Autocar Philippines – Wheels December 2024-January 2025

FIRST NEWS: TOYOTA FOUNDATION TO PARTNER WITH DENR FOR TAMARAW CONSERVATION

MORE MOBILITY

December 2024 – January 2025 Est. 1895 | www.autocar.com.ph

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LEGEND ON FOUR WHEELS The Tamaraw’s Triumphant Return

NEW CARS

TESLA MODEL 3 AND MODEL Y

F E AT U R E

9TH PHILIPPINE INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW

R OA D T R I P

NEW HONDA CIVIC E:HEV DRIVE TO BAGUIO

THIS MONTH December 2024 – January 2025 | Volume 11

OPINIONS 2 4 6

Editors Note Ira Panganiban Opposite Lock Binky Siddayao My Week In Cars Steve Cropley

NEW CARS 10 BYD Seal 5 DM-i 11 Kia Carnival Turbo HEV Suzuki Jimny 3-Door Rhino Edition

12 Tesla Model 3 and Model Y 13 Volvo EX30

FIRST NEWS 14 Toyota Foundation to partner with DENR

NEW CARS 12

for Tamaraw conservation

15 Toyota Philippines, Carlos Yulo inspire young athletes in “Start Your Impossible” Gymnastics Camp

16 ACMobility announces implementation of paid EV charging

17 GAC Emzoom reaches 2,500 units sold 18 Isuzu Philippines triumphs with another Triple Star Award for Aftersales Excellence

19 A message from FordPH’s incoming Managing Director Pedro Simoes RSA – New SLEX 6X6 lanes operational in December; full expansion complete by mid-2025

20 OMODA E5 earns Euro NCAP and ANCAP Five-Star Safety ratings

21 Nissan Philippines celebrates 55 Years with “Unstoppable at 55”

22 MG Iloilo inaugurates 22kW AC EV charging stations at Festive Walk Mall Iloilo

23 Experience hassle-free vehicle usership with KINTO One – Toyota‘s Car Leasing solution BAIC B30e Dune: First batch sold out, new units now available

COVER STORY

COVERSTORY 24

24 Legend On Four Wheels: The Tamaraw’s Triumphant Return

FEATURE 34 9th Philippine International Motor Show A BagFull of Surprises

40 12th Philippine EV Summit Encourages to Drive Electric

ROAD TRIP 44 New Honda Civic e:HEV drive to Baguio

MOTORSPORTS 48 Lynk & Co Cyan Racing triumphs in Macau, claims 7 world titles in 6 years

49 Tuason Racing to hold the Arthur Tuason Memorial ESports Cup

50 MazdaPH holds 2024 Mazda Fan Festa Philippines at Clark Speedway

51 2024 TGR Philippine Cup Has An ActionPacked Season Finale

FEATURE 40 DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 1

THIS MONTH

Neil Pagulayan Executive Editor

EDITOR’S NOTE

ell, the Christmas season is finally here and the end of what was probably one of the busiest, fastest paced years in Philippine motoring. This year brought with it many launches and more brand and model choices for you as a customer and its an exciting time to buy a car as there is something for everybody, gas, diesel, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and EV!

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In this year ender issue, we look back at the recently concluded Philippine International Motor Show and the Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit. Industry News, and in Fresh Out the Box, the year ender launches are the BYD Seal 5 DM-i, Kia Carnival turbo Hybrid, Suzuki Jimny 3-Door Rhino Edition, Tesla Model 3 and Model Y and the Volvo EX30.

In our Road Trip, we take the recently launched Honda Civic e:HEV on a drive up to Baguio. We enjoy these road trips and this was definitely an eye opener on the build quality of this car.

Our main feature is Toyota’s much anticipated Next Generation Tamaraw, the comeback of this nameplate is a big deal as it is also locally manufactured in Sta. Rosa and is touted as your business vehicle available in various configurations, engine and transmission options.

As we come to the end of 2024 and usher in 2025, lets remember to be thankful for our blessings and people who have been a part of getting to where we are today, and learn from the challenges we’ve encountered. We also lovingly remember those who were with us, but are no longer with us now, and always keep them in our hearts.

From your AutocarPH family, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

2 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

THIS MONTH Technical Editor

Binky P. Siddayao OPPOSITE LOCK

TRUST THY MECHANICS hen taking your car to the mechanic, chances are something needs fixing, replacing, or tuning up.

One may worry the mechanic won’t be able to diagnose the problem, or it may cost a lot to fix, or try to sell you services that you don’t need. With these reasons, people could avoid taking their car in for service. ruth is there are real mechanics who are specialists in their field. xperts in car maintenance and repairs, which is why we come to them with our problems. Work to develop a good relationship with a talented mechanic to make trips to the shop more en oyable and more productive for both. ike any specialists in any field, mechanics come with varying personalities, expertise, and styles. earch for a mechanic that matches your needs. If you own a foreign car that re uires specialty parts, you will want to find a shop whose technicians are trained in repairing that make of car. “Interrogate” the mechanic on their ualifications. sk around the shop. he lowest price on repairs service parts is not always indicative of the best place to take your vehicle. repair shop is a place of business.

When a mechanic executes a repair, there are fixed costs, such as the cost of replacement parts and variable costs, such as labor charges. profitable business re uires them to balance the cost of parts and employee’s pay against the need to keep their prices down for customers.

If choosing for all-time low uotes all the time, you may get the least experienced individual and the lowest uality parts. e critical in keeping the big picture in mind. veryone knows that mechanical repairs, if you own a car, even periodic

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care could cost an arm and leg. n oil change would cost a lot more if you add up the recommended maintenance parts. evertheless, ust because a mechanic recommends additional services doesn’t mean you don’t need them. utomobiles are pieces of complicated mechanisms that re uire regular oil changes, tire rotations, and transmission flushes. If they recommend that you do these items on time is a sign that they are looking out for you and your vehicle. utting off services for too long can lead to excess wear and premature part failure.

Developing a relationship of mutual trust and respect with your mechanic is important. rusting them to be open and honest with you to perform uality repairs, gives you peace of mind and a good rapport. he trust should be a two-way street. When you find a mechanic that you like, stay loyal to them. ring them your repeat business. hey will get to know you and your

GET IN TOUCH

binkypsiddayao@gmail.com

4 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

vehicle. eep a service history of your car on-hand too, and they may be able to diagnose and repair problems more uickly. good compliment that one can give your mechanic is to refer friends and family to them. Don’t forget to let them mention your name. eferrals sends a message that you trust your mechanic enough to affix your name to their shop. rapport of trust and friendship with your mechanic will put your mind at ease and allow your mechanic to their ob of keeping your vehicle running safely. n auto mechanic who is familiar with you and your vehicle is like a doctor with a full health history. our mechanic will know what work has already been done and what to look for when it is time to diagnose a problem.

Drive afely appy olidays

COMMENT

MY WEEK IN CARS No driver required: AV-24 will do full-tilt runs at Goodwood FoS

Renault CEO de Meo sketched his own R5

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When we stand and watch it go, it will seem a mite scary ❞

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AND ANOTHER THING… Last night, an offer of free Tesla Supercharging fell into my email, if I bought a car. Polestar has been crowing about zero deposit and zero interest. Fat discounts are offered on Stellantis EVs and even BMW has deals on its i cars. Buyers with such an advantage often smell a rat and sit on their hands. But I can’t help thinking the day is coming when we’ll wish we’d grabbed some of these offers.

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GET IN TOUCH

steve.cropley@haymarket.com

@stvcr

The original car magazine, published since 1895 ‘in the interests of the mechanically propelled road carriage’ EDITORIAL TEAM IRA V. PANGANIBAN Editor-in-Chief EDGAR QUESADA Associate Editor NEIL PAGULAYAN Executive Editor BINKY SIDDAYAO Technical Editor OLSON CAMACHO Off Road Editor MATT PRIOR | KRIS LIM | BINKY SIDDAYAO Columnists JOHN REY SAN DIEGO Staff Writer WILLIAM HERRERA | LUIS GERONA | RANDY PEREGRINO Contributors ANJO PEREZ Senior Photographer BONG BOADO | KEITH MARK DADOR | LOUIE CAMACHO MARK QUESADA | ALAN RANCH SEVILLA | RA N D O L P H D E L EO N ARNOLD RIODEQUE | BOBS JEROME | MEMERT MONTELOYOLA Photographers RAYMUND RAVANERA Graphic Designer C O R P O R AT E T E A M Chairman of the Board GEORGE APACIBLE President IRA V. PANGANIBAN Vice President RONALDO TRINIDAD Secretary OLSON CAMACHO Treasurer EDGAR QUESADA Board Director ANJO PEREZ Director for Sales and Marketing CAROL “DANG” B. DORIA Administrative Head KAITE S. BELGICA

International Director Alastair Lewis alastair.lewis@haymarket.com Syndication Enquiries Isla Friend isla.friend@haymarket.com Editor Matt Burt Editorial Director, Automotive Jim Holder Managing Editor Allan Muir Reviews Editor Will Nightingale Chief tester Matt Saunders New Cars Editor Rory White Managing Director David Prasher Chief Operating Officer Brian Freeman Chief Executive Kevin Costello Chairman Rupert Heseltine Autocar magazine and the Autocar logo are trademarks of Haymarket Media Group Limited, United Kingdom and used under license by Autobrands Media Ventures, Inc. Content reproduced from Autocar magazine © Haymarket Media Group Limited 2011 all rights reserved.

The views and opinions expressed within Autocar PH magazine are not necessarily those of Haymarket Media Group Limited or those of its contributors.

Autocar magazine is published in China, Greece, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Poland, Singapore, Thailand, and United Kingdom. www.haymarket.com

SPECIAL THANKS TO Toyota Motor Philippines Masando Hashimoto President Jose Maria M. Atienza Executive Vice President of Marketing and Vehicle Logistics Elvin G. Luciano Vice President of Marketing Services Mixie Nicholli D. Flavier Public Relations Head

Batangas Racing Circuit

EDITORIAL TEAM Editor-in-Chief – Anjo Perez Contributors – Rica Sison, Joseph Bautista, Lara Camacho William Herrera, Neil Pagulayan Photographer – Mark Quesada Staff Writer – John Rey San Diego Graphic Designer – Raymund Ravanera

All rights reserved. Printed in the Philippines. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission of Autobrands Media Ventures, Inc. is prohibited. For booking or inquiries on advertising, please call our advertising department at (02) 815-6519. For interested magazine distributors or magazine subscription please call (02) 815-6519 and look for Manel Catindig.

The views and opinions expressed within Autocar Magazine are not necessarily those of Autobrands Media Ventures, Inc. or those of its contributors. While every care has been taken in the preparation of this magazine, the publishers cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of the information herein, or any consequences arising from it. In case of all product reviews, judgements have been made in the context of the product based on Philippines prices at the time of review, which are subject to fluctuation and only applicable to the Philippines market.

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Contact us at info@wheelsph.com Wheels Magazine is published monthly, a registered trademark of Asian Media Ventures, Inc. in cooperation with Gulf News. Copyright 2015.

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In Memoriam Alan Ranch Sevilla • Earl Manalansan • Dino Ray Directo III

8 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

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FRESH OUT THE BOX

Farewell busy ‘24!

And just like that, we’re parting with the jampacked 2024. The year that had passed was full of exciting things for the local motoring scene. One of which is the exciting selection of new models that have been introduced. For the last installation of FOTB in 2024, let’s take a look at the most recent new model introduction before the whole automotive industry dives into merry-making season.

JOHN REY SAN DIEGO

T H E L AT E S T C A R S T H I S M O N T H

BYD Seal 5 DM-i Following its impressive progress throughout the year, BYD Cars Philippines, through AC Mobility, is proving that the sedan segment is alive and kicking with its latest introduction, the BYD Seal 5 DM-i. The newest from BYD features the brand’s DM-i technology, making it a hybrid electric vehicle by combining an electric motor with a gasoline-powered engine to charge up the battery.

BYD Seal 5 DM-i features a sleek, modern exterior measuring 4,780 mm in length, 1,837 mm in width, and 1,495 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,718 mm for enhanced stability and interior space.

The latest electrified mobility solution from BYD comes equipped with the BYD Blade battery which translates to impressive performance and range for the Seal 5 DM-i. For the Dynamic variant, it comes with a 8.3 kWh battery with up to 50 km of pure electric range and combined driving distance of up to 1,175 km. It’s rated to output 179 PS and 316 Nm of torque, and acceleration performance of going from 0-100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. The top tier Premium variant on the other hand 10 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

features 18.3 kWh battery with up to 115 km pure electric range and combined driving distance of up to 1,240 km. The top variant is rated at 197 PS and 325 Nm torque. It can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 7.3 seconds.

The BYD Seal 5 DM-i also supports over-the-air (OTA) updates, ensuring it remains up-to-date with the latest software improvements. The Seal 5 DM-i is expected to revolutionize the electric vehicle segment of the market with its impressive pricepoint which starts at PHP 948,000.

Kia Carnival Turbo HEV Making a huge update to the brand’s longest-running nameplate in the country, Kia Philippines, through its official distributor ACMobility, officially launched the new Kia Carnival Turbo HEV. One of the highly-regarded premium MPV models in the market today is now electrified using an advanced hybrid electric system.

Deviating from the diesel mill it’s known with, the new electrified Carnival is powered by a a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline hybrid system, delivering a remarkable combined output of 245 PS and 367 Nm of torque. Sending this power to the front wheels is a six-speed automatic transmission.

The Carnival Turbo HEV maintains the same bold styling as the other variants with its distinctive Tiger Nose Grille but adds some flair with 4-cube LED headlights, enhancing its sophisticated presence. It also retains the Star Map graphic rear LED lighting. Setting the electrified Carnival

from the other variants is its set of mattefinished 19-inch wheels. The HEV Kia Carnival variant is available in stunning colors of Aurora Black Pearl, Ceramic Silver, and the HEV variant exclusive Ivory Silver.

Suzuki Jimny 3-Door Rhino Edition Suzuki Philippines is giving love to the 3-door Jimny by releasing a limited edition model. Meet the Suzuki Jimny Rhino Edition. Previewed at the 9th Philippine International Motor Show, the limited Jimny Rhino Edition comes with distinctive features which sets it apart from the typical.

First to catch attention are the exclusive Rhino-inspired decals combined with the suite of Suzuki Genuine Accessories which the limited edition Jimny comes equipped with right out of the box. Echoing the tough and adventure vibe the Jimny model is known for, the limited Rhino Edition comes equipped with upgrades such as Chrome front grill, Front bumper under garnish, Side under garnish, Mud flaps, and exclusive Rhino Edition decal and badge.

The Suzuki Jimny Rhino Edition is available in colors White, Solid Jungle Green, and Solid Medium Gray.

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 11

Tesla Model 3 and Model Y Finally making its official debut in the Philippines, Tesla’s introductory models to the country are the Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model Y. With the brand’s first showroom located at Uptown Mall in Bonifacio Global City, the brand’s showcase features its flagship models Model 3 and Model Y. Intended to gain the interest of Filipino electric vehicle buyers, the American EV brand is pricing its offerings quite good.

The Model 3, known for its efficiency and minimalist design, is priced starting at PHP 2,899,000 while the Model Y, the brand’s popular compact SUV with advanced tech and spacious interiors, is priced starting at PHP 3,199,000.

Aside from the two flagship models, Tesla in the Philippines also hinted at the possible future local launch of other Tesla models like the Model S and Model X.

Tesla Model Y

Tesla Model 3

12 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

NEW CARS

Volvo EX30 Now under its new distributor, Hariphil Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI), Volvo officially launched its first full electric subcompact SUV, the Volvo EX30. The new model boasts of having the smallest carbon footprint of any Volvo model to date, which represents the brand’s advocacy towards a cleaner, greener environment.

The EX30 is rated to output 272 hp and 343 Nm of torque to the rear wheels. The Volvo electric subcompact SUV has an acceleration performance of going from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds. While it promises thrilling overall driving performance, the EX30 also features efficiency, consuming as little as 17.5 kWh per 100 km. Rapid DC fast charging capabilities ensure 80% battery charge in just 26.5 minutes, making it ideal as a daily driver.

Making the Volvo EX30 a sweeter deal are its aftersales service. The newest Volvo to hit the Philippines is supported by Volvo Personal Service, a customer-first program that connects owners with Personal Service Technicians. The EX30 also comes with 5-year unlimited mileage vehicle warranty, an 8-year or 160,000 km battery warranty (whichever comes first), and an annual or every 10,000 km preventive maintenance service (PMS).

Ms. Issa Litton, Atty. Diana Lyn B. Castillo, Ms. Maria Fe Perez-Agudo, Mr. Harvey Angsanto, Mr. Edwin Esmani, Mr. Max Chunaco

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 13

N E WS G O T A S T O RY ?

Email our managing editor autocarphweb@gmail.com

Toyota Foundation to partner with DENR for Tamaraw conservation

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oyota Motor Philippines Foundation (TMPF), the social and humanitarian arm of Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to support the Tamaraw Conservation Program (TCP). The planned partnership will address Philippine biodiversity conservation efforts towards protecting the critically endangered Tamaraw species and its habitat.

Under the MOU, TMPF will donate a brand new Tamaraw vehicle and halfa-million-peso worth of “Bantay Tamaraw” kits for ranger gears and supplies.

The resources will help the Bantay Tamaraw rangers conduct regular patrols at all known Tamaraw sites.

On top of in-kind donations, TMPF pledges a PHP 3-million conservation fund for other key program initiatives, including Tamaraw habitat monitoring and research, support programs for barangay and Indigenous Peoples (IP) volunteers, equipping of the Tamaraw Research and Conservation Center, and other Communication, Education, and Public Awareness (CEPA) activities such as the national Tamaraw Month observation.

The signing ceremony was led by DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga, TMP President Masando Hashimoto, and

14 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

TMPF President Jose Maria Aligada on the sidelines of the Next Generation Tamaraw grand public launch in Makati City.

The TCP was created on July 9, 1979, pursuant to Executive Order No. 544 under the Office of the President, as the

government’s arm in protecting the Tamaraw. In 1987, it became a banner initiative under the DENR. The program aims to save the animal from extinction by addressing the various factors threatening its population and habitat.

The Tamaraw or

Bubalus mindorensis is a dwarf buffalo endemic to the Mindoro Island in the Philippines. It was classified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as critically endangered with 500-600 individuals remaining in the wild as of 2024.

Toyota Philippines, Carlos Yulo inspire young athletes in “Start Your Impossible” Gymnastics Camp

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oyota Motor Philippines (TMP), in partnership with world-class Filipino gymnast Carlos Yulo, successfully hosted the “Start Your Impossible” Gymnastics Camp on November 15-16, 2024.

Held at the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) MVPSF Gym, the two-day event aimed to inspire and empower young gymnasts, underscoring Yulo’s dedication to giving back to the community.

As a Global Team Toyota Athlete (GTTA), Yulo led the training sessions alongside his coaching team, headed

by GAP coach Aldrin Castañeda. This initiative is part of Toyota’s

global “Start Your Impossible” campaign, which supports athletes in achieving excellence while advocating for social good. For Yulo, this translates into championing youth development through sports training and promoting food security.

The camp welcomed 30 young gymnasts aged 7 to 16 from Metro Manila, Davao, and Cebu, who participated in three intensive training sessions. They also gained valuable insights from sports nutritionist Jeanette Aro, reinforcing the importance of proper nutrition in athletic success.

“Under Toyota’s Start Your Impossible campaign,

I embrace my role as a Dual Hero—not just to compete and win but also to uplift and mentor the next generation of athletes,” Yulo shared.

“This Gymnastics Clinic and Nutritional Lecture are big steps towards fulfilling this mission.”

TMP President Masando Hashimoto commended the young

participants, saying, “To our future champions and medalists, congratulations on completing the TOYOTA START YOUR IMPOSSIBLE GYMNASTICS CAMP. You’ve trained with the Philippines’ best gymnast—an experience we hope will inspire you always.”

Participants like

Caila, Ysa, and Eauline expressed their excitement about the camp. “We learned so much from Carlos, and it will definitely help us in our upcoming competitions,” Ysa said. Caila added, “It’s a dream come true to train with him. We hope to follow in his footsteps and represent the Philippines internationally.”

Stay updated on Toyota’s latest products, events, and initiatives by following Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook and Instagram, ToyotaMotorPH on X, and joining the ToyotaPH community on Viber.

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 15

ACMobility announces implementation of paid EV charging

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CMobility, the mobility solutions arm of the Ayala Group and a key player in the Philippines’ electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure sector, is enhancing the EV charging experience with reliable and accessible solutions. Committed to establishing over 250 charging points across 100+ locations nationwide by the end of 2024, ACMobility is implementing a pricing structure designed to maintain high service standards amid increasing demand.

Starting December 12, 2024, ACMobility will introduce a nominal fee of PHP 28.50 per kWh for AC charging and PHP 35 per kWh for DC charging

at its EV stations in Metro Manila. Approved by the Department of Energy (DOE), this move supports the development of a sustainable, dependable charging network tailored to the needs of EV owners.

“Charging fees allow us to reinvest in our network, enabling us to expand and maintain our infrastructure while ensuring a consistently high-quality service,” said Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala, CEO of ACMobility. “With this initiative, we’re committed to making every charging session reliable, accessible, and convenient, empowering worry-free journeys across NCR and beyond.”

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Enhancing User Experience and Technology ACMobility EV Charging Stations are designed to deliver seamless charging experiences using cutting-edge technology. By monetizing its services, the company ensures the continued innovation and upkeep of its charging infrastructure.

Key features include: • Advanced Charging Technology: Each station provides fast, efficient, and secure charging.

• EVRO App Integration: Locate compatible stations, monitor charging sessions, and make cashless payments with ease.

• Customer Support:

Reliable assistance is available during operating hours to address user needs promptly.

The introduction of usage fees also encourages timely charging sessions, optimizing station availability for all users.

Committed to Sustainable Growth Beyond its competitive pricing, ACMobility remains focused on nationwide expansion to support the growing EV community. The company is integrating the latest technologies into its infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of its customers, with the ultimate goal of creating a seamless, future-ready charging

ecosystem.

“We thank our customers for choosing ACMobility for their EV charging needs,” said Carla Buencamino, Head of Mobility Infrastructure. “With every new charging station, we move closer to advancing sustainable transportation in the Philippines. Together, we’re building a cleaner, greener future for generations to come.”

Partner with ACMobility ACMobility invites individuals and businesses to join the EV revolution. To learn more about establishing a charging station or exploring partnership opportunities, visit https://acmobility.ph/.

NEWS

GAC Emzoom reaches 2,500 units sold O n the heels of commemorating a milestone of 1,500 retail sales of the GAC GS3 Emzoom in June, GAC Motor Philippines, with its distributorship facilitated by global mobility company Astara, has now exceeded the 2,500-unitssold mark of this popular subcompact crossover in the country.

C MOTOR capped off its October performance with retail sales of 300 units, including 215 of the Emzoom, thus totaling 2,513 Emzoom vehicles sold since its Philippine launch on June 30, 2023.

A remarkable addition of 1,000 units had been sold in about four months since reaching a 1,500 sales mark on the eve of its June 2024 launch anniversary.

“It had not been so long ago when the GAC Motor Philippines team was celebrating the 1,500 units sold milestone, and now we are absolutely thrilled to welcome another 1,000 new Pinoys into the Emzoom community. It’s a testament to the growing trust and preference of

Filipino consumers for our innovative and high-quality vehicles,” said Franz Decloedt, Brand Head of GAC Motor Philippines, Astara Philippines.

“We’re committed to providing exceptional customer experiences and delivering vehicles such as the GAC Emzoom crossover line that offer outstanding value, comfort, and performance,” Decloedt added.

The Emzoom Touring, an upgraded edition of the Emzoom GB variant, was introduced to the local market in August 2024.

Refitted to have a sportier visage similar to the topspec R-Style, but with a more budget-friendly price range, it is also growing popular among customers.

Danzen Gabriel, a Lighting Director for a national television network, shared about his new Emzoom Touring crossover, making him the proud 2,500th Emzoom owner.

“After considering various options, I was drawn to the GAC Emzoom’s sporty looks and comfortable interior,” Gabriel said. “Despite

being a 5-seater, it feels incredibly spacious, and the ride is incredibly smooth.”

While he also considered another GAC model, the Emzoom ultimately won him over with its unique blend of style, comfort, and practicality.

Gabriel continues, “The Touring is a great daily driver for me, with which I can drop off my kids at school and use it as my main means of transportation to work.

People are always drawn to this stunning car, and my colleagues are also considering getting their own Emzoom, too. I’m looking forward to meeting up and joining activities with my fellow Emzoom owners.”

The EMZOOM is an attractively-priced subcompact crossover outfitted with a 1.5 TGDI engine, complemented with a 7-speed wet dual clutch transmission (7WDCT), producing 177 PS and 270 Nm of torque.

In addition to the Emzoom, GAC Motor’s diverse lineup caters

to various preferences, featuring the sleek and sporty Empow sedan, the innovative and compact Emkoo SUV, the spacious and luxurious GS8 mid-size SUV, and the practical and family-friendly MPVs—the comfortable and wellequipped M6 Pro and the opulent and refined M8.

To top it off, the efficient and eco-conscious Emkoo Hybrid rounds out the range. Each model is equipped with advanced safety features and stateof-the-art technology, ensuring GAC Motor continues to appeal to discerning consumers who prioritize innovation, style, and reliability.

GAC Motor is expanding its reach across the Philippines. Currently, there are 32 selling dealerships nationwide, with a target of 38 permanent and interim retail facilities (including appointments) by the end of the year. Customers can explore the GAC Motor lineup in key cities and locations across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, including Alabang, Angeles, Bacoor, Batangas, BGC,

Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Dasmarinas, Davao, Fairview, General Santos, Iloilo, Isabela, Kawit, Manila Bay, Marilao, Matina, Mindanao Avenue, New Manila, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Pasig, Quezon Avenue, Santa Rosa, Sumulong Highway, Tarlac, Valenzuela, Calamba, Bacolod, Tacloban, and Zamboanga.

To provide customers with added peace of mind, GAC Motor offers a comprehensive 5-year or 150,000-kilometer warranty on all its vehicles. Additionally, a 24/7 emergency roadside assistance is included for every new car purchase, free for the first year.

For more information on GAC MOTOR and its vehicle lineup, visit the official GAC MOTOR Philippines website at www.gacmotorph.com plus like and subscribe on the Facebook and Instagram official pages @gacmotorph, or visit your nearest dealership to discover more about the brand’s exceptional offerings.

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 17

Isuzu Philippines triumphs with another Triple Star Award for Aftersales Excellence

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suzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) has once again earned the prestigious Triple Star Award from Isuzu Motors Limited Japan (IML), solidifying its reputation as a leader in aftersales service.

The award was presented on October 31, 2024, during the Isuzu Distributor & Dealer Aftersales Awards ceremony held in Yokohama, Japan.

