Audi has officially returned to the Canadian International Auto Show, and they didn’t just show up—they made a statement. After a brief hiatus, Audi Canada came back with a purpose, unveiling a breathtaking installation designed in collaboration with acclaimed Canadian architect Omar Gandhi. We got an exclusive first look at the space before it officially opens to the public tomorrow, and it’s safe to say that Audi has truly stepped up its game. The sleek, immersive setup isn’t just about showcasing cars; it’s about creating an experience that embodies the brand’s ethos of performance, design, and innovation.
A unique Audi experience
In our exclusive interview with Vito Paladino, President of Audi Canada, he emphasized that the goal wasn’t to blend in but to stand out.
“We haven’t been at the show for a few years, and we didn’t want to just come to the show and do ‘cars on carpet.’ The feeling you get at auto shows is that you kind of blend from one brand to another. We wanted to capture an Audi experience,” Paladino shared.
ADVERTISEMENT |
This vision led to a partnership with Omar Gandhi, who infused a distinctly Canadian perspective into the installation. The result? A space that immediately draws visitors in, making them feel like they’ve entered another world rather than just another convention hall. As Paladino put it, “First of all, you come through the escalators, and you just see the four rings floating, which is pretty cool. You instantly see the difference—you’re coming into an Audi-designed space. What I really want is for anyone visiting to get immersed in the Audi experience and forget that they’re actually in a convention center.”
The Cars: A lineup of innovation and performance
Audi is calling this year’s showcase their “biggest product offensive” in history, unveiling nine vehicles at the show. Paladino was particularly proud of the lineup, which features a balance of combustion engine (ICE) models and electric vehicles (EVs).
“Everyone’s talking about what’s happening with ICEs and whether it’s just about electric,” Paladino said. “For us, we’re bringing the best ICEs we’ve ever had, with new platforms. Then we have the electric side of it, of course, and our performance cars. We have the whole portfolio here, which is super cool.”
ADVERTISEMENT |
Among the standout models is the Q5, Canada’s most popular premium ICE vehicle, alongside the RS Q8 with 631 horsepower and a 0-100 km/h time of just 3.6 seconds. The star of the performance lineup, though, is Audi’s most powerful car ever—the RS e-tron GT Performance, boasting 912 horsepower, a 0-100 km/h time of 2.5 seconds, and enhanced battery technology capable of charging from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes.
For collectors and enthusiasts, Audi has also brought a rare gem: the RS 6 Avant GT, one of only seven in existence in Canada, featuring a striking Arkona White and Red livery that pays homage to Audi’s legendary motorsport heritage. “We brought some collectibles here, too, and it’ll be cool for Canadians to see it,” Paladino noted.
An exclusive evening with Audi
Ahead of the official opening, Audi hosted an exclusive private event last night, bringing together industry leaders and cultural icons for a thought-provoking discussion on innovation and the future of mobility.
ADVERTISEMENT |
The ‘Audi Haus,’ opening night event was more than just a networking opportunity—it was a convergence of ideas, featuring a panel discussion with some of Canada’s most influential voices. The lineup included Vito Paladino himself, Omar Gandhi, multi-medalist Olympian and PWHL SVP of Hockey Operations Jayna Hefford, and Cameron Bailey, CEO of TIFF. The discussion touched on design, performance, and the evolving landscape of automotive innovation.
The event reinforced Audi’s commitment to shaping the future, not just in terms of vehicle technology but also through broader cultural and social lenses. It was a reminder that Audi isn’t just a car brand—it’s a brand that values progress and forward-thinking conversations.
Audi’s path to Formula 1
One of the most exciting announcements from Audi is its upcoming entry into Formula 1. This marks a major step for the brand as it gears up for its first-ever F1 race in 2026.
ADVERTISEMENT |
“The road to get there is amazing,” Paladino said. “Audi has a history in motorsport—we’ve done rally, endurance racing, and quattro has been a signature of the brand in racing. But now, here we are going into F1, and we’re pretty excited about it.”
With a team being built from the ground up, from developing the chassis and powertrain to selecting the right drivers, the journey to F1 is as thrilling as the race itself. And with the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal on the horizon, Paladino hopes to see plenty of local support: “Hopefully, everyone’s cheering for the four rings in a year’s time.”
A bold return
Audi’s return to the Canadian International Auto Show isn’t just about unveiling cars—it’s about reestablishing a presence and making a bold statement about where the brand is headed. By collaborating with a Canadian designer, showcasing a diverse lineup of vehicles, and facilitating forward-thinking conversations, Audi has positioned itself as a leader not just in automotive excellence but in culture and innovation as well.
For those attending the show, the Audi installation is a must-visit. Whether you’re an enthusiast eager to check out the most powerful Audi ever made, a design lover interested in Omar Gandhi’s architectural influence, or someone simply looking to experience something different, Audi’s space delivers. And with the brand’s sights set on Formula 1, the excitement is only just beginning.
ADVERTISEMENT |
When and where is the 2025 Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto?
The 2025 Canadian International AutoShow is scheduled from February 14 to 23 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in Toronto. The show will occupy both the North and South Buildings of the venue. 
The 2025 AutoShow (CIAS) in Toronto will feature an impressive lineup of brands, including luxury names like Aston Martin, Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Rolls-Royce, alongside performance-driven brands such as Audi, BMW, Mercedes-AMG, and McLaren. Mainstream manufacturers like Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Hyundai, and Kia will also showcase their latest models, while EV pioneers like Tesla, Lucid Motors, Polestar, and Rivian highlight the future of electrification. Attendees can expect a diverse mix of cutting-edge innovation, high-performance engineering, and everyday practicality across the exhibit floor.
LEGO is also back at the show, featuring a life-size LEGO Technic McLaren P1 supercar, meticulously constructed from 342,817 Technic elements. This impressive model is displayed alongside a real McLaren P1, offering a unique juxtaposition of LEGO craftsmanship and automotive engineering. The exhibit also includes a family-friendly play zone and retail area, making it a must-visit attraction for both LEGO enthusiasts and car lovers.
The event will feature a wide range of exhibits, including the latest models from major manufacturers, concept cars, and special displays. For more details, including ticket information and show hours, you can visit the official AutoShow website.
ADVERTISEMENT |
