THE 9th Philippine International Motor Show went on as planned, despite the typhoon Kristine’s brutal wind and rain, and the flood that inundated the areas that surrounded the World Trade Center. On day one, Thursday, October 24 journalists and the very few early show visitors were stranded for hours at the venue, waiting for fury of Kristine to pass.
But the show went on. Themed “Dare. Drive—the Future Redefined,” the event saw 18 automotive brands in presenting its vision for the future of driving in the Philippines. Each brand’s display highlighted innovation, performance, and style, reflecting its commitment to pushing boundaries in the automotive sector.
BMW Philippines. BMW emphasized luxury and performance with its display. The XM Label Red, a powerful plug-in hybrid SUV, took center stage, boasting a high price tag of nearly P19M. Alongside it was the Z4 M40i convertible, offering open-top driving thrills. For those seeking practicality and efficiency, the i5 M60 Touring, an electric wagon version of the 5 Series, was also showcased with a price tag of around P8M.
Changan Motor Philippines. Changan considers PIMS 2024 a “debut” under new its’ management, Inchcape Philippines. It just opened its biggest showroom along C.P. Garcia Ave. in Pasig City. The brand brought in the impressive Hunter RE-EV, a range-extended electric pickup truck. This innovative vehicle combines a 2.0L turbo gasoline engine with an electric motor, offering over 1,000 kilometers of range and V2L (vehicle-to-load) capability for powering external devices. The CS35 Plus crossover and the UNI-T Midnight Edition, limited to 10 units, completed Changan’s lineup.
Chery Auto Philippines. Chery highlighted its new design language and technology with the Tiggo 2 Pro subcompact crossover. This updated model features a refreshed exterior and interior, while maintaining an attractive price point ranging from P708,000 to P818,000. The Tiggo 5X Pro was previewed, hinting at future additions to Chery’s lineup. The Tiggo 7 Pro plug-in hybrid demonstrated the brand’s commitment to electrification.
Daewoo Bus Philippines. Daewoo focused on public transportation solutions, showcasing a large bus and two modern PUV (public utility vehicle) models. These vehicles are designed to meet the evolving needs of commuters and transport operators in the Philippines. The “iconic” jeepneys were fit built to the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) specifications.
Ford Philippines. Ford’s display centered around the highly anticipated Ranger Raptor 3.0L V6. This performance-focused pickup truck packs a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine producing 397 PS and 583 Nm of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Priced at P2.739M, it aims to capture the off-road enthusiast market. Ford also showcased its popular models like the Explorer, Territory, and Everest, catering to a broader audience. The Bronco grabbed attention from the V6 Raptor but the Raptor quickly took it back.
Foton Philippines. Foton presented the Traveller Sierra, an electric van designed for passenger transport. Details about its range and specifications were limited as it was a preview. For outdoor enthusiasts, a heavily accessorized Tunland pickup truck, equipped for camping and off-roading, was showcased. The surprise reveal was the Wonder, a small pickup truck with a 1.6L gasoline engine, aimed at the commercial vehicle segment.
Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) and Honda Philippines, Inc. Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI), in collaboration with Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI), presented a diverse lineup of cars and motorcycles. The automotive division officially launched the Civic RS e:HEV, a hybrid version of the popular sedan, priced at P1.990M. A limited-edition CR-V V Turbo, featuring sporty and practical accessories, was also displayed. The Mugen Civic Type R Group A, a highly exclusive model limited to five units, generated excitement among enthusiasts. On the motorcycle side, the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP sportbike and the EM1 e: electric scooter were showcased.
“The Philippine automotive market will continue to thrive as brands introduce more innovative models and advanced technologies. Honda’s success will come from our unwavering commitment to prioritizing our customers. We are here to learn about what you need and to expand our product range to provide mobility solutions that are practical and relevant to you,” Rie Miyake, HCPI president said in her welcome speech, focusing on the company’s future directions.
Hyundai Motor Philippines. Hyundai’s display featured a bright and futuristic aesthetic. The Stargazer X, a stylish MPV, was showcased alongside the popular Staria van. Hybrid versions of the Tucson and Santa Fe SUVs highlighted the brand’s commitment to fuel efficiency. The high-performance Elantra N, with its 280 PS turbocharged engine, added a sporty touch. Driving simulators provided an interactive experience for visitors.
Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC). Isuzu emphasized innovation and sustainability with its display. The N-Series EV Concept Truck, an electric light-duty truck, was a highlight, showcasing the brand’s commitment to carbon neutrality. A versatile van version of the Traviz was also presented. For off-road enthusiasts, a customized D-Max, equipped with various accessories, was showcased. The luxurious mu-X Executive Edition, featuring upgraded interior amenities like massage seats, catered to those seeking a premium SUV experience.
Jetour Auto Philippines. Jetour, stole the show in the 4×4 department with the . The T2 Terminator, a rugged SUV with a distinctive design, also attracted a lot of attention and inquiries. The brand showcased its expanding lineup with the X50, a feature-rich B-segment crossover starting at P888,000, being a key highlight. The Dashing i-DM plug-in hybrid showcased the brand’s commitment to electrification.
Kia Philippines. Kia’s display featured a sleek and modern aesthetic. The EV9, a fully electric SUV with a premium design and advanced technology, was the centerpiece, priced at P5.888M. The Sorento SUV, Sonet subcompact crossover, and the redesigned Carnival minivan showcased the brand’s stylish and practical offerings. The EV6 electric crossover further emphasized Kia’s commitment to sustainable mobility.
Mazda Philippines. Mazda focused on driving dynamics and personalized experiences. Autoexe performance packages for the CX-60, MX-5, and Mazda3 allowed customers to enhance the handling and performance of their vehicles. A custom-built MX-5 race car, featuring a full carbon fiber body, highlighted the brand’s motorsports heritage. The MX-30 R-EV, equipped with a rotary engine, showcased Mazda’s unique technology.
MG Philippines. MG, now under SAIC Motor, presented a minimalist display featuring its current lineup, including the MG50 Plus, the MG3 hybrid, the stylish MG One, and the Cyberster EV sports car. The highlight was the preview of the all-new MG HS PHEV, a plug-in hybrid SUV scheduled for launch in January. Interestingly, MG had a separate display at the Philippine Electric Vehicle Show (PEVS).
Mitsubishi Motors Philippines, Mitsubishi made history by hosting the world premiere of the DST Concept, a SUV that aims to combine the practicality of a monocoque platform with the off-road capability Mitsubishi is known for. The concept car featured three rows of seating, but details about its powertrain were not revealed. Mitsubishi also showcased the Triton pickup truck, the Triton AXCR rally-inspired model, the XForce crossover, and the Xpander Cross Outdoor Edition.
Nissan Philippines. Nissan generated excitement with the launch of the Z NISMO, a high-performance version of the Z sports car. Priced at P4.688M, it boasts a 420 PS engine, a NISMO-tuned 9-speed automatic transmission, and various performance enhancements. The Magnite, a compact crossover aimed at first-time car buyers, was also showcased. The X-Trail e-POWER, featuring Nissan’s innovative hybrid technology, was displayed as a potential future offering. A camouflaged prototype of the next-generation Patrol SUV created intrigue about upcoming models.
Suzuki Philippines Suzuki’s display focused on compact and practical vehicles. The Ertiga MPV, XL7 crossover, and S-Presso microcar catered to various needs and budgets. The EVX concept car, recently unveiled in India, provided a glimpse into Suzuki’s vision for electric mobility. Customized versions of the Jimny, known as the Jimny Rhino, with off-road accessories and unique decals, were also showcased.
Toyota Motor Philippines. Toyota presented a vision of the future with the Kayoibako concept, an electric vehicle designed to maximize space and versatility. The BZ4X, a production electric SUV, was also displayed, signaling Toyota’s commitment to sustainable mobility. The Corolla Cross H2 Concept, powered by hydrogen fuel cell technology, and the all-new Camry HEV hybrid showcased alternative powertrain options. Customized versions of the upcoming Tamaraw, demonstrating its potential for various applications, attracted considerable attention.
UAAGI. UAAGI surprised visitors with the Traveller Sierra EV, an electric van designed for passenger transport. Details about its range and specifications were limited as it was a preview. For outdoor enthusiasts, a heavily accessorized Foton Tunland pickup truck, equipped for camping and off-roading, was showcased. The surprise reveal was the Wonder, a small pickup truck with a 1.6L gasoline engine, aimed at the commercial vehicle segment.
