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

May 22, 2017

Honda Refreshes City for 2017: The Smartest Choice (w/ Specs)

Honda Cars Philippines refreshes the City sedan for 2017 (2018 model year). Honda’s best-selling offering in the country, the 2018 City exhibits a high-tech and sporty design, class-leading fuel efficiency and comfort, and above class safety that provides the smartest ownership experience.

Volvo Partners with Google on Next-Gen Connected Cars

Volvo Cars, the premium carmaker, has announced a close partnership with Google, one of the world’s largest technology companies, to develop the next generation of its award-winning in-car infotainment and connectivity solution based on Android, offering access to a wide array of apps and services. It will launch on new Volvo models within two years.

The 2017 Mazda Miata Cup takes off with another exciting season as 17 MX-5s of all four generations race in this year’s first two rounds held at the 4.2-kilometer Clark International Speedway last May 12th. Organized by the Miata Club Philippines and run exclusively by its members, the series showcases the club’s special fascination for motor sports and serves as a venue for MX-5 owners to truly experience the true nature of their cars.

BMW 2 Series Active Tourer Gets Worry-Free Package

BMW once again inspires to explore a life outside the ordinary with an exclusive package that comes with the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. Asian Carmakers Corporation (ACC), the official importer and distributor of the BMW in the Philippines, offers exciting benefits to make the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer the perfect companion for the modern family with an active lifestyle.

UPDATE 1: The Department of Transport (DoTr) will review the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the ADDA. See below. (5/20).

With the implementation of Republic Act 10913 or the Anti-Distracted Driving Act (ADDA), motorists have been raising questions left and right about what’s allowed and what’s not. The MMDA, being one of the apprehending agencies (with a strong social media presence at that) has become a go-to source for motorists’ questions. There’s one that piqued our interest and it’s this:

Hyundai Philippines is 2016 Global Distributor of the Year

“We celebrate 50 years of our brand, 50 years of redefining mobility through customer-driven innovation, 50 years of caring for Man and Planet. Cheers to 50 years more of our brilliant journey together!” declared Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI) President and CEO Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo when she accepted the Hyundai Motor Company (HMC) Global Distributor of the Year 2016 award during the Global Distributors Convention held at the Grand Intercontinental Hotel in Seoul.

Volkswagen Philippines kicks off the upgraded version of its award-winning Child Safety Initiative (CSI) campaign at the atrium of the Robinsons Magnolia Mall in Quezon City on May 20.

First Drive: 2017 Toyota Wigo 1.0 G A/T

With a doubt, the launch of the Wigo in 2014 was a double-edged sword for Toyota in the Philippines. On one hand, if they get it right, it sees them expand to a new market dominated by Korean, Indian, and even Chinese car brands. On the other hand, get it wrong and you can bet these first-time car buyers will swear off owning a Toyota for the rest of their lives. Thankfully for Toyota (and tough luck for everyone else), it was a huge success. It moved more than 40,000 units and paved the way to first-time Toyota ownership for a lot of happy campers. And even before its rivals could respond, here comes a new one.

Rommel Juan, President of the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) today has expressed optimism for the electric vehicle industry amidst the government’s impending PUV Modernization Program that includes the iconic jeepneys.

In case you didn’t know, Republic Act 10913 or the Anti-Distracted Driving Act comes into effect starting today, May 18, 2017. And with that, there has been some misinformation spreading throughout the internet. Thankfully, the Department of Transportation (DoTr) has come up with an FAQ about this new law. We’re posting it here in verbatim for your information.

Hyundai PHL Sales Remain Buoyant with 9 Percent Growth in April

Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), the official distributor of Hyundai vehicles in the Philippines, recorded 2,521 unit sales for the month of April, a feat considering there were fewer working days within said month. This pushed total January to April 2017 sales to 11,362 units, up by 9 percent as compared to the 10,417 units sold in the first four months of the previous year.

Ford Philippines has appointed Rodel Gallega as vice president, Marketing and Sales, effective May 1. Gallega, who was vice president, Finance, for the previous five years, will continue to report to Lance Mosley, managing director, Ford Philippines.

Chevrolet Adds LTX Variant to 2017 Trailblazer Line-Up (w/ Specs)

Chevrolet gives its confident and capable midsize SUV an upgrade with the launch of the new mid-grade Trailblazer 4x2 LTX variant. The new Chevrolet Trailblazer 4x2 LTX AT boasts of exterior and interior refinements and added safety features to provide Filipinos a premium and excellent driving experience.

Today’s dynamic work environment demands more than sharp wit. To be at the top of the game, professionals need to be able to squeeze as much as they can in an eight-hour workday. This means scuttling to and from meetings, corporate events and office errands while still having some time for lunch dates and personal obligations.

Ford Philippines is expanding presence of its experiential test drive activity Ford Island Conquest this month, reaching out to more Filipinos in East of Metro Manila and in North Luzon.

Columbian Autocar Corporation (CAC), the exclusive distributor of Kia in the Philippines brings in the all-new 2017 Rio. The latest in the Korean carmaker’s roster of vibrant, stylish, and dynamic vehicles, the all-new Rio is poised to unleash your “Freedom to Be You” as it hits Kia showrooms starting June.

