Just like a fun night out on the town, the Manila International Auto Show 2017 was a weekend full of excitement, adrenaline-pumping action, and a sight-and-sound spectacle that won’t soon be forgotten. And just like that morning after feeling one gets after partying hard, Manila is still reeling from a hangover after last weekend’s activities at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.
For indeed, there was a whole smorgasbord of things to see, hear, and touch across the five indoor structures where the show was held. From its humble beginnings back in 2005, the show has grown to a massive 34,000 sq.m. of exhibition space, spilling out into the neighboring Philippine Trade Training Center.
At the show, one got to see the world-class driving prowess of Russ Swift, exhibits, swap meets, and races by the Die Cast Collectors Philippines (DCPH), various car clubs, and even vintage and classic cars. Then there was the Car and Truck of the Year, the Honda Civic RS Turbo and Isuzu D-Max 3.0 4x2 LS AT, respectively, that were proudly displayed for guests to behold. And the best motorcycles were likewise honored in the very first Motorcycle of the Year Awards.
Of course, no premier car show would be complete without the latest cars from top manufacturers being shown off for the public’s scrutiny. In fact, no less than 11 models of various makes and segments were unveiled during the four-day event. Apart from these, some car brands quietly revealed a model or two, such as the refreshed Subaru BR-Z, a few special models from Mazda and Honda, and the like. In case you missed it, here is a gallery of what you will soon see on our roads.
And if the proof of the pudding is in the tasting, then visitors got a real taste of what some of the cars can do. This as marques like Ford Philippines, Subaru via Motor Image Pilipinas, and other brands allowed patrons to not just test drive their latest offerings but practically put them through their most punishing paces using a simulated outdoor off-road course.
MIAS attendance hit 128,000 this year. Up by about 16% from last year and setting a new record in the process. Yes, the Manila International Auto Show 2017 may be over. Yet we’re quite certain Manila won’t soon forget the experience. In fact, many may already be preparing for the next one.
Photos and video by: Paolo Lesaca
