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

December 29, 2015

Subaru Earns Top Marks in IIHS Safety Standards

Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the manufacturer of Subaru automobiles, recently announced that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS; a nonprofit organization supported by auto insurers in the US) has awarded the highest standard of safety, 2016 TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+), along with the highest possible rating of “Good” for five crash-worthiness tests as well as “Superior” for front crash prevention with the highest possible score of 6 points, to the 2016 Subaru Legacy, Outback, Forester, Impreza, Subaru XV, and WRX.

If you’ve been following this small blog since it launched in 2011, you’ve always known that we cap off the year with our annual Top 5 Picks (see 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011). And unlike other award-giving body, we don’t categorize entries based on performance, price, or any other parameter. For this list, we’re grouping everything together.

EVAP and DTI Map Out Development Plans for Electric Vehicles

The Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) together with the Department of Trade and Industry recently held a year-end meeting in order to map out the progress and formulate development plans for the domestic electric vehicle Industry for the coming year 2016 and thereafter.

Winner of Nissan Philippines' "Sylphy Transformation" Awarded

When Nissan Philippines set out the call for entries in the “Sylphy Transformation” online promo, over 500 entries were received. Nissan’s promo judges sifted through the many ways the contestants interpreted the process of transformation, keeping in mind the idea of “always innovating to be better, bolder, and more exciting versions of ourselves”, the same way how the Nissan Sylphy is the Sentra reborn.

Auto Parts Makers Laud IRR for CARS Program

In a press statement, the Philippine Part Maker Association lauded the issuance last December 19, 2015 by the Board of Investments of the Implementing Rules and Regulations for Executive Order 182 or the Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy (CARS) Program. This is the new version of what used to be the old Motor Vehicle Development Program.

PPMA President Ferdinand Raquelsantos said this was very much awaited by the entire auto industry as it provides for fiscal and non-fiscal incentives aimed at encouraging the local assembly of automotive vehicles. “Now, we expect the car assemblers to go full blast with their expansion and product developments plans that they have temporarily shelved while waiting for this IRR. We expect investments in the auto industry, both foreign and local, to now go full steam ahead”.

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) achieves remarkable fuel efficiency results for their vehicles in an internal fuel economy run observed by an Automobile Association of the Philippines (AAP) representative with the highest figure at 33.88 km/L recorded for the Brio Amaze.

UPDATED: Kia Philippines Springs Grand Carnival Surprise

UPDATE 1: We included the official press release below (1/31).

Kia Philippines is ending 2015 with a big surprise (literally): the launch of the 11-seater version of the Grand Carnival. Dubbed the Grand Carnival 11, this version of Kia’s large MPV offering is catered towards larger families (who don’t find the second-row Captain’s Seats useful) or those who’re looking to maximize the Grand Carnival’s cavernous interior. At the same time, the Grand Carnival 11 starts at a much more pocket-friendly price.

Review: 2015 Chrysler 300C

Photos by Ulysses Ang

When the first-generation Chrysler 300C came to the market, everyone was wowed by its gangster-inspired styling. The fact that rappers fitted 20-inch chrome spinners on them and slammed them to the ground (with hydraulics for good measure) made it a must-have for local socialites and “artistas”. Unfortunately, like MTV, hype only gets you so far. And soon, the 300C became a victim of its own success. People complained about the lackluster dynamics and the interior fit and finish—it all became apparent: it wasn’t a socialite. It was a social climber.

It's All In Their Name: Nissan Wants Zero Emissions and Zero Fatalities in Its Cars

Photos by Ulysses Ang

With a name originating from “Nihon Sangyo” meaning Japan Industries, Nissan has the distinction of being one of the few automakers not named after its founder. Its name is a nod to its social responsibility. Given this mandate, Nissan has an eye towards the future, making sure that everyone continues to enjoy sustainable mobility. In that regard, they have identified four key issues affecting cars: dependency on fossil fuel, global warming, urban congestion, and increased traffic accidents.

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Welcomes DTI Recommendations on SUA Issue

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) says it welcomes the decision of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to hire an expert(s) third party to perform all relevant tests and investigations regarding the Sudden Unintended Acceleration (SUA) on the Montero Sport.

6 Affordable Ways to Buy a New BMW This Christmas

Still having difficulties finding the right gift for that BMW fanatic friend or family? Well, why don’t you just head over to any of the authorized BMW dealerships in the country and score the lucky guy or gal a new BMW; a BMW lifestyle item that is.

