Minneapolis (January 9, 2012) --- The 39th Annual Twin Cities Auto Show, presented by the Greater Metropolitan Automobile Dealers Association of Minnesota, Inc. (GMADA), will be held March 10 18 at the Minneapolis Convention Center (1301 Second Ave. So., Halls B, C, D & E).

Featuring an estimated $15,000,000 in new vehicles and exhibits, this is the seventh largest Auto Show in the nation and the largest consumer show in Minnesota. This years show will cover approximately 400,000 square feet blanketed by an estimated 400 new models representing 35 different makes of domestic and imported automobiles, trucks, and SUVs. Every manufacturer selling vehicles in Minnesota will be represented, (including Jaguar and Range Rover, both of which will NOT be at the Detroit Auto Show.)

Highlights from years past will return, such as Luxury Lane featuring a million dollars worth of vehicles in one room and the Biodiesel Green Room which showcases innovative hybrids and flex fuel vehicles. Select vehicles will also be made available for attendees to Ride & Drive outside the Convention Center.

New Happenings and Giveaways for 2012:

--- Private Tours: For the first time, representatives from GMADA and other experts will offer auto enthusiasts private tours of the Twin Cities Auto Show. Beginning Monday, March 12 through the end of the Show, guests will be able to enjoy a guided walk-through of the event an hour and a half before gates open to the public. Maximum of 25 people per tour. The price is $55 per person and includes parking and a goody bag.

--- Wednesday, March 14 Auto Industry Job Fair from 11 a.m. 3 p.m. on second floor

--- Friday, March 16 - to encourage people to visit us during our newly expanded Friday hours, the first 5,000 paid attendees will receive a souvenir Twin Cities Auto Show lapel pin.

--- On each Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. 2 p.m., accredited safety experts will host a free booster seat check event. Those interested may simply drive up directly outside the Convention Center on Grant Street. A free ticket to the Auto Show will be offered to those who take part.

--- The first 500 children ages 10 and under on both Saturdays and Sundays will receive a souvenir toy car.

--- Daily entertainment will provided by the amazing Reel Steal 8-foot dancing and roaming robot, as seen on Americas Got Talent.

HOURS: Saturdays: 10 a.m. 10 p.m.

Sundays: 10 a.m. 7 p.m.

Wednesday: 10 a.m. 10 p.m.

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 4 p.m. 10 p.m.

Friday: 10 a.m. 10 p.m. New Expanded Hours

TICKETS: Adults: $10, Ages 11 15: $5 and Children 10 and under are FREE

Beginning January 16, visit www.twincitiesautoshow.com for a $2 off coupon or save $2 by purchasing your ticket online.

Discount coupons are also available at participating new auto dealers in the metro area.

INFO: www.twincitiesautoshow.com

Find us on Facebook (www.Facebook.com/TwinCitiesAutoShow)

Follow us on Twitter: (www.Twitter.com/TCAutoShow)

The 2012 Twin Cities Auto Show is sponsored by The Greater Metropolitan Automobile Dealers Association of Minnesota, Inc. (GMADA).

GMADA is an organization of over 120 new car and truck franchised dealers in the Greater Minneapolis and St. Paul area.

The 2012 Auto Show Director is Scott Lambert of GMADA; Chairperson is Kjell Bergh of Borton Volvo, and the 2012 Auto Show Featured Vehicle

is the 2012 Volvo XC60.

MEDIA NOTE: A Media Open House will be hosted on Monday, March 12 from 1 3:30 p.m. Details to come.

Contact: Molly Steinke, Nemer Fieger, 952-278-3142 or 612-309-1677, molly@nemerfieger.com

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