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HAORWACTIONGGELTICENSE InsideTHE QUARTERLY MAGAZINE OF THE AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION PHILIPPINES Honda Civic SVOLUME 5 • ISSUE 2 Mazda3 Porsche Macan JUNE 2014 VW advances technologyAAPGOES TOORIENTALMINDORODINRNIVOIVNAGTION Ford Fiesta 1.0L with EcoBoost: Connected Ride



MAKING MOTORING FUN Subway’s the answer to Metro Manila trafficwas recently interviewed by a TV newsGus LagmanAAP PRESIDENT reporter who asked just one question: “The car manufacturers and distributors are forecasting increased sales again this year. Considering that Metro Manila is not really Iadding more roads, what’s going to happen to not allowed to acquire a car unless he can prove that he has parking space for it in or near his residence. But then, Tokyo has one of the most efficient mass transit systems in the world. Both countries have overhead trains and subways. I understand that there is also a pending bill our traffic situation?” at the Lower House of Congress that proposes an Good question, I thought, and it’s one increase in the registration fees on a person’s cars that many of us have often asked ourselves. With beyond the first two. But considering that a person the increasing number of cars on the roads, what can use only one car at a time, there is no point in will happen to our traffic situation? The answer is limiting his car purchases. It would also be difficult obvious…it can only get worse. to enforce the law as the person can easily register On the other hand, while it is cause for very the additional cars in the name of his wife and/or serious concern, I said restricting the acquisition of children; or in the name of his company. At least cars, as the interviewer was hinting, may not be a 25% of a car’s price is tax and then there is also justifiable solution at this time. To do so would not be the Road User’s Tax, isn’t the motorist being taxed fair to the commuting public since the government is enough? not offering a viable alternative transport system. What Adding another P5,000 or P10,000 will not we have in Metro Manila is outdated and inconvenient. deter a car owner who can easily afford a P1-million The closest to the ideal is our light-rail transit system. car from buying an additional vehicle; and again, the But it is still sorely inadequate compared to the kind government has not yet provided an efficient and of modern rail systems that we see in other big cities. convenient alternative, so why penalize the taxpaying The rush-hour queues are very long and, worse, they motorists for that? extend beyond the sheltered part of the stations. They Congress should, therefore, look for more go all the way to the ground-level sidewalks outside acceptable solutions to Metro-Manila’s traffic the station! The commuters use them only because problem. there isn’t a better choice. To my mind, the only long-term solution to Metro But the LRT/MRT system is not an acceptable Manila’s transportation problem is a heavy rail transit facility for everybody. Unlike in other cities where system…underground. even top-level executives and businessmen use (even Even with the modern TBMs (tunnel-boring prefer) their mass transit systems, not so here. In machines) it will still probably take three to five fact, even low-level corporate managers will not find years to operationalize just one line, and so, for this queuing up in our MRT appealing. What more the reason, we must start now! Using the Public-Private higher-level executives? They Partnership (PPP) scheme, government finances therefore have to seek their own need not be drained. What’s more…digging andThe only long- solution…and that is, to save up constructing underground will not disturb ground- level traffic the way overhead structures do.term solution to to buy a car. We only have to look at other heavily populatedMetro Manila’s It’s true that in some citiestransportation metropolises in the world to know that subways are restrictions are imposed by the the answer to our transport problems. Tokyo, Hong government on the acquisition Kong, New York, London, Paris, Moscow, etc.—they of cars. Singapore, for instance, all have subways and so they don’t bother restricting restricts access to some parts of the acquisition of private cars. In these cities, the the city and even raffles off theproblem is a heavy right to buy a car. But this city- commuters themselves decide that taking the subway state provides a very efficient is more convenient for them.rail transit system... subway system. In combination An underground rapid transit system had first with an efficient and safe taxicab become a reality in London in 1863. In New York network, regular commuters do City, the first line opened in 1904 and the entireunderground. not really have to acquire their system was finished in 1908. It’s now 2014, more own vehicles to get around town. than a century later, isn’t it time we focus on this I heard that in Tokyo, a person is solution? AQ MAGAZINE 1

Table of Contents EMAIL US: [email protected] WHAT’S INSIDE1 MAKE MOTORING FUN Gus Lagman4 ROAD SAVVY Aida Sevilla Mendoza6 AAP CLUB NEWS Commercial driver’s license, Racing license, FIA license,10 AAP TRAVEL AAP goes to Oriental Mindoro 22 FEATURES Ford Fiesta 1.0L with EcoBoost and voice control17 COVER STORY 24 Honda Civic gets sportier Driving innovations: Technology in cars 26 From Manila to Baler with the Mazda3 28 Taking 2 Nissans for a spin 30 Volks tech 32 In Taiwan with the Porsche Macan 35 MOTORING NEWS Editorial Augusto C. Lagman AAP BOARD OF DIRECTORS Alberto Malvar President Director AAP president David L. Arcenas Gus Lagman Juan B. Angeles Director Chairperson, Road Safety Committee Vice-President Jacinto M. Mantaring Jr. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Chairperson, Governance & Audit Director Aida Sevilla-Mendoza Chairperson, Advocacies & Gov’t Committee Liaison Committee Chairperson, Membership & Admin EXECUTIVE EDITOR Armando L. Eduque Committees Armin A. Amio Augustus V. Ferreria Director WRITERS Treasurer Aida Sevilla Mendoza Chairperson, Motor Sports Committee Director Kap Maceda Aguila Chairperson, Finance Committee Guillermina T. Gabor Jason Ang Director Chairperson, Publications & Public Relations Committee Fort Manahan Chairperson, Travel & Tourism Vince Pornelos Committee GRAPHIC DESIGNCREW Danny Hernando ADVERTISING Email: [email protected] • Website: www.aap.org.ph BEZAM MARKETING CONSULTANCY AQ is published every quarter Bess Zamora by the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP), Unit 339, 3/F Mile Long Building, Amorsolo cor. a non-profit, non-tax, non-governmental Javier St., Legaspi Village, Makati City organization dedicated to serving and promoting TELEFAX: (632) 501-9360 Email: [email protected] the interests of the motoring public.



ROAD SAVVY The Quiet TechnologyAida Sevilla Mendoza R ECENTLY, I got to test drive theEDITOR-IN-CHIEF latest iteration of a compact the sound-testing facility in Troy, Michigan that cost car that was touted as bristling Mahle Behr more than a million dollars to develop. It with cutting-edge technology. includes two acoustic rooms built on shock absorbers Imagine my surprise and dis- to stop noise from bleeding in through the ground. In appointment when I heard a one of these rooms, the skeleton of a car cockpit is thump coming from the trunk connected to a massive air chamber while a tripod- whenever I stepped on the brake mounted microphone records and measures every sound to which an acoustic validation manager pedal or drove slowly over a road hump. I opened the listens. Then he reviews visual representations of the sounds on the computer to target problems. trunk, but it was empty save for the spare tire under So far, the Mahle Behr team has compiled a the cargo floor and the jack inside a compartment database of more than 1,000 noises ranging from low, throaty rumbles to a high-screeching whistle or on the right side of the trunk. The spare tire and chirp tone. They use the database with computer software to help identify which sounds need muffling the jack were securely attached to their respective and which noise levels the human ear does not like and therefore has to be turned down. storage places, so they couldn’t have caused the Another way to overcome sounds is to mask thumping noise. them, Bennett reports. In the 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid and the 2014 Cadillac ELR, “active noise- Was it a defective shock absorber? A loosely cancellation” technology electronically draws information from ceiling-mounted microphones to mounted rear tire? The distributor promptly replaced detect and zap unwanted exterior and interior sound. When microphones pick up the sounds of the ELR’s the car with another brand-new unit, but it also gasoline engine kicking in after the car has ceased silently running on electric, a microprocessor sends annoyed my ears with an occasional thump coming out a bandwidth of low frequency through the car’s audio system to cancel out that noise. from the back. Whatever caused the thumping sound, Noise cancellation engineers say the day will it affected my appreciation of that model car which come when a car owner can flick on a “white noise” option. But there are sounds that are welcome, like has a price tag of well over a million pesos. the “thump” of a closing door or lock that conveys the quality of the vehicle. Lockmaker Kiekert AG, which The incident reminded me of an article I read supplies latch systems to brands like Mercedes-Benz and Bentley, has an acoustic lab in Wixom, Michigan in The Wall Street Journal last January in which the where thousands of different door locking sounds have been recorded from its own products and those author, Jeff Bennett, notes that the more auto makers of its competitors. Bennett quotes Kiekert’s U.S. operations vice general manager, Mike Hietbrink, as succeed in muting sounds coming from the outside, saying: “A high-frequency sound you get from metal hitting metal is usually perceived as bad because such as engine and road noise, the more drivers hear the tingy sound is annoying to the human ear. A lower sound like a closing bank vault is considered the irritating little squeaks, rattles and drones on the more acceptable.” inside. So car manufacturers are going to new lengths Indeed, the growth of the noise cancellation industry underscores what both the auto industry and to quiet their vehicles’ interiors. consumers believe: the quieter the interior of a car is, the better must be its quality. Whereas before a hushed, quiet ride used to be a bragging right exclusive to luxury carsBoth the and a sign of a car’s refinement, nowadays the quest for quiet has trickled into more mass market vehicles, Bennett points out. Moreauto industry and owners are bringing in their new vehicles for repairs after hearingconsumers believe noises, even when nothing is operationally wrong. This hurtsthat the quieter the the perception of a car’s qualityinterior of a car is, while driving up warranty costs for auto makers.the better must be In the United States, the problem has given rise to quietits quality. labs popping up around the car industry, Bennett writes. One is4 AQ MAGAZINE



CLUBNEWSYou need a racing licenseto compete in local motorsportsTHE Automobile REQUIREMENTS INCLUDE: Association Philippines (AAP) • Medical examinationis the sole motorsports • ECG (new applicants)authority in the • Two pieces of 2x2 and 1x1country and is theonly group affiliated colored pictureswith the Federation • For circuit, certification fromInternationale de’lAutomobile (FIA), the AAP accredited racing schools:world governing body Tuason Racing School andfor motor sports. Edgen Dy-Liacco • For karting, certification from the Philippine International Karting Association (PIKA) AAP issues both international and AAP also sanctions all sporting events national competition licenses to all motor under its affiliated clubs. sport competitors in all six disciplines— Circuit, Karting, Slalom, Car Rally/Rally As the sole four-wheel motor sports Cross, 4WD/Off Road racing. authority in the Philippines, AAP Motor Sports’ primary role is to ensure safety in all aspects at each sporting event. AAP PROPOSES CREATIONOF A COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S LICENSEDRIVING a bus or truck requires more skills and aptitude than driving a small vehicle like a car or jeepney. To drive a large commercial vehicle safely, one must be properly trained and pass a test geared to higher standards. Recently, the Land Transportation obtain a CDL by taking and passing a test profit, or is used by a non-profit organizationOffice (LTO) published in the newspapers a that exceeds federal standards since it takes or group; (g) any size vehicle which requiresRequest for Information inviting the public to special skills and aptitude to safely operate hazardous material placards or is carryingsubmit suggestions on how to improve the large trucks and buses. A CDL is proof that material listed as a select agent or toxin in 42process of issuing the driver’s license so as the driver has the skills and aptitude to drive CFR; and (h) transports hazardous wastes.to weed out applicants who are not qualified a large commercial vehicle.to drive a motor vehicle safely. The LTO held Angeles said that the LTO shoulda forum on the subject last May 15 which The following categories are considered consider the CDL because of the many roadwas attended by transportation industry as a commercial motor vehicle: (a) has crashes involving trucks and buses driven bystakeholders and the Automobile Association a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of those who do not have the training and skillsPhilippines. 26,001 pounds or more, (b) a combination to drive large vehicles safely. vehicle with a gross combination weight At the open forum, AAP Vice President rating of 26,001 or more pounds; if the In addition to the CDL, Angeles suggestedand Road Safety Chairman Johnny Angeles trailer(s) has a GVWR of 10,001 or more that a professional driver should undergo:suggested that a fourth driver’s license, the pounds; (c) tows any vehicle with a GVWR (1) Red Cross training on First Aid, rescueCommercial Driver’s License (CDL), should of 10, 001 pounds or more; (d) tows more and response procedures in emergencybe added to the three existing driver’s than one vehicle or a trailer bus; (e) has three situations since the driver is usually the firstlicenses (Student, Non-Professional and or more axles (excludeing three-axle vehicles person present in an emergency; and(2) drugProfessional). Angeles pointed out that the weighing 6,000 pounds or less gross); (f) any testing, including those applying to renewState of California in America developed the vehicle (bus, farm labor machine, general their license. Angeles expressed optimismCommercial Motor Vehicle Safety program public paratransit vehicle, etc.) designed, that with the issuance of the Implementingthat issues the CDL to make roads safer used or maintained to carry more than 10 Rules and Regulations for the Anti-Drunkfor all road users. A professional driver can passengers including the driver, for hire or and Drugged Driving Act of 2013, there will be less road crashes.6 AQ MAGAZINE



CLUBNEWS24/7 EMERGENCY ROADSIDE SERVICE members can enjoy free 24/7 Emergency Roadside Service (ERS) To facilitate prompt service, please provide within the AAP service areas according to the chart below. If a member the following information to the respondingexceeds the allowed ERS interventions within his membership period, there will be operator:corresponding charges. Regular and PIDP members are given four free ERS interventions per year; • Full name and contact numberindividual associate members get three while associate group members are allowed • AAP membership numbertwo ERS interventions annually. • Model, color, and make of vehicle Members may avail of ERS for their registered cars at any time, or for any non- • License plate number of vehicleregistered car they are using provided they are present at the time of the service. ERS • Exact location where vehicle has stalledinterventions include towing, (flat) tire change, battery boosting, fuel provision andsimple mechanical repairs. and nearby landmarks • Access restrictions or limitationsCURRENT AAP SERVICE AREAS INCLUDE: (e.g. basement or multi-level parking,• All of Metro Manila from Magallanes to Alabang security gates, one-way streets, etc.)• Along the following (SOMCO), Alabang-Calamba- • Location where vehicle is to be towed Sto. Tomas Expressway • A brief description of the problem with expressways: North Luzon (ACTEX). Expressway (NLEX), Subic- • Within 25 km road distance their vehicle Clark-Tarlac Expressway from AAP offices at Alabang, (SCTEX), Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Cebu City, Davao City, Lipa Extra charges for services which are in Union Expressway (TPLEX), City, and San Fernando, excess of the allowed interventions are P500 South Metro Manila Skyway Pampanga. per non-towing intervention or P50 per towed and ground-level expressway kilometer, subject to a minimum P500 charge. Travel distances for interventions or tow pick- ERS is available 24/7, with an average response time of 30 minutes to 1 hour, ups beyond service areas will be included in theweather and traffic conditions permitting. extra charges.TSrhaonwsSport AAP Vice president johnny Angeles (2nd from left) with Sophie Delos Santos (leftmost), Senator JV Ejercito, Atty. Raymond Zorilla (2nd from right) and other guests cut the ribbon at the 23rd Trans Sport Show held at SMX MOA last May 22, 2014.8 AQ MAGAZINE



