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TechnologyAutoblog2022 Hyundai Tucson First Drive Review | A bold leap forward
Take one quick glimpse at Hyundai’s already-robust roster of SUVs, from the mini Venue to the plus-size Palisade and you’ll find no shortage of utes. Within the Hyundai portfolio, the Tucson still fits between the Kona and Santa Fe even though it’s longer by 6.1 inches than its predecessor, wider and taller by 0.6 inch, and carrying a 3.4-inch longer wheelbase than before. The 2022 Tucson takes on a new aggressive exterior look with lots of swells at each side, muscular bulges, sharp creases, rising and falling accents, tapering masses … and we’re still only at the body’s sides.
NewsAutoblogThe Tank 300 Cybertank would sell like hotcakes in L.A.
Chinese company Tank has unveiled a new concept at the Shanghai Auto Show. Called the 300 Cybertank, it's a horror movie of a vehicle, so grotesque you can't help but stare. It's based on Tank's existing 300 model, a large SUV with the footprint of about a BMW X4.
LifestyleAutoblogThis 2021 BMW M4 Competition is a performance monster, and it can be yours
Enter to win this giveaway or any other Omaze experience between now and this Wednesday, April 21, and receive 300 extra entries into any campaign + chance to win $10K with code GOGREEN300. No matter what you think about its front-end looks, the 2021 BMW M4 Competition is a performance monster, with over 500 horsepower, a top speed of 180 miles per hour and a 0-60 time of 3.8 seconds. The one Omaze is giving away also comes with $20,000 in cash and with taxes and delivery fees covered.
SportsAutoblogLordstown Motors and a homemade 4Runner: San Felipe's tale of two EVs
Over the weekend, the San Felipe 250 off-road race hosted not one, but two electric race trucks. On the one end you had Lordstown Motors, one of several hopeful electric truck manufacturers entering a factory-backed truck developed with the help of big-name off-road racing truck manufacturer Brenthel Industries. On the other you had Kyle Seggelin and his homemade Toyota 4Runner with an electric motor and a bunch of swappable battery packs.
LifestyleAutoblogLincoln Zephyr makes a comeback, but only in China
The Lincoln Zephyr name is back. The name was previously used on some of the luxury brand's sedans before World War II, and for a single model year on a sedan derived from the first-generation Ford Fusion. Yes, the car you see above is only for China, and also happened to be designed by Lincoln's Chinese design branch.
TechnologyAutoblog2021 Nissan Leaf Review | Variety of ranges, features is its strength
The 2021 Nissan Leaf is one of the longest-running electric car nameplates on the market, which partly explains why it’s the bestselling electric car in the world. Nissan doesn't go above and beyond with other interior features, but there are some niceties worth mentioning.
NewsAutoblogTire slasher leaves severed finger in Arizona woman's driveway
An Arizona woman called the police after she found a Halloween-like sight in her driveway. "I literally have been laughing all day because if I don't, I might cry," Francesca Wikoff told Maricopa-based news channel KCTV5. While photos taken at the crime scene were blurred by police officers before being released to the media, we can tell the slasher left a good chunk of a finger in Wikoff's driveway.
LifestyleAutoblog2021 Ford Bronco Sport First Edition Road Test | Orange is the new Bronco
For good reason, we've written gobs about the new 2021 Ford Bronco Sport — from its reveal back in the depths of the pandemic last July, to our first driving review on-road and off and our second crack at it in the off-road-specific Badlands trim, and on to our summary of everything you need to know about the tough-but-cute ute. Just this: Damn, Cyber Orange Metallic is a great color. Now, I'm prone to an orange crush, which should be apparent from a glance through the Autoblog staff's personal cars, a roundup that includes my Grabber Orange Mustang.
TechnologyAutoblogMaserati Levante Hybrid gets four-cylinder and 48-volt technology
Maserati is keeping its promise of adding more electrified options to its lineup. Shortly after electrifying the Ghibli, it stuffed the turbo-electric powertrain in the Levante to create its second series-produced hybrid model. The system's total output checks in at 330 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, figures on par with the Ghibli Hybrid's, and it spins the four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission and a limited-slip rear differential.
BusinessAutoblogFord Evos is a fusion of crossover and fastback genes for China
Ford traveled to the biennial Shanghai auto show to unveil a model named Evos that blurs the lines between segments. Ford proudly pointed out the Evos is the first car developed largely by a China-based team, though its members leveraged the company's global product development expertise. Precisely how this approach shaped the Evos during its development phase isn't clear, though we're told the front end's design blends Ford's design heritage with Chinese aesthetic values.
BusinessAutoblogMercedes-Benz EQB is the GLB crossover's electric alter-ego
Mercedes-Benz has introduced the GLB's battery-powered alter-ego at the 2021 Shanghai auto show. Named EQB, it's closely related to its gasoline-burning sibling, but it receives a redesigned front end and an electric drivetrain. As its name implies, the EQB is to the GLB what the EQA is to the GLA; it also slots between the EQA and the EQC in the German firm's growing range of electric crossovers.
LifestyleAutoblogAudi A6 E-Tron concept is an EV that doubles as a gaming console
Electric powertrains are gradually spreading to Audi's mainstream models. The next-generation A6 will be electric-only, though the current gasoline-burning model will carry on, and a concept named A6 E-Tron unveiled at the 2021 edition of the Shanghai Auto Show gives us an accurate idea of what it will look like and what it will be powered by. Audi built the A6 E-Tron on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture it developed jointly with sister company Porsche.
TechnologyAutoblogGenesis Electrified G80 is a classy, subtle entry into EVs
The rumors and spy shots were correct, and the first electric Genesis is the Electrified G80 midsize luxury sedan. As you can see, you'll have a hard time telling an Electrified G80 (yes, that does appear to be its official name) from a gas-powered G80. You might also be able to distinguish the Electrified G80 from the rear, as it lacks the dual exhaust outlets in the bumper.
TechnologyAutoblogLexus ES gets a tech-focused mid-cycle update for the 2022 model year
Lexus traveled to the 2021 edition of the Shanghai Auto Show to unveil the updated ES. Scheduled to launch as a 2022 model, the sedan ushers in a long list of handling, comfort, and technology improvements. Lexus also updated the technology motorists can't see but regularly rely on.
BusinessAutoblogToyota bZ4X is a first, and the future of Toyota and Subaru electric cars
Here it is, one of the most important Toyotas in recent history, yes, even up there with the new Supra. This, the Toyota bZ4X, is the company's first electric car it will offer on a large scale across the globe. It's also the first to use the new e-TNGA electric car platform, which will underpin additional Toyotas as well as Subarus.
NewsCarmudiWhat's your favorite Hyundai Tucson color?
Hyundai Philippines brings elegance and performance to the local subcompact crossover segment with the face-lifted Hyundai Tucson. The current-gen Tucson comes with a hexagonal grille coupled with high-tech headlamps and a chiseled bumper giving the South Korean’s five-door SUV the look of luxury. Under the hood can either be a 2.0 Nu MPI gasoline engine or a 2.0 R CRDi e-VGT diesel engine. The former can be mated to a six-speed manual or automatic transmission while the latter can be had in an eight-speed automatic transmission. The gasoline engine can produce a maximum power of 152hp with maximum torque of 192Nm while the diesel mill can max out at 126hp and 402Nm of torque. In terms of ride comfort, the Hyundai Tuscon is outfitted with MacPhersons up front and multi-link suspensions at the rear. Safety-wise, Hyundai outfits the Tucson with advanced high strength steel (AHSS) to provide drivers and passengers with class-leading rigidity and a smooth ride. Overall, the Hyundai Tuscon comes with the right amount of power, safety features, and good looks. It’s currently offered in four variants—2.0 GL 6M/T 2WD, 2.0 GL 6A/T 2WD, 2.0 CRDi GL 8A/T 2WD (diesel), and 2.0 CRDi GLS 8A/T 2WD (diesel)—and comes in six color options. Check out the Tucson’s premium paint jobs below. Pure white White is one of the most common options for those on the market for a family carrier. Not only does it represent calm and serenity, but it also makes the subcompact crossover easy to see while on the road — something to consider when driving around town with loved ones on board. In pure white, the Hyundai Tuscon offers a somewhat matte finish that blends well with the chrome trims and alloy wheels. White pearl This essentially the same color spectrum as pure white, but with a touch of glossy elegance. That said, this color option gives a similar vibe as white, but adds a little sparkle to the Tucson’s exterior. It’s basically the same color with an added flair. Platinum silver Silver is often associated