CarGuide.PH | Philippine Car News, Car Reviews, Car Prices

June 23, 2015

Review: 2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R-S

Photos by Ulysses Ang

Subaru has always been different, catering to a kind of customer who desires something a bit more special than your mainstream sedan or crossover. Time and time again, the company has shown that that strategy has worked. For instance, the XV continues to be a brisk seller compared to the Impreza on which it’s based on. And although they’ve strived to iron out the kinks and smoothen the awkwardness with each new model generation, the intrinsic Subaru difference is still there.

Dyson DC62 is a Revolutionary Way to Vacuum Your Car (or House)

Father’s Day may be over, but that doesn’t stop you from getting something for yourself that’s guaranteed to make car cleaning just a bit easier. Introducing the Dyson V6 motor—a motor that spins faster than a Formula One engine.

It’s a hat-trick: Porsche drivers in the USA are highly satisfied with new cars from Zuffenhausen and Leipzig. For the third time in succession, the Stuttgart sports car manufacturer took top place in the overall ratings – as it did in 2013 and 2014 – in this year's “Initial Quality Study” by the renowned US market research institute J.D. Power.

CAC gathered its workforce on June 6, 2015 for the company’s annual CSR initiative, dubbed as CAC Coastal Care. The event mobilized executives and employees from all departments to clear the Lobo seashore of debris and to make good on their annual CSR theme of “A cleaner tomorrow begins today.”

Honda Cars Philippines Updates City for 2016 Model Year

A year since the 4th generation has been introduced locally, HCPI, never ceased in constantly updating its sole locally manufactured vehicle. Last night an updated version of the City was introduced to address customers’ need for a built-in navigation system.

Philippine Car Price Guide: June 2015

Here’s the month Philippine Car Price Guide for June 2015. Not much going on in this update, there but there are some new and updated items, mainly:

Ford Everest (new)
Honda HR-V (new)
Kia Carens (new)
Kia Forte (new)
Kia Rio (new)
Kia Soul (updated)
Mazda6 Skyactiv Wagon (new)
Mazda CX-5 Maxx (new)
Mazda MX-5 (new)
Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 (new)
Mercedes-Benz GLA 220 CDI (new)
Nissan NV350 Urvan (new)
Peugeot 301 (new)
Suzuki Alto (updated)
Suzuki APV (updated)

Photos by Ulysses Ang

The Toyota Road Trek is the annual event where Toyota Motor Philippines brings us members of the motoring media on a ride-and-drive activity that takes us all around the country. Every year, it’s an excuse to take off the serious hat and put on something a tad sillier. This year though, they’ve ramped things up a notch and not in the physical sense. This year, Road Trek welcomes the world of social media.

Subaru Quietly Returns Impreza 2.0i-S to Philippine Market

Aside from offering free car wash at selected establishments over Father’s Day weekend, Subaru has another surprise for Subaru fans in the country: the return of the Impreza 2.0i-S to the line-up.

Well, that took longer than expected. After touting its Subaru XV Hybrid way back in 2013, it would only be a matter of time before the Impreza Sport (hatchback) gets the same battery love. Well, that wait is over, at least for Japan where Subaru just took the wraps off the Impreza Sports Hybrid.

Isuzu mu-X Boosts Isuzu PHL Sales by 52 Percent in Early Half of 2015

Japanese car maker Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) has made a huge jump from its total year-to-date sales compared to its previous data last year after growing more than half of its total number in 2014. The strong sales performance is being driven by their latest vehicle offering, the Isuzu mu-X.

Just a few days before the City of Manila celebrates its 444th foundation day, Suzuki Philippines, Inc. is already set to treat Suzuki car owners in the area to a free comprehensive 15-point automobile check-up. On June 19 and 20 from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, customers can go to Suzuki Auto Manila Bay to have their units inspected by trained and qualified Suzuki technicians for free.

Maserati Previews Quattroporte and Ghibli in Bacolod and Iloilo

Elegance, luxury and style arrives on the shores of Western Visayas as Maserati, the Italian luxury automotive brand, introduces two of its most defining models to the cities of Bacolod and Iloilo on June 13-21, 2015.

Ford’s tiny 1.0-liter EcoBoost 3-cylinder engine has scooped its eighth award in four years at the 2015 International Engine of the Year awards.

Motor Image Pilipinas (MIP), the authorized distributor of Subaru in the Philippines, has a special gift for Subaru owners this Father’s day weekend.

