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

August 31, 2016

Subaru Levorg Gets Highest Safety Rating in Europe; EyeSight System Begins Global Rollout

Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI) just announced that the Subaru Levorg sports tourer has just been awarded with a five-star overall safety rating by the European New Car Assessment Program or Euro NCAP. It gets the highest score possible after being evaluated for “Adult Occupant Protection”, “Child Occupant Protection”, “Pedestrian Protection”, and “Safety Assist”.

After releasing the results of its Customer Service Index or CSI study last July, JD Power is now releasing the results of the Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) study. And among the 11 mass market brands in the industry, Toyota ranks the highest in new-vehicle sales satisfaction. This marks the third year that Toyota has topped the survey. Meanwhile, Isuzu ranks second and Kia third (the full results are available below).

Michelin Pilot Sport Experience Blazes Sepang Circuit Anew; Sees Launch of New Pilot Sport 4 Tire

The Michelin Pilot Sport Experience (MPSE) blazes its way back to the Sepang International F1 Circuit in Malaysia for the 12th consecutive year. For over 25 days in August and September, Michelin will treat more than 600 selected invitees from Asia, the Middle-East, Oceania and Europe to another round of excitement and sheer driving pleasure in the iconic Malaysian track.

There’s a lot at stake with the all-new Honda Civic. With the hype saying that it’s “reborn”; this is the clearest indicator whether or not Honda, as a company, is heading in the right direction. Though Honda has expanded their line-up of late, the Civic remains their barometer. It’s their Big Mac, their Frappuccino, their “TM” next to the company name. Will the Civic do Soichiro Honda proud or will it have him turning in his grave?

Ford Releases Survey on Pinoy Attitude Towards Fuel Efficiency

When it comes to buying a new car, more than 80 percent of Filipino consumers say that fuel efficiency is more important than power.

Philippine Price Guide: August 2016

We just updated The Philippine Car Price Guide and linked it to a single page. This makes bookmarking the newest edition so much easier compared to before. You can click “Car Prices” on the menu or click here for CarGuide.PH’s Monthly Car Price Guide.

Still, to guide you, we’ll still post a blog update to notify you of the latest changes per month. And in the case of the August update, these are the new entries/updates.

Chevrolet Colorado (price adjustment)
Chevrolet Sail (price adjustment)
Ford Everest (price adjustment)
Ford Expedition (price adjustment)
Ford Explorer (price adjustment)
Ford Mustang (price adjustment)
Ford Ranger Wildtrak (price adjustment)
Honda Civic (new variant)
Honda CR-Z (new variant)
Hyundai Veloster (price adjustment)
Mahindra Enforcer (price adjustment)
Mahindra Xylo (price adjustment)
Mitsubishi Adventure (price adjustment)
Mitsubishi L300 (price adjustment)
Mitsubishi Strada (new entry)
Nissan Sylphy (new entry)
Suzuki Alto (price adjustment)
Suzuki APV SGX (new entry)
Suzuki Celerio (price adjustment)
Toyota Vios (new entry)
Toyota Yaris (new entry)

August 26, 2016

2016 Toyota Vios and Yaris Get a Change of Heart

The country’s best-selling passenger car and its more stylish sibling get a heart transplant this August. The 2016 Toyota Vios and Toyota Yaris are now both equipped with a Dual VVT-i and CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) across the line.

From today to 29 (10:00 am to 10:00 pm), Volkswagen Pampanga will hold a mall tour of German-engineered vehicles Touareg Sport Edition SUV, Polo Sedan, and the iconic Beetle at the Marquee Mall along Aniceto Gueco Street in Angeles City, Pampanga.

Chevrolet Takes Wraps Off Production 2017 Trailblazer

After showing it off as a Concept at the 2016 Bangkok International Motor Show, Chevrolet has finally taken the wraps off the production version of the Trailblazer at yet another motor show in Thailand. At the BIG Motor Sale 2016, Chevrolet has announced the sale start of the 2017 Trailblazer in the Land of Smiles.

