Photo courtesy of BMW Press |
May 2, 2012
All-New BMW 3 Series Launching on May 10
Filed Under:
BMW 3 Series,
Events,
Executive Car,
News
May 1, 2012
We'll be Sorta Gone Until May 9!
Photo courtesy of Jollibee |
In the mean time, you'll get some scheduled updates, but we'll be slow on the news until May 9. Until then, wish us luck! Hopefully by the time you read this, we'll beat the crap out of these pretty boys and girls!
For more information about the Jollibee Drive Thru Cross Country Challenge, you can check out their facebook page: Jollibee Philippines. Likewise, you can PROBABLY (but we're not sure), follow us on twitter throughout the event at: @carguideph and @neilonradio.
Filed Under:
carguide.ph,
Events
April 30, 2012
Toyota Philippines Offers Certified Pre-Owned Program
Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) launches the Toyota Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles (TCPOV) program. The TCPOV is a new program where in customers can enjoy utmost value for money in purchasing pre owned vehicles. TMP aims to cater to the market where purchasing a reliable used car is given much importance. Now a days finding dependable pre owned vehicles can be a difficult task. In launching the TCPOV, Toyota is able to provide buyers an avenue where they can always be assured of the vehicle’s quality and reliability.
Filed Under:
News,
Pre-Owned Vehicles,
Toyota Corporate
April 27, 2012
Toyota Launches All-New Camry
Photos courtesy of Toyota Press |
Filed Under:
Car Launch,
Executive Car,
News,
Toyota Camry
Suzuki Philippines Unveils Kizashi Sports Sedan
Photos courtesy of Suzuki Press |
Known primarily as a maker of small cars
such as the Celerio and Swift as well as motorcycles, Suzuki Philippines
takes a bold step forward with the introduction of the Kizashi sports sedan.
Marking the company’s first foray into the highly competitive, brand conscious
executive sedan market, the Kizashi comes extremely prepared: it’s benchmarked
against some of the world’s best cars including those from European brands. Meaning
“a sign of things to come” in Japanese, the Kizashi delivers a unique blend of
performance, design and craftsmanship into the executive sedan segment.
Filed Under:
Car Launch,
Executive Car,
News,
Suzuki Kizashi
Isuzu Philippines Launches Crosswind XS
Photo courtesy of Isuzu Press |
The Crosswind XS is a six-seater model. Without the third-row seat, the vehicle can carry more than 1.8-cubic meter cargo as its entire rear area is now a dedicated load space. This makes the Crosswind XS perfect for small families or those with young children because the vehicle can easily accommodate strollers, toys, extra clothes, groceries and other similar items. Also, the Crosswind XS becomes an even more ideal choice for business use as it can serve as a taxicab, service/delivery shuttle, or courier vehicle that’s able to load balikbayan boxes and other oversized baggage.
Filed Under:
Car Launch,
Isuzu Crosswind
Hyundai Grand Starex: Official Transport of Annual ADB Meet
Photo courtesy of Hyundai Press |
In the Philippines, if there’s one Hyundai
that’s already recognized for being an iconic on its own right, it’s the Grand
Starex. Known for its extreme comfort, durability, and reliability, the Grand
Starex is always been one of the country’s best-selling large family van.
Therefore, it shouldn’t come as a surprise when the Hyundai Grand Starex has
been chosen as the official mobility partner for the annual Asian Development
Bank (ADB) meet.
Filed Under:
Events,
Hyundai Corporate,
Hyundai Starex,
News
What to Expect When You're Expecting: Ford Explorer 2.0 EcoBoost
The all-new Ford Explorer with the 2.0 EcoBoost engine is still a full three months away, but we’ve been lucky enough to have sampled, by all intents and purposes, the entry-level Explorer. Of course, the P 2.350-million price tag is anything but entry-level, but it still saves you something like P 200,000 compared to the V6. However, as with anything that’s more affordable, expect the Explorer experience to be diluted. The question is, by how much? The Ford Explorer V6 has raised the bar quite a bit by providing excellent driving manners and numerous creature features at a truly competitive price. So, how will its little brother, the 2.0 EcoBoost fair? Without passing judgement (that will come at a later time), here’s what you can expect from the Explorer V6’s little brother.
