New models flood the market

IT’S BEEN a busy first half of the year for the automotive industry, when most product launches and new model debuts are held, especially during the auto show season of April at the annual Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) held at the World Trade Center.

Here are the highlights.

January

Kia Grand Carnival

Kia launched its new variant of the all-new Grand Carnival MPV, which debuted at the MIAS in 2015.

Kia distributor Columbian Autocar Corp. offered a more affordable 11-seater version Grand Carnival that features four rows of seats. The second and third row seats can be rearranged, and the fourth row folds flat into the floor to allow for more cargo or passenger capacity as needed.

The new 11-seater variant retains the power side doors, and deletes the power tailgate and moonroof of the premium version.

The new variant’s main attraction is its P1.595 million price tag, one of the first models to benefit from the Asean-Korean Free Trade Agreement that lowers tariffs for cars imported from Korea.

Mitsubishi Montero

THE ALL-NEW Mitsubishi Montero Sport launched at the Mitsubishi Family Expo

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines unveiled the all-new Montero Sport, and its topline GT model proved to be a very capable off-roader, thanks to its Super Select II shift-on-the-fly 4WD system with a shift lock.

On-road and off-road, the all-new Montero Sport is a very capable SUV. It is also fitted with new and better features built for our highly competitive midsize SUV market.

Best-in-class features include eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shift, eight airbags for enhanced safety, and a 181-horsepower engine with a very efficient power to displacement ratio, thanks to a cleaner and leaner 4N15 Mivec diesel engine.

It is locally the only vehicle in this segment with variable valve and cam timing.

Toyota Fortuner

Within the same month, Toyota Motor Philippines also unveiled the all-new Fortuner. The seven-seater mid-sized SUV features new engines and transmissions, and comes with a 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine rated at 177 ps and 450

Newton-meters for its topline model. Its four-wheel drive is no longer the full-time system unlike its previous generation, and is switchable via a dashboard knob.

The lower variants are powered by a 2.4-L turbodiesel good for 150 ps and 400 Nm. There’s also a 2.7-L gasoline engine producing 165 ps and 245 Nm.

Volkswagen 2016 lineup

THE VW Jetta is unique in offering a turbodiesel engine in the C segment paired with a manual transmission.

Volkswagen Philippines announced its 2016 lineup with the media during its thanksgiving event.

First to hit the market was the Jetta 2.0 TDI DSG Comfortline and Trendline diesel and petrol automatic variants launched, the upgraded Polo 1.5 TDI MT Trendline sedan, Tiguan SUV Business Edition.

Aside from this, VW Philippines’ chief operating adviser Klaus Schadewald announced more “exciting” releases—Comfortline and Highline variants of the Golf, R-Line of the Passat and Touareg, and the return of the Beetle Dune spread throughout 2016.

The Tiguan 2.0 TDI AT Business Edition features “Vienna” leather seats with 12-way electric driver seat, safety-optimized front head restraints with longitudinal and height adjustment, and the RCD510 with color touchscreen audio head unit, radio, CD, MP3, USB, and aux-in.

February

Toyota Innova

THREE variants of the all-new Innova with the church of St. Augustine in Panglao, Bohol, in the background

February came off to a great start with Toyota’s introduction of the third and final installment of its new generation IMV trio (Fortuner and Hilux).

The Innova went practically unchallenged throughout the 11-year run of its first-generation model.

Toyota hopes that this game-changing model with improvements in performance, safety and refinement albeit its higher pricing scheme will maintain its leadership position.

Its engines come in a 2-L gasoline with 137.10 hp and 183 Nm, or the 2.4-L diesel with 146.96 hp and up to 360 Nm mated this a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic with Eco and Power modes.

What’s interesting is its interior that comes with ambient lighting (similar to the Toyota Alphard), tilt-telescoping steering wheel, available glove box chiller, and up to 8-inch LCD audio head unit. Safety features will include hill assist control, ABS and EBD brakes, and vehicle stability control.

Honda Pilot

Photo by William Herrera

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) officially launched the all-new Pilot. Designed and developed in America by Honda R&D Americas Inc., the all-new Pilot showcases generous space, powerful and dynamic performance, more advanced technology, and more premium attributes and amenities.

It has earned several awards since it was first displayed at the 2015 Chicago International Auto Show in North America.

Honda’s redesigned premium SUV sports a sleeker design accentuated by distinctive character lines and an aggressive new face.

LED projector type headlights with signature LED daytime running lights (DRL) and LED taillights, as well as new 18-inch alloy wheels complete the Pilot’s modern and commanding look.

Ford Explorer with Ecoboost 2.3

THE FORD Explorer 2.3-L EcoBoost

Ford launched its Ford Explorer EcoBoost, with a 2.3-L turbocharged engine rated at 274 ps and 408 Nm of torque that is mated with a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission.

The new variant is packed with more smart and safety technologies, powered by its ground-breaking and award-winning EcoBoost engine technology.

Sporting a new look, both inside and out, the new Ford Explorer delivers the ideal combination of form and function that has redefined yet again the sport utility vehicle (SUV) segment.

