I was invited by the Chicago Auto Show and Nissan USA to attend the show, but as usual, all opinions are my own.
Chicago Auto Show Highlights
You know how much I love the Chicago Auto Show! It has been a highlight of my auto coverage and coming attraction for the new vehicles I will be driving.
Exciting New Rides At The Chicago Auto Show
This year, the Chicago Auto Show was bigger than last year and offered the attendees some exciting rides:
Camp Jeep – In 2023, Camp Jeep offers a 28-foot “Mountain,” ground clearance stair climber, maneuverability moguls, extreme break-over, tunnel passthrough, hill ascent/descent, off-camber and 30-degree banked wedge. Each Camp Jeep participant will also receive a complimentary Jeep tote bag, while supplies last.
Ford Built Wild – ‘BUILT WILD’ showcases the capability of Ford’s Bronco family of vehicles. The highlight is a Bronco off-road course, where visitors will tackle a 38-degree Bronco Mountain. You’ll feel the thrill of the climb while learning more about impressive Bronco tech – like G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) Mode capabilities and technology that make off-roading even more exciting and intelligent.
Ford Built to Electrify – Be one of the first to experience Ford’s all-electric Mustang Mach-E GT and F-150 Lightning. This indoor display will thrill passengers as they make the loop with professional drivers.
Hyundai Track – Auto show attendees can experience the IONIQ 5 first-hand while visiting the Hyundai booth (must be 18 years or older to participate). After registering for the drive, participants will be driven by a professional driver around the course highlighting the vehicle’s awarding winning features.
Ram Truck Territory – Ram Truck Territory is a 28,000-sq.-ft. adventure designed to demonstrate the capabilities of the Ram Truck. Obstacles include steel culverts and a high banked wedge. Riders will also experience hill descent technology on the iconic “Ram Mountain,” a 13-ft. high, 30-ft. long course element with 30-degree approach and departure angles.
Toyota Test Track – Toyota presents “An Electrified Drive For All Seasons” ride and drive course at the 2023 Chicago Auto Show. This four-seasons-themed demonstration area will provide passenger-only access to Toyota’s hybridized vehicles, including Prius, RAV4, Sienna, Sequoia and Tundra.
Electric Vehicle Track – Thanks to a partnership with ComEd, the 2023 Chicago Auto Show features a battery-powered electric vehicle test track that will allow attendees to go for a ride in some of the latest battery-powered electric vehicles. Participating manufacturers include: BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Nissan and Volkswagen.
OUTDOOR TEST DRIVES
(Sign up in manufacturer booth. Requirements for participation vary with each manufacturer), All require a valid driver’s license and breathalyzer to drive.)
The 2023 Chicago Auto Show will offer attendees the opportunity to get behind the wheel for a test drive. Test drives operate every day. You can sign up for the test drives on the show floor.
The rides give the consumer the thrill of seeing what the vehicles can do!
Outdoor Enthusiasts’ Favorites
You know we hike weekly and as such, we often see ourselves wishing we had a true off-road capable vehicle to take us that extra mile to discover new trails.
Bronco
The Ford Bronco is one of my favorite off-road vehicles which offers a rugged drive but also gives you a comfortable ride and a beautiful interior.
I think the Bronco and I will be heading off-road in 2023, what do you think?
2023 Ford Bronco: The Ford Bronco adds a new Heritage Edition and Heritage Limited models for 2023, but otherwise remains unchanged.
The Heritage Edition adds throwback paint colors and color combinations, as well as vintage-looking wheels and grilles. Heritage Limited also adds metal bumpers, badging, and throw-back interior styling as well.
The Bronco seats 5 passengers and is offered as a 2- and 4-door SUV.
Jeep
Love the 2023 Wrangler Rubicon with 20th Anniversary and Freedom packages.
Rubicon 20th Anniversary features a new grille, beadlock-capable wheels, 83-piece tool kit, grille guard, steel bumpers, and an optional AEV kit that features 37-inch all-terrain tires. Freedom package includes a military-themed exterior, a winch-capable steel bumper, and rock rails. Wrangler is a compact SUV that’s offered in 2- or 4-door body styles. A plug-in hybrid 4xe model is also offered.
Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner sees the addition of a new 40th Anniversary Edition for 2023, which adds trim-specific bronze wheels, graphics, and body moldings. The cabin also gets new touches to commemorate the occasion, such as embroidered floor mats, headrests, and badges. The 4Runner is a midsize SUV that seats 5 passengers. Competitors include the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Honda Passport, and Ford Edge. An off-road trim is available.
Subaru Crosstrek
Trucks At The Chicago Auto Show
Too many great pickup vehicles to name, but the electric options definitely caught my attention!
I’m going to confess, I’m still on the fence when it comes to electric vehicles and the infra-structure to support them, but I’m excited we’re moving towards that future.
The RAM 1500 REVOLUTION was a show stopper! Check out the Grand Saloon Doors,! Range and pricing for the production version isn’t known yet, but Ram claims it will lead the industry in those regards. A production model is expected to debut in 2024.
Also loved the Ford F-150 Lightning
Electric/Hybrid Vehicles Highlight
After all, the future is electric, right?
Corvette E-Ray
Since we’re talking about electric vehicles, check out the most talked about Corvette E-Ray:
The Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray is an all-new model launching in 2024.
Corvette E-Ray is the first-ever ‘Vette to utilize a hybrid engine, as well as all-wheel-drive drivetrain. It can travel on battery power alone at speeds up to 45 mph, and launch from 0-60 mph in just 2.5 seconds. Corvette E-Ray seats 2 and is available as a 2-door coupe and 2-door convertible.
Nissan Ariya
Hyundai Ioniq 6
Loved hearing about Hyundai’s Evolve+ program to give consumers the option to reserve the vehicle short term without a loan, among other benefits.
BMW iX
Luxury Favorites At The Chicago Auto Show
Lexus LC 500 Convertible
2023 Lexus LC 500: The Lexus LC remains unchanged for 2023. The LC is a luxury sports car that is offered as a two-door coupe or 2-door convertible.
Two trims are offered: LC500 and Bespoke. Two engines are available: A 5.0-liter V8 that produces 471 horsepower and pairs to a 10-speed automatic transmission, and a 3.5-liter V6 that mates with two electric motors for a total system output of 354 horsepower that pairs to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
You know I love luxury vehicles right?
Lexus is one of my absolute favorite Luxury brands! You can check my latest Lexus review HERE.
BMW
2023 BMW 8 Series: The BMW 8 Series sees a refreshed front end for 2023, featuring a new illuminated grille. The Grand Coupe variant also gets a new front bumper, but otherwise all models remain unchanged. A new $350,000 Jeff Koons Edition is also new for 2023, but in very limited numbers. The 8 Series is a 4- or 5-seat luxury German car that is offered as a 2-door coupe, 2-door convertible, and 4-door sedan.
Five trims are available: 840i, M850i, M8, Alpina B8, and 8 X Jeff Koons. Three engines are offered: a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six that produces 335 horsepower, a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 that produces 523 horsepower, and a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 that produces 617 horsepower in the M8 (612 in the Alpina B8). All use an eight-speed automatic transmission. Rear- and all-wheel drive is available. Pricing ranges from $85,000 to $150,000.
Jeep Grand Wagoneer
Used to be another off road family vehicle, recently reinvented and brought to life into a much more upgraded and luxury version!
2023 Grand Wagoneer: Following its debut in 2022, the Grand Wagoneer sees the addition of an L trim, but otherwise remains unchanged for 2023. The L trim is a foot longer than the standard model, offering more interior and cargo space. The L trim is also equipped with the brand’s new Hurricane engine. The Grand Wagoneer is a full-size vehicle that seats 7 and is only available as a 4-door SUV.
Six trims are offered: Series I, Series II, Obsidian, Series II Premium, Series III, and Series III Obsidian. Two engines are offered: A 6.4-liter V8 that makes 471 horsepower and a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six that produces 510 horsepower in the L trim. Both pair to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Only four-wheel-drive models are offered.
Brand Highlights
If you’re pressed for time, here are my must see brands:
Nissan
Rogue
You know that I recently traded my 2020 Rogue for a 2023 and I’m loving it!
The Snow falling over the Ariya, the outdoor vehicles and the 2023 Nissan Z will capture your interest!
