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January 25, 2012

Review: 2012 Subaru Forester 2.0 XS


To many, the notion of having an automotive ‘facelift’ or a ‘refresh’ is simply a game of scrambling the specs sheet. It could happen via the slapping on of a new front grille, bumper, alloy wheels or perhaps a new interior color combination. Of course, to the increasingly knowledgeable Filipino car buyer, he or she knows that it’s not much different from the previous year’s model except the price has been hiked up tremendously.

January 24, 2012

Toyota Motor Philippines Launches Prius C


Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP) surprised everyone when they unveiled the 2012 Prius C at their annual Media Thanksgiving Party last Friday evening. Aimed with individuals without children (or at most, young children), the Prius C combines a Yaris-sized sub-compact with Toyota's legendary Synergy gasoline-electric hybrid engine.

Retailing for P 1,475,000 for the Standard model and P 1,525,000 for the Full Option model (an additional P 15,000 for the exclusive White Pearl color), the Prius C is powered by a 1.5-liter 1NZ-FXE 4-cylinder engine that is Euro V compliant and uses the highly-efficient Atkinson cycle. The 73 horsepower, 111 Nm powerplant is supplement by a 60 horsepower, 169 Nm permanent magnet synchronous motor giving the Prius C combined figures of 133 horsepower and 280 Nm of torque. The sole transmission is an electronically controlled CVT with Eco and EV mode settings. Toyota claims a combined city/highway figure of 21.27 km/L for the Prius C.

Inside, the Prius C comes standard with the same digital vacuum display on the larger Prius model, a multi-information display situated in the middle of the dashboard as well as the touch-sensitive Touch Tracer controls for audio and air conditioning controls. All Prius C models come loaded with a 6-speaker sound system with Stereo/CD/MP3/USB playback capability, Bluetooth hands-free, automatic climate control and a split-folding rear seat. The Full model adds a leather steering wheel, leather seats and power retracting side view mirrors.

Read the full Press Release and view more photos after the break.

January 20, 2012

Subaru to Launch XV at MIAS 2012


Our sister website motioncars.com has picked up an interesting news tidbit from Motor Image Pilipinas, the Philippine distributor of Subaru vehicles in the Philippines.

According to the website's reports, the all-new Subaru XV is set to join the rest of the Subaru line-up when it is unveiled at the 2012 Manila International Auto Show which runs from March 29 to April 1, 2012 at the World Trade Center.

Based on the all-new Impreza chassis (G4 or Generation 4), the XV is differentiated from its road-biased cousin thanks to an upgraded suspension system which has increased ground clearance to 218 mm versus 145 mm on the regular Impreza. Aside from that, the XV will share its drivetrain components with the all-new Impreza from the all-new 2.0-liter FB flat-4 engine (150 horsepower, 196 Nm of torque) as well as its continuously variable transmission (CVT).

The all-new Subaru XV is also the first Subaru to be assembled at the Tan Chong Motor Assemblies Sdn. Bhd. in Malaysia making it the first locally available Subaru to be assembled outside the United States of America (Tribeca) and Japan (the rest of the line-up).

Motor Image Pilipinas hasn't said anything about pricing yet, but according to Motor Image Pilipinas General Manager Nicky Mariano, it will be priced above the current Impreza 2.0 R hatchback.

Source: motioncars.com


BMW is Best-Selling Philippine Luxury Car Brand, Outlines 2012 Plans

Photo courtesy of BMW Press
Asian Carmakers Corporation (ACC), the official distributor of BMW vehicles in the Philippines has revealed itself to be the best-selling luxury automotive brand for 2011. In a recent press conference, ACC President Ms. Maricar Parco said that for 2011, BMW has garnered a 33 percent market share in the segment. With an annual sales of 792 units, it represented a 19 percent gain year-on-year, bucking the downward sales trend seen by the local motoring association CAMPI or Chamber of Automobile Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc.

Likewise, Ms. Parco has also revealed that for 2012 they are targeting 850 units or an additional growth of 7 percent fueled by the recently launched BMW 1 Series. In addition, she has also said to expect no less than 3 new models to enter the country which includes the new BMW 3 Series as well as a refreshed BMW 7 Series. ACC also expects to receive a shipment of the highly anticipated BMW M5 sports sedan early this year.

