2022 Chicago Auto Show returns to McCormick Place with COVID protocols in place

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Chicago Auto Show comes back to McCormick Place this weekend.

It's half the size, with only one showroom floor and no food court in the showroom, which has been moved to a separate area. But this consumer show is still the best way to try before you buy!

This is the 114th edition of the Chicago Auto Show, and even in this scaled down version you'll still see a huge variety of cars and trucks, some making their Chicago debut!

ABC7 Chicago to present '2022 Chicago Auto Show' live, Saturday, Feb. 12 at 6 p.m.

"This is our brand new redesigned third generation Sequoia, 2023 Sequoia, first time we are seeing a hybrid powered train and it comes with the I-force max engine so you are getting 437 HP and 583 pound torque," said Toyota product specialist Isabelle Du.

If there's one theme that stands out, it's the increasing presence of electric vehicles, like the Chevy Silverado EV, and the Kia EV6.

"This is a car that does everything you'd expect from an electric car in that it's zero emissions, you can charge it at home or at stations going in all around the country, but then it also looks good, and it drives even better," said James Bell, Kia America's head of corporate communications.

There are more test tracks this year than ever, six to be exact, but the piece de resistance is the new EV Test Track!

You'll have your choice of riding in the Kia EV6 or BMW's i4 or iX, to see how electric vehicles accelerate, along with the basic capabilities of the car.

"Its' great to drive an EV or ride in one just on the floor, to get a feel for it," said Joe Wiesenfelder, executive editor of Cars.com. "That's when people really have their 'ah-ha' moment and recognize why everyone's interested in them."

A fan favorite from the summer has transitioned to an indoor test track, Bronco Mountain!

"For Bronco you've gotta give people the in-depth experience of taking them into the wild," said Bronco communications manager Jiyan Cadiz.

Another fan favorite is back, bigger than ever, literally! Camp Jeep has increased the height of Camp Jeep Mountain by 10 feet - not like there's any competition, or anything like that!

Once again, show-goers will have the opportunity to test-drive cars, trucks, SUVs and EVs outside on city streets. It is still very much a family-friendly consumer show, whether you're looking to buy, or just a fun day out, and I think we're all looking for some of that these days!

The Chicago Auto Show runs from February 12-21, with hours from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day except the final day, which runs from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors aged 62 and older, $10 for children 4-12 and children 3 and under are free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Masks are required for all attendees age 2 and over, except when eating or drinking. Proof of COVID vaccination is not required for admission, but is required for designated food and beverage areas.