Author: Gelzon de la Cruz

Isuzu continues to support LTFRB’s modern PUV caravan on Visayas leg, shows next-model NLR77 Class 2 PUV

Gelzon de la Cruz

Isuzu Philippines sustains its strong presence on the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) modern public utility vehicle (PUV) nationwide caravan as it started its Visayas phase last month. For the caravan’s Visayas leg that kicked off in Iloilo in October, they’ve fielded their next-model NLR77 Class 2 modern PUV which features their trademark hexapod cabin design in front, an integral passenger body built by Santa Rosa Motors in the back, and a powerful new roof-mounted Denso air-conditioning package on top.

Isuzu NLR77 Class 2 PUV on opening motorcade of nationwide LTFRB caravan in Bacolod City

While attending the second stop of the caravan’s Visayas leg held at SM Bacolod last October 28, Isuzu marketing head Joseph Bautista explained that they strongly support the traveling exhibition because it gives the entire country’s commuting public the chance to see the benefits of modernized public transport firsthand. The caravan gives commuters the opportunity to confirm how these new minibus-type PUVs are more comfortable, convenient and eco-friendly than the low-roofed truck-based passenger jeepneys these are replacing.

Bautista said that equally important is how the traveling exhibition shows jeepney operators the modern vehicles they will be driving when they leave behind the old piecemeal boundary system. As members of modern PUV transport cooperatives, former jeepney drivers will be getting mainstreamed compensation, earning fixed salaries supplemented with social security and medical care benefits that are mandatory for all Philippine employees.

The NLR77 Class 2 PUV that they will be exhibiting to commuters and jeepney operators on the caravan’s Visayas leg is described by Bautista as an eventual successor to their QKR77 vehicles, aligning Isuzu’s transport modernization products with the rest of their Euro 4 compliant Blue Power truck lineup. The NLR77-based PUV retains most of the original contours of its spacious cabin and, after its initial development with an integral passenger body built by Santa Rosa Motors, will eventually have more models with Almazora- and Cenro-built bodies as well. NLR77 Class 2 and Class 3 PUVs can be configured with either side- or front-facing seats.

Isuzu NLR77 Class 2 PUV beside converted van public utility vehicle while on opening motorcade of modern PUV caravan in Bacolod City

Bautista confirmed that after Iloilo and Bacolod, the LTFRB modern PUV caravan will visit Dumaguete, Cebu, Bohol, Ormoc and then Tagbilaran to complete the Visayas region leg. The Visayas tour is the third leg of a nationwide campaign kicked off last July in Clark, Pampanga with a first leg covering northern and central Luzon and then a second leg for Mindanao. After the Visayas tour, the PUV caravan will hop to southern Luzon, visiting Legazpi and Quezon, Laguna and Batangas provinces before culminating with a major event at the Paraňaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) in Metro Manila.

Isuzu Philippines marketing head Joseph Bautista and LTFRB chairman Martin B. Delgra III at opening ceremony of modern PUV caravan in Bacolod City

Bautista further confirmed that aside from visiting upcoming exhibitions of the LTFRB’s nationwide caravan, jeepney operators can go to any of Isuzu’s 42 dealerships nationwide to evaluate these modern PUVs. Bautista said that their dealerships have trained representatives prepared to help interested parties learn options for starting their own modern PUV fleets, and also to arrange test drives to get them behind the wheel of Isuzu’s modern PUV models.

Isuzu NLR77 Class 2 PUV at outdoor exhibit for modern PUV caravan in Bacolod City

Suzuki posts exceptional 19 percent sales growth for Q3, improves on 14 percent posted for Q2 2019

Gelzon de la Cruz

Suzuki Philippines finished the third quarter of 2019 with exceptional 19 percent sales growth over the same three-quarter period last year. They improved on the 14 percent that was already a surprise figure for the end of the second quarter with growth still continuing to be driven by their Ertiga MPV, and Swift and Celerio hatchbacks.  And, by the third quarter of 2019, they’ve not only introduced their all-new next-generation Carry LCV, but they’ve also refreshed the Vitara crossover that they first introduced here two years ago in November 2017. Suzuki continues to source the refreshed Vitara from Magyar, Hungary.

Press Statement by Suzuki Philippines, Inc. (SPI), “Suzuki Philippines maintains growth in Q3 and introduces New Vitara,” 2019:

MANILA, 30 October 2019–Consistent with its strong performance for the first two quarters of the year, pioneer compact car distributor Suzuki Philippines (SPH)finishes the third quarter with positive growth yet again, enabling the company to post19 percent sales growth for the first nine months of the year over the same period in 2018.

The continued sales increase is the result of the brand’s strategic marketing efforts, which emphasize numerous promotions and interactive events and are aimed at boosting product visibility. SPH hopes to ride on this strong market and brand momentum to further strengthen its position in the market through the remaining months of 2019.