Yes, ladies and gentlemen. BMW dealerships aren’t just places where you buy cars and/or have them serviced. You can live the same level of craftsmanship in any of these premium lifestyle items.

Berjaya Auto Philippines, the exclusive distributor of Mazda vehicles in the country, has recently concluded its search for the best technicians among its dealership network. The winners will go on to represent Philippines in the Asia Pacific round of MazTech to be held in Shanghai, China in 2016.

Adding more flair to its pickup truck offering, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation is reviving the ‘Fieldmaster’ nameplate as the designation for a new dressed-up version of its Strada. Meet the Strada Fieldmaster 4WD Edition.

5 Reasons Why the Honda City is a Great First Car

Photos by Ulysses Ang

The fourth-generation City, launched in 2014, has been a runaway success for Honda Cars Philippines. It’s been well-received by public and pundits alike with its exceptional packaging combining technological and safety features wrapped in a sharply-penned body. And the fact that it brings back the unmistakable Honda DNA—the fun-to-drive yet environmentally-responsible character adds to its charm.

All-New Ford GT Will Have Same Glass as Your iPhone

Corning’s Gorilla Glass, the same one used on smartphones like the iPhone is making a leap to the automotive world as the Ford GT will get the tough, durable, and scratch-resistant material for its windshield and rear engine cover. What’s more, it’s 32 percent lighter than the traditional laminated glass.

Photos by Ulysses Ang

Proving itself an impressive machine during its Taiwan sneak peek a few months back, the Subaru Levorg has finally made to the Philippines and just in time for those who want to get themselves a new car this Christmas season.

Review: 2016 Ford Ranger XLT

Photos by Ulysses Ang

Ford didn’t need to update the Ranger. Even before its substantial 2016 refresh, it remained the best-selling pickup truck, and as a result, catapulted Ford as the country’s third-best selling brand. And though the arrival of new competition likely influenced their decision for a nip and tuck, Ford simply listened to their customers changing and upgrading what’s necessary. After all, why fix if it isn’t broke? The end result is a pickup that once again leads the way.

Mazda Philippines Joins Search for Racing Drivers of the Future

Berjaya Auto Philippines, exclusive distributor of Mazda vehicles in the country, is now a proud partner with the Automobile Association Philippines in its pursuit to discover the racing drivers of tomorrow.

Audi Philippines is capping off 2015 by unveiling the ‘great quattro’—the all-new Q7 flagship SUV. Marking the second-generation model in this award-winning line, the all-new Q7 boasts of presence, precision, and performance keeping it solidly in place as the brand’s SUV cornerstone.

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) releases a Limited Edition Jazz 1.5 V variant with Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), equipped with exclusive factory-installed MUGEN accessories. With only 12 units available in the market, customers can already reserve a Jazz MUGEN Limited Edition at any authorized Honda dealership nationwide.

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) ends the year with an exclusive deal offered to existing and previous Honda owners, in line with the company’s 25th anniversary.

Michelin Philippines Makes Tires More Affordable

Michelin tires for passenger cars, SUV and light trucks have become more affordable with new suggested retail prices.

Ford announced today its best-ever sales performance for the month of November in the Philippines, with retail sales soaring 55 percent year-over-year to 2,975 units. The strong sales momentum was powered by continued strength in demand for the all-new Everest, the EcoSport and the new Ranger. November’s sales contributed to 22,548 units sold year-to-date and keeps Ford on track in delivering record full-year performance in the Philippines.

Pilipinas Taj Autogroup Inc. (PTAJ), the exclusive distributor of Tata Motors Passenger Cars and Commercial Vehicles in the Philippines, continues to grow nationwide through its Cagayan de Oro dealership, inaugurated this December 8, 2015.

Olympic Village Group gives its customers more reason to celebrate the Christmas season with the Olympic’s Holiday Spark promo. One lucky Olympic Village Group customer will get a chance to win a brand new Chevrolet Spark!

Mazda MX-5 Scoops Up Japan Car of the Year

Mazda Motor Corporation’s all-new Mazda Roadster (known as MX-5 outside Japan) has been named the 2015-2016 Car of the Year Japan.

The all-new Nissan NP300 Navara has won the coveted International Pick-up Award 2016 at a ceremony in Lyon, France.

