Thailand International Motor Expo 2020: Whatever Changes Will Be... Move On

  From December 2 through 13, 2020, the 37th Thailand International Motor Expo 2020 was held in Bangkok, with participation by 31 international automotive brands and 21 renowned motorcycle companies. The expected number of attendees during this 12-day event is estimated to be 1 million. Order-taking for up to 30,000 cars and 5,000 motorcycles were targeted.

  This year's Motor Expo presents the concept "Whatever Changes Will Be Move On", as the show organizer realized the rapid growth of the electrified vehicle market globally, while intending to encourage carmakers to create vehicles that run on various kinds of energy sources without limitation and to exhibit them at the event.

  A model that makes its world debut in Thailand at this Motor Expo is the Nissan Navara Pro Series, while Kia Carnival was unveiled for the first time in Southeast Asia at this event. Models that are introduced in Thailand for the first time at the event include the BMW 4 Series, Peugeot 2008 SUV and Porsche Panamera.

  Other recently introduced models which have captured local customers' attention are showcased at the show, including Honda City e:HEV, Honda City Hatchback, MG EP, Hyundai H-1 Impressive, Isuzu MU-X, Suzuki Swift GL Max Edition, Volvo XC40 Recharge, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Aston Martin DBX, Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 AMG Dynamic, and MG HS PHEV.

  The Motor Expo Online Platform was also organized in parallel with the real show through the "Motor Expo" application as well as the "motorexpo.co.th" website. (https://ve.motorexpo.co.th/)

37th Thailand International Motor Expo 2020 entrance	37th Thailand International Motor Expo venue

Related reports:
Thailand: Resuming plan to be an EV hub in ASEAN region after COVID-19 pandemic (Oct. 2020)
Bangkok International Motor Show 2020: Major SUV competition (Jul. 2020)
ASEAN: Thailand and Indonesia aim to be regional EV hubs, CASE businesses growing (May 2020)
Thailand International Motor Expo 2019: Eco-cars, sports models, and pickup trucks (Dec. 2019)

Honda's press stage

  Honda Automobile Thailand highlighted its 2 new recently launched City models: the City Hatchback, which made its global debut in Thailand, and the City e:HEV, Thailand's first full hybrid city car.

City Hatchback

  The 5-door Honda City hatchback combines the versatility of the Ultra Seat (ULTR) seats and the fun of driving with a 1.0-liter turbocharged DOHC VTEC TURBO engine that delivers up to 122 hp and 173 Nm of torque, making excellent fuel economy of up to 23.3 km / l, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that drives the front wheels.

  Designed with an innovative sporty look, both exterior and interior, the City Hatchback is available in S+, SV, and RS variants. Other features include the application of Honda CONNECT and standard safety equipment, including 3 cameras and 6 airbags.

The new Honda City Hatchback	The new Honda City Hatchback

City e:HEV

  The new Honda City e:HEV features the Sport Hybrid Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) system which utilizes a 108 PS/253 Nm electric motor that drives the wheels. The vehicle is powered by a 1.5-liter Atkinson-cycle DOHC i-VTEC engine that produces 98 PS from 5,600 to 6,400 rpm and 127Nm of torque between 4,500 and 5,000 rpm, paired with a single-speed e-CVT automatic transmission. A fuel consumption figure of 27.8 km per liter on the NEDC cycle is claimed. Available in RS Variant, the e:HEV also comes with the Honda SENSING suite of active safety features, including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane centering assist, lane keeping assist and automatic high beam.

