Cars of the Philippines: Difference between revisions
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==Jeepney== |
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[[File:Manila-jeepney.jpg|thumb|Jeepney in Manila]] |
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'''Jeepneys''' are the most popular means of [[public transportation]] in the [[Philippines]].<ref name = "reu1">{{cite news |first=Karen |last=Lema |authorlink= |coauthors= |title=Manila's jeepney pioneer fears the end of the road |url=http://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyleMolt/idUSMAN1276320071120 |work= |publisher=[[Reuters]] |date=2007-11-20 |accessdate=2008-02-27 }}</ref> They were originally made from [[US military]] [[jeep]]s left over from [[World War II]]<ref>{{cite journal |last=Otsuka |first=Keijiro |authorlink= |coauthors= Masao Kikuchi, Yujiro Hayami |year=1986 |month=January |title=Community and Market in Contract Choice: The Jeepney in the Philippines |journal=Economic Development and Cultural Change |volume=34 |issue=2 |pages=279–298 |id= |quote= |doi=10.1086/451528 |jstor=1153851}}</ref> and are known for their flamboyant decoration and crowded seating. They have become a ubiquitous symbol of [[Philippine culture]]. |
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the original jeepneys were simply refurbished military jeeps by [[Willys]] & [[Ford]], modern jeepneys are now produced by independently owned workshops and factories in the Philippines with surplus engines and parts coming from Japan. In the central island of [[Cebu]], the bulk of jeepneys are built from second-hand Japanese trucks, originally intended for cargo. These are euphemistically known as "surplus" trucks. |
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There are two classes of jeepney builders in the Philippines.<ref name = "reu1"/> The backyard builders produce 1-5 vehicles a month, source their die-stamped pieces from one of the larger manufacturers, and work with used engines and chassis from salvage yards (usually the [[Isuzu]] 4BA1, 4BC2, 4BE1 series [[diesel engines]] or the [[Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation|Mitsubishi Fuso]] 4D30 diesel engines). The second type is the large volume manufacturer. They have two subgroups: the PUJ, or "public utility jeep," and the large volume metal-stamping companies that supply parts as well as complete vehicles. |
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The jeepney builders in the past were mostly based in [[Cebu City]] and [[Las Piñas City]]. The largest manufacturer of vintage-style army jeepneys is MD Juan. Other makers include Armak Motors ([[San Pablo, Laguna]]), Celestial Motors (San Pablo, Laguna), Hebron Motors, LGS Motors, Malagueña ([[Imus City]]), Mega ([[Lipa City]]), Morales Motors ([[San Mateo, Rizal]]), and Sarao Motors (Las Piñas City). Another manufacturer, PBJ Motors, manufactured jeepneys in [[Pampanga]] using techniques derived from Sarao Motors. Armak now sells remanufactured trucks and vehicles as an adjunct, alongside its jeepneys. |
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==See also== |
==See also== |
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Revision as of 17:25, 25 August 2012
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Cars of the Philippines refers to the automobile marketing and its evolution in the Philippines, as well as a comprehensive list of every car currently sold with a short description of the car's manufacturer history in the country.
Philippine automotive marketing history
The Philippines' automotive industry has been around since the Philippine-American occupation. With the introduction of American-made cars during that period and during the 1950s and 60s, a lot of American vehicles had scattered the roads since. But during the 1973 oil crisis, then-President Ferdinand Marcos advised Filipinos to buy smaller, more efficient 4-cylinder engine vehicles. Due to the declaration of Martial Law by Marcos, some vehicle manufacturers withdrew from the Philippine market; some of them, however, returned after Marcos was ousted in 1986. During the early 1990s, A lot of car makes returned or entered the Philippines, but during the Asian crisis, some makers withdrew due to the economic slump, and sales declined. Since the end of the crisis, automobile sales have increased since with new models.
Automotive influence
The country's love affair with the automobile is on the rise. It started during the 1960s when many Filipinos bought their first automobiles due to the economic growth at the time, but interest dwindled during Martial Law. After the return of civil governance, interest in cars rose and during the 1990s, magazines like Automotion started, as did several television shows about automobiles. In 2002, C!, another automotive magazine, was introduced, since Automotion closed down. Around 2004, Top Gear Philippines entered the car magazine market. Automobile exhibits are rampant, from mainstream to custom-built vehicles are displayed.
Successful cars in the Philippines
Some cars have been especially successful in the Philippines, based on their reliability, price and their impact on the customers.
Honda City
Honda's entry-level sedan serves as an affordable alternative to the larger Civic. Its direct competition consists of the Toyota Vios, Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio and Suzuki SX4. The City is also a popular college car in the Philippines due to its low maintenance and good fuel efficiency.
