Last Updated on February 27, 2026 by Fadra Nally

I went to the 2017 New York International Auto Show last week and all I got was a lousy t-shirt.

NOT TRUE! I actually got an awesome t-shirt with the Demon logo on it when I attended the VIP introduction of the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT^® Demon. You wanna see it? The car, I mean, not the t-shirt.

Don’t worry. I’ve got you covered because I saw some pretty amazing cars at one of my favorite auto shows.

If you’re looking for news and stats and release dates, that’s not what I’m going to give you. I’m simply going to show you the hottest new cars that caught my eye (you’ll soon figure out my style of cars). But stick around because I’m also going to show you what’s new and of interest (because, although I’m not a huge fan of the Honda Odyssey, I know some of you are) and a whole ton of weird and wild cars that are strictly just for fun (or, in some cases, the very rich).

The 7 Coolest Cars at the New York International Auto Show

1. 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT^® Demon

This one gets top billing because it’s just so over the top. It’s the fastest production car in the world and is still street legal, barely. It’s got the most powerful V8 ever and sets you in motion at 840hp. Some might says it’s simply ridiculous.

Things to know: you can configure it to be a racer (5 point harness, optional passenger and rear seats) or make it a luxurious super car.

2. 2018 Subaru Ascent (Concept Car)

Yes, I’m surprised to see myself excited about a Subaru as well. But I couldn’t take my eyes off of this concept SUV showcased by Subaru.

Bad news, good news: This is only a concept car (bad news) but apparently it’s pretty close to what they plan to bring to production by mid-2018 (good news). I’m placing it here as a very clear message. We want this vehicle.

3. 2018 Kia Stinger

I’m not sure what I love more, the Kia success story or the Kia vehicles. But after looking at the brand new Kia Stinger, it’s definitely this car.

Call me crazy but I’d easily mistake this for a luxury sedan on the road (anyone else thinking of the BMW 5 series?).

Read more about when I went to California and drove the Kia Stinger.

4. 2018 Volkswagen Atlas

Diesel or not, I’ve always loved the Volkswagen brand. And even though I still want to see the Microbus brought into production, I’ll settle with the introduction of what VW says is a mid-size SUV (looks pretty big to me). Like what you see? I’ll be test driving it soon so stay tuned!

Want a full review of the Volkswagen Atlas? I spent a week in one!

5. 2018 Volvo XC60

I thought I’d found my dream car when I spent several days in a Volvo V60 Cross Country but the brand new Volvo XC60 might change all that. It’s like the dreamy little brother to the XC90.

6. 2017 Mazda CX-5

When I reviewed the Mazda CX-5, I was pretty sure this car was next on my list. And when I actually bought one last year, I heard rumor of a new body style with an interior refresh. But I just couldn’t wait! Now I might be trading in/up!

Here’s my review of the updated Mazda CX-5.

7. 2018 Mercedes GLC 63S

A girl can dream, right? Never in a million years did I think this would be my dream car but just look at it? Oh, and it’s fast.

Pretty good list, eh? If your top 7 aren’t the same as mine (either because your taste isn’t as good or you’re looking for something faster or more practical), scroll through the remaining photo gallery and tell me if you see something you like!

New and Of Interest

2018 Ford Expedition

2018 Honda Odyssey

2018 Buick Regal TourX

2018 Toyota C-HR

2018 Toyota Camry

Read more about winter driving in the Toyota Camry AWD.

2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

Here’s why I absolutely loved the Mazda MX-5 RF.

2017 Chevy Bolt EV

Find out if the Chevy Bolt gave me range anxiety for a week!

Just For Fun

Watch it all in action

Still didn’t see enough? See what it’s like to attend the NYIAS as part of the media and walk the floor with me!