Kia Rio Officially Launched in the Philippines



The word ‘Rio’ often conjures images of the world-famous Brazilian Carnival—the festive, jubilant celebration held exactly forty six days before Easter Sunday. To the unfamiliar and uninitiated, the Carnival is considered by Brazilians as a way to bid farewell to bad things and to prepare a re-birth of sorts coinciding with Jesus Christ’s death and subsequent resurrection on Easter. Now, whether it was their intention to signal their re-birth or not is beside the point, but Kia has nailed the naming of its all-new sub-compact offering right: the all-new Kia Rio.

Now on its third-generation model, the Kia Rio is single-handedly the most important vehicle in Columbian Autocar Corporation (CAC)’s arsenal. Even before the bright-red (dubbed Signal Red) Rio hatchback drove onto the main stage at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza, CAC President Ms. Ginia Domingo reiterated the Rio’s status as the best-selling vehicle in the entire CAC portfolio. With such heavy weight on its shoulders, the Rio definitely has its work cut out for it. And so when the trio of Rios drove up amidst the dancing Carnival girls, there was a collective gasp. Jaws dropped. Eyes were opened by bewilderment. Kia certainly has a winner on its hands.

January 18, 2012

Review: 2011 Nissan Sentra 200 CVT


The Nissan Sentra has long been the bridesmaid of the compact car segment. Rarely has it been considered as best in class, but neither has it been dismissed as a cellar dweller. Through its different iterations (including the time it was called Exalta), the Sentra hasn’t really offered anything spectacular in any department be it performance or interior space; nonetheless, it quietly continued to sell well enough to keep Nissan in the picture. It certainly took a while, but after almost a decade, Nissan has gotten its act together by simplifying the Sentra line. With a single engine and a choice of two transmissions, can the all-new Sentra 200 finally bring Nissan into contention in the compact car market?

January 17, 2012

Hyundai Ushers in 2012 with Treats for Loyal Customers


Hyundai Automotive Resources, Inc. (HARI), the exclusive distributor of Hyundai vehicles in the Philippines upped the ownership experience with the kick-off of its year-long treats for One Hyundai Club members. Dubbed “One Hyundai Club: Life in Style”, the day-long event drew masses of Hyundai automobile owners and special guests last Saturday, January 14.

The event, which is aimed to promote Hyundai’s “modern lifestyle” philosophy was formally opened with the unveiling of the One Hyundai Club Life in Style 2012 Journal. This premium lifestyle diary which encompasses various subjects contains inspiring pieces written by the country’s renowned journalists and editors. Aside from the inspiring stories and insights that caters to One Hyundai Club member’s tastes and interests, the diary also contains an outline of various activities prepared for club members throughout 2012 as well as promos and freebies offered by Hyundai’s partner merchants.

January 16, 2012

Ford Kicks-off 2012 with All-In Blowout Promo


In the market for a brand-new vehicle this early in 2012? Well, no worries. Ford Philippines is here to at least lessen the burden on your wallet with its "All-In Blowout Promo". This special promotional event is centered towards Ford's best-selling Fiesta, Focus and Escape vehicles. Read on to find out more...

Porsche Chooses Goodyear Eagle Asymmetric 2 for New 911


Goodyear Philippines just shared this bit of good news which talks about their newest high-performance tire, the Goodyear Eagle Asymmetric 2 as well as an iconic sports car called the Porsche 911:

Press Release
Porsche Chooses Goodyear Asymmetric 2 for New 911

Goodyear announced recently that Porsche has chosen its award winning Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 tire for the popular 19” wheel fitment on its Porsche 911 Carrera 2. That means that one of the world’s leading sportscars will be fitted with the 235/40 ZR 19 (front) and 285/35 ZR 19 (rear) Goodyear tires when first delivered to the customer. Goodyear’s Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 was recently awarded the top score by the UK’s Auto Express.

Tire choice is extremely important on cars like the 911. The Porsche has a rear engine configuration which offers outstanding traction, but requires the ability of the rear tires transfer the 350 break horsepower to the tarmac to ensure the full performance of the car.  Goodyear’s Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 tire will meet this need thanks to its recognized solid performance and quality credentials.

