The recently held Chicago Auto Show saw exclusive launches, luxurious four-wheelers and daring concepts.
The Chicago Auto Show (CAS), considered to be one of the biggest auto shows in United States, was recently held at McCormick Place from February 8-17, 2014. To check that and more, we revved up our car towards the venue.
Promising an impressive mechanical extravaganza – considering all the most important vehicle brands were participating – it was BMW and Maserati’s conferences that we were eager to attend. And it proved worthwhile as we got the opportunity to see their gleaming beauties up and close. Not to forget Audi and Porsche creations too!
Stalwarts ahoy!
BMW, acknowledging that US is an important market, introduced the 2014 BMW 740Ld xDrive during CAS. For the first time in the country, this BMW 7series will be available with a diesel engine.
David Buchko, product and technology communications manager at BMW, not only iterated the success BMW saw in 2013, but also predicts an even brighter 2014 for the brand in US. “The recovery has been strong and people are buying cars in the country,” he said. The 740Ld will also have new M Sport equipment and styling line and will be available beginning this spring with a retail price starting at $83,425.
Also presented for the first time at the 2014 CAS, BMW introduced a new line of M Performance parts for the 2014 BMW X5. Features include mirror caps, unique 21-inch wheels and high-performance tires. In the interior, the Alcantara-covered sport steering wheel, stainless steel pedals and an assortment of carbon fiber accents give a classy look. Apart from these, BMW’s i8 caught our fancy as well.
Maserati, on the other hand, highlighted its new sport sedan, the Ghibli S Q4 during CAS. The new sport sedan offers a 3.0 liter twin turbo V6 engine that can easily accelerate up to 404 horsepower. “If you like firing up your car every day, not just starting it, you have a new option on the menu – Italian.” said Jeffrey Ehoodin, public relations manager at Maserati. This beautifully proportioned car struck chords with many men during the event, not just with its engine, but rich interiors too.
Other cars showcased by Maserati were Quattraporte GTS and GranTurismo MC Convertible. Talking about the recent economic downturn, Mr Ehoodin emphasized that in a way, it was good for his brand, because consumers have become conspicuous and are more focused on buying true, unique luxury.
Adding spice
Another exhibit that caught our eye was Comcast Business’ Supercars where McLarens, Lamborghinis, Aston Martins and Rolls-Royces excited quite a frenzy among the crowd. Sporting colours like vivid reds, yellows and blues, the supercars drew a lot of attention. CAS also saw brands like Honda and Toyota introducing futuristic vehicle concepts. Toyota’s bike, which connects physically and emotionally with its driver, particularly interested us, though seeming like a very far-fetched concept.
The entire show worked with clockwork precision and wonderful organization, minus the chaos and screaming. Right from registering for the show and receiving specific instructions for parking to receiving our identifications and finally touring the show, everything happened smoothly without any hassle or disappointment.
With many people driving or flying into Chicago for CAS specifically, the show is surely one of the most successful ones. According to Foresight Research conducted at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show, nearly two-thirds of show visitors were intending to purchase a new vehicle in the next 12 months, a number that’s double the local market average. At the show, attendees spent an average of three hours and 43 minutes on the show floor. Furthermore, more than one-third of show goers added at least one brand to their shopping list. The 2014 show is surely an achievement as well from what we could see!
