The Tribune

New car dealers, banks and insurance companiesl filled Grand Bahama’s Circle Mall last weekend for the annual Auto Show.

Quality Auto Sales, located on Queen’s Highway, showcased nine new vehicles, including Hyundai, Toyota and Suzuki models.

“We’ve highlighted a full range of our vehicles here today, and we are giving additional rebates of $1,000 on the 2012 Hyundai Accent and Veloster, and $800 on the popular 2012 Hyundai Tucson,” said Whitfield Bain, sales manager at Quality Auto.

“This offer is good while supplies last, and right now we have over 90 new vehicles to choose from, so we invite those who were here to come and select the one that’s right for you.”

The same sentiments were shared by Freeport Jet Wash, West Mall Drive, which brought out the new 2013 Ford Escapes, Explorers and Edge SUVs, as well as the Nissan Versa.

“It’s been a great success, with plenty of people shopping for cars, a real plus for us today,” said Larry Albury, general manager of Freeport Jet Wash.

“Many customers thought our cars cost well over $50,000 brand new. They don’t, so many were surprised by our pricing and the great warranties we offer. My team and I have been going all day. It’s been really steady and the new location has been great.”

For customers looking for financial assistance, Scotiabank was offering interest at 4.99 per cent - a reduced rate not seen in a long time, and offered just for the day.

“We enjoyed the day. The event was well attended by our staff and customers; we are happy with the end result,“ said new Grand Bahama Scotiabank branch manager, Bruce Humber.

Royal Bank of Canada brought in additional staff from Nassau, and offered no money down with a competitive rate for first-time buyers.

“I would consider the event a huge success,’” said Royal Bank’s Grand Bahama senior account manager, Marcus Moxey.

“Our team was extremely excited and enthusiastic about the event, which I think was clearly reflected in their efforts. We look forward to next year’s event. “

Commonwealth Bank offered a low interest rate with three months’ no payment, while CIBC First Caribbean promoted its 6.99 per cent rate with a reduced 5 per cent down payment.

“It’s a good time to buy a car,” said one shopper. “I wanted to see the new models but had not expected the aggressive rate structures. I may be buying earlier than I thought.”

The combination of adding the show to the mall was also popular with vendors who own stores in the Circle Mall.

“Our traffic has really increased today,” said Brittany Baldwin, owner of Sweet Affairs. “We think that the Auto Show will really help showcase the mall and the types of possible functions we can host here.”