Catch the country’s Fun Utility Vehicle (FUV), Honda Jazz, at the Yahoo! Purple Hunt game. Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. partners with Yahoo! Philippines in its social movement called, “Project Purple.” This project aims to fuel Pinoy passions by promoting creativity, innovativeness and expression of opinion, in a fun and refreshing way.
In doing so, Yahoo! introduced a treasure hunt activity with a purple twist. Dubbed as the Yahoo! Purple Hunt, accessible via www.yahoo.com.ph, participants are tasked to solve online clues and find treasures located around Metro Manila.
The ultimate treasure at stake is a brand new Honda Jazz, designed with hip and exclusive purple artwork.
Sharing the same values as Yahoo!, the Honda Jazz exudes fun and vibrant demeanor that perfectly fits one’s active lifestyle in these modern times. The Honda Jazz sports dynamic styling, spirited performance, versatile ULTRA seat configurations for all sorts of utility items and most importantly, remarkable fuel economy. Without a doubt, the Jazz is one small car that is not ‘small’ in space, technology, performance, styling and ultimately, in FUN factor. It comes loaded with features that enable expression and pursuit of one’s passion.
Yahoo! Purple Hunt runs until July 25, 2009. For more details, visit www.hondaphil.com.
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Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation, the country’s leading automotive company, unveiled the country’s first-ever hybrid car on June 19, 2009 at the Rockwell Tent in Makati City. The Prius is the world’s the pioneer in hybrid technology, able to run on both conventional 1.8-liter engine and electric motor that work in tandem to provide superb fuel-efficiency, low emissions, acceleration, and quietness. “For us at Toyota, being the industry leader means more than simply being Number One in Sales. It also means leading in SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY and PIONEERING TECHNOLOGY. And indeed, for us and the 1.2 million owners all over the world, the Prius is not just a green car. It is a symbol, a by-word, of all positive contribution for the environment, no matter how big or small,” expressed Hirohi Ito, TMP President.
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A trendsetting backbone city-sports bike has been introduced recently by Suzuki Philippines, Inc., one of the key players in the local motorcycle industry. Developed with superlative features at a competitive price range, the new Suzuki Thunder 125 combines the sportiness of a street bike with the durability and comfort of a backbone motorcycle — thus carving out a new niche, the backbone city-sports bike category.
Due to the combination of its powerful 125cc engine, convenient handling and stylish form, the new Suzuki Thunder 125 is perfect as an on-road street bike for leisure/club riding. It is targeted at experienced male riders between 30-40 years old, who have the riding maturity to handle the Suzuki Thunder 125’s relatively larger size, and is expected to appeal to solo riders who wish to upgrade from a standard underbone model.
The new Suzuki Thunder’s 125cc engine delivers a well-balanced combination of torque and power. Its PAIR (Pulsed Secondary Air Injection) System delivers environment-friendly and fuel-efficient performance. Its backbone set-up ensures a comfortable riding position as well as optimum handling stability and maneuverability. Other superlative features include lightweight aluminum mag wheels, integrated lower engine cowling, dependable front disc brake, dynamic speedometer with gear indicator, a sporty muffler, and an electric/kick starter.
With the increasing popularity of backbone recreation models and sporty street bikes in the Asian region, the new Suzuki Thunder 125 is slated to be a very strategic model which will help establish Suzuki as a class-leading brand. Its top-of-the-line features, high-torque 125cc engine, and sporty styling in a backbone chassis make the Suzuki Thunder 125 the perfect machine for city streets, where riding is an everyday adventure for motorcycle users in the urban setting.
With its commitment to bring mobility to Filipino consumers, Suzuki Philippines is the only integrated automotive company carrying both automobile and motorcycle products under one roof. It hopes to contribute to the country’s progress and industrialization by introducing more dynamic products and programs for the Filipino motoring public harnessing the power of Suzuki’s Way of Life.
Globally, Suzuki employs over 45,000 people, has 35 main production facilities in 23 countries, and distributors in 192 countries. Its manufacturing philosophy is grounded on providing value-packed, high-quality products offering both reliability and originality. Suzuki R&D efforts cover a wide range of the latest advances in energy, environment, electronics, communication, information and control applications — all devoted to creating products what will meet the challenges of the next generation.
