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October 15, 2012

HARI Finishes 3rd Quarter with 15% Growth

Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI) wrapped up the third quarter with overall sales rising to 15%. The company registered a total of 17,156 units sold from January to September this year as opposed to the 14,883 units sold in the same period last year. The positive performance is due to Hyundai’s impressive sales of Passenger Car (PC) models which grew by 48% to 10,652 units sold for the first three quarters of this year versus the 7,217 units sold in the same period last year. Sales gains of the PC segment were attributed to the Accent, Elantra, i10 and the newly launched Eon respectively.

Meanwhile, September this year saw the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment bounce back with an 11% rise to 709 units sold, compared to the 636 units sold in the same month last year. This improvement is due to initial sales of the all-new Santa Fe. However, global supply limitations affected Passenger Car (PC) sales, resulting in an overall 12% year-on-year drop in September sales.

Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation has announced that it will voluntarily recall 22,000 units of vehicles sold between 2006-2010 over fire risk coming from faulty power windows.

In a report from InterAksyon says Rommel Gutierrez, TMPC vice-president said that the recall covers the Camry, Corolla Altis, RAV4, Vios, and Yaris models manufactured in Japan and Thailand.

Gutierrez will start identifying the affected vehicles and will notify owners through mail.

This recall is part of the larger 7.43-million vehicle recall that Toyota is doing worldwide. It's the largest recall of vehicles since Ford in 1996.

Source: InterAkyson

UPDATE: Here's the official statement from Toyota Motor Philippines

“In line with our commitment to produce safety and quality, Toyota has initiated a Special Service Campaign (SSC) for Camry (except Camry 3.5Q), Corolla, RAV4, Vios and Yaris models produced from 2006 to 2010. For the affected vehicles, the sliding electrical contact point in the driver’s side Power Window Master Switch may experience a “notchy” or sticking feeling during operation which causes the button to get stuck. If vehicles are serviced in non-Toyota dealer and commercially available lubricant is used, melting of the switch assembly may occur. As a preventive measure, we will inspect the Power Window Master Switch and apply specialized grease or replace specific component if deemed necessary, at no cost to the customer. This program will be offered at all Toyota dealers only.” – Atty. Rommel Gutierrez, VP Corporate Affairs, Toyota Motor Philippines.

If you have been experiencing any of these inconveniences with the Power Window Master Switch, please contact your nearest Toyota dealer to schedule your appointment.

For more information, please contact the TOYOTA CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE CENTER (CAC) at (02) 819-2912 or email: customerassistance@toyota.com.ph.

October 11, 2012

Groundbreaking of Hyundai Center for Green Innovation Held

HARI Foundation, Inc., (HFI) the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of Hyundai Asia Resources, Incorporated (HARI), official distributor of Hyundai in the Philippines, and Gawad Kalinga (GK) held a ground breaking ceremony of the Hyundai Center for Green Innovation (HCGI) at the Enchanted Farm of the GK Center for Social Innovation (GK-CSI) in Barangay Encanto, Angat, Bulacan.

Ford Philippines Posts Best Monthly Sales of the Year

Ford Philippines today reported its best monthly performance of the year, with September retail sales jumped 68 percent from the previous month to 964 units – representing one of the company’s all-time highest sales months in the Philippines.

September sales were given an extra boost with the first full month of availability for all four newly launched Ford vehicles in the Philippines, including the all-new Ranger, the all-new Explorer with EcoBoost, all-new Focus and the iconic Mustang sports car.

Review: 2012 Ford Ranger XLT A/T

Photos by Ulysses Ang

Pick-up trucks, by nature, serve a single purpose: they’re workhorses. They’re the modern day equivalent of “beasts of burden”—rarely beautiful, but highly prized for their durability and dependability. But as consumers are introduced to much more sophisticated fare, how can this lowly beast of burden remain true to its humble origin, and yet, serve its new, pickier generation of masters?

The World's Lowest Car According to Guinness Book of World Records

This is the world's lowest car (or Lowest Roadworthy Car in the World to be specific) according to the 2013 edition of the Guinness Book of World Records. Constructed by students and teachers at the Okayama Sanyo High School in Asakuchi, Japan this single-seater car stands at just 452 mm. The Mirai, as this car is called is powered by a battery.

Don't be deceived by the looks though, this car can actually navigate through parking ramps and even has a complete set of headlights, tail lamps, and signal lights!

Foton's Big Show 2012 Slated on October 19-21

Foton, exclusively distributed by United Asia Automotive Group, Incorporated is holding its annual sales event—Foton’s The Big Show 2012, at Main Hall A, The World Trade Center, Pasay City on Friday, October 19 to Sunday, October 21. Not only will Foton showcase its entire line-up of commercial vehicles from pick-ups to light-duty trucks to heavy equipment, but it’s also the best time for entrepreneurs, business-minded individuals, and companies to own a brand-new Foton through a variety of promotions exclusively available at Foton’s The Big Show.