CLUBNEWS Travel, the wholly owned subsidiary of the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP), in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT), organized a three-day tour touted as “Oriental Mindoro Cruise-Drive Caravan: Escaping the Urban, Sailing the Southwest, Enjoying a Road Trip Adventure to Paradise” on May 1-3, 2014. Most of the participants, including AAP President Gus Lagman and his wife, Tess Lagman, Edgar and Beth Tam, Helen So and her family are veterans of previous AAP Travel caravans and brought their friends and families to experience the Mindoro escapade.Travel A horizon between the calm sea and the blue skyOrganizes Cruise-Drive Caravan to Oriental MindoroCaravaners pause for a photo op in front of Benilda ngBancuro Resort & Restaurant before leaving for the next tourdestination.Caravan participants enjoy their leisure time at the falls, Caravan members’ group photo at the Puerto Galera mark as a souvenirriver and hanging bridge of Lantuyan while waiting for lunchto be served 10 AQ MAGAZINE



CLUBNEWSPuerto Galera’s Pandang Gitab Dancers entertain the participants Luna and Naujan Town Mayor Markwhile dinner is being served Marcos were the local government officials who welcomed and feted the caravaners, making sure that the visitors were treated to Mindoro’s best dishes and delicacies. Before the participants parted ways, some of them shared their comments about the tour. Business Mirror Travel Writer Benjamin Layug said: “I have been to Mindoro so many times but the AAP Oriental Mindoro Cruise- Drive Caravan was a real eye opener, not only showing the beauty of the province but also the cultural diversity of the people. Our immersion with the Mangyan community was a nice touch. May they do many more caravans of a similar nature, kudos to AAP Travel for a job well done.” The caravaners took the Supercat fast The Oriental Mindoroferry from Batangas City to Calapan, where Cruise-Drive Caravan wasthey were welcomed by the province’s the eighth of a seriestourism officials, a marching band, a police organized by AAP Travelescort and the Motorcycle Riders Club of with the cooperationOriental Mindoro. During the next three or sponsorship of AAP,days, the caravaners visited the province’s the DOT, the provincialtourist attractions and cultural heritage sites: government of Orientalthe ruins of the Bancuro Church in Naujan, Mindoro and Petron.which was built in the 17th century; theLantuyan River and Hanging Bridge in Baco A Mangyan shows off Mindoro’s local products to the caravan participantsat the foot of Mount Halcon; the TamarawWaterfalls in Puerto Galera and the Iraya- AAP Oriental Mindoro Cruise-DriveMangyan Village where the Mangyans weave Caravan was a real eye opener, not onlybaskets, handbags and mats. showing the beauty of the province but also the cultural diversity of the people. Along the way, the caravaners ate,played or stayed overnight in resorthotels: the Benilda ng Bancuro Resort andRestaurant in Naujan, Marco Vincent DiveResort and Fridays Boquete Beach Resort.They also visited the Infinity Resort andRestaurant of Mon Rocamora who joinedAAP Travel’s Ifugao Drive Tourism Caravanlast February together with 1st DistrictProvincial Board Member Paul Luna. TheRocamoras and Luna were the ones whopersuaded AAP Travel head Mina Gabor,who is concurrently an AAP director, tobring the next caravan to Mindoro, theirhome province. Participants enjoy the banana boat ride12 AQ MAGAZINE



CLUBNEWS Insurance products and servicesAAP Sanctions for membersthe 2014 Toyota Vios Cup MEMBERS are automatically insured under the AAP Accident Protection30 cars lined up at the start of the 2nd 2014 Toyota Vios Cup Plan. The AAP membership comes with a free personal accident insurance worth Motor Sports sanctioned AAP Motor Sport Operations Manager Mark Desales (2nd P300,000 for Regular Membership and and calendared the 2014 from right) welcomed showbiz personalities who went to P200,000 for Associate Membership,Toyota Vios Cup held last May 24 at Clark the AAP office to apply for competition driver’s licenses through Federal Phoenix Assurance Co., Inc.International Speedway. Thirty Toyota to qualify them to drive in the Toyota Vios Cup race. PhotoVios cars represented by various Toyota shows (from left) Fabio Ide, Jinno Rufino, Rhian Ramos and The AAP Accident Protection Plandealer drivers, privateers, motoring Phoemela Barranda. provides 24/7 worldwide protection tomedia and selected show business the insured person for a period of one yearcelebrities competed for the top spot from the effective date of membershipat the culminating round of the 2014 of the insured. (Except for unprovokedseason. AAP, under a Memorandum murder and assault and sabotage andof Agreement with the Tuason Racing terrorism in the following areas: LanaoSchool, will officiate the series to del Norte and del Sur, North and Southensure that it is conducted according Cotabato, Zamboanga del Norte and delto the best standards of the Federation Sur, Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, SuluInternationale de l’Automobile (FIA). Archipelago and Basilan)AAP Turns Over FIA Grade 4 License Moreover, the personal accident to Clark International Speedway insurance may be extended to your immediate family members. If you areAAP Motor Sports Operations Manager Mark Desales As the National Auto Club that is the single, you can extend the personal(left) turns over the FIA Grade 4 license to Nelson Gayola, sole representative in the country accident insurance to your parents agesCorporate Communications Manager of Clark International of the Federation Internationale de 70 years old and below and/or yourSpeedway. (Photo by Christopher Kho of Time Attack l’Automobile (FIA), the Paris-based unmarried and unemployed brothers/Manila) governing body of all four-wheel motor sisters/children ages 1 to 23. If you are sports worldwide, the Automobile married, you can extend the personal Association Philippines recently accident insurance to your spouse and turned over the original copy of the FIA parents ages 70 years old and below Grade 4 license of Clark International and/or your children ages 1 to 23. Speedway to Clark track management. The FIA approved the Clark circuit as Regular members can get five a Grade 4 licensed track that can hold certificates equivalent to P1.5 million international events limited to Grade accidental death and disablement (AD&D) 4 track requirements. The FIA Grade benefit. The immediate family member 4 license was the result of a joint can get a maximum of five certificates or effort of Tom Pastor of the Philippine equivalent to P1 million AD&D benefit for Formula Autosport Foundation Inc. spouse and parent(s) and one certificate and Johnny Tan of Clark Race Track or equivalent to P200,000 for children, Management. brother(s) or sister(s). Extended family members and domestic household helpers may get a maximum of two certificates worth P100, 000 per person. In addition, FLT Prime Insurance allows AAP members who own vehicles 10 years old and above, including vintage cars, to apply for comprehensive insurance coverage. Under this program that is available exclusively to AAP members, FLT PRIME has two major divisions of auto insurance coverage. The first one is physical or material damage coverage which protects the insured from loss or damage to the car itself. The second one is casualty coverage referring to liability and personal accident coverage afforded under the motor car policy.14 AQ MAGAZINE

KNOW MORE ABOUT VETERANS BANK’SHOME LOAN FREE HOME!Q. What is the Home Loan Free Home? borrower must meet the following conditions: • Copy of SEC Registration / Articles Twitter: @PVBHomeLoan • No late or lapsed payment of of Incorporation / By-Laws (for Email: [email protected]. Home Loan Free Home is a 20-year housing amortizations and other dues including corporation) / General Information loan product from Philippine Veterans Bank all insurance premiums (MRI, fire/ Sheet DOCUMENTARY REQUIREMENTS Via phones (only available Mondays-Fridays (PVB) whereby successful loan applicants lightning/earthquake/AOG) for the ON COLLATERAL PORTION during business hours) will get a chance to get their home for free duration of the term Landlines: because of the product’s innovative cash- • No pre-termination or pre-payment of • Transfer Certificate of Title or back guarantee. the housing loan Condominium Certificate of Title • (02) 902-1600 • The loan is fully paid at the end of the (photocopy) • (02) 902-1700Q. How does the Home Loan Free Home term including all insurance premiums • (02) 857-3800 work? • Compliance with the terms and • Tax Declaration on the Lot and conditions of the mortgage loan Improvement (photocopy) Mobile Numbers:A. Interested individuals simply have to apply agreement • 0917-5516782 (Globe) for the 20-year housing loan offer of PVB • Opening/maintenance of a PVB savings • Latest Tax Receipts on the Lot and • 0998-9588782 (Smart) and upon approval of the loan they’ll account for the monthly amortizations Improvement automatically be eligible for the cash back Toll-Free Numbers: guarantee provided they meet the product Failure to meet any of the above conditions • Lot Plan & Vicinity Map Certified by a • 1-800-10-8573822 (PLDT subscribers terms and conditions. will mean the forfeiture of the borrower’s Geodetic Engineer only outside of Metro Manila) chance for the cash back guarantee. • 1-800-8-9021622 (Globe subscribersQ. Who are qualified to avail of the Home • Building Plans, Bill of Materials only outside of Metro Manila) Loan Free Home? Q. Where can we apply for a PVB Housing and Specifications (if with proposed Loan? improvement) Q. 20 years is too long for a housing loan,A. Home Loan Free Home is open to individuals is there another housing loan product who are planning to avail of housing loan A. Interested individuals can apply for a Q. If we have more questions about the available for me? for any of the following purposes: housing loan with any of PVB’s 60 branches Home Loan Free Home promo …? • Refinancing of existing mortgage nationwide or at the Home Loan Free Home A. Yes! PVB offers competitive interest rates for • Purchase of a residential house or Business Center located at the PVB Head A. For more questions about the Home Loan housing loans for up to 15 years! Please call condominium Office in Makati City. Alternatively, they can Free Home promo, please feel free to get in us to know more about our other housing • Purchase of a vacant lot visit www.pvbhomeloans.com and apply touch with the Home Loan Free Home team loan products and let us help you customize a • House construction (staggered releases) online. via the following channels: housing loan that’s just right for you! • Home improvement or renovation Q. What are the requirements needed for Website: www.pvbhomeloans.comIt is also open to all homeowners with the Home Loan Free Home? Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/PVB existing mortgage loans with other banks aswell as for all new home-buyers including A. Aside from a duly-filled up application form, Home Loan Free Homethose purchasing residential house and lots, the other requirements include:townhouses, or condos. If Income is from Employment: Q. How much would be the possible loan • Photocopy of the Latest Income amount for this product? Tax Return and W2 for past two years A. 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FEATUREUse credit cards with care while travelingWHETHER you’re going on a road trip on the nation’s freeways or a jet flight across the world, chances are you’ll be using a credit card on those travels. Before you depart, here’s a roundup of to $3,400 in cases of lost baggage, said frequent ATM stops and incurring fees.some good-to-know credit card travel tips. Perkins, but certain items are excluded, In general, Perkins recommends using including cash, family heirlooms or expensive CALL BEFORE YOU GO: Especially if technology, such as computers. a debit card to make cash withdrawalsyou’re traveling overseas, it’s always wise to (because of lower fees compared with mostalert your credit card company. Otherwise, if “If you packed an expensive camera in credit cards). For large purchases, like hotelyou start charging purchases in, say, Canada, your checked baggage, some cards will cover stays, car rentals, shopping, etc., he says,your credit card company will likely flag up to $250 per lost item…It’s not a lot, but it use your credit card.those transactions as suspicious. They might can make a difference,” Perkins said.try contacting you by phone to verify the And Perkins noted: At all costs, avoidtransactions. Or they could simply freeze your The biggest benefit, said Perkins: going to a currency exchange office or airportcard, playing havoc with travel plans. Coverage for damage to a rental car. If the kiosk, which typically charge high currency damage occurs in the US, the credit-card conversion fees. To avoid those scenarios, pick up the reimbursement is generally secondaryphone and call your issuer, using the number coverage that kicks in after you first file a CHIP OR NO CHIP? If your crediton the back of your card. Many card issuers claim with your insurer. If it’s an overseas card has been around a while, it’s probablylet you do the same thing online. Log onto rental car, which usually isn’t covered by not imbedded with a microchip, a securityyour account and look for “travel notification” US insurance, the credit card coverage may feature that makes it harder for cyberthievesor a similar tab, where you can fill in the dates be your only option to recoup the cost of to steal your credit card info.and countries where you’ll be traveling. damages. In most cases overseas, “a standard old “We strongly encourage our customers “It’s one really big-dollar benefit. It can [magnetic-] striped card will work most of theto contact us when traveling, whether they’re amount to hundreds of dollars,” he noted. time, in most places,” said Perkins, who usesin the middle of a trip or about to leave,” both chipped and non-chipped cards andJPMorgan Chase spokesman Rob Tacey said Some card issuers also offer small rarely encounters a problem. He said certainin an email. amounts of compensation for delayed flights. situations, such as trying to use a self-service gas station or ticket kiosk, may cause a card In some cases, he said, the company In all cases, to find out what your card to be rejected.notifies its frequent travelers that it’s not covers, read the fine print in your servicenecessary to notify the company in advance, agreement or look it up online. Overall, “If your bank offers the optionbecause it’s already aware their card is often of getting a chipped card, I recommend itused far from home. But generally, it can’t MINIMIZE FEES: Most credit cards add because it decreases the chances of runninghurt to call your credit card issuer and alert it a 1-percent to 3-percent currency conversion into a problem.”of impending trips. fee to the cost of any purchase outside the home country. Some cards, however, have PAY BILLS IN ADVANCE: Don’t forget KNOW THE NUMBERS: Keep a copy eliminated it entirely. If you have more than to pay off credit card bills before leaving, soof your card’s toll-free customer service one credit card, you might want to check the you don’t come home to unanticipated latenumbers with you, separate from your wallet, fees and use the one with the lowest foreign fees or other penalties. Especially if you’ll bein case you need to report a loss or theft. Bury transaction fee. gone for an extended period, you can payone in your luggage; send a copy to a friend or your monthly bill ahead of time or set up anfamily member, just in case it’s needed. When traveling overseas, you will likely online automatic payment. be hit by ATM fees when you’re getting cash Also, many travel experts recommend withdrawals in local currency. There are a CHECK YOUR LIMITS: If you’ll becarrying two credit cards, keeping one as your couple ways to minimize these fees, which charging lots on your trip, be sure you’ve gotbackup in case your main card is lost or stolen. can be as high as $5 per transaction. enough available credit on your card. Let’s say • Call your card issuer to ask if it has your card has a $1,000 limit and you exceed GET YOUR FREEBIES: Many that while renting scuba gear: Your cardconsumers aren’t aware of little-known partnerships with bank ATMs in other transaction could be denied or you could getbenefits that come free with their credit cards, countries. hit with penalties on your next bill. To avoidsaid Ed Perkins, a longtime SmarterTravel.com • Use a debit card from a credit union, those unpleasant surprises, contact your cardwriter, based in Ashland, Oregon. Depending which tends to have lower fees than a issuer now about raising your credit limit.on the card and the issuing bank, the perks bank card. Otherwise, monitor your travel spending socan range from free referrals if you need • When doing ATM cash withdrawals, you don’t go over the card limit. MCTa lawyer or doctor in a foreign country (the get large amounts so you’re not makingreferral is free, not the professional services)to hotel room upgrades. Among the best freebies: Coverage forlost or damaged checked baggage, up to$500 beyond what you might receive fromthe airline. Most US airlines will cover up16 AQ MAGAZINE

