July 31, 2020

These 10 Cars are Judged to Have Easiest to Use Interiors for 2020


WardsAuto has just released their 10 Best UX (User Experience). It comes a month after the U.S.-based publication released their 10 Best Interiors.

Lexus PH Brings in Updated 2020 NX SUV with Better Handling, Added Standard Features


The Lexus NX crossover was engineered and designed to please not only the most discerning driving enthusiasts, but also those who are looking for a comfortable and practical vehicle that can do it all. It seems like a tall order, but Lexus has the know-how and experience when it comes to building capable crossovers that deliver an engaging on-road driving experience, and still have the capability to tackle more challenging terrain.

Get Used Cars with as Much as P 150,000 Discount at Carousell PH's Car-O-Sale


Carousell, one of the world’s largest and fastest growing online classifieds, launches its first-ever used car sale in the Philippines titled “Car-o-Sale”. Through this campaign, it aims to help jump start businesses of its automotive merchants, many of which are long time listers since its early days as OLX. In addition, it is set to provide potential car buyers with a wide selection of quality used vehicles from its list of trusted sellers, paired with great deals.

Subaru STI Just Came Up with Their Own Original Watch


Normally, carmakers enter into collaborations with established watch makers to make some nice wrist candy. But what happens if a carmaker decides to come up with their own case design from scratch? What happens is the new Subaru STI watch.

Known only by its code, D1VH31A, it’s an original watch designed by Subaru’s Motorsports Division, STI to show its “passion for manufacturing.”


The “D” in its name points to the main motif of the watch which is the pink gold disc rotor etched with the words, “STI.” The brake caliper also acts as the watch crown, with the adjustment made to look like a valve step cap. The hour, minute, and second hand vary in thickness and length for easy legibility, while a scratch-resistant sapphire glass covers the face. The quick-release 18 mm silicon strap also carries the STI logo. Sized at 36 mm, the D1VH31A watch is unisex and comes in three colors: white, black, and cherry red.

The watch itself features a quartz movement. It makes 20 vibrations per 5 seconds to express the importance of 1/1000th of a second in motorsports. A sweeping second hand makes it as smooth as a mechanical watch. It’s water resistant up to 3 ATM.


Currently, this original Subaru STI watch is only available for sale in Japan. Priced at 27,000 Yen (P 12,700~), it can be purchased through the official Subaru online store (Cherry Red, White, Black).

You Can Now Buy a Subaru Without Stepping Foot into One of Their Dealerships


Good news! You can now buy a brand-new Subaru without even having to step foot into one of their showrooms. Motor Image Pilipinas, the exclusive distributor of Subaru has just rolled out Subaru SPEED: Shopping Platform from Electronic Enquiry (so British) up to Delivery. Check it out here.

July 30, 2020

Bactakleen Now Offers a Device That Can Clean Rooms Too


The same company which brought to market a portable bacterial and disinfection solution for cars launches their latest innovation: the Marvekleen air cleaning machine.

Marvekleen uses nano-sodium chloride that is electrically charged with electrolyzed water to create a new substance called hypochalus acid that is a compound that occurs naturally in our body and is produced by white blood cells that is an essential part of our body’s immune system. Hypochalus acid has undergone stringent testing and is proven to kill viruses and bacteria making it ideal for disinfecting.

Leaving behind no color or scent (it will not even stain clothing), Marvekleen is perfect for homes, offices, showrooms, hotels, restaurants, shopping malls and more. In fact it is being used by local hospitals such as the Chinese General Hospital in Manila.

The MVK-1 machine can cover up to 1,000 square feet (around 93 square meters) of space silently and comes with a timer for better application control.

The Marvekleen and Bactakleen showroom is on 341 G. Araneta Avenue, Quezon City. Contact numbers are 0917 888 8412 or 0996 784 6932. Check out their official Facebook page.

