By: Norm Rosen
Lots to see and do at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto!
Photo above: the 2023 Ram 2500 delivers diesel towing capacity up to 20,000 lbs.
Canadian International Auto Show Shifts into high gear!
Toronto, February 16, 2023 – The 50th edition of the Canadian International Auto Show (CIAS) returned to LIVE status on February 16, 2023, as media from across the country and top executives from a full range of automotive manufacturers and suppliers converged at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre for the first post-pandemic celebration of everything automotive.
The show will be open to the public from February 17 – 26, 2023 – follow this link for tickets and show information: https://autoshow.ca/
Here is a synopsis of show highlights, supplemented by information provided by our media contact, Kalvin Reid, and his team of communications professionals.
The 2023 AutoShow includes many special features and new model reveals. Among the many cool vehicles that will be on display during the 2023 Canadian International AutoShow are the following:
Buick
Incorporating futuristic features such as artificial intelligence, biometrics and aromatherapy, the Buick Wildcat concept is a big step forward while honouring the past of the brand. The Wildcat is designed to detect an elevation in driver heart-rate and automatically adjust vehicle settings to calm them down. Buick will also be showcasing an exciting global review …. With details to come!
Cadillac
The exciting Cadillac LYRIQ marks the beginning of the luxury brand’s EV transformation, and will not only be on display, but will also be available at the EV Test Drive Track. The Cadillac display will also feature the Escalade-V and two of the most attractive sport sedans on the planet — the CT4-V and CT5-V Blackwing.
Chevrolet
Electric vehicles are in the spotlight for Chevrolet at the Canadian International AutoShow, with the focus on the all-electric Silverado EV, the Equinox EV and the Blazer EV, as well as the Bolt EV that will be available for test drives at the EV Test Track. The 2024 Silverado HD and 2023 Colorado, including the first ever Trail Boss and an even more capable ZR2, will represent Chevrolet’s truck line, along with the all-new 2024 Trax.
Genesis
Genesis is featuring their GV60 and electrified GV70, with a Genesis G90 on display in the Automotive Journalists Association of Canada booth.
GMC
Electrification of the GM roster continues through GMC, with the Hummer EV SUV and SUT on display. Along with the GMC Sierra EV Denali Edition — making its Canadian debut at the AutoShow — these make GMC the first and only brand to have all three all-electric trucks.
Hyundai
Two highly anticipated vehicles will be showcased by Hyundai. The all-new RN22e — a fully electric high-performance car developed by Hyundai’s N brand division — will be seen for the first time at a North American auto show. Making its Canadian debut is the N Vision 74, a concept car that is the first hydrogen-hybrid rolling lab. Learn more by visiting here.
Kia
Kia is featuring the Canadian debut of the refreshed 2024 Seltos. The company will also feature its Art of Movement interactive exhibit where people can use their body movements to create abstract art for sharing on their social channels.
Lexus
The first Lexus global battery electric vehicle — the all-new, all-wheel drive RZ 450e — is at centre stage in the Lexus booth.
Nissan
With an all-star display, Nissan’s exhibit will be headlined by the 2023 Ariya electric crossover, its most advanced production vehicle ever with up to 490 kilometres of driving range on a single charge. The Nissan NISMO Off Road Frontier V8 Concept will be making its Canadian debut at the AutoShow. Nissan will also be showcasing its most anticipated new sportscar, the 2023 Z as well as the 2023 models of the Rogue, Pathfinder Rock Creek, Frontier and Sentra. More information is available here.
Ram Trucks
While the most exciting development in the Ram truck line, the new 1500 REV electric pickup, was not on display in Toronto, we have uploaded a special feature on the truck – please follow the link below to read the latest news…
Stellantis
Camp Jeep is appearing for the first time in Canada. The Trail Rated indoor off-road course offers a chance to experience the capabilities of the legendary Jeep® vehicles without leaving the AutoShow floor. Passengers will ride along in the latest Jeep vehicles — including the PHEV Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe — experiencing five man-made obstacles that rigorously showcase their unmatched capabilities.
Stellantis will also have the Canadian auto show debut of the 2023 Dodge Hornet, 2023 Alfa Romeo Tonale and the 2023 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 20th Anniversary Edition, included in the roster that features the new Grand Wagoneer L long-wheelbase, the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, Dodge Challenger Hellcat and Dodge Durango R/T, are eight Jeep models and nine different Ram trucks. More information is available here.
To read the special report on the Stellantis display, please click on the link below:
Subaru
The Canadian debut of the all-new redesigned 2024 Subaru Crosstrek highlighted Subaru’s Media Day presentation, in a booth that includes the Subaru Wilderness Ramp Display, Solterra Eco-zone and the 2024 Impreza RS. As with past Auto Shows, Subaru also features the return of their fan favourite St. John Ambulance therapy dogs on Saturday, February 18, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Tesla
With a standalone display that will be found in the Auto Exotica space, Telsa will be showcasing the Performance Model 3, Performance Model Y, Model Plaid and Model X Plaid.