This marks a continuation of IPC’s streak of excellence, having previously received the Triple Star Award from 2019 to 2022. The recognition highlights IPC’s consistent commitment to delivering high-quality aftersales service and operational excellence across the country.

COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATION FOR EXCELLENCE The Isuzu Distributor & Dealer Aftersales Awards are held annually to promote

continuous improvement among Isuzu distributors worldwide. The evaluation process focuses on two key areas: Basic Operation and Business Expansion.

In the Basic Operation category, IPC was assessed on its ability to maximize vehicle uptime, ensuring customers experience minimal downtime and enhanced operational efficiency. The evaluation also examined IPC’s approach to customer relationship management, where building strong and lasting connections with clients is a top priority. Furthermore, the assessment considered IPC’s adherence to rigorous business management practices and legal compliance, demonstrating its commitment to maintaining high standards across all operations.

The Business Expansion category evaluated IPC’s

18 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

performance in guiding and supporting its dealership network to align with Isuzu’s global benchmarks. The company’s proactive sales and marketing activities aimed at enhancing aftersales services were also scrutinized. Finally, IPC’s efforts to uphold customer loyalty through superior service quality and proactive engagement were key factors in securing the award once again.

TOP RECOGNITION AMONG GLOBAL PEERS Among 56 Isuzu distributors worldwide, IPC stood out as a top performer, sharing this year’s Triple Star Award with Isuzu Vietnam. The recognition highlights IPC’s dedication to operational excellence and customer satisfaction, reinforcing its position as a trusted partner in the automotive industry.

“We are incredibly honored to receive the Triple Star Award once again from Isuzu Motors Limited. This achievement reflects our team’s relentless dedication to providing outstanding aftersales service and support to our customers,” said Mr. Tetsuya Fujita, President of IPC. “Our consistent recognition from 2019 to 2022, and now in 2024, demonstrates our unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of service throughout the Philippines,” he added.

COMMITMENT TO CUSTOMER SATISFACTION Isuzu Philippines continues to focus on enhancing its aftersales capabilities through ongoing dealership renovations, service trainings, improved parts management, and strengthened dealer

support. These initiatives are designed to meet the evolving needs of customers and provide reliable, high-quality service that builds long-term loyalty.

“Our relentless dedication to delivering the best aftersales service is at the core of everything we do. We promise to uphold these high standards of quality in the years to come, ensuring that every Isuzu customer receives the exceptional support they deserve. Our commitment is to continuously improve and innovate, making sure we remain the ‘responsible partner’ for all our customers nationwide,” said Fujita.

For more information on Isuzu Philippines Corporation’s latest products and services, log on to www. isuzuphil.com or visit any authorized Isuzu dealership nationwide.

NEWS

A message from FordPH’s incoming Managing Director Pedro Simoes

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ord has announced recently that Pedro Simoes will assume the role of Managing Director for Ford Group Philippines. This will take effect on December 1, thus succeeding Michael “Mike” Breen, who is set to return to the United States.

In his new position, Pedro will focus on driving Ford’s continued growth in the Philippines. His priorities include sustaining the brand’s strong momentum, enhancing customer and aftersales services, and fostering robust partnerships with dealers to better serve Ford customers.

Prior to taking the helm, Pedro has released a short video of thanks and optimism, recognizing the support and partnership the brand’s business and media partners, as well as dealer teams have extended to Ford and is looking forward to further strengthening this relationship as he steps into his new role in a few weeks.

The video can be viewed at https://www.ford.com.ph/ NewFordPHMD1/

RSA – New SLEX 6×6 lanes operational in December; full expansion complete by mid-2025

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he new 6×6 lanes configuration of the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) from Susanna Heights, Muntinlupa to Calamba, Laguna — with two additional lanes on both southbound and northbound sides — will be opened in December, in time for Christmas, San Miguel Corporation (SMC) chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang, said.

The at-grade expansion, undertaken by San Miguel unit and SLEX concession holder SMC SLEX Inc., is proceeding on schedule, with the said 29-kilometer stretch slated to open in the third week of December.

Meanwhile, construction on the section from Calamba to Sto. Tomas, Batangas, as well as the expansion of some 20 bridges connecting the SLEX main carriageway, will be completed by July 2025, Ang said.

“This December, as our countrymen prepare to celebrate Christmas and travel more to spend time with friends and family, they can look forward to a wider, better SLEX. This will help in significantly reducing traffic buildup during the Holiday rush,” Ang said.

“The SLEX expansion is a major undertaking that entailed significant effort and investment, and a lot of patience and cooperation from motorists and stakeholders. We are very glad that motorists can soon enjoy faster trips to and from Southern Luzon,” he added.

Ang said that ensuring that SLEX is fully operational throughout the construction period has been a consistent priority of the company.

“Our contractors and project teams continue to do everything they can to minimize impact

on vehicle traffic,” Ang said. “We want to assure our motorists that we will continue to work as efficiently as possible, and minimize disruptions to their travel as we complete the expansion.”

As the main expressway connecting Metro Manila to the CALABARZON region and beyond, SLEX serves an integral role in economic development in region.

The SLEX expansion program is seen to support the growth of Region 4A, which accounts for about 15% of

the country’s total Gross Domestic Product.

The company has also fully-decommissioned the Calamba Main Toll Plaza, which used to be the terminus of SLEX, as well as the SLEX Greenfield Toll Plaza, the terminus of the SLEX-Toll Road 3 project that connected Calamba to Sto. Tomas, Batangas.

Structures have been dismantled, and the roads will be paved once the expansion work proceeds in that area.

In addition to the expansion of the entire

carriageway, toll plazas at SLEX have been fitted with automatic license plate reading (ALPR) cameras as part of SMC Infra’s efforts to comply with government mandates on barrier-less expressways.

With the help of ALPR cameras, the company said it was able to lift barriers at toll entry plazas across SLEX, to reduce the need for motorists to slow down or fully stop while passing through.

This slowdown increases the likelihood of traffic build-ups, which sometimes extend to public roads that are interconnected with SLEX. In 2022, the company implemented the Seamless Southern Tollways project which reduced the number of stops motorists had to do when traveling along the Skyway System, SLEX, and Star Tollway.

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 19

OMODA E5 earns Euro NCAP and ANCAP Five-Star Safety ratings

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lobal automotive brand OMODA scores new recognitions of its global automotive engineering DNA after earning backto-back 5-Star Safety Certifications from the European New Car Assessment Program (Euro NCAP) and the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) for its electric compact crossover SUV, OMODA E5.

The Euro NCAP tested the safety performance of OMODA E5 and the integrity of its high-voltage battery.

Compared to the model’s previous assessment, the Euro NCAP conducted additional frontal offset and oblique pole crash tests to comprehensively evaluate the model’s safety performance.

The OMODA E5 scored 87% for Adult Occupant Protection, 88% for Child Occupant Protection, and 88% for Safety Assist.

Meanwhile, the ANCAP assessment reinforced OMODA E5’s safety credentials, nearly mirroring the results from the Euro NCAP crash test.

The OMODA E5 scored 87% for Adult Occupant Protection, 88% for Child Occupant Protection, and 83% for Safety Assist.

The results from both crash tests are reflective of the brand’s global automotive engineering DNA. The OMODA E5’s body is designed with a high-strength steel ratio of 78%. Key areas such as the ultra-highstrength steel in the front end and reinforced steel in the side B-pillars and door sills form a

comprehensive protective system. The front steel structure resists frontal collision impacts, safeguarding the cabin space, while the side structure disperses impact forces to prevent door intrusion.

In the frontal crash test, the occupant compartment remained stable, with no significant deformation of the A-pillars or doors. This crash stability positions the vehicle as a leader in its class, ensuring optimal safety for adult occupants. Additionally, the OMODA E5 features ergonomically designed child seat interfaces that offer exceptional stability, providing a reliable installation

20 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

position for child seats.

The airbag system and vehicle stability optimize the trigger mechanism and protection range to enhance child passenger safety.

Moreover, the OMODA E5 excels in active safety technologies. It performs exceptionally well in two key tests based on AEB (Autonomous Emergency Braking) for VRU (Vulnerable Road User) protection and SA (Safety Assist). These systems are adept at managing challenges posed by small, unpredictable road users. Powered by advanced technology, the AEB system can accurately identify targets across a wider speed range and respond

more quickly. This significantly reduces the risk of potential collisions and gives the OMODA E5 a competitive edge in active safety technology.

Apart from its advanced safety mechanisms, the OMODA E5 also boasts an impressive electric range of over 430 kilometers (WLTP), achieving 110% of its real-world range. The OMODA E5 covered 435 kilometers during its efficiency test for electric vehicle certification by the Automobile Association of the Philippines (AAP), surpassing its published range. Thanks to its fast-charging battery, the OMODA E5 can recharge from 30% to 80% in

just 28 minutes, offering a seamless driving experience. It also boasts impressive noise control with highway wind noise as low as 62.9 decibels at 120 km/h.

“The OMODA E5’s five-star safety ratings from Euro NCAP and ANCAP exhibit OMODA’s global automotive engineering DNA. These results equally underscore the brand’s commitment to build automotive innovations that meet global users’ expectations and needs for safe driving.

Promising a fusion of style, technology, and safety, we are excited to see the OMODA E5 on Philippine roads soon,” said Terry Hu, Country Director of OMODA Philippines.

The OMODA and JAECOO brands expanded into 32 countries and regions in just 18 months, and are now present in over 1,000 showrooms with 370,000 combined global users.

The OMODA E5 arrived in the Philippines this year. Priced below PHP 1.8 million, the model is available for pre-order and will soon be available in dealerships in key areas around the country.

The OMODA C7 is also expected to be launched in 2025.

For more details on this, visit OMODA and JAECOO’s official website and follow their official social media accounts: Facebook (OMODA Philippines and JAECOO Philippines); Instagram (@omoda.philippines and jaecoo.philippines); and TikTok (@omodaph).

Nissan Philippines celebrates 55 Years with “Unstoppable at 55”

NEWS

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issan Philippines kicked off its yearlong celebration of 55 years in the country with “Unstoppable at 55,” a two-day event held on November 23-24, 2024, at the Venice Piazza, Grand Canal Mall in Taguig City. The event highlighted Nissan’s rich heritage and its commitment to innovation, while introducing its new tagline, Always Daring, which was first unveiled at the 9th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) earlier this year.

The celebration embodied the spirit of Always Daring, showcasing Nissan’s bold journey in bringing innovative vehicles and services to the Philippine market.

DAY 1: EXCLUSIVE FESTIVITIES FOR STAKEHOLDERS The first day was a vibrant gathering of media partners, car clubs, and Nissan employees. The program began with welcome messages from Nissan Philippines President Yasuhisa Masuda and Atty. Ma. Theresa Veloso, representing the City of Taguig.

One of the highlights was a panel discussion featuring long-time Nissan owners Raena Abella and Dexter Lim. They shared personal stories about their connection to Nissan, emphasizing how the brand has been an integral part of their lives. Joining them on stage, President Yasuhisa Masuda underscored the importance of these

heartfelt relationships.

The event also featured the unveiling of the NISMO Capsule Collection, an exciting collaboration with the local design lab SNK ATK. This exclusive six-piece clothing line fuses fashion with the dynamic design elements of Nissan’s motorsport division, NISMO. Nissan also recognized its dedicated car clubs for their passion and loyalty, acknowledging their vital role in building

the brand’s legacy in the Philippines.

DAY 2: A CELEBRATION FOR ALL The second day opened its doors to the public, inviting everyone to immerse themselves in Nissan’s legacy through interactive activities and exciting giveaways, including exclusive Nissan merchandise.

The centerpiece of the event was the Nissan Heritage Display, which showcased an array of the

brand’s iconic vehicles.

Attendees were thrilled to see classic models like the legendary Fairlady Z and R32 Skyline GT-R alongside modern marvels such as the Nissan Z and Z NISMO. Each vehicle represented a milestone in Nissan’s history, inspiring admiration from enthusiasts and casual fans alike.

President Yasuhisa Masuda shared his optimism for the future, stating, “For 55 years, Nissan has been part

of the Filipino journey, delivering iconic, reliable vehicles. We are deeply grateful for the support of our customers and look forward to creating more exciting innovations in the years ahead.”

LOOKING AHEAD As Nissan celebrates 55 years of success in the Philippines, it remains committed to delivering excitement and innovation. With a forward-looking vision, the brand promises to continue its legacy with groundbreaking products and services for the Filipino market.

To learn more about Nissan Philippines Inc., visit nissan.ph or the Nissan Philippines Newsroom. Stay updated by following Nissan Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, and check out the latest videos on YouTube.

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 21

MG Iloilo inaugurates 22kW AC EV charging stations at Festive Walk Mall Iloilo

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G Philippines, through the initiative of MG Iloilo, proudly unveils a new milestone with the inauguration of Festive Walk Mall Iloilo’s 22kW AC EV Charging Stations.

This initiative marks a significant step forward in MG’s commitment to providing accessible, eco-friendly infrastructure that empowers motorists of Iloilo City to embrace greener and sustainable mobility solutions.

As a British-born global brand, MG continues to drive forward its mission of making green technology

both practical and available for all. The establishment of these EV chargers underlines MG’s dedication to supporting the growing community of electric vehicle owners in the province of Iloilo and aligning with the city’s vision for sustainable urban growth.

During the inauguration ceremony, Mr. Felix Jiang, President of MG Philippines, shared his thoughts on this milestone: “This EV charging station isn’t just infrastructure; it symbolizes our commitment to providing green, accessible mobility

22 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

for our customers and for generations to come.