The new Explorer is equipped with even more smart technologies designed to further enhance both the driver and passengers’ ride experience, such as front 180-degree camera with washer (a segment first), front park assist technology, and hands-free liftgate.

March

Hyundai Elantra

Although the 6th generation Hyundai Elantra had its sneak peek last December, it was introduced in the market only last March. It made its US debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2015 as the 2017 model.
Here in Philippines, Hyundai Asia Resources Inc. gave a sneak peek of the new model during the dealer and media appreciation dinner late last year.

KIA Sportage 3/30
Kia PH introduced its all-new Sportage in time for its public unveiling at the MIAS. Arguably the best looking vehicle in its current line, the all-new Sportage is sporting a radical new look, with headlamps deliberately separated from the brand’s tiger grille.
Inside, the interior trim comes with higher-quality materials with a clean, ergonomic design.

MINI Clubman

Participants got to test the all-new Mini Clubman around the track

The all-new MINI Clubman was unveiled at the Green Sun events hall along Chino Roces Extension in Makati.
The Clubman is the biggest MINI yet, measuring 4253 mm x 1800 mm, a whopping 271 mm longer and 73 mm wider than the already-stretched MINI 5 Door.
The MINI Clubman aims to combine the driving fun and responsiveness of the MINI hatchback with a bigger interior and enhanced practicality that comes with a bigger body.

Suzuki Ciaz

A SLOTTED chrome grille with Suzuki’s “S” badge in the center and projector headlights dominate the Ciaz’s fascia.

Suzuki introduced its new subcompact model Ciaz, powered by a 1.2-L gasoline engine good rated at 91.73 hp and 118 Nm mated to a CVT (continuously variable transmission).
Its 2650 mm wheelbase allows a sizeable interior space with a 565-L segment-leading trunk capacity.

BMW 7 Series

FROM left, Thierry Weidenbach, Hwee Siong Lee, Maricar Parco, Jose Ch. Alvarez, Michael Hasper and Laurent Jaegle

BMW was the first automotive brand to launch at the posh and newly opened Shangri-La at the Fort in Bonfacio Global City. It introduced its latest generation of BMW’s flagship automobile—the BMW 7 Series.
Asian Carmakers Corporation (ACC) is the official importer and distributor of BMW in the Philippines.
The BMW 7 Series is dubbed as the most innovative vehicle in its segment, marking an important milestone in BMW’s technological evolution by combining ground-breaking features in design, functionality, efficient dynamics, and well-being and comfort that define contemporary automotive luxury.
The all-new BMW 740Li will be the main variant to be offered to the Philippine market, aside from a handful of its range-topping BMW 750Li.

Porsche 911 Carrera  and Carrera S (991.2 Series)
PGA Cars, the country’s distributor for Porsche, introduced the new 911 Carrera and Carrera S dubbed as the 991.2 series. It now comes with a turbocharged engine, and promises to deliver a more exhilarating drive for its happy owners.

Unlike the first generation Porsche 911 Turbo, which tends to be unpredictable, the new generation has all the technologies that make the 991.2 much safer and more efficient in everything it does.

Porsche’s turbocharged engines have also been praised for its linear and unfettering sound similar to its previous generation’s normally aspirated engines, keeping that same visceral feeling that 911 aficionados look for.

April

Chevrolet Sail

THE NEW Chevrolet Sail unveiled at the MIAS

Chevrolet unveiled its new Sail sedan model at the MIAS, adding to Chevrolet’s line up of sedans, pickup trucks and SUVs.

The Sail goes into the highly competitive subcompact market with an unmistakable Chevrolet bow tie logo and grill design, and with a front styling based on its Dynamic Sculpture Design philosophy.

The new sedan model comes with the characteristic Chevrolet brand of refinement and ergonomic convenience inherent in the DNA of the Sail Sedan. It also promises an exceptional level of comfort and refinement.

Hyundai Veloster Turbo

HARI officially launched the Hyundai Veloster Turbo at the MIAS. The Veloster is a playful combination of two words, velocity and roadster, and is powered by a Gamma 1.6-L T-GDi DOHC engine with a maximum power output of 204 ps and maximum torque of 27.0 kg-m.

T-GDi, which stands for Turbo Gasoline Direct injection technology, is mated with a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) with H-Matic that enhances fuel efficiency, improved driving quality, reduced noise, and better durability.

Peugeot 308 GTi

Unveiled at the MIAS, Peugeot’s 308 GTi uses a 1.6-L, four-cylinder engine rated at a whopping 270 hp.

Jeep Unlimited Sport

THE JEEP Wrangler will combine offroad ability with the practicality of four doors.

One of the most interesting unveils at the MIAS for the premium segment was the new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport variant.

The Wrangler is the most capable Jeep offroad, capable of high-wheel travel and traction in the most slippery conditions.

This entry-level trim for Jeep’s most popular model is priced at P1.99 million, and there’s a waiting period if you want to get your hands on one.

Jeep is also celebrating its 75th anniversary this year.

Subaru Forester

THE FORESTER shows off its impressive all-road, all-terrain capability.

