We recently got back from the 2007 Chicago Auto Show. While a lot of the bigger auto sites already have some posts reviewing the cars, little old me is still sifting through and editing the hundreds of pictures and notes. You should expect to see many more posts regarding some of the awesome cars displayed and revealed. In the mean time, here is an overview of the show in general.
Altogether the show was a great experience this year. While it lacked in some of the “wow-factor” of previous years, there were some very interesting unveilings this year, as well as some very cool concept cars you have to see.
Audi showed us the gorgeous R8 pre-production model, which should be released to it’s first customers in the second quarter of this year. Boasting 420 horsepower from a high-RPM V8, the R8 should run 0-62 mph in 4.6 seconds with the help of a Launch Control feature and R-tronic sequential gearshifting.
Audi also showed off the 2008 TT Coupe, which I think is much better than the current model. Expect the available engines to be either a 2.0 T developing 200 hp, or a 3.2 V6 developing 250 hp with Quattro all-wheel drive.
Lexus actually had quite a bit to talk about this year, the coolest being their LF-A Concept and IS-F.
The IS-F is the first in Lexus’ high-performance “F” line, and is expected to produce more than 400 horsepower from a 5.0 liter V8, by way of an eight-speed paddle-shift sport gearbox. The LF-A Concept will likely have a V10 producing more than 500 horsepower, and travel to over 200 mph.
Scion unveiled the brand new xD, as well as the redesigned xB.
The all-new xD is built off of the Toyota Yaris platform, has a 1.8 liter 4 cylinder engine, and comes with a standard 160-Watt audio system. The re-designed xB is a good move for Scion. It’s one foot longer, 3 inches wider, and has 55 more horsepower than the current model.
Toyota unveiled it’s redesigned Highlander SUV, which actually looks pretty good. As nice as it was, I spent all of my time at Toyota’s FT-HS Concept.
You can be sure I’ll be posting about this car again. Look at those wheels 
While pictures don’t do it any sort of justice, seeing it in person is breathtaking. The FT-HS is expected to be powered by a 3.5 liter V6 hybrid powertrain sitting in the front of the car, driving the rear wheels. After speaking with the pretty lady from Toyota, I learned that it will do 0-60 in about 4.6 seconds, and if produced, the final model will cost between $35K and $40K.
Nissan really wanted to talk about it’s refinements on next years trucks and SUVs, but I insisted on changing the subject. What I wanted to hear about was the Altima Coupe and 350Z.
The Altima Coupe was beautiful, with its only flaw being the large-holed honeycomb grill. I’m still going to buy it. When I asked Larry Dominique, vice president, Product Planning of Nissan about an update to the 350Z (specifically the long-rumored V8 450Z,) he said they did not have any further official plans for the 350Z, other than the recently upgraded model with an awkward hood bulge and 306 horsepower.
Chevy had two cars on display that I was interested in, the Volt Concept, and the Camaro Convertible.
There are a few more cars I would like to go over in this review, but I’ll split it up into two articles. I should have the second part done tomorrow, so be sure to come back and read it. Also, be sure to subscribe to my AutomoBlog RSS Feed to make sure you don’t miss anything!
Update: View Part 2 here
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