Sharjah is set to host a major automobile show this month which will feature several brand new cars, upgrades and an award-winning sports utility vehicle.

Sharjah is hosting a major automobile show this month which will target both the niche as well as mass markets with several brand new cars, upgrades and an award-winning sports utility vehicle, said event organisers.

The 11th edition of the International Automobile Show will be held at Expo Centre Sharjah from November 28 to December 1.

“Visitors can expect an impressive array of new convenience, connectivity and safety features from world’s top manufacturers in vehicles that range from sedans to coupes and SUVs, and hatchbacks to convertibles and mini-vans, said Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, the director-general of Expo Centre Sharjah.

"It is a must-visit for those planning to buy new vehicles that will also inspire motorists to trade in their existing rides for the latest models. The show will be open from 10am to 10pm daily and on Friday from 4 pm to 10pm. Admission is free to all," he remarked.

The expo aims to assist auto lovers of the region to check out the latest vehicle models and their exclusive features, he added.

Leading the line-up of new launches at the show is the second generation Mercedes-Benz GL, which has won the prestigious Motor Trend’s ‘SUV of the Year for 2013’ honour for its performance, design and value.

The 2013 GL model lineup offers a choice of four powerful and fuel-efficient engines, and standard safety systems such as collision prevention assist, which employs radar to warn the driver of a potential crash.

Other showstoppers are SL 63 AMG, all-new A class, new Polo sedan, Audi S6, S7 & S8, new Altima and new JX.

"Technology is another decisive element that is going to influence prospective buyers," said Al Midfa.

"Car manufacturers have always beefed up their new products with better performance, comfort and quality, but this time around, with the playing field increasingly being level, they are integrating latest technology to help their vehicles stand out in a competitive market," he added.

The 2013 SL63 AMG packs unparalleled performance for those looking for an extraordinary driving experience. It is rich with innovative technology, including a unique FrontBass system, which turns the SL into a concert hall, and the debut of mbrace2, the next generation of telematics, giving drivers top-of-the-line features related to safety, infotainment, personal assistance and vehicle care.

The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class is aiming to open a new chapter in the compact segment – it is emotive in design, has powerful engines, radar-based collision prevention assist system, and a best-in-class drag coefficient.

Another new vehicle vying for visitors’ attention will be the JX35, a three-row premium crossover aimed at providing the luxury and performance associated with the Infiniti brand in a larger, family-friendly packagem, said Al Midfa.

Michel Ayat, the CEO of Arabian Automobiles, said, “We are pleased to be part of the show for the 11th time with our comprehensive line-up of Nissan and Infiniti models. We will be exhibiting the celebrated 2013 Nissan Altima during the show."

"At the Infiniti stand, the technologically advanced 2013 Infiniti JX will be the highlight this year," observed Ayat.

"A premium midsize offering, the new Altima has its zippy four-cylinder tuned to deliver high numbers in both performance and fuel efficiency. Other features include an eye that watches blind spots, a lane-departure warning system, a moving-object detector and it even tells when it is time to fill air in the tyres," he added.

During the four-day show, visitors will get to see saloon and sedan cars, 4x4s & SUVs, quad bikes, motorbikes, spare parts, tyres, lubricants, special vehicles, navigation systems, car care products, car audio & video systems, accessories besides firms linked to auto finance, insurance and warranties and automotive magazines & websites.

The new Audi S models will be on display at the show. They Audi S6 sedan brings all the exhilarating performance with new technologies to maximize efficiency along with design cues that can only add to its charm.

The Audi S6 and S7 are powered by a 420-horsepower 4-litre V-8 engine with a seven-speed transmission. The S8 has a 520-horsepower 4-litre V-8 engine with an eight-speed transmission.

Another launch at the show, the 2013 Volkswagen Polo sedan will be available in two trims - S and SE - and will be powered by a 104 hp 1.6-litre 4-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It gets the distinct look of all new Volkswagen models, with fog lamps and 15-inch alloys coming as standard.

“In our part of the world, people are constantly looking for fun-to-drive vehicles and are willing to pay a premium... and most of these new vehicles perfectly fit their bill,” Midfa said.

Apart from bringing together some of the leading dealers of finest cars, the automobile show will feature special attractions such as the 4x4 Driving Track, Driving Challenges & Competitions and a Quad Bike Track, said Al Midfa.-TradeArabia News Service