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May 25, 2021

PIAA Philippines Adds Security Feature To Ensure Authenticity of OTO Style Horns


After a rash of fake PIAA OTO Style Horns flooded the market, PIAA Philippines has now taken steps to ensure that what its customers receive is the genuine article.

All-New 2021 Subaru Levorg Is The Safest New Car In Japan


The Japan New Car Assessment Program or JNCAP lauded the all-new Subaru Levorg for its safety, bestowing as the best-rated car tested throughout 2020.

Prestone PH Now Offers 3 Variants of Ready-To-Use Coolant


This year’s summer appears to be different than years before thanks to heightened travel restrictions, but the dangers of driving your car under the immense heat remains to be the same; and can cause long-lasting damage to your vehicle if not cared for properly.

It's Car Maintenance Weekend At Toyota Motor PH, So You'll Get Big Discounts


Toyota owners are in for a treat this Thursday, May 27 to Friday, 29, 2021 as Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) announces its Car Maintenance Weekend in all Toyota dealers and service centers nationwide.

May 24, 2021

Suzuki Auto PH To Launch All-Wheel Drive Vitara For P 1.458M


Suzuki Philippines is throwing its hat into the all-wheel drive crossover ring with the launch of the 2021 Vitara AllGrip (Update: Suzuki Philippines has confirmed all the details here).

Skyway Stage 3 Quirino SB Exit Now Open


San Miguel Corporation (SMC), through SMC Infrastructure, opened the southbound Quirino exit of the Skyway Stage 3 elevated expressway to Class 1 vehicles, allowing motorists coming from Balintawak and Quezon Avenue to directly reach Manila within less than 20 minutes from 1.5 hours without traffic.

Suzuki PH's Growth Is Because of These Three Models


Suzuki Philippines, Inc. has been on an upward trajectory since last year. The Japanese automaker is one of the few bright spots in the local auto industry, enough for them to catapult ahead of both Nissan and Hyundai so far this year.

Kia Opens In Bohol


Kia Philippines continues to bring its vehicles and services to more Filipinos across the country. Recently the car brand expanded to Central Visayas with the opening of a new dealership in Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

Young Enterpreneurs Invest in Caltex Service Stations


Millennials and Generation Z are interested to go into business to secure their future and help the society. Studies reveal that 66 percent of millennials and 54 percent of Gen Z aim to start their own business. While new business models continue to emerge in the midst of the changing times, there exists a long-standing, future-ready opportunity for the younger generations—the energy industry.

2021 Toyota Vios Cup Is A Go As Aspiring Racers Undergo Training


After its postponement last year due to the pandemic, Toyota Motor Philippines has announced that the Toyota Vios Cup 2021 is a go. And to formally open the racing season, they have re-started training aspiring racers through the Toyota Gazoo Racing Academy Philippines or TGR Academy.

Lexus Offering Up To 40 Percent Discount On Service This Weekend


Lexus is capping off the month of May with the Lexus Car Maintenance Weekend. From Thursday, May 27 to Saturday, May 29, enjoy discounts on several products and services.

May 23, 2021

Review: BMW 318i Sport


BMW certainly loves to experiment. If filling up every conceivable niche wasn’t enough, they’ve dabbled on things like all- and front-wheel drive; heck, they’ve even tweaked one of their core design traits: the double kidney grille. Whether or not people will accept the whole “kidney lung” debacle is still up in the air, but there’s one thing they can’t afford to fuck up: the 3 Series.

Forty years on, the 3 Series has been largely evolutionary. Sure, it’s grown in size, and the family tree has now split into two main branches depending on the number of doors, but the fact of the matter is that there aren’t many great surprises here. And good thing too because in an increasingly crowded premium compact sedan segment, the 2021 BMW 318i Sport is every bit sporty and smart.



Yes, the kidney grille on the 3 Series is larger, but thankfully, it hasn’t metastasized into lungs (yet). Thus, there’s no debating that it looks taunt, elegant, and timeless—as a 3 Series should. Having said that, the headlights, which now cut through the bumper do look a bit Peugeot-y, while the rear has a certain Lexus-y feel to it. Overall, no complaints though; it looks great. Bookmarking everything perfectly is the Sport trim which feature high-gloss black elements and tasty-looking 18-inch alloy wheels.

