Cars, trucks, SUVs roll into town for International Auto Show

Nearly 30 manufacturers display top models

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Cars, trucks and SUVs from nearly 30 manufacturers have rolled into town for the annual Jacksonville International Auto Show at the Prime Osborn Convention Center, offering something for both enthusiasts and new car buyers.

The International Auto Show features both domestic and foreign vehicles. Consumers can check out the features, compare prices and get a feel for the driver's seat without having to deal with a salesperson.

VIEW: List of exhibitors

Parents looking for a new family vehicle can choose from an assortment of full-size sedans, minivans and SUVs. The models are typically loaded with the latest technology and features, so buyers can see all the options.

The new Honda Odyssey minivan, for example, has a host of new features, including the Cabin Talk feature. The new communication feature uses speakers in the vehicle as well as those used in headsets for the entertainment center.

The feature allows people in the front row to speak in a normal conversational tone and volume and allows everyone in the minivan to hear. Passenger wearing headphones will also be able to hear what others are saying with Cabin Talk.

Truck lovers will find a variety of different pickups, including small work trucks, half-tons or heavy-duty vehicles. The displays will include trucks from popular brands including Chevy, Ford, Dodge and Toyota.

Evan Townsend, a board representative for Ford, said the two most talked-about cars in the lineup are the 2017 Ford Mustang and the Ford F-150.

Anyone in the market for a sports car or luxury car will find them, too. Lincoln will have its new Continental on display, as well as other models, including the smaller MKZ sedan and the brawny Navigator SUV.

Sports car lovers will find muscle cars from American makers, European hot-hatches and coupes from German brands and practical brands known for their rock-solid durability from Japanese makers.

VIEW: Hours and prices

This year also marks the return of Infiniti to the showroom floor. The automaker recently redesigned its Q60 sports coupe, one of its most popular models, from the ground up.

The unique sports car is set to be one of the most luxurious coupes to hit the road this year.

For starters, Infiniti debuted the new Bose Performance Series Audio System with advanced staging technology in the all-new Q60.

The Q60's eye-inspired LED headlights allow drivers to see farther ahead and around their surroundings. The optional adaptive front lighting system is said to improve visibility at intersections and around curves.

For those with a need for speed, the coupe features a front and rear zero life design that gives the driver a sleek and smooth ride down any roadway.

Infiniti designed the coupe's interior to show craftsmanship at its finest, too. Unique stitching is tailored and accented throughout the car to give it a luxurious style.

The seats were designed with zero gravity research to give drivers and passengers a sports seat that will reduce fatigue on long drives.

As for performance, the Q60's sport-inspired steering wheel has thumb grips and paddle shifters. 

Visitors looking for a test drive can do that, too. Drivers can get behind the wheel of several cars, including Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep and Toyota. A valid driver's license is required to test drive a vehicle and those wanting to do so should be prepared to take a Breathalyzer test.

Car fanatics can also get a glimpse of history at the auto show as cars from the 1960s and vintage muscle cars will be on the showroom floor.

The Jacksonville International Auto Show begins Friday and will go through Sunday.


About the Authors:

Kent Justice co-anchors News4Jax's 5 p.m., 10 and 11 p.m. newscasts weeknights and reports on government and politics. He also hosts "This Week in Jacksonville," Channel 4's hot topics and politics public affairs show each Sunday morning at 9 a.m.