The 2009 Australian Motorshow is into its last week. As the only show this year with Sydney and Melbourne having agreed to alternate shows each year to appease cash-strapped car makers, the Sydney motor show will not be staged again until October 2010.

Despite a couple of withdrawals from brands for this show, Melbourne isn’t short of fresh metal – whether it’s shaped in production or concept form with over 340 different vehicles on display representing nearly 95% of all vehicles sold in Australia.

The 2009 Australian Motorshow is into its last week. As the only show this year with Sydney and Melbourne having agreed to alternate shows each year to appease cash-strapped car makers, the Sydney motor show will not be staged again until October 2010.

Despite a couple of withdrawals from brands for this show, Melbourne isn’t short of fresh metal – whether it’s shaped in production or concept form with over 340 different vehicles on display representing nearly 95% of all vehicles sold in Australia.

Stunning concept cars including BMW’s M1 Homage and Hyundai’s Genesis Coupe have been a real head turner so far. Production-car headline acts have come in the form the new Mazda3 MPS hot-hatch (as well as regular versions of the new-generation 3), Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder, Hyundai i20 baby car and Mini Cabriolet.

In the environmental corner, there has been stronger representation in the growing segment with the third-generation Toyota Prius hybrid and new Honda Insight hybrid. Mitsubishi, meanwhile, has showcased the i-MiEV, a car that is set to become Australia’s first battery-electric car in 2010.

The 2009 Melbourne International Motor Show finishes on Monday 9th March.  See www.MotorShow.com.au