Isuzu brings Truck School to Isabela

March 27, 2017 Gelzon de la Cruz

Making good on their promise to bring Truck School closer to their nationwide customers, Isuzu Philippines held their heavy trucks seminar in Aurora City, Isabela last week. The two-day, two-session event marked the eighth and ninth seminars they’ve held, and heralded the first sessions away from the nation’s capital, since they started the program last July. Isuzu made the most of their visit to Isabela, with the Truck School supporting the after sales efforts of BMD Motors, their exclusive distributor in the region, and following up with a Truck Fest exhibit in Santiago City to help with BMD’s marketing efforts as well.

Press Statement by Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC), “Isuzu Philippines furthers road safety advocacy, holds truck display in Isabela,” 2017:

STRENGTHENING its presence in growth areas outside of the National Capital Region, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) recently conducted major activities in Isabela.

From March 21 to 22, 2017 IPC mounted the latest installment of the Isuzu Truck Training series at the BMD Seed Farm in Aurora, Isabela. The activity, which formed part of IPC’s consistent thrust in promoting road safety through proper driver education, was attended by representatives of companies in the Isabela and Cagayan areas operating fleets of heavy-duty Isuzu trucks.

The two-part training seminar involved both classroom lectures and discussions, as well as the actual operation of the vehicles. Included in the sessions are lessons on the application of Isuzu’s 7-speed and 16-speed transmissions, fuel-efficient and safe driving techniques, and daily inspection of vehicles. Used in the driver training session were the Isuzu EXR, which has a 7-speed transmission, and the Isuzu EXZ, which is equipped with a 16-speed transmission. For lessons regarding vehicle inspection, an EXR tractor head was made available.

This latest Isuzu Truck Training activity basically duplicated the one IPC conducted at Honda Safety Driving Center. But in an effort to cater to its fleet customers who cannot attend the sessions in Metro Manila, IPC decided to expand the training series to regions outside of the capital. Supplementing the program are special training sessions conducted on the site of fleet customers who request for them.

As a part of its after-sales program for fleet customers, IPC conducts the training series free of charge.

“At Isuzu Philippines, our commitment to promote road safety is as important as our commitment to customers, which does not end after a purchase. Conducting the Isuzu Truck Training series allows us to pursue our efforts at helping make Philippine roads safer for everybody, which of course include the representatives of our valued fleet customers,” IPC President Hajime Koso said.

Following the training seminar was the Isuzu Truck Fest – Isabela. Held from March 23 to 26, 2017 at the Greenview Hotel in Santiago, Isabela, the event was meant to service the thriving commercial activity of the region.

Showcased in the latest edition of the Isuzu Truck Fest are the “Trucks for Life” models of IPC, which were presented in a diverse range of applications and sizes. Regardless of the model, however, all the trucks displayed were designed to address the various mobility requirements of businesses in the area.

“As one of the key growth areas in the country, Isabela is a strong market for commercial vehicles, which include trucks of all sizes and capabilities. The Isuzu Truck Fest – Isabela provided the local community a wide range of transport solution options that should help any business operate and grow in the most effective, sustainable and profitable way possible,” Koso said.

Referred to by the IPC head were the Isuzu vehicles displayed at the event venue, all of which configured for specific applications. Heading the list were the Isuzu EXR and EXZ heavy-duty trucks, which were shown as tractor heads and a unit of the CYZ dump truck so that customers may spec the trucks according to their requirements. For customers seeking trucks meant for lighter duties, IPC offered to them the NKR light truck, NHR with Ivan body option and the NQR in cab-and-chassis configuration. The light-duty N-Series trucks have been the bestselling in their segment for 17 consecutive years.

“Definitely, Isuzu Truck Fest – Isabela had been an informative, and thus useful, activity for consumers in this part of Luzon because it allowed them a proper venue to scrutinize the vehicles. This means consumers can better arrive at choices that suit their requirements best. As the representative of Isuzu in the region, we certainly welcome further inquiries and would be delighted to be of service to them,” said Isuzu Isabela Branch Manager Rizalina Domingo-Mijares.