“Suzuki’s current standing in the Philippine automotive industry is a significant milestone for the brand. After securing the 4th spot in the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI) ranking – the highest rank in the brand’s history – and climbing to the 5th spot in the local automotive industry roster last quarter, we at Suzuki Philippines can definitely say that 2019 has been a monumental year for the brand,” shared SPH Director and General Manager for Automobile Division Keiichi Suzuki.

“These back-to-back achievements further fuel our drive to deliver on the brand’s promise of quality driving experience with every Suzuki vehicle,” he added.

Top sales drivers: Ertiga, Swift, Celerio

The Ertiga, Swift and Celerio continue to excite and stimulate the market as Suzuki’s best-selling vehicles. The three award-winning models combined accounted for 56 percent of total sales from January to September this year.

The well-loved family vehicle Ertiga still dominates the Suzuki auto sales chart with a 34 percent share. This7-seater vehicle fortified its position as the top-favorite Suzuki vehicle with the release of the Ertiga Black interior version, which drove sales up even further.

Aside from its fuel efficiency and spacious interior that complement the body’s elegance and modern style, the Ertiga demonstrates good engine performance that is powerful and cost-efficient, making it an ideal vehicle for practical Filipino families.

Swift kept its position as the second top-selling Suzuki model with an 11.4 percent share of total sales. This hatchback remains the millennials’ top choice among Suzuki vehicles. With its sleek and stylish design that is very recognizable on the road, millennials can definitely identify with this fun and compact Suzuki hatchback.

Accounting for 11 percent share of sales, the Celerio ranks third among Suzuki’s top-selling vehicles. This hatchback, known for its space and roomy dimension, can accommodate up to 254-liters worth of cargo with an uncompromised 5-seater capacity. Alongside its remarkable fuel efficiency that ups the ante for its category.

SPH debuts New Vitara to Philippine driving arena

Another vehicle from Suzuki Philippines that stunned the market this year and won the 2019-2020 Auto Focus Media’s Choice Awards’ Compact SUV of the Year: Best Value for Money award is the Suzuki Vitara. Committed to continue its legacy and stand firm to its promise to provide value-packed and affordable products to more Filipinos, Suzuki proudly debuts the improved and upgraded New Vitara. This CBU Unit from Magyar Suzuki Corporation (MSC HUNGARY) is available in GL+, 6 speed Automatic Transmission and GLX, 6 speed Automatic Transmission variants.

Suzuki has made several improvements and upgrades in both the exterior and interior of the New Vitara. It is now equipped with newly designed grills, lower bumpers and new rear combination lamps, all of which create an expressive exterior. The new stylish suede front and rear seats, cluster meter and premium-feel cabin create a comfortable yet stylish interior vibe.

“The New Vitara will surely appeal to car enthusiasts looking for an improved version of the classic Suzuki vehicle. It is our pleasure to bring another modified Suzuki vehicle to the Philippines. The New Vitara will certainly deliver an exceptional driving experience to Filipinos – the Suzuki way,” shared Keiichi Suzuki.

For more information about Suzuki Philippines and its automobiles, please visit www.suzuki.com.ph and like them on www.facebook.com/SuzukiAutoPH.

Isuzu Philippines gives legal notice to defend premium Japanese brand

Gelzon de la Cruz

Isuzu Philippines has had to resort to legal notice to oppose the improper importation of Isuzu-badged vehicles from illicit sources in the region. Global Isuzu’s joint ventures in China were licensed to produce trucks for that market only and are not authorized to export these to other countries where Isuzu has its own distribution arrangements.

Isuzu Philppines’ top of the line EXR tractor head with advanced 16-speed driveline and Mimamori telemetry, and legitimately sourced from the assembly lines of Isuzu Motors Ltd. of Japan

The limitation of Isuzu’s arrangements with China to the Chinese market (the world’s largest automotive market) is underscored by how heavy-duty Isuzu trucks produced in that country depart from the design and engineering of Isuzu Motors Ltd. of Japan–direct source of Isuzu Philippines’ C and E series heavy haulers, for instance.

Screenshot of global Isuzu’s page on lineup of C & E series heavy duty trucks for export from Japan (click on image to see page at https://www.isuzu.co.jp/world/product/ce_series/lineup.html)

Press Statement by Isuzu Philippines, “Isuzu Philippines Corporation has recently warned the public about the unauthorized sale or trade of the Isuzu trademark and Isuzu-branded vehicles,” 2019:

In a legal notice issued by the Ortega Bacorro Odulio Calma & Carbonell law firm to major newspapers from October 14, IPC reiterates that Isuzu Motors Limited (IML) of Japan “is the registered owner of the trademark Isuzu and related marks worldwide and in the Philippines,” and that “IPC is the duly authorized distributor and assembler of Isuzu products in the Philippines by virtue of a valid Assembler Distributor Agreement

The notice stresses that “IML and IPC have not authorized other individuals/entities to conduct distribution, marketing, or sales activities outside of the IPC dealership network.”

