MANILA, Philippines – It’s been yet another busy quarter as the local car industry continued its unprecedented pace of growth, underscored by an optimistic outlook coming from the presidential elections. Exciting new cars, tempting new promos, and a host of events and activities ensured a continuous fast-paced rolling off of cars from showroom floors. Here is our rundown of all the automotive happenings from July to September this year.
July 2016: Honda KidZania Manila exhibit
Honda Cars Philippines brings their “power of dreams” thinking to kids and kids at heart with the opening of a new interactive exhibit at KidZania Manila. In time for KidZania Manila’s first anniversary, Honda’s interactive exhibit brings kids closer to the world of automotive design and selling in an easy and fun setting. At Honda’s interactive exhibit, kids can experience the Honda Car Design and Dealership and Pit Crew Training. Using the Honda Design Monitor, kids can design cars based on their imagination and what suits their interests. Meanwhile, at the Honda Dealership, kids can learn how to demonstrate a car’s features and recommend a Honda vehicle that suits a customer’s driving needs. And at the Honda Pit Crew Training, kids can experience teamwork to finish a quality job in a Formula racing-like scenario.
Isuzu Truck Fest in Tuguegarao
The accelerating economic movement in Northern Luzon has created a need for vehicles that can keep up with the region’s pace, and so Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) has offered residents in the area the best mobility solutions through an informative and entertaining event. Held on July 20-24, 2016 at Isuzu Tuguegarao dealership was the Isuzu Truck Fest – Tuguegarao, which showcased to the local community IPC’s diverse range of reliable, durable and fuel-efficient truck models. As a leading assembler and seller of commercial vehicles and trucks, IPC at the Isuzu Truck Fest – Tuguegarao presented a lineup of truck models that have been configured to serve varied applications, all of which capturing the show’s theme of “Trucks for Life.”
Suzuki ASEAN Football Federation kicks off
Suzuki Motor Corporation will back this year’s ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Championship for the fifth time in a row, a title sponsorship that has helped the AFF Suzuki Cup grow into the most important and most-watched football tournament in the region. The biennial AFF Suzuki Cup 2016 is being co-hosted by Myanmar and the Philippines, with the tournament kicking off on November 19, 2016. The two countries will be hosting the group stages of the tournament for the first time since its inception in 1996. The AFF Suzuki Cup group stages will be played from November 19 to 26 in Myanmar and the Philippines, followed by the semi-final and the final rounds from December 3 to 17 which will be contested on a home and away basis.
Isuzu breaks ground at new Cagayan facility
Responding to the growing transportation requirements of Northern Luzon, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) has started initiatives meant to expand its reach in the region through the future opening of a new facility. Set to stand on Iguig, Cagayan is the new Isuzu Tuguegarao satellite office, which is forecast to supplement the operations of Isuzu dealerships in Bulacan, Isabela, Cabanatuan,and Meycauayan
Michelin Road Safety Initiative in Cebu
With the belief that starting them young is the best way to inculcate road safety awareness in the population, the Michelin Corporate Foundation conducted free road safety seminars and other safety activities for teens and school children in Cebu City. Michelin brought its signature Fill Up with Air (FUWA) safety campaign to the Queen City of the South in July to create greater awareness about the role of tires, air pressure and a regular car safety check in road safety for the Visayas.
Subaru opens in Iloilo
Iloilo City welcomes Subaru as authorized dealer AllWheel Automotive, Inc., part of the AutoCentral Group of Companies, has formally opened Subaru Iloilo to cater to fans and owners of Subaru in the bustling city and the surrounding areas. This newest dealership hub, located along MacArthur Drive, Tabuc Suba, Jaro District, Iloilo City was formally inaugurated last July 20. Strategically positioned along the main artery connecting Iloilo and Antique, Subaru Iloilo is very accessible to and from all points of interest in the city.
Mazda holds Skyactiv Caravan
A fleet of 16 Mazda vehicles consisting of the Mazda2, Mazda3, CX-3, and CX-5 waited at The Royal Plaza just behind the King Rama V statue in Bangkok, Thailand. The picturesque square served as the starting point in what looked like a scene from a classic cross country race. Apart from being a show of strength and commitment by the Hiroshima-based car company in the region, the caravan is intended to strengthen the bond between the various cultures that make up the ASEAN Economic Community. It’s also intended to promote tourism, especially for Thailand, a country positioning itself as the gateway to Southeast Asia; something boosted by the presence of officials from Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports.
Porsche shows off Le Mans-winning 919 Hybrid
Porsche Philippines has brought in the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race champion Porsche 919 Hybrid to Manila specially for the Filipinos. The first leg of the iconic sports car’s tour was held during the recent Porsche Festival 2016 at the SM Mega Fashion Hall in June, where the 919 Hybrid was displayed with the live feed of the race event at the Circuit de la Sarthe in Le Mans, France where Porsche clinched the brand’s 18 victory in front of some of the 263,000 spectators at the 13.629-kilometer track. The iconic race car then moved to the “Le Mans Victory Tour” from July 16 to 24, 2016.
