Montreal, Quebec — Proving that the Canadian car show spirit is still alive and well, the organizers of this year’s Montreal International Auto Show (MIAS) are proud to report that the show drew in a crowd of 148,516 attendees, in spite of some snowy weather.
“Our goal was achieved. Despite the three snow days and fewer workers downtown, people came out and we thank them all for attending,” said MIAS executive director Luis Pereira.
This year’s show was notable for its showcase of more than 220 green and exotic vehicles; the largest number ever presented in a general public exhibition, according to MIAS’s press release.
Event spokesperson Bertand Godin said “People who are waiting for their vehicle finally had the chance to admire, feel and touch the one they ordered for the very first time.
“These are families and friends who took advantage of the show to live their passion for cars together, that’s what car shows are all about.”
Despite the noticeable absence of major OEMs like Ford/Lincoln, Mazda, Honda Mitsubishi, nor any German manufacturers, Jim Scott, sponsorship and auto show manager for General Motors Canada was nothing short of enthusiastic about the turnout at MIAS this year.
“As the Montreal International Auto Show concludes for 2023, we, at General Motors, are extremely pleased in our decision to support this year’s edition,” said Scott.
“After a two-year pause, it was great to again present our Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac lineup of vehicles to the Montreal community and to support our GM dealers in Quebec. It was also fantastic to see such large and enthusiastic crowds in attendance.”
Periera said that he is hoping the success of this year’s show will instill some enthusiasm in the OEMs who chose not to attend.
“We hope that the convincing number of visitors will influence the manufacturers present to renew their participation next year and rally those who were absent,” he said.
“From our side, we can say that it is mission accomplished!”
The seventy-third edition of the Montreal International Auto Show ran from Jan. 20 to 29 at the Palais des congrès, and is set to return next year, according to organizers.