Iloilo City’s dedication to sustainable growth aligns perfectly with MG’s mission, and we’re proud to contribute to this vision.”

Mr. Jan Andrew Po, President of Grand Cars, Inc. (MG Iloilo) also shared his thoughts on this milestone: “At MG, we’ve always been committed to innovation and environmental responsibility. This charging station directly reflects that commitment, making it easier for drivers to embrace electric mobility with confidence. As we

expand our network, we are making it our mission to ensure that electric vehicle infrastructure grows alongside the demand for greener solutions.

We’re proud to partner with Festive Walk Iloilo, a landmark destination known for its forward-thinking approach and community spirit. Together, we’re creating a space that empowers people to make more sustainable choices and enhances the overall driving experience for electric vehicle owners.”

The EV charging station at Festive Walk Mall is an integral part

of MG Motor Philippines’ broader strategy to promote sustainable practices and strengthen its network of support for electric vehicle users across the nation.

With Iloilo City leading the way in advocating for eco-conscious development, MG Iloilo’s initiative is a timely and fitting addition to the city’s ongoing efforts to create a greener, more sustainable future.

For more information about MG’s electric vehicle offerings and sustainable initiatives, visit your nearest MG dealership or check out the MG Philippines website.

NEWS

Experience hassle-free vehicle usership with KINTO One – Toyota‘s Car Leasing solution

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oyota Mobility Solutions Philippines (TMSPH) offers its full-service car lease package, called Kinto One – the first in the country to be made available for individual customers and business owners alike.

This subscription service is designed to meet the evolving needs of Filipinos, giving an easy and flexible driving experience without the challenges some associate with car ownership.

From expatriates settling in the Philippines for a few years, to business owners and corporate professionals who have more dynamic lifestyles, Kinto One delivers convenience for all. Its comprehensive services encompass

document handling, maintenance, insurance, and even roadside assistance—ensuring a seamless experience for individuals and business clients.

KINTO One Business covers the vehicle lifecycle from acquisition to disposal through Toyota’s Fleet Management services. This approach streamlines

operations and reduces administrative burdens for business owners. On top of fleet management features, KINTO One also provides Fleet 360—a Toyota designed GPS tracking system that provides real time vehicle information, including location, status, vehicle condition, and monitoring of driver behavior.

KINTO One also empowers both

customers and businesses with a wide range of mileage options from 10,000 to 30,000 kilometers per year for Kinto One Individual, and up to 40,000 kilometers per year for Kinto One Business paired with flexible leasing terms spanning 3 to 5 years.

This flexibility allows customers to tailor their car leasing experience to match their lifestyle and upgrade preferences seamlessly.

This adaptable approach positions KINTO One as a compelling alternative to traditional car ownership, offering a customizable and efficient transportation solution tailored for the Philippine market.

As Toyota continues

to lead the automotive industry with innovation and reliability, KINTO One underscores Toyota’s commitment to shaping the future of mobility in the Philippines.

Explore Kinto One Leasing Products Today: Visit Our Website: Learn more about our leasing options and find the perfect vehicle for you at www.toyotamobilitysolutions.ph/ kinto-one.

Call Us: Speak directly with our leasing experts at 0927-523-6992 for personalized assistance and answers to your questions.

Email Us: Reach out to us at kinto@toyotamobilitysolutions.ph for more information or to schedule a consultation.

BAIC B30e Dune: First batch sold out, new units now available

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ollowing its successful debut at SM Mall of Asia last September 19, the BAIC B30e Dune has swiftly established itself as a game-changer in the automotive market. Combining electrified performance with rugged off-road capabilities, this hybrid SUV captivated buyers with its powerful output—329hp for the 4X2 variant and 403hp for the 4X4—and impressive acceleration, reaching 0-100 km/h in just 6.9 seconds. The first batch of 120 units sold out in a remarkable two months, underscoring the strong demand for this versatile hybrid.

Now, BAIC Philippines, under United Asia Automotive Group Inc., is thrilled to announce that a new batch of the B30e Dune has arrived. Designed for both urban commutes and off-road

adventures, the B30e Dune offers a worry-free ownership experience with its 5-year or 150,000-kilometer warranty (whichever comes first). The 4×2 variant starts at an introductory price of PHP1,488,000, while the 4x4 variant is available from PHP1,788,000. Both variants also offer accessorized editions— the B30e Dune Tourer 4X2 and the B30e Dune Vanguard 4X4 —equipped with premium offroading kits, further enhancing their rugged appeal.

This hybrid off-roader continues to embody the brand’s commitment to electrified performance and adventurous spirit. Don’t miss your chance to own a BAIC B30e Dune—visit your nearest dealership and experience why it’s a hit among Filipino drivers.

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 23

LEGEND ON FOUR WHEELS

THE TAMARAW’S TRIUMPHANT RETURN 24 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

It’s back. After a two-decade absence, one of the Philippines’ most storied vehicles is making its longanticipated comeback—and it’s arriving better equipped, more versatile, and more future-focused than ever before. The legendary Toyota Tamaraw has returned to reclaim its throne as the Filipino everyman’s trusted companion, bridging the gap between nostalgia and innovation as it embarks on a bold new chapter in the country’s motoring story.

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 25

Ceremonial Toast. Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP) marks Next Generation Tamaraw’s start of production with a roll-off ceremony in Santa Rosa City, Laguna. In photo (from left) are Embassy of Japan in the Philippines Economic Minister Daisuke Nihei, TMP Vice Chairman David Go, Toyota Asia Region Deputy Chief Executive Officer Hao Quoc Tien, TMP Chairman Alfred V. Ty, Philippine Economic Zone Authority Director General Tereso Panga, TMP President Masando Hashimoto, Santa Rosa City Mayor Arlene Arcillas, Department of Transportation Undersecretary Jesus Ferdinand Ortega, Toyota Motor Corporation Chief Engineer Satoki Oya, and TMP Executive Vice President for Manufacturing Yasuhiro Kutsuki.

A FAMILIAR NAME, A FRESH START From the late 1970s through the turn of the millennium, the Tamaraw left an indelible mark on Philippine automotive culture. Its reputation for rugged reliability, affordability, and no-nonsense utility made it a fixture in households, small businesses, and public transportation fleets alike. Parents remember it as the family vehicle they rode in as children, while entrepreneurs fondly recall it as the steed that helped them grow their enterprises. The Tamaraw was, in many ways, more than just a car—it was a symbol of progress, serving the daily needs of ordinary Filipinos in an extraordinary way.

The model’s discontinuation in the early 2000s did little to erase its memory. Instead, the Tamaraw endured in popular imagination, a byword for dependability and practicality.

26 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

Perhaps that’s why the announcement of its 2024 revival triggered an instant buzz. At unveiling events staged simultaneously in Makati, Quezon City, Pasay, Pampanga, Laguna, Cebu, Davao, and Cagayan de Oro—and streamed to countless more online— Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) signaled loudly and clearly that the new Tamaraw isn’t just for the archives.

It’s engineered for the present and positioned for the future.

Toyota Motor Philippines Chairman Mr. Alfred V. Ty

CRAFTED ON A CUTTING-EDGE PLATFORM

to meet evolving mobility challenges, all while remaining true to the Tamaraw’s practical roots.

This renewed Tamaraw is no mere replica of its predecessor. While it retains the rugged DNA that endeared it to Filipinos decades ago, the new model is built on Toyota’s International Multipurpose Vehicle 0 (IMV 0) platform— an adaptable and robust chassis that sets the stage for genuine versatility. It’s a forward-looking foundation designed

Manufactured at TMP’s Santa Rosa plant in Laguna, the new Tamaraw is as much a statement of economic empowerment as it is a product of engineering prowess.

Local production not only enables better quality control and responsiveness to local needs, it also energizes the Philippine economy by creating jobs and supporting local suppliers.

TOYOTA TAMARAW

Conversion Facility

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 27

Filipino workers putting sealant on the Tamaraw windows

DESIGN THAT MARRIES UTILITY AND MODERNITY

sophistication previously unseen in older-generation workhorses.

At first glance, the all-new Tamaraw’s looks are grounded in function. Its exterior highlights simplicity and durability—traits that endeared the original to a nation on the move.

The panel fit is tight, the finishes are straightforward, and the body panels are built to handle both congested city streets and unpaved rural roads.

Yet subtle modern touches abound: improved ergonomics, refined aerodynamics, and LED lighting options all bring this classic nameplate firmly into the 21st century.

POWERTRAINS BUILT TO WORK

Inside, the approach is just as utilitarian but with an eye toward enhanced comfort. The cabin, while focused on durability, also provides a more refined environment for passengers. Generous headroom and wide doors make entry and exit easy, while strategic use of materials ensures the interior stands up to daily wear. Noise and vibration reduction measures add a level of 28 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

Recognizing that Filipino motorists demand reliability above all, the Tamaraw offers a choice of proven engines. Diesel variants draw power from a 2.4L 2GD-FTV engine, delivering the low-end torque and efficiency needed for hauling goods and tackling longer routes.

Meanwhile, gasoline variants run on a 2.0L 1TR-FE engine, proven in Toyota’s global lineup to balance power output and fuel economy—ideal for everyday city driving and mixed-use scenarios.

Both engine options are built for longevity and ease of maintenance, ensuring that whether you’re running a small delivery service or a transport shuttle, the Tamaraw provides the dependable backbone you need.

TOYOTA TAMARAW

Quality Control inspection at the manufacturing plant

Final Inspection

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 29

ENDLESS CONFIGURABILITY AND CUSTOMIZATION What truly sets this new Tamaraw apart is its adaptability to a wide array of commercial and personal uses. The three primary variants introduced at launch— Dropside, Utility Van, and Aluminum Cargo—showcase the platform’s versatility.

Utility Van: A spacious and straightforward layout makes it ideal for transporting people or goods. It also comes with a built-in rear airconditioning system for passenger comfort, making it suitable for shuttle services, corporate fleets, or community transport.

Dropside: The hallmark of a hardworking vehicle, its flat and easily accessible cargo bed simplifies loading and unloading.

Goods, equipment, or construction materials can be quickly moved, making this variant invaluable for business owners who rely on efficient logistics.

30 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

TOYOTA TAMARAW Aluminum Cargo: Equipped with aluminum interior and exterior panels, this variant is engineered for carrying both dry and wet goods. The durable, rust-resistant material ensures it stands up to the tough conditions of everyday commercial use—perfect for deliveries, catering, or other demanding operations.

Looking ahead, TMP has teased a lineup of future conversions and special variants: Ambulance, Patrol Van, Refrigerated Van, Food Truck, Mobile Service Vehicle, and Camper RV, among others. Developed in partnership with Toyota Mobility Solutions Philippines, these ready-to-

order conversions demonstrate that the Tamaraw can be more than just a set of wheels—it can become an integral part of your business model or community service initiative.

Starting at P937,000 for the dieselpowered Dropside M/T, the Next Generation Tamaraw offers a compelling balance of price and performance.

Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur investing in your first delivery vehicle or a larger enterprise standardizing a fleet, the Tamaraw’s appeal is rooted in its reliability, proven engine options, and robust after-sales support network.

TMP President Masando Hashimoto underscores the importance of listening to customers. “We sat down and communicated with potential customers to ask what they look for in the Tamaraw,” he shares. By incorporating their insights directly into the engineering and design process, TMP has ensured this isn’t just a nostalgic revival, but a contemporary solution attuned to real-world Filipino needs. The tagline “Abante, Posible” (Move Forward, It’s Possible) is more than a phrase—it’s a guiding principle that the Tamaraw embodies, driving positive change and empowerment for businesses and communities.

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 31

A HERITAGE CARVING A FORWARD PATH For many, the Tamaraw’s return is more than a product launch—it’s a cultural event, a chance to reconnect with a brand that helped shape the nation’s mobility landscape. Yet, this revamped Tamaraw does not rely solely on its past glory. It merges timeless values—durability, utility, affordability—with modern standards of comfort, safety, and versatility.

In a market where customer expectations evolve rapidly, the Tamaraw stands out by sticking to what it does best: being a dependable partner. It arrives at a time when reliable commercial vehicles are essential for economic recovery, business expansion, and community development.

As it once again sets its wheels on Philippine soil, the Tamaraw is poised to serve a new generation of drivers, entrepreneurs, and families. It’s not simply returning to the road—it’s forging a new path forward, reminding us that while progress may demand innovation, it never outgrows the need for honest, hardworking tools that people can rely on, day in and day out.

The Tamaraw’s story continues, and this next chapter is poised to be its most exciting one yet.

ANJO PEREZ 32 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

TOYOTA TAMARAW

❝ In a market where customer expectations evolve rapidly, the Tamaraw stands out by sticking to what it does best: being a dependable partner. It arrives at a time when reliable commercial vehicles are essential for economic recovery, business expansion, and community development.

❞ DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 33

F E AT U R E I N N OVAT I O N B E H I N D T H E W H E E L

9TH PHILIPPINE INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW A BAG FULL OF SURPRISES

The Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc.’s Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) happening every two years makes it quite an anticipated event in the automotive calendar. For its 9th edition, with all the movement in the industry as well as the new auto brands that have entered the Philippine market, a lot is expected to be unveiled and showcased at PIMS. With a total of 17 car brands that exhibited at the show, here are some of the notable mentions.

34 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

Toyota strengthens its advocacy towards a cleaner future by means of, not only electrified mobility, but the use of alternative-fuel as well.

