Canadian International AutoShow 2026: Complete Toronto Guide

Cardog Team
10 min read
Canadian International AutoShow 2026: Complete Toronto Guide

Canadian International AutoShow 2026: Complete Toronto Guide

The 2026 Canadian International AutoShow returns to Toronto's Metro Toronto Convention Centre from February 13-22, 2026, showcasing over 40 automotive brands, cutting-edge electric vehicles, and North America's most comprehensive manufacturer displays. Whether you're shopping for your next vehicle or exploring the latest automotive technology, this guide covers everything you need to know about Canada's largest auto show.

Quick Facts: Toronto AutoShow 2026

  • Dates: February 13-22, 2026
  • Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre (North & South Buildings)
  • Hours: 10:30am-9pm weekdays, 10:30am-10pm weekends
  • Theme: "Driven by Choice"
  • Featured Brands: 40+ manufacturers including Toyota, Honda, Ford, Chevrolet, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and more
  • Special Features: Indoor EV test track, Auto Exotica displays, The Vault classic car showcase

Ticket Prices and Passes

General Admission (at the door):

  • Adults: $28
  • Youth (12-16): $18
  • Children (7-11): $8
  • Children under 6: Free
  • Seniors (65+): $19

Early Bird Pricing (through December 31, 2025):

  • Adults: $21
  • Youth (12-16): $14
  • Children (7-11): $6
  • Seniors (65+): $16

Special Passes:

  • Family Pass (2 adults + 2 children): $60 ($45 Early Bird)
  • 2-Day Pass: $43 ($33 Early Bird)
  • Super Tuesday (February 17): $15

All tickets are digital. Book early to save up to 25% on admission.

Getting There: Location and Parking

The show takes place across both Metro Toronto Convention Centre buildings:

  • North Building: 55 Front St West
  • South Building: 333 Bremner Blvd

Transit Access: Direct connection to Union Station provides access via TTC subway, GO Transit, UP Express, VIA Rail, and nearby streetcar/bus routes.

Parking: On-site parking available at both MTCC locations, plus additional Green P lots nearby.

The 2026 show features the most extensive collection of automotive displays in North America, with participation from:

Luxury Brands: Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, INFINITI, Cadillac, Lincoln, Alfa Romeo

Mainstream Manufacturers: Toyota, Honda, Ford, Chevrolet, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Subaru, Volkswagen

Electric & Performance: Polestar, plus EVs from virtually every manufacturer

Based on current market inventory, these models will draw the most attention:

Trucks and SUVs

Looking to compare the latest trucks and SUVs? The AutoShow is your chance to see them side-by-side:

Compact and Midsize SUVs

The hottest vehicle segment in Canada, these SUVs dominate the market:

Subcompact SUVs and Crossovers

Perfect for city driving and first-time buyers:

Sedans and Cars

While SUVs dominate, these sedans remain popular:

Jeep Lineup

Off-road enthusiasts will want to check out:

Luxury and Performance

For those seeking premium experiences:

Electric Vehicle Showcase

Canada's largest indoor EV test track returns for 2026, allowing visitors to test-drive the latest electric and hybrid vehicles without leaving the show floor. Over 50 vehicles will be available for test drives throughout the event.

The show will also announce winners of Canada's most prestigious automotive awards:

  • Canadian Car of the Year
  • Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year
  • Canadian Electric Car of the Year
  • Canadian Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year

Popular Electric Vehicles to Explore:

Considering an electric vehicle? Check our EV battery fire risks article for safety information, and use our recall lookup tool to check any vehicle's safety record.

Special Exhibits and Attractions

Auto Exotica

Multi-million dollar exotic and rare hypercars presented by Autostrada Magazine, Grand Touring Automobiles, and Pfaff Automotive. This display showcases vehicles most attendees will never see on public roads.

The Vault

A dedicated showcase of classic muscle cars, hot rods, and resto mods located on the 100 Level of the convention centre. Perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate automotive history.

LEGO Life-Size Vehicle

The LEGO Group returns with an all-new life-size replica of an automotive icon, built entirely from LEGO bricks—a must-see for families and LEGO enthusiasts.