January 13, 2012

Toyota Ready to Dominate 2012 with All-New Avanza

Photos courtesy of Toyota Press
In a series of slideshows before the unveil of all-new 2012 Toyota Avanza, Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP) was keen to show that the MPV segment is growing at a steady rate in the Philippine market. At the same time, the SUV segment is down while passenger cars in general have remained fairly steady. According to TMP, this is due to the propensity for Philippine buyers to prefer a car that can fit their extended family while remaining fuel efficient for everyday driving. In short, TMP sees huge potential in their Avanza, a vehicle that's been one of the brand's best-selling since its introduction in 2006.

From the outside, the all-new Avanza is clearly handsomer than the model it replaces. The front facia alone puts it in sync with the global Toyota design language while the swept headlights, curved wheel wells and doors make it look modern. The window line remains large and straight, giving optimal comfort for all passengers. The top-of-the-line model receives 15-inch alloys while the mid and base models make do with 14-inchs (either alloys or steel wheels depending on the trim level).

Despite the small stature, the all-new Avanza offers livable seating for 7 adults (the only 5-seater Avanza is the base J model). The second row actually folds and tumbles via a single-action lever and offers a sliding base to properly distribute the available knee and leg room. Besides this addition, the Avanza now receives a much more modern dash design and an easy-to-read instrumentation cluster. The 1.5 G model receives a two-tone beige-and-black motif while the 1.3-liter models make do with a monotone black-on-black design. Other changes that round out the Avanza include a tilt adjustable steering wheel (with audio controls on the G model) as well as an integrated audio unit complete with USB and aux interface (again, the J model receives a basic CD/MP3 unit).

Though dubbed all-new, the Avanza still shares the first-generation model's hard points so the MacPherson Strut/4-Link Coil Springs set-up still remains. However, changes were done to improve the ride and handling. An electric power steering (EPS) system is now standard across the line which promises better fuel economy and low-speed steering response. Under the hood, the same 3SZ-VE 1.5-liter and K3-VE 1.3-liter engines remain. With 102 horsepower and 90 horsepower respectively, it won't necessarily make the Avanza fast, but Toyota does promise at least 12 km/L for the 1.5 and 12.6 km/L for the 1.3-liter. In addition, TMP has unveiled a 1.3-liter AT variant as well, the first time this choice was made available.

Prices for the all-new Toyota Avanza are as follows: 1.3 J MT (5-seater) - P 620,000; 1.3 E MT - P 703,000; 1.3 E AT - P 743,000; 1.5 G MT - P 828,000; 1.5 G AT - P 868,000.


Range Rover Evoque Lands in the Philippines

Photos courtesy of Land Rover Press
The premium compact crossover segment is now going to get even more crowded. A couple of days after winning the North American Truck of the Year award, the Range Rover Evoque lands in the Philippines with a subtle media launch last Wednesday at the Land Rover Activity Centre in Bonifacio Global City.

Dubbed as the most fuel-efficient Range Rover ever produced, the Evoque offers bold design and state-of-the-art technology while keeping in touch with Land Rover's multi-terrain capability. Priced at a not-so-affordable P 5.350-M for the 5-door version and P 5.50-million for the 3-door coupe, the Evoque counters that by offering premium levels of craftsmanship and high-degrees of personalization--something its rivals cannot match.

Personalization aside though, the Evoque comes with just one engine: a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with direct-injection. Coupled with a turbocharger, this engine pushes out 240 horsepower. Together with its six-speed transmission as well as all-around independent suspension with MagneRide (tm) magnetorheological damper technology, the Evoque will certainly be as comfortable and capable both on- and off-road.

Honda Unveils 2012 City

Photos courtesy of Honda Press
Honda Cars Philippines Incorporated (HCPI) has unveiled the 2012 City sub-compact sedan last Tuesday. As expected in previous reports, the 2012 City is a minor refresh of HCPI's best-selling Philippine product.

With over 24,000 units sold, Honda's direction for the 2012 City is: "why fix if it isn't broke?". And true to form, the City continues on with the same powertrain/suspension configuration as before (a choice of 1.3-liter and 1.5-liter i-VTEC engines and 5-speed manual or automatic 'boxes). Safety features (dual SRS airbags, anti-lock brakes with EBD) is now standard across the line. It continues to ride on 15-inch alloys albeit with new, snazzier designs.