The Toyota head honcho’s cry of ‘We love cars!’ is echoed through its showcase of Toyota models at 2024 PIMS. During the show, Toyota Motor Philippines hosted an exclusive sneak peek of the Corolla Cross H2, a hydrogen-powered concept of the Corolla Cross.

The Nissan e-POWER technology’s arrival in the Philippines has surely helped in the industry’s move towards electrified mobility.

A technology that perfectly suits the country’s lack of EV infrastructure, Nissan teased the local crowd at the 2024 PIMS of another e-POWER model with the Nissan X-Trail.

The Japanese auto brand is also looking to strengthen its local crossover game with the new Nissan Magnite. As for its motorsports arm, Nissan launched the all-new Z NISMO which commemorates the 40 years of NISMO heritage.

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 35

MG Philippines made the most out of its 2024 PIMS participation by stirring excitement among the crowd with the exclusive preview of its all-new MG HS PHEV. The plugin electric option of the all-new generation HS draws attention from the crowd. Celebrating the brand’s 100 years of Britishborn heritage, MG showcased models G One SUV, MG 3 Hybrid+ Hatchback, MG G50 Plus 7-Seater MPV, and the electric MG Cyberster Roadster at the 2024 PIMS. For JETOUR, its 2024 PIMS is highlighted by two new model launches, the new JETOUR X50 and the JETOUR T2 Terminator.

The 5-seater subcompact crossover is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine paired with a 6-speed wet-type Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), it delivers a robust 154 horsepower and 230Nm of torque. The X50’s “Urban Aesthetic” design ensures versatility in various environments.

On the other hand, the T2 Terminator is the rugged 4x4 SUV that could take you to any adventure. The T2 Terminator is powered by a 2.0-liter Kunpeng TGDI gasoline engine paired with a Magna 7DCT 3rd-generation dual-clutch transmission, producing up to 251 horsepower and 390Nm of torque. The advanced XWD Intelligent 4WD system, along with a smart cockpit featuring a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chipset.

36 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

FEATURE

Civic fanboys were thrilled with its PIMS 2024 showcase.

One, a special Civic Type R FL5 model was on display in the form of the ultra limited edition Mugen Civic Type R Group A which only came with five units locally. Another noteworthy model launched is the most technologically-advanced Civic to have ever landed in the Philippines, the Civic RS e:HEV. Adopting the e:HEV system first seen in the all-new CR-V, the Civic followed suit with its latest iteration which electrified the beloved Honda nameplate.

Meanwhile, Kia Philippines through ACMobility is further pushing its EV campaign with a new all-electric model, the Kia EV9 full-electric SUV. At the core of the Kia EV9 are dual electric motors that deliver 384 PS and 700 Nm of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5 seconds for an exhilarating driving experience. Its EV powertrain provides a towing capacity of 2,268 kg, perfect for hauling equipment on adventures.

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 37

After launching a trio of limited edition models of its current offerings, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation teased the 2024 PIMS crowd with its latest innovation, the Mitsubishi DST Concept.

The 7-seater SUV concept model signifies the brand’s commitment to providing adventure-ready mobility for its users. The DST Concept incorporates the essence of Mitsubishi’s “Gravitas & Dynamism” design philosophy.

Gravitas is reflected in the SUV’s solid proportions and roomy cabin, while Dynamism is seen in its large-diameter tires and sculpted fender flares, hinting at its road prowess and athletic stance.

The local pickup truck segment received quite a shake with Ford Philippines’ latest introduction at the 2024 PIMS. The blue oval officially brought in the Ford Ranger Raptor 3.0L V6. Yes, the highly anticipated Ranger Raptor variant has finally come to the country. Equipped with a 3.0L V6 twin-turbo EcoBoost engine delivering 397 PS and 583 Nm of torque, the Ranger Raptor 3.0L V6 features a 10-speed automatic transmission and an anti-lag system in Baja mode, allowing for a quick boost when accelerating out of corners.

38 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

FEATURE

Chery Auto Philippines (CAP) on the other hand showcased the brand’s fun and delightful side for its 2024 PIMS showcase to complement its latest crossover SUV introduction, the new Chery Tiggo 2 Pro. The updated Tiggo 2 features updated headlights, front grill, LED tail lights, and a set of new 16” alloy wheels.

It is powered by a new 1.5L DOHC engine that is paired with either a 5-speed Manual or 9-speed CVT. Another highlight at CAP’s 2024 PIMS exhibit is the sneak peek of the updated Tiggo 5.

Dedicated for hardcore fans, Mazda Philippines aims to convey the excitement of driving experience through its 2024 PIMS exhibit. Mazda’s rotary engine heritage was celebrated through the Mazda MX-30 R-EV which was highlighted during its PIMS exhibit. The compact 830cc e-Skyactiv-R rotary engine serves as an onboard generator to charge the MX-30’ lithium-ion battery resulting in up to 600 km range. Mazda Philippines also officially announced during the 2024 PIMS that it is now the authorized distributor of AutoExe tuning parts and accessories. The brand also launched the AutoExe Customization Program for both new and existing owners.

Another highlight of the Mazda Philippines booth is the no. 55 Team MSCC Mazda Miata MX-5 which was showcased as an art installation.

Suzuki Philippines was another 2024 PIMS booth that was worth visiting. Aside from its current vehicle lineup that was highlighted by the special Jimny Rhino Edition, Suzuki Philippines pavilion main attraction was the Suzuki eVX concept car. The unique SUV concept model embodies ‘Emotional Versatile Cruiser’ for its design cue. With a focus on aerodynamic efficiency, the eVX has a drag coefficient designed for performance, measuring 4,300mm in length, 1,800mm in width, and 1,600mm in height. The brand aims to carry forward Suzuki’s own 4x4 legacy into the new electrified mobility era through the eVX. JOHN REY SAN DIEGO DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 39

12TH PHILIPPINE EV SUMMIT ENCOURAGES TO DRIVE ELECTRIC October 24 to 26, 2024 was one of the busiest weekends in the local automotive industry.

As two major events happened that same weekend, the 2024 Philippine International Motor Show along with the 12th edition of the Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS) by the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP).

One brand that launched several models at this year’s PEVS was Dongfeng Motors Philippines (DFM). The brand unveiled three new models, Dongfeng Nanobox, Dongfeng Nammi, and Dongfeng MHero. Completing the Dongfeng passenger EV lineup showcase is the tried and tested Rich 6 full electric pickup truck.

Dongfeng Rich 6 Dongfeng Nanobox

Dongfeng Nammi

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FEATURE

Dongfeng MHero

Another brand to showcase their EV lineup is GAC Aion Philippines. GAC Aion is taking the lead in shaping the future of Philippine transportation by presenting two of its flagship electric vehicles—the AION Y Plus electric SUV and the AION ES electric Sedan. With a stunning 490 km range on a single charge, the AION Y Plus electric SUV combines high- end features with a sleek, modern design, positioning it as the perfect smart companion for today’s driver. On the other hand, the AION ES offers a 442 km range, refined style, and state-of-the-art technology, making it a strong contender for drivers seeking sophistication with eco-friendly features.

AION Y Plus

AION ES

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 41

JAECOO Philippines showcased its lineup along with a new introduction at the 12th PEVS, the all-new JAECOO EJ6. the EJ6 is primed to lead the off-road-capable EV trend in the Philippines. The latest offroad-ready EV is equipped with cutting-edge six-in-one motor system and full-time electric four-wheel drive, promising an exceptional driving experience through unparalleled power and off-road capabilities. The brand’s newest offering is also built with an innovative camping mode and spacious design.

Nissan Ariya

As stunning as its PIMS showcase, Nissan Philippines’ PEVS 2024 exhibit is no less.

The Japanese marque’s EV summit features a Formula E Racing Simulator taking center stage, and the Nissan Kicks and Nissan Ariya on both sides. Nissan Philippines took this year’s EV summit theme to heart by going interactive and sharing the thrill of EV experience to the guests.

Formula E Racing Simulator

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Nissan Kicks

FEATURE One of the local industry’s new players is also present at this year’s EV Summit. Vietnamese auto brand VinFast has officially announced pricing and opened reservations for its five-seater VF 7 electric SUV during the 12th PEVS. The VF 7 is the third VinFast vehicle available in the Philippine market following the VF 5 and VF 3 models. The top spec VF 7 Plus is equipped with dual electric motors, delivering a combined power output of 348.6 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, and features allwheel drive. The battery pack has a capacity of 75.3 kWh, providing a maximum driving range of approximately 496 km on a full charge. Meanwhile, the base model VF 7 features a single electric motor with 174 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. Its battery capacity is 59.6 kWh, offering a maximum range of 430 km per full charge.

JOHN REY SAN DIEGO VinFast VF 7

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 43

R OA D T R I P A DV E N T U R E O N W H E E L S

NEW HONDA CIVIC E:HEV DRIVE TO BAGUIO DOES IT “#DRIVESLIKEADREAM”?

The New Civic e:HEV is the newest variant added to Honda’s flagship sedan lineup and it joins the CR-V as the Honda’s second electrified vehicle locally available.

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Before the Civic e:HEV was introduced, there were currently two Civic variants available, the RS CVT and the V CVT, both of which lived up to the Civic’s reputation of being a driver’s car. How would a hybrid version of the Civic hold up? Hybrids are supposedly boring to drive, would a hybrid Civic be boring?

It seems, for us, in the motoring media, with every other launch, it’s up to Baguio again, and it’s not a bad thing, in fact a drive up to Baguio is always a welcome getaway from Manila especially since it’s also lot cooler this time of year. Getting up to Baguio has always been a yardstick for vehicles new or old. And we’ve been up there so many times in different brands, we can easily tell if the vehicle we’re driving is struggling or having an easy time of it. Is Honda’s

hashtag for the Civic e:HEV #DrivesLikeaDream marketing hype or does the Civic e:HEV live up to it? It looks like we have our hypothesis for this drive.

steering wheels and saying “Hey Google!”. Internet connection is required and not all apps will have a version for use in the vehicle.

EXTERIOR So what’s different with the Honda Civic e:HEV? On the outside, this variant now comes in two new colors, Canyon River Blue Metallic and Crystal Black Pearl. The whole front end is updated sportier silhouette, a sharper more aggressive face, and the lower air dam opening up wider and the edge intakes getting narrower. Prominent are the New Advanced Sport 7 spoke 18” matte grey alloy wheels wrapped in 235/40ZR18 95Y tires. Which turns out to be very good spec for tires, which are performance rated for a maximum speed of up to 300 kilometers per hour, and good load bearing performance per tire at speed.

There’s also Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. USB Ports are now all Type-C. One of the highlights for long drives is still the Bose 12 speaker system.

POWERTRAIN Under the hood is Honda’s e:HEV hybrid system, a 2.0L gasoline engine which puts out 141Ps @ 6,000rpm with 182 Nm of Torque @ 4,500rpm paired to an electric motor which puts out 184P @ 5000-6000 rpm with 315Nm of Torque 0-2000 rpm. This is mated to Honda’s eCVT (Electrical Continuously

Variable Transmission) and drives the front wheels. There are three drive modes – Eco, Normal and Sport. The electric motor is powered by a LithiumIon battery.

HONDA CONNECT AND HONDA SENSING The Civic e:HEV is also equipped with both Honda Connect and Honda Sensing offering a comprehensive suite of active drive and passenger safety, security and convenience features.

DRIVE TO BAGUIO We drove from BGC to Skyway 3 and made our way to NLEX, this was where the Civic’s hybrid system did some of it’s best work in rush hour traffic.

Drive mode set to Eco, and

Now for some more subtle changes, the doors get new glossy black chrome door handles and around the rear, the tailights get black tinted lenses.

INTERIOR + GOOGLE BUILT-IN You’ll find that when you enter, it’s identical to the Civic Turbo RS with some updates, the 9” infotainment touchscreen now has Google Built-in which is a full integration of Google Apps and services like Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play, Google Assistant is accessed by pressing the voice button on the left controls on the

Rie Miyake, President, Honda Cars Philippines

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low speed travel, our stop and go movement was all electric, saving considerable amounts of gas as this kind of driving consumes a lot of fuel in ICE vehicles. On the expressway, the hybrid system switched seamlessly between electric and gasoline engine, depending on the speed and state of charge, the electric motor takes priority, with gasoline engine coming to charge the battery every or working in tandem with the electric motor to combine efforts when power is needed.

exactly when we needed it. At that instant.

How did it fare? To be honest, it performed better than expected. You’d probably expect that there’d be 2 or 3 of us in the car with overnight luggage, a medium load for a road trip, but there was actually 4 of us, big guys, me, Ronnie Trinidad our Head Video Guy at AutocarPH, Ira Panganiban our EIC and Cesar Miguel from Zigwheels. There was our

The hybrid system was also well suited for the upward winding Asin Road, the alternate route we prefer from Marcos Highway and Kennon Road as there were less vehicles and this also allowed us to put whatever vehicle we were driving through it’s paces. And the Civic hybrid did not disappoint. Even on Eco mode the hybrid system worked in tandem to deliver power 46 AUTOCAR.COM.PH DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

overnight luggage, camera gear and snacks for two days. There was a running joke that our vehicle was lowered due to our combined weight. Also we put leg room to the test as I was the only short one, everyone else was above 5’8” and Ronnie was the tallest at 6’4”.

Were we comfortable or was it punishment for the four of us?

We all took turns driving and having a chance in all four seats and we were surprised that we were all able to set our seats to what was comfortable for our needs whether we were driving or passenger at the time and we weren’t banging elbows and shoulders either. Interior and Leg room? Lots.