Filed Under:
Car Launch,
Feature,
Ford Explorer,
Mid-sized SUV
April 25, 2012
Review: 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer EX Ralliart
Photos by Ulysses Ang |
At first glance, the Lancer Ralliart looks
pretty much like the typical Lancer EX it’s based on. In fact, while the Lancer
Evolution takes the path of being a sophisticated, no-holds-barred flagship
that offers track-honed features and the capability of outperforming more
expensive sports cars, the Lancer Ralliart feels more like a well-done tuner
car—a reincarnation perhaps of the original Evolution.
Filed Under:
Driver's Seat,
Mitsubishi Lancer EX Ralliart,
Sports Sedan
April 24, 2012
The Full Monty: Toyota Auto Salon Amlux
Photos by Ulysses Ang |
Filed Under:
Feature,
Toyota Corporate,
Travel
Honda Cars Philippines Launches All-New CR-V
Photos courtesy of Honda Press |
Filed Under:
Car Launch,
Compact SUV,
Honda CR-V,
News
Ford Unveils Production EcoSport in Beijing
Ford has finally taken the wraps off the production version of its B-segment crossover--the EcoSport at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition. This all-new crossover, dubbed as the "SUV for the urban world", will be available in over 100 countries mostly likely including the Philippines.
Based off Ford's B-segment platform (which happens to underpin the Fiesta as well), the EcoSport comes with Ford's newest and most advanced EcoBoost turbocharged engine yet: a 1.0-liter 3-cylinder engine with 118 horsepower.
Other key features of the Ford EcoSport are: the Ford SYNC infotainment system, 16-inch alloy wheels, a push-button engine start/stop, and a cooled glove box. For safety, it gets 6 airbags, ABS, and Electronic Stability Program or ESP that integrates Hill Start Assist.
The Ford EcoSport will make its way to other markets in Asia including the Philippines soon.
Filed Under:
Auto China,
Ford EcoSport,
News,
Sub-Compact SUV
Chinese-Spec Subaru Legacy Aims High (Literally)
Subaru parent company, Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. has unveiled the 2013 Legacy for the Chinese market, and from the looks alone, you know it's aiming high--literally.
The 2013 Legacy has been re-designed specifically for the Chinese market and the changes are quite extensive. First, the ride height has been increased by 60 mm. Second, because of the increased ride height, Subaru had to modify the front bumper, side spoiler, and rear bumper. The wheels remain 18-inches. And of course, to suit the Chinese buyer, Subaru has put chrome on the side sill spoiler and rear bumper. Inside, the Chinese version of the Legacy removes the silvery plastics and in place is a piano-black finish. The electronic parking brake and SI-Drive switches were also relocated for better usability.
The 2013 Subaru Legacy also debuts the new-generation 2.5-liter Boxer (FB25) for the Chinese market as well as the Lineartronic CVT.
Filed Under:
Auto China,
Executive Car,
News,
Subaru Legacy
April 23, 2012
Mitsubishi Expands Zamboanga Dealer
Photo courtesy of Mitsubishi Press |
Filed Under:
Dealerships,
Mitsubishi Corporate,
News
Mazda Philippines Launches CX-5 and Mazda3
It’s been a while since we’ve heard
something exciting from Mazda. The brand of ‘zoom-zoom’ has been quiet, not
being able to launch a significant vehicle since the CX-7 several years ago.
But you know what they say: patience is a virtue. And over the weekend’s Mazda Revolution event, Mazda has
unveiled two promising all-new vehicles for the local market: the CX-5
crossover and the all-new Mazda3.
Filed Under:
Car Launch,
Compact,
Compact SUV,
Mazda 3,
Mazda CX-5,
News
April 20, 2012
Suzuki Launching Kizashi Sedan in Philippines
We all know that the 2012 Toyota Camry's launching Thursday next week. But here's even a bigger surprise: Suzuki is ready to move upmarket straight into Camry territory with their Kizashi sports sedan. And guess what? It's launching on the very same day, just two hours apart from Toyota's perennial best-seller.
