Automobiles continue to evolve along with the ever-changing needs of car buyers. One of the top-of-mind factors are the vehicle’s engine design that both deliver to different driving needs and is fuel-efficient at the same time. For some, owning an eco-friendly vehicle is a major consideration as well.

With this, automobile companies continue its quest to provide the latest innovation in car technologies to provide the best value for money car units as well as to cater to the most discerning tastes of car buyers.

One of those is Japan automaker Mazda which boasts of their 2.2L Skyactiv-D engine, which they claim as their most technologically advanced clean diesel engine so far. Compliant to the stringent Euro-6 standards for its ultra-low nitrous oxide emissions, this engine has the lowest compression ratio of 14:1 that enables reduction in engine weight and mechanical friction thus its fuel efficiency. At the same time, the Skyactiv-D engine delivers a maximum torque of 420 Nm and maximum power of 175 Ps.

On the other hand, Mitsubishi is notable for its vehicles featuring the Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) system. According to the Japanese automotive manufacturer, this exclusive technology controls valve timing and amount of lift in order to achieve high power output, low fuel consumption, and low exhaust emissions. Mitsubishi’s  Euro-4 compliant 4N15 engine with the MIVEC technology used in Montero Sport, features an engine’s power and torque rating at 181 Ps/3,500 rpm and 430 Nm/2,500 rpm.

Japanese automobile manufacturer Isuzu is also notable for its powerful yet fuel-efficient 4JJ1-TCX Blue Power diesel engine. This Euro-4 compliant engine has maximum power output of 177 Ps of power and 380 Nm of torque while at the same time, has low emissions.

Swedish car brand Volvo’s award-winning Golf Grand Touring Sport (GTS) caught the attention of car enthusiasts with its 2.0 TDI Engine that promises “real drive combined with low fuel bills.” The engine’s featured common rail technology ensures maximum power development with low fuel consumption.

While these engine technologies deliver in power, style, and efficiency, it is projected this year that hybrid cars will be more available in the local market in light of the half tax rates for these type of vehicles under the recently implemented Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law. This is part of the government’s effort to promote eco-friendly vehicles for cleaner transportation.

According to reports, the Association of Vehicle Importers and Distributors (AVID) also sees the potential sales in hybrid cars. AVID President Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo said in the report, “For the year ahead, we remain optimistic as we expect short-run market adjustments resulting from the TRAIN. Nevertheless, the new automotive landscape opens waves of opportunities for the luxury, e-vehicles, and hybrid vehicles market.”

Apart from hybrid cars, more car buyers, particularly Filipinos, also consider purchasing more electric vehicles according to the Nissan-commissioned study titled “Future of Electric Vehicles in Southeast Asia,” which was presented at the Nissan Futures symposium event held in Singapore early February of this year.

The said survey conducted by research firm Frost & Sullivan was participated by 1,800 individuals in countries including Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines. The said last three countries emerged as the most enthusiastic about buying electric cars with Philippines at the top. — Romsanne R. Ortiguero

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