The 3 Series’ insistence on sticking to tradition bods well with the way it drives. Some of its competitors have caught up, but BMW still schools them on what it means to be a premium compact sedan with a sporting edge. A few kilometers are all that’s needed to tell you this car means business. The steering is pretty darn close to that of a sportscar with its sharp, accurate feel. Even better, it doesn’t feel that nervous through Manila’s pockmarked roads.



Driver inputs through the tiller are then beautifully communicated to a chassis that’s precise and obedient. When cruising, it has a great sense of stability and poise. Damping is firm, but disciplined; soaking up ruts and bumps with a sense of solidity. It’s extremely quiet and refined with 100 km/h feeling more like 60. Shove it through a corner though, and it’ll play hooky, swiveling around and out of the curve with ease. Tackling switchbacks is second nature. Wherever your eyes visually point out to, for as long as you put in the steering angle to match, the 3 Series will head there without a fuss. The brakes too are progressive and well-modulated.

This particular 3 Series is the 318i, and with that, it’s rocking BMW’s entry-level engine. Don’t let the badge or the figures—156 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque—fool you. The numbers tell just one part of the story; the other being that peak power comes in from 4,500 to 6,500 rpm, while peak torque is delivered from 1,300 to 4,300 rpm. It won’t win in a straight sprint, but it’s very balanced, and more importantly, well-suited to the local traffic conditions. There’s enough grunt from the 4-cylinder to overtake, cruise to the legal speed limit, or power down through corners. The 8-speed automatic shifts smoothly too, though paddle shifters would have been a welcome addition.



It would have been the perfect package if only BMW remembered to create an interior with a bit more drama and flair. Don’t get it wrong, it’s modern and everything is well-finished, but it also looks cold and unemotional. Spend enough time inside though, and the execution makes sense. 

For starters, there’s an abundance of adjustment whether it’s with the steering wheel or the seats. Getting the perfect driving position takes no time. Then, there’s the visibility which is great to say the least. A bevy of screens greet the driver—a 5.1-inch screen serving as the gauges, and an 8.8-inch screen serving as the interface to the infotainment system. Odd though that the virtual gauges are designed to mimic traditional ones as BMW could have better adopted to LCD screen tech. Still, they’re easy enough to read and understand.



Another glaring omission here is the lack of smartphone connectivity. There’s no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, wired or otherwise. So, the only way to make phone calls or listen to music without getting arrested for distracted driving is through Bluetooth. Want to use Google Maps or Waze? Hopefully you’ve got a cellphone holder at the ready. It’s a shame because the native system is snappy, easy-to-navigate, and thankfully, can be operated either by touchscreen or iDrive knob. Compounding matters, there’s only one USB Type A port, while there are three USB Type C ports.

At 4,709 mm in length, the “G20” 3 Series has grown a lot in this generation. Together with its 2,851 mm wheelbase, it now feels genuinely roomy. There’s no need to worry about head or legroom now, plus because it’s wider, there’s room to stretch sideways. At the back, there’s adult-sized space, and with rear vents and their own climate control zone to boot it helps keep everyone comfortable. Of note, BMW Philippines has chosen to fit Sensatec (aka synthetic leather). While this sounds like a bummer, it’s well-wearing, durable, and vegan (if you’re into such things). Plus, most buyers will probably mistake it for the real thing anyway. More noticeable is the lack of a folding seatback. While 480 liters is big, there’s no way to expand this number in the case of a last-minute airport run.



Also absent in the 3 Series is any sort of advanced driver assist. Apart from the usual gaggle of airbags and acronyms, there’s not much else to talk about in the safety department aside from clearance sensors, a back-up camera, and tire pressure sensors. You want to make sure this car keeps to its lane or avoids hitting pedestrians or cyclists? You’ll have to do it yourself.

No one was expecting BMW to screw up the 3 Series, and with the latest model, that thankfully hasn’t happened. Not only is it roomier and more comfortable than ever, but it’s managed to remain the standard when it comes to handling and refinement. Sure, it lacks driver assist features and smartphone connectivity, and the interior looks rather somber; but these could be fixed by ticking the right options. As it is, the 2021 318i Sport is also well-priced at just P 2.990 million undercutting the Jaguar XE, Lexus IS, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. It comes with a 5-year / 200,000-kilometer warranty to boot.



