DFW auto enthusiasts, it’s the moment you’ve all been waiting for. For everybody else, there will be something to enjoy as well. This week, the latest in cutting edge design, technology, and fuel economy will star at one of the largest five-day auto shows in the country. Here are five reasons for Dallas car enthusiasts to start revving their engines for the annual event at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center.
1. The cars, obviously: Get ready for an impressive lineup of new or redesigned vehicles that will appear at the DFW Auto Show, including the Audi A3; BMW i8; Chevrolet Colorado, Ford F-150; Lincoln MKC; and RAM 1500 Laramie Limited. Also catch a glimpse of the manufacturers’ 2016s including the Texas debut of the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Titan; Cadillac ATS V Coupe; Mustang Shelby GT350; and Nissan Black Edition GT-R. The 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor will also be making its Dallas entrance.
Aston Martin, Bentley, McLaren, Maserati, Rolls Royce, and new exhibitor Alfa Romeo will showcase their luxury vehicles in the high end area. Look out for the McLaren 650S MSO Edition, one of only six in the U.S., and the Rolls Royce Wraith. The Aston Martin One-77, one of only 77 in the world and the first of three to be allowed in the United States, is also an obvious must-see.
2. The chance to get behind the wheel: After getting your fix of car ogling, take one for a spin through the streets of downtown Dallas. Outdoor Ride & Drive, held Friday through Sunday, will feature more than 60 vehicles from Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet and GMC Trucks; Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep and RAM; Ford, Kia, Mazda and Toyota to choose from for test drives. Indoor RAM Trucks Ride & Drive is also back for the second consecutive year.
3. You can chalk some of it up to charity: A visit to the show can help drive out hunger in Dallas County. Joining with the North Texas Food Bank (NTFB), the DFW Auto Show is holding another “Fuel Up North Texas” event. Auto Show attendees will receive $1 off a $12 admission for donating one canned good. According to the NTFB, items that are especially needed include peanut butter, canned tuna or chicken, canned or dried beans, low sodium soups, stew, chili and canned vegetables.
4. The kids can come: A dedicated “Kids’ Zone” makes the show an event fit for the whole family. This area, open Friday evening through Sunday, will feature a 24-foot inflatable duel slide, a Monster Truck Bounce House, an obstacle course, a Grand Prix for kids 5 years old and under, and an art center station.
5. Cars and car accessories: Additional exhibits and displays include approximately 100 classic vehicles from Corvette Classics, Dallas Classic Chevys, Lone Star Corvette Club, North Texas Mustang Club, Pack Automotive Museum and Z Club, an aftermarket area with an array of products and services. First-time exhibitor Southwest Heritage Racing Association will feature classic can’t-miss dragsters.
