New car shows have been challenged in recent years.  Shrinking from their awe inspiring marvelousness they once were.  Year after year, introducing the most whizbang rides on the road.  And those on their way off the assembly lines.  Gorgeous automotive models presented by often equally gorgeous human models.

But could the awesomeness of past new car shows return?  It seems if there ever was a chance.  Under President Trump’s new plan with tariffs, now would be the time.

In hopes of new car shows returning to their past glory.  Here’s a look at the biggest across the USA and North America.  Including their history, what you can expect, and how to make the most of your visit.

Whether you’re attending in person or keeping up with the latest reveals, these major auto shows offer a glimpse into the future of the automotive world.

New Car Shows In The Automotive World

Car shows focusing on the latest wheels rolling off manufacturers assembly lines have long been an important part of the automotive industry.  Giving manufacturers a platform to showcase new models, technologies, and designs.  Then for automotive enthusiasts, and shoppers alike.  New car shows are the perfect opportunity to see the latest vehicles, future concepts, and learn experience the industry’s evolution.

Here’s a look at the biggest automotive events, focusing on new car shows, throughout the USA.  With a couple additions to the list, just to top off the tank.

New York International Auto Show – New York, NY

• Dates & Venue: Held in spring at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center​
• Estimated Attendance: Historically one of the nation’s largest auto shows, typically drawing over one million visitors

Overview: Marking its 125th edition, the 2025 NY Auto Show featured dozens of world and North American debuts from major automakers like Kia, Chevrolet, Ford, Nissan, Subaru, Honda, and more​. Electric vehicles were a focal point – 28 manufacturers showcased new models with an emphasis on EVs, and four indoor EV test tracks allowed attendees to experience technologies like Ford’s Mustang Mach-E acceleration run.

Los Angeles Auto Show – Los Angeles, CA

• Dates & Venue: Taking place in fall and usually through the Thanksgiving holiday, at the Los Angeles Convention Center​
• Estimated Attendance: The LA Auto Show is among the world’s best-attended auto shows, spanning over one million square feet of exhibits. “Hundreds of thousands” of car shoppers and enthusiasts typically attend the 10-day event in Los Angeles.

Overview: The 2025 LA Auto Show offered extensive interactive experiences, including free test drives and ride-alongs in new vehicles. Both indoor and outdoor test drive courses are provided for attendees to safely try out the latest models​. The show highlights emerging vehicle technology and a strong lineup of electric vehicles. At the 2024 show, visitors explored the newest gas, hybrid, and EV models from dozens of brands and saw special exhibits of custom cars and cutting-edge automotive tech. Similar showcases of EVs and automotive technology are expected in 2025.

Chicago Auto Show – Chicago, IL

• Dates & Venue: Taking place in spring at McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago
• Estimated Attendance: The 2025 Chicago Auto Show welcomed nearly 217,000 attendees

Overview: Electric vehicles and hands-on experiences were a major focus. Four indoor test tracks were set up, giving the public ample opportunity to ride in new models. This included the fan-favorite Camp Jeep off-road course (celebrating its 20th year at the Chicago show) and an expanded EV test track (Chicago Drives Electric) that doubled in size to accommodate ride-alongs from a dozen brands in about 25 different EV models. The show’s family-friendly appeal was also enhanced in 2025 by the introduction of a Family Zone – a dedicated area with fun, safe activities for kids, which proved popular and drew high foot traffic. Combined with themed days (like a charity preview and even an indoor 5K “Miles Per Hour” run), these features underscored the Chicago Auto Show’s all-ages, experiential approach.

Detroit Auto Show (NAIAS) – Detroit, MI

• Dates & Venue: Returned to its traditional winter slot, running 2025, at Detroit’s Huntington Place
• Estimated Attendance: The 11-day 2025 Detroit Auto Show drew 275,000 attendees

Overview: The January 2025 show featured 34 brands and a host of new attractions. Notably, it included four immersive indoor test tracks where visitors took over 100,000 rides in various new vehicles. Automakers like Ford used the venue for major reveals – for example, Ford kicked off the show with the debut of two special-edition Mustangs. A beloved luxury showcase called “The Gallery” also returned for the first time in seven years, exhibiting over 50 ultra-premium cars and drawing long lines of enthusiasts. These interactive tracks and special events added excitement to the 2025 NAIAS beyond the static displays.

Canadian International Auto Show – Toronto, Canada

• One of the aforementioned outlier events.  Because it’s in Canada.
• Dates & Venue: Happening in springtime at Toronto’s Metro Toronto Convention Centre
• Estimated Attendance: The 2025 Toronto show welcomed 323,521 attendees in total.

Overview: 43 automotive brands and 100+ exhibitors participated in the show, including the return of luxury marques like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi after a brief absence. A major draw was Canada’s largest indoor EV test track, which hosted 22 electric vehicles from 15 brands for attendees to ride in. In addition, outdoor test drive programs were offered by brands such as BMW, Jeep, Kia, Lucid, Tesla, and more. This emphasis on electric vehicle experiences and broad manufacturer participation underscored the show’s focus on the future of mobility.

SEMA Show – Las Vegas, NV

• Another of the aforementioned outlier events.  Because this is specific to the auto industry.
• Dates & Venue: Running in the fall, at the Las Vegas Convention Center
• Estimated Attendance: SEMA is one of the world’s largest automotive trade shows. The recent 2024 show brought in over 160,000 attendees (trade-only), and similar numbers are anticipated in 2025.

Overview: As an aftermarket automotive show, SEMA is famed for debuting cutting-edge products and custom vehicles rather than factory production car launches. The show is a hotbed of innovation in car parts, accessories, and modification technology. At SEMA 2024, for example, companies unveiled next-gen aftermarket innovations – from advanced ADAS systems to performance parts – reinforcing the show’s role in “showcasing groundbreaking products, cutting-edge technologies, and forward-thinking custom builds.”​. The 2025 SEMA Show is expected to continue this trend, offering industry attendees a first look at the latest automotive aftermarket tech and trends.

“Trade-only” means that the event is restricted to industry professionals such as manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and retailers, and is not accessible to general consumers or car enthusiasts who are not part of the automotive industry. This exclusivity ensures that business connections, industry trends, and product showcases are focused on professionals within the sector.

What Makes SEMA Unique?

SEMA stands out as the ultimate gathering for the automotive aftermarket industry. It offers unmatched opportunities for networking, discovering new products, and gaining insights into industry trends. Attendees can explore the latest in vehicle customization, performance tuning, and accessories, making it an essential event for professionals seeking to stay at the forefront of the automotive aftermarket sector.

What’s in the future for new car shows?

Exactly what the future holds for new car shows is unclear.  But something somewhat miraculous happened at last year’s LA Auto Show.  In the midst of many carmakers bowing out.  BMW, Benz and many others weren’t there.  But that’s been a trend basically since the Obama Administration.  And arguably in association with the CAFE Standards it imposed.

However, the carmaker never before seen at a new car show was Tesla!  America’s first successful new car company to come along in 100 years was on display.  And that was impressive.

So, could the Trump Admin’s tariff plan spark a resurgence in new car shows?  We hope so!  Because future generations deserve to be excited about individuality.  Driving.  Freedom.  The open road.  Opportunity.  And yes, going to new car shows!