2018 Bangkok International Motor Show
Regional debuts, concept cars from global manufacturers mark 39th BIMS
Once again, the 39th Bangkok International Motor Show opened its doors to a host of ASEAN and Thai debuts from manufacturers all over the world. Over 30 automotive manufacturers were joined by major aftermarket players to present their latest offerings to the region.
Aston Martin put the spotlight on the all-new Vantage, as it makes its ASEAN debut with its new 4.0-liter bi-turbo V8 powerplant. It was flanked by the DB11, Vanquish, and outgoing Vantage model.
BMW opened the salvo with the launch of the all-new X2 and the high-performance M5 into the ASEAN market. Together on stage were a host of BMW electric models as well as some M-models such as the M4 CS.
Bentley held the ASEAN reveal for the new Continental GT together with the brand's 'entry-level' Bentayga, powered by a turbo-diesel V8.
Taking center stage at the Ford pavilion was the public debut of the Ranger Raptor. Powered by a new Bi-Turbo 2.0-liter diesel engine which produces 213 PS and 500 Nm of torque, and a host of extreme gear the Ranger Raptor sets the benchmark in the pickup market for the region. Ford Thailand also released full details and pricing of the beefed-up Ranger Raptor.
Mercedes-Benz had on spotlight the all-new CLS. The German marque had a complete lineup of models ranging from SUVs, AMG models, and Bluetec hybrid models surrounding the stage. It is also worthy to mention that the current-generation S-Class will now be assembled in Daimler’s Thailand plant as well to go along with other Thai-assembled models.
Porsche brought out the all-new 911 GT2 RS along with the new Cayenne SUV.
Rolls-Royce had a huge presence –literally– with the ASEAN debut of their all-new flagship Phantom VIII. It was surrounded by the complete lineup of other Rolls-Royce models such as the Dawn, Ghost II, and Wraith.
Meanwhile, for the Japanese marques, Honda had on display the Civic Hatchback Red Edition together with the all-new Clarity, which is making its ASEAN debut.
Nissan finally made its GT-R flagship sports car officially available in Thailand.
Suzuki brought out a whole fleet of the all-new Swift for its regional reveal, each in different variants and various colors; all fitted with the 1.2-liter Dualjet four-cylinder engine in the Thailand market.
In line with this year’s theme of “Revolution in Motion”, most manufacturers had their electric and hybrid-powered vehicles on display such as the Hyundai Ioniq, Mitsubishi eX concept and the Clarity fuel-cell vehicle. Thailand-based EV manufacturer FOMM and Mine also had some concept vehicles displayed, showcasing the capability of their locally built platforms.
According to Grand Prix International's Dr. Prachin Eamlumnow, the motor show Chairman, he expects “more than 1.6 million attendees to visit the show this year.” The 39th Bangkok International Motor Show runs until April 8, 2018, at the Impact Challenger Hall in Muangthong Thani.
