The 109th Chicago Auto Show has just finished and as the best-attended motor show in North America, it was the perfect place for manufacturers to show off their latest models. There were around 40 exhibitors displaying more than 1,000 vehicles, with many making their debuts. As America likes everything bigger, it’s no surprise that there were plenty of SUVs on show. Here are some of the most exciting reveals from this year’s event.
Ford Expedition 2018
While it has undergone several refreshes, this is the first full redesign for the Ford Expedition since its launch in 1997 and this new version could prove to be one of the most versatile SUVs on the market. Inside, there are plenty of technical innovations with six USB outlets, a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, park assist and a 360-degree camera. It’s powered by a 3.5-litre engine, perfect for towing, and is an incredible 300 pounds lighter than its predecessor, thanks to an aluminium-alloy body.
Volkswagen Atlas Weekend Edition
The regular Atlas hasn’t arrived in US showrooms yet, but VW are already upping the ante with this new concept edition of their SUV. As the name suggests, it’s designed for a weekend getaway with all the accessories required for the adventurous driver. Kit includes a pop-up roof that expands to create 17.7 cubic feet of cargo space, along with 18-inch Prisma wheels, all-weather rubber mats, splashguards and wheel locks. There’s also a universal tablet mount, meaning passengers can stay connected even when exploring the great outdoors. Underneath the bonnet, there’s a powerful 3.6-litre VR-6 engine, which delivers 276 bhp.
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Limited Edition
Mitsubishi unveiled a special edition trim for their popular crossover SUV, the Outlander Sport. The new LE trim sits just above the baseline model but features plenty of desirable features, including a rear-view camera, high intensity discharge headlights, and new 18-inch wheels. There have also been some interior innovations with bucket seats, dark fabric with red trim and aluminium-covered pedals.
Toyota RAV4 Adventure
The RAV4 is one of the best selling compact SUVs and the new adventure trim is perfect for those with an active driving lifestyle. There’s the option of a tow-pack as well as a higher ride height in the suspension system and a choice between front and 4-wheel drive. There are also a number of styling features to create the perfect look for the outdoor adventurer with 18-inch alloy wheels, lower body guards, a roof rack and blacked-out lights.
Volvo XC90 Excellence
Bucking the adventurer trend, the Volvo XC90 Excellence utilises all the extra space, not for practicality, but to add a little bit of luxury. This edition has a completely different configuration to the regular XC90 with the second row replicating the first to make this a very comfortable four-seater, which provides a first class passenger experience. That premium feel is replicated in the materials used throughout the interior, with Nappa leather and wood panelling throughout. There’s even a refrigerator which can hold two bottles alongside handcrafted crystal glasses. While this all might seem decadent, the engine is designed for efficiency without compromising on performance with Volvo’s T8 twin engine plug-in hybrid powertrain offering 400 bhp.