2023 Chicago Auto Show: The Napleton News Wrap-Up

The 2023 Chicago Auto Show continues its rebirth following years of uncertainty from the pandemic. Traditionally, in February, snowbirds and other birds of a feather can be found avoiding the cold in the deep south. But for the automotive set, including your correspondents at Napleton News, it’s the beginning of Auto Show season. We’re here in our hometown of Chicago to show the latest and greatest vehicles on four wheels. Read on for our report.

Toyota:

The brand introduced their highly anticipated Toyota Grand Highlander. This three-row midsize SUV features three available powertrains, including a 362-horsepower Hybrid MAX package. There’s also adult-sized third row seating, ample cargo space, a digital key, 12.3-inch multimedia display. Driver aides like Traffic Jam Assist, Head-up Display and a digital rearview mirror help to round out this new vehicle.

Toyota also had the new Toyota Prius Hybrid on hand. It’s one of the best-looking Prius Hybrid models ever created. The lines were heavy for those wanting test drives.

Honda Pilot:

On sale now, the new Honda Pilot is now in its fourth generation. It’s the largest and most powerful Honda SUV ever with more interior space and a class leading combination of on and off-road capabilities. The Honda Pilot TrailSport was also shown and is the most rugged and off-road capable Honda SUV ever built. It includes standard all-terrain tires, steel skid plates, higher ground clearance, off-road tuned suspension and more.

Ford:

The Ford Mustang Dark Horse takes the Mustang GT further with a 500 horsepower 5.0-liter V8 with either a 6-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission. It uses parts derived from the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 and includes a newly revised intake system.

Jeep:

Jeep debuted the new Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 20 4XE and Rubicon 20 392. The two models commemorate the 20^th anniversary of the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and includes a select group of features. These include 17-inch bead lock capable wheels, a front off-road camera, triple hoop grille guard, heavy duty rock rails, winch-capable steel front bumper. There’s also a factory lift of 11.6-inches of ground clearance, a Gorilla Glass windshield. Finally, there’s an 83-piece tool kit with canvas carrying bag.

Dodge Hornet:

A mechanical twin of the Alfa Romeo Tonale, the new 2023 Dodge Hornet features several powertrains, high-performance parts and good looks. A plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) will appear later this Spring. It’s all-new and the quickest, fastest, most powerful CUV on the market. The best part is they are priced attractively.

Dodge Daytona Charger Concept.

The Dodge Charger Daytona SRT is a concept vehicle that shows the future face of Dodge as it enters the Battery Electric playground. Although the company is not saying the Daytona Charger EV is even going to be produced, its first all-electric muscle car will be available in 2024

RAM:

The Ram 1500 Revolution Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) Concept gives a glimpse into the future to show how the industry’s leading truck maker will redefine the pickup truck segment. It’s basically a concept vehicle that shows what the RAM brand will be introducing as they grow their Electric Vehicle product line. RAM says their RAM 1500 BEV production model will arrive in 2024 and will surpass the competition in range, payload, towing and charge time.

Subaru Cross Trek:

Subaru introduced their all-new 2024 Subaru Crosstrek at the 2023 Chicago Auto Show. Completely redesigned, it is loaded with upgrades in performance, technology, and safety. The optional 2.5-liter, 182-horsepower Boxer engine is re-tuned for more torque and power. Inside, an 11.6-inch high-resolution touchscreen is new. Subaru’s EyeSight^® Driver Assist Technology is enhanced for 2024 to help provide extra confidence and protection.

Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport:

Volkswagen chose the Chicago Auto Show to debut the refreshed 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport SUVs. The Atlas Cross Sport includes seating for five. The regular Atlas includes seating for seven. Both have been gently refreshed to feature an updated exterior with new wheels and an available light up grille. Only one engine is now available: a 2.0-liter, 269 horsepower four-cylinder replaces the formerly available 3.6-liter V6.