If you are into tuning or modding a car, the Essen Motor Show is the place to be. Since decades it is Europe’s biggest festival for car fans. I went to the preview and press day on Friday November 30, even though the subject is out of my comfort zone. The Essen Motor Show attracts tens of thousands of fans to Messe Essen.
Around 500 exhibitors use the platform to present their new vehicles, parts and accessories to an always very enthusiastic audience. In contradiction to many other car shows, the Essen Motor Show has a quite large female audience too, hence the organization’s decision to advertise with heart and trendy pastel colors.
Tuning and lifestyle takes up the most space at the Essen Motor Show. Next to about 150 private cars, the big names in the tuning industry have their own presentation. One of the venue-halls is dedicated to motorsport and race-teams, with a big emphasis this year to 30 years of DTM. Some years ago, even Manthey Racing had its own stand, unfortunately that is no longer the case.
But, there’s no lack of Porsches at the Essen Motor Show. Not sure you’ll like them, especially not when you’re a purist. But fact is, whether you like it or not, some of these cars can only be made by talented craftsmen.
In general, we had the impression that the show was less spectacular as it used to be. But that doesn’t spoil the fun!!
Picture gallery Essen Motor Show 2025
Pictures copyright Tim Havermans
