The 2024 New York International Auto Show opens on Friday, March 29 with the anticipation that it will be the launchpad for a rush of new automotive designs, features and technologies. While some of this newness remains under wraps for the moment, there have been enough teases and pre-releases to pique our curiosity to see more. With that in mind, here’s a sneak peek of some of this year’s new model debuts.
Nissan
Nissan is set to display the all-new 2025 Nissan Kicks compact crossover at the 2024 NYIAS. It’ll be the first Kicks to offer all-wheel drive and is expected to arrive in dealerships later this summer. It’s street-smart design is described by the manufacturer as having been inspired by high-end sneakers.
Sticking with that athletic metaphor, Nissan “unboxed” the new Kicks a week before the auto show and a few miles away with an interactive experience at Barclays Center in Brooklyn for the opening rounds of the 2024 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament.
No question the exterior is bold and expressive, but moving to the interior it offers a more cocoon-like experience that’s cozy but roomier than previous editions and meant to counter the intensity on the outside.
Under the hood there’s a 2-liter engine that’ll make 141 horsepower. It’s mated to a Nissan Xtronic transmission.
Kia
Primed for its debut at NYIAS, the Kia K4 will take the place of the brand’s outgoing, entry-level Forte model and from the looks of it, the new K4 will turn the segment on its head. The automaker released full exterior and interior images of the K4 a week ago but held back on full details until the auto show about what makes this sedan tick.
The automaker did however state that “Rather than the traditional form of driver-orientation of screens and controls angled towards the driver, this interior separates the driver from passenger with a bold graphic split. This division creates a clear distinction between the two spaces – the driver cockpit, which is technical and machine in character, from the passenger cabin, which is comfortable and human.”
Genesis
Genesis introduces two interesting concepts, the performance-focused GV60 Magma and the elegant Neolum SUV.
Polestar
As the old-guard luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes continue to ignore auto shows, the premium Polestar brand makes its first appearance at the New York Autoshow showing off its entire all-electric performance lineup including the upcoming Polestar 3 & Polestar 4.
Porsche
The Porsche Macan is going all-electric. The second generation of the dynamic midsize SUV will make its debut here at NYIAS.
Hyundai
This year, Hyundai will launch two redesigned models, the Hyundai Tucson SUV and Santa Cruz.
When the 2024 New York International Auto Show opens its doors to the public on Friday, March 29, showgoers might notice a few notable brand no-shows. Well, the show must go on, and to fill the space that was once occupied by the absent manufacturers, NYIAS organizers have developed new and expanded attractions, creating an interesting mix of vintage, specialty and new automobiles.
The Javits Center is a big place – 3.3 million square feet to be exact – so a big space needs some big attractions. To give you a preview, here’s a rundown of some of the special experiences you’ll find this year.
Test Rides
EV Test Track
EV Test Track 2023 New York International Auto Show | Photo: NYIAS
One of the most significant benefits of an EV is the lack of tailpipe emissions, so what better way to showcase this than a giant indoor EV test track? Show attendees can take a ride in the latest EV models with the added benefit of not being choked out by exhaust fumes.
We’ve noticed over the years that as the line-up of available EV models grows so does the size of the Test Track at NYIAS.
This year’s EV Test Track occupies a large portion of the first level and will feature vehicles from Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, Kia, Lexus, Nissan, VW, and Lucid. We’re excited to explore the latest EV models from GM (including the Cadillac LYRIQ and Equinox EV), as well as those from other automakers such as the Lucid Air, Kia EV9, and Lexus RZ.
Hyundai Test Track
Since the introduction of the IONIQ 5, Hyundai has provided NYIAS attendees with the opportunity to catch a ride in this all-electric hatchback. Now, with the IONIQ family of vehicles expanding over the past few years, showgoers will have the chance to experience not only the IONIQ 5, but the high-performance IONIQ 5 N and the IONIQ 6, as well as the Hyundai KONA Electric.
Ford EV Ride
Ford also also joins the EV action with their booth showcasing EVs such as the F-150 Lightning and the Mustang Mach-E. Ford’s test track offers a unique experience that promises visitors a thrilling ride. Imagine experiencing the full power of an EV as it races inside a building toward a cinderblock wall.
One of our favorite 2022 Car Show experiences was the Ford F-100 Eluminator Concept.
