2021 Ford Everest Sport 2021 Ford Everest Sport

Automotive

Ford Everest Sport: Ideal companion for out-of-town reunions

Spacious enough to carry laughter, tears, and new memories

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The beauty of being an adult is you can make a new family with new traditions.

Words from Captain Raymond Holt from the iconic comedy Brooklyn Nine-Nine. Words I held dear these past few years when I built a family through friends I met along the way.

It’s been two years since we’ve seen each other with the pandemic separating us. My friends-turned-family decided to plan a holiday reunion and celebrate all occasions we can squeeze in a few days. Unlike when we were younger, we can’t throw ourselves in different cars and commute by bus whenever we have a trip.

What changed is that one of my dearest brothers had an adorable son on the onset of a pandemic — which led us to find a suitable car that can bring us all together safe and sound.

Luckily, Ford Philippines responded to my request and lent me the Ford Everest 2.0L Sport 4×2 Automatic. I was about to sacrifice my dignity and ask one of my suitors to drive us around. That or we’ll be renting a car. Thank god, I didn’t. Whew!

So handsome, I could kiss you

2021 Ford Everest Sport

When the Everest Sport arrived, I was stunned by its size, color, and overall vibe. It looked handsome and reliable, especially with that Deep Crystal Blue color. Somehow, it made me want to cradle my fingers across its body.

2021 Ford Everest Sport

If I would personify the car, the Everest Sport would be the guy in reunions who wore dark, neutral clothes, seemingly unusual and brooding with mystery as he kept quiet in the corner. He’s totally reserved, but we know he can totally punch above his weight class.

2021 Ford Everest Sport

Both the exterior and interior were designed smart and sleek, hosting features that everyone would rave about — not just techies, geeks, and drivers alike.

2021 Ford Everest Sport

Everything is so damn reachable through the vast number of buttons that you can find on the steering wheel.

2021 Ford Everest Sport

It’s a learning curve especially for the old-school drivers, but the youngsters appreciate modernity since it prioritizes safety, convenience, and ease.

Before we hop on a long trip up north to Pampanga, we decided to drive it around Alabang, so we can test it and stroll together with my godson.

2021 Ford Everest Sport

Big space for the big boys

The Ford Everest 2.0L Sport 4×2 Automatic is a 7-seater SUV. If you’re going to occupy the third row, there’s barely space left for the compartment.

Since we’re only five adults and our adorable toddler refuses to sit in a booster seat, we folded the backseat flat so we can have a bigger cargo area.

2021 Ford Everest Sport

It was roomy enough to place the baby stroller, along with our backpacks carrying our essentials: Laptops, extra clothes, care packages for the baby, and drinks.

2021 Ford Everest Sport

I had to sit in the second row this time so I can take a few photos. I had one of my best friends, Oliver, take the wheel while my other best friend, Mark, is in charge of navigation and DJ-ing.

2021 Ford Everest Sport

From afternoon to dusk, and even in the evening, the Everest Sport made us feel safe while driving around — especially with its bright LED headlamps. Some find it blinding and annoying, but it was quite helpful to us when driving in dimly-lit streets around the metro.

L-R: Oliver, MJ, JM, Mark, Matthew (Solo)

Excellent off-road capability

2021 Ford Everest Sport

One of my best friends, Mark, took the steering wheel at some point due to his better grasp of driving at night. Blessed be his excellent eyesight 🤲🏻

Off the road, here we go!

Throughout the long drive to Pampanga, I had put my faith in my best friend, Oliver (and Jesus, somehow) who took the steering wheel.

My other best friend, Mark, took the family through a Manual Transmission Mitsubishi Mirage for an exhausting drive to get to the venue on time. (It was old and creaking, I pity my friend’s knees and feet throughout the trip.)

2021 Ford Everest Sport

L-R: Oliver, JM, MJ

The Everest Sport became a storage solution, loading most of our suitcases and heavier baggage (bags, not feelings). By evening, we took the Stage 3 Skyway to reach North Luzon Expressway so we can enjoy a smooth, quick ride.

Just when I thought we’d be set for the rest of the night, we stumbled upon a muddy, uneven road full of craters on the way to the resort. While I commend my friend for crossing the off-road smoothly, the Everest Sport proved that it can take a beating — rocks and all.

2021 Ford Everest Sport

Aside from the strength of its alloy wheels, the Terrain Management System and smart driving assistance features, together with the Everest Sport’s excellent suspension system, contributed to our victory in overcoming our sudden obstacle.

All things considered, the Everest Sport felt like an off-road truck but with a veneer of a family car.

