The 2014 Chicago Auto Show – Conquerors and Losers

Though the 2014 Chicago Auto Show did not feature many prestigious debuts, it did present a driver’s treat with some serious innovations. From the inspirational Kia models to the stylish Nissan spectacles, the show did turn out to be a major success. AutosReign expert editors have rated the major debuts at the show on the basis of their attraction and individual preferences.

KIA Nitro Concept – Winner

The new KIA Nitro concept was a real show-stopper. Its off-the-hook compact sporty design and make-over were eye-catching. The eccentric hinged doors, unique color scheme and sporty-looking wheels made it stand out of the crowd. Complementing the ideal design is the uplifted stance and boosted performance figures of 160hp produced out of a 4-cylinder turbo-charged engine. Kia Nitro is an evident winner and would definitely prove to be an epitome for the compact class of vehicles.

2015 Kia Soul EV – Winner

The electrified 2015 Kia Soul EV debuted with class, and will surely pose stiff competition to the electric-powered rivals like Nissan Leaf and Honda Fit EV. With this introduction, the company also made a debut in the electric-powered vehicles segment. Along with an optimum utility feature, comfortable interior seating and a remarkable figures of 0 to 60mph in 12 seconds, the model also encompasses an above average cargo storage capacity. Its interior remains spacious despite the EV system through a flat battery pack well engineered. Although Kia has not made any noticeable enhancements in the exterior except for the grille and color schemes, but this can very well be ignored keeping in view its super-utility and performance.

2015 Volvo S60 and V60 Polestar – Winner

Lightning fast sports sedans might not be as attractive for the American markets, but they are quite valuable in Europe. The two vehicles come with some serious performance and aerodynamic upgrades going from 0 to 60Mph in 4.7 seconds, well backed-up with an all-wheel drive and an inspiring 345horspower. With the S60 and V60 Polestar, Volvo has demonstrated an impressive contribution to the wagon segment.

2015 Subaru Legacy – Loser

Despite the fact that the 2015 Subaru Legacy provides a 36mpg highway fuel economy, it does not appear to be any different from its previous models, except for some modifications and changed color schemes. While many would go for buying it due to the economy figures, Subaru must also consider the fact that appearance does matter. The need for speed concept is important, but people today tend to go for style and class along with performance. The 2015 model might go well in its mid-sized family sedans, but not as good as it could have.

2015 Nissan Versa Note SR

Although the SR brought forward some impressive visual enhancements to the floor, but we did not find any performance upgrades whatsoever. It seems as if the company has launched an old car with a new face. A sporty visual enhancement should at least have some performance upgrades, if not many. The car was not appealing enough from the performance aspect, or to be more precise, its performance was not complementing the sporty looks at all.