Automotive

Honda’s 2019 Brio RS variant is a sporty subcompact

Dibs on Carnival Yellow!

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Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. has introduced the second generation of the Brio. This establishes their entry to the A-segment passenger car category in the country while adding a twist of modern sportiness at the same time.

Being a small vehicle, it could be challenging to make it look sporty. But Honda was able to transform what one would usually call “cute” into something that looks like this.

The 1.2 RS variant boasts a Piano Black front grille, 15-inch alloy wheels, side sill garnish, rear bumper garnish, and tailgate spoiler. Inside, there are noticeable orange accents that go with its black fabric seats with the same highlights — all exclusive to this model.

To top that off, its 7-inch audio system is paired to a six-speaker setup including tweeters. This should ensure that you get a high-quality listening experience.

1.2 RS Black Top

Now, if you want something more flashy, you can opt to go for the two-tone 1.2 RS Black Top variant. This Brio comes either in an exclusive Phoenix Orange Pearl or Carnival Yellow — both appealing in their own ways.

Apart from the RS and RS Black Top variants, there are two more models in the lineup: the 1.2 V CVT and 1.2 S MT. They’re the same Brio in essence, although they don’t come with most kits and some bells and whistles of the upper-tier models.

The front grille also has a honeycomb design and multi-reflector halogen headlights which then come with LED parking light guides. At the rear, they now have a redesigned tailgate that allows for better rear visibility and also adds to the rigidity of its body. Meanwhile, its tail and brake lights stretch to the edge of the vehicle and highlight the wide stance of the Brio.

Inside, tech features include manual air conditioning with a digital display, Bluetooth connection, and a 7-inch touch display for the 1.2 V CVT. The 1.2 S MT, on the other hand, comes with a 1-Din audio head unit.

In terms of capacity, packing the vehicle shouldn’t feel too cramped with its 60mm extended wheelbase compared to the first generation, in addition to the 90mm extended cargo area. This simply translates to more legroom for the passengers. And if you need to move numerous items, fold down the back seats and you have space big enough to fit a couple of big boxes.

Under the hood of all variants is a new 1.2-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Like the 2019 Civic, the transmission is based on the company’s Earth Dreams Technology for better acceleration and efficient fuel economy. For drivers who still stick to driving stick, there’s the five-speed 1.2 S MT variant for you to consider.

The available colors are:

  • Taffeta White (all models)
  • Modern Steel Metallic (1.2 RS CVT, 1.2 V CVT, 1.2 S MT)
  • Rallye Red (1.2 V CVT and 1.2 S MT)
  • Carnival Yellow (1.2 RS Black Top CVT and 1.2 V CVT variants)
  • Phoenix Orange (1.2 RS Black Top CVT only)

To further sweeten the deal, Honda is offering a special introductory SRP that will last until the end of June 2019:

  • 1.2 S MT – PhP 585,000
  • 1.2 V CVT – PhP 646,000
  • 1.2 RS Navi CVT – PhP 727,000
  • 1.2 RS Black Top Navi CVT – PhP 732,000

The new Brio also achieved a Four Star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, thanks to the company’s G-CON technology. This should enhance impact absorption in case of collisions. It also has dual SRS airbags for the driver and front passenger, while an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) comes as standard.

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Acer unveils Predator ES Thunder Pro e-Scooter

More power, longer range, better safety features

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September 3, 2026

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Acer continues to expand its e-scooter portfolio with the launch of the Predator ES Thunder Pro. It is the latest mobility offering from the brand after expanding to the category in 2023.

The all-new e-scooter enhances powertrain performance, enabling confident handling across a wide range of terrains.

It is designed both for everyday mobility and versatile terrain handling, making it well-suited for extended use and longer riding distances.

The most powerful model yet in the Predator e-scooter portfolio, it is equipped with a high-performance 500W rear-wheel-drive DC motor.

This has a peak output power of 1,600W, and a maximum torque of 32Nm. This way, the e-scooter delivers stronger, smoother power output during acceleration and hill-climbing.

In addition, the Predator ES Thunder Pro uses a Traction Control System (TCS) that adjusts power output in real time base on road conditions. This improves tire traction and overall stability on wet or low-grip surfaces.

The e-scooter comes with 10-inch tubeless pneumatic off-road tires and IPX6 water-resistance rating as well.

In front are daytime running lights while on the sides are RGB ambient lighting for better visibility.

In terms of range, the e-scooter can travel up to 70 kilometers on a single charge, effectively reducing charging frequency.

Furthermore, the e-scooter integrates dual-platform location tracking via Find My and Find Hub, paired with the Acer eMobility app with AI voice control.

Pricing, availability

The Acer Predator ES Thunder Pro will be available in Europe early next year, starting at EUR 799.

