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Best Exhibits From The 2016 Chicago Auto Show

The 2016 Chicago Auto Show wrapped up on Feb. 21. Closing crews disassembled some of the best automotive exhibits that attendees got the see and, best of all, participate in. 


Photo by Robert Mathius

Chevrolet Exhibit

The Chevrolet exhibit deserves the first place on our list, winning the title of best exhibit at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show as voted upon by attendees of the show. The Chevrolet exhibit featured the much anticipated Chevrolet Colorado, the brand's new smaller pickup truck. The truck is the alternative for buyers who want the availability for off-road and towing capability, but may not always need it. Chevrolet's space encompassed over 70,000 square feet according to Mark Bilek, director of communications and technology for the show. In this large space was the tiny Chevrolet Cruze hatchback. The super-popular Cruze is now available in a hatchback format for more utility. It was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show in January. If none of those peaked anyone's interest, the 2016 Chevrolet Camaro did. The muscle-esque sports coupe was even among the top five most "Googled" cars of 2015 and gained attention for Chevrolet at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show.


Jeep's indoor track (Photo by Robert Mathius)

Jeep's Wild Rides

Jeep also deserves its spot on our list with their interactive display. Jeep took audiences on a wild ride, just like every year, with the expansive Jeep indoor track. The indoor track is an exciting feature for the Chicago Auto Show that always brings a crowd. Audiences every year can co-pilot Jeeps from the entire lineup as Jeep representatives drive them around an indoor obstacle track. The interactive aspect of the Jeep display makes it a destination during every Chicago Auto Show. This year was no different as Grand Cherokees and Wranglers traversed a steep grade up, down and over logs, water and mud. Jeep continued its progressive look on the brand with the display that showed off automotive prowess. Jeep vehicles accounted for at least 700,000 automotive sales last year which is another reason why fans were attracted to their display. 

Lincoln Makes A Comeback

Lincoln made a comeback this year with the continued offerings like Navigator and MKC. Refreshed a little for this year, the older nameplates offer poise, luxury and ooze trend. However, the new 2017 Lincoln Continental made its first debut at the Chicago Auto Show. Enthusiasts and potential buyers were blown away with the 20 speaker revel sound system, luxurious interior appointments and vast array of extras. The Continental is also passenger-centric, focusing largely on rear passenger comfort and space. Further, the new Lincoln will get owners to where they need to be quickly. The 400 horsepower V6 is well appointed to move the large sedan.

These three exhibits were amongst the most popular at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show. However, there are many others that are noteworthy. The Chicago Auto Show will be back at McCormick Place for 2017.

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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