Aside from the the hard to pronounce name, what can we expect from the Suzuki Kizashi? Well, there's still no word on the pricing, but we do know that the Philippine spec Kizashi is powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that's good for 180 horsepower. The sole transmission is a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Apart from the drivetrain, the rest of the details are still foggy. But based on pics, we can tell the Kizashi will have a keyless push button engine start/stop, USB input for audio devices, rear air conditioning vents, dual climate control, and leather upholstery.
Again, we'll be live from the Suzuki Kizashi launch on Thursday, April 26. Follow us live via our Twitter account starting 3PM.
Filed Under:
Car Launch,
Executive Car,
News,
Suzuki Kizashi
Hyundai PHL Sales Up 44% in Q1 2012
“As the Philippine economic landscape continues to move from good to great, so does consumer confidence and Hyundai’s outstanding sales performance for Q1. We are optimistic that this trend will extend into Q2, with the Elantra making waves as Car of the Year for 2012, the launch of the new Hyundai EON, and our consistent brand promotion efforts.”
-- Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo, HARI President and CEO
-- Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo, HARI President and CEO
Filed Under:
Hyundai Corporate,
News,
PHL Auto Industry
April 19, 2012
Photo Break #1: (Head) Turning Japanese
Photo by Ulysses Ang |
All Photo Break photos can be downloaded as a desktop wallpaper This one's in a 1280x960 pixel resolution. Enjoy.
Filed Under:
Feature,
Nissan GT-R,
Travel
Report: Peugeot 3008 Coming to Philippines?
During the The Philippine Star turnover last night, Vernon Sarne of Top Gear has gotten hold of a news nugget: one of the models that Eurobrands Distributor, the Peugeot distributor in the Philippines, is bringing in is a diesel-powered 3008 crossover.
Worldwide, there are two diesel engines available for the 3008: a 1.6-liter and a 2.0-liter. What motor will arrive in the Philippines is still uncertain according to Mr. Sarne. What's more, he has revealed that Peugeot will also be bringing in "a sedan, an MPV, and a coupe". Bringing Peugeot's Philippine total to 4 models by the brand's launch by July.
Source: TopGear.com.ph
Filed Under:
News,
Peugeot 3008,
Peugeot Corporate,
Rumors
UPDATED: Ford Showcases Mustang at MIAS, On Sale by Setember
Photo courtesy of Ford Press |
Ford executives have good reasons to smile: first, they unveiled the all-new Ranger, a class-changing and one-of-a-kind pick-up; second, they unveiled the baby brother to their Explorer V6, the Explorer 2.0 GDTi XLT with EcoBoost; and lastly, the pulled off a surprise by finally showcasing the Mustang for the Philippine market.
Now, when Ford Group Philippines brings in a model, even if it's a preview, it means they're dead serious in selling it. None of that, "we need a halo car" bullshit. And though it's easy to say they'll be bringing in this variant and that, well, the final specs have yet to be finalized. Yes folks...for those who've been reading other sources, that they've driven the 2013 Mustang, sorry folks we don't know for sure which particular pony will gallop our streets. That said, Ford Group Philippines says that the Mustang will be "competitively priced" and deliveries will start in September.
A formal launch event will happen sometime in June or July, and by that time, we'll have a better idea on the final specs and pricing for the Ford Mustang.
Filed Under:
Car Launch,
Feature,
Ford Mustang,
MIAS,
News
Focus Ventures Introduces King Long Univan
Photo courtesy of Focus Ventures, Inc. |
Known as a brand of passenger buses and luxury coaches, King Long Automotive Industry Co., Ltd. has applied the same expertise and technical innovation into their latest vehicle line: vans. For the Philippine market, Focus Ventures showcased the King Long Univan at the recently concluded 8th Manila International Auto Show (MIAS).
Originally named as "A+ HIASE" light bus in China, the King Long Univan is a 14-seater, 5.2-meter long van (wheelbase of 2.89 meters) is powered by a choice of a 4JB1 Direct Injection diesel engine with turbocharger or a GW2.8TC-2 diesel with common rail direct injection (CRDi). In the 4JB1 guise, the Univan has a maximum output of 76 horsepower and 174 Nm of torque, and with the GW2.8TC-2 engine, the Univan has 90 horsepower and 220 Nm of torque. Both models feature 5-speed manuals driving the rear wheels.