The notice comes after the discovery of recent business activities involving entities offering brand-new Isuzu vehicles in the Philippines, allegedly without proper authorization.

IPC warned that “any unauthorized use or infringement of the trademark Isuzu and related marks, or adopting any confusingly similar mark, will be dealt with and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. All violators must cease and desist from conducting such unlawful acts, which include unauthorized sale, offering for sale, distribution, importation, advertising, and other preparatory steps necessary to carry out the sale of goods or services.”

Taking stock of its long-standing good reputation among Filipino buyers, IPC reiterated that its brand-new vehicles strictly follow specifications of IML in Japan, are fitted with genuine Isuzu parts, and comes with aftersales services. It guarantees that only the latest components and the best care and maintenance will be given to each vehicle rolling out of the IPC-authorized dealers. The same cannot be guaranteed by IPC with respect to brand-new vehicles purchased through other channels.

New Euro 4 compliant Mitsubishi L300, officially launched

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Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) has finally rolled out the new, Euro 4 compliant L300. After months of having been previewed on the trade show circuit as well as on the government’s modernized PUV roadshow, the new L300 with its Euro 4 compliant engine is now officially launched at an SRP of P0.804M for the cab & chassis configuration and P0.998M for the familiar “FB” variant with its passenger body and dual-type air-con. The L300’s updates center on its powertrain, keeping the rest of the vehicle mostly the same except where the cabin-work had to be nudged to make room for its new engine.

The new L300 leaves behind the model’s “Deluxe” short wheelbase chassis, continuing only with the longer “Exceed” 2350mm wheelbase that puts the new, more powerful Euro 4 engine to better use. From a naturally aspirated, conventionally fuel-injected 2.5 liter diesel engine delivering peak power and torque of 69hp and 140Nm, the new L300 switches to a 2.2 liter (actually a 2.3 liter) inter-cooled turbo-diesel with high pressure common-rail direct injection (CRDi) and peak numbers of 97hp and 200Nm.

The new L300’s Euro 4 compliant 4N14 turbodiesel

Engine complexity will be a factor for return customers but this is offset by its smaller displacement burning less fuel while idling or crawling in traffic–the engine turning too slow to spool up the displacement boosting turbocharger. The complex turbocharger and CRDi plumbing do increase the engine’s height, though, and this is what apparently forced them to raise the cab-over cabin higher. Spacers were inserted between the ladder frame and the cabin, keeping ground clearance at its original 195mm but raising the vehicle’s cab and creating more headroom for the engine to the tune of 100mm.

The engine update and cabin raising have caused a 60kg increase in curb weight, from  1200 to 1260kg for the cab and chassis. And, with gross vehicle weight remaining at the original 2345kg, this and the increased curb weight mean a sligthly lessened payload, from 1145 down to 1085 kg.

Specs comparison of 2017 Euro 2 and 2019 Euro 4 L300 models:

Specification unit 2017 Euro 2 L300 Deluxe Short Wheelbase Chassis 2017 Euro 2 L300 Exceed Long Wheelbase Chassis 2019 Euro 4 L300 Standard Chassis
DIMENSIONS (of cab + chassis configurations)
Length mm 4100 4260 4260
Width mm 1695 1695 1695
Height mm 1795 1795 1895
Wheelbase mm 2200 2350 2350
Ground clearance mm 195 195 195
Net height mm 1600 1600 1700
WEIGHTS (of cab + chassis configurations)
Curb weight kg 1160 1200 1260
Payload kg 1045 1145 1085
Gross vehicle weight kg 2205 2345 2345
ENGINE (of all configurations)
Model ID 4D56 4N14
Type conventional injected diesel intercooled turbodiesel with CRDi
Displacement cc 2477 2268
Bore and stroke mm x mm 91 x 95 86 x 97.6
Power hp @ rpm 69 @ 4200 97 @ 3500
Torque Nm @ rpm 140 @ 2500 200 @ 1000~3500
Emission standard type Euro 2 Euro 4

MMPC first vice president for sales and marketing Alvin S. Dalida said: “The L300 is one of our products that we are very proud of. Its legacy roots from the years of dependable quality performance and affordable cost of ownership that the L300 provides the market. We are very excited for the return of the trusted workhorse as we know that the L300 will once again play a vital role as reliable vehicle for various transportation requirements. The improved features and fuel efficiency will, without a doubt, be one of the key highlights of this unit that will help drive the Filipino business forward.”

Isuzu rolls out Boondock special edition on fifth year of their Mu-X mid-size SUV

Gelzon de la Cruz

Isuzu Philippines introduced the Boondock special edition of their Mu-X mid-size SUV at their Grand Family Event held at the Filinvest Tent in Alabang last Saturday. The event was organized to commemorate the fifth year of their popular SUV and it brought together members of Team Isuzu Pilipinas, Team Isuzu Car Enthusiasts, and mu-X Owners Philippines car clubs and their 300 Isuzu vehicles. The day’s festivities featured a car show competition, games and prizes, a parts and accessories display, a historic Isuzu vehicles exhibit, and an evening concert.

