The Brussels Motor Show is gearing up for another edition that promises to be more intense, popular and strategic than ever. From 9 to 18 January 2026, Brussels Expo will open the doors to its 102ᵉ edition of the Brussels Motor Show, a not-to-be-missed event which, after reconnecting with its public last year, confirms its place as Europe’s leading motor show of the year for manufacturers, enthusiasts and mobility professionals.
A historic show that spans the ages
Founded over a century ago, the Brussels Motor Show is one of the oldest motor shows still operating in Europe. Long an eagerly-awaited annual event for the entire industry, it has been plagued by complications in recent years, including the cancellation of the 2024 edition for reasons of market expectations.
But with a comeback scheduled for 2025, the event has established itself as a key fixture in the automotive calendar, attracting an average of over 300,000 visitors and becoming a key observatory of changes in the sector.
102nd edition: ambitions and world firsts
The 2026 version of the show is no half-measure. No fewer than 64 car brands will be present, one more than the previous year, covering almost 95% of the Belgian market.
The 2026 edition will occupy a total surface area of around 60,000 m², spread over halls 5, 6, 7, 9, 11, the Patio and the new Hall Astrid, recently integrated to meet the growing demand from exhibitors.
What’s even more remarkable is that the show already boasts a packed programme of revelations, with 39 premieres announced (worldwide, European and Belgian). Among the most eagerly awaited models will be the world premiere of the Kia EV2, an SUV, while Hyundai will unveil its largest EV, featuring 800 V recharging technology. Opel will be showcasing the new Astra and Astra Sports Tourer, as well as the Grandland Electric AWD. In France, Peugeot will be presenting the new 408 and the E-208 GTi electric version, confirming the market’s appetite for compact and sporty electrified models.
This diversity underlines the extent of the sector’s transformation: electrification, compact SUVs and innovative technologies will be the focus of attention, and the show is shaping up to be the ideal place to observe the mobility of tomorrow.
Motorbikes and mobility: a broader, more open edition
Another strong sign of the show’s evolution is the return of motorbikes, for the first time since 2020. A total of 28 motorised two-wheeler brands will be exhibiting in a dedicated area of hall 9, bringing together motorcyclists, enthusiasts and the curious to discuss the latest technical, electric and combustion developments in the segment.
This development broadens the scope of the event well beyond the traditional automotive sector and reflects a more comprehensive vision of mobility, where cars, motorbikes and alternative forms of mobility coexist to present visitors with the state of the art in motorised mobility.
Car of the Year and entertainment: a complete experience
On 9 January, the Car of the Year ceremony took place, electing the European Car of the Year, a highlight that attracts the attention of the media and enthusiasts every year. This year, it was the Mercedes-Benz CLA that took the coveted title of Car of the Year 2026. The German brand’s model succeeds the Renault 5 E-Tech (2025) and the Renault Scenic E-Tech (2024).
But the show isn’t just about exhibiting cars: a series of fun, entertaining and educational events are planned for all audiences. Driving simulators, children’s areas, interactive zones, meetings with automotive influencers and technical presentations complete the exhibition offer.
A strategic event for electromobility
For all those involved in electromobility – manufacturers, equipment suppliers, recharging infrastructure providers and political decision-makers – the Brussels show has become a major observatory. It provides a unique venue for presenting new electric solutions, discussing infrastructure challenges, recharging standards and energy transition strategies.
The presence of a large number of EV, hybrid and electric concept cars is also an indication of the Belgian and European public’s appetite for these technologies, as well as the commitment of manufacturers to the electric sector.
From Belgian trade fair to European mobility event
Now in its 102th year, the Brussels Motor Show has established itself as more than just a car show. It has become a strategic space where market trends, technological innovations and consumer expectations meet.
With a programme packed with world premieres, a variety of events, the return of the motorbikes, and almost exhaustive coverage of the car and two-wheeler sectors, the 2026 edition promises to be a benchmark for the automotive year that is just beginning.
