THREE major car distributors launched four different models in various segments over a spread of two weekends, bringing more choices to the mid- and entry-level categories. The Chevrolet Trax is the first to launch, followed by the Honda Brio and City sedan and then the best-selling entry car the Toyota Wigo.
CHEVY TRAX ON US INDEPENDENCE DAY
Read: Chevy launches all-new Trax on American Independence Day
On July 4, American Independence Day, the Covenant Car Company, Inc. (TCCCI) officially launched the new generation 2024 Trax. It is the brand’s latest crossover “built bigger and bolder for customers who seek the practicality of a compact car with the space and utility of an SUV.”
The bigger dimensions, improved versatility and more solid equipment, takes the Trax to a whole new level in the mid-ship crossover, “designed to evoke confidence on the road as you pursue your passions and achieve big things in life,” Chevrolet’s press materials describe it.
“The Philippines is the first country in Southeast Asia to launch the 2024 Trax, and we are proud to include this new generation crossover SUV in our local lineup of exciting Chevrolet vehicles,” Atty. Alberto B. Arcilla, President and CEO of TCCCI-Chevrolet Philippines told the media at the launch party at Chevrolet’s HQ in Pasong Tamo Extension.
“The new Trax is bigger, bolder, more refined, and features Chevrolet’s revolutionary design philosophy and pioneering technologies, setting a new standard for crossovers in the country. The 2024 Trax is the first among several Chevrolet automobiles that TCCCI-Chevrolet Philippines has in store for the Filipino market, and it ushers in a new wave of modern Chevy models which are sure to be compelling choices for new car buyers because of their advanced technologies, stylish designs, and overall brand pedigree.”
Manufactured at the General Motors (GM) plant in South Korea and built on GM’s global platform, it employs Chevrolet’s modern design language and cutting-edge technology that would certainly stand out in the fast-growing segment of crossovers in the country. This is made available in three variants: LT, Redline and RS.
“The new generation Trax is a global model that embodies the Spirit of Chevrolet, representing our brand’s objective to provide exceptional vehicles around the world,” Ernesto Ortiz, President and Managing Director of General Motors’ Strategic Markets, Alliances and Distributors shared.
The new Trax is powered by a lightweight, direct injection 1.2L three-cylinder turbo DOHC-VVT engine that delivers up to 137 hp and 220 Nm of torque and is matched with a responsive smooth-shifting 6-speed AT. The turbo gives you a boost at an efficient rate when you need more power for passing maneuvers and on-ramp acceleration. The body structure of the Trax executes GM’s latest Smart Engineering design system which intuitively promotes weight reduction and reinforcement to load-bearing parts. This contributes substantially to the outstanding driving performance, stability and fuel economy of the vehicle.
“We are confident that this model will make great strides in the Philippines, in the same way it has in the U.S., Canada, Mexico and South Korea. We look forward to seeing the success of the Trax in collaboration with TCCCI, who has been our trusted partner for Chevrolet in the Philippines for almost 14 years,” Ortiz added.
HONDA’S NEW CITY
Read: Honda releases new City
Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) officially launched the new City and the new Brio on, July 13, 2023 at the Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall.
Streamed simultaneously via HCPI’s official Facebook page. friends and partners from the media, bank and insurance, dealers, and Honda car clubs, filled the halls of the Mega Fashion Hall, as the launch program and the opening of the four-day event that introduced the refreshed version of two of the best-selling Honda models in the country.
With its elevated safety and advanced features, exterior that is both elegant and sporty, spacious and premium interior, powerful and fuel-efficient driving performance, and the inclusion of the Honda SENSING as standard in all variants, the new City will “Elevate Your Drive” through its refreshed look, additional color options, and a new variant to cater to a wider audience.
Exterior-wise, the new City gets even more sporty and stylish with its newly crafted RS design Front Grille with RS Emblem (RS) and new Front and Rear Bumper with carbon-wrapped lower molding (RS) that gives the vehicle a sleeker, wider look, commanding strong presence on the road. For safer and improved driver visibility, the LED Daytime Running Lights and Fog Lights (LED for RS and Halogen for V) are available across all variants, while LED Headlights are on the RS, and the others have Halogen Projector Headlights. All these are supported by Headlight Auto On/Off function with Auto Off Timer 15 seconds after engine turns off–standard across all variants.
At the back, the refreshed City presents a newly designed rear bumper with a sporty carbon-wrapped diffuser. It also maintained its LED tail lights and LED High-Mount Stop Lamp, including the High Gloss Black-colored Trunk Spoiler (RS) — all for an enhanced sporty style.
For better comfort and appearance, the RS now gets full leather seats with new design and Sport Pedals. Its interior accents also sport new designs with Dark Red Front Panel Garnish & High Gloss Black Interior Accents for the RS, and High Gloss Black Front Panel Garnish & Silver Interior Accents for the V. Its wide cabin also offers more legroom and shoulder space for a comfortable ride.
