Suzuki displays Kizashi Sports concept car

Suzuki,PIMS 2010Suzuki Philippines president Satoshi Uchida led the unveiling of the Kizashi Sports concept car at the recently-concluded 3rd Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) held at the World Trade Center in Pasay City last August 19 to 22, 2010.


Unveiled at the New York Auto Show 2008, the Kizashi Sports concept car is the final version of the Kizashi concept car series, with the production model due for release this 2010 in other countries.

Suzuki,PIMS 2010
In Japanese, kizashi means “a sign of great things to come” — signifying the unparalleled combination of driver satisfaction, looks and quality of Suzuki’s new flagship model as it breaks into the executive car segment with a completely new type of sedan.

Set up as a lounge with a relaxed atmosphere, the Suzuki display was manned by friendly sales executives from the different Suzuki dealerships.  Featured were the bestselling Suzuki Celerio, Swift and APV Type II, as well as the Grand Vitara 4 x 2, and the newly-launched SX4 Aero and SX4 Crossover.  Motor show guests were also given the opportunity to test drive the SX4 Crossover, APV Type II, Celerio and Swift at the outdoor test drive area.

Suzuki,PIMS 2010During the opening day, guests were welcomed to the exhibit with a teaser video about the Kizashi concept car.  This was formally unveiled during the second day in  ceremonies witnessed by motoring media, dealer principals, and true-blue Suzuki fans.  Cocktail food and sparkling wine were served.

Suzuki,PIMS 2010Suzuki guests were treated to free-flowing Boyds Coffee freshly made onsite using the Expresso Cart that was set up within the booth. Boyds Coffee Co. (Phils.) can trace its humble beginnings to the San Francisco Coffee & Roastery, which ventured into a business partnership with Boyds USA, a pioneer in the American food service industry with a century of coffee roasting and brewing experience. Today, it has established a significant presence in the Philippine coffee industry, continuing its tradition of providing Fresh Roasted Coffee and Total Coffee Solutions designed specifically for each client’s needs.

Suzuki,PIMS 2010Completing the ambiance of the Suzuki display were the comfortable and ergonomic seating and lounge furniture provided by ERGO Contracts Philippines, Inc., (ECPI) the licensed manufacturer of Ergo Products. Established in 1985, ECPI is the pioneer in manufacturing ergonomic chairs in the country, whose product line also includes office furniture, movable storage systems, doors, raised flooring, fabrics, carpets and display systems, making it a one-stop shop.

Suzuki,PIMS 2010Relive everyday the Suzuki Motorshow experience.  Visit any of their 18 dealerships nationwide to see their complete line-up of Suzuki vehicles, schedule a test drive or even inquire about their attractive financing schemes for new car purchases.   

New AVT Navigator GPS devices launched

AVT, the premiere provider of trendsetting, high-quality mobile audio-video  systems, recently launched three new models of its AVT Navigator GPS devices at the 3rd Philippine International Motor Show, held from August 19 to 22, 2010 at the World Trade Center, Manila.

AVT has the distinction of being the first to introduce a portable navigation system in the Philippines, and is the only GPS device with extensive local support for updated maps of Metro Manila as well as key cities and major travel destinations.  Its subsidiary company, iNAV, has a team devoted exclusively to updating and verifying maps loaded on the AVT Navigator devices.

Giving Filipino motorists more options in their choice of GPS device, the entry level AVT Navigator PN-301 has a 3.5-inch color touch screen, and is powered by a Sirf Atlas IV 500MHZ processor with Microsoft Windows CE 6.0 operating system.  It has a built-in speaker and features USB 2.0 ActiveSync support.

The mid-range AVT Navigator PN-401 has a 4.3-inch color touch screen display, and runs on a Sirf Atlas V533MHZ processor with Windows CE 6.0.  It also has a built-in speaker and support for USB 2.0 connectivity.

The new AVT Navigator PN-501 features the latest navigation technology, with the Sirf Atlas IV 500MHZ central processor and Microsoft Windows CE 6.0 operating system.  In addition to its highly sensitive GPS receiver, it has a 5-inch color touch screen, built-in speaker, bluetooth connectivity and an FM modulator.

