Cars
K-style Street Star
Kia Philippines has rolled out a limited Sonet K-Style Edition, adding a Korean-inspired twist to its best-selling compact SUV for young and first-time car buyers in the country. The new variant is priced at Php 1,158,000 and is capped at only 150 units nationwide.
Launched under ACMobility, the mobility arm of Ayala Corporation, the Sonet K-Style Edition leans into Kia’s Korean roots and design-driven identity. It comes in two colors only, Sparkling Silver and Aurora Black, each paired with contrasting 16-inch alloy wheels.
Silver units get black wheels, while black units get silver wheels, giving the SUV a more standout, customized look. A K-Style side decal runs along the body to visually stretch the vehicle and highlight its sporty stance.
Under the hood, the Sonet K-Style Edition keeps the same 1.5-liter gasoline engine mated to an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). The setup aims to balance smooth acceleration with fuel-efficient running for daily traffic and weekend trips alike.
Inside, the cabin focuses on tech and convenience. The SUV is equipped with a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster, and an electric sunroof that brings more light into the interior. It also features Remote Keyless Entry and Remote Engine Start, allowing owners to unlock and start the vehicle with minimal effort.
For safety and driver assistance, the Sonet K-Style Edition is fitted with Kia DriveWise features such as Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Following Assist, and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist. These systems are designed to support the driver on longer journeys and in daily commutes. The model is backed by Kia’s 5-year or 160,000-kilometer warranty.
“The Kia Sonet K-Style celebrates the vibrant energy of today’s new generation of drivers,” said Jay Lopez, Managing Director of Kia Philippines, noting that the edition is aimed at buyers who want a first car that matches their personality and confidence on the road.
Kia Philippines currently has 40 dealerships in strategic locations nationwide and continues to position the Sonet as one of its key offerings in the growing compact SUV segment.
The Manila auto scene steps into a new phase as Manila International Auto Show 2026 opened today at the World Trade Center Metro Manila and Philippine Trade Training Center, drawing industry leaders, officials, and car brands under one roof.
Organized by Worldbex Services International, the show carries the theme “Powering Mobility.” It highlights new energy vehicles, EV infrastructure, and transport solutions as the industry shifts toward electrification and smarter mobility systems.
The opening ceremony gathered key figures from government and business. Among those present were Joseph L. Ang, Dexter Lloyd Cuajotor, Augustus “Joe” D. Ferreria, Imelda “Emi” Calixto-Rubiano, Markus V. Lacanilao, and Ceferino “Perry” S. Rodolfo representing Department of Trade and Industry.
Ang said the event continues to support the industry’s growth despite ongoing challenges, with a strong focus on innovation and collaboration. The program also highlights commercial mobility and sustainable transport solutions as demand shifts.
More than 500 vehicles are on display across 25 car brands, covering a wide range from internal combustion models to hybrids and full electric vehicles. Visitors can expect product launches, test drives, and interactive exhibits throughout the venue.
Now on its 21st year, MIAS remains one of the country’s largest automotive gatherings. The show runs until April 12, with tickets available online and on-site.
Geely Motor Philippines has launched the Geely EX5 EM-i in the local market, introducing a plug-in hybrid SUV offered in Pro and Max variants.
The model uses Geely’s Global Intelligent Electric Architecture and runs on the EM-i Super Hybrid System. It pairs a 1.5-liter engine rated at 73 kW with an electric motor that produces 160 kW and 262 Nm of torque. The system reaches an engine thermal efficiency of 46.5 percent and a combined system efficiency of up to 92.5 percent.
Geely said the hybrid system uses an E-DHT 11-in-1 electric drive setup. The company reported a 13.5 percent reduction in system weight and a 4.3 percent drop in energy loss compared to the previous generation.
Fuel consumption is rated at 6.2 liters per 100 kilometers under WLTP conditions when battery charge drops below 25 percent. Electric energy use is listed at 14.7 kWh per 100 kilometers. The vehicle can travel up to 83 kilometers in electric mode and reach a combined driving range of 943 kilometers.
The EX5 EM-i measures its cabin space through a 2,755 mm wheelbase. Geely said this results in an 84.3 percent space efficiency figure. The rear seats offer extended legroom and headroom, while storage includes more than 30 compartments. Cargo capacity starts at 428 liters and expands to 2,065 liters with the rear seats folded.
The front seats include ventilation with three levels and use a layered design intended to improve comfort. The model also received several international design awards, including recognition from Red Dot, MUSE, IDA, and A’ Design.
Inside, the SUV uses the Flyme Auto system with three displays. These include a 10.2-inch instrument cluster, a 15.4-inch central screen, and a 13.8-inch head-up display. The system supports multiple audio modes through a 16-speaker setup with a 1,000-watt amplifier. A headrest speaker is included for driver-focused audio output.
The vehicle also includes a camping mode that adjusts lighting, music, and screen settings. It allows external power supply for outdoor use.
Safety features include a triple-power system with backup through dual motors and an engine. The platform uses an oil-electric isolation design and a reinforced body structure. Six airbags come standard.
Driver assistance systems include lane departure warning, collision mitigation, lane change assist, and rear cross-traffic warning. The system uses cameras and radar sensors to monitor surroundings.
Geely said the EX5 EM-i addresses demand for lower fuel costs and flexible driving range. The company cited a Guinness World Record result during a drive from Sydney to Melbourne, where the model recorded 3.83 liters per 100 kilometers.
Geely Motor Philippines entered the local market in 2019. The brand has sold more than 30,000 units in the country. Direct operations began in 2025 under Geely Motor Philippines Corporation, with plans to expand its dealer and service network.
Hariphil Asia Resources Inc. will deploy roadside assistance stations across key Luzon routes for the Holy Week rush, offering support to Chevrolet owners during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
The company confirmed the rollout of its Chevrolet Road Care Program on April 2, 4, and 5, 2026. Service hours run from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. A total of 11 dealerships will take part, with teams positioned along major highways and travel corridors.
The program covers minor repairs, basic adjustments, maintenance checks, and emergency roadside assistance. Chevrolet said the setup allows motorists to address issues early and avoid delays during long drives.
Stations are divided across North Luzon, Metro Manila, and South Luzon. Locations include Ilocos Norte, Isabela, Dagupan, Baguio, Pampanga, Commonwealth, Makati, Alabang, Cainta, Las Piñas, and Camarines Sur. Each site operates on specific dates within the program window.
The assistance is free for Chevrolet owners. The company said the goal is to keep vehicles in safe running condition during peak travel days when highways see heavier traffic.
HARI President and CEO Maria Fe Perez-Agudo said the initiative focuses on customer safety during long-distance trips. She added that the company will provide timely service and support along key routes.
Chevrolet advised owners to stop by any Road Care station before or during their trip to check their vehicles and address any concerns before they worsen.