with terms like modern and industrial. That said, this monochromatic tone gives the Hyundai Tucson a sleek and executive appeal. Its dazzling sheen and metallic elements create a sophisticated appearance that can make any driver feel like they can rock a suit and a bowtie. Pepper gray A tone darker than silver, Hyundai Tucson’s pepper gray gives this small SUV a conservative look. It’s also a practical option as gray vehicles can still look good even with less frequent cleaning and detailing. Dusk blue While blue alone represents confidence and composure, adding a touch of gray takes it on a deeper level. Dusk blue makes the Tuscon appear more serious and masculine. The darker shade befits the athletic appeal defined by the outlines of the Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture design philosophy. Phantom black A classic color, black represents both power and authority. This imposing hue gives the Hyundai Tucson a striking and formidable road presence. And while white blends with the Tuscon’s chrome trims, black accentuates them and makes them pop out. Just make sure to be extra careful when driving at night as black vehicles are tough to make out in the dark. It’s good to note that the colors are not available across all variants. According to Hyundai Philippines, the colors pure white and platinum silver are available in gasoline variants only while white pearl and pepper gray are only offered in diesel variants. On the other hand, dusk blue is only available in 2.0 GL 6A/T 2WD and 2.0 CRDi GL 8A/T 2WD variants. Photos from Hyundai Also read: Hyundai looks to open new segment with Santa Cruz Sport Adventure Vehicle Hyundai reveals uncovered KONA N Hyundai expands high-performance line-up with Kona N
- NewsCarmudi
LTO extends Temporary Operator's Permits' validity if expiring during quarantine
The Temporary Operator’s Permits (TOP) that expired during quarantine lockdowns (March 15 to April 30) have been extended to certain days of May, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) said. The extension has been applied to the National Capital Region (NCR) and the following areas below: - Bulacan - Cavite - Laguna - Santiago City, Isabela - Quirino Province - Abra in Cordillera Administrative Region - Rizal The TOP is basically the ticket issued to drivers apprehended by the LTO for violating traffic rules. The TOP serves as a driver's temporary license for three days before the driver collects their license from the LTO. For TOPs that expired from March 15 to 31 (within 72 hours of apprehension), these are valid until May 3, 2021. Drivers with these TOPs can settle their apprehension until May 14. For TOPs that expired from April 1 to 15, these are valid until May 17, 2021. Drivers with these TOPs can settle their apprehension until May 28. For TOPs with an expiry date from April 16 to 30, have an extended validity until May 31, 2021. These TOPs can be settled until June 11. Drivers with TOPs are not allowed to drive after the extended validity dates, the LTO reminded. The TOP validity extension came after the extension of the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) in NCR, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal from April 5 until April 11. Photo from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) Facebook page Also read: 5 new vehicle inspection centers to be opened LTO further extends vehicle registration validity
LifestyleCarmudiThrough the years: Honda Jazz generations
The Honda Jazz presented a smart interior packaging, peppy performance, fuel efficiency, a fun-to-drive factor, and the legendary Honda reliability--all wrapped in a simple one-box shape that measures a little more than four meters. That's why millions of Jazz cars were sold around the world since the first generation was launched in 2001, and why it's garnered a shelf-load of car-of-the-year awards from the USA, UK, and Japan. Here in the Philippines, the Jazz was equally admired, too. That's why this subcompact will missed as it makes way for the upcoming City Hatchback in the local Honda lineup. So as a fitting farewell to this funky car, let's take a look back at the Jazz generations. First generation (2001 - 2008) The original Jazz debuted in Japan in 2001 as the Fit, a name the car also wore in some markets. This car packed the spacious interior and seating configurations that soon became the Jazz hallmarks. Honda designed the Jazz with a short front end, and fitted it with a compact suspension system which allowed the floor to be lowered. Creating more room in the cabin was the fuel tank, which was placed under the front seats rather than the usual rear seats. With room to spare under the rear seat bench, Honda was able to introduce the "Ultra Seat," a set of seating modes which included Utility, Long, Tall, and Refresh. In Utility mode, the 60:40 split rear seats fold down as close to