Why, you say? Well, not only can you view, touch, and sit in the newest model years of cars, you can do it all in one location without traveling to dealerships. Better yet, there are no salesmen to pressure you while you're "just looking." Which means you can check out the latest Porsche, Mercedes or Hummer that you have catalogued in your mental wishlist without being subject to the imposing stare of a salesman who knows you don't have the means to buy the vehicle. At the same time, you can also check out the Fords, Chevys, Toyotas, Hondas or other more practical cars that you're likely in the market for.
The San Diego Convention Center will be transformed into an automotive paradise “Where the Cars are the Stars,” from Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2008 through Sunday, Jan. 4, 2009, when the San Diego International Auto Show comes to town. Over 400 new-model vehicles, concept cars and alternative fuel vehicles will be on display encompassing more than 640,000 square feet. Auto enthusiasts will enjoy viewing the season’s hottest vehicles all under one roof, in a non-selling environment.
Featured this year:
Eco-Center - In its second year, the Eco-Center emphasizes the future of automotive technology and
educational displays side-by side with fuel efficient, reduced emissions vehicles that can be
purchased today. Unique, do-it-yourself vehicles will also be on display courtesy of the San
Diego Electric Vehicle Association, demonstrating that with dedication and ingenuity almost any
vehicle can be adapted to electric. On Mazda Family Day, kids will enjoy exhibits by the San
Diego Environmental Foundation, fostering the next generation of environmental innovators.
Ride & Drives - In order to truly appreciate its automobiles, three manufacturers are offering show goers the opportunity to get up close and personal with new vehicles. Ford, Hyundai, and Toyota will hold Ride and Drive events outdoors during the show. Ford and Hyundai will be located in the front of the Convention Center, near entrances F and A respectively, and Toyota’s Behind the Wheel Adventure will be located behind the Convention Center.
The Discover Hyundai Ride & Drive will take place Fri., Jan. 2 – Sun., Jan. 4, 2009. The San Diego County Ford Dealers will conduct their Ride & Drive daily for the duration of the show. Hours for both are 10 am – 6 pm. Toyota’s Behind the Wheel Adventure runs as follows: Wed., Dec. 31, 10 am – 7 pm; Thurs. and Fri., Jan. 1-2, 11 am – 9 pm; Sat., Jan. 3, 10 am – 10 pm; and Sun., Jan. 4, 10 am – 6 pm.
Ultimate Ridez Expo - Ultimate Rides mean different things to different people. From the tuner set to those who prefer the highest level of refinement offered in a luxury vehicle or the pure performance characteristics of an exotic, the SDIAS satisfies the desires of these aficionados in one location: the Ultimate Ridez Expo. In addition to the vehicles, attendees can enjoy break dancing competitions, a fashion show, bathing suit competition, live music, DJs and live car builds. Some events are scheduled for Jan. 3 only; visit www.sdautoshow.com for details.
Mazda Family Day - Sunday, January 4, 2009 will be a day like no other as Marvel Comic’s Superheroes™ Iron Man and Spider-Man make their appearances at Mazda Family Day, presented by the San Diego County Mazda Dealers. For the adults attending on Mazda Family Day, a gas card giveaway will be hosted by Jack FM and 760 KFMB-AM, which will be broadcasting live from the Mazda exhibit, located in Hall E. Auto show attendees will have the chance to enter to win one of several $50 gas cards or the Grand Prize: a $500 gas card, presented near the end of the close of the show.
Specialty Vehicles - Manufacturer concept, Hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles will be on display throughout the convention center, including the Saturn Flextreme, Ford Verve, Lincoln MKT, Subaru Forrester XTI, Dodge ZEO, Chrysler ecoVoyager, and Jeep Renegade.
Show Details
The 2009 model-year San Diego International Auto Show is held at the San Diego Convention Center, located at 111 West Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101. The show runs from Wed., Dec. 31 – Sun., Jan. 4. Show hours are 10 am – 7 pm on Wed.; 10 am – 10 pm Thurs. – Sat.; and 10 am – 7 pm on Sun. Admission: Adults (13 and over): $10; Military (with ID): $7; Seniors (62 and over): $7; Children (7-12): $6; and Children (1-6) free when accompanied by an paid adult. Children 12 and under are free on Mazda Family Day, Sunday, January 4 when accompanied by a paid adult.
Show Dates/Hours
Wednesday, December 31, 2008: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.Thursday, January 1, 2009: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday, January 2, 2009: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Saturday, January 3, 2009 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sunday, January 4, 2009: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Show Location
San Diego Convention Center111 West Harbor Drive
San Diego, CA 92101
