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

January 12, 2017

There's a 2017 Subaru Impreza tS and We Took a Closer Look

Most, if not all Japanese carmakers have an in-house tuning division that gives their vehicles a little bit of something extra be it through looks or performance. In the case of Subaru, it’s Subaru Technica International or STI. And though the 2017 Impreza, known by its model codename ‘GK’, is fresh off the boat for its ASEAN debut in Singapore, tucked at the side of distributor Motor Image’s booth are two units decked out in yummy STI parts.

This is the 2017 Impreza, an important vehicle for Subaru because it lays the foundation for their future. Part of their “Prominence 2020” vision, it’s the cornerstone by which the brand aims to enhance their design and technologies to reach a broader audience. With its regional introduction here in Singapore, we also did a First Drive. For those who want more details, here is as a dossier. Here are 11 things you should know about the 2017 Subaru Impreza.

Suzuki Philippines (SPH) posted a record-breaking 37 percent year-on-year (YoY) growth as they wrapped up a fruitful year marked by product launches, dealership inaugurations, and events which have brought the products closet to Filipino consumers.

2017 NAIAS: The 2018 Lexus LS has Come a Long Way (w/ 14 Photos)

Since the Lexus brand launched 28 years ago, it has managed to ruffle the feather of the German premium brands with its comfort, smoothness, build quality, and dependability. And now, at the 2017 North American International Auto Show, Lexus is writing a new chapter of that legacy with the launch of the all-new LS flagship sedan.

If there’s one constant criticism leveled against the Toyota Camry is that it’s the automotive equivalent of vanilla ice cream. Though it’s been stylistically been more aggressive in the past few generations, try as Toyota has, it’s still too dull behind the wheel. Well, that’s all about to change as the Camry migrates over to the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) which is poised to inject some driving fun into Toyota’s executive sedan.

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. proudly announces a record breaking sales performance in 2016 with a total of 23,199 vehicle sales or 20 percent growth, compared to the same period in 2015 with 19,315 vehicles sold. The December 2016 sales also set a highest monthly record of 2,805 units. The reported sales increase is attributed to the brand’s main contributors, particularly the introduction of the All-New BR-V, the All-New Civic and the New City.

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) is starting the year on an optimistic note as the company posted record sales milestones in 2016.

Twelve years after Ford teased the return of the Bronco (some of the accompany photos in this story is a design concept done way back in 2004), they have finally confirmed the rumors: it’s coming back to American showrooms in 2020. In the same breath, they’ve also announced the return of their mid-sized pickup truck on American soil: the Ranger. That one is arriving stateside in 2019. While it’s hard to fully understand why Americans are having their panties in a twist over the Bronco and Ranger, what’s more important is what this means for the global Ranger and Everest.

The diesel engine has been embroiled in a lot of controversy lately. With several carmakers caught cheating on emissions, could the love affair with this frugal oil burner be over? Is the future finally all about fancy gasoline hybrids or complicated electric vehicles? Though stringent emissions have yet to be implemented in the Philippines (the country is still at Euro 4 while others are moving towards Euro 6), one carmaker has spearheaded the move for a truly clean diesel; one that doesn’t require a cheat device to meet the most demanding emissions standard in the world: Mazda.

2017 NAIAS: 2018 Chevrolet Traverse is Roomier, More Premium

Chevrolet used the North American International Auto Show to take the wraps off its 7-seater mid-sized crossover, the Traverse. Boasting a more refined styling, the 2018 Traverse delivers the best-in-class third-row legroom, maximum cargo room, and passenger volume together with an enhanced set of safety features. Could this be better than the Ford Explorer this time around?

Start the new year with a new ride and new adventures as Chevrolet Philippines, offers exciting deals and free air travel certificate through its Happy Chevy New Year Promo. The promo offers all-in low down payment on select Chevrolet models:

After a highly competitive season, Lexus Team SARD clinches the 2016 Japan Super GT title with the help of Motul oils and lubricants.

