Las Vegas auto show features 350 new, exotic models

Even after too much Thanksgiving feast, football and out-of-town company, some of us will brave the stores to shop, but here's a family-friendly alternative: the Motor Trend International Auto Show, today through Sunday, at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Designed as a tool where customers can research and compare the latest models in a no-pressure environment, the show will feature nearly 350 all-new vehicles from more than 20 auto manufacturers. Attendees also can examine alternative fuel models and exotics such as the limited-edition $363,000 Bentley Continental GT3-R (300 are slated to be built).

Many all-new or redesigned vehicles will be available to inspect, sit in, study or even test drive (select Ford and Toyota models only), including the 2016 Honda Civic, Jeep Renegade, Chevrolet Volt, Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat and Ford Mustang. Inside, show attendees will find the latest vehicle technology, such as adaptive cruise control and blind spot detection, which are just two of the features manufacturers offer new buyers.

"The main draw to the show is the opportunity for consumers to see a variety of makes and models with no pressure," said show director Todd Hovsepian. "People generally have an idea what they want or sometimes find something they weren't thinking about."

The show is open to the public this Friday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for military and senior citizens (62 and older). Children 12 and under are admitted free. Parking is free at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

"We encourage everyone to bring the kids," Hovsepian said. "It's not only a great opportunity for them to offer their opinions, but it's also a good way to ensure there's room for everyone and everyone is comfortable."

E-tickets are $1 off regular adult admission price and may be purchased and downloaded from www.AutoShowLV.com. E-ticket holders can avoid waiting in box office ticket lines by using the e-ticket entrance at the show.

In addition, with each online ticket order or box office purchase, attendees can receive a complimentary, one-year subscription to Motor Trend magazine, courtesy of the Southern Nevada Franchised New Car and Truck Dealers Association and Nevada Franchised Auto Dealers Association.

Dealership employees showing a business card, letter of employment or paycheck stub with their driver's license will be admitted free and may invite a guest.

Ford and Toyota will offer test drives on site. The Ford Go Further Ride and Drive and the Toyota Drive Center give drivers another opportunity to evaluate different makes and models from behind the wheel. Test drives are included with the price of auto show admission and will operate each day between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. for Ford and 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. for Toyota.

Participants must a present valid driver's license before taking a test drive. Vehicles are subject to change, but Toyota's Camry, Corolla, RAV4 or Tacoma will be available, while Ford will feature its Focus, Fusion, Escape, Edge and Explorer.

Luxury and exotic car enthusiasts will not want to miss duPont Registry Live, a collection of premier, high-end luxury and unique vehicles, or the Million Dollar Exotic Vehicle Display, showcasing ultra-exotic vehicles, courtesy of Lamborghini Las Vegas.

"In response to feedback from our guests, we've dedicated additional show space to more luxury and exotic brands like Lamborghini and Porsche," Hovsepian said. "A lot of great technology starts in these cars."

A customized Audi R8 and builds from this year's Specialty Equipment Market Association show will also be on display courtesy of Team Hybrid and M2M Motoring.

To highlight its support of the community, the Motor Trend International Auto Show has teamed up with Three Square Food Bank in an effort to eradicate hunger in Southern Nevada. Show attendees are encouraged to bring nonperishable, canned food or personal hygiene items to the event as a donation.

The Motor Trend International Auto Show-Las Vegas is presented by the Southern Nevada Franchised New Car and Truck Dealers Association & Nevada Franchised Auto Dealers Association and produced by Motor Trend Auto Shows, the nation's largest auto show producer and part of The Enthusiast Network.

Additional information and directions are available at www.AutoShowLV.com.