Brussels Motor Show 2013: the highs and lows

The doors of the 91st Brussels Motor Show closed last weekend, and assessment time has come for the ‘small’ show. Overall, let’s be honest, it was a very good year: a wide variety of genres and a manageable crowd, allowing for easy movement through the exhibitors’ stands.

HIGHS

The new models: They were numerous, interesting and, in some cases, very cool. From the Mazda 6 to the Mini Paceman via the Mitsubishi Space Star: one could be forgiven for thinking this was a ‘big’ show. And the same goes for motorbikes.

Diversity: This is the highlight of the ‘small’ show. And to tell you the truth, this is also why we have a soft spot for the smaller odd-year event. From light aircraft to convertibles, from family cars to trucks, from motorcycles to supercars, there’s something for everyone.

The crowd: Nearly 400,000 visitors – that’s mighty impressive. But above all, there was still room to breathe everywhere you went. 

LOWS

Rebates: While some manufacturers really do slash their prices, others only grant the traditional Motor Show rebate. So is the Brussels Motor Show still bargain central? Not always – check the offers very carefully.

Make an appointment: As mentioned, diversity was the highlight of this show. Unfortunately, if you wanted to check out the bikes (the first four days only) and the dream cars (the last three days), you had to make a choice – or come back. Same story for some manufacturers: BMW’s two world premieres (the Z4 and the Mini Paceman JCW) were only there from January 15 (leaving the real premiere for the Detroit Motor Show). Worse still at Mercedes:  the new CLA was there, but out of sight and reserved for the VIPs.

The ticket price: A family day at the motor show don’t come cheap! It starts at €13 for adults (€7 for children aged six to 12), with an extra €7 for the Dream Cars for Wishes exhibition (donated to a charity, granted), and another €5 for the Night of the Motorcycle. Finally, if you were only interested in utility vehicles, hard luck, you had to pay for a full ticket, which amounts to €25... even if you are just six years old.