Put a tiger in your tank! You might recognize this slogan if you were a motorist in the ‘60s. Back then, Petron went by the name of Esso Philippines and Esso Extra was one of its well-known gasoline products.
Decades before putting “a tiger in your tank,” Petron has been fuelling your journeys on the road. It all started on September 7, 1933, when American oil firms Socony Vacuum Oil Company and Standard Oil Company merged to form Standard Vacuum Oil Company or Stanvac.

Mazda Motor Corporation is set to increase the production capacity of its highly acclaimed SKYACTIV-G gasoline engines and SKYACTIV-D diesel engines. From the current annual run of 800,000 SKYACTIV engines at its Hiroshima Plant, the Japanese company is targeting to boost its total SKYACTIV engine production to 1,000,000 units by the end of 2014. This is in response to the strong global sales of SKYACTIV technology-equipped Mazda vehicles.

We’ve always been asked and here’s our answer. These are our Top 10 picks for the best vehicles to traverse through Manila’s flooded streets. Though we’re sure any of these vehicles are truly capable, we still suggest that you stay on the side of caution. Check out our Tips on how to cross a flooded street.

Now, on to the list…

By now, you probably don't remember who Christopher Lao is. He's the guy who infamously made his Nissan Sentra swim like an aquatic creature in front of a TV news camera no less. His fifteen minutes of fame, countless Internet memes, and another less-than-viral marketing campaign are all over; but the lesson we could all take from that incident should serve as a permanent reminder of how we can make more intelligent decisions on the road, particularly when the weather is less than cooperative. And with the advent of the rainy season yet again, it's great to refresh ourselves with the proper way of crossing through a flood.

Ford Philippines and its network of dealers are responding to the needs of Ford customers by offering special rates on the repair of Ford vehicles that have been damaged by Typhoon Maring’s floodwaters.

“Together with the support of our entire Ford dealer network, we are extending support to our customers who have been affected by the recent typhoon and flooding,” said Margo Delfinado, director, Ford Philippines Customer Service.

Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), official distributor of Hyundai cars in the Philippines announces its title sponsorship of the 2013 Hyundai Lateral Drift Pro-Am Championship Series. The 8th season of the series kicks off with Round 1 and 2 on August 31 and September 1 respectively at the Megatent in Libis, Quezon City. It will feature heart-stopping lateral drift action headed by six-time champion Alex Perez.

Photos by Ulysses Ang

SHANDONG, CHINA—Like the Japanese and Korean car makers of today, the Chinese have come a long way—considering they only started a formal car industry in the 1970’s. Foton and its Philippine distributor, United Asia Automotive Group, Inc. (UAAGI) is certainly leading the way with a remarkable 30-percent growth year-on-year led by its light-duty trucks (LDT) which the company claims is the country’s second best-selling brand last year.

The Porsche Training and Recruitment Center Asia (PTRCA) will celebrate the commencement of its 9th batch of scholars this Saturday, 31 August 2013. Sixteen students were carefully selected by Porsche officials and have undergone complete training to prepare them for their roles as certified Porsche Mechatronics to be deployed in various Porsche Centers worldwide. These scholars will be added to the 127 PTRCA graduates who are currently employed in Porsche Centers located in the Middle East, Latin America and Southeast Asia.

Establish in April 2008, the PTRCA is the first Porsche technical training facility outside of Germany made possible through the partnership of Porsche, PGA Cars and Don Bosco Technical Institute. The program aims to provide technical training complete with Porsche training vehicles and special tools, English language training, financial support and employment to underprivileged but deserving Filipino youths.

For more information please contact Porsche Center Philippines at +63-2-7270381 to 85 or visit its showroom located at 201 EDSA Mandaluyong City, Philippines.

Ford Philippines today announced the launch of a new service promotion, extending its popular ‘Get More for Less’ promotion to Ford’s service offerings.

Dubbed as Get More for Less on Ford Service, Ford vehicles with expired warranties can avail of a free Genuine Ford Oil Filter and a 10 percent discount on Ford Genuine Parts for any general repair at any authorized Ford dealership. This is part of Ford's ongoing commitment to ensure the highest performance of all Ford vehicles, old or new.

“While offering best-in class Ford vehicles across the country, we always aim to go further and offer our customers – old and new – a world-class customer service experience through our expanding network of authorized dealerships and attractive promotions,” says Margo Delfinado, Director, Ford Customer Service Division.

To qualify, customers must avail of either a Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) or a General Repair worth PhP 5,000 and above.

The Get More for Less on Ford Service is offered to all out-of-warranty Ford vehicles sold by any authorized Ford dealership nationwide.

Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP) contributed a total of One Million Pesos for the recent monsoon-related rehabilitation projects in Laguna – a donation of 500 Thousand Pesos was given to the City Government of Santa Rosa and the same amount for the Provincial Government of Laguna.  The donation was made through TMP’s social and humanitarian arm Toyota Motor Philippines Foundation (TMPF).  In photo are (from left): TMPF president David Go, TMP president Michinobu Sugata, and Santa Rosa City mayor Arlene Arcillas.