The King Long Univan is a practical and by all intents and purposes, a basic vehicle. So convenience features are limited to: front fog lamps, 195/70 R 15 tires mounted on steel wheels (with cover), dual air conditioning, power steering and an AM/FM radio with CD player. However, thanks to its "bubble roof" construction, it promises ample space and easy access for all passengers. Indeed, Focus Ventures, Inc. is aiming the King Long Univan towards business-minded Filipinos who are looking into transportation services business.
Price for both variants is P 950,000. If you're interested in the King Long Univan, you may contact Focus Ventures, Inc. at +632-631-0298 or visit their website at: www.focusventures.com.ph
Filed Under:
Car Launch,
Entry-Level MPV,
King Long Univan,
News
Ford Driving Skills for Life Gets an Upgrade
Photo courtesy of Ford Press |
Now on its fifth year, Ford DSFL provides training in both safe and economical driving practices to drivers from Ford’s Asia Pacific and Africa markets, including Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, China, India, Taiwan, and South Africa. So far, 50,000 have participated in the program across Asia with another 12,000 expected in 2012, including 2,000 in the Philippines.
The DSFL program has not only been successful in training drivers on defensive driving but it has also shown 20-25 percent short-term effect on fuel savings and 6-15 percent long term fuel savings on passenger cars with the potential to reduce carbon dioxide.
Filed Under:
Ford Corporate,
News,
Safety
April 18, 2012
UPDATED: More Leaks from the Upcoming Mazda Revolution Event
UPDATE: We just received word from Mazda Philippines that the BT-50 and CX-9 2WD won't be launching at the Mazda Revolution. Oh well. Still, you can't deny the sales reps are saying that these two cars will be launching real soon!
You just have to had it to overeager sales reps. Just a few days before the official launch of the all-new Mazda3 and CX-5 at the Mazda Revolution tent event, we've uncovered some more interesting tidbits about the upcoming event. It seems that it's not only the CX-5 and the Mazda3 seeing the light of day at the Mazda Revolution but we'll be seeing the all-new BT-50 pick-up as well as a new variant of the CX-9 full-sized crossover. We'll also be seeing a slight price adjustment (upward) of the Mazda2.
Filed Under:
Compact,
Compact SUV,
Events,
Mazda 3,
Mazda BT-50,
Mazda CX-5,
Mazda CX-9,
Mid-sized SUV,
Pick-Up,
Rumors
UPDATED: Honda Dealers Taking Orders for All-New CR-V, Launching in April 2012
UPDATE: Yes, the all-new Honda CR-V is launching this Monday, April 23. It's confirmed. Again, we'll be live from the launch itself. Follow us starting 12nn on twitter: http://www.twitter.com/carguideph/
In what could be the case of the oddest marketing campaign, Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. has posted on online car buy and sell website sulit.com.ph that they're taking orders already for the all-new 2012 CR-V which will arrive by the last week of April 2012 with deliveries starting May. This posting has also been corroborated our readers as well.
We understand that the Philippines will be first launching point of the all-new CR-V at least for the ASEAN market. Like the Civic, Accord and Jazz models, the 2012 CR-V is looking to be a CBU unit from Japan with production moving soon thereafter back to Thailand. Though the final specifications and pricing are yet to be announced, Honda is very clear that the 2012 CR-V is a mere "re-design" of the previous model.
Like the previous CR-V, the 2012 model will be powered by a choice of 4-cylinder engines in 2.0- and 2.4-liter configurations. If we're taking our cue from the Japanese market (which I hope we're not), the 2.0-liter engine will have a CVT transmission while the 2.4-liter will have a conventional 5-speed automatic.
Compared to the previous generation, the 2012 CR-V is certainly more aggressive with deeper sculpting of the body lines and a bolder front facia. The lower front bumper, which was highly controversial in the outgoing model, looks better wrapped onto the body for improved aesthetics and aerodynamics. Inside, the CR-V will benefit from a Civic-like intelligent Multi-Information Display. Other possible options include an automatic climate control system and Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free phoning.