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Automotive

Nissan’s New Kicks e-POWER skips the plug but still drives like an EV

It’s leaning harder into its e-POWER tech than ever!

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August 31, 2026

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Nissan Philippines has officially launched the next generation of the Kicks, and it comes with a design refresh, more driver-assistance features, and the same e-POWER setup that’s defined the nameplate since 2022.

The Kicks first landed in the Philippines four years ago, and this new version builds on that foundation rather than tossing it out.

Nissan’s kept the e-POWER system that made the original Kicks stand out in the subcompact SUV segment, then layered in updates across the interior, exterior, and safety suite.

Still e-POWER, still 100% electric motor-driven

The core of the Kicks hasn’t changed.

It still runs on Nissan’s e-POWER system, which pairs a 1.2-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor. The engine’s only job is generating electricity to charge the battery.

The motor is what actually drives the wheels, so you get a fully electric driving feel without needing to plug in anywhere. Nissan says the setup puts out 136 PS and 280 Nm of torque.

Inside, Nissan’s focused on making longer drives less tiring. The Zero Gravity seats aim to reduce fatigue, and there’s anti-heat leather upholstery for anyone who’s dealt with scorching seats in Metro Manila traffic.

Rear passengers get an optimized seatback angle and a rear armrest, while the driver’s seat is 6-way power-adjustable.

For tech, you’re looking at a 12.3-inch Display Audio system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus NissanConnect Services bundled in for three years.

Sharper exterior

The exterior picks up Nissan’s V-Motion grille with a new lighting signature and triple-arrow daytime running lights up front. At the back, the hexagon-shaped rear lamps carry over as part of Nissan’s design language. Nissan also says the headlights now throw wider and longer illumination for better visibility at night.

You’ll have four color options: Aquamarine Metallic, Gun Metallic, Pearl White, and Moon Pearl Gray. The top LE Plus variant gets an exclusive black roof and a new Moonstone interior, while the VE and VL stick with black interiors.

ProPILOT leads the safety features

The bigger addition here is Nissan ProPILOT, which handles steering, acceleration, and braking assistance together.

It includes Intelligent Lane Keep Assist to help center the vehicle in its lane and Intelligent Cruise Control to maintain speed and following distance.

There’s also Traffic Jam Assist, which can bring the car to a stop and resume driving on its own in stop-and-go traffic.

Beyond ProPILOT, Nissan’s packed in 12 more safety and driver-assistance features, including:

  • Leading car departure notification
  • Intelligent forward collision warning
  • Intelligent forward emergency braking with pedestrian detection
  • Blind spot warning with blind spot intervention
  • Lane departure warning with lane departure prevention
  • Rear automatic emergency braking
  • Tire pressure monitoring system
  • Rear cross traffic alert
  • Intelligent around view monitor with moving object detection
  • High beam assist
  • Driver attention alert

Price, availability in the Philippines

The All-New Nissan Kicks e-POWER comes in three variants: VE, VL, and LE Plus.

Nissan’s running launch promos on all three until September 30, 2026, and customers who buy in during that window also get a complimentary one-year Nissan Protect+ package, which covers prepaid maintenance, genuine Nissan oil and parts, and servicing for the first year.

The Kicks joins the X-Trail e-POWER as part of Nissan Philippines’ growing electrified lineup, and it’s clear the brand is treating e-POWER as its main pitch for drivers who want an EV-like experience without changing how they refuel.

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Automotive

Inchcape Philippines and Changan are parting ways

The two companies won’t renew their distribution deal, with the transition running through Q4 2026.

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August 26, 2026

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Inchcape Philippines and Changan have mutually agreed not to renew their distribution partnership in the country. The companies announced the decision, citing Changan’s own long-term plans for the Philippine market as the reason.

The partnership enters a transition period that runs through Q4 2026. During this time, existing customer commitments remain in place, including aftersales support, warranty coverage, parts, and service.

Alex Hammett, Inchcape’s Managing Director for South Asia & Pacific, said Inchcape Philippines and Changan have worked together since 2023 to build the Changan brand locally, supported by Inchcape’s distribution network and dealer relationships.

He thanked the Inchcape Philippines team and dealer partners for their role in that effort over the past three years.

Inchcape says the Philippines remains a key market for the company. It continues to distribute Mercedes-Benz passenger cars, trucks, and buses, along with Jaguar Land Rover, and operates the retail business for Harley-Davidson locally. The company’s stated focus going forward is growing its existing portfolio and introducing new products to Filipino customers.

The Philippines also houses Inchcape’s Digital Delivery Centre and Global Business Services teams, which together employ more than 700 people supporting the company’s global operations.

Further details on arrangements after the transition period, including Changan’s next distribution partner, have not yet been announced.

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