The new Honda City e:HEV	The new Honda City e:HEV

The new Honda City Hatchback's engine	Under the hood of the new Honda City e:HEV

GR Yaris

Toyota GR Yaris

  Toyota showcased its stunning hot hatch and champion of world-class rallying, the GR Yaris that has been deliberately developed based on the experience of "Toyota Gazoo Racing", its high-caliber motorsport team. Yaris has been adjusted to provide driving performance and fast response which is a combination of solid structure and light weight. It is powered by the high-power G16E-GTS 3-cylinder in-line, 1.6-liter turbocharged DOHC 12-valve engine with 261 hp and 360 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed iMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission), allowing the car to reach a speed of up to 230 km/h. All the power from the engine is transmitted through the latest 4-wheel drive system (GR-FOUR sports 4WD system). The creation of GR Yaris reemphasizes Toyota's determination to create "Ever-Better Cars", while still offering extreme fun in all forms of driving.

Innova

Toyota Innova Crysta

  Toyota also exhibited its Premium Crossover MPV, the new Toyota Innova that has been significantly refined with the exterior being completely redesigned to be more stylish, modern, and eye-catching. On the other hand, the interior has been meticulously crafted to offer a spacious cabin, great comfort, and convenience, combined with full functions and equipment, including 9-inch touchscreen stereo player compatible with Apple CarPlay. Besides, the vehicle comes with ultimate safety functions, Panoramic View Monitor, and front/rear parking sensors, coupled with superb driving performance. The 3 available variants are 2.0 Entry, 2.8 Crysta, and 2.8 Crysta Premium.

Toyota Innova Crysta's luggage room	Toyota Innova Crysta rear style

Toyota Innova Crysta’s engine	Toyota Innova Crysta’s interior

Lexus

  Lexus's highlight at this year's stand is surely the brand's first BEV model in Thailand, the recently launched all-new UX 300e compact crossover. The model features sharp exterior design while boasting its fine-tuned interior. It is completed with state-of-the-art functions and superior driving performance thanks to its GA-C (Global Architecture-Compact Platform) with low center of gravity and excellent stability. This UX 300e comes with a perfect electric motor system producing 150 kW (201 hp) of power with aggressive acceleration, powerful performance and an amazing environmentally-friendly driving experience. The car has a maximum driving range of 360 km per charge.

The all-new Lexus UX 300e

Under the hood of the all-new Lexus UX 300e	The all-new Lexus UX 300e’s interior

MG’s press stage

  MG officially unveiled the new MG EP, Thailand's first electric station wagon. Introduced under the "EVeryone" concept, the model reflects the basic standards of EV in Thailand. As a station wagon, this BEV comes with a large body dimension (4,544 mm in overall length and 2,665 mm wheelbase). Its safety features include dual frontal airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) together with Electronic Brake Assist (EBA).

  With its electric motor of 163 hp and the acceleration rate of 0-100 km/h within only 8.8 seconds, the new MG EP has with 3 driving modes: Eco, Normal and Sport. It is also equipped with the Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) available in 3 levels. The vehicle's lithium-ion battery has a capacity of 50.3 kWh which provides a driving range of over 380 km with one full charge.

New MG EP station wagon	New MG EP station wagon rear style

Under the hood of the new MG EP station wagon	New MG EP station wagon’s interior

New MG HS PHEV

  Another of MG's electrified vehicle models highlighted at the booth is the new MG HS PHEV, which made its local launch in October with the concept of "Refinement". The model presents superiority through luxury, comfort, safety, and PHEV technology that enables engine - electric motor synergy. This PHEV has peak output at 284 hp and a 16.6 kWh lithium-ion battery module. In EV mode, it can run for as far as 67 km without any recharging need.

Nissan’s press stage

  Nissan's stand this year was set under the concept of "Live Experience", thrilling visitors with Augmented Reality presentations. This was the first opportunity for local visitors to experience the Nissan Kicks e-POWER and Nissan Almera in new colors, as well as new editions of the iconic Nissan GT-R, Nissan Terra and Nissan Note.

Nissan Kicks e-Power in Sunlight Yellow

  Nissan's first highlight is the new Nissan Kicks e-POWER. The e-POWER offers the driving experience of a BEV without the need for external charging. The model comes in V and VL variants and is available in 2 new exterior colors, Sunlight Yellow and Night Blue. Enhancements include ambient lights on the door panels and at the front of the interior, with a welcome light that illuminates when opening the door.