Look for coverage on the launch of the all-new 2012 Honda CR-V very, very soon.
Source: sulit.com.ph
Filed Under:
Car Launch,
Compact SUV,
Honda CR-V,
Rumors
Review: 2012 Ford Fiesta 1.6 Sport
Photos by Ulysses Ang |
Typically, it’s the same story with cars, where there is in fact, an unwritten rule: the flasher the car, the quicker it loses its star power. Launched in the Philippines to much fanfare more than a year ago, the Ford Fiesta is flashy as flashy gets. On the highest model, it’s got Bluetooth voice command, the PowerShift dual-clutch six-speed automatic, electronic stability program and even Hill Launch Assist. It’s been flying off the showroom floor with over 3,350 units sold (the best-selling sub-compact hatch in 2011 with more than 1,675 sold) and it’s been garnering accolades left and right (2010-2011 Car of the Year – Philippines Best Sub-Compact and Best Sub-Compact in the 7th Annual C! Awards among others). But as much as the public and press love it, how does it drive a year later?
Filed Under:
Driver's Seat,
Ford Fiesta,
Sub-Compact
April 17, 2012
3rd Bikers Meet Focuses on Malabon Riders
Safe-T-Ryders, a training center purely for motorcycle riders, reaches out to Malabon riders with its 3rd Bikers Club Meet-Up on Sunday, 20 May 2012, at the Malabon Amphitheater. As part of the Araw ng Malabon celebrations, the host club UFRC (Underbone Fury Riders Club) is bringing together Malabon bike riders for an afternoon of fun and learning.
The number of motorcycle users is growing in double digits. Consequently, the cases of road crashes involving motorcycles are also growing in double digits. While we are alarmed by everyday accounts of bloody bike crashes, little is being done to mitigate them.
Filed Under:
Motorcycle,
News,
Safety
Say It Ain't So: Next Mustang to Ditch Retro Look
Say it ain't so. Just when we're about to get the Ford Mustang as a late 2012 model (it was previewed at the Manila International Auto Show last March, the launch will be in June-July, and deliveries will be in September), a report from The Wall Street Journal claims that the next-generation Ford Mustang will drop its retro styling for something decisively futuristic.
The report's author, Matt Ramsey cites people close to the development of the all-new Mustang says it will look more like the Evos Concept Car (seen in the pictures here). The reason for switching styles, according to the report, is Ford's desire to appeal to the younger generation of buyers (born between 1980 and 1999). Being from the Generation Y myself, I still prefer the Mustang's retro look as it ties in perfectly with the iconic 1960's original.
Whatever the case, the all-new Mustang which is slated to debut sometime 2014 (as a 2015 model) is said to be global model this time around. This means it will do battle in Europe where affordable sports cars is the norm. Hopefully this would mean that the next-generation Mustang will benefit from a more sophisticated suspension as well as world-class driving characteristics.
Source: The Wall Street Journal
Filed Under:
Ford Mustang,
News,
Rumors
Ward's AutoWorld Picks Mazda CX-5 as One of Ten Best Interiors of 2012
The much anticipated Mazda CX-5 is still to make its debut in the Philippine late this week, but it has managed to garner another honor. This time, it doesn't have to do with the available technology or the good looks, rather it's more about the CX-5's interior. Ward's AutoWorld, the same publication that awards the 10 Best Engines annually, has released the "Interior of the Year" award, and one of the winners is the Mazda CX-5.
Ward's AutoWorld says 40 vehicles qualified for this year's awards by having new or significantly improved interiors. They judged the interiors were judged in areas of design, fit-and-finish, ergonomics, safety, material selection, overall value, aesthetics, and human-machine interface.
Aside from the Mazda CX-5, other winners this year include: Hyundai Accent, Chevrolet Sonic, Dodge Dart, Volkswagen Beetle, Hyundai Azera, Chrysler 300 Luxury, Range Rover Evoque, Infiniti JX35, and Audi A7. It's also worth noting that half of this year's winners are relatively affordable automobiles showing that car makers have really stepped forward with their interior game.
Filed Under:
Car Awards,
Mazda Corporate,
Mazda CX-5,
News
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