Concurrent to its introduction at the 1956 Chicago Auto Show, Corporate styling director Virgil M. Exner declared his alluring Bronze Metallic Plainsman wagon concept as reflecting the “colorful and casual way of life that typifies the nation’s westward movement, and …a bold expression of the suburban trend in American living.” Accordingly, the Plainsman was given a well-appointed Chestnut and White calf hide leather interior, with climate control, power windows, a fully automated tailgate and such innovations as the rear facing “observation car” third seat.