Normally, Chicago plays host too many production launches as opposed to a large number of concepts and prototypes. Given that this show occurs late in the car show calendar, it is entitled to many of the products that will be in showrooms later in the year.
To keep things interesting and since the show has nearly doubled in size over the last decade, every manufacturer has plenty of space for fancy displays. One of the most interesting should Jeep's as they will have an indoor test track that will features a slippery surface designed to mimic winter driving conditions.
Here is but a sample of what we will see in Chicago:
2008 Saturn Astra
Opel, one of GM's many divisions, will provide the basis for the next new Saturn product. The Astra, which is the Opel's original name, will replace the tired Ion and be the final piece in the renewal of the Saturn brand. Body configurations will include a 3 and 5-door hatchback. As of yet, information is limited on the powertrains however we expect that the 2.2L and 2.4L ECOTEC 4-cylinder engine will be offered.
2008 Chevrolet Malibu
The all-new Malibu made its debut in Detroit and will once again be on display, this time in Chicago. The new midsize family sedan shares its underpinnings with the Aura, G6 and 9-3. Aesthetically speaking, the new Malibu looks great and on the surface, could prove to be real competition the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. Engines choices will be between the 2.4L 4-pot and the 3.6L V6. Both will be mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Safety features include standard ABS, traction control and 6 air bags. Stability control will be available on higher-end models.
2008 Pontiac G8
Out with the old, in with the new. The Grand Prix nameplate will be retired officially as of 2008 and be replaced by an all-new G8. This new Pontiac performance sedan will be based on GM's Zeta platform used by the Holden Commodore, a RWD full-size sedan sold in Australia. The G8 will be a proper American family car that will finally compete with the ever popular Chrysler LX cars.
2008 Corvette (Ron Fellows and Indy 500)
Ron Fellows is the man who was behind the wheel of the winning Corvette C5R in 2000 taking first place in a race and winning the 2002 edition of the American LeMans GTS--Class championship. In order to properly recognize his past and continuing contribution to the Corvette Racing Team, GM will build 399 Z06 painted in Arctic White / Monterey Red with Victory Silver graphics up front. The interior will feature Victory Red accents.
Another Corvette on display is the Indy 500 Pace Car Edition. To commemorate the 9th time that the Corvette will be used as the Pace Car, GM will produce 500 replicas of the Atomic Orange Convertible for the public.
To keep things interesting and since the show has nearly doubled in size over the last decade, every manufacturer has plenty of space for fancy displays. One of the most interesting should Jeep's as they will have an indoor test track that will features a slippery surface designed to mimic winter driving conditions.
Here is but a sample of what we will see in Chicago:
2008 Saturn Astra
 |
2008 Chevrolet Malibu
 |
2008 Pontiac G8
 |
| 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix |
2008 Corvette (Ron Fellows and Indy 500)
 |
Another Corvette on display is the Indy 500 Pace Car Edition. To commemorate the 9th time that the Corvette will be used as the Pace Car, GM will produce 500 replicas of the Atomic Orange Convertible for the public.