The biggest change with the City is the schnoz which now features three thick horizontal chrome strips replacing the shiny gunmetal gray finish of the pre-facelift City. The new grille puts the Honda design lingo into the City (something shared with the CR-V and to some extent, the Accord). Along with the new grille, the City gets new front and rear bumpers (with sporty diffusers) as well as a new pattern for the tail lamp. A new color dubbed Sparkling Brown has been added for the 1.5-liter variant as well.

Inside, the City swaps the gunmetal accents for higher sheen metallic accents. This change is further differentiated with new interior fabrics, new instrument gauges as well as a leather steering wheel (with audio controls) for the top-of-the-line 1.5 E. The 1.5 E also gets a new 'Eco' light.

Prices for the 2012 Honda City are as follows: 1.3 S M/T - P 746,000; 1.3 S A/T - P 786,000; 1.5 E A/T - P 836,000. The 2012 Honda City is now available for viewing at all Honda showrooms nationwide. Deliveries start in February. 

January 11, 2012

Hyundai Debuts More Powerful Genesis Coupe, Veloster Models


Hyundai must be feeling a bit of pressure from the Scion FR-S/Toyota 86/Subaru BR-Z that it's chosen the 2012 North American International Auto Show to debut a mid-cycle refresh of its best-selling Genesis Coupe as well as its entry-level Veloster coupe.

The Hyundai Genesis Coupe, with its 300++ horsepower V6 engine and rear-wheel drive found its way to the heart of every car enthusiast. For the 2013 model year however, the love has grown. The same 3.8-liter V6 engine on the range-topping Genesis Coupe now makes 348 horsepower thanks to direct-injection technology. Meanwhile, the entry-level forced-induction 4-cylinder model sees a power bump to 274 horsepower from 201 thanks to a modified and improved turbo and intercooler set-up. Hyundai is retaining the 6-speed manual transmissions as standard on these two models while offering a new 8-speed automatic as an option.

This mid-cycle refresh also features a new front end, an improved interior with better materials and finishes, a revised and quicker steering rack, new front strut settings and a revised damper setting as well.

Meanwhile, the best-selling Veloster coupe gets an engine the looks deserved. While the 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine was okay, the sporty looks of the Veloster dictated that it needed more power under the hood. The result? Hyundai has shoehorned a twin-scroll turbocharger upping the output to 201 horsepower. According to Hyundai engineers, the overall power combined with the Veloster's light curb weight bests the likes of the Volkswagen GTI and Honda Civic Si in power-to-weight ratio. In fact, it's pretty darn close to that of the Mini Cooper S. Capping of the upgrades is a quicker steering rack.

The Veloster Turbo also gets unique exterior upgrades such as a revised grille, front and rear bumpers, tail lamps and center-exiting exhaust.

More photos after the break.

Honda Cars Philippines to Import Selected Models from Japan

At a press conference held at the launch of 2012 Honda City, Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) has announced that they are ready to put 2011 behind them. After suffering from supply problems that affected both cars and spare parts, HCPI President Tatsuya Natsume said that car supply and spare parts are beginning to regularize. He expects regular supply within "the next few months".

As a side note though, Mr. Natsume has announced that due to Honda's Thailand plant still being renovated in wake of the recent Thai floods, HCPI will import selected models from Japan in order to reduce their backlog of orders. Among the models Mr. Natsume has mentioned are: Jazz, Accord and the all-new Civic.

Though Mr. Natsume declined to comment, HCPI will also be bringing some "unexpected surprises" within the next few months. He added that a formal announcement will be made next month.

Speculations dictate that aside from the all-new Civic, HCPI may very well bring in the all-new CR-V which is already being sold in Japan as well as North America. And with Mr. Natsume coming from Honda Siel Cars India, Ltd. (HSCI), the likelihood of the Brio city car coming to the Philippines also seems likely.

January 10, 2012

Ford Debuts All-New Fusion; Basis for New Philippine Exec Car?

Photo courtesy of Ford Press
Ford has debuted the all-new Fusion at the 2012 North American International Auto Show. Though this car is intended for the Americas only, buried in the press kit is an interesting tidbit: "This car will appear in Ford showrooms in North America and South America later this year. Mondeo will be introduced next year in Asia and Europe."