Luggage space wouldn’t have been a issue for a road trip among friends, but as this was a work trip, we had a LOT of things and we pretty much filled the trunk to the brim and used up

ROAD TRIP

all of it’s 493 liters. Luggage space? Check.

Did we bottom out? Not even once. Despite me and my car mates estimated combined weight of probably a little under a 1000lbs, and our luggage.

Uneven roads, dips, twists and tight turns which would put the suspension through a workout under load, and not once did it bottom out, even at high speeds. We were after all putting the Civic hybrid through its paces. The suspension was still articulating on the uneven surfaces. The wide tires never once made contact with the tire wells. Did we break the car? No. Comfortable ride? Oh yes.

Honda’s e:HEV hybrid system performed flawlessly, from rush hour traffic, where the electric motor did most of the heavy lifting, to the expressway where as we cruised the work was done by the gasoline engine. On

the uphill winding roads, both electric and gasoline engine’s combined torque and power came into play and delivered a fun drive where power was delivered as we needed it with no delay. Even on Eco mode.

Did the Honda Civic e:HEV live up to it’s Drives Like A Dream hashtag? Yes. I’d probably call it something else like #DrivesBetterThanYouExpecta CivicWould or #ThisHybridIsnt Boring #DefinitelyNoComplaints Here.

This Honda Civic lives up to all expectations and more. This hybrid is definitely not boring to drive. Priced at Php1,990,000 it maybe on the high end of the price range of a sedan in it’s class, but you do get a LOT of car, it is after all a Civic, through and through.

It looks sporty, drives great, has loads of space and best of all its earth friendly. And it’s a Civic.

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News, insight and opinion from the world of motor racing

M OTO R S P O RTS

LYNK & CO CYAN RACING TRIUMPHS IN MACAU, CLAIMS 7 WORLD TITLES IN 6 YEARS ynk & Co Cyan Racing secured the 2024 FIA TCR World Tour team World Title and Thed Björk the drivers’ vicechampion title as the season concluded on the legendary streets of Macau.

“We once again proved that we are the best touring car team in the world. We are really happy to have secured our eighth world title together with Lynk & Co and our tenth world title overall of Cyan Racing in just eight years.

Everyone in the team can be really proud of that achievement,” said Fredrik Wahlén, Team Manager and CEO of Cyan Racing.

The team title is Cyan Racing’s tenth touring car World Title in just eight years and the team claimed more than half of the race wins this year with the Lynk & Co 03 TCR race car.

Thed Björk won the first race of the

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weekend in Macau to get within just five points of championship leader Norbert Michelisz ahead of the final race.

But chaotic weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, a postponed race start and then drying conditions as the race began, meant that eighth place in Race 2.

This handed Thed Björk second place in the drivers’ standings – just eleven points from the top spot.

“We are very happy to have secured the team championship title which was our main goal. We gave it all to fight for the drivers’ title today, but finishing second overall just means that I am getting faster the older I get. It has been a great season and we are going to celebrate this tonight, a big thanks to everyone involved in this project,” said Thed Björk.

Yann Ehrlacher finished the season in

fifth place overall, joining team-mate Thed Björk as the only drivers with three victories this season.

“It was a difficult last race, I was pushed off into the wall but was still able to recover and take the car home. This has been a difficult year for me in the drivers’ championship but I am very happy with the team championship title which everyone has worked really hard for together,” said Yann Ehrlacher.

Ma Qing Hua finished the last race in Macau as the top Lynk & Co Cyan Racing driver in fourth place, following intense overnight repairs by the team after an incident in the first race which caused severe rear-end damage to his car.

“The guys in the team did a great job to get my car ready for today. And we proved that we were quickest when the track was wet, but unfortunately

we couldn’t challenge those who took a risk with slicks when the track dried up. I am happy that we secured the teams’ title and now I’m looking forward to 2025,” said Ma Qing Hua. Santiago Urrutia had to fight hard in both races from 32nd and last place on the grid following a technical issue in qualifying. The Uruguayan driver fought his way up through the field in both races to finish 13th and 12th respectively.

“The final race was crazy and the mixed conditions made it really hard as I changed to slicks at the front and wets at the rear. We claimed the team championship title which is the main thing every year. Thed also deserved the runner-up spot, big congratulations to him.

Thanks to everyone in the team and Lynk & Co for a great 2024,” said Santiago Urrutia.

TUASON RACING TO HOLD THE ARTHUR TUASON MEMORIAL ESPORTS CUP uason Racing, a trailblazer in Philippine motorsports, proudly announces the relaunch of the Arthur Tuason Memorial Cup, a landmark event that blends tradition with innovation. Marking Tuason Racing’s 25th anniversary, this special occasion will take place in partnership with Monza Barcade. The celebration aims to honor the media, influencers, racing students, and numerous friends who have contributed to the organization’s rich legacy.

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Schedule of Events The event will unfold in two segments. First, an exclusive session from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM will cater to media members and key opinion leaders, offering them a hands-on experience in simulator racing. Participants will receive coaching on the fundamentals before engaging in head-to-head races. A significant highlight of this segment will be a special announcement from Tuason Racing’s CEO, Ms. Jeanette Tuason.

Following the media event, Monza Barcade will open its doors to the public from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, inviting racing enthusiasts to test their skills. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to challenge Tuason Racing alumni and experienced race car drivers, with exciting prizes awaiting those who rise to the challenge.

simulator Grand Prix, a thrilling competition that unites motorsport enthusiasts, e-racers, and Tuason Racing drivers.

Designed to showcase talent and provide an immersive racing experience, the Cup is a tribute to the late Arthur Tuason, whose passion for racing continues to inspire. The race structure promises high-energy action, with ample breaks for participants to relax, enjoy refreshments, and cheer on their friends.

Grand Prix Format The event will kick off with a practice and qualifying session, during which Tuason Racing coaches will offer tips while tracking participants’ fastest lap times. Competitors will then be ranked into Pro,

Intermediate, and Novice categories to ensure fairness. Each group will race in a 3-lap qualifying heat, with the top racers advancing to the main event.

In the main race, the fastest five from each class will compete, starting in a reverse grid format— Novice drivers at the front and Pros at the back. A secondary race will also be held for those who do not qualify for the main event, offering podium prizes, though on a smaller scale compared to the main race awards.

Giving Back to the Community The Arthur Tuason Memorial Cup is not just about thrilling competition; it’s also about making a positive impact.

Event proceeds will benefit

the Mabuhay Deseret Foundation, a charity dedicated to providing life-changing surgeries, such as cleft palate repairs and treatments for cross-eyes and clubfoot, to underprivileged communities. By supporting this foundation, Tuason Racing aims to uplift lives and demonstrate that motorsport is driven by more than speed—it is fueled by compassion and a commitment to community.

Event Partners and Sponsors The relaunch would not be possible without the generous support of Monza Barcade, the venue host, along with principal sponsors MöetHennessy, Red Bull, and OMP. Their unwavering support

ensures a memorable and impactful event.

Join the Celebration Everyone is invited to be part of this extraordinary celebration of racing legacy and passion.

Participants, spectators, and partners are encouraged to join in the festivities and vie for prizes that could pave the way for future opportunities with Tuason Racing.

For more details on the event schedule, registration for the Arthur Tuason Memorial Cup, or information about the charity initiative, visit and message Tuason Racing’s Instagram or Facebook page to sign up.

Alternatively, you can scan the QR Code found on the poster below, or better yet, click on this Google Docs Link to join.

The Arthur Tuason Memorial Cup At the heart of the event lies the high-stakes

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 49

MAZDAPH HOLDS 2024 MAZDA FAN FESTA PHILIPPINES AT CLARK SPEEDWAY lark International Speedway hosted an exhilarating display of automotive passion as over 300 Mazda vehicles participated in the Mazda Fan Festa PH 2024, powered by Shell Pilipinas. Modeled after the renowned Mazda Fan Festa in Japan, the event celebrated Mazda’s motorsport legacy while bringing together its loyal community in the Philippines.

Event partners including GT Radial, PartsPro, AAP, PIAA, Sonax, and Momo set up informative booths at the venue, while local food and drink vendors Shell Café, Ser Chef, Decimal Coffee, and Mendokoro Ramenba ensured attendees stayed refreshed throughout the day.

In a notable first, Mazda Philippines showcased AutoExe, its newly authorized distributor for Mazda tuning parts and accessories. The event featured stunning vehicles such as the CX-60, Mazda3, and MX-5, all equipped with AutoExe parts, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to performance and customization.

One of the key highlights of the event was the opportunity for Mazda owners to drive their vehicles around the prestigious 4.189-kilometer track at Clark International

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Speedway. With expert instructors and marshals guiding them, owners had a rare chance to push their Mazda cars to the limit. Additionally, the event featured the final leg of the 2024 Miata Cup and the Manila Sports Car Club (MSCC) Miata Spec Series, adding a competitive edge to the festivities.

The day began with a spectacular parade of iconic Mazda sportscars, including various MX-5 generations and limited editions, such as the MX-5 25th Anniversary Edition and the #55 MX-5 Endurance Race Car. Leading the procession were key figures such as Steven Tan (President and CEO of Mazda Philippines), Takahiro Kobayakawa (Mazda Corporation Motorsports

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Head), and Arvin Obmerga (Shell Pilipinas Marketing Head).

“This event is a testament to Mazda’s ongoing mission to strengthen the connection between people and cars,” said Steven Tan. “The Mazda Fan Festa PH allows us to celebrate our brand’s community and the enthusiasm of Mazda fans in the Philippines.”

Racer Angie Mead

King captivated the audience with thrilling demo laps in her thirdgeneration Mazda RX-7, featuring a four-rotor 26B engine sourced from renowned racer Michael “Mad Mike” Whiddett.

Following the demo, the morning was capped off with the Race 7 results of the Miata Cup and MSCC Miata Spec Series.

The day’s competitive racing events saw several standout performances,

including Walter Pineda’s first-place finish in the Miata Cup’s Class A and Tyson Sy’s victory in the highly competitive Shell Pro Class.

The afternoon was filled with more action-packed racing, with Race 8 results confirming top spots for competitors such as Lew Llanillo in the ND Stock Class and Windy Imperial in the BRM Masters Class. After the races, all participants and spectators joined in the Mazda Sunset Parade, symbolizing the unwavering enthusiasm of Mazda owners across the Philippines.

Mazda Philippines proudly operates 14 Mazda 3S dealerships nationwide, ensuring accessibility for enthusiasts and owners alike.

2024 TGR PHILIPPINE CUP HAS AN ACTIONPACKED SEASON FINALE oyota Motor Philippines (TMP) has wrapped up an exhilarating 2024 season of its premier motorsports series, the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup (TGR Philippine Cup).

Showcasing outstanding performances across all classes, winners emerged after a season of intense competition: Iñigo Anton from Toyota Balintawak – Obengers Racing Team, back-to-back champion Alain Alzona from Toyota General Santos – ChooksTo-Go Racing Team, consistent top performer Bong Garbes from Inbox – Toyota San Fernando, and sim racer turned track competitor Russel Reyes from TOYOTA GAZOO Racing PH. The final race weekend, held on November 9, concluded with the announcement of the season’s overall champions.

As the opening program commenced, drumbeats set the stage, and TMP President Masando Hashimoto made a memorable arrival in his Vios one-make-race (OMR) car. Addressing

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the crowd, he shared his excitement about returning early from a business trip to Manila to attend the TGR Philippine Cup’s last race weekend.

“I wanted to meet the racers, mechanics, coaches, and motorsports fans – this is my motivation for coming back. Today is the last race weekend of the TGR Philippine Cup, where we’ll crown the season’s champions, so I wanted to congratulate them personally,” Hashimoto remarked.

The event kicked off with the high-stakes Sprint Race for the Novice and Promotional classes, with pole positions held

by Lexi Mendiola and Johndale Dy, respectively.

Racing intensified as Pablo Salapantan took first place in the Novice Class, followed by John Rey San Diego in second and Russel Reyes in third.

In the Promotional Class, Bong Garbes clinched the top spot, with Ryan Agoncillo in second after a grid penalty, and Dy in third.

Next came the Sprint Race for the Sporting and Super Sporting classes.

Danzel Waytan converted his pole position into a victory in the Sporting Class, joined on the podium by Jay Lao in second and Alain Alzona in third. Meanwhile, in the Super Sporting Class, Russel Cabrera took the lead early and maintained it, finishing ahead of Mikey Keilani Jordan and Iñigo Anton in a closely contested race.

A highlight for fans, professional drifters Dane Cruz and Hans Jimenez delivered an adrenalinepumping drifting exhibition, even treating a few lucky audience members to thrilling shotgun rides. The GR Supra, GR Yaris, and GR 86 car clubs also showcased their cars on the track, offering guests hot laps around the speedway.

All classes were

brought together for a final showdown in the Endurance Race, a 1.5hour test of both skill and strategy. Temperatures and mandatory pit stops added to the challenge, pushing racers to their limits. In the Super Sporting Class, Iñigo Anton executed a series of brilliant overtakes to secure first place, followed

by Russel Cabrera in second and Maila Alivia in third. Alain Alzona topped the Sporting Class, with Jesse Garcia and Paolo Ayo completing the podium.

Bong Garbes dominated the Promotional Class, while Julia Delos Angeles and Ryan Agoncillo rounded out the top three.

In the Novice Class, Jamil Lacuna took first, followed

by Reph Bangsil and Russel Reyes.

Closing out the

weekend, Filipino band The Juans energized the audience with a live performance, celebrating the end of an exciting season.

The TGR Philippine Cup’s 2024 season saw three race weekends, with champions determined through points accumulated across six sprint races and three endurance races. At the end-of-season awards, TMP President Hashimoto applauded all participants.