Honda Civic
The Civic has been available in the market since 1992. It serves as an alternative to the Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer and Nissan Sentra. During the years, the car grew bigger and features more creature comforts. In 2006, it captured the market with its redesign being Honda's best selling vehicle in the company's and in the Family Sedan Market. With 10,000 units sold since 2006. It offers a 1.8-liter engine with its 2.0-liter engine as the option. The trim lines offered includes the SiR (offered in 1999-2001), Lxi (offered in 1996-2000), Vti (offered in 1996- 2005), and Esi (offered in 1992-1995). More recently, trim lines offered are as follows: 1.8 V & S (S trim with different wheels and with available foglamps) and the 2.0 S-L (note that the "S-L" badge isn't present on the car, but only the S). The Civic also started the tuner car craze in the market due to its "tuneability" and high performance.
Honda CR-V
One of the pioneers of the compact SUV segment, though Honda had to reclassify its second generation into an AUV to compete with the popular Toyota Revo. The CR-V offers versatility of a large wagon with the reflexes of a small sedan. It won the hearts of numerous Filipinos due to its affordable pricing and very good image. The First and Second Generation CR-Vs were bestsellers during their time. Although third generation CR-Vs boast better fuel consumption and comfort, it still trails with the likes of the Hyundai Tucson which offers a CRDI diesel powerplant. The second-generation CR-V offers a third row seat option and has a stiffer rear springs which is unique for the Philippine market, but failed to dethrone the Revo as the premier AUV in the Philippines because of it being a gas guzzler.
Hyundai Elantra
The Hyundai Elantra was not widely known in the Philippines until the fifth generation model hit showrooms in mid-2011. Its sleek design, numerous amenities and competitively low price made it an instant bestseller, rapidly outselling its rivals the Toyota Corolla Altis, Mitsubishi Lancer, Mazda3 and Nissan Sentra 200. The Elantra is offered in two trims: the base 1.6 liter with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic, and the 1.8 liter with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Hyundai Getz
Since its debut in the Philippines, the Getz has been one of the most popular hatchbacks on the road, outselling its rivals the Chevrolet Aveo, Honda Jazz and Toyota Yaris. The demand for it has been very high due to the ongoing fuel crisis. The Getz is commonly used as a company car for firms such as Coca-Cola and PLDT. It was offered in three grades: the base 1.1L GL with a 5-speed manual transmission, the middle-base 1.4L with either 4-speed automatic transmission or 5-speed manual and the top-end spec, the 1.5L CRDi VGT, powered by a 1.5L diesel engine mated to a 5-speed manual. The Getz was discontinued in mid-2011, leaving the i10 as Hyundai's entry-level vehicle.
Hyundai i10
Since its debut in late-2008, Hyundai's smaller hatchback has been the company's hottest-selling model to date - even outselling its less-expensive rivals the Chery QQ and Suzuki Alto, as well as the comparably priced Kia Picanto, Suzuki Celerio and Chevrolet Spark. It is offered with two engines: a 1.1-liter or 1.2 liter - mated to either a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic transmission. The i10 was Hyundai's entry-level vehicle until the introduction of the Eon in March 2012; the i10 now fills the void left by the discontinued Getz.
Hyundai Starex/Grand Starex
The Starex from Hyundai Motors Company, also called the Hyundai H-1 in the Korean and European markets, was introduced in the Philippines in 1996 as a new entry in the full-size passenger van market, initially mostly through grey-market channels.It replaced the Mitsubishi L300 as the ultimate Filipino family van since it offers more safety equipment and has plenty of features for the money. The first to offer a turbo-charged intercooled diesel engine in a van in the Philippines, the Starex soon found a solid following among Filipinos not only due to its cheaper price compared to the locally available Toyota Hiace, Ford Econoline E150, Nissan Urvan and its cousin, the Mitsubishi Space Gear, but also because it offered two variants: a 9-seater short-wheelbase version and the 12-seater long-wheelbase version. Fans also appreciated its smooth ride especially in the 9-seater which used coil-springs all throughout, as well as the fact that its engine is mounted in front of the driver, compared to under the seat such as in the Hiace. Initial doubts about Korean build quality eventually faded as Filipinos realized the Starex engine had many parts that are compatible with ubiquitous Mitsubishi 4D56 diesel engine found in the Mitsubishi Pajero, L200 pickup and L300 van. Even as a lot of first-generation Starex vans still ply the road today, the Starex has already undergone 3 major updates, and the latest variant, the Grand Starex, was released in 2007.
Hyundai Tucson
The first car-based compact SUV to introduce CRDI power diesels in the market, the Tucson offers good level of standard equipment, roomy interior, and diesel-power option which make it popular in the segment. The recently introduced second generation Tucson further sealed its victory due to strong character line and extensive equipment without losing the value-for-money it is known for.
Isuzu Hi-Lander
Introduced in 1997, it was Isuzu's response to the Toyota Revo, and was its best seller during that time. The Hi-Lander was criticized for being unrefined and cramped when compared to the class leader, the Revo. Engine durability and affordability were among its good lines. It was replaced by the Crosswind, a full SUV, in 2001.
Mitsubishi Adventure
This was Mitsubishi's response to the popularity of the Toyota's Tamaraw FX and Revo. It has taken the design of the Mitsubishi Freeca from Taiwan and manufactured it locally as the Adventure. Introduced in 1997 as a 1998 model, it had 3 updates but was criticized for having a cramped interior and being somewhat underpowered. Strong points include affordable pricing, seating capacity, and low cost of maintenance. It is one of Mitsubishi's best seller in the country. However, once the diesel version of the Fuzion is released, the Adventure will retire for good.
Mitsubishi Lancer
The Lancer was the first truly futuristic car available in the Philippines, but sadly the most restricted in the 1980s, during the regime of President Marcos. When he was deposed, Mitsubishi released its updated models on a regular basis, and is a favorite alongside the Toyota Corolla.
The Lancer has had eight generations sold here, and currently two generations being sold, the Cedia and the Fortis. The Lancer is also distinguishable by its taillamps: the L-Type in the early 70's (coca-cola bottle-like body), bar type in the late 70's, the box type which is the most popular from 1980 to 1987, singkit released from 1987 to 1992, itlog (lancer egg) 1993-1997, pizza pie in 1997-2002, cedia (2003-current), and Fortis (2008-current). Alternatively, the Lancer's high-performance version, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is sold alongside the Lancer but is limited in sales among mainstream Filipino buyers, but is popular among racing enthusiasts in the country for its "go-kart, sharp handling".
Mitsubishi L300
The former van of the Philippines, the Mitsubishi L300 became popular in the late 80's to late 90's due to its roomy and spacious cabin especially when compared to smaller vans available that time such as the Kia Besta, Toyota Liteace and Nissan Vanette. Since Filipinos were clannish and social, the L300 became an ideal troop transport to various destinations whether it's a trip to the mall or going long distances such as visiting relatives in the provinces. The L300 van is also an icon in Philippine action movies, and is commonly used as a chase vehicle since the sliding doors were big and easy to open. Vans in the 80's and 90's were the upmarket family transport due to its air conditioning and more comfortable cabin compared to their competition which is limited to unrefined jeeps and assembled AUV's. L300's were initially available in low roof short-wheelbase configuration which is a rarity until it grew into the more popular larger high roof and medium wheelbase. The engines available were the rare gasoline with carburetor and the famous evergreen 2.5 liter rotary type 4D56 diesel engine. The L300 is so successful that the only revisions made in the last 2 decades were updated front facade, wheel designs and CD/USB radio. The L300 FB is the latest iteration of the L300, and caters mostly to school bus fleets, loop services, and other businesses. Almazora builds the L300 FB's body, while Mitsubishi provides the chassis, engine, and front cab.
Toyota Corolla/Altis
Beginning with the E90 model introduced in 1989, Toyota's flagship compact sedan has been a permanent staple in the country's automotive industry. The E101 series of 1993 to 1997 is the second most widely used Corolla model on the road, being a regular in the local taxicab industry, but was beaten by the new Corolla Altis series 2001-2008 by a small margin. A special Altis with a cursive badge was only used in the high-end 1.8 SE G sold in 1999-2001 while the bold Altis badge was added in the whole corolla line in 2001 to uplift its image. The Toyota Corolla is the country's best-selling sedan and nameplate to date because it is the benchmark in quality, sheer durability, reliability and high utility despite the recent Corolla Altis being upmarket. Filipinos have found this car to meet their conflicting demands like providing ample power while consuming little fuel, compact outside but roomy within and durable yet easy to maintain.
Toyota Innova
Replacing the Revo in mid 2005, the Innova is Toyota's second best selling vehicle in the country after the Vios. It proved successful not just with its image and value, but with its versatility and quality. Currently, it has five trim lines that serves the consumers' needs. The Innova is used as a police car and even offered by rental car companies. The Innova's direct competition consists of the Nissan Grand Livina, Mitsubishi Fuzion and Chery V5.
Toyota Tamaraw
Also known as the Toyota Kijang, it was introduced in 1976 and invented the AUV (Asian Utility Vehicle) segment of the automotive industry. It was introduced with van and truck body configurations. The Tamaraw was favored as a utility vehicle by both private individuals and the Government, namely the Ministry (now the Department) of Public Works and Highways. Many examples survive today as rebuilds and/or replicas by backyard assemblers, owing to its ease of maintenance and upgradeability. Due to its popularity, it spawned a host of competitors from major automobile companies, namely Ford.
