The 2019 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) wrapped up on Jan. 27 after two weeks of exciting vehicle showcases and reveals. Among the big news to come out of this year’s edition of the event was Toyota’s announcement that it’s re-releasing a beloved model. Read on to learn about it and more from the Detroit Auto Show.
Manufacturers Are Reviving Discontinued Models
Was your favorite car discontinued years or even decades ago? Don’t wax nostalgic; several manufacturers revealed they’re resurrecting bygone models in the coming year. Headlining this announcement is the sporty 2020 Toyota Supra, which stopped being sold in the United States in 1998. Other models making comebacks include the Ford Ranger and Ford Bronco SUV, the Jeep Gladiator pickup, the Honda Passport SUV, and the Chevy Blazer.
These recognizable names create buzz among potential buyers that fondly recall them from previous generations. Car companies don’t have to market them as aggressively because they’re still top of mind.
The Return of the Toyota Supra
Toyota officially announced the highly anticipated launch of the 2020 Supra for the summer of 2019. This limited-production, two-seater packs a powerful punch with its 3.0-liter, turbocharged, inline-six engine à la BMW. It produces 335 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque and features an eight-speed automatic transmission with available paddle shifters. Rumor has it that this edition of the Supra can go from zero to 60 in just 4.1 seconds, capping out at 155 mph. With its relaunch, Toyota is targeting the Generation X market that fell in love with the Supra in the 1980s and ’90s.
Toyota will release three Supra trims in eight color options at a starting price of around $50,000. It will release 1,500 units of the highest trim, the Launch Edition, first, which retails at $56,180. Notable features include an eye-catching LED headlight configuration, a “double bubble” roof to make it aerodynamic without sacrificing interior space, and your choice of racing-inspired, body-hugging sport seats or luxurious premium leather.
The Auto Show Moves to June in 2020
One of the biggest announcements at the Auto Show was from the NAIAS itself. In 2020, the show is moving its traditional January dates to the summer, starting the week of June 8. The reasoning behind this switch? It will allow the show and the car manufacturers exhibiting there to offer more opportunities for companies and attendees alike.
Rather than being confined within the Cobo Center’s walls, the show can take advantage of seasonal weather to expand outside as well as to other venues throughout the city. New outdoor activities might include test rides and drives, off-road challenges, automated driving demonstrations, and vehicle debuts.
The auto show will also come on the heels of the Detroit Grand Prix, with the potential to create a nearly month-long, festival-like event for car enthusiasts.
From reinvented vehicles of generations past to new auto show dates, the 2019 Detroit Auto Show generated plenty of buzz. These are just a few of the highlights from this year’s edition of the event.
Image via GabboT | Licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
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