Automakers at Toronto show switch gears on focus
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The Canadian International AutoShow is hoping to build off its record-setting year last year. And if those big numbers come through, many attendees can expect to hear a lot about all sorts of options available to them in their car-buying journey by automakers this year.
Whether consumers want a gas-powered vehicle, one that is fully electric or a hybrid of some kind, automakers are giving people options. Halls of the north and south buildings of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre are filled with vehicles of various power types.
Indeed, that was the message from many automakers during Media Day on February 13, the day before doors officially opened to the public. Seemingly sensing waning confidence from the public — despite record-setting highs in sales in the third quarter of 2024 — automakers are offering more options for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles in addition to their current offerings of battery electrics and traditional hybrids.
As one example, Volvo showcased its XC-90 PHEV as part of its departure from its commitment to go fully electric by 2030. Other automakers are making PHEVs a focus of their exhibits.
The day included a presentation and discussion by Cadillac as it unveiled new electric options, the Celestiq and Sollei Concept. Mercedes-Benz introduced its electric G-Wagen, which can pivot and turn using a smaller footprint.
With more than 370,000 people attending last year’s show, hopes were high among organizers that around the same, if not more, would come out for this year’s version.
Awards were handed out for the 2025 Canadian Car of the Year Awards, presented by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC)
The Honda Civic won the 2025 Canadian Car of the Year, its second win in four years. AJAC jurors noted the car’s ergonomics and handling as key to its appeal.
The 2025 Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year is the Hyundai Santa Fe. The redesigned family SUV was praised by jurors for its interior ergonomics, infotainment system and refinement.
The BMW i4 won again for the 2025 Canadian Electric Car of the Year. The judges highlighted its smooth, efficient powertrain and high quality.
The 2025 Canadian Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year is the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. The high-performance N model, with 641 horsepower and sporty, gearbox-like N Shift feature earned Hyundai its second honour of the awards.
The show runs until Feb. 23. Please see our photo gallery below.
2025 Canadian International AutoShow
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