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) recently announced to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) that it will conduct a safety inspection campaign on Montero Sport and Strada, both two and four wheel drive models.  The purpose of this safety inspection is to check the following:

Photos by Ulysses Ang

Blame EDSA traffic, but driving a sports car isn’t a fun aspect anymore. The thought of having to squeeze a low-slung car in-between two buses is enough to send chills down your spine. And then, you have to consider the limited visibility, the discomfort of the firm ride, and the claustrophobic feel of the tight interior. Thankfully, not all sports cars are built and engineered the same way; there’s one that’s specifically designed to be driven every day, one that doesn’t compromise on practicality or comfort but feels like a shot of adrenaline every time you get behind the driver’s seat. This is the Subaru BRZ—the perfect antidote to the humdrum of everyday driving.

Systematic lightweight construction, excellent comfort and a broad portfolio of high-end technologies: Audi has given its flagship, the A8, a wide-sweeping update. The engines are even more powerful and efficient, while new assistance systems and the innovative Matrix LED headlights provide for an added level of composure.

After recently announcing Ateneo Blue Eagles’ Kiefer Ravena’s endorsement, Suzuki Philippines (SPH), the only integrated automobile and motorcycle company in the country, further taps into the youth market by adding collegiate volleyball stunner Mika Reyes to their endorser line-up.

Photo above shows (L-R) SPH Managing Director/ Treasurer Catalina Calderon, Mika Reyes, SPH President Hiroshi Suzuki, and SPH General Manager for Automobile Shuzo Hoshikura during the contract signing.

SPH President Hiroshi Suzuki shares, “We believe that Mika is the perfect choice for a female endorser. When we speak of collegiate volleyball, it is impossible to not talk of Mika as she is undeniably one of the most outstanding volleyball players in the country today. Her power, presence, and precision in the court at every game make her an ideal icon for our automobiles. We are very excited to have her in our team and we look forward to the projects we will be working on with her.”

For more information about the Suzuki Philippines and their latest cars, please visit http://www.suzuki.com.ph.

Repsol, a leading automotive lubricant in Spain, launches its motor oil for Turbo Direct Injected (TDI) diesel car engines in the market. Repsol Elite TDI 15W40 contains powerful synthetic additives which impedes the formation of deposits in the turbo compressor and protects from wear of internal engine parts when the engine runs at high temperatures. It also provides excellent resistance to oxidation, ageing and residue.  It keeps the engine running cleanly and efficiently and has shear stability additives that prevent lubrication loss at high RPMs.  

Repsol has one of the largest technology centers in Europe that help Invent The Future. It provides solutions to the needs of engine manufacturers and car owners.  In fact, Repsol motor oils are subjected to extreme test benches - circuit racing, off road, endurance under various weather conditions. This is line with Repsol’s philosophy which is to continuously innovate and comply with the most demanding internationally accepted standards.

For more information, please visit www.jointeamrepsol.com or www.repsol.com. You can also call +63-2-3777-500.

UPDATE: Repsol has announced the availability of the Repsol Elite Common Rail 5W30 as an additional variant to the 15W40 which they have launched last May 2013.

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) announced that it will conduct special service assistance for flood-affected customers from the recent rains brought about by typhoon Maring. The company believes that it is their duty to be of service to their valued customers especially in trying times like these. In that spirit, TMP is offering special discounts for repairs of flooded Toyota vehicles.

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) has announced that in light of the recent monsoon rains that brought about a great deal of inconvenience and vehicle damage, the company is extending assistance to flood-damaged Mitsubishi vehicles through special discounts through their authorized dealerships. These are the following offered discounts:

• 40% on all ECUs (i.e. engine, transmission, SRS airbag, ETACS, audio, and alarm systems).
• 35% on other related parts (i.e. electrical, body and engine parts, maintenance parts not including lubricants).
• 20% on labor.

Honda Group of Companies in the Philippines would like to express its deepest sympathy to the flood victims of southwest monsoon rain caused by Tropical Storm Maring (international name Trami). Through Honda Foundation, Inc., Honda Motor Co., Ltd’s  (Japan) local subsidiaries will provide one (1) million Pesos to help assist in the relief and recovery efforts in partnership with ABS-CBN Foundation, Inc.

The Isuzu D-MAX powered Isuzu Philippines Corporation’s (IPC) results in July as the pickup posted phenomenal gains over its June tally, pushing the company to a double-digit month-to-date growth. IPC’s other light commercial vehicles also contributed to the strong performance.

Based on combined figures released by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Incorporated and the Truck Manufacturers Association, IPC sold 192 D-MAX pickups in July compared to June’s 114-unit total, representing a solid 68.4% increase. Bolstering the D-MAX’s sales are those of the Isuzu Alterra SUV and Crosswind AUV.

CATS Motors, Inc. (CATS), the General Distributor of well-known premium automotive brands, introduces ProvenExclusivity, Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles.

Robert P. Shaw, CATS Motors, Inc. VP for Sales & Marketing - Passenger Cars, says “We aim for ProvenExclusivity to be top of mind and the top choice when it comes to pre-loved automotive products and premium service.” Customers are assured of quality products and fair appraisal as the new pre-owned brand is backed up by a trusted company and a strong team committed to giving customers the best mobility options and excellent service.

