Hino's Modern Jeepneys Complies with DOTr Standards

Hino Motors Philippines (HMP), an active participant in the government’s Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) Modernization Program, was granted by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) the Certificate of Compliance (CoC) for its Hino Eco Class PUV units for Class 2 and Class 3 variants.

The Philippine National Standards (PNS) evaluated PUV units of manufacturers who complied to its body dimension measurement requirement required by the local government for the modernized jeepneys which are upgraded in terms of innovation, comfort and security.

“Hino has been part of the PUV Modernization Program since its planning stages and we will continue to actively support the initiative until it is fully realized. As we are one with the government’s aim of creating a safer, more comfortable public transport system for Filipinos, Hino will not only be supplying PUV units to its partners and stakeholders but will also be assisting them through the entire transition from individual operators to organizational cooperative systems, even helping them with bank loan applications and aftersales training and fleet maintenance support,” HMP Chairman Vicente T. Mills Jr. shares.

Drawing from years of experience being the exclusive distributor of Hino trucks and buses in the country and the only local one-stop shop offering trucks and buses and services from engine to body to spare parts nationwide, HMP is confident the Class II and III Hino modern jeepneys will elevate the driving and commuting experience of every Filipino driver and passenger. Hino has turned over close to 400 modern PUV units to various transport cooperatives in Manila, Quezon City, Quezon province, and the like.

These Hino modern jeepneys are Euro 4-compliant and air-conditioned. With side-facing seats similar to the layout of traditional jeepneys, these modern units can accommodate a total of 26 passengers with 19 seated and 7 standing. These modernized jeepneys are compliant with all the technical requirements set by the Bureau of Philippine Standards and feature a speed limiter, GPS, in-vehicle CCTV, electronic Beep card system and a dashboard-mounted camera to guarantee a safer and more convenient ride.

“Hino’s international reputation of creating vehicles of high quality and great value is the same foundation on which our modern PUV models are built on. We are positive that with our vehicles and our commitment to deliver Total Support, we will be able to contribute to creating a modern, safer and more sustainable transportation system in the Philippines,” HMP President Mitsuharu Tabata says.

HMP is continuously forging partnerships with more transport cooperatives in line with its promise of providing a 360-degree support package to every driver, fleet owner, cooperative member and passenger.

Anticipating rising demand for modern PUVs to increase in light of the modernization program, the company is boosting its manufacturing capability for modern jeepneys.

MINI Opens in Pampanga

Mini Philippines and Laus Group, the newly authorized distributor of Mini cars in the Philippines, today opened the doors of a brand new 300-square feet Mini showroom at Laus Group Event Centre Boulevard, in the Laus Group Complex, in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga. This is the first Mini showroom outside of Metro Manila and in North Luzon, as well as the first Mini dealership for Laus Group, operated by Iconic Automobile Enterprise Inc. The showroom provides full sales and aftersales facilities, and serves as a key touchpoint for customers to engage with the brand throughout their car ownership journey.

“This is an especially significant moment for Mini in the Philippines and marks a milestone during the brand’s 60 year,” said Mr Willy Tee Ten, President of Mini Philippines and Autohub Group
of Companies. “We are thrilled to work with Laus Group to bring the Mini brand, and its products,
closer to customers and to grow the Mini community in the Philippines.”

“We are excited to lead the next chapter of this storied brand in the Philippines,” said Ms Lisset Laus-Velasco, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Iconic Automobile Enterprise Inc. and Laus Group of Companies. “Ensuring complete customer satisfaction through efficient and personalized services is a top priority at Laus Group. We aim to deliver exceptional sales and aftersales support to our customers in the years ahead.”

Four car models are on display in the Mini Pampanga showroom, the Mini Monte Carlo, Mini Cooper S Clubman, Mini Cooper S Countryman Sport, and the Mini John Cooper Works Convertible.

The showroom includes a dedicated delivery suite for customers to pick up their new Mini, a full-fledged service area containing three work bays, and a dedicated service consultation area. Customers can look forward to a hassle-free process from the moment they drop off their vehicle to the moment they collect the vehicle after servicing.

Coming soon to the showroom is the Virtual Product Presenter (VPP). Using the Mobile Customizer app, customers will be able to view the colors, options, and packages of the entire Mini model range. Customers can explore all possible configurations of their desired car, and get a sense of what it is like to be behind the wheel or in the backseat.

