Every January, car guys from across the country make the trip to Detroit to see what's next on four wheels. The Detroit Auto Show has been doing that for folks since 1965, back when it was called the North American International Auto Show. For 2026, the show is adding something that hits right at the heart of what a lot of drivers are chasing these days: real adventure off the pavement.
They're calling it the Michigan Overland Adventure, a brand-new section on the show floor built entirely around overlanding. Picture walking into a corner of Huntington Place that's been turned into a rugged camp setup. Custom trucks and SUVs from different manufacturers will be parked there, loaded up with the kind of gear that lets you head deep into the woods or out west without looking back.
You'll see rooftop tents perched on top of rigs, ready to pop open at any campsite. Recovery gear like winches, traction boards, and straps will be laid out so you can get a close look at what actually works when you're stuck in mud or sand. Off-road trailers designed to carry everything from extra fuel to kayaks will be hitched up, showing how people extend their range for longer trips.
The whole idea is to let visitors feel what overlanding is really about. As the official announcement put it, "The experience invites attendees to step into the world of overlanding — where capability, durability, and freedom come together."
Todd Szott, who is chairing the 2026 show, explained why they're doing this now. "Across the industry, we're seeing a real shift toward vehicles that are built for more than just getting from point A to point B," he said. "Michigan Overland Adventure taps directly into that momentum. It reflects how automakers — especially those with deep roots here in Detroit — are responding to consumer demand for capability, authenticity, and vehicles that can take people further, whether that's up north, off the grid, or off the beaten path."
He's not wrong. More drivers are looking for trucks and SUVs that can handle the daily commute during the week and then point toward a dirt trail on the weekend. Detroit brands like Ford, Chrysler, and GM have been rolling out tougher models with better ground clearance, locking differentials, and skid plates. The new exhibit will give people a chance to see those vehicles dressed up with the aftermarket and factory accessories that turn a capable truck into a true go-anywhere machine.
The rest of the show stays packed with the usual draws. Major brands will have their latest models on display, from family crossovers to high-performance cars. There's also a gallery area highlighting vehicles from other manufacturers. The North American Car, Truck, and Utility Vehicle of the Year awards will be announced during the event, always a big moment that gets everyone talking.
For those who like to support a good cause while getting first crack at the show, the Charity Preview remains one of the highlights. It's a black-tie evening that raises serious money for children's charities in the area.
The 2026 Detroit Auto Show runs from January 14 through January 25 at Huntington Place in downtown Detroit. The public days start on January 17, giving everyone the weekend and the following week to walk the floor. Tickets are already available online if you're ready to lock in your plans.
If you've ever thought about building a rig for weekend escapes up north or a longer journey out west, this new Michigan Overland Adventure section could be the spark. Seeing the trucks, the gear, and the setups all in one place makes it easier to picture yourself behind the wheel on a dirt road with no deadline to head home. Detroit has always been about building vehicles that get the job done, and in 2026 they're showing how those same vehicles can open up a whole different kind of freedom.
