KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 10 — The Malaysia Autoshow 2016 opened its doors to the public for the first time today at the Mines International Exhibition and Trade Centre (MIETC), and will be held for four days, to Sunday.

Organiser the Malaysia Automotive Institute (MAI) has set up a pavilion to share its vision as well as to create awareness to help turn Malaysia into a regional base for Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) production.

The show is slated to be the biggest annual automotive show in Malaysia, with launches of new vehicles and previews of cars to be launched in the near future. One hundred and fifty exhibitors, comprising automotive makers, after-market automotive products and accessory manufacturers and suppliers are showcasing their products.

In addition to more than 60 newly or recently launched vehicles on show, there are numerous daily lucky draws and a People’s Choice Contest, and many cars are available for test drives. It is said that there are RM200,000 in prizes to be won. As it is near the end of the year, many car makers are chasing numbers, so there are a few attractive offers.

Visitors will also be able to get close and personal with Malaysia’s first electric passenger vehicle, which was officially launched today. The project is a joint venture between Beijing Auto International Cooperation (BAIC) and Amber Dual Sdn Bhd.

Here are some interesting things to look out for:

Honda Malaysia has the soon-to-be launched Honda BR-V on show. The BR-V is a SUV that is smaller than the HR-V.

Hyundai is showcasing the Hyundai Ioniq, a C-segment hybrid car that is technologically advanced and runs on the latest lithium-polymer batteries, and an electric air-conditioner compressor that can still work even while the engine is on "Auto–Off” while the vehicle is stopped momentarily.

The all-new Mazda CX-9, due to be launched sometime in 2017, is on show. This SUV seats seven people, and is the latest addition to Mazda’s SKYACTIV product range. This SUV is powered by a 2.5 litre turbo-charged engine, but is said to be very frugal on fuel.

Naza Kia have the new Kia Grand Carnival, which is a large MPV made for travelling in style. The Grand Carnival is said to be available with either a 2.4 litre petrol engine, or a 2.2 litre diesel.

The Jeep display is worth a look. I hear there are some good deals up for grabs.

Mercedes-Benz is offering test drives on its C 350e. There are many other cars available for test drive, but this one is worth lining up for.

Take a peek at Proton’s designer series Iriz — stand out from the crowd.

Entry to the show is RM10. Students in uniform or with student cards will be admitted free today and tomorrow.