Car Awards Group to finally launch Motorcycle of the Year Award category after surge in rider numbers

March 21, 2017 Gelzon de la Cruz

Seemingly in synch with the safety initiative of the members of the Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association (MDPPA), the Car Awards Group, Inc. (CAGI) is now set to launch their new Motorcyle of the Year category. The MDPPA’s move is prompted by record sales in 2016 with total units sold among all members exceeding a million for the first time ever, depicting a situation where we now have a significant and exceptional number of new riders on congested roads. Although the CAGI move has already been several years in the making, this addition of motorcycle awards to their car and truck categories will have a similar effect informing consumers and helping them make the right decisions–in this case, on choosing which two-wheelers that best suit their efforts to beat traffic.

Press Statement by Car Awards Group, Inc., “2017 Philippine Car and Truck of the Year to Kick-off at Manila International Auto Show; Inaugural Motorcycle Awards to be Unveiled,” 2017:

Car Awards Group, Inc. (CAGI) together with their long-time partner Worldbex Services International (WSI) is set to launch the Car and Truck of the Year, as well as the inaugural Motorcycle of the Year at the upcoming Manila International Auto Show at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

The said presentation ceremonies will be staged on March 31, Friday at the yearly four-day event slated from March 30- April 2, 2017.

The Car of the Year – Philippines (COTY-P) and the Truck of the Year – Philippines (TOTY-P) are prestigious awards bestowed on the best new vehicles annually. Organized by the Car Awards Group, Incorporated (CAGI) since 2004, nominees go through extensive qualitative and quantitative testing to determine the year’s awardees.

For this 2017, aside from the usual automotive citations, the thirteen-year award-giving body will introduce the Motorcycle of the Year-Philippines (MOTY-P) for the very first time.

“We are excited and at the same time honored to get the ball rolling for our activities at the said big event,” said newly-elected CAGI president Ronald de los Reyes.

“The group is busy preparing for everything. Aside from COTY and TOTY, we are looking forward to kicking off the first MOTY at MIAS,” he added.

Aside from the launch presentations, last year’s Car of the Year and Truck of the year winners, the Honda Civic RS Turbo and the Isuzu D-Max, respectively, will also be displayed at a prime location of the show.

For their part, MIAS has already catered to 500,000 attendees since 2005. Not to mention hosting nearly 200 participating companies from the automotive sectors, 500 exhibitors and 400 car display units in the show’s 30,000 sqm. exhibit area.

CAGI has been partnering with WSI since the beginning of the Manila International Auto Show, the event which has been considered the biggest motoring and driving affair in the Philippines held every summer.

Suzuki redefines the multi-cab

October 27, 2016 Gelzon de la CruzLeave a comment

Just months after the model was introduced globally, Suzuki Philippines brings back to their showrooms the Super Carry of long-running multi-cab fame. This time, it’s with a powertrain that’ll cause double takes among the street savvy and even with those who’ve thought of upgrading beyond their surplus-sourced mini trucks. For the new Super Carry mounts a two-cylinder 793cc intercooled turbodiesel, a unique engine that’s been proving itself roadworthy in tough real world conditions. Since last year, its been used in India on the diesel variant of Suzuki’s popular Celerio sub-compact hatchback.

Press Statement by Suzuki Philippines, Inc., “Suzuki Philippines brings new line in the Utility Commercial Vehicle segment with all-new Super Carry,” 2016:

Manila, 27 October 2016—Today, Suzuki Philippines (SPH), the pioneer manufacturer of compact vehicles, officially launched the all-new Super Carry at the Megatent Events Venue in Quezon City.

Bringing in additional line up in the utility commercial vehicle segment, an emerging segment with 11% percent year-on-year growth, SPH aims to cater to the needs of small to medium-sized businesses.

“Super Carry is brought to the Philippine market with the objective of improving business processes and operations especially among small and medium sized businesses which comprise more than 90 percent of the overall in the country” said Mr. Shuzo Hoshikura, Suzuki Philippines General Manager for Automobile.

“We seek to help more businesses flourish and reach their maximum potential and what better way is there than through this reliable workhorse,” he continues.

Following the ever-growing number of MSMEs in the country are corresponding implications. Among these are the daily inconveniences brought by the pressing need for transport vehicles such as heavy traffic, increasing fuel costs, uneven road conditions and worsening pollution.

Built to endure the toughest of conditions, this utility commercial vehicle is designed to address such issues. Equipped with strength, high quality performance, superior loading capacity and a Euro-4 certified Diesel engine, Super Carry is really meant to serve as a perfect fit for any kind of business’ requirements in a manner that truly cares for the environment.

High performance

Offering superior loading capacity with an area of 3.25 sqm and a maximum capacity of 735 kg, Super Carry is equipped with a light steering wheel and a low turning radius of 4.3M which allows effortless driving no matter how heavy the cargo is and ensures easy maneuverability even in tight areas.

It features latest automotive technologies – the 793cc, 2-cylinder and DDis Euro-4 diesel engine with 5 speed manual transmission, and a peak power of 32 HP @ 3,500 RPM and torque of 75 NM @ 2,000 RPM – making the vehicle more cost efficient and eco-friendly than others of the same caliber. It consumes a mere liter of diesel for an average distance of 22.07 km which makes going around for errands less costly and more practical.

The new engine is also equipped with an Engine Control Module or ECM that monitors its condition during servicing and ensures continuous peak performance. It complies to the latest regulations on emissions standards and exhibits lower emissions than Euro-2 engines at 68 percent less particulate matter emissions, 57 percent less nitrogen oxides emissions, and 50 percent less carbon monoxide emissions, for a more environment-friendly driving.

Comfort & Convenience

The designers of the Super Carry gave careful thought to the comfort and convenience of the driver and passengers and enhanced both via the vehicle’s spacious interior and cabin features.

With the driver seat adjustable up to 90mm coupled with the extended portion of the passenger seat, there is enough legroom and space for the driver to lie down and combat fatigue in between long drives.

The cabin also features numerous cubbyholes, trays, pockets and storage spaces for documents, food items and other necessities.

Underneath the seats are thick glass fiber heat shields for better insulation. The bulb/balloon type weather strip in the Super Carry also lessens noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

To add to the driving comfort, its pedals, gear shift knob and instrument panels are all ergonomically positioned.

The vehicle’s rear window is also bigger and can readily be opened with an ergonomically placed locking mechanism. This allows a large amount of air to flow inside the cabin when needed.

Safety & security

Fitted with theft prevention measures, Super Carry features a lock-on fuel tank cap, a secured spare tire mounting bracket, and battery with provision of lock.

Inside the cabin, the seats are equipped with a 3-point Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) seatbelt.

The Super Carry ensures superior braking performance via a front ventilated disk brake for better heat dissipation, plus drum brakes on the rear featuring Load Sensing Proportioning Valves (LSPV) for stabilized braking in different load conditions.

Sealing the deal are the high tensile and galvanized chassis materials used in the Super Carry. The galvanized materials provide more resistance to rust while high tensile materials limit intrusion inside the cabin.

Its integrated sheet metal body front panel enhances body quality and rigidity, as well as, ensures the driver’s safety. This is complemented up front with a bigger windscreen for better driver visibility.

Accessories

The Super Carry has a 1 Din Audio Unit with Built-In speaker featuring AM/FM Tuning, USB/SD Interface, Auxiliary input and LCD display will make driving the Super Carry more enjoyable.

This Super Carry in four different body types with the new APV Utility Vehicle (UV) with Dual Aircon will surely bring any business to new heights!

The Super Carry Truck	Php479,000
The Super Utility Van (UV)	Php565,000
The Super Carry Cargo Van (CV)	Php529,000
The Super Carry Jeepney Body (JB)	Php550,000
The APV Utility Van w/ Dual Aircon (UV)	Php630,000

For more information on the Suzuki Super Carry, please visit http://suzuki.com.ph/auto/ and like it on www.facebook.com/SuzukiAutoPH, https://twitter.com/SuzukiAutoPH and follow on Instagram at @suzukiautoph.

Isuzu Philippines reports phenomenal growth, healthy indicators for first half 2016

July 19, 2016 Gelzon de la CruzLeave a comment

After June sales that put their Mu-X SUV at the top, selling better than market-leading Toyota Fortuners and Mitsubishi Monteros even after these were recently updated to new-generation models, Isuzu Philippines now reports increased sales across the board for the first half of 2016 that puts them ahead of the growth curve in the country’s automotive industry. And, being fully invested in utility vehicles (in cargo haulers as much as, if not more than, people movers) and at price points that paint their buyers as pragmatic owners (low for premium-trimmed vehicles such as their SUVs, but at par with or slightly higher than prices of rival models for their durable trucks, buses, AUVs and pickups) Isuzu Philippines’ numbers somehow suggest a build-up in capacity, in nation-building capabilities, rather than a mere increase in consumption.

