Auto shows have always been a great way to take the pulse of the industry, and this year’s event did not disappoint. From affordable daily drivers to eye-popping supercars, and from tried-and-true gas powertrains to the latest electric and hybrid technology, the Utah Auto Expo offered a clear snapshot of where the automotive world is headed — and how divided it still is on the road to electrification.

Some manufacturers are fully committed to an electric future, others are hedging their bets with hybrids and a few are proudly sticking with internal combustion for now. That mix made for an engaging and informative show, especially for Utah buyers who still value versatility, range and all-weather capability.

One of our first stops was the Nissan booth, where we caught up with longtime media friend Jannelle Grigsby before the show opened to the public. Nissan continues to focus on affordability, something that resonates strongly with many Utah families. Grigsby pointed out that Nissan now offers six vehicles with starting prices under $30,000 — the Versa, Sentra, Leaf, Altima, Kicks and Rogue — a notable accomplishment in today’s market.

The redesigned 2026 Nissan Leaf drew plenty of attention, and for good reason. Now boasting an estimated range of more than 220 miles per charge, the Leaf has evolved into a far more practical everyday commuter. Nissan has also given it a much-needed styling update, with a cleaner, more modern look that finally sheds its purely “economy EV” image. Inside, the Leaf features the latest Nissan tech and driver-assist features, making it a comfortable and user-friendly daily driver.

Craig Conover, Daily Herald

While the Leaf is not compatible with Level 3 DC fast charging, Nissan has addressed convenience in another way by placing charging ports on both sides of the vehicle. That small but thoughtful detail makes home charging easier regardless of garage layout — something many EV owners will appreciate.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Nissan also had something far more aggressive on display: the new NISMO Armada. This performance-oriented take on Nissan’s full-size SUV adds attitude and athletic styling to an already capable platform. We’ll have more to say about that one soon, as the Armada NISMO will be our test vehicle next week.

Honda also made headlines at the Expo with the return of an iconic nameplate — the all-new Honda Prelude. Completely redesigned, the Prelude now returns as a hybrid performance coupe, blending nostalgia with modern efficiency. Its powertrain combines Honda’s 2.0-liter direct-injection Atkinson-cycle engine with two large electric motors, similar in concept to the Civic Hybrid but tuned for a more spirited driving experience. If early impressions hold true, this new Prelude should strike a satisfying balance between performance, efficiency and everyday drivability.

For those who feel that “spirited” still isn’t enough, Chevrolet had the ultimate answer: the Corvette ZR1. With more than 1,000 horsepower on tap, this is a machine designed to redefine the limits of American performance. Of course, that kind of power comes with a price, and the ZR1 starts at around $201,000. Still, it’s hard not to admire Chevrolet’s willingness to push boundaries and remind the world that raw performance is alive and well.

Chevrolet also showcased vehicles more aligned with everyday life, including its trucks, SUVs and the upcoming 2027 electric Bolt. With a projected range of more than 220 miles, the new Bolt looks poised to once again become one of the most practical and affordable EV commuter options on the market.

Craig Conover, Daily Herald

Toyota brought one of the strongest overall lineups to this year’s Expo, filling its display with everything from sedans to full-size SUVs. The fully redesigned 4Runner and Land Cruiser were clear standouts, and both should be big hits with Utah buyers who value off-road capability and long-term reliability.

One particularly fun highlight was a Surf Edition 4Runner concept originally built for the SEMA Show. This creative throwback featured a removable rear roof section, instantly reminding us of classic two-door Blazers from decades past. While it’s strictly a concept for now, it’s hard not to imagine something like this finding an audience — especially among outdoor and surf enthusiasts.

Kia also made a strong impression, especially in the family-focused segment. The newly redesigned Carnival minivan continues to redefine what a modern people-mover can be. Now offering a hybrid powertrain capable of delivering more than 30 miles per gallon, the Carnival proves that practicality and efficiency can coexist. With dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays, hands-free sliding doors and a cavernous interior, it remains one of the smartest choices for active families.

Looking ahead, Kia previewed the next-generation Telluride, which will debut with a hybrid powertrain for the 2027 model year. Estimated at 329 horsepower and up to 35 miles per gallon, the hybrid Telluride looks ready to carry on the model’s popularity well into its second generation.

Stellantis rounded out the show with a diverse and intriguing lineup, highlighted by the all-new Jeep Recon. This fully electric, Trail Rated SUV is designed to maintain Jeep’s off-road DNA while embracing electrification. The Recon features removable doors, rugged tires, generous ground clearance and a design clearly inspired by the Wrangler. Jeep promises real trail capability, not just urban styling, and if the Recon delivers on that promise, it could become a compelling option for adventure-minded EV buyers.

Craig Conover, Daily Herald

At the end of the show

The 2026 Utah Auto Expo reminded us why auto shows still matter. They offer a chance to see the full spectrum of the industry in one place — from affordable commuters to high-performance dream machines, from gas-powered workhorses to fully electric trail rigs. What became clear is that there is no single path forward. Instead, manufacturers are offering choices, letting buyers decide what works best for their lifestyle, budget and driving needs.

For Utah drivers, that variety is especially important. Whether it’s navigating winter weather, hauling gear to the mountains or simply commuting to work, the vehicles on display showed that the future of driving will be as diverse as the roads we travel. And if the Utah Auto Expo is any indication, the journey ahead should be an exciting one.

2026 Toyota Land Cruiser

Toyota 4Runner Surg Concept

2026 Kia Carnival

2026 Jeep Recon