The 2025 New York International Auto Show is gearing up for one of its biggest years yet.
Celebrating 125 years, the show returns to the Jacob K. Javits Center from April 18 to 27, promising a packed floor with major brands, headline debuts, and a new focus that feels very 2025: affordable vehicles.
Here’s a full look at what to expect when the doors open later this month.
Brands are back—and betting on affordability
Automakers are returning in force, filling the show floor after years of thinner attendance.
Hyundai, Genesis, Kia, Volkswagen, Subaru, Nissan, Jeep, Chrysler, Toyota, Porsche, BMW, and Lexus are among the key brands confirmed.
But this year’s big story isn’t about million-dollar supercars or wild concepts.
It’s about new models aimed at real buyers.
As affordability becomes a hot-button issue, brands are pivoting hard toward value-driven crossovers, compact EVs, and hybrids built to actually sell — not just draw crowds.
Hyundai is bringing a new Tucson Hybrid and a refreshed Santa Cruz pickup.
Kia plans to show the new K4 sedan, replacing the Forte with a sharper look and a smart interior.
Subaru is expected to pull the wraps off updates to the Crosstrek lineup, while Volkswagen could bring a surprise: the U.S. debut of the ID.7 Tourer.
Headliners to Watch
While full details are under wraps until the first press day, here’s what the inside talk says to watch for:
- Genesis GV90: The brand’s largest SUV yet, and fully electric. Think of it as Genesis’ answer to the Mercedes EQS SUV.
- INFINITI QX80: After years of hinting, INFINITI’s biggest SUV finally gets a total redesign with a new powertrain, new tech, and a luxury push.
- Toyota and Lexus Updates: Toyota could show a refreshed RAV4 Hybrid, and Lexus may tease an expansion of its growing electric crossover lineup.
Special Attractions: More Than New Cars
The show isn’t just about new sheet metal.
This year, organizers have put together several must-see experiences:
- Live Porsche Build by Akira Nakai:
RWB legend Akira Nakai will build a widebody 911 live on the show floor — a first for the New York show. - Camp Jeep:
Jeep’s indoor off-road course returns, giving visitors a chance to ride shotgun as Jeeps tackle steep climbs, rocks, and logs. - Expanded EV Test Track:
With more electric options on sale than ever, the show’s EV track has been expanded, offering drives in mainstream electric models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Volkswagen ID.4. - Golden Era Exhibit:
To honor the show’s 125th anniversary, a special 1950s-themed exhibit will showcase some of the most iconic designs in automotive history. - R2XPO’s Rides + Rigs Showcase:
A hall dedicated to custom trucks, SUVs, and overlanding builds, tapping into one of the fastest-growing corners of the market.
Family-Friendly Focus
It’s not all horsepower and lap times.
Organizers are working to make the 2025 show more family-friendly, with:
- A Kids’ EV Test Track for future drivers
- Driving simulators scattered throughout the halls
- Interactive technology displays showing the future of autonomous driving and electrification
Why the 2025 New York Auto Show Matters
For the first time in years, the New York show feels aligned with where the market is heading.
Instead of brands fighting for headlines with $400,000 supercars, the focus this year is on cars and SUVs that real people can actually buy — hybrids under $30,000, EVs around $40,000, and compact SUVs that still offer style and substance.
The industry is at a pivot point: electric adoption is growing but slowing, consumers are demanding value, and buyers want choices that fit their wallets without sacrificing innovation.
New York’s show floor is shaping up to be a direct response to that shift.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 New York Auto Show won’t be about flashy concepts or unobtainable six-figure toys.
It will be about affordable innovation, real-world tech, and a strong reminder that the car business is still very much about the customer.
Expect practical vehicles to take center stage — but don’t be surprised if a few high-voltage surprises sneak in too.
Stay tuned for live coverage as the show begins, as it could reveal the future of the everyday car.
