Several key changes were done to tighten the competition between the different classifications.  CAGI also took into account the feedback received from the different manufacturers / distributors as well as the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines (CAMPI).  From a mixed engine-based/interior volume classification scheme, this year’s CoTY – Philippines will be segmented in terms of pricing.

Category Price Point Limit
Mini Car P 750,000 and below
Compact Car P 751,000 to P 999,000
Executive Car P 1,000,000 to P 2,499,000
Luxury Car P 2,500,000 to P 3,999,000
Ultra-Luxury Car P 4,000,000 and above
Entry-Level SUV P 1,400,000 and below
Luxury SUV P 1,401,000 to P 3,999,999
Ultra-Luxury SUV P 4,000,000 and above
Entry-Level MPV / People Carrier P 1,200,000 and below
Luxury MPV / People Carrier P 1,201,000 and above

Following the same format of other internationally recognized Car of the Year awards, the CoTY – Philippines will only consider new or revised vehicle models sold between September 1, 2004 to December 31, 2005 as eligible to join.  Of course, the different category winners from last year’s CoTY – Philippines—if still being sold—are expected to defend their respective titles.

For this year’s Compact Car of the Year, 5 contenders made their way to the testing venue: Ford Focus 1.8 Ghia and 2.0 Sport; Mazda 1.6 5-door and 2.0R (revised); and the Mitsubishi Lancer MX Limited.  The Hyundai Matrix CRDi also made an appearance but it is set to compete in the Mini Car of the Year Category.  The Chevrolet Optra Wagon and Hyundai Accent CRDi are slated to appear during another test weekend.

The results of the weekend’s instrumented and qualitative tests will be sealed and turned over to accounting firm SyCip, Gorres and Velayo (SGV) for independent tabulation and counting.  The awarding of the 2nd Car of the Year – Philippines will be held in April to coincide with 2006 Manila International Motor Show.
Ford Group Philippines fielded in a brand-new Mazda3 5-door just for the test.  Kudos to their huge commitment right there.  The Lancer MX Limited still provides fun after all these years.
Though it's set to compete in the Mini Car category, the Hyundai Matrix CRDi strutted it stuff by making short work of the uphill climb.
The Manila Standard's Dino Directo, III takes the Focus Sport through its paces.  Beside him is The Philippine Daily Inquirer's Charles Buban.

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