The San Diego International Auto Show is scheduled to begin its annual four-day run Thursday at the San Diego Convention Center.
More than 500 new-model vehicles are set to be displayed, according to the New Car Dealers Association, which organizes the show.
Among the newest cars will be new Toyota Tacoma and Tundra pickup trucks, the redesigned Chrysler 300, a Ford F-150 with an aluminum body and a Charger Hellcat. A few new-design BMWs will also be on display.
New this year will be "Safety City," an interactive exhibit by the San Diego Fire Rescue Foundation, which provides hands-on demonstrations to children on vehicle, bicycle, pedestrian and fire safety.
Other activities for children are set for the annual Family Day on Sunday, when kids 12 and under can attend for free when accompanied by a paid adult.
The Auto Show will also feature a Ford Thunderbird Retrospective, with nearly a dozen T-Birds from 1955-2005, a motorcycle pavilion, electric vehicles, devices to improve mobility for the disabled and a chance to test drive some of the cars.
"The Ride & Drive is the single most effective tool we have to educate our audience," said Kevin Leap, the show's director. "Product specialists educate the consumer as they experience the features and driveability of the car without any sales pressure, giving them a true appreciation for the vehicle."
The Auto Show runs 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday at 111 W. Harbor Drive.
Tickets are $13 for adults, $9 for military with identifications and seniors 62 years and older, $8 for youth 7-12 and free for kids 6 and under.