The AVT Navigator product line-up is available at leading automotive dealers nationwide at very affordable prices.  Visitors to the AVT booth at the 3rd Philippine International Motor Show were treated to a special introductory discount, coupled with an interest-free installment plan on credit card purchases.

AVT navigation devices have received the thumbs-up from leading local car manufacturers, and is factory-installed as OEM (original equipment manufacturer) for high-end models such as the Ford Everest, Nissan Patrol and Nissan Xtrail, Mitsubishi Galant,  Isuzu Alterra, Hyundai Starex Limousine, and other vehicles.

Aside from the latest navigation hardware, the  AVT Navigator product line-up is supported by a dedicated local iNAV team to ensure accurate and updated local maps.  Comprehensive iNAV map coverage now includes 95,000 points of interest and close to 100% of road networks for Metro Manila, as well as updated maps for over 200 key cities and municipalities in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.  Updates are released regularly, and may be done at participating car dealers.  AVT Navigator owners are assured of free update support for at least two years.

AVT navigation systems project team leader William Chong, who is intimately involved in the development process notes, "Our company was the first to make a strategic commitment to a Philippine-based GPS navigation system.  First, we are making a continued investment in product R&D  to ensure that our AVT Navigator devices have the latest available technology comparable to global standards.  Second, through the iNAV, we have made a major long-term investment in our proprietary software and navigation technology to ensure the most accurate and updated maps.  With our dedicated mapping team, we have people on the ground all over the country, continuously updating our map information.  We believe it is this commitment to local support that sets us apart from other brands.  Filipino IT workers are valued all over the globe for their technical skills and creative solutions — we are harnessing this talent to create the leading GPS navigation system customized for Philippine road conditions.”

AVT (which stands for Audio-Video Technology) specializes in premium audio-visual entertainment systems for mobile applications.  It offers a wide range of in-car mobile electronics, including display monitors, DVD players, digital and analog terrestrial receivers, sound processor/high-power amplifiers, specialist speakers, and AV controllers and accessories to suit all types of in-vehicle installations.  For the mobile entertainment market, it also carries all-in-one LCD DVD players in various screen sizes to meet every budget and application.  Aside from consumer products which retail in car dealer accessories shops, AVT is also an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for many of the country’s leading car brands.  AVT is powered by iNAV, a subsidiary company dedicated to provided mapping support exclusively for AVT navigation devices.  For more information, visit www.avt.ph.

Suzuki Kizashi concept car in CAMPI motorshow

As part of its participation in the upcoming CAMPI motorshow, Suzuki Philippines will be showcasing the Kizashi Sports concept car.  Themed “Drive the Green Road,” CAMPI’s 3rd Philippine International Motorshow is scheduled at the World Trade Center in Pasay City. from August 19 to 22, 2010, 

Unveiled at the New York Auto Show 2008, the Kizashi Sports concept car is the final version of the Kizashi concept car series, with the production model due for release this 2010 in other countries.

In Japanese, kizashi means “a sign of great things to come” — signifying the unparalleled combination of driver satisfaction, looks and quality of Suzuki’s new flagship model as it breaks into the executive car segment with a completely new type of sedan.

Suzuki Philippines,Suzuki Kizashi,PIMS 2010
The development concept behind the Suzuki Kizashi was to create an emotionally appealing sedan for active people, emphasizing five key points:  (1) exterior sportiness combined with interior elegance; (2) European-tuned handling; (3) smoothness and quietness; (4) superior engine performance and fuel efficiency; and (5) stability through Suzuki’s i-AWD system for 4WD model.

Developed for the global market, Suzuki engineers tested and tuned the Kizashi to handle diverse driving conditions such as the cold weather trials in Minnesota, hot weather trials in Death Valley.  The brakes were tuned in the Swiss Alps; handling was perfected on challenging country roads in the United Kingdom, and on the autobahns and the Nurburgring in Germany.  The i-AWD system was tested in New Zealand.

In its exterior design, the Suzuki Kizashi achieves a seamless meld European styling and Japanese craftsmanship.  Its bold, aggressive stance is complemented by 18-inch aluminum wheels for a contemporary look that bespeaks sophistication and performance.

