Holy Week is just around the corner and while many use this time to stay at home and reflect, a good number of Filipinos take the opportunity for a much-needed road trip to spend time with their loved ones away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Who isn’t a fan of the Mazda MX-5 RF? We know we are. So it was a rare treat for us to be able to meet, greet, and sit down with Mr. Masahashi Nakayama, the former Chief Designer of the MX-5 ND and currently MX-5 Program Head, right here in Manila. We admit – we were tongue-tied and starstruck, simply from being able to shake the hand of the man who designed such an extraordinary vehicle. However, it was more interesting to listen to the insights behind the design and how Mazda stayed true to the philosophy of jinba-ittai in its quest for the perfect sports car.

Twenty years ago, the first MX-5 roadster hit the streets and grew an incredible fan base. The Miata was the epitome of jinba-ittai – without even starting the engine, the connection it evoked between the driver and the car can be felt immediately. The cocoon-like interior and elegantly curved bucket seat is snug and comfortable, with the wheel and controls positioned within ergonomic angles. What is often ignored, though, is the fact that these unique details extend to the passenger, as well. As a companion, you are treated to almost the same experience, sans the driving.

The MX-5 RF is the version of the bestselling roadster that features a retractable hardtop and fastback styling. Hence, “RF.” But what exactly inspired Mazda to design a hardtop when soft tops are most iconic for convertible sports cars, even until today? According to Nakayama-san, it was a requirement that came with the times.


Over the years, the following for the MX-5 grew. But as with any product, the consumer base plateaued, especially with the evolution of automotive standards. Security is one of them. The answer to this challenge is the RF – a more protective targa hardtop, but with a 2-way retractable mechanism that cleanly tucks away to maintain overall weight balance and keep the well-loved top-down Miata design uncompromised. Interestingly enough, the design of the MX-5 RF was also improved. Its center of gravity was adjusted to be right where the driver is seated, resulting in equal distance between the driver to the front and back wheels. This keeps the driver secure and in control at all times.

We’re not surprised. As Mazda Philippines CEO, Steven Tan quipped, “The goal is to create a more perfect car with every generation.” More perfect, but consistent in its foundation of making the car feel like a natural extension of the driver’s body.

Following this train of thought, the MX-5 RF is already the fourth generation of the Miata line and has addressed challenges without sacrificing design. We couldn’t help but wonder – what’s next for the iconic Japanese roadster, given the demands in global automotive safety standards and the rising popularity of SUVs? The answer from Nakayama-san was simple and engaging.


The MX-5 was built on three principles that has been consistent through the years – first, its short-wheel base, which makes the sports car light and easy to maneuver on city streets, yet stable enough for that coveted burst of speed. Second, the MX-5 features a lightweight structure, regardless of whether it has a soft top or a hardtop installed as roofing. And third, it maintains enough trunk space for the carry-on of two people (because, of course, a roadster is meant for a sweet ride out of town). These three principles allowed Mazda to deliver the expectations of Miata fans through the ages, without compromising function and practicality.

And so Nakayama-san threw the question back. What do we think should be next? How else can the Roadster be improved? Remember – what made the Miata one of the most iconic, coveted, fun-driving sports car for decades, is its foundation of delivering a perfect unity between man and machine, and in evoking a sense of awe with every drive. In this regard, it makes sense that it is only with the insight of a new generation of customers that Mazda can create an even more perfect Roadster. And it is also this openness to engage that reassures us MX-5 fans that the well-loved convertible is here to stay and it can only get better.

Words and Photos by Gen Tiu.

Although there are a lucky few who can afford to replace a car every 3 to 5 years, most buyers will likely run their car pretty much to the ground. As the second biggest purchase in one’s lifetime, it’s important to keep it running in tip-top shape especially as they rack up the kilometers. Today, Pilipinas Shell is introducing a new engine oil specially formulated for older, high-mileage vehicles. Meet the new Shell Helix High Mileage.

BF Goodrich, the American tire brand with over 115 years of proven experience is poised to make a strong comeback in the Philippine market with the launch of its new BF Goodrich Advantage T/A Drive and T/A SUV tire line. Developed specifically for countries with harsh road conditions such as those in the Philippines, the BF Goodrich T/A Drive and T/A SUV tires offer uncompromising performance and safety at a more affordable price point.

