Philippine roads are always abuzz with traffic from passing cars. In recent years, the automobile industry saw a boost in sales as the public saw the benefit of driving privately. Nowadays, it’s rare to see streets without any cars in them.
Consumers consider several factors when buying automobiles for personal use. They often opt for models that meet their size, performance, and safety preferences. Once done, they move on to a car’s exterior and model.
Many people don’t always see eye to eye when choosing a car model since some prefer older, iconic cars, while others are partial to newer versions. Eventually, people favor a particular automobile brand or model because of its quality.
Some consumers also factor in environment-friendly and cost-cutting aspects in their purchases. Today, hybrid cars take the spotlight because they can run on electric charge amid rising fuel prices.
During the previous months, the Philippine automobile industry released several new models to cater to consumers’ needs. Here’s a quick overview of the latest car models released by popular brands this 2022.
Toyota Motors Philippines
Last February, the complete mobility company opened new opportunities for motorists by unveiling one of the most awaited vehicles of 2022, the all-new Toyota Raize.
Pronounced “raise” or “race,” the vehicle is a versatile SUV that provides utility for everyday use or leisure activities. Toyota’s Raize is suitable for motorists who want to experience an SUV to carry-on luggage while driving a compact and effortless vehicle.
It promises to realize the goal of achieving outstanding levels of driving performance, safety, and peace of mind.
Yet that’s not the only vehicle TMP released this year. In August, the automobile company also unveiled the 2022 version of its popular Toyota Avanza model. The latest version of the Avanza is a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), which is more suitable for families.
The 2022 Avanza features sleek exteriors with quality interiors for everyday use. It also boasts safety and security aspects that motorists will appreciate.
Mitsubishi
Another well-known car brand in the local scene is Mitsubishi. It’s well-loved for its dependability, accessibility, and durability. Early this year, the brand released the Montero Sport Black Series, which has blacked-out parts on the exterior.
When it comes to the interiors, motorists can enjoy some of the latest technology, like a built-in GPS, a second-row USB port, and a 220V power socket, among other new features. And staying true to Mitsubishi’s dedication to providing a seamless riding experience, the latest version of the Montero is spacious, comfortable, and safe.
Besides developing one of its top models, Mitsubishi also released the 2022 Outlander PHEV. Its main characteristics include powerful motors, a larger battery, and more seats, but it caught more attention thanks to its hybrid aspect. The Outlander allows motorists to drive around using a few drops of oil or a charged battery.
Honda
In 2022, Honda renewed its influence on the Philippine automobile market with the latest generation of the Honda CR-V. It boasts of developments inside and outside the hood. Compared to its earlier counterparts, the sixth generation of the CR-V has the most rugged look, more space, and a hybrid setup.
Mazda
Following its promise in 2021, Mazda Philippines unveiled its premium line of cars. The Mazda CX-8 brought a new definition to class, with redefined luxury features that always meet its consumers’ standards.
The CX-8 has a fuel-efficient 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine that produces 190ps of power and 252Nm of torque. The engine matches a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and cruise control. Other performance-enhancing features include G-Vectoring Control Plus and Off-Road Traction Assist.
Other automobile brands in the country also took significant steps in marketing new models, thus adding to the list of available options.
Enough with the rearview mirror, time to look ahead
Although 2022 is still far from over, local automobile companies are already amping up consumers for new releases in the following year. Some of these models are developments of already existing series, while others take things to the next level.
For instance, TMP already began holding reservations for the all-new Toyota GR86 slated for release in 2023. The sports car is exclusive to TMP’s Gazoo Racing dealers, marking only 19 out of the 72 dealerships in the country.
South Korean car manufacturer Hyundai isn’t backing down on producing quality and eye-catching car models in 2023. The company endowed its Santa Cruz pickup trucks with a stealthier appearance. It will come with an all-wheel-drive and run on a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 275hp and 420Nm of torque.
Moreover, the brand is eyeing to launch the Stargazer and Ioniq 5 in the Philippine market. The Stargazer is the brand’s latest seven-seater multi-purpose vehicle, while the Ioniq 5 is Hyundai’s electric vehicle.
In the meantime, the luxury brand BMW landed its latest model and has plans to improve the local lineup. The X3 bears a signature Bimmer look with a subdued front bumper for a sharper design. It also uses less plastic.
BMW X3’s interiors have sleek, modern designs made more compelling with state-of-the-art technology. Under the hood, the model has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine that generates 190hp and 400Nm of torque.
With all these specifications, BMW marked the retail price for their X3 at P3,790,000. Each purchase comes with a standard five-year comprehensive warranty from BMW.
Lastly, Kia will make EV6, its first dedicated electric vehicle, available in the Philippine market during the first quarter of 2023. The launch will make the Philippines the fourth country in South East Asia to unveil the pure EV model.
EV6 also makes Kia the only brand to introduce a pure battery electric vehicle (BEV) among the automotive brands in the country.
Despite the available predictions and plans from car manufacturers, the future remains uncertain, and there may be new changes along the way.
Thanks to new technology, the local automobile industry has grown steadily in sales because of their constant updates on existing models and attention to detail for newer ones. Traveling on Philippine roads will become more exciting as motorists and commuters alike can enjoy old and new cars taking to the streets.
