5 Shopping Tips for the Canadian International AutoShow

For 10 days in mid-February, the Metro Toronto Convention Centre is transformed into a car hunter’s paradise. Here’s how you can make the most of a car-shopping trip to the biggest showroom in Canada.

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2016 Canadian International AutoShow
Photo: Canadian International AutoShow

How to go shopping at the 2017 Canadian International AutoShow

With more than 1,000 cars, trucks, SUVs, concept cars and classics in one location, the Canadian International AutoShow is the largest consumer show in Canada. From Feb. 17 to 26, every major manufacturer will have almost every vehicle in their lineup on display at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, including the very latest models for sale this year and concept cars that give a look ahead to the future. Here are the top five tips for car shopping at the show.

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Fingers typing on laptop keyboard
Photo: Shutterstock

1. Buy your tickets online

Want to save yourself some more time and money for car shopping? Skip the line-ups by buying your tickets to the Canadian International AutoShow online. The best part: you get 10 per cent off for adults, youths and children.

Looking for a new ride? Check out the new Reader’s Digest Build & Save Auto Program to see the latest incentives and exclusive discount opportunities on new cars, trucks and SUVs. Click here to shop over 30 brands!

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Metro Toronto Convention Centre
Photo: Canadian international AutoShow

2. Know where you want to go

There’s nothing wrong with just wandering through the exhibits and displays to see what surprises are around the next corner. But if you’re at the show to see your favourite manufacturers, it helps to have a pre-planned route. Check out the show’s floor plans to see where your favourite brands are located in the MTCC.

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Mazda CX-5 at the Canadian International AutoShow
Photo: Mazda

3. Compare the vehicles

The beauty of the Canadian International AutoShow is the opportunity to see dozens of makes and models all under one roof. Take advantage of having so many vehicles together in the same place by comparing their features. You can even take some of the cars out for test drives! Most manufacturers will let you book a test drive at your local dealership, but most visitors can get behind the wheel at the show.

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Booth at the Canadian International AutoShow
Photo: Canadian International AutoShow

4. Don’t worry about sales pressure

You can’t actually buy cars at the Canadian International AutoShow, which helps get rid of the pressure some buyers feel when they’re considering a new vehicle. But the product specialists at manufacturer booths are experts on the vehicles they represent—so ask away! If you’re interested in actually buying one of the cars you see, personnel at the booth can help direct you to your local dealership.

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Aston Martin AM-RB 001
Photo: Aston Martin

5. Leave some time for exploring

Plan ahead and visit all of the manufacturers on your list, but build in some extra time for spur-of-the-moment exploring to check out cars and exhibits that grab your attention, Also remember that many models on display are making their Canadian debut, so be sure to check them out and see how they compare to other cars on your list.

Looking for a new ride? Check out the new Reader’s Digest Build & Save Auto Program to see the latest incentives and exclusive discount opportunities on new cars, trucks and SUVs. Click here to shop over 30 brands!

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