with new hood, front and rear fascia, headlights, taillights, front fenders, rear diffuser and bright dual-exhaust tips. The attention-grabbing fender side strake garnish provides design continuity with the new front valance. Blue backlit gauges and gunmetal accents highlight the 4-seat cockpit. For ’07, MP3 capability and Tire Pressure Monitoring System are now standard items. Available in an assortment of flavors, Tiburon comes as a base GS, sporty performance SE and refined performance GT and GT limited. Engine choices include the 138 horsepower, 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder, or a 2.7-liter V-6 that develops 172 horses. Depending on the model, available transmissions are the 5-speed or 6-speed manual, as well as a 4-speed automatic with Shiftronic.

Ford Interceptor

Built on a lengthened Mustang chassis, the rear-wheel drive Interceptor is propelled by a Ford Racing 5.0-liter V-8 that generates a healthy 400 ponies, and is wed to a 6-speed manual shifter. The same engine, which runs on E-85 ethanol, made it possible for the Mustang FR500C victory in the 2005 Grand-Am Cup Championship. Painted a deep blue, the Ford Interceptor concept’s strength exudes from its strong, high shoulders, single body side character line, horizontal three-bar grille, powered clamshell “shaker� hood, and 22-inch wheels. Stylish cockpit contains 4-low-back bucket seats that wear Ford GT-inspired squircle grommets finished with Titan Metal painted inserts.

Filed Under: Chicago Auto Show • Concept cars • Events • Ford • Hyundai • Lexus • Lincoln • Mazda • Toyota