The Columbus Area Automobile Dealers Association brings new vehicles and the latest in interactive automotive technologies to consumers and car enthusiasts at the 2016 Columbus International Auto Show (ColumbusAutoShow.com). The show will run from Thursday, March 17 through Sunday, March 20 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center.

The annual event, sponsored by Huntington Bank, will feature the newest makes and models from dozens of manufacturers (including the 2017 Acura NSX!), two ride & drive experiences, a unique student design competition and other attractions for the whole family.

Automakers sold more than 17.4 million vehicles, surpassing the previous record set in 2000.

“The U.S. auto industry saw record sales in 2015, especially in trucks and SUVs,” said Marie Gilman, Columbus International Auto Show Manager. “Purchases of crossovers rose 19 percent in 2014 and 13 percent in 2015, an impressive comeback from the recession six years ago. We are excited to present the new lineup of 2016 vehicles, which offer consumers superior safety and outstanding technological features at affordable prices.”

Show-goers will have the chance to get behind the wheel at the Subaru “Love Spring” Ride & Drive and the Toyota Drive Center where guests can choose from several Subaru and several Toyota models to take for a spin through downtown Columbus. Toyota will feature the Camry, All-New Next Generation 2016 Prius, 2016 Rav4, and the redesigned 2016 Tacoma and Tundra. Subaru plans to feature their new 2016 Subaru Outback, Legacy, Forester, Crosstrek, and Impreza. Both ride and drives are new to the Columbus show. The RAM Off-Road Experience will once again take passengers on an indoor obstacle course including suspending from the RAM “mountain.”

Local dealers have partnered with the OSU Department of Design for a custom car wrap design competition. The “love your city” theme invites students to incorporate the best of Columbus. Students will compete for $5000 and $2500 scholarships. Six semi-finalists will have their developed design on display. Guests are encouraged to vote for their favorite with the winner announced Sunday at 3pm.

New to this year’s show is Accessory Avenue, an exhibit where enthusiasts can see the latest in automotive accessories from body kits, graphics, audio systems, ClearMask protection, homelink and more. A blast through automotive history will greet attendees as they walk the halls of the Convention Center lined with a beautiful display of classic cars before they enter the show of the newest models. Family entertainment includes animals from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Matt The Balloon Guy and Face Doodles By Jen.

Visit ColumbusAutoShow.com for ticket information.

Staff report