Do you like it reverse or parallel?

We were the last car to arrive at the resort. Luckily, parking is a breeze with Everest Sport’s Enhanced Active Parking System. Whether you do reverse or parallel parking, the car can help you with its rear view camera.

Though, in a way, the vehicle knows how to park on its own. You just need to maneuver and assist the vehicle as it does the heavy lifting.

2021 Ford Everest Sport

After unloading our baggage (again, literal bags and not feelings), we were delighted to set our sights on a Korean-inspired table to celebrate a friend’s birthday.

Lots of lettuce, grilled meat, side dishes, and Soju filled our tummies. It was a night to remember.

Like home but on the road

The next day, we drove around Angeles to pick up a cake for a baby shower, have lunch, and head to San Fernando, Pampanga for our annual Christmas reunion.

We don’t have the luxury to celebrate around December, what with all the flights abroad and going our separate ways to grow our own families. It was the season to squeeze in all the celebrations that we can.

This time around, we had more passengers. If there’s one thing that everyone keeps muttering: It’s so comfortable. The leather seat felt premium and kept us warm even if it was wintry inside.

2021 Ford Everest Sport

There was enough legroom for both the power-adjustable driver seat and the passenger seat. Even the rear seat on the second row has enough space, except for the middle part. Whoever sits there might find it close-fitting since the driveshaft tunnel passes through with a hump.

In our case, it was Lorraine — the group’s mom who kept her toddler in place, playing around with the car’s temperature through a knob he discovered as he was snugged tightly in the middle.

2021 Ford Everest Sport

Nevertheless, we were all eager to go around Pampanga. I’m still astounded with how safe and cozy everything was when riding the Everest Sport. Road trips are exhausting for most people, but the experience made us want to be on the road for several days.

We were rollicking while listening to Ariana Grande, Dua Lipa, and Bruno Mars through Ford’s musical soundstages and SYNC technology: a system that controls the vehicle’s temperature, music playback, and other safety features through a single tap or via voice commands.

2021 Ford Everest Sport

Kind of like a tablet placed in front. It also connects with any smartphone through Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. There are no Android versus iPhone here — we’re all welcome to enjoy the vehicle.

Four celebrations and a wedding

It wasn’t just us and our bags that were inside the Everest Sport. Throughout our get-togethers, we were planning a surprise wedding to recreate a ceremony that we weren’t able to attend, due to the sudden lockdown a few months back.

We brought cakes, cookware, and kitchen equipment to a contemporary villa in San Fernando. That’s on top of props to be used for the gender reveal, baby shower, late birthday celebration, and Christmas party.

On some occasions, I had to use the Everest Sport to do errands, such as buying fresh flowers to be used for the wedding. It was cozier than any other car in our garage, and of course, the car looks handsome like yours truly. If I’m going to parade myself, I’ll pick a car that’s worth showing off.

2021 Ford Everest Sport

The nights we spent together felt like Taylor Swift’s latest re-recorded album Red (Taylor’s Version). There was a myriad of emotions felt.

Everything was just all over the place, like a fractured mosaic of feelings that somehow fit together in the end. We were happy, free, confused, euphoric, wild, nostalgic, elated, and fondly remembering the past while we create new memories.

Holidays just got merrier, and our bonds — thicker than blood — got tighter after our reunion. Distance may have made our hearts grow fonder, but feeling each other’s presence made them beat faster.

We were able to share love, laughter, tears, and sorrow. And everything we’ve been carrying for two years in the week we all spent together. Thanks to the Everest Sport, we were able to come together and get home safe and sound — ushering bittersweet memories that we’ll fondly recall in the coming months.

Pricing and availability

2021 Ford Everest Sport

The Ford Everest 2.0L Sport 4×2 Automatic is available at a starting price of PhP 1,928,000. It comes in various colorways: Aluminum Metallic, Absolute Black, Deep Crystal Blue, and Snowflake White Pearl which can set you back by an additional PhP 15,000.

To know more about the latest offers, visit ford.com.ph/shopping/latest-offer/ or any Ford dealership nearest you.

Automotive

HATASU ebike announces latest 2-wheeler

The HATASU TARA

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HATASU TARA

HATASU ebike has announced its latest two-wheeler model and first offering for 2024: The HATASU TARA. It will be available in authorized dealers and HATASU’s official Shopee store for PhP 54,999. More details will be revealed during its official livestream launch event on May 10th.

