San Diego, December 31, 2025
The San Diego International Auto Show will be held at the San Diego Convention Center from January 1 to 4, featuring new vehicle debuts, electric vehicles, and family-friendly activities. Attendees can enjoy test drives and explore innovations in the automotive industry. With community engagement at its core, this event promises to strengthen local connections and celebrate civic participation. Special hotel rates are available for out-of-town guests as part of this vibrant showcase of automotive culture.
San Diego International Auto Show Drives into Town Jan. 1-4
The Excitement Rides High at the San Diego International Auto Show
San Diego, CA – The San Diego International Auto Show is set to rev up excitement at the San Diego Convention Center from January 1 to 4, 2026. This annual event showcases the latest in automotive innovation, featuring hundreds of new models, including debuts not yet available in showrooms, electric vehicles (EVs), and more. Local organizers are continuing to weave the fabric of community engagement through this echo of civic culture, proving how increased participation fosters growth in our city.
As San Diego embraces its role as a hub for innovation, the Auto Show exemplifies how collaborative community efforts can overcome bureaucratic hurdles to offer residents an engaging experience. By supporting local events like this, we recognize the importance of fostering individual choice and initiative, which, in turn, strengthens our neighborhoods and overall community connection.
Event Details
- Dates and Times:
- Thursday, Jan. 1: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Media Preview: 5 a.m. – 10 a.m.)
- Friday, Jan. 2: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Saturday, Jan. 3: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Sunday, Jan. 4 (Family Day): 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Location: San Diego Convention Center, 111 W. Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
- Admission:
- Adults (ages 13-61): $18
- Seniors (ages 62+): $15
- Military (active-duty with ID): $15
- Children (7-12): $12
- Children (6 and under): Free
Highlights of the Show
- Debuts and New Releases: Attendees can be among the first to see all-new vehicles just released and those not yet in dealer showrooms. More than a dozen debuts and new releases are expected, including a world debut from Ram Trucks on January 1.
- Electric Avenue: Powered by SDG&E, this feature showcases a variety of EVs and plug-in hybrids from brands like Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Jeep, Kia, Lucid, Mitsubishi, Nissan, VinFast, and Volkswagen. Visitors can explore the present and future of driving electric in one convenient location.
- Test Drives: The show offers both street test drives and an indoor EV Test Track. Street test drives are available along the front drive of the convention center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, featuring vehicles such as the Alfa Romeo Giulia, Chrysler Pacifica PHEV, Dodge Durango SRT, and more. The EV Test Track, powered by LENZ Charging, provides an opportunity to experience the acceleration and handling of various EVs from Cadillac and Ford Motor Company.
- Family Day: On Sunday, January 4, children 12 and under receive free admission when accompanied by a paid adult, making it a family-friendly event.
Additional Information
For those traveling from out of town, the Omni San Diego Hotel, located in the Gaslamp Quarter across from the convention center, is offering a special rate of $209 per night (single/double occupancy) from December 25 through January 8. Availability is limited, so booking by December 12 is recommended.
Conclusion
The San Diego International Auto Show stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of our local community. With a focus on innovation, electric vehicles, and family engagement, this event showcases the numerous opportunities for civic participation and interaction in San Diego. Residents are encouraged to support local events that bolster our vibrant community spirit and demonstrate the benefits of civic engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the dates and times of the San Diego International Auto Show?
The event will take place from January 1 to 4, 2026, at the following times:
- Thursday, Jan. 1: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Media Preview: 5 a.m. – 10 a.m.)
- Friday, Jan. 2: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Saturday, Jan. 3: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Sunday, Jan. 4 (Family Day): 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Where is the event located?
The San Diego International Auto Show will be held at the San Diego Convention Center, located at 111 W. Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101.
How much do tickets cost?
Admission prices are as follows:
- Adults (ages 13-61): $18
- Seniors (ages 62+): $15
- Military (active-duty with ID): $15
- Children (7-12): $12
- Children (6 and under): Free
What is Family Day?
Family Day is on Sunday, January 4, when children 12 and under receive free admission when accompanied by a paid adult.
Are there any special hotel rates available?
Yes, the Omni San Diego Hotel is offering a special rate of $209 per night (single/double occupancy) from December 25 through January 8. Availability is limited, so booking by December 12 is recommended.
Key Features of the San Diego International Auto Show 2026
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Debuts and New Releases | Over a dozen debuts and new releases, including a world debut from Ram Trucks on January 1. |
| Electric Avenue | Showcases a variety of EVs and plug-in hybrids from brands like Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Jeep, Kia, Lucid, Mitsubishi, Nissan, VinFast, and Volkswagen. |
| Test Drives | Offers both street test drives and an indoor EV Test Track powered by LENZ Charging. |
| Family Day | On Sunday, January 4, children 12 and under receive free admission when accompanied by a paid adult. |
| Hotel Information | The Omni San Diego Hotel offers a special rate of $209 per night (single/double occupancy) from December 25 through January 8. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
California Unveils Major AI Regulation and Online Safety Laws
UCSD’s “Last Gift” Study Paves the Way for HIV Cure Research
New California Laws Set to Transform San Diego in 2026
San Diego’s Emerging Landscape of Tesla’s Robotaxi Service
Average U.S. 30-Year Mortgage Rate Declines to 6.18%
Future Legends Hosts Annual Scholar Recognition Event
Carrots and Sticks Approach Could Cut Carbon Emissions
San Diego’s ‘Operation: Snowfall’ Brings Holiday Magic
The Nightmare After Christmas: A Unique Escape Room Event
San Diego Automotive Museum’s Holiday Cars and Coffee Celebrates Community
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