There a slight air of disappointment when Kia unveiled the production version of the Stinger. It’s certainly not the same lightweight, no frills sports car concept that took the world by surprise at the 2014 North American International Auto Show. In the span of three years it has grown two more doors to become Kia’s sports sedan. Yes, the Stinger is a sports sedan. Still, it manages to fulfill the GT Concept’s premise which was to build the sportiest Kia ever.

Volkswagen is playing the crossover game correctly right now by offering a larger version of its Tiguan SUV. And get this: it comes with an optional third-row. Previewed at the North American International Auto Show, the long wheelbase Tiguan, formally known as the Tiguan Allspace in Europe or simply Tiguan for the US, could this be the start of a Volkswagen renaissance.

Having a Hard Time Customizing Your Ford GT? No Problem

You want to know how the 0.1 percent shop for their new Ford GT? Well, wonder no more as Ford Performance is offering a glimpse of that with this unique order kit.

Ford Motor Company and Toyota Motor Company are forming SmartDeviceLink Consortium, a nonprofit organization working to manage an open source software platform with the goal of giving consumers more choice in how they connect and control their smartphone apps on the road.

2018 Subaru WRX and WRX STI: Same Engine, Better Handling (w/ 18 Photos)

First, the bad news: you’re not getting a brand-new engine or transmission for your 2018 Subaru WRX or WRX STI. Now that’s done, here’s the good news: they’ve been substantially upgraded making it corner and ride better. Subaru says they’ve also made them more premium too.

BAIC Philippines is now making available the country’s first and only Euro-4 emissions compliant one-truck truck, the BAIC H5 Bayanihan. Arriving with three optional body styles, the cab & chassis H5 Bayanihan is certainly a formidable mini-truck that out powers and out performs the competition.

Carmakers keep new model launch schedules close to their chest so it’s hard to come up with an accurate prediction on the new stuff coming to showroom floors. Coming from a strong year, the automotive industry looks to continue that upward trend in 2017, the new excise tax be damned. With new or revamped vehicles, would-be buyers are sure to be busy. Peering into the crystal ball, here are 8 cars that’ll arrive within the next 365 days.

EVs Should be Used for Tourist Areas - EVAP

In preparation for the first-ever ASEAN Electric Vehicle Summit to be held in Manila this year, the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines sent a representative to Vietnam to study EV applications in a country with driving terrains and conditions similar to those in the Philippines.

A third party investigating body tapped by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) has released the results of its investigation on the alleged Sudden Unintended Acceleration (SUA) of Mitsubishi Montero Sport 2010-2015 models. Horiba Mira Ltd., an automotive engineering company based in the United Kingdom, has found no technical cause that explains SUA incidents involving sudden unintended acceleration together with perceived inability to stop the vehicle.

Honda Breaks Ground on Baliuag, Bulacan Dealership

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. held a groundbreaking ceremony in Bulacan last December 20, 2016 to signify the start of construction of the second Honda car dealership in Bulacan, Honda Cars Baliuag (HCBG).

Imagine doing burnouts in an electrified Ford Mustang. Sounds like a fantasy? Not quite. Ford has announced that its iconic pony car is going hybrid. It’s going to be just one of 13 new global electrified (hybrid or pure electric) that the company is planning to launch in the next five years.

Philippine Car Price Guide: January 2017

Happy new year. We have updated the Philippine Car Price Guide this January taking into account the new models and/or price adjustments that have happened so far (late November-December 2016). You can click this link to go straight to the Car Prices (it’s now a permanent link) or continue below to find out what’s new:

Filipino talent shone once more on the global stage as the team fielded by Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) to the 11th Isuzu World Technical Competition, known as the I1 Grand Prix (GP), secured the leading spots in the event’s categories.

Those wanting a more powerful version of the two-door Subaru BRZ will have to wait longer. Subaru just announced their line-up at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2017 and while the show itself is worth a visit (check our 2016 experience here and here), there’s still no turbocharged BRZ in sight.

