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February 29, 2016

2016 Toyota Fortuner: The Complete Philippine Specs


Ask and you shall receive.

All You Need to Know About the 2016 Toyota Innova (w/ Complete Specs)


You’ve already read our first impressions on the all-new Toyota Innova. Now, it’s time to sit down and take a closer look at this new IMV addition. On this page, you can get all the specs, details, and much more. We’ll save you the hassle of having to click through different pages and/or links.

SPMJ Award to Boost Community Projects

The significant gains quietly established by the corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects of the automotive companies will be given the recognition they deserve soon to encourage more efforts to help communities around the country.

The Society of Philippine Motoring Journalists (SPMJ) has taken this task as its new advocacy to strengthen community service in the motoring industry.  Unknown to many, automotive companies have engaged in various CSR projects that after years of quiet work, have established many success stories in the communities.  The projects have revolved around the preservation of the environment, education and training, and community development.

Ford Everest Achieves ASEAN NCAP's 5-Star Safety Rating


Ford Motor Company today announced that the all-new Everest SUV earned a maximum 5-star safety rating from the ASEAN New Car Assessment Program (NCAP), achieving the highest score for Adult Occupant Protection in its segment at 15.38/16 points. The Everest also received 4-star rating in its Child Occupant Protection (COP) with 81 percent compliance.

Kia Family Service Clinic Kicks Off


For years, Kia has brought its signature Family-like Care service closer to people via its nationwide service caravans. This year, Kia is once again at the forefront of providing service and fun, rolled into one, for its loyal customers.

Select Honda Models from 2011-2014 Affected by Takata Airbag Problem


Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) calls for a voluntary preventive measure campaign for select Jazz (2012-2013), City (2012-2014) and CR-V (2011) sold in the country due to a suspected defect in the driver’s airbag inflator.

February 28, 2016

First Drive: 2016 Toyota Innova 2.8 G


Toyota is serious about their Innovative Multipurpose Vehicle or IMV that a team of its senior engineers circled the globe and listened to customers, including those from the Philippines, to find out what their vehicles go through. Armed with this knowledge, the result is the much-improved second-generation IMV capping off with the most-awaited iteration of them all: the all-new 2016 Innova.

February 24, 2016

Volvo is Going Beyond the Numbers


In terms of pure numbers, 2015 wasn’t such a rosy year for Scandinavian Motors Corporation (Volvo Philippines). Though the Philippine automotive market grew substantially last year, the premium car brand saw a single-digit percentage drop in sales attributed to the company’s non-participation in sales discount bonanzas known as “APEC”. And yet, there’s no pressure from the regional office to deliver four-digit unit sales annually. Instead, it’s all about delivering an immeasurable customer experience that cannot be matched by the competition.

February 23, 2016

Honda Cars Philippines Officially Launches All-New 2016 Pilot (w/ Specs)


Just a year after its launch in the North American market, Honda Cars Philippines welcomes the arrival of its first-class SUV: the Pilot back to the Philippines. After some teasing, it arrives and befitting its name, the 8-seater Pilot returns packed with more horses under the hood, more convenience features, more tech, and a substantially raised price tag as well.

Zoren and Mavy Legaspi are New Chevrolet Brand Ambassadors


Leading car manufacturer Chevrolet recently named the newest ambassadors to proudly carry the company’s signature bowtie brand.

With the company going full throttle, the brand focuses on the family oriented nature of its automotive line by choosing celebrity father and son Zoren Leagspi and Maverick Legaspi to be the new faces of Chevrolet.

Bemac to Produce 3,000 E-Trikes for DOE / ADB Project


Through a joint project of the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), 3,000 units of electric motor powered tricycles or e-Trikes are set to be produced and deployed within the year by Bemac Electric Transportation Philippines, Incorporated - a subsidiary of Uzushio Electric Co. of Japan.

