Test Drive Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese Cars at GIIAS Before Making a Purchase
The Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2026 is more than just a venue to hunt for promotions and view the latest automobiles. The automotive exhibition, held at ICE BSD City, Tangerang, until 9 August 2026, also provides an opportunity for prospective consumers to directly experience the characteristics of various vehicles before deciding to purchase, including long-standing market leaders from Japan such as Suzuki.
Not to be outdone, Chinese brands such as GAC AION and Vietnamese brands like VinFast are also providing numerous vehicles available for trial. This year, the organisers have prepared over 200 units for the test drive and test ride programme. The testing track, located in the loading dock area from Hall 1 to Hall 10, has been designed to mimic everyday road conditions with a length of over two kilometres.
Visitors can test acceleration, braking systems, suspension comfort, and cabin noise insulation. Furthermore, a water obstacle area is available to test vehicle capabilities when traversing puddles, within the safety limits established by each manufacturer.
Anton Kumonty, Daily Chairman and Chairman of the GAIKINDO Exhibition and Conference Organisers, stated that the organisers are continuously refining GIIAS across various aspects, with a particular focus on facilities such as the test drive and test ride areas.
“We continue to improve the quality of GIIAS’s organisation every year. This is to ensure the comfort and satisfaction of visitors, one way being by providing test drive and test ride areas that are safer, more comfortable, and more representative,” Anton said in an official statement.
Several brands are utilising these facilities to introduce their technology and product characteristics. Suzuki is among the participants offering several flagship models for direct testing, ranging from SUVs and MPVs to off-road-character vehicles.
One of the most notable models is the Suzuki Fronx Hybrid. This compact SUV offers a high driving position and good visibility, equipped with Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki (SHVS) technology designed to increase fuel efficiency without compromising driving comfort. Through the test drive sessions, prospective consumers can experience the acceleration response, gear shifts, and the car’s handling characteristics.
In addition to the Fronx, Suzuki is also providing the refreshed XL7 Hybrid. This seven-passenger SUV offers a spacious cabin for families with a mild hybrid system that operates automatically during acceleration and deceleration. Visitors can also evaluate suspension comfort and vehicle stability during manoeuvres.
Meanwhile, the Suzuki Jimny 5-Door is an option for visitors wishing to experience the sensation of an adventurous SUV. Although the exhibition track cannot fully replicate full off-road capabilities, this model still offers a distinctive driving experience thanks to its high seating position, wide visibility, ladder frame chassis, and AllGrip Pro 4WD system.
Beyond Suzuki, the Chinese brand GAC AION is also providing opportunities for visitors to try their electric vehicle lineup. Four models are prepared during the exhibition: the AION UT, AION V, AION Y Plus, and HYPTEC HT. Through these test drive sessions, prospective consumers can experience the electric motor performance, driving comfort, and the electrification technology offered by each model.
The Vietnamese brand VinFast is also presenting a comprehensive test drive area with a wide selection of vehicles. The Vietnamese manufacturer has brought the VF 3, VF 6, VF 7, VF MPV 7, Nerio Green, Herio Green, and Limo Green. Several models are available for immediate testing, allowing visitors to familiarise themselves with the performance, comfort, safety features, and flagship technologies of each vehicle.