SsangYong Motors is remembered mostly for their tie-up with Mercedes-Benz producing products such as the MB100 (Istana) and Musso. Though that arrangement happened to span only three years (1991 to 93), it left an indelible mark on the company that remains with them until today. Moving forward from simple licensing agreements, SsangYong is inching towards a corporate vision of becoming the “most innovative and respected Korean automotive company”. Flush with cash from its acquisition by the Mahindra & Mahindra Group, SsangYong plans to expand its global footprint by selling 300,000 units globally.

Motul’s top-of-the-line, full synthetic racing oil with technical expertise and race track experience, 300V is the brand’s most popular product. It’s also the most trusted by racing teams around the world. The 300V has a cutting-edge formulation that can be used in every application be it for daily or high-performance driving.

Goodyear launched its latest high performance tire, the Goodyear Wrangler TripleMax, in the Philippines. Designed for mid-size SUVs, the Wrangler TripleMax delivers Superior Braking Performance, Shorter Wet Braking, and Road Hazard Resistant features, offering a safer and more fun driving experience with the family.

Mr. Young Han Song, SsangYong’s Executive Managing Director is one straight talking corporate executive. After forging a partnership with SsangYong Berjaya Motor Philippines (SBMP) in January of this year, the partnership is starting to bear fruit with the local launch of four models: Korando, Rodius, Tivoli, and Tivoli XLV.

Mahindra Hailed with Best New Product at 2016 Transport and Logistics Show

Mahindra was hailed as “Best New Product” at the recently concluded 2016 Transport and Logistics Show at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, August 18-20, 2016. The award recognized Mahindra’s introduction of its latest product offerings – noted for their innovation, dependability and competitiveness – in the three-day transport fair.

The Covenant Car Company, Inc. (TCCCI), exclusive importer and distributor of Chevrolet automobiles and parts in the country, offers rock solid all-in low down payment promos and cash discounts to its customers through its “The Powered Up Truck Month Promo.”

At a glance, it’s hard to position the 2016 Honda Pilot. At P 3,380,000, the sole EX-L variant is around a Brio’s worth of pesos more than its most expensive rival, the Ford Explorer Sport. Yet, the Honda’s spec sheet looks a tad pedestrian compared to the Ford’s Trump Card worthy one: 284 versus 370 horsepower, 353 versus 475 Nm of torque. It’s looking very much like a lopsided win for the Blue Oval until you spend some seat time in the Pilot. This isn’t Ulysses Ang versus Michael Phelps in the swimming pool; this is more like Neil deGrasse Tyson going against 50 Cent in a game of Jeopardy. And in this case, the Pilot’s not playing the role of gangsta-rapper.

SsangYong Designs Now Are Inspired by Korea and Nature

In the past, SsangYong has made cars which were as visually challenging to understand as their nameplates: Rexton, Actyon, and Rodius. In fact, for decades, the brand seemed to look for inspiration from the West only to have the finished product look like something that was subjected to a Korean cultural blender. Well, SsangYong is putting that past behind them and now all eyes are on the double dragons and this time, it’s for a good reason.

Everyone knew it was coming, but it was just going to be a matter of time. Well, that time is now as Mitsubishi Philippines has given its Strada pickup truck the much-needed MIVEC treatment with the unveil of the Strada GT.

This is the Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6—an homage to the glorious age of aero coupes that also manages to carry this tradition to the future. At almost six meters in length with a 750 horsepower engine, it’s pure sensorial excess, but at the same time, it’s every bit environmentally conscious with its completely electric drive system that can run up to 500 kilometers between charges.

Your Next Uber Maybe a Volvo. And It Might be Driverless Too.

The next time you hail a car from the ride-sharing app, Uber, it may not have a driver at all. That’s if Volvo has anything to do with it. In a landmark agreement, the Swedish luxury carmaker has inked a deal with the world’s leading ride-sharing company to develop the next-generation of autonomous driving cars.

Ford Announces Two More Years of Ford GT Production

If your Ford GT application was denied, then you may be in luck. Ford Performance just announced that they’re adding two more years of production for the all-new carbon fiber supercar. The announcement comes on the heels of letters sent to potential customers notifying them of their application status to purchase the Ford GT.