Press Statement by Isuzu Philippines Corporation, “Diversity of product range drives Isuzu Philippines’ growth in H1 2016,” 2016:

Manila, 19 July 2016—THE extensive product range offered by Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) has allowed the company to record a phenomenal growth rate during the first half of 2016.

IPC sales in the first six months of 2016 reached 13,258 units, a significant 30.4-percent increase from the 10,169 units sold during the first half of 2015. As reflected in the joint report of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI) and the Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA), IPC’s performance traces a steeper upward trajectory than the 27.4 percent rate, or 167,481 units sold, posted by the country’s automotive industry for the same period.

“The brisk movement experienced across Isuzu Philippines Corporation’s model lineup is a manifestation that the company offers consumers some of the most relevant products available locally. With many of Isuzu products geared toward business use, the growth is also an accurate indication of the market’s optimistic view regarding the economy,” IPC President Hajime Koso said.

The entire product range of IPC registered increases in the first half of the year, with deliveries of Isuzu heavy-duty Category V trucks logging the best result with an unparalleled 833.3-percent spike. The record is aided by the increases achieved by Isuzu’s Category IV buses (25 percent), light-duty Category III commercial trucks (18.8 percent), and Category IV trucks (16.6 percent). Combined, sales of IPC’s commercial trucks and buses totaled to 2,703 units, a 36.7-percent rise from the 1,977-unit tally for the same months last year.

Bolstering this is the performance of IPC’s light commercial vehicle lineup. During the same period, a total of 2,361 Crosswind units were sold, a 20.4-percent increase from a year ago. Deliveries of the D-MAX pickup were not far behind at 1,897 units, which is a 34.3-percent jump.

Meanwhile, IPC’s best-selling vehicle continues to be the mu-X SUV, which for the first six months registered a 30.7-percent increase, or total sales of 6,297 units. The result places the mu-X as among the top models in its category, securing a 29-percent share in the segment. In June alone, the mu-X’s tally of 1,181 units has outpaced the result logged by its direct competitors.

The rest of IPC’s models performed equally well in June, with the company posting a 13-percent growth compared to the same month in 2015, or 2,439 vehicles sold in June this year versus 2,159 units sold in June last year. Supporting the mu-X’s tally for the month were those of the Crosswind at 434 units, the D-MAX with 304 units, Category III trucks with 307 units, Category IV buses with three units, Category IV trucks with 140 units, and Category V trucks with 70 units.

In June, IPC also recorded its best monthly tally this year, besting its result in March by two units.

Suzuki keeps bringing in firsts with their all-new Ciaz

July 6, 2016 Gelzon de la CruzLeave a comment

Suzuki Philippines is putting their hopes of topping last year’s phenomenal 52 percent growth on the all-new Ciaz sub-compact sedan. It’s their first Asia-specific model in a segment resurged by new Uber- and Grab-prompted demand, and it’s the first car model they’ve ever launched with an organized test-drive for the press.

When the Ciaz was introduced in India with its huge two-million strong vehicle market, it stirred things up immediately. The new model was accepted so quickly, and in elegantly de-facto manner, that it picked up windfall demand from the long waiting lists of buyers made impatient by the slow delivery of other, already popular sedans. At the very least, the Ciaz’s entry benefited that market by forcing competitors to speed up production.

Now, with the Ciaz, Suzuki seems determined to cause a similar upheaval here (see our special report). So much so that they’ve now done an organized test drive for representatives from the country’s leading banks. With the resurged demand for sedans hinging on the availability of financing, this latest initiative, another first for them, shows Suzuki making all the right moves with their all-new Ciaz.

Press Statement by Suzuki Philippines Incorporated, “The all-new Suzuki Ciaz captures hearts of test drivers” 2016:

Manila, 05 July 2016—The all-new Suzuki Ciaz, launched in the country last April, has piqued the interest of thousands of car lovers who want to try the next-level comfort and road handling excellence of this subcompact sedan, prompting Suzuki Philippines to hold a test drive for bankers last May 31, 2016.

A total of 27 representatives from the leading names in the banking industry road tested the Ciaz which boasts of best-in-class fuel efficiency, a sporty yet elegant exterior design, and other advanced features.

