The Melbourne Motor Show has made a triumphant return after a 14-year hiatus, drawing in automotive enthusiasts from across Australia. This year’s event, taking place on April 5 and 6, 2025, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, features over 20 vehicle manufacturers showcasing their latest models and innovations.
With more than 30,000 tickets sold, Saturday’s general admission tickets have already sold out, leaving only a limited number available for Sunday. Craig Phinn, the managing director and event organiser, expressed his gratitude, stating, "I am so incredibly proud and grateful to the motoring enthusiasts of Melbourne and Australia for having faith in bringing back the Melbourne Motor Show. On behalf of the entire team and our exhibitors, we cannot wait to see you all on Saturday. We are looking forward to giving each and every one of you one of the best motoring experiences bar none!"
The show features a diverse lineup of manufacturers, including returning giants like Kia, Porsche, Tesla, and Subaru, alongside newcomers to the Australasian market such as Deepal, Farizon, Foton, Geely, JAC, Leapmotor, Smart, XPeng, and Zeekr. Among the highlights is MG’s global reveal of the 2025 MG QS seven-seater SUV, which aims to compete with established models like the Highlander, Palisade, and CX-80. Initially launching in a turbopetrol form, a plug-in hybrid variant is expected to follow.
In addition to the QS, MG will showcase several other models, including the S5 electric SUV, the HS Hybrid+ family SUV, and the Cyberster electric roadster. The event will also introduce the new luxury sub-brand, "IM Presented by MG Motor," featuring the IM5 and IM6 electric cars.
Kia is set to unveil its Tasman ute for the first time, ahead of its official launch in July 2025. The lineup will also include the EV3 small electric SUV and the mid-size EV5. Meanwhile, Isuzu will display its D-Max ute and the recently facelifted MU-X off-road SUV, including the Australian-developed D-Max Blade, known for its off-road capabilities.
BYD will highlight its Shark 6 plug-in hybrid ute and the Sealion 7 electric SUV, while GWM is expected to showcase the Cannon Alpha PHEV, Haval H6 GT PHEV, and Tank 300 diesel. Leapmotor will present its C10 REEV range-extender hybrid and C10 EV, while Geely will introduce the EX5.
McLaren is also making an appearance with the Artura Spider, and Inchcape Australia will debut the new Subaru Forester, alongside the WRX tS Spec B manual sedan. The facelifted Tesla Model Y will be on display, along with a left-hand drive version of the controversial Cybertruck, which is still unconfirmed for Australian sale. Tesla will also showcase its Optimus robot, which is expected to hit the market next year for a price comparable to that of a car.
In addition to the major manufacturers, the show will feature nearly 100 aftermarket exhibitors, including well-known brands like Hot Wheels, Lego, and Red Bull. General admission tickets are priced at $35 for adults, $99 for a family pass (two adults and two children), with children under 12 admitted for $19 and those under six entering for free.
The Subaru Forester is another highlight of the show, making its official Australasian debut. The sixth-generation model, set to launch mid-year, boasts a more athletic exterior and offers a new hybrid e-Boxer powertrain, which combines a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine with an 88kW electric motor. This hybrid system promises enhanced fuel economy and a driving range of over 1,000 kilometers per tank. Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist technology will be standard across the range, enhancing safety and control.
MG Motor Australia has also announced the launch of its eagerly awaited U9 ute, set to hit the Australian market later in 2025. The dual-cab, 2.5-litre turbo-diesel U9 was revealed at the Melbourne Motor Show, highlighting MG’s commitment to entering the competitive ute segment, which is the second-highest selling category in Australia. Powered by a 164kW four-cylinder engine, the U9 aims to deliver toughness and durability, positioning MG as a serious contender in the market.
Peter Ciao, CEO of MG Motor Australia, remarked, "The U9 isn’t just a new model – it’s a turning point for us. We’ve built our reputation on delivering unmatched value, and now we’re bringing that same promise to one of Australia’s most competitive segments. If we want to be a top-three brand in this country, we need a ute that punches above its weight – and the U9 does exactly that. It’s tough, capable, and built for the way Australians drive. We know the demand is there, and we’re ready for it." The U9 will also be marketed under the LDV brand as the Terron 9 and will be backed by MG’s impressive 10-year/250,000km warranty.
Overall, the Melbourne Motor Show is shaping up to be a landmark event for the automotive industry in Australia, with a plethora of new models and innovations on display. The excitement surrounding the show reflects a renewed interest in the automotive sector, as manufacturers strive to meet the evolving demands of consumers.