Camp Jeep
Not every ride-along at the New York Auto Show is solely with EVs. At Camp Jeep there’s a diverse lineup of the brand’s rugged, off-road ready vehicles where you may find yourself in an electrified Jeep 4xe model.
Even though parent company Stellantis (Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Alfa-Romeo) is absent from this year’s show, Camp Jeep is still happening, and thank goodness for that. It’s one of the staples of the New York Auto Show and one of the greatest auto show experiences of all time.
The first thing you see when walking up to the Javits Center is a fleet of Jeeps climbing up and down the 28-foot-tall “Jeep Mountain”. Seeing Jeeps off-roading against the backdrop of the Manhattan skyline is a bit unusual, and the expressions of awe on the faces of kids say it all. It’s hard to beat that level of brand awareness.
One tip if you’re planning on participating, don’t just ride in the Wrangler and Gladiator. It’s the smaller Jeeps such as the Compass that impress on this obstacle course and are pretty fun.
Ford Bronco Of-Roadeo Adventure Ride
The Bronco Off-Roadeo is a new attraction at the New York Auto Show this year. Like Camp Jeep, it promises to be a fun ride in Ford’s newer –and already iconic – Bronco. We can’t wait to give it a try.
Specialty Exhibits
Downey’s Dream Cars
Just like Tony Stark, award-winning actor Robert Downey Jr. shares a passion for classic cars and cutting-edge technology. These two worlds collide in the MAX series, “Downey’s Dream Cars.” The show chronicles Downey Jr’s journey to electrify his antique auto collection, with assistance from builders across the country.
The six vehicles featured on Downey’s Dream Cars will not only be on display but will also be raffled off to benefit the FootPrint Coalition. This nonprofit organization, launched by Downey Jr. and his partners, is dedicated to adopting technologies that advance human systems toward a cleaner environment.
Celebrity Vehicle Exhibit
Robert Downey Jr.’s dream cars won’t be the only celebrity vehicles on display. The Celebrity Vehicle Exhibit will also showcase vehicles owned by celebrities, such as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s customized Packard Super 8 and the first Stutz Blackhawk once owned by the King himself, Elvis Presley.
45 Years of Automotive Excellence: The Supra Exhibit at the New York Auto Show
Celebrate 45 years of the Toyota Supra and its evolution over the years.
Hometown Heros
Every year, the New York Auto Show showcases police vehicles from New York’s past and present. After Covid-19, NYIAS expanded its display to include vehicles used by NYC’s essential workers.
Various Car Club Displays
Other specialty car exhibits include the GTO, Ford Mustang, Porsche and Hot Rod Club displays.
Kids EV Driving Academy
It’s not all about the adults! Let your kids test their driving skills in a Power Wheels Jeep at the Kid’s EV Driving Academy.
Toyota Sports Festival
At this unique event, attendees are invited to participate in a series of free adaptive sports experiences, including wheelchair basketball, hand cycling, sled hockey, and skateboarding. Check out the Toyota Sports Festival Toyota Sports Festival website for more info.
Subaru Loves Pets
Subaru Loves Pets Area – 2023 NYIAS
Each Year Subaru helps find homes for shelter animals from across the country. Read our recent story about the Subaru Loves Pets here on RPM News, or visit their website here.
Battling it out with sudden intense weather while traversing the Berkshire Mountains was not what our fearless host, Rick DeMeis, envisioned when he set his course home to Metro Boston in the all-wheel drive 2024 Mazda 3 Turbo Premium Plus hatchback. Fortunately, he was driving a vehicle that had his back and was up to the task. Get the full story and more in this week’s Tech Talk podcast.
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Enjoy listening to your favorite episodes while you drive.
2024 Mazda3 Turbo Premium Plus AWD
“The Mazda3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus elevates the refined styling with gloss black aerodynamics accents for both the sedan and the hatchback. The sedan includes a rear lip spoiler, while hatchback models are equipped with a rear roof spoiler and front air dam. Rear Direction Base Safety, which includes Smart Brake Support-Reverse and Smart Brake Support-Rear Crossing, is added to complete the full i-Activsense suite of safety features. Leather seats are available in black or red for the hatchback and black or white for the sedan, along with a Bose 12-speaker premium audio system. Upgrades include Traffic Jam Assist, 360° View Monitor with front and rear parking sensors, Homelink added to the frameless auto-dim rearview mirror, and Mazda Navigation System, along with an Active Driving Display and Traffic Sign Recognition.” ~ Mazda Media
Many companies talk a big game when it comes to giving back, but Subaru of America has repeatedly proven its dedication to helping find homes for the millions of animals abandoned at shelters or rescued from the streets each year.