The 2017 Ferrari Challenge Asia-Pacific will once again make its return to Singapore in support of the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix. The Marina Bay Street Circuit, noted to be one of the most physically challenging on the F1 calendar with 23 corners, will see around 30 drivers representing Singapore, Japan, China, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia, Thailand, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, the United States, Canada, France, and Italy. They will be getting behind the wheel of the new 488 Challenge for two adrenaline-filled races around the 5.065 km unique track located near the harbor-side.

Wherever you are, you can now enjoy the convenience of having Petron Engine Oils delivered to your doorstep from the leading online shopping mall, Lazada.

Step back and erase any notion you may have of the Toyota Corolla Altis. Often panned for its uncanny ability to be consistently, monotonously boring; it’s easily the fridge, the Nokia 3310, the Nicolas Cage of the compact car world. It’s reliable transportation that gets you where you need to go, but when people ask what you drive, you reflexively answer: “I don’t know, but I do know it’s white.” But while Mr. Cage is still longing for his next Leaving Las Vegas in his sea of B-films, Toyota’s been slowly chipping away at the Corolla Altis’s stodgy repertoire. Today, it’s managing to crank up the excitement just a little bit.

Bermaz Auto Philippines, the exclusive distributor of Mazda vehicles handed over the keys of the first batch of the latest fourth generation MX-5 RF to their new owners during handover ceremonies held on the final day of the 2017 Manila International Auto Show.

In celebration of its recent successes and to jump start yet another eventful year, Suzuki Philippines gathered together the Team Suzuki Philippines (TSP) last month to show its gratitude to its pool of loyal customers and welcome the new members of its growing Car Club family.

Chevron, marketer of the Caltex brand, unveiled its latest premium diesel engine oil, Caltex Delo 400 MGX SAE 15W-40, to address commercial business needs while meeting stringent Philippine emission regulations. The revolutionary formulation constitutes a higher specification and is specially designed to comply with Philippine market requirements. It will benefit both new and old diesel engines and allow customers to utilize just one heavy-duty engine oil that operates efficiently in both high- and low-sulfur diesel fuel environments.

Ah, the humble cup of coffee. Most of us take one or two in the morning to start the day off without even caring about the magic that happens inside that pot. As the world’s most consumed caffeinated drink, it’s become so common that for as long as you can brew, sip, and go on your way, everything is right with the world. This was the 1960s.

Some 200 students of Rawang Elementary School of Tanay City count among the first beneficiaries of the Rain Water Harvesting System, a filtration method that is capable of producing and storing potable water from rain gathered in roof gutters.

The Covenant Car Company, Inc. or better known as Chevrolet Philippines not only launched the all-new Spark at the Manila International Auto Show, but they also kicked off its Chevrolet Complete Care Program.

Executive families rejoice as Honda Cars Philippines has just upgraded its suite on wheels: the Odyssey. For 2017, the Odyssey EX-V Navi sees exterior and convenience features upgrades that respond to the evolving needs of the Philippine market.

It may not have made it to the Manila International Auto Show last weekend, but Mitsubishi Motors Philippines (MMPC) is wasting no time in introducing to the market the refreshed ASX. The “Active Sport Crossover” sees an array of exterior and interior upgrades for both the GLS and GSR variants.

In a move that could only be described as bold and daring (and a bit surprising actually), Hyundai Philippines is making its flagship Genesis G90 luxury sedan available for indent order. Dubbed, “The Next Generation of Luxury”, the Genesis G90 is not only Hyundai’s flagship sedan, but it’s also the company’s luxury division, Genesis Motor’s flagship as well. Infused with power and poise, the Genesis G90 can be yours for an eye-watering P 7.528 million.

Hyundai Philippines is finally getting serious about doing battle in the sub-compact crossover segment with the all-new Creta. Pegged as “the perfect partner”, this all-new global model certainly has what it takes to take on the Ford EcoSport, SsangYong Tivoli, and Nissan Juke. And get this, the price starts at just a tad above P 900,000.

While majority of the attention is centered on the 2017 CX-9, CX-5, and MX-5 RF, Mazda Philippines also managed to show off the updated BT-50 at the Manila International Auto Show. Continuing to ride on the most solid of foundations (it’s won the Philippine Truck of the Year in 2012/13), it gets aesthetic updates that align it more closely with Mazda’s corporate KODO – Soul of Motion design language.