The public is invited to view the latest Mini models in Pampanga, and customers can now drop off their vehicles for servicing. You may call +63 918 854 2431 to book an appointment.

Experience How Nissan Levels Up Your Drive at These NIM Tour Stops

Nissan’s unique and innovative test drive event, the Nissan Intelligent Mobility Tour heats up the last two months of 2019 with four tour stops this November.

Using interactive displays and projection mapping, experience the technologies that make the Terra, Navara, and Patrol unique in their respective segments. See how Nissan Intelligent Mobility can change the way you drive. See it in action for yourself at the following dates and locations:

• November 8-10, 2019 - Lim Ket Kai Mall (Cagayan de Oro)
• November 14-17, 2019 - Manila Auto Salon (SMX Convention Center, Pasay)
• November 14-17, 2019 - STV Auto Focus Test Drive Festival (MOA Concert Grounds)
• November 22-24, 2019 - SM Lanang (Davao)

Visit the Nissan Philippines website to know more.

Drive Home a Chevorlet Trailblazer for As Low as P 38K Down

The Covenant Car Company, Inc. (TCCCI), the exclusive importer and distributor of Chevrolet automobiles and parts in the country, is offering amazing all-in low down payment options on its selection of SUVs, pickups, and small cars from today to December 31, 2019 through its Motorama 2019: Low Down Showdown Promo.

Enjoy all-in low down payment offers on the following vehicles, including the Trailblazer Phoenix and the Colorado Trail Boss:

Chevrolet Trailblazer

• Trailblazer 4x2 LT MT - P 88,000 All-In Low DP
• Trailblazer 4x2 LT AT -  P 38,000 All-In Low DP
• Trailblazer 4x2 Phoenix AT - P 158,000 All-In Low DP
• Trailblazer 4x2 LTX AT - P 128,000 All-In Low DP
• Trailblazer 4x4 Z71 AT - P 98,000 All-In Low DP

Chevrolet Colorado

• Colorado 4x2 LT AT - P 68,000 All-In Low DP
• Colorado 4x2 LX AT - P 68,000 All-In Low DP
• Colorado 4x2 Trail Boss AT - P 78,000 All-In Low DP
• Colorado 4x2 LTX AT - P 118,000 All-In Low DP
• Colorado 4x4 LTZ MT - P 88,000 All-In Low DP
• Colorado 4x4 LTZ AT - P 88,000 All-In Low DP
• Colorado 4x4 High Country Storm AT - P 168,000 All-In Low DP

Chevrolet Trax

• Trax LS AT - P 58,000 All-In Low DP
• Trax LT AT - P 38,000 All-In Low DP

Chevrolet Malibu

• Malibu LTZ AT - P 68,000 All-In Low DP

Chevrolet Sail

• Sail LT MT - P 58,000 All-In Low DP
• Sail LT AT - P 68,000 All-In Low DP
• Sail LTZ AT - P 58,000 All-In Low DP

Chevrolet Spark

• Spark LT MT - P 38,000 All-In Low DP
• Spark Premiere CVT - P 58,000 All-In Low DP

The Chevrolet Motorama 2019: Low Down Showdown Promo includes free comprehensive insurance, 3-year LTO registration, and Chattel Mortgage fees. Qualification for ownership packages is subject to bank approval. The promo is in partnership with China Bank Savings, PNB, RCBC, BDO, Security Bank, Maybank, and BPI Family Savings Bank.

We Ask Volkswagen Philippines If They'll Consider Bringing in the All-New 8th Gen Golf

The all-new 8th generation Volkswagen Golf has landed and with it brings progressive updates that include digitalization and electrification technology. It’s set to launch on the market first in Germany by the end of this year with the rest of the world to follow.

An evolutionary version of the company’s MQB platform underpins the Golf and with that brings Volkswagen’s most recent innovations such as electrified powertrains. All gasoline and diesel engines in the new Golf are turbocharged bringing their outputs anywhere between 90 horsepower to 300 horsepower. There are two 3-cylinder gasoline versions and two 4-cylinder diesel ones. The TSI variants in particular feature the Miller Cycle for improved fuel consumption and emissions, while the TDI applies its exhaust treatment twice to cut emissions by as much as 17 percent.

