2006 Canadian International AutoShow

• 2008 Toronto Auto Show »

Since 1974, the Canadian International AutoShow, largest consumer show of any kind in Canada, brings exclusive premieres, celebrities, and designers to the City of Toronto. With more than 150 exhibitors and more than 1000 cars and trucks on display, there is a lot to look at. More than 37 vehicles are making their exclusive Canadian debut at the 2006 show.

Few autoshow highlights:

Acura RD-X

The RD-X Concept hints at the all-new Acura RDX production vehicle scheduled to go on sale this summer. The RDX, to be built on an all-new global light truck platform, will feature Acura's new Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. As a luxury crossover vehicle, RDX will combine the performance of a sports sedan with a variable-flow turbocharged, 240-horsepower engine and the all-wheel drive capability and functional utility of an SUV. RDX will offer features such as satellite navigation with voice recognition, a premium DVD-Audio sound system and HandsFreeLink wireless telephone interface.

Chrysler Akino

Compact size concept with home-like interior designed by Daimler Chrysler designer Akino Tsuchiya. The selection of materials and colors used in the interior are composed of natural and recyclable synthetic fabrics: bamboo flooring, a throw rug, lighting sconce, mood lighting and even throw pillows. The exterior features side glass that has an unusual graphic breakup while the rear glass is specially coated with texture to give passengers a sense of privacy and comfort. Very interesting concept, but it's hard to believe we will see a real production vehicle with this interior.

Mazda Senku

The Mazda Senku concept car made its North American debut at 2006 Toronto auto show giving a glimpse of one direction in which Mazda may go in the design of a rotary-engine powered sports car in the future. The long-wheelbase two-seater with large power sliding doors and spaceship-like interior, Mazda Senku is powered by a new Rotary Engine Hybrid system with new direct-injection gasoline engine.

2007 Lexus LS 460L

Lexus presented the company’s first-ever long wheelbase model, the LS 460L. The LS will be powered by an all-new highly advanced 4.6-litre V8 engine with approximately 360 horsepower and 370 pound-feet of torque. Combined with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the LS 460 will travel from 0 to 60 mph in less than 5.5 seconds.
The four-passenger compartment of the LS 460L transports its rear-seat passengers in an environment whose luxury accoutrements closely resemble to that of a private jet. Rear occupants can relax and enjoy power reclining seats equipped with power leg rests and even a massage feature. The new LS even offers body-heat sensors that help maintain the perfect temperature for all occupants. A fold-away table matched to the interior wood grain provides ample work space for rear passengers.

Volkswagen Passat wagon

Volkswagen has a lot to show including hot GTI, highly-anticipated Golf, Eos cabriolet and Passat wagon.
With standard 2.0T 200 hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine with direct injection and available 3.6L V6, 280 hp, the new 2006 Passat model represents the most sophisticated and affordable German-built family mid-size car on the market today.

Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder

Mitsubishi Motors Sales of Canada reveals 2007 Eclipse Spyder with head-turning design and an available 3.8-liter 260-horsepower MIVEC engine. One of the surprises, 650-watt Rockford Fosgate Premium Audio system.

Toyota 4x4 Track

Toyota presents the Toyota 4X4 Track. A rugged outdoor terrain built specifically for the Autoshow in heart of downtown Toronto. This track is designed with the purpose of allowing you to test drive Toyota's 2006 line of trucks in an off-road experience. Besides already well-known models like 4Runner and Tundra, you can try Toyota's new off-roader 2007 FJ Cruiser. I tried, feels very impressive.

Photos

Photos by Vlad Samarin

Mazda Senku	Mazda Senku	Mazda Senku	Mazda Senku
Ford Shelby Cobra Concept	Ford Shelby Cobra Concept	Ford Shelby Cobra Concept	Ford Shelby Cobra Concept
Ford Shelby Cobra Concept	Ford Shelby GT500	Ford Model U Concept	Ford Edge