The Toyota Alphard has been a surprise hit in the Philippines. Even though it’s a gasoline-powered minivan, it’s boxy yet stately styling, combined with its vast and luxurious cabin, meant it was a hit for everyone from politicians to high-roller gamblers. Indeed, no five-star casino in Metro Manila is complete without its own fleet of black or white Alphards. Given its success, Toyota decided to make subtle but significant changes to the all-new Alphard and its sportier sibling, the Vellfire. T

We at AutoFun Philippines believe that having a narrow car is conducive to couple closeness. One advantage of having four-wheeled means of transport is that the cockpit (i.e., the front interior area) usually seats two and that the means to enhance intimacy (i.e., the air-conditioning and infotainment controls, plus the glovebox and a number of storage bins or cupholders) are within easy reach of either front occupant. That said, it helps a lot if the lateral distance between the front seats is

It is Sunday once more, so we’re back with another edition of the AutoFun Philippines Rearview Roundup. Valentine’s Day is just a few days away and many of you will likely have some fun dates with and/or great gifts for a special someone (sanaol talaga). For those who want to take their mind off February 14, 2023 (which we single people call Tuesday), here are five of your favorite stories from February 6 to 11, 2023. Tasty EV treat? We start off with something sweet (unlike my love life). AutoF

Hyundai Motor Philippines, Inc., the new exclusive distributor of Hyundai vehicles in the country is steadily regaining lost ground for the brand. After the recent introduction of new models in key market segments, it now announces an all-new entry that will surely rock the establishment. Today, October 19th, marks the start of pre-booking activities for the South Korean brand’s small MPV contender, the Hyundai Stargazer. HMPH has indicated that the core 1.5 GL variant will have a net price of P

The first time the Nissan Grand Livina entered the Philippine market in 2008, it was a three-row hatchback based on the Nissan Tiida platform. It was ahead of its time in many ways, as it offered car-like handling and seating for seven. Typical of what crossovers provide today. As head of the marketing team of Nissan Motor Philippines, Inc (NMPI) at that time, I was tasked to find ways to slot such a strange vehicle concept into the MPV-crazy consciousness of Filipino car buyers. The 2008 Nissan

(Images from Toyota PH) The Toyota Alphard is Toyota's most luxurious vehicle in the country. Perhaps you might not have heard its name yet or haven't seen one. Named like a fictitious creature like Pokémon, the Alphard is somewhat a rare kind on the busy streets of the metro. It is so rare that some people do not even know they have seen one, as the typical Toyota badge is replaced by a lot of chrome that is supposed to say "alpha". Nothings says luxury and comfort like the Alphard, starting at