Toyota Tamaraw FX and Toyota Tamaraw FX Revo
The Toyota Tamaraw FX was a much improved version of the Toyota Tamaraw. It came in van and wagon versions. It proved successful, not just having a lower price, but durability and versatility. It was during its production years the choice of business fleets and taxi companies.
In 1998, Toyota introduced the Revo variant of the Tamaraw FX, which proved successful. Despite stiff competition (which the Revo created), its sales captured the AUV market, with 8000 units sold on its first year. The original Tamaraw FX was sold alongside the Revo variant before the it was dropped from Toyota's lineup in 2000. The Revo got new trim levels and a freshening in 2002, with its Sport Runner variant being a best seller. It remained in its Toyota's lineup until February 2005, when it was discontinued with the introduction of the Innova and the Fortuner. The Toyota Revo has 3 engine options: the updated 1.8 liter EFI 7K-E gas engine from the original Tamaraw FX, a 2.0 liter EFI 1RZ-E gas engine, and the 2.4 Liter diesel engine.
The Revo was offered in DLX, GL, GLX, GSX, SR (Sport Runner), and VX trims, plus three special versions—the LXV (special edition with gold-trimmed badges), SR 2.0 (Sport Runner with different livery and rims and a 2.0 liter engine), and the J-Spec Revos (VX-J and SR-J, members of the J-spec line of Toyota vehicles). The Revo is the first in its class to offer luxury amenities such as leather seats, upmarket in-car entertainment systems, reverse sensors and even a front-facing third-row option. The Toyota Revo was so popular even some compact SUVs such as the 2nd-generation Honda CR-V marketed themselves as an alternative to the Revo by offering 3 rows of seats, which is unique to the Philippine market.
Toyota Vios
As the answer to the popularity of the Honda City, Toyota introduced its Vios in 2003. It proved successful, not just because of its image and quality, but it was affordable to maintain and had a low price. It received a freshening in 2005 and it appealed to taxi, rental, and police fleets. Its 2007 redesign was significantly improved, it captured the passenger car sales crown with 8,000 units sold. Early Vios were CBUs but 2007-onwards were built in Toyota's plant in Laguna. The Vios is currently Toyota's best selling vehicle in the country.
List of makers and models
This is a list of every car currently sold in the Philippines and a brief history of the carmakers in this country.
(* denotes if vehicle is discontinued for the market)
(† denotes if vehicle is coming soon to the market)
Mainstream car makers
Chana
Chana entered in 2008, with a dealership in Mandaluyong City.
Chery
Chery Automobile is the first Chinese manufacturer to enter the country. It entered in 2007 and currently has an expanding dealer network. The QQ is the company's best-selling car in the country, with companies such as The Coca-Cola Company purchasing fleets of the city car. Sales, however, have dropped dramatically and in mid-2010, Chery closed a majority of its dealerships in the country. In 2011, Chery underwent a change in distributorship from Chery Iseway to Chery Motors Philippines, with the latter intending to open a manufacturing plant.[1]
Chevrolet
Chevrolet entered the market in 1996 with their Suburban and Tahoe SUVs. In October 2009, it changed ownership from a wholly owned subsidiary of General Motors Corporation to a 100% Filipino-owned car distributorship. Today, the company's main vehicles are the Korean-built Aveo, Spark, Orlando and Cruze, as well as the Thailand-built Captiva. Chevrolet also offers the new Camaro in limited quantities.
Chrysler
Entered in 2005 under a new ownership; before that, Norkis Group was the one responsible for distributing Chrysler vehicles during 1997-2004. Now it is the CATS Motors Inc. responsible in distributing Chrysler vehicles together with Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The company's Dodge and Jeep vehicles are also sold in the country. Unlike the U.S. model, the company's flagship 300C is offered with a choice of four engines ranging from a 2.7 liter V6 to a 6.1 liter HEMI V8.[2]
Unknown to many, Chrysler has a historic significance to the country, as the 1937 Airflow was used by then-president Manuel L. Quezon. Today, that same Airflow is on display in Quezon City.
Chrysler
Dodge
Jeep
Ford
During the Marcos Regime, Ford was well known in the Philippines for the Laser, Granada, Cortina, Telstar and the Fiera Asian utility vehicle, until they pulled out of the country in the early 1980s. In 1998, Ford returned to the Philippine market. Currently, it is the leading American maker in the country. It was also well received by the market, although it is not as popular as the European and Asian makes. It formerly built its vehicles in its plant in Santa Rosa, Laguna, until Ford shut it down in 2012. The Fiesta is the company's current best-seller.
Foton
Foton recently introduced their Chinese-made trucks to the local market.
- Blizzard
- MPX
- Midi
- View
- Tornado 2
- Tornado 2 E-Series
- Tornado 2.5
- Tornado 3.5
- Hurricane
- Cyclone
- 09222736006
Francisco Motors Company
Francisco Motors Company is a local automobile manufacturer of SUVs, AUVs, and the local Filipino Jeepney. It also manufactured a Popemobile for Pope John Paul II during the 1995 World Youth Day.
