If you’ve been yearning for a new set of wheels, there’s nothing quite like the Atlanta International Auto Show to help you explore some options and get you in the hunt for a new car, SUV or truck.

“Nationwide polls have shown that over 60 percent of individuals attending auto shows plan to make a new car, truck or SUV purchase within a 12-month period,” said Shayne Wilson, president of the Metro Atlanta Automobile Dealers Association, which produces the event.

The 31st annual show, set for March 13-17 at the Georgia World Congress Center, will showcase more than 400 new vehicles  to suit all tastes and budgets. The carpeted exhibit hall covers more than 9 acres of floor space.

“The theme for the 2013 event is 'meet your next new car, truck or SUV at the auto show,’ ” Wilson said. “It is the only annual event here where consumers can shop and compare vehicles from 29 different manufacturers in one location.

“On the weekend, we will have a number of fun attractions, including Spider-Man and Thor from Marvel (Comics), and the return of Scooby-Doo.”

Show organizers say they are pleased that the event will again be staged in C Building of the GWCC, since the exhibition area is located on the street level of Northside Drive, where there is plenty of  public parking and a short walk to the facility.

Whether you’re a serious shopper, a car buff or simply out for a good time, the auto show  is a no-pressure way to see plenty  of gleaming vehicles in one  location. You can ask as many questions as you like, climb inside luxury vehicles to touch and smell butter-soft leather interiors, or check out the latest high-tech gadgets and safety features.

“Today’s auto show experience is much more exciting than it was years ago, because now individuals can actually test drive vehicles onsite. In fact, we have our biggest lineup of ride-and-drive events ever, with 13 different manufacturers participating,” Wilson said.

Preproduction vehicles are always a big draw. This year, a number of 2014  vehicles will be on display including the Acura RLX and the Fiat 500L.

For restoration buffs, the North Georgia Mopar Club will feature beautifully restored classic vehicles owned by the club’s members. Four classics — a 1951 Ford F1 truck, a 1972 Dodge Dart, a 1968 Camaro Rally Sport and a 1969 Chrysler 300 — will be shown alongside their 21st century versions. Other classic cars on display will include a 1957 Cadillac, a Ford Model A and a Studebaker Avanti.

Local auto dealers are feeling optimistic. Industry experts predict that 15 million new cars will be sold in 2013, a four percent increase over 2012.

“It’s definitely a good time to buy a new vehicle, with great incentives, large inventories and motivated dealers,” Wilson said. “Financing is more readily available now and leasing is making a comeback.”