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Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP) announces the introduction of the country’s first ever hybrid vehicle available in the market, the Toyota Prius. The Prius remains worthy of its name which means “to precede” in Latin, as it is the global pioneer of hybrid technology and many are following its lead.
The Prius makes use of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD), which is celebrated as a breakthrough in vehicle technology, being able to run on its gasoline engine, electric motor or both, as directed by the intelligent energy-management system.
It takes pride in having one of the world’s highest fuel efficiency, having achieved a consumption record of 38km/l1, while providing power similar to a larger 2.4-liter engine. Aside from high fuel efficiency, the flexibility of the hybrid system delivers cleaner emissions and cabin quietness but also provides powerful acceleration when needed.
Since its debut in 1997, the world’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle was sold in over 40 countries and regions around the world. Its cumulative sales exceeded 1.25 million units as of March 31, 2009. The 2009 Prius, is the third-generation model, which will be launched in over 80 countries worldwide to further promote hybrid technology.
Synergy of the Electric Motor and Engine
When starting off, the vehicle runs solely on electric power. As it speeds up both the electric motor and the engine drive the wheels to achieve smooth acceleration. An intelligent management system controls both the motor and the engine for high performance. The vehicle can also run solely on the electric motor at slow-cruising speeds.
Another energy-maximizing feature of the Prius is its regenerative breaking. This allows the motor-generator to recharge itself by converting kinetic energy into stored electric energy, which would be used later on, as the vehicle starts to move again. Furthermore, the engine shuts down when the vehicle comes to rest. The system conserves fuel and minimizes CO2 emissions by limiting engine operation.
Vehicle Outline
Advanced hybrid performance
The Prius does more than fulfill its responsibility to the environment with its world leading performance. Aside from its standard hybrid setting, the new Prius also comes with three alternative driving modes.
The Eco Mode helps drivers achieve their best mileage with emphasis on fuel efficiency. The Eco-Drive Monitor on the central instrument panel monitors driving manner and displays: 1) the Hybrid System Indicator, which shows status of accelerator operation and energy regeneration, 2) one-minute or five-minute fuel efficiency rates, 3) a fuel efficiency history that shows average and maximum consumption for the past five trips, and 4) real-time energy consumption.
For a sportier feel, the Power Mode offers more agile driving due to more reactive accelerator response.
The EV (Electric Vehicle) Drive Mode allows driving on battery power alone at low speeds, if conditions permit. This results to quiet, smooth and zero-emission operation.
Higher engine efficiency
The newly developed 1.8-liter gasoline engine reduces rpm and lowers fuel consumption at high speeds. The ample output and torque result to improved overall performance and economy.
In addition to this, the Prius employs Toyota’s first electric-powered water pump which contributes to the engine’s efficiency, requiring no belts under its hood for better fuel economy and less potential maintenance.
Optimized Weight of Key Components
Almost all of its elements contribute to the Prius’ superb performance. To name a few, the engine is more efficient, the high-speed motor’s output was improved, the reduction gear’s torque was increased, and the inverter and other parts are smaller and lighter. The power control unit uses a boost converter to raise system voltage to a maximum of 650V, despite the overall reduction of the hybrid battery’s size.
Moreover, the uses of sound-absorbing and vibration-controlling materials, and the adoption of a high-rigidity body, help further minimize noise in the cabin.
The high-output nickel-metal hydride hybrid battery features smaller cooling intake/ exhaust ducts and fans which maximize energy storage capacity. Its size is also more compact and is strategically tucked in the rear area to increase cargo space, specifically 30 liters more than that of the second-generation Prius.
Functional Aesthetics
The vehicle’s aerodynamic performance is one of the world’s best with a coefficient drag of 0.25. Every angle of the Prius was taken into consideration to achieve superiority in both function and design. The front pillars were moved forward by 25mm and placed at an oblique angle to refine the character lines and reduce drag while the roof peak was moved back to create a roomier rear space. The optimized platform helps achieves smooth steering, superior straight-line driving and cruising stability at high speeds.
The advanced cockpit design is divided into two zones complementing form and function. The Command Zone optimizes the position of the vehicle’s controls for easy operation, whereas the Display Zone is designed for high visibility of driving information.
Further reflecting its eco-friendly nature, the driver’s seat cushion, scuff plates, and other interior components are made of Ecological Plastic. The wide instrument panel reflects a pattern similar to leaf veins, to further enhance ecological feel.
Equipment ahead of the times
The world’s first Touch Tracer Display allows the driver to view the toggling movement on the display screen as the steering wheel audio, air conditioning and display switches are depressed. The Heads-Up Display (HUD) provides safety and convenience through reflecting the Hybrid System Indicator onto the windshield glass just in front of the driver’s line of sight, for minimal eye movement and better concentration on the road. Visibility is also ensured with the HUD’s height and brightness adjustment switches.
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), seven Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags and an Active Headrest for the driver and front passenger take safety features to the next level.
The “Global Outstanding Assessment” body has been further developed to create an advanced collision-safety structure to reduce injuries of both passengers and pedestrians.
Dawn of the Hybrid Age
The Prius meets both the Euro 5 and the new 2015 Japanese fuel efficiency standards, the strictest standard for emissions in Japan. This could be attributed to the low emissions of the third generation model, which was lowered by 75%.
Toyota employed the Eco-Vehicle Assessment System (Eco-VAS) while it was in the process of designing the Prius. Eco-VAS is an original, comprehensive, environmental impact assessment system.
Review of materials, processing methods and adhesives used for interior parts reduced volatile organic compounds and unpleasant interior odors.
The Prius offers just a preview of the latest innovations in hybrid engineering and leading-edge technologies. In continuously finding ways to improve fuel economy, reduce oil consumption and harmful emissions, Toyota is working towards its ultimate goal of sustainable mobility.
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When the Honda Jazz came out in 2004, it was dubbed a revolutionary vehicle. There was nothing like it in its class. Needless to say it became a huge success. With the recent release of the second generation Jazz, Honda’s revolutionary product has stepped gracefully into the next phase of hatchback evolution. It is now more versatile and multi-faceted, making it an ideal option for those with a demanding and unpredictable lifestyle.
The Jazz is a premier example of Honda’s clever space planning by using central fuel tank layout to optimize cabin space and maintain ease of maneuverability. The 2nd generation Jazz is now wider and longer, offering even more options for the metropolitan on the go.
As a young professional with the signature spiky hairstyle or English faux-hawk, you can sit in comfort knowing the roof of the car won’t brush your painstakingly acquired ‘do. Every detail is accounted for in Honda’s design. It has loads of compartments to meet your ever demanding lifestyle needs – from extra pair of shades, cologne and even assorted hair products. The Jazz also has a total of ten cup holders for any drink you need at hand and a coin holder for spare change you hate to keep in your pocket.
With your hectic job requiring you to attend one appointment to another, Honda brings driving pleasure right at your fingertips with the help of its race-inspired paddle shift. This innovation enables manual shifting of gears without the clutch. It is located behind the wheel to make gear-shifting easily accessible and safe.
The relatively small 5.2 m turning radius of this car gives you a versatile drive. Navigation of those tiny parking lots and backstreets, where every building’s service entrance seems to be located, become one less thing for you to worry about. For those extra horrible work days when the supplier can’t deliver an unusually shaped load themselves, the variations of storage capacity and cargo adaptable options make this innovation of Honda a godsend. The ULTRA seats can transform from ride friendly to load friendly with just one easy pull. This clever concept of easily changeable seats that fold every which way keep the Jazz ready for anything that you need to be ready for. So that untimely delivery of much needed equipment to the proper destination can be done without the hassle of having to remove headrests or seating.
At the end of the day you can be assured that you are getting the best value for your money. The Jazz sports the i-VTEC engine with high fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions. The class leading 5-speed automatic transmission works with Drive-by-Wire acceleration control for more power while maintaining fuel economy. It has the solid drive and reliability associated with other Hondas but it has versatility unlike any other. With everything that Honda has painstakingly integrated into the design, this hatchback is the companion that is ready when you need to be.
For more details about the Jazz, log on to www.hondaphil.com or visit any dealer nearest you. Remember to Be Smart, Test drive!
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Once again Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, has been successful in the International Engine of the Year Awards. With its 3.8-litre power unit from the 911 Carrera S models, the sports car manufacturer has underpinned its position in a field of high performance competitors, receiving the coveted “Best New Engine 2009 Award”. For eleven years now, this prize has been awarded by the British specialist journal “Engine Technology International” for outstanding engine characteristics.
