April 2016 | CarGuide.PH | Philippine Car News, Car Reviews, Car Prices

April 29, 2016

Kia's Family Service Heads to Calapan

Columbian Autocar Corporation (CAC), the exclusive distributor of Kia vehicles in the Philippines, and its After-Sales group are continuing to stage its year-long customer care service program in select Kia dealerships nationwide called Kia Family Service.

Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), the official distributor of Hyundai vehicles in the country displayed bullish growth for the first three months of 2016. Ending the first quarter with 7,469 units, sales are up by 39 percent compared to the 5,364 units sold in the first quarter of the previous year. Quarter-on-quarter results also show auspicious results in automotive sales as the company also posted an identical 39 percent growth.

The continued uptick in demand locally for motor vehicles has helped push Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) to log its best monthly tally in the company’s 19-year history.

You’ve read our first impressions on the new Skyactiv-D equipped Mazda6 and CX-5 AWD. If not, you can check it out here. Meanwhile, if you’re interested in all the specs, well, you came to the right place. Just remember two things: first, the price for both models is P 1,985,000; second, stocks, particularly for the CX-5 AWD Skyactiv-D are limited (due to allocation). So if you’re in the market for a top-end compact crossover, decide now. Anyway, the specs continue after the break.

First Drive: 2016 Mazda6 2.2 Skyactiv-D and 2016 Mazda CX-5 2.2 Skyactiv-D AWD

What a difference a letter makes. Though it doesn’t look it, the two Mazda vehicles you see here: the Mazda6 and CX-5 AWD are very different from the models introduced last year. No amount of squinting will help you see the changes, because the only discernable difference is found on a trunk badge that reads, “Skyactiv Technology D”. Yes, Philippines, the Skyactiv-D is now here and it’s going to transform how you’ll drive.

Photos by Ulysses Ang

Huwag maging dayuhan sa sariling bayan (Don’t be a foreigner in your country) has been an effective call for Filipinos to explore more of their country first than any other place. It’s a clear message that every region of the country offers not just attractions, but culture and heritage as well. It’s a call that Kia Philippines and Columbian Autocar Coporation (CAC) heeded well as they brought six of their best-selling vehicles to the island of Negros for a three-day journey across three provinces.

UPDATED: The Next Step: Honda Cars Philippines Launches All-New 2016 Civic (w/ Specs)

UPDATE 1: And now, here is our First Drive of the all-new Civic RS Turbo (5/3).

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) is celebrating its 25th anniversary by going back to where it all began: the Civic. At the festivities commemorating this occasion, HCPI unveiled the all-new, tenth-generation Civic, a car that pushes the compact segment envelope in terms of styling, driving dynamics, and advanced technologies.

What defines luxury? Is it the amount of wood and leather you touch and feel inside the cabin? Is it the badge and the story it tells through its rich history? For the all-new Honda Legend, it’s none of that. Instead, it’s reinterpreting luxury using cutting-edge technology where science fiction seems to blend with science reality. Whether or not you share that world view is immaterial; it’s undeniable that the company that has brought forth VTEC, ASIMO, and the Honda Jet has every reason to be proud of this flagship sedan.

Dig These Honda Civic-Inspired Kicks: the JackThreads HT3

If you’re equal parts sneaker head and car enthusiast, then this latest sneaker collaboration is for you. Thrillist, JackThreads, and Honda have come together to bring out this limited edition HT3 Driving Shoe that’s inspired by the all-new tenth-generation Civic. The sneaker is said to pay tribute to the three core aspects of the Civic’s sporty and dynamic styling: high touch, high tension, and high tech.

Nissan has set the Guinness World Records title for the fastest ever drift. The record was broken with a speed of 304.96 km/h and 30 degrees angle using a specially-tuned 2016 Nissan GT-R. Masato Kawabata, the Japanese drift champion and title holder for the Japanese drifting series, clinched the top spot from former record holder Jakub Przygoński of Poland. The record was set during a special event that took place at Fujairah International Airport, UAE.

