As the Philippine economy emerges from its COVID-induced slumber, the auto industry is also gradually accelerating in terms of sales and new offerings. One area that had not really changed during the pandemic was the introduction of new models. New and updated nameplates continued to be launched at a rapid clip throughout last year and this year.
Here’s a roundup of some of the vehicles that were recently launched or launching soon with interesting and distinguishing features:
Ford F-150: diesel power
The F-150 is the brand’s best-selling vehicle, and when the all-new model debuts, it will pack a suitable power plant. For the first time, diesel power will be installed in a Philippine-market F-150. The F-150 Lariat Diesel 4×4 will be powered by a 3.0-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel. The V6 diesel produces 250hp and a massive 596Nm of torque. The engine mates to a 10-speed automatic. F-150 will feature Ford’s Co-Pilot 360 safety suite. Active safety features include auto hold, forward collision warning and brake support, hill start assist, and rear camera view with dynamic hitch support.
Kia Sorento: new engine and comfort features
Kia has loaded its all-new Sorento with a new 2.2-liter turbodiesel with 202ps and 441 Nm, mated to an 8-speed automatic. The cabin gets a 12.3-inch LCD virtual instrument cluster, wireless charger, blind spot monitor, and vented front seats. Driver assist features include 360-degree monitor, forward collision alert, and lane-keep assist.
Mazda CX-30 and Mazda3: mild hybrid powertrains
Mazda has been introducing premium features in its mainstream-priced cars for years now, and now it has upgraded its Mazda3 sedan and CX-30 SUV with mild hybrid powetrains. The Mazda M Hybrid technology allows the car to capture energy when the vehicle is decelerating and store it in a 24-volt lithium-ion battery. There’s also an integrated starter-generator to that allows for quick restarts after the engine is shut down during idling. In the Mazda3, this benefits power, increasing to 165ps from 155ps, and torque, up to 213Nm from 200Nm. Fuel economy is also improved, as the M Hybrid system can power the car’s electrical system while the engine can shut down when not needed.
MG ZS T: turbo power
MG’s crossover ZS has been one of its popular models, even reportedly topping the B-size SUV segment. Now, MG is upping the ante with the 2022 ZS T, with the T standing for Turbo. The ZS T packs a turbocharged three-cylinder engine. With 1.3 liters displacement, it delivers 162 ps and 230Nm, up a significant 42% and 53% from its predecessor’s naturally-aspirated engine. The torque in particular should help the ZS T zip more quickly around town and on highways. The transmission has been upgraded to a 6-speed automatic with manual shift mode.
Nissan Almera: electronic safety and turbo engine
Nissan has drastically upgraded its Almera entry-level sedan with sportier styling, better performance and fuel economy, and Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility Suite. This means the Almera has 360-degree surround monitor, forward collision alert, emergency braking, rear cross traffic alert, and blind spot warning. The Almera’s new engine is turbocharged, too, with the 1.0-liter delivering 99hp and 160 Nm, mated to 5-speed manual or a CVT.
Toyota GR Yaris: more turbo power Toyota commuter cars and utility vehicles continue to enjoy high demand, and Toyota reminded us that it does have its quirky, exciting side. Toyota’s high-performance brand Gazoo Racing goes all-out with the race-developed GR Yaris. The Yaris’ 1.6-liter inline-three cylinder engine dishes out 257hp of turbocharged power and 360 Nm of torque. To put all that force to the road effectively, it’s mated to a sport-oriented all-wheel drive system. You control it via a 6-speed manual transmission.
