With family motoring in mind, The Irish Times Motorssupplement has joined forces with the Irish Spring Home and Garden Show to host a family-orientated motor show at the RDS this weekend.
While it won't match the Geneva motor show for size and global significance, it adds yet another attraction to an already popular family show and some timely motoring metal as people prepare for the changing tax regime that has meant many have postponed their buying decisions until after July 1st, when the new taxes come into effect.
A total of 19 car brands will be displaying their latest models, including the Irish launch of the new Hyundai i10, and recent introductions like the Volkswagen Tiguan. Alongside the overall family theme, many visitors will undoubtedly be seeking advice on the new environmental tax regimes due to be introduced from July 1st.
Several car firms have taken that on board and will offer advice while showing their low emissions or hybrid models. Established hybrid models like the Toyota Prius and Honda Civic hybrid will be accompanied by other fuel efficiency options, such as Volvo's biofuel versions.
Mainstream marques will have their latest best-selling models on offer, such as Ford's new Mondeo and its revamped best-seller, the Focus. Meanwhile Renault will have the recently launched Laguna on its stand, alongside the popular Scenic family car.
At the Fiat stand, alongside its recently launched Bravo model, the Italian marquee will be showcasing its new 500 supermini - Car of the Year for Europe this year, and holder of several other awards, including Top Gear city car of the year, Fifth Gear's car of the year, and the top prize for 2008 from British magazine Car.
Other award winners will include the Peugeot 308, which won the Golden Steering Wheel award for best family car in Germany earlier this year.
Given the DIY themes on offer elsewhere at the Spring Home and Garden Show, family-friendly vehicles with an ability to tackle the rough and tumble will also be on display. Jeep will have its new Patriot model on its stand, while Hyundai will have its latest version of the Tucson SUV.
Alongside the big brands, several of the smaller marques are also attending the show. These include the Daihatsu range, which will be displaying its array of small cars, topped off with its funky little two-seater small-engined roadster, the Copen.
While car fans will get to admire the metal on display, the beauty of the multi-format show is that it also allows visitors to see the latest trends in interiors and gardens, along with a shopping mall of stalls.
This is a show not just for potential car buyers, home owners or gardeners, but the whole family.
