Visitors to the auto show will get a good look at vehicles of the near future. Some 2014 models — so new they might not even be in production yet — will be on display.
The 2014 models that will be at the show include the Acura RLX, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Impala, Chevrolet Silverado K2, Fiat 500L, GMC Sierra, Jeep Compass, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Kia Forte, Kia Sorento, Subaru Forester and Toyota Tundra. These models will be available for sale later this year, although not all the automakers have announced for-sale dates.
By and large, the 2014 models will give consumers more of what they really like in a vehicle, including fuel efficiency, technology and safety features.
“One thing we’ve seen from subcompact buyers is that they want fresh vehicles, and that’s what we are delivering,” said Liz Elser, marketing manager for the Ford Fiesta.
The 2014 Fiesta exhibited at the auto show has been “refreshed” after the car’s introduction two-and-a-half years ago. The exterior has been updated to incorporate a chrome grille like the one found on Fiesta’s big brother, the Ford Fusion, and it also features a new sculpted hood.
But many consumers might be more excited about the changes under the hood and in the driver’s area . With the 2014 model, Ford is offering a new, 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine that is expected to get more than 40 miles per gallon, making it the most fuel-efficient nonhybrid subcompact on the road. There’s also a performance version of the car, the 1.6-liter Fiesta ST, that produces 197 horsepower.
Ford has added some bells and whistles to appeal to the young buyers Fiesta targets. For 2014, the subcompact offers the new MyFord Touch system, a touch-screen center for navigation and infotainment.
“Young people expect this technology,” Elser said. “It’s nice to have everything in one place. You push a button and get where you want to go. It’s seamless.”
The 2014 Fiesta also offers something for the parents of young drivers. Ford’s MyKey system allows parents to set limits on functions like speed and audio volume, giving parents peace of mind and young drivers a safer driving environment.
High-tech safety
The 2014 models on display at the auto show indicate that automakers are incorporating more leading-edge technology designed for safety . Many of the 2014s being previewed — including the Acura RLX, Subaru Forester, GMC Sierra, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Chevy Silverado — feature a windshield-mounted camera and onboard computer that alert drivers when they are straying from their lane or to warn of the possibility of a forward collision.
Adaptive cruise control, another technology based on cameras and computers, is being offered on more 2014 models as well. Adaptive cruise control allows drivers to use cruise control in low-speed traffic. The system maintains a set distance between the vehicle and the car in front of it, initiating braking if necessary.
Airbags are gaining new attention from automakers. Front-seat mounted side airbags are cropping up on many 2014 models, including the Jeep Compass, which also has standard side-curtain airbags. The 2014 Fiat 500L and Subaru Forester feature a knee airbag for the driver.
The first in-dash infotainment centers came out several years ago, and now some of them are getting updates in 2014 models. Jeep, for example, puts an 8.4-inch touch screen in the Grand Cherokee, incorporating climate control and infotainment features, plus voice commands and voice texting. GMC Sierra’s touch-screen center allows the driver to create 60 presets and offers Pandora radio. The new Silverado allows the driver to pair up to 10 different devices with the in-cab infotainment system.
Fuel efficiency continues to be a major factor for car shoppers, Elser noted. While the 2014 Fiesta is the winner of the mpg blue ribbon, consumers will find most of the 2014 models at the auto show feature refinements designed to get a little more mileage out of a tank of gas.
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