Suzuki Philippines,Suzuki Kizashi,PIMS 2010
Suzuki’s expertise in compact-car space efficiency is reflected in the optimized roominess of the cabin interior, enriched with high-quality upholstery, elegant instrument panel, and automatic airconditioning system.

The Suzuki Kizashi available abroad is powered by a 2.4-li DOHC engine that delivers maximum power of 185hp/6500rpm and torque of 170lb.ft/4000rpm, mated to either a CVT (completely variable transmission) or a 6-speed manual transmission.  However, only the automatic transmission variant will be available for local distribution.  Moreover, reinforced McPherson-strut front suspensions and multilink rear suspensions deliver nimble handling with excellent stability.

Outstanding safety technologies have also been built into the Suzuki Kizashi.  These include daytime running lights, anti-lock brakes, electronic braking force distribution, and tire pressure monitoring.  Suzuki’s proprietary TECT (Total Effective Control Technology) concept was applied in the reinforced body design.

Suzuki Philippines,Suzuki Kizashi,PIMS 2010
Filipino motoring enthusiasts are sure to have a treat when they visit the Suzuki display at the 3rd Philippine International Motorshow at the World Trade Center from August 19-22, 2010. Also featured on display are their bestsellers namely the Suzuki Celerio, Swift, APV Type 2 and their newly-launched SX4 Aero and SX4 Crossover models.

Book on Philippine Institutions Examines Key Reforms

The commitment of President Benigno S. Aquino III to fight corruption and promote good governance is essentially a question of rebuilding institutions. Tackling the definition of institutions as well as the state of the Philippine economy and politics, the book Philippine Institutions: Growth and Prosperity for All,  was launched last August 4, 2010, at the Sining Kamalig Art Gallery, Gateway Mall, Quezon City.   

This volume underscores the decisive role of institutions at this moment and for the long run to achieve prosperity for all. It wants to create a sense of urgency to tackle the reforms of political and economic institutions, considering the cooptation or subversion of institutional forms and arrangements during the past administration. The book also recognizes the interaction of institutions and policies, and attempts to propose policies that not only address the current development obstacles but also have a long-lasting impact on institutions.

There is a diverse gathering of contributors for this volume, well-known in their respective fields which range from economics to law and governance, among others. The contributors are Michael M. Alba on institutional change, Joseph Anthony Y. Lim on the macro-economy, Raul Pangalangan on judicial reforms, Gilberto Llanto and Eduardo Gonzalez on policy reforms,  Nepomuceno A. Malaluan and Solomon F. Lumba on the exercise of executive power, Maita Gomez on fiscal policy, Filomeno S. Sta. Ana III on the exchange rate policy, Yusuf Abu-Bakr Ledesma on the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program, Jessica Reyes-Cantos on rice security, Rene R. Raya on education reforms, Eddie Dorotan on good governance, Rene E. Ofreneo on migration and development, and Jenina Joy Chavez on regional cooperation.

Economic Planning Secretary Cayetano Paderenga has said that the book should be required reading in undergraduate and graduate courses in economics.  The book is published by Action for Economic Reforms (AER), with Filomeno Sta. Ana III as editor.  It is  available at leading bookstores. 

AER has several publications lined up, one of which is a book on legal barriers to investments in the Philippines, due for release soon.

New AVT Navigator models launched

Special reduced price promo at the 3rd Philippine International Motor Show


TSL Marketing,AVT,AVT PN501
AVT, the premiere provider of trendsetting, high-quality mobile audio-video  systems, is releasing three new models for its range of AVT Navigator GPS devices with significant hardware and software upgrades, at the 3rd Philippine International Motor Show scheduled from August 19 to 22, 2010, at the World Trade Center along Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City.

Introduced in early 2009, the Philippines’ first portable GPS navigation system has gained strong market acceptance and is the only GPS device with extensive local support for updated maps of Metro Manila and many of the country’s key cities and major travel destinations.  iNAV, a subsidiary company, is devoted exclusively to updating and verifying the maps loaded on AVT navigation devices.

The new AVT Navigator PN-501 features the latest navigation technology, with the Sirf Atlas IV 500MHZ central processor and Microsoft Windows CE 6.0 operating system.  In addition to its highly sensitive GPS receiver, it has a 5-inch color touch screen, built-in speaker, bluetooth connectivity and an FM modulator.