Three vehicles are on display – we had the opportunity to tow travel trailers with the Model 3 and the model S – please follow these links to read the articles on the RV Lifestyle Magazine website:
Toyota
The all-new Toyota Grand Highlander made its Canadian debut in Toronto, and will be showcased along with the all-new RX, Prius Prime and GR Corolla.
Vinfast
One of the newest entries in the consumer automotive market in Canada, the Vietnam-based Vinfast will be showcasing four vehicles from its all-electric lineup: the all-new VF6 two-row compact eSUV, the VF7 midsize eSUV, the VF8 eSUV and the luxury VF9. Learn more at vinfastauto.ca.
AutoShow Attractions…
AJAC Car and Utility Vehicles of the Year
The Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) annually awards 12 individual class winners, which culminate in a final six vehicles that recsive the Canadian Car of the Year and Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards, which were presented at the opening session on Media Day. See the finalists in this special report from the 2023 Montreal Auto Show: https://autoshow.ca/best-vehicles-in-canada-for-2023-announced-across-12-categories-by-automobile-journalists-association-of-canada/
Cobble Beach Classics Presents 75 Years of Porsche
Cobble Beach Classics is consistently among the most anticipated features of the AutoShow. This year’s exhibit offers a unique perspective on three-quarters of a century of Porsche, showcasing 16 historically significant classic Porsche models — including the most valuable vehicle at the 2023 AutoShow, the 1969 Porsche 917 Long Tail Chassis 005 owned and shared by Peterborough native and racer David Seabrooke. The exhibit also includes some of the latest models, including a 2022 Taycan GTS Sport Turismo and 2021 911 Targa heritage design. Of particular interest will be the 1962 356 Roadster, painted to be an exact replica of the Porsche owned by Janis Joplin.
Hot Wheels
The miniature cars of the Hot Wheels brand are one of the most iconic toys in history. Since the first generation of Hot Wheels was released by toymaker Mattel in 1968, the cars and race track sets have been a staple in toyboxes and playrooms everywhere. In many cases, an adult’s passion for the automobile started with a small Hot Wheels and a big imagination.
Hot Wheels is returning to the AutoShow after first appearing for its 50th anniversary in 2018. This year, it will be offering a kids’ play zone, retail space, classic Hot Wheels cars and five life-sized Hot Wheels vehicles from the Hot Wheels Garage of Legends and collector cars. In conjunction with Hot Wheels returning to the AutoShow, a selection of car enthusiasts and collectors will have their vehicles displayed as part of The AutoShow Anniversary Selection. The winners were chosen based on a combination of community voting and committee-choice.
The full-sized Hot Wheels that will be on display at the AutoShow will be:
- 1968 Chevrolet Corvette — “The Midas Monkey” car featured in “Fast n Loud” TV Show
- 1966 Pontiac GTO
- 1971 Chevrolet El Camino
- 2001 Twin Mill
- 2014 Star Wars Darth VaderTM Car (a fan favourite returning to the AutoShow)
Hot Wheels can be found on the 800 level of the South Building of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. For details, follow this link: https://autoshow.ca/features/hot-wheels/
Exotic Brands
The Canadian International AutoShow is renowned for its collections of luxury cars and exotic super cars and hyper cars, and the 2023 Show is no exception. Grand Touring Automobiles will showcase cars by Aston Martin, Bentley, Lamborghini, Polestar, Rolls Royce and a Koenigsegg Regera. Autostrada Magazine Canadian Collectors exhibit includes a Ferrari La Ferrari, McLaren Elva, Ford GT Mark II and a unique off-road Lamborghini LM001. Pfaff will show a McLaren Atura and a 2019 Porsche GT3 R, the winningest GT3 R chassis in North America. There will also be a classic 1957 Corvette and 1968 Camaro from Barrett-Jackson and a 1957 Aston Martin DB 2-4 from Gentry Lane Autos.
Project Arrow
The first original, full-build, zero-emission Canadian concept car, Project Arrow opened Media Day with special presentations by the Hon. François-Philippe Champagne, federal Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, the Hon. Filimino Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, and the Hon. Vic Fedeli, Ontario Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade.
In addition to the displays of new models by the automotive manufacturers, the 2023 AutoShow featured a fascinating range of products and technology.
Here is a synopsis of the attractions we found most interesting:
EV Test Track
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One of the highlights of the 2023 AutoShow is Canada’s largest indoor EV Test Track! Consumers will have the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the latest and greatest electric vehicles. Guided by experts, you will be able to test drive the future of mobility, right inside the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. A major new addition to the 2023 AutoShow will be Canada’s largest indoor EV Test Track! Consumers will have the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the latest and greatest electric vehicles, accompanied by a professional driving coach, and test drive the future of mobility, right inside the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Vehicles available for a test drive include the Cadillac LYRIQ, Chevrolet Bolt, Hyundai IONIQ and Kona, Kia Niro and EV-6, Nissan Ariya, Subaru Solterra, Lexus NXP, Toyota RAV 4 Prime PHEV and Bz4x and the Vinfast VF8.