Suzuki Philippines’ General Manager for Automobile Mr. Shuzo Hoshikura beams with pride over the apparent positive response of the market to the newest member of Suzuki’s B-segment vehicles. “Since the introduction of the all-new Ciaz in April this year, the number of inquiries and request for test drives we have been receiving about this sedan has pleasantly surprised us. With this overwhelming response, we believe that the Ciaz will be one of our bestsellers this year, and contribute significantly to the company’s continuous growth. We hope that with this model as well as all of our other best-loved vehicles, we will be able to top last year’s impressive 52% y-o-y growth,” Hoshikura said.

For more information about Suzuki Philippines and their automobiles, please visit http://suzuki.com.ph/auto/ and like them on www.facebook.com/SuzukiAutoPH, https://twitter.com/SuzukiAutoPH and follow on Instagram at @suzukiautoph.

Suzuki’s new Celerio hatchback and Ciaz sedan top DOE-Petron fuel economy rankings

June 22, 2016 Gelzon de la Cruz1 Comment

Like we said, Suzuki is a brand to watch this year. At the recently concluded multi-carmaker fuel-eco run organized by the Department of Energy (DoE) and Petron, the all-new and bigger second-generation Celerio that Suzuki introduced last year delivered the best efficiency among all gasoline engine cars. Not a surprise since the winning CVT variant of the Suzuki hatchback has the same JATCO CVT7 two-range continuous variable transmission that gives the 1.2L Mitsubishi Mirage an exceptionally high overdrive gear ratio, and this one on the Suzuki’s slightly smaller 1.0L three-cylinder engine. While the new Ciaz compact sedan they rolled out just last March turned in the best efficiency on a gasoline engine sedan, confirming that this exceptionally big sub-compact is the strong new Uber and Grab car contender that challenges the dominant position of the Toyota Vios.

Press Statement by Suzuki Philippines, Inc., “Suzuki Celerio and Ciaz get top honors at DOE-Petron Fuel Economy Run” 2016:

Manila, 21 June 2016—Suzuki Celerio, one of Suzuki Philippines’ best-selling cars, clinched the top spot for fuel efficiency in the gasoline engine category at the first-ever Euro 4 Fuel Economy Run organized by the Department of Energy (DOE) in partnership with Petron Corporation. Out of the 70 different vehicles from more than 20 different manufacturers that participated last May 27, 2016 in the 280-kilometer run, Celerio gave the best fuel economy performance in a pioneering event aimed at providing vital information on the fuel economy performance of vehicles and raising public awareness on the use of cleaner and more efficient Euro 4 fuels. All of the vehicles used Petron’s Euro-4 quality products.

The DOE, which intends to institutionalize a fuel efficiency labeling program using the results of this test drive as the benchmark, released the results of Euro 4 Fuel Economy Run early this June and recognized all participating car brands with certificates. The program is pursuant to DOE’s aim of expanding the Philippine Energy Standards and Labeling Program’s (PESLP) efforts to include more appliances, lighting systems, and light-duty motor vehicles to strengthen the country’s energy efficiency and conservation efforts.

Suzuki Celerio CVT emerged to have the best gasoline-powered engine after achieving 29.14km/L in the run which stretched from Angeles, Pampanga through the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) and Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX) and back. Aside from the Celerio, the all-new Ciaz Manual Transmission (M/T) likewise topped the fuel-efficiency test in the gasoline sedan category, clocking in at 27.94km/L. Other Suzuki vehicles also participated in the exercise, including Celerio M/T (27.70), Ciaz GLX A/T (22.93km/L), Swift 1.2 (22.35km/L), and Ertiga GLX A/T (22.03km/L).

SPH General Manager for Automobile Shuzo Hoshikura shared, “We are truly proud of the achievement of our top favorite products, the Celerio and Ciaz. This is indeed a great testament to our commitment to bring the highest quality and most fuel efficient vehicles in the market. Recognitions like this inspire us to continue developing and manufacturing premium and reliable cars.”

Celerio features an A+ compact build which is based on the “small on the outside, big on the inside” concept. It sports the dynamic and easy-to-maneuver design Suzuki compact cars are known for, while offering spacious room for passengers, relatively huge luggage capacity and great fuel efficiency.