First Drive: 2016 Volkswagen Passat 2.0 TSI Blue Motion


The Passat has been around since 1973 and is one of Volkswagen’s oldest active product lines. The current one actually marks the eighth-generation model and apart from its lineage, is the most beautiful and most advanced one ever made. It’s so well-made that former Volkswagen Chairman of the Board Martin Winterkorn said, “It is a premium car without the premium price.” Indeed, VW is pitting the Passat not against the Camrys and Accords of this world, but instead against the Audi A4 or BMW 3 Series. This move may seem mad, but there’s reason for VW’s confidence.

February 22, 2016

Foton Opens Assembly Plant in Philippines


Three years after its groundbreaking ceremony, FOTON Philippines officially commenced its assembly plant located in the Clark Freeport Zone.

February 21, 2016

Video: Nissan Makes Self-Parking Chairs


Nissan is showing off its self-parking technology in the most unique way possible: the Intelligent Parking Chair. It will undoubtedly make those office meetings that bit more interesting to see chairs whiz and return to their desks automatically.

UPDATED: The Levante is Maserati's First SUV


UPDATE 1: Maserati reveals more details on the Levante at the Geneva Auto Show (3/2).

Maserati finally shows off the brand’s first-ever SUV with the Levante. The Levante will be key in tapping new markets and increasing sales for the Italian brand. It joins Maserati’s existing range of sedans and sports cars: the Quattroporte, Ghibli, GranTurismo, and GranCabrio models.

Ford Philippines January Sales Jump 50 Percent


Ford Philippinesconfirmed that its momentum has continued into the new year, reporting its best-ever January performance with retail sales jumping 50 percent year-over-year to 2,459 units.

“It’s a fantastic start to 2016, and we’re extremely proud of how the Ford brand continues to connect with our fast-growing base of Filipino customers,” said Lance Mosley, managing director, Ford Philippines.

Carmudi and Rapide Announce Partnership


In its bid to protect clients from buying defective vehicles, Carmudi Philippines has recently forged partnership with Rapide Auto Service Experts.

EV Sector to Benefit from Increased Japanese Investment


The Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines has expressed optimism that the Philippine electric vehicle industry stands to gain from the recent rise in Japanese investments in the country.

February 17, 2016

Chevrolet Celebrates the Everyday Hero with Low Down or Discounts on Trailblazer


Real life heroes walk among us. They are clad in their everyday uniform, fulfilling their daily tasks – saving lives, rendering services, building homes, among others – to realize their dreams for themselves and their families. Their valor is celebrated in the simplest of things: a warm embrace for the devoted parents to a thank you message for the hardworking Overseas Filipino Workers.

Collect Batman v Superman Gadgets from Petron


Market leader Petron Corporation offers motorists another exciting reward for the best day ever with a new set of Limited Edition Collectibles. Created exclusively for Petron, the Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice Gadget Collection consists of four character gadgets, namely:

February 16, 2016

Review: 2016 Volvo XC60 D4 Polestar


Volvo is putting all the attention squarely on the all-new XC90 and rightfully so because it’s a beautifully designed, intricately detailed SUV that’s serving as the company’s bellwether ushering a new era for the premium Swedish carmaker. But sitting just outside the limelight is the XC60, a compact crossover that’s been a success story for the brand considering it’s been released in the market six years ago. With the 2016 model, it’s clear Volvo isn’t ready to put this one out to the pasture just yet. With understated luxury and the most convincing drivetrain yet, the 2016 XC60 D4 might just be the second reason why people should seriously consider a Volvo.

February 15, 2016

HARI Appointed as Hyundai Commercial Vehicle Distributor


Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI) is celebrating a milestone befitting its fifteenth anniversary in the Philippines: the official appointment as the distributor of Hyundai commercial vehicles in the country. The agreement, formalized this week, is a milestone venture for HARI after growing the market for Hyundai passenger cars. HARI sees the appointment as a visible sign of Hyundai Motor Company (HMC)’s support to HARI after it made Hyundai one of the most sought-after car brands in the Philippines.

Honda Cars Philippines Reveals All-New Civic Engines, Variants


Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. has just announced that its authorized dealers across the country are now accepting reservations for the all-new 2016 Civic which will launch very soon. After being shown as a teaser on its Facebook page, HCPI is now revealing more details about their compact car challenger including the powertrain that it will be using.

