Showing posts with label Motoring. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Motoring. Show all posts

Friday, June 27, 2025

Security Bank Finance's New Product Variant Proposes to Pay Off Car Loan and Provides Extra Funding | Monchster Chronicles



SB Finance, Inc., a subsidiary of Security Bank, has unveiled a new loan product designed to empower car owners nearing the end of their auto loan term. The OR/CR for Cash Loan Take-Out offers a dual benefit: it pays off the remaining balance of an existing car loan and provides additional funding, using the same vehicle as collateral.


This innovative solution enables qualified borrowers to transition smoothly from financing to full ownership while unlocking extra cash for urgent needs, business ventures, or personal goals. It eliminates the need to apply for a new auto loan or sell the vehicle, offering a practical and flexible alternative.


“Customers have been telling us they want more than just credit. They want clarity and control,” said Abbie Dans-Casanova, President & CEO of SB Finance. “OR/CR for Cash Loan Take-Out does exactly that: it clears your auto loan and gives you extra cash at a time when you’ve earned back the value of your vehicle. It’s a smarter way to manage liquidity without sacrificing ownership.


This product is especially beneficial for asset-rich but cash-constrained individuals who want to avoid restarting a lengthy loan cycle. By leveraging the equity in their vehicle, customers gain financial breathing room while maintaining ownership.


The launch of OR/CR for Cash Loan Take-Out reflects SB Finance’s commitment to delivering real-world financial solutions, offering structured, transparent, and flexible credit options that help Filipinos move forward with confidence.

Saturday, May 10, 2025

Autobot Offroad Brings Quality Automotive Aftermarket Transformation to the North in San Leonardo, Nueva Ecija | Monchster Chronicles


 (Left to Right) Autobot Offroad San Leonardo Nueva Ecija General Manager Benedict Rapanan; Autobot Offroad PH President & CEO Randy Ronal M. Lao; Worshipful Grand Master Raul Canon, Jr.; Actress & Model Klea Ching Pineda; Autobot Offroad PH Vice President Ken Lao during the ribbon cutting ceremonies.


Autobot Offroad Philippines, the premier modification, accessories, and maintenance shop for 4x4, off-road, and overlanding vehicles in the country, brought their quality automotive aftermarket transformation nearer to their valued customers in North and Central Luzon with the inauguration of their latest high-tech branch in Nueva Ecija. Autobot Offroad PH proudly adopted a unique and inspiring motto for their latest workshop, “Crafting Greatness Across the North”.

Thursday, March 27, 2025

Suzuki Jimny 5-Door Review: The Little SUV That Could....and Did! | Monchster Chronicles

Words and photos by Monch Henares

Suzuki Jimny 5-Door—and in Sizzling Red Metallic at the Binloc Baywalk in Pangasinan


If there was ever a compact SUV built for adventure with style and charm, it’s the new Suzuki Jimny 5-Door in Sizzling Red Metallic. It turns even more heads than a guy ordering extra rice at a keto restaurant. Arabelle and I recently took it on a full weekend road trip that tested everything from its hill-climbing chops to urban parking convenience, and it delivered big in all the right places.

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

2024 Hongqi HS3: A Symphony of Style, Speed, and Sophistication | Monchster Chronicles

Words and photos by Monch Henares


The 2024 Hongqi HS3 Luxury Compact SUV


The 2024 Hongqi HS3 is a luxury compact SUV that effortlessly blends elegance, performance, and technology into a package fit for modern royalty. At first glance, its bold design commands attention, with a striking vertical chrome waterfall grille flanked by uniquely shaped LED headlights. The aerodynamic curves and sleek lines give it a dynamic presence, ensuring it turns heads whether cruising through city streets or gliding down the highway. A panoramic sunroof, measuring an impressive 1090 mm x 715 mm, enhances the open-air experience, making every drive feel like a liberating escape. The power liftgate adds an extra layer of convenience, allowing effortless access to the cargo space.

Wednesday, September 11, 2024

SERES Opens New Luxury Electric Vehicle Showroom in Pampanga | Monchster Chronicles

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony



SERES Philippines, in partnership with QSJ Motors Phils. Inc., officially opened its latest showroom in San Fernando, Pampanga, bringing the future of luxury electric vehicles closer to Filipino car enthusiasts. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was graced by special guest Mayor Vilma Caluag, who expressed her excitement about the arrival of SERES in Pampanga, which she believes will pave the way for greener, more sustainable transportation in the region.

