As with all auto shows, >90% of the cars on show are just that, showroom models. It isn't a museum (although there is one in the basement) nor, like Tokyo, a concept car extravaganza.

However, if you like cars and are unfamiliar with what's on offer in Europe, nearly half of the field is made of vehicles not found on US roads: Alfa, Citroen, Daihatsu, Fiat, Lancia, Peugeot, Renault, Seat, Ssangyong, Skoda, Tata (!), plus smaller vehicles from BMW, Mercedes, VW, etc.; the Japanese have a very different lineup in Europe as well.

The Geneva auto show is usually known as a venue for the introduction of high-end models, as one of the few neutral shows, not allocating preferential floor space to local manufacturers, and also (more in the past) as a rendez-vous for 'high-end' european tuners of dubious taste catering to middle-eastern markets.

The exhibitors' attire is among the most conservative of major shows, quite the opposite of Tokyo and Sao Paolo, but stereotypes of French (elegant), German (coldly technical), and Italian (stylish at Lancia, vampish at Alfa) fashions are usually upheld. The others make surprisingly little effort to promote their national identity.

A long layover is ideal to visit the Geneva auto show, as the airport is within walking distance of the exhibition hall, and hotels very expensive at the time.

P.S. Anybody else sick and tired of the nearly all-silver lineups in the Audi, Lexus, (to a lesser degree) Mercedes, and Toyota booths? I am aware silver is the best seller in Europe, but how boring can one get?