Monday, 25 April 2011 22:12
Just another day in the office for Russ Swift
Words and photos by Christopher Kho
For the average person like a majority of us, a regular weekday probably begins by spending half an hour or so on the highway driving or commuting to work. Then, for the next eight or more hours, we sit behind desks laboring tirelessly with the sole promise of getting a paycheck at the end of the month just so that we can pay the bills, make the rent, and feed a growing family. This mundane cycle is what we call a job, and as much as we despise it, it’s a fact of life. But for one fine English gentleman, a regular day in his “office” involves performing high speed four-wheel drifts, record-setting handbrake parking maneuvers, and tire-shredding donuts - all in an action-packed stunt show.
Published in
Features
Wednesday, 20 April 2011 11:41
Boasting Big: Chevrolet shows off their stuff
Words by Jade Lu | Video courtesy of The Covenant Car Company Inc.
It seems like Chevrolet has been on a winning streak lately, and we’re not just talking about the Cruze being crowned the Philippines’ Car of the Year 2010 - 2011. The Covenant Car Company, Inc. (TCCCI), Chevrolet’s exclusive distributor in the Philippines, took the opportunity to make a few gems shine during the 7th Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) last April 7 to 10, 2011 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.
Testing the Waters
Listening to the public’s plea, the new diesel variant of the Cruze was one of the stars that twinkled at the Chevrolet show space during MIAS. “The Cruze has been selling well here in the Philippines and we expect the new Diesel Cruze to be just as popular. It will have everything that customers have been telling us they want…” announced Martin Apfel, General Motors President for South East Asia Operations.
Published in
News
Tuesday, 19 April 2011 17:50
The Blue Oval brand gets supersized
Words and photos by Christopher Kho
At the recently-concluded 7th Manila International Auto Show, Ford went all-out by presenting the show's most extravagant display yet. Covering a floor area of 1,000 square meters, they've turned what was supposed to be a booth into a dealership. It showcased Ford's complete vehicle line-up with one van, one pickup, two cars, and four SUV's making up 32 different variants altogether. Since Ford Group Philippines (FGP) is neither a member of the Association of Vehicle Importers and Distributors (AVID) nor the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines (CAMPI), no one is stopping them from blowing the year's budget in just four days. And looking at the results, its all worth it.
Published in
News
Monday, 18 April 2011 15:19
Glamour of the 7th Manila International Auto Show
April 7 to 10, 2011 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City
Photos by Christopher Kho
Published in
Gallery
Thursday, 14 April 2011 22:00
Geely proves Chinese cars can be taken seriously, plus they're cute too
Words by Christopher Kho | Photos courtesy of AutoChina Inc.
AutoChina Inc. is giving Geely a second chance in life as it recently launched two new cars at the 7th Manila International Auto Show. The cute little subcompact that's aptly named Panda and the luxurious Emgrand EC7 turned quite a few heads at the auto show, proving that both cars look the part, but will they measure up?
Previously imported by Pan Fil Inter Trade Co. Inc., the Chinese brand made a lackluster debut back in 2007 with the Geely CK and HA. Thankfully, AutoChina Inc., the new exclusive Philippine distributor of the brand, is picking up the pieces and is here to prove that Chinese cars can be taken seriously. They're no strangers when it comes to cars. In fact, a number of the people behind the company are the also the ones responsible for the success of a luxury automobile brand in the country. But this time, those individuals are taking a back seat and giving their buddy Wilfredo Pe, Jr. the responsibility to steer the company in the right direction as President.
Published in
Newly Launched
Wednesday, 13 April 2011 22:04
Motor Image gives the Subaru Forester a make over in MIAS
Words and photos by Christopher Kho
The current-generation Subaru Forester made its Philippine debut back in 2009. Just two years later, it's already starting to feel a bit out-of-date. So, to bring it up to par with its closest rivals, the Forester went under the knife for a much-need makeover.
