Top of the bill was...
Top of the bill was the XC90 V8, which was sporting striking yellow paint instead of its previous red finish. The V8 Power Utility Vehicle produces 650bhp from its 4.4-litre supercharged unit.
The maker is beating...
The maker is beating a path to the heart of the US car market with a raft of fresh metal at the expo - including a new model that"s coming to the UK in right-hand-drive form early next year.
Described as Jeep"s first "soft-roader", the Compass will be an entry-level SUV to rival the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. Sitting below the Cherokee in the range, it"s intended to appeal to younger buyers.
Fitted with a newly developed AWD system, the Compass focuses on refinement, performance and handling on the road, rather than mud-plugging. A differential lock features, giving a degree of rugged ability, but most cars will do their miles in town. Inside, there is space for five and a similar dash to Chrysler"s latest saloons. Prices remain secret, but the range could start from only ÷£15,000.
However, for many, the Jeep badge is synonymous with only one model: the Wrangler. Early next year, the legendary 4x4 will be reborn with revised underpinnings and a fresh look.
Engineers have made the Wrangler wider and longer, but crucially doubled the stiffness of the chassis. Under the bonnet, the existing 4.0-litre engine has been axed in favour of a 202bhp 3.8-litre V6, but the big news for UK buyers is that there will also be a diesel variant for the first time. On-road handling has been improved, while extra safety equipment including stability control and side airbags bring the Wrangler up to date.
And if off-roading isn"t for you, a new Dodge on the horizon could be up your street. The Caliber will be sold through Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge dealerships in the UK from July. Available with a choice of 1.8 and 2.0-litre petrol engines or a 2.0 diesel, the five-door will offer an alternative to Ford"s Focus while spearheading Dodge"s return to Britain.