Anticipation and expectations are high; through the roof in fact when it comes to the Big Show (I think I started my 2006 impressions the same way...).
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| Dodge/Chrysler minivans presentation |
The 2007 edition of the North American International Auto Show was somewhat of a let down; again similar to last year... Although this is only my third trip to Motor City for the Big Show, I can safely say that it featured much less glitz and glamour than I saw back in 2005. It is very apparent that most manufacturers have cut back on hugely expensive elaborate presentations. Well, save for DaimlerChrysler, Ford and General Motors had a very average show. To be quite honest, even DCX's 07 launches paled in comparison to the 06 ones. Could it be that they are all saving for a tough 2007?
The reason for all the hype usually has to do with surprises; be it guests, products or concepts. This brings up the other issue with the 07 NAIAS: there were no shockers. You see, we, as automotive journalists, photographers and videographers, are called upon to cover the event and bring our web-users fresh and exciting news. Trouble is that most of what we will witness has already been disclosed or will be available to the general public online before we even finish taking notes and snapping pictures.
I was glad to be in Detroit to see it all but I thought that my presence as a reporter was almost pointless: I could have prepared 90% of my material without ever having left my office in Montreal. Of course, the same cannot be said about capturing still images or footage.
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| Chevrolet Volt |
I was thoroughly impressed with GM this year. Many of their new products are looking good (2008 VUE, 2008 CTS, 2007 full-size trucks and their new crossovers: Saturn Outlook, GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave) and their recent technological advances make tons of sense (Chevrolet Volt Concept with E-Flex). Their presentations were not fabulous but there was an air of confidence roaming about the huge booth that could not be denied.
In the end, what half-saved the Auto Show for me was the presence of a number of very nice cars. I had already seen pictures on the web but some of these vehicles simply looked better in the metal, plastic and rubber.
My favourite production models:- 2008 Cadillac CTS
- 2007 Saturn Outlook
- 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
- 2008 Audi R8
- 2008 Lexus IS-F
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| Ford Interceptor |
My favourite prototypes/concepts:- Mitsubishi Prototype X
- Holden Efijy
- Chrysler Nassau
- Toyota FT-HS
- Ford Interceptor
My dislikes:- 2008 Ford Focus
- 2008 Ford Escape / Mazda Tribute
- Nissan Bevel Concept
