Chicago Auto Show kicks off spring car sale season

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The shiny surfaces, compelling and interactive displays, the new car smell everywhere you go - it's all part of the February fiesta that is the Chicago Auto Show.

It also serves as the kickoff to drive sales in the spring season

PHOTOS: 2016 Chicago Auto Show

"We get to sit in them see if we are comfortable, if the family is going to fit in them, if we like how they feel how much they cost, and you get to see all of the models in a small space," said Andrea Stauffenberg, of Plainfield.

The Stauffenbergs are planning a vehicle purchase within the next 12 months. According to Foresight Research in Michigan, that's the same for 68 percent of Auto Show attendees.

"Having all this great new sheet metal, it does get people excited," said David Sloan, president, Chicago Auto Show. "It is so important that automakers are here in a big way so they bring their latest displays and best vehicles, all the latest material because they know we can generate interest and demand."

Manufacturers know who's here.

- 44 percent are women

- 80 percent come specifically to see newly-debuted vehicles

- 42 percent are millennials, who supposedly are not that into cars

With all those people looking to buy soon, Foresight Research has found attendees add one or more brands to their consideration list - manna for the companies that spend a lot to impress.

"I love Chicago personally. People come here and they have serious questions. They want to know about the car they want to know in-depth about the car they are really seriously looking," said Ricky Underhill, Kia product specialist.

Follow more of ABC7's 2016 Chicago Auto Show coverage here.