120,000 car buyers and enthusiasts flocked to the Philippines’ biggest annual motoring event
The 2022 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) finally returned to an onsite format, attracting more than 120,000 visitors during its four-day run. MIAS was held from April 7 to 10, 2022 at the World Trade Center, Pasay City. Leading car brands from the Philippine auto industry took the opportunity to launch new models, conduct test drives, and connect with customers in a way that’s only possible at a live auto show. It’s the kind of visceral experience that any fan of motoring enjoys.
The opening day of the MIAS was marked by multiple vehicle launches: Changan launched the new CS35 Plus SUV, which has premium safety and convenience features at an affordable price. Chery revealed the all-new Tiggo 8 Pro 7-seat midsize SUV, together with the Tiggo 5x Pro. Chevrolet unleashed the powerful new Tahoe 4×4 Z71—a full-size SUV with massive power and torque courtesy of a 5.3-liter V8. The Trailblazer, Tracker, and a Red Hot Chevrolet Camaro RS coupe were also at the Chevrolet booth.
Foton launched the all-new Thunder 2.0 pickup, with an impressive payload capacity of up to 1 ton. GAC wowed with the sleek Empow55 sports sedan powered by a 2.0-liter engine, and the second-generation GS8 SUV. MG Philippines, meanwhile, presented the HS SUV and the upgraded MG 5 Core Plus Sedan at its elegant MG Concourse. The Concourse was designed to visually transform into iconic locations such as London’s Piccadilly Circus and The Bund in Shanghai.
Maserati showed up with their uniquely sporty sedans and the Levante SUV. Mitsubishi featured the new xPander MPV, and buyers at the MIAS got the chance to win mountain bikes or a family trip to Boracay from if they purchased one.
Nissan showcased its latest tech, including its e-Power hybrid electric drivetrain in the new Kicks, the all-electric Leaf hatchback, and the Intelligent Mobility suite in the limited-edition Navara Pro-4X.
Peugeot marked a major event since the brand’s relaunch under a new distributor. The French carmaker revealed the all-new 2008 SUV, powered by a turbocharged 1.2-liter mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with “quick shift” technology.
Subaru launched the all-new BRZ sports car and the 2022 Forester with the active safety package EyeSight 4.0. The Subaru BRZ and Forester were put through their paces at the tire-scorching Russ Swift Stunt Show, which ran thrice daily at the MIAS. Volvo showcased its range of electrified sedans and SUVs, including the XC60, XC90, and S90 as part of its 2022 Boost Hybrid Range.
Autohub displayed the iconic Vespa scooter and Mini Countryman SUV, while Autoplus amazed MIAS visitors with a trio of rarely-seen race cars.
At the end of the four-day expo, everyone got a sense of what it’s like to be around the best new vehicle releases again. Because at the end of the day, any experience of the motoring world isn’t ever complete without getting in the driver’s seat yourself.
