Best of 2009 Chicago Auto Show

General Motors used the Chicago Auto Show to introduce the world to its latest concept vehicle, the Corvette Stingray, which will be featured in the upcoming Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen movie on June 26th. According to GM, the vehicle is nothing more than a styling buck that was influenced by the original 1959 Stingray racer.

Director Michael Bay spotted this Chicago Auto Show concept while he was touring GM, looking for inspiration for the first Transformers movie. Don't expect this concept to spawn any sort of production vehicle, which, needless to say, is a shame.

Ford is working on rehabilitating the Taurus name with a significant redesign that debuted last month, but this Chicago Auto Show concept ups the ante. Using that sedan as its canvas, the new SHO may also restore respect to a name that has fallen too far. A 365-hp twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, all-wheel-drive and plenty of upgrades is a good place to start.

We got our first look at the 2010 Kia Forte at the Chicago Auto Show and we are pleased to say that it looks even better in person as it does in photos. The replacement for the Spectra will feature a 2.4L inline-4 with 173 horsepower and up to 25/34 mpg in SX trim, while the LX and EX offer a 2.0L inline-4 with 156 horsepower and 26/36 mpg. Pricing has yet to be announced.

Ford's commercial-focused boxy van goes on sale later this year, with a 2.0L four cylinder Duratec gas engine paired up with a four-speed automatic transmission. Ford has also confirmed that the Transit Connect will be the basis of its new electric van to be offered starting in 2010. Ford plans to release the Connect to dealers this summer with a starting price of $21,475. This was one of our favorite unveils at the Chicago Auto Show.

Acura fans have something to rejoice about as the Japanese automaker just released a new model here at the Chicago Auto Show. Before you get too excited, know that it's not rear-wheel-drive or powered by a V8 engine, but it's still a nice addition to the line-up. For the 2010 model year, the front-wheel-drive TSX sedan will be available with a 280-horsepower 3.5L V6 engine.