New cars to look forward to in the second half of 2019

The acceleration of Philippine auto sales will depend in no small part on the introduction of new and refreshed models. Here are some of the models that we might see in showrooms in the second half of 2019:

Honda Accord – despite the moribund state of the Japanese executive sedan market, Honda might do very well to introduce the all-new Accord. Carrying swoopy styling similar to that of the new Civic, the Accord may just attract a whole new set of buyers back to the segment. Expected engines are the 1.5-liter turbo VTEC engine from the Civic with 190ps, or a 2.0-liter gasoline-electric hybrid version capable of 25km/liter, with a pure EV mode or a combined 235ps for maximum oomph.

Volvo XC60 and XC40 – Speaking of hybrids, if the market for efficiency-focused cars comes to fruition, Volvo has a pair of them ready to roll out. The European Car of the Year winner XC40 might come in its T5 plug-in hybrid guise. The XC60 might come with a mild hybrid system featuring brake-by-wire energy recovering for up to 15 percent increase in efficiency.

MG is planning to launch the MG5 compact sedan. With a possible 1.5-liter engine with 106ps and 135Nm, the MG5 is expected to pack a lot of standard features for the superior value-for-money proposal that MG has been offering lately.

Kia Stonic – Kia is set to enter the hot-selling B-segment SUV market with the Stonic. The oddly-named crossover will feature the brand’s “tiger nose” grille, an available targa-style roof with two-tone paint finish, and some customizable interior options. Engine options might include a 1.4-liter unit with 100ps and 133Nm and a 1.6-liter diesel with 110ps and decent 260Nm.

Nissan Kicks – while a second-generation Juke has been confirmed for production, Nissan might extend its success in the subcompact SUV class with the Kicks. The Kicks is aimed at singles and couples (or those feeling like singles and couples) with a Brazilian-inspired (read: ready to party) design. Expect some premium touches like a Bose sound system and Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility safety suite.

Suzuki APV Luxury – may opt not to continue its Super Carry and instead launch an upgraded version of the APV called the APV Luxury. It will be blinged up, with chrome all around.

Lexus LM – We always suspected that the Toyota Alphard was a Lexus in all but badge, and it’s been essentially confirmed with the news that the big L will be launching its own version of the luxury van. The Lexus LM will offer a seven-seat layout similar to the Alphard’s, or a version with just two individual rear seats for business-jet like comfort. Expect mobile-condo amenities like a large TV monitor, privacy partition, and Mark Levinson surround audio system.

Chevrolet Colorado – Chevrolet is set to refresh the Colorado pickup. The new variant will get an updated fascia and interior trim. What we are looking forward to is the all-new Captiva SUV. Featuring “stealth fighter” styling (Chevrolet’s words) including a panoramic sunroof, the seven-seat SUV will be an attractive option.