10 Reasons to Attend the Michigan International Auto Show in Grand Rapids (February 2-5)
The Michigan International Auto Show rolls into DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids, February 2-5, featuring hundreds of vehicles from more than 35 global manufacturers – including sedans, vans, SUVs, trucks, hybrids, sports cars and a handful of pre-production and concept vehicles. Product specialists are also on hand to answer questions and tell guests about the latest features and technological advances in today’s new cars.
What can you expect to WOW you at this year’s show?
1. Million Dollar Motorway. Nearly 25 cars from luxury manufacturers like Aston Martin, Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and Rolls Royce each with a minimum price tag of $100,000 (and upwards to $416,000) worth a collective $5+ million!
2. Gilmore Car Museum. An annual feature, showcasing 10 vehicles from North America’s top auto museum. Of particular note is the 1935 Packard 2-door, which is being restored by a group of local students in order to compete in the 2,400-mile “Great Race” from Jacksonville, Florida to Traverse City, Michigan this June.
3. Great American Muscle Cars. As popular now as they were back in the 60s and 70s, the “muscle car” of today delivers as much high performance and hot looks as ever before. On display this year: 2017 Dodge Challenger TA 392, 2017 Ford Shelby GT350 and 2017 Chevrolet Camaro 2SS. #ShowUsYourMuscles
4. 2017 North American Car, Truck & Utility Vehicle of the Year. The 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV, Honda Ridgeline pickup and Chrysler Pacifica minivan were named 2017 North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year, respectively—and all three will be on display in Grand Rapids.
5. Pre-Production Models. Currently on the schedule, the 2018 Volkswagon Atlas—the largest VW ever assembled in America, this seven-passenger family SUV retains its classic look and hallmark driving dynamics and the 2018 Audi Q5—merging cutting-edge technology with edge-of-your-seat performance in a timeless SUV.
6. Jeep Renegade Commander Concept. Equipped with an assortment of Mopar and Jeep performance parts for the ultimate off-road adventure, this adventure seeker delivers rugged style and function. #ItsAJeepThing
7. Toyota Drive Center. Get behind the wheel of the newest Toyota vehicles—Camry, Prius, RAV4 and Highlander (all 2017 models)—and take them for spin around downtown. Test drives are offered on a first-come, first-served basis every day of the show. (Note: Drivers must be 18 years of age or older and present a valid driver’s license. Vehicles subject to change).
8. Charity Spectacular. Focused on the smallest superheroes around—the kids fighting for their lives at the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital in downtown Grand Rapids—this annual sneak peek gala preview is scheduled for Wednesday, February 1. Highlights include an appearance by Batman and his Batmobile, live entertainment in key cityscapes (Metropolis, Gotham City, Gateway City and The Avengers Tower). More than 1,000 are expected at this $150 per person, semi-formal fundraiser.
9. FREE Gas for a Year! An annual promotion with Meijer, one lucky person will win a stack of Meijer gas cards to cover $50 worth of gas per week…for a year. That’s $2,600 total! Just stop by the Meijer Automotive Display at the show to register. (Note: winner is responsible for all applicable taxes; prize is non-transferable and is not redeemable for cash).
10. Gizmo the Robot. A regular to the Auto Show, Gizmo strolls the showroom floor to chat with future car buyers and stop for the occasional photo op.
The Michigan International Auto Show runs the following dates and times:
Thursday, February 2 11:00am – 9:30pm
Friday, February 3 11:00am – 9:30pm
Saturday, February 4 10:00am – 9:30pm
Sunday, February 5 10:00am – 5:00pm
Admission is $10 adults, $4 children aged 6 to 14. Kids 5 and under are admitted free. A $2 off coupon can be found online here.
For more on the Michigan International Auto Show, check out the official Show Program (PDF).
#GRAuto17 #WhatDrivesYou #DreamCarForEveryDriver
Dianna Stampfler is the publicist for the Michigan International Auto Show and president of Promote Michigan. Someday, she sees herself behind the wheel of a new Aston Martin or perhaps a rugged Jeep Wrangler.