It looks like Mazda Philippines is going all-out at the 2017 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS). The Japanese carmaker is fielding three showstoppers at their display this year: the drool-worthy MX-5 RF, the all-new CX-5 crossover and the all-new CX-9 midsize SUV—all highly-awaited, all worth checking out and all making their Philippine debuts.
If you've been following our website, you'll know we've been looking forward to seeing the RF for quite some time. The hard-top version of the fourth-generation Miata features a new retractable roof, improved quietness and a whole different level of appeal. If, like us, you're excited to see Mazda's new fastback in the metal, be sure to drop by. Next up is the all-new CX-5--one of the company's core models, making up around 25% of its annual sales. The second-gen crossover gets a more refined application of the Kodo Design philosophy, a spruced-up interior, and improved driving dynamics and comfort thanks to the inclusion of Mazda's revolutionary G-Vectoring Control tech (GVC). You'll see it tomorrow in slick Machine Grey and the stunning new Crystal Soul Red. We came across the all-new CX-9 during a Mazda factory tour in Japan last year, but we're still very, very excited. The midsize SUV boasts better chassis dynamics with a more comfortable ride, Mazda's Skyactiv 2.5T engine, and 130kg less weight than the current model. We've written about the vehicle's tech and convenience features abroad, so if you want to get an idea of what goodies make it here, be sure to drop by. So yeah, Mazda will be one of MIAS 2017's must-visit booths this weekend. We're crossing our fingers that we'll be behind the wheel of the aforementioned rides sooner rather than later. For now though, we'll settle for seeing them at the event. Filipinos love the Mitsubishi Montero Sport. Whenever any news breaks about this much-praised midsize SUV, we're all ears. So it was only natural that we got curious when a Montero Sport (sold in Thailand as the Pajero Sport) was onstage at the Mitsubishi display during the 2017 Bangkok International Motor Show. The variant on display is billed as the 'New Pajero Sport 2WD' and it's got an eight-speed automatic transmission.
You might be asking yourself, so what? Our market already has 2WD variants with eight-speed gearboxes. What's the point? Well, this one's got safety features that ours doesn't. Aside from forward collision mitigation system and blind spot warning (which are available here on higher-spec models but not the 2WD variants), the new Thai-spec Montero Sport has adaptive cruise control, which uses a radar to adjust your cruising speed according to your surroundings. A surround multi-view monitor, meanwhile, gives you a bird's eye view of your vehicle as you park. The most interesting safety tech on this new variant is something called the Ultrasonic Misacceleration Mitigation System. This feature detects barriers in front or behind the vehicle. In case there's something in your way and the accelerator is pressed "quickly and aggressively," the system immediately cuts power from the engine to prevent an accident. Hmm, we could think of a few uses for that... Do you guys want to see this 'safer' Montero Sport in the Philippines? We've already announced that the highly-awaited Mazda MX-5 RF will be making its local debut at the 2017 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS). Now, Mazda Philippines has finally revealed the official pricing for the fastback. The hardtop version of the fourth-generation Miata will come in two variants: One with a black leather interior, and another in nappa leather. Below are their price tags:
*Mazda MX-5 RF (black leather) – P2.18 million *Mazda MX-5 RF (nappa leather) – P2.25 million You can also get the car in a stunning Soul Red or new Machine Gray paint finish for an additional P16,800, the company says. The RF will share the same 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated engine capable of 158hp and 200Nm with the convertible version, but the sleek new Miata boasts a quieter drive and an improved structure. Unfortunately, all units of the new fastback will only come equipped with an automatic transmission. Mazda Philippines head Steven Tan has already announced that the first batch of Philippine MX-5 RF units will be turned over to their lucky owners this Sunday, during the last day of MIAS at the World Trade Center in Pasay City. The MX-5 RF will be on display at MIAS alongside the all-new CX-5 and the all-new CX-9. If you're looking to be one of the first people in the country to see any of the three vehicles in the metal, you should definitely drop by. We know we will. If you're viewing this on a mobile device and can't see the video, please click here.
A few weeks ago, we reported on a rumor that the all-new CR-V could be coming here in diesel form. Now there’s been a recent development that adds strength to our suspicion: The fifth generation CR-V has been launched in neighboring Thailand. And yes, it’s got an oil-burner under the hood. Press play on the video above to take a look. As per our previous report, the all-new CR-V comes with a 1.6-liter turbodiesel mill that does 160hp and 350Nm. This is mated to a mind-bending Shift by Wire nine-speed transmission, which combine to eke out 18.9km/L according to Honda. The other option for Thai customers is a 2.4-liter i-VTEC (173hp, 224Nm) paired to a CVT. This all-new model also has another ace up its sleeve--seven seats. That’s right, there’s finally a third row. This might pit the CR-V up against other seven-seaters made by rivals like Toyota and Mitsubishi. That’s a competitive battlefield, to say the least. The Thai-spec all-new Honda CR-V is available in five colors: White Orchid Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Modern Steel Metallic, Lunar Silver Metallic, and Dark Olive Metallic. The question now is, is the Philippines next in line to receive Honda’s all-new diesel seven-seater? After all, most of our Hondas do come from the Land of Smiles. What do you guys think? The refresh might have just landed in Thailand, but Isuzu Philippines isn't done with the MU-X just yet. The Japanese carmaker has unveiled a new variant for the popular midsize SUV, breathing new life into the model via a host of new aesthetic upgrades.
It's called the Isuzu MU-X Black Series. Essentially, the Black Series is the SUV's 3.0-liter LS-A 4x2 AT variant with additional styling and a sportier overall look. Emphasizing the MU-X's title is the new black radiator grille and hood garnish, as well as a two-tone front bumper featuring a Cosmic Black lower half. The vehicle also runs on sleeker two-tone 17-inch aluminum alloys wheels with 255/65 R17 tires. The Black Series isn't all looks though. Adding to the SUV's practicality are new components such as gloss black roof rails which can carry up to 60kg of cargo, and black step boards for more convenient accessibility. Inside, the MU-X gets new carbon fiber accents, chrome door handles, new scuff plates, as well as new soft pad-covered armrests. The Black Series also gets a new organizer box for its various storage compartments. Isuzu Philippines vice president Shojiro Sakoda says the new variant signifies the company's appreciation for the market, adding that he hopes more sophisticated customers will like the Black Series MU-X. The Isuzu MU-X Black Series carries a price of P1.568 million, and is offered in either Cosmic Black or Garnet Red. You can check it out at all Isuzu dealerships nationwide. |
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