South Florida International Auto Show

The South Florida International Auto Show presents brand-new and classic cars at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Top national and international manufacturers showcase their latest models and innovations, alongside accessories and services relating to the car industry. In 1971, Datsun introduced the 240Z, gasoline was 36 cents a gallon and the South Florida International Auto Show launched its first exhibition. Today, the auto show is among the largest and most prestigious in the nation. It gathers nearly 1,000 of the newest models from more than 40 manufacturers all under one roof at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

Popular exhibits include Auto Show Mall, Motorcycle Mall, Million Dollar Alley featuring Aston-Martin, Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Lotus, Maserati and Rolls-Royce and Memory Lane with an impressive line-up of classics including this 1963 Chevy Impala "Super Sport" convertible. The South Florida International Auto Show, one of the largest and most anticipated auto expositions in the country, will serve as the venue for national product introductions by Volvo and Jaguar. Nissan and Hyundai are also expected to hold press events. The show, which runs from October 23 – November 1 at the Miami Beach Convention Center, will feature hundreds of vehicles from the world’s top auto manufacturers. Visitors will be able to view the latest crossovers, SUV’s, pickups, concepts and accessories. Manufacturers will also present the latest in fuel-efficient technologies.

“South Florida has always been an attractive market for manufacturers to exhibit their newest designs,” said Gary Feil, show chairman of this year’s 39th annual event. “We’re pleased that some of the manufacturers will be unveiling their models for the first time at our show.” Volvo will introduce its C30-R-Design and its C70, both of which were unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Highlighting the C30-R-Design is the new chassis which is considerably sharper making steering more precise. The roll stabilizers are stiffer to reduce any leaning tendency when taking corners. Volvo’s C70 is an elegant coupe combined with a sporty convertible. Bodywork details such as the front wings have been redesigned and the nose is more wedge-shaped. The interior features an instrument panel that has been redesigned, giving it a wider, sleeker look.

Jaguar’s 2010 XJ will make its North American auto show debut in South Florida. The XJ’s lightweight aluminum structure makes it at least 300 pounds lighter over steel body construction, and it’s made with 50 percent recycled material. The XJ comes in both standard and long wheelbase models. The long wheelbase provides rear-seat passengers with an additional five inches of legroom without compromising the truck space. In addition to the manufacture displays on the main floor, visitors can explore other popular exhibits throughout the convention center. Memory Lane celebrates automotive history while Million Dollar Alley displays the most exotic and luxurious models on the market. The Car Boutique also offers an array of auto and home accessories available for purchase.

“Our auto show offers something for everyone from the casual consumer to the automobile aficionado,” said Feil. “It is also a great opportunity for families to enjoy some time together for only a few dollars.” Tickets are $10 for adults and $3 for children 6-12. Discount tickets are available at participating new car and truck dealerships and McDonald’s restaurants in Miami-Dade and Broward counties. The South Florida Automobile Dealers Association, which today comprises more than 220 dealerships in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Monroe counties, has been the official sponsor of the South Florida International Auto Show since its inception in 1971.