Home > News & Blogs > 2025 Detroit Auto Show Highlights: Key Reveals and Surprises

2025 Detroit Auto Show Highlights: Key Reveals and Surprises

2025 Detroit Auto Show: Ultimate Guide to New Releases & Award Winners | MotorVero

2025 Detroit Auto Show: The Complete Guide to What You Missed

2025 Detroit Auto Show


2025 Detroit Auto Show main exhibition hall

The Return of Detroit's Premier Automotive Event

After a six-year hiatus from its traditional January slot, the 2025 Detroit Auto Show has triumphantly returned to Huntington Place convention center, marking a new era for North America's most historic automotive exhibition. This year's show delivered groundbreaking reveals, prestigious awards, and exclusive performance vehicles that set the tone for the automotive year ahead.

--FIRST CAR LIST HERE--

Key Highlights

  • Ford unveils two exclusive Mustang performance models
  • NACTOY awards honor Honda Civic Hybrid, Ford Ranger, and VW ID. Buzz
  • First major auto show to implement augmented reality test drives
  • Expanded EV test track with 25+ electric models available to drive

Ford's Hometown Heroics: Mustang Takes Center Stage

Leveraging its hometown advantage, Ford dominated headlines with two extraordinary Mustang variants that pushed the boundaries of American performance.

Mustang GTD Spirit of America: A $325,000 Masterpiece

Ford Mustang GTD

The 815-horsepower Ford Mustang GTD Spirit of America represents the pinnacle of Ford Performance engineering, paying tribute to land speed record legend Craig Breedlove. This limited-edition track monster features:

  • Exclusive red, white, and blue racing livery
  • Active aerodynamics with carbon fiber dive planes
  • Forged magnesium wheels with track-focused rubber
  • GTD Performance Package with race-tuned suspension
  • Hand-built 5.2L supercharged V-8 with titanium exhaust

With production limited to just 100 units worldwide and an expected price exceeding $300,000, the Spirit of America continues Ford's tradition of ultra-exclusive halo cars following the GT supercar.

--TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

Mustang RTR: Affordable Performance for the Masses

For enthusiasts seeking accessible performance, Ford revealed the Mustang RTR developed with Vaughn Gittin Jr.'s renowned tuning shop. Based on the EcoBoost platform, this variant incorporates:

  • Dark Horse-derived performance components
  • Aggressive RTR body kit with functional aerodynamics
  • Track-tuned suspension and braking system
  • Exclusive interior appointments

While full specifications remain under wraps, industry insiders suggest the RTR will deliver 350+ horsepower from its turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder at a fraction of the GTD's price.

2025 NACTOY Awards: Celebrating North America's Best

The North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year (NACTOY) awards highlighted three exceptional vehicles that represent the best of their categories:

Car of the Year: Honda Civic Hybrid

Honda Civic Hybrid

The 2025 Civic Hybrid impressed judges with its seamless electrification of Honda's best-selling sedan. Key advantages include:

  • Class-leading 52 mpg combined fuel economy
  • 204 total system horsepower from new hybrid powertrain
  • Retained Civic driving dynamics and practicality
  • $27,500 starting price undercutting rivals
  • --SECOND CAR LIST HERE--

Truck of the Year: Ford Ranger

 Ford Ranger

Ford's midsize pickup reclaimed its throne with significant updates for 2025:

  • New 3.0L EcoBoost V6 with 400 lb-ft torque
  • Class-exclusive Pro Trailer Hitch Assist
  • Available hybrid powertrain option
  • Raptor variant with 450 horsepower

Utility Vehicle of the Year: Volkswagen ID. Buzz

Volkswagen ID. Buzz

The electric reimagining of the classic Microbus charmed judges with its:

  • Retro-futuristic design with modern EV technology
  • Available three-row seating for 7 passengers
  • 300+ mile EPA-estimated range
  • DC fast charging capability (10-80% in 30 minutes)
  • --FIRST CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

Practical Show Information for Attendees

Dates and Hours

The 2025 Detroit Auto Show runs January 13-20 at Huntington Place (One Washington Blvd., Detroit):

  • Public Days: Jan 13-14 & 17-20
  • Industry Days: Jan 15-16 (9am-1pm industry only, 1pm-8pm public)
  • Daily Hours: 10am-8pm (closes at 7pm on final day)

Ticket Information

  • General Admission: $20 (ages 13+)
  • Seniors: $12 (65+)
  • Children: $10 (3-12), Free (0-2)
  • Family Pass: $50 (2 adults + 3 children)
  • Industry Days: $40 (no children under 12 permitted)

Tickets are available at the official Detroit Auto Show website with timed entry slots to manage crowd flow.

--THIRD CAR LIST HERE--

Can't-Miss Experiences

Beyond the vehicles, the 2025 show features several unique attractions:

  • EV Test Track: Drive 25+ electric models on a dedicated indoor course
  • AR Experience: Test drive concept vehicles through augmented reality
  • Design Studio: Work with automotive designers on your dream vehicle
  • Tech Talks: Daily presentations from industry leaders

© 2025 MotorVero. All rights reserved. All manufacturer images and specifications are subject to change.

--SECOND CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

proImg

Motorvero G-queen

Last Updated On Jul, 16-2025

Share Now: