GAC Philippines recently invited us to a track day event to test the 2024 GAC Empow to showcase its sporty capabilities. The event was held at the Batangas Racing Circuit (BRC), where we could safely try the sedan. The automaker lined up several tests that covered the car’s handling, acceleration, braking, and traction control system. GAC also let us hot-lap the Empow on the short course layout of BRC. ALSO READ: FULL REVIEW: 2023 GAC Empow GE -- A Honda Civic rival in the making, but with a few

Setting up a car brand from scratch can be a daunting task. Aside from satisfying government and regulatory requirements, anyone planning to bring in a foreign brand will be faced with a number of difficult challenges along the way. That is why most automotive brands prefer to partner with a local distributor. Filipinos who run the distributorship are presumed to know the ins and outs of setting up the company, dealing with government agencies, hiring the right people, establishing systems and p

The Toyota Zenix, the third-generation Toyota Innova, has officially entered the Philippine market. It brings a new chassis, a new set of features, and a game-changing hybrid system that will differentiate it from the diesel model of its past. However, when the Toyota Zenix arrived in the local market, we noticed that it lacked a few of features present in our ASEAN neighbors. That said, we have created a list of key features that Toyota Philippines has removed from the local version of the Toyo

Recent rumblings in the automotive industry talk about Chinese brands changing management hands. And from what we've heard, there will be a few. But why do the principals feel the sudden need to come in lock, stock, and barrel to take over the Filipino-run local distributorships? Haven't they done enough to promote the brand? Did the distributors fall short of sales targets? Or have the distributors failed in the perception game despite the uptick in Chinese-made cars' build, tech and quality in

With the unveiling of the 2023 Toyota Prius, interest in hybrids has once again been piqued. The Prius has been the Japanese brand's poster child for the last 25 years when it comes to fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability. Meanwhile, the technology honed from four previous generations of the Prius has made it across the Toyota and Lexus lineups further enhancing both brands' green credentials over the years. Nowadays, hybrid cars are becoming more popular, and more affordable, each d

Toyota Innova is a 5-door compact multi-purpose vehicle manufactured by the Japanese automotive giant Toyota Motor Corporation. Since its first launch in August 2004, the Innova has been one of the most sought-after family cars in several countries throughout the years, especially in the Philippines. Aside from families, it has also been a top choice for businesses. It has gained instant popularity in the country because of its spacious cabin and affordable market price. Toyota Motor Corporation