Major car firms from the United States, Japan, China, Korea and Europe unveiled new models at the inaugural Jeddah International 4x4 Motor Show, which was opened on Thursday by Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vice Chairman Ziyad bin Bassam Al-Bassam.

The exhibits were represented by local dealers such Al Jaomaih, Abdullah Hashim, Mohammed Yousuf Naghi, United, Al Yemeni, Bakhashab, Tajeer and Yusr.

Aside from presenting the latest models, Al-Harithy Company for Exhibitions (ACE) and Saudi Auto magazine, the joint organizers of the event, described as the first of its kind, kept visitors engaged with a special track to give them the chance to test-drive new vehicles.

The organizers claimed they succeeded in creating and implementing a new concept by ensuring a high-level of interactivity between the exhibitor and the visitor.

The first edition of the 4x4 Motor Show, which was largely attended by car lovers, provided a business-to-business platform to leverage the robust growth potential of the Saudi automotive 4x4 and SUV cars, and to introduce the latest models, technology, services and financial solutions related to automobiles.

SUV’s and 4x4 cars are especially popular in Saudi Arabia and there is a high-level interest in off-road and desert driving.

Recent researches estimate that the Kingdom has 19 percent 4x4 vehicles and 11 percent light trucks. Bigger vehicles are also popular in order to accommodate large families in this segment.