Consumer Reports' auto experts discuss the key news from the 2016 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. While the show lacked any superstar debuts, it did feature many redesigns of important models. Key among them was the new Chrysler Pacifica; after years of lagging behind competitors, the originator of the modern minivan tries to get back into the game. The Pacifica is also a big test for Fiat Chrysler to see if the company can deliver a solid clean-sheet redesign.
For years, the GMC Acadia was essentially a minivan on stilts, larger than midsized competitors. Its 2017 redesign shrinks the Acadia to match the rivals, while promising better fuel economy. Another right-sized SUV from General Motors is the Buick Envision, joining the hot compact luxury SUV segment. Since Buick is hugely popular in China, maybe it's no surprise that the Envision has been sold and built there for over a year.
Several luxury brands brought their new sedans to Detroit.
Get More on the 2016 Detroit Auto Show
• First Look: 2017 Audi A4
Hyundai introduced the first model of its new Genesis sub-brand, the G90. Rather conventional in design, the G90 has comprehensive advanced safety gear, including self-steering capability, as standard.
Another sedan that stresses safety is the Volvo S90, which has the same big touch screen, four-cylinder engines, and luxurious interior as the recently redesigned XC90 SUV.
Two German brands also launched new sedans, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and the Audi A4. Both are lighter and feature new technology; the E-Class looks like a bigger C-Class, while the A4 looks a lot like the last one.
And Lincoln finally gets a proper flagship with the new Continental, featuring imposing styling and lots of plush details.
Two sports coupes generated of attention on the show floor. The Lexus LC 500 is a rakish and low-slung sports coupe, with styling that stayed true to its original concept and a 10-speed automatic. While still a concept, the Buick Avista also stood out.
Check out all this and more in the latest episode of “Talking Cars with Consumer Reports.” And be sure to see our complete Detroit auto show coverage.
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