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Toronto auto show ranked among the best - February 10, 2007
Whenever February rolls around in Toronto, excitement over new cars reaches a fever pitch.
This emotion is no doubt fuelled by the buildup to the Canadian International AutoShow, starting next Friday at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and Rogers Centre.
I recall attending auto shows in Toronto in my youth, and I always enjoyed seeing, touching and discussing the latest models.
There was, and is, a positively electric feel about the show that almost defies explanation.
Over the years, I've seen the size and stature of the Toronto show grow along with the exploding interest in everything automotive. Each year, I wonder how the organizers can top the thrills from the previous one, and each year they continue to raise the bar.
Today, the Canadian International AutoShow is among the five North American auto shows that are internationally accredited, and it's the largest of those, spread out over 850,000 square feet.
And it's Canada's largest consumer show in both size and attendance.
I've visited car shows in other cities, such as Frankfurt, Paris and Detroit ? and our effort ranks among the best.
The 2007 AutoShow presents about 150 exhibitors, with more than 1,000 cars and trucks on display.
The value of the exhibits at the 10-day expo is estimated to be about $60 million. The estimated value for the cars, alone, is $30 million.
Every year, the CIAS showcases a number of vehicle premières, and this year is no exception. A dozen or so auto manufacturers plan to roll out more than 30 new cars and trucks for first-time public viewing.
Concept vehicles, too, are a big part of the AutoShow. Look for the Ford Shelby GR-1, the Audi R8, the Lexus LFC, the Dodge Challenger and the Acura Advanced Sedan to turn a few heads.
Without playing favourites, I'd say one of the coolest concept vehicles at this year's event is the Efijy.
It's on display for the first time in North America outside of Detroit.
The Efijy has a radical custom coupe shape and boasts V8 supercar power under the hood, a Corvette underbody and state-of-the-art automotive technology throughout.
The Soprano Purple paintwork highlights its curvaceous 5.2-metre body, reinterpreting the classic design cues of the iconic 1953 FJ Holden.
Auto racing fans will be pleased to know that the NASCAR Pavilion is featured again this year.
Show cars, driver autograph sessions, racing simulators, merchandise and travel packages are all part of the experience at this thrilling pavilion.
If you are interested in vintage automobiles from yesteryear, then you won't want to miss the Classic Concours. Striking vehicles from among the Cruise Nationals finalists will compete for cash and prizes.
The History Room features restored Studebakers from Ontario Studebaker clubs, as well as five beauties from the Studebaker Museum in Indiana.
Be sure to catch Pony Fever, a collection of Mustangs, Camaros, Challengers and Javelins that established that enduring market segment.
Back by popular demand is the Sport Compact Revolution (on the entire 100 Level at Rogers Centre), which is dedicated to the tuner market.
On Wednesday, Feb. 14, two days before the AutoShow starts, the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada will announce the Canadian Car of the Year and Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year.
These coveted awards provide added visibility for the shortlisted vehicles, not to mention the winners. Voting results can be found on the AJAC website (www.ajac.ca), which is a useful guide for consumers who are looking to purchase a car, truck or SUV.
Another fascinating component of the show is the World Automotive Design Competition, now in its fifth year. The contest has drawn entries from 18 design schools from around the world.
The World Automotive Design Competition provides manufacturers with a source of new automotive design talent and encourages promising students to choose a career in the field of automotive styling.
It also helps raise the profile of automotive design as an excellent career choice.
The CIAS is easily accessible by car or public transit. There are plenty of great restaurants in the vicinity, so why not make an afternoon or an evening out of it?
Whether you're a passionate car enthusiast or a casual car lover, visitors of all ages will be amazed at the incredible lineup of the new cars, trucks, and sport utility vehicles.
You'll also catch a glimpse of some concept vehicles that may find their way into production in the near future.
Finally, I'd like to salute the 500-plus men and women who plan and run the Canadian International AutoShow each year.
It takes extraordinary teamwork and commitment to pull off a show of this magnitude, and this team succeeds with flying colours.
Indeed, the world-class Canadian International AutoShow does the automobile industry and our city proud.
The show runs Feb. 16-25. For more information about admission prices, hours and venues, visit www.autoshow.ca.
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