UPDATE: Due to the monsoon rains, CATS Motors, Inc. has moved their Pre-Owned Clearance sale to August 30 to September 1, 2013.

Subaru Impreza Challenge Philippine Leg 2013 is wider and more intense for this year as it will be held at 4 different locations:

• August 10 2013 - Ayala Center Cebu, Cebu City
• August 17 2013 - Abreeza Mall, Davao City
• August 24 2013 - Marquee Mall, Pampanga
• September 7 2013 - Bonifacio High Street, Activity Area, Bonifacio Global City
• September 14 2013 - Marquee Mall, Pampanga

Batangas Racing Circuit, Rosario Batangas will be the stage of one of the biggest gathering of motorsports enthusiasts for 2013.  Set on August 24-25, 2013 and now on its 3rd year, the Tuason Racing School Raceday has become bigger and better with the inclusion of the Philippine Touring Car Championship (PTCC) as one of the races to head line the event.  The PTCC, which is organized, by the AAP and the Philippine Race Car Drivers Inc (PRCDI), is expecting more than 20 cars to compete in both 100 and 200 class.

UPDATE: Due to the torrential rains that hit Metro Manila and the surrounding areas the past few days, the TRS Race Day has been postponed to September 28-29.

UPDATE 2: Here is TRS's official response about the delay:

"Due to Typhoon Maring and Monsoon rains, Tuason Racing School will postpone the opening round of Tuason Racing School Raceday slated for August 24 and 25 at the Batangas Racing Circuit to September 28 and 29 at the same venue. Tuason Racing School apologizes to any party that has been inconvenienced by this decision, but they feel that people must focus first in helping fellow Filipinos who have been victimized by this calamity. TRS Raceday activities include the Philippine Touring Car Championship, TRS –Bridgestone Retro Race, TRS-Bridgestone Track Day and Hot Beats Car Show. For more information please like  Tuason Racing School page on facebook for up to the minute updates."

Photos by Ulysses Ang

Known primarily as a maker of small cars such as the Celerio and Swift, as well as motorcycles, Suzuki takes a bold step forward with the introduction of the Kizashi. Unlike the micro city cars the company is known for, the Kizashi is the company’s foray into the highly-competitive executive sedan market. In terms of design and engineering, Suzuki is saying that the Kizashi comes extremely prepared: benchmarked against some of the world’s best cars including those from European makes. And without a doubt, the Kizashi does come away as an interesting choice, hampered only by being too much of an in-betweener.

Subaru Tecnica International Inc. (STI) took the wraps off the Subaru BRZ tS (Tuned by STI), an enhanced version of the BRZ which adds "strength and nimbleness" effectively offering a driver "oneness with vehicle" and "agile handling pleasure".

Changes to the BRZ tS are limited to handling components (sorry, no turbocharger this time). The BRZ tS uses a large-diameter driveshaft and STI's unique flexible parts. Plus, the BRZ tS receives Brembo ventilated brakes as well as larger, 18-inch wheels and a STI designed front under spoiler. There's also a "STI / tS" fender garnish as well as a revised speedometer with the STI logo inside. The BRZ tS model is limited to 500 units including the 250 units of the GT PACKAGE.

Coinciding with the launch of the BRZ tS, a special GT PACKAGE is made available. The BRZ tS GT PACKAGE features a high-type dry carbon rear spoiler (actually nicked from the WRX STI S206), black 18-inch aluminum wheels, and Recaro front seats.

Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. is calling all photographers out there to join the Shine with Hyundai digital photo contest. 15 lucky winners stand the chance to win P 50,000 plus get the chance to be featured in the 2014 Hyundai Calendar. And it's so easy to join:

1. Like the Hyundai PH Facebook page to access the "I Shine" application.
2. Fill out the form with your complete details (name, birthday, address, contact number, and e-mail address).
3. Select a category and upload a photo with a caption showing how you SHINE with Hyundai. You can also apply filters to enhance your photos.

Motor Image Pilipinas Inc. (MIPI), the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in the country, along with its authorized dealers will hold it’s much awaited annual Kansha Festival from August 19-25, 2013. Also known as Subaru customer appreciation week, the Kansha festival is originally a celebration adapted from the Japanese “Kinro Kansha no Hi” or Labor Thanksgiving Day.

Singapore has become a center stage for entertainment, and for those seeking just that, September is sure to bring excitement for everyone. From 13 September to 23 September 2013, Grand Prix Season Singapore (GPSS) will kickstart the Singapore race fever by playing host to yet another exciting selection of lifestyle and entertainment activities for all to enjoy.

With the anticipated launch of the Honda CR-Z as well as The World of Toyota Motor Show, we decided to delay the August 2013 edition of the Philippine Car Price Guide until today. And what do we have in store? To name a few:

• Audi R8
• BMW X1
• Chevrolet Spin
• Ford Fiesta
• Honda CR-Z
• Morgan
• MINI Paceman
• Toyota FJ Cruiser
• Volkswagen (NO PRICE YET)