TMP Releases myTOYOTA App

Leading automotive company Toyota Motor Philippines just made it even easier to own a Toyota by releasing their own application called myTOYOTA app. Available in Android and iOS, it gives you the option to see the latest car models, take advantage of car deals, book maintenance or repair appointments (for existing owners), purchase vehicle upgrades, get roadside assistance all in this app.

If you also want to ask questions about vehicles, price inquiries for maintenance, repair, upgrades so owners get to enjoy the perks of owning one today. Yes, there will be after sales deals and assistance, trade ins so if you want to own another one, you can get it from the same place, same brand you love!

TMP First Vice President Sherwin Chualim says "To better serve and make our products and services accessible to our customers is needed now more than ever. We want to continuously improve customer experience from asking about it, to taking care of it and getting your next Toyota in all our 71 dealerships nationwide. They myTOYOTA app will make it easier, all with just a few taps on your screen."

If you want to know more about it, go to toyota.com.ph/mytoyota or the official pages of Toyota Motors Philippines.

TOYOTA Launches New Sporty Variant Toyota Vios GR-S

Missed this earlier because my YouTube account wasn't viewing the livestream, but the good people at Toyota sent us important information about the new Toyota Viios GR-S variant. This was built with their TOYOTA GAZOO Racing brand (who developed guided its creation) in mind and yes, it looks absolutely impressive. The passenger car gets an upgrade and they made it motorsports worthy.

According to Toyota Motors Philippines President Atsuhiro Okamoto, he says "In the country, there are over 340,000 owners of the VIOS model. They know these are the most reliable, tried and tested which serve as their companion in their daily lives.  We want every ride to be more pleasurable hence the Vios GR-S. Whether on the track or on the road, this will give you the thrill in your everyday drive."

It's going to be available on March 15, 2021 and if you haven't seen it yet in person, maybe a visit to your local dealership would be fine while observing protocols. As for aesthetics, this has a more sporty look hence the striking exterior, especially the front bumper, grille, aerokit and spoiler. Aside from that, the interiors look immaculate with the stitching and suede material on its seats. The 10-speed CVT transmission variety also has 7 airbags + clearance sonars with your safety in mind. It comes in White Pearl Crystal Shine, Super Red V or Black 1 colorways. SRP is around Php 1,020,000-1,035,000.

You can watch the online public launch on March 13, 2021 (Saturday) at 6PM via their Facebook and YouTube channel. If you think this is your drive, you can find out more information at toyota.com.ph.

Get Your Dream TOYOTA with Balloon Payment Plus

Looks like TOYOTA is making it easier and more attractive for you to own your dream car. Well, let's just say I saw this offer online earlier and by the looks of it, it sounds mighty nice. They call it Balloon Payment Plus. This is offered by house financing corp, Toyota Financial Services Philippines. Basically, when you get a car from them using this option, it will come with periodic maintenance during the finance term and really nice end of term options. 

How nice? Your car basically has a guaranteed future value so if you fancy a new car in the future (when your financing term is ending), you can use that value to pay for your brand new car. Like for instance, you've got a 20 to 30 percent of the vehicle price as down payment. If you choose a 24-month finance term, you can get 45 percent lump sum amount of the vehicle price, plus get a resale value at 55%. That's already quite high to tell you honestly, and it rids you of all the problems of getting a new car (which you like) and none of the mumbo jumbo of thinking how to resell your previous one. Sounds good? It is.

Participating cars include all Toyota Vios varieties, the Corolla Cross 1.8V Hybrid car, the Toyota Hilux (MC) Conquest, G, E and all the Toyota Fortuner (MC) models. So if you want to avail one, or more, go check out toyota.com.ph/balloon-payment-plus. You can also get in touch with them via 02-7757-8500 or their email addy feedback@toyotafinancial.ph or their site toyotafinancial.ph.

Don't forget to invite me to a ride if you do!

TOYOTA's Treat: Car Maintenance Week!

It's almost Christmas and yes, Toyota is feeling generous this season, so what better way to benefit all Toyota owners by launching Toyota's Car Maintenance Week. This will happen from December 15-21 and this means all Toyota owners will have Periodic Maintenance (PM) or Express Maintenance at up to 40 percent off on Toyota Genuine Motor Oil- Mineral Grade. So head on to all Toyota dealers and service centers so you can avail of this promo.

For those who don't know, they just concluded the Php 10 Million blowout promo where 10 winners got to enjoy Php 100,00 cash rebates via their Live Life on the Safe Side Promo. They got deals that offer low payment structures and pay light options aside from the usual discounts they give customers nationwide. For owners of Wigo (2014-2015), Vios (2002-2015), Innova (2005-2015), Fortuner (2005-2015), Hilux (2005-2015) can avail the Change Oil and Filter Package at a discounted price. This is going to be available til December 29, 2020. Toyota is also offering the special rate of Php 499 for the Vehicle Inspection package if customers avail Periodic Maintenance packages from their service centers.