Tata Motors Philippines Offers Low All In Downpayment this Summer

Tata Motors Philippines recently launched their latest promo “Sizzling Summer Deals” which makes owning a car or light commercial vehicle for your business this summer so easy and hassle free. The Sizzling Summer Deals promo offers flexible financing plans and all in low down payment packages for customers this season.

As a venerated nameplate in the Volkswagen range, the Golf has been around for seven generations and 43 years. Throughout its history, it’s become the brand’s best-selling vehicle (outselling even the Beetle) and has won numerous awards and accolades worldwide. The current generation is no different. It has won more than two dozen awards around the world including the World Car of the Year and the Japan Car of the Year (the first foreign nameplate to do so).

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) registered a double-digit growth of 23.8 percent as it closed the first quarter of 2016. From January to March this year, MMPC sold a total of 14,688 units far better than the 11,849 units sold during the same period last year. Meanwhile, the industry registered growth of 21.6 percent for the first quarter as reflected on the combined reports of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) and Trucks Manufacturer of Association (TMA). These reports also showed that MMPC captured 19.2 percent market share keeping its spot as the second bestselling automotive brand in the country.

Your daily routine may be damaging your car’s paint job without you even realizing it. Innocent everyday happenings like accidentally spilled fuel, cheeky finger writings, or annoying bird droppings can leave long-lasting stains and scratches on the surface of your car or, even worse, cause corrosion.

Nissan Philippines, Inc. (NPI) confirmed its participation in the upcoming Nissan GT Academy 2016, which will be launched later this year. This was announced during an exclusive screening of the Nissan GT Academy reality show, produced by NPI’s broadcast partner, ABS-CBN at the Bonifacio High Street Cinema.

Peugeot is revealing the next step in its i-Cockpit interior design after reviewing the experience of 2.2 million users of the current-generation i-Cockpit one fitted in the 208, 2008, and 308 vehicles. This next-generation i-Cockpit is designed to provide an engaging experience for the driver, important since Peugeot is now positioning itself as an enthusiast’s brand.

Isuzu Philippines Shows Off 2016 mu-X and Crosswind at 4x4 Action Playground

As a pioneer in organizing off-road driving adventures, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) is further promoting this enjoyable outdoor activity through the Isuzu 4x4 Action Playground, a specially designed off-road course laid out at the Exploreum Parking Area of SM Mall of Asia. This unique attraction, with its lineup of many fun-filled activities, is set up at the venue from today until April 24, 2016.

Get Freebies When You Apply for A PSBank Auto Loan Online

Great deals await those who will apply for a PSBank Auto Loan through the latest addition to the Bank’s digital offerings—the PSBank Online Auto Loan Application.

In answer to the increasing popularity of diesel-powered sports utility vehicles in the Philippines and the continued changes in Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) engine designs, Caltex Lubricants introduces the latest member of its Diesel Engine Oil product family, Delo Sports with ISOSYN Technology. Delo Sports is specifically designed for SUVs and pick-up trucks. Delo Sports provides enhanced engine protection and power even under the most challenging of driving conditions.

What do you get when you mix an unconventional car like the Prius and a conventional hatchback like the Yaris? You get the Toyota Prius c. Based off a modified Yaris platform, the Prius c is making waves in its home country of Japan (it’s known as the Aqua over there) because of its no frills approach to hybridization. Instead of going all space-age and techy, the Prius c is simple: push the starter, select D, and go—no need to re-learn the displays, gearbox, and what. Though it doesn’t change the fact that it’s an utter bore to drive, at least it presents its case as a perfect urban crawler with its compact proportions and sky-high fuel mileage.

In celebration of a Volvo’s record-breaking global sales performance in 2015 – a total of 503,127 units sold – Volvo Philippines is giving its customers a P 500,000.00 discount on new Volvos purchased this summer.

Honda Spruces Up Brio Amaze with 1.3 S A/T Special Edition

Continuing its knack for releasing special or limited edition variants of its models, Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) is doing just that with its Brio Amaze entry-level sedan. Coming by the third week of April (that’s this week), the Brio Amaze 1.3 S A/T Special Edition joins the line-up. And get this, this won’t be a super limited edition run.

