Automotive

Mercedes-Benz GLC and V-Class: Living the fly life

Smooth sailing on the GLC 200 and V-Class 220d

Published

November 12, 2019

Joash Maramara

When we hear the words “upper class” in a market segment, we usually think of luxury lifestyle, extravagant vacations, fine dining, and everything fancy. So when it comes to their means of transportation, we expect nothing less than utmost grandiosity.

With this in mind, some premium car brands will naturally come to mind and one of them is Mercedes-Benz. This was the idea that Auto Nation Group, the official distributor of Mercedes-Benz in the Philippines, had in mind when they hosted the Media Ride and Drive — a day-long activity that offered participants the choice to drive the new GLC 200 and V-Class 220d or enjoy the comfortable ride and amenities offered inside both these new models.

Mercedes-Benz GLC 200

Instead of usual technical reviews, it was their goal for the participants to experience the affluent life — to be driven to where their consumers would go and do activities they would commonly do.

Scuba diving and the GLC

Of course, I took an underwater selfie

The first activity was a 3-hour course in scuba diving led by accredited PADI diver Igor Subora. Held at the indoor scuba facilities of The Upper Deck Sports and Lifestyle Center in Ortigas, the activity aimed to give a glimpse into the lifestyle of someone with a spirit of adventure – a persona that perfectly matches the personality and performance of the new GLC.

According to Joseph Ayllon, head of PR Communications, the new GLC is a great match for confident go-getters in life determined to achieve goals. He says that it’s the right vehicle to take out of town or to a quick getaway within the city – like taking the morning off to go scuba diving.

The GLC remains as the best-selling Mercedes-Benz for 10 years with more than 1.6 million units sold. Priced at PhP 4,290,000.00, the GLC 200 is a robust adventure luxury SUV that delivers 197hp and 320Nm of torque from a 2.0 turbo petrol engine mated to a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission.

Its interior is wrapped in premium soft-touch materials, leather, and brushed metal accents. The soft leather seats were exceptionally comfortable, with plenty of head and legroom. In addition, the Burmester surround audio system is impressive and gave crisp & immersive sound.

Looking at the dashboard, it boasts a high-definition all-digital instrument panel along with their intelligent voice command LINGUATRONIC with “Hey, Mercedes” functionality which we found quite useful for a hands-free driving experience.

Sitting at the back, this SUV felt smooth and cabin noise was well isolated. Overall, this SUV is a perfect fusion of adventure and luxury.

R&R with the V-Class

After our scuba diving training and certification, we went our way to our lunch venue at Misto Seda-Vertis North onboard the 2019 Mercedes-Benz V-Class 220d. Priced at PhP 4,690,000.00, this lounge on wheels puts out 163hp and 380Nm of torque from a 2.2-liter diesel engine mated to a 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission.

Mercedes-Benz V-Class 220d

As a passenger sitting on the third row, it didn’t feel like you were in a van; the cabin was unbelievably quiet and immensely comfortable. Everywhere you touch is made of premium quality material and the leather-wrapped captain seats just give you a sense of grandeur — almost like sitting on Queen Elizabeth’s throne.

The interior is spacious with abundant head and legroom. In addition, this model boasts swivel seats with a built-in pullout folding table. Looking out, I just loved how you are surrounded by huge & bright windows, perfect for scenic road-trips.

I have never felt more comfortable riding a third-row seat from a vehicle of this segment. You just feel pampered and EDSA traffic suddenly wasn’t so stressful.

After our bounteous buffet lunch at Misto, it was time to head to the last destination and the day was wrapped up with a relaxing full body massage at the Upper Deck Recovery Spa.

End of the day thoughts

As we ended this unique drive, one thing was made crystal clear to me: Mercedes-Benz really knows who their products are for and the new GLC 200 and new V-Class 220d truly cater to the needs and demands of this market segment.

I have to admit that I was easily spoiled by the activities the company has prepared — kicking it off with a fun diving experience, having a feast, and ending the day with a massage. Although, that’s exactly what they want their customers to feel with these new offerings — pampered and spoiled while getting from point A to point B.

Automotive

2024 Jeep Wrangler 4-Door Sport now in the Philippines

Price, availability, offers

Published

May 8, 2024

Levi Verora Jr

The new Jeep Wrangler 4-Door Sport has arrived in the Philippines. Designed to deliver more of what made the Wrangler an off-road SUV icon, the 2024 Jeep Wrangler lineup boasts of reliability, durability, and advanced safety features.

