While the North American International Auto Show gets to kick off the New Year in the heart of Motor City, the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) is every bit as essential. After all, NYIAS lays claim to being the first real auto show in the U.S., with a history that stretches all the way back to the turn of the 20th century. In many ways, this annual event helped birth the modern American car, providing a venue for the presentation of the first models from staples like Cadillac->ke18 and Chrysler.->ke21 New York was also one of the first destinations for foreign automakers looking to reach U.S. customers, with brands like Toyota,->ke88 Jaguar,->ke39 and Mercedes->ke187 originally heading to Manhattan in the hopes of scooping up stateside sales.
This year is the 116th anniversary of NYIAS, and it once again plays host to a variety of debuts from around the world, with roughly 1,000 cars and trucks stuffed into four floors of display space. TopSpeed has what you wanna know on all the big sheet pulls, plus we’re giving you the info you need to actually go there in person, so read on to get the latest.
Updated 03/25/2016: That’s a wrap, folks! We’ve added the last of the big debuts from this year’s NYIAS to the guide. Don’t forget to let us know what you thought of the show in the comments!
Continue reading to learn more about the 2016 New York International Auto Show.
What, Where, And When
Things To Do
NYIAS provides one of the best opportunities on the East Coast to check out a huge assortment of the latest models, whether you’re looking to buy, or simply want to get up close and personal with that bedroom poster dream machine. While you can’t actually purchase a car at the show, there is access to dealer locations and brochure information to follow up.
In addition to all the cars on display, there are several interesting events taking place during the course of the show. Here are a few of the big ones –
Hyundai Racing Experience – The Hyundai->ke201 booth is offering racing simulators where gamers can take a virtual drive in the GT 2025 via the Gran Turismo 6 gaming environment.
Paul Sr. Autograph Session – Paul Sr. from Orange County Choppers will be on the scene giving out autographs to fans.
Family-Oriented Activities – Families are encouraged to attend and enjoy an array of activities, including Diggerland (a construction vehicle theme park), and the truck from the upcoming Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 2 movie.
Educational Opportunities – Includes Teen Safety Day and an Automotive Career Fair. Find more information here.
There are also several opportunities for early access guided tours with an automotive expert. See the Show Schedule And Tickets section for more information.
For a complete breakdown of all the show events, plus a schedule, click here.
When you’re done at the show, New York offers a ton of exciting things to do. Highlights include the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, Museum of Natural History, the Statue of Liberty, and the Empire State Building, plus world-class shopping and dining (don't forget to try the pizza).
The Venue And Transportation
The first New York Auto Show was held at Madison Square Garden on November 3rd, 1900. Afterwards, the event was moved to the Grand Central Palace, followed by the New York Coliseum in 1956, at which time the show adopted its “International” designation. In 1987, it was moved once again, this time to the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, where it currently remains.
Jacob Javits Convention Center
655 W. 34th St.
New York, NY 10001
For information on exhibitor locations inside the venue, click here.
Transportation options are plentiful, and include onsite parking for anyone driving there, as well as several mass transit options through Metro North, LIRR, the NY Waterway Ferry, subways, and buses.
For a complete breakdown on transportation options, click here.
At this point, finding accommodations will be difficult, as most of the hotels are booked up for the duration of the show, so if you’re still looking for a place to stay, I’d suggest trying Airbnb.
Show Schedule And Tickets
General access is available between Friday, March 25th, and Sunday, April 3rd. Show hours are between 10 am and 10 pm, Monday through Friday, and 10 am to 7 pm on Sundays.
The official opening day is on Saturday, March 26th, with festivities kicking off at 8:30 am, and floor access opening at 10 am.
Tickets cost $16 per adult. Child tickets (ages 12 and under) cost $7. Group rates are available ($14). Early access and ticket bundles with round trip fare on the NY Waterway are also available. Tours with an automotive expert start at $53. You can find more information and buy tickets now by clicking here, or you can buy onsite. Tickets are not expected to sell out.