Honda Cars Makati welcomes valued customers who wish to visit the dealership to attend to their sales and vehicle service requirements as it extends its operating hours from 7:00 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Columbian Autocar Corporation, Kia’s distributor in the Philippines, is bringing its A-game to the A-segment by updating the Picanto hatchback with an upgraded exterior/interior, revamped audio system, and improved performance.

BMW will once again host a weekend of incomparable joy as it honors all dads with an exciting three-day showcase of the best in premium mobility in celebration of father’s day. Through its official importer and distributor in the Philippines, Asian Carmakers Corporation (ACC), the leading premium automotive brand will feature its latest product offerings and special deals at the BMW Ultimate Dad’s Weekend from June 19 to 21, 2015.

First Drive: Honda HR-V 1.8 E and 1.8 EL

Photos by Ulysses Ang

Remember the Honda HR-V? People of a certain age, including myself, remember it as Honda’s attempt to diversify from its core City, Civic, CR-V, and Accord models. Suffice to say, it didn’t fair too well and has been largely swept under the corporate rug as a “never again” model joining the likes of the Legend. However, in recent years, Honda’s corporate slogan has changed to “never say never” as they sought to diversify their lineup and gain market share. From just four models in the late 1990s, they now have 11; now make that 12 as the HR-V re-joins the lineup. And I’ve just driven it.

Ford Philippines Sales Rise 19-Percent Year-to-Date

Ford Philippines today announced May retail sales of 1,652 units, helping drive its year-to-date performance up 19 percent to 8,557 units.

Nissan is continuing to modernize its commercial vehicle offering by unveiling the 2015 NV350 Navara. The fifth-generation van comes from a storied line of Nissan family and cargo haulers dating back to 1973. The all-new model aims to meet the demands of entrepreneurs, shuttle operators, and family users.

Ford GT Set Race in the 2016 24 Hours of Le Mans (w/ Video)

Even before customers get their hands on the road-going version which is slated to arrive next year, Ford Motor Company just announced that its all-new Ford GT is going back to racing. And they won’t be competing in the grassroots either: they’re going back to the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Save more on best buys with TOTAL this June! Every P 1,000 single-receipt purchase of fuel products from any TOTAL Service Station entitles customers to a P 50 cash voucher from National Bookstore. TOTAL’s Back-to-School Big Savings Promo treats customers to innovative fuel products and excellent service at Service Stations, and rewards them with cash vouchers that can be spent on a wide selection of school supplies, books, stationery, and so much more from the Philippines’ number one bookstore.

Since its launch at the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) last April 9, Volkswagen Philippines’ Child Safety Initiative corporate social responsibility project, has been giving children as young as four years of age sample driving experiences using a simulated road system. The objective is to educate their young minds on the proper traffic rules, as well as to heighten their awareness on possible dangers on the road. There had been five such activities so far, generating many positive responses from the kiddie participants, their parents and observers.

We interrupt your regular Sunday internet browsing habit to bring you some breaking news: Berjaya Auto Philippines, the official distributor of Mazda vehicles in the country has finally revealed the pricing and variants of the 2016 Mazda MX-5 (ND).

Ford Reveals "Ultimate" Ranger in 2015 Wildtrak (w/ Video)

After showing off its bolder, smarter Ranger at the 36th Bangkok International Motor Show and giving you 7 Things You Can't Miss, Ford finally pulled the curtains off the ultimate version of its venerable and best-selling pickup truck: the 2015 Wildtrak.

Porsche AG will equip all of its cars with the newest Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 ultra-high-performance tires as the company announced at the launch of its latest model, the new 911 GT3 RS. The just released model from Porsche’s 911 series now sport tires measuring 265/35 ZR20 front and 325/30 ZR21 rear.

Industry leader Petron Corporation is taking customer delight to a new level with the promise of giving motorists the “best day of your life” through world-class products, quality service, as well as exciting rewards and privileges. These brand values are at the core of the company’s ‘Best Day at Petron’ marketing campaign for the rest of the year.

Alyssa Valdez Joins Team Chevrolet

The Covenant Car Company Inc. (TCCCI) exclusive importer and distributor of Chevrolet automobiles and parts in the Philippines teams up with the country’s top volleyball star and reigning UAAP Women’s Volleyball MVP - Alyssa Valdez as she is officially appointed as the 2015 Chevrolet Sonic’s sports and lifestyle ambassador. Alyssa is a multi-awarded athlete and team captain of the 2014 UAAP champions Ateneo Blue eagles and of the 2015 Asian U23 Women's Volleyball Championship. She was also selected by the Philippine Olympic Executive Council to be the flag bearer for the Southeast Asian Games this June 2015. “We are delighted to welcome Miss Alyssa Valdez to the Chevrolet family. We truly appreciate her contributions to the sport of Volleyball and the inspiration she brings to many young Filipino aspirants.” said Atty. Albert B. Arcilla, President and Managing Director of Chevrolet Philippines. “Alyssa embodies the characteristics that best represent the Chevrolet Sonic – smart, vibrant, capable and strong in mind, body and heart.” Concludes Atty. Arcilla.

Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP) set another sales record last May 2015 with a total of 10, 511 units sold. In just 5 months through the year, the largest local car manufacturer has accomplished its second record sales with the previous achievement being in March with 10, 237 units sold.

2015 Honda HR-V vs the Competition

Editor's Note: here is the full launch story of the Honda HR-V.

The small crossover segment battle is heating up with the entry of the Honda HR-V. But just how does it stack up against its similarly sized (and priced) rivals, the Mitsubishi ASX and Subaru XV? Well, this is your chance to play trump cards. In this round, we decided to pit the top-of-the-line models against each other to give you a better idea of their specs vis-à-vis their rivals.

Editor's Note: this is how the Honda HR-V squares up against the competition.

With bold and sporty coupe-like styling, SUV versatility, and Honda’s packaging magic, the all-new HR-V is set to challenge the growing small crossover segment. The HR-V delivers incredible value with a long list of standard features and technologies including 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps with daytime running lights, a push-button engine start/stop, electronic parking brake, rear view camera with multiple views and guidelines, and a 7-inch touchscreen audio system among others.

Photos by Ulysses Ang

Remember when the Sony PlayStation 1 launched? I did. It was dubbed the next-generation video game console even before its debut, and yet, no one had any idea how it will revolutionize entertainment. From simple graphics during the Nintendo Family Computer days, the PlayStation opened up the possibilities brought about by its impressive graphics. What the PlayStation did for video games is exactly what the Nissan NP300 Navara’s doing for pickup trucks.

Chevrolet Philippines Expands to Ilocos Norte

The Covenant Car Company, Incorporated (TCCCI), the official distributor of Chevrolet Cars in the Philippines, continues to boost its presence in the Northern parts of Luzon with the ground breaking ceremony of Chevrolet Ilocos Norte last April 24, 2015. As one of the fastest economic and commercial growth municipality of Region I, the Ilocos province is expected to be a substantial market for Chevrolet.

Online game enthusiasts have until June 16, 2015 to join Michelin’s Right 2 Race (R2R) 2015 promo, an online game that tests players’ racing knowledge accurately, resulting in a fun and exciting experience.

Suzuki, a world leader in subcompact cars, is finding more fans in the Philippine market by selling 162% more cars in the first three months of 2015 compared to the same period last year.

Petron Takes Lead in Euro-4 Gasoline Compliance

Market leader Petron Corporation achieved an industry first as it announced today all gasoline variants produced at its Bataan refinery are now Euro-4 compliant. The Euro-4 gasoline products are now available in Petron service stations in Mega Manila and will soon be available nationwide, meeting the government’s mandate ahead of schedule.

Enjoy a steady stream of savings through Kia’s latest rainy season promo!

From May 15 to June 15, 2015, save as much as P 195,000 through Kia’s Splash of Savings promo.

Taking off from the good market response of Honda car owners in Taguig City and its nearby areas, Honda Cars Global City (HCGC) continues to carry out its night service operations starting from 6 PM to 12 MN, Mondays to Fridays. Customers may still enjoy the convenience of bringing their cars for service after regular office hours to attend to their cars’ Preventive Maintenance, Rustproofing and Detailing needs. Likewise, customers are still entitled to free Nitrogen refill for every preventive maintenance service availed while detailing services are also open to all car brands.

Honda to Open Soon in Zamboanga

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) is set to open a new full service dealership in Zamboanga by the 4th quarter of 2015. Honda Cars Zamboanga (HCZM) will be located in Mayor Vitaliano D. Agan Avenue, Camino Nuevo, Zamboanga City.

Ford recently organised its second annual Technical Skills Competition held at the Ford V.P. Auto Enterprise service centre in Bangkok, Thailand, helping to build on its commitment to deliver a world-class customer service experience to its customers across the region.