Mazda is on a roll and everything they make from the diminutive Mazda2 to the iconic MX-5 drive like winners. As impervious as they seem, they’ll have to stumble at one point as praises for KODO and Skyactiv can’t go on forever. And though it’s more of a misstep than an outright fall, it has finally happened and it’s with the CX-3. To be fair, it’s unequivocally the best to drive in its segment; heck it’s even more captivating than most crossovers a segment up. Yet, taken in the greater context of the Mazda automotive universe, the CX-3 feels more of a good story than a great one.

8 New Year's Resolutions for the Car Guy

It’s that time of the year where we all make goals to be a better version of ourselves—a better person (including fitness goals), a better son/daughter, better worker, better spouse. How about becoming a better car owner?

Once again, Volvo Philippines visited the Chosen Children Village Foundation, Inc. in Silang, Cavite to lend its support in aid of the rehabilitation and development of children in this home. As one of the partners of the Nordic Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (NordCham), Volvo also shared its blessings with the children through a monetary donation. Special guests, including the Ambassador of Sweden to the Philippines, Mr. Harald Fries and his wife Susan, were comfortably transported to the village onboard the new Volvo XC90.

Take a Selfie with the Honda BR-V x Color Manila Run and Score Complimentary Race Kits

Honda Cars Philippines is joining one of the biggest fun runs in the country. A specially-decked out BR-V shows the carmaker’s support for the upcoming Color Manila Run happening on January 8, 2017 at the SM Mall of Asia Grounds. And to help you with your New Year’s Resolution to lose the holiday weight, Honda is giving away complimentary race kits via an online contest.

Japan Sees All-New Suzuki Swift; Forms Basis for Global Model

The last time the world has seen an all-new Swift, it was 2004. Selling more than 5.3 million units worldwide, it has become a global strategic model for Suzuki. A full decade later, the small car specialist has finally pulled the wraps off the all-new Swift and it’s looking good as ever.

That Thing Called Surge Pricing

Dear Uber and Grab,

Listen up. I enjoy using your service, I really do. It’s a ton better than using any other mode of public transportation because it’s more convenient, safer, and well, just plain more reliable than taxis, jeepneys, buses, and the MRT combined. But let me put my admiration aside to talk about something quite serious: surge pricing.

Forty-two test drives (not counting First Drives) and only five slots: welcome to CarGuide.PH’s annual Top 5 Picks of the Year. If you want to take a trip down memory lane, you can check out the past winners here (2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011), but for now, let’s head on over to the best of 2016. As always, there are no categories or sub-categories. For CarGuide.PH’s Top 5, everything, be it pickup trucks, SUVs, crossovers, sports cars, and what have you, are all lumped together.

Honda Produces 100 Millionth Vehicle

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that the company has reached the milestone of producing 100 million units globally.

The Ford Mustang has added yet another award to its trophy case: Women’s Performance Car of the Year 2016.

Since the Macan was launched in 2014, it has been a phenomenal success for Porsche. It is one of the best-selling models for the brand in 2015 with 80,216 units sold, opening the door to new customers. It applies heavily to the Asia-Pacific region as the Macan contributes substantially to Porsche’s success here.

Subaru to Hike Prices of Core Models in the Philippines

The continued weakening of the Philippine Peso is forcing Motor Image Pilipinas, the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in the country to implement a price increase on selected models. The price increase will affect its core models: the Subaru XV, Forester, and Levorg beginning January 1, 2017.

Book your tickets now as the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA) finally announced the dates and theme for the 45th running of the Tokyo Motor Show.

Toyota Automobile Museum Adds 19 New Cars

If you’re a real gearhead, you should consider a trip to the Toyota Automobile Museum located in Nagukute City, Aichi Prefecture (click here for our feature as well as how to get there). And even if you have, January would be a great time as they’re about to finish revamping their permanent exhibits. Best part? 19 new vehicles will be part of the permanent exhibit; fitting because the museum will be celebrating its 30th birthday in 2019.