“Thank you for an incredible TOYOTA GAZOO Racing season.

Please give yourselves a round of applause!

Guided by Chairman Akio Toyoda’s WE LOVE CARS spirit, we’re working to elevate Philippine motorsports and bring the FUN TO DRIVE experience to even more Filipinos,” he said.

At the end of this action-packed 2024 Racing season, Hashimoto-San promised an even bigger, better, more thrilling Motorsports action next year.

For more information on the TGR Philippine Cup, visit https://toyota. com.ph/tgrphilippines.

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025 AUTOCAR.COM.PH 51

For the latest automotive news, car reviews and motoring features.

facebook.com/wheelsmag.ph www.wheelsph.com for Ads inquires pls call 02-815-65-19

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CARDO KICKSTARTS ‘THE YEAR OF THE MESH’ WITH THE LAUNCH OF ‘MESHBOOST’ ardo Systems, the global leader in wireless communication systems for groups inmotion, announces a first-ever ‘Mesh-Boost package of new capabilities to all second generation PACKTALK devices. ‘Mesh Boost’ expands Dynamic MeshCommunication (DMC) group to 31 riders, adds Remote Grouping, and Public Meshfeatures and enhances existing Private Chat mode. On top of these, Cardo will also add a VoIP-based Cellular Intercom to all Cardo products using the Cardo Connectapp.

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‘Mesh Boost’ takes rider connectivity to the next level, enhancing group communication capabilities, flexibility and range. Best of all, the new collection will be available, free of charge, via a simple over-the-air software update.

In 2025, Cardo will celebrate its 10-year anniversary since bringing the world’s first mesh communicator – the original PACKTALK – to market, an innovation that revolutionized the world of communication. Next year will be ‘The Year of TheMesh’, starting with ‘Mesh Boost’ as the phase one in a line of excitingannouncements to come.

Unprecedented connectivity ‘Mesh Boost’ will be automatically available early next year as a free overthe-airsoftware update to all users of Cardo’s current 2nd generation DMC devices – including the PACKTALK PRO, EDGE and Neo – making it even easier tocommunicate with Cardo.

Key enhancements include: Expanded group size to 31 riders Cardo’s Mesh Boost is the first in the market to allow groups of up to 31 riders to communicate seamlessly in true DMC mode – more than doubling the previous capacity of 15 – without losing any of the DMC characteristics that have made Cardo PACKTALK the best-selling comms in the world. Now, even more riders can experience the benefits of auto-reconnection, ease of pairing and reliable connection.

Public Mesh This new feature allows users to talk with up to any 31 participants within the range of the DMC network, offering a truly open channel for spontaneous conversations with nearby riders. Also a handy workaround for those existing users wanting to simplify DMC usage even further, just select the Public Mesh group and ride.

Private chat + Expanding the existing

Private Chat feature, riders will now be able to create private chat sessions within their group with any number of participants (as opposed to just two), making it easier to have personalized conversations within the group on the go. Users are invited by being selected through the Cardo Connect App and can accept the invitation as they would a normal call.

Remote grouping Understanding that all riders don’t start at the same place when heading out for aride, Cardo’s remote grouping capability allows a group to be set up ahead of timeby simply sharing a link generated from within the Cardo Connect App. Links can be forwarded to other users, but only Cardo 2nd generation DMC users are validated to join.

Cellular Intercom connectivity Using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) functionality, the new Cellular Intercom connectivity ability will allow connectivity between an

unlimited number of Cardo users, no matter the range.

Like voice and video calls over popular messaging Apps, the functionality relies on a cellular network being strong and available –otherwise known as ‘data signal’ – and a user’s data plan. Cellular intercom will beopen to all Cardo units, Bluetooth and DMC, connected to the Cardo Connect App. 2024: 20 years of ‘Breaking Boundaries’ and 2025: The ‘Year of The Mesh’ Officially launching its new ‘Mesh Boost’ technology at the Cardo Systems booth at EICMA motorcycle show in Milan, Cardo concludes the brand’s 20th anniversary since pioneering the world’s first Motorcycle Bluetooth headset celebrations and kickstarts the ‘Year of The Mesh’. 2025 will mark a decade since Cardo revolutionized the world of communication by introducing the world’s first mesh communicator.

To see the full lineup from Cardo Systems, visit www. cardosystems.com.

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UNVEILING THE 2025 INDIAN SCOUT LINEUP A LEGENDARY AMERICAN ICON, REINVENTED et ready to rewrite the open-road rulebook.

Indian Motorcycle— proudly carrying the mantle as America’s First Motorcycle Company—has just pulled back the curtain on the all-new 2025 Indian Scout lineup.

With a nod to the iconic heritage that made its name synonymous with pure riding bliss, Indian Motorcycle has infused cuttingedge engineering, modern tech, and more personalization than ever before into this legendary platform.

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The result? A family of five distinct models and three trim levels, each ready to deliver a riding experience as unique as the rider at the helm.

A Heritage Reborn The Indian Scout’s roots run deep—its silhouette and spirit have long been benchmarks in American motorcycling. But the 2025 iteration proves that even a classic can evolve without losing its soul. Drawing on extensive rider feedback, Indian Motorcycle engineers painstakingly preserved

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the Scout’s low-slung stance and timeless design DNA, ensuring that instant, unmistakable recognition we’ve come to expect when one roars by.

While the legendary look remains, underneath lies a whole new world. The all-new 1250cc liquidcooled SpeedPlus 1250 V-Twin engine pumps out up to 82 kW of power and over 109 Nm of torque, translating to addictive acceleration and blistering roll-on power. A smooth six-speed transmission

and precise electronic fuel injection ensure every twist of the throttle responds with buttery-smooth consistency. It’s performance worthy of the Scout name, carefully honed for today’s roads—and tomorrow’s horizons.

Confidence, Comfort, Control The 2025 Scout lineup isn’t just about raw muscle; it’s about making that power usable and reassuring.

All models come standard with ABS, while select versions now include Traction Control and

multiple Ride Modes—all at the press of a button. Couple that with a reassuringly low seat height (just 680 mm) and lightweight construction, and you’ve got a bike that’s as inviting for new riders as it is thrilling for seasoned veterans.

As always, the Scout’s famed poise and stability remain front and center. Crisp handling and agile maneuverability allow you to carve through mountain switchbacks or slip through city traffic with equal ease. In short, this is a lineup that’s still pure Scout: built to give the rider total command and confidence.

Five Models, Three Trim e el , nfin te o lte From minimalist bobbers to crosscountry tourers, the 2025 Scout family truly runs the gamut. Each model starts with that classic Scout foundation—then takes it in a fresh direction. nd n co t o er All attitude, no excess. Stripped down to its essence with chopped fenders, a solo saddle, and slammed suspension, the Bobber pairs old-school cool with modern refinement. nd n ort co t Fueled by heritage but dressed for the now, the Sport Scout amps up

the aggression with gloss black moto risers and handlebars for a punchier, more dynamic feel. nd n co t Cl c Chrome, curves, and comfort—this is the original Scout spirit in full color. Perfect for those who love a laidback cruise, it’s a timeless cruiser that never goes out of style. nd n er co t Long-haul riders, meet your new best friend.

Saddlebags, a windshield, and wire wheels come standard, making it road-trip ready right out of the crate. nd n co t Inspired by one of the greatest bikes in Indian Motorcycle’s history, the 101 Scout sets a new standard for control and capability. With adjustable piggyback shocks, inverted forks, and premium Brembo brakes, it’s performance meets pedigree.

To match these unique personalities, Indian Motorcycle offers three trim levels—Standard, Limited, and Limited +Tech—each adding layers of flair and functionality. Want just

the essentials, plus LED lighting and an analogue gauge? Standard Trim has you covered. Crave cruise control, traction control, and more rider aids? Step up to Limited Trim. And for those who want it all—the revolutionary 101 mm round touchscreen powered by RIDE COMMAND, keyless ignition, and connected services—the Limited +Tech trim is the ultimate indulgence. e C ter n n n o n e end The 2025 Indian Scout lineup isn’t just another model year refresh.

It’s a statement. It reaffirms that the heart and soul of American motorcycling still beats strong— and it thrives by embracing the future while honoring the past.

By focusing on timeless design, rider-driven engineering, and nextlevel technology, Indian Motorcycle delivers a fleet that appeals to every kind of rider. From weekend warriors and daily commuters to cross-country explorers and speedhungry enthusiasts, there’s a Scout that fits the dream.

In a landscape where many bikes compete to carve out their identity, the 2025 Indian Scout stands apart with authenticity, performance, and innovation. It’s an old soul with new tricks—a modern classic that writes its own history, one mile at a time.

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DODGE UNVEILS THE 2024 DURANGO SRT 392 ALCHEMI WORLD-CLASS STYLE AND UNCOMPROMISING PERFORMANCE

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here’s something about seeing a truly special car that sparks immediate excitement—the kind that makes you want to call up your car club buddies or post about it online before you’ve even had your morning coffee. That’s exactly the kind of buzz the 2024 Dodge Durango SRT 392 AlcHEMI is set to create. Limited to just 1,000 units worldwide, this SUV is a certified head-turner, blending muscle-car heritage with luxury and exclusivity in 58

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a way that speaks directly to the Filipino love for standout rides.

Exterior: Big, Bold, and Proud From the outside, the AlcHEMI makes it clear it’s not just another car rolling down the highway. The honeycombtextured dual stripes with bright yellow accents don’t just look cool—they highlight the SUV’s aerodynamic curves and commanding stance. This Durango sports special 20-by10-inch Satin Black forged

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SRT wheels paired with eyecatching yellow Brembo SRT brakes—like putting on a pair of limited-edition designer sneakers. Midnight Metallic badges glisten against the body’s exclusive paint options (Diamond Black, Destroyer Gray, Vapor Gray, and White Knuckle), ensuring that no matter which color you pick, the SUV projects confidence.

The black exhaust tips at the rear? Think of them as that subtle finishing touch on a perfectly styled outfit, tying everything together.

Interior: A Luxurious Sanctuary for the Road Step inside, and the AlcHEMI greets you with a level of comfort and craftsmanship that feels entirely out of the ordinary. Imagine rolling down NLEX or TPLEX in six plush, black leather seats detailed with meticulous yellow and silver stitching. It’s not just comfortable—it’s downright indulgent. Forged carbon-fiber interior trim panels reflect a high-tech, upscale feel, while the cabin’s subtle lighting creates an atmosphere that’s

part VIP lounge, part highperformance cockpit. There’s generous space for friends and family, plus state-of-theart infotainment features that integrate seamlessly with your smartphone—perfect for blasting your favorite OPM tracks or updating your social media followers about the latest car meet you’re attending.

Performance: Power with Poise Filipino car enthusiasts don’t just look for show; they also demand go. And the AlcHEMI delivers in spades. Under the hood lies a formidable 6.4L SRT V8 engine pushing out 475 horsepower and 637 Nm of torque. This is the kind of muscle that’ll have you rocketing from 0 to 100 km/h in an astonishing 4.4 seconds—numbers you’d expect from sports cars, not a family-friendly SUV. With a top speed of 250 km/h, it’s more than capable of satisfying your need for speed on open highways like SCTEX. The advanced all-wheel-drive system ensures you have maximum grip whether you’re navigating tight provincial roads, cruising the city after a sudden downpour, or confidently o ertaking slower traffic on a weekend road trip to Tagaytay. It’s a perfect marriage of brute force and refined engineering.

Technology: Smart, Safe, and Sophisticated The AlcHEMI isn’t just about power and luxury—it’s also about having the smartest tech at your fingertips. From its intuitive infotainment interface to its adaptive cruise control and advanced driver-assistance features, this Durango ensures your drives are not only exhilarating but also worry-free. igh-definition displays, premium audio, and customizable driving modes help you tailor the experience to your mood—whether you’re feeling chill and want to relax

to your favorite playlists, or you’re in a spirited mood and ready to push the SUV’s limits.

Exclusivity: A True Collector’s Item What really sets the AlcHEMI apart is its rarity. With only 1,000 units in existence, owning one is like holding a golden ticket to an exclusive club. This isn’t just another run-of-the-mill SUV; it’s a piece of automotive history that’ll have fellow enthusiasts nodding in respect. Picture it: showing up at a local car show or a Sunday morning meetup at Bonifacio Global City, and everyone knows you’ve got something they won’t see every day. Beyond the bragging rights, this scarcity means the AlcHEMI’s value is likely to appreciate over time, making it not only a fun investment in your lifestyle but also a smart one.

automotive styling—and the AlcHEMI slots in perfectly. It lets you celebrate American muscle and engineering while still delivering a polished, modern aesthetic that feels right at home in our evolving local car scene. It’s a statement of prestige, something you can feel proud of while driving through Makati’s busy avenues or enjoying a scenic route along the coastline.

A New Standard in Performance SUVs With the 2024 Durango SRT 392 AlcHEMI, Dodge isn’t just releasing another SUV; it’s raising the bar for what we can expect from a vehicle that blends muscle, luxury, and exclusivity. This is Dodge’s global performance legacy

remixed for a new era—one where the Filipino driver can see themselves not just as an observer of world-class automotive innovation, but as an active participant. If you’re ready to take your love for cars to a whole new level, this might just be the ride you’ve been waiting for.

In short, the AlcHEMI isn’t simply a top-tier SUV—it’s an experience on four wheels. For those who crave something extraordinary and have a passion for vehicles that stand out for all the right reasons, consider this your invitation to join the elite club of AlcHEMI owners. Here’s to fast drives, smooth rides, and making an unforgettable impression wherever you go.