To know more about this, customers are advised to call their nearest Toyota hubs or visit their website www.mytoyota.ph for this Christmas treat! 

 

Now isn't that nice?!

The New 2020 Toyota Hilux

Toyota Motors Philippines just launched the new Toyota Hilux, the country’s favorite pickup truck. It’s the toughest on every road and has served Filipinos for years. This new model also comes in cargo mode which would be perfect for businesses who require heavy loads. It’s 4x4 variety has a 2.8 diesel engine, 201 HP, very fuel efficient despite its size, and very nice interiors. Of course, it’s why the name came from “high luxury”.

They also got a new color variant called Emotional Red. It also does Apple Car Play and Android Car, connects to bluetooth in a cinch, and does a very smooth ride. It also has got cruise control so you get relaxed in long drives, it also detects things if you are near possible bumps when parking. Six Speed or Automatic, and Manual Transmission, they all work good with any type of driver. The 7 air bags also makes sure you are safe when accidents happen.

Atsuhiro Okamoto says “Hilux sales may have been affected by the pandemic, all models. But in this situation, the small vehicles are doing okay. Overall, the demand is still there and we are waiting for guidelines  for the next few months, hopefully more relaxed and if that happens, demand will normalize.”

Rommel Gutierrez FVP for Corporate Affairs says “We have sold only hundreds of cars this month, we have seen the trend is increasing, hopefully this is going to be hitting the years targets less 30% which we expect to happen.”

Sherwin Chualim says “The lack of transportation hs increased the sales for Hilux because of the need for carrying people and goods in the market. It has a more powerful engine but 15% more fuel efficient than its predecessor. It has been the number one pickup truck in the past few years because it is tough for business or leisure use. We made it more safer on the road and more relatable to users. This is legendary, still. It will have one price across the country, it has built in value rates, tradein rebates and free periodic maintenance which customers can take advantage.”

Hilux customers will love the new version, assembled in Thailand, this will be 20,000 strong in the Philippines hopefully before the year ends. At 840,000-1.8 Million price range and 12 varieties of this Hilux (cargo and FX included), it fits a lot of budget points for consumers. You can check it out on Toyota.com.ph for a virtual showroom tour. This is why the 7,000+ Hilux units are already out there just this year, hopefully more before the year ends. 

So who wants a tough vehicle?

New Ones and Vets Victorious on Second Round GR Supra GT Cup Asia Philippines

Results are in from the recent Second Round GR Supra GT Cup Asia Philippines conducted by Toyota Motors Philippines. This is their first e-Motorsports program and top players for Sporting Class and Promotional Class donned their racegears once again to see who gets the podium finish in this year's outing.

Hundreds of them participated this year and burned rubber at the Autopolis International Racing Course virtually driving Toyota's very own GR Supra. They had to go through rigorous qualifying rounds and do the finals heat for them to be able to see who remains supreme! 

In the end, they got a mix of old and new faces. Some unexpected, some proving the world is really round. The Sporting Class was won by Luis Moreno while Second and Third place was taken by Miguel San Mateo and Terence Lallave of whom are all new to this game. The Promotional Class was conquered by JB Cruz and Second and Third Place went to Lance Guballa and Lance Padilla. 

This coming September 26, they will be having a third and final round where Round 2 points will get 1.5 multipliers while double points will be done on the latter. Registration is now open over at Toyota.com.ph/gtcup and if they get overall championship from their scores, they'll have a chance to represent the country in the Asian Regional Championships on October. There will also be a third champ chosen from celebs vs media class which will happen this September too. Join their community here for more updates on Facebook. ( https://www.facebook.com/groups/680971852455112 )

Stay tuned for more updates here, results will be posted soon!

Toyota Launches New Corolla CROSS

Their call is “Cross into the Future” and this is a nice day to unveil a new car. Perfect for urban dwellers, they present a new Hybrid car called the new “Corolla Cross”.  

Toyota CEO Atsuhiron Okamoto say “We made this the inspiration for this new car, the all new Corolla Cross. This is a sleek crossover of our product available in Hybrid, quality, reliability plus Toyota safety features. We can’t wait for you to see this. Get ready to cross into the new age!”  This will reinvent how people will travel in the Philippines.