The newly rolled out subcompact Ciaz, on the other hand, blends sportiness that conveys the expectation of driving and a stunning feeling of elegance. Its name stands for “City from A to Z,” capturing the essence of Asia’s fast-growing metropolitan landscape. It is packed with best-in-class fuel efficiency and other advanced features coupled with a sporty, elegant exterior design and refined interiors.

BYD figures in big plans to shrink California’s carbon footprint

June 10, 2016 Gelzon de la CruzLeave a comment

The imperative to lower emissions on California’s inter-city freight routes is being addressed by the Siemens and South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) project to complete a grid of overhead electric tracks on Interstate 710. With overhanging electric runners (much like those used for electric commuter trains) running along the route between the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, heavy to medium trucks plying the route can now have zero-emissions electric powertrains. To complete the system with a similar drayage solution (short freight carrying segments at the start or end of the delivery run), the SCAQMD now taps another company, BYD, for a demonstrator project that will utilize electrics for initial freight gathering or subsequent distribution in cities.

Press Statement by Solar Transport & Automotive Resources (STAR) Corp., “US taps first pure EV trucks from BYD,” 2016:

BYD, the global leader in cutting-edge rechargeable battery technology as well as traditional fuel-powered and new energy vehicles, has been tapped to participate in the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) zero-emission drayage truck development and demonstration project.

The State of California will award $23.6 million to the SCAQMD for the project in the hope of reducing key criteria pollutants and accelerating the commercialization of heavy-duty advanced, zero-emission technologies, in line with SCAQMD’s clean air plan.

The project will also serve as a statewide demonstration of 43 zero-emission battery electric and plug-in hybrid drayage trucks serving major California ports in the Bay Area, Sacramento, San Diego and San Joaquin Valley.

This is the first large-scale demonstration of zero-emission Class 8 trucks from manufacturers led by BYD. The companies selected for the undertaking have the engineering resources, manufacturing capabilities and distribution networks to support commercialization of advanced technologies related to moving freight to and from the ports. The project is also expected to provide emission reduction benefits in key areas of California with drayage truck activity.

“BYD is proud to work with the California Air Resources Board, South Coast Air Quality Management District and our fleet partners to advance clean, battery-electric transportation solutions in communities where it is needed most,” said Stella Li, president of BYD Motors. “BYD is a worldwide leader in battery technology and as the OEM providing the most battery electric trucks under this solicitation, I believe other fleets will take notice and recognize that battery-powered drayage trucks are reliable and available for wider deployment today. We look forward to celebrating the delivery of our first battery-electric drayage truck in the fall of this year.”

“This project will help put the very cleanest short-haul trucks to work where they are needed most, moving cargo from the state’s biggest ports to distribution centers and rail yards,” said ARB Chair Mary D. Nichols. “This is good news. It means cleaner air for all Californians, but especially those who live in neighborhoods next to these industrial facilities or along some of our state’s busiest trade corridors.”

“This unique collaborative effort will accelerate the commercialization of advanced zero emission truck technologies that are vital to improving air quality in communities near our busy freight corridors,” said Joe Buscaino, Los Angeles City Councilman and SCAQMD Board Member. “Cleaner truck fleets on our roadways are important for air quality and climate goals, and essential to protecting public health.”

In the Philippines, BYD vehicles are distributed by Solar Transport & Automotive Resources (STAR) Corp. For more information, visit www.byd.com.ph.

All new Suzuki Ciaz is officially launched

April 14, 2016 Gelzon de la CruzLeave a comment

The all new Suzuki Ciaz compact sedan was formally launched at a press event this week, even while MIAS 2016 was still firmly in the news cycle. The new model is Suzuki Philippines’ first in the compact sedan category and marks their breakout from the small car niche that made them the growth leader in 2015 with a 52% year-on-year increase attributed mostly to passenger car sales (see our commentary to their press statement on this). Designed in Japan specifically for the Asian market, and introduced globally in 2014, the Ciaz has already made an impact in other emerging markets, particulary in India where Suzuki had dominated the market with their small car offerings as well. The significance of the new model intro was evident from the large audience turnout, with word on the character of the Ciaz already having gotten out after Suzuki Philippines’ media preview drive last month, the carmaker’s first such organized mass driving event for a car model (see our special report on the Ciaz preview). As promised by Suzuki Philippines at that event, after showroom displays to take in advanced orders in March, stocks are now in and April sees the full commercial launch of the all new Ciaz.

