Zigwheels weekly wrap: Jan. 12-16

MANILA: The local automotive industry is once again abuzz with model launches and players boasting the fuel economy of popular nameplates that participated in the most-recent drive staged by the Department of Energy and Petron. 

In the global arena, the same tune can be noticed with multiple manufacturers presenting new models at various auto shows. 

That said, here are the biggest news stories that transpired this week. 

Local launches 

Mazda CX-60 

Mazda Philippines — under the leadership of Bermaz Auto Philippines —  has updated the CX-60 sport utility vehicle (SUV). The focus on the upgrades for the model leans more towards performance with the addition of softer rear springs, new bump stops, and dampers, as well as firmer front suspensions, and relocated front knuckle mounts. 

It also gets recalibrated steering and stability systems to improve overall balance. 

The new Mazda CX-60 is available in two trims, fueled by either gasoline or diesel. 

Mitsubishi Triton 

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation has released a new variant of the Triton one-ton pickup truck. 

Slotting as an entry-level grade, the new trim is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged diesel engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Creature comfort and convenience appointments come in the form of an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen with a reverse camera, hard plastic surfaces, and fabric upholstery. 

It is available in the following hues: 

• Blade Silver Metallic
• White Diamond
• Graphite Gray Metallic
• Jet Black Mica
• Red Solid 

Changan CS15 

Holding the fort for Chinese brands is the newly-launched Changan CS15. 

Considered a refreshed iteration, the new model boasts a multi-dimensional rhombic grille and 17-inch alloy wheels in gunmetal. 

Other notable ones include automatic halogen headlights with LED daytime running lights, a moonroof, functional satin silver-colored roof rails, and rear fog lamps. 

Interior amenities include a multi-functional leather steering wheel, as well as a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. 

Other stories: Yamaha Motor to improve Japan HQ with 2 new facilities Honda rolls out CB750 Hornet with E-Clutch VinFast launches 4 e-scooter models

Other local stories 

Aside from product launches some brands proudly posted the fuel economy ratings achieved by their respective offerings. 

For example, Hongqi Philippines noted that the EHS7, EH7, EHS9 AWD variants record above 40.57 kilometers per liter of gasoline equivalent (km/Lge) readings. Meanwhile, Isuzu Philippines Corporation’s D-Max, muX ratings went as high as 17.11 km/Lge.

Other news stories include Autohub being named the local distributor for Deepal cars and ACMobility mounting the first ‘Kia Movement’ for 2026. 

Global buzz 

Major stories also happened around the globe, beginning with Kia launching the all-new EV2 at the 2026 Brussels Motor Show. Mitsubishi will now start producing the next-generation Nissan Navara and Rogue plug-in hybrid models at its Thailand and Japan factories. 

Geely Auto has introduced its latest advancement in advanced driver assist systems and artificial intelligence at the Consumer Electronics Show 2026, while Hyundai rolled out an all-electric version of the Staria van.  

Toyota revealed that it is implementing new safety features to combat vehicle theft in Australia, while Honda bared its plans to adopt a new emblem for future cars. 

Also read:

Zigwheels PH wrap: vehicles we’re excited to see this 2026

Zigwheels PH monthly wrap: December 2025

Zigwheels PH wrap: local vehicle launches that defined 2025

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