The 2022 North American International Auto Show

After a Covid-induced shut down, the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) returned to Detroit. So big a deal, it even attracted the “Car Guy In Chief,” President Joe Biden. While Napleton News was not officially in attendance, we monitored the proceedings as they unveiled themselves. Here’s what we thought was interesting in the Motor City.

2024 Mustang:

A seventh-generation interpretation of the iconic Ford Mustang, the new generation includes a dropped beltline, with new sheetmetal, new wider rear shoulders, a long extended rear deck and more. A new, driver-centric cockpit gets down to business. Inspired by a fighter jet, it features two curved displays that are customizable according to the driver’s needs. For the enthusiast interested in the full force of Dearborn Engineering, the Blue Oval introduced a fourth generation 5.0-liter V8 480-hp. According to the company, it’s the most powerful Mustang GT ever. For those who choose to row it themselves, the manual (shifter) lives. It even includes a drift brake!

Mustang Dark Horse:

The first performance brand from Ford in twenty years. The volume has been turned up in every manner. A new Coyote 5.0-liter V8 is expected to have 500 or more horsepower and is mated to either a Tremec 6-speed manual or Ford 10-speed automatic transmission. Officially, Ford has not released performance numbers yet. We aren’t certain, but Ford’s presentation in Detroit makes it look as though there will be versions of the Dark Horse Mustang for NHRA, GT3, GT4, Supercar Championship series and NASCAR Cup Series.

2023 Chrysler 300C:

To commemorate the end of production following the 2023 model year, Stellantis introduced the 2023 Chrysler 300C. Designed to honor 70 years of the Chrysler 300, the new 2023 300C is powered by a 6.4-liter HEMI engine making 485 horsepower. “We’re celebrating the Chrysler 300 and its iconic legacy in the automotive world,” said Chris Feuell, Chrysler brand chief executive officer. “We will carry that spirit of ingenuity forward as we transform Chrysler with a fully electrified future,” she continued.

Ordering reservations are available now at reservations.chrysler.com. Here, buyers can select an exterior color, select a dealer and submit a deposit.

2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe 30th Anniversary Edition:

Jeep celebrated the 30^th anniversary of the most awarded SUV ever with the introduction of the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. Thirty years and nearly 7 million Grand Cherokees later, the Jeep brand introduces a special edition plug-in hybrid version of the award-winning SUV. It features a special front fascia, blacked-out exterior appearance, signature blue tow hooks and other distinct features. It will go on sale later this year.

2023 Jeep Wrangler Willys 4xe at the North American International Auto Show:

Inspired by over 80 years of Jeep 4×4 leadership, Jeep honors their Willys heritage with the introduction of the 2023 Jeep Wrangler Willys 4xe. It features authentic retro cues with the technologically advanced 375-horsepower, 470 lb-ft Wrangler plug-in hybrid system. It’s the ultimate combination of capability and electrification, with a vintage twist, said a Jeep spokesperson.

2023 Chevrolet Tahoe RST Performance Edition:

For the gearhead that is confined to an SUV, Chevrolet feels your pain. That’s why they chose the eve of the NAIAS to introduce the 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe RST Performance Edition. The RST Performance Edition takes the RST model further by adding more power and police-specification chassis upgrades. Start with a 6.2-liter V8 that makes 433 horsepower and 467 lb-ft of torque. That’s an improvement of 13 ponies and 7 lb-ft more than the standard version.

It’s not a lot, but we’ll take a win where we can get it. The RST PE also gets a version of the suspension from the police-spec Tahoe. This package includes improved springs, re-tuned dampers, and a larger stabilizer bar. It includes Brembo performance braking as well.

It goes on sale at the end of the year.