Turbo Zone

Hyundai seems to be really stepping up its game for the coming years, not only aiming to grab market share from Japanese carmakers but also targeting the Euro brands.

Recently, Hyundai Motor America CEO Dave Zuchowski revealed that the company is considering a new luxury model to be sold alongside the Genesis and Equus.

While he did not delve into specifics, Zuchowski said the company is weighing a “premium” car that will complete their triple threat in terms of rear-wheel drive models. Previous reports have indicated the company is developing a competitor to the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes C-Class. Reportedly codenamed RK, the model is slated to be launched in 2016 and feature a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.3-liter V6.

Do you think Hyundai’s foray into the luxury segment will be a hit? Comparing with the success of Samsung who was able to outdo electronics giant Sony and compete side-by-side with Apple, the Koreans sure know what they are doing and seems to have discovered the right formula for success.

Today, February 18, marks a significant milestone in the motoring industry as it is the birthday of the legendary Enzo Ferrari.

A name so famous that even non-car guys know, Ferrari created exotic cars that most of us can only dream. He also ran a very successful Formula One team which he uses as a test bench for the technologies he develops for his road cars. Currently, the most expensive car ever sold at an auction or anywhere else in the world is a 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO with a hammer price of $52M.

That legend, the brand that bears his name, was originally founded as Alfa Romeo’s racing arm under Enzo’s charge. But when his position within the company was marginalized he left to set up his own shop. Unfortunately, due to contractual obligations he was prohibited from building his own cars for four years at which point WWII was raging and his company had to produce war materiel for the fascist Italian government.

Finally, in 1947, Enzo launched the company that would, over time, become one of the most successful auto-racing manufacturers and recognized brands in the world. Their trophy case includes fourteen Le Mans victories (overall and class), over two hundred Formula One wins including sixteen constructors championships, and multiple privateer wins in several types of auto racing. Additionally, Ferrari is the only racing firm to compete continuously in F1 since 1950.

And although the road cars were always a means for Enzo to finance his racing program, their stylish exteriors, designed primarily by Pininfarina as well as Zagato and Bertone, are some of the most sensuous shapes ever crafted, helping to elevate the marque beyond the realm of mere transportation. Whether talking about a little Barchetta, elegant Spyder or hard-charging Boxer, the cavallino rampante in the grille speaks to taste, style and race-bred technology.

If we are to write a birthday tribute for Mr. Ferrari, it would go something as simple like this: Thank you Enzo – you are the sole reason why we think sports cars should only be colored RED.

Last February 14, 2014, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. and Nissan Motorsports International Co., Ltd. announced an outline of its motorsports activities for 2014. It includes: entry in the Le Mans 24 Hours (Garage 56) with the world’s fastest electric-powered car, the NISSAN ZEOD RC, participation in the GT500 class of the new 2014 SUPER GT series with the NISSAN GT-R NISMO GT500, global support with NISSAN GT-R NISMO GT3 for customer racing and expansion of the Nismo Athlete program.

With the “new” Nissan Philippines launching its official operations in barely two weeks, will global Nissan’s active engagement in motorsports halo locally?

In particular, it would be exciting if Nissan Philippines adapt a local version of the Nismo/Nissan Global Driver Development Program if they really want to rebuild the image of Nissan. This will also bring Nissan back in the motorsports scene in the country, which is currently being dominated by Honda and Toyota. Chevrolet and Hyundai became active in motorsports which greatly helped in rebuilding their brand.

In its commitment to nurture and promote young drivers, the Nismo Global Driver Exchange started in 2013. This year, the program takes a dramatic step forward with full season exchanges for two Nismo drivers. Inaugural Nissan GT Academy winner Lucas Ordonez will race in the home of PlayStation as he participates in SUPER GT’s GT300 class, while NDDP participant Katsumasa Chiyo will contest the entire Blancpain Endurance Series. In addition, selected Nismo athletes will participate in the new TUDOR United SportsCar Championship in the United States.

What do you think, Kapuso? Do you agree that motorsports will be a vital strategic activity to uplift the Nissan brand image in the Philippines?

Select model year 2011, 2012 and 2013 Volvos are up for grabs this February. As the year turned, Volvo Philippines extends a generous acquisition package for those brand new units. Get as much as PHP1,300,000.00* in savings while enjoying the perks of a luxurious ride and drive.

Smart Performance
Each Volvo is designed to deliver maximum power at less fuel cost. That is why a host of fuel efficient petrol and diesel engines are available to choose from. These engines are engineered to deliver power and torque at all revs. Features such as the Dynamic Stability and Traction Control with Advanced Stability Control give these Volvos a more dynamic ride and feel. Corner Traction helps the driver turn through those tight corners with ease.

Smart Comfort
The ergonomic seats, allergy tested interiors, minimalist yet functional design add to the sophisticated look and the over-all comfort of every Volvo. Complementing these are smart features like the Volvo Sensus, a user-friendly system that allows customization of in-car information and entertainment settings at a touch of a button located at the center console and via the steering wheel.

Smart Safety
Allowing the driver to have more fun behind the wheel is the fact that each Volvo is wrapped with world-renowned safety and support systems such as City Safety. Imagine having the ability to detect slow-moving or stationary vehicles in front and apply full automatic braking force when needed. That is preventing accidents from happening in the first place – a testament to Volvo’s commitment to zero accidents in the future.

Smart Ownership
Good performance, modern design and world-leading safety innovations are packed inside a car that is designed around people. Now, in a rare and exclusive offer, drive home the Volvo of your choice through Volvo PH’s Model Turnover Season Offer.

It is about time to change the way we think about luxury. Visit Volvo Makati, Volvo Alabang, Volvo North EDSA or Volvo Cebu dealerships to know more about this rare and exclusive offer.

As if it’s possible, the urban jungle otherwise known as Metro Manila is expected to be more chaotic than ever.

Traffic congestion will likely be in a whole different level when construction of the government’s major infrastructure project, Skyway Project Stage 3, commences tonight at 10PM.

Already dubbed as “traffic armaggedon,” the construction is forecasted to increase an additional one hour traveling time.

The project, which aims to complete the Metro Manila Skyway System from Alabang to Balintawak, is a 14.8-kilometer elevated expressway envisioned to — ironically — decongest traffic in Metro Manila. It also targets to shorten travel time from Buendia to Balintawak to 20 minutes, Makati to Quezon City to 15 minutes; Makati to Manila to 10 minutes, and Makati to Sta. Mesa to 5 minutes.

For now, though, motorists have to endure a traffic jam likely to last for 2 years.

The MMDA has proposed a number of cutting measures, such as cutting school days to 4 a week. Aside from this, the MMDA proposed flexible working times, 24 hour construction on projects and the limiting of trucks to midnight travel. There will also be areas where motorists will only be allowed to use two lanes. A rerouting scheme is already being put in place in areas that will be affected.

How about you, Kapuso? Any suggestions on how to bear the anticipated congestion?

(With reports from GMA News Online)