UPDATE 1: We included the official press statement and a rear shot below (5/11).

Fans of Suzuki’s fast-selling Ertiga are in for a treat as it gets a minor refresh this 2016. Dubbed the “Life Utility Vehicle” or LUV, the Ertiga has become an integral part of Suzuki Philippines’s line-up. And now, after two or so years in the market, it gets a refreshed look. Along with more interior features, there’s certainly more to like with this small MPV.

Volkswagen Holds Road Show in Cebu

Volkswagen Cebu offers a cool way to beat that summer heat: A road show at the Cebu City Banilad Town Center from April 15 to 17.

At its annual stock holder’s meeting, Ayala Corporation has announced a new brand which will join the conglomerate’s automotive product line: KTM. The announcement was made by Ayala Corporation President and COO Fernando Zobel de Ayala.

Continuing to bolster its position in the domestic market as the leading assembler and seller of commercial vehicles and trucks, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) has put on display the products that define the Isuzu brand’s key strength.

Ford Philippines Sales Continue to Rise in March, First Quarter 2016

Ford Philippines today reported its best-ever March performance as retail sales rose 46 percent year-over-year to 2,746 units, driven by strong demand for the all-new Everest, EcoSport, Ranger and Explorer.

Yes, You Can Now Order Your Ford GT; Philippine Orders Close May 24

Customers hoping to own one of the all-new Ford GT ultra-high-performance super cars can officially place their applications today online.

Scoshe Industries, innovators of award-winning consumer technology and car audio products and accessories, announces the availability in the local market of its highly anticipated magicMOUNT Pro product line and other car solutions.

Linde Philippines, Inc. and EMME-Subic Transport Corporation recently signed a contract with the latter being assigned to handle the hauling requirements of Linde. EMME-Subic Transport Corporation is a logistics company that has been providing hauling services in the country while Linde Philippines, Inc. is a producer and distributor of industrial gases such as oxygen, nitrogen and argon.

Specially developed versions of the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires will be the sole original equipment fitment on the new limited special model BMW M4 GTS.

Chevron Philippines, Inc. (CPI), marketer of the Caltex brand, continues to strengthen its partnership with Handyman with the increase of participating Handyman branches nationwide that offer the full range of Havoline and Delo gasoline and diesel engine oils, coolants, greases, and transmission fluid.

Hyundai Philippines Rolls Out Commercial Vehicle Line; Reveals Pioneering Dealerships

Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI) proudly announces the exclusive distributorship of Hyundai Trucks and Buses in the Philippines, further expanding its offerings from passenger cars, SUVs and family vans to light to heavy commercial and cargo vehicles.

From over a million Robinsons Rewards Card (RRC) holders, Rose Ong was among those who least expected how far the card would take her. Even during the awarding held recently at the Caltex Malugay station in Makati City for the winner of the “Win a BMW X1” contest – the businesswoman from Quezon City still couldn't believe she'd bring home the luxury crossover SUV that's the dream car of millions.

Foton Philippines is adding two new lifestyle variants to its Toplander SUV range: the Toplander Executive and Toplander Xtreme. Previewed at the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) last week, these two new variants are designed to cater to particular lifestyles and interests, especially if you find the regular Toplander just a tad too tame.

The all-new Audi Q7 has been named an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) 2016 Top Safety Pick+, earning “highest” ratings in all five IIHS crashworthiness evaluations and a “superior” rating for front crash prevention. Top Safety Pick+ is the highest 2016 rating available from IIHS.

In the market for a car but cannot afford a new one? Well, this may be your chance to snag a good deal as PSBank will hold a two-day sale of its repossessed vehicles at its warehouse in Taguig City. Along with discounts, this week’s event will also have freebies and reasonable rates if you’re into financing.

