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Must-See SUVs Of The 2016 Auto Show

The Chicago Auto Show, with 2.7 million square feet of space, is a time for consumers and enthusiasts to sit in, check out and (almost) kick the tires on virtually any car they can think of. The booming SUV segment has captured attention as buyers need more space and gas prices are plummeting. In 2015, 6,257,905 SUV/Crossover cars were sold in America alone, according to the Wall Street Journal. Auto manufacturers continue to pour millions of dollars into research and development to perfect their SUV lineup to keep their vehicles marketable. The Chicago Auto Show will undeniably be ground zero for hundreds of thousands of potential sport utility vehicles. Here is a list of a few that you should pay attention to.

2016 Toyota RAV4

The fuel-sipping 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine of the RAV4 boasts up to 31 MPG highway and 24 in the city. The RAV4 can get passengers from destination to destination with 176 horsepower. The SUV also comes available in an eco-friendly hybrid option, which employs the standard engine to work with two small electric motors. With the mated motors, the hybrid option generates 194 horsepower with an even more conservative 34/31 MPG rating. In addition, the interior is stunning, current and stylish. Dual-heated front seats, dual climate control, smart key system and Entune premium audio with integrated navigation round out the RAV4 as an affordable, but luxurious option, which is why it is one of the must-see SUVs in the Chicago Auto Show this year.

2016 Fiat 500x

The SUV version of the runt Fiat is bigger, beefier and a lot more masculine, while retaining the charm of the Fiat 500 series. Buyers can choose from a 1.4 liter and 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 160 and 180 horsepower, respectively. Topped with a 25/34 MPG rating, the 500x is extra big, but not extra thirsty. The available all-wheel drive system is paired with a dynamic stability control system. That means that drivers can use a knob on the center console to choose whether the control is set to maximize stability in snow, rain or speedy conditions. The Uconnect system gives the 500x a touch-screen infotainment system that can even feature the optional extra of Beats premium radio. All that technology available at a low price is one reason why the 500x is a must-see SUV at the Chicago Auto Show.

2016 Jeep Renegade

A new addition to the SUV lineup, the Renegade has only been at dealerships for about one year, but has already made a name for itself. Arguably one of the Fiat 500x's biggest competitors, the Renegade also offers a choice of 1.4 or 2.4-liter four-cylinder engines which produce 160 and 180 horsepower, respectively. With a similar 24/31 MPG rating, the thing that sets the Renegade apart from the rest of the pack is the price. Starting at a meager $17,995, the Renegade is the most inexpensive SUV option on the market. However, the low price doesn't mean low quality. Optional extras like four-wheel drive mean that the Renegade is trail-rated. If a bare bones model is in the cards, buyers will be happy to know that the Renegade comes standard with seven airbags, blind-spot monitoring and full-speed forward collision warning with active braking to keep occupants safe. The low price and high capability of the Renegade makes it an SUV that buyers shouldn't miss at the Chicago Auto Show.

2017 Jaguar F-Pace

This brand-new SUV is Jaguar's first take on a luxurious, yet quick SUV. Buyers can choose from an economical 2.0-liter four cylinder diesel engine up to a 3.0 liter V6, which produce 180 and 380 horsepower, respectively. Official MPG ratings of the F-Pace are not currently available; however, the diesel engine could boast up to 40 MPG. This is the vehicle's first visit to the Chicago Auto Show, and audiences will meet the vehicle with enthusiasm. Arguably the best looking SUV out there, the fluid styling and masculine body attract attention. With more cargo space than many similar luxury SUVs, the Jaguar can be tame on the road or wild for those who want it. The quick speed and attractive styling are two reasons why the Jaguar makes the list of sports utility vehicles at the show that should not be missed.

Robert Mathius is a Chicago suburb native who currently lives in Tinley Park. He has a passion for the automotive industry in addition to journalism and works to blend his two passions in his writing. Additional automotive reporting by Robert can be found on Examiner.com.

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