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) names Mr. Noriyuki Takakura as its new President and General Manager effective today.

Market leader Petron Corporation now has the cleanest and most advanced gasoline in the Philippine market that even surpasses Euro 6 standards, the most stringent fuel technology and emission benchmark in the world today.

The FlatOut Race Series (FORS) is finally back in action with the start of the 2017 season. Round 1 got away to a good start on the 18th of March at the Batangas Racing Circuit (BRC). A total of 91 entries slugged it out on track in the Time Attack and Grid Races, proving plenty of action throughout the day.

UPDATE: The specs and more photos are below (4/2).

Mazda easily had one of the most attractive booths at the Manila International Auto Show this year. Keeping with the brand’s global show branding of midnight black multi-level flooring, each car stood out on its own, tall and proud, effortlessly calling out to passers-by. And trust us – you will stop and find yourself weaving through the display like you just want to take them all home.

You can’t miss the Ford booth at the Manila International Auto Show. Every year, MIAS is the platform for the brand’s latest car launches. This year, however, visitors are given a taste of something different. Surprise – there is no new variant to watch for or to take photos of. But this is exactly in line with what Lance Mosley, Managing Director of Ford Philippines, had to say about the brand’s direction for 2017 – sustained momentum and enhanced customer experience, fueled by providing world-class customer service. This move came closely on the heels of 2016’s sales achievement – a record high of 33 percent and year-end total of 43 dealerships nationwide.

The Manila International Auto Show marks the final show in the Philippines for HCPI President and General Manager, Toshio Kuwahara as he prepares for his upcoming move to a new country of assignment. And in true form, he leaves it with a legacy. Honda showcased a dynamic vehicle display that easily defined the brand’s core concept, “Joy in Motion.” The line-up takes a look back at the brand’s days on the racetrack, with sporty designs and accessories.

Update 1: The major specifications are now available at the bottom (4/9).

Volkswagen Philippines has announced an impressive line-up at this weekend’s Manila International Auto Show. Apart from the range of Commercial Vehicles that have been primed for an introduction, the spotlight will be shared by new versions of the brand’s current models – with the most notable being the all-new Tiguan.

Subaru is in a cusp. From building hardcore turbocharged tarmac-ripping machines, they’re now glorified grocery getters and soccer mom mobiles lining the driveways and garages of idyllic Stepford Towns globally. And that’s not such a bad thing given that for every hundred well-manicured, pooch-carrying, muffin-baking housewife out there, there’s just one Colin McRae wannabe. Now, before long-time Subaru fans will take to arms because of this travesty, it also goes without saying that this move doesn’t erase what the brand’s built up for more than 60 years. Case in point is the 2017 Subaru Forester 2.0i-L.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, the world’s leading luxury house, will bring a bolder and edgier presence to the 38th Bangkok International Motor Show as it showcases its most powerful model, the 624-horsepower, 870 Nm twin-turbocharged V12 Wraith Black Badge for the first time in South East Asia.

The Philippines was once again in the limelight as the most promising market at the recently-concluded Hiab Asia Pacific Conference. Representing the Philippines was Centro Manufacturing Corporation, Hiab’s authorized distributor in the Philippines.

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. is rolling out a limited run of CR-V 2.0 V AT units equipped with GPS navigation. HCPI is encouraging would-be buyers to reserve now since there are only 30 of these crossovers making it to dealer showrooms nationwide.

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) remains aggressive in expanding its network as it continues to pursue its mission in making its vehicles and after sales services accessible to everyone. As of February 2017, the total number of Mitsubishi Motors outlets reached fifty (50) after Le Mans Stellar Motor Corp. (LMSMC) in Angeles City and Best Southern Genesis Motors, Inc. (BSGMI) in Kawit were inaugurated.

Motul is continuing its Drive Right road safety Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) campaign at this year’s Manila International Auto Show. Borne out of the frustrations of the everyday driver brought about by the snarling traffic jams, Motul wants drivers to pledge to make the roads safer.

With the summer holiday season just around the corner, Petron Corporation is reminding motorists to get their car ready for long road trips. While people invest a lot of time and energy planning their itineraries, they often forget that reaching their destination and coming home safely is even more important. A visit to your nearest Petron service station or Petron Car Care Center can help make your holiday trip worry-free.

