MOTOR show fans may have missed the long-running Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) from a pandemic hiatus a few years back.

However, this year’s 8th edition themed “Mobility + Humanity: Innovating for the Common Good”  made a comeback worthwhile. Participating members of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines ensured the event was a blast by showcasing innovations in their respective car brands.

All-New BR-V coming soon, hello HR-V RS

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) did not only highlight its brand’s safety and advanced technology but also presented the theme “Joyful, Safer World,” featuring All-New HR-V RS grade and highly anticipated All-New BR-V debuting very soon. A country’s first, HCPI previewed Honda CONNECT utilizing smart telematics technology. It will allow users to connect with their cars via a smartphone application. It aims to provide safety, security, and convenience through various features such as vehicle diagnostics, remote applications, security applications, vehicle tracking, and support services.

Then, of course, the introduction of the All-New HR-V RS variant. Fresh from its introduction last summer, the All-New HR-V will carry the brand’s known sporty DNA. From the Sporty Chrome Front Grille, RS Emblem, and Smoke LED Light Bar to the Glossy Black with Chrome Bumper. Moreover, a Side Sill Garnish with Chrome is paired up with Side Sill Garnish Glossy Black and a set of bigger 18-inch RS Design Gray alloy wheels. As a first-time feature, there is also the LED sequential turn signal.

Inside are signature sporty design pedals, shift knobs, and a leather interior with red stitching. Dynamic performance is redefined with a Variable Gear Ratio for smoother steering and agile handling to improve responsiveness and vehicle stability. The All-New Honda HR-V RS variant retails at P1.739 million. It is available in Ignite Red Metallic (RS variant image color), Crystal Black Pearl (exclusive for RS variant only), and Premium Opal White Silver Pearl (additional P20,000).

Last is the official Preview of the All-New BR-V. Since its introduction, the BR-V has become one of HCPI’s best-selling models. Now donning a more commanding look, the frame’s overall dimensions look more prominent and higher. According to HCPI, the latest generation will have enhanced safety and new technology features that remain faithful to the high value for money it is already known for.

For Mitsubishi Philippines, it was all about celebrating the return of the

legendary RALLIART brand in the country. Showcased were the New Strada GLS and Montero Sport Black Series RALLIART editions. Mitsubishi’s iconic motorsports earned an excellent reputation through the years, particularly in the various known rally races worldwide.

The new Strada GLS RALLIART (2WD AT) sports exclusive RALLIART components as a tribute to Mitsubishi’s rich rally heritage. These are RALLIART Front Under Garnish, Mud Flaps, Side Decals, Bed Liner, and Floor Mats. The price is set at P1.429 million.

Meanwhile, the new Montero Sport Black Series RALLIART (2WD AT) bears a sportier and imposing presence. This model comes with RALLIART Front Under Garnish, Rear Under Garnish, Mud Flaps, Side Decals, Fender Arch Molding, and Floor Mats. The New Montero Sport, Black Series RALLIART, is priced at P2, 122,000. Both models are available in Jet Black Mica and White Diamond (an additional P15,000).

Celebrating Mazda’s special relationship with the Miata Club of the Philippines, a limited-run Mazda MX-5 MCP 25th Anniversary Edition, exclusive to the Philippine market, debuted during the show. The particular edition variant is exclusively in Platinum Quartz Metallic with a Navy Blue soft top. Navy Blue accents are also found on the side mirrors and roll hoops. Satin Silver 17-inch alloy wheels complete the exterior transformation.

Inside is a unique Mazda Connect Commander knob finished in Sterling Silver. It also comes with the same finish Serial Number Plate. Additional features are black leather seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a nine-speaker Bose sound system. Each unit will also include a commemorative car cover and the MCP 25th Anniversary Photobook. The MX-5 MCP 25th Anniversary Edition is available in manual and automatic variants retailing at P2.250 and P2.300 million, respectively.

Meanwhile, Mazda also showcased the new Mazda CX-8 donning a new gun-metallic front grille, a front bumper chrome garnish, redesigned 19-inch alloy wheels, and dual tailpipes with larger openings. Inside, it has the Deep Red Nappa leather seats, a seven-inch LCD instrument cluster meter, frameless rearview mirror, Sen Wood interior trim, electronic glass sunroof, hands-free power tailgate, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wireless device charging. The new Mazda CX-8 FWD Signature seven-seater retails at P2.330 million, while the CX-8 AWD Exclusive six-seater is at P2.490 million.

Nissan Philippines’ All-New Livina was one of the main focal points in this year’s PIMS. Nissan’s latest offering and their entry into the MPV segment, the Livina, was featured at the motor show. Being one of the sought-after segments in the country, Nissan sought to provide an MPV option that put together their signature innovation with the vehicle needs of young and modern families who seek a practical and comfortable ride.

The All-New Nissan Livina is available in Royal Ruby Red, Moonstone Grey, Diamond Pearl White, Onyx Black, and Platinum Silver body colors. The top-spec VL (A/T) retails at P1.209 million, while the VE (A/T) variant is at P1.149 million. Meanwhile, the EL (A/T) variant retails at P1.109 million, while the base variant E (M/T) is at P1.029 million.

Isuzu Philippines’ “Road to Progress” vision

The leading truck maker in the country presented an extension of its recently announced Road to Progress vision during the company’s 25th Inaugural Anniversary last July. With sustainability and responsible partnership as the core concept, Isuzu’s presentation encompassed the benefits of its products and services to society. Beyond the durable and reliable vehicles, providing mobility and transport solutions has been the manufacturer’s vital role in every Filipino’s life.

To ease customers’ rising concern about increasing fuel prices, Isuzu Philippines recently conducted a One Full Tank Challenge for the D-MAX and mu-X, verified by the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP). Embarking on a five-day road trip from Subic up to Ilocos and then down to Bicol, the DMAX impressively achieved 20.58 km/l fuel consumption traveling a 1,564-kilometer total distance. At the same time, the mu-X ran 1,675 kilometers and achieved 20.94km/l. Isuzu proved that the D-MAX and the mu-X are comfortable, safe, economical, and environment-friendly.

Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino

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WHAT caught my attention in the just-ended 8th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) was Spencer Yu’s pre-event statement.  As quoted by Inquirer’s Tessa R. Salazar, Stephen, my good friend cum president of SMC Car Asia, said: “The BMW iX is the first battery electric vehicle (BEV) that BMW introduced here in the Philippines last April and the reception has been overwhelming for BEVs.”

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