Crossovers, SUVs, And Wagons
To help it continue its success in the ultra-competitive crossover->ke288 segment, Toyota->ke88 has decided it’s time to update the Highlander. Presently in its third generation, the refresh brings new styling in the front fascia, newly available leather upholstery in the cabin, and a new 3.5-liter V-6. We’re expecting around 290 horsepower and more than 21 mpg combined. Pricing should stay around the $30,000 mark.
Read the full review here.
Acura->ke10 is infusing its MDX luxury SUV with an extra dose of exterior hotness in this latest model year refresh, drawing cues first seen on the Acura Precision concept. This includes a new grille, a new air dam, and a few body-colored components here and there. Inside, the dash and instrument cluster get a new shape, as does the shifter. Information on what will drive the standard MDX is still forthcoming, but we do know the MDX Sport Hybrid will receive a 3.0-liter V-6, seven-speed transmission, and a trio of electric motors.
Read the full review here.
This is the first time AMG has offered a pumped-up mid-size->ke1695 SUV,->ke145 and its job is simple – bridge the gap between the GLA45 and GLE63 with standard issue plus-sized performance. Glossy black and chrome adorn the exterior, while bolstered seats and a flat-bottomed steering wheel sit inside. Most interesting is the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine under the hood, which produces 362 horsepower, 384 pound-feet of torque, and launches the GLC43 to 60 mph in less than five seconds.
Read the full review here.
With every auto show comes the special editions,->ke2041 and first on our list is the Enclave Sport Touring. Unique features found here only change the crossover’s->ke288 appearance, and include a Satin Black Ice finish applied to the grille, the spokes of the 20-inch wheels, and the interior lighting scheme. The Sport Touring also includes a standard heated steering wheel, 4G Wi-Fi, and a rear backup camera. The 3.6-liter V-6 continues unaltered.
Read the full review here.
The Encore is a very important model for Buick.->ke17 Positioned in an extremely lucrative segment, the compact crossover has brought in impressive sales numbers, showing strong growth for three years running. That makes this latest mid-cycle update critical, so to keep the momentum rolling, Buick is giving the Encore a new exterior look, new cabin amenities, and new interior technology. The drivetrain remains a 1.4-liter four-banger turbocharged to 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque. Alternatively, you can also go for the Sport Touring model for a little extra output.
Read the full review here.
The QX70->ke4781 (previously known as the FX)->ke1260 got a second generation in 2008, and a refresh in 2011. But now the calendar reads 2016, and it’s no secret the SUV could use a next-gen model. Infiniti,->ke36 however, is seeking to extend the current model’s life just a little longer with the QX70 Limited special edition. Upgrades over the standard edition include new aesthetics, such as a black honeycomb-mesh grille, redesigned fog lights, a silver finish for the lower fascia, and unique 21-inch wheels. Inside is a Graphite/Stone color scheme and diamond quilted upholstery. The drivetrain remains unchanged, with a 3.7-liter V-6 and seven-speed automatic gearbox.
Read the full review here.
If you were paying attention to the Chicago Auto Show this year, you may have noticed a trend when it came to Chevy’s->ke199 special edition vehicles, with models like the Silverado->ke1787 and Colorado->ke1193 receiving unique “Midnight” variants. Now, GMC->ke32 is taking a similar approach with the Terrain Nightfall Edition, which comes with a black finish for the wheels, front and rear fascia, and paint. Additional paint options are available as well, while there’s standard 4G Wi-Fi for the cabin.
Read the full review here.
Though it may not offer the same practical interior capacity as a traditional SUV, the crossover coupe makes up for it with enhanced visual appeal. Such is the case with the GLC Coupe, which previewed in concept form at the Shanghai Auto Show->ke2470 last year, and now enters production. It’s longer and lower than the regular GLC, mimicking the dimensions of the concept, while the interior sports a two-tone color scheme and the option for lots of performance-oriented doodads. Power comes from the same drivetrain as the standard GLC, starting with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder.
Read the full review here.