Nissan Almera in Monarch Orange color

  The Nissan Almera was on display with 2 new stylish exterior colors, Monarch Orange and Gunmetalic Grey, accentuated by its 2-tone exterior and a black roof. Other design highlights include a sleek black finish to the front grille, rear spoiler, side mirrors, alloy wheels, and decorative stickers on the side. The interior is enhanced with sporty foot pedals, door sills, carpets, and an N-SPORT decorative emblem on the steering wheel.

  Another highlight was the high-performance super sports car, the recently facelifted 2021 Nissan GT-R, presenting an additional touch of luxury with upgraded headlamps and taillights with new colors, additions to the fierce grille and body skirts, and the latest alloy wheels. The customizable interior has a choice of materials and seat colors, while the front console adds luxury but retains the legendary style of the iconic GT-R.

Nissan GT-R	Nissan GT-R rear style

New Navara PRO-4X series

  The new Navara exhibited at Nissan's booth comes in special new PRO-4X and PRO-2X models that complement the aggressive exterior design with a black grille, alloy rims, and all-terrain tires.

Outlander PHEV

  Officially making its launch in Thailand at the event, the locally-made Outlander PHEV combines the embodiment of Mitsubishi Motors' expertise in electrification, SUV and all-wheel control technologies.

  The vehicle draws energy from its twin-motor 4WD combined with S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) system that delivers a quiet, smooth yet powerful acceleration unique to electric vehicles. Besides, its 2.4-liter in-line 4-cylinder DOHC 16V MIVEC gasoline engine provides 128 PS at 4,500 rpm and 199 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. When fully charged, the Outlander PHEV can travel as far as 55 km in EV mode. The vehicle is available in 2 variants, GT and GT-Premium.

Outlander PHEV presented on stage

  Isuzu's 2 highlighted models are the all-new MU-X, presented under the concept of "Originality Redefined" and the all-new D-MAX.

Isuzu MU-X Ultimate 4WD 3.0 Ddi Blue Power in Marrakesh Brown

  The locally-made full model-changed MU-X PPV made its world debut in Thailand in October. The vehicle is based on the engineering concept of Robust and Exclusive, enhancing the comfort and luxury feel at a level required for a PPV while maintaining reliable durability, fuel economy and safety performance. The PPV is offered with a choice of 2 turbodiesel engines, with the first being an RZ4E-TC 1.9 liter 4-cylinder unit making 150 PS and 350 Nm of torque. The other option is a larger 4JJ3-TCX 3.0 liter 4-cylinder that develops 190 PS and 450 Nm from 1,600 to 2,600 rpm. Transmission choices are a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic.

New Isuzu D-MAX X-Series 4-door HI-LANDER 1.9 Ddi Blue Power Gen 2 (in Everest Pearl White)

  The other Isuzu pickup presented on the stage was the new Isuzu D-MAX X-SERIES, 4-door HI-LANDER variant, which is equipped with a 1.9 Ddi Blue Power Gen 2 engine. Decorated with X-Stylist Package kit, the vehicle's design concept is "Bold but Emotional".

  The new Mazda CX-3 2021 Collection was highlighted on the stage at Mazda's booth.

  The new CX-3 2021 Collection retains Mazda's KODO design, both its interior and exterior. While some unessential details were taken away, the vehicle's elegance continues to be presented under the concept of "Less is More". It is powered by a 156-hp 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G engine, offering fuel economy of 16.4 km/liter.

  Mazda also exhibited the "Mazda 100th Anniversary Edition" in 3 models, Mazda2,Mazda3 and Mazda CX-30 in Snowflake White Pearl color.

CX-3 2021 showcased on the stage	Mazda 100th Anniversary Edition line up

  Suzuki displayed its models at this year's event under the concept of "Delight Your Way in Every Journey That's You".

  Highlighted at the booth this year was the Suzuki Swift GL MAX Edition which is accessorized with a new design, including a full body skirt, rear spoiler, special stickers, and shark fin antenna.

