Top 5 Cars To Look Forward At PIMS 2016

MANILA: PIMS 2016 is on its way and most of the participating automakers have revealed their prospective launches and showcases at the show. Every auto enthusiast who is willing to visit the 6th Philippine International Motor Show must have their favourite brands which will get a special attention from them. But, this article is oriented towards the people who are looking to buy a new car in next few months and expecting some prominent options from the show. So, here is a list of top 5 cars that surely deserves a place in your thought process before finalizing your daily commuting companion.

Toyota Prius

Toyota Prius needs no introduction, as this hybrid vehicle from the Japanese automaker has been running on not only the Philippines roads but across different markets from quite a long time. Toyota Motors Philippines is all set to introduce the fourth-generation Prius at the PIMS 2016 which is based on the all-new Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA). The design cues of Prius are inspired from Mirai and features “boomerang” swept upward headlights and taillights that perfectly blends into the character line on its side. The new Prius will be 60 mm longer, 15 mm wider and 20 mm shorter to improve the aerodynamics.

Under the hood, you would find a 1.8-litre 4-cylinder VVT-i engine which is accompanied with a compact permanent magnet electric motor and separate generator. The combined output of Prius measure 120 PS maximum power and 142 Nm peak torque. It also comes with smaller nickel-metal hydride batteries, which Toyota claims to charge faster.

Mazda CX-3

This is one car in the whole lot, for which the Filipinos have waited for long. And after much anticipation Mazda Philippines has finally revealed this crossover after the Thanksgiving Party organized at the Whitespace Manila 2314 Chino Roces Ave Extension, Makati. Based on the ‘Kodo - Soul Of Motion’ design language, the styling cues of CX-3 are inspired from the elder sibling, Mazda CX-5. To be sourced from Japan, the crossover is offered with  2.0-litre SkyActiv-G inline 4-cylinder engine that produces 148 PS maximum power and 192 Nm peak torque.  The entry level variant of Mazda CX-3 is priced at PhP 1,280,000 while the top end holds  a price tag of PhP 1,480,000.

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Another hybrid, which deserves significant attention of the visitors is this EV from the Japanese automaker, Mitsubishi. Like the other models of the lineup, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV also reflects the “Dynamic Shield” design. For better aerodynamics, Outlander PHEV is fitted with specifically designed bumper extensions, the other highlights include 18-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights. But, the factor which has brought this SUV into spotlight is its electric drive system. Accompanying this system is the 2.0-litre engine and combined power output measures 200 PS. When both drive systems are in operation, the fuel economy comes out to be 20.2 kmpl while on solely electric system the SUV can cover 60.2 kilometers.

Volkswagen CC

Amidst Japanese dominant list, here is a car from the house of German automaker, Volkswagen. Yes, Volkswagen Philippines is all set to bring its new four-door coupe, named CC or “comfort coupe”, which is based on the company’s new design language. Under the hood, it is equipped with a 2.0-litre TDI engine which is mated to a responsive DSG dual-clutch gearbox and produce 170 hp maximum power. The gearbox is also coupled with innovative free-wheeling mode that further helps in improving the fuel efficiency of the coupe. The VW CC will be placed higher than the Passat and compete against the likes of BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi.

Honda City Special Edition

Few months back, Honda introduced two new editions of Honda City and now again this Japanese brand is ready with a special edition of its beloved sedan in the country. This time the special edition comes with the 1.5 E variant which is already a loaded entry-level car. Some of the additional features of the limited edition City are standard LED daytime running lights (DRLs), positioned within the fog lamp bezel, integrated door visors that add more style and convenience in rainy weather and a limited edition badge fitted at the trunk lid. Some of the smart features include speed-sensing door locks that locks the door as soon as the speedometer passes the 15 kmph mark and unlocks when the shift lever is placed in Park. Another added feature is the new Panic Button that generates visual and audible warning when pressed for long.

All the cars will be displayed at their respective company’s booth from September 14-18 and might be offered with some discounts and lucrative deals by the manufacturers. Stay tuned to CarBay for latest updates related to PIMS 2016 and leave your comments below about the listed cars in the article.