The Los Angeles Auto Show returns this November with an intriguing mix of electric newcomers, powerful petrol cars, hybrid SUVs and futuristic concepts. With Hyundai, Ford and Volkswagen among the manufacturers preparing announcements, there should be plenty to catch the attention of car enthusiasts, and a few things that might interest us Brits.
I’ll be reporting from the show, but here’s a glimpse of what we might be seeing.
LA Convention Center - Home of the LA Auto Show [Credit: Cbl62]
The Los Angeles Auto Show has always had its own personality. Taking place in a city where cars are as much a part of the culture as Hollywood and the entertainment industry, it has traditionally been a showcase for everything from the latest production models to outrageous concepts and high-performance machinery. And the 2026 event looks set to continue that tradition.
Running from 20–29 November at the Los Angeles Convention Center, this year's show arrives at an interesting time for the global automotive industry. Electric cars continue to develop, hybrid technology is enjoying renewed popularity, and manufacturers are finding that there is still plenty of appetite for traditional petrol-powered performance cars.
With almost two dozen manufacturers represented, the 2026 show promises a fascinating snapshot of where the American car market is heading.
A busy start with Hyundai, Ford and Volkswagen
Before the public doors open, the industry will gather for AutoMobility LA on 19 November.
Hyundai is scheduled to kick off the manufacturer's press conferences with a global reveal, taking place during the morning programme. Ford will also host a vehicle walkaround, while Volkswagen has a vehicle showcase and presentation planned.
The precise details of Hyundai's global reveal are yet to be confirmed, making that one of the announcements worth watching.
There will also be discussions covering automotive technology, artificial intelligence and the changing relationship between manufacturers and consumers.
Electric cars take centre stage
There is certainly no shortage of electric vehicles heading to Los Angeles.
One of the most interesting is the Rivian R2, the more accessible electric SUV from the American manufacturer. With up to 656hp, a claimed 0–60mph time of just 3.6 seconds and an EPA-estimated range of 330 miles, it promises to bring Rivian's adventure-focused approach to a wider audience.
Genesis will also be showcasing its GV90, an all-electric flagship SUV that sits at the top of the manufacturer's range. Inspired by the Neolun concept, it features a luxurious three-row interior and represents an important step in Genesis's ambitions to compete with established premium manufacturers.
Toyota is preparing something particularly interesting with its all-new 2028 Highlander. For the first time, the popular seven-seat SUV is going fully electric, with Toyota targeting a range of up to 315 miles.
Meanwhile, Porsche's Cayenne Turbo Electric promises to demonstrate just how far electric performance has progressed. With up to 1,139hp, a claimed 0–60mph time of 2.4 seconds and an 800-volt electrical architecture, it is an extraordinary proposition. Porsche also quotes a charging time of as little as 16 minutes for a 10–80 per cent charge under optimal conditions.
Tesla will also be represented by the Model Y L, an extended-wheelbase version of its popular electric SUV. Featuring three rows of seating for six people, it offers an interesting alternative for families wanting more space without moving into a much larger vehicle.
Hybrids are having their moment
Perhaps one of the most interesting themes of this year's show is the growing importance of hybrid technology.
While manufacturers continue to invest heavily in battery-electric vehicles, there is increasing recognition that not every customer is ready to make the switch.
Kia will showcase its Telluride Hybrid, combining a turbocharged hybrid powertrain with 329hp and an estimated combined economy of up to 35mpg on the US EPA test cycle.
Nissan is also bringing its new Rogue Hybrid, which introduces the company's e-POWER technology to the American market. Unlike a conventional hybrid, Nissan's e-POWER system uses its petrol engine to generate electricity, with the electric motor driving the wheels.
Subaru will also be showing the Forester Wilderness Hybrid, combining the model's off-road credentials with an electrified powertrain.
It is a useful reminder that the industry's future isn't necessarily going to be exclusively electric. For many buyers, hybrid technology remains an appealing compromise between efficiency, practicality and convenience.
Petrol power isn't dead yet
For anyone worried that motor shows are becoming a little too focused on batteries and charging speeds, there are some rather interesting alternatives.
Ford will be showcasing the Mustang Dark Horse SC Convertible, which uses a supercharged 5.2-litre V8 producing an impressive 795hp. Ford describes it as the most powerful Mustang convertible it has ever built.
Ram is also reviving a familiar name with the 1500 Rumble Bee. The new model offers a choice of V8 engines, including a supercharged 6.2-litre Hellcat unit producing up to 777hp in the range-topping version.
Meanwhile, Dodge will be showing its Charger Scat Pack, featuring a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre SIXPACK inline-six producing 550hp.
It is quite a contrast to the electric SUVs elsewhere on the show floor, but that's precisely what makes the current automotive landscape so interesting.
Concepts, campers and a little bit of Italian charm
There will be plenty beyond conventional production cars, too.
Acura will display its NEXERA Vision concept, developed at the manufacturer's California design studio. The concept provides an indication of the styling direction for future Acura models, including the next-generation RDX Hybrid expected in 2028.
Honda has something rather different planned with its Base Station Prototype. Essentially a lightweight camping trailer, it is designed to be towed by a wide range of SUVs and features a modular interior that can be transformed into a living and sleeping space.
Fiat will bring a little Italian character to proceedings with the Topolino, a compact, low-speed electric vehicle designed for short journeys and urban environments.
Jeep will also be displaying all 12 vehicles from its Twelve 4 Twelve series together for the first time, with the 2027 Wrangler Switchback completing the collection.
More than just new cars
One of the things that makes the Los Angeles Auto Show different is its connection with the wider car culture of Southern California.
The 2026 event will feature a collection of five Volkswagen buses selected from comedian Gabriel Iglesias's famous collection. Known to fans as Fluffy, Iglesias will also be making appearances during the show.
There is a particularly interesting story involving automotive designer Chip Foose and Coulson Aviation. Following the devastating Eaton fires, the pair joined forces to restore a Chevrolet Delray belonging to someone affected by the disaster. The completed car will be reunited with its owner at this year's show.
The Road Kings of Burbank will also be celebrating their 75th anniversary with more than 20 classic cars, hot rods and vintage muscle cars.
For enthusiasts, the Underground exhibition area should also be worth exploring, with custom builds and some of the more unusual vehicles on display.
Getting behind the wheel
The show isn't just about looking at cars. Visitors will be able to take part in outdoor street drives, allowing them to experience selected new vehicles on the roads around downtown Los Angeles.
There will also be a dedicated electric and hybrid test track, giving visitors the opportunity to compare different electrified powertrains.
For those who prefer something a little more adventurous, Ford Bronco Built Wild and Camp Jeep will provide off-road-style ride experiences, while Nissan is planning an indoor ride experience.
Importantly, these driving and ride experiences are included with admission.
Will the 2026 LA Auto Show be worth watching?
For British enthusiasts, not every vehicle heading to Los Angeles will be particularly relevant but it’s always interesting to see what’s on offer elsewhere, and the show should still provide an interesting insight into the direction of the global automotive industry.
The growing popularity of hybrids, the continued development of high-performance electric vehicles and the surprising resilience of large petrol-powered engines all make for an interesting mix. And with Hyundai preparing a global reveal alongside appearances from some of the industry's biggest manufacturers, there could be a few surprises along the way.
The 2026 Los Angeles Auto Show runs from 20–29 November 2026, with AutoMobility LA taking place on 19 November at the Los Angeles Convention Center.
Keep your eyes here, and on the YouTube channel for our coverage from the event.