BMW has been in the business of blurring segments lately. Starting with the original X vehicle, the X5 and moving on to the Gran Turismo and then the Gran Coupe, BMW has challenged the definition of each of those segments. The oddest amalgam they’ve come up with is when they blended the SUV and coupe genres together making the X6—the first “Sports Activity Coupe.” Pundits scoffed at it for its compromised utility and added price, but the public was enamored with its aggressive looks. BMW, it seems, has come up with a winning formula.

6 Ways to Keep Your Car Cooler This Summer

It’s the height of summer and with that, the heat can get really intense. As temperatures soar, imagine how a car feels like, especially when it’s sealed up under sun. Prevent your car from being a rolling oven with these 6 tips to keep your car cooler.

LTO and EV Group Thresh Out Registration and Regulation Issues

The Land Transportation Office or LTO is finally moving to update its archaic system when dealing with Electric Vehicles or EVs. That’s the conclusion reached at an industry consultation with the Electronic Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP). The issues tackled centered around the registration and regulation of EVs.

Hyundai has made motoring history when a “near-standard” Santa Fe became the first passenger vehicle to be driven across the Antarctica continent from Union Camp to McMurdo and back again. Fittingly, the Santa Fe was driven by Patrick Bergel, the Great Grandson of legendary polar explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton.

Toyota Motor Philippines Refreshes Wigo for 2017 (w/ Specs)

Toyota’s Easy to Own, Easy to Drive Wigo sub-compact hatchback gets a refresh this 2017. Having sold over 40,000 units since its market introduction in 2014, the Wigo has cemented itself as the segment’s best-seller. But true to the Japanese carmaker’s spirit of “ever-better cars”, the most affordable model in the Toyota family brings in cosmetic and mechanical changes this year.

Ford Philippines reported that April retail sales reached 2,613 vehicles led by its top-selling nameplates: EcoSport, Everest and Ranger.

Give your car’s interior all-weather protection without breaking the bank with this line of digitally-mapped floor mats from Hippo Industries.

Pilipinas Taj Autogroup, Inc., the exclusive distributor of Tata Vehicles is continuing its market expansion with the groundbreaking of Tata Motors Isabela.

Nissan Wants to Give You a Digital Detox

Nissan has found an innovative use of a 200-year old technology to reduce distracted driving caused by mobile phones. Introducing the Nissan Signal Shield concept.

Uber Philippines is introducing a new service just in time for Mother’s Day weekend: uberXL. Catering to family-oriented (or even barkada) trips, UberXL is made for times when space in an uberX may not be enough. UberXL is made for groups up to 6 people (or anyone who wants the extra space).

Volkswagen PHL Aims to Slay the Compact Car Competition with 2017 Jetta, Golf GTS

Volkswagen Philippines has begun preselling two new passenger car offerings: the 2017 Jetta and 2017 Golf GTS with retail sales beginning at the end of the month. The move comes as VW Philippines aims to continue its strong momentum after being crowned the best-selling European car brand last year.

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) announces the hottest Honda deals customers can get this summer. Customers may avail of exclusive discounts and low down payment offer by purchasing any Honda vehicle from today up to 31, 2017.

Hyundai Philippines is helping you cool off this summer with their DEALights promo. Easy-to-own schemes for the Accent, Eon, Elantra, Sonata, Veloster, Tucson, Santa Fe, and Grand Starex models make them closer to your budget.

I know the Mazda2 very well since I spent a good two weeks with the hatchback and sedan just last year. In the time she called my garage her home, she enamored me with her good looks and driving charm. Sure, she could use more space, but you could see why she was judged Japan and the Philippines’s Car of the Year. A year later, she’s back and this time, she’s going by a new name. From the Mazda2 V, she’s now the Mazda2 V+. It turns out, that could very well mean: “Value Plus.”

On April 12, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) together with Lazada Philippines turned over a brand-new Isuzu D-Max as the major prize for Lazada’s online promo.

Inaugural GT Radial 4 Oras ng Pilipinas Calls for Entries

Philippine Endurance Challenge (PEC), the organizers of the country’s longest endurance race, will once again test man and machine against the clock in a new, more compact event.

Goodyear Philippines just launched the industry’s most comprehensive tire warranty program with the new and improved Goodyear Worry Free Assurance program. For sure, there are some questions you may have about this program from the number one tire brand in the Philippines. Don’t worry, we have them all answered for you.

Goodyear Philippines is proving that they are one revolution ahead with the launching the of new and improved Worry Free Assurance warranty program. This gives new tire owners access to the most comprehensive customer care package that includes free roadside assistance and complimentary servicing for tire replacement.

Every summer, children from all over the country hit the roads in droves for another memorable vacation. With family, or with friends, the memories formed here will be cherished for years to come.
Unfortunately, not all children are able to enjoy the simple pleasures of the summer vacation.

MINI unveils the all-new second-generation Countryman for the Philippine market. The biggest and most versatile model in the brand’s 58-year history, the Countryman reflects considerable advancements in space, functionality, athleticism, and premium characteristics.

UPDATED: How the Approved Excise Tax Bill Affects 20 Popular Vehicles

EDITOR’S NOTE (3): We simulate the prices of 42 vehicles under the final bicameral version of the TRAIN bill. Read it here. (12/14/2017).

EDITOR’S NOTE (2): The House of Representatives and Senate have agreed on a compromised version of the new vehicle excise tax which excludes pick-up trucks and EVs. See the story here (12/12/2017).

EDITOR’S NOTE (1): The senate just approved a new version of TRAIN that is friendlier to luxury vehicles. See the full story here. (11/28/2017).

A few days ago, several media outlets including The Philippine STAR reported that The House Committee on Ways and Means has just approved the tax reform package proposed by the Department of Finance. Included in this tax reform package is a revision to the current new vehicle excise tax which car buyers have been enjoying for the good part of a decade.

Video: Vin Diesel Joins The Brotherhood of Muscle

It sounds like the perfect match. Vin Diesel, known for his iconic role as badass Dom Toretto in the Fast & Furious movie franchise is now a member of the Dodge and SRT family. Diesel, whose film character has a preference for Dodge muscle cars, will be extending his passion beyond the big screen with a series of television ads.

Wheeltek Motor Sales Corporation, a nationwide motorcycle dealer, has signed up with Petron Corporation to offer the Petron Value Card (PVC) to new motorcycle buyers. With over 200 stores nationwide selling about 6,000 new Yamaha, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and TVS motorcycles, Wheeltek will be giving its customers additional benefits and privileges through the co-branded Wheeltek-PVC.

Motor Image Pilipinas, Inc. is offering a sweet deal to would-be Subaru XV buyers by offering savings as much as P 200,000 and a free aero kit this summer season.

Volkswagen Philippines Turns Over Polo, Touareg, and Passat Units to DNS

Volkswagen Philippines, exclusive importer and distributor of the country’s top-selling European car brand, turned over Polo Sedan, Touareg SUV and Passat premium executive sedan to veteran fleet management company Delta NeoSolutions Inc. (DNS), a spinoff company of DNS Transport Group during a recent ceremonial handover.

Since its launch as the All-Japan GT Championship in 1994 (becoming Super GT in 2005), the popular series has gone from strength to strength. Motul has been an invaluable partner in this highly competitive motorsport through its successful technical partnerships with different teams beginning with NISMO in 2003 and expanding to other teams in the years since.

Beat the heat with a cool new ride as Chevrolet Philippines offers exciting deals with its Summer Power Offers Promo. The promo offers cash savings on select Chevrolet models, namely the Trailblazer, Colorado, Trax, and Sail.

Porsche Posts Best First Quarter Ever in 2017

Porsche has made a strong start to 2017 with around 60,000 vehicles delivered to customers worldwide in the first quarter. This means the sports car manufacturer has exceeded the number of vehicles delivered in the same period in the previous year by around 7 percent and is reflecting on the best first quarter in its history. The drivers of growth were China and the company’s home market of Germany, as well as the Panamera and Macan model lines, which both saw double-digit growth.

It’s summer and while it’s tempting to cut down on car detailing, dust, grime, and the sun’s relentless UV rays can take a toll on your car’s exterior. Enter Sonax Nano Paint Protect. From the world’s most trusted brand in automotive car care products, Sonax Nano Paint Protect offers paint protection like no other.

There’s a big shift going on at BMW. After its first front-wheel drive offering, the 2 Series Active Tourer, here comes a compact crossover built atop the same platform: the second-generation X1. In as much as the 2 Series Active Tourer left enthusiasts scratching their heads discomfortingly, it’s more of a niche vehicle. That’s not the case with the X1. Moving some 730,000 examples in the past 7 years, it’s become an important part of BMW’s X family. They, therefore, cannot afford to get this one wrong.

Stock Porsche Cayenne Pulls Heaviest Production Aircraft, Sets Guinness World Record

A completely standard Porsche Cayenne has successfully towed an Air France Airbus A380 weighing 285 tons. The Cayenne, driven by Porsche GB technician Richard Payne, towed the aircraft over a distance of 42 meters at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, to set a new Guinness World Records title for Heaviest aircraft pull by a production car, by a margin of 115 tons.

Foton Philippines is offering some of the hottest deals this summer specifically for its Gratour, View Traveller, View Transvan, and Toplander making it the best time to drive home your own Foton vehicle.

Bermaz Auto Philippines (BAP), the exclusive distributor of Mazda vehicles and parts in the country, together with Zoomhub, Incorporated, formally opens the first Mazda showroom in the city of Manila.

Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI) celebrates the Filipino working by showing off the first batch of locally produced Eon sub-compact hatchbacks and H350 passenger vans. Manufactured at HARI’s recently unveiled Hyundai Assembly Center (HAC) in the Laguna Technopark in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, it continues the brand’s strong momentum entering into the second quarter of 2017.

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