First Time on the Floor
Walking into the LA Convention Center with a media badge for the first time felt different than attending as a regular show-goer. The floor wasn't open to the public yet. Manufacturers were doing final preparations. And the energy was focused—everyone there was there to see something new.
Three things stood out above everything else.
The Corvette CX Concept
The reveal that stopped the room. When GM pulled the cover off the Corvette CX concept, you could feel the crowd react. The design language pushes the Corvette silhouette into new territory while keeping it unmistakably Corvette. The proportions are aggressive but refined.
Beyond the looks, the technology package hints at where GM is taking their performance EVs. The presentation itself was well-executed—GM understood they had something special and let the car speak for itself.
The takeaway: This concept signals serious intent from GM. The Corvette nameplate is evolving, and what they showed in LA suggests they're not afraid to push boundaries.
Rivian R1S Test Drive
One of the highlights of media day was getting seat time in the Rivian R1S with Dewayne behind the wheel. Even on a short test route, the R1S showed what makes Rivian's approach to EVs compelling.
The instant torque, the composed ride, the interior quality—it all reinforces why Rivian has carved out its space in the EV market. The R1S in particular feels like a genuine daily driver that happens to be adventure-ready.
2026 Kia Telluride
Kia took the evolutionary approach with the new Telluride, and that's not a criticism. The original Telluride was a hit because it nailed the fundamentals: space, value, design, and features. The 2026 model refines all of those without trying to reinvent them.
The exterior updates are noticeable but not dramatic. Inside, the updates to tech and materials are where the improvements land. Kia knows what works with this nameplate and is building on that foundation rather than starting over.
The Bigger Picture
Media day at the LA Auto Show gave a clear snapshot of where the industry is right now: established players like GM are making bold concept statements, EV-native brands like Rivian are maturing their offerings, and mainstream manufacturers like Kia are refining what already works.
Looking forward to more events like this. There's something valuable about being on the ground when manufacturers show their hand.