Beyond performance
Car brands launch latest models at MIAS 2017
CAR ENTHUSIASTS are trekking to the 2017 Manila International Auto Show ( MIAS), which runs from March 30 to April 2, 10 a. m. to 10 p. m., at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.
Based on feedbacks from major exhibitors and car brands, last year’s MIAS was considered to be highly successful. With over 110,000 visitors, the show now extends to five indoor structures covering over 34,000 square meters, stretching from the main hall of the World Trade Center to two customized tent areas, and the Philippine Trade Training Center.
The main hall of World Trade Center houses the main car brands while its lobby showcases the major sponsors and partners of MIAS. Extending to World Trade Center’s east wing annex tent building, another purpose-built airconditioned tent stretches to connect a seamless linkway to the Philippine Trade Training Center.
Another new feature of this year’s MIAS is the 3,000-square-meter Truck Pavilion showcasing the industry’s latest offering of commercial vehicle and truck brands.
CAR AND BRAND LAUNCHES
The MIAS has always been looked as the premier venue for car brands to launch their new models to the public.
This year, among the new models to be launched are the following: Dodge — Challenger SRT Hellcat; Foton — Gratour Midi Truck; Honda — Civic Type R; Hyundai — Genesis G90 and Creta; Jeep — Moparized Wrangler (80th anniversary MOPAR); Mazda — MX-5 RF, CX-5, CX-9; Subaru — Impreza (New Global Platform); VW — Tiguan; and Chevrolet — Spark.
THIS YEAR’S THEME: ‘BEYOND PERFORMANCE’
This year’s theme at the MIAS is all about performance. A vehicle’s performance is more than just the ability of a car to reach top speeds or taking on sharp turns. Today’s automakers exact optimal performance of all its components, promising an exhilarating experience. Hundreds of parts working together in harmony define a vehicle’s performance.
The vehicles of today are more complex than ever, with all its components relying on each other to make sure it performs as it was designed to be.
In today’s fast-paced world, performance has been a strong selling point for the automotive brands, but beyond performance, attributes like efficiency, safety, practicality and reliability must go with performance. Whether it’s a sports car, SUV, pickup or sedan, automakers are now harmonizing these attributes to attract its buyers. Being the premiere and largest annual motoring event in the country, the MIAS
showcases the best vehicles and aftermarket products and services all in one venue.
With today’s increasing gas prices, fuel efficiency is not sacrificed even as engines become more powerful, better electronics, exhaust systems, fuel delivery and drivetrain solutions make sure the vehicles perform well and still can be frugal in fuel economy. The MIAS is a fairground for consumers who do not only want vehicles that look great, but are also fabulous to drive. They are motoring enthusiasts fueled with a passion for high performance and value-for-money vehicles.
Just like in previous shows, car enthusiasts can expect a lot of things to see and check out at the MIAS. From heart-stopping stunt performances by the world’s best precision driver, Russ Swift to off-road test drives with simulated 4x4 obstacle courses to world-class customized tuner cars and highly collectible vintage and classic cars. OEM and performance parts suppliers will also showcase their latest offerings in the aftermarket area located at the East Wing Annex building of the World Trade Center.
Other special events include the MIAS Petron Custom Classic Car Competition honoring some of the country’s finest car restoration and custom car shops, and the Automobile Association of the Philippines (AAP) annual Driver of the Year gala awards night, the event honors the country’s top drivers in various motorsport disciplines. AAP is the country’s oldest and biggest auto club founded in 1931 and is a non-stock and non-profit organization committed to the general welfare of motorists, promoting road safety motor sports and championing green mobility in the Philippines.
Visitors can also look forward to doing some bargain hunting at the Diecast Collectors Philippines ( DCPH) swap meet and viewing the DCPH special miniature diecast car exhibit, or join the RC (remote control) drift race event, Tamiya 4WD race event or even do some Driftbox go-karting with friends and family.
MIAS also honors the Car of the Year (CoTY) and Truck of the Year ( ToTY) with a special display at the entrance area of the World Trade Center. This year’s CoTY and ToTy winners were the Honda Civic RS Turbo and Isuzu D- Max 3.0L 4x2 LS AT pickup truck respectively. What’s new in MIAS 2017 is the launching of the Motorcycle of the Year Awards ( MoTY) which highlights the growing motorcycle segment in the country. Definitely, MIAS is the biggest venue for all vehicle types in all shapes and sizes.
Organized by Worldbex Services International, MIAS 2017 is set to break records with its biggest installment yet. The event’s copresentor, BPI Family Auto Loans will once again be offering quick and easy loan processing during the four days of MIAS, adjoining the Philippine Trade Training Center for the benefit of the ABS- CBN Lingkod Kapamilya Foundation, Inc.