With the new flat-six engines featuring direct fuel injection Porsche is raising the sportiness, efficiency and environmental compatibility of the 911 to an even higher level than before. The Carrera S for the first time also comes with Porsche's new double-clutch transmission (PDK). And despite an increase in power by 8.5 per cent, the PDK models reduce fuel consumption by more than 13 per cent and CO2 emissions by almost 15 percent.
Output of the 3.8-litre power unit in the S-models is up by 30 to 385 bhp (283 kW), pushing the extra-powerful S-version beyond the magic speed barrier of 300 km/h or 186 mph. Despite this supreme power and performance, the new models in the 911 range once again boast a significant reduction of fuel consumption, the 911 Carrera S Coupé with the PDK version offering even greater fuel economy with average fuel consumption of just 10.2 litres/100 km (combined overall fuel consumption to the EU5 standard).
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The Laus Auto Group (LAG), one of the biggest auto dealership networks in the country, is set to open a Ford outlet in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, bringing Ford vehicles closer to residents, businesses, and over 1,000 locators in the area.
A landmark business venture for the LAG, the outlet will be the first local car dealership inside the economic zone.
“We are grateful for the support of our partners like the Laus Auto Group for making available to our consumers Ford’s high quality and fuel efficient vehicles. We appreciate their invaluable contribution to the continued growth of Ford’s operations in the Philippines,” said Ford Group Philippines President Richard Baker.
Ford Subic (West Coast Automotive), set to open by the end of the year, will be situated on a 1,175 square-meter lot along Argonaut Road and J.P. Rizal Highway in the Subic Freeport. It boasts of a five-car showroom and eight service bays, with provision for a second level that can hold eight more service bays. The choice of Subic for the new Ford dealership is strategic, given that it is a modern, globally competitive, and commercially viable location for various businesses.
“Ford Subic is part of our expansion program to service the growing requirements of customers in the western part of Luzon. We are certainly proud to be part of over 1,000 locators in Subic who will help contribute to the business and economic growth in the area,” said LAG chairman and founder Levy Laus.
Laus, who has been a Ford franchise holder since the early 80’s, said the establishment of Ford dealership in Subic indicates sustained confidence in the future of Ford in the Philippines. Ford Subic is scheduled for opening before the end of 2009.
The Laus Auto Group currently has Ford dealerships in Libis, Quezon City; San Fernando, Pampanga; Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija; and Dagupan, Pangasinan.
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Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. showers delightful and easy-to-own packages this rainy season. Available until June 30, 2009, this exclusive mid-year promo allows buyers to drive home Civic, Accord and CR-V models through flexible financing schemes, discounts and accessories package options.
The multi-awarded Civic with 2008 year model is available with as much as Php 35,000 worth of savings for cash buyers. Meanwhile, financing buyers can apply the Php 35,000 special promo offering on the interest rates to make monthly payments more affordable. With 50% downpayment, monthly amortization becomes as reasonable as Php 8,786.
Honda CR-V 2.4 buyers are also in for a special treat. CR-V buyers not only get to enjoy the pleasure of sophisticated styling and sedan-like riding comfort but also benefit easy-on-the-budget deals. The CR-V 2.4 variant with 2008 year model comes with as much as Php 60,000 worth of savings for cash buyers or can be applied on the interest rates for financing buyers. Monthly amortization is estimated to go as low as Php 15,663 with 50% downpayment.
Indulge yourself with the premium grade driving performance of the most powerful Accord ever. As much as Php 70,000 promo offering can be applied on the interest rates of financing buyers. This brings down monthly amortization of its 3.5 liter top of the line variant to Php 21,494 with 50% initial cash outlay. Aside from affordable financing schemes, one can opt for a worry–free driving option. The Php 70,000 promo subsidy can be applied on the insurance, LTO registration or accessories.
The special offering this June gives you more reasons to experience the joys of owning a Honda. At the heart of every Honda is the i-VTEC engine that is designed to bring you the joy of power and fuel efficiency. With clean emissions that reach EURO 4 levels of European Emission Standards, every Honda vehicle is developed to let you feel the joy of caring for the environment. Above all, you can take pride in experiencing the joy of beauty and prestige with Honda’s rich heritage and numerous awards around the world.
All special financing schemes are subject to bank’s approval. Participating banks include BPI Family Savings Bank, RCBC Savings Bank, Banco de Oro, Union Bank and Chinabank. For more details, you may visit any Honda dealership or log on to www.hondaphil.com. Be sure to try out and schedule a testdrive of your preferred Honda and get to experience a new level of driving performance.