The Volvo->ke188 lineup is overdue for a sweeping set of updates in the next few years, but before those changes get underway, the Swedish brand is offering up a series of special editions for its more popular models. First up is the V60->ke3667 wagon, which receives new options for the paint and wheels, plus new upholstery and trim in the cabin. A variety of gasoline and diesel engines can be had under the hood, but there’s nothing exclusive to the special edition.
Read the full review here.
The Trailhawk is back, this time around as a new rough-and-ready variant of the Grand Cherokee.->ke936 In case you were unaware, “Trailhawk” is the name Jeep->ke40 uses when outfitting a model with extra off-roading equipment, which means this SUV gets tow hooks front and back, skid plates, an anti-glare hood decal, and 18-inch Goodyear Adventure tires. The Quadra-Lift air suspension was also modified for better articulation and travel.
Read the full review here.
Fuel prices are low, which is a big factor in the booming crossover/SUV segment, but at the same time, hybrids->ke147 are as popular as ever. Mitsubishi->ke58 hopes to cash in on these trends with a plug-in hybrid variant of its popular Outlander->ke1397 model. The exterior and interior are more or less the same as the non-electrified equivalent, but if you open the hood, you’ll find a 2.0-liter internal combustion engine and two electric motors, one per axle. This gives the PHEV solid grip from an Evolution-->ke2426derived AWD system, not to mention the possibility of high MPGe.
Read the full review here.
Read the full review [here.0
Like the V60, the S60->ke413 also gets “Edition’d” for the 2017 model year. Originally built as a replacement for the S70 16 years ago, the S60 received its second generation six years ago, making this special edition a much-needed breath of fresh air. The formula is the same, with new exterior colors and wheels outside complemented by updated materials inside.
Read the full review here.
Subaru’s->ke86 multipurpose and omnipresent Impreza compact->ke140 has been going strong since 1992, and now, there’s a new fifth generation. The new styling pulls from the Impreza Concept that dropped at the Los Angeles Auto Show->ke211 last November, while the interior gets a fresh dashboard and the latest technological bits and pieces, including an 8-inch touchscreen. Motivation comes from a slightly tweaked 2.0-liter flat-four engine, plus standard AWD.
Read the full review here.
Mercedes->ke187 dropped the new E-Class sedan in Detroit at the start of the year, which gave AMG->ke8 just enough time to perfect the more aggressive E43. Destined to slot below the uber-E-Class AMG E63, the E43 comes with all the traditional trimmings, like a more assertive aesthetic inside and out, sportier adaptive suspension, and a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 with 396 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. A run from standstill to 60 mph takes 4.5 seconds.
Read the full review here.
In the three years it’s been on the market, the four-door coupe baby Benz CLA has been quite successful. Now it’s time for a refresh, which means the new model gets tweaked styling with updated bumpers front and back, new trim inside, and a thinner 8-inch infotainment display. U.S. buyers get a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, while diesels and smaller gas powerplants are offered overseas.
Read the full review here.
With the release of the new CLA comes its bodybuilding twin – the AMG CLA45. The DTM-inspired exterior gets a lower coefficient of drag, LED headlights are now standard, the thinner infotainment screen is in the cabin, and there are new options for smartphone integration. Meanwhile, the turbo 2.0-liter is unchanged, producing 375 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque, and a 4Matic AWD system is standard.
Read the full review here.
Even more AMG tire shredding arrives in New York thanks to the new C63 Cabriolet. Like its hardtop equivalent, the convertible->ke144 boasts sporty bumpers and styling, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, and highly bolstered seats with contrast stitching. A boosted V-8 is in the nose, which comes available in two states of tune – 469 horsepower in the standard-issue C63, or 503 horsepower in the range-topping C63 S.
Read the full review here.
Read the full review on the Cadillac ATS Black Chrome Package [here.1
If you haven’t heard the news, Scion is going away. Toyota is absorbing the youth-oriented brand and moving forward with its model lineup as rebadged Toyotas. To give Scion->ke79 a proper sendoff, there will be one last special edition tC->ke1339 called the Release Series 10.0, which comes dressed in a new body kit, Barcelona Red paint, and gets red contrast stitching in the interior. The model is also equipped with lowering springs and a new exhaust.
