September Storm

With sportier styling and the promise of more fun behind the wheel, the all-new Corolla Altis is hoping to be the first hybrid car to become a best-seller in the Philippines.

Do you remember a time when the launch of a new Toyota Corolla was the biggest automotive event of the year? Memorably, the introduction of the 1988 sixth-generation Corolla GL (as it was known here), marked the return of the Toyota brand itself to the Philippines, after several years of absence. With its 16-valve 1.6-liter engine, the Corolla instantly became a bestseller. Subsequent generations also proved successful, with the larger ninth generation gaining a new name: Corolla Altis.

With the automotive market shifting towards SUVs and MPVs, the Corolla has not been Toyota Motor Philippines’ best-seller for a while. That may change with the upcoming launch of the 12th-generation Corolla. Built on the Toyota New Global Architecture, the new platform reportedly improves the Corolla’s ride comfort, smoothness, and quietness.

The new exterior design concept is called Shooting Robust, with a stated goal of a lower center of gravity, sportier silhouette. The new Corolla carries lower stance and wider tread than the outgoing model. The interior will be based on a Sensuous Minimalism concept, with a sleek instrument panel to promote a feeling of spaciousness. A glowing gauge panel, poke-out center display, and ambient lighting are elements borrowed from upscale Japanese and European models.

The new Corolla is expected to carry the Toyota Safety Sense system. This includes active cruise control that can enable the Corolla to safety tail a car on the highway, stability control, lane departure alert, blind spot monitoring, and hill start assist.

The rear suspension will be via independent double A-arms, a first for Corolla, and a sign that Toyota just might be serious about making the Corolla fun to drive again. Engine choices may include a 1.8-liter gasoline engine good for 140ps, paired with a CVT.

The big news is of course the Corolla Hybrid. The gasoline electric hybrid (not a plug-in) uses a 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle engine (valves stay open longer than normal to improve torque and promote efficiency) paired with an electric motor. The motor is powered by a nickel
metal-hydride battery. Fuel efficiency (city, where the hybrid’s most efficient) is rated at 22.5 km/liter. Depending on the pricing, the Corolla might be the ideal fleet car or taxi.

Meanwhile, near the other end of Toyota’s product line is the face-lifted Lexus RX luxury crossover. The new RX has a sharper front end, with huge new air intakes flanking the main spindle grille, and beadier triple-beam LED headlamps.

Lexus has sharpened the styling on the refreshed RX crossover. The improved suspension promises a smoother, quieter ride.

The interior gets an available 12.3-inch touchscreen panel with remote touch pad. Apple Car Play and Android Auto will be on board.

The driving has reportedly been improved as well. Front and rear stabilizer bars are now thicker, and hollow to reduce weight. Reinforced bushings, returned shock absorbers and upgraded dampers promise a smoother ride and reduced noise.

There will be an F Sport model, with active variable suspension, cold air intake, and actiev sound control. The RX 450h with 3.5-liter V6 and high-torque electric motors will likely be available, too.

The all-new Audi A6 will also bow in September. The new sedan features a long hood, long wheelbase and short overhangs. It aims to earn its limousine designation with a larger interior with generous knee-room, headroom, and shoulder room front and rear. Audi promises that despite its large dimensions, the A6 will handle responsively thanks to new suspension options, active damper control, and variable steering.

The sleekly understated A6 features a high-tech interior with virtual instrument panel. A mild-hybrid system helps enhance fuel mileage.

The A6 will be powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, good for 247ps and 370Nm. It will be paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and drive goes to the front wheels. Wheels will be 18-inch with a 10-spoke design.

Audi will have the Multi-Media Interface (MMI) that’s easier to access quickly, thanks to a new menu system, and haptic feedback. In place of regular analog instruments, there will be the Virtual Cockpit display with 12.3-inch screen. It’s also customizable for up to seven drivers. The signature Bang & Olufsen sound system with pop-up tweeters will be available. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay will be included.

A6 will carry mild-hybrid technology. A lithium ion-battery powers a start-stop system that enables the car to shut down its engine and restart more quickly, to conserve fuel when the car is decelerating.

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the second-generation CLA-Class, a four-door coupe take on the company’s compact lineup. The CLA features a striking front end with angular character lines, stretched appearance and hood with the brand’s signature power domes.

Mercedes’ new compact is powered by a turbocharged gasoline engine. Frameless doors and 18-inch alloys complete the “four-door coupe” looks.

The CLA will be powered by a 1.3-liter gasoline four-cylinder engine with 136hp and 200Nm, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Features include LED headlamps, 18-inch alloys, and frameless doors. The interior will have Artico leather seats, touchpad, and electric driver’s seat. The CLA is now bigger, with more headroom (+17mm) and elbow room (+35mm). The Mercedes-Benz User Experience interface allows voice commands by saying “Hey, Mercedes” from anywhere in the cabin. There are two 7″ digital screens for instrumentation and infotainment control.

Price for the CLA 180 Progressive is P3.190 million.