Mercedes-Benz CLA (P3,190,000)
The German luxury auto brand released the all-new second-generation CLA four-door coupe. While it retains the familiar swoopy roofline, it gets sharper lines and a grille that now leans forward. If the previous model was sporty, this one looks even sportier. It inherits tech from its larger siblings, including a fully digital instrument cluster. For now, only the CLA 180 variant is offered. This premium FWD model is powered by a small displacement 1.3-liter turbocharged gasoline in-line-four mill, which produces 136 hp and 200Nm and is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Toyota Corolla Altis (starts at P999,000)
Toyota finally launched the much-anticipated all-new Corolla Altis. It features a sportier, more upmarket design reminiscent of the new Camry. It now rides on the Japanese carmaker’s new TNGA platform, which features a more sophisticated independent multi-link rear suspension. The standard variants get the familiar 121 hp 1.6-liter Dual VVT-i gasoline engine. But the big news is the introduction of the fuel efficient range-topping hybrid variant. The 1.8 V Hybrid is powered by a 1.8-liter gasoline mill paired to an electric motor, with a total system output of 121hp.
MG 5 (starts at P658,888)
The Covenant Car Company Incorporated recently unveiled its fourth MG model, the new MG 5 sedan. While it’s marketed as a subcompact, its physical size is that of a compact sedan. The 2,680mm wheelbase is advertised as the longest in its class. All variants get four-wheel disc brakes and standard driver and passenger airbags, while the range-topping trim gets side airbags. All variants are powered by a 1.5-liter gasoline lump that puts out 112 hp and 150Nm.
Audi A6
The all-new A6 has landed, and Audi’s midsize executive sedan inherits the new A8’s sportier, more angular styling. The low and wide single-frame grille and rear chrome bar accentuate the car’s width. The carmaker claims it’s the roomiest and widest in its segment. It features a digital gauge cluster and two central touchscreens. Under the hood of the new FWD A6 is a 2.0-liter TFSI turbocharged gasoline motor that produces 245hp and 370Nm.
Honda Accord (starts at P2,288,000)
Honda Philippines has pulled the wraps off the all-new Accord, the latest version of the Japanese carmaker’s popular midsize sedan. It now features a more cab-rearward design and a semi-fastback roofline, a styling direction first seen on the current Civic that not only makes it look more premium, it also adds sportiness back to Honda’s executive cruiser. The new Accord gets a new powerplant, a high-output 187hp version of the Civic’s 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline unit.
Geely Coolray (starts at P978,000)
Sojitz G Auto Philippines Corporation has relaunched the Geely brand in the country, and its first new model is the Coolray subcompact SUV. This little high rider features a stylish European-flavored exterior and interior. The Coolray’s safety features include six airbags, ABS, and electronic stability control—impressive for this segment. There are three variants and one engine option, a 175hp 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline three-banger.
Lexus RX (starts at P4,278,000)
In case you didn’t know, the RX is Lexus’s best-selling model. For 2020 it gets a mild update to keep it looking fresh. The highlight is the introduction of the extended three-row seven-seater RX350L variant. The RX350, RX350 F Sport, and RX450h hybrid complete the face-lifted range.
Mitsubishi L300 (starts at P804,000)
After a brief hiatus, the legendary L300 is back. Styling updates are limited to a new chrome grille and a restyled front bumper. To improve visibility, its cab has been raised by 100mm. The biggest news is its new Euro-4 compliant 2.2-liter oil-burner, a new CRDi unit that pumps out 98hp and 200Nm. Like before, its standard five-speed manual transmission is still operated via an old-school column shifter. Mitsubishi’s veteran workhorse comes in cab and chassis and FB van configurations.