HATASU’s stylish, sports scooter-looking two-wheeler addresses the short distance coverage problem from past models. The TARA will allow riders to go up to 70 kilometers on one full charge, something previously possible only with the brand’s three-wheel offerings like the HERO and MAKO 2.

Travel longer, better

Inside, the ebike features a larger, more long-lasting 72v 32Ah lead acid battery and a capable 1500W Dynamo motor. The motor allows riders to drive the vehicle at a faster top speed and a longer range. In front of the rider is a display panel that shows the battery level, speed level, signal light, and more relevant information.

For its exterior, the vehicle has a hydrated ABS plastic finish that is chemical and heat resistant. For the first time on a HATASU model, disc brakes are also utilized for its front wheel. HATASU is using motorcycle tires to help the TARA achieve its distinct look. Moreover, it also has a higher ground clearance.

Furthermore, the TARA has a 150-kilogram capacity so riders can accommodate a back ride. Alternatively, they may utilize the ebike to transport parcels and cargos. At just about PhP 20 per charging cycle, the TARA promises a reliable no-gas-needed alternative for casual riders or even food delivery workers, as apps like FoodPanda and Grab now allow bikes for such services.

HATASUmmer Fest 2024

The announcement of the HATASU TARA coincides with HATASU’s latest promotion for its customers: the HATASUmmer Fest 2024. A total of 42 lucky winners will take home prizes. The TARA itself will be given away as part of the promo.

To earn raffle entries, customers simply have to purchase HATASU’s previous models:

  • KUMI 2023, NERO: one (1) raffle entry
  • HARU, MAKO 2, NERO LITE, KUMI LITE: two (2) raffle entries
  • HERO, TARA, AYA: three (3) raffle entries

Aside from the grand prize, HATASU will also be giving away an air conditioning unit, a portable handheld fan, a water flask, and consolation prizes worth PhP 500. The promo period is from May 15 to June 30, 2024.

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Automotive

Next-Gen Ford Territory: Free service package, cash discounts

Plus a PhP 20,000 discount

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To celebrate the first year of the Next-Gen Ford Territory, Ford Philippines is offering an exclusive service package for new owners of the five-seater SUV.

The Territory 5-Star Care Package will be available for all customers getting the Next-Gen Ford Territory Titanium from April 1 to 30.

On top of a standard 5-year warranty, the package is inclusive of a 5-year scheduled service plan (SSP) and 5-year emergency roadside assistance.

What’s great about the SSP is that it is a prepaid plan, so customers won’t have to shell out more funds from future parts or labor price increases on their periodic maintenance service.

Ford’s emergency roadside assistance, meanwhile, covers 24/7 support, nationwide towing coverage, minor on-site repairs, and other services.

The Titanium model starts at PhP 1,335,000 and is available in the Panther Black, Star White, Lustrous Gray, Ruby Red, and Blue Metallic color options.

The promo also comes with a PhP 20,000 cash discount. To avail, visit this link: Territory 5-Star Care

ALSO READ: Tracing roots across Manila with the Next-Gen Ford Territory

Next-Gen Ford Territory

One of the best-selling local SUVs today, the Next-Gen Ford Territory is crafted according to the highest global quality standards. It features advanced technologies and added safety features.

Some of safety features that are definitely useful for local driving conditions include the following:

  • Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert
  • Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go Feature
  • Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
  • Active Park Assist

The SUV also has a 360-degree camera to aid drivers with their trips. For comfort and convenience especially for long rides, the vehicle has wireless charging and wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto.

Under the hood, the Territory boasts of a EcoBoost 1.5L engine. It has a 7-speed automatic transmission aided by Ford’s wet-type Dual Clutch engagement system. This system allows for easy acceleration and improved fuel efficiency.

Additionally, the Territory has four driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, and Mountain. These help drivers to tailor the driving experience depending on the scenario.

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Automotive

Tracing roots across Manila with the Next-Gen Ford Territory

Sometimes, you have to look back to enjoy the present and get excited about the future.

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Ford Territory

“He who does not look back from where he came will never reach his destination.”

That’s a Filipino proverb I kept hearing while I was growing up. Nearly three decades later, I started learning what that proverb really meant.

We have to look back in order to move forward. At least, that was one of my takeaways when Ford Philippines invited us to drive the Next-Gen Ford Territory and reimagine the way we tour our cities.

Along with media folks and members of the Ford Territory Club Philippines, we hopped between places that honor the roots of our heritage and culture.

The cars that Filipino presidents used

I was never fond of visiting museums. But there was something alluring in seeing pieces of history and knowing how it all contributed to the present we live in.

Our first stop was the Presidential Car Museum housing the old cars used by the former Philippine Presidents. It is located within the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines.