Subaru launched the new Forester at the MIAS with new safety upgrades including swiveling headlamps that allow you to see farther into a corner, and a new exterior look.

Motor Image chief executive Glenn Tan unveiled the new Forester under the “Is there Anything You Can’t Do” campaign. This highlights the extensive capabilities of the Forester as a family and off-road vehicle.

World-renowned precision driver

Subaru also gave a peek into the future of its vehicles with the Viziv 2 concept car. Viziv 2 is a plug-in hybrid car that features advanced, futuristic styling that could make its way into a future Subaru model.

Ssangyong lineup

Korean auto brand Ssangyong has announced its return to the Philippine market last January, under Malaysian-owned Berjaya Group that also distributes the Mazda brand in our country.
The brand formally launched its Korando and Tivoli SUVs and Rodius MPV in February, but had its public unveil at the MIAS.

Foton Toplander Executive and Extreme

Foton PH introduced its Executive and Xtreme variants at the MIAS, and it comes with more features. The Executive trim features rain gutters, daytime running lights and leather seats while the Xtreme is fitted with a snorkel, tow hitch, rain gutters and a set of 20-inch alloy rims with all-terrain tires.

Both the Toplander Executive and Xtreme come in 4×2 and 4×4, and are powered by a 2.8-L Cummins diesel engine that delivers 160 hp and 360 Nm of torque mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.

Ford Ecosport and Everest variants

Ford Philippines took center stage at the MIAS with the introduction of its new variants of the EcoSport and all-new Everest, bringing even more choices with the EcoSport Black Edition and the Everest Titanium 2.2L 4×2 AT with Premium Package.

The EcoSport Black Edition comes with black 16-inch alloy wheels, black lower grille surround and upper grille bezel, black out dual halogen headlamps with signature light, black bezel on its front fog lamps and black-painted side mirrors.

Volkswagen Golf variants

Volkswagen PH introduced Golf’s Highline and Comfortline variants, joining the topline GTI variant in its line up.
Goodies for the Golf include Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP), seven airbags, engine drag torque control (MRS), electronic differential lock (EDL) with XDS, and a regenerative braking system which all come as standard for the two trims.

Honda Civic

Honda has been on a roll since last year with its new model line-ups, and it may very well extend the winning streak with the Civic. The all-new Civic aims to return to the sporty sedan template that enthusiasts embraced for several generations.

The RS Turbo variant is Honda’s first model in the country to have a turbo engine. It’s priced at P1,388 million, P300,000 higher than its entry level trim. With this, the RS is not just priced to compete against segment rivals, but it is inching closer to the more premium compact car market already.

May

Nissan Navara Sport Edition

Nissan Philippines’ newly installed president and managing director Ramesh Narasimhan’s first model launch when he took the new post was the Nissan NP300 Navara Sport Edition.
Navara won the 2015 Truck of the Year-Philippines of the Car Awards Group, Inc.

Honda Odyssey 8 seater

HONDA Odyssey

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. introduced its new Odyssey EX variant with an 8-passenger seat capacity.
From the outside, the new Odyssey EX variant retains its elegant and sedan-like stance with its “Solid Streamline” exterior design concept.

It also got new front and rear bumper designs, a new prominent grille and 16-inch alloy wheels.
The new Odyssey EX also features dual sliding doors (power sliding for passenger side).

MINI Convertible

Aside from the all-new Clubman, Autohub Group also unveiled the MINI Convertible at their Bonifacio Global City dealership.

Its electronically-powered soft-top that can be deployed in just about 18 seconds. The soft top can even be activated while moving with speeds up to 30 km/h, and features a sliding sunroof which is unusual for soft tops.

Mitsubishi Mirage facelift

Unveiled at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show, Mitsubishi Motors introduced the new Mirage as the 2017 model.
The stylishly new model is now equipped with bi-xenon HID projector headlamps, LED daytime running lights (DRLs), and LED taillights for the GLS variant.

Aside from this, it features a smart keyless entry with start/stop push-button retained from the outgoing model.

It has a more powerful 1.2-L, three-cylinder inline, 12-valve, twin cam gasoline engine with MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) system mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) upgraded to 78 ps. Max torque hits 100 Nm.

June

Mercedes Benz E-Class

GREG T. Yu, Wolfgang Huppenbauer, Felix R. Ang, Dexter G. Co, Rene G. Nuñez, Edward Onglatco

Auto Nation Group, the distributor of Mercedes-Benz unveiled the all-new 10th generation E-Class at the Shangri-La Fort BGC.

Mercedes-Benz took a huge leap for this generation of its midsize saloon, introducing a number of technical innovations. The brand’s safe driving philosophy takes on a new level and dimension in driver assistance.

It also comes complete with a new infotainment and control system, offering an all-new experience. The new E-Class has grown bigger as well.

Compared with its predecessor, its wheelbase length has grown by 65 mm and overall length by 43 mm. Its handling was also benefited by a wider track width (20 mm in front and 7 mm in the rear).

Other models that were introduced by Auto Nation Group for the first half of 2016 but did not have formal launches were the face-lifted A-Class, the GLS, and the C180, GLA 180, and CLA 180 featuring new engines.