Isfahan Auto Show Trying to Inspire

The International Isfahan Auto Show opened on January 24 with competing companies showing their latest technologies and products.

According to local automotive website asrekhodro.com, the leading carmaker, Iran Khodro Company, showcased the Peugeot 2008 and 508. 

Both models are being produced under the new IKCO-Peugeot joint venture in Iran and are expected to be in the market by March. 

Other IKCO models on display were the Peugeot 207i, Tondar 90+, and a new turbo charged Soren. The company was also offering special offers on limited models. 

SAIPA, the second largest carmaker, has a notable presence. The company is showing 15 models, namely the Citroen C4L sedan and C6, Kia Cerato and Sandero Stepway to name a few.

Also present is Arian Motor the official representative of Japan’s Mitsubishi Motors in Iran. Four models displayed by the company were the 2017 editions of Outlander, Mirage, Lancer and ASX. Visitors could test drive the Outlander.

An official from Ramak Khodro, the company representing Ssangyong in Iran noted that “the timing of the exhibition couldn’t have been better as we are nearing the yearend.”

Muhammad Ali Dardashti said the first and second days have not been as exciting as one would have anticipated. Past experience shows that visitors “usually browse about on the first and second days and those who want to buy leave it for the last days. “

He added that residents in Isfahan have shown a stronger tendency toward purchasing SUVs while crossovers and sedans come next. Most car sales in this major tourist city are in the 500 million rials ($12,500) to 1 billion rials ($25,000) price range. 

“The people of Isfahan normally are averse to risks. They will not buy a car unless they are completely sure about the quality.” 

The four-day expo has brought together leading auto manufacturers and importers such as Kerman Khodro, Karmania, and Media Motors.

The exhibition venue is the Isfahan International Fairgrounds and visiting hours are 4-10 pm.