VEHICLE distributors are bouncing back by launching new models.
Ford launched its first diesel F-150 pick-up, Honda released the 11th generation Civic, and Kia conducted a media test drive for its K2500 which included a new 4×4 version.
FORD F-150 NOW IN DIESEL
Ford Philippines relaunched the F-150 now with a diesel engine. Ford expects the F-150 Lariat Diesel 4×4 variant will increase its truck leadership in the country.
“The all-new F-150 is a formidable addition to our truck lineup and will continue to strengthen our truck leadership in the country. Purpose-built from the ground up, the all-new F-150 is redesigned to be the toughest and most productive F-150 ever. Our deep understanding of truck customers reflects in the new features available on the all-new F-150 that help take productivity to the next level,” Michael Breen, managing director, Ford Philippines said during the virtual launch.
The all-new F-150’s is equipped with a 3.0L 4-Valve DOHC Power Stroke V6 turbo diesel with Auto Start-Stop Technology, that produces a whopping 253PS of power and tire-wrenching 596NM of torque. This is mated to a 10-speed SelectShift Automatic Transmission with Progressive Range Select and Selectable Drive Modes for work-ready power and optimization, while remaining exceptionally fuel efficient.
It is filled with unique features such as LED cargo box lighting with Zone lighting and power-deployable running boards with kick switch. LED reflector headlamps with dynamic bending, LED fog lamps with cornering lamps, configurable daytime running lamps and LED tail lamps come standard as well. It is fitted with 20” 6 spoke dark alloy-painted aluminum wheels and all-terrain tires.
Completely redesigned inside to match its both the functional and luxury needs of its market the new F-150 starts off with a twin-panel moonroof and the 12” digital instrument cluster screen. It also has the Stowable Shifter, where at a press of a button, customers will be able to stow the shifter to create more space while parked.
Other notable amenities are its Remote Keyless Entry System, Accessory delay for power features, Dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control, and Power-adjustable pedals with memory feature and front row premium leather-trimmed bucket seats with heating and ventilation function. Its second-row seating comes with premium leather trimmed seats with heating and 60/40 split one-touch flip-up seat with folding armrest with cupholders.
It is also equipped with a comprehensive selection of smart and safe features that optimize the driving experience for both drivers and passengers. The all-new SYNC 4 is standard, helping keep owners connected and productive. Standard is wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity. It also comes with a Bang & Olufsen Sound System with 8-speakers including subwoofer, 12” LCD center stack touchscreen, and six (6) USB charging ports.
Taking safety to another level, the all-new F-150 comes with Ford Co-Pilot360 TM 2.0, Ford’s most up-to-date safety suite of technologies composed of Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keeping System (LKS), Auto-High Beam headlamps, Reverse Sensing System, Reverse Brake Assist, and Post-Collision Braking.
Additionally, the all-new F-150 is also equipped with Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Centering and Speed Sign Recognition and Evasive Steering Assist under Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist TM 2.0. For added convenience, a 360-Degree Camera is standard and now comes with Active Park Assist TM 2.0.
The all-new F-150 Lariat Diesel 4×4 is available in Ford dealerships nationwide at P3.398M.
11TH GEN HONDA CIVIC
Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) released the 11th generation Civic via a virtual launch last November 23. The updated sedan is described as a “minimalist,” clean-cut car with a range of high-tech features, and a standard VTEC turbo engine.
The Civic was first sold in the Philippines in 1991 with a small displacement 1100-cc. hatchback became a cult classic and a choice for racing aficionados. The car recorded sales of more than 132,000 units locally, as of October 2021. And has been a global best seller because of its durability and design.
During the virtual launch, the highlight of the 11th generation Civic centered around three core values–design, dynamics, and HMI (Human Machine Interface)–put together these elements determined the choice of turbocharged engines and the inclusion of the Honda SENSING safety suite for all the variants. Size-wise, the compact sedan is longer by 29mm and its wheelbase is longer by 37mm when compared to its predecessor.
Upfront, it gets a pair of newly shaped headlights that either houses full LEDs or projector halogens. For style and functionality, Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are made standard across the range. Its cleaner yet more prominent fascia can also be had with LED fog lights that’s reserved for both the V Turbo CVT Honda SENSING and the RS Turbo CVT Honda SENSING.
The long hood and its sloping roofline gives the compact sedan added character. Integrated turn signals in the side mirrors are standard. Its front pillar was also pushed back by nearly 2 inches, which elongates its hood for a premium silhouette. Visibility has also been improved, all thanks to the design changes with its door mirrors.
The main highlight of the 11th generation Civic is the 1.5-liter 4-Cylinder DOHC VTEC Turbo engine found in all grades. The engine produces 178 PS and 240Nm of torque, which is an additional 5 Ps and 20Nm vs the previous 1.5 VTEC Turbo engine. The Civic’s new powertrain also has an additional 37 PS and 66Nm, versus its predecessor’s 1.8L naturally-aspirated powerplant. Transmission duties are handled by a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with distinct driving modes including Econ, Normal, and lastly, Sport which is found only in the RS variant.
For in-car entertainment, all variants of the all-new Civic comes with touchscreen display audio that either measures 7-inches or 9-inches. Both screens are Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capable, while the larger screen has Wireless Apple CarPlay. These infotainment systems power 4 speakers for the S, and 8 speakers for the V. The RS variant, on the other hand, comes with a 12-speaker Bose sound system. Other standard convenience features include automatic climate control, and dual-zone that is exclusive on the RS variant, while rear air vents, on the other hand, are available for both the V and up.
The Honda Civic is priced at P1.29M for the S Turbo CVT Honda SENSING, P1.498M for the V Turbo CVT Honda SENSING, and P1.690M for the RS Turbo CVT Honda SENSING.
KIA 4X4 MEDIA DRIVE
Kia through a series of contained test drives over a 5-day period, put to full use the power and engineering of the Kia K2500 at The General’s Farm in Batangas. The purpose-built driving course showed the capabilities of both the 4×2 and 4×4 K2500s.
Brothers George and Louie Ramirez organized and ran the media test events very professionally and started the test drive with walkthroughs and demonstrations showcasing the cargo space plus the specs and features that make K2500 perfect for business. After these highly informative sessions, the 4×2 and 4×4 variants of the K2500 were driven over distinct road conditions.
For the 4×4 course, a tougher terrain with tight slippery corners and side slopes awaits. To top it all, the 4x4s are loaded with cargo. Something that proves the vehicle’s capability to deliver, wherever and whenever it’s needed. After conquering the challenges, the K2500s return back to BGC through the uphill and downhill routes passing by Tagaytay.
The K2500 Media Drive is a 5-day event starting on November 22 up to November 26, 2021. Different participants each day experience the commercial usage to provide owners and users with various perspectives about this light commercial vehicle. Safety protocols are enforced to the highest levels to ensure that everyone stays safe while leaving no stone unturned in assessing the durability, drivability, versatility, functionality, reliability, and fuel-efficiency of the Kia K2500.
