Hybrid vehicles are becoming more popular in the Philippines thanks to their fuel-saving capabilities and advancements in battery technology. We saw an influx of new hybrid vehicles, with popular nameplates being the Toyota Corolla Cross and, more recently, the Haval Jolion and Haval H6 which have entered the market with hybrid technology under the hood. Hybrid vehicles also come with certain perks under Republic Act 11697 or the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA), where electrifi

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is expanding its reach in the country by adding a new dealership to its growing network. The Japanese automaker announced in a May 2023 press statement that it recently broke ground on Toyota Ilocos Sur, located in Barangay Langlangca II in Candon City. It will allow customers in the Ilocos Region better access to the brand’s popular lineup of vehicles, such as the Toyota Raize, Toyota Vios, Toyota Innova, Toyota Hilux and the Toyota Fortuner. This will be TMP’s 74

The country’s premier rallycross event is back for 2023, kicking off on February 26, 2023, at the Driftwoods Action Park in Indang, Cavite. The Philippine Rallycross Series (PHRX) announced in a press statement that “an exciting 2023 season” awaits participants and fans, especially with the return of stage dirt rally events after five years. PHRX is a time-trial event where competitors get three heats on closed dirt courses. However, only the two fastest times are added and ranked to find the cl

Having a set of wheels for Valentine’s Day helps a lot. Having a set of wheels that can quickly take you and your date from point A to point B helps even more. Having a set of wheels that look good and can be a conversation piece helps even further. You and your co-confidant can be the talk of passers-by, possibly the envy of many, and even get an occasional glance or stare at your faithful steed for that fun day. Having a set of wheels that have suitable seating for just two, narrow gaps betwee

The last time we reported on Spanish-based car distributor Astara, it was finalizing its plans to enter the grueling 2023 Dakar Rally. But the company announced more relevant news in a December 1, 2022 press statement following its formal contract signing with Chinese carmaker GAC Motor in the Philippines. Astara began operations locally on January 2022 and distributes the French car brand Peugeot. The firm also distributes GAC Motor in Peru and Chile. “We are truly honored to continue GAC Motor

When it comes to small, seven-seater multi-purpose vehicles (MPV), you have as many choices in the market as there are stars. The segment remains highly popular in the Philippines because it combines the utility and practicality of seven seats with the size and ease of a compact sedan. There are established Japanese stalwarts like the Toyota Avanza (and its luxurious Veloz sibling), the Mitsubishi Xpander (and its rebadged Nissan Livina sibling), the Suzuki Ertiga, and the upcoming all-new Honda