Zigwheels PH weekly wrap: September 1-5

While September has yet to see local car launches, the automotive industry still went chugging along with plenty of new developments. The aforementioned also held true for the global scene, which saw one or two bombshells, especially for car enthusiasts. 

And of course, one of the largest car brands in the Philippine market also broke the news that it is indeed adding another hybrid vehicle to its already extensive line of electrified rides. 

So, without further ado, here’s what happened in the local and global automotive industry, as reported by Zigwheels Philippines. 

Local launches

Ford Everest Wildtrak

Ford Philippines has expanded the variant lineup of the Everest with the addition of the Wildtrak trim. The said variant is available in two versions: the 2.0 4x2 and the 2.0 bi-turbo 4x4. Pricing for the all-new Everest Wildtrak starts at P2.379 million. 

Read about the Ford Everest Wildtrak here.

Ready to purchase a brand new Ford Everest? Check out these exclusive offers from Zigwheels Philippines.

 

Global car launches

Toyota Hiace Australia updates

Toyota has provided significant updates for the Hiace in Australia. Specifically, the van’s Australia-spec commercial trims gained additional advanced driver-assist systems (ADAS), as well as more airbags. 

Learn more about the updated Toyota Hiace in Australia here.

Toyota RAV4 Australia

The next-generation Toyota RAV4 is primed to be launched in Australia. It will be available in front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD), while its top-spec GR Sport trim can produce up to 304 horsepower (hp). 

Learn more about the Toyota RAV4 here.

Honda Prelude in Japan

Honda has started the sales period for the Prelude in Japan. To note, the 2+2 coupe’s launch marks the nameplate’s return after a 24-year absence. No power figures were shared for now, but it uses a 2.0-liter e:HEV powertrain. 

Learn more about the Honda Prelude here.

Upcoming local launches

Toyota Ativ HEV

The Toyota Ativ hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) is coming to the Philippines. The aforementioned was initially shared with Zigwheels Philippines but was officially confirmed by Toyota Motor Philippines through a social media post. 

Learn more about the upcoming Toyota Ativ HEV here.

BYD Tang DM-i

In the first week of September, BYD Cars Philippines began to accept preorders for the upcoming Tang DM-i. No output figures for the vehicle are available for now, but it will have a combined (ICE and EV) range of up to 1,160 kilometers. 

Learn more about the upcoming BYD Tang DM-i here. 

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Local industry developments

 

In September, the local car and motorcycle industry saw some significant developments. First off is ACMobility’s slew of awards it received from local and global organizations. 

Yamaha Motor Philippines’ racing team likewise showed their grit and determination in the fourth round of the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC). The company also brought the “Star Youniqueness” campaign to Cebu. 

Meanwhile, Lexus Philippines, together with LuxuriPets, has set up a pop-up at Mitsukoshi Mall to the delight of pet owners. 

Toyota Motor Philippines also showcased the ability of the Tamaraw to meet the needs of micro, small, and medium enterprises at the 2025 Asia Food Expo at the World Trade Center, Pasay City. 

BMW Philippines, under the distributorship of SMC Asia Car Distributors Corporation, has gained Jacob Ang, the son of the chairman and chief executive officer of San Miguel Corporation, Ramon Ang, as its new president. 

And while the implementation of the Capital Markets Efficiency Promotion Act has already kicked in, Isuzu Philippines Corporation has managed to avoid a price increase for the D-Max. 

Honda Cars Philippines also shared that its stocks of the Civic Type R FL5 are now down to its last few units—the aforementioned ushers in the conclusion of the model’s availability in the market. 

Global industry developments

When it comes to global automotive industry developments, Hyundai kicks off September with its recent accolade as the top-ranked mass market brand for technology innovation in the 2025 J.D. Power TXI Study.

Porsche, on the other hand, announced that it is planning to introduce an upgraded version of the Macan next year. Specifically, it will be equipped with more assistive and digital features. 

Once again, in The Land Down Under, Toyota has revealed its first GR Supercar ahead of the 2026 Supercars Championship. 

VinFast, meanwhile, showcased the armored Lac Hong 900 LX and a lineup of custom-made VF 9 units during Vietnam’s National Day celebrations. 

BMW likewise shared that it has breached the 3-million new energy vehicle (NEV) sales mark. Its three millionth vehicle was a 3 Series PHEV. 

Mini also showcased two one-off John Cooper Works builds that it finished together with Australian custom motorcycle maker Deus Ex Machina. 

Also read:

Zigwheels PH monthly wrap: August 2025

Zigwheels PH weekly wrap: August 18-22

Zigwheels weekly wrap-up: August 11-15

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