Melbourne Motor Show Returns in 2026 as the Largest International Motor Show in the Southern Hemisphere
Announcement posted by Markson Sparks! 18 Mar 2026
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA Melbourne Motor Show returns Friday 10 - Sunday 12 April 2026 to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), transforming 40,000 square metres of exhibition space into the southern hemisphere's largest international motor show and ultimate automotive playground. The 2025 sell out event has doubled its footprint to bring together over 120 exhibitors in the largest gathering of automotive manufacturers and aftermarket brands in the region.
Over 100,000 visitors will experience new vehicle launches, a 100-vehicle test drive circuit, live DJs, famous faces, and attractions for kids including Hot Wheels' largest ever Australian retail activation, Bricks by Mattel, race car simulators and more.
Craig Phinn, Managing Director, Melbourne Motor Show said, "The overwhelming response to the show's return has proven that Melbourne is truly the heart of Australia's automotive culture."
In 2025, the show delivered a multimillion-dollar boost to Melbourne's local economy, reigniting national interest and re-establishing Australia's flagship motoring event, with 23% of tickets sold outside of Victoria representing some 9,000 flights into Melbourne on the weekend of the show.
Craig continues, "Doubling the show's size means we can finally get all these global brands under one roof. We're transforming 40,000 square meters into an automotive playground, to put that in perspective, that's the size of 7 full-sized soccer fields. It's a huge amount of ground to cover, and we're excited to give 100,000 car fans a front-row seat to the future of driving. It's a massive win for the Victorian economy and a real testament to the local car culture."
Driven by Continental Tyres, and timed to coincide with the Victorian school holidays, the show offers a high-octane day out for all ages and stages:
- Over 120 exhibitions from global giants including Honda, Volkswagen, KIA, Harley Davidson, BYD, Denza, Zeekr, Isuzu, Polestar, Renault, Geely, JAC, Tesla, RedBull, GAC, Skoda, Penrite Oil, Deus Ex Machina and more.
- Universal presents the 25th Anniversary Fast & Furious Exhibition; an immersive fan experience featuring iconic cars from the global film franchise, exclusive merchandise, and "FastPass" priority access for the ultimate fan, meaning shorter queues.
- Hot Wheels Activation Zone for the next generation of car enthusiasts, featuring an interactive race track and gaming zone, mini cinema and limited edition collectibles, with a guest appearance from legendary Hot Wheels designer Phil Riehlman, responsible for some of the brand's most iconic castings.
- Melbourne Motor Show 100-vehicle Test Drive Zone is a chance for visitors to get behind the wheel of the latest models, including EVs, hybrids, and traditional ICE vehicles.
- Car fans get up close with automotive athlete Mad Mike and his McLaren P1 Drift Car and Madbull RX7 at RedBull with guest DJ and plenty of energy at Booth CL1.
- KIA Ambassador and UFC Champion Volk, Alexander "The Great" Volkanovski, will be making a special appearance on Saturday at KIA’s Booth L4.
- Tuff Streeters, Australia's premier motor-fuelled entertainment brand, is claiming 1,000 square metres of high-octane floor space at Booth R1 of the Melbourne Motor Show. This massive footprint serves as the ultimate hub for Aussie muscle culture, showcasing 28 curated supercars alongside accessories, merch and live DJs. It's more than a display, it's a full immersion into the lifestyle that defines the modern Australian street scene.
- High-profile brand ambassadors and surprise guests from across the global automotive and entertainment sectors. While specific names remain under wraps, attendees can prepare for exclusive meet-and-greets and unannounced appearances that bridge the gap between street culture and international stardom.
With less than one month to go, the countdown to the southern hemisphere's largest international motor show is officially on. Car fans are encouraged to secure their place now to avoid missing out.
Tickets are available online at www.melbournemotorshow.au (General Admission from $37.50 and Family Passes from $99.00). Sessions are selling fast.
-- End --
Media Contact:
Max Markson
max@marksonsparks.com
0412 501 601
Marta Wiacek
marta@marksonsparks.com
0409 291 785
Press Images:
About Melbourne Motor Show:
The Melbourne Motor Show (10 - 12 April 2026) is Australia's premier automotive event, showcasing the latest in vehicle innovation, performance, and lifestyle culture. Returning to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) with a massive 40,000 square metre footprint, the 2026 show brings together over 100 global manufacturers and aftermarket brands. From world-first vehicle premieres and cutting-edge electric mobility to curated galleries of muscle cars and exotic supercars, the event offers an immersive, hands-on experience for over 100,000 enthusiasts and families alike.
melbournemotorshow.au
@melbourne_motorshow