Toyota Motor Philippines Presents 2016 RAV4: A New Dimension of Action (w/ Specs)

Already the country’s undisputed number one car maker for 2015, Toyota Motor Philippines is showing no signs of slowing down as it officially unveiled the upgraded 2016 RAV4 crossover during its annual Christmas party for the media.

As a new dawn breaks, Volvo Philippines celebrates its 21st year in the country by giving a preview of the All-New Volvo XC90.

On a high after celebrating record-breaking sales for 2015 as well as their 25th anniversary in the country, Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) held a surprise preview of the 2016 CR-Z sports hybrid, further providing the brand’s solid direction next year.

BYD Company Ltd., is now ranked the number brand in terms of electric vehicle (EV) accumulated sales with a total of 43,069 EVs sold for 2015 thus far. This represents a 222 percent surge compared to the same period last year. And with a total of 6,099 EV units sold globally in October alone, BYD once again topped the sales charts for the sixth consecutive month since May.

Christmas is just around the corner and while there are some of us who’re lucky enough to have completed their gift shopping early on, there are some who’re still clueless on what to give. And while it’s easy to shop for friends who’re epicureans or fashionistas, what do you give the self-confessed car guy? Well, this year, I suggest you give air fresheners a break and go for one of these wonderful gift ideas, all of which I don’t mind seeing under the Christmas tree for myself.

Volkswagen Philippines CSI Partners with MMDA's ITM

Volkswagen Philippines has recently partnered with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to further enhance the German automaker’s Child Safety Initiative (CSI) in the Philippines.

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) sales rose by 44 percent to 16,046 units from January to October compared to the same period in 2014. This is a significant growth compared to the overall 22 percent sales increase of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) industry for the same period. For October alone, HCPI sold 1,786 vehicles, up by 16 percent compared to the same month last year.

Photos by Ulysses Ang

If Peugeot had its way in the country, more people should be driving them. They’re unmistakably different and offer good value for money, especially if you’re in the market for something European. Of course, competing in market segments priced above the P 1.3-million mark, they’ve got their work cut out for them. This is especially true since majority of the growth is coming from automobiles pegged at just about a million pesos. So what’s Peugeot going to do? Inevitably, if they want a French invasion to happen here, they have to enter this market segment. At the same time, they’ve got to be careful as not to dilute their just-starting-to-develop brand equity.

Tata Philippines Introduces Super Ace (w/ Brochure)

Tata Motors Philippines is expanding its commercial vehicle offering with the introduction of the Tata Super Ace light commercial vehicle.

Philippine Car Price Guide November-December 2015

The final Philippine Car Price Guide for 2015 is now out. We apologize for the delays for this edition, but we’re packing it all here—in the last update of the year. Here’s the list of updated or new entries that spans from October to December of this year.

Audi TT
Chevrolet Trax
Ford Explorer Sport
Ford Focus 1.5 EcoBoost
Honda Legend
Hyundai Accent 1.6 DCT
Hyundai Azera (price update)
Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 VGS
Isuzu mu-X 3.0 VGS
Lexus LX 570
Lexus RX 350
Lexus RX 450h
Mercedes-AMG GT
Mercedes-AMG GLA 45
Nissan Almera
Peugeot 308
Subaru Outback 2.5i-S
Tata Super Ace
Volkswagen Passat

Hyundai Philippines Previews All-New 2016 Elantra

After its global unveil at the brand’s Namyang R&D Center in September, Hyundai has previewed the all-new sixth-generation Elantra at the annual Christmas party for dealers, suppliers, and the media. Aiming to recapture market share and regain momentum for the Korean brand, the 2016 Elantra offers a sleeker, more dynamic appearance together with a slew of distinguished performance features.

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) is expanding its low-cost product line of spare parts: Isuzu Best Value Parts. Affordably priced yet having the same quality as genuine parts, Isuzu’s BVP are perfect for the budget conscious Filipino vehicle owners.

Photos by Ulysses Ang

Commemorating its success on the racetrack over the course of the past year, NISMO, Nissan’s specialized motoring division, holds the NISMO Festival as their way of expressing gratitude to all their fans. One day in autumn since 1997, the Fuji International Speedway comes alive and transforms into a living exhibit dedicated to anything and everything Nissan.

BPI/MS's My Safe Drive App Aims to Reduce Traffic Accidents

The statistics sound grim: every year, there’s an average of 10,000 road accidents in the country. And that figure is expected to rise given the high growth experienced by the automotive industry as a whole. Dig deeper though and most of these accidents are attributable to driver error or distraction.