Dizo Kameyama who leads engineering says "This new car knows that this is the greatest selling car family in the world. 48 Million cars worldwide, always ahead of its times. This is an SUV, feels premium, urban tough, but remains affordable. With a new torsion beam design, it brings comfort in drive, it is your partner, just asking where you will go tomorrow.  The world’s largest selling car has been reinvented now, this is going to be an SUV to be loved even more by Filipinos. Women want something that looks good, feels well while driving. A hybrid option means a gas engine and two electric motors. It will make your fuel consumption and emission less that regular cars. This also has a gun metallic grill, designed well in standards. The stability is good, has a blind spot monitor, power adjustable seat (available in leather), usb ports, plus a 7 inch display on the dashboard. The SUV’s also come in two variants, it costs 1,285,000 and the other is 1,650,000. It is also available in Metal Stream Metallic (Silver), Red Mica Metallic, Platinum White Pearl Mica  and Attitude Black Mica colorways."

The new excise tax rules also got the it less 50% because it is a hybrid variant. Pretty good way to save money and keep the purchase price down.   The sedans and the cross have interior parts shared. It also uses the TNGA platform, tuned the rear suspension, now with Apple Car Play and Android Auto. 

Maintaining a hybrid vehicle is just the same with regular gasoline or diesel fed engine. The oil changes, checking, is all done the same way except for a few things that will be inspected in the hybrid part, which is easy because they have service centers nationwide! They are targeting over 100 units, perhaps more in the next few years. This Corolla Cross will be available in the Philippines starting at the end of this month (August 26). 

Mr. Okamoto adds “This concept of combination hybrid technology is not changing, many to be improved especially the cost of materials and fuel efficiency. Hopefully we will have more affordable cars in the future. We will improve that.”  Nico BravantenVP for Product Planning says “We want a nice price, design, and specifications hence it took time to launch this. Same hybrid power train as the Altis, we have the 1.8 on the new Corolla Cross. It also has 7 bags, and is manufactured in Thailand.” 

Here is the press conference earlier!

Looks promising, watch out for the official launch of the Corolla Cross at the Toyota Motors Philippines Facebook Page today with Moira Dela Torre at 6pm!

This is just the tip of the iceberg.

Join Toyota’s GR Supra GT Cup Asia - Philippines

Have you ever had the urge of of driving fast sometimes on the freeway, that you feel you can do good on the racetrack? What of you had the chance to do it on the world's famous racing circuits? Best of all, you’ll be doing it in Toyota's pure sports car, the GR Supra? Well now, you’ve got the chance to represent the Philippines and using your racing skills to the test. You’ll get the chance to bring honor to the country, in an international motorsport event.

It's possible, and you can do it online as Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) recently announced the launch of its first virtual motorsport competition, the GR Supra GT Cup Asia - Philippines. TMP is looking for champions that they can field against other countries in Asia. You can be the next racing champion!

Just register for free at the official website www.toyota.com.ph/gtcup where there are two major open categories. First is the Promotional Class for novice, casual virtual racers or enthusiasts, and second is the Sporting Class for advanced racers with previous professional virtual motorsports experience. It’s open to all Filipino citizens with a valid Philippine passport, 18yo and above that’s got a Playstation 4, able to use their own active PSN account and PS Plus subscription with the Gran Turismo Sport game.

After your registering and submitting requirements, qualified drivers will be notified on official game rules and schedules. The Top 24 from each class will race in the semi-final and the final race heats, and points will be assigned based on their finishing time. First round qualifiers will happen on July 23 and the finals will happen a week after. Then a second and third round will happen in August and September. Players from the two classes to accumulate the most points after the third round will be declared the Philippine champion and will participate in the Asian Regional Round come October.

There are two special classes open: the Celebrity and Media class which is where the third Philippine champion will come from plus the Junior class for players below 18. The GR Supra GT Cup Asia - Philippines is a motorsport program under Toyota's global Gazoo Racing brand and is being staged by TMP in partnership with Tuason Racing. This activity expands TMP's local motorsport development program which includes its premier one-make- race. Their Vios Racing Festival set to resume in 2021 whenever it's already declared safe to hold mass gatherings and public events. For more info about Toyota's activities, products, and services in the country, visit their official website at www.toyota.com.ph. Follow their accounts ToyotaMotorPhilippines (Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube) and @ToyotaMotorPH (Twitter).

See you on the race track!

The 5th Philippine International Motor Show

It was a night of fun and laughter as we joined the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) a few nights ago at Draft at the Fort Strip when the shakers and movers of different car manufacturers in launching the 5th Philippine International Motor Show. It will happen on September 18-21, 2014 and on these 4 fun filled days they'll be whipping out new concept cars, their new flagship vehicles and internationally released ones just to be seen in the Philippines. Last year was well attended and this is why they are even bringing more things to the table including additional facilities for after sales service sections so brands can show how they implement best practices after consumers get their cars. There's new software and prime technologies included in the exhibit where other brands would also be able to see competitors in the same industry to ultimately trump each other. Consumers then would be able to check where research and development goes as far as the automotive industry is concerned.