Wednesday, September 4, 2024

The Advantages of Mild-Hybrid Vehicles Over Full-Hybrids | Monchster Chronicles









By Monch Henares


The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the need for cleaner, more efficient vehicles. Among the various technologies emerging, Mild-Hybrid vehicles (MHEVs) are gaining attention as a viable alternative to Full-Hybrids (HEV) . While both types of vehicles aim to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency, MHEVs offer several distinct advantages over their HEV counterparts.

Mercedes-Benz EV Catches Fire in Korea: What Happened and What We Know So Far | Monchster Chronicles


South Korean and Mercedes-Benz officials conduct a joint examination on Aug. 8 of an electric car that caught fire at apartment complex in Incheon, South Korea.   © Yonhap/Reuters

By Monch Henares


Recently, a Mercedes-Benz EQE 350 electric vehicle (EV) caught fire in South Korea, raising concerns about the safety of electric vehicles and prompting investigations by authorities and the automaker. This incident has drawn attention due to the increasing popularity of EVs and the potential risks associated with their batteries. Here’s a detailed look at the incident, its potential causes, and the response from Mercedes-Benz and regulatory bodies.

Friday, August 16, 2024

GrabCar Touts Improved Booking Reliability for Filipino Passengers | Monchster Chronicles



Grab Philippines has unveiled today its strides in providing reliable transportation services to Filipino commuters. In the first half of the year,  nine out of 10 passengers trying to book a Grab ride were successfully allocated a driver within an average of 21 seconds – demonstrating a faster booking time versus the year prior. 

Thursday, June 6, 2024

SERES: Intelligence Redefining Luxury | Monchster Chronicles


SERES 5 SF


The Philippine automotive landscape is in for a significant transformation with the entry of a brand that epitomizes luxury and intelligent driving. This shift is made possible as SERES AUTO and QSJ Motors Phils., Inc. join forces to introduce SERES intelligent luxury electric vehicle (EVs) that combines innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled driving experiences.

Monday, February 5, 2024

It's a Possible Collision-Free Society with the Latest Safety Features Technology | Monchster Chronicles

Subaru Eyesight's two-camera system has depth perception.


Text and Photos by Monch Henares


Technological Breakthroughs


Safety, Safety, Safety.  Automobiles are extremely safer than cars manufactured decades ago, thanks to technological advances in artificial intelligence and electronics. 

Thursday, September 14, 2023

Honda Cars Philippines Launches The All-New CR-V With The First-Ever e:HEV Full Hybrid System | Monchster Chronicles



Honda Cars Philippines (HCPI) has officially launched the All-New Honda CR-V today, September 13, 2023, at Grand Hyatt Manila in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Friends and partners from the media, bank and insurance, dealers, and Honda car clubs joined the event. The Large Project Leaders of both the All-New CR-V and the Honda CONNECT were likewise in attendance. The program was simultaneously streamed via HCPI’s official Facebook page.  

 

Thursday, June 29, 2023

KIA PHILIPPINE SETS INSPIRING GOALS WITH ITS NEW, YOUNG, AND ENERGETIC COO BRIAN BUENDIA | MONCHSTER CHRONICLES

 

Chief Operating Officer of Kia Philippines, Brian Buendia

Kia Philippines Motor Corporation (KPMC) recently ushered in a new chapter with the recent appointment of its new leader Brian Buendia. As Chief Operating Officer, Buendia, who has been with AC Motors—the automotive arm of Ayala Corporation (AC)—since 1998, will lead Kia PH’s Movement That Inspires into a new phase.

Sunday, June 25, 2023

3RD VALENZUELA AUTO SHOW: ONE DAY OF PURE AUTOMOTIVE ADRENALIN || MONCHSTER CHRONICLES

The 3rd Valenzuela Auto Show Press Conference was attended by (l-r) Valenzuela 2nd District Councilor Tyson Sy, Clean Fuel owner and Congressman Bong Suntay, City of Valenzuela Mayor Wes Gatchalian, Johnson Tan owner of JSK Custom Paint, and Aaron Cabiltes owner of Auto Works. Photo: Arabelle Jimenez




As part of the city's celebration for its remarkable 400th founding anniversary this upcoming November 12, 2023, the City Government of Valenzuela, led by Mayor WES Gatchalian, hosted its third Auto Show in Puregold Valenzuela Parking Grounds, Barangay Dalandanan on January 24, 2023.

