by VW’s 2026 Chicago Auto Show’s Booth Toys with an Old Slogan
There’s plenty to see, do and view at the 2026 Chicago Auto Show’s Volkswagen booth. A plush mutt, for example, dons a scarf. On that blue fabric ribbon you’ll see a nod toward VW’s upcoming branding change. It’s going back to the 1990s, reviving the Drivers Wanted campaign. This play on a help-wanted ad asks motor-vehicle shoppers to consider a new Volkswagen.
If a new ride isn’t in your near future, Erin Jackson, a brand ambassador, is happy to show you other options. For example, for a limited time you can get 20% off on driver gear bought online. Enter VWDW20 at drivergear.vw.com. She’d be happy to send you home with a cuddly plush dog. VW asks $22.95.
Are you eager to fabricate your own mini car? You can do that too at the onsite at the kid-friendly Candylab corner. Jackson will fetch a Do It Yourself wooden Candylab model car, which you can assemble, “paint” and race on an indoor track. Go wild and buy an entire set of groovy VW-themed Candylab toys.
Those who’d rather sample the real thing can check out an assortment of VW cars and crossovers, some decked out with accessories tempting you to play soccer or go fishing. The 2026 Jetta GLI, for example, has three floor pedals and a row-it-yourself stick.
Centerstage in front of Chicago-themed backdrop—a visually compelling shot from the shapely iron/steel LaSalle Street Bridge of the Chicago Board of Trade Building—are two vehicles. On the right, check out the high-output 2026 Tiguan Turbo.
On the left, examine the Just Hands Foundation 2025 Golf GTI. Its driver’s seat lets Torsten Gross explore performance driving with his hands. Developed with VW brand ambassador Gross, who has mobile disabilities, it’s an example of VW’s Driver Access Program, which offers up to $1,000 for purchase and installation of adaptive equipment for new or Certified Pre-Owned VW models.
VW’s crew ready for you at VW’s CAS booth
The 2025 GTI, moreover, won the Midwest Automotive Media Association’s Favorite Affordable Vehicle Award. MAMA’s top prize went to the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy. Motor Trend named both the 2026 GTI and Golf R Car of the Year.