The country’s most anticipated auto show is back as the Manila International Auto Show returns for its 14th edition. Never one to disappoint overzealous car lovers and auto industry players, the theme for this year’s MIAS is guaranteed to solicit an equal amount of excitement, if not more. Inspired by two of the most central reasons that motivate people to buy cars, MIAS 2018 will drive up the action to the tune of “Work & Play.”
Following the trailblazing success of last year’s show, MIAS 2018 is committed to delivering another explosive display; but this time around, focusing closely on cars and automotive innovations that will live up to the “Work & Play” aspirations of auto enthusiasts. As such, visitors of this year’s MIAS can expect to find an extensive range of vehicles that are either ideal for their various business and career agendas or ones that will help one’s business keep up with the demands of their trade. On the other hand, leisure friends, adventure-seekers, and everyone else in between are sure to be impressed with the line-up of cars that are specially designed to elevate the way we travel.
Last year, MIAS racked up at least 128,000 visitors as it housed 145 companies and boasted 250 displays throughout its four-day run. In turn, MIAS 2018 expands its venue to 34,850 sqm. and has noted over 400 car and motorcycle displays. With an increase of 38% of exhibitors, 60% of car and motorcycle displays and 16% increase in exhibition space, it will not come as a surprise that MIAS 2018 transcends its own records with this year’s line-up of presentations.
Naturally, all eyes will be on this year’s newest auto releases. From special editions and updates to the latest models, visitors can expect a no-holds-barred access to the hottest cars of the season. Some vehicles on display will likewise be available for test drives at the Test Drive area which can be found outside the venue’s main hall.
The year, car enthusiasts will look forward to the public debut of the new Ford Mustang, Mitsubishi Xpander, new SUV models from Hyundai, the all-new RAM 1500 Laramie Crew Cab, the newly-refined Mercedes-Benz GLC, Subaru’s new models with EyeSight feature and the brand debut of GAZ from Russia and JAC’s introduction of its automobile models. Some brands prefer not to give out details yet, so visitors would expect a few more surprise debuts at the opening day of the MIAS.
One of MIAS’s charms is that the event also has collector and high-performance car displays. Some of the highlights expected is a very well restored 1960 Porsche 356 Coupe to commemorate the brand’s 70th anniversary, a massive 5-unit army of Mercedes-Benz G Wagon 4×4 Squared at the Motul booth, a Rolls Royce restored by Alex Isip of Alex Restoration, vintage and classic cars at the PTTC Hall and Formula V1 race cars from TRS.
In line with MIAS’s promise to cater to the needs of virtually all types of auto seekers, commercial vehicles and large trucks by the country’s leading custom off-roading authority will be put on display at the Truck Pavillion, located at the North Wing of the show venue.
Meanwhile, those who are particularly into car customization will be glad to know that this year’s Custom and Classic Car Competition will once again return to feature over a hundred entries of the most eye-catching and creative car set-ups.
Truly a haven for car lovers of all kinds, also not to be missed at this year’s MIAS is the Die Cast Display which features miniature versions of the most beloved car models from various franchises. Additionally, another highly sought-after component of MIAS is the Swap Meet, a gathering of members who would buy, sell, or trade diecast car models among one another.
MIAS is also thrilled to announce the return of the Russ Swift Stunt Show, an annual event highlight which showcases a series of mind-blowing stunt performances by international precision driver and Guinness World Record holder Russ Swift. Swift will be using his trusty Subaru cars for all his shows.
Only growing bigger and bolder each year, so much is in store for car lovers and trade players at MIAS 2018: Work & Play which will run from April 5 to 8, from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm at the World Trade Center Metro Manila and Philippine Trade Training Center. The event is organized by Worldbex Services International, the country’s leading events, and expositions organizer.