Isuzu Philippines president Hajime Koso said: “Introduced in 2014, the Isuzu mu-X became an instant hit to Filipino families nationwide, mainly due to its excellent performance, elegant styling and outstanding comfort– factors that are very important for a family vehicle.”

The car show competition at the Isuzu Grand Family Event

A westernization of the Tagalog word bundok, the term boondock dates back to the early 20th century when U.S. military men in the Philippines spoke of putting on their boondockers (field boots) to go hiking in the boondocks (mountains).  Originally used to brand an off-roading special edition of the first generation D-Max pickup a decade ago, the Boondock badge returned first on the top-spec D-Max 3.0 LS 4×2 variants last May, then now as a special edition rendering of the Mu-X 3.0 LS-A 4×2 AT.

The new Mu-X 3.0 LS-A 4×2 AT Boondock edition clads sensible rough-roading capability in strong off-road styling.  It’s a look and feel that was proven popular, and relevant, on the top-spec Sportivo and XUV variants of Isuzu’s classic and popular but now discontinued Crosswind line.

The special edition Mu-X Boondock features large, knobby and high-walled 265/70 R17 Yokohama G015 all-terrain tires that add 3cm to wheel diameters (compared to stock 255/60 R18 tires) and give the Boondock just about the largest tires among the top mid-size SUVs in the market.

Handling is improved for the heavier balloon tires with monotube nitrogen-filled shock absorbers where the neutral gas allows for higher pressurization, and stronger damping control, without foaming up the hydraulic oil. Also, the raw 20mm height increase caused by the large tires was damped down by the enhanced suspension to just 17mm, raising the Mu-X Boondock from a stock 230 up to its new 247mm ground clearance.

Available in Havana Brown, the Mu-X Boondock has a redesigned front grille complimented with grey front bumper extenders that blend backwards into over fenders joined front to back by a honeycomb-surfaced step board. On top, adding to the Boondock’s utility, is a functioning rails and cross-bars roof-grid, also in grey.

The Mu-X 3.0 LS-A 4×2 AT Boondock is now offered at an introductory price of P1.845M. This price reportedly after a P160k discount that notches it beside the Mu-X 3.0 4×2 LS-A AT Luxe that they debuted in February 2018 with its signature tailgate opener servo.

Isuzu Philippines stock photo of new Mu-X Boondock

Suzuki’s new 2019 Carry replaces 2016 Super Carry

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Just almost three years after the Super Carry model was launched here in October 2016, Suzuki Philippines has announced its replacement with the new 2019 Carry that was introduced globally from Indonesia last April.  While the Super Carry’s three-year run looks abbreviated and its replacement, reactionary, the new Carry’s features and the timing of its launch actually suggest some astute moves by global small-car big-brand Suzuki.

Notably, the nuance of the new Carry dropping that Super prefix communicates how the model is standardizing on a larger form factor, no longer having to distinguish between its mini multi-cab roots and the up-sized dimensions they had recently introduced with the outgoing Super Carry. And the new Carry looks spec’d and priced to replace both the Super Carry and the  older 1.6 liter APV truck variant as well.

Suzuki Philippines’ 2019 Carry dealers, banks and media launch event

The Super Carry is sourced from Maruti Suzuki of India where the government is pushing for strict enforcement of Euro 6 equivalent emission standards by next year.  To upgrade the Super Carry’s diminutive 0.8 liter 2-cylinder turbodiesel would entail significant investments not justified by its global sales volumes and Maruti Suzuki has announced that they will discontinue the Super Carry line after March next year. The global brand seems well prepared for this because that announcement last April coincided with the introduction of the 2019 Carry at the Indonesia Motor Show in the same week that month.

The new 2019 Carry is even larger than the 2016 Super Carry, is now powered by the full-grown 4-cylinder 1.5 liter Suzuki K15B-C gasoline engine with multipoint fuel injection, and is sourced from Suzuki Indomobil of Indonesia.  The new sub-compact truck is 39.5cm longer, 20.3cm wider and 2.7cm taller, and it has a 2625mm wheelbase that puts 9.5cm more between front and rear axles. The front cabin is sized wide atop a squat and stable undercarriage with 1465 and 1460mm front and rear wheel tracks that are the widest in the Carry’s truck class. In fact, the upsized Carry has dimensions that are closer to those of Suzuki’s larger APV truck rather than those of the outgoing Super Carry.

The outgoing Super Carry’s launch almost three years ago in October 2016

That best-in-class push continues with the 1.5 liter gasoline engine that puts out 96hp and 135Nm, power and torque numbers typically found on larger compact trucks like the 1.5L Forland Mini-Truck and other contenders for the Mitsubishi L300’s segment. And numbers that are even better than the 91hp and 12Nm of the 1.6 liter G16A engine of the Carry’s APV truck big brother. And, simplest but also among the most dramatic among the Carry’s improvements (after the Super Carry’s quirks), front air-conditioning is now standard with its full-sized engine and with an engine compartment featuring enough elbow room for mounting a belt-driven AC compressor.