Philippine Car Price Guide: October 2012

Here's the October 2012 Philippine Car Price Guide. The year's winding down, but new model launches and price adjustments are still picking up. If you're thinking of getting a car before the year ends, this is your best guide!

In this update, we've included several new cars as well as updated some models including:

BMW 640i Gran Coupe
Chevrolet Sonic 5DR
Chevrolet Trailblazer
Ford Fiesta (price increase)
Foton MP-X 12-seater
Foton Thunder (new variant + price increase)
Hyundai Santa Fe
Isuzu D-MAX (price increase)
Kia Sportage CRDi
Subaru BRZ
Subaru WRX STI 4DR A/T
Suzuki Celerio (price increase)
Toyota Alphard (price increase)
Toyota Corolla Altis (price increase)
Toyota Vios 1.3 J (price increase)

Foton Tunland / Thunder Commercial

Chinese girl stuck in the middle of Kansas? Why hitch with some biker guys when you can always take the Foton Tunland (Thunder in the Philippines) all the way to Beijing...the Pacific Ocean be damned! This ad should make the start of your week a little bit funnier.

Goodyear's Air Maintenance Tech Wins in 2012 Popular Mechanics Breakthrough Award

Recently, POPULAR MECHANICS named The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company as a 2012 Breakthrough Award winner for their Air Maintenance Technology (AMT). The POPULAR MECHANICS Breakthrough Awards, now in their eighth year, recognize the innovators and products that have dramatically advanced the fields of technology, medicine, space exploration, automotive design, environmental engineering and more.

Goodyear and other winners were honored at an invitation-only conference and gala awards ceremony in New York City on October 4, and in the November issue of POPULAR MECHANICS, available on newsstands October 16.

Seaoil Offers Promo for Extreme 97 Premium Gasoline

Here's exciting news for motorists! SEAOIL customers can avail of a PHP 2.00 discount per liter on Extreme 97, through the SEAOIL "Team Extreme" promo.

To join, a customer first needs to get a "Team Extreme Card" at any SEAOIL station in Metro Manila, fill out the card, and instantly avail of a PHP 2.00 discount per liter on Extreme 97. He/She can then choose to enter the card in the single entry raffle for a chance to win PHP 5,000.00 worth of SEAOIL gift certificates and a SEAOIL Extreme 97 jacket. Or he/she may pass the card on to two friends who can each avail of the PHP 2.00 discount per liter on Extreme 97, before entering the card in the triple entry raffle, where each team member can win PHP 10,000.00 worth of SEAOIL gift certificates and a SEAOIL Extreme 97 jacket. The promo will be available only in Metro Manila and will run until October 15, 2012.

Inspite of the morning downpour on September 30, hundreds of motorcycle riders belonging to several Caloocan clubs trooped down to Barangay Bagumbong to join Safe T Ryders’ 5th Club Meet Up.

The 5th edition was hosted and organized by BRAD Riders Club led by Jonell Miguel (nickname Migs) and Barangay Kagawad Atty. Joel Clamor. “With the growing number of motorcycles riders in our area, we are honoured to welcome the road safety team of Safe T Ryders for an afternoon of learning safety tips,” said Atty. Clamor.

Get as Much as P 280,000 Discount at Upcoming Toyota Caravan This Weekend!

The Toyota Caravan is back and it’s the best time to buy a Toyota! The Toyota Caravan will be held from Oct.5-12, 2012 at the 34th St. Cor. 9th Ave (Beside Mercato, near the Lexus Manila showroom) Bonifacio Global City Taguig. Get a chance to avail discounts as much as P280,000 that can be added over and above our on going monthly sales promotions!

You’re a dean’s lister and you’ve been bugging your parents for a reward. With the semester starting again soon, why don’t you skip the Boracay trip and go for a new car instead? While your folks may be easily tempted by low downpayments and zero interest deals, it’s much more important that your new ride reflects who you are: smart, individual and hip. And so, let’s put on the cool hat and bring you the refreshed Honda City and Toyota Vios—two of the country’s slick but practical cars. Best of all, these cars won’t have your parents crying, “uncle” with their affordability. But which one of these is the slicker one?

Jaguar Philippines Launches XKR-S

With car enthusiasts and media in attendance, Jaguar Cars Philippines launched the new XKR-S at the Opus Restaurant in Resorts World Manila, Pasay City last week. The XKR-S is the fastest production sports car the British brand has ever made, and makes it part of the exclusive 300 km/h club.

Jaguar Cars Philippines Launches XKR-S:Video

Jaguar Cars Philippines recently launches the XKR-S. Find out more about the all-new Jaguar sports car by watching the video.

Japan's Leading Electric Scooter Manufacturer Now in Philippines

Terra Motors Corporation, the leader in the Japanese electric scooter industry, is investing in the Philippines as part of its business expansion strategy into other Asian markets, others of which include Vietnam and Taiwan.