Thanks to Ford's global product strategy, the car you see on these pages will very well be basis for the all-new Mondeo which in turn, will finally come to Asia and most likely, the Philippines. Though 2013 is still a full year away, let's look at the basis for Ford's return to the executive sedan market in the Philippines (cross your fingers).

Hyundai Elantra, Range Rover Evoque Win North American Car of the Year Honors


You can't start a year brighter than this: winning the North American Car and Truck of the Year. And for 2011, the honor has been bestowed on the Hyundai Elantra and the Range Rover Evoque (coincidentally, will be launched in Manila this Wednesday).

The Hyundai Elantra bested over 30 rivals including the Ford Focus. On the other hand, the Range Rover Evoque had to beat out the likes of the BMW X3 and even the all-new Honda CR-V.

For Hyundai, this is their second North American Car of the Year award. In 2009, the Genesis (the sedan and not the Coupe) trumped the competition. Last year, the Sonata was one of the three finalists. As for Range Rover (and its parent company, Land Rover), this is their first North American Truck of the Year Award.

January 9, 2012

Philippine Car Price Guide: January 2012

It's officially 2012. Though car launches are still a bit slow during these past few months, we've already managed to update our Philippine Car Price Guide to reflect some new models that have entered the country below the radar. This includes two new Chinese brand entries: Geely and Haima as well as the 2012 Kia Rio.

See details after the break.

January 6, 2012

A Day of Caring and Sharing with Hyundai

Photo courtesy of Hyundai Press
Hyundai Automotive Resources Inc. (HARI), the official distributor of Hyundai vehicles in the Philippines is sharing news about their recently concluded CSR efforts with the HARI Foundation Christmas Party.

Press Release
A Day of Caring and Sharing with Hyundai

Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), official distributor of Hyundai cars in the Philippines, expressed its continuing commitment to be an innovative driver of social change through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm, HARI Foundation, Inc. The leading automotive firm celebrated its enduring as well as newly-established partnerships with foundations that echo Hyundai’s advocacy for a happier and wealthier world through the promotion of entrepreneurship, education, health care, and environment protection. The Christmas lunch-program, held at the Makati Shangri-La, paid tribute to HARI’s partners in nation building: Children’s Joy Foundation Center; Gawad Kalinga Community Foundation; GMA Kapuso Foundation; Habitat for Humanity; HARIBON Foundation; Korea Food for the Hungry International; National Parks Development Committee (NPDC); PDI Foundation; Polytechnic University of the Philippines; KIDS Foundation; SOS Children’s Village; St. Scholastica’s Priory; and the UP Women Lawyers Circle, Inc. (WILOCI).

January 5, 2012

Ford Unveils EcoSport in New Delhi Auto Expo

Photo courtesy of Ford Press
Developing countries seem to be the way to go for Ford. It's predicting tremendous growth in these regions and as proof, has developed a design plan to introduce "eight all-new global Ford products in five years". The fruits of this 8-in-5 plan can already be seen with the likes of the Fiesta, Focus and Ranger. And now, we have the all-new EcoSport.

If the name seems vaguely familiar, the EcoSport actually made it to the Philippines before as a "concept" at the Ford Centennial event. Unfortunately, Ford Group Philippines decided not to sell it and alas, it was only enjoyed by our South American brethren.

This time though, it's different. Ford is promising that the all-new EcoSport will be part of its global product initiative and as such, will be made available in the Philippines soon.

Manila Street Closures Revealed for Bourne Legacy Shooting

The Manila Bulletin has revealed the areas and dates to be closed to vehicular traffic for the filming of Bourne Legacy.

These areas include portions of San Andres St. from January 11 to 15; J. Bocobo corner Remedios streets, January 18 and 19; Leveriza Street, from Balingkit to San Andres, January 15; San Andres corner Quirino and Taft Avenue, January 14); Riverside Road, Real and Sta. Lucia Streets in Intramuros, January 25 and February 17 and 18; Jones Bridge, February 5; and Ramon Magsaysay Boulevard, February 8 to 15.

Best to avoid these areas on the said dates.