Saturday, May 20, 2023

1974 HYUNDAI PONY COUPE CONCEPT RESTORED FROM SCRATCH AFTER 50 YEARS | MONCHSTER CHRONICLES

 

Recreated Pony Coupe Concept makes debut in Lake Como nearly 50 years after its original debut at 1974 Turin Motor Show. The Pony Coupe Concept’s origami-like exterior features flowing geometric lines, a sleek roofline, pure unadorned surfaces, dynamic proportions, a uniquely shaped B pillar

LAKE COMO/SEOUL, May 19, 2023 – Hyundai Motor Company’s recreated Pony Coupe Concept has made its world premiere — nearly 50 years after its original debut — in Lake Como, Italy.

Saturday, April 1, 2023

PEUGEOT PH WILL JOLT MIAS 2023 WITH THE E-2008 EV | MONCHSTER CHRONICLES



Peugeot Philippines is set to electrify the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) with the unveiling of the PEUGEOT e-2008 on April 13, 2023. The preview of the PEUGEOT e-2008 at the MIAS brings to fruition the Lion brand’s electrification plan of introducing new models and technologies to its range, with the target of having an electric version of every vehicle in 2023. PEUGEOT will be the first Stellantis brand to launch the group's new generation of electric vehicles, once again emphasizing its desire to give as many people as possible access to electrified mobility.

CAR LAUNCH: THE BMW i7 xDRIVE60 BEV PURE EXCELLENCE | MONCHSTER CHRONICLES

SMC Asia Car Distributors Corp. shakes up the luxury segment with a new fully electric BMW.
 

Designed with next-level style and substance, the first-ever BMW i7 is undeniably alluring from the inside and out. The BMW i7 xDrive60 Pure Excellence BEV offers all-electric innovation, visionary design, and powerful driving dynamics. The expressive aesthetic and cutting-edge technology not only ensure your complete comfort, but also transform every drive into a whole new level of luxury.

Wednesday, March 29, 2023

Tuesday, March 28, 2023

MINI PH OPENS NEW DEALERSHIP IN CEBU TO STRENGTHEN PRESENCE IN CENTRAL VISAYAS REGION | MONCHSTER CHRONICLES

(L-R) Jefferson Lizardo, GM of MINI Philippines, Wilson Tan, Director of AutoStudio, Kidd Yam, Head of MINI Asia, Pancho Luzzuriaga, Managing Director of AutoStudio, Willy Tee Ten, President of MINI Philippines 


MINI Philippines continues to strengthen its presence in the country with the opening of MINI Cebu, the sole MINI dealership in Central Visayas. Operated by AutoStudio Philippines Corporation (AutoStudio), the facility offers a full suite of services such as new car displays, three aftersales service bays, and retailing of vehicle and lifestyle accessories. 

Tuesday, March 21, 2023

THE KIA EV6 SPARKS THE REVOLUTIONARY EV ECOSYSTEM OF THE AYALA GROUP | MONCHSTER CHRONICLES

The Kia EV6 will set the standard in this new and exciting vehicle segment


Since its global debut, the Kia EV6 has racked up awards and gained international recognition not only because of its design, but also because of its cutting-edge technology. Thanks to the EV6, what was once in the realm of the imagination when it comes to electric vehicle (EV) performance and range is now grounded in reality. Today, Kia Philippines is proud to announce the official launch of the EV6.

Monday, March 20, 2023

NEW PLAYER JETOUR PREVIEWS MODEL LINEUP AND REVEALS COMPETETIVE PRICING | MONCHSTER CHRONICLES


 

Dashing is Jetour's full-featured flagship model

Jetour Auto Philippines, Inc. (JAPI), recently appointed as the exclusive country distributor of Jetour automobiles, recently held a preview of its vehicles – headlined by a futuristic-looking crossover and the country’s most affordable electric vehicle.

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