THE Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), one of the most-awaited annual spectacles every summer, opened its doors to the public recently at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.
This year’s theme was aptly titled “Smart Mobility,” as vehicles on display were equipped with the latest cutting-edge technologies and accessories.
MIAS 2016 occupied more than 30,000 square meter of exhibition space, and even extending to the next hall in order to accommodate all the exhibitors. What’s unique about this year’s MIAS was the participation of tuners and classic vehicles, such as military jeeps used during World War II and restored Land Rovers, as well.
Outside the venue, manufacturers also took the opportunity to reel in buyers by holding test-drives of the models they were selling. And, of course, what is MIAS without the participation of Russ Swift regaling the audience with driving stunts that only he could deliver. Some of the manufacturers who participated were:
• Chevrolet
Chevrolet probably has the most vibrant display among all the manufacturers. The exhibit was meant to highlight the introduction of its newest model in the subcompact segment, the Sail, which is equipped with a choice of either 1.3- or 1.5-liter engine.
Chevy targets new car buyers, specifically those who are looking to acquire their first Chevrolet. A lavish presentation marked the introduction with no less than The Covenant Car Co. Inc. President Atty. Albert Arcilla, who was joined by brand ambassadors Zoren and son Mavie Legaspi, along with other Chevrolet executives.
After the program, Arcilla intimated that the Sail was not meant to replace its stable mate, the Sonic. Also on display were different variants of their best-selling Trailblazer SUV and Colorado Tracker series. Chevy’s entry in the compact-utility vehicle segment, the Trax, also garnered a lot of attention, as well as the newest version of the US secret service’s official vehicle, the Suburban.
• Ssangyong
SsangYong, a MIAS returnee, occupied the middle part of the exhibition area and was one of the most-awaited presentations of the event, which was held right after the unveiling of the latest offerings of Motor Image, official distributor of Subaru vehicles in the country.
Now under the helm of Berjaya Phils., distributor of Mazda vehicles in the country, and the fourth-largest car manufacturer in South Korea hopes to have the right formula to be successful this time.
After the opening remarks of SsangYong Managing Director Dave Macasadia and SsangYong Korea Export team General Manager Seong Rae-Kim, three initial offerings of the Korean carmaker were unveiled—the compact SUV Korando, the MPV Rodius and the subcompact SUV Tivoli.
• Foton
Foton, another brand that’s slowly making its mark in the market, displayed two versions of its best-selling vans—the Traveller and its high-roof version the Transvan. But Foton’s newest offering, the Toano, was no doubt the runaway winner, judging on the number of people who ogled at it.
Mimicking the style of a Mercedes-Benz van, the Toano is even taller than the high-roof Transvan. A full-size adult can easily stand inside and just like its sibling, the Toano, can seat 15 people comfortably. All three vans are powered by 130 hp 2.8-liter Cummins engine.
Meanwhile, its affordable entry in the SUV segment, the Toplander, offered in two trims, also has its share of admirers. Powered by the same 2.8-liter Cummins-made engine is even more powerful—pumping out 160 horsepower and 360 N-m of torque. But what makes the Toplander attractive is its price, which starts at P998,000; and, to top it all, Foton offers a five-year warranty for all its vehicles.
• Kia
Meanwhile, Kia showcased three of its models, including in the mini segment, the Picanto; a higher variant Porsche Kia Sportage GT; and another unique entry in the compact segment the Koup, a two-door sporty variant of the Forte model.
The recently introduced Sportage is now even better than the model it replaces. It packs a wallop with its Euro 4-compliant diesel engine and offers a lot of value for money.
Kia offered interested buyers affordable amortization plans during the duration of the event.
• Maserati
Auto Strada, the official distributor of Maserati in the country, decided to offer a different way for the lucky attendees who decided to see what Maserati had to offer, and this was by making them experience firsthand as passengers aboard the Ghibli.
Driven by expert drivers, led by respected racer and fellow motoring journalist George Ramirez, the participants rode the Ghibli and had the time of their lives. They were left in awe at how the Ghibli accelerated and how it handled on a track.
Image credits: Patrick Tulfo