Tell me, do you bleed? Well, prepare to bleed some pesos and relive some moments from Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice with this officially licensed limited edition Ridaz Batmobile travel case which drops in some stores starting this weekend.

Nissan will honor its Global Director of Excitement and seven-time Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt to celebrate his historic career and his 30th birthday this Sunday, August 21.

Suzuki Philippines, Inc (SPH), the only integrated motorcycle and automobile company and the pioneer manufacturer of compact vehicles in the country, extends its reach to the South with the opening of its latest auto satellite showroom located in SM City General Santos.

The electric jeepneys have come a long way. From the industrial zones to commercial establishments to residential subdivisions to LGUs to school campuses to resorts and now, the malls. Which is but natural for after all, the Philippines is the mall capital of Asia. Malling is the country’s national past time. And malls have defined the course of development for the Philippines for so long. In fact, mall population density is considered a very good barometer of the country’s economic condition.

Nissan Philippines Just Disallowed GT Academy Lap Times

Attention Nissan GT Academy hopefuls: if you entered a lap time during the live events at SM Mall of Asia (June 30) and Trinoma (July 1-3), those lap times have just been disallowed.

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines’ long servicing flagship SUV, the Pajero, gets a new heart for 2016 that boasts more power, better refinement, and of course, Euro 4 emissions compliance.

Morris Garages or MG is beefing its Philippine line-up with its first-ever SUV, the GS. Priced at just P 1,250,000, the MG GS brings in British flavor in a segment normally dominated by the Japanese, Korean, and American makes.

Having revealed extensive investments in making fully autonomous cars a reality, Ford has announced its intention to have a high-volume, fully autonomous capable vehicles in commercial vehicles in five years. There’s a caveat though: you can’t buy one. This will strictly be for ride-hailing or ride-sharing services use only.

Nissan Philippines Upgrades Sylphy

Nissan Philippines has given its Sylphy a much-needed upgrade for 2016. But you won’t find the difference by walking around outside or poking inside the engine bay. Nope. The newest thing on the 2016 Sylphy is its infotainment system. And take note, you’re paying extra for that.

Auto Nation Group, Inc., is celebrating the 75th anniversary of Jeep in style with the Jeep Funtastic Deals. Coinciding with the CATS Motors Three-Day Clearance Sale, the Jeep Funtastic Deals is happening at the Bonifacio Global City from August 19-21, 2016.

Demonstrations of the off-road driving capabilities of Isuzu’s four-wheel-drive models continue to thrill crowds across the country as Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) staged the third round of its spectacular 4x4 event in the Queen City of the South.

Variable Compression is Nissan's Answer to Mazda's Skyactiv

You’re looking at Nissan’s answer to Mazda’s Skyactiv Technology: VC-T. It doesn’t have the same ring to it as Mazda’s high-compression gasoline motor, but it comes packing some serious technology in the form of variable compression. It’s one of the most advanced internal compression engines ever created and could spell the end of diesels.

There’s no denying that Honda got its A-Game back with the all-new Civic. After driving both the RS Turbo and the 1.8 E, the venerable compact sedan is back to its sporty ways. And now, the sporty treatment comes full circle with the reveal of a hatchback version. Revealed for the North American market, it’s also been confirmed that the Thailand plant will also be producing the five-door version as well.

The latest edition in Isuzu Philippines Corporation’s (IPC) series of truck model displays has again bolstered the company’s longstanding affinity with one of the country’s most significant regions — Region XI.

Volkswagen Philippines is set to expand its dealer network and will soon establish dealerships in Central Luzon and Western Visayas, recognizing these areas’ economic resurgence and addressing the clamor to bring world-class German automotive craftsmanship closer to the people residing in these locations.

There are two kinds of car buyers out there: one that gets lured easily by the superficial: styling, lifestyle promise, pointless tech; and another that puts value on what’s underneath: the platform, running gear, engineering. It may not look it, but the Volkswagen Polo appeals mainly to the latter set. It’s certainly not the sexiest girl out there, but it’s the one with the intelligence and integrity that makes you want to take it home to mama.