Read the full review here.
Read the full review on the Cadillac CTS Black Chrome Package [here.1
It’s been six years since we first saw the current-generation Sonic,->ke3744 which means this latest update is most welcome. Chevy->ke199 is bringing significant changes to the exterior look and interior technology, including a new front and rear fascia for the former, and a 7-inch touchscreen for the latter. However, the drivetrain is unchanged, offering a 1.8-liter four-cylinder with 138 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque.
Read the full review here.
The Cadillac->ke18 ATS->ke3619 and CTS->ke1200 are already rather stylish, but Caddy is upping the visual appeal even more with a new package called Black Chrome. As you can probably guess, the Black Chrome package replaces a few exterior components with a more understated finish – chiefly the front grille and wheels. The package is only available for specific drivetrain and exterior color combinations.
Read the full review here.
Read the full review here.
Anyone interested in pairing green sensibilities with German refinement will be pleased to know Bimmer->ke178 is adding a plug-in hybrid->ke4486 to the 3 Series->ke290 family. The exterior and cabin offer few clues about the sedan’s drivetrain, save for a charge port door on the former and a few hybrid controls in the latter. However, behind the kidney grille lays a turbocharged gasoline engine matched with BMW’s eDrive technology, which combine to offer 248 horsepower, 310 pound-feet of torque, and 14 miles of all-electric range. And even though it’s a hybrid, the 330e iPerformance isn’t awful if you put your foot down, offering a 0-to-60 mph time under six seconds and a RWD chassis with a 50/50 weight distribution.
Read the full review here.
In a move that brought it closer to the premium up-scale market, Kia->ke41 introduced the full-size Cadenza->ke3563 in 2010, eventually offering it in the U.S. in 2014. The Korean automaker wasted no time in creating the second gen, which just debuted in New York. Outside, we see a coupe-like design, plus a new “tiger nose” grille in the front fascia. LEDs are used for lighting. Step into the interior, and you’ll find the look and layout was tweaked, plus there are new available color combinations. The 3.3-liter V-6 gets a bump in efficiency, and there’s a new eight-speed automatic transmission as well. Unfortunately, AWD remains unavailable.
Read the full review here.
The plug-in->ke4486 variant of the Prius->ke231 ended production in June of last year, but now, it’s back, and it’s called the Prime. The exterior styling was significantly revamped this time around, including NSX-esque quad LED headlights. The interior is equally as wild, complete with a large, centrally mounted infotainment screen. Making the go is a 1.8-liter internal combustion engine mated with an electric motor and 8.8-kWh battery, which combine to offer 120 MPGe – more than any other plug-in hybrid on the market
Read the full review here.
Chrysler->ke21 is releasing two new packages for its luxury 300->ke937 sedan series, including new bits for the exterior and interior. There’s supposedly more aggression to be had thanks to an upgraded fascia with integrated LED fog lights, while the cabin gets new seats with better bolsters and a heating/ventilation feature.
Read the full review here.
For the last few years, the Mirage->ke4103 hatchback has served Mitsubishi->ke58 well, ranking as the automaker’s second-best seller in the U.S. Now, there’s a sedan variant, which will hopefully tap into those buyers looking for an inexpensive subcompact, but don’t want something with an odd number of doors. Inside is a nice array of technology, such as a touchscreen, and the option for Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Providing max mpg is a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine.
Read the full review here.
For the past five decades, the Corolla->ke1039 has been enormously successful, and to celebrate, Toyota->ke88 is offering a new limited-run edition of the compact. Capped at 8,000 units total, the 50th Anniversary Edition gets LED headlights, 17-inch alloys, a 7-inch touchscreen, premium audio, and few other features to help it distinguish itself in the sea of Corollas already on the road. Meanwhile, output remains the same at 132 horsepower from a 1.8-liter four-cylinder.
Read the full review here.