Aside from these typical engines, the new Golf also has three eTSI and two eHybrid variants. Volkswagen will offer the Golf in three eTSI output stages: 110 horsepower, 130 horsepower, and 150 horsepower. Two plug-in hybrid variants will be on offer including the GTE which has 245 horsepower.

Outside, the new Golf continues a more evolutionary approach with the C-pillar remaining the most dominant feature. LED lighting technology replaces all conventional exterior lighting and as such, Volkswagen says this now becomes an unmistakable new styling element of the Golf as well. While its proportions remain unchanged, the front-end has been lowered for better aerodynamics.

Inside, the Golf uses a “digital cockpit” with touch buttons and touch sliders. The German carmaker says this will change the way it’s driven and operated and is thus comparable to the debut of the first ever, touch-based smartphone. Apart from the merging of the 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and 8.25-inch center infotainment display, the new Golf also changes the way functions are operated. For example, the lights are now operated by a digital panel to the left of the instruments, while the center console features a shift-by-wire shifter.

When asked if the Philippines will see the all-new Golf, Volkswagen Philippines says it’s currently not in the pipeline. Having said that, they did not say no. Perhaps the sportier versions, such as the all-new GTI (or even GTE) could see a limited run release, perhaps in time for Volkswagen Philippines’s seventh birthday next year?

Mazda Philippines Unveils 2020 CX-5 with New Fully-Loaded FWD Variant (w/ Specs)

Previewed at the sidelines of the CX-8 regional launch in Malaysia, Mazda Philippines has formally introduced the 2020 CX-5 to the Philippine market. Headlining the changes is the availability of a new fully-loaded trim: the CX-5 FWD Sport that slots just below the two all-wheel drive variants.

“We are pleased to launch an all-new variant in the Mazda CX-5 range which will allow consumers to enjoy the model’s premium features at a more affordable price,” shares Steven Tan, president and CEO of Mazda Philippines. He adds, “Since its introduction in 2012, the Mazda CX-5 has been our third best-selling model with close to 5,600 units sold so far. We believe that by introducing more top-of-the-line features in front-wheel drive trim, we can provide a more luxurious and premium driving experience for an even wider market.”

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-G lineup features enhancements in its suspension designed to deliver an even more supple ride. Meanwhile, interior design elements that elevate the premium feel of the cabin towards the brand’s next generation direction were likewise introduced for the 2020 model year.

Like the 2.5-liter AWD Sport variant, the 2.0-liter FWD Sport also features a new 7-inch TFT reconfigurable instrument cluster display to provide needed vehicle information as preferred by the driver. Also new for 2020 are the updated air conditioning system controls that are now similar to the latest Mazda6 and all-new Mazda3’s layout. The Mazda Connect infotainment system now comes with Apple Car Play and Android Auto smartphone mirroring across the 2020 Skyactiv-G range while the 2.0-liter FWD Sport now also features a 10-speaker Bose Premium Sound System, similar to what is standard in the AWD Sport gas and diesel variants.

New black leather seats with orange trims in the AWD and FWD Sport enhance the dynamic luxury feel of both variants. Now also featuring a memory function, the FWD Sport is at par with its i-Activ All-Wheel Drive-equipped sibling in terms of convenience features. And for the first time in a 2.0-liter Mazda CX-5, the power tailgate now comes standard with the FWD Sport.

On the safety front, both 2020 Mazda CX-5 AWD and FWD Sport variants are equipped with Adaptive Front-Lighting LED system and 360-degree view cameras. They also both come standard with front and rear parking sensors to aid in maneuvering in tight spaces. With standard Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert systems, customers who prefer either an AWD or an FWD Mazda CX-5 will be able to experience a heightened level of safety and comfort with every drive.

For model year 2020, the Mazda CX-5 will be made available with the following prices:

• 2.0-Liter FWD Pro - 1,730,000
• 2.0-Liter FWD Sport - P 1,890,000
• 2.5-Liter AWD Sport - P 1,990,000

The 2.2-Liter AWD Sport Diesel will remain a 2019 model (for now) while supplies last. The price remains at P 2,230,000. The updated AWD Sport Diesel variant is expected to arrive some time next year.