The Sub-Compact SUV Kia Sonet is Headed for Global Markets After All


With a global reveal set for the first week of August, Kia Motors has confirmed that the production version of the Sonet sub-compact SUV may be made in India, but it’s destined for other global markets as well.

First showcased as a concept, the production version of the Sonet SUV looks to stay true to its design origins.


In addition, the Korean carmaker has finally shown what the interior looks like. Designed to maximize driver and passenger comfort, the Sonet’s interior is modern, vibrant, and offers a high sense of dynamism to drivers. It’s said to be trimmed in high-quality materials and has key features including a digital display and instrument cluster, and a first-in-segment 10.25-inch HD touchscreen.

The Sonet will also feature an extensive list of active and passive safety equipment and can be equipped with up to 6 airbags.

Finally, the carmaker has confirmed that it will be made available in many of the brand’s global markets. No indication if this will include the ASEAN market though.

The World's Best-Selling Toyota So Far This Year is the RAV4


Toyota Motor Corporation sees its global first half 2020 sales recover to 84 percent of last year’s. The cumulative total of Toyota, Lexus, and Daihatsu sales from January to June totaled 765,373 units or a 16.9 percent decrease compared to the same period in 2019.

Sorsogon Government Chooses Foton


The Gateway of Southern Philippine Islands has opened its path again to Foton, as the Province of Sorsogon collaborates with the quality-trusted commercial vehicle brand for mobility needs that will be used for their programs in infrastructure, sanitation, and calamity operations.

LTO Extends Validity of Motor Vehicle Registration


Update: the LTO has further extended the validity of MV registration for plate ending 6, 7, and 8 (8/3).

In consideration of the present situation brought about by the coronavirus pandemic, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has moved to further extend the validity of registration for motor vehicles.

KTM is the First Bike You Can Reserve on Lazada


As the first motorcycle brand to be on the eCommerce giant in the Philippines, KTM fans and enthusiasts can now conveniently reserve a KTM motorcycle anytime, anywhere. In fact, local distributor Adventure Cycle says that Lazada has become one of its fastest-growing sales channels.

Geely Opens in Quezon Avenue


Sojitz G Auto Philippines (SGAP) has announced the opening of its second outlet, Geely Quezon Avenue. It is operated by the Autohub Group.

San Miguel Aims to Solve Bulacan Flooding


San Miguel Corporation (SMC) has started planting 25,000 mangroves on 10 hectares of coastal area in Hagonoy, Bulacan—the first of a total 190,000 mangroves to be planted over 76-hectares in Bulacan and Central Luzon.

1,000-Horsepower GMC Hummer Supertruck Teased


After deciding to delay its launch due to the on-going pandemic, GM’s revived Hummer brand will debut their first-ever EV pickup truck for a Fall 2020 (September to December) debut.

Peugeot Design Director Heads to Renault


Peugeot’s Design Director, Gilles Vidal has left the brand. Vidal’s role at Peugeot has been taken over by Matthias Hossann who, among other things, helped designed the e-Legend Concept pictured.

July 29, 2020

Mercedes-Benz Isn't Too Pleased with the BAIC BJ80


China does it again. After getting “inspiration” from the likes of the Ford Bronco and F-150 Raptor, here’s the BAIC BJ80. Oh, and before you look twice, no this isn’t the Mercedes-Benz G-Glass. But it comes pretty darn close.

The Torsus Terrastorm is Made for Family Vacations in the Most Inhospitable Places


If the Ford Transit Trail still seems too tame for your family’s off-road needs, you’ve got to see the Torsus Terrastorm.

The Hyundai Reina is Your Not-So-Basics Sedan


More than boosting your status quotient, investing in your own car has become a necessity in these uncertain times. It comes in handy for quick or unplanned trips, most specially, emergencies; and saves you on time since you run on your own schedule.

BPI Savings Bank Sees Consumers Shift to Smaller, Less Expensive Cars


Given the lack of public transportation during the quarantine period, and the risks involved in riding a public vehicle, car ownership has become even more important for Filipinos. Given the current economic uncertainties, however, buyers have become more cost-conscious, preferring smaller, less expensive models.

