ZW weekly wrap: Apr. 20-24 

MANILA: With just a few weeks shy of the 2026 Manila International Auto Show’s (MIAS) conclusion, the seven-day period still saw a few model launches — continuing the momentum for the local auto industry. 

Nevertheless, we were treated to what can be considered a sneak peek of what could come to the country’s four- and two-wheel segments, thanks to the Land Transportation Office’s (LTO) suite of published homologation papers for various nameplates. 

We also reported on some of the newest releases globally, including the ongoing Auto China 2026. 

So sit back, and read through the abridged version of last week’s biggest automotive news stories, here at Zigwheels Philippines’ weekly wrap-up. 

Other stories: Hyundai unveils all-new Ioniq V Omoda & Jaecoo debuts 4 SHS-H Mercedes-Benz PH to bolster electric lineup with CLA 300L sedan?

Local launches 

Denza B5, B8 

Soon after their MIAS 2026 debut, Denza Philippines — BYD’s premium arm in the country — has unleashed the B5 and B8 luxury sport utility vehicles (SUV). 

The former uses a 1.5-liter hybrid powertrain system with two permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSM). The setup produces a total of 677 horsepower (hp) and 760 Newton-meters (Nm); or 268 hp and 360 Nm at the front wheels and 382 hp and 400 Nm at the rear wheel axle. 

On the other hand, the latter uses a 2.0-liter hybrid arrangement — also with two PMSM — to make a total of 603 horses and 760 Nm of pulling power; or 268 hp and 360 Nm at the front wheels and 402 hp and 400 Nm at the rear wheels. 

Price-wise, the Denza B5 costs P3.798 million, while the B8 will set buyers back anywhere from P4.998 million to P5.398 million. 

Zontes 150X, 703RR 

Bristol Motorcycles rolled out the Zontes 150X and 703RR bikes — signalling its foray into the Philippine commuter scooter and big bike segments. 

The Zontes 150X packs a 149.5-cubic-centimeter (cc) engine that makes 17.7 hp and 15.5 Nm. On the other hand, the 703RR uses a 699-cc powerplant that dishes out 95 hp and 75 Nm. 

The Zontes 150X costs P149,900, while the 703RR is priced at P498,800. 

Triumph Trident 800 

As for Triumph Philippines, the storied manufacturer has launched the Trident 800 in the country — bolstering the number of models competing in the country’s roadster segment. 

It is fitted with a 798-cc engine that produces 113 hp and 84 Nm, combining classic styling with modern power. 

For those interested, the Triumph Trident 800 has a sticker price of P649,000.

LTO homologation papers 

LTO is one of the agencies responsible for providing regulatory approval for internal combustion-powered vehicles for land travel. Hence, the country’s land transport bureau publishes homologation papers for models that are bound to make it to the country. 

One of these is the Suzuki Carry “troop carrier” “PV.” And while the files issued by LTO did not include specifics, our editorial team believes the “PV” could mean “patrol vehicle,” suited for carrying people or troops. 

And speaking of Suzuki, the company might soon be releasing the eVitara after LTO released homologation papers for the model. 

To note, the rebadged Suzuki eVitara (Toyota Urban Cruiser) was first released just a month after it got approval from the LTO. Our first look at the Urban Cruiser can be viewed in the video below: 

Motorcycle enthusiasts will also be excited by the paperwork published by the agency. 

For one, Honda Philippines Incorporated could be updating its CB500 roster. According to the data gathered by Zigwheels Philippines, the company is likely to update its two CB500F street-fighters and one CB500X adventure bike. 

Yamaha Motor Philippines, too, might upgrade the YZF-R1M based on the papers from LTO. 

Finally, Indian motorcycle brand TVS could be bringing the iQube to the country. Its arrival couldn’t come at a more fitting time as the country faces erratic fuel prices. Moreover, the company could be gearing up against the upcoming electric motorcycle assault from Vietnamese electric mobility titan VinFast. 

Lastly, Mercedes-Benz Philippines appears to be poised for an electric sedan launch after the LTO approved the sale of the CLA 300 L. It is an all-electric sedan sold in other countries like China. 

Global releases 

In global news, Honda Motor Company Limited has begun the sale of the Insight EV in Japan. On the other hand, Toyota has unleashed the bZ4X Touring trim in Australia. 

Meanwhile, GWM displayed the Ora 5 hybrid electric vehicle at Auto China 2026. It also unveiled the Wey V9X at the highly anticipated auto expo. 

Twin brands Omoda and Jaecoo debuted the 4 SHS-H at Auto China 2026, while Hyundai just unveiled the all-new Ioniq V at the same show. 

Finally, Nissan has unveiled the Terrano as a plug-in hybrid vehicle concept. 

Also read: 

Zigwheels weekly wrap: Feb. 16-20

Zigwheels weekly wrap: Feb. 9-13

Zigwheels weekly wrap: Mar. 9-13

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