Show pulls into convention center Nov. 25

Area residents will be able to fuel their automotive passions at the Motor Trend International Auto Show -- Las Vegas, which will be held Nov. 25-27 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Designed as a destination to research, compare and try hundreds of new models on for size, the auto show will feature everything from hybrids to the hottest new coupes and crossovers. The festivities also include special giveaways and appearances.

Among the all-new or redesigned vehicles making their auto show debuts are the Acura TL, Buick Verano, Chevrolet Sonic, Dodge Durango, Fiat 500, Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, Hyundai Veloster, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota Camry and Volkswagen Beetle. Showgoers also will be able to get a sneak peek of vehicles not yet in dealerships, including the preproduction 2013 Ford Taurus.

For enthusiasts looking for something more upscale, the show has a large selection of luxury vehicles from Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Lexus, Lincoln, Acura and more.

Additionally, there will be an opportunity to test drive new video games on one of 17 gaming stations including the Microsoft Xbox 360, Sony Playstation3 and Nintendo Wii. Attendees can also sign up at the display to participate in the Mario Kart Wii Tournament, where the winner will receive a $100 gift card to use at a local GameStop locations. The tournament starts at 4 p.m. Nov. 26.

Entertaining showgoers will be Rock-it the Robot. At 9-feet tall and sporting a brightly lit, glossy blue and silver exterior, the roving performer utilizes numerous voice and sound effects for communication. He also dances to popular music, lip syncs and performs the Electric Slide, clogging, hip-hop and his own robo-boogie-get-down dancing.

All attendees will receive a one-year free subscription to Motor Trend magazine, an $18 value. Offered courtesy of the Southern Nevada Franchised New Car and Truck Dealers Association and Nevada Franchised Auto Dealers Association, showgoers wishing to receive the magazine will be asked to fill out a subscription card at the show.

Kids Day will be held Nov. 27 and includes special appearances by legendary comic book and movie superheroes Spider-Man and Captain America between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.

On Nov. 27, the first 100 families at the auto show will receive a postcard to redeem for a free DVD of "Cowboys & Aliens," courtesy of Universal, when it arrives in stores Dec. 6.

Additional information about the auto show can be downloaded from iTunes. The free app allows showgoers to purchase tickets, map their routes, view participating manufacturers and get vehicle information.

Free parking to the show is available in Silver lots 3 and 4 at the convention center. The show will be held in hall S-3.

Show hours are Friday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Admission is $9 for adults, $6 for senior citizens (62 and older), military (with ID) and children 7-12. Children six and younger are admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. Discounts are available at participating The UPS Stores and new car dealers.

Additional information, discount coupons and directions are also available at www.AutoShowLV.com.