Electric City
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Electric City is the one-stop destination for AutoShow attendees to learn everything about automotive electrification. It showcases the ecosystem that supports the new age of mobility. A new feature for the AutoShow, Electric City is a showcase of the electrification of the automotive sector and micro-mobility. It will feature an indoor micro-mobility test track where attendees can try a range of electric bikes from Amego EV, as well as the SARIT (Safe Affordable Reliable Innovative Transport) – the latest innovation from Magna founder Frank Stronach. Technology innovators from both the Canadian East and West coasts will also be showcased with the launch of the all-new outdoor adventure vehicle from Potential Motors, as well as a self-propelled high-tech AI Stroller from Vancouver-based Gluxkind – a company most recently awarded honours at the CES Show in Las Vegas for Innovation.
Auto Exotica
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AutoExotica has been the fan favourite at the AutoShow for many years. A curated selection of rare exotic cars, supercars and multimillion-dollar hyper cars. This special exhibit allows you to indulge in the glitz and glamor of the pinnacle of automotive tech and luxury. 2023 Participants include: Autostrada Canadian Collectors, Barrett-Jackson and Caravaggio Corvettes. Where automotive dreams live, Auto Exotica has been the fan favourite at the AutoShow for many years. A curated selection of rare exotic cars, supercars and multimillion-dollar hyper cars, this special exhibit allows you to indulge in the glitz and glamour of the pinnacle of automotive tech and luxury, including this year a Koenigsegg Regera, Bugatti, Polestar 2, McLaren, Lotus, Ferrari, Tesla and the off-road Lamborghini LM002, among others.
Lego Technic
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Life-size LEGO® Technic™ Lamborghini SÍAN FKP 37 will make its North American debut, a life-size replica made from over 400,000 LEGO® Technic™ elements. This showstopping collaboration with Automobili Lamborghini demonstrates once again that with Technic™, you can build whatever you can imagine for real. A life-sized LEGO® Technic™ Lamborghini SÍAN FKP 37 made its North American debut, a life-size replica made from more than 400,000 LEGO® Technic™ elements, created by designer Lubor Zelinka.
Oblivion
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Power up your flux capacitor and experience the coolest selection of 80’s and 90’s automotive icons that none other than OBLIVION can offer! From pop culture icons to quirky 80’s automotive design, the OBLIVION display is a must-see for every show visitor! From pop culture icons to quirky ’80s automotive design, the OBLIVION display was the sleeper hit of the 2020 AutoShow. Seven vehicles will be showcased, including a famous concept car by Magna showcasing the latest in technical innovation at the time – a fax machine located in the vehicle’s glove box!
REV TV Speed Zone
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The REVZONE at the 2023 AutoShow brings REV TV Canada to life – with a live interview stage, and interactive features including professional SIM Racing rigs, the AJAC car review audition studio, podium experience and more! See the cars and stars from REV TV Canada’s Motorsports & Automotive destination. REV TV Speed Zone — A showcase of some of the cars and events that REV TV broadcasts throughout the year, with several interactive exhibits that allow visitors to try their hand at being a TV car reviewer.
Accessible Mobility
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Accessible Mobility in the spotlight at the Canadian International Auto Show Accessible Mobility with Universal Motion — A feature of six vehicles highlighting support available for those in our society who find themselves challenged by their mobility, and bring to wider public attention this critical service that specialty builders have to offer.
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Roshel
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Mississauga-based Roshel, one of North America’s largest manufacturers of smart armoured vehicles, will be showcasing its Senator ARC, which is in use in the Ukraine defence of its homeland. Roshel — The Mississauga-based manufacturer of smart armoured vehicles is showcasing its Senator APC — of which the Canadian government recently purchased 200 to be sent to Ukraine as part of Canada’s contribution to the huge international effort in aid of Ukraine’s defence.
About the Canadian International AutoShow, presented by The Toronto Star
Celebrating its 50th year, the Canadian International AutoShow features more than 650,000 square feet of exhibits, displays and attractions spanning the North and South Buildings of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. With an annual attendance in excess of 330,000, the Canadian International AutoShow is not only the largest automotive expo in Canada, it is also the country’s largest consumer show. A leader in lifestyle, technology and all things automotive, it is a showcase for the latest cars, trucks, SUVs, concept cars, exotics, classics, muscle cars, electric and alternative fuel vehicles.
Stay connected with the Canadian International AutoShow on Instagram @autoshowca, Twitter @autoshowcanada and Facebook /autoshowcanada
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