Best of the 2012 Chicago Auto Show

Slightly less compact (and noticeably less fun through the curves) on our list of favorites was the Nissan NV200, which earned our kudos despite the intentionally bland design language. Large-capacity hybrid transport options have been all but nonexistent in years past, but the NV200 promises to change that (or least lead the way). It was recently voted NYC’s Taxi of Tomorrow, which isn’t exactly as exciting as a sub 9-second ‘Ring time, but we’re nevertheless intrigued to see where the hybrid/electric craze takes us. Even if it is just through Midtown during rush hour.

As much as we love the demure fuel-sippers, though, the ‘utes that really won our hearts are less concerned with miles to the gallon and more horses to the ground. In celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the Ford Special Vehicle Team, Ford trotted out the first 1993 SVT Cobra R to ever roll off the assembly line. Still pushing 235-hp to the pavement, the raucous ’93 Cobra nevertheless seemed quietly worldly and austere parked next to its newest kin, the 650-hp SVT-tuned 2013 Shelby GT 500 Convertible. Like father like son, indeed.

Also celebrating a milestone was fellow Detroit performance arm, Mopar, which turns 75 this year. To flex their septuagenarian muscle, they brought along several Mopar-tuned Chrysler models, including the 2012 FIAT 500 Stinger, 2013 Dodge Dart GTS 210 Tribute, Mopar ’12 Charger, and the 2012 Mopar Jeep Compass True North. Perhaps the most visually striking of the group, the Mopar ’12 Charger was immediately recognizable thanks to unique black-and-blue paint scheme and will eventually hit the roads 500 strong this summer.

Check out our full coverage of the 2012 Chicago Auto Show here, as well as updates from our official Autobytel award winners.

Photos courtesy of Jeffrey N. Ross