What’s forty four horsepower between friends? Apparently, a lot, especially when the subject matter at hand is the Peugeot RCZ. See, for all the RCZ’s stunning beauty, the lack of performance meant it was purely a boulevard cruiser than anything else. And though some potential owners couldn’t care less, what about those who wanted a bit more go with their show? It seems Peugeot is listening and they have decided to introduce a new RCZ variant: the 200. And if you guessed that “200” here meant 200 horsepower, you got it right.

Philippine Car Price Guide: April 2016

The Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) has just ended and with that, it’s time to update The Philippine Car Price Guide. Given the several car launches/previews held at the annual summer motoring show, we’ve included them in this update.

Chevrolet Sail
Chrysler Town&Country (price update)
Dodge (price update)
Ford EcoSport (new variant)
Ford Everest (new variant)
Foton Toplander (new variants)
Honda City 1.5 E Special Edition
Hyundai Accent (2016 model)
Hyundai Elantra (new variant)
Hyundai Eon (new variant)
Hyundai Santa Fe (2016 model)
Hyundai Veloster
Isuzu Crosswind (new variants)
Jeep Wrangler (new variants)
Kia Grand Carnival (price update)
Kia Sportage
Mazda2 (new variant)
MINI Cooper Clubman
Mitsubishi Mirage (2016 model)
Mitsubishi Lancer EX (2016 model)
SsangYong Korando
SsangYong Tivoli
SsangYong Rodius
Subaru Forester (2016 model)
Suzuki Ciaz

MIAS 2016: Chevrolet Wants Piece of the Entry-Level Car Pie with the Sail

When you have the company president participate in a flash mob along with his entire management staff, you know the confidence they have in their new product. That’s exactly what Atty. Albert Arcilla, President and Managing Director of Chevrolet Philippines did as the company danced their way, revealing the newest member of the bowtie family, the all-new Sail in the process.

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines sprung a surprise at the Manila International Auto Show by showing off the 2016 Mirage. Everyone knew that the star of the stand would have been the all-new Montero Sport, but MMPC also made it a point to show off an update to its best-selling small car.

UPDATE 1: We now have the brochures below (4/8).

SsangYong Motor is back in the Philippines under a new distributor: Ssangyong Berjaya Motor Philippines (SBMP). After the formal distributorship signing ceremony, SBMP went straight to work by introducing the brand and its initial offerings at the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS).

Marking its return to the Manila International Auto Show, Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI) launches a new brand campaign that focuses on customer-driven innovation. With Ang Gusto Mo, Gusto ng Puso, Hyundai Philippines seems to be taking the pulse of the Filipino car buyer and asking what he or she wants.

Having driven the 2016 Subaru Forester as well as outlining the new/updated features, the cycle is now complete as Subaru distributor, Motor Image Pilipinas, has finally brought its refreshed compact crossover to the country. Featuring some aesthetic tweaks and packing more tech, the 2016 Forester is now here for the “active family that wants to live life to the fullest”.

Ford is capitalizing on its impressive sales momentum (sales year-on-year is up 25 percent) by introducing two new variants to its most popular nameplates: the EcoSport and the Everest.

Ranger Wild: The Ford Ranger Camp New Zealand

Photos by Ulysses Ang

When you get an invitation to rough it with the Ford Ranger in “Middle Earth”, you don’t say no. You get your papers in order and get ready to leave, pronto. New Zealand is known for its picturesque wild natural beauty; perfect for the go-anywhere, do-anything nature of the Ranger. All that’s needed is for me to get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

Kia and TOTAL Renew Partnership

Kia Motors Corporation and Total Lubrifiants recently renewed their strategic partnership agreement.

For another 5 years, Total will remain Kia Motors Corporation’s preferred aftermarket lubricants supplier for Kia vehicles. Total branded automotive lubricants will be exclusively recommended and available to customers across Kia’s service network of more than 5,500 dealers in around 180 countries, including West European markets from January 1, 2017.

Those in the mood to transform their 4x4 vehicles to trail-ready rigs should look no further than the newest offerings from Black Rhino wheels. At the Manila International Auto Show, Black Rhino distributor, Wheel Gallery, will be officially unveiling a new design: the Warlord.

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