Wednesday, January 14, 2015YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio -- Some years it's technology, others it's luxury. This year power is the theme the North American International Auto Show.
Monday in Detroit, the first day of press previews, Ford announced its most powerful Mustang ever and the return of the GT super car, Mercedes-Benz announced the addition of the 450 AMG to its C-class line and Acura brought its own super car, the NSX, out of the design phase.
Cadillac followed up Tuesday by continuing the expansion of its V-series and introducing the CTS-V. Two months ago, Cadillac introduced the ATS-V at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
The CTS-V is the most powerful Cadillac ever. The car uses the same 640-horsepower V8 engine that Chevrolet has in its top-of-the-line Corvette Z06. With the engine, this Cadillac sedan is capable of being driven at 200 mph, executives say.
“The new CTS-V is the most compelling example of Cadillac’s product substance and brand trajectory,” said Johan de Nysschen, president of Cadillac. “The CTS-V soars into the stratosphere of the most exhilarating luxury cars.”
While keeping the typical Cadillac luxury interior, the CTS-V has carbon fiber body parts to reduce weight, Brembo brakes and Michelin Super Sport tires.
“The CTS-V reflects that with a bold sense of arrival, serious performance, seamless integration of technology and precision in its craftsmanship,” said Andrew Smith, executive director of Cadillac Global Design.
Following Cadillac to the show's main stage, Lincoln presented a redesigned MKX, which the company boasts is its most powerful car it has ever produced, with a standard 300-horsepower engine. An option for a 330-horsepower version is available.
“The focus is on delivering a total personalized luxury experience for our client: performance, quiet ride, power and technologies that make life easier, all in an environment wrapped in rich materials,” said chief engineer Elaine Bannon.
A 360-degree parking assist camera, a first for Lincoln, is available, along with a collision-detection system and an auto-hold system. The latter automatically keeps the brakes pressed in stopped traffic.
Lexus introduced an addition to its performance line, the F series, with the GS F. As the company's first mid-size sedan to be given the racing treatment, the GS F is “a track-ready, road-devouring beast,” boasted Lexus Vice President Jeff Bracken.
“With the GS F, we wanted to make a special car that not only would exceed the expectations of the most discerning driving enthusiast, but also something that most people can enjoy,” said the car's chief engineer, Yukihiko Yaguchi. “In that way, the GS F embraces the virtues of sound, response and power, the cornerstones of the Lexus ‘F’ brand.”
Ram, spun off from Dodge in 2009, showed off two new models, the 1500 EcoDiesel, which gets 29 mpg, and the Ram Rebel, a new off-road truck to compete with the Ford Raptor, presented yesterday.
“It's built and styled for people who push back when someone says those dreaded words: 'You can't,' ” Ram director Bob Hegbloom said at the announcement.
The Rebel comes standard with a new air suspension to help provide 10.3 inches of ground clearance, in addition to 33-inch tires. An option for a 395-horsepower Hemi engine is also available.
Bringing a close to media days at the auto show was Honda, which introduced a hydrogen-powered car that will be available in the United States next year. The FCV will have a 300-mile range and can be refueled in three minutes. Also planned is a line of the FCV with a turbo, something Honda hadn't before offered in its line of consumer cars.
“No other automaker in the world has the depth of R&D [research and development] know-how and experience to create such a diverse array of advanced technology products, let alone bring them to market," declared John Mendel, vice president of American Honda Motor.
At the press event, other hybrid and electric-motor cars were announced, including the launch of the new HR-V this spring, an all-electric car and a new plug-in hybrid scheduled for release in 2018.
The Detroit Auto Show will open to the public Saturday and run through Jan. 25.
Pictured: Lincoln MKX, which the company boasts is the most powerful car it has ever produced.
Copyright 2015 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.
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