- FMC Passenger Jeepney
- FMC Owner Jeep
- FMC Anfra-SUV and AUV version available
Geely
Geely entered in 2008, with a dealership in Subic, Zambales.
Great Wall
Great Wall Motor entered in 2010, with a dealership in Project 7 in Quezon City.
Haima
Haima Motors entered the Philippines with a dealership in San Femando City, Pampanga province. On January 27, 2010, Haima's local distributor Traders Autocenter held a grand opening celebration & market-launching ceremony.
Honda
Honda entered the Philippine market in 1992, inaugurating its factory in Santa Rosa, Laguna. It was well received by the people and having brisk sales. It has generated media attention, with the Ayala Corporation purchasing some of its dealers in Metro Manila. Honda is currently expanding its dealer network - especially in the provinces. The Civic and City are the company's two top-selling models, while the Accord is considered a status symbol.
Hyundai
As an answer to the popularity of its Starex and Grace vans, which entered the country as grey imports, Hyundai decided to enter the country in 1998. Today, it is the leading Korean make in the country. The Getz (until its phase-out in 2011), i10, Elantra, Tucson, Santa Fe and Grand Starex are the company's best-selling vehicles, while the Accent is popular among taxi companies due to its economical fuel consumption. Hyundai has two distributors namely: Hyundai Asia Resources for Cars, SUV, & Vans and Maxima Machineries for Trucks & Buses.
Isuzu
Isuzu entered in 1997 with the inauguration of its plant in Santa Rosa, Laguna. Its Crosswind is extremely popular and well received in the market, having received several awards in its class. The old Gemini was an early favorite of the taxi business while the Trooper garnered as its status symbol especially with its Skyroof 2003 model, only discontinued due to some engine malfunctioning and was replaced with the Alterra.
A bulk of surplus diesel engines imported into the Philippines from Japan are from Isuzu. The 4BA1 and 4BC1 series of engines, as well as the legendary C240 engine were popular with minibus makers and jeepney assemblers.
Kia
Kia entered in 1989, inaugurating its plant in Paranaque City. During the 1990s, the company's best-selling models were the Pride and the Pregio van. The Picanto and Rio are currently the company's two top-selling models; the latter being a workhorse in the taxi industry; and the Besta was once the van of choice for the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO)'s ambulances.
- Besta*
- Carens
- Carnival
- Forte
- Kia Forte Koup
- Picanto
- Mohave*
- Pregio*
- Pride*
- Rio
- Sephia*
- Sorento
- Soul
- Sportage
- K2700
Lifan Motors
Lifan is a newcomer in the market, having been in the market since February 2009; although they have entered the market earlier as a motorcycle manufacturer, where they built up their reputation as a manufacturer of quality yet affordable means of transportation.
Mazda Philippines
Mazda had two distributors, Columbian Motors Philippines (for passenger cars) and Francisco Motors Corporation (for Trucks), but withdrew in 2000. It returned in 2004 under the ownership of Ford. The 3 is a bestseller in the country, the 6 considered a status symbol and the MX-5 a sporty icon. Older models of the 323 and Familia from the mid-1990s are still widely used in the taxi industry. The CX-9 is now a popular car in the country, as a cheaper and luxurious alternative to the rugged Mitsubishi Pajero, and a luxurious alternative to the cheaper, mainstream Toyota Fortuner. The CX-9 also has replaced the Pajero as the SUV status symbol in the Philippines.
Mitsubishi
One of the oldest car companies in the market, Mitsubishi Motors entered in February 1963 as Chrysler Philippines, and one of its first products was the utility vehicle Cimmaron, their answer to the Toyota Tamaraw. Throughout the years, the company was known as CARCO and then PAMCOR before permanently changing to Mitsubishi Motors Philippines, Corp. in August 1996, it received good market sales and media attention that prompted MMPC to be the 2nd best selling brand in the Philippines for 2008. It builds its vehicles in its plant in Cainta, Rizal and imports selected models from Japan, Thailand, Taiwan and USA (the Lancer Evolution X and Eclipse being among them). The Adventure, L300, Strada, Montero Sport and Lancer are its current best-sellers, while the Pajero was the first SUV in the Philippines to be tagged as a status symbol. Historically, the Galant was the country's bestselling flagship sedan in the 1980s and early 1990s, but has since relinquished that position to the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.
Nissan
Nissan has two distributors, Nissan Motors Philippines Incorporated and Universal Motors Company. It was also well received by the market and media. Its factory is located in Santa Rosa, Laguna. The Sentra and Frontier are its perennial best sellers. The Patrol, notably the Safari trim, is currently the epitome of a status symbol SUV in the Philippines, it being a preferred choice for politicians and VIPs.