Hon. Gov. Jose Alvarez, the Chairman Emeritus of CAMPI, was so happy to see the participants getting bigger every year and thanked the Presidents and Executives of the respective brands. With the advent of even bigger profits this year pegged 22% this 2014, the future seems bright with the Philippine auto industry. This years exhibitors will include Beijing based BAIC and China's JMC, German car maker BMW, Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, Korea's Daewoo, Kia, Japan's Honda, Isuzu, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota, Mazda, Suzuki, Lexus and French car maker Peugeot.

Atty. Rommel Gutierrez says that it's also the perfect time to show that the organization is serious about driving economic progress in the country. They are ready to make the theme "Progress in Motion" a reality, that's why they are eager to show this year's line of exclusive, prototype cars to aid and see where we are right now in the automotive business line. 

Dante Santos, the current VP of CAMPI also informed us that this won't be a complete celebration without getting in the consumers in the mix, before the toast, he told us that there will be huge sales that will only be offered on PIMS days at the World Trade Center and you won't see them anywhere else. Aside from big savings, you will also be able to take advantage of perks coming from the brands directly... some of which can't be even seen in display rooms anywhere else. Other than that, you'll learn more about the newest model of cars available in the Philippine market and get the best deals without breaking a sweat. Meet ups of car clubs, pretty car show models, accessories, parts and services will be at your fingertips if you come over. Remember, it all starts when you come to the World Trade Center Philippines on the 18th of September. Be with the world's best car manufacturers even by staying in one place and you'll see what the Philippine International Motor Show is all about!

For more information about their event:

5th International Motor Show

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Visit their official website

http://www.campiauto.org

The Importance of Automobile Repair and Education

Cars have been one of the things we always dream of. It's one of those high ticket items that you thought would celebrate your social status and get you where you want to go. Although these days; owning one has become a necessity. When you get it we don't expect the actual cost of logistics and maintenance and think that everything will be perfect. If there was something I learned about the hard way in owning one this would be it. The short drives to and from the office that I do always was smooth until the car broke down in the middle of the road. I didn't know panic until that day boy was it a great big introduction. It got stuck in a main thoroughfare and people were already honking in every direction. I did not know who to call since I was totally clueless about car repair. When I thought that was enough; my cell phone battery also went dead. This was one of those days when you wish it shouldn't have happened. The situation called for an expert and I almost ran out of luck. Good thing a friend saw me there and immediately went out of his way to help me put the car at the side of the road; and eventually get some help.

The car was pulled out and I had to go back to work. I talked to the technicians and they said I need to have the car diagnosed to see why it wouldn't start. I know it was going to be expensive but I had no idea what would be the justifiable price range. It was the first time I was going to do this and I did not want to be charged incorrectly for it. There are several shops within my area but since I had warranty they got my 2003 Toyota PRIUS sent to the actual manufacturer. The repair estimate was done fast after that and it would have cost me a fortune if not for the warranty they employed. I was so glad they covered it otherwise I wouldn't have the funds to spend for that. Finally; luck was able to catch up with me.

That was the time that I knew I had to learn a thing or two about how to fix things. If you go out totally clueless about something that you own there would come a time that you would need a whole car encyclopedia to understand things. Good thing there are reputable sites like REPAIRPAL.COM that you can look at when you need all the help you can get. Check them out if you need help about repair estimates, car terminology that you need to understand or simply get someone to help you within your area. It's a good thing!





Disclosure Policy

Jazzing Up My TOYOTA!

I have been contemplating on purchasing another truck or car these days because I am in dire need of something that would be able to outperform my old one from MITSUBISHI. The old one however has been very dependable on out of town trips and can accommodate big bodied passengers like my family where almost everyone is over 200 pounds. One important criterion even then was legroom and its look. I don t really settle for the ordinary stock car and I try my best to make it more adept to the trend most customization shops do. I plan to get a TOYOTA CAMRY so I have something to use if I m going out at night. Toyota accessories will be a priority so I could begin to jazz it up. I would not want it to look like the stock cars of course! It will show up in one of our conversations over dinner and I m sure my brother would hate it if I did not do it. It is a little urgent too because I need it for work and my hobby of photography. It’s just that our house is a little cramped because of the vehicles we have parked inside. We might need to tear down the room downstairs so we have ample amount of car parking space. The location where I live unfortunately has some problem with security. My Uncle just a few months ago lost his pick up truck and has never been seen until now. He got a new one and it’s a TOYOTA too. I would gladly buy him accessories from on line stores like CARID.COM so at least he has something to be thankful about that incident.

I would really love getting this new ride as soon as I get my hands on my annual bonus. I’ll dedicate a whole day for that too! I'm going to start looking for that TOYOTA now!