2007 Chicago Auto Show

The Chicago Auto Show (CAS) is a more low key event than the NAIAS (Detroit Auto Show). For the 2007 CAS, most manufacturers trotted out some mainstream and niche vehicles that won't attract much media buzz, but are important to their core customers. Ford showed the hastily rebadged Taurus and Sable, mildly restyled versions of the former Five Hundred and Montego, respectively. The redesigned Highlander (including a Highlander Hybrid) from Toyota is slightly bigger than its predecessor. The Nissan Pathfinder now has a V-8 for customers that tow regularly, while the Titan and Armada get exterior styling updates. The larger xB and new subcompact xD should keep Scion's style-conscious customers satisfied. Saturn replaced the unpopular ION compact sedan with two Astra hatchback models. VW showed their compact Q-Ship, the Golf-based AWD R32 hatchback. As in the past, the manufacturers aimed their 2007 CAS car and truck introductions more for their loyal owners than to generate media hype, which is what really matters.