Press Statement by Suzuki Philippines Incorporated, “City Driving from A to Z: Suzuki’s latest Ciaz sedan brings innovation and next-level driving experience for Filipino drivers,” 2016:

Manila, 13 April 2016—Rolling in style just got more comfortable and fuel-efficient, as Suzuki Philippines today officially launches the much-awaited Suzuki Ciaz, a sub-compact sedan ideal for the sensible Asian market. The Ciaz comes in three model variants: the GL Manual Transmission, GL Automatic Transmission, and the premium GLX.

Last March 9 to 10, 2016, 30 motoring media members experienced next-level comfort and driving with Suzuki’s newest innovation through a pre-launch 235-km round-trip drive to and from Anilao, Batangas. The media experienced first-hand the automotive innovations of the Ciaz through the test drive, with stopovers at the Suzuki Auto Sucat, Total Service Station Sucat, Nuvali, Tagaytay, and the Aiyanar Beach and Dive Resort Batangas. This test drive showcased the capabilities of the Ciaz in handling stop-and-go traffic, highway driving stability, mountain pass handling and passenger comfort.

Ciaz is more than a snazzy name for a sleek new sub-compact: it stands for “City from A to Z,” capturing the essence of Asia’s fast-growing metropolitan landscape. The latest addition to Suzuki’s stable of reliable vehicles, the Ciaz is packed with best-in-class fuel efficiency and other advanced features coupled with a sporty, elegant exterior design and redefined interiors.

Driven to excel

The new Ciaz is made for those who are driven to excel. It is developed as an “authentic sedan” which combines a roomy comfortable cabin and a great driving performance with excellent fuel efficiency. All of this comes with a stylish design that will inspire pride of ownership.

Best-in-class fuel efficiency

With recent unpredictable fluctuations in gas prices, the typical Filipino driver in the market for a new car is always on the lookout for a model that promises impressive fuel economy.

One of the features contributing to the Ciaz’s impressive performance is the integration of transmission technology used in the Suzuki Ertiga. In the GL Automatic and GLX models of the Ciaz, the four-speed automatic transmission improves fuel-efficiency and optimizes driving performance.

The car’s body is also smartly designed and shaped to facilitate smoother airflow, which in turn contributes to fuel efficiency. The front and rear bumper corners, front grills, underbody, and trunk lid-end are the product of meticulous research and development to achieve optimal results.

Advanced features

The Ciaz also comes with a variety of advanced features that make driving a truly easy and enjoyable experience. The multimedia integrated audio unit comes with an Android touchscreen for the GLX, complete with Bluetooth and USB connectivity for personal devices such as tablets and smartphones. This innovative multimedia unit comes with wireless connectivity and preloaded applications, such as YouTube, Gmail, Facebook, and the Filipino driver’s go-to app, Waze.

Audio and hands-free connectivity control switches are also embedded in the steering wheel, which facilitates easy access to various tasks. Add these to the keyless push start system and remote, and the Ciaz delivers a hassle-free driving experience for busy urbanites.

Roomy Luxury

Bridging the gap between Suzuki’s compact models and standard sedans, the Ciaz combines the best of both worlds: great fuel efficiency and ample space. This sub-compact sedan has bigger door cutting, which increases the amount of rear seat leg space, headroom, and shoulder room.

Rounding out the spacious interiors is the equally spacious trunk, which has a luggage capacity of 495 liters, and can be closed with an electromagnetic latch and features a convenient boot light.

Optimum safety

At the core of the Suzuki Ciaz is the patented Total Effective Control Technology (TECT), which boosts driver and passenger protection through a light yet incredibly strong impact absorption system. An Anti-Brake Locking Technology is also in place, preventing the brakes from locking during instances of sudden braking. This technology distributes braking force efficiently to the front and rear wheels to prevent accidents.

With all these features, the Ciaz is a surprisingly affordable option for urban drivers. The three models clock in at the following price points:

– Ciaz GL Manual Transmission at P738,000.00

– Ciaz GL Automatic Transmission at P773,000.00

– Ciaz GLX at P888,000.00

For more information on the Suzuki Ciaz, please visit http://suzuki.com.ph/auto/ and like it on www.facebook.com/SuzukiAutoPH, https://twitter.com/SuzukiAutoPH and follow on Instagram at @suzukiautoph.

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