The new AVT Navigator PN-401 has a Sirf Atlas V 533MHZ processor and Windows CE 6.0 operating system.  It has a 4.3-inch color touch screen display, built-in speaker, and support for high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity.

Finally, the entry –level AVT Navigator PN-301 is powered by a Sirf Atlas IV 500MHZ processor and Microsoft Windows CE 6.0 operating system.  Its display is a 3.5-inch color touch screen, and it also has a speaker and USB 2.0 ActiveSync support.

The AVT Navigator product line-up is available at leading automotive dealers nationwide at very affordable prices.  As a special introductory offer, visitors to the AVT booth at the 3rd Philippine International Motor Show will be able to purchase the AVT Navigator at special discounted prices.   Making it even easier on the pocket, buyers can charge the purchase to their credit card for up to 12-months with 0%-interest.  

AVT navigation devices have received the thumbs-up from leading local car manufacturers, and is factory-installed as OEM (original equipment manufacturer) for high-end models such as the Ford Everest, Nissan Patrol and Nissan Xtrail, Mitsubishi Galant,  Isuzu Alterra, Hyundai Starex Limousine, and other vehicles.  

Aside from the latest navigation hardware, the  AVT Navigator product line-up is supported by a dedicated local iNAV team to ensure accurate and updated local maps.  Comprehensive iNAV map coverage now includes 86,000 points of interest and close to 100% of road networks for Metro Manila, as well as updated maps for over 200 key cities and municipalities in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.  Updates are released regularly, and may be done at participating car dealers.  AVT Navigator owners are assured of free update support for at least two years.

AVT navigation systems project team leader William Chong, who is intimately involved in the development process notes, "Our company was the first to make a strategic commitment to a Philippine-based GPS navigation system.  First, we are making a continued investment in product R&D  to ensure that our AVT Navigator devices have the latest available technology comparable to global standards.  Second, through the iNAV, we have made a major long-term investment in our proprietary software and navigation technology to ensure the most accurate and updated maps.  With our dedicated mapping team, we have people on the ground all over the country, continuously updating our map information.  We believe it is this commitment to local support that sets us apart from other brands.  Filipino IT workers are valued all over the globe for their technical skills and creative solutions — we are harnessing this talent to create the leading GPS navigation system customized for Philippine road conditions.”
TSL Marketing,AVT
AVT (which stands for Audio-Video Technology) specializes in premium audio-visual entertainment systems for mobile applications.  It offers a wide range of in-car mobile electronics, including display monitors, DVD players, digital and analog terrestrial receivers, sound processor/high-power amplifiers, specialist speakers, and AV controllers and accessories to suit all types of in-vehicle installations.  For the mobile entertainment market, it also carries all-in-one LCD DVD players in various screen sizes to meet every budget and application.  Aside from consumer products which retail in car dealer accessories shops, AVT is also an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for many of the country’s leading car brands.   iNAV is a subsidiary company dedicated to providing mapping support exclusively for AVT navigation devices.  For more information, visit www.avt.ph.

Suzuki to unveil concept car at CAMPI motorshow

Filipino motoring enthusiasts are sure to have a treat when they visit the Suzuki display at the 3rd Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) at the World Trade Center from August 19-22, 2010.

With the theme Drive the Green Road, the motorshow will feature more than 20 global auto brands, and will focus on the need to pursue significant programs in lowering vehicle emissions as well as the use of alternative energy sources for vehicles.

According to Suzuki president Satoshi Uchida, “We are looking forward to participating in the 3rd Philippine International Motor Show.  Aside from showcasing our bestsellers and newly-launched vehicles, we will also be unveiling a concept car that has been getting raves abroad.”

The highlight of the Suzuki set-up will be a concept car which will be unveiled on August 20, the second day of the motorshow.  According to Suzuki insiders, the concept car is Suzuki’s first foray into the executive car segment which, following excellent market response,  is being launched as a production model across several countries.  

