Set inside the beautiful Palais des Expositions, a landmark dating back to the 1935 World’s Fair, this year’s Brussels Motor Show felt less like a regional sales event and more like a genuine snapshot of where the car industry is heading next.

What really stood out was just how future-focused it all felt. Brussels became a gathering point for some of the most talked-about concepts and production cars from across the industry, giving visitors a rare chance to see everything from bold design studies to next-generation electric models all under one roof.

Why Brussels Is Suddenly a Big Deal for EVs

One of the reasons Brussels now punches above its weight is Belgium’s unique company car culture. A huge portion of the population receives a company car as part of their job, and recent government rules mean those cars must now be electric. That single policy has transformed Belgium into one of Europe’s most EV-forward markets, and manufacturers are clearly paying attention.

The result is a motor show that reflects the real direction of the market. Less nostalgia, more electrification. Less petrol performance, more battery-powered innovation.

The New Cars That Made the Biggest Impression

While many of the models on show have been teased before, Brussels was the first proper public outing for several key EVs. Kia’s new EV2 was easily one of the most talked-about reveals, a compact electric SUV that looks set to play a huge role in bringing more people into EV ownership. It’s small, affordable and aimed squarely at the mass market, which makes it one of the most important launches of the year.

Zeekr’s sleek 7 GT made its debut too, showing off the brand’s focus on electric driving that’s meant to be fun, not just efficient. Mercedes brought the all-new GLB, while Peugeot and Opel both used the show to lift the covers on refreshed versions of the 408 and Astra.

There were also some fascinating first looks from newer brands. Leapmotor showed off its B03X and B05 hatchbacks, Xpeng had its futuristic P7+, and Toyota surprised a few people by rolling out a new Hilux alongside its growing electric line-up. Even Mazda joined the party with its eye-catching CX-6e in a shade of purple that was impossible to miss.

On the performance side, Kia was busy too. The EV3, EV4 and EV5 all gained their new GT badges at the show, underlining just how serious the brand is about making electric cars that are genuinely exciting to drive.

The Concepts That Stole the Spotlight

Concept cars were another big part of the Brussels buzz. Citroën’s Elo drew plenty of attention, while Dacia’s Hipster concept continued to prove that affordable brands can still have plenty of personality. Hyundai’s wild Insteroid concept also made an appearance, reminding everyone that EV design is anything but boring.

These cars may never make it to production, but they offer a fascinating glimpse into how brands are thinking about design, interiors and technology for the next generation of electric vehicles.

Brussels Shows Where the Industry Is Heading

What Brussels 2026 really proved is that electric cars are no longer just one part of the show. They are the show. From small city cars to premium saloons, rugged SUVs to wild concepts, everything pointed in the same direction.

With so many EVs, new brands and bold ideas on display, Brussels quietly became one of the most telling motor shows of the year. And if this is what 2026 looks like already, the next phase of electric driving is going to be anything but dull.

For all the latest updates, insights and behind-the-scenes coverage from the global EV world, stay tuned to Nevo — Ireland’s home of electric motoring.