The yearly “Disneyland” for Filipino car lovers — the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) — opens its gates once again on 4 to 7 April at both the World Trade Center and the SMX Convention Center.
Those two places will be the happiest places on earth for car aficionados who get to see more than 200 car displays from 29 manufacturers.
But what exactly can we expect from the spectacle which already lines itself up against the popular auto show of Tokyo and Bangkok (which happened a week earlier)?
Top of the list is the stunt and trick show of renowned driver Russ Swift.
The British stunt driver and Guinness record holder will regale the crowd three times a day in the duration of the MIAS 2024.
He will be up 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and 5 p.m.
There will also be a grand display of miniature die-cast cars for those who haven’t outgrown their love for toy cars (who haven’t?).
Displays from 1:18 to 1:64 ratios will be on deck in different themes and scales.
MIAS 2024 will likewise have the Custom and Classic Car competitions to showcase the Filipinos’ ingenuity and craftmanship.
Test drives will also be available at different car brand displays. And if you are already convinced of buying a new ride, you may check out the different financing options by leading banks in the country.
And since we are into beauty, there will be a pageant for women named Ms. MIAS 2024.
Of course, the main event will always be the cars.
Expect a horde of new launches and new car debuts from top car brands including those coming from China.
Top feature among them are electric vehicles which are fast gaining ground in the country for their environment consciousness, cost efficiency and most of all, the convenience they bring to owners on account of the traffic coding exemption.
Those expected to whip out their EV offerings are Mitsubishi, Nissan, Hyundai, Jetour, Hongqi, Hycan and Seres, among others.
This year’s theme is called “Bridging the Future.”
Exclusive promo discounts on new cars, accessories, parts, car maintenance products and services are likewise on offer throughout the exhibit.
Because for the first time the MIAS will be held in two separate venues, participants and guests may park at one site and then avail of the shuttle service provided by Foton, QSJ, Hyundai, Carry Boy and Fuso.
Gates open at 10 a.m., and tickets can be availed at manilaautoshow.com.