The Importance of Being Global: The Ford Ranger Story

Photos by Ulysses Ang
When Ford announced their “One Ford” global strategy, some pundits denounced that it wasn’t going to work. They thought: how can you build a single vehicle and expect it to be successful in almost every market it competes in? These critics clearly have a myopic view since they’ve set their goals far too low. They’re convinced that for as long as you’ve nailed a particular country’s market requirements, it’s okay to compromise.

February 14, 2016

Toyota Motor Philippines Reveals More Fortuner Tidbits


Toyota Motor Philippines gave a sneak peek of its all-new 2016 Fortuner at its annual media thanksgiving party last January. And now, they’ve revealed even more tidbits including one, interestingly enough, that has to do where the Philippines will source Toyota’s PPV or Pickup-based Passenger Vehicle.

Ferrari Unveils FF Replacement: the GTC4Lusso


Ferrari is shifting its naming terminology as it bids goodbye to the FF. In its place is the GTC4Lusso, a car that will make its debut at the Geneva International Motor Show. More than just a simple swap of the badge, the GTC4Lusso introduces new technology to make this stunning V12-powered four-seater the definitive grand tourer on the planet.

Ford Offers EcoBoost Engine on All Explorer Variants; Launches New 2.3 Model (w/ Brochure)


After being thoroughly impressed by the 2016 Ford Explorer Sport (read our review here), Ford Philippines has announced the availability of a new variant that slots below the Sport: the Explorer 2.3 Limited.

Suzuki Car Clubs Unite to Form Team Suzuki Philippines


Dedicated enthusiasts of various bestselling Suzuki cars finally came together under one umbrella to celebrate the Suzuki Way of Life.

Honda Jazz Goes Blue for Valentine's Day


Honda Cars Philippines is re-releasing its limited edition Cool Blue color for the Jazz sub-compact after the first batch was snapped up very quickly. As before, the Cool Blue hue remains as a limited edition with only twenty (20) units available for sale. And as always, the Cool Blue Limited Edition comes decked either in Modulo or MUGEN trims that add to the sporty and standout appeal.

February 10, 2016

Mitsubishi Motors Declares Participation in CARS Program


Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) announced its decision to participate in the CARS Program (Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy Program).

Power, Beauty, and Soul: A Taste of Aston Martin


There’s an air of mystery and intrigue with Aston Martin. While everyone grew up on a steady stable of Italian and German high-performance machinery, this British supercar brand has become iconic because of the silver screen. Tied synonymously with super spy James Bond, Filipinos have seen it being driven to exotic locations and saving the world countless times for over 30 years. And that’s usually with a beautiful woman in the passenger’s seat.

February 9, 2016

Ford Uses Materials Ready for the Long Haul (w/ Videos)


Throughout a vehicle’s lifetime, it’s inevitable that the materials inside a car show signs of wear and tear. Imagine the frequent sitting on car seats, leaning on arm rests, gripping the steering wheel and fiddling with the instruments. So what does Ford do to help make sure all vehicles are up to this challenge?

Isuzu Philippines Shows Support to Sports Group Anew


As part of their commitment in being the “reliable partner,” Isuzu Philippines Corporation—the official local distributor of Japanese car maker for the country—has formally forged a new partnership with some of the top tier athletes in the country, this time, triathletes from the Visayan region.

Ferrari Achieves Best Year Ever in 2015


Ferrari announced its best year in 2015 with global shipments totaling 7,664 units or an increase of 6 percent compared to 2014. This performance is driven by an increase in sales of their 8-cylinder models led by the California T, 458 Speciale A, and of course, the newly launched 488 GTB. Unfortunately, sales of their 12-cylinder models: the F12berlinetta and FF are down 24 percent during the same period.

Review: 2016 Nissan Juke 1.6 Upper CVT


I love the Juke. Say what you want about the styling, but after a week’s worth of driving, I just can’t get tired of it. Among all the cars the revitalized Nissan has brought to market so far, this is the one that’s nailed it dead on. It’s certainly not the perfect vehicle, but it’s young, hip, and different—the very adjectives that Nissan needs if they were to stand a chance against the Toyotas and Hondas of the world. Clearly, this has none of the staidness leftover from the beige leather and fake wood; this is styled to stand out.

