3 interesting Detroit Auto Show Debuts Today


First on the list is the all-new seventh generation Chevrolet Corvette Stingray for 2014, followed by the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Mercedes CLA Saloon.
2014 Chevrolet Corvette StingrayPowered by a new 444bhp 6.2-litre LT1 V8 engine with direct injection, continuously variable valve timing and an 11.5:1 compression ratio and accelerates from 0-60 mph in less than four seconds. These figures make it the most powerful standard Corvette ever. Of course more powerful versions will follow soon.Both a seven-speed manual and a six-speed automatic are available.

“Like the ’63 Sting Ray, the best Corvettes embodied performance leadership, delivering cutting-edge technologies, breathtaking design and awe-inspiring driving experiences,” said General Motors North America President Mark Reuss. “The all-new Corvette goes farther than ever, thanks to today’s advancements in design, technology and engineering.”

The all-new Corvette Stingray features a long carbon fibre bonnet, front fender vents, a removable ‘double bubble’ roof, HID headlights with integrated LEDs, a rear spoiler, a four-tailpipe exhaust system and Camaro-inspired taillights.

The interior has been improved drastically over the sixth-generation model, with higher quality materials, dual eight-inch displays and new new seats with lightweight magnesium frame for exceptional comfort and support.

All-new aluminum frame is 57 per cent stiffer and 45kg lighter, delivering an optimal 50/50 weight balance for unparalleled handling. Other highlights include carbon-nano composite underbody panels, plus composite fenders, doors and rear quarter panels.

There is also a track-capable Z51 Performance Package available including: an electronic limited-slip differential, dry-sump oiling system, integral brake, differential, transmission cooling, and a unique aero package.

Just as the previous model, the new Corvette Stingray will be built at GM’s Bowling Green, Kentucky assembly plant with sales starting in the third quarter of 2013. Unfortunately only in left-hand drive.

2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Jeep has unveiled a facelifted Grand Cherokee at the Detroit Motor Show, showing a bolder styling, updated interior, new 8-speed automatic gearbox and a new 3.0-litre V6 diesel, which is expected to deliver 36mpg on the highway.

The front reveals new 300C inspired headlights and a revised seven-slot grille and an updated bumper. At the rear are new LED taillights and updated tail gate and bumper.

Cockpit reveals a new centre console along with a 5 or 8.4-inch touchscreen, new steering wheel, transmission lever and new digital instrument cluster, replacing analogue dials.

There is also a Forward Collision Alert system that warns the driver if they’re approaching the car in front too quickly.

The updated Grand Cherokee is expected to arrive in UK later this year with a slight increase in price over the outgoing model, that starts at £37,995.

Mercedes CLA Saloon

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the all-new CLA saloon at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Based on the same MFA platform as the new A-Class it has also the same width and height, but is 338mm longer.

Also known as the baby CLS, the CLA has the lowest drag of any production car on sale – an impressive drag coefficient of 0.23.

The interior is influenced by the A-Class, though you can also see SLS AMG inspired vents. All trim surfaces are covered in galvanised metal.

Two suspension set-ups will be offered: comfort or sports. The sports setting lowers the body by 20mm at the front and 15mm at the rear.

There is also a new radar-based autobrake as standard and an iPhone integration as part of the infotainment system, which now includes Siri voice control.

From launch two petrol engines and one diesel will be offered, all with stop-start. The range starts with 120bhp CLA 180, in the middle sits a 168bhp CLA 220 CDI, which delivers an impressive 62.8mpg, while the CLA 250 comes with 208bhp.

A 134bhp CLA 200 CDI will also join the range later, while the top of the range CLA 45 AMG with up to 350bhp is also planned.

Order books will open in March with UK pricing is expected to start from around £20k.