Toronto auto show to focus on the good news to come

Ron Loveys

TADA PRESIDENT

Excitement is building for the 2010 Canadian International AutoShow, Canada's largest consumer show in size and attendance.

The AutoShow is produced by the Toronto Automobile Dealers Association and takes place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from Feb. 12 to 21.

Again this year, AutoShow organizers have planned for an expanded and improved event, with lots of prizes, promotions and surprises.

The theme for this year is "Vision," a look at the positive changes that are ahead for our industry in the coming decade.

Most of the world's major automakers will feature their latest models and accessories. The 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata, the 2011 Honda CR-Z Hybrid and the 2011 Ford Focus are among the premiered vehicles this year.

Concept vehicles include the Mini Beachcomber, the Mazda 2Evil and the Mazda Active2, the Lexus LF-Ch Hybrid, and a new generation PX-MiEV.

CentreStage is back with a bang, featuring an interactive gaming stage, and on the opening Family Day weekend (Feb. 12-15), will feature the Comic-bots (robots created out of scrap metal, auto parts, electronic motors and other materials).

Alex Tagliani, 2009 Indy 500 Rookie of the Year, will sign autographs during the final weekend of the show.

The Cruise Nationals exhibit returns for a sixth year.

This exhibit – a perennial favourite with showgoers – will showcase classic cars of yesteryear, including vintage automobiles such as a 1949 Ford F-47, 1958 Chevrolet Corvette and 1951 Mercury Monarch.

A new feature this year is the Test Drive program, presented by General Motors, Subaru and Mercedes-Benz.

Prospective car buyers will have an opportunity to test-drive a vehicle through a four-mile circuit.

Another new feature is NASCAR RaceDay, where participants can pit their driving skills against other drivers on a simulated oval track. Highlights from NASCAR races will be shown on big screens as well.

Be sure to check out the Carroll Shelby exhibit, presented by the Toronto Star, the Toronto Area Ford Dealers Association and Castrol Canada.

Shelby is an iconic figure in the North American auto industry, as a race car driver and as a designer. Some 40 classic cars that contributed to Shelby's career are on display.

This Wednesday, Shelby will be honoured at a gala reception in Toronto by the Canadian automobile community.

He will be inducted into the Canadian Motorsports Hall of Fame in a new "International" category. Visit www.autoshow.ca/shelby for event and ticket information.

The AutoShow will play host to a Tech Competition, where selected teams of high school students get to test their skills and aptitude. The competition will cover steering, suspension, brakes, electrical, engine management and mechanical systems.

Last October, the charitable arm of the Toronto Automobile Dealers Association pledged $2 million toward a major expansion of Ronald McDonald House Toronto.

A model rendering of the new facility will be on display – courtesy of Ronald McDonald House – and further donations can be made on site.

The AutoShow is designed for visitors of all ages, from young children to senior citizens. For many families and friends, it's an annual mid-winter tradition, a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Getting to the show is easy. Public transportation (TTC and GO Transit) is readily available.

Free parking is available on weekday evenings, weekends and on Family Day at select TTC subway terminal parking lots (go to www.ttc.ca for further information).

Admission is $20 for adults, $7 for children ages 7 to 12, free for those 6 and under. Discount tickets are available through the E-ticket Fastlane feature at www.autoshow.ca.

This column represents the views

of TADA. Email president@tada.ca

or visit tada.ca.

More videos from Wheels.ca and our partners