Fiat Chrysler, Chevrolet, Ford, Kia, Nissan, Subaru, Hyundai and Toyota brought a great selection of vehicles for local auto writers to test Oct. 18 in Chandler. Here are some photo highlights courtesy of Brenda Priddy.

PAPA’s Sept. 18 tour of Vantage Mobility International shed light on a segment of the industry that we don’t typically cover: conversion of vehicles for use by individuals in wheelchairs.

New partnerships, acquisitions and marketing programs are putting the Phoenix company on a growth track.

Click on the following links for details from the different perspectives of members who got an inside look at VMI’s assembly line and had a chance to talk with executives.

Tyson Hugie takes a walk through the assembly line

https://drivetofive.com/2019/09/23/modified-minivan-manufacturing-vantage-mobility-international-vmi-factory-tour/

Brian Driggs on taking things for granted

https://www.thegearheadproject.com/2019/we-take-it-for-granted/

Stay tuned for a couple more Vantage stories by PAPA members.

It’s almost time for the Southwest Lifestyle Media Drive.

From crossovers and trucks to performance and luxury vehicles, manufacturers will bring their latest vehicles for media members to photograph, drive and share with their audiences.

Manufacturer reps will be on hand to answer questions, network and demonstrate new vehicle features.

There will be no voting or specific evaluation criteria this year, according to Becky Antioco, Southwest Lifestyle Media founder. “We want you to drive the vehicles most relevant to your audiences, and spend time behind the wheel of vehicles that might not otherwise make it to the Phoenix media fleet,” she says.

Staging will be Oct. 18 at Crown Plaza Resort Phoenix-Chandler Golf Resort with a welcome dinner on Oct. 17. A more specific agenda will be available closer to the event date.

For questions, contact Becky at becky@southwestlifestylemedia.com.