Inside, you can stumble upon the 1941 Packard 180 that both former President Jose P. Laurel and Sergio Osmena used. Former Presidents Roxas, Magsaysay, and Macapagal trusted a Cadillac, while Quirino used a Chrysler Crown Imperial.

 

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Former President Ferdinand Marcos’ Lincoln Continental Mark VI grabbed our attention, along with his First Lady’s car — an opulent Rolls Royce Phantom — which is a testament to the opulence and excessive grandeur they exhibited during their reign.

Meanwhile, Aquino up until Arroyo, the former presidents after Marcos Sr.’s regime have used a humbling yet trustworthy Mercedes-Benz instead.

Touring in the museum lit a fire inside that I didn’t know still existed. I thought I was already apolitical, but hearing the stories and reasonings behind the choice of presidential car sparked the angst I’ve long buried.

And if you’re that curious, it’s best to pay a visit to the museum. Maybe you can have a different perspective.

The Presidential Car Museum is open for public viewing between 9AM to 4PM on Tuesdays to Sundays.

Crafts, textiles, and the old script

After our active parking session at the Quezon Memorial Circle and relying on Adaptive Cruise Control while driving through the Skyway, I took the wheels as we approached the City of Manila and its never-ending stoplights.

I may hate Manila’s busy streets and traffic jams, but I know I’m well-equipped to navigate its roads (and find a way to overtake between humongous trucks) as we find our way to the National Museum of Anthropology.

Nestled beside the walled city of Intramuros, the museum found itself on a sweet, easy spot for city-dwellers, park visitors, and foreigners touring the historical city. It was easy to locate, which makes it inviting to a lot of visitors.

Ford Territory

Inside, I was mesmerized by artifacts showcasing the chronicles of living in the Philippines — even from pre-historic times. I had a marvelous time staring at battle axes and bolos. I was incredibly drawn! Maybe, just maybe, I was a warrior in my past life.

We also took some time exploring the “Hibla ng Lahing Filipino Gallery” which exhibits the traditional textiles created and worn across the Philippines.

On the next room beside the textile gallery, you’ll find the Baybayin Gallery, which was completed in 2014. The gallery houses the old writing systems used by ancient Filipinos, as well as the continued tradition of writing syllabic scripts.

Ford Territory

The National Museum of Anthropology is located in the Agrifina Circle, Rizal Park adjacent to the National Museum of Fine Arts building. It’s open from 9AM to 6PM on Tuesdays to Sundays.

Living like an Ilustrado

Our last stop for the day was Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Quezon City. It’s a more accessible space housing replicas of famed Spanish-Filipino houses.

Originally, you can find it in Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar where almost 40 Spanish-Filipino Colonial structures were collected and restored to showcase the heritage of the Philippines.

Upon entering, you’ll be transported back in time — as if you’re back in the 18th century. It wasn’t my first visit, though, as I’ve already tried to play like an Ilustrado a few years back.

The place isn’t just offering a heritage tour, but also an Italian restaurant, a cafe, garden, and banquet hall.

It’s a fine way to experience dining in a Spanish stone house at the 2-storey replica of Casa Monroy, while looking at the beauty of St. Joseph Chapel brimming with intricate brick and woodworks.

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Quezon City is located at 134 Roosevelt Avenue, San Francisco Del Monte, Quezon City, Philippines 1105. It’s open from 11AM to 9PM.

One step forward, three steps back

As the day ends, we drove back to Quezon Memorial Circle where we started. It was bewildering to bridge everything that happened — from looking back to learning how to appreciate the present, and becoming excited to what the future holds.

These were just my thoughts as we navigate the dimly lit roads with the help of the Next-Gen Ford Territory. We progressed so much that we’re enjoying a vehicle that can keep us comfortable in long rides. Imagine if we still have to travel by foot or by riding a calesa!

Ford Territory

The museum-hopping tour around Manila made me appreciate riding a smart, safe, and feature-packed vehicle. It gives me the peace of mind needed to explore a vibrant, busy city.

For your peace of mind

Customers who purchase the Next-Gen Ford Territory will receive a complimentary Peace of Mind service package. This includes free inspection that can be availed within 2 months of 2,000 kms (whichever comes first). You also get two (2) free labor on periodic maintenance schedule (PMS) services.

This is on top of the 5-year warranty — ensuring a worry-free ownership experiences.

Customers can visit any Ford dealership to get more information on the available 5-year scheduled service plan (SSP) and a 5-year emergency roadside assistance with a Territory purchase.

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