A LOOK AT AUTO TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PHILIPPINES COVER STORY Ford Focus park assist DRIVE A look at autoTOMORROW technologies in the PhilippinesTODAY By VINCE PORNELOSTECHNOLOGY is a wonderful thing. Advanced innovations in everyday things have AUTONOMOUS PARKING ASSIST led us to be capable of doing so much more with so much less. Smartphones, laptops, inverter Parallel parking, while seemingly simple, can often get tricky technology, cellular data and all related devices have particularly with regards to estimating the distances between the car changed the way we think, communicate, work or in front and the one in back. It also gets trickier in urban environmentsfunction as people. Same goes for our cars. where parking spaces are tight and scarce. In this issue of AQ Magazine, we take a look at the latest Thanks to automomous parking systems like the ones in the Lexusautomotive innovations readily available in Philippine showrooms LS and the Ford Focus, parallel parking is a very easy affair. Sensors alltoday. From little features to great leaps in capability, there’s a around the car can detect a parking spot that’s large enough to fit thelot more than we may have thought because in reality, cars have vehicle and these will proceed to steer the vehicle into the spot.become far more advanced and far more sophisticated than whatwe may have been driving 20, 10 or even just five years ago. On the Ford Focus, the driver still activates the system, engages drive, and reverse and modulates the brakes, but the car is responsible for steering into the vacant slot. All the driver has to do is follow the prompts from the vehicle. AQ MAGAZINE 17

COVER STORYADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL With more and more expressways being built, cruise controlis starting to become a mainstay in many vehicles. This feature,however, is just for maintaining a constant speed when driving onthe highway so the driver can take his or her foot off the acceleratorpedal. Adaptive cruise control takes that to another level altogether. Using radar sensors up front, a vehicle equipped with adaptivecruise control sustains the selected speed but will automaticallyslow down the car when the car senses a slower vehicle ahead.An example of this would be the Chrysler 300C, as it is able tomaintain a set distance to the vehicle ahead in terms of car lengths.It allows for further convenience on the highway and increasedsafety.TWIN SCROLL Adaptive cruiseTURBOCHARGERS controlIn car-speak, having a the chamber where it mixes with the intake air; the fuel is more finely measured andturbocharger is arguably the best finely misted so that there as little wasted or unburnt gasoline. The result is betterand most effective way to produce efficiency and better overall power.more power by utilizing exhaust Engines that have gasoline direct injection (GDI) include the SkyActiv-Ggases to spin a turbine to force motors of Mazda, some BMWs, Audis, Mercs, among others.more air into the engine. VARIABLE GEOMETRY TURBOCHARGERSTurbos, however, are prone to As with twin scroll turbochargers, a variable geometry turbotwo conditions: turbo lag (sluggish works to minimize lag, maximize power and power delivery. Instead of having two inlet ports for the exhaust to drive theperformance) at lower RPMs due Mitsubishi Twin Scroll turbines, a variable geometry (also called variable vane or variableto the lower exhaust pressure and Turbochargers nozzle) turbo works by altering the angle of attack of the intakea kick at higher RPMs that may blades, allowing the turbo to generate more pressurized air for thebe difficult to control. Twin scroll intake at lower RPMs and ease off gradually at higher RPMs. The result of having a variable geometry turbo is that it provides moreturbochargers take care of that. consistent power all throughout the power band and torque band, making for a more powerful engine enabling, say, a VGT 2.5-literA common feature on turbocharged BMWs and Minis, the twin engine to take over the duties of a 3.0 liter with a regular turbo.scroll turbo systems use two exhaust gas inlets and two nozzles, VG turbos are common in top spec variants of diesel-powered cars and SUVs. Such examples include the Hyundai Accent CRDI,where one is smaller for quick response and the larger for peak the Toyota Fortuner, the Mitsubishi Montero Sport and their derivatives.performance. The setup uses the exhaust manifold to separate thechannels for cylinders allowing exhaust gases to flow freely. Thisset up minimizes turbo lag for improved all-around performance,not to mention it makes the car easier to control at high RPMs.Gasoline DirectInjectionGASOLINE DIRECT INJECTION Variable Back in the day, gasoline and air used to mix in the ports of Geometry Turbochargersthe intake manifold either through a carburetor or fuel injectors. It’sinefficient as it typically results in wasted, unburnt fuel—you know,that black soot that forms in your combustion chamber. Gasolinedirect injection solves all that. Direct injection itself is not new, as it has been a commonfeature on most diesel engines. Instead of injecting fuel into themanifold or the ports, DI sends a highly pressurized mist of gasolineinto the combustion chamber directly. This way the fuel is shot into 18 AQ MAGAZINE

A LOOK AT AUTO TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PHILIPPINES BMW iDriveHUMAN/MACHINE MULTI-MEDIA INTERFACE Automatic Brake A common technology upgrade on most luxury vehicles isthe advent of unified multimedia control systems. These devices, Activationusually in the form of a knob or a small cluster of pads and hatswitches, aim to reduce the number of buttons in a car’s dashboardby consolidating them into one control system. Some examples include Audi’s MMI, Mercedes-Benz’sCOMAND APS, BMW’s iDrive and more recently the Mazda3’smulti-media control system, whereby the control of the centralscreen’s display allows the driver to manipulate the many featuresand settings in the vehicle. The radio, DVD (if applicable),navigation, lighting settings, alarm settings, audio settings andother functions are all actuated by a cluster of buttons and knobsjust behind the shifter.SMART KEY you, you can just hand over the car without a fight but with theRegular keys with a remote attached are so key still in your pocket. The crook (thinking the key is inyesterday. the ignition) will drive away, not knowing that theseA common feature of high end models and devices typically shut down a car after runningtop spec variants, smart key transponders. a fair distance. You can then proceed to theThese enable a driver to just keep the key in nearest police station.his pocket and unlock the doors either bypressing a button or grabbing the sensor- AUTOMATIC BRAKE ACTIVATIONequipped handle. The car can be started Driving in the city is, to say the least,when the driver depresses the brake pedal tricky and distracting. A driver has to monitorand presses the ignition button. so many things all happening at the sameThe benefits of these smart time around him and chances are somethingkeys (also known as proximity will catch you out. Auto brake activationkeys), apart from the convenience Smart key seeks to provide an extra safety net.of not having to pull out an actual First pioneered by the safety expertskey to start the car), enable a at Volvo, these systems work best in urbandriver to keep his or her hands free environments, particularly when the speedsin opening the car’s doors or trunk; a useful feature when carrying are below 30 km/h. Sensors and cameras in front of the car canloads of groceries. Some proximity keys even have buttons to start detect another car ahead and bring the car to a complete stopthe car remotely, thereby cooling the cabin down as you walk to it if it senses that the driver has failed to respond. More advancedin the parking lot. versions can even detect pedestrians as well.This feature hasThe best advantage of these kinds of keys is the added hit the mainstream with the Ford Focus in 2012 called Activesecurity, particularly during carjackings. Should it ever happen to City Stop. AQ MAGAZINE 19

COVER STORY A LOOK AT AUTO TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PHILIPPINESAUTOMATIC START/STOP Regardless of how efficient or how low an engine’sdisplacement is, when stopped at a set of traffic lights any vehicle’sfuel efficiency drops down to zero kilometers to every liter andthat’s a fact. Auto start/stop systems seek to alleviate that. The principle is similar for all vehicles that have this feature:when you’re stopped either at an intersection or even in traffic,the engine cuts out automatically when you fully depress thebrakes but still retains the A/C’s blower, radio and otherelectrical functions. When you lift your foot off the brakes,the engine will immediately restart and you can driveoff. The obvious effect is that the engine will not beconsuming any fuel while stopped. This feature is available on SkyActiv-equipped Mazdas, BMWs with Eco-Profunctions, hybrids like the ToyotaPrius and the Honda CR-Z.HIGH TENSILE STEELIt sounds basic, butthe arrival of vehicles thatwere built using more High Tensileadvanced materials Steelis one of the most DUAL CLUTCH TRANSMISSION Of course no list of advanced auto technologies would beimportant innovations in complete without dual clutch transmissions(DCT). Unlike regularautomotive technology. This torque converter automatics which achieve two-pedal convenience by using hydraulics and consuming more fuel for driving comfort,is most evident in the growing a dual clutch is more similar to a manual transmission in terms of power delivery and efficiency.use of high tensile boron steel in the A DCT is essentially two gearboxes in one housing; oneconstruction of the body. gearbox has the odd numbered gears (in a 6-speed gearbox: 1, 3, 5 and Reverse) while the other has the even numbered gearsThe advent of boron steel, a material that can match the (in a 6-speed gearbox: 2, 4 and 6). Each set of gears has its own clutch; when, say, 3rd gear is engaged in clutch A, both secondtensile strength of thicker, heavier ‘regular’ steel. The effects are and fourth gears are being spun up in anticipation of a shift in clutch B. When the next gear up or down is selected, the changeimmediate; by using boron steel in critical areas, carmakers can is quick and instantaneous on the other clutch.reduce the weight of a car significantly. A lighter car means better The advantages of DCTs include better power delivery, better fuel efficiency, little power loss and instant shifting; it’s like drivingacceleration and better fuel efficiency. Also the stiffer steel allows a manual but with two pedals only. The two disadavantages (in general) are the greater complexity of the system and the overallfor better handling and better overall performance. roughness of the shifts in traffic when compared to a regular automatic.Again, the more common examples of vehicles that use high As you can see, automotive technology has certainly cometensile steel include Ford (Focus, Fiesta, EcoSport) as well as a very long way since the inception of the car over a century ago. There are still plenty of technologies that corporations andMazda (CX-5, Mazda6, Mazda3). innovators are looking into like autonomous driving, alternative fuels and other such tech, so expect those to hit the market one Dual way or the other in the near future. Clutch Transmission We’re still a long way off from mainstream applications of hovering or flying automobiles that history thought we would be driving by now, but these technologies may come eventually. For now, one thing is certain: there’s plenty of room for improvement for the internal combustion engine and the cars it propels.20 AQ MAGAZINE

WE DESIGN JOURNEYS FEATUREArt Center College of Design Transportation world. Its graduates are routinely snatched Design Graduate student David Day Lee up by major automakers worldwide. poses on his life-size wooden prototype of The new graduate level program moves E-Flat, holding plastic pro type of E-Flat, a students beyond the fanciful sketches and car styling of the undergrad program neighborhood electric vehicle. MCT to generate real-world mobility solutions, including the New York City Taxi of 2030 WE DESIGN JOURNEYS: designed by current graduate students Cody Casale, Tejesh Goregaonkar and AliAuto designers aim to go beyond Kaldirim.sedan vs. coupe The students from three countries—CARS should be more like smartphones: socially the US, India and Turkey—collaborated engaging, highly customizable and simple to use, on a taxi concept designed to reduce the yet technologically sophisticated. carbon footprint of the city’s 12,000 cabs. At least that’s how David Day Lee and sketches, Lee had crafted a full-size Each year, the city’s taxi fleet drives 772sees it. wooden replica of his E Flat platform, which million miles, spewing 54 million tons orients a vehicle’s chassis vertically, rather of greenhouse gases in the process, the Lee in April became the first student to than horizontally, to enable a greater variety students said.receive an advanced degree from Art Center of vehicles using the same basic platform—College of Design’s graduate transportation from cars to motorcycles to trucks. “We wanted to address all thedesign program. He was one of 12 students, problems the existing vehicles had and trythe rest of whom are still enrolled in the He had also built a small-scale plastic to find solutions and create a better overallnascent course of study encouraging critical model of a highly customizable vehicle experience for the passenger and driver,”thinking about how people and products called the Maker Series that could allow car said Casale, 27.move around. buyers to design the exterior and interior shapes of their vehicles and to locally Inspired by former New York Mayor “There’s a shift happening in how manufacture them with 3D printers and Michael Bloomberg’s real-world competitioncars are understood,” said Lee, a Korean other rapid prototyping technologies. to create a cleaner taxi fleet—a competitionAmerican who was raised in Japan and that was awarded to the Nissan NV200 lastis now applying the paper-manipulation “We like to say we design journeys year—the 2030 taxi is a 25-mph electricprinciples of origami to auto design. “In the rather than products or vehicles,” said vehicle that seats the driver in an elevatedpast, cars were seen as a packaged product Geoffrey Wardle, director of advanced position at the vehicle’s rear and itsyou were supposed to receive in full. There mobility research at Art Center in Pasadena, passengers in front of a plate glass windowwas no room for your involvement. We’re in California. that enables sightseeing. The front windowan age where customer values are shifting telescopes up and over the taxi body tofrom ‘give me a finished product’ to ‘give me Three years ago, the school’s president enable wheelchair access with a retractablesomething that I can co-create.’ ” charged Wardle with crafting the curriculum ramp. The side doors slide on rails, instead for a graduate transportation design of hinging out into traffic. During the April 17 graduate show, Lee program that would “think beyond cars”displayed various concepts to demonstrate to address the future of mobility, including Another team of graduate designhis idea of “innovation in the hands of trains, planes, public transit, cargo transit— students, including the one woman enrolledmany,” or collaboration between vehicle even space travel. in the program, are leveraging the same taximanufacturers and their end users. Unlike design but making it autonomous.students graduating from the bachelor’s Already, Art Center’s 250-studenttransportation design program, who undergraduate transportation design Both groups of students are likely toshowcased their ideas with clay models program is esteemed as one of the most graduate next year. important automotive design schools in the “The focus is not just on the automotive industry,” Wardle said. “Rather than think about it in terms of products, how are we as consumers of personal mobility going to relate to our automobiles? We don’t think it’s just going to be the current ownership model. It’s going to be more about car share and accessing the automobile on what I call a total mobility package option where we are buying journey miles rather than buying a car. These are the sorts of scenarios we’re interested in with the future of the auto industry. “It’s going to be a fuzzy boundary between the static built street and moving transportation as we get new forms of personal mobility,” Wardle added. With the new graduate program, he said, “We’re interested in the whole of transportation and how it fits into the built environment.” MCT AQ MAGAZINE 21

FEATUREFord SYNC: Samantha By ARMIN A. AMIOPlay it again, Photos by IGOR MAMINTA for Ford PhilippinesA DVANCES in connectivity and voice recognition technologies have made it natural for vehicle companies to designcars that can be controlled by voice. US automaker Ford has the SYNC, Ford first announced the release of SYNCwhich is a factory-installed, integrated in- in January 2007 at the Detroit Internationalvehicle communications and entertainment Auto Show. SYNC was released into thesystem that allows users to make hands- retail market in 2007 when Ford installedfree telephone calls, control music and the technology in 12 Ford group vehiclesperform other functions with the use of (2008 model) in North America. The first-voice commands. The system consists of generation SYNC, however, received a lot ofapplications and user interfaces developed flak from reviewers, particularly the clunkyby Ford and other third-party developers, interface with the MyFord Touch dashboardand runs on the Windows Embedded system.Automotive operating system designed byMicrosoft. It was in 2010 when the newly released Fiesta introduced the SYNC technology in This proprietary technology allows the Philippines, but this is actually a moredrivers to use voice commands to control simplified version called Voice Activationthe multimedia system. Voice commands Technology. It does not have Internetsuch as Call Mom or Play New Playlist connectivity—like in the US market—can be easily recognized and activated so maybe because the country’s broadbandthat the driver can keep his hands on the network is still not stable enough to supportwheel and stay in control at all times. User- the Sync.friendly voice commands makes for saferdriving whether you’re in the city, on the Voice Activation Technology allowsexpressway, or on a winding mountain road. the car owner to control and tune the radio, iPhone, a USB drive with MP3 22 AQ MAGAZINE

FORD SYNC: PLAY IT AGAIN, SAMANTHAmusic, tablet or smartphone connected via contact list, your phonebook is automatically The systemBluetooth. Common brands such as the downloaded to the SYNC system. consists ofiPhone, Samsung, LG, Lenovo, Nokia (now applications andMicrosoft Devices,) and even Philippine All these fun tech features are user interfacesbrands such as MyPhone, StarMobile, etc. embedded in an equally fun car. The Ford developed by Fordcan be paired with the Ford system. Fiesta Sport+ with the 1.0L EcoBoost and other third- engine offers the all the performance of a party developers, Pairing is quick and very easy and you conventional 1.6-liter four-cylinder petrol and runs on thecan even control your media playback using engine, with significant improvements in Windows Embeddedthe embedded controls on the steering fuel economy and carbon dioxide emissions, Automotive operatingwheels. Users can browse through music in a small package. system designed bycollections by genre, album, artist, and Microsoft.song title using voice commands. A small This subcompact also featuresunidirectional microphone, which is situated technologies usually found in larger, more rolling downhill for the few nerve-wrackingjust above the rear-view mirror, picks up all expensive vehicles. The keyless entry with seconds it takes your foot to leave the brakethe voice commands. push-button start system unlocks the car and press the accelerator. when you pull the door handle, as long New technology was added to the as the key fob is in your pocket or bag. The electronic power assist steeringsecond-generation SYNC in which text Simply put your foot on the brake, press knows how fast you’re going, and adjustsmessages received by the driver can now be the start button and drive away. The hill the “weightiness” of the steering wheel for“vocalized” by a digitized female voice device launch assist feature stops the Fiesta from optimum control. It even adapts to roadnamed “Samantha.” The text message conditions and strong winds to keep youfunction also has the ability to interpret safely on track. It only activates when youapproximately 100 shorthand messages, need it, effectively saving you fuel. Rain-such as “LOL“, and will even read “swear sensing wipers turn on automatically andwords,” and although it does not decipher adjust their speed for heavy or light rainacronyms, it can read emoticons. while auto headlights also turn on as soon as they sense there’s not enough light so This overhaul also replaces some you can see what’s ahead.of the longer, more difficult voicecommands with shorter alternatives. How’s that for a fun car? The five-doorWhen “Samantha” cannot understand Ford Fiesta Sport+ with the 1.0L EcoBoostyour command, she will say so (“I can’t engine is priced at P898,000 at Fordunderstand this command”). showrooms nationwide. When making calls, all you need is tosay a name and SYNC will automatically callthe number from the system’s phonebook.No need to flip through your smartphone’s AQ MAGAZINE 23

FEATUREHonda Civic: Text and photos by FORT MANAHANNow sportier than everTHE local arm of Japanese carmaker Honda recently unveiled a new version of its flagship automatic transmission and is said to Honda Civic, now with a sportier-than-ever feel. deliver a maximum power output of 155 ps Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI), The updated version of the Civic is at 6,500 rpm and 141 ps at 5,500 rpmHonda’s automobile business unit in the reinforced by the three major characteristics: respectively.Philippines, has shown to the media and to sporty design; advanced features in fuelthe public the refreshed version of the Civic, economy, entertainment and safety; and Available in three variants, HCPI hasupgrading the vehicle a few notches. fun with dynamic driving and handling. offered factory-installed accessories to its models, such as the Mugen and Modulo Toshio Kuwahara, HCPI President The new Civic still comes in 2.0 and aero kits.and General Manager, said: The new 1.8-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine,Civic embodies “a complete package that which are both mated “With our strengthened partnershipoffers spirited driving performance and to a five-speed with M-TEC Co. Ltd, known for its MUGENtechnologically advanced features that areencased in sportier styling. “Ever committed to creating new valuesto meet the dynamic needs of our valuedcustomers, we at Honda have workedhard to improve our products,”he said.24 AQ MAGAZINE

HONDA CIVIC: NOW SPORTIER THAN EVER FEATUREaccessories and Honda Access Asia is while maintaining the excellent driver- The 7-inch touch screen display audioand Oceania Co. Ltd, makers of Modulo centric ergonomics. has the hands-free telephone (HFT) andaccessories which are designed and audio streaming via Bluetooth.developed in parallel with the development The sporty side would be experiencedof Honda vehicles, we are pleased to even if your hands stay on the wheel. Seen in the new Civic are the differentpresent to you, the new Civic packaged Its paddle shifters are meant to provide ports such as auxiliary, 2 USB slots, andwith factory-installed genuine accessories superb driving pleasure of using a manual the new HDMI port that lets you connectcarefully chosen and designed to match the transmission. At a more relaxed pace, and mirror your smartphone on the touchCivic’s monoform body,” Kuwahara noted. drivers could use the cruise control feature screen display audio. added on the new Civic. Standard for the mid-grid variant would For safety features, the new Civic isbe the Modulo kits while for the top-of-the Honda also added to its interiors a fitted with driver and passenger SRS airbagsline, the Mugen accessories. new 7-inch touch screen display info/ and anti-lock braking system (ABS) with entertainment system in their bid to electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). With this, the new Civic sports a minimize the use of buttons, makingrefreshed exterior styling that is more it easier to operate while “radiating a The 2.0 EL MUGEN variant comesdynamic, aggressive and sporty,” Kuwahara premium feel.” with additional safety features such asadded. side airbags, side curtain airbags, vehicle stability assist (VSA), child seat anchors, For the 2.0 EL MUGEN Civic, the and driver and front passenger seatbeltvehicle is fitted with a sports grille, front reminder; earning it a 5-star Asean Newunder spoiler, rear under spoiler, side under Car Assessment Program (ASEAN-NCAP)spoilers, wing-type trunk spoiler and a safety rating.MUGEN emblem. Both the 2.0 EL MUGEN and 1.8 On the other hand, the 1.8 E Modulo Modulo variants are now equipped with avariant, has the Modulo front under spoiler, multi-view reverse camera that is capablerear under spoiler, side under spoilers, of displaying three views (normal, wide, andwing-type tailgate spoiler, and Modulo top down).emblem and a new honeycomb grille withnoticeable single bar chrome accent, which The new Civic comes with a price tagit also shares with the base variant 1.8 S. of P978,000 for the base model (1.8 S), Ph1.118 million for the midgrid, (1.8 E Both the Civic 2.0 EL MUGEN and Modulo) and P1.368 million for the 2.0 EL1.8 E Modulo sport fog lights, chrome MUGEN.handles and power retract side mirrors withintegrated side turn lights. The Civic is available in five colors— Modern Steel Metallic (for 2.0 EL MUGEN The 1.8 Modulo sits on 16-inch three- and 1.8 E Modulo), White Orchid Pearl (2.0dimensional, multi-spoke alloy wheels, EL MUGEN and 1.8 E Modulo, additionalwhile the 2.0 EL MUGEN is on 17s. P20,000), Carnelian Red Pearl (1.8 variants only), Crystal Black Pearl (all variants) and On the inside, the new Civic shows Taffeta White (1.8 S only).how technologically-equipped the vehicle AQ MAGAZINE 25

FEATUREFrom wMithatnhielaMtoazBdaale3r By VINCE PORNELOSMAZDA is on an almost unbelievable and semi-premium crossover segment, in language, hence the strong resemblance roll in the Philippines. Ever since which those two models belong, are not big to the current Mazda6. The body features Berjaya Auto Philippines took over on numbers. details that convey motion like the creasesthe brand in the country the Mazda brand and lines along the sides, the wide andhas seen a renewed vigor with new SkyActiv And then came this: the all-new 2014 low stance, and the sporty design details,models like the Mazda6 and the CX-5. It’s Mazda3. It’s fresh from Japan, ready to among others. Both sedan and hatchbacka stark contrast to just over two years ago compete and preparing itself for its own set of models are offered by Mazda—althoughwhen the brand known for zoom-zoom had awards... but we’re getting ahead of ourselves. I would prefer the 4-door sedan to geta bit of gloom-gloom. coupe-like proportions. Top-spec models THIRD TIME’S THE CHARM get things like the larger wheels and rear The Mazda6 and CX-5, however, are The 2014 Mazda3 that was launched by ducktail spoiler, among others.models meant for the higher tiers of theautomotive ladder. They’re not meant to Berjaya Auto Philippines is actually the third The cabin is what surprised many offully compete for sheer automotive volume, generation of the Mazda3 line. Unusually, us because of the very obvious level up,as the premium/executive sedan segment the Mazda3 is also the third model that in terms of quality, materials and feel. The makes full use of the brand’s Kodo design seats are perfectly shaped and offer plenty of support. The dashboard will surprise even the most vigorous dashboard rappers and knockers. Anything and everything that your hands will touch like the steering, shifter, switches and all else in between are great to the touch. The only thing missing is a bit more rear knee and leg room. We’ve always thrown about the idea that Mazda is aiming to compete against the likes of BMW, but now we can say for certain: Mazda has its own iDrive. The new man-machine multimedia interface system is simply excellent, more to the point it’s intuitive if you’ve had a chance to use26 AQ MAGAZINE

FROM MANILA TO BALER WITH THE MAZDA3BMW’s iDrive or Mercedes’s COMAND ZOOM-ZOOM FROM THE START LET THE FUN BEGINAPS. The usual features are standard like After a few hours of waiting in the backUSB input, vehicle settings and such. After boarding and settling into the 2.0R sedan, we headed out onto the North seat (the Mazda3 really could use some Overall the third generation Mazda3 is Luzon Expressway for our northerly and more legroom) and the passenger seat, ita great package right out of the box. GPS then easterly drive. was my turn behind the wheel... just in timeis available for the 2.0R models along with for the long, challenging roads up, arounda pretty neat jet fighter-style Heads-Up The Mazda3 2.0R is a bliss to drive and down the mountains into Baler. ThisDisplay (HUD). on the highway. Smooth, confident and should be fun. capable, the open road gives you the Of course the 2014 Mazda3 is much enjoyment to stretch the Mazda3’s nice Utilizing the paddles on the 2.0R (themore than just mere style and high tech legs—a little too much enjoyment for some, 1.5V has them too, FYI) we start to takegadgetry and we’ll tackle that later. In the but that’s another story. on the roads. What really was impressivemeantime: Tower, this is “Ghost Rider” was how the Mazda3 managed its weightrequesting a fly-by... Being an R, this particular Mazda3 has even with three aboard. Body control and got a pretty potent 2.0-liter engine. At 155 roll mitigation -by my estimation- felt like itTHE DRIVE PS, the 2.0R won’t blow you away in terms was best in the class. We were briefed on the car and the of horsepower, but what it does is offer the complete package; the full SkyActiv The Mazda3 changed directions anddrive we were about to take. The route package, that is. managed weight transfers on these roadsinvolved a mix of expressways, provincial like it was second nature. Stomp on thehighways and various other roads, but what Mazda (particularly the Mazda3) was brakes and the 3 controls it, never feelingI really looked forward to are the long and already known for zoom-zoom, but not like it was going to put a foot wrong or stepchallenging sequence of curves that cuts so for fuel economy. SkyActiv wishes to out uncontrollably into the shoulder or (gulp)through and around the mountains heading change that. down the ravine and the mountains. The carto Baler. was quick and confident; given some good SkyActiv entails four main things: driver training, you can really have a lot of Apart from the anticipation of entering engine, transmission, body and chassis. All fun with this chassis.that road, we were also told that our car for those main elements of the car have beenthe drive up was to be the Mazda3 2.0R optimized for improved fuel economy and The engine and transmissionSedan. efficiency by giving the car less weight, combination was the most impressive by less resistance, less drag and all the other far. The previous generations (at least the This was bound to be an interesting factors that affect consumption. Mazda has ones offered for local sale) had to make dodrive indeed. engineered SkyActiv to make little gains in with 145 PS in the 2.0R and an inefficient 4-speed automatic. Not this time. every aspect of the car which, when it’s all added up, combines The new Mazda3 2.0R gets a far for some impressive numbers. better 155 PS while the 1.5V versions get 112 PS; both of which are significant Given that we were part improvements over the previous 2.0R and of a convoy and maintained a the 1.6V/1.6S models respectively. What’s steady speed, we thought we even more impressive is that all models get should zero the trip and fuel a much better (not to mention apt) 6-speed computers. When it was my automatic and paddle shifters. stint behind the wheel, with speeds not generally friendly for Acceleration in the 2.0R is profoundly fuel eco runs (100-120 km/h, or improved but, more importantly, having overtaking speed) the Mazda3 more gears to choose from gives the Mazda3 2.0R registered 8.5 liters per better control over the mountain passes. 100 kilometers; that’s 11.8 The 1.5V (which we drove on the way back, kilometers to the liter. 2 days later) was equally impressive despite being down by 35 PS. The Mazda3 1.5V performed equally well on the If we enthusiasts had our way, however, highway at 14.9 km/l under we would relish the idea of a Mazda3 with similar conditions. Again it’s the same 2.5 liter SkyActiv engines that impressive, given that lower the model’s US counterparts get... such an displacement variants have engine would really make this drive Baler a knack for delivering higher truly exhilarating. consumption on the highway; a trade-off against (generally) OVERALL IMPRESSIONS lower consumption in city If you thought we were impressed with traffic. the all new Mazda3, you’re right. The 2014 When we have some more Mazda3 indeed sets the standard for driving time with the 2.0R and 1.5V pleasure in the compact class; so much models in the city later on, we’ll so that this latest generation can truly be test how they really perform in considered a sport compact car. terms of everyday fuel economy; of particular interest will be Mazda Philippines really has a the iStop (auto start stop) and contender in the all-new 3; a car that will iEloop (regenerative braking) probably have us reaching for its keys far technologies more times than the rest. AQ MAGAZINE 27