Last April 7, 2011, Motor Image Pilipinas, the exclusive distributor of Subaru in the Philippines, finally rolled out the 2011 edition of their beloved compact SUV at the 7th Manila International Auto Show. Amongst the thousands of guests that flocked over to the Subaru display at MIAS, Motor Image Group Chief Executive Glenn Tan and world-renowned stunt driver Russ Swift were also present at the unveiling. The 2011 Subaru Forester 2.5XT and 2.0XS underwent several cosmetic changes that include a newly designed front grill and side-view mirror integrated turn signals. Subaru also implanted some widgets to spruce up the interior. It now enjoys features such as Bluetooth connectivity, dual-zone climate control, and a new luminescent gauge cluster.
Published in
Newly Launched
Tuesday, 12 April 2011 19:18
Volvo unleashes the new V60 sports wagon at MIAS
Words and photos by Christopher Kho | Video courtesy of Viking Cars Inc.
A few months ago, Volvo surprised the world with their new dynamic concept that gave birth to the all-new S60. Now, Volvo has finally broken its tradition of being almost mundane to being fit for the hip and savvy. And following the S60's trail of good looks, Viking Cars Inc., the Philippine distributor of Volvo cars, unleashed the V60 sports wagon at the 7th Manila International Auto Show.
According to Volvo, the V60 is styled like a coupe rather than a humdrum estate; and yes, we do agree. It follows the S60's luscious lines but with an extra tailgate that resembles the XC60's behind. And while it still bears the same chic interior as its four-door sibling, the V60 boasts of a larger cargo capacity of 430 liters in case you decide to go on a shopping spree. It's also the only vehicle in its segment that offers a 40/20/40-split rear seat that can be folded flat to accommodate larger goodies. The combination of class and practicality is perfect for those who need the extra luggage space and still want to enjoy its gorgeous looks and unmarred performance.
Published in
Newly Launched
Monday, 11 April 2011 23:01
Hyundai serves an upsized 2011 Elantra on MIAS' menu
Words by Jade Lu | Photos by Christopher Kho
Hyundai could not have thought of a better way to present the all-new Elantra than to put it up on a podium. Forget being served on a silver platter, the 5th generation Hyndai Elantra made its debut to the Philippine market in a shower of gold confetti at the 7th Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) last April 7, 2011. With this new entry, Hyundai is confident in strengthening their reputation as both a design innovator and technology leader.
Design Cues
Sleek and stylish, the Elantra’s design is inspired by a “wind craft” design. It’s all about strong yet refined looks on this one, especially since one might note an evident boost in its size. Its distinct hexagonal radiator grille gives the car a strong front, while its swept-back headlamps and flowing lines keep the look polished. The muscular wheel arches adds to an athletic touch. Meanwhile, the rear has stylishly elongated lamps and a more endowed bumper, further contributing to the design theme.
Published in
Newly Launched
Monday, 04 April 2011 20:19
7 things to look out for at the 7th Manila International Auto Show
Words by Christopher Kho
The Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) opens this Thursday, April 7, 2011 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City and promises to be country's biggest motoring event of the year yet again. It’s so big, in fact, that the show has even invaded Kotse.com's wallpaper for the month of April.
Now on its 7th year, MIAS is taking a big leap into the future with its theme, “Automotive Evolution.” With more than 30 of the biggest brands littering the 23,000 square-meter display area, the show will feature some of the newest and most stunning cars in the Philippines. But before doors open in three days time, we're giving you a sneak peek of biggest attractions in this year's show.
Published in
Upcoming Events
Thursday, 31 March 2011 10:20
AVT offers 50%-off promo at the Manila International Auto Show
At the Manila International Auto Show, road-trippers rejoice as AVT offers a special 50%-off promo on the AVT Navigator P900 portable GPS navigation device. Held from April 7 to 10, 2011 at the World Trade Center in Manila, visitors to the AVT booth will be able to purchase the AVT Navigator P900 for only P9,000, marked down by 50% from the original SRP of P18,000. BPI cardholders who avail of the zero-installment plan will enjoy an additional discount. The special discounted price is only applicable to MIAS purchases, and is good while supply lasts.
Published in
Contest and Promos
