| Usually the last day for a car show is mostly where the crowd has wind down to a halt, where everyone was more present on the early day. But not for this year’s Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), where there was double the turnout than what usually its first day.
This was somewhat unexpected for an annual car show with this magnitude. There were families, groups of friends, and walk-ins making to the entrance on the very last day of this event, which was dauntingly surprising that made this weekend a hit. |
The event is considered one of the major car shows in the country to be held in Manila with a huge visitor turnout. It is not just an event that launches the latest models from participating car manufacturers, but also connecting with car club communities and hobbyists.
Every year MIAS has put themselves in a challenge to even bigger than the past years they have held the car show. This year ups the ante with the best and brightest presentations from exhibitors at the main hall as well as captures the interest through connecting with local car enthusiasts.
What makes MIAS a main draw is the car launches, even though CAMPI’s PIMS holds that mocker that unveils the next generation of cars they’re not held every year/ But happens every other year. MIAS, on the other hand keeps pushing to be more than just another car show by expanding itself to be more relevant every year.
With all the hype and hoopla behind this event its takes the Filipino Festival and adding it to this car show’s identity that it celebrates not just for the usual petrol heads, but entices the whole family to appreciate all things that is car culture in a very festive way how this country enjoys parties.
But amidst all the bright and colourful celebrations the main draw will always be the new cars being unveiled in this event. The last day of course, does not stop and here are some of the featured cars presented in these highlights…
The Kia Stinger
On top every car manufacturer that unveiled their latest offering Kia had one that most Filipinos are looking at. The centrepiece of the exhibit is the Stinger which was already available in the Australian market in the fourth quarter of 2018. It was finally shown at MIAS 2019 on the very first day.
It was one of the eye catching luxury cars at this event that most people have looked at from top to bottom. This is also one of the expensive cars that most with deep pockets would think of getting. It is indeed impressive in person than just featured in car magazines and YouTube videos comparing it to notable cars like the Holden Commodore that was the last car ever produced in South Australia.
But for those who have seen the comparisons to other cars you’ll probably day it is a fast cars, but for those who are in the motorsport scene have their own opinion to preference. For now there’s no equivalent car that can match the Stinger in the Philippines unless you’ve been to Australia to say the least.
Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
Perhaps, one of America’s iconic cars of yesteryear is still kicking and screaming in 2019 with its latest iteration. This red beauty is fiery as its neighbor up there in the main hall. It just sits there pretty much like a silent assassin not being noticed by most people in general due to Kia’s bad boy.
This one is sleek as any Corvette Stingray; this edition is just fine wine ageing right although not for its perfection, but for consistency the way General Motor continues to keep the heritage alive. It is a different type of beast with each engine and aesthetics when it comes to this American Icon like its other relatives like the Camaro it is still a thing of beauty despite most Filipinos have gotten attention to anything that is relate to Korean like that aforementioned car.
Hyundai Kona & Ioniq Electric
In the Philippines, the Electric Revolution is on a snail pace, but surely car shows are the vehicle to what a hopeful future hold for automobiles. With that Hyundai made a splash and went ahead for its participation at MIAS, where they showcase their Ioniq Hatchback and Kona Crossover making these two electric cars available for the Philippine market that leaves Nissan behind.
The gasoline powered Kona has been available in the country since 2018 and with the EV version making it to local shores it seems that Hyundai is serious in making sure the future is bright with their electric cars making it a common thing on Philippine roads. This compliments with Ioniq Hatchback as probably the two green machines to be available for the market that might just inspire other car manufacturers to bring their EVs to the local scene.
MG 6 Fastback
MG Motor has been around since 1924 that has evolved over the years that have many owners. The latest iteration introduced MG 6 Fastback that was unveiled on the first day that features a 1.5-liter turbocharged gas engine that produces 162 hp and 250 Nm. The car comes in two trims, the AT Alpha and AT Trophy. Driving safety is enhanced by Hill Start Assist, Traction Control, and Tire Pressure Monitoring, along with the basic safety features including Antilock Brake System, Electronic Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Distribution.
The elegant interior is loaded with creature comforts, and combined with the sporty and responsive feel of the wheel and pedals, makes for one fine ride. The Covenant Car Company Inc. (TCCCI), the distributor responsible for bringing the Morris Garages (MG) brand of cars to the Philippines, revealed the brand’s latest offering which is their latest edition of the MG 6 sedan.
VW Fridge Benefits
There’s not much new at the Volkswagen area since they’ve previously unveiled their latest models of the Lavida, Lamado, and the Santana in the past car show last year. But of course they still have the usual range of cars that also includes the VW Golf, VW Polo, Caddy, Tiguan and Toureg as their main showcase for this year’s MIAS.
But what are impressive are not the cars, but a pair of refrigerator units based on the front design of the classic Type 2 VW Combi Van. Although there’s a new van already out in other markets namely in Australia these two fridge units will do to catch your attention even on the last day of the event.
There are other interesting showcases too from Jaguar and Rover, the same with Suzuki’s latest sports edition Swift, and some catchy looks at the latest range of Subaru models. Just among the main attractions of the show besides the classic muscles cars hidden on the back side of the main hall lined up for you to see.
Clearly, MIAS has expanded to greater heights and it will definitely continue to grow and bring on another impressive showcase for 2020. For now these impressive highlights that you might have missed out is here for you to see.
Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) is happening from April 4 to 7, 2019 at the World Trade Center Manila and opens 10 AM to 8 PM with Entrance Fee of at: PhP 100.00 pesos | $1.95 USD | $2.80 AUD
For more about the event follow MIAS on Social Media via Facebook and Instragam or visit the site at: ManilaAutoShow.com
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