Shoppers had the perfect opportunity to browse for a new car yesterday as we launched the first Evening Post Bristol Motor Show.

The three-day event is showcasing cars from 12 different manufacturers, including less expensive cars to the £67,000 Jaguar XK Coupe Portfolio.

The Mitsubishi stand had sold a Shogun by noon yesterday.

The Lord Mayor of Bristol, Councillor Christopher Davies, yesterday opened the show which will run until tomorrow.

He said: "I believe this is the first open air show of cars here in the centre and fantastic news for Bristol.

"There is a wonderful spread of cars here and its of interest to everyone.

"This whole area has been revamped in the last year and this event will really catch people's eye.

"Whether you are here in Broadmead or Cabot Circus you can combine shopping with buying a new car. Even if it rains we've got lots under cover too."

Stilt-walking fairies and other performers will also entertain shoppers throughout the event.

Goody bags will be given out and, if you visit The Mall Bristol today, there's a chance to win a "sat-nav" system.

The Mall will also be offering a special £2 all-day fee for parking on Sunday.

The cars are displayed throughout the city's shopping streets and centre and even inside The Mall Bristol.

Broadmead manager John Hirst said: "We're delighted to be hosting the Evening Post Bristol Motor Show here in the shopping heart of Bristol.

"The thing that excites me is that this is the glue that brings together Cabot Circus, Quakers Friars, Broadmead and The Mall Bristol.

"They are all involved in this show and give us a platform to do other things like this. We want to make Bristol better than anywhere else and to give shoppers a good reason to come to Broadmead.

"There are new shopping areas opening in Bath and Cardiff soon so we are continually having to raise our game to make sure Bristol is among the top.

"This event wouldn't have been possible without the Evening Post.

"We're hoping to have even more car dealers here next year – I'd like to see every single manufacturer in the country here in 2010."

Mr Hirst said that the event had also paved the way for future events in the city centre.

"Next week we're bring the carnival atmosphere with a totally different event as a preview to St Paul's," he said. "There will be samba dancers and processions."

Mall Bristol marketing manager Simon Dix said: "We're looking forward to welcoming car enthusiasts to Bristol for what promises to be an exciting event.

"Alongside the vehicles, The Mall Bristol offers shoppers a range of excellent stores to enjoy."