the floor as possible to create a level surface to the cargo hold. It's the same story in Long mode, but here the front passenger seat is folded in order to accommodate objects as long as two meters. In Tall mode, the rear seat cushions fold upward movie theater seat-style to accommodate taller items such as a plant. In Refresh mode, the front seats are reclined 180 degrees to create a level "bed" to the rear bench. At launch, the Jazz was powered by a 1.3-liter i-Dsi engine that generated 82ps and 116Nm of torque, which can be mated to a five-speed manual, or a (CVT) gearbox with seven simulated gears. That engine and gearbox combo was also seen in Philippine-spec Jazz cars, which reached our shores in 2004. The car also brought along the buzz it made in Japan, so it was well-received by the motoring press and the consumers alike. That i-Dsi engine also fulfilled Honda's promise of ultimate fuel-efficiency, as the Jazz was driven by the press thousands of kilometers around the country in one full tank. In 2005, the Jazz became available with a 110hp 1.5-liter VTEC engine and a five-speed manual option, and in 2006 included that with revised bumpers, LED tail lights, and new color options. Many people called the 1.5 manual Jazz a hot hatch. In 2007, Honda said about 230,000 Jazz examples were sold throughout Asia. In the used-car market, prices for the original Jazz range from P250,000 to P300,000. Second generation (2008 - 2013) The second Fit was introduced in Japan late 2007 for the 2008 model year, and reached the United Kingdom and the Philippines, to name a few markets, as the Jazz shortly after. This Jazz retained the short nose and center tank design, but with a longer wheelbase and wider track for even more interior space. Honda also improved the refinement and ride quality. The Ultra Seat is still the interior highlight, while improved engines made their way under the hood. These engines were the 1.3-liter i-VTEC with 99ps and 127Nm of torque, and the 1.5 i-VTEC with 120ps and 145Nm. A five-speed manual was mated the 1.3 liter mill, while a five-speed torque converter automatic was an option. The 1.5 came as auto-only, so some missed the old car's "hot" variant. But the 1.5-liter Jazz gave the driver some involvement with its paddle shifters, and the VTEC engines across the range made their signature sound and pulling power from 4,000 rpm upwards. In 2011, the Jazz range was updated with new bumpers, LED tail lights, and interior materials. Expect to pay around P350,000 for the Jazz made between 2008 and 2011, while facelifted cars can go upwards to P450,000. Third generation (2013 - 2019) Launched in Japan in 2013, the Fit/Jazz improved upon its winning formula, but mixed this with new running gear and even more interior space. Honda put the spotlight in the Fit Hybrid model in Japan, which had a claimed fuel economy of 36.4kpl. In the Philippines, the Jazz returned in 2014 with a 1.5-liter (120ps, 145Nm) and five-speed manual combination for the base model. The same engine powered the higher-spec cars, and matched this with a CVT gearbox. As expected from a car launched in that time, the Jazz featured touchscreen infotainment, and even touch-sensitive climate controls for the top-spec cars. The third-gen Jazz received an update in 2017 which included restyled bumpers, and features such as navigation, multi-view reverse camera with and voice command in the new RS Navi trim. As this is the last Jazz to be sold in the country, Honda said that their dealer network will continue to sell the car until supplies last. Prices start at P918,000. Fourth generation (2019 - present) The fourth installment of the Fit/Jazz was uncovered at the 46th Tokyo Motor Show in 2019, with a new hybrid system called the "e:HEV" as its highlight. The e:HEV uses Honda’s dual-motor i-MMD (Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive) hybrid system. The system combines a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine that makes 98ps and 127 Nm, and two electric motors. One e-motor acts as a generator to recharge the battery, while the other helps in propulsion duties in lower speeds. Meanwhile, the fourth-gen Fit's design highlights include slim front pillars that and a lower instrument panel to allow for better line of sight, and a front wide-view camera to aid the car's emergency auto-braking capabilities. With more than 25,000 units sold locally, the Jazz will surely find a home to those who'll miss the nameplate. Photos from Honda Global and Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) Also read Honda Cars PH to bring in all-new City Hatchback on Apr. 20 All-New 4th-Gen Honda Fit/Jazz Makes its Way to Tokyo Motor Show Sedans and the City: The Honda City vs. other subcompact sedan options
NewsCarmudiTugade orders nationwide implementation of ‘Free Ride Service Program’
Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade ordered the country-wide implementation of the agency’s Free Ride Service Program for health workers and authorized persons outside residence (APOR). The Free Ride Service Program—which previously covered 20 routes in NCR—is now extended to other parts of the country, regardless of the community quarantine level in place. “This is like a socialized transport system,” Tugade said. “Sa atin 'hong magigiting na essential workers, libre 'ho ito dahil napapailalim po ito sa tinatawag na Service Contracting Program, (our essential workers get free rides through the Service Contracting Program).” Public transport was significantly decreased during the second round of ECQ in the National Capital Region (NCR) and nearby areas, due to quarantine restrictions. Tugade said that DOTr’s initiative aims to help the country’s essential workers get to their destination safely and more efficiently at no cost. In addition, the Transport Secretary also said that the aforementioned program will help public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers. “Ginagawa rin ho natin ito upang madagdagan ang kitang maiuuwi ng ating mga kababayang tsuper sa kani-kanilang tahanan (We’re also doing this to provide drivers with additional sources of income)," said Tugade. Through the Service Contracting Program, the DOTr via the LTFRB is giving payouts to participating operators and drivers of public utility buses (PUBs) and public utility jeepneys (PUJs). A performance-based subsidy is provided from the kilometers traveled by their vehicles. Under the law, P9.5 billion was allocated to help critically impacted transport sectors. The bulk of the sum will be used for service contracting efforts to assist PUV drivers and operators, whose livelihood was affected by the pandemic. From this budget, over P5.5 billion have been allocated for the temporary livelihood of displaced workers in the transport sector through the Service Contracting Program. DOTr’s Free Ride Service for health workers and APORs will be implemented until the funds for the Service Contracting Program are fully utilized and disbursed. And while Tugade expands the agency’s Free Ride Service Program, he reiterates the importance of following safety protocols. “Dapat pa ring ipatupad ang basic health protocols (Basic health protocols should still be enforced). Public transportation should not be a transmission vector of the virus,” said the DOTr Secretary. Photo from the DOTr Facebook Page Also read: Free Ride program helps more than 1-M Filipinos DOTr calls for more thorough disinfection of public transport Jeepney drivers call for help, appeal for release of ‘missing’ P8K SAP
BusinessCarmudiSBMA chair says new SFEX supports development of Subic infrastructure, investments
The leadership of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) said that the expanded Subic Freeport Expressway (SFEX) has been vital in helping the area’s infrastructure development program. According to SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma Eisma, the SFEX proved to be essential in the continuous development of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, explaining that better access to the area would translate to more investments and livelihood opportunities. “We envision Subic to be a globally competitive investment and tourism destination and a world-class economic growth center. This is why we are strengthening Subic’s capacity to take in more business and more jobs. The expanded SFEX because it is better and bigger, it brings in more business to Subic,” Eisma was quoted as saying. After being fully completed last February, the SFEX, under the Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation—has served more than 100,000 motorists already. This infrastructure project is part of a ₱1.6 billion investment, which has paved way for the expansion of the 8.2-kilometer thoroughfare to add another lane on each side. Aside from turning the expressway from one to two lanes in both directions, the project also led to the creation of 16.4 new lane kilometers, two new bridges in Jadjad and Argonaut, and a new tunnel. To ensure safety, international-standard LED lights were installed, the Maritan Highway-Rizal Highway-Tipo Road junction was raised, and the area’s drainage system was also upgraded. The SBMA administrator also said that “investment projects by private companies like NLEX Corporation pump welcome infusions into Subic’s overall development strategy... We have to upgrade our infrastructure so that travel to and from Subic would be faster, safer, and more efficient.” The SFEX expansion, Eisma elaborated, complements SBMA’s big-ticket projects such as the ₱396.5-milion replacement of the Magsaysay Bridge at Subic’s main gate and the ₱225.4-million road rehabilitation package. The SBMA chief also said that within the past four years, SBMA has undertaken