June 2015 | CarGuide.PH | Philippine Car News, Car Reviews, Car Prices

June 30, 2015

Have MINI, Will Travel: Get a Free Trip to the MINI Oxford UK Plant

Fancy a trip to visit MINI’s Oxford assembly plant in the United Kingdom? Well, dream no more as British United Automobiles, Inc., the exclusive distributor of MINI automobiles in the country is offering you the chance to travel to the MINI Oxford plant with the MINI Plant Oxford Experience: MINI. DRIVE. FLY. And the best part? All you need to do is to buy any participating MINI model until August 31, 2015.

Mazda Philippines just brought out the all-new Mazda6 Sports Wagon. And there’s no denying it’s a thing of beauty. It’s certainly a different choice than your typical luxury crossover or executive sedan. Mazda Philippines President Steven Tan says, “It’s like you combined the best elements of the Mazda6 sedan and the CX-5.” You can’t say it any better.

After showing it off as part of the Mazda Collection at the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) last April, Mazda Philippines is finally revealing all the details of the 2015-2016 (their terminology, not ours) CX-5 and Mazda6. Of course, regular readers will notice that these are already in the June 2015 Philippine Car Price Guide and we have reviewed the 2015-2016 Mazda6 sedan. So let’s focus on the most interesting aspect: the new CX-5 Maxx.

Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) announced its much sought after promo is back! For as low as Php 27,000, Honda’s Washover service can restore your car’s original paint to its brand new spectacle. Customers save half the price from its original suggested retail price of Php 54,000. Plus with Honda’s highly-trained technicians, modern drying facilities, and premium-quality paint, you can be assured of a brand new look for your car.

Photos by Ulysses Ang

It’s been a long while since you last saw the Mazda6. At two years, perhaps that’s too long a time. So given the chance to get reacquainted with her once more, you don’t say no. You free up your schedule and make sure you spend time with her. After all, how can you resist? Yes, her siblings are all fascinating, but there’s something alluring with the Mazda6. She’s hands down, the sultriest and sexiest one in the family, especially if she comes wearing that tight-fitting Soul Red Dress. She’s the four-wheeled love affair that makes wives jealous and friends envious.

Hyundai Enters Sub-Compact Crossover Market with Creta

Hyundai just pulled the wraps off its much-awaited sub-compact crossover, the Creta, in India. Designed as the Korean brand’s answer to the likes of the Ford EcoSport and even the Honda HR-V, the Creta looks to be part Tucson, part i20 Cross Sport, and part Kia Soul.

Pilipinas Taj Autogroup, the exclusive distributor of Tata Motors passenger cars and commercial vehicles in the Philippines, renewed their partnership with its brand ambassador Kuya Kim Atienza this day of June 26, 2015 in line with the automaker’s commitment to provide the Filipino motoring public, vehicles that are cost efficient, reliable and durable for their everyday needs.

The Lowdown on Toyota's New Hilux, Fortuner Engines (w/ Videos)

Toyota is thoroughly modernizing its direct-injection turbo diesel engines and hopes that its new GD-series engine will raise the bar for fuel efficiency, power, and quietness. The new 2.8-liter 1GD-FTV 4-cylinder engine and 2.4-liter 2GD-FTV engines power the all-new Hilux launched in Thailand last May and the Land Cruiser Prado launched in Japan last June.

This is Your 2016 Mazda MX-5 Brochure

A few weeks back, Mazda Philippines dropped the bomb by revealing the price of the all-new 2016 Mazda MX-5 on a quiet Sunday morning. You can check it out here.

Now, we got our hands on the brochure (see it after the break). So we’ll just leave it here for you to drool over. And remember, you can reserve one now with customer deliveries starting in August.

After showing off a not-so pretty version of the Cruze at Auto China in Beijing last year, Chevrolet showed off a proper all-new 2016 model of its compact Cruze that is marked for sale to more than 40 global markets (hopefully including the Philippines). It will be for sale first in North America in early 2016 before sales will follow in other markets.

By fueling up in participating Caltex stations from June 15 to July 15, motorists can help provide vital teaching equipment to the highest-need public senior high schools in Metro Manila.

FedEx Express and Safe Kids Philippines celebrate road safety as it awards the “Young Road Safety Champion” during the National Safe Kids Week Celebration at the SM Mall of Asia.

Ferrari Wins Performance Engine of the Year

For the fifth year running, a Ferrari engine has triumphed in two categories at the prestigious International Engine of the Year Awards – Performance Engine of the Year and the Above 4-liter Class. The winner on this occasion is the naturally-aspirated 4.5-liter V8 engine that equips the 458 Italia and 458 Spider in its most powerful guise for the 458 Speciale and Speciale A.

Fresh from the launch of the Polo WRC Drive Like a Champion campaign at Volkswagen dealerships in Bonifacio Global City, Quezon Avenue, Alabang and Cebu last June 12 (Independence Day) and on Father’s Day (June 21), Volkswagen Philippines continues this one-of-a-kind dealership experience with the Polo Fest for the entire month of June at all dealerships.

First Drive: 2015 Nissan NV350 Urvan

Photos by Ulysses Ang

This isn’t a full on test drive, but rather a very quick spin in the 2015 Nissan NV350 Urvan. How quick? Think around the block with some hilly roads and some good open stretches. Cutting to the chance, how does it perform? Well, it performs very well. Extremely well. If you’re in the market for a commuter van, that is.

Kia Re-Enters Compact Car Segment with the Forte Family (w/ Specs)

They say good things happen in threes. That’s exactly what happened when Columbian Autocar Corporation (CAC), the exclusive distributor of Kia vehicles in the country unveiled the 2015 Forte family. It’s been a while since Kia had an entrant in the compact car category, but now they’ve returned not with one, not with two, but three body styles of the Forte that’ll cater to consumers with different personalities and tastes.

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.

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