FEATUREF there’s one car brand in the Philippines Altima Interior Sylphy Interior that needed a shot in the arm for the longest time, it’s Nissan.I In the past few decades Nissan’s operations have been split withpassenger cars were manufactured and/or sold by Nissan Motors Philippines Inc.(NMPI) while the commercial vehicles side (ingeneral) have been under the custodianshipof Universal Motors Corp. We can’t even begin to describe howconfusing it was in having two operations for one brand, both of which were tugging every which way but one. Not anymore. Enter Nissan Philippines Inc. (NPI), the new national sales company for the Nissan brand. Headed by Kenji Naito and a new team, the new company will get full support from the parent By VINCE PORNELOSDriving the 2014 Nissan Sylphy and AltimaThe return of the two sunswith Nissan Philippines, Inc.company, Nissan Motor Ltd. in their goal of machine, but it just didn’t catch on as it drive; rather it is a sample of how the Sylphyraising the brand’s presence, prestige and should have. The look of the new Sylphy performs at the limit. Off the line, the obviousultimately market share, in the Philippines. is indeed striking given that front end, the choice is the 1.8 liter CVT, a car that elicits a proportions and the rear. All around, the neat note when pushed. The 1.6 liter Sylphy, Two models were chosen by NPI to Sylphy looks good, and has some neat design with its 5-speed gearbox or the CVT, isherald the brand’s return—the 2014 Nissan details to boot. surprisingly light on its feet.Sylphy and the 2014 Nissan Altima. NPIrecently invited members of the automotive Open the doors and again the car Body control is good for all models andmedia to the Clark International Speedway impresses; it actually feels like you’ve bought the brakes work very well given the heft of theto try out these two new automobiles at the a car one category higher in price and size. cars. The manual gearbox is a little too lightNissan Spin event. The materials feel of quality. The buttons feel for feel if you ask me, but the CVT works just great to the touch. The wheel is great to hold. fine and even has a sport mode that holdsHELLO SYLPHY Everything feels like they’re very well sorted the ‘gears’ just a little longer than normal for For the longest time Nissan’s maintstay out. Of course, this being a wildly hot summer spirited driving. day, the A/C lives up to Nissan’s legendaryin the Philippine C segment has been the coolness. What is common amongst all is that theySentra. Now the Sentra name has been are clearly oriented towards better comfortretired in the Philippines in favor of something Nissan actually had three different (suspension, NVH and seats) rather thannew: the Nissan Sylphy. No, not Selfie. Sylphys available to drive on the full version of outright handling and performance; that’s Clark International Speedway: an entry level probably the reason why I feel so relaxed For all intents and purposes, perhaps it’s 1.6 liter with a 5-speed manual gearbox, a driving around the circuit than I do withbetter if we call it by its code: the B17 Sylphy. midrange 1.6 liter with Nissan’s new CVT most other cars. Just to give you an idea,The B17 is actually the seventh generation system as well as the top spec 1.8 also with the Sylphy is probably softer sprung than theof the Sentra/Sylphy line and it’s made in a CVT. 2014 Toyota Corolla Altis and 2014 HondaThailand. Civic. In comparison, cars like the 2014 Ford Driving all three cars in quick succession, Focus or the newly-launched 2014 Mazda3 Style-wise, you can tell this is leaps and it’s easy to distinguish the differences in would probably outpace the Nissan.bounds ahead of the previous Sentra 200. spec and performance. This isn’t a full testMind you, the Sentra 200 was a decent28 AQ MAGAZINE

DRIVING THE 2014 NISSAN SYLPHY AND ALTIMA FEATURE Nevertheless it’s a far better showing of the test drive, but what we can immediately evident when the Altima gets a little unsettledfrom Nissan, especially when you compare the tell was that the front seats are probably the when I clipped the kerbs.Sylphy to the Sentra 200 that was marketed best in the class for driving comfort; they werea while back. The 2014 Sylphy offers a very developed by Nissan and NASA to distribute a After that point, I decided to just slow thecomprehensive and very attractive package; person’s weight evenly. No exaggeration; it’s a car down a bit and cruised around the course,these and more in one comfortable machine. significantly improved seat. enjoying the smooth ride and drive. Judging by the ride, the 2014 Altima could very wellHELLO ALTIMA Firing up that large V6 up ahead emits be the best in the class, something that I In all honesty we have always found the that signature growl of Nissan’s VQ series would verify later on in a separate test drive. engines. At full throttle from a standstill theprevious two generations of the Teana to be Altima squats down and applies as much THE RIDE TO BEATa bit odd in their own respective ways. Mind power to the tarmac of Clark Speedway’s Just like that, the laps were over. Whileyou these two models were pretty decent, main straight. The brakes work hard to scrubbut they had some features that somewhat speed given the heavy executive saloon. Ditto I did enjoy the time on the track, it was clearboggled the mind. The 2014 Altima should for the suspension; it’s best to remember this that Nissan’s 2014 Sylphy and 2014 Altimachange things up a bit. is a comfortable cruiser rather than a sport do not really belong on a circuit, and that’s sedan. perfectly fine. Their intended customers Launched at the Filipinas Blue Leaf probably won’t take them to a racetrackin Pasay a few months back alongside the The transmission operates flawlessly anyway; that’s what the 370Z and the GT-RSylphy, the 2014 Nissan Altima promises to in maintaining smooth acceleration all are for (hint hint).deliver much in revitalizing the Nissan brand; throughout, though at some points I opted toit is, after all, the new flagship vehicle of the use the paddles on the 2014 Altima to have The 2014 Nissan Sylphy and thecompany here. Design-wise, the 2014 Altima better control of the ratios in the corners. 2014 Altima both belong on urban streetsis as striking like its slightly smaller brother. What I did notice was that the rear end feels where comfort is the priority and on theUnlike the Sylphy, the Altima is shipped from different from many other saloons in its class; open expressways where smoothness andNissan’s facility in the United States. the reason being (by my understanding) is the refinement are what you need. All these and unusual suspension arrangement that has a more in two strikingly designed packages. Settling inside the Altima, it’s easy to bushing halfway through a lateral control rod.realize that the cabin is indeed impressive. While great for comfort, the rear suspension Are these the shots in the arm thatThe top spec variants get a powerful 3.5 does allow a minute level of play that, when Nissan has needed? Only time (and theliter V6 along with a CVT and large, GT-style pushing the car through the corners, gives market’s response) will tell. What is sure ispaddleshifters. There wasn’t really much time an unusual feeling midway through; it’s most that more vehicles are on the way from NPIto appreciate the features given the quick nature and that makes for some very exciting years ahead for the brand. AQ MAGAZINE 29

FEATURE VOLKS TECHBy Jason K. AngVOLKSWAGEN considers technology to be key to its success. This is borne out not just in slogans such as the Audi brand’s VorsprungDurch Technic or Progress Through Technology,but in practice as well. The VolkswagenGroup is the world’s largest private sectorinvestor in research and development,racking up more than €9.5 billion in2012. A team of over 40,000 workson improving fuel efficiency andreducing emissions. That budgethas resulted in cars such as the XL1,a production car that can travel 111kilometers on a liter of fuel. VW Polo is small and solidly built. It felt stable on the slalom course.30 AQ MAGAZINE

HOW VW IS ADVANCING AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY The other cars in the VW stable also squeezed out of even small-displacement pointed where the driver intends.benefit from the application of advanced engines, like the 1.2-liter (104hp) and Comfort doesn’t take a back seattechnology. This technology can be found in 1.4-liter (158hp) Beetle.each of the brand’s starting six: the Touran as VW employs adaptive chassis controlMPV, Touareg and Tiguan SUVs, as well as To make the best use of engine power on the Touareg. This allows the driver tothe Jetta, Polo, and Beetle passenger cars. and torque, Volkswagen offers a dual-clutch adjust damper settings from comfort to gearbox system called Direct Shift Gearbox sporty, according to the demands of the On offer for all the vehicles, save for the (DSG). DSG allows nearly simultaneous road.Beetle, is the latest in diesel technology. VW engagement of one gear as disengagement ofcalls it Turbo Direct Injection (TDI). TDI uses another, providing seamless power. The DSG For the future, Volkswagen isa high-pressure system, the common rail, to takes the place of a conventional automatic developing a new platform calleddeliver fuel directly into the cylinders through in the Beetle and Touran. Modular Transverse Matrix that willa nozzle. The turbocharger feeds more air to be used by multiple brands from Audiallow better combustion. VW claims low noise Helping to keep VWs on the road even to Seat, Skoda, and Volkswagen. Theand emissions using their latest diesel tech. in extreme situations are 4Motion permanent platform can be adapted to various four-wheel drive system. 4Motion detects tracks and wheelbases, and fitted with Gasoline-engined VWs also benefit from slippage and is able to transfer torque to different engines. The reported benefitturbocharging, in the guise of Turbo Stratified wheels with more grip. Meanwhile electronic is that advances in safety and efficiencyInjection (TSI). Using direct injection and stability program can selectively brake and can be quickly fitted to cars from thesupercharging, more power and torque are apply steering correction to help keep the car Polo to the Passat. Volkswagen’s saloons at high noon: Jetta and Polo, both in turbodiesel guise VW Jetta cockpit is a serious office for the business of drivingHow VW is advancingautomotive technology AQ MAGAZINE 31

FEATUREKAOHSIUNG, Taiwan – Who’s laughing now? Surely not the naysayers or closed-minded purists who eventually choked on their negativity when super sports carmarque Porsche first broached the idea of putting out a sport utilityvehicle a dozen years ago. The mid-sized Cayenne turned out to bethe catalyst to reverse flagging sales for the Stuttgart-headquarteredcarmaker—effectively taking it from financial doldrums into previouslyunrealized sales peaks. Obviously, you can’t fault Porsche from thinking Three variants of the Macan—all assembled inyou can’t have too much of a good thing. It also makes Leipzig, Germany—are available: S, S Diesel, and Turbo.perfect sense to expect that a lower price point is a The Macan S is armed with a potent three-liter, V6sensible path towards more robust sales figures. bi-turbo good for 340 hp and 460 Nm. The Macan S Diesel comes with a three-liter, V6 turbodiesel heart that The new Porsche Macan thus has everything going pumps 258 hp and a torque-y 580 Nm. The alpha dogfor it. Along with the enviable winning livery, the brand- Macan Turbo serves up 400 hp and 550 Nm, along withnew “concentrated,” “urban,” and “intensive” five-door, plenty of leftover attitude and spunk.all-wheel-drive, compact SUV is quite the looker, too.Significantly smaller than the Cayenne, the Macan Without a doubt, the sterling numbers are bestnaturally settles into its role as, according to Porsche, appreciated from behind the steering wheel. Getting thethe first sports car in its segment. privilege to put a Macan S and Macan Turbo through their paces across southern Taiwan’s scenic countryside Even at first glance, the Macan is not a retooled or to and from Kenting National Park, we quickly learn thatshrunken Cayenne (for your reference the Macan is 75 the Macan clearly loves to stretch its legs. Though wemm shorter in height, 57 mm narrower, 165 mm shorter weren’t able to try out the car’s launch control, there’sin length). Porsche Asia Pacific’s sales and marketing plenty of naked ambition raging under the hood thattraining manager Daniel Kalai says the vehicle actually translates into tangible performance when your foot hitsdraws inspiration from the 918 Spyder the iconic 911. the accelerator.“It’s a very important DNA for us,” Kalai underscores.“Porsche makes sure that its strong, sporty DNA is in There’s a lot of Porsche tech that dwells in thisthis car.” Platform-wise, the Macan shares front and machine as well.real axles with the Audi Q5. For starters, it is the first in the Porsche SUV family32 AQ MAGAZINE

TECH-SAVVY MACAN JOINS PORSCHE SUV PARTY Tech-savvy Macan joinsPorsche SUV party Text and photos by KAP MACEDA AGUILAto receive electro-mechanical power steering that allows vehicle and negates blind-spot challenges. Visual signalsprecise, responsive driving in any condition. Standard in appear in the side mirrors to warn the motorist.the Macan Turbo (and as an upgrade for other variants)are bi-xenon headlamps that feature “static and dynamic” A start-stop feature shuts off the engine at speedscornering lamps, via the Porsche Dynamic Light System of 2 kph and below for decreased fuel consumption,PDLS. The lamps swivel towards the inside of a bend for and automatically restarts it when you lift off the brakeenhanced visibility, even as a static auxiliary assembly pedal. The feature may be disengaged as well.switches on for even better performance. The so-calledPDLS Plus ups the ante even further by constantly Another useful touch is the Macan’s “coasting”adjusting the beam in conjunction with oncoming traffic, feature that allows it to glide on neutral as the driver liftsand broadens the swath of the light when approaching his foot off the accelerator at speed. The PDK decouplesa junction. the engaged gear, helping realize fuel savings of up to a liter per 100 kilometers. The Macan also boasts Also available as an option is the Porsche Car Connect compliance with Euro 6 emissions standards, and can(PCC) that enables remote information access and even muster, by Porsche’s reckoning, up to 16 kilometers oncontrol via iOS or Android-platform smartphones. Among a liter of diesel and almost 11 kilometers to an equalother niceties, owners can now “call up vehicle data and amount of gas.display the vehicle’s position,” as well as activate itscentral locking system. The Macan’s PTV (Porsche Torque Vectoring) Plus applies brake pressure to the inside rear wheel The Macan also showcases a range of active and when braking aggressively on turns, even as additionalpassive safety systems common to Porsche vehicles. A rotational pulse is distributed to the outer rear wheel. Thecamera-based lane-departure warning system monitors measure provides direct steering action while increasingmarkings on both sides of the lane, and performs steering cornering dynamics and driving stability. The Porscheinterventions at speeds upwards from 60 kph. The Active Suspension Management (PASM) system lets thefeature can be manually deactivated depending on driver driver tailor the damping according to conditions.preference. Meanwhile, drivers can more confidentlychange lanes as the vehicle monitors traffic behind the The Porsche ethos is apparent within the Macan’s plush interiors as well. Legible controls, classy and simple gauges make it a model of understated luxe. Flanking a big circular analog tachometer that redlines at 7,000 rpm are a speedometer that goes up to 300 kph and a multi-function (a high-resolution, circular 4.8-inch VGA) on the right to display a sundry of other information such as fuel economy, and even a map. The steering wheel—also based from the 918 Spyder’s—features “ergonomically positioned shift paddles and additional multi-function buttons.” The center console is all business as well; it slopes forward and clusters key buttons in groups for easier access. Porsche’s acceleration times for the Macan lend credence to its sports-car cred. The Macan S reaches 100 kph in 5.4 (5.2 with the optional Sport Chrono package) ticks, the diesel variant in 6.3 (6.1 with Sport Chrono), and the Turbo in 4.8 (4.6 with Sport Chrono). Top speed for the three are 254 kph, 230 kph, and 266 kph, respectively. All told, the Macan is definitely another tempting, compelling treat; the new entry point to Porsche’s growing stable of mean, sporty, and tech-filled machines. AQ MAGAZINE 33