four major road repair projects that focused on increase mobility and traffic capacity, improve security and offer conducive environment in the Freeport. Meanwhile, NLEX President and General Manager Luigi Bautista, claimed that the company’s infrastructure investment in Subic is particularly beneficial to the supply chain and logistics sectors, both of which play a key role in the economic recovery. “As our country recovers from the effects of the pandemic, we are hopeful that the SFEX and other road projects will ramp up the growth through increased investments and tourism in both the Subic and Clark Freeports—benefitting thousands of locators and other business owners,” Bautista said. Last year, the Port of Subic was able to generate a total of US$1.2 billion (more than in ₱58.011 billion) in revenues, while tourism activities made ₱8.48 million despite COVID-19 restrictions. “Our commitment to being a partner of government in nation building has been more relevant during this challenging time and we remain steadfast in providing quality infrastructure to spur economic opportunities,” Bautista assured. Photos from NLEX Corporation Also read: New SFEX road open until mid-Jan. 2021 SFEX Capacity Expansion completion rescheduled to yearend 2020 NLEX to Implement Subic Freeport Expressway Project
NewsCarmudiFord PH cites 3 reasons Fox shocks are worthy off-road equipment
The local automotive industry is packed with a lot of utility oriented pickup trucks like the Nissan Navara, Mitsubishi Strada, and the Toyota Hilux. And while these trucks have been designed for hauling, they may feel a little uncomfortable when it comes to off-roading. That's why Ford Philippines looks to level up to cater to off-roaders with the Ford Ranger. Select models like the Ranger Raptor and the all-new Ranger FX4 Max have been outfitted with Fox shock absorbers that take the Ranger trucks to a whole new level. Ford has invested in boosting the off-road capabilities of the Ranger and gave the aforementioned models the ability to drive across rough terrain at high speeds with control, stability, and comfort. According to Ford, there are three things that make Fox suspensions the perfect off-road driving partner: 1. It’s built for rough terrain. Compared to other suspension systems, the Fox shock absorbers outfitted on the Ranger Raptor deliver up to 30 percent more wheel travel. Wheel travel is the distance designed for a wheel to travel at either the bottom or top of the movement. The suspension systems in the Ranger Raptor and FX4 Max have been designed to deal with a combination of high- and slow-speed driving and load carrying. 2. It offers on- and off-road comfort. Fox shock absorbers have been designed with on- and off-road comfort in mind, allowing owners to easily transition from rough terrains to paved roads. The FX4 Max is equipped with suspensions that provide the pickup truck with both an off-road stance and comparable off-road capability with two-inch monotube Fox shock absorbers front and rear. The FX4 Max sports fine-tuned coil-springs upfront and a remote reservoir at the back which enables rapid recovery from extensive, prolonged off-road driving. The same rear suspensions also boast a staggering shock arrangement to help the FX4 Max haul heavy loads. On the other hand, the Ranger Raptor offers a race-bred suspension system that allows drivers to maintain control and comfort even when in flowy terrain. Outfitted with position sensitive damping (PSD) shock absorbers, the Ranger Raptor can achieve higher damping forces at full jounce and rebound to enable better off-road capabilities. In the same way, it can reach lower damping forces in the mid-travel zone for a class-leading plush ride during on-road trips. 3. Fox Racing Shox are among of the best in off-road driving. Considered an industry leader in the design and development of high-performance shock absorbers and racing suspension products, Fox has been a staple in different off-road vehicles including snowmobiles, mountain bikes, motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs, 4X4 off-road cars, trucks, and SUVs. And now that Ford has outfitted its performance pickup vehicles with Fox suspension systems, one can expect the best from their local offerings in the areas of both on- and off-road terrains. According to Ford, the Ranger FX4 Max will have a launch pricing of P1,698,000. It will be offered alongside Ford Philippine’s Ranger lineup. Photos from Ford Also read: Ford revamps Ranger lineup Ford PH expands lineup with addition of all-new Territory Ford expands Explorer model in US with 3 new variants
NewsCarmudiThe Mitsubishi Mirage is the constant companion of these constant companions