Peugeot
Peugeot will return to the country in July 2012 with the following models:[3]
SsangYong
In the 1990s, SsangYong became popular for their Musso SUV and the Istana van - both of which were marketed as Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
Subaru
Subaru entered in 1996 under the Columbian Motors Philippines ownership but withdrew in 2000. It returned in 2006 under a new ownership by Motor Image Pilipinas Inc. The Impreza has become a popular hatchback as an alternative to the Mazda 3. The Subaru Forester gained quick popularity in the country due to its relatively low price, even providing a harder competition to the extremely popular Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-7. The Subaru Legacy and Outback are also doing very well, as a much cheaper alternative to German luxury cars. Subaru has four dealerships in the country: Subaru Greenhills, Subaru Fort Bonifacio, Subaru Cebu and Subaru Pampanga.
Suzuki
Entered in the late 80's, Suzuki has a motorcycle manufacturing plant in Pasig City. Its current main vehicles are the APV, Alto, Celerio and Swift.
Toyota
Established in 1989, Toyota Motors Philippines is the leading manufacturer in the country. It is well received and constantly grabs media attention. Its plant is located at Santa Rosa, Laguna. The Innova, Vios, Fortuner, Hiace and Avanza are the company's current bestsellers, while the Camry and Land Cruiser are considered to be status symbols.
Before Toyota Motors Philippines was established, it was Delta Motors Corporation who was responsible for assembling Toyota vehicles in the Philippines during the Marcos Administration. During this era, the Crown was a status symbol on the road; and the Tamaraw ushered in the arrival of the AUV (Asian Utility Vehicle) segment in the country.
A bulk of surplus gasoline engines from Japan are made by Toyota. The 3K and 4K engines, as well as the 3AU were popular with owner-type jeep assemblers. Toyota engines are the gasoline engine of choice by these assemblers not just because it was ubiquitous, but also its proven reliability and the ready availability of spare parts.
On June 2012, the Toyota 86 was launched, making it Toyota Motor Philippines' first sports coupe in their lineup.[4]
Luxury
Luxury cars in the Philippines achieve good sales, in places such as Metro Manila, Cebu City, Davao City and Angeles City.
Audi
Audi is one of several German manufacturers available in the country. The company has dealerships in Greenhills and Bonifacio Global City.
BMW
BMW is one of the well known luxury brands in the country together with its rival Mercedes-Benz here in the Philippines.
Jaguar
Jaguar cars have a presence in the upper-class neighborhoods of Manila. Formerly based in Makati until 2011, the Jaguar/Land Rover dealership is located in Bonifacio Global City.
Land Rover
Land Rover shares dealerships with Jaguar and Maserati in Manila.
Lexus
Introduced in January 2009, Lexus has a dealership in Bonifacio Global City.
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz is also one of the well-known luxury brands in the country. Over the years, Filipinos have given the nickname "Chedeng" to all Benzes. The S600 is the official vehicle for the President of the Philippines with the plate # "1".
Mini
BMW's remake of the classic Mini made its official Philippine debut on November 2009. The cars are distributed by British United Automobiles, Inc. Mini has a dealership located at the Fort Bonifacio Global City along 5th Avenue cor. 26th street.[5] Unlike the many other European small car companies (Which often leave after about a year) to enter the Philippines, Mini is doing surprisingly extremely well, due to the image it has (similar to the Volkswagen New Beetle in the early 2000s except for the fact that the New Beetle was not actually sold in the country).
Porsche
This luxury marque is popular in the country and receives good attention. Boxing champion Manny Pacquiao owns a Porsche Cayenne Turbo.
Volvo
The only Swedish brand in the country, Volvo receives good sales, winning several awards since its introduction in the mid-1990s
Ultra luxury
Bentley will be distributed by PGA Cars.
- Gran Turismo
- 3200 GT*
- MC12* (Only 1 sold)
- Quattroporte
Lamborghini will be distributed by PGA Cars Inc. (distributor of Audi and Porsche vehicles in the country) starting the second half of 2011. The Lamborghini dealership will be located next to Audi at Fort Bonifacio Global City.
Ferrari is distributed by Autostrada Motore (distributor of Maserati, Land Rover and Jaguar vehicles in the country), and has a shared showroom with Maserati in a building connected to the Land Rover and Jaguar showroom in Fort Bonifacio Global City.
Discontinued makes
Daewoo sold moderately in the country until it was forced to pull out due to the Asian Economic Crisis, which led to its bankruptcy and acquisition by GM. Today, many of their cars are sold under the Chevrolet brand.
The Daihatsu Feroza was considered a status symbol during its release in the late 1980s, while the Hijet was a popular taxicab.
Despite being a bestseller worldwide, the Uno sold poorly in the country. Some sources have been found saying that Fiat is coming back to bring the 500 and Punto, although no news of such nature has been confirmed.
