The 101st Brussels Motor Show, which took place from January 10 to 19 this year in the halls of the Brussels Expo, once again revealed the world of innovation, technology and pure passion. This happens a year after the cancellation of the previous edition due to the withdrawal of a number of important exhibitors. The show's attention was equally focused on car enthusiasts and professionals.
There was something for everyone and it became an incomparable experience for over 300,000 visitors on an area of 56,000 m² (almost half the size of the previous one). More than 100 exhibitors and 63 car and light commercial vehicle brands presented the latest models, technologies and trends. Three world premieres, seven European premieres, 27 Belgian premieres, breathtaking dream cars and sports cars attracted fans of all ages who lined up at the stands.
Premieres:
Audi A6 e-tron (Belgian premiere)
The Audi A6 is now 100% electric and is available as a Sportback or Avant. With a range of up to 720 km (Avant) or 756 km (Sportback), it is suitable for longer trips.
BYD Atto 2 (European premiere)
The Chinese brand BYD showed the new Atto 2 for the first time in Europe. It is a compact SUV with an electric range of 312 km. The electric hypercar Yangwang U9 was also at the show.
Corvette E-Ray (European premiere)
The legendary American sports car has returned to Europe. The Corvette E-Ray is the first electrified Corvette, combining a V8 and an electric motor (644 hp).
DS N°8 (world premiere)
DS Automobiles has revealed its new flagship N°8 at a world premiere, the first model with a new name. This electric SUV coupe with an original style has a range of up to 750 km.
Ford Capri (premiere in Belgium)
In 1969, the original Capri coupe celebrated its world premiere at the Brussels Motor Show. This new Capri is an electric SUV coupe and has nothing in common with its ancestor. The Puma can now also be driven electrically.
Hyundai Inster (premiere in Belgium)
The Inster was one of the new products at the show that makes electric driving more affordable (from 24,295 euros). Hyundai also showed an adventure version, the Inster Cross.
Mercedes-Benz CLA (premiere in Belgium)
Mercedes-Benz presented the new CLA in March this year, but at the show, fans were given a preview with a camouflaged prototype. The new CLA will be available in a hybrid or electric version, and later as a Shooting Brake.
Renault 4 E-Tech electric (premiere in Belgium)
The electric city car Renault 5 was one of the big stars of the show. With the new Renault 4, the French brand is bringing another icon back to life, but in SUV format.
Skoda Enyaq (world premiere)
Skoda is giving its electric SUV Enyaq (including Enyaq Coupé) a new face. Would you prefer a slightly smaller electric SUV? Then take a look at the new Elroq. This could become the new bestseller.
Toyota Urban Cruiser (world premiere) and Suzuki Vitara (European premiere)
Toyota is using the well-known Urban Cruiser name on a brand new electric model. Toyota Urban Cruiser (world premiere) and Suzuki e Vitara (European premiere).
The following groups and brands were present: BMW (BMW en Mini), Renault (Alpine, Dacia, Mobilize), Stellantis (Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Citroën, DS, Fiat, Jeep, Lancia, Leapmotor, Opel, Peugeot), Volkswagen (Audi, Bentley, Bugatti, Cupra, Lamborghini, Porsche, Rimac, Seat, Skoda, Volkswagen), BYD, Ford, Honda, Hongqi, Hyundai, Isuzu, Iveco, Kia, KGM, Lexus, Maxus, Mazda, Mercedes, MG, Micro, Omoda en Jaecoo, Smart, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota, XEV en Xpeng. The American startup Lucid is also participating for the first time, and they have high hopes for it.
This year, visitors were more likely to buy a car. A positive for the sector, which is currently experiencing difficulties in terms of sales, is the return of purchasing intentions among Belgians. Due to the crisis and rising prices, many drivers postponed buying a car or switched to second-hand ones. However, according to a survey conducted at the show by organizer FEBIAC, 32% of visitors came to the show with the intention of buying a new car. That's more than 100,000 people.
This was not the case two years ago, because there was still great uncertainty about the introduction of electric vehicles. The Belgian market now offers more cars that fit into people's budgets.
The Stellantis automotive group (Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Citroën, DS, Fiat, Jeep, Lancia, Leapmotor, Opel, Peugeot) made a huge impression. Visitors to the show were pleased to see for themselves why four of the seven finalists for Car of the Year 2025 are its representatives (Alfa Romeo Junior, Citroën C3/ë-C3, Dacia Duster and Renault 5 / Alpine A290). The car manufacturers from the group are making a triumphant return of legendary models, but with a more attractive and modern look.
The Chinese were present at the show, but far below expectations, almost minimally. Traditionally, they showed an attractive design with a touchingly simple interior.
The return of the car with an internal combustion engine was a “novelty“ that pleased many Belgians. “The“Diesel“ was categorically lynched and thrown out of the salon in 2023. It was completely replaced by exhibits of electric cars. Many guests of the salon were pleasantly surprised by the presence of the impressive KGM Rexton precisely because of its diesel engine. In fact, the power of 202 hp, with which it can easily pull over 3.5 tons, is what makes the Rexton comparable to its most powerful brothers, and accordingly - particularly sought after. Many locals who have private boats were troubled by the prospect of transporting them by electric vehicles due to the upcoming legislative changes regarding internal combustion engines. The future, however, is still uncertain for the general changes. It is increasingly being said that nothing will change in 2030, but rumors are just rumors.
When it first appeared, the name “SsangYong“ was difficult to remember and pronounce for most people. This did not prevent the Korean brand from quickly and completely establishing itself on the global market. The name change did not prevent the “connoisseurs“ of the brand from recognizing KGM as the evolution of SsangYong in Hall 6 of the Brussels Expo. Under the banner of “Korean Genius on the Move“, KGM continues to focus on affordable SUVs. There are also a few anniversaries to celebrate in 2025, such as the 70th anniversary of Dong-A Motor, the predecessor of SsangYong and KGM. In addition, Tivoli is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a special edition. The European premiere of the KGM Actyon was announced in Brussels. It turned out that the Bulgarian public was the first on the Old Continent to see the updated Actyon up close during the Sofia Motor Show. This was made possible thanks to the brand's importer for Bulgaria “Ratola“. The reinvented Actyon returns with better prospects than the 2006 model. The new generation focuses on the higher segment, with a sophisticated design and an interior that pays attention to details. The Actyon is also making a name for itself in terms of technology. The model is powered by a 1.5-liter gasoline engine with a power of 163 hp. This 4.74 m long SUV is available with front-wheel or all-wheel drive. It is built on the same mechanical basis as the Torres, so an electric version is not excluded in the future.
The Torres was shown in petrol (163 hp) and electric versions (EVX with 207 hp – 152 kW), with a WLTP range of 408 km thanks to a 73.4 kWh battery. The old acquaintance Korando, powered by a petrol engine, was also on display. However, the Musso and Grand Musso pickups were not on display. This type of vehicle no longer benefits from the tax breaks of the past, although it can be an interesting option for professionals looking for a light commercial vehicle with a cargo box and a distinctive appearance.
