Auto shows are the bellwether of the industry. They set the automotive landscape for the following year, and they're used by automakers to gauge public reaction to new styles and features.

Click here for Consumer Guide's video coverage of the Detroit Auto Show.

Auto shows give consumers an opportunity to slam the doors and kick the tires of cars they would, or could, never consider buying. They're a great chance for the new-car shopper to quickly get up to speed, and also a fun way to spend the day.

Whatever the reason for attending your local show, you can bet it comes down to a love of the automobile. Whether it's new or classic, fast or luxurious, cars are woven into the fabric of the American lifestyle. They exhibit an emotional response from onlookers and are an extension of their owner's personality.

There are five major auto shows in the United States. The Los Angles Auto Show takes place in early January, and though it doesn't have many major product introductions, it is a showcase for high-end manufacturers like Aston Martin, Lotus, Ferrari, and Lamborghini.

Chrysler's Firepower concept car was a big hit at the 2005 Detroit Auto Show.

Detroit's next. It's the show for new production and concept reveals, each automaker trying to outdo the previous. It's also the designated international show for the United States, and, as so, it attracts journalists and media outlets from the world over.

Come February, it's Chicago's turn to shine. The biggest show in square footage, and arguably the show with the largest attendance, Chicago brings Detroit's new product and LA's glitz into perspective and usually sports a few surprises of its own.

In April, the New York Auto Show wraps a year's worth of concept cars, production reveals, and news into a neat bow for the media capital of the world. Come November, the tuner cars take center stage at the Specialty Equipment Manufacturer's Association (SEMA) show. If you can dream it up and it rolls on wheels, you'll find it at SEMA.

Don't worry if you can't get to one of these major shows. It's a good bet that your local show will have many of the concept cars and new production models. In addition, Consumer Guide covers each one of these show for you, distilling the hype, cutting to the chase, and providing consumers with the important details they need to make the right vehicle choice.

2006 Auto Show Coverage
2006 Los Angeles Auto Show
2006 Detroit Auto Show
2006 Chicago Auto Show
2006 New York Auto Show
2006 SEMA Show (coming November 1)

Previous Auto Show Coverage
2005 Detroit Auto Show Day 1
2005 Detroit Auto Show Day 2
2005 Chicago Auto Show
2005 New York Auto Show
2005 SEMA Show