Read the full review [here.0
The evening before the first official NYIAS press day, Mazda->ke53 launched the MX-5 RF, crowning the fourth-gen roadster->ke1418 with a “retractable fastback” roof. The new model seeks to keep all the old driving fun while adding a little extra style and accessibility. In addition to the metal top, the MX-5 RF also introduces a new color for Mazda – Machine Grey. Under the skin is the same 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, either mated to a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic.
Read the full review here.
Following up on last year’s debut of the sixth-generation Camaro, the Bowtie->ke199 is gearing up to unleash the new ZL1, and simply put, it’s the most powerful factory-built Camaro->ke248 ever created. Output is rated at a staggering 640 horsepower and 640 pound-feet of torque thanks to a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8. Throw in a lightened platform and track-ready suspension package, and the ZL1 is surely a force to be reckoned with.
Read the full review here.
If you wanna pair lots of American-bred power with no roof, then Chevrolet has a solution. The ZL1 Convertible has all the good stuff, like a 640-horsepower 6.2-liter V-8, sporty interior components, and a balanced (not to mention mean-looking) aero package. But the question remains – does it have what it takes to challenge the big European brands when the road gets twisty?
Read the full review here.
Complementing the wild new ZL1 is the special edition 50th Anniversary Camaro, which celebrates five decades of muscle car greatness with a unique Nightfall Gray Metallic paint job and some custom orange racing stripes. The gray coloring is continued on the front splitter, while the orange coloring is continued on the brake calipers. The drivetrain remains unaltered, and includes either a four-cylinder, six-cylinder, or V-8 option, but if you’re gonna get a car that commemorates 50 years of Camaro, there’s really only one choice.
Read the full review here.
Before we get our hands on the next-gen Godzilla, Nissan->ke62 is sprucing up the old R35 with a little refresh for the 2017 model year. The front and rear fascia were both revised, not only for styling purposes, but improved aero and cooling as well. There’s also a new dash in the cabin, plus a new touchscreen. Even the drivetrain was updated, with the tried-and-true twin-turbo 3.8-liter V-6 gaining 20 more ponies and four more pound-feet of torque.
Read the full review here.
With the demise of Scion, the FR-S->ke3820 will now solider on as an official member of the Toyota->ke88 family here in the U.S. With the name change comes a few alterations to the body, including a new fascia, plus LEDs in the daytime running lights and taillights. There are also a few changes to the cabin, and the suspension was refined for better dynamics. Maddeningly, the drivetrain gets a paltry five-horsepower, five-pound-feet upgrade, rather than the turbo boost we’ve all been waiting for.
Read the full review here.
The second-generation Audi->ke14 R8 Spyder is here, and it’s bringing all the speedy goodness of the hardtop, but with a button for extra atmosphere on demand. It looks the same, with the exception of a softer roof, of course, and most importantly, it’s packing the same 5.2-liter V-10 first seen in the Lamborghini Huracan.->ke4345 Output is rated at 540 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque, rendering a 0-to-60 mph time of 3.6 second and a top speed of 197 mph.
Read the full review here.
Back in the ‘60s, Ford, Shelby, and Hertz partnered up to offer the “rent-a-racer” Mustang GT-H. This year, the GT-H makes its return in New York, which means if you’ve got a little extra cash and a weekend to fill, the GT-H is ready to roll. Once again bearing a black paint job overlaid with golden stripes, the GT-H looks the part. It also sounds right thanks to a Ford Performance exhaust that gives the 5.0-liter V-8 a little extra rumble. The suspension was upgraded too, while Michelin tires handle the clutch dumps.
Read the full review here.
The NSX->ke307 is now available for public consumption, and with it comes this track-ready GT3 competitor. While the exterior bristles with extra wings, the look is surprisingly close to what you get from the dealers, no doubt testament to the production vehicle’s ultra-refined aerodynamics. The cabin is all business, with bare composites, a roll cage, and a squared-off steering wheel complemented by the usual array of buttons. Drivetrain specifics are frustratingly unavailable, but we do know the SH-AWD system will be ditched in favor of a six-speed sequential gearbox and RWD.
Read the full review here.