Planning Your Visit

Best Time to Attend

  • Opening Day (Friday, February 13): Noon-10pm, expect crowds but see everything fresh
  • Super Tuesday (February 17): $15 admission, excellent value
  • Weekday Mornings: Least crowded, best for serious shoppers
  • Closing Sunday (February 22): Final day, closes at 6pm

What to Bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes (the show spans two buildings)
  • Digital ticket (confirmation email or app)
  • Smartphone for photos and taking notes
  • Trade-in vehicle information if comparing values

Pro Tips

  1. Download the AutoShow App: Interactive map, exhibitor directory, and schedule updates
  2. Plan Your Route: Review the floor plan online before arriving
  3. Test Drive Early: Popular vehicles fill up quickly, arrive when doors open
  4. Bring Business Cards: Many dealers collect contact information for follow-up offers
  5. Check Recalls First: Use our VIN decoder and recall tool before committing to any vehicle

Shopping at the AutoShow vs. Real Market Prices

The AutoShow is excellent for research, but remember that show pricing often differs from actual market conditions. Dealers may offer "show specials," but you'll want to compare against real-world inventory.

After the show, use Cardog's platform to see actual market pricing across over 1.1 million vehicle variations. Compare show offers against:

  • Current Toronto Inventory: See what's actually available in your area
  • Real Pricing Data: Average prices based on thousands of active listings
  • Recall History: Check safety records before buying
  • Market Trends: Understand if you're getting a fair deal

For example, if a dealer quotes you $35,000 for a Honda CR-V, you can instantly see that similar models in Toronto average $32,000—giving you negotiating power.

Should You Buy at the AutoShow?

The AutoShow is ideal for:

  • Comparing multiple brands side-by-side
  • Test-driving vehicles you've researched online
  • Asking manufacturers detailed technical questions
  • Seeing colour and trim options in person
  • Understanding new technology features

However, the best deals typically come after the show when dealers are motivated to meet monthly quotas. Use the AutoShow to narrow your choices, then leverage tools like Cardog's market intelligence to negotiate from a position of strength.

Beyond Toronto: Other Canadian Auto Shows

If you can't make the Toronto show, consider these 2026 events:

  • Montreal International Auto Show: January 2026
  • Vancouver International Auto Show: March 2026
  • Calgary International Auto Show: April 2026

After the AutoShow: Next Steps

Once you've identified your ideal vehicle at the show:

  1. Check Recalls: Use our recall lookup tool to verify safety history
  2. Compare Market Prices: Browse actual inventory in Toronto to see fair pricing
  3. Get Trade-In Value: Use our valuation tool to understand your current vehicle's worth
  4. Research Model Years: Read our guides on the best Toyota RAV4 years, best Toyota Camry years, and more
  5. Explore Local Inventory: Filter by make, model, price range, and location across 1.1M+ vehicles

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the 2026 Canadian International AutoShow?

The 2026 Canadian International AutoShow runs February 13-22, 2026, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in downtown Toronto.

How much are tickets to the Toronto AutoShow 2026?

General admission tickets are $28 for adults at the door, or $21 if purchased before December 31, 2025 (Early Bird pricing). Youth tickets are $18 ($14 Early Bird), children 7-11 are $8 ($6 Early Bird), and children under 6 are free.

Can I test drive vehicles at the AutoShow?

Yes! Over 50 vehicles are available for test drives, including a dedicated indoor EV test track where you can test electric and hybrid vehicles without leaving the show floor.

Where is the Canadian International AutoShow held?

The show takes place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, utilizing both the North Building (55 Front St West) and South Building (333 Bremner Blvd). It's directly connected to Union Station for easy transit access.

Is the AutoShow worth attending if I'm not buying soon?

Absolutely! The AutoShow is perfect for research, seeing new technology, comparing brands side-by-side, and planning future purchases. The special exhibits like Auto Exotica and The Vault offer entertainment value even if you're not shopping.

What brands will be at the 2026 Toronto AutoShow?

Over 40 brands including Toyota, Honda, Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Subaru, Volkswagen, Jeep, RAM, Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, INFINITI, Cadillac, Lincoln, Alfa Romeo, Polestar, and more.

Can I buy a car at the AutoShow?

While many dealerships have sales representatives present and can take orders, you typically won't drive home in a vehicle the same day. The AutoShow is primarily for research and comparison, with actual purchases happening at dealerships after the event.

What are the AutoShow hours?

Opening day (Friday, February 13) is noon-10pm. Weekdays are typically 10:30am-9pm, weekends are 10:30am-10pm. The closing day (Sunday, February 22) ends at 6pm.

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