Mazda opens in Negros
Berjaya Auto Philippines, the exclusive distributors of Mazda vehicles in the country along with Auto Zoom Zoom Incorporated, the same group that established Mazda Makati, Mazda Cavite, Mazda Sta. Rosa, and Mazda Iloilo, have come together again to introduce the latest full-service dealership in the fast growing Mazda network. Mazda Negros opens its doors to clients from the Negros Island Region and now becomes the premier Mazda dealership for Negrenses.
Chevrolet sets Sail
Chevrolet Philippines is now officially unveiling its newest contender in the sub-compact sedan segment: the all-new Chevrolet Sail. The Sail arrives packing smart and convenience features, dependable power, stylish design, and more.
Volvo V60 Cross Country launched
Built for lovers of design, nature, and adventure, Volvo Philippines is introducing the V60 Cross Country for the Philippine market. With an increased ground clearance and ride height, the Cross Country offers unparalleled control both on and off the beaten track. And now, with torque vectoring technology and corner traction control, it also benefits from a sporty driving experience.
Filipina among World’s Top 100 Porsche sales executives
Mary Ann “MeAnne” Espinosa, a sales consultant at Porsche Center Philippines, had the distinction of making it to an elite club of sales professionals for the Stuttgart-based supercar manufacturer. Espinosa, who has worked at Porsche for three years, was recognized as one of the top 100 Porsche sales consultants worldwide and was feted via the Porsche Sales Excellence Award 2016. The winners were flown to France – first to Paris where they enjoyed pampering in a five-star hotel and a scenic tour of the city, and then onto Le Mans via land travel aboard Porsche vehicles to take in the historic 24 Hours of Le Mans race.
Nissan Drive to Discover goes to Leyte and Samar
After touring Rizal and Zambales, the third leg of “Visit the Philippines, Drive to Discover with Nissan” goes to its first location outside Luzon: Region 8. Leyte and Samar played host to the program created in conjunction with the Tourism Promotions Board or TPB, the marketing and promotions arm of the Department of Tourism. The program aims to boost local tourism using road travel to tourism destinations recommended by the TPB.
Nissan GT Academy Season 2 starts
Nissan’s unique “virtual-to-reality” racing series is back for a second season. The Nissan GT Academy Season 2 hopes to discover new racing talents who share one thing in common: they were discovered through playing the video game, Gran Turismo.
August 2016: Isuzu PH opens Medium and Heavy Truck Service Center in Metro Manila
Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) is initiating moves meant to comprehensively support its expanding base of medium- and heavy-duty truck customers by opening a new service facility in Metro Manila. Inaugurated on July 26, 2016, Isuzu Manila is a dedicated service shop that is specifically designed to accommodate Isuzu F-Series, C-Series and E-Series truck models. The introduction of the new facility is a proactive response by IPC to present its clients the option of having their medium- and heavy-duty truck models repaired and maintained at a dedicated service center. Previously, servicing of these types of trucks had to be conducted at clients’ respective premises.
Honda Civic Club: Team FD PH celebrates 10th anniversary
Honda Cars Philippines, Inc., supports Team FD Philippines on its 10th anniversary celebration last July 30, 2016 at Blue Bay Walk, Pasay City. The Honda Civic Club 10th anniversary celebration was headed by Team FD Philippines, one of the official subgroups of Honda Club of the Philippines (HCP). In this year’s celebration, a total of two hundred eighty seven (287) guests attended the event – eighty-three (83) of which joined the car show competition, while twenty-two (22) participated in the car display.
Nissan celebrates NV350 Urvan’s anniversary at UV terminals
After the Nissan NV350 Urvan’s first successful year in the market, Nissan Philippines Inc. (NPI) continues to celebrate this accomplishment by giving back to its biggest customer base, the PUV operators, through a set of activities in terminals and dealerships this August. During this time, NPI and select Nissan dealers will be organizing short programs in different UV terminals around the metro and other provincial sites, consisting of free service consultations, free lunch and snacks, raffles, and giveaways to UV terminal operators and drivers.
Subaru celebrates 10th year in Phl
Motor Image Pilipinas, the official distributor of Subaru in the Philippines celebrated its 10th anniversary at an event in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. The Subaru Festival 2016 was headlined by the first leg of the annual Subaru Palm Challenge—the infamous test of endurance and determination. Marking the company’s tenth year in the country, a special Collegiate Edition happened on Saturday, August 13 where students from the different universities faced off.
