Miss the Chicago Auto Show? Organizers host test drive event in the suburbs with multiple brands

Ready to kick some tires but can't wait until the Chicago Auto Show comes in 2027?

Organizers of the popular event are offering a mini auto show Friday through Sunday in Oakbrook Terrace, with test drives and a variety of electric, hybrid and gas-powered cars, SUVs and pickups to check out.

The Chicago Auto Show: Behind the Wheel replaces the Chicago Automobile Trade Association’s annual fall Chicago Drives Electric showcase and will feature EVs, hybrids and conventional gas-powered cars.

“As the automotive industry continues to evolve, so has this event,” CATA President Jennifer Morand said in a statement.

Behind the Wheel “reflects the needs of today's consumers by offering the opportunity to experience a broad range of vehicles in one place. This event helps shoppers make informed decisions through hands-on experiences,” Moran noted.

Participating manufacturers include BMW, Chevrolet, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Tesla and Toyota. Vehicles range from Cybertrucks to Broncos to Camrys.

Consumers can chat with product specialists on-site who can explain new technologies and help drivers find vehicles that fit their needs, officials said.

Here are the details:

• Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday.

• The show is located at the ComEd Building, 3 Lincoln Center, in Oakbrook Terrace.

• Test drives are available on: BMW’s iX3, X3 and X7; Chevrolet’s Equinox, Tahoe, Traverse and Silverado; Ford’s Bronco Sport, Explorer, F-150 and Mustang Mach-E; Hyundai’s IONIQ 9 Performance Limited, Palisade Hybrid Calligraphy, and Tucson Hybrid Limited AWD; Kia’s EV9, EV3 and Telluride HEV; Tesla’s Cybertruck, Model 3 and Model Y; Toyota’s C-HR EV, Camry Hybrid, Grand Highlander Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid; and Vinfast’s VF8 and VF9.

• Vehicles on display include Tesla’s Model Y L, the 2027 BMW X5 and Chevrolet’s 2026 Corvette.

• To register for a $10 driving session, visit chicagoautoshow.com/events/chicago-auto-show-behind-the-wheel. Drivers must be age 18 or older and have a valid license. Non-driving attendees can register for free.

• The event is presented by CATA and ComEd.

• Dates for the Chicago Auto Show are Feb. 13 to 21 at McCormick Place.

mpyke@dailyherald.com