The H-badge->ke34 is getting in on the fender-rubbing, high-flying insanity that is the Global Rallycross series, and carrying the banner will be the new tenth-generation Civic coupe. Olsbergs MSE and Honda Performance Division are responsible for the race-ready tidbits, which include a 600-horsepower engine and suspension components tough enough to withstand repeated 70-foot jumps. Sebastian Eriksson and Joni Wiman are tasked with wheeling the thing to victory. Look for the car’s racing debut in May.
Read the full review here.
The 124 Spider->ke5028 recalls Fiat’s->ke30 past glories using bones from the MX-5 and styling from Italy. It also uses a Fiat engine for extra straight-line performance compared to the Mazda. Now, Fiat’s tuning house, Abarth,->ke2904 has had its way with the 124 Spider, imbuing it with a more responsive engine tune, more aggressive suspension, and upgraded brakes. You’ll also find a few additions to the exterior and interior package.
Read the full review here.
Read the full review [here.0
Read the full Jaguar F-Type SVR Coupe review [here.1
Hyundai’s->ke201 Genesis luxury brand just dropped a new concept in New York, and it looks to challenge the established German status quo head on. The slick four-door offers a glimpse at the automaker’s latest design language, both outside and in the cabin, giving us a fresh take on what a premium automobile should be. Meanwhile, the concept is said to have a hybrid drivetrain good for 242 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque.
Read the full review here.
Read the full Jaguar F-Type SVR Roadster review [here.1
Once upon a time, the Lincoln->ke48 name carried quite a bit of weight in the world of automotive luxury. These days, not so much, but that might change if the automaker produces more stuff like this Navigator concept. First and foremost, the doors (just two of them) open upwards, while three steps descend down to help ease entry and exit. All that drama offers a better view of the opulent interior space, while 400 horsepower remains on tap for motivation.
Read the full review here.
North American Debuts
Volkswagen Golf SportWagen Alltrack
We first saw the SportWagen in New York last year, and now VW->ke94 is debuting the production variant at the same show. The SportWagen offers greater capability than what you usually get with a Golf->ke164 thanks to a higher ride height, beefier wheel arches, and standard AWD, creating a practical anti-SUV ready for the unpaved trail. Additional equipment includes an upgraded body kit, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 6.5-inch touchscreen, and an “Off-road” driving setting. U.S. customers get a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. Both a six-speed automatic and a six-speed manual will be offered, but the three-pedal gearbox will arrive at unspecified date post-launch.
Read the full review here.
BMW Alpina B7
Alpina has been churning out tuned BMWs->ke178 for more than 50 years, and its latest product is the B7. Based on the current 7 Series,->ke323 the B7 ups the full-size->ke4304 luxury sedan’s visual appeal with new aero and unique 20-inch wheels, while the interior gets leather upholstery and LED instrumentation. Most compelling, however, is the car’s enhanced performance. Alpina’s go-faster wizards fit the B7 with a 600-horsepower, twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8, which provides enough muscle for a run to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds, and a top speed just under 200 mph.
Read the full review here.
Alfa Romeo Giulia
After debuting the top-spec QV model in Los Angeles->ke211 last year, Alfa->ke1386 is bringing the rest of the Giulia line to New York for its North American debut. The exterior look and interior equipment are understated next to the QV, while the drivetrain incorporates a more pedestrian 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas unit mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Both RWD and AWD are available. Overseas, the Giulia will also get the option for diesel power and a six-speed manual gearbox.
Read the full review here.
Jaguar F-Type SVR
The F-Type SVR was officially launched in Geneva->ke228 just a few weeks ago, and now, it’s in New York to entice U.S. buyers with its sexy good looks and eye-raising performance stats. After undergoing a few modifications at JLR’s tuning house (aka, Special Vehicle Operations), this pumped-up F-Type->ke1224 can now proudly proclaim itself as the fastest production Jag->ke39 ever created. The party piece is a supercharged 5.0-liter V-8 producing 575 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, which is good enough for a 0-to-60 mph run in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 200 mph. A roadster variant is also available.
Read the full Jaguar F-Type SVR Coupe review here.
Read the full Jaguar F-Type SVR Roadster review here.