The new 2019 Carry, like the outgoing 2016 Super Carry, is offered in flatbed truck, cargo van, and passenger van variants.  Flatbed variants are imported as completely built-up (CBU) units while the vans are brought in as cab-chassis platforms that are then built on by popular body builder Centro. Also shown at the launch were Centro-built Suzuki Carry food truck and Class I modern public utility vehicle (PUV) prototypes.

The new model being sourced from ASEAN-member Indonesia allows for tax breaks that were not available on the Super Carry sourced from India.  As such, while its features notch it alongside or even higher than Suzuki’s larger APV truck, the Carry is priced lower (and just slightly above the outgoing Super Carry’s price points) at P509k for the flatbed truck, P576k for the aluminum sided cargo van, and P614k for the multi-purpose passenger van with foldable side-facing benches.

 <SOURCE> Press Statement by Suzuki Philippines Inc. (SPH), “All New Suzuki Carry Lands in PH, Drives Filipino Business to Success,” 2019:

Manila, 26 September 2019–Suzuki Philippines Inc. (SPH), the country’s pioneer subcompact car distributor, introduces its newest breed of workhorse vehicle, the all-new Suzuki Carry.

Designed to meet the needs of commercial businesses, the all-new Carry is packed with upgraded features and a lightweight yet fuel-efficient engine, making it a tough and reliable partner to drive every Filipino business owners to success.

“Filipinos are a hard-working people. The all-new Suzuki Carry is engineered to match the level of dedication Filipinos put into their businesses. We designed this new workhorse vehicle to deliver any business requirements with efficiency and power to do more. With the all-new Suzuki Carry, we extend the Suzuki Way of Life! to small and medium enterprises and be a part of their journey to success,” Suzuki Philippines Director and Automobile Division General Manager Keiichi Suzuki shares.

A reliable workhorse to carry more

Succeeding the Suzuki Super Carry, which bagged the 2016 Best Commercial Utility Vehicle by Car Awards Group, Inc., the all-new Carry amps performance with a stronger and fuel-efficient K15B 1.5-liter engine, providing more power to carry out every task in any road conditions with ease. This upgrade delivers more output power at 96hp/5,600rpm and torque at 135N.m/4,400rpm over the entire range, giving business owners the confidence to deliver on their business commitments.

The all-new Carry stays true to its nature as a reliable and functional workhorse with its exterior design exuding simplicity, durability and a good sense of balance. It has a wider and longer body with access to side gates opening from all sides, making loading and unloading cargo of any size and shape easier. The new truck is also packed with 22-rope hooks to secure any cargo during transit.

Supported with a bed 365mm longer and 75mm wider than its predecessor, the all-new Carry boasts a greater loading capacity of 940kg with better weight distribution when fully loaded. Its cabin space now features a more spacious design to ensure a more comfortable seating position with ample distance between the hip point and the center of the accelerator pedal. Aside from the added storage in the dashboard and the cabin, the shift lever is now situated on the dashboard to provide extra legroom for an optimum driving experience.

The all-new Suzuki Carry can be converted and modified to suit any business needs. It can be used as a utility van, cargo truck, or pick-up truck with the same reliability and functionality expected of a trusted workhorse.

The All-New Carry price starts at:

      • 509,000 – Carry truck
      • 576,000 – Carry Cargo Van
      • 614,000 – Carry Utility Van

 Business and transport partner

Alongside the all-new Carry and to support Filipinos’ diverse business and transport requirements, SPH also introduces the latest variant of its signature compact sedan – the new Suzuki Dzire GA.

SPH hopes to provide Filipino commuters with additional ride-sharing options with the all-new Suzuki Dzire GA. Suzuki’s signature sedan gets a fresher look with easy-to-handle compact dimensions and expanded storage capacity, making it an ideal addition to a taxi fleet business. The all-new Dzire GA features a more compact K12M engine under its hood with increased fuel efficiency. Its interior and engine performance are guaranteed to give complete comfort for all the passengers traversing the busy streets of the metro.

Added in their Dzire vehicle list Suzuki Dzire GA price starts at:

      • 549, 900 – Dzire GA2L – Manual Transmission

Isuzu launches new top-spec D-Max with off-road test drives for the public in Cebu and Davao

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After launching the D-Max top-spec LS-A in Makati City last August 29, Isuzu now introduces the new variant with off-road test drive and mall display events for the Visayas and Mindanao regions.  The launch last weekend at the SM Seaside City in Cebu is now followed by the event at SM Lanang in Davao City starting today, Friday, September 20, and running until Sunday, September 22.

