The 7th annual PIMS will be held at the World Trade Center between the 24th – 28th organized by CAMPI (Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc). Opening times are 8am-5pm and entry is only P100.
Whilst visiting PIMS you can expect the displays of the latest technologies and new models from exhibiting brands including BAIC, BMW, Daewoo, Foton, Fuso, Honda, Isuzu, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, SsangYong, Suzuki, Tata Motors, Toyota, and Volkswagen. Notable absentees were Mercedes, Ford, Hyundai, Kia & Mini.
I visited on the opening day, as there were a plethora of new models launches, it was surprisingly not particularly busy, and I was able to walk straight in. For those of you who haven’t been to the WTC, its well maintained and not too large, you can see all you need to in an hour or so.
Onto the cars, well amongst those new models being launched and in no order were:
- Philippine Manufactured Honda BR-V
- Facelifted Mazda 6
- Flagship Mazda CX9 Signature
- Nissan Leaf – for exhibition only
- Toyota FJ Cruiser
- Nissan 370Z Nismo
- BMW X4
- Suzuki Jimny
Being a self-confessed petrol head the car I was most surprised with was the new all-electric Nissan Leaf. It has revolutionary design both inside and outside along with great build quality, the interior would grace a Mercedes or a BMW. The Guys at Nissan say they will launch the Leaf in the Philippines, but there is not as yet a date decided for launch. The Leaf will benefit from the tax allowances incorporated in TRAIN but will still be very expensive as it’s a CBU.
Toyota as you would expect had a large stand close to the entrance to the hall, they were displaying the new FJ Cruiser, along with all their current models available in the Philippines. The FJ is certainly different and striking in design, will undoubtedly polarize opinion. Strange decision for Toyota to use a pre-facelift used model to display their best-selling model, the Fortuner. It wasn’t in the greatest condition and someone must be in hot water over this.
In terms of the Premium Brands, only BMW and Jaguar Land Rover. BMW had the new X4 and the mighty M5, along with a good selection of each series, they had one of the largest stands at PIMS. My favorite model remains the M2, which you feel could bite your leg at any time when admiring it!
Mazda were located at the rear of the hall and had a display befitting the of regeneration the Brand under Berjaya Inc, replicating the success of the custodian of the Brand for the last decade in Malaysia. If you’re not familiar with the new Mazda models, make sure you spend some time admiring the facelifted Mazda 6, 2019 MX5 and new flagship CX9 Signature.
Volkswagen Philippines have been making quite a resurgence in the region and had a large stand with all their models proudly on display. The recently launched Santana has caused a stir in the market due to its competitive pricing from P686K, which is tempting purchasers to look at VW, as apposed to the more traditional Japanese and Korean Brands. Most models are manufactured in China; however, this should not be seen as a negative as VW quality control is very thorough.
As well as cars and trucks there is a small section of accessory stands, as well as many of the banks offering special financing offers, for those in the market.
You may know we have 2 motor shows in Manila, MIAS (Manila International Auto Show) and PIMS. I think the organizers should join forces and have one motor show as they do in Bangkok. Bangkok is by far the best attended motor show in the region with over 2 million visitors.
Overall, I would recommend if you have an interest in cars and/or trucks or you’re in the market for a new car you visit PIMS. Most manufacturers have test models outside which they are offering test drives in, unfortunately I didn’t bring my license, don’t make the same mistake. It’s great for families, but there is a scarcity of outlets selling food and beverage.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