Nissan Z
2023 Nissan Z: The Nissan Z is all new for 2023. The Z is a low-slung sports car that seats 2 passengers and is only offered as a 2-door coupe.
Subaru
The exhibit is not only beautiful, but it takes you outdoors and invites you to enjoy time, searching for new adventures.
It shows the commitment to the National Parks and preserving nature in the US!
Subaru’s dog lover consumers inspire the brand to support dog adoption organizations nationwide. Plus the puppies are sooo cute, they make it a must visit, right?
Check it out:
Pictures don’t do justice to how amazing their display is! You need to check it out!
Toyota
Games, Photo opportunities and a video game/vehicle will capture your imagination. My family of gamers would love that!
Loved checking out the Toyota Grand Highlander for the first time!
Ford
The vehicles, the amazing Bronco ride, the store with great gear and the Mustangs calling your name, make the Ford display, one of my favorites.
This Mustang Lover was just amazed with the Mustang Dark Horse! Beautiful!
2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse: The Ford Mustang Dark Horse is all new for 2024. It is the high-performance version of the all new 2024 Mustang, featuring more aggressive styling and more powerful engine. It is the top-ranking model of the Mustang lineup. Mustang Dark Horse is a rear-wheel-drive sports car that seats four passengers and is offered as a 2-door coupe.
Jeep/Ram/Chrysler/Alfa Romeo
So many great vehicles at this Chicago Auto Show exhibit. From the Jeep exciting ride and the Ram performance area to the luxury and family options!
This brand display is a must stop and the awesome Jeep ride and RAM Tests are super exciting!
There’s so much more to explore at the Chicago Auto Show, hope you grab some tickets and visit it soon!
2023 Chicago Auto Show – Dates & Times
- Feb. 11-19, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Feb. 20, 10 a.m. – 8 pm.
The 2023 Chicago Auto Show – Location
- McCormick Place – map it
- 2301 S. King Dr., Chicago, Illinois 60616
2023 Chicago Auto Show Tickets – CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS
It is suggested that attendees purchase tickets in advance. Tickets will also be available at our McCormick Place ticket booths on public show days. (Show box office closes one hour before the show closes.)
$15 for adults
$10 for seniors aged 62 and older
$10 for children 4-12
Free Admission for children 3 and younger when accompanied by a paying adult. Family members only.
Can’t wait to hear what you think about my experience at the Chicago Auto Show!
As usual, give us a Trendy Shout!
Sounds like a wonderful auto show event and looks like you had fun there. Plenty of amazing and cool-looking cars were present as well.
I haven’t been to the auto show in such a long time, but I would absolutely love to go. It looks like it was a lot of fun.
So many cool cars! This looks like a fun experience. I’ve never been to a car show before and would enjoy checking out the new cars and technology.
OMG, I so wanna be there now. It looks so fun and good. And I loved the pictures.
I would love to attend this Chicago auto show. It’s a great deal for car enthusiasts like me.
Attending shows like this and Checking out new car models is always fun. Those cars are awesome and I think Lexus is best.
Wow…the Jeep and the Subaru have truly stolen my heart! I can’t wait to sit in those new machines!
Loved these highlights and your insights! The vendor presentations just keep getting better. The Toronto Auto Show is kicking off this weekend, so i can’t wait to compare our experience with Chicago!
I love going to auto shows, they’re so much fun, so much!!! I’ve never been to Chicago auto show, soon I hope!!!
Wow some of those jeeps look massive! I doubt I could even get into them haha. My fiance would love to go to something like this as he loves cars and vehicles x
WOW, this looks like a great experience! I am in love with the Jeep and the color. When I buy my next vehicle in the future I’ll attempt to go to one of these to enjoy the full process. PS- the puppies are adorable!
Wow, what a huge variety of vehicles! I’d love to go to an auto show like this. The closest I’ve done was going to the drag races all the time as a kid and seeing those cars there.
I’m so jealous!! This looked like so much fun to attend! Personally I’m more into the classic car variety, but it’s hard NOT to stare at a convertible as it’s driving down the road! Thanks so much for sharing! Maybe I can convince my dad to go with me next year!
I attended the Houston Auto Show for many years. It was always lots of fun and I loved checking out the new vehicles and concept cars.