Developed for the global market, the Kizashi was tested to handle diverse driving conditions such as extreme cold weather in Minnesota and hot weather trials in Death Valley.  The brakes were tuned in the Swiss Alps; handling was perfected on challenging country roads in the United Kingdom, as well as on the autobahns and the Nurburgring in Germany.  The i-AWD system was tested in New Zealand.  

The Suzuki display will also feature Suzuki’s popular models — the Celerio, Swift, Grand Vitara, and APV Type II.   The recently-launched  SX4 Aero and SX4 Crossover will also be on display, to give motoring fans a chance to view thse exciting new entries in Suzuki’s model line-up.  Strategically located close to the exit that leads to the tent area, the booth will be a sure crowd-drawer with exciting freebies offered for inquiries and special gifts for customers who avail of a test drive as well as  on the-spot reservations.  Enthusiasts who merely want a photo-op will also be able to take great beauty shots as gorgeous models add glamor to the vehicle display.

Suzuki automobiles enjoy a niche following among local car aficionados, and have earned accolades despite their relatively recent entry in the Philippine market.  The  Suzuki Celerio M/T posted the lowest fuel consumption of 34.34-km per liter in the 2009 E10 Fuel Economy Run of the Department of Energy.  More recently, it was named C! Magazine Mini-compact Car of the Year 2010.  It garnered the Best Value for Money Award in the 2009 Car of the Year (COTY) awards given by the Car Awards Group Inc. (CAGI). The Suzuki APV Type II was named the 2009 Best Compact People Carrier by C! Magazine.

Suzuki Celerio is C! Magazine Mini-Compact Car for 2010

Mr. Satoshi Uchida, president of Suzuki Philippines, receives the 2010 Mini-Compact Car Award for the Suzuki Celerio during the recent 4th Annual C! Awards, held last 18 July 2010.  The Suzuki Celerio also hold the best record in fuel efficiency, achieving 34.34 km/li in the 2009 Fuel Economy Run of the Department of Energy.

Suzuki APV GA: The ideal all-purpose business vehicle

Quietly making its mark as an excellent light commercial vehicle which can serve the diverse needs of a thriving business, the Suzuki APV GA definitely merits a closer look from enterprising businessmen looking for an excellent value proposition, balancing both affordability and durability in the perfect all-purpose business vehicle. 

The Suzuki APV GA is powered by an SOHC 16-valve engine with multi-point injection and distributor-less ignition system.  Mated to a 5-gear manual transmission, it delivers a maximum output of 91hp @ 5750rpm and maximum torque of 127Nm @ 4500rpm, definitely sufficient power for carrying a full load of passengers or cargo, while optimizing fuel economy.

The Suzuki APV GA has a three-row seating configuration.  With split-fold and tumble specifications for the middle and bench-type seating for the last row, seating and luggage space can be configured as needed.  As a people-mover, it can accommodate up to eight passengers; as a cargo van, there is room for as much as two large balikbayan boxes and other oddly-shaped payloads.  It can haul even more cargo if the second row is also folded.

Power rack and pinion steering improve the driveability of the Suzuki APV GA.  To ensure riding comfort, it is equipped with McPherson strut and coil spring front suspensions paired with rigid axle and leaf spring rear suspensions.  Responsive ventilated front disk brakes and leading & trailing rear drum brakes make for a safer, more secure ride.  Other safety features include two 3-point ELR seatbelts for all three rows, plus a center lapbelt for the second and third row seats.  A third brake lamp is also standard.

The value proposition for the Suzuki APV GA is enhanced by convenience features such as an audio system with an AM/FM tuner and in-dash CD player.  A powerful air-conditioner keeps the cabin cool for a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

The Suzuki APV GA is the perfect vehicle for those looking for a delivery van for a small business, a school bus, a guest shuttle for resorts, a fleet vehicle for utility companies, etc.  Perhaps the final clincher for its buyers is its price point. Surprisingly affordable at only P565,000, this all-purpose business vehicle offers entrepreneurs and savvy businessmen a reliable workhorse that is backed by the quality assurance of a world-class vehicle manufacturer like Suzuki.

Suzuki Philippines is the only integrated automotive company in the country, offering passenger cars,  motorcycles and commercial vehicles in its model line-up. Suzuki automobiles are available through a network of 18 dealers nationwide.