Bumper to Bumper, the State Fair Auto Show Offers Exciting New Products

What brings the crowds to the biggest car show in the Southwest? For one, the State Fair of Texas, the show's host, is the largest exposition in the country. Also, the calendar works in favor of the event — the State Fair Auto Show is first up in the "Auto show season." People will come from all over the country to see what's new for the 2006 model year, Sept. 30 - Oct. 23.

New 2006 cars and trucks, concept vehicles and collectors and their classics fill two exhibit halls and outdoor display areas. The State Fair Auto Show has experienced astonishing growth during the past 15 years — today's exhibits occupy more than 280,000 sq. ft. in the Centennial and Automobile Bldgs. and, outdoors, at the Truck Zone and Classic Corral.

There's plenty of product for 2006 (and one sneak preview of a 2007 vehicle): Carmakers showing their wares include Lexus, Toyota, Chevrolet, Buick, Saturn, Hummer, Pontiac, Cadillac, GMC, Nissan, Infiniti, Saab, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ford, Lincoln-Mercury, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Scion, Mazda, Saleen and Explorer Vans.

Interactive displays include rock-climbing walls, live bands, celebrity appearances, fishing clinics, contests and give-aways. The Auto Show is free with State Fair admission. In addition to general automotive exhibits, three areas are specifically earmarked:

• 2006 TRUCK ZONE: Texans love trucks, and here's where to find the newest styles and accessories. Entertainment and the latest offerings from Chevrolet, Ford, Toyota, Nissan, GMC, Dodge, as well as a few surprises.

• LUXURY SHOWROOM: Dreaming of a premium auto? This up-close exhibit offers 2006 models from automakers Lexus, Infiniti, Lincoln-Mercury, Cadillac, Chrysler and more.

• CLASSIC CORRAL: Weather permitting, meet the owners and see an anticipated 1,000 vehicles, including vintage T-Birds, VWs, GTOs, Camaros, Cougars, Corvettes, Model A's, Harleys, Land Rovers, Jags, Chris-Crafts, Firebirds, Mustangs and more. Saturdays and Sundays, plus selected weekdays, on the grass across from the Music Hall.

Contact: Public Relations, 214-421-8715 or pr@bigtex.com.