The Mitsubishi Montero Sport, equipped with Active Stability Control (ASC) and Seatbelt Reminder System (SBR) garnered a perfect 5-star score at the ASEAN NCAP in Adult Occupancy Protection (AOP) scoring 15.29 out of a possible 16.00 points. This accolade proves Mitsubishi’s commitment in prioritizing safety as one of the most important aspects in car development. The Montero Sport’s 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating joins the model’s 5-star safety rating in the Latin NCAP and ANCAP (Australasian New Car Assessment Program).

Ford Philippines introduced the Ford OFW Assist Program, providing a convenient online buying experience for Ford vehicles available in the Philippines for Filipinos working abroad.

Nissan Philippines Inc (NPI) lives up to its innovative drive with its latest offering, the Nissan Express Service. Launched at the new Nissan Sucat dealership, Nissan Express Service is designed to provide an intelligent, more focused customer engagement, promising ease and convenience to all Nissan customers.

The Metro Manila Concert Orchestra (MMCO) was honored at the 29th Aliw Awards for their participation at Kia Beats. The country’s premiere orchestra won Best Major Concert (Group) and was also nominated for the Best Instrumentalists (Group) category.

Following Makati Shangri-La’s delivery of its all-new luxury fleet of Volkswagen Passat and Jetta units just a few months ago, Shangri La’s Mactan Resort & Spa also received its new fleet of Jetta as part of its efforts to upgrade and expand its existing vehicles to cater to its more discerning guests.

Mitsubishi Philippines Rewards Stick Shift Enthusiasts with New Montero Sport Variant (w/ Brochure)

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) is rewarding stick shift enthusiast with the introduction of their most affordable Montero Sport model yet: the GLX 2WD equipped with a 6-speed manual. It’s well-kitted and now available for an unbelievable introductory price.

When it comes to crowning the Philippines’s sportiest compact out there, there are two cars that always seem to roll off the tongue: the Honda Civic and the Mazda3. And you can’t blame the masses: one touts a turbocharged engine and the other has driving excitement written all over it. But what if I tell you there’s a compact car in the market that’s often overlooked, but still offers a huge chunk of that driving excitement virtue? Heck, it’s even got a turbocharged engine with more power and torque than the Civic’s. Meet the Ford Focus once more.

Mazda's Philippine Distributor Files for IPO

You’ve always wanted to own one of their cars, but would you want to own a piece of the company? That could very well be the possibility as Mazda’s Philippine distributor plans to list some of its shares on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) by the first half of 2017 at the latest. Bermaz Auto Philippines (BAP), formerly known as Berjaya Auto Philippines, plans an Initial Public Offering (IPO) worth P 1.24 billion or about 15.6 percent of the company.

First Ford GT Rolls Off the Production Line

Admittedly, it’s mildly disappointing that the Ford GT to roll off the production line isn’t finished in Liquid Blue. Still, get over the color (it’s Shadow Black with orange stripes) and it’s an indisputable fact that someone’s going to have a 600 horsepower sleigh very soon.

In the spirit of giving, Volvo Philippines generously gives away a fantastic Christmas treat. With its value-laden Easy Ownership offer, interested buyers can now reward themselves with a brand new Volvo S60 R-design or a Volvo V60 Cross Country. For as low as a 30 percent downpayment, they can also enjoy a 0 percent interest financing plan at an equitable 24-month payment schedule.

Mahindra Philippines, as part of their corporate social responsibility program, donated 50 bicycles to Maruhat National High School and 500 slippers to the Elementary School of Sapang Kawayan both in Gapan City, Nueva Ecija.

Mazda’s intensive motorsports background has been brought to light as a showroom-stock Mazda2 hatchback finished the grueling 8-hour Philippine Endurance Challenge, snatching the Manufacturer’s Cup Trophy in the process. Driven by seasoned racer Clifford Certeza along with Bermaz Malaysia marketing professional Ian Khong, and journalist Iñigo Roces, the Team Bermaz Mazda run sub-compact hatchback completed 160 laps, two more than its nearest competitor.

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