Isuzu stages Truck Fest in Davao
The latest edition in Isuzu Philippines Corporation’s (IPC) series of truck model displays has again bolstered the company’s longstanding affinity with one of the country’s most significant regions — Region XI. IPC, which had enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship with Davao’s residents and business community for decades, on August 4-6, 2016 mounted the Isuzu Truck Fest – Davao. The event not only recognized the thriving commercial activity of the region but also highlighted Davao City’s present role in national life.
Isuzu 4x4 Action Playground hits Cebu
Demonstrations of the off-road driving capabilities of Isuzu’s four-wheel-drive models continue to thrill crowds across the country as Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) staged the third round of its spectacular 4x4 event in the Queen City of the South. Following successful runs in Manila and Iloilo, IPC mounted the Isuzu 4x4 Action Playground in Cebu City on August 12 to 14, 2016. Held at the open parking area of SM City Cebu, the event drew off-road driving enthusiasts and mall goers alike for its unique brand of motoring spectacle.
Nissan PH upgrades Sylphy
As the Sentra reborn, the Nissan Sylphy offers a stylish but practical compact sedan with convenient features and technology. Beautifully blending the advantages of technology in engineering and design, it is made to meet the demands of today’s driving conditions. And with new updates in the Nissan Sylphy’s audio entertainment system, NPI hopes to strengthen its presence in the compact car segment.
MG launches the GS
Morris Garages or MG is beefing its Philippine line-up with its first-ever SUV, the GS. Priced at just P 1,250,000, the MG GS brings in British flavor in a segment normally dominated by the Japanese, Korean, and American makes.
Mitsubishi Motors PH updates Pajero engine
Mitsubishi Motors Philippines’ long-serving flagship SUV, the Pajero, gets a new heart for 2016 that boasts more power, better refinement, and of course, Euro 4 emissions compliance. Now available at all Mitsubishi dealerships nationwide, the 2016 Pajero gets an upgraded 4M41 engine with a new variable geometry turbo system. This brings the 3.2-liter 4-cylinder’s output to 192hp at 3,800 rpm (up from 165) and 441Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm (up from 373Nm). Apart from just pure power, the upgraded 4M41 engine meets Euro 4 emissions regulations while also benefiting from improved cooling performance and stronger internal components.
Suzuki Auto opens in General Santos City
Suzuki Philippines, Inc (SPH), the only integrated motorcycle and automobile company and the pioneer manufacturer of compact vehicles in the country, extends its reach to the South with the opening of its latest auto satellite showroom located in SM City General Santos. Suzuki Auto General Santos satellite showroom, which is owned and managed by Grand Canyon Multi-Holdings, Inc., is the 1st Suzuki Automobile satellite outlet of the group and 1st Suzuki Automobile satellite showroom in Mindanao.
SsangYong designs inspired by Korea and nature
With eyes focused on becoming the most innovative and respected Korean automotive company, SsangYong understands that a strong development philosophy is paramount to achieving this goal. And they are doing so with the Robust, Specialty, Premium or RSP philosophy. Through the Robust, Specialty, Premium philosophy, SsangYong is embracing its Korean heritage instead of simply looking to the West for design. This is found in the company’s “Nature Born 3-Motion” language. This three-pronged design language first debuted on the Tivoli and will be found in all SsangYong models moving forward. Using Korea as their main source of inspiration, they have identified three key words: dignified, dynamic, and rhythmical.
SsangYong’s world- class engine plant
After visiting the SsangYong Design Center, members of the media also visited the the SsangYong Changwon Engine Plant. Sitting atop an 11.7 hectare property, there are actually two plants inside. The first, Plant 1 started operation in 1994 and is responsible for producing the larger diesel and gasoline engines while Plant 2 came online 11 years later producing the next-generation mid-sized diesel engines. Another line was added in Plant 2 in 2014 to serve the requirements of the Tivoli for both diesel and gasoline applications. Apart from engines, the plant also assembles core driving units of its four-wheel drive system such as the rear axle. SsangYong relies on a flexible assembly line to keep costs as reasonable as possible. In order to achieve good economies of scale, the assembly line must be able to produce a wide array of engines. Currently, five different gasoline and six different diesel engines are produced there. An interesting note is that the fully-automated Plant 2 is highly flexible, allowing five different engine configurations to be built there side-by-side. The same can be said with the Tivoli line where both diesel and gasoline engines are assembled together.
Goodyear Wrangler TripleMax
Goodyear launched its latest high performance tire, the Goodyear Wrangler TripleMax, in the Philippines. Designed for mid-size SUVs, the Wrangler TripleMax delivers Superior Braking Performance, Shorter Wet Braking, and Road Hazard Resistant features, offering a safer and more fun driving experience with the family. With consumer-driven needs at the center of its tire innovations, the new Wrangler TripleMax provides peace-of-mind for a safer drive, keeping families more secure across any road condition. Goodyear developed the Wrangler TripleMax with an improved version of its proprietary HYDROGRIP Technology. Its innovative tread design, optimized carcass, and high grip compound deliver shorter wet braking performance.