Compare Uber and Grab Fares in Google Maps

Filipinos have more ways to book a ride with the addition of Grab as a Google Maps ride services partner.

A Must-Have Product for All Car Owners Launched

As the saying goes, “health is wealth.” We all have to make sure to eat right, exercise regularly, and drink lots of water to prevent dehydration. In the same way, we should also take care of our car’s engine just as we take care of our bodies. Although water is beneficial to the human body, water alone is not enough to take care of the car engine, especially in preventing rust and corrosion in your radiator.

Subaru Celebrates 10th Year in Philippines with Subaru Festival

Motor Image Pilipinas, the official distributor of Subaru in the Philippines is celebrating its 10th anniversary at an event in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc (HCPI), is holding the Honda Auto Expo display in SM Mall of Asia on August 11-17 and Trinoma Mall on August 26-28, 2016.

CATS Motors Puts Up Three-Day Clearance Sale

Great deals are coming your way this August as CATS Motors brings out a three-day clearance sale. Grab the chance to buy the best pre-owned Mercedes-Benz and Jeep at heftily reduced tag prices.

AAP Volunteers to Draft IRR of New Motoring-Related Laws

The Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) is volunteering to help the government draft the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the new motoring-related laws.

AAP president Gus Lagman offered the motor club’s help after three bills from the House of Representatives and the Senate lapsed into law 30 days after they were submitted to Malacanang for the signature of then President Benigno S. Aquino III.

Philippine Airlines Provides Connectivity Via myPAL Roam

PAL recently launched a new service innovation called the myPAL Roam – a global mobile hotspot that provides easy, fast, secure and affordable mobile data anywhere in the world.

This newest offering by the flag carrier is made possible through its partnership with Skyroam.

The new Volvo S90 is Volvo Cars’ entry ticket to the premium sedan club. The S90 marks a giant step forward for Volvo Cars. The Swedish carmaker is better known for its SUVs and estates, but with the launch of the S90, Volvo is clearly intent on shaking up the premium sedan segment with its distinctive executive class sedan.

I strongly wanted to hate the Suzuki Jimny, I really do. The car itself dates back to 1998, making it legal to drink, smoke, and appear in porn videos. It drives like a two-ton truck, rides like a derailed freight train, and is less practical than any sports car (save for the generous ride height). Yet, each time I want to vent out my frustration at the Jimny’s very existence, it gives off this unmistakable charm that prevents me from administering lethal injection.

Driving in a Downpour: Practical Rainy Day Driving Tips

The rainy season is definitely back once again. While rainy days can be a refreshing respite from the heat, these can mean heavy traffic, flooded roads, poor visibility, and difficult driving conditions.

Columbian Autocar Corporation (CAC), the exclusive distributor of Kia vehicles in the Philippines, has just announced their intention to support the arts by making a commitment to showcase Original Pilipino Music (OPM) with the launch of Kia Beats.

Honda Cars Philippines is bringing back its Paint Washover promo at selected dealerships nationwide. It’s available for all Honda models until the end of August.

The logistics industry in the Philippines will continue to grow with the growth driven by express delivery, third party logistics (3PL) and e-Commerce. Another study by Logistics Services shares the same optimism and provides a comprehensive analysis of the various aspects of the market such as the market size of logistics, express delivery, freight forwarding, third party logistics, e-commerce logistics, balikbayan boxes, warehousing and value added services. The report also covers the major express logistics players in both international and domestic markets along with their share in the revenue.

Nissan Philippines Sets Top June Sales

Nissan Philippines Inc. (NPI) closed the first half of 2016 with a recorded 1,621 units sold in June 2016, its highest month in sales since its foundation in the country three years ago.

It’s funny how a piece of plastic can make a hell of a difference. In the case of Ford, they figured that this unique cup holder design (it’s patented) doubles cup holder space by a sliding piece of hardened polymer.

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