The auto manufacturers are all introducing a crossover vehicle of some sort. These vehicles are a cross between a station wagon and an SUV. These designs seem to be combining some functionality and I think trends appearing in these vehicles.

Midsize ñ Theyíre taller than a car, smaller than an SUV. Looking to enhance car like handling while reducing rollover risk.

Three Rows of Seats ñ Seating capacities of 6 to 7 passengers mirror SUVs and minivan capacities. While the third row seats are almost always unusable by adults they will accommodate kids and teens. I think the capacity is designed to appeal to boomers and their teenagers and/or grandchildren.

Feature Rich ñ These platforms are feature rich with navigation systems, premium audio and video systems. Can rear seat computers and Internet access be far away? All features that are on-roading necessities these days.

Chair Height Seating ñ These vehicles, being higher than cars and lower than SUVs, are easier to enter and exit for our aging drivers 40+. Some might say itís a part of the retro trend recalling a time when cars were taller. I think itís a purely functional response.

Illusionary Fuel Economy ñ Some might say that these vehicles being smaller and perhaps lighter will have greater fuel economy. Iíll believe it when I see it. I think people might save on sheet metal and opt for more power(V6 or V8) or all wheel drive which will negate any perceived economies over full size SUVs.

That being said the results are an array of vehicles that look very similar. Design innovation is being left to high-end import brands. Like anything else there will be market tests to see what consumers like and donít like in these vehicles. The bottom line is that millions of mini-vans have been sold to parents of young children. As those children grow the parents are looking for a different kind of vehicle.

Another vehicle type that seems to be gaining in the market is the roadster/coupe. These cars built on the success foundation of the Mazda Miata and the BMW Z series, are clearly targeted at successful mid-life males who are looking for a sporty alternative to those years spent driving a mini-van. The marketing genius of the show was displaying these cars with a se of golf clubs in the small rear cargo area. Infinitiís version even comes with a diagram showing how to load your clubs.

And now for my surprise pick of the show. Those who have met me know that I am not a small man. I am over 6' tall and well into three digits on the scale. I wouldn't have even tried to fit in this car had one of our group not tried it and encouraged me to try it. I was amazed by the amount of space in the Mini Cooper. While I have not test driven the car, I am confident that I would enjoy it. This car has everything going for it. Design, nostalgia, anti SUV sentiment and changing consumer demographics all add up to huge popularity and sales if BMW can keep them in stock. The only hesitation might be concern over safety as Mini drivers share the road with trucks and SUVs. I havenít seen nearly as any Minis on the road in the winter months. Perhaps traction and ground clearance are issues as well.

I enjoyed the 2003 Chicago Auto Show. Is it the most important thing going on these days? No, but innovation and design are two of the most important stepping stones in the path of economic growth for this country so anything that highlights good design and product innovation is of great value these days.