The Eyes of the Automotive World

Despite the absence of Mercedes Benz and Volvo, two iconic and aspirational brands, the 2020 Toronto International Auto Show was a hit with me.  It's always a thrill to get up and close with the latest and shiniest new models and this year was just as exciting.  Here are some takeaways:

• Trucks and SUV's really do rule the roads.  Wow...nobody produces cars anymore.  Seriously!  Other than the Toyota Camry and some VW models, cars were not the stars of the show.
• Why do so many vehicles have an iPad stuck awkwardly on the dash.  Oops...my bad...that's the interactive display.  Can't the vehicle manufacturers figure out how to integrate these yet?
• Trucks are ridiculous for most people.  Unless you have a serious work need, a pickup truck with an exposed bed is just plain stupid.  Buy an SUV instead.

Some of the vehicles I loved:

• The VW Arteon.  Weird name, fabulous vehicle!  Thinly disguised Audi fastback at a fraction of the price.
• Subaru Impreza.  Sitting behind the wheel just felt right!
• Toyota Camry.  Nice vehicle.  Love the overall appearance.  Loose the two-tone paint job though.

The biggest surprise for me was Hyundai.  It was the busiest booth by a large margin on the Saturday morning we visited.  The bad old days are way behind them...most of the Hyundai cars and SUV's look fabulous!  And they are priced well!  I even, dare I admit it, lusted after a couple of models!  What...?  Has Hyundai become an aspirational brand?

One final observation:  I love the variety of the headlight designs.  Wild and crazy!

Until next time...