Car Review
2026 Utah Auto Expo returns this weekend with cars, test drives, exotics and hands-on experiences for the whole family
Whether you’re car shopping or car gawking, the annual Auto Expo has something you’ll want to check out.
Jason Bell | January 12, 2026
Discussed in this article
If you’re thinking about buying a new car this year, or you just love looking at fine vehicles, head to the 2026 Utah International Auto Expo this weekend. It's the best place to see what’s coming next, with more than 30 brands represented in one place.
Buy tickets now, prices increase Jan. 16. Adult tickets are $15 on-site. All children 12 and under are admitted free with a paying adult.
The annual show returns to the Mountain America Exposition Center from Friday, Jan. 16, to Monday, Jan. 19. Unlike visiting a dealership, the Auto Expo is a completely relaxed car browsing experience — no sales pressure, no pitches and no obligation to buy.
Instead, it’s the perfect opportunity to compare vehicles, literally side by side. You can sit in them, open the doors, smell the fresh leather and imagine that summer family road trip. Product specialists will be present, but they’re not there to sell. They’re there to explain features and talk about how awesome the car is.
Whether you’re shopping for a family vehicle, curious about electric and hybrid options or simply want to see some of the most exciting new models for yourself, the Utah Auto Expo truly delivers a once-a-year kind of experience.
Photo credit: DeeDee Taft
A closer look at some of the most hyped new cars
One of the biggest draws of the Expo is the chance to see brand-new vehicles, including some just announced preproduction models. Among the special, exciting vehicles not to miss this year are the new or refreshed:
Seeing these vehicles in person, and in many cases sitting inside them, can be far more helpful than endlessly scrolling through photos online — and it’s much more fun. With over 30 brands on display, there are plenty of vehicles to explore.
Test drives without the pressure
For those who want more than a walkaround, the Auto Expo will offer on-site test drives for several vehicles. Attendees can get behind the wheel of select models from Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep, Ram and Toyota, providing a rare opportunity to drive multiple brands in a single visit — again, without the pressure.
The test drives are particularly useful for shoppers to experience the difference between gas, hybrid and electric powertrains. If you’ve ever wondered what a certain powertrain feels like, this is your chance.
Photo credit: DeeDee Taft
Experience the latest trends up close
The Auto Expo also highlights the trends shaping today’s automotive market, and there’s one theme that is more apparent than ever: Choice.
“It’s all about choices this year,” said Kelley Blue Book Executive Editor Brian Moody. “Consumers can pick from fast, powerful gas vehicles like the new Dodge Charger and Ram 1500 Hemi, or explore hybrids that are growing in popularity, including the Jeep Cherokee Hybrid with 500 miles of range and the Toyota Camry Hybrid with 650 miles of range. The Utah Auto Expo is a great place to compare and test drive these options in a no pressure setting.”
One fun surprise for many shoppers is the comeback of high performance, gas-powered vehicles, even as electrification continues to expand. At the same time, hybrids are experiencing rapid adoption, especially among drivers who want better fuel economy without the charging and range concerns of an EV.
Another major thing you’ll want to check out is all the latest safety tech. New models are safer, smarter and more connected than ever. Some even have full self-driving capability.
Lastly, if you’re on a budget and need a new car, you’ll definitely want to come to the show. There are several excellent new cars that are surprisingly affordable while still being feature-rich, including the new Toyota Corolla Hybrid, Honda Civic and Nissan Kicks.
Utah’s off-road culture on full display
Given Utahns’ love for the outdoors, it’s no surprise that off-road and adventure vehicles play a major role at the expo this year. The Adventure Utah showcase will feature off-road vehicles, towable trailers and boats designed for recreation across the state.
Also on display will be the awesome Ineos off-road models. If you’re an off-road fanatic and haven’t yet checked out the Ineos Grenadier, you’re in for a treat.
Off-road enthusiasts will also want to check out the Utah 4-Wheel Drive Association, featuring super capable trail-ready vehicles.
Photo credit: DeeDee Taft
Exotics, classics and Mustangs
To top it all off, high-end luxury vehicles from Aston Martin, Bentley, Lamborghini and others will be on display, offering a close-up look at some of the most desirable cars in the world.
The Automotive Addiction museum collection is also making an appearance, featuring meticulously restored classics alongside jaw-dropping exotics. Multiple Mustang generations will also be there, provided by members of the Northern Utah Mustang Owners Association.
A family-friendly event with pet adoptions
The Auto Expo isn’t just for adults. In addition to pretending they’re driving, kids will love the iHeartRadio Kid Zone, featuring Legos, a Lego car racing track and other fun activities.
Animal lovers will also have a ball at the Subaru Loves Pets display. Spend some time playing with the adoptable dogs from Second Chance for Homeless Pets — and possibly take one home.
When, where and how to attend
The 2026 Utah Auto Expo runs Jan. 16-19 at the Mountain America Exposition Center. Show hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday through Monday. Admission is $15 for adults, with discounted tickets available online in advance. Seniors, military members and first responders receive reduced pricing, and children 12 and under are free. Parking is free.
For anyone curious about what they might be driving next, or who simply enjoys seeing great cars up close, the Utah Auto Expo remains one of the best and most worthwhile automotive events of the year.
Visit Utah Auto Expo for tickets, and follow @UtahAutoExpo on Instagram and Facebook to learn more.
Buy tickets now, prices increase Jan. 16. Adult tickets are $15 on-site. All children 12 and under are admitted free with a paying adult.
Hero image photo credit: DeeDee Taft
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