An 'amethyst purple' Mitsubishi Mirage hatchback named "Diva" only deserves the care and admiration given by its owners, considering how well this car has served them. Entrepreneurs and partners, Chira dela Cruz and Ehly Garcia, took home little "Diva" in 2015 after finding a daily driver in the Mirage GLS CVT. It possesses the qualities the partners were looking for in their ride: fuel efficient, dependable, and budget-friendly. “We based our purchase on fuel efficiency since we will be using this car everyday for work,” Dela Cruz shared. She added that in city driving, the Mirage can average 12 to 15kpl. Dela Cruz has the Mirage's 1.2-liter three-cylinder MIVEC engine to thank for. It makes 78hp and 100Nm of torque, mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to yield stellar fuel-sipping numbers. The partners also admire the car's reliability, as it never had any problems in the six years they've been with "Diva." Dela Cruz said their Mirage keeps to its preventive maintenance service (PMS) schedule. “It’s like driving a go kart," Dela Cruz, a car enthusiast and long-time driver, complemented. The Mirage's turning radius measures only 4.6 meters, after all. "Diva" had also taken the partners on road trips, too, and on some occasions loaded with friends and gear. “If a small car like the Mirage can take four adults up to Tagaytay without any problem, what (would be the case) with the other Mitsubishi cars with bigger engines?” Dela Cruz asserted. She added: “I don’t think other people who haven’t driven a Mirage on a daily basis and on certain conditions can understand or believe this.” The partners' admiration for the Mirage grew even further when Mitsubishi's after-sales service quickly took care of their car after it was hit by a truck in Batangas. “I was really worried because every time I heard people who had to go to the casa to have their car repaired, they would say it usually took a really long time to have it done," Dela Cruz recalled. "But since Mirages are assembled here in the Philippines, parts are never a problem,” she added. The Mirage and its sedan sibling, the Mirage G4, are assembled in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. The brand's local arm, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC), operates a plant there. “I took Diva the next day to the casa and they immediately worked on her. It only took three weeks to have her repaired," Dela Cruz said, noting that the car was repaired quickly considering the damage it sustained. Are you already wondering how did the car's name come about? The partners have thought of many names, and while they were driving along, they suddenly blurted out "What a diva!" For them, the name suited the car and its styling. Dela Cruz and Garcia now have an affection so strong for their Mirage that they "wouldn’t trade her for any other car" and "keep her forever with us.” Prices for the Mirage hatch start at P704,000 for the manual variant, while the CVT is priced at P765,000. Photos from Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) Also read: Mitsubishi Mirage G4: The Pros and Cons Mitsubishi PH Loans L300 Vans to Gov’t Covid-19 Response Units
BusinessCarmudiOil firms hike pump prices as NCR Plus enters 2nd week of MECQ
As the Greater Manila Area (identified by the national government as the National Capital Region Plus), enters the second of week of modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ), oil firms are set to impose an across-the-board price hike on its pump products. Starting tomorrow (Tuesday, April 20), local fuel players Caltex, Pilipinas Shell, Petron, and Cleanfuel announced via their respective advisories that they will be implementing a price increase on gasoline by P0.60 per liter and P0.70 per liter on diesel. Aside from that, the aforementioned companies, except for Cleanfuel, will also jack up the price of kerosene by P0.85 per liter. Last week, the same brands reduced gas prices by P0.25 per liter and kerosene by P0.10 per liter. Photos from Ruben D. Manahan IV Also read: Local Oil Chief says Global Oil Price Collapse Good for Import-Dependent PH Top 24 Fuel Efficient Cars In The Philippines 5 Tips on How To Get Better Fuel Economy while Driving on Highway
TechnologyAutoblogVolkswagen ID.6 electric crossover is big, literally, in China
Volkswagen's electric line-up is expanding in multiple ways with the new VW ID.6 electric crossover. It's based on the same MEB platform that underpins the ID.3 hatchback, as well as the ID.4 crossover that we get in America. The addition of three usable rows puts the ID.6 in rarified company, as the Tesla Model X is the only game in town.
BusinessAutoblog2022 BMW M3, M4 Competition with xDrive debuts
When the all-new BMW M3 sedan and M4 coupe were unveiled last fall, BMW acknowledged that the duo would offer all-wheel drive for the first time. Now the AWD M3 and M4 are here, and as expected, xDrive makes the already blisteringly quick coupe and sedan even quicker. On the M3 and M4, xDrive is available only on the ne-plus-ultra Competition variants.