The new City is now equipped with new 4.2 Full Color TFT Meter with Red Ambient Light Instrument Cluster (RS), and 4.2 Full Color TFT Meter with White & Green Ambient Light for the rest of the variants. For added driving convenience, 8” Advanced Touchscreen Display Audio (RS, V, and S) now comes with improved LCD display and better reverse camera resolution, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now made wireless for RS, V, and S.
THE REVAMPED BRIO
Since its introduction to the Philippine market in 2014, the Brio has been embraced by over 30,000 customers, solidifying its position as a beloved choice.
Not only does it boast a dedicated fan base and a string of accolades, but the Brio also sets itself apart in its category with its sporty small hatchback design, efficient yet powerful engine, advanced features, and exceptional ride comfort. Now, entering its second generation, this popular model receives further enhancements to cater to the diverse needs of first-time or alternative car buyers who prioritize style, comfort, performance, outstanding value, and long-term reliability.
The updated Honda Brio showcases an even more stylish exterior, starting with its newly designed Piano Black RS Design Front Grille featuring a striking design pattern and a larger grille opening. This eye-catching front end is complemented by LED Headlights (RS), refreshed Fog Lights, newly designed Fog Light Garnish (RS), and LED Daytime Running Lights (RS and V variants) that serve both aesthetics and functionality.
From the sides, drivers can enjoy the convenience of Crystal Black Power Folding and Adjustable Door Mirrors, along with RS Design Side Sill Lower Garnish (RS) to enhance the overall appeal.
At the rear, the new Brio boasts a Tailgate Spoiler, RS Design Rear Bumper Lower Garnish, and Tail Lights in the RS variants.
To complete the dynamic look, the new Brio sits on updated 14-inch Alloy Wheels (V), 14-inch Steel Wheels with Cover (S), and 15-inch RS Design Alloy Wheels (RS), which contribute to its sleek and sporty stance.
As for in-car entertainment, the new Brio is equipped with a 7-inch Capacitive Touchscreen Audio system across all variants, now even more user-friendly with the addition of Audio Controls with Illumination in the RS and V trims. For an enhanced experience, the RS Black Top, RS, and V variants offer seamless connectivity through Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, USB Port, AM/FM radio, Android Smartphone Mirroring, and a 6-speaker audio setup, including two additional tweeters for the RS variants. The V and S trims come with a 4-speaker audio setup, ensuring an exhilarating audio experience for all.
The new Brio retains its efficient 1.2-liter 4-cylinder SOHC i-VTEC engine, delivering a maximum power of 90 ps at 6,000 rpm and a torque of 119N-m at 4,800 rpm. Paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). For those who prefer manual transmission, the 1.2 S MT Variant offers a 5-speed manual option.
“We look forward to serving more customers with the New Honda City and the New Honda Brio. These new models demonstrate Honda’s dedication to providing more joy to customers through the advanced safety and innovative features they come with. Over the years, customers have come to appreciate the exceptional value and fuel efficiency of both models, allowing extra driving distance while minimizing environmental impact. Surpassing mere essentials, these best-selling models provide an enhanced driving experience with above-class engine power and features, premium interior comfort and space, in their distinct classy and sporty styles. Honda will always be dedicated to giving more joy and confidence to customers through our products such as the new Honda City and new Honda Brio” said Rie Miyake, President of HCPI.
NEW TOYOTA WIGO
Leading mobility company Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) has unveiled the latest major update of its best-selling hatchback, the all-new Toyota Wigo.
Known to be a preferred first car, the all-new Wigo features a bold redesign paired with improved technology and driving performance, reinforcing its position as the Filipinos’ reliable, practical, and easy to use mobility partner in starting any life journey.
During the launch program held at the Trinoma Activity Center in Quezon City, TMP showcased its lineup of the all-new Wigo featuring an improved driving platform and appearance. The well-loved Toyota vehicle is getting a combination of a sportier look and easy driving–ideal for those looking for a quality daily driver that gives a good impression.
“This is a very exciting launch for us at Toyota Motor Philippines because we know that the Wigo is one of the favorite Toyota models of Filipinos. The Wigo has given many new car buyers their memorable first car experience. In fact, we have given thrill and joy to more than 149,000 Wigo owners since the model was introduced in the country in 2014,” said TMP President Atsuhiro Okamoto.
The all-new Wigo’s exterior is now more aggressive and gives off a sporty design. It also now comes with a 3760mm by 1655mm by 1515mm dimension–bigger and wider than the previous generation. This also allows for increased interior and cargo space to make every drive efficient and comfortable.
It is a must for starter cars to provide drivers with hassle-free trips. The latest iteration of Wigo G and E variants come in new CVT with a notable upgrade in driving experience to give drivers convenient and fuel-efficient drives. Aside from the CVT variants, the all-new Wigo still has the manual transmission option with the Wigo J.