The D-Max 3.0 LS-A 4×4 AT atop the table-top challenge on the off-road course Isuzu built at the southeast corner open lot of SM Seaside City in Cebu

Isuzu Philippines Corp. president Hajime Koso says, “the D-MAX LS-A represents nearly a century of Isuzu’s experience and innovation in the design, engineering, and workmanship of diesel-powered utility vehicles.” He adds that, “the D-MAX LS-A is infused, as well, with features that address the demands of a market that value both hard work and play, business with leisure.”

Outgoing D-Max top-spec 3.0L LS, also available for test drive at Isuzu’s launch events in Cebu and Davao

The D-Max LS-A replaces the 3.0 LS as the model’s top-spec variant, eventually to become the upper range model above their 1.9L RZ4E LS line-up.  The LS-A still features the 3.0 liter 4JJ1-TCX diesel mill with variable geometry turbocharger producing 173hp (177ps) of peak power and 380Nm of max torque, with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission, and initially available with a 4×4 drivetrain (the 4×2 option will be made available later this year).

The distinguishing touches of the new LS-A start in front with dark-grey furnishings replacing and expanding on the D-Max’s grille chrome, merging this downwards with a two-tone bumper that brandishes bushing stylings on the corners and a silver skid plate at bottom center.  Along the side, the LS-A now features power folding side mirrors in toughened dark grey polymer finish plus logo’d cargo extenders running along the top of the rear deck walls, also in dark grey.  There are fender shields joined visually front to back by faceted rocker panels, all in dark grey, and underscored by a step board in black.  The LS-A’s 255/60 R18 low-walled Toyo tires are mounted on matching two-tone alloy wheels that are exclusive to the new variant.

Isuzu Philippines president Hajime Koso takes first crack at the off-road test-drive course at SM Seaside City, Cebu

At introductory prices that a source tells us are around P200K under what will become its regular price points, the new D-Max 3.0L LS-A 4×4 is now on offer at P1.630M for the MT variant and at P1.700M for the AT. These are the former prices of the 3.0L LS 4×4 MT and AT variants, remaining stocks of which are now being offered with significant discounts at P1.320M and P1.390, respectively.

The launch of the mall display at SM Seaside City, Cebu

Both the new LS-A and the outgoing LS models have been made available to the public for the off-road test drives.  Visitors are paired up with instructor drivers to guide them through specially built dirt tracks that feature steep uphill climbs and downhill descents, side sloping patches to test grip and stability, mud-pools to prove 4×4 traction, an array of deep “elephant” potholes to push the suspension’s articulation to its limits, and that exciting climb up and descent from a tall “table-top” that’s meant to test torque, approach and departure angles, and the driver’s adrenaline threshold.

The regional launches were started last weekend in Cebu in the Central Visayas where the off-road test drives have particular relevance.  Dealer group Isuzu Cebu, Inc.’s general manager Steve Gingco says that in a market where a 200 percent increase from the same period last year now sees pick-up trucks surpassing SUVs in popularity, and compared to the rest of the country where most pick-up sales are for 4×2 variants, Cebu is the one place where most carmakers record an even split between these and 4×4 off-roading trucks.

The top brass of the Isuzu Cebu Inc. (at left) and Isuzu Philippines Corp. (at right) kick off the brand’s “Tough Enough” 4×4 test drive series at SM Seaside City in Cebu

Hino launches centralized support and training facility for extensive after-sales services

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Hino Motors Philippines (HMP), exclusive distributor of Japan’s Hino trucks and buses and the longest operating truckmaker in the country, unveiled the new Technical Support and Training Center (TSTC) at their factory complex in Laguna last September 5.

HMP chairman Vicente T. Mills, Jr. puts their investment at P700 million for the new TSTC plus the centralized parts warehouse added to its premises as well as new corporate offices in a nearby location at Hino’s sprawling complex–what Mills describes as them putting money where their mouths are when it comes to all-important, all-around support for Hino customers.

Complete support center

Mills says they built the TSTC to house their services for customer vehicle maintenance as well as for training all people having a role in maintaining and operating Hino trucks and buses–people such as HMP personnel, Hino dealer technicians, and Hino customer drivers and their vehicle maintenance technicians.

Built on a 15,900sqm land tract added to Hino’s factory complex at the Canlubang Industrial Estate in Calamba City, Laguna, the TSTC building is surrounded by a hard-top apron large enough for truck-driving lessons as well as for staging trucks and buses for servicing.

The TSTC building itself is a long, cavernous two-storey structure with 5,800sqm. of floor area that features …

  • 14 truck servicing bays for working on client vehicles
  • 5 truck-service training bays (collectively called a service training “dojo”) for training Hino personnel, dealer technicians and their clients’ vehicle maintenance people
  • A centralized warehouse for serving up a ready inventory of 71,120 spare parts items under 5,415 classifications–all amounting to P160 million
  • A motor vehicle inspection system (MVIS) area with two inspection bays for periodic examination of client vehicles’ brakes, running gear, headlights, telematics and engine emissions
  • Multiple offices, and meeting and lecture rooms on both lower and upper floors

For new customers and new customer needs

The TSTC building and its grounds are dramatic additions that look to grow Hino’s factory complex by another 60 percent. The proportions seem appropriate (even looking conservative despite the sheer scale of the new build) given how it readies Hino to face some radical new opportunities and challenges over the next few years.