Hino Motors Philippines (HMP) continues to solidify its commitment to total expansion with its newly inaugurated dealership in Batangas, also known as CALABARZON’s industrial port city.

Adventure Cycle Philippines, Inc., the exclusive distributor of KTM motorcycles in the Philippines, now makes it possible for you to own your very first KTML the 200 Duke, through the Duke ‘em @147K offer.

You likely read the news before you slept or just after you woke up; and I’m confirming it: the Honda Civic Type-R will be shown at the Manila International Auto Show at the end of the month. I swear, this is no joke. Just a few weeks after its global debut, a production-ready (likely part of a small batch of production prototypes touring around the globe specifically for motor shows) version of the hottest Civic will be the main attraction at Honda’s stand.

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. gears up for the 2017 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), which will be held at the World Trade Center Pasay City from March 30 to April 2, 2017. With this year’s MIAS event, Honda is bound to stir the Philippine automotive industry with its exciting lineup that will be on display at the event.

Taking inspiration from classic Tamiya ads, Toyota asked the question: can 15 radio-controlled Tamiya Hilux Bruiser 4x4s pull its full-sized counterpart? With the tires of the RC cars pumped to 60 PSI, their drivetrain locked into low-range four-wheel drive, and ballast added to the bed to aid traction, the answer is a resounding yes! If you don’t believe it, then see the video below.

Remember the Hyundai i20 CrossSport? Nope; I don’t either. Once a upon a time, I swear it was part of Hyundai Philippines’ model list only for it occasionally pop up, disappear, and then pop up again. Well, Hyundai looks to be ending the often forgotten sub-compact crossover as it sets to launch the Creta at the Manila International Auto Show or MIAS at the end of the month.

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, Mazda Philippines is poised to file an Initial Public Offering (IPO) sometime this year. Clearing the first hurdle, Bermaz Auto Philippines, Inc., as the company is officially known, has gained approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). All that’s left now is approval from the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) so that a listing date could be formalized. Now, as part of regulatory requirements, Bermaz Auto Philippines submitted an Offering Prospectus. Combing through the 134-page report, it gives insights to Mazda’s operations in the Philippines.

When SsangYong launched the Tivoli, the Korean carmaker boldly predicted that buyers will flock to their new crossover from the perennial segment favorite, the Ford EcoSport. A year on, this hasn’t gone to plan as the EcoSport continues to protect its turf while managing to increase its sales in the process. The question beckons: has SsangYong simply bitten more than it can chew? Will the Tivoli be relegated to being kicked to the curb in this sub-compact crossover turf war?

Honda Cars Philippines is finally addressing the single biggest complaint about the all-new Civic: the lack of speed-sensing door locks. Though I personally don’t see any problem of pressing a lock/unlock button to secure my doors, it seems some people have made a big deal about it. And now, your prayers have been answered; that is if you’re in the market for the Civic 1.8 E.

They promised and they delivered. Chevrolet Philippines is now making the all-new 2017 Spark available at all of its authorized dealerships. Available in three variants, the all-new Spark promises to lead small cars in design, performance, technology, and safety.

When Yoshio Tamiya, the owner of a sawmill and lumber supply company based in Shizuoka City decided to use his surplus wood and delve into making model ships and airplanes, little did he know that he’ll become a household name. Plastic may have replaced wood as the creative medium, but every child knows what the “Two Stars” stands for. For many, building Tamiya scale models or racing remote controlled or RC cars have eaten up entire weekends or vacations, so it’s just fitting to see them being made. And get this: you don’t have to travel to Japan to see them being boxed up; one just needs to travel to Cebu, where Tamiya’s largest factory is located.

Get your hands on these devices smarter than your basic video camera, which can prove useful in sticky road situations and keeping everything in check. Dash cams have become increasingly popular and essential over the past couple of years and Lazada Philippines offers you options that can fit your budget.

Already boasting of extensive features, the Isuzu mu-X exceeds any discerning customer’s expectation. Now, Isuzu Philippines’s flagship SUV offers even more as a new variant is introduced: the Isuzu mu-X Black Series.

The continued rise of new vehicle sales has started to put a lot of pressure on existing infrastructure. And while most have focused on the effects of traffic on the roads, parking facilities have now begun to feel the brunt as well. Anyone who’s had to go to any of Metro Manila’s business districts: Binondo, Makati, Bonifacio Global City, or Ortigas Center will know how difficult it is to find parking.