Suzuki Swift GL MAX Edition

  Ford's recently launched new Ranger and Everest, as well as a Mustang Special Edition, were being showcased at the Ford stand.

Ford’s press stage	Ford Mustang 55th Anniversary edition

  Ford exhibited its Ranger in a 4-door racing pickup disguise, modified by Ford Thailand Racing team to join the Thailand Super Series. It is powered by a 3.2-liter Duratorq diesel engine with 6 speed manual transmission. This racing pickup brought Ford a "Super Pickup class" trophy from the competition.

  Presented on the stage was also the Ranger XL Street, the two-door king cab with black alloys and side mirrors caps that features sporty elements, including stripe graphics, inspired by Ford Thailand Racing's racing pickup, and the matching red accents found on the grille. It is powered by a 2.2-liter diesel engine that produces 160 hp and 385 Nm of torque, mated with 6-speed manual transmission.

Ford Thailand Racing (FTR)’s podium-finishing Ranger	Ford Ranger XL Street in Absolut Black

  Mercedes-Benz Thailand highlighted its recently launched models, the GLA 200 AMG Dynamic SUV, as well as the A 200 Progressive and the A 200 AMG Dynamic sedans. These 3 CKD-assembled models have a 1.3 liter L4 gasoline engine with turbocharger and intercooler that delivers 163 hp at 5,500 rpm and 250 Nm of torque from 1,620 to 4,000 rpm, paired with a 7G-DCT 7-speed dual-clutch transmission with steering-wheel gearshift paddles.

Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 AMG Dynamic SUV

Mercedes-Benz A 200 Progressive	Mercedes-Benz A 200 AMG Dynamic

BMW’s press stage

  BMW Thailand presented its 4-series, the all-new 430i M Sport 2-door Coupe. The vehicle is powered by a B48 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engine that provides 258-hp from 5,000 to 6,500 rpm and 400 Nm of torque from 1,550 to 4,400 rpm, mated to an 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission. This Coupe takes 5.8 seconds to go from rest to 100 km/h, with a top speed of 250 km/h.

The all-new BMW 430i M Sport 2-door Coupe	The all-new BMW 430i M Sport 2-door Coupe

The new Hyundai H-1 Impressive

  Hyundai highlights the new H-1 Impressive. With its Creamy White color body, this MPV becomes sportier and more luxurious looking. It is powered by a 175 hp 2.5-liter inline-4 DOHC 16V common rail direct injection engine with variable geometry turbocharger and intercooler, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift.

The new Hyundai H-1 Impressive	The new Hyundai H-1 Impressive interior

  KIA officially introduced the all-new KIA Carnival at the event. This 11-seater MPV's eye-catching design is inspired by premium SUVs. It is powered by a 2.2-liter Smartstream turbo-diesel engine that delivers 202 hp at 3,800 rpm, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels.

The all-new KIA Carnival

The all-new Peugeot 2008 SUV in Fusion Orange color

  The all-new Peugeot 2008 SUV in Fusion Orange color is highlighted at Peugeot's booth this year. The vehicle is scheduled to officially enter the Thailand market in 2021.

Volvo booth with PHEV model line-up

  Volvo's booth this year attracted visitors with its updated "Recharge" models in the 2021 model year line-up. All exhibited Volvo models are PHEVs, namely the XC40, XC60, XC90, S60, S90, and V60.

Volvo XC 40 PHEV	Volvo S90 PHEV

Porsche Panamera	Maserati Ghibli Hybrid

Aston Martin DBX	Rolls-Royce Ghost

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Keywords:
Thailand, Thailand International Motor Expo, EV, PHV, HV, SUV, Pickup Truck, Honda, Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Mazda, Suzuki, Isuzu, SAIC, MG, Hyundai, Kia, Ford, Mustang, Daimler, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Peugeot, Volvo Cars, Porsche, Maserati, Aston Martin, Rolls-Royce

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