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4:23 PM by
kankan
, under
All around the country, action- packed adventures and exciting journeys await as Ford Philippines proudly launches its new Ford Everest. Eleven malls in eleven cities nationwide will host the new Ford Everest along with surprises that will surely delight every member of the family.
Families from all over the archipelago can visit any of the 11 malls from June 5th onwards and experience the excitement delivered only by the new Ford Everest. With dominant new styling and an array of contemporary features, the new Ford Everest is now more than ever, the SUV that brings everything together in one great package. This SUV is the most capable seven-seater on the road or off, combining best-in-class torque, active versatility, superior off-road capability and Built Ford Tough strength with surprising levels of comfort and refinement.
Along with the new design elements that enhance the Everest’s image of dominant toughness, the new Everest also offers a number of firsts in the Philippine market with optional features like a multi-function entertainment system –the ICE (Integrated Connectivity and Entertainment) Package with GPS Navigation System for its top-of-the-range 4x4 models.
For all of these and more, the new Ford Everest is the vehicle of choice for families whose schedules are filled with fun and exciting activities. "With its new look and enhanced performance features, the new Ford Everest’s affinity with the local Filipino families will certainly be sustained and further strengthened, making it the confident partner of our ready-for-action families" said Ford Group Philippines president, Rick Baker
Catch the excitement of the new Ford Everest on the following dates at these locations: June 5 to 7 at Alabang Town Center, Sta. Lucia Grand Mall, EDSA Shangri-la Mall, Limketkai Mall Cagayan de Oro. On June 5 to 9 at Gaisano Mall Davao. On June 5 to 10 at SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA. On June 5 to 11 at SM City Pampanga, SM City Cebu. On June 8 to 14 at SM City Iloilo. On June 11 to 15 at Robinson’s Place Bacolod.
It will also be available in all Ford dealerships nationwide starting June 5.
Visit www.ford.com.ph for more details on how you can Make Your Own Way with the New Ford Everest.
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Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP) recently unveiled the latest version of the sporty Yaris sedan. In enhancing luxury and styling features, Toyota aims to elevate the standards of the Yaris and further strengthen the company’s lead in the Passenger Car (PC) segment.
The new 2009 Yaris is designed to be at the forefront of innovative design and technology. It is equipped with interior and exterior enhancements that compliment the performance of the 1.5 liter 1NZ-FE 16 valve DOHC engine with VVT-i. VVT-i technology operates effectively to ensure higher output, cleaner emissions and enhanced fuel efficiency. This results to a maximum output of 107HP/6,000rpm and a maximum torque of 142Nm/4,200rpm.
Exterior Development
The sleeker front grille, curvier headlamps, and upgraded 8-spoke alloy wheels give the Yaris an edgier presence. On the other hand, the new bumper is now more functional with a corner protector, as well as redesigned air dams and front foglamps.
Safety and design go hand in hand with signal lamps integrated to the side mirrors and modified rear combination lamps with orange turn signals.
Interior Tuning
The interior is revitalized by adapting a leather steering wheel with audio controls and an auxiliary connector to boost the fully-integrated audio system. The leather shift knob sophisticates the already potent transmission design.
Together with these adjustments, the passengers of the Yaris 2009 can also enjoy the safety and comfort features retained from the previous generation. This includes the center-positioned optitron meter for easier viewing, driver and passenger SRS airbags, and numerous compartment pockets such as a newly-adapted seat under tray.
Safety is also ensured with the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA) which prevents wheel lock-up on slippery roads, distributes the right amount of brake force to each wheel, and provides supplemental brake pressure during panic braking. Electronic Power Steering and Drive-by Wire Controls improve fuel efficiency and maximize control. The vehicle’s turning radius of 4.7 meters also makes it more maneuverable.
All technological advancements of the new Yaris are part of Toyota’s vision of moving forward, for the enjoyment and comfort of its customers.
The 2009 Yaris is offered in 2 variants, either with automatic transmission at P766,000 or manual transmission at P731,000. Available colors are Freedom White, Cosmo Red, Extreme Black, Medium Silver Metallic, Silver Metallic, and Light Blue Mica Metallic. For more information, visit any of Toyota’s 27 dealerships, nationwide.
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