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4-Door Sport is priced at PhP 4,790,000. It is available in eight (8) colors: Firecracker Red, Granite Crystal, Silver Zynith, High Velocity, Hydro Blue, Sarge Green, Bright White, and Black.

As an introductory offer for the returning model, the first 50 customers who will purchase will get a complimentary set of half-doors.

High-performing, 4×4 capable

Under the hood of the latest Jeep Wrangler 4-Door is a 2.o-liter turbocharged I-4 engine mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine produces a maximum power of 268 HP at 5,250rpm and 400nm at 3,000rpm torque.

Well known for its 4×4 capabilities, the returning model is ready with Selec-Trac Full Time 4WD System. This includes the following parts that ensure its offroad versatility:

Dana M186 front axle
Dana M200 rear axle
Conventional differential front axle with disconnect
Conventional differential rear axle
Transmission skid plate
Transfer case skid plate shield
Fuel tank skid plate

Exterior

The latest iteration of the Jeep Wrangler 4-Door boasts of a slicker front fascia. The front features a molded black front bumper and Jeep’s signature black grille, fully illuminated with an assortment of lamps. This includes LED daytime running lamps, front fog lamps, premium reflector headlamps, automatic headlamps, and headlamp off time delay.

The classic signature Matte Black Jeep badge is found on the side, together with the Wrangler decal, black door handles, and black exterior mirrors. Moreover, the latest model sports a new cutting-edge 17-inch gray all-aluminum wheels, paired with 245/75 R17 all-terrain tires. At the back are the rear window wiper/washer and full size spare tire, along with a set of LED tail lamps.

Completing the look of the Wrangler Unlimited Sport is the integrated window antenna and black 3-piece hard top above. The hard top may be removed for an open-air configuration during off-roading.

Interior

Inside, the off-road SUV’s interior is refined with sophisticated features and technology. The model’s center stack features a clean, sculpted form to complement the horizontal dashboard design.

The instrument panel has a new soft-touch surface. Furthermore, there is a 12.3-inch touchscreen, the largest display yet on a Wrangler. This panel houses the award-winning Uconnect 5 system atop the center stack. Uconnect 5 delivers five times faster operating speeds than its previous generation.

The Uconnect 5 system offers drivers and passengers a suite of connected services for ease of use, including:

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto
GPS navigation
Off-road info pages
Five users profiles and valet mode for customizable music and app preferences
Fully customizable home screen for quick access to frequently used features
One-touch operation
Bluetooth handsfree phone and audio (up to two phones)

The Jeep Wrangler features a 9-speaker Alpine premium audio system to complement road trips. Passengers will also benefit from USB Type C ports and standard 12-volt accessory outlets in the center console and cargo area.

Meanwhile, drivers benefit from an enhanced experience, thanks to the 7-inch TFT color display driver’s cluster. Drivers may also easily adjust the driver’s seat according to their seating preference. Furthermore, the steering wheel is paired with mounted audio controls for easy adjustments.

Lastly, the cabin has been fortified with a handful of offerings for everyone’s convenience:

Cloth bucket seats
Driver and passenger assist handles
Heated front seats
4-way manual adjust seat
Illuminated cupholders
Power windows (with 1-touch down for front windows)
Rear window defroster
60/40 folding rear seats
Torx tool kit

Advanced safety features

When it comes to safety, the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport is likewise equipped with topnotch innovations. Drivers will enjoy a plethora of advanced safety features to assist them in driving, parking and more, including:

Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop
Selec-Speed Control
Advanced Brake Assist
Electronic Roll Mitigation
Anti-Lock 4-Wheel FNC Disc HD Brakes
Electronic Stability Control
Full Speed Forward Collision Warning Plus
Hill Start Assist
Traction Control
Trailer Sway Damping
ParkSense Rear Park Assist System
ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera

The Jeep Wrangler 2024 model also comes with advanced multi-stage front air bags, front side air bags, and side curtain air bags. On top of these, the latest Wrangler also has the following features:

2-Door Passive Entry
Speed Sensitive Front Door Locks
Child Seat Upper Tether Anchorage
Front Passenger Seat Belt Alert
Push Button Start
Rear Seat Reminder Alert
Remote Keyless Entry
Tire Pressure Monitoring Display
Locking Glove Box

Automotive

HATASU ebike announces latest 2-wheeler

The HATASU TARA

Published

May 2, 2024

Levi Verora Jr

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.

Automotive

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

Plus a PhP 20,000 discount

Published

April 2, 2024

Levi Verora Jr

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.