January 2014

2014 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS)

MANILA, Philippines – Motoring Editor Manny de los Reyes flew to Detroit, Michigan to witness the first major global automotive event of the year: the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) or more commonly known as the Detroit Auto Show. He also found time to have dinner with the first female CEO of a major automaker, General Motors’ Mary Barra.

Toyota Vios Cup Exhibition Race

The Clark International Speedway transformed into a festival of speed as Toyota Motor Philippines finally held the Vios Cup Exhibition Race. In the end, AutoIndustriya editor-in-chief Vince Pornelos emerged the clear victor after sweeping the two-heat race.

Toyota Corolla Altis

Toyota debuts what it calls the “best and most capable Corolla Altis yet. The all-new Corolla Altis is larger and sleeker. It’s powered by proven engines mated to either manual or fuel-efficient CVT transmissions. Inside, the Corolla Altis receives a much more luxurious interior with features such as push-button start/stop, leather seats, and even a powered driver’s seat.

Mitsubishi Mirage G4 in Fuel-Efficiency Drive to Baguio

Mitsubishi proved the fuel-efficiency of its Mirage G4 subcompact sedan by doing a fuel economy run from Manila all the way to the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio. Eventual winners sipped just 4.523 liters of fuel during the entire trip while the most lead-footed team consumed 10.549 liters.

Honda Accord

Honda Cars Philippines officially launched the all-new Accord, the latest car to wear the storied nameplate known for sophistication, efficiency, and driving joy in the executive sedan segment. The all-new Accord features the first application of Honda’s Earth Dreams technology—promising better fuel mileage without sacrificing performance.

Volkswagen Polo Notch TDI and Jetta TDI

Volkswagen Philippines gave a deeper appreciation of Volkswagen’s trademark TDI technology by taking the Polo Notch TDI and Jetta TDI for a spin around the Nuvali area in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. The Polo Notch TDI is marketed as “your first German car”, and the Jetta as an interesting alternative to the usual gasoline-powered cars in the C-segment.

Ford EcoSport

Ford unveiled their segment-busting vehicle that’s designed and built to marry the agility, affordability, and fuel efficiency of a compact car with the flexibility and spaciousness of a sport utility vehicle: the hugely popular Ford EcoSport.