Zigwheels weekly wrap-up: May 5-9

MANILA: This week in motoring sees the return of the Auto Focus Summer Test Drive Festival (AFSTDF) where eventgoers can check out the latest offerings from some of the country’s top automakers. 

Likewise, some brands — one motorcycle company included — have launched notable models. 

In addition, we will look into a newly-opened dealership and a freshly-forged partnership that will see a more flexible way of renting cars in the Philippines. 

So, without further ado, here are the top stories in the Philippine automotive industry this week. 

AFSTDF returns this weekend 

The annual AFSTDF returns this weekend at the SM Mall of Asia Open Grounds. 

Until May 11, car buyers will be able to check out a handful of vehicles that could become their next rides. Even better is that attendees can test drive the cars that pique their interests — providing them an immersive experience before they decide to splash the cash. 

Know more about it, here. 

Further, here are some of the brands (and their respective showcases) that are participating in the event: 

Hyundai 

Hyundai Motor Philippines Incorporated brought its new Elantra lineup to the AFSTDF 2025. 

Customers can test drive the Hyundai Elantra N Line, Hybrid, and GL trims — allowing them the chance to understand what every trim has to offer and which variant would suit them best. 

Alongside the new Hyundai Elantra roster are the following nameplates: 

• Santa Fe Hybrid
• Tucson Hybrid
• Stargazer X
• Staria
• Custin

Full dispatch, here. 

MG

The local wing of Morris Garages (MG) is showcasing its diverse powertrain offerings at the summer test drive fair. These include cars running on pure internal combustion power, all-electric propulsion, and hybrid configuration. 

Per the brand, here are the following cars available for test drives: 

• MG 3 Hybrid+
• MG 4 Electric
• MG ZS EV
• MG One
• MG GT
• MG ZS
• MG G50 Plus

You can read the full story, here. 

Mitsubishi 

As for Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation, the local subsidiary of the Japanese marque is fielding the below nameplates: 

• All-new Xforce
• Triton
• Xpander
• Montero Sport

Found, here, is the full story. 

Toyota 

Enthusiasts who love race-ready cars straight out of the factory will enjoy Toyota Motor Philippines’ booth this weekend as the local arm of the Japanese brand has brought the updated GR (Gazoo Racing) Yaris hatchback. 

Attendees can check out the car, which will be on display until the end of the four-day show. 

Car buyers who are looking for business partners can also check out the next-generation Toyota Tamaraw, which will be available for test drives. 

Check out the full news article, here. 

Local launches 

This week, some car brands also launched various models. Joining them is a Japanese motorcycle company who “silently” released one of its beloved nameplates. 

Mercedes-Benz E-Class PHEV, GLC 350e

Mercedes-Benz Philippines, under the stewardship of Inchcape Philippines, continued to widen its new-energy vehicle lineup with the introduction of the E-Class plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) and GLC 350e. 

Both vehicles produce the following figures: 

Maximum output (in horsepower)	204
Maximum torque (in Newton-meters)	320

 

You can check out the full story, here. 

Ford Everest Sport SE, Ranger Sport SE 

Ford Philippines has released two special edition models of the Everest sport utility vehicle and the Ranger pickup truck. 

Dubbed the Ford Everest Sport Special Edition and the Ranger Sport Special Edition, these new models have been slapped with additional cosmetic appointments so they walk out more stylish of the dealership. 

Nothing has changed for both the nameplates in terms of their powertrain specifications. 

You can read the story, here. 

Yamaha Motor PH updates XMax 

Yamaha Motor Philippines silently updated the XMax nameplate, providing it with mild upgrades in the form of an electronically-adjustable windscreen and a redesigned instrument panel. 

The new Yamaha XMax — which still sports the same liquid-cooled, four-stroke, four-valve, single overhead cam 292-cubic centimeter engine — is priced at P311,000. 

Complete dispatch can be found, here. 

Other stories this week 

Aside from new product launches, other brands were busy this week doing the below activities. 

BYD opens 1st dealership in Cavite 

BYD Cars Philippines has set foot in Cavite by opening its first dealership in the area at Bacoor. 

The new facility can offer visitors a complete experience with a seven-car showroom, a beautiful reception area, and well-equipped service bays. 

You can find out more about what the new dealership has to offer by clicking this story link, here. 

Toyota cars now available for rent via Joyride 

Drivers can now rent Toyota cars via the Joyride app. 

The Japanese brand has struck a collaboration with the ride-hailing company allowing app users to select various nameplates from the brand. 

Here is a more detailed look at the story. 

Also read:

Isuzu PH breaks ground for soon-to-rise 50th dealership

GWM PH surpasses Apr. 2025 sales target by 125%

BMW to hold ‘Festival of Deals’ this month

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