Getting the country’s grandest auto show back on the road

After a brief speedbump at the start of the decade, the evolution of the Philippine auto industry is now back to full throttle, fueled by the never-ending drive of the country’s automakers and manufacturers to deliver the best and most sophisticated vehicles for the Filipino market.

Nowhere is this more at display than this year’s Manila International Auto Show (MIAS). Widely hailed as the most anticipated motoring and driving event in the country, MIAS has been providing car enthusiasts and industry professionals the most dynamic and extensive automotive events and exhibitions since the event debuted in April 2005.

Held today until April 16 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, MIAS 2023 will be co-presented by Petron, and will feature the MIAS Petron Custom and Classic Car Competition as a highlight, where vintage, classic, and contemporary cars are showcased and vie for awards for best of the show, best in the category, and other awards. This competition rewards car and shop owners who value craftsmanship and attention to detail, showcasing the best of Filipino ingenuity and artisanal workmanship.

There will also be featured discussions about cutting-edge developments and emerging trends in the automobile industry, such as continued conversations about sustainability and the rise of electric vehicles.

The Die-Cast Automobile Collection will also be on display at MIAS 2023, with models ranging in size from 1:18 to 1:64 on display by members of the Die-Cast Car Club PH.

Fifteen different brands, including several different truck manufacturers, have confirmed attendance and will be showcasing their latest offerings on the World Trade Center front lot. The list of brands includes big names such as Ford, Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Hyundai.

Visitors can expect brand new vehicles and the latest models to arrive in the Philippines to be on display, alongside everything from electric and hybrid cars to historic cars and custom build competitions. There will also be opportunities for test drives, truck zones, and club exhibits.

Ford has announced that its next-generation Ford Territory will be making its way to the Philippines and will be making its debut alongside other brands presenting at the event. This means that just six months after its debut in Vietnam, and three years after its introduction to the Philippines, the all-new Territory will hit the market for Filipino fans.

Changan Philippines will showcase its whole vehicle lineup, which includes the Alsvin, CS35 Plus, CS55 Plus, UNI-T, and UNI-K. The UNI-T and UNI-K, both of which debuted to the public earlier this year, will be significant highlights as both models will be unveiled for the first time.

Furthering the discussion on EVs on the Filipino auto market, Chery Philippines has announced that it will release an all-new electric Tiggo 5X model.

Peugeot has also announced that the e-2008 will debut at the next auto show, the brand’s first all-electric vehicle for the Filipino market.

GAC Motor will feature not one, but two vehicles at its stand. The company announced that its GAC Empow in the high-end GE trim level is now available for purchase.

Meanwhile, the Foton Thunder pickup truck is getting a refresh for the market.

Rumor has it that Geely will also unveil its new Monjaro model at the MIAS 2023, alongside every model in its lineup.

As a new entrant to the market, Jetour’s future-forward crossover portfolio for the Philippines will be on display at the show this year. The lineup features automobiles such the Ice Cream EV, X70, and Dashing.

GWM, also a new brand, will debut its finest offerings for the Philippine market, which likely include hybrid and conventional SUVs like its H6 HEV and Jolion HEV.

Hyundai Motor Philippines’ new Stargazer and the Staria models will likely make an appearance, but the company likely has something else up its sleeve to surprise guests.

The MG GT, with its eye-catching yellow exterior and high-end fittings, will be on display at the MG booth. The MG HS and ZS T are also rumored to make an appearance.

Subaru Philippines is reported to introduce a small crossover version of the Forester, complete with cosmetic upgrades and other conveniences that might pique consumers’ interest. In addition, the current generation of Evoltis will likely receive a makeover or a small update.

Other brands, such as Mitsubishi and Nissan, are being more secretive about their plans, but it is highly likely that a lineup refresh can be expected.

BPI will also have a booth during the event to act as an auto loan provider for those in the market for a new car. That means you can stop by the BPI booth for some exclusive offers for visitors who have tried out the latest models from the various participating brands in the massive test drive area.

This year’s Manila International Auto Show aims to not only have the most impressive and comprehensive automotive display ever seen in the country, but also to host the most exciting automotive events which can impress and excite auto enthusiasts and industry professionals all over the country. — Bjorn Biel M. Beltran