2021 BMW 318i Sport

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Ownership 2021 BMW 318i Sport
Year Introduced 2019
Vehicle Classification Luxury Car
Warranty 5 years / 200,000 kilometers
The Basics
Body Type Luxury Car
Seating 5
Engine / Drive F/R
Under the Hood
Displacement (liters) 2.0
Aspiration Turbocharged
Fuel Delivery Direct Injection
Layout / # of Cylinders I4
BHP @ rpm 156 @ 4,500-6,500
Nm @ rpm 250 @ 1,300-4,300
Fuel / Min. Octane Gasoline / 91~
Transmission 8AT
Cruise Control Yes
Fuel Economy @ Ave. Speed 12.82 km/L @ 35 km/h
Dimensions and Weights
Length (mm) 4,709
Width (mm) 1,827
Height (mm) 1,435
Wheelbase (mm) 2,851
Curb Weight (kg) 1,565
Suspension and Tires
Front Suspension Independent, MacPherson Strut
Rear Suspension Independent, Multi-link
Front Brakes Vented Disc
Rear Brakes Vented Disc
Parking Brake Electric
Tires Hankook Ventus S1 Evo3 RFT 225/45 R 18 Y (f & r)
Wheels Alloy
Safety Features
Airbags 8
Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) Yes, with EBD
Traction / Stability Control Yes
Parking Sensors Yes, Front and Rear
Parking Camera Yes, Rear
Front Seatbelts 3-pt ELR with pre-tensioner x 2
Rear Seatbelts 3-pt ELR with pre-tensioner x 2,
3-pt ELR x 1
ISOFIX Child Seat Anchor Yes
Other Safety Features Hill Start Assist
Tire Pressure Monitoring
Parking Assistant
Exterior Features
Headlights LED
Fog Lamps Yes, Front and Rear (LED)
Auto Lights Yes
Rain-sensing Wipers Yes
Tailgate Electric
Interior Features
Steering Wheel Adjust Tilt/Telescopic
Steering Wheel Material Leather
Seating Adjustment (driver) Electric, 8-way, w/ Memory
Seating Adjustment (front passenger) Electric, 8-way
Seating Surface Synthetic Leather
Folding Rear Seat No
Sunroof No
Trip Computer Yes
Convenience Features
Power Steering Yes
Power Door Locks Yes
Power Windows Yes
Power Mirrors Yes, w/ Fold
Rear View Mirror Auto-dimming
Proximity Key Yes
Climate Control Auto, Tri-Zone, w/ Rear Vents
Audio System Stereo
USB Type A x 1
USB Type C x 3
Bluetooth
Smartphone Connectivity None
# of Speakers 8
Steering Controls Yes

May 22, 2021

JAC Philippines Launches Revamped 2021 S2 SUV For Just P 748k (w/ Specs)


Triesenburg Auto Corporation (TAC), the official distributor of JAC passenger cars and light commercial vehicles in the country brings in the refreshed 2021 JAC S2. As one of their best-selling models locally, the S2 sub-compact crossover continues with its strong value-for-money formula.

Priced at P 748,000 for the MT variant, and P 798,000 for the CVT variant, the 2021 S2 gets a new fascia. It has been streamlined with its revised trapezoidal grille as well as headlights that now integrate daytime running lights. At each corner, the 16-inch alloy wheels get a new design while still rolling on 205/55R16 tires.


While changes are minor outside, JAC Philippines responds to owner clamors by giving the 2021 S2 a more competitive infotainment system. It now sports a 9-inch multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Moreover, the leather material on the seats and trims are new, and now accented in red for a sportier look.

Mechanically, the 2021 JAC S2 continues with a normally-aspirated 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine making 111 horsepower and 146 Nm of torque. That said, its gear ratio has been improved for better off-the-line acceleration. Both models also benefit from cruise control. Underneath, it continues with the same suspension setup—independent MacPherson Struts upfront and a Torsion Beam Axle at the back. It also features four-wheel disc brakes.


Completing the 2021 JAC S2’s handling package is its standard ABS with EBD as well as electronic stability control with integrated hill start assist. This complements its dual SRS airbags, seatbelt reminder system, as well as its rear parking sensors with back-up camera.

Since JAC’s arrival in 2018, TAC says it was never really their objective to get a huge chunk of the local auto market. Instead, they wanted to stick to a modest, but well-satisfied user base. With that in mind, the S2 has had a community of satisfied and proud owners.

Buyers can also opt to buy the 2021 JAC S2 online through the official JAC Philippines website.