The bulk of HMP’s sales have generally been in the buses segment that they have dominated since the 1980’s. But by the middle of this decade, weighty volumes shifted from buses to trucks–particularly to light-duty trucks with Hino’s sales volumes for these doubling annually for three straight years from 2014 to 2016.

Now, with the mandated replacement of all traditional jeepneys with modern public utility vehicles (PUVs) that are being built on light-duty truck (LDT) platforms, this could mean a doubling and then a quadrupling of total market volume for LDT’s over the next two years. But that dramatic growth comes from a redefined public transport sector that brings new customer needs as well as new kinds of customers. And, now, with their new TSTC, Hino appears to be gearing up to face these.

HMP chairman Mills pointed out that the transport cooperative customers for their modern PUV models are actually required to put up their own maintenance centers for fleet upkeep.  In addition to having their vehicles serviced at the TSTC, or them availing of maintenance “house calls” from Hino’s cadre of TSTC-trained technicians, or even sending their drivers over to the TSTC for update classes on driving Hino modern PUVs, Mills said that PUV transport cooperatives can have their members trained up at the TSTC for rendering more cost-effective in-house and on-demand maintenance services.

Hino Motors Phlippines’ chairman Vicente T. Mills, Jr. and business planning manager Jek Sangel

Support through key training

Mills confirmed that Hino would also consider training modern PUV operators on the management of vehicle maintenance cost centers as well as on other aspects of running entire public transport fleets. This dovetails with their plan to eventually put up a full-blown vocational school similar to that of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

Shuttling visitors to the unveiling of the TSTC, Hino’s latest modern PUV model, this with Centro-built body and high-capacity roof-mounted air-conditioner package

HMP president Mitsuharu Tabata says, “everything that we have done, what we are doing and will continue to do is a testament of how we value a dedicated support program that delivers results and exceeds expectations as the local one stop shop for truck and bus needs.”

New LS-A top-spec regular-edition Isuzu D-Max variant is launched

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Isuzu’s iconic D-Max pickup now has the LS-A, a new top-spec variant slotted above their premium LS configuration.

Having started off the sporty, high-riding and mid-sized pickup segment in 2003, and now six years and four engine match ups into its second generation model, the D-Max now puts a touched-up greyed-out grille, 18 inch alloy rims, charcoal grey cargo bay extenders and roof rails on its top of the line 3.0 liter LS-A variant with its 4×2 or 4×4 and MT or AT options.

The LS-A 4×4 MT in verdant red and smart white are on display at the Glorietta Activity Center in makatai City from August 29 t0 31. 

Press Statement by Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC), “Isuzu rolls out premium pick-up variant, the new D-MAX LS-A,” 2019:

Sixteen years after it introduced what would become one of its most iconic diesel workhorses, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) launches the most stylish modern iteration of the D-MAX pick-up, the LS-A.

To be publicly displayed at the New Glorietta Activity Center, Makati from August 29 to August 31, the D-MAX LS-A represents nearly a century of Isuzu’s experience and innovation in the design, engineering, and workmanship of diesel-powered utility vehicles. The D-MAX LS-A is infused, as well, with features that address the demands of a market that value both hard work and play, business with leisure.

At the heart of the D-MAX LS-A is the powerful and fuel-efficient 4JJ1-TCX 3.0-liter 4-cylinder In-line Blue Power Diesel engine with VGS turbo intercooler that generates 177 PS @ maximum power and 380 Nm @ maximum torque. Initially available in 4×4 variant, IPC did mention that it will also be offered in 4×2 variants in the coming months, both variants will have an option for either 6-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift or the 6-speed manual transmission with gear shift indicator.

The powerplant and drivetrain, however, are just the starting points for what makes the new D-MAX LS-A perfectly suited for the evolving modern demands of the market. Inside and out, the D-MAX LS-A comes in a complete package of features that cater to the modern Filipino lifestyle — the lifestyle that maximizes the best qualities of the urban professional and the weekend adventurer

Boasting modern exterior styling, the D-MAX LS-A has a very dark gray front grille and bumper, coupled with side step board and rocker panel, cargo extender and roof rails.

For occupant comfort and convenience, the D-MAX LS-A is equipped with the auto-climate control air conditioning system, passive entry/push start-stop system, 12V accessory socket, three USB charging ports, 15 storage compartments and 10 cup holders.

IPC President Hajime Koso describes the reason for being of the D-MAX LS-A “Introduced in 2003, the Isuzu D-MAX pick-up has sold more than 46,000 units so far and continues to be one of the country’s most popular pick-up models for its durability, fuel efficiency, and overall value for money. The new Isuzu D-MAX LS-A joins the ranks of premium pick-ups with its stylish yet functional design and competitive pricing without compromising the D-MAX’s core value of being ‘Tough Enough for Anything’.