The Filipino Connection What makes the AlcHEMI particularly appealing to car lovers is how it balances world-class performance and craftsmanship with a sense of approachable style. Filipinos have always had an eye for global trends—whether it’s fashion, technology, or DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

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MEET THE 2025 SUZUKI E VITARA: SUZUKI’S NEXT BIG STEP INTO THE ELECTRIC FUTURE S

uzuki is turning the page and stepping into the electric era with the 2025 Suzuki e Vitara. While it shares a familiar name, this new SUV isn’t just a tweaked version of the older, gas-powered Vitara. Everything you see and feel is completely fresh and designed from the ground up to take on the modern world of electric driving.

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Right from the start, the e Vitara makes a statement with its looks. Inspired by the eVX Concept that wowed visitors at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, it ditches the traditional front grille for a sleeker, cleaner face—something we’re seeing on a lot of today’s electric cars. Sharp LED headlights, bold black body cladding, and large wheels (18 or 19 inches)

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gi e it a confident, readyfor-adventure vibe. Sculpted sides, flared wheel arches, and a contrasting black roof catch the eye, while a full-width LED light strip at the back ties it all together with a modern touch.

Slip inside, and you ll find that Suzuki has truly stepped up its game. The cabin aims for a higher-quality feel than you

might expect if you’re used to the old Vitara. Two big digital screens greet you: one for the driver’s display, and another for the infotainment system that easily connects to your phone via wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

It’s a space that feels more welcoming and polished, yet still tough enough for everyday life.

Underneath all that style and comfort is a dedicated electric platform called HEARTECT-e.

Since it’s built for EVs only, the engineers could stretch the wheelbase to 2,700 mm, making the cabin roomier and the ride more stable. The whole SUV measures 4,275 mm long, 1,800 mm wide, and 1,635 mm tall, putting it right in the sweet spot for a compact SUV. With this thoughtful layout, there’s plenty of room inside for everyone to get comfortable.

The e Vitara also gives you options when it comes to performance. There are two lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery si es. The first is a kWh pack paired with a frontwheel drive motor offering 142 hp and 190 Nm of torque. If you need a bit more power, there’s a 61 kWh battery option that comes in two fla ors a stronger front-wheel drive setup with 172 hp, or a dualmotor all-wheel drive version that pumps out a combined 181 hp and 300 Nm of torque.

Suzuki hasn’t shared details on range or charging speeds yet, but these should be revealed

as we get closer to the launch date.

Production kicks off in spring 2025 at Suzuki’s Gujarat plant in India. After that, the e Vitara will begin rolling out in Europe, India, and Japan—and it won’t stop there. Suzuki’s EV platform will even inspire a Toyota-badged version in the future, proving that this isn’t just a one-off experiment.

The 2025 Suzuki e Vitara isn’t just about going electric; it’s about raising the brand’s game and showing the world that Suzuki can blend practicality, durability, and style into a truly modern EV. With its fresh design, improved interior, and versatile battery options, it feels like the start of a new, more exciting chapter for Suzuki—and for the drivers who’ve always trusted them for reliable, down-to-earth cars.

DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

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ON THE COVER

W ords b y Anjo Perez

A BLANK CANVAS ON WHEELS THE NEXT-GEN TAMARAW’S ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES 62

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DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

D rop s i d e V a ri a nt

ake a deep breath and close your eyes. Imagine a vehicle that doesn’t just meet your everyday needs—it molds itself around them, evolving alongside your changing aspirations. Now, open your eyes and look at the newgeneration Toyota Tamaraw. After a long hiatus, this iconic nameplate returns as a versatile platform designed to transform, adapt, and reinvent itself according to your vision. Think of it less as an offthe-shelf vehicle and more as a sturdy, dependable canvas waiting for your personal touches.

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A Tradition Reinvented hen the Tamaraw first rolled out decades ago, it quickly established itself as the hardworking partner of small businesses, families, and communities

across the Philippines. It brought fresh produce from rural farms to city markets, connected workers to offices, and turned endless road trips into cherished memories. Now, that same legacy of utility and reliability is distilled into a fresh form—one that honors the past but speaks confidently to the future.

This updated Tamaraw isn’t about nostalgia alone. By building it on the International Multi-Purpose Vehicle 0 (IMV 0) platform and producing it locally at Toyota’s Santa Rosa plant in Laguna, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) has anchored today’s Tamaraw in the everyday realities of Filipino life. More importantly, this platform is meant to be shaped and reshaped by its owners, enabling the Tamaraw to become whatever they need it to be.

M a nu f a c t u ri ng Pl a nt

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T a m a ra w

F ood T ru c k

Your Vision, Your Vehicle In its base form, the Tamaraw is simple, robust, and ready to roll. But once it’s in your hands, it’s a blank canvas for you to mold. Need a cargo hauler? Opt for the Dropside or Aluminum Cargo variants. Transporting people in comfort?

The Utility Van configuration pro ides a clean, straightforward interior ready for your passengers.

And that’s just the beginning. Because of its adaptable underpinnings, the Tamaraw can become a specialized emergency response vehicle, rushing aid and equipment where it’s needed most.

It can be converted into a fully compliant ambulance, outfitted with medical equipment to serve communities in critical times. A contractor’s truck version could be equipped with tool racks, storage compartments, and reinforced platforms to handle heavy loads at construction sites. Dreaming of an epic road trip n ad enture rig configuration can be outfitted with off-road enhancements, storage solutions, and creature comforts, turning the Tamaraw into your mobile basecamp for exploring the Philippines and beyond.

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T a m a ra w E m erg enc y R es p ons e V eh i c l e

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TMP is already hinting at a lineup of future conversions, from patrol vans to refrigerated units and even food trucks.

Partnering with Toyota Mobility Solutions Philippines, these ready-to-order transformations ensure that whatever your profession, hobby, or mission, there’s a Tamaraw setup waiting to take shape.

The Power of Possibility This near-limitless adaptability starts at the foundation. Reliable diesel and gasoline engines deliver the power you need, whether you’re hauling heavy loads, navigating busy urban grids, or

F X ( U t i l i t y V a n)

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tackling provincial roads less traveled.

The platform itself is engineered for toughness, ensuring that whatever e uipment or modifications you add, the Tamaraw can shoulder the task reliably.

Inside, the focus is on practicality. The interiors are built to handle regular use and easy maintenance. Materials are chosen for durability, anticipating that owners will customi e and reconfigure the space. Whether you’re installing shelving for medical supplies, securing toolbo es for contractor jobs, or fitting modular sleeping berths for weekend

Pa s s eng er C a b being fitted onto the Tamaraw Cab and Chassis

Conversion Facility Prior to release at the Conversion Plant

escapes, the Tamaraw’s cabin is your studio to decorate and define.

No Limits, No Borders n a market filled with ehicles that often come locked into fi ed roles, the Tamaraw breaks the mold. nstead of asking if a particular model fits your life, you can shape your Tamaraw so it naturally becomes part of your personal or professional ecosystem. The end result is more than just a mode of transportation it s a ehicle that e ol es as uickly as your aspirations do.

For entrepreneurs, it might mean in esting in a utility platform that can scale up with your growing business.

For ser ice-oriented owners, it might mean a mobile unit that brings healthcare, safety, or community support directly where it s needed. For ad enturers, it could mean building the ultimate road trip companion, one that doubles as a co y shelter after a day of hiking or

Putting final touches on the dropside at the conversion facility

to customers. This direct feedback from Filipinos ensures the Tamaraw s rebirth isn t just a corporate strategy it s a heartfelt response to real-world needs.

By deli ering a highly fle ible platform, T empowers owners to en ision the Tamaraw not just as a product, but as a tool that can change and grow.

A Blank Canvas on Wheels hen you consider the e t eneration Tamaraw, think beyond models and trims. magine a ehicle that can stand as an emergency responder in times of crisis, a contractor s mobile command

center at the job site, a hospital on wheels, or a fully loaded ad enture machine ready to roam. The Tamaraw is not just making a comeback it s stepping into new roles that you define. ike a blank can as in the hands of an artist, the Tamaraw awaits your personal stroke. our imagination guides the brush—transform it, equip it, and shape it to your heart s content. The possibilities are endless, and that s e actly why this iconic ehicle s return is so e citing. t s not just back it s ready to become anything you need it to be.

Long Wheelbase Variant of the Dropside

Living Up to Its Promise Toyota President Masando Hashimoto has emphasi ed the importance of listening DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

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READY TO ROAM

THE NEW WRANGLER 4-DOOR SPORT HITS PHILIPPINE SHORES or Pinoy adventurers who’ve been eagerly waiting to level up their off-road escapades, the wait is finally over. The New Jeep Wrangler -Door Sport has officially rolled into the Philippines, courtesy of Inchcape Philippines—your gateway to the best of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM. Their recent relaunch event showcased a ride that’s more than ready to take on everything from city streets to our country’s toughest terrains, all while wrapping you in comfort and safety you can count on.

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As one of the most iconic 4x4 nameplates, the Wrangler is loved worldwide, and here at home, it’s a trusted companion for any weekend warrior. Whether 66

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you’re eyeing a road trip through the winding roads of Antipolo, planning a family getaway to Tagaytay, or tackling the rugged trails of Luzon’s countryside, the 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4-Door Sport is geared up to deliver.

It brings with it a legacy of freedom, adventure, and proven durability—traits Pinoy enthusiasts value deeply. This is the Wrangler taken to the next level, blending legendary off-road prowess with smarter tech, enhanced safety, and a more refined interior that never lets you forget it’s still the king of the trail.

Commanding Exterior for Real-World Adventures In a country where style and presence matter, the Wrangler doesn’t disappoint. The updated front fascia comes with a molded

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black front bumper, LED daytime running lamps, and premium reflector headlamps that don t just look sleek—they’ll guide you confidently through dark provincial roads. The black door handles, black Jeep badges, and all-new 17-inch gray aluminum wheels wrapped in 245/75 R17 all-terrain tires create a bold, timeless impression. Combine these with a full-size spare tire mounted at the rear and you’ve got an SUV that’s as ready for Manila’s rush hour as it is for offgrid escapades.

An Interior That Balances Comfort and Capability Step inside, and you ll find that the Wrangler’s cabin offers the kind of attention to detail that appeals to the Filipino taste for both form and function. The

refined, hori ontal dashboard design, soft-touch surfaces, and contrast stitching are subtle luxuries we can appreciate every day. Cloth bucket seats are comfortable enough for those long drives to your secret beach spot, while the ample cargo space is perfect for hauling camping gear, surfboards, or shopping hauls from weekend markets.

Tech-savvy? The Wrangler’s got you covered with its new, massive 12.3-inch touchscreen—the largest ever in a Wrangler— running the Uconnect 5 system.

Faster, slicker, and more intuitive, it supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus multiple user profiles. Translation it’s easy to toggle between your personal music playlists, your partner’s navigation preferences,

or even your barkada’s off-road trail maps. With multiple charging ports, an Alpine premium audio system, and a heated steering wheel, this Wrangler ensures you’re traveling in style and comfort.

A Powerhouse Under the Hood Filipinos love vehicles that can handle anything—from city traffic to the untamed outdoors—and the Wrangler delivers big time. Under that iconic hood is a 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, putting out a hefty 268 HP and 400 Nm of torque.

With the Selec-Trac Full Time 4WD System, Dana M186 Front Axle, and Dana M200 Rear Axle, this Wrangler is as ready for the muddy trails of the Sierra Madre as it is for a smooth cruise down NLEX. Skid plates shield essential components, giving you peace of mind when the going gets rough.

are part of everyday life, safety is paramount. The Wrangler packs advanced features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, anti-lock 4-wheel brakes, and stability control systems that help keep you in command. Hill start assist and selec-speed control make off-road climbs easier, while the rear park assist system and backup camera are invaluable in tight city parking spots. For added protection, the 2024 model now comes standard with supplemental side curtain airbags, reassuring you and your passengers every time you hit the road—paved or not.

A Canvas of Colors and the Perfect Deal With eight exterior colors— from the vibrant Firecracker Red to the sophisticated Granite Crystal or the outdoorsy Sarge Green—there’s a shade for every Pinoy personality.

And here’s the kicker: the first 0 customers will snag a complimentary set of halfdoors, perfect for letting that fresh pro incial bree e flow through the cabin on your next out-of-town adventure.

Priced at P4,790,000, the New Wrangler 4-Door Sport is an investment in a lifetime of epic journeys.

Your Next Epic Ride Awaits For Filipinos who crave the open road, breathtaking trails, and weekend adventures that become unforgettable stories, the New Jeep Wrangler 4-Door Sport is your ticket. It’s not just about owning a car—it’s about embracing a lifestyle of freedom and exploration.

From its legendary capability to its refined and high-tech interior, this latest Wrangler is proof that you can have it all: performance, comfort, safety, and style. Ready to find new horizons? Your next epic drive starts here.

Safety at Every Turn In a country where unpredictable roads and sudden downpours DECEMBER 2024 – JANUARY 2025

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EXCLUSIVE INSIDE

DECEMBER 2024 - JANUARY 2025

A M AG A Z I N E O N B I K E S , VA N S , T R U C K S A N D S U V S

UNVEILING THE 2025 INDIAN SCOUT LINEUP

A BLANK CANVAS ON WHEELS THE NEXT-GEN TAMARAW’S ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES

JEEP WRANGLER 4-DOOR SPORT

SUZUKI E VITARA

DODGE DURANGO SRT 392 ALCHEMI