FEATURE A PRIMER ON AUTOMOTIVE EMISSIONSA primer onautomotive emissionsQUE?STION:IC’pvortoaeionumrcdhelatdueehnpscaeyrerdmotoddooud?uybttpWhoocyleueerhadaeerua,sdemtteafuoeeincmsermdesloamiiotbbwshansiohleniseroamaysntt.?seI ANSWER: THE four main automobile/light truck emissions are hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), and carbon dioxide (CO2). Hydrocarbon emissions are basically unburnt fuel. These can be gasoline vapors escaping the fuel tank, and the results of incomplete combustion. Vehicles built since 1970 attempt to collect, store, and burn such vapors. Vehicles built since 1996 take things quite a bit further with tighter containment, leakage monitoring and on-board refueling vapor recovery. Exhaust hydrocarbons occur when the engine is too cold to insure complete combustion; the air/fuel mixture is incorrect; a compression or mechanical fault occurs; or the ignition system fails to deliver strong spark at exactly the right time. The catalytic converter cleans up HC, CO and NOx, but can’t be expected to work miracles when an upstream fault is severe. Catalytic converters also need to be hot to function properly. Carbon monoxide is produced when there isn’t sufficient oxygen during the combustion process. This can be caused by something as simple as a dirty air filter, a fuel system fault, or a miscalculation by the engine management system. CO is a dangerous gas, as it is odorless and colorless. You should never operate an internal-combustion engine in an area without sufficient ventilation. Oxides of nitrogen are produced when the combustion process reaches the upper end of desired temperature. Combustion can be cooled slightly can be done by reinserting inert exhaust gasses and carefully managing ignition timing and valve operation. Post-combustion treatment occurs within the first bed of the catalytic converter. In sunlight, HC and NOx combine to create ground- level ozone, the main component of air pollution. It should be noted that ozone in the upper atmosphere is a good thing, blocking harmful rays of the sun. An engine that runs perfectly produces mainly CO2, water, unchanged nitrogen and traces of other things. We actually look for high CO2 production as a sign of a healthy engine. CO2 is a greenhouse gas, so we need to find other ways to propel our vehicles if we are to help reduce global warming. The most important steps you can take to reduce emissions are performing periodic, recommended maintenance; consolidating trips, which cuts down on cold starts; maintaining recommended tire pressure, which ensures safer operation and saves fuel; properly handling and storing gasoline; and promptly resolving the cause of a “check engine” light. MCT34 AQ MAGAZINE

MOTORING NEWSHappyplüs members earnmore points with Caltex gas upsTHIS summer fuelling up has become Greenwich and Red Ribbon. For more synergy that motorists and consumers will more filling for over 1 million details, visit http://www.caltex.com/ph/ find compelling,” said Chevron Philippines Happyplüs card members who promotions/caltex—happyplüs-card-loyalty- Inc. Country ChairmanPeter Morris. will earn Happypoints on their fuel program or http://happyplüs.com.ph/caltex/.purchases from over 500 Caltex “Today, it is with great pride thatstations nationwide. This Happyplüs rewards promo is a I share with you that together with our partnership of industry giants Chevron partnership with Chevron, we are able to Using the Happyplüs card, Philippines Inc. (CPI), marketer of Caltex give back again and expand the benefitsevery P100 fuel up at Caltex will fuel and lubricants, and Jollibee Foods our Happyplüs cardholders can enjoy. At theget 1 Happypoint which is equal Corporation (JFC), owner of Jollibee, end of the day, the heart of this programto P1. The easy-to-accumulate Chowking, Greenwhich and Red Ribbon is our customers and I would like to thankHappypoints can be redeemed brands, to provide customers with the most Chevron for giving us the opportunityfor food products in any enticing fuel and food rewards. in further bringing the joy of eating toparticipating Jollibee, Chowking, everyone,” saidJFC Chief Operating OfficerGreenwich and Red Ribbon outlets “The Happyplüs loyalty program Ernesto Tanmantiong. nationwide.For example, a single between Chevron and JFC brings ouror cumulative fuel purchase of P1,000 markets and customers together. We are CPI already partnered with JFC in aearns 10 Happypointswhich a motorist can honored to partner with a well-loved Filipino free Jollibee treats promo in October andalready redeem for a free Vanilla Cone Twirl brand that shares Chevron’s core of values November 2013 that were a huge successfrom a Jollibee store. Motorcycle riders can of people, partnerships, and performance. among motorists. Before this, CPI signedalso join as even fuel purchases below P100 JFC’s market leadership combined with a memorandum of agreement with JFC toearn a fraction of a Happypoint. This means Caltex quality fuel and lubricants create a build Jollibee stores in Caltex stations.an P80 gas-up earns 0.80 Happypoints—no minimum purchase amount required.Gasoline and diesel purchases made viacash, credit, debit, StarCard or StarCashare qualified to earn Happypoints. Themore you gas up at Caltex, the more freefood products. Happyplüs cardholders can avail of thisbenefit for up to P20,000 per month of fuelpurchases. To become a Happyplüs member,membership kits are available for P100in Caltex stations, Jollibee, Chowking,Greenwich, Red Ribbon stores nationwide. AHappypoint can also be acquired for everyP50 food purchase in Jollibee, Chowking,From left: Arnel Reniedo – Caltex Brand Manager, Chevron Philippines Inc.; Jeff From left: Raissa Bautista – Policy Government and Public Affairs Manager,Enriquez - Retail Partnerships Specialist Philippines Products, Chevron Philippines Chevron Philippines Inc.; Chai Mendoza – Caltex Fuels Brand Specialist, ChevronInc.; Yen Roxas – Manager, Asia Pacific Investor Trade Class and Retail Partnerships, Philippines Inc.; Mal Acdog – IT Specialist, Chevron Philippines Inc.; Jeff EnriquezChevron Philippines Inc.; Peter Morris – Country Chairman, Chevron Philippines Inc.; – Retail Partnerships Specialist Philippines Products, Chevron Philippines Inc; YenErnesto Tanmantiong – Chief Operating Officer, Jollibee Foods Corporation; Dondi Roxas – Manager, Asia Pacific Investor Trade Class and Retail Partnerships, ChevronGomez - Chief Marketing Officer, Jollibee Foods Corporation; Ed Pasion – IM Loyalty Philippines Inc.; Ed Pasion – IM Loyalty Program Head, Jollibee Foods Corporation;Program Head, Jollibee Foods Corporation and Apol Gacad – Loyalty Operations Peter Morris – Country Chairman, Chevron Philippines Inc.; Arnel Reniedo – CaltexOfficer, Loyalty Programs Group, Jollibee Foods Corporation. Fuels Brand Manager, Chevron Philippines Inc.; Apol Gacad – Loyalty Operations Officer, Loyalty Programs Group, Jollibee Foods Corporation and Charlene Bautista – IM Digital Marketing Specialist, Jollibee Foods Corporation.



MOTORING NEWSASIAN Carmakers Corp. (ACC), the official importer and distributor of BMW in the Philippines, recentlylaunched the third generation of theworld’s most successful Sports ActivityVehicle (SAV) to the Philippine market—the All-New BMW X5.All-new BMW X5sets new benchmarks for driving pleasure The pioneer of the SAV segment and “First introduced to the global market enhancing functions. The vehicle also exudesglobally best-selling car in its class, the BMW in 1999 and in the Philippine market in an even more commanding road presenceX5, is entering a new chapter in its successful 2002, the BMW X5 is the pioneering vehicle with sharper body lines, a wider rear and anhistory. The third-generation X5 sees BMW that forever changed the face of the luxury overall more muscular design, turning headsonce again setting the benchmark for SAV segment. The introduction of this new and catching eyes wherever it goes.”powerful design, interior spaciousness and type of efficient driving dynamics led toluxury, versatility, driving pleasure, efficiency others in the market following suit, but Signature BMW design features combineand innovative equipment features. none coming close to the original. Over the with undeniable presence, robustness and years, the BMW X5 has continued to evolve versatility to lend BMW X models their “This year, the Boss of all SAV’s is back into a versatile SAV that exudes the same distinctive appearance. The proportions ofto assert BMW’s superiority when it comes to commanding presence as those on top. Like the new BMW X5 are defined by a shortexecuting unmatched joy, whether you’re on a Boss.” added Parco. front overhang, long wheelbase, uprightor off the road. The all-new BMW X5 is an A-pillars and the short distance betweenall-around package designed to meet even The all-new BMW X5 features a new the front axle and instrument panel. Thethe most exacting and varied demands.” exclusive design in both interior and exterior. particularly muscular design of the BMWsaid Maricar Parco, ACC president “The Enhanced body lines and a luxurious cabin kidney grille, set within the triangle of thereintroduction of the BMW X5 to the Philippine ambiance distinguish the all-new BMW X5 twin circular headlights and front foglamps,market further showcases our commitment from its predecessors. and the bumper’s X-shaped contour linesto continue innovations to provide the sheer also mark it out as a member of the BMW Xdriving pleasure that is unmistakably BMW. “The third generation of the iconic model family. The new BMW X5 models areIt is for this very reason that BMW remains BMW X5 features the marriage between the equipped with xenon headlights.number one in the segment not only in the ruggedness and functionality of an SUV, andPhilippines, but in the world as well.” the dynamism and luxuriousness of a typical “We at ACC are very proud and excited BMW vehicle,” said Glen Dasig, ACC executive to reintroduce the Boss of all luxury sports director for sales and marketing “The all- activity vehicles to the Philippine market,” new BMW X5 showcases the most premium said Parco “With the all-new BMW X5, comfort for both driver and passenger, we are taking luxury and dynamism to a with an interior finish made of the highest higher level, once again surpassing our own quality materials, an exclusive and relaxing benchmarks and setting a new standard in ambiance and other innovative comfort- the luxury SAV segment.”GPthroeevs.AiJdlloe-sNnetewCanhBd. MAGWlvleaXnr5eDzD,aesAsiCgigC, nACPChuCarierEmxEeaxcncue, tlMilveaenrciDceia.rrecPtaorrcob,esAiCdCeThe Boss is back with the launch of the All-New BMWX5, third generation of the pioneer in the Sports ActivityVehicle (SAV) segment. AQ MAGAZINE 37

MOTORING NEWSTops Fortune’s Volvo XC60 Global Most passes new milestone Admired List SALES of the Volvo XC60, Volvo Car Group’s best-The Goodyear Tire & Rubber selling model since 2009, Company has been recognized as passed the 500,000-unit mark the world’s most admired motor in April. It has taken the modelvehicle parts company by Fortune only little over half a decade to reach this milestone.magazine. The XC60’s excellent sales of XC60s (so far around 73,000 units), Goodyear topped the list of leading performance is another indicator of Volvo closely followed by China with aroundcompanies from around the world Cars’ strong growth in recent years and 70,000 units sold, and then Germany,in five of the nine the key attributes future potential. The model, which has Sweden and the UK.evaluated: people management, use of been on sale since 2008, has steadilyassets, social responsibility, long-term seen its sales volumes increase since its There are several reasons for theinvestment and product/service quality. introduction. In 2012 the XC60 breached success of the Volvo XC60, Visser said. Part the 100,000-mark for the first time with of the explanation is that the car came at “This recognition is a credit to 106,203 units sold, while in 2013 over the right time, while it also carried forwardthe hard work of 69,000 Goodyear 114,000 units were sold. During the first the confidence that was built up with theassociates around the world,” said four months of 2014 Volvo Cars sold success of the XC90.Richard J. Kramer, Goodyear chairman 41,920 XC60 units, an increase of 24.2and chief executive officer. “It validates percent compared with the same period in “Most of all, the XC60 is a timelessthe success of our strategy roadmap 2013. model and a very good representation ofand serves as a meaningful mile what Volvo’s brand stands for,”Visser said.marker on our journey toward creating “With the XC60 we have shown that “The ability to personalize the model withsustainable value,” he added. we have the ability to compete on equal a wide range of accessories has also been terms with our German rivals like BMW an important factor in its success.” Started in 1983, the Fortune and Audi, and it gives us strength to do theMost Admired list is considered “the same with future models,”said Alain Visser, “I see no reason why more of ourdefinitive report card on corporate senior vice president marketing, sales and models won’t sell just as well,” Vissersaid.reputations.” It uses a rigorous customer service at Volvo Cars. “This is a “For example, we are confident that the V40assessment by nearly 4,000 executives, car that is not only a success today but will will achieve over 100,000 units sold duringboard directors and securities analysts continue to be one in future.” this year and I see that as just one moreto determine a company’s overall step on the journey toward our long-termreputation by evaluating innovation, The destination for the 500,000th goal of selling 800,000 cars annually.”people management, use of assets, XC60 was the United States. The US is alsosocial responsibility, management the market that has sold the most numberquality, financial soundness, long-terminvestment, product/service quality andglobal competitiveness. The full list and related storiesappear in the March issue of Fortune,which is available on newsstands andonline at www.fortune.com. Goodyear is one of the world’slargest tire companies. It employs about69,000 people and manufacturesits products in 52 facilities in 22countries around the world. Its twoInnovation Centers in Akron, Ohio andColmar-Berg, Luxembourg strive todevelop state-of-the-art products andservices that set the technology andperformance standard for the industry.For more information about Goodyearand its products, go to www.goodyear.com/corporate.38 AQ MAGAZINE

MOTORING NEWSMitsubishi celebrates100,000th unit Adventure Productionand Sales MilestonesMITSUBISHI Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) recently From left: Masato Sada- EVP- Manufacturing, MMPC,; Junya Masuda – EVP reported that the Mitsubishi Adventure, a locally Marketing, MMPC,; Hikosaburo Shibata – President & CEO, MMPC,; Dra. Olga manufactured utility vehicle achieved both the 100,000th Abellanosa – Cainta Municipal Administrator,; Marissa Concepcion- CAMPIproduction and sales milestones. These milestones are a truly Secretary General,; Ramon Vicente Kabigting- PACCI Exec. Director,; Kazukiremarkable achievements in the local automotive industry. Sugino- EVP, CFO and Treasurer, MMPC,; Orlando F. Alvarez, Jr- EVP – Overall Operations, MMPC. and Hon. Mayor Casimiro Ynares III –Antipolo Mayor. MMPC started to produce the Mitsubishi Adventure in October1997. The Adventure was then introduced to the market in January of this model not only benefits the company but also extends to local1998 and instantly gained market acceptance. And with full-year parts suppliers.sales from its introduction, MMPC was able to top overall industrysales in 1998. Total Adventure volume sold from January 1998 until As a way of thanking its valued customers for their continuedApril 2014 is now at 100,300 units. patronage on the Adventure, MMPC has also announced an attractive offer for all brand-new Adventure buyers. Until June, The Mitsubishi Adventure was designed to respond to the needs MMPC and its dealers will provide as much as P100,000 savingsof every Filipino family. Mitsubishi Motors developed this model to on the Adventure (GLX model). Aside from the significant discounts,be an ideal vehicle for the Filipino family given its size, features, all customers who will purchase a brand new Adventure will receiveaffordable price and low running cost. Throughout the years, a limited edition windshield sun shade and also will automaticallycontinuous features and quality improvement were undertaken in qualify in the raffle for a chance to win P100,000 cash. Ten luckyMMPC’s desire to exceed its customer’s expectations. To date, the Adventure customers will win in the raffle.Adventure remains to be a significant model in MMPC’s product lineup and as well as in the Philippine market. In fact, the Adventure hasbeen a consistent top ten bestselling model in the Light CommercialVehicle category. And with its versatility the Adventure has also beena choice vehicle of small to medium enterprises and has proven itsreliability that considerably made it a business workhorse. The celebration of Adventure 100,000-milestone is also equallyimportant for the total automotive manufacturing industry as well.The sustained good demand for the Adventure is substantiallycontributing to the employment in the country through its direct andindirect workers. The local parts content of the Adventure is one ofthe highest in the industry at 47%. This only means that the existencePodium Finish for Filipino Racer The Ferrari Challenge is dedicated to non-VincentFloirendo at Ferrari APAC Challenge professional drivers in different classifications: the Trofeo Pirelli, Trofeo Pirelli Pro, Coppa Shell and for the first time this year, the Gentlemen Cup for drivers overHISTORY was made at the Sydney Motorsport Park Challenge cars have competed in these races since 50 years old. as the Philippines’ very own Vincent Floirendo 1993. This year, the Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli will The 46-year old businessman and family man, placed third in the Coppa Shell category at the run across three series in Europe, North America and who originally hails from Davao, is no stranger to the race track. Mr. Floirendo is two-time Driver of the YearAustralian leg of the Ferrari APAC Challenge 2014. Asia Pacific. For the Asia Pacific region, other contenders of the Yokohama Philippine GT Championship Series,Floirendo is the first Filipino to accomplish a podium are from Singapore, Taiwan, Japan, China, Hong Kong, winning the championship in 2011 and 2012. He isfinish in the highly competitive racing series. Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia and South Korea. also a veteran racer in karting, circuit and Formula 3Max Blancardi finished first in the Pirelli pro “We applaud Vincent for his amazing third place competitions.classification, while Philippe Prette took the top spot in finish in the 458 Challenge. The Filipinos can excel in Also making its debut in this series is thethe Pirelli classification for experienced drivers. David international racing, Vincent’s success is further proof of 458 Challenge EVO, a package of aerodynamicTjiptobiantoro clocked the fastest time in the Coppa that. May he continue to inspire others to participate in improvements such as Manettino dial, CCM2 Brakes,Shell race for newcomers in both races. motor sports. We are behind him all the way.” said Marc dual clutch gearbox and more. All the Ferrari 458The Ferrari Challenge has been one of the most Soong, executive director of Autostrada Motore Inc., the Challenge cars for the competition must have the EVOsuccessful one-make racing series in the world. Over official importer and distributor of Ferrari cars in the Kit. Cars will be produced in Italy and flown directly to2,400 drivers of 48 nationalities in 1,600 Ferrari Philippines. the race track in Asia. AQ MAGAZINE 39

