The 2024 Manila International Auto Show, running from April 4th to 7th, just wrapped up and showcased an impressive display from various automotive brands, both old and new. This year’s show put the spotlight on the industry's shift towards new-energy innovation and electrification across value segments. Both the World Trade Center and SMX Convention Center held many stories about the goings-on of this year’s show, and MIAS 2024 saw record-breaking attendance figures at around 162,000 across two venues. If you missed it or weren’t able to catch everything, we’re giving you the highlight reel for of the most interesting product launches from the current local brands.
Nissan
Nissan’s massive stage at the World Trade Center featured all their current models, including the Almera, the Patrol, and the Navara. Also on stage were the two high-performance favorites, the GT-R and the Z. New energy vehicles such as the Kicks e-power and the Leaf EV were on hand to support the star of Nissan’s show, the all-new Ariya EV SUV. The brand’s first all-electric crossover SUV, the Ariya combines futuristic design with a zero-emissions powertrain. The Ariya's sleek LED headlights, minimalist yet tech-filled cabin, and impressive performance figures—394 PS and 600 Nm from the e-4ORCE dual-motor setup—position it as a premium EV option from the Japanese brand. This one however has yet to be offered locally.
Hyundai
Hyundai Philippines won the best booth at MIAS 2024, and for good reason. Their stage setup was clean and the lighting was nice and light on the eyes. But showgoers know that the big news with the Korean brand was the arrival of the N performance division to our shores. Hyundai announced the arrival of the Elantra N and Ioniq 5 N at the show, marking the debut of high-performance Hyundais on our streets. With a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine delivering 276-hp and 392-Nm of torque, and a design featuring an updated front fascia and 19-inch wheels, the Elantra N exemplifies Hyundai's absolute vision of everyday performance. Meanwhile, the Ioniq 5 N, fresh from its win as the World Performance Car of the Year for 2024, brings 600-Ps of power and a whopping 740-Nm of torque. To drive home its point that performance is now synonymous with the brand, Hyundai also brought in its Elantra N TCR race car to show off.
MG
After a few months of teasing, the MG Cyberster EV finally made its public debut, boasting svelte supercar curves to go with its supercar performance figures. The long and sleek two-door cabriolet, with its long hood, powered scissor doors, and sharp silhouette packs 544-PS and 725-Nm of torque with the top-of-the-line dual-motor version. It’s the brand’s take on a new-energy Grand Touring car and ticks all the boxes on the supercar checklist, minus any of the roars. MG Philippines also announced a pre-order and reservation scheme for the performance EV, so hopefully, we’ll be seeing it on the roads soon.
Hongqi
One of the many new brands that aim to bring accessible luxury and refinement into the market, Chinese car brand, Hongqi, launched its compact yet upscale Hongqi HS3 crossover as an addition to its current lineup. Designed with the usual Hongqi flair, the HS3 wears the brand’s signature dynamic headlights and upright, chrome-bound grille. The HS3 was introduced as an accessible entry into the premium vehicle market and is powered by a 1.5-liter turbo engine, blending performance, luxury, and advanced safety features into a handsome looking crossover.
Foton
Foton brought out the heavy hitters with the reveal of the massive Tunland V7 and V9 pickups, Unmistakably designed to echo bigger American pickups such as the F-150 and RAM 1500, the Tunlands come equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine with a 48v mild-hybrid powertrain, making them the first in the market with a diesel-hybrid setup. The pickups come in 4x2 and 4x4 configurations and have interiors worthy of five-star hotel driveways. The pickups have proved popular enough that the first batch of pickups has been sold out.
Changan
This year marks the brand’s first MIAS under the new distributor, Inchcape Philippines. This year, Changan launched its CS15 subcompact crossover, offering an alternative to popular segment models such as the Toyota Raize, Chery Tiggo 2, and Geely GX3 Pro, priced at just P799,000. The CS15 has an appealing combination of features, style, and affordability in the compact crossover market. Its Alsvin-based 1.5-liter engine, comprehensive safety package, and tech-forward interior make it a valuable addition to the brand’s portfolio of crossovers and SUVs.
Suzuki
One of the few Japanese brands present at MIAS, Suzuki showcased its popular Jimny 5-door off-roader and the new, XL7 Hybrid. The Jimny 5-door extends the appeal of the iconic 3-door model, while the XL7 Hybrid introduces an electrified option to the MPV segment, promising enhanced fuel efficiency, burlier looks, and a sizable interior space good for seven.
Subaru
Subaru unveiled the Crosstrek GT, Forester GT Wild, and Outback XT Touring Editions. The Crosstrek GT comes with a new body kit, wheels, and a GT-exclusive interior. The Forester GT Wild is the more sedate version of the Forester Wilderness Edition available in the US and comes with matte black exterior accents and matte black wheels. The Outback XT Touring looks the same as the standard Outback but offers big changes under the hood. The turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer engine pushes out 249 Ps and 350 Nm of torque through Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT.