Search CarGuide.PH

April 30, 2012

Toyota Philippines Offers Certified Pre-Owned Program


Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) launches the Toyota Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles (TCPOV) program. The TCPOV is a new program where in customers can enjoy utmost value for money in purchasing pre owned vehicles. TMP aims to cater to the market where purchasing a reliable used car is given much importance.  Now a days finding dependable pre owned vehicles can be a difficult task. In launching the TCPOV, Toyota is able to provide buyers an avenue where they can always be assured of the vehicle’s quality and reliability.

April 27, 2012

Toyota Launches All-New Camry

Photos courtesy of Toyota Press
Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) unveils the all-new Camry with a new sense of emotion and vision on its premium luxury sedan. Its aerodynamic styling and valiant stance exude a strong presence that complements a luxurious and iconic vehicle. Named after the word “Crown” in Japanese, the Camry is developed to stand out and shine in the local automotive scene; along with its new developments in both interior and exterior features, the Camry boasts a more luxurious and cutting-edge design.

Suzuki Philippines Unveils Kizashi Sports Sedan


Photos courtesy of Suzuki Press
Known primarily as a maker of small cars such as the Celerio and Swift as well as motorcycles, Suzuki Philippines takes a bold step forward with the introduction of the Kizashi sports sedan. Marking the company’s first foray into the highly competitive, brand conscious executive sedan market, the Kizashi comes extremely prepared: it’s benchmarked against some of the world’s best cars including those from European brands. Meaning “a sign of things to come” in Japanese, the Kizashi delivers a unique blend of performance, design and craftsmanship into the executive sedan segment.

Isuzu Philippines Launches Crosswind XS

Photo courtesy of Isuzu Press
More than 60,000 owners have spoken; the Isuzu Crosswind is the best solution for their personal, family and business vehicle requirements as the multipurpose vehicle continues to serve the Filipino consumer since 2001. To further address the evolving needs of the market, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC), the country’s Diesel Expert, is introducing the 2012 Isuzu Crosswind XS variant.

The Crosswind XS is a six-seater model. Without the third-row seat, the vehicle can carry more than 1.8-cubic meter cargo as its entire rear area is now a dedicated load space. This makes the Crosswind XS perfect for small families or those with young children because the vehicle can easily accommodate strollers, toys, extra clothes, groceries and other similar items. Also, the Crosswind XS becomes an even more ideal choice for business use as it can serve as a taxicab, service/delivery shuttle, or courier vehicle that’s able to load balikbayan boxes and other oversized baggage.

Hyundai Grand Starex: Official Transport of Annual ADB Meet


Photo courtesy of Hyundai Press
In the Philippines, if there’s one Hyundai that’s already recognized for being an iconic on its own right, it’s the Grand Starex. Known for its extreme comfort, durability, and reliability, the Grand Starex is always been one of the country’s best-selling large family van. Therefore, it shouldn’t come as a surprise when the Hyundai Grand Starex has been chosen as the official mobility partner for the annual Asian Development Bank (ADB) meet.

What to Expect When You're Expecting: Ford Explorer 2.0 EcoBoost


The all-new Ford Explorer with the 2.0 EcoBoost engine is still a full three months away, but we’ve been lucky enough to have sampled, by all intents and purposes, the entry-level Explorer. Of course, the P 2.350-million price tag is anything but entry-level, but it still saves you something like P 200,000 compared to the V6. However, as with anything that’s more affordable, expect the Explorer experience to be diluted. The question is, by how much? The Ford Explorer V6 has raised the bar quite a bit by providing excellent driving manners and numerous creature features at a truly competitive price. So, how will its little brother, the 2.0 EcoBoost fair? Without passing judgement (that will come at a later time), here’s what you can expect from the Explorer V6’s little brother.

April 25, 2012

Review: 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer EX Ralliart

Photos by Ulysses Ang
At first glance, the Lancer Ralliart looks pretty much like the typical Lancer EX it’s based on. In fact, while the Lancer Evolution takes the path of being a sophisticated, no-holds-barred flagship that offers track-honed features and the capability of outperforming more expensive sports cars, the Lancer Ralliart feels more like a well-done tuner car—a reincarnation perhaps of the original Evolution.

April 24, 2012

The Full Monty: Toyota Auto Salon Amlux

Photos by Ulysses Ang
Japan is most definitely on the list of any car enthusiast’s Mecca; and a trip here isn’t complete without a visit to one of various automotive shrines, museums, and what have you. Given that Japan is an expensive place to go to (for example, a single bus ride costs around P 110), some penny-pinching may be in order to stretch the valuable Yen you’re carrying. However, there is one automotive-related gem that’s just waiting to be discovered—and best of all, it’s free! So if you’re starting to overload on eating conveyor-belt sushi or visiting the various Shinto shrines, here’s an automotive museum worth spending some quality time in.

Honda Cars Philippines Launches All-New CR-V

Photos courtesy of Honda Press
Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI), Honda’s automobile production and sales subsidiary in the Philippines, today launched its highly-anticipated all-new CR-V. Following the launch of the new City last January, the all-new Civic and Jazz Special Edition in February, the all-new CR-V further strengthens Honda’s return to the Philippine automotive market.

Ford Unveils Production EcoSport in Beijing



Ford has finally taken the wraps off the production version of its B-segment crossover--the EcoSport at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition. This all-new crossover, dubbed as the "SUV for the urban world", will be available in over 100 countries mostly likely including the Philippines.

Based off Ford's B-segment platform (which happens to underpin the Fiesta as well), the EcoSport comes with Ford's newest and most advanced EcoBoost turbocharged engine yet: a 1.0-liter 3-cylinder engine with 118 horsepower.

Other key features of the Ford EcoSport are: the Ford SYNC infotainment system, 16-inch alloy wheels, a push-button engine start/stop, and a cooled glove box. For safety, it gets 6 airbags, ABS, and Electronic Stability Program or ESP that integrates Hill Start Assist.

The Ford EcoSport will make its way to other markets in Asia including the Philippines soon.

Chinese-Spec Subaru Legacy Aims High (Literally)


Subaru parent company, Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. has unveiled the 2013 Legacy for the Chinese market, and from the looks alone, you know it's aiming high--literally.

The 2013 Legacy has been re-designed specifically for the Chinese market and the changes are quite extensive. First, the ride height has been increased by 60 mm. Second, because of the increased ride height, Subaru had to modify the front bumper, side spoiler, and rear bumper. The wheels remain 18-inches. And of course, to suit the Chinese buyer, Subaru has put chrome on the side sill spoiler and rear bumper. Inside, the Chinese version of the Legacy removes the silvery plastics and in place is a piano-black finish. The electronic parking brake and SI-Drive switches were also relocated for better usability.

The 2013 Subaru Legacy also debuts the new-generation 2.5-liter Boxer (FB25) for the Chinese market as well as the Lineartronic CVT.

April 23, 2012

Mitsubishi Expands Zamboanga Dealer

Photo courtesy of Mitsubishi Press
Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) together with one of its authorized dealers Zamboanga Motors Inc. (ZMI) recently broke ground to mark the start of the construction of a bigger and a more modern Mitsubishi Motors showroom and service center. The newest ZMI showroom will be constructed in a 5,320 square meter lot located in Governor Carmins Avenue Zamboanga, City. 

Mazda Philippines Launches CX-5 and Mazda3



It’s been a while since we’ve heard something exciting from Mazda. The brand of ‘zoom-zoom’ has been quiet, not being able to launch a significant vehicle since the CX-7 several years ago. But you know what they say: patience is a virtue. And over the weekend’s Mazda Revolution event, Mazda has unveiled two promising all-new vehicles for the local market: the CX-5 crossover and the all-new Mazda3.

April 20, 2012

Suzuki Launching Kizashi Sedan in Philippines


We all know that the 2012 Toyota Camry's launching Thursday next week. But here's even a bigger surprise: Suzuki is ready to move upmarket straight into Camry territory with their Kizashi sports sedan. And guess what? It's launching on the very same day, just two hours apart from Toyota's perennial best-seller.

Aside from the the hard to pronounce name, what can we expect from the Suzuki Kizashi? Well, there's still no word on the pricing, but we do know that the Philippine spec Kizashi is powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that's good for 180 horsepower. The sole transmission is a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Apart from the drivetrain, the rest of the details are still foggy. But based on pics, we can tell the Kizashi will have a keyless push button engine start/stop, USB input for audio devices, rear air conditioning vents, dual climate control, and leather upholstery.

Again, we'll be live from the Suzuki Kizashi launch on Thursday, April 26. Follow us live via our Twitter account starting 3PM.

Hyundai PHL Sales Up 44% in Q1 2012

“As the Philippine economic landscape continues to move from good to great, so does consumer confidence and Hyundai’s outstanding sales performance for Q1. We are optimistic that this trend will extend into Q2, with the Elantra making waves as Car of the Year for 2012, the launch of the new Hyundai EON, and our consistent brand promotion efforts.”
-- Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo, HARI President and CEO

April 19, 2012

Photo Break #1: (Head) Turning Japanese

Photo by Ulysses Ang
Welcome to "Photo Break" where I post cars and scenes which I find awesome. The first one is a 2012 Nissan GT-R which I happened to snap in Kyoto, Japan. After walking more than a kilometer into the heart of Gion, Kyoto, this is one amazing sight I just had to take a picture of.