As of November 2008, Hummers in the Philippines are extremely rare, but are available. The brand was discontinued by GM in early 2010, following its 2009 bankruptcy.
Opel, along with Ford, were the two most popular non-Japanese car companies in the 1960s and 1970s. However, the company pulled out of the country after Martial Law was imposed by the Marcos Administration. Opel returned to the Philippines in the mid-1990s with the Astra, Vectra and Omega, with good sales as a cheap alternative to Japanese cars, but was taken out of the country by its distributor GM Auto Traders to make way for Chevrolet's then-brand new line up (which basically replaced all the cars Opel was selling). Opel Vectras and Astras are still a common sight to see on the roads of Manila, and Tigras popular with enthusiasts.
Though their presence in the country was short-lived, a handful of Peugeots can still be found in parts of Manila. The 307 was the most popular Peugeot sold in the country, and a lot of them can still be seen in the Alabang area.
The Malaysian firm sold only one car in the country before the Asian Economic Crisis forced them out.
The lightweight fortwo city car was supposed to be ideal for Manila's congested roads, but failed due to its relatively high price. It did remain slightly popular with companies who used them for advertising.
Known by locals as "Pagong" (turtle), the Beetle was popular before the Marcos Administration; and it was used by the Ministry (now the Department) of Health as a service vehicle. Volkswagen returned to the country in the mid-1990s with the Polo, but struggled in sales before pulling out in the mid-2000s. Despite this, a handful of Touaregs can be seen in Manila's streets.
Pending Makes
Some distributors in the Philippines are planning to bring in some brands in the country.
Fiat
CATS Motors, the distributor of Mercedes-Benz, Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles is planning on bringing the brand in the country. It is one of the 5 new makes CATS is planning to bring into the country
Lancia
Lancia is one of the 5 makes CATS is planning to bring into the country (the others being unknown other than Fiat). There has not been enough details given out to the public to confirm this, but it has been hinted.
Rolls-Royce
BMW distributor Asian Carmakers Corporation says that it can bring in and sell the car in the country, although in the past there was evidence that it was already possible to bring in Rolls-Royce units via the BMW dealership. An article published in a prominent Philippine magazine recounts an instance when the author of the said article was at a BMW dealership and noticed two Rolls-Royce units by the parking lot.
Volkswagen
At first, the buzz that PGA Cars, the distributor of Porsche and Audi(under The Volkswagen Group) would bring in Volkswagen, given that they already carry Vokswagen subsidiaries Porsche and Audi. But the latest rumor is that no less than the Ayala Group (which has interests in Honda Cars Philippines and Isuzu Philippines Corporation) is paving the way for Volkswagen's arrival.
Imported vehicles (Gray market)
Specialty dealerships across the country import various new vehicles from several countries such as the U.S. and Dubai. In addition, many pre-owned vehicles are imported from Japan or Hong Kong - countries that use right-hand-drive vehicles on the left side of the road. Because right-hand-drive vehicles are banned in the country, they are converted to left-hand-drive in conversion bays and freeport zones in Subic, Santa Ana, Cagayan, and Toledo,Cebu. These vehicles are seen with plate numbers R for Subic, B for Cagayan and Y for Cebu.
The country made headlines in 2007, when president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ordered the immediate destruction of 18 luxury vehicles that were illegally smuggled in the country. The cars, which included four BMWs and a Lincoln Navigator, were crushed by backhoes and other heavy construction vehicles at a depot in the Freeport Zone.[6]
Asia
Bentley
Cadillac
Chevrolet
Daihatsu
Daewoo
Dodge
Ferrari
Ford
Honda
Hyundai
Isuzu
Jeep
Kia
Lamborghini
Land Rover
Lincoln
Lexus
Mazda
Mercedes-Benz
Mini
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Porsche
Rolls Royce
Scion
SsangYong
Suzuki
Toyota
- [[Toyota Fortuner
- 4Runner
- Alphard 2003 version
- Avalon
- Avensis
- bB
- Camry Hybrid
- Celica
- Celsior
- Coaster
- Estima/Emina/Lucida
- FJ Cruiser
- Gaia
- Granvia
- Hiace Hi Roof Version
- Highlander
- Hilux Surf
- Ipsum
- Iq
- Land Cruiser
- Liteace
- MR2
- Noah
- Opa
- Previa
- Prius
- Regius
- Sequoia
- Sienna
- Sparky
- Sprinter Trueno (AE86)
- Starlet
- Supra
- Tacoma
- TownAce
- Tundra
- Venza
- Voxy
- Will
}}
Limousines
Limousines are used by the President & Vice-President of the Philippines. Otherwise, they are seldom seen on Philippine roads due to considerations like cost and road traffic conditions but if used, they are utilized for Bridal events or limo services.