Source: The Manila Bulletin

Review: 2011 Mitsubishi ASX


I just don’t get these weekend warriors. Why spend time punishing your body on weekends when you’ve already pummeled it enough doing a week’s stint in hell (i.e. work)? Why bike 50 kilometer trails or scuba dive in shark-infested waters (maybe) when you can simply melt into your couch with chips and a cool drink in hand? Though it sounds like it, I’m not promoting a sedentary lifestyle. I just don’t get these adventurous, adrenaline-loving folks. So, imagine my reaction when Mitsubishi launches a vehicle that’s supposedly tailor fit for the adrenaline junkie: the ASX—short for Active Sport Crossover.

January 4, 2012

Bourne Legacy to be Shot on Manila Streets

Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Francis Tolentino revealed that the fourth film in the Bourne Franchise, "Bourne Legacy" will be shot in several locations in Metro Manila.

In an interview conducted with ABS-CBNNews.com, Tolentino said that producers of Bourne Legacy intends to shoot its key car chase sequence at the Pasay Taft Rotunda. Other locations for filming include: Marikina City Market, San Andres Market, Navotas Fishport, Ramon Magsaysay Boulevard, Nagtahan, Intramuros and Jones Bridge. Some scenes will also be filmed on EDSA as well as Ayala Avenue.

Though Tolentino cannot confirm the filming schedule of the latest Bourne film, he did say that the film makers will be here for a month to shoot the scenes. Some sources indicate that filming may start as early as Saturday, January 14.

Bourne Legacy is based off a 2004 novel by Eric Van Lustbader. Written and directed by Tony Gilroy, the events in the novel takes place right after the events chronicled in The Bourne Ultimatum. However, because Matt Damon dropped out of the project, The Bourne Legacy was re-written as a spin-off or "sidequel". The film stars Jeremy Renner as CIA operative Aaron Cross. Alongside Renner, Edward Norton and Rachel Weisz will star. The film is set for release in August 2012.

Source: ABS-CBN News

Hyundai to Launch All-New Sante Fe in the Philippines in 2012

Photo courtesy of Hyundai Press
Typically, it's hard to coax car makers to reveal their 2012 plans so early in the year. It comes as a big surprise that Kotse.com was able to reveal that HARI (Hyundai Automotive Resources, Inc.) will be unveiling the all-new Santa Fe and possibly two other vehicles this year.

Though details about the all-new Santa Fe are still not readily available at this time, different spy shots reveal that it will gain a similar facia found on the Sonata and Equus sedans. Speculations also point to revised engine choices including the possibility of a turbocharged mill as the range-topping variant.

In the same report, Kotse.com did mention that the new micro car, Eon and Veloster are set to be launched but according to HARI executives, these two vehicles are still "being considered" at this point. But as Kotse.com points out, with the reduction of tariffs between Korea and the ASEAN countries, there's a big, and we mean, big possibility of seeing a more robust (and affordable) line-up from Hyundai.

Source: Kotse.com

Kia Rio Now Available in the Philippines!

Photo courtesy of Kia Press
Our friends at Kotse.com has reported that the all-new 2012 Kia Rio has finally landed (albeit silently) onto Philippine shores this past weekend.

In what could be described as the lack of fun fare, Kia's new sub-compact offering (starting price at P 678,000) can now be viewed at all Kia dealerships nationwide. Currently, there's only one body type available: a 4-door sedan. Kotse.com reports that the 5-door hatchback will arrive by mid-January (in two weeks time)--perhaps in line with a bigger launch.

In any case, the all-new Kia Rio has a 1.4-liter 4-cylinder engine (shared with the Hyundai Accent) and can be mated to either a 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic (you have to add P 90,000 for the slush box). In terms of features, the all-new Rio's been stripped for battle only getting the basic goods of a 1-DIN in-dash CD player with USB input shared with all things, the micro Picanto!

That said, a driver's airbag, anti-lock brakes and rear back-up sensors do come as standard meaning the Rio has something going for it against its nearest competitor (the aforementioned Hyundai Accent).

Source: Kotse.com

January 3, 2012

Toyota Mildly Refreshes Alphard Luxury MPV


Photos courtesy of Toyota Press
Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) placed another feather on its cap by launching a minor refresh of its superb Alphard luxury minivan amidst the busy holiday shopping season at the Bonifacio High Street in Taguig City.

Already deemed the best Premium Van and MPV of the Year at the 2010-2011 Car of the Year – Philippines (CoTY – P), the new Alphard does not mess with the tried and tested formula of blending luxury and spaciousness. Instead, it now gains more style with a new front grille with four prominent chrome slats, projector-type headlamps with washers, alloy wheel design and re-shaped bumpers.

Honda Begins Scraping Vehicles Damaged by Thai Floods

Photos courtesy of Sakchai Lalit/Associated Press
The effect of Thailand's worst flood in 50 years is now only beginning to rear its ugly head.

The claimed damage has been in the billions of US dollars, but it's only after AP Photographer Sakchai Lalit snapped these photos at the Honda assembly plant in the Ayutthaya province that the extent of the damage can be seen.

Rows upon rows of completed and ready-to-be-shipped Brio, City, Civic and Jazz cars (from what we can tell based on these photos) are now being sent to the scrap heap. As a result, Honda is expected to destroy around 1,055 vehicles all in all.

Hyundai Asia Resources Takes Lead as Biggest Donor in Rain Forestation Efforts


Photo courtesy of Hyundai Press
Here's a bit of news from HARI (Hyundai Automotive Resources, Inc.) and it's CSR efforts in 2011--specifically, its efforts to partner with HARIBON in re-forestation programs in the Philippines.

Press Release
Hyundai Automotive Resources, Inc. Takes the Lead as 
Highest Donor to HARIBON's 2011 "Rain-Forestation" Efforts

Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), official distributor of Hyundai cars in the Philippines, and advocate for a greener environment, is the year’s highest single donor to HARIBON Foundation’s reforestation efforts in Bgy. Cuyambay, Tanay, Rizal. The leading automotive firm met its 2011 target to support HARIBON’s reforestation efforts through the donation and planting of 15,000 tree seedlings. One hundred and sixty volunteers from HARI, composed of employees, representatives from HARI’s Metro Manila and Laguna dealerships, and members of Team Hyundai, gladly got their hands dirty under the supervision of Ms. Christine Cenal, Head of HARIBON’s Corporate Partnerships Division, and Mr. Thaddy Martinez coordinator of HARIBON’s Road to 2020 program, who guided the group on correct tree planting techniques. The volunteers aimed to plant 33 seedlings each. The November 26 volunteer tree planting activity capped HARI’s “green” partnership with HARIBON, which kicked off in August 26 and was followed up in September 3 this year. HARI covered a total of 12 hectares in three areas of Bgy. Cuyambay, which was devastated by Typhoon Ondoy in 2009.

January 2, 2012

Honda Dealers Taking Orders for All-New Civic, Refreshed City


Any eagle-eyed motorist will begin to notice signs being placed at all Philippine Honda dealerships starting today. In it, they're announcing that they're taking in pre-orders for the all-new Honda Civic as well as the re-freshed City.

This is a bit of good news considering Honda Cars Philippines has suffered tremendously in 2011, especially in the latter half thanks to supply problems because of the wide-spread floods in Thailand.

Click after the break to find out more details about these two new cars from HCP.

TOTAL Reigns in 2011 Motorsports

Photo courtesy of TOTAL Press
Our friends at TOTAL has sent us the follow press release to tout their success in the motorsports scene for 2011.

Press Release
TOTAL Reigns in 2011 Motorsports

Red Bull Racing in Formula 1, the Citroën Total World Rally Team in the WRC and the Peugeot Total Team in Endurance Racing each won their respective world championships in 2011.

Ford to Debut Fiesta-Based Crossover at New Delhi Auto Expo

Photo courtesy of Ford Press
A new year means new cars...and apparently, Ford is the first one to come bursting out with its all-new B-segment crossover which will debut at the 2012 Auto Expo in New Delhi, India.

The all-new crossover which is teased by this headlight/grille shot is based off the popular Fiesta sub-compact. Details are still scares at the moment, but from what we know it will have an Ecoboost (perhaps with a 1.4-liter displacement) under the hood.

With Ford Philippines bringing a delegation to cover this new small crossover's debut at the Auto Expo, it's a safe bet that we'll see this new crossover plying the streets of Manila some time soon.

January 1, 2012

Happy New Year from carguide.ph

It's the start of the New Year! 2012 will have tons of exciting stuff for carguide.ph. Thanks for all the support and continue reading!