North American International Auto Show 2018: European OEMs

Variety of models underline Mercedes, BMW and Volkswagen strategies in U.S.

2018/02/15

Summary
Daimler unveils new G-Class, shows new powertrain with AMG 53-series
BMW continues SUV offensive with X2, highlights electrification in refreshed i8
Volkswagen builds on previous popularity with Jetta and Audi A7

Summary

Visitors around the Mercedes-Benz G-Class

　The 2018 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) was held from January 14 through January 28, 2018, with the public show opening on January 20. A total of 809,161 attendees visited the North American International Auto Show in 2018, marking it as the fifth consecutive year in which it recorded over 800,000 visitors.

　At the 2018 North American International Auto Show, European OEMs showcased models targeting a wide range of audiences and applications. Capitalizing on growing SUV demand, the new Mercedes-Benz G-Class mid-size luxury SUV highlighted its off-road capability, while the BMW X2 compact luxury SUV focused on driving experience. BMW revealed its refreshed i8 Coupe, reaffirming its electrification efforts. Mercedes-AMG unveiled a number of hybrid performance models with the new 53-series. The debut of the Volkswagen Jetta compact sedan emphasized affordable appeal, while the Audi A7 showcased comfort and technology.

　This report is the second of three reports which focuses on the vehicles displayed at the 2018 North American International Auto Show. This report will highlight notable models shown by European OEMs, specifically Daimler, BMW, and Volkswagen. A report focusing on key models from U.S. automakers at the show was previously released. The third report will detail vehicle models showcased by Asian automakers.