Chrysler
Lincoln
Mercedes Benz
Trucks and Buses
Daewoo
- BF 106
- BH-Series
- BS 106
- Tata Novus
Golden Dragon
- XML6127 "Marcopolo"
- XML6957
Higer Bus
- V91 KLQ6119
- V92W KLQ6129W
- V92 KLQ6129
- H92 KLQ6125A
Hino Motors (Pilipinas Hino)
Hyundai
Isuzu
Kia
King Long
- XMQ6117Y
- XMQ6119T
- XMQ6127J3
- XMQ6996
- XMQ6126Y
- XMQ6129Y
MAN SE
- A55 18.310
- R39 18.350
- A67 14.280
- CLA 16.220
- TGS - Trucks
- CLA - Trucks
- 16-290
Mercedes-Benz
- OH-1625
- OH-1634
- OH-1725
- Actros
Mitsubishi Fuso
- Canter
- Super Great
- BK125L (Bus chassis)
- BM115/116/117/118 (Bus chassis)
- RK (Bus chassis)
- RM (Bus chassis)
- RP117NL
- RS113S / RS115S
- Aero King*
UD Nissan Diesel
Volvo
Yutong
- ZK6100H
- ZK6119H
- ZK6129H
- ZK6858H
Jeepney
Jeepneys are the most popular means of public transportation in the Philippines.[7] They were originally made from US military jeeps left over from World War II[8] and are known for their flamboyant decoration and crowded seating. They have become a ubiquitous symbol of Philippine culture.
the original jeepneys were simply refurbished military jeeps by Willys & Ford, modern jeepneys are now produced by independently owned workshops and factories in the Philippines with surplus engines and parts coming from Japan. In the central island of Cebu, the bulk of jeepneys are built from second-hand Japanese trucks, originally intended for cargo. These are euphemistically known as "surplus" trucks.
There are two classes of jeepney builders in the Philippines.[7] The backyard builders produce 1-5 vehicles a month, source their die-stamped pieces from one of the larger manufacturers, and work with used engines and chassis from salvage yards (usually the Isuzu 4BA1, 4BC2, 4BE1 series diesel engines or the Mitsubishi Fuso 4D30 diesel engines). The second type is the large volume manufacturer. They have two subgroups: the PUJ, or "public utility jeep," and the large volume metal-stamping companies that supply parts as well as complete vehicles.
The jeepney builders in the past were mostly based in Cebu City and Las Piñas City. The largest manufacturer of vintage-style army jeepneys is MD Juan. Other makers include Armak Motors (San Pablo, Laguna), Celestial Motors (San Pablo, Laguna), Hebron Motors, LGS Motors, Malagueña (Imus City), Mega (Lipa City), Morales Motors (San Mateo, Rizal), and Sarao Motors (Las Piñas City). Another manufacturer, PBJ Motors, manufactured jeepneys in Pampanga using techniques derived from Sarao Motors. Armak now sells remanufactured trucks and vehicles as an adjunct, alongside its jeepneys.
See also
- Taxicabs of the Philippines
- C! Magazine
- Top Gear Philippines
- Manila International Auto Show
- Philippine International Motor Show
References
- ^ Tadeo, Patrick Everett (2011-06-06). "Chery Philippines to Start Local Assembly of Vehicles in September". Top Gear Philippines. Retrieved 2012-01-17.
{{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in:|publisher=(help) - ^ Chrysler Philippines - 300C
- ^ "It's official: Peugeot is coming back to the Philippines". topgear.com.ph. 2012-02-27. Retrieved 2012-04-19.
- ^ a b Tadeo, Patrick Everett (2012-06-17). "Launched: Toyota 86". Top Gear Philippines. Retrieved 2012-06-20.
{{cite news}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in:|publisher=(help) - ^ Top Gear Philippines - Mini's Big Arrival.
- ^ Philippine Government Destroys P30 Million Worth of Smuggled Vehicles
- ^ a b Lema, Karen (2007-11-20). "Manila's jeepney pioneer fears the end of the road". Reuters. Retrieved 2008-02-27.
{{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter:|coauthors=(help) - ^ Otsuka, Keijiro (1986). "Community and Market in Contract Choice: The Jeepney in the Philippines". Economic Development and Cultural Change. 34 (2): 279–298. doi:10.1086/451528. JSTOR 1153851.
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External links
Car manufacturers (Local sites)
- Audi
- BMW
- Chana
- Chery
- Chevrolet
- Chrysler
- Dodge
- Ford
- Foton
- Geely
- Great Wall
- Honda
- Hyundai
- Isuzu
- Jeep
- Kia
- Lexus
- Lifan
- Mazda
- Mercedes-Benz
- Mini
- Mitsubishi
- Nissan
- Porsche
- SsangYong
- Subaru
- Suzuki
- Toyota
- Volvo