MOTORING NEWSSUZUKI Philippines, Inc. (SPH), the only Suzuki Ertiga, Swift 1.2 integrated motorcycle and automobile Prices Announced company in the country, releases the officialpricing for the two latest compact car models – theSuzuki Ertiga and the Suzuki Swift 1.2.SUZUKI ERTIGA: BRINGING THE BEST IN DESIGN, SUZUKI SWIFT 1.2: LIVING UP TO ITS NAME IN ACOMFORT, POWER, AND SAFETY MORE AFFORDABLE PACKAGE The Ertiga, which Suzuki dubs as a Life Utility Vehicle (LUV), is a seven- The Swift 1.2 is a new variant that promises even better fuel efficiencyseater automobile that combines the compactness and maneuverability of while retaining most of what people loved about the Suzuki Swift. Designed toa hatchback, the style and comfort of a sedan, and the space and stature of a appeal to the wider audience, particularly the young professionals and first-sport-utility vehicle. Ideal for families and business executives, the versatile Ertiga time car owners who love the sporty style of this subcompact car, the Swiftfeatures a 1.4-liter engine displacement, maximum power of 95Hp at 6,000 rpm, 1.2 boasts a maximum output of 87 Hp at 6,000 rpm and a maximum torque ofand a maximum torque of 130Nm at 4,000 rpm. Ertiga will be available in four 114 Nm at 4,000 rpm given its 1.2-liter engine displacement. Swift 1.2 will bedifferent variants: the Ertiga GA M/T which is priced at P619,000 the Ertiga GL M/T available in manual and automatic transmissions variants and will be priced atat P712,000, the Ertiga GL A/T at P752,000 and the Ertiga GLX A/T at P812,000. P608,000 and P648,000, respectively. Both automobile models will be available in all Suzuki dealerships nationwide in July. Colors for the Suzuki Ertiga are SereneBlue, Firebrick Red, Granite Grey, Dusky Brown, Superior White, and Silky Silver while the Swift 1.2 will be available in BlazingRed, Glistening Grey, Silky Silver, Pearl Arctic White, and Midnight Black. For more information about Suzuki Philippines and their automobiles, visit www.suzuki.com.ph and like them on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/suzukiautoph.SHHKISIOATT’OSARTY Columbian Autocar Corporation gears up for PBA hoops action with Team-Naming ContestWITH basketball as the unopposed favorite in CAC is launching Choose the Name, Win the Game including MVP, Rookie of the Year, Most Improved Player, Philippine sports, it was no surprise then when — a team-naming contest that will determine Kia’s PBA Defensive Player, and Sixth Man Award. Locally, Kia’s Asia’s first play-for-pay pro-league, the Philippine team name. exclusive distributor, CAC, has been an active proponentBasketball Association (PBA), received calls for more of other sports programs such as an annual footballbrands wanting to join the league. Fifteen (15) shortlisted entries with the best festival tagged as Kia Cup and the sponsorship of the and most appropriate names for Team Kia will also be Philippine Azkals. News of Columbian Autocar Corporation’s (CAC) rewarded with a 5-day trip to Los Angeles, California,intent to join PBA began making the rounds in sports and USA to watch a 2014-2015 NBA game, live! Starting Following PBA’s continuous rise in gate attendance,automotive media early March. The reports immediately May 16, the public can start submitting their proposed TV ratings, and popularity nationwide, Kia joining the PBAgot fans of the brand and of the sport talking and finally, Team Kia names at www.NameTeamKia.com. Names was a plausible move after all.there was confirmation that three teams signified formal will be judged by CAC executives based on Originality,interest to join the Association’s 40th season. Creativity, Impact, and Appropriateness to Kia’s brand Moreover, CAC is also celebrating its 20th image. As a special treat to their loyal fans, Kia vehicle year in the automotive industry and it is definitely By April 10, 2014, history was made as the PBA owners will be allowed to submit two (2) names per Kia an opportune time for the brand to venture into theBoard of Governors, led by Commissioner Atty. Angelico vehicle, giving them more chances to win this amazing country’s biggest sporting league. CAC President,“Chito” Salud, gave the nod of approval to three new basketball experience! Ginia R. Domingo, shares, “Being in the business forteams, including CAC, the exclusive distributor of Kia two decades is no easy feat but our task of bringingMotors in the Philippines. Kia is no stranger to basketball promotion having Kia closer to people and, in turn, bringing a different been an Official Automotive Partner of the National driving experience does not stop. Kia in the PBA is just Now, CAC and Kia are full steam ahead on Basketball Association (NBA) since 2008. Kia has the start of how CAC’s next 20 years will be– moretheir preparations and many activities heralding this also presented the NBA year-end Performance Awards vibrant, more surprising.”memorable undertaking.40 AQ MAGAZINE

MOTORING NEWS PETRON formulates fuels for Filipino motoristsAS the only and the biggest Filipino delivers powerful performance while meeting maximum performance of today’s modern and fuel refiner, PETRON takes pride in its stringent emission standards. It is the premium sophisticated diesel engines. It has high ignition capability to formulate world-class plus gasoline of choice with 90% less sulfur and quality and combustibility that maximize fuelproducts for Filipino motorists. Having served 50% less benzene, for high-end, high performance energy conversion for maximum engine powerthe fuel needs of the country for more than 80 vehicles. and efficiency.years, PETRON has a deep understanding of thedriving conditions on Philippine roads, with its PETRON XCS: Complete Combustion System PETRON Diesel Max: Above All Diesels isR&D team constantly creating fuels that will is a 95-octane high-quality premium gasoline a diesel fuel with robust and multifunctionaldeliver optimum efficiency for every type of formulated with an additive technology based on additives designed to provide improved fuelvehicle. Whether you are driving a luxury sports organic combustion enhancer for quick engine economy and reduced emissions. It has the abilitycar, a family van, a cargo truck, a motorcycle or a response, excellent engine protection, and to maintain and improve fuel injection systempublic utility vehicle, PETRON has a fuel designed optimal fuel efficiency. cleanliness through unsurpassed detergencyto meet your motoring needs with the best value. characteristics. PETRON Xtra Advance: Go for the Xtra MilesGASOLINE FUELS FOR ALL TYPES OF VEHICLES is the proven efficient fuel generally recommended ALTERNATIVE FUEL PETRON Blaze 100 Euro 4: Meets European for all types of gasoline vehicles. This regular grade PETRON Xtend AutoLPG is liquefied 93-octane gasoline is formulated with performanceQuality Standards is a revolutionary fuel additives that provide engine cleanliness and petroleum gas (LPG) primarily used as anformulated to unleash the full potential of efficient combustion. alternative fuel for automotive vehicles. It helpshigh performance vehicles. It is the only Euro reduce fuel and maintenance costs, with cleaner4 compliant fuel with 100-octane rating, and PETRON Super Xtra: Super Xtra Saver is the exhaust emissions. This is most widely-used by regular priced quality gasoline of PETRON. It has taxi operators who have equipped their units with 91-octane rating and contains a multifunctional an AutoLPG conversion kit for a dual fuel system. detergent additive that cleans harmful engine deposits and protects the fuel system from LARGEST SERVICE STATION NETWORK corrosion. It provides clean engine, good fuel PETRON now has the largest service station economy, smooth run under stop and go conditions, and reduced emissions—perfect for network in the Philippines with over 2,000 stations Filipino motorists on a budget. nationwide. These range from mega stations with many convenience facilities and partner HI-TECH DIESEL FUELS establishments located along the expressways, to PETRON Turbo Diesel: High Performance small, strategically-located micro-filling stations in remote, rural locations—all designed to bring Diesel is a technologically-advanced fuel, PETRON closer and more accessible to Filipino enhanced with robust multifunctional additives motorists, from all walks of life. designed to unleash the full power andPETRON engine oils designed for local needsAS the only and biggest Filipino refiner, PETRON has a deep understanding of the unique driving conditions on Philippine roads, and its R&D team takes pride in Technology (DC Tech), which provides excellent engine cleanliness and engine protection formulating products that will deliver optimum efficiency for Filipino motorists. for long drain performance and longer engine life. It meets and exceeds the stringent Engine oils are essential to ensure efficient operation of gasoline and diesel requirements of international engine tests designed for diesel-fed vehicles. PETRON REV-Xengines.They have two primary functions: to minimize friction and to prevent wear on engine oils were tested for engine cleanliness and engine protection. An actual Volvo VDS-2the moving parts of engines. In addition, engine oils also act as a coolant, protect metal field test was also conducted to demonstrate the longer and extended drain performanceparts from corrosion, and prevent formation of engine deposits. of PETRON REV-X engine oils. While all engine oils perform basically the same function, how well a particular PETRON Sprint 4T Motorcycle Oils are designed to meet the unique performanceproduct does so is determined by its quality, notably the components that go into the oil requirements of four-stroke motorcycles. Unlike passenger cars, motorcycle enginesblend. PETRON engine oils,which are specially formulated to enhance the performance require lower oil volume, have higher power output, and operate at higher engine speeds.of all types of engines based on local conditions, have been subjected to international PETRON Sprint 4T oils are formulated with Thermal Control System (TCS) to enhance thelaboratory testing to meet world-class benchmarks. oil’s thermal and oxidation stability, which are critical for motorcycle engines due to their unique operational requirements. PETRON Ultron Gasoline Engine Oils contain the Thermal Stress StabilizingSystem (TS3) that keeps the oil stable even at extreme temperatures, providing All PETRON engine oils are offered in different viscosity grades and quality levels to cater to all types of engines operating under various conditions. What makes PETRONultimate protection from engine stresswhile maintaining superior engine engine oils stand out are the uniquecleanliness. PETRON Ultron oils have formulations that have been designed byundergone widely-accepted international Filipino engineers who best understandengine tests to demonstrate its excellent the needs and requirements of the localperformance on engine stress protection, market.engine cleanliness and thermal stability. Defend your engine’s life by PETRON REV-X Diesel Engine Oils choosing the PETRON engine oil thatare formulated with the Dynamic Cleaning is best suited for your car and driving requirements. AQ MAGAZINE 41

MOTORING NEWSCHEVROLET PHILIPPINES LAUNCHESYOU Trailblazers CampaignFOR the roads you need to take and the paths you want to make, Chevrolet Philippines-The Covenant Car Company, Inc. (TCCCI) launched the YOU Trailblazer campaign. The “bowtie” brand commissioned director Paul Soriano and his production house TEN17P for this campaign. The YOU Trailblazer TVC can now be watched if you log on to www.chevrolettrailblazer.com.ph. The campaign aimsto showcase and promote the vehicle that personifies every hardworking, thrill-seeking and fun-loving Filipino—the Chevrolet Trailblazer.Chevrolet designed and built this power-packed mid-sized SUV to be the perfect companion that every Trailblazer would desire for itsdurability and dependability.YOU early risers and dream chasers above all else. Knowing that fact, Chevrolet during the road trip. It is also fitted with The YOU Trailblazer campaign features designed this SUV to answer all your safety independent suspensions that go over road concerns and worries. The Trailblazer imperfections to keep you and your friendsFilipinos who aim to be the best at everything was designed to provide comfort and comfortable throughout the long ride.they do—be it work, sports or any other convenience without neglecting safety. Itendeavor. They aim to be trailblazers in is equipped with features like, airbags, hill To provide Chevrolet clients moretheir own fields. And Chevrolet Philippines descent control, rear park assist sensors, peace of mind pursuing their dreams,believes that trailblazers deserve a robust anti-lock brake system, panic brake and seeking new sights and sounds, andand reliable companion that will help them hill-climb assist that will assure you and creating fun-loving and long-lastingget through life’s challenges. your family of a well-protected journey memories with their friends and families, for the new memories and smiles that you Chevrolet Philippines is offering the first With a century of experience in need to make. 10,000-kilometer preventive maintenancethe automotive industry, Chevrolet has service and one-year motor car insurancemastered its craft and designed a vehicle YOU thrill seekers and view finders for free when you buy your Chevroletsuited for the hero in every Filipino. Equipped For a culture that treasures lifelong through a PBCOM Autoloan program fromwith the improved Duramax turbo-diesel May 10 to July 31, 2014! The award-winningengine, the Chevrolet Trailblazer can now friendships and bonds with friends, nothing Chevrolet Trailblazer offers a specialproduce 200hp of power at 3,600 rpm and could be more perfect than traveling warranty that covers the vehicle for three500 Nm of torque or pulling power, making or going on road trips together in one years plus a two-year extended warrantythe Trailblazer the most powerful in its class, dependable vehicle that can seat the whole for the power train or 100,000-kilometers,and setting the benchmark in the mid- SUV troop. The Chevrolet Trailblazer’s got all whichever comes first. Chevrolet alsosegment. This powerpacked vehicle is the the space your barkada needs for that provides its new clients with free three-perfect partner for steep climbs and rough spontaneous outing. It has the room space year 24/7 roadside assistance. By dialingroads, while capable of transporting heavy that can seat a group of seven, adjustable 751 CHEV (2438), owners may avail ofloads and cargo. and foldable seats for additional luggage, the following services—vehicle support, and a MyLink system to wirelessly connect personal assistance and informationYOU life savers and smile makers mobile devices to a built in entertainment service. Growing up in a family-oriented system perfect for the group’s music jamsculture, Filipinos treasure their loved ones42 AQ MAGAZINE