February 6, 2016

Michelin Launches Primacy SUV: The Most Important Safety Feature On Your SUV


Most SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) drivers choose their vehicle’s safety features carefully – considering ABS, airbags, and traction control. But more often than not, they underestimate the vital role that tires play. As the only contact with the road, good tires are a driver’s first guarantee of a safe and comfortable ride.

Hyundai Elantra, Tucson Receive Design Awards


Hyundai Motor received international recognition for its vehicle design from the prestigious iF Design Awards jury. All-new Elantra and All-new Tucson won iF Design Award 2016 in “Product” discipline, under “Automobiles / Vehicles / Bikes” category.

February 4, 2016

Timeless Wonder: The Toyota Automotive Museum in Nagoya (w/ 74 Photos)

Photos by Ulysses Ang
Sounds of children’s laughter greeted us as we approached the Toyota Automobile Museum in Nagoya. Groups of children on a school trip, with their brightly colored yellow hats, were seated under the watchful eyes of their teachers while waiting for the museum to open. Not far from them stood another group of museum attendees – seniors with their white hair (or lack of it) and canes and some even in wheelchairs.  And scattered around were some twenty-to-thirty-something– young or old, depending on the viewer- adults, ourselves included.

February 3, 2016

Monster Jam Returns to Manila This June 2016


Last year, over 22,000 fans made history when Monster Jam entertained Pinoy fans of all ages. 2016 gets even BIGGER as Monster Jam returns to the Philippines on June 18 and 19 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

February 2, 2016

Davao City Procures Additional 53 Units of Tata Ace Jeepney


Tata Motors Davao, which is operated by Davao Bonifacio Motors Incorporated, along with, Davao City Mayor, Rodrigo Duterte, turned over the second batch of Tata Ace Bata units with jeepney bodies yesterday to 53 barangays, with each barangay receiving one unit. The turn over ceremony was held at the People’s Park, Davao City.

Review: 2016 Ford Explorer Sport V6 EcoBoost


I read about it all the time in press kits: Ford doing extreme weather testing on their cars. And for a moment, I think: surely, this has got to be an exaggeration. No carmaker would go through the lengths of freezing cars in minus 40 Celsius. In a freezer. That is, until I found myself at the Detroit Metropolitan Airport trying to pick up the 2016 Explorer Sport in minus 17 Celsius.

February 1, 2016

Discounts Galore at Subaru's Kansha Festival


Motor Image Pilipinas Inc. (MIPI), the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in the country will hold its much awaited Kansha Festival from February 1 to 7, 2016. Also known as Subaru customer appreciation week, the Kansha festival is originally a celebration adapted from the Japanese “Kinro Kansha no Hi” or Labor Thanksgiving Day.

What Car is Fit for Ms. Universe, Pia Wurtzbach?


Following her triumph in Las Vegas which ended a 42-year titular drought, the new Miss Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach was welcomed by adoring Filipinos who shared in the immensity and pride of her achievement. To show the world, the universe rather, how to go around the metropolis in style, Pia opted for a classy, luxurious Audi A8 as “carriage” during her much publicized Manila homecoming.

UPDATED: Honda Pilot Poised to Fly Back to Philippine Showrooms


UPDATE 1: We included the official Press Release from Honda Cars Philippines below (2/2).

Honda is preparing to bring back its premium 7-seater mid-sized crossover, the Pilot back to its Philippine showrooms. Announcing the news via their official Facebook page, Honda Cars Philippines says that the all-new 2016 Pilot will arrive in showrooms this February.

Suzuki Philippines Posts 52-Percent Growth in 2015


Suzuki Philippines Incorporated (SPH) zooms into 2016 with an upbeat outlook, as it announced today an overall robust 2015 performance, achieving its highest record sales of 10,000 units with 52 percent year-over-year sales growth, massive increase in visibility and market share, and aggressive network expansion, as well as bagging several awards for its vehicles. This cements the company’s position as one of Philippines’ best performing car brands in terms of YoY growth.