In his special message at the launch, Isuzu Motors Limited Executive Officer Hirokazu Okubo traces Isuzu’s experience with the pickup design to nearly a century back. “The first vehicle Isuzu produced in the market in 1922 was a pick-up truck, taking note of our expertise on the product and most especially on diesel engine technology.”

He added, “Worldwide, the Isuzu D-MAX is trusted in countries like Thailand, Australia, and the United Kingdom, certainly because of its design and functionality that have gone through rigorous testing and development. The new Isuzu D-MAX LS-A variant will be a great addition to the very competitive local pick-up truck market.”

The new D-MAX LS-A comes in the following colors: Cosmic Black, Sapphire Blue, Titanium Silver, Red Spinel, Splash White, Silky Peral White. With all the added features on the D-MAX LS-A, IPC announced that there will be a more competitive pricing for this variant.

To know more about the Isuzu D-MAX LS-A, its new features and pricing, log on to www.isuzuphil.com or visit any of the Isuzu dealerships nationwide.

Hino shows updated medium duty truck and new PUV model at Transport and Logistics tradeshow

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Hino showed their updated medium-duty truck and their newest public utility vehicle (PUV) model at Transport and Logistics Philippines 2019 last week. At the tradeshow that ran at the World Trade Center in Pasay City from August 15 to 17, Hino exhibited their new FC9JL7A series 500 truck and their newest PUV model with Centro-built body, both with new cabin designs and improved air-conditioning provisions.

The new FC9JL7A supersedes and improves on the FC9JJTA with a longer frame and wheelbase although with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) that’s still pegged at 10.4 tons. With its new cabin design, the new model comes with air-conditioning, centralized power locks, servo-adjusted mirrors and doubled fuel capacity as standard.  The new FC9JL7A seems intended to push the top-end of Hino’s medium-duty range, offering larger and longer haulage capabilities than the previous model.

Their newest PUV model is a second take on a Centro-built body, this time with Centro’s signature front passenger door but without their modular design that retains a recognizable though built up original cabin.  As with their other models, their new Centro Cabless PUV is still built on Hino’s XZV342LJ 4-wheeler platform with its 4 liter 136PS and 390Nm diesel.  Notably though, like other second-round prototypes by other brands, this PUV model mounts a more powerful, roof-mounted air-conditioner package from Guangzhou Jingyi–the kind used on full-sized buses.

Press Statement by Hino Motors Philippines (HMP), “Hino introduces upgraded FC9J Truck at Transport and Logistics Expo 2019,” 2019:

MANILA, 15 August 2019–Hino Motors Philippines (HMP), exclusive distributor of Hino trucks and buses, launches the upgraded FC9JL7A medium-duty truck model under the Hino 500 truck series at the Transport and Logistics Expo, which will run from August 15 to 17 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

HMP will also showcase its Hino Class 2 PUV with Centro Cab-less body during the three-day expo. This Class 2 PUV reflects Hino’s commitment to improve the local transportation system through the PUVM program.

Hino’s vision of a more connected community includes a modernized system of transportation comprising vehicles that are environmentally safe, durable and comfortable for the Filipino commuters. More Hino trucks, including the Cerito, Class 2 and Class 3 Hino PUV, are displayed at the Truck Lot located at the parking area across the World Trade Could Center.

“We have seen great developments in several sectors in the Philippines, including industries from transport and logistics. With the rising demand for efficiency and reliability that come alongside these improvements, we are confident that HMP’s products and commitment to Total Support will enable many businesses to not only meet their customers’ demands but to maintain a high level of satisfaction as well,” shared HMP President Mitsuharu Tabata.

As the leading exhibition for delivery vehicles, trucks, transport system, materials handling logistics including supply chain equipment, the Transport and Logistics Expo showcases the latest in transport and logistics solutions to connect manufacturers as well as suppliers with more Filipinos.

Delivering Total Support with improved medium-duty truck

HMP is maximizing the capacity of its products to meet the needs of drivers and customers and keep up with the growing demands of the transport and logistics industries. The re-engineered Hino FC9JL7A medium-duty truck is designed to deliver powerful driving performance, high durability, ergonomic comfort, good transport quality and flexible body-building capability.

The all-new Hino FC9JL7A medium-duty truck has a higher gradeability of 45.2 percent. It boasts increased resume-accelerate (R/A) gear ratio of 4.88 from 4.33, increased wheelbase of 4,990mm from 4,350mm and increased alternator limit of 90A from 60A. The fuel capacity has doubled from 100 liters to 200 liters for maximum capacity and the air over hydraulic brakes enhanced with anti-lock braking system (ABS) for a safer driving experience. The air-conditioning unit and power windows have likewise been improved for added comfort.

As the only one-stop shop for trucks and buses in the Philippines, HMP continues to deliver top-of-the-line, customizable commercial vehicles that enable its partners to fulfill logistics and transport demands from across different sectors.