MOTORING NEWSbToreyaoktas Msaolteosr rPeHcoLrdTHE No. 1 car company in the country has once again made history in the automotive industry by recording 9,132 units in a single month last May. its fruit as revealed by the numbers. With Coming from two consecutive months (March and April) of selling more such results the past months, it likewisethan 8,000 units, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) proved that it can go even inspires us as a team to continuously findfurther by breaching the 9k sales mark last month. ways in serving our customers even better.” Compared to its registered performance sold. Likewise, the locally manufactured He also added that, “Coming from twolast May of 2013, TMP’s sales grew by Innova, the all-new Corolla Altis and the consecutive months of an 8,000 unit sales47 percent, representing continuous high Hilux are the brand’s other top-selling level, it overwhelms me that our customers’demand for all its models. This strong sales vehicles that have contributed to this sales support to our brand has led to our recordlevel was again made possible because of milestone. On a year to date basis, Toyota sales last month. Moreover, this is the verythe continued strong performance of its best- Motor Philippines registers a growth of 35.4 first time that any car brand has experiencedselling vehicle in the country, the Vios, with percent versus the first five months of last such high level. Looking at how things arerecorded sales of 2,080 units. Moreover, this year with accumulated sales of 40,062 units going, we at TMP, expect that this strongperformance was further strengthened by as of May 2014. demand is expected to continue becauseother top-selling Toyota models such as the of the positive economic outlook and themini hatchback Wigo recording 926 units, TMP President Michinobu Sugata said: good reaction from the market with regards18-percent higher versus the previous month. “Having to reach more than 9,000 units in to our newly launched models such as the a single month is indeed a breakthrough Corolla Altis, Yaris, Innova and the Wigo. The Fortuner, on the other hand, also performance by the company. Our continued Moreover, our best-selling Toyota model,registered high sales growing by 47 percent thrust of satisfying our customers with the the Vios, continues to be a favorite becauseversus the previous month with 1, 721 units best products and services has indeed bore of its overall great value and reliable performance.” AQ MAGAZINE 43

MOTORING NEWS Maserati Ghibli unveiled at the 23rd Trans Sport ShowAUTOSTRADA Motore Inc., the official importer and distributor of Maserati in thePhilippines, launched the highlyanticipated Maserati Ghibli at the23rd Trans Sport Show at the SMXConvention Center. Making inspirational motoring more however, 173 mm shorter in the wheel base profile is dominated by a swage line thataccessible, Maserati’s new four-door sports and 291 mm shorter overall, as well as 50 runs from the three unmistakable Maseratiexecutive sedan combines breath-taking kg lighter. air vents behind the front wheels and finishesdesign with exceptional handling qualities in the rear lights themselves.and outstanding performance. Dynamic and precise handling is guaranteed by the car’s perfectly balanced With its long wheelbase, a total length “The launch of the Ghibli marks a 50:50 weight distribution while the of 4.97m and wide tracks, the Ghibliturning point in Maserati’s rich history. It sophisticated suspension system and limited demonstrates a perfect blend of sportinessis the first time in 100 years that the luxury slip differential make every ride even more and elegance that is second to none in itsItalian brand presents two four-door sedan enjoyable. Achieving five stars on the Euro class.models simultaneously,” said Mark Soong, NCAP crash test, the Ghibli provides peaceExecutive Director of Autostrada Motore Inc. of mind for all occupants. The Ghibli enters the E-segment of the sports premium market with a tangible The Ghibli provides a cornerstone in While the Ghibli features all classic advantage in cabin craftsmanship andMaserati’s plan to build 50,000 cars a year Maserati design traits, its exterior detailing. It also sets itself apart with aby 2015. It is the second model after the emphasizes its determined personality. unique, cockpit-inspired dashboard designflagship Quattroporte to be manufactured that perfectly matches its sporty andto new benchmark quality standards in The outline of the body reflects a youthful character without compromisingMaserati’s new state-of-the-art production coupé-like philosophy for the four-door on the highest level of refinement andfacilities in Grugliasco close to Turin. sedan, while there are noticeable feline hints sophistication. around the Ghibli’s grille and headlights. Both versions of the petrol range, Ghibli The pronounced grille draws a line back to Key elements such as the 8.4-inchand Ghibli S, feature a new-generation twin the iconic A6 GCS of the 1950s. The shape Maserati Touch Control and the fineturbo-charged 3.0-liter V6 engine and an of the headlights converges onto the Trident Poltrona Frau leather finish underline8-speed ZF automatic transmission. With its symbol, with every angle designed to attract the cabin’s timeless sporting character.power output of 410 hp the Ghibli S races the eye to Maserati’s legendary marque. Optional features include the 15-speakerto 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds and reaches Bowers & Wilkins high end audio system,a top speed of 285 km/h. The Ghibli The distinctive C-pillar delivers much WLAN-based WiFi and a wide range ofdelivers 330 hp, a top speed of 263 km/h of the Ghibli’s coupé-like stance and hosts customization options that cater for the mostand acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 the classical Saetta Maserati logo, carrying demanding individuals.seconds. on a tradition dating back to 1963. The side The new Ghibli shares parts of itscore architecture, its chassis, its suspensionarchitecture, the V6 engine and the ZF8-speed automatic transmission with theflagship limousine Quattroporte. It is,

MOTORING NEWSA S the urban jungle expands, small cars are i10: today’s choice for smart city driving. Now with the Grand i10, Hyundai reworked its popular,multi-awarded small car to zip you through the tightestspots in style. Hyundai’s first subcompact hatchbackis off to a grand start, showing that there’s art to citydriving. The newly-rolled-out Hyundai Grand i10 already provedits motoring chops with a series of awards, such as the 2014Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY); Compact Car of the Year ofAuto Car India; Car of the Year of CarBuyer (UK); and Best CityCar of What Car?, the UK’s biggest and most comprehensivecar buyer’s guide.Hyundai GrandThere’s Art to Smart City DrivingGRAND EXPECTATIONS as regards comfort and convenience for long more than just listening pleasure. The four- What’s behind the Grand i10’s winning drives. speaker system allows everyone on board to enjoy music on equal volume. What’s more,streak? It is roomy enough to comfortably fit the Grand i10 has a USB slot, an Auxiliary It all begins with “chic icon,” Hyundai’s Mom and Dad in front and their two little input and iPod connectivity with Bluetooth ones at the back. This hatch boasts up to capability for you to play music your way.new design concept for the Grand i10. In the 256-liter capacity that can accommodateHyundai design language, “chic icon” is a two big luggage bags or three sports bags And because safety is Premium, you willrefinement of the iconic elements of the mini for an active weekend with the kids. The seats be pleasantly surprised that this small car iscity car. For starters, the Hyundai Grand i10 are a lot comfier, while the glove box keeps packed with grand safety features. The Anti-is 80 millimeters longer and 65 millimeters refreshments cool and easily on hand. lock Braking System adds to the car’s stabilitybroader than its predecessors. And its new by preventing it from skidding and enablingsporty, dramatic lines are neatly packaged in YOUR GRAND DRIVE stable braking. It also restricts wheel lock-upone five-door hatch. Driving the i10 makes for another during panic braking for better maneuvering during emergency situations. The handsome front, refined rear, and brilliant experience as Hyundai’s new babysporty profile blend seamlessly to project carries a number of premium features that Front disc brakes allow for safer stopsiconic style and grandness that are not you won’t usually expect from a subcompact. and road grip while braking. The Grand i10usually present in your regular subcompact has dual airbags and a High Mount Stophatchback. The hexagonal grille, the Kick off your grand journey with a Smart Lamp fitted at the rear to make the car moreHyundai family of vehicle’s landmark design, Key with button start. This baby is push- visible if you need to make sudden stops.along with bigger and brighter headlamps, a button easy. The steering wheel has a tilt The rear wiper and washer keep a clear viewwide windshield, and fog lamps cut a spirited steering function and is powered by Motor from behind, especially when the rains startfigure of a good friend who’s ready to take Driven Power Steering (MDPS) to help lessen to pour again.you places. the engine load required to maneuver the car, and so boost fuel economy. GRAND PERFORMANCE The next generation i10 won’t disappoint The Grand i10 is equipped with reliableyour fashionista sensibilities either as it comes Driver information is housed in ain quirky new color choices of Red Passion, sophisticated instrument panel. A trip power and handling. You have two gasolineGolden Orange, Aqua Blue, Wine Red, computer displays useful driving statistics, engine choices in 1.0-liter and 1.2-literTwilight Blue, Star Dust, Silky Beige added like distance to empty, average fuel displacements that provide fuel efficientto the standard Sleek Silver, Pure White, and consumption, average vehicle speed, performance for both city and long out-of-Phantom Black. elapsed time, and instant fuel consumption; town drives. The 1.0-liter engine delivers a while an Eco Indicator reminds you to drive maximum power output of 66 ps at 5500YOUR GRAND LIFE SPACE more efficiently. rpm and maximum torque of 9.6 kg-m at Strictly speaking, the Hyundai Grand 3500 rpm for quick drives around town. The An LCD touchscreen with AM/FM 1.2-liter compact powerhouse, on the otheri10 is a subcompact but it speaks volumes radio and CD/DVD/MP3 players guarantee hand, churns a maximum power output of 87 ps at 6000 rpm and a maximum torque ofYOUR GRAi1N0D Hyundai’s first grand subcompact hatchback is a definite choice for 12.2 kg-m at 4000 rpm for longer stretches. in-city and out-of-town drives. Designed to turn heads in terms of This is one small car that guarantees stability style and reliability, it’s now here in the Philippines to make every during long drives because it is equipped journey with family and friends a work of art. with a MacPherson Strut-type suspension system with Coupled Torsion Beam Axle that HYUNDAI DEALERSHIP INTRODUCTORY PRICES: can handle high speed without fuss. Grand i10 1.0 E 5MT – P518,000 Grand i10 1.0 S 4AT – P588,000 Grand i10 1.0 S 5MT – P558,000 Grand i10 1.0 L 4AT – P658,000 Grand i10 1.2 L 4AT – P688,000 AQ MAGAZINE 45

MOTORING NEWS Hon. Irwin Tieng, Representative, BUHAY Party List; Deputy Speaker Henedina R. Abad, Representative, Batanes; Hon. Mar-Len Abigail S. Binay, Representative, Makati City, 2nd District and Principal Author of HB 2316; Hon. Mark A. Villar, Chairperson, Committee on Trade and Industry and Principal Author of HB 4334; Hon. Jose L. Atienza, Jr. , Representative, BUHAY Party List; Hon. Mariano Michael M. Velarde Jr., Representative, BUHAY Party List; Mr. Rommel Juan, President, Electric Vehicle Association of the Phils., and Mr. Mark Andrew Tieng, Managing Director, BYD Philippines (STAR CORP) BYD takes “toGCreoenngrDesresam” Hon. Mark VillarTODAY, the world is beset by many Chairperson, challenges one of which is the issue Committee on Trade of mobility. People are reliant on their and Industryability to move around. As a result, more and Principal Authormore of them are driving to work, school or of HB 4334the grocery. This need, however, comes with aprice—emission of Green House gases, risingfuel cost, and traffic. has an incredibly long-cycleIn cognizance of these, Solar Transport technology. The company callstheand Automotive Resources Corp. (STAR battery a“green heart,”whichCorp.)—authorized Philippine distributor pumps power throughout theof BYD Auto China Ltd. Co.—has officially revolutionary, environmentally-launched its “Green Agenda”, which friendly vehicle and has theis aimed at promoting low emissions tremendous potential of providingandoffering high mileage alternative clean, green and safe mobilityfuel mobility solutions to mitigate climate Hon. Mark Villar, Chair on the Committee on Ways and Means, test drives options for the Filipino people.change,in order to free Filipinos from their the BYD e6 with Hon. Lito Atienza, Representative, BUHAY Party-List “What we do today playsdependence on fossil fuelsand provide (front passenger seat), as Hon. Mar-del Abigail Binay, Representative,measures for economic stability. Makati City 2nd district and author of HB 2316, and Mr. Mark Tieng, a great role in environmental Managing Director of STAR CORP, Philippine distributors of BYD, look protection. Do you know that BYD, which stands for Build Your Dreams, replacing one diesel car with anis a leading-edge provider of green energy on from behind. e6 is equivalent to decreasing thetechnologies that are utilized in the IT, automotive and new energy fuel consumption and toxic emissions of 10 private cars? Just imagineindustries. Its automobiles are gaining recognition all over the globe the impact on our environment…and our future. If there is a legacy thatfor their build quality and world-class technologies. BYD’s automotive we can leave, let it be a sustainable future for the coming generations,”business also made the news when world-renowned entrepreneur Tieng emphasized.Warren Buffet invested in the company. “This is why we welcome the initiatives of Meralcoin providing“Green technology, particularly electric vehicles, is the way of the end-to-end energy solutions such as its plan to build a charging stationfuture. And BYD will continue to pursue the green dream,” said Mark for eVehicles, which is a first step in creating tomorrow’s sustainableTieng, managing director of STAR Corp. “We look forward to the day cities that will be cleaner and greener. We also laud the foresight ofwhen eVehicles can occupy a portion of the nation’s highways and Senate and Congress for creating Senate Bill 2856,also known as theroadways and a future when green car space is the norm rather than Alternative Fuel Vehicles Incentives Bill, and House Bill 387, otherwisethe exception.” known as the Electric, Hybrid and other Alternative Fuel VehiclesTo jumpstart its advocacy of providing vision and leadership for Incentives Act of 2013,which will pave the way for the entry of eVehiclesa sustainable Philippines by bringing in a roster of forward thinking, on our roads,” Tieng added.“We intend to help these efforts by pushinggreen mobility solutions and providing the gold standard in green for our ‘Green Agenda’, if you will, in the Philippines.”business operations and services to the Philippine market, BYD BYD is committed to developing new green energy. It hasshowcased thee6, the world’s first long range, pure electric vehicle developed solar farms, battery energy storage stations, electricon May 27 during Meralco’s Annual Stockholders Meeting, where it vehicles, LED and other green energy products. In the future, BYD willattracted plenty of interest. continue to lead the new energy revolution and help more countriesThe BYD e6 is powered by the proprietary BYD Iron Phospate in the world to get rid of oil pollution problems, which will benefit all(or “Fe”) Battery, which is fire-safe, completely recyclable and mankind in the long run.46 AQ MAGAZINE



Tne National Auto ClubFOR AAP USE ONLYGOLDEN RULES • BELT UP – all passengers are my responsibility. • RESPECT THE TRAFFIC CODE – rules are there to protect us all.FOR SAFE DRIVING • OBEY THE SPEED LIMIT – my car is made of metal, pedestrians and children are not. • CHECK MY TIRES – both for wear and for correct inflation, including the spare. • DRIVE SOBER – when I am drunk or on drugs, I am a danger on the road • PROTECT MY CHILDREN – keep them safe in car seats. • PAY ATTENTION – calling and texting make me dangerous • STOP WHEN I’M TIRED – getting there late is better than not at all. • WEAR A HELMET – motorbikes and bicycles don’t protect my head. • BE COURTEOUS AND CONSIDERATE – respect other drivers. (Source: FIA)