Auto shows are good entertainment. You don’t have to be a car nut, or even in the market for a new vehicle to find enjoyment at a car show. But, if you are considering buying a new vehicle in the near future, the Dayton Auto Show makes for a fantastic place to do a lot more than just kick the tires.

The Dayton Auto Show, which runs Feb. 21-24 , brings together most of the major car brands under the roof of the Dayton Convention Center. More than 20 different auto brands will be represented during the four-day show.

>>See how the Dayton Auto Show will focus on the new Corvette<<

As someone who reviews cars for a living, I can tell you that having different makes and models, and even different trims, all together where you can see them side by side is a great resource for potential consumers. And, the best part is, you can sit in the vehicles, walk around them, look at them up close, even pop the hood if you’re so inclined.

>>See the schedule of the Auto show here<<

Here are some of my tips if you are in the market for a new vehicle, and how best to take full advantage of the Dayton Auto Show.

Don’t just sit in the driver’s seat
Sure it’s a blast to sit behind the wheel imagining you’re driving the vehicle. And that is vital to the car show process. But sit in the passenger seat, and the back seat. If you bring your family to the Dayton Auto Show (and it’s a family friendly by the way), have your kids sit in the seats they would normally sit in. Get their feedback. If the seats fold flat or recline, test all of that out.

Touchpoints
One of the things I always mention in my car reviews, are the touchpoints. What this means is, what are the materials used in the vehicle? How do they feel? The auto show gives you a chance to poke and prod the materials. Is the dashboard well made? Are the seats soft and comfortable? How is the instrument panel? Is it organized and logical for you?

The look
Above all else, the look of a vehicle is important. Walk around the vehicle and look at what we call the fit and finish. How well made does the vehicle look? Are there sleek lines and an interesting appearance? Is it attractive? Frequently there will be more than one trim of a vehicle that may show special rims or headlights or options where you can see how they compare to the more basic trim options. This is invaluable in the shopping process.

Practicality test
If you have a family, or are traveling with a stroller or car seat, don’t hesitate to see how that stroller will fit in the trunk. Don’t hesitate to put a child in the car seat and see how they fit. Put the vehicle to the practicality test. Will your golf clubs fit in the trunk? What about your weekly trip to the grocery? How’s the legroom and headroom in that third row?

Push the buttons
Many of the vehicles will be powered up so that you can play around with the infotainment systems. Technology is huge in today’s vehicles, and the car show gives you a chance to learn some of the cool features. If a vehicle is not powered up, and you’d like to try it out, ask one of the representatives if they can turn it on (it can’t hurt to ask). But make sure you familiarize yourself with the latest technology as each vehicle has different systems. Some you may like better than others.

Ask questions
Representatives from manufacturers and some area auto dealers will be present during the Dayton Auto Show. They can help answer questions you might have, offer more materials and generally assist you. And, the best part is, it’s a low-pressure environment where no one is trying to sell a vehicle on the spot. So, don’t hesitate to get all your questions answered.


Jimmy Dinsmore is the Wheels editor for Cox Media Group. Contact him at (937) 225-2115 and follow him on Twitter @wheelseditor