Motor shows making Australian comeback

Motor shows are making a return to Australia.

After the collapse of a plan for a national show alternating between Sydney and Melbourne, two groups are hoping to revive the interest in car shows in 2015.

The first one is just around the corner and has already received support from three key brands for an event at the Melbourne Showgrounds from March 26-29.

The Australian Motoring Festival will include test drives, simulators and other interactive events

The Showgrounds layout allows creation of a test track and four-wheel-drive course, as well as a family fun zone, a design centre and a location billed as "History that Moves".

Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz and Toyota have committed to the car show.

Its organisers — the RACV and Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce — promise a new approach.

Instead of just a glitzy indoor showroom, the Australian Motoring Festival will include test drives, simulators and other interactive events to put the cars into context and show more than the quality of their paintwork and cabins.

Ferrari is bringing cars to reflect its 30 years as a supercar headliner.

More car makers are expected to join as the event gets closer

Mercedes-Benz is emphasising its AMG performers and its Driving Academy and Toyota promises an interactive look at a range of models.

Ferrari is using the event as its major focus for this year, after lasy tear's successful Ferrari Racing Days in Sydney.

Mercedes-Benz hopes to lure newcomers to the brand — with a twist.

"We will be featuring Mercedes-AMG models and the Mercedes-Benz Driving Academy during the festival, along with a few surprise vehicles," says CEO Horst von Sanden.

More car makers are expected to join as the event gets closer.