Trucks king in Detroit
From Ford’s all-new 2020 Mustang Shelby GT500, to Subaru’s most powerful STI the marque has ever offered, here’s Autofile Online’s wrap-up of the 2019 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, Michigan.
The blue oval’s new GT500 was first out the gate with a supercharged 5.2-litre V8 engine that produces more than 700 horsepower – enough to launch the car from 0-96.5kph in just over three seconds.
Toyota president Akio Toyoda revealed the all-new fifth-generation Supra, a nameplate that’s been resurrected for the first time since it was phased out in 2002. The Supra’s three-litre twin-scroll turbo can produce 335 horsepower and 495Nm of torque.
Lexus introduced its 2020 RC F and RC F Track. The Track variant joins the standard RC F performance coupe, which has been updated for the 2020 model year. Improved aerodynamics, reduced weight and enhanced styling elevates its performance.
Subaru Technica International, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Subaru, unveiled the limited-edition STI S209 – the most powerful model the Japanese marque has offered US buyers. It’s powered by a 341-horsepower, 2.5-litre Boxer engine.
Ram revealed a heavy-duty version of its pick-up with a towing capacity of 16,000kg and 3,480kg payload. When equipped with a Cummins 6.7-litre, I-6 turbo-diesel engine, the 2019 heavy-duty 3500 generates an industry first 1,356Nm of torque.
The Telluride SUV was on show in Detroit – the largest vehicle Kia has produced. It provides seating for up to eight occupants and is powered by a 291-horsepower, 3.8-litre V6 engine.
Volkswagen unveiled its new 2020 Passat, which has a bolder design, upgraded technology, and enhanced access to convenience and driver-assistance features.
Infiniti took the wraps off the QX Inspiration – a mid-sized SUV concept that’s a precursor to its first fully electric vehicle. Infiniti aims to electrify its entire line-up by 202. The brand saying the QX concept signals a new era for its design.
Cadillac surprised audiences by unveiling renderings of an all-electric crossover. Named Cadillac EV, it will be the first model derived from General Motors’ future EV platform. Its actual name and more details will be revealed closer to launch.
Nissan revealed its IMs Intelligent Mobility – a sedan concept that anticipates the future of electric power, automated driving and performance vehicles in a single model. The IMs comprises “a complete reinterpretation of the electric car in a sports sedan,” said Denis LeVot, chairman of Nissan North America. “It’s the future of EVs.”
Hyundai announced a sporty trim for the Elantra GT called the N Line and GAC Motor introduced a three-row, seven-seat concept – the Entranze EV. It’s the first concept designed in the US by GAC.