2020 Mazda CX-5 Specifications

• Overall Length: 4,550 mm
• Overall Width: 1,840 mm
• Overall Height: 1,675 mm (1,680 mm for AWD Sport)
• Wheelbase: 2,700 mm
• Front / Rear Tread: 1,595 mm
• Ground Clearance: 188 mm (195 mm for AWD Sport)
• Engine: 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G (2.5-liter Skyactiv-G for AWD Sport)
• Maximum Output: 156 ps @ 6,000 rpm (190 ps @ 6,000 rpm for AWD Sport)
• Maximum Torque: 200 Nm @ 4,000 rpm (252 Nm @ 4,000 rpm for AWD Sport)
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 56 liters (58 liters for AWD Sport)
• Steering Wheel: Rack & Pinion, Electric Power Assist, Tilt/Telescopic Adjust
• Steering Material: Leather-wrapped with Audio/Bluetooth/Cruise Control Buttons
• Front Suspension: Independent, MacPherson Struts
• Rear Suspension: Independent, Multi-Link
• Front Brakes: Ventilated Disc
• Rear Brakes: Solid Disc
• Parking Brake: Electric Parking Brake with Auto Hold
• Wheels & Tires: 225/65 R 17 (225/55 R 19)
• Headlights: LED (Adaptive LED for FWD Sport, AWD Sport)
• Daytime Running Lights: LED
• Power Liftgate: No (Equipped for FWD Sport, AWD Sport)
• Wipers: Rain-Sensing
• Electric Glass Sunroof: No (Equipped for AWD Sport)
• Side Mirrors: Power Adjust with Fold
• Exhaust Tail Pipes: Dual
• Seat & Trim Upholstery: Black Leather (Black Leather with Orange Stitching for FWD Sport, AWD Sport)
• Driver Seat: 6-way Power Adjust (8-way Power Adjust with Memory for FWD Sport, AWD Sport)
• Front Passenger’s Seat: Manual (6-way Power Adjust for FWD Sport, AWD Sport)
• Rear: 40/20/40 Split-Folding with Center Armrest and 2 USB Ports
• Audio System: Mazda Connect with Aux/USB/Bluetooth (DVD for FWD Sport, AWD Sport)
• Speakers: 6 (10-speaker Bose for FWD Sport, AWD Sport)
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Equipped
• Meter Cluster: Regular (with 7-inch TFT Center Display for FWD Sport, AWD Sport)
• Active Driving Display: No (Equipped for FWD Sport, AWD Sport)
• Rear View Mirror: Auto Dimming
• Power Windows: One-Touch Up/Down
• Airbags: 6
• ABS: Equipped
• Stability Control: Equipped
• G-Vectoring Control Plus: Equipped
• Smart Keyless Entry with Push-Button Engine Start: Equipped
• Parking Sensors: Rear (Front & Rear for FWD Sport, AWD Sport)
• Rear-view Camera: Equipped (360-degree for FWD Sport, AWD Sport)
• Blind-spot Monitoring with Cross-Traffic Alert: No (Equipped for FWD Sport, AWD Sport)
• i-Stop Idling Stop System: Equipped

This Special CTEK Value Pack Lets You Save P 980

Just in time for the holidays, CTEK is offering a special bundle for its versatile MXS 5.0 battery charger and maintainer that saves you P 980 or around 12 percent.

The bundle includes:

• CTEK MXS 5.0, which features the signature 8-step charging cycle, and pulse monitoring system that ensures safe and reliable battery maintenance.
• One (1) Comfort Indicator Eyelet that not only makes connecting the charger to the battery more convenient, but also gives the user an idea of the battery’s condition. 
• One (1) Bumper 60, a non-slip silicone rubber sleeve that also helps protect the charger from possible drops.

To cap it all off, each CTEK battery maintenance value pack comes with an exclusive 5,000 mah power bank designed to charge smart phones, and any mobile device.

At regular retail, this set is valued at P 8,280, but now, the bundle can be yours for just P 7,300. That’s a total savings of P 980.

The CTEK battery maintenance value pack is now available for purchase at select Blade branches and online through Parts Pro. For more information, interested customers can reach the exclusive CTEK distributor for the Philippines through Facebook or via mobile at 0917 575 4812.