In the past, when TikTok and a 300bhp all-wheel-drive Yaris were unlikely topics of conversation, the Geneva Motor Show reigned supreme.
It was the pinnacle event for manufacturers, showcasing a flood of new cars, genuine surprises, and occasional sources of amusement. However, the outbreak of COVID-19 has left the 2019 Geneva Motor Show as the last to take place, except for a questionable expansion into Qatar last year.
Now, after a hiatus, the event is set to return on February 26, but the list of attendees appears notably sparse.
BYD, the Chinese EV giant, is making a strong push into Europe with recent releases like the Atto 3, Seal, and Dolphin. Dacia, in contrast, brings genuinely interesting additions, including an updated version of the Spring, a budget-friendly electric car, and the new Duster making its public debut since its November media reveal.
Isuzu’s presence is somewhat unconventional, considering it only sells one vehicle in Europe – the D-Max. If any revelation is expected, it might be an electric version of the D-Max.
Kimera Automobili is set to unveil the Evo38, a new version of its Lancia 037 tribute, promising more power and extreme aero. Lucid, the American Tesla rival, may not showcase new models but could use the platform to display the Gravity SUV in Europe.
MG, another Chinese brand, will showcase the much-needed new version of the MG3, possibly electric-only. Renault might steal the show with the highly anticipated Renault 5, featuring styling touches reminiscent of the original concept.
However, the list of absentees is noteworthy, far outnumbering those attending. The entire Volkswagen Group, BMW, Mercedes, Stellantis, and major Japanese manufacturers like Toyota, Nissan, and Mazda won’t be present.
Ford, Jaguar Land Rover, McLaren, Ferrari, Koenigsegg, and Pagani are also notable absentees. Despite efforts to revive the Geneva Motor Show, its future remains uncertain.