Crossovers, sedans and “autonomous” driving rule the 2017 show
By Casey Williams
Is it cold? Yes! Are cars on the mind? Absolutely—and that means it’s time for the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Here are some of the most significant debuts that we saw during the 29th annual exhibition.
VW I.D. Buzz Concept
An autonomous Microbus with a 435-kilometre electric driving range, it can be charged to 80 per cent in 30 minutes. When automated, the driver’s seat turns 180 degrees to face the rear cabin, and this ride comes loaded with a tablet display, Beats audio and Bluetooth loudspeakers that can be used outside. An augmented reality head-up displays
driver information.
2018 Kia Stinger
This slick rear-drive sedan will join Kia’s lineup later this year. Muscular styling harbours
either a turbo four-cylinder engine or a 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6—both with eight-speed
automatic transmission. Kia targets a top speed of 269 km/h. Nappa leather, 720-watt
Harman/Kardon audio, colour head-up display and adjustable suspension impress.
2018 Toyota Camry
America’s best-selling car adopts aggressive styling and driver-focused interior with
head-up display. Three powertrains include a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, 3.5-litre V6,
and hybrid that promises “Prius-like” driving efficiency. Pedestrian detection, radar cruise
control, lane keep assist, backup camera and blind spot monitor systems enhance safety.
Nissan V-Motion 2.0 Concept
Wide centre-opening doors welcome passengers to a cabin styled with zebra wood and
quilted leather, while techies will like the wide dash screen, console touchpad, and
screens for rear passengers. Bose UltraNearfield Speakers enhance the driver’s situational
awareness. Nissan imagines its advanced ProPILOT system guiding the car on highways,
in urban traffic and through intersections.
2018 GMC Terrain
Sleek and efficient, the Terrain flaunts fluid forms, sculpted grille and floating D-pillar.
Denali editions add LED headlights and 19-inch wheels. Aluminum trim, heated steering
wheels, Bose audio, and WiFi grace the interior. A three-engine option includes 1.5-litre
and 2.0-litre turbocharged gas engines, plus an all-new 1.6-litre turbo-diesel.
Audi Q8 Concept
A large crossover with only four seats, the Q8 foretells a production model in 2018.
Ludicrous luxury is highlighted by leather-upholstered everything and climate
controls in the armrests. Behind the bold grille is a 3.0-litre turbo-V6, hybrid system and
eight-speed transmission. Audi claims 600 miles (about 965 kilometres) of total driving range.
What is head-up display (HUD)?
With head-up display, the instrument readings are typically projected onto the vehicle’s visor or windshield so you can see them at a glance without lowering your eyes—and without taking your eyes off the road.
CASEY WILLIAMS is a contributing writer for Gaywheels.com. He contributes to the New York-based LGBT magazine Metrosource and the Chicago Tribune. He and his husband live in Indianapolis, where Williams contributes videos and reviews to wfyi.org, the area’s PBS/NPR station.
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