The 2025 Chicago Auto Show wrapped up on Feb. 17 after a successful 10-day run at McCormick Place, attracting nearly 217,000 attendees and breaking records with more than 100,000 in-vehicle experiences.
This year’s show featured significant vehicle debuts, including the 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid, 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness and 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S Limited. It also marked the first-time participation of manufacturers such as Polestar, Rivian and VinFast, expanding the variety of vehicles on display. Other notable models making an appearance included the Cadillac OPTIQ, Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, Lucid Gravity and Rivian R2, among others.
Four indoor test tracks provided attendees with firsthand driving experiences, contributing to the record-breaking number of test drives. The show’s beloved Camp Jeep celebrated its 20th anniversary, offering thrill rides on an interactive off-road course featuring Jeep models like the Cherokee, Gladiator, Wagoneer and Wrangler. Ford’s "Built Wild" indoor track returned, allowing guests to conquer "Bronco Mountain," a 38-degree incline. Meanwhile, the Chicago Drives Electric EV track, powered by ComEd, expanded from one to two tracks, giving attendees the opportunity to ride in 25 different electric vehicle models.
"The Chicago Auto Show is designed with consumers at the forefront, and the 2025 show was a true testament to our commitment to delivering a dynamic and engaging experience," said Chicago Auto Show General Manager Jennifer Morand. "From hands-on experiences to showcasing the most innovative advancements in the industry, the show is all about connecting people with the technology and vehicles that are shaping the future."
Beyond the vehicle displays and test drives, the show hosted various themed events. The Toyota Miles Per Hour run returned, drawing more than 700 participants who tracked their speed as they ran through the show floor. The Chicago Friday Night Flights event featured craft beer sampling from 20 local breweries. Additionally, the second annual Automotive Career Day welcomed more than 700 students for educational panels, networking and career opportunities in the automotive industry.
The 2025 show also introduced new exhibit additions. Overlanding Chicago catered to outdoor enthusiasts with specialized adventure vehicles, while the Family Zone provided a safe and engaging space for families and children to interact with the auto show experience.
With strong engagement across social media platforms, the Chicago Auto Show’s reach extended beyond the event floor. According to Meltwater data, the show’s messaging reached over 93 million people in the last 90 days, and its social media channels generated more than 7 million impressions.
Looking ahead, organizers have already begun preparations for the 2026 Chicago Auto Show, set to return to McCormick Place from Feb. 7-16, 2026.
For more information, visit www.ChicagoAutoShow.com.