The New York International Auto Show has gone to the dogs…for me anyway.
By Peter Ciani
Every year I schlep to the New York Auto Show to check out the new car debuts, write a few stories, post a few pictures, and then head home. Last year I did something unexpected – I ended up coming home with a puppy. Yup, not a car, a real live dog. Here’s how it happened.
Many companies talk a big game when it comes to giving back, but Subaru of America has repeatedly proven its dedication to helping find homes for the millions of animals abandoned at shelters or rescued from the streets each year.
Subaru Loves Pets is an ongoing company campaign that has raised not only millions for national and local pet organizations but has helped over 480,000 animals since its inception.
Subaru Loves Pets | Photo: Subaru USA
In addition to its donations, Subaru opens up space in their auto show displays around the country for their Subaru Loves Pets Adoption Drive. Shelters from the local community are invited to showcase dogs in need of a permanent home, providing both the animals and the shelters with valuable exposure to potential adopters.
Subaru Loves Pets Adoption Drive Area 2023 NYIAS
This is where we found our most recent adoption Meeka — a ‘mystery’ lab mix rescued from the streets of Puerto Rico. It’s been a year since we adopted her, and despite not being a fancy show dog, she’s been a wonderful addition to our family. Surprisingly, she also loves playing in the snow, which I didn’t expect for a dog born in a tropical climate.
Our Adoptee Meeka at the 2023 New York Auto ShowOur Adoptee Meeka at the 2023 New York Auto Show
Subaru always puts on an impressive display at the NYIAS, showcasing their cars while highlighting the brand’s commitment to nature and its adventure-seeking customers. At the heart of this indoor/outdoor-like paradise is the Subaru Loves Pets adoption drive—a fenced-in area where show-goers can interact with potential new canine family members.
Subaru Display 2023 NYIAS | Photo: Peter Ciani
Just to be clear, the adoption area is not a petting zoo. Although some may think of it as such, it’s not. It’s an opportunity to get these dogs in the public eye and to allow families to interact with them directly. It’s one thing to see pictures of a dog on a shelter’s website; it’s another to see them in person.
Most people don’t expect to find a new pet at a car show, I know I didn’t. That’s the beauty of what Subaru and their animal-loving partners are doing.
I’d also like to give a shout-out to Zani’s Furry Friends. Although it doesn’t appear that they will be attending this year’s show, they’re the organization that went to great lengths to bring our dog there, along with many others, so that they could be adopted. Plus, they made the adoption process easy. Check them out if you are in the NYC area and are looking for a new pet.
Zani’s Furry Friends @ 2023 NYIAS
Zani’s Furry Friends @ 2023 NYIAS
Zani’s Furry Friends @ 2023 NYIAS
Zani’s Furry Friends @ 2023 NYIAS
Beyond the adoption drive, the Subaru booth also features pet-related activities, including educational seminars on responsible pet ownership and a pet photo booth where attendees can take pictures with their pets. For every photo taken, Subaru will donate to a local animal welfare organization. Subaru owners or those planning on becoming one, can also explore the automaker’s available pet-friendly accessories and features.
So, if you’re heading out to the 2024 New York Auto Show and would like to check out the pups, check out the schedule below, or visit the NYIAS website for updates.
Today we feature the gasoline only version of the Ford Escape ST-Line Elite. The combination of a 2-liter Ecoboost engine and 8-speed automatic transmission play significantly into this model’s 23 city / 31 highway / 26 combined fuel economy rating.
We recently produced a video of the Ford Escape Hybrid ST-Line Elite. Other than exterior color, the outward appearances are essentially identical between the two variants. Fuel economy however is much different. Compare the photos of the gasoline-only version featured in the gallery below with the video of the hybrid model that’s underneath the gallery.
What’s not to like about a vehicle that handles nicely, is loaded with technology features, has five star safety ratings and comes in at a price tag less than $30,000? Listen in as Tech Talk host Rick DeMeis tells us more about the impressive 2024 Subaru Impreza RS. It’s no WRX, but its trusty 182-horsepower Subaru 2.5-liter Boxer engine shows enough confidence to make the drive feel lively and a bit sporty. Start flipping the paddle shifters for more.
While you’re here, stay onboard for the full ride this week which includes a roundup of the latest tech news stories.
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