Top 5 Cars We Want To Test Drive At The 2016 Chicago Auto Show
The largest American auto show by footprint size, the 2016 Chicago Auto Show has almost any car that anyone could want to test drive. Some Subaru, Kia and Mazda models can actually be driven by showgoers downstairs. But some really stand out among the crowd. This is our list of the five cars at the show that we want to test drive.
Acura NSX
Photo by Robert Mathius
Returning in 2017, this famous nameplate is known for being quick, nostalgic and well-styled. With athletic styling and fluid lines, the new NSX is eye candy. It is delicious to look at, and we bet it is even better to drive. The NSX has an estimated 560 horsepower coming from a 3.5 liter V6 hybrid engine. The vehicle is a metallic sculpture and is designed around driving pleasure. Although the price of the NSX upon its release is expected to be well over $100,000, we hope that someone will let us experience the thrill that only the NSX can provide.
Subaru Impreza
Photo by Robert Mathius
At the show, we actually had the opportunity to test drive the Subaru Impreza. We want to do it again. Although not as speedy as the Acura, the Subaru Impreza is quick in its own respect. What makes the Impreza a thrill to drive is the standard continuously variable transmission. For those who speak English rather than car jargon, this means that the car has an infinite number of gear ratios to choose from. Even simpler, you will never feel the jerk of the transmission shifting gears. Even better, this means that all the power from the 2.0-liter inline four engine is on tap whenever you need it.
Mazda CX3
Photo by Robert Mathius
Another vehicle that we were able to test drive at the 2016 Chicago Auto show was the Mazda CX3, the baby crossover from the Mazda lineup. Yet again, we want to give it another go because of the comfort and ease that it offers the driver. The Mazda features a "heads up" display. By projecting your speed onto the windshield via a small projector in the dashboard, the driver's eyes can remain facing forward rather than looking down to check speed. Also on the Mazda is forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control. Although we didn't try it at the show, we'd like another opportunity to aim the Mazda at a wall and feel it apply the brakes for us. Daredevils should stay away from the temptation of the safety features from the Mazda CX3.
Lincoln Continental
Photo by Robert Mathius
The new 2017 Lincoln Continental comes standard with 400 horsepower propelling the luxury torpedo. A quick sedan with luxuries to spare, the Lincoln is the poster child for user-centrism. Everything in the vehicle is sculpted for passenger comfort, down to the Revel Audio System. While driving with speed, we'd like to experience the option of this system, which has several settings like the ability to hear music as if you are actually on stage with the band.
Fiat 124 Spider
Photo by Robert Mathius
The Fiat 124 Spider is the Italian brand's attempt to bring another nameplate to America. The maker of the 500 is anxious to bring the fun and sporty convertible roadster to American roadways. We're anxious to drive it. Small and agile, the 124 Spider looks fun to drive, especially with the wind in your hair. The 124 Spider is small enough to whip around corners at speed and still stay in control with a host of safety features to keep the car on the road.
There are many more cars at the Chicago Auto Show that didn't made our list. These and many other vehicles that you want to drive are available to test drive downstairs. Make sure to check out your favorite cars and see if they are on the lower level so you can get behind the wheel.
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.
