By:
Sherri Tilley
| Photo: Sherri TilleyThe latest and greatest achievements from a number of automobile manufacturers are on display this weekend at the 2015 DFW Auto Show at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in downtown Dallas. The remarkable showcase of sophisticated design, cutting-edge technology, and advanced engineering includes redesigned and all-new 2016 model-year vehicles from Buick, Mazda, Chevrolet, Fiat, Nissan, and more along with the boldly impressive 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor.
2016 Buick Cascada Convertible
The sculptural aesthetic of the all-new 2016 Cascada convertible is garnering the attention of a whole new crowd while bringing a fresh excitement to the Buick line by enticing consumers to “live life wide open.” Purposefully built from the ground up intentionally as a convertible, the Cascada offers built-in rigidity and a nice driving dynamic which pairs nimble handling with the spirited performance of its 200-hp turbocharged engine. The thermally- and acoustically-insulated soft-top roof is expected to provide a reduced noise level on par with the upscale Buick Verano, as a one-touch button brings the top up in 19 seconds and puts it back down in 17 seconds which can be done while driving at speeds of up to 31 mph. Buick is currently experiencing an upswing of momentum in the marketplace and is growing in its appeal to a younger audience which is presently discovering the classic brand.
2016 Mazda MX-5
Careful not to over-tink with a good thing, Mazda has scrupulously reconfigured its flagship MX-5 Miata to be a little more aggressive, slightly leaner on the outside, a bit roomier on the inside, and a tad more assertive. As part of a ground-up complete redesign, the fourth-generation modern roadster has shed approximately 150 pounds from its predecessor by utilizing lightweight aluminum for selected body components along with new SKYACTIV technologies which increase vehicle performance and fuel economy. Newly-lowered hood and seat positions provide drivers with a cozier, more enveloped feel; while the repositioned engine which sits farther back on the stiffened chassis creates better weight distribution and improves handling characteristics. The MX-5's provocative sense of eminent tension embodies the latest 'KODO Soul of Motion' style philosophy, illustrating Mazda's relentless passion for innovation and the company's ongoing desire to deliver maximum driving enjoyment.
2016 Fiat 500X
Fiat’s sexy all-new Italian crossover is “bigger, more powerful, and ready for action.” The tougher-looking five-passenger vehicle, which shares a platform with the Jeep Renegade, is the brand’s first available all-wheel-drive offering and is expected to sell well not only in California, Texas, and Florida, but also in states which tend to experience more inclement weather. With creative touches inspired by the beauty of the Amalfi Coast, the interior of the 500X has an artistic feel which incorporates signature styling and advanced technologies along with standard and available safety features including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Available in 12 colors and 5 trim levels including Pop, Easy, Lounge, Trekking, and Trekking Plus, the 500X emerges from the studio with a noteworthy “X” factor.
2016 Chevrolet Volt
Owners can expect to drive over 1,000 miles between fill-ups in the new second-generation Chevrolet Volt electric hybrid car featuring an all-new 1.5L range-extending engine which achieves an estimated 41 mpg on the highway. Reengineered from the ground up with a bold new design, the coupe-like four-door Volt offers upgraded styling, improved electric range, and the latest active safety technologies such as lane keep assist, cross traffic alerts, and forward collision alerts. The vehicle's attitude-infused sculpted exterior encompasses an ergonomic interior with richer materials, simplified intuitive controls, and seating for five with available front and rear heated seats. With an all-new lighter-weight battery pack delivering 20% more energy by volume, the new Volt is capable of traveling 50 miles fully electrically, a marked improvement over the first-generation model.
2016 Nissan Titan
Bridging the gap between light-duty capability and heavy-duty capacity, Nissan has combined durability, quality, and reliability to create a ground-up all-new truck with a focus on “overall goodness.” The Titan XD configuration, which will be launching first later this year, features a rugged new design utilizing a uniquely dedicated frame-up vehicle concept and an all-new interior with improved materials inspired by precision mechanics and high-end hunting apparel. A commanding front end complements the upsized-components on this first light-duty application of a V8 turbo diesel from Cummins which features innovations such as an integrated gooseneck hitch, trailer light check system, integrated trailer brake controller, around view monitor, and hill start assist which holds the brake momentarily to prevent lurching while parked on a steep grade. This big, bold departure from the previous Titan offers more than 12,000 pounds of towing capability and a maximum payload of over 2,000 pounds when properly equipped.
2017 Ford F-150 Raptor
Redefining high-performance off-roading once again, Ford's all-new 2017 F-150 Raptor is tougher, smarter, and more capable than any of its predecessors. Reengineered to offer advanced off-road technology, the next-generation Raptor utilizes high-strength, ding-resistant, aluminum alloy in its body and bed thereby shedding over 500 pounds of weight as compared to the 2014 model. Serious off-roaders who like shifting cues at their fingertips will enjoy interior paddle shifters which conveniently control the all-new high-output 3.5L EcoBoost engine that gives the 2017 Raptor more horsepower and torque than the previous 6.2L V8. The next-generation Raptor is equipped with features that allow drivers to more easily navigate off road including standard larger shocks, a new torque-on-demand transfer, and the all-new Terrain Management System which allows drivers to select from 6 optional preset drive modes which match driving dynamics to the surrounding environment. Made for the desert, the F-150 Raptor strives to combine a passion for performance with an obsession with excellence.
To see these vehicles and many more, attend the DFW Auto Show which runs through Sunday, March 29, 2015 at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center (formerly the Dallas Convention Center). Additional 2016 models on display include the Toyota Tacoma (pictured at top); Acura ILX, MDX and RDX; Audi A6 and A7; Cadillac ATS V Coupe; Ford Explorer; Mazda CX5; and Nissan Black Edition GT-R. For show information and ticket details, visit DFW Auto Show.
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