2021 JAC S2 Specifications:
  • Powertrain: 1.5-liter VVT (Model: HFC4GB2.3D)
  • Fuel: Gasoline
  • Maximum Power: 111 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
  • Maximum Torque: 146 Nm @ 3,500-4,500 rpm
  • Emissions: Euro V
  • Transmission: CVT (Model: VT2i) w/ Cruise Control
  • Maximum Speed: 170 km/h
  • Maximum Gradeability: 30 percent
  • Overall Length: 4,135 mm
  • Overall Width: 1,750 mm
  • Overall Height: 1,568 mm
  • Wheelbase: 2,490 mm
  • Minimum Ground Clearance: 120 mm
  • Approach Angle: 17 degrees
  • Departure Angle: 21 degrees
  • Curb Weight: 1,175 kg
  • Gross Vehicle Weight: 1,550 kg
  • Seats: 5
  • Trunk: 450 liters
  • Fuel Tank: 42 liters
  • Front Suspension: MacPherson Strut
  • Rear Suspension: Torsion Beam Axle
  • Steering: Electric Power Steering
  • Front Brakes: Vented Disc
  • Rear Brakes: Solid Disc
  • Parking Brake: Manual, Hand Brake
  • Tire Size: 205/55 R 16
2021 JAC S2 Exterior Features:
  • Roof Rack
  • Shark’s Fin Antenna
  • Halogen Headlamps
  • Daytime Running Lights
  • Front Fog Lamp
  • Rear Fog Lamp
  • Trunk Lamp
  • Height-Adjustable Headlamps
  • Automatic Headlamps
  • Follow Me Home Function
  • Steering Light Assistance
  • Power Side Mirrors
  • Rear Wiper
2021 JAC S2 Interior Features:
  • Front Reading Lights
  • One-Touch Down for Driver
  • Driver and Co-Driver Sun Visor
  • Leather Steering Wheel w/ Multi-Function Control
  • Tilt Adjust Steering Column
  • Manual Air Conditioning
  • 4-way Manual Adjust Driver and Co-Driver Seat
  • Leather Seating
  • 9-inch Multimedia Touchscreen w/ Radio, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth Phone Link
  • Front USB
  • Front 12V Socket
  • 4 Speakers
2021 JAC S2 Safety Features:
  • Dual SRS Airbags
  • 3-pt Seatbelts x 5
  • Seat Belt Reminder
  • ISOFIX
  • ABS with EBD
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • Hill Start Assist
  • Rear Parking Sensor
  • Back-Up Camera

Review: 2021 Honda City 1.5 RS


For avid readers, they’ll know we’ve tackled the 2021 Honda City before in the 1.5 S AT guise (read the review here). While it had minor flaws, it was a reminder that Honda always set the benchmark in the sub-compact sedan category. It also showed that even as a base model, it was a solid offering. And people seemed to agree—the 1.5 S AT is the best-selling City variant in the country. But what if you wanted something a bit more stylish? Something with more bells and whistles? Well, there’s this: the 2021 City 1.5 RS.

ASEAN NCAP Toughens Standards To Get 5-Star Rating


The ASEAN New Car Assessment Program or NCAP is toughening the requirements to net a perfect 5-star rating. The new testing protocols will require a bevy of driver assist technologies aimed at reducing pedestrian and motorcyclist-related accidents. It will be in effect this year until 2025.

As Changan Overtakes Geely In China Sales, They Look To Partner With Huawei On EVs, Chips


Changan Automobile, one of the so-called “big four” automakers in China is forming a partnership with technology giant Huawei. The partnership will include not just the development of “intelligent” EVs, but of automotive chips as well.

Maxus Makati Is The Brand's 8th Dealership In The Philippines


Maxus Philippines marked another milestone when it formally opened its Maxus Makati showroom, its 8th dealership since launching the brand in the country in June 2019.

IWC and Mercedes-AMG Launches IWC Pilot Chronograph Edition AMG


IWC Schaffhausen and Mercedes-AMG have launched the IWC Pilot Chronograph Edition AMG—the latest timepiece that celebrates their long-time partnership that started in 2004.

May 21, 2021

San Miguel Picks Up Pace On SLEX Extension


San Miguel Corporation (SMC) said work on its 66.74-km. South Luzon Expressway Tollroad-4 (SLEX-TR4) project, which will extend from Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Lucena City, in Quezon province, is picking up pace despite pandemic restrictions and unsettled right-of-way issues.

Skyway Management Says 60 km/h Is The Speed Limit


There’s been some confusion about the speed limit on one particular expressway here in Luzon: Skyway. The elevated toll road became the subject of a viral post on Facebook after its enforcers are shown to have been equipped with new night vision speed guns.