20 Things That Made MIAS This Year So Memorable
It was a record-breaking year for the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) this year, as a total of 170,900 automotive enthusiasts attended the event according to event organizers. The 20th anniversary of the annual auto show was also special because of the presence of the widest variety of brands ever, and an array of experiences that went beyond the typical car show.
From high-profile debuts like Tesla and Lotus to the Best of Show award for a perfectly restored 1967 Toyota Sport 800, and interactive highlights ranging from die-cast displays to off-road obstacle courses, the event demonstrated how MIAS has evolved into a multifaceted celebration of automotive culture, technology, and community engagement.
Marking two decades since its inception in 2005, MIAS has grown from a modest gathering of local brands into the Philippines’ premier automotive showcase. For a brief history about MIAS, check out From Zero to Twenty: 20 Years of MIAS, which looks back at how each edition has balanced cutting-edge innovation with a deep respect for automotive heritage, tracing the journey from early petrol?powered exhibits to today’s electrified and connected mobility.
This year’s theme, “Driven by Connection,” underscored MIAS’s role as a bridge—uniting fans and families, enthusiasts and car buyers. As the show celebrated its past triumphs, it also pointed boldly to the future, revealing the vehicles, technologies, and experiences that will shape the next 20 years of motoring in the Philippines.
Here are the top 20 highlights of MIAS 2025:
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1| 20th Edition Milestone
Celebrating its 20th edition, MIAS 2025 marked two decades of showcasing the Philippines’ evolving automotive landscape, a journey that began in April 2005 and has since become an annual highlight for car lovers nationwide held at the World Trade Center Metro Manila.
2| Record Attendance of 170,900
Despite the notorious summer heat and ongoing road repairs along Macapagal Avenue, MIAS 2025 attracted a record?breaking 170,900 visitors over four days, setting a new benchmark for foot traffic.
3| New Brand Debuts
For the first time, MIAS welcomed Lotus, Tesla, Vinfast, Rox, Aito, and Zeekr—making 2025 the most brand-diverse edition of MIAS yet.
4| All-New Model Launches
Among the brands that presented their latest models are Changan’s Nevo Q05 PHEV, showcasing its plug-in hybrid crossover capabilities; Hyundai showcased the Elantra compact sedan in two trims—the sporty N Line and the Hybrid Premium; Chery Auto Philippines rolled out three new Tiggo models: the all-new Tiggo Cross, the Tiggo Grand Tour MPV, and the electrified Tiggo ReV CDM 7-seater.
Meanwhile, GAC introduced its M8 PHEV plug-in hybrid minivan; MG Philippines previewed its hybrid ZS HEV crossover; Suzuki Philippines launched the all-new Dzire Hybrid compact sedan; Jetour Auto Philippines showcased the X70 Lightning i-DM plug-in hybrid SUV; and Lynk & Co. joined the lineup with its all-new 02 EV.
Alongside these headline debuts, BAIC rolled out new off?road capable SUVs, Foton unveiled the Wonder LCV, Nissan celebrated special Terra and Navara one-offs, and Omoda and Jaecoo launched their C5, E5, and EJ6 SUVs.
5| MIAS Petron Custom & Classic Car Competition
In partnership with Petron (led by renowned car collector CEO Ramon Ang), around 50 custom and classic cars vied for honors, celebrating masterful restorations and modifications that pay homage to automotive history.
6| Best of Show: 1967 Toyota Sport 800
The MIAS Petron Custom & Classic Car Competition Best of Show crown went to Raldy Bayot’s exquisitely restored 1967 Toyota Sport 800—brought back to life by Sushi Factory—with its original 2-cylinder boxer engine, period-correct accessories, and factory-fitted AM radio.
7| Celebrity Appearances & Mini Concerts
Star power was high as celebrities like Dingdong Dantes, Ian Veneracion, Kim Chiu, Paulo Avelino, Donnie Pangilinan, Vhong Navarro, Chito Miranda, greeted fans and performed impromptu mini concerts and live performances on the show floor, blending pop culture with horsepower for a mainstream appeal.
8| Miss MIAS Pageant
Cristel Galang, representing Aito, was crowned Miss MIAS 2025, her poise and stage presence earning both the judges’ approval and the People’s Choice Award, reflecting her strong fan support.
9| Esquire Garage Surprise Visit: Carlos Yulo
Two-time Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo posed with the Toyota GR Yaris at the Esquire Garage booth, underscoring his role as Toyota ambassador and delighting attendees with an unexpected meet-and-greet.
10| Autoplus’ Unique Porsches
Distributor Autoplus showcased two one?off Porsche 911s—a GS Manufaktur and a bespoke Singer 911 964 commission—demonstrating the artistry of coachbuilt craftsmanship.
11| 500-HP GR Yaris by Autoplus
Autoplus also displayed a heavily modified Toyota GR Yaris, tuned by former Toyota Vios Cup champion Luis Gono’s team at Autoplus, with a 500 hp built block 3-cylinder 1600cc powerhouse with 7-speed X-Shift Sequential Gearbox, Motec Engine Management, Varis Aero Kit, RSR Suspension, AP Pro 5000 Big Brakes among some of upgrades. It is also equipped with a Gruppe M intake, RSR suspension, and a Garage Vary body kit for street-legal track performance.
12| DeLorean Project by Monir Momani
Monir Momani’s DeLorean, featured in Esquire Garage and Forbes Capital Cars, became the show’s most Instagrammed ride, with over 1,000 guests queuing to snap selfies inside the iconic gullwing coupe. What’s amazing about this was it took the owner less than a month to restore it from its fire-damaged state.
13| Die-Cast Car Collection by DCPH
Die-Cast Car Collectors Philippines (DCPH) welcomed visitors with a glass-cased exhibit of miniature models at the ticketing entrance, showcasing themed collections that delighted collectors of all ages. Miniature diecast car brand Hot Wheels had a special car display and special discounts were offered to MIAS visitors.
14| UAAGI Off?Road Obstacle Course
The UAAGI Performance Center, featuring BAIC, Foton, Chery, Lynk & Co, and Jetour, challenged visitors with a simulated off-road course demonstrating their vehicles’ rugged capabilities.
15| Test Drives
All participating brands offered on-site test drives, allowing prospective buyers to experience door-to-door comfort, handling, and tech features firsthand before making purchasing decisions.
16| BPI Auto Loan Exclusives
BPI Auto Loans enticed showgoers with up to P60,000 in exclusive vouchers and on-the-spot loan deals, making car ownership more accessible through limited-time discounts and waived fees.
17| Commercial Vehicle Showcase
Beyond passenger cars, FAW, Foton, JAC, and Sinotruk took center stage in the Truck Pavilion, unveiling new light- and heavy-duty models to address logistics and transport needs. This included Foton’s newest model, a 100 percent fully-electric 6x4 tractor head that debuted in the show.
18| Overland Kings Outdoor Experience
Overland Kings, led by Chief Adventure Officer Joel Pedro, displayed custom-outfitted SUVs and pickups, inspiring overland enthusiasts with roof tents, off-grid power, and camping solutions.
19| OEM & Aftermarket Parts Showcase
More than 100 exhibitors including specialized parts and accessories companies filled the exhibits hall with tires, batteries, custom upgrades, and performance-enhancing services.
20| Road Safety Advocacy by AAP
The Automobile Association Philippines (AAP), founded in 1931, partnered with MIAS to promote road safety, showcase the rich history of Philippine motorsport, and provide on-site membership sign-ups for roadside assistance.
For more photos about the MIAS 2025, visit the event’s Facebook page.