The industry giant offers electric bikes and mobility scooters that are, to date, top of its class and also provides repairs services of such vehicles. Only two years after its establishment, Terra Motors Corporation rose to Number One with some 3,000 units sold in 2011.

Backed by ton bands and athletes such as Formula One driver Michael Schumacher, Moto GP World Champion Valentino Rossi, Drifting Professional Vaughn Gittin Jr., and Gymkhana legend Ken Block, Monster Energy is finally in the Philippines.

Volvo Launches V40 R-Design, Landing in PHL Soon

Launched in stunning Rebel Blue, the new Volvo V40 R-Design is a perfect match for those who want a head-turner that radiates a truly stylish and dynamic look. The visual promise of a life in the fast lane is confirmed by the driver-centric interior and an intense, agile driving experience with performance up to 254 horsepower.

"The V40 R-Design is designed around the performance-minded individual with a passion for those things that add extra spice to life. The meticulous attention to detail covers the expressive design as well as the agile, precise performance," says Lex Kerssemakers, Senior Vice President Product Strategy & Vehicle Line Management at Volvo Car Corporation.

Motor Image and Subaru Lays Out Philippine Plans

Jakarta, Indonesia—Motor Image Pilipinas has taken the local market by storm since it opened its first showroom in 2006. Through their efforts, they have single-handedly raised Subaru as one of the most sought after and prestigious car brands in the country. Six years on, there are no signs of slowing down as Motor Image Pilipinas announced future plans at the recently concluded Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) in Jakarta.

Photos by Ulysses Ang

Let’s get one thing out of way: if you’re in the market for a Ford Explorer, you probably won’t even consider the Chevrolet Traverse. Given that they have similarities such as originating from North America and that they’re similarly sized comparison between Ford’s and Chevrolet’s large crossovers is inevitable. But what if I told you size only goes so far. What if I told you that the Traverse and Explorer are apples and oranges—almost incomparable in both design and execution. You don’t believe me? Read on.

It’s all go for the Car of the Year Awards 2012-2013.

This after the Car Awards Group Inc. held its successful launch last Friday at the Eton Centris, the official venue for the Launch and the Testing of the annual event, at the corner of EDSA and Quezon Boulevard in Quezon City.

BMW Philippines Unveils 6 Series Gran Coupe

Asian Carmakers Corporation (ACC), the official importer and distributor of BMW cars in the Philippines, held an exclusive unveiling of the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe, the first four-door Coupe in the history of the brand.

Certainly a work of art, this new exclusive model is the true embodiment of aesthetics, sportiness, comfort and luxury in perfection. The lean elegance of this vehicle is truly an exceptional phenomenon.

Owners of the all-new Ford Focus can learn a thing or two about driving skills that can maximize their fuel economy – and they can have a little fun in the process.

EcoMode is a handy software application aimed at helping coach customers in the art of eco-driving – and then rewards those that practice more fuel-efficient driving skills with in-car kudos displayed on the instrument cluster.

Mazda Motor Corporation will debut the refreshed CX-9 at the Australian Motor Show on October 18, 2012. It will be sold soon thereafter, at least to the Australian market.

As you can clearly see, the 2013 CX-9 carries the new KODO - Soul of Motion design theme. The 2013 CX-9 has a new front and rear facia which include changes to the headlights, grille, and bumpers. Inside, the CX-9 boasts of an improved infotainment system which now features voice-activated and speech recognition for commonly used commands.

In terms of internals, the CX-9 will continue on unchanged and will be solely available with a 3.7-liter V6 from the MZI family. This engine will continue to be mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Jaguar Held First Drift Fest

Jaguar Cars Philippines held the First Jaguar Drift Fest powered by Monster Energy Drink and Victoria Court on September 22, 2012 at Kings Playground, Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) complex, Taguig. Miss Formula Drift USA Melyssa Grace hosted the event together with drift expert Ian King of Car Porn Racing.

Last September 8, 2012, the Round 4 of the Hyundai Lateral Drift (LD) Championship Series was held at the Quirino Grand Stand, Manila City. The grandstand was not only transformed to a replica of a Philippine inauguration event but also the drift series happening at the same time together with the launch of the all-new 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe.

First Drive: 2012 Toyota Fortuner & Hilux with VNT

Photos by Ulysses Ang

Toyota Motor Philippines seems to be taking “kaizen”, the Japanese word for continuous improvement, to the next level. Often, kaizen is associated with the manufacturing and production process, but it seems it extends to their product line-up. Take for instance the Toyota Fortuner and Hilux, two of the three vehicles developed under the Innovative Multipurpose Vehicle (IMV) program. It has already seen at least two major upgrades since their respective launches, responding to the ever-changing demands of customers. And now, both the Fortuner and Hilux show off their biggest change yet: an all-new heart.

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