Gulf Oil Partners with McLaren


McLaren and Gulf Oil International Ltd have announced a multi-year strategic partnership which will see Gulf, one of the most iconic brands in the world, partner with world-famous luxury supercar company McLaren Automotive and the McLaren Racing team.

July 28, 2020

Mitsubishi PH Produces 200,000th L300, Headed to Other ASEAN Markets


Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) reaches another milestone as it rolls out its 200,000th L300 production unit. The iconic utility van has sold more than 190,000 units and is perceived to be the most trusted model in the country because of its dependable engine, durable quality, and affordable price.

Despite Seeing Large Price Rollbacks, Pinoys Still Can't Afford Fuel


If there’s one positive outcome due to the pandemic, it’s cheaper fuel pump prices. Released by Picodi, an online aggregator of discount codes and deals, fuel prices in the Philippines dropped by a staggering 14.4 percent in the first half of 2020 compared to the same period in 2019.

Toyota Sees the Vios as a Beacon of Hope for the Local Auto Industry


As the market leader in the Philippine automotive industry, it was no surprise for Toyota to set another bar. The Toyota Vios has arguably been the brand’s bestselling subcompact passenger car, dominating with a 20 percent share of the category. To date, it has been deemed the bestselling model for 14 out of its 17 years of existence in the country, aptly dubbed as “the Filipino’s most preferred car.”

Mitsubishi Pajero to Halt Production, Next-Generation Xpander to Go Hybrid


Mitsubishi Motors Corporation announced its three-year mid-term business plan (from fiscal year 2020 to 2022) called, “Small but Beautiful.” The aim is to concentrate its management resources on its core regions and technologies. The plan focuses on cost rationalization and profitability enhancement.

Despite Pandemic, MG Philippines Sales are Up in 2020


MG Philippines continues to cement its position as a rapidly growing car brand in the Philippines following the company’s positive performance in the first half of 2020. Furthermore, MG Philippines is expanding its dealership network and launching innovative aftersales services.

Hyundai, Kia's New Climate Control System Suppresses Mold, Filters Like an N95 Mask


Hyundai Motor Group announced new technologies to improve the quality of air in vehicles and create a more pleasant in-car environment for customers.

Chevrolet PH Offers Sales, Service Discounts to Front Liners


The Covenant Car Company, Inc. (TCCCI), the exclusive importer and distributor of Chevrolet automobiles and parts in the country, recognizes the unwavering commitment of front line workers in ensuring the safety and welfare of Filipinos during these unprecedented times. As its way of giving back, the bowtie brand continues to offer FREE services and special discounts to front liners for their vehicle service or maintenance and additional discounts on their brand new Chevrolet purchase.

July 27, 2020

Is Chery Auto PH Going to Launch the Country's Most Affordable EV?


Update: It has been officially launched. Click here for details. (8/7).

Is Chery Auto Philippines launching their very own electric vehicle? That seems to be the case based on their teaser for an upcoming Facebook Live event on August 7.

Renault Gave an Entire French Town a Car Just to Prove a Point


Renault has helped create the first 100 percent electric town by giving every household in the town of Appy in the Ariege region of France a New Zoe electric vehicle to experience for three years.

Review: 2020 Suzuki XL7 GLX


The modern family man doesn’t want to be seen driving an MPV, kiddos and doggos be damned. Whether it’s because he’ll get more respect on the road, or it’s easier on the eye, SUVs are the way to go. It’s for this reason why carmakers have been churning out SUVs of late which are basically MPVs with additional body cladding and ride height. The latest one to join the fray is the Suzuki XL7. Albeit they’re late in joining the party, if their efforts on the Ertiga is any indication, then you’re in for a treat.

July 26, 2020

Thailand's Nissan Navara N-Trek Warrior is Different from Australia's


Nissan has taken a rather interesting route in introducing the Navara N-Trek Warrior for the Thai market, and this makes it rather different from the one launched in the Australian market (despite what other outlets have you believe).

Toyota Motor PH Throws In Free 5 Years PMS with This Special 2020 Vios Financing Package


With the introduction of the 2020 Vios, Toyota Motor Philippines is also launching a new financing scheme that’s unique in the sub-compact segment with its Balloon Payment Plus Plan.

July 25, 2020

Toyota Motor PH Confirms: We're Getting the 2021 Corolla Cross


Toyota Motor Philippines has confirmed that the first-ever Corolla Cross is coming. Though no solid timeline was given, it was mentioned by Toyota Motor Philippines President Atsuhiro Okamoto during the 2020 Vios press conference.

The 2020 Toyota Vios Gets Serious, Officially Drops "Smiling Face" (w/ Specs, Brochure)


Almost exactly two years after its launch in 2018, the Philippines’s best-selling vehicle, the Vios gets a makeover for 2020 (this is how Toyota Motor Philippines officially refers to it). The refreshed subcompact sedan receives a breadth of new updates, and most important of all, a brand-new front fascia.

2020 Mazda CX-30 AWD Sport: Long-Term Test Introduction


Say hello to our newest long-termer: the 2020 Mazda CX-30. With a 2018 CX-5 already in the garage, we figured this fits the bill as our urban runabout, especially at times when luggage carrying isn’t really the top priority. With all other choices at this price range, you could say this was largely an emotional decision.

Rafael Nadal is Still Kia's Global Brand Ambassador


Kia is renewing its partnership with tennis great Rafael Nadal. The announcement was formalized on Nadal’s Facebook page as his gave his fans a glimpse for his return to the court.

Bentley's New 3D Interior Trim Gives You Wood


Bentley is offering a ground-breaking new interior trim option on its Flying Spur: three-dimensional wood. A world’s first in the automotive sector, it uses a diamond-shaped pattern enhanced with a three-dimensional surface finish machined directly into the wood.

The Ford F-150 AT44 is Perfect for the Zombie Apocalypse


Artic Trucks, the same company behind the D-Max AT35 and the Navara AT32 has just revealed their latest project: the F-150 AT44.

July 24, 2020

At P 1.165M, the Mazda BT-50 is Even Cheaper than a Maxus


Mazda Philippines is offering huge discounts on all of its current BT-50 pickup truck models until the end of the month.

Kia's Ready to Show Off Production Version of Magnite Rivaling Sonet SUV


After the Nissan Magnite, Kia is now ready to show the world what its sub-compact SUV looks like. Shown as a sketch is the production version of the Sonet SUV. If the name’s familiar, it was unveiled as a thinly-veiled concept at the 2020 Delhi Auto Expo.

You Don't Need a License to Ride Ducati's Latest Model


Moving in city traffic and exploring the open country roads in safety, without sacrificing the style and feeling of freedom typical of the Ducati Scrambler world, is possible on an e-Scrambler, the trekking e-bike built by the Borgo Panigale manufacturer in collaboration with Thok.

July 23, 2020

Jaguar Land Rover to Make a Touchless Touchscreen


Okay, here’s something that defeats its own purpose: a touchless touchscreen. Yeah, that’s right. Concerned with the spread of bacteria and viruses in a post-COVID-19 world, Jaguar Land Rover will be teaching its touchscreens to predict the input of its driver.

Honda Cars PH Opens Online Service Appointment Booking


Honda owners rejoice. Honda Cars Philippines is now offering an easier and more convenient way to service your vehicle with the introduction of their online service booking microsite.

Don't Let Your Eyes Fool You: This Manual Transmission Doesn't Have a Clutch Pedal


Don’t let your eyes fool you: this is indeed a manual transmission car without a clutch. Hyundai thinks its iMT or Intelligent Manual Transmission is the future of the manual because it combines the directness of a row-it-yourself 6-speed, but without the hassles of a clutch.