Monster Jam is about to take over Manila, so you better gear up with the necessary know-how.
Let’s get started with the basics. The show highlights six Monster Jam trucks: Grave Digger, Max-D, El Toro Loco, Zombie, Dragon, and Son-Uva Digger. Their heavy-duty body which is approximately 12’ tall and about 12’ wide sits atop 66-inch tires. Not wild enough for you? Built for short, high-powered bursts of speed, Monster Jam trucks have 1,500 horsepower and are capable of speeds up to 80 miles per hour. Monster Jam trucks can jump more than 30’ high and travel a distance of about 130’ flying through the air. That’s longer than 14 cars lined up side by side! Now, that is impressive. Each truck costs more than $600,000 per year to build, tour, staff, repair and transport from city to city. They have their own drivers, mechanics and specialized transport vehicles, which also houses a mobile repair shop.

First Drive: 2015 Mitsubishi Strada GLX V A/T

Photos by Ulysses Ang

Our ride and drives follow a certain formula: hop on a vehicle and drive to an exotic locale for some R&R. Along the way, we’re fed with bottomless food and if the carmaker feels generous enough, a massage. There are some variations along the way, but the bottom line is we’re shown a good time. This looks hedonistic to an outsider looking in, and I can’t blame them. After all, is eating to your heart’s content an appropriate way to spend some seat time when we could instead make a difference? Well, Mitsubishi did just that. The 2015 Strada’s first shakedown is a ride and drive activity like no other. It’s one with a purpose, with a heart. It shows what a Strada can do, and consequently, what its owner could possibly achieve.

Let Me Introduce You to Peugeot

Growing up on a steady diet of Car and Driver, Road and Track, and Automobile Magazine, the typical Filipino car enthusiast will probably not know what to make of Peugeot. After all, it’s mostly a European-only affair since the 1990’s. Hence, when it arrived here back in early 2000’s and remerged once again a few years back, the brand recall, admittedly, wasn’t so great. It didn’t help that Filipinos had a hard time pronouncing the name thanks to the lengthy string of vowels. Imagine, therefore, the mountain for its distributor to climb just to get recognition in the sea of growing upscale Japanese and American brands, and new entry-level European brands.

MiLi Innovates Storage Solutions

Developed as a solution to eliminating the inconvenience of data gathering by way of a multitude of connectors needed to connect to personal computers (PC) and to simplify software configuration, the purpose and design of the USB has come a long way since its launch in the mid-nineties.

UPDATED: Nissan Philippines to Launch NV350 Urvan in June

UPDATE 1: The Philippine-spec Nissan NV350 Urvan is here. Check it out! (6/15)

After retiring the long-serving Frontier pickup truck with the launch of the all-new NP300 Navara, it seems Nissan Philippines, Inc. (NPI) is doing the same with its Urvan. According to a report by The Philippine STAR, NPI will be bringing in the NV350 Urvan in June in a move to drive its sales higher.

Photos by Ulysses Ang

It was an unequivocal show of strength for Toyota Motor Philippines as the country’s number one automotive company shared the waku-doki spirit to racing enthusiasts down south. Last May 16 to 17, Toyota successfully staged Second Leg (Race 3 and 4) of the 2015 Vios Cup.

Monster Jam Poised to Heat Up Manila

When it comes to motorsport competitions, nothing can get bigger and livelier than Monster Jam. Witness four-meter tall, five-ton monster trucks wreak havoc in the special race track set up only for them. Monster Jam trucks will face off in two major competitions. The first one is the traditional bracket racing. The first truck to cross the finish line will be declared the winner, but it won't be as easy. The race track is planted with metal boulders, crash vans and more. The second competition gives the drivers and their monster trucks a chance to show-off their astonishing stunts, twists and jumps in the freestyle competition. No other competition will have your heart pumping as hard. These monster superstars are out to give their fans a show they won't forget.

As the issue of climate change gain momentum on the world stage, zero-emission electric trikes (e-trikes) shared the limelight at this year’s APEC 2015 summit hosted by the Philippines.

Caltex Lubricants Philippines held the fourth and final leg of Havoline’s Drive to Protection: Tune Up for the Ultimate Road Trip Experience campaign at the 2015 Toyota Fest Philippines last May 23 at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan.

Suzuki Philippines, Inc. (SPH), the only integrated motorcycle and automobile company in the country, officially opened its first 3S automobile dealership along East Avenue in line with its aggressive expansion efforts. The new dealership, which is Suzuki’s 31st 3S dealership in the Philippines, will offer Sales, Spare parts, and Services. Suzuki Auto East Avenue is a one-stop shop that can now provide a complete array of Suzuki services to motorists around the Quezon City area.

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