Chicago Auto Show revs up

Text and photos by Jack McCarthy / Chronicle Media

This GMC Sierra offers the ultimate in off-road driving.

The nation’s largest auto show — a February fixture in Chicago — is back for a 10-day run at McCormick Place.

The sprawling showcase, now in its 111th year, celebrates the latest and greatest on wheels and is expected to attract nearly 1 million visitors to the lakefront venue through Feb. 18.

The Cadillac exhibit includes a vintage 1959 El Dorado Biarritz.

Sponsored by the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), the show features nearly 1,000 vehicles spread over 1 million square feet of exhibit space.

Visitors can take a ride on any of four indoor test tracks sponsored by Jeep, Land Rover, Ram Trucks and Kia. Outdoor ride-and-drive opportunities are also available.

The most expensive vehicle on the show floor — a $3.4 million Bugatti Chiron.

Along with product introductions and 2019 sedans, SUVs and trucks, attendees can also view vintage Corvettes as well as a 1959 red Cadillac El Dorado. Plus there’s a special area featuring some of the world’s most expensive and exclusive cars, including a $3.4 million Bugatti Chiron.

The show runs from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. daily, with an 8 p.m. closing on Feb. 18.

Base adult admission is $13, but less with discounts offered throughout the run of the show.

Local new-car dealer are offering $6 weekday discount coupons, good from Feb. 11 through Feb. 15 and Feb. 18. Admission for seniors age 62 and older and children ages 7-12 is $7. Children under age six are free when accompanied by a paying adult family member.

Parking is $15 and $23 at main McCormick Place lots and $10 after 6 p.m. in the Soldier Field South lot.

More information is available at www.chicagoautoshow.com.

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