“Imagine if we can cut that amount by just two percent. That may not sound much, but considering the numbers, that’s around 200 accidents,” said Mr. Kenichi Tanabe, BPI/MS’s President and CEO. “A car is one of the most significant investments a family can make. We’re help to help protect that investment.”

UPDATED: There is No Sudden Unintended Acceleration Issue on the Mitsubishi Montero Sport

UPDATE 1: MMPC welcomes the DTI recommendations. Read it here (12/19).

There is no sudden unintended acceleration issue on the second-generation Mitsubishi Montero Sport—that’s the unequivocal statement given at the press conference called by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC). The company had a panel of experts including their own internal product planning and engineering personnel to explain that the Montero Sport has undergone extensive testing, and time and time again, they have reached the same conclusion: there is no design, mechanical, or electronic defect that exists.

Nothing says that you care about your car than by keeping it in tip-top shape. And the most visible sign is to keep it clean. Now, most people take good care of their skin by applying sunblock or moisturizer, but just how does one care of a car’s exterior? Seeking help on this matter, we consulted with the local distributors of Sonax, the premium German car care specialist to find out more about car pampering.

Photos by Ulysses Ang

There’s a saying that within every adult, there’s a kid lurking somewhere. Of course, this saying is open to interpretation from anyone (e.g. second childhood), but I personally believe that this saying is specifically made for people who drive Porsches. Why Porsche? Compared to the rest of the sports car world out there, Porsches are the most refined, sophisticated, subtle, and no doubt most drivable in everyday life. On the other hand, the brand has also produced barely road-legal machines.

Auto Focus Pre-Christmas Test Drive is a Success

The country’s biggest and grandest consolidated test drive activity held last November 12-15, 2015 at the SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds attracted an impressive turn-out of visitors and logged a huge number of test drives. During the Auto Focus Pre-Christmas Test Drive (AFPCTD), the latest models available to the local market were featured and free test drives by the Philippines’ leading manufacturers and distributors were offered, all in a single venue. This unique pre-Christmas test drive program gave prospective car buyers and enthusiasts the opportunity to see or test drive the widest range of competing makes and models without having to go through the ordeal of having to run from one dealer to another in search of the model of their choice.

Representatives of Ayala-owned Honda Cars Makati, Inc. (HCMI) have once again proven the team’s expertise in the Body Repair and Paint arena after bagging major awards in the recently concluded 7th Body and Paint National Customer Service Skills Competition at Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. in Santa Rosa, Laguna.

Photos by Ulysses Ang

With a history spanning over 80 years, Nissan is currently the sixth largest automaker in the world and is home to some of the most iconic models ever made such as the Skyline GT-R, Fairlady Z, and Sylvia. With a name originating from “Nihon Sangyo” meaning Japan Industries, Nissan has a distinction of being one of the few automakers not named after its founder, a nod to its social responsibility.

Nissan Confirms Arrival of GT-R, NISMO to Philippines

By Ulysses Ang and Nissan Press

Aiming to bring some spice and excitement to its line-up, Nissan Philippines, Inc. (NPI) has confirmed the impending arrival of the high-performance GT-R sports car into the country by the second half of 2016. The revelation was made by NPI President Antonio ‘Toti’ Zara at the NISMO Festival held at the Fuji International Speedway.

Nissan Expanding Philippine Dealer Base

Nissan car owners will now have more reason to rediscover the excitement of Nissan, as Nissan Philippines has been steadily expanding its network reach via an aggressive expansion drive for its dealership network nationwide.

Since Peugeot’s re-launch in the Philippines in 2012, it’s been steadily adding new vehicles to its line-up. Now, it’s finally going back to the segment which started it all: the C-segment (compact car). Eurobrands Distributor, Inc. (EDI) is introducing the 2016 Peugeot 308 available in two body styles: hatchback and touring. Either way, they fuse function and efficiency with technological features and design.

Subaru Offers Irresistible Deals for Year-End

Motor Image Pilipinas, Inc. (MIPI), the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in the country is treating you to exciting various payment schemes with low down payment, low monthly amortization up to 60 months, zero percent interest packages, and cash discounts deals until December 31, 2015.

Ford Motor Company today announced the appointment of Lance Mosley as managing director of Ford Philippines effective December 1, 2015.

The leadership of the Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) expressed elation upon announcing that their latest flagship model—the Isuzu mu-X—has recently breached the 10,000 mark, one year after being introduced locally.

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