All Photo Break photos can be downloaded as a desktop wallpaper This one's in a 1280x960 pixel resolution. Enjoy.

Report: Peugeot 3008 Coming to Philippines?


During the The Philippine Star turnover last night, Vernon Sarne of Top Gear has gotten hold of a news nugget: one of the models that Eurobrands Distributor, the Peugeot distributor in the Philippines, is bringing in is a diesel-powered 3008 crossover.

Worldwide, there are two diesel engines available for the 3008: a 1.6-liter and a 2.0-liter. What motor will arrive in the Philippines is still uncertain according to Mr. Sarne. What's more, he has revealed that Peugeot will also be bringing in "a sedan, an MPV, and a coupe". Bringing Peugeot's Philippine total to 4 models by the brand's launch by July.

Source: TopGear.com.ph

UPDATED: Ford Showcases Mustang at MIAS, On Sale by Setember

Photo courtesy of Ford Press
UPDATE: Ford execs confirmed that the Mustang previewed at The Manila International Auto Show is indeed the 2012 model. Once Ford starts selling the pony car in September it will be the 2013 model.

Ford executives have good reasons to smile: first, they unveiled the all-new Ranger, a class-changing and one-of-a-kind pick-up; second, they unveiled the baby brother to their Explorer V6, the Explorer 2.0 GDTi XLT with EcoBoost; and lastly, the pulled off a surprise by finally showcasing the Mustang for the Philippine market.

Now, when Ford Group Philippines brings in a model, even if it's a preview, it means they're dead serious in selling it. None of that, "we need a halo car" bullshit. And though it's easy to say they'll be bringing in this variant and that, well, the final specs have yet to be finalized. Yes folks...for those who've been reading other sources, that they've driven the 2013 Mustang, sorry folks we don't know for sure which particular pony will gallop our streets. That said, Ford Group Philippines says that the Mustang will be "competitively priced" and deliveries will start in September.

A formal launch event will happen sometime in June or July, and by that time, we'll have a better idea on the final specs and pricing for the Ford Mustang.

Focus Ventures Introduces King Long Univan

Photo courtesy of Focus Ventures, Inc.
Focus Ventures, Inc. the Philippine distributor of Chana automobiles and FAW light-duty trucks has added another brand into its portfolio: King Long.

Known as a brand of passenger buses and luxury coaches, King Long Automotive Industry Co., Ltd. has applied the same expertise and technical innovation into their latest vehicle line: vans. For the Philippine market, Focus Ventures showcased the King Long Univan at the recently concluded 8th Manila International Auto Show (MIAS).

Originally named as "A+ HIASE" light bus in China, the King Long Univan is a 14-seater, 5.2-meter long van (wheelbase of 2.89 meters) is powered by a choice of a 4JB1 Direct Injection diesel engine with turbocharger or a GW2.8TC-2 diesel with common rail direct injection (CRDi). In the 4JB1 guise, the Univan has a maximum output of 76 horsepower and 174 Nm of torque, and with the GW2.8TC-2 engine, the Univan has 90 horsepower and 220 Nm of torque. Both models feature 5-speed manuals driving the rear wheels.

The King Long Univan is a practical and by all intents and purposes, a basic vehicle. So convenience features are limited to: front fog lamps, 195/70 R 15 tires mounted on steel wheels (with cover), dual air conditioning, power steering and an AM/FM radio with CD player. However, thanks to its "bubble roof" construction, it promises ample space and easy access for all passengers. Indeed, Focus Ventures, Inc. is aiming the King Long Univan towards business-minded Filipinos who are looking into transportation services business.

Price for both variants is P 950,000. If you're interested in the King Long Univan, you may contact Focus Ventures, Inc. at +632-631-0298 or visit their website at: www.focusventures.com.ph

Ford Driving Skills for Life Gets an Upgrade

Photo courtesy of Ford Press
Ford is going further on its commitment to reduce the number of traffic fatalities and injuries in the country by conducting regional refresher training courses for its global and award-winning Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) campaign.

Now on its fifth year, Ford DSFL provides training in both safe and economical driving practices to drivers from Ford’s Asia Pacific and Africa markets, including Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, China, India, Taiwan, and South Africa. So far, 50,000 have participated in the program across Asia with another 12,000 expected in 2012, including 2,000 in the Philippines.

The DSFL program has not only been successful in training drivers on defensive driving but it has also shown 20-25 percent short-term effect on fuel savings and 6-15 percent long term fuel savings on passenger cars with the potential to reduce carbon dioxide.