Cox Automotive Experts Preview 2017 NAIAS Highlights
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LEARN MORE: 2017 NAIAS (Detroit Auto Show) Press Pass Coverage
Overall
Comments from Michelle Krebs, senior analyst for Autotrader:
“Technology will be leading story at NAIAS 2017, across all brands and segments - from in-car comfort and convenience to the latest in driver-assist features. We expect to see new technology debuted at the show and, importantly, existing technology more widely offered. That’s what consumers are most interested in – in-car technology. Our recent Autotrader Tech Impact Study shows the right technology is more important than ever. For a growing number of buyers, technology is more important than brand.”
Comments from Mike Harley, analyst for Kelley Blue Book:
“Despite a recent trend by automakers to introduce vehicles outside the traditional show schedule, Detroit’s NAIAS remains the world’s premier venue for monumental introductions ― most manufacturers still want to unveil a headline-grabber in the Motor City. The 2017 show promises a handful of new crossovers and SUVs, led by introductions from Audi, Volkswagen, and Infiniti, and new premium sedans from Lexus and BMW. Honda will reveal its all-new Odyssey minivan, which targets families, while Kia is teasing a still-unseen BMW fighter.”
Comments from Michelle Krebs, senior analyst for Autotrader:
“After introducing new cars last year, General Motors launches redesigned sport utilities in 2017, which should prove to be more popular than cars. The 2018 Chevrolet Traverse adopts more traditional SUV styling, boasts a comfy and high-tech interior and promises to deliver better fuel economy, one of the vehicle’s criticisms.”
Comments from Michelle Krebs, senior analyst for Autotrader:
“The Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which adds the coupe version being unveiled in Detroit, won Kelley Blue Book’s Best Auto Tech luxury car award, presented at the 2017 Consumer Electronics Show. The technological centerpiece is undoubtedly the floating instrument cluster housing, which contains two high-resolution 12.3-inch widescreen displays mounted beneath a single pane of glass. The sheer amount of this technology could be overwhelming in itself, but the E-Class incorporates it in such a way that even the most technophobic drivers will find themselves using – and in time relying on – these well-thought-out systems on a daily basis.”
Comments from Michelle Krebs, senior analyst for Autotrader:
“Last year’s introduction of the Chrysler Pacifica breathed new life in to the minivan segment. Honda ups the ante with the remake of the always-popular Odyssey.”
2017 NACTOY Finalists
Comments from Matt DeLorenzo, managing editor for Kelley Blue Book:
Car:
2017 Chevrolet Bolt
“Chevrolet Bolt represents a breakthrough in EV technology that provides extended range at an affordable price. The packaging offers class above accommodations along with high tech infotainment. Ease of operation, great visibility and good performance add up to a car that is definitely a game-changer in the EV category.”
2017 Genesis G90
“The new Genesis brand from Hyundai offers traditional luxury in a package that costs thousands less than the more established competition. The G90 has a roomy cabin appointed with high quality materials and plenty of features to keep both front and rear passengers comfortable and engaged. Build quality is exceptional and positions the division to become a true rival for Lexus.”
Volvo S90
“Volvo has successfully redefined luxury that stays true to the company’s Scandinavian roots. Tasteful execution of the interior space coupled with high tech touches like the large vertical infotainment screen is a big part of the S90’s unique take on the luxury experience.”
Utility:
Chrysler Pacifica
“Chrysler has again redefined the minivan by combining advanced exterior design with a high quality and modern looking interior. Unique features like the Stow ‘n Go second row seats and the addition of a Plug-in Hybrid version puts the company back into the forefront in this family-friendly class.”
Jaguar F-Pace
“While Jaguar is part of a group that has a strong presence in the SUV segment in Land Rover, the British luxury marque has done what some though would be impossible - to build a sexy-looking, great-handling crossover that is every bit a Jaguar.”
Mazda CX-9
“The Mazda CX-9 is proof positive that a crossover doesn’t need to look like an SUV to be successful. This 3-row vehicle offers utility, functionality and good performance wrapped in elegant sheet metal.”
Trucks:
Honda Ridgeline
“Unlike the previous generation, the new Ridgeline looks more like a traditional truck without losing the crossover functionality that comes with a transverse-mounted drivetrain. That combination results in a vehicle that is easy to drive, has great load carrying capability and unique features like under floor cargo storage.”
Nissan Titan
“In the fiercely competitive traditional pickup market, Nissan has waded in with a new Titan that offers a great driving experience, a high quality interior and tremendous affordability. The new truck looks rugged, performs well and provides yet another choice for those looking for a well-built half-ton pickup.”
Ford Super Duty
“With its aluminum body and revamped chassis, the Ford Super Duty seeks to do for heavy duty trucks what the F-150 did for half-ton pickups. Lighter weight, better performance and rugged good looks make the Super Duty a winner in the work truck segment.”
