Stepping into the Denver Convention Center for the 2015 Denver Auto Show, my focus wasn’t on any specific model, despite the impressive array of vehicles on display. Iconic machines like a white Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 prototype, a roaring Dodge Challenger Hellcat, and even a classic Ferrari F40 barely caught my eye. My mission was different: to find Denver Broncos’ Pro Bowl safety, TJ Ward, before he explored the show.
After a brief 15-minute search, I spotted him. His bright orange shirt was a giveaway, but the small crowd queuing for his autograph confirmed it. After a quick handshake and autograph, I seized the opportunity to ask him about his favorite car at the show. Without hesitation, he pointed me towards the Bentleys, declaring, “The BMW i8. You should check it out.” Advice taken.
The BMW i8, alongside TJ Ward, was undoubtedly a star attraction. Just a short distance away, the vibrant red Alfa Romeo 4C also commanded attention, reminiscent of a Lotus Elise but with unmistakable Italian flair. This was a welcome surprise, especially considering Alfa Romeo’s limited dealership presence in the U.S. since the mid-90s.
The 2015 Denver Auto Show was shaping up to be exceptional. Notable mentions included the quirky Nissan Juke, the bold Nissan Murano, the powerful Dodge Charger Hellcat, and the updated Honda Fit. I also appreciated the stylish Kia Soul, Hyundai Veloster, Mazda 3 and 6, Fiat 500 and 500X, Subaru BR-Z, and Volkswagen Beetle. The electric vehicle section featured the BMW i8, BMW i3, Nissan Leaf, Cadillac ELR, and the then-new 2016 Chevrolet Volt.
Jeep’s interactive obstacle course was, as always, a hit. The Jeep Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, Cherokee, and the new Renegade navigated the challenging terrain. A short wait later, we joined a ride in the back of a Wrangler, experiencing the course firsthand.
The sports car lineup was equally impressive, showcasing Porsches, Maseratis, Lamborghinis, Aston Martins, and Ferraris, alongside American muscle like the Chevrolet Corvette, the sleek Jaguar F-Type, and the ever-popular Nissan GT-R.
Essentially, the show featured almost all of my current favorite production cars. However, a few notable absentees were the 2016 Mazda Miata, 2016 Audi TT, and the BMW Z4. The absence of the first two was particularly disappointing as I was eager to see them in person.
My companion, Maureen, echoed TJ Ward’s sentiment, naming the BMW i8 as her favorite. While I leaned towards the Alfa Romeo 4C for its soul-stirring design, the BMW i8’s engineering prowess was undeniable.
The Matte Finish Debate
One trend that thankfully hadn’t gained traction was matte car finishes. Among the glossy displays, a Hyundai Veloster and a Lexus sported this non-reflective paint, which, to my eye, still resembled primer. The impracticality of requiring hand-washing for these finishes seemed like an expensive way to detract from a luxury vehicle.
“I like cars shiny,” a fellow attendee remarked, passing the matte Veloster, confirming I wasn’t alone in my preference.
The 2015 Denver Auto Show was a resounding success, highlighting a diverse range of vehicles from rugged Jeeps to exotic sports cars. Yet, it was the unexpected endorsement from TJ Ward and the futuristic appeal of the BMW i8 that truly made it a standout, proving that sometimes, the most memorable cars are the ones you discover by chance. The BMW i8 not only captured the attention of a Pro Bowl athlete but also left a lasting impression on everyone who witnessed its blend of innovation and style at the show.
