There is no parallel to the freedom of mobility having your own car offers. No longer will you be beholden to the availability of transport network vehicles or space on public transport. Granted, heavy traffic, rising fuel prices, and the TRAIN law imposed on vehicles may make owning one daunting, but the benefits of traveling on your own terms will easily far outweigh them. New models Over the course of 2018, the car market saw the launch of many new models. Among them are truly tempting and value-packed vehicles like the Toyota Rush, Mitsubishi Xpander, Suzuki DZire, and all-new Hyundai Accent. Just a week ago, Toyota announced the availability of the Vios XE, a new variant with features like automatic transmission, a smart entertainment system and seven airbags but at a more affordable price. And while the excise tax may have raised the price of a wide variety of car models, vehicles like pickups were thankfully exempt. Automakers like Toyota, Nissan, Chevrolet, and Ford have done a great job in cascading technology from passenger cars to their pickup trucks. The Hilux, Colorado and the Ranger already have Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calls and access to your mobile device’s media library, plus it offers the convenience of touchscreen technology for easy access to the infotainment system. With alluring offerings like the Toyota Hilux Conquest, Nissan Navara, now packed with Intelligent Mobility Features, and the arrival of the first-ever Ford Ranger Raptor, as well as updated Ranger Wildtrak, there are far more reasons to opt for a pickup as a daily driver. Stabilized prices With the details, of the TRAIN law already ironed out, many buyers can now manage expectations with regard to vehicle prices rising. What fueled the panic buying spree of 2017 was largely speculation over how much more expensive cars could be in 2018. Buyers now need not worry as car brands, eager to maintain sales levels last year and this year, have kept these increases to a minimum. In addition, buyers are now financially adjusted for their next auto purchase. More features A lot can happen in a year, particularly when it comes to in-car entertainment features. If the cars of 2017 seemed pretty impressive already, late 2018 and 2019 model year cars will likely blow you away. Onboard connectivity is something every brand is keen to innovate. That means many of the cars you’re eyeing now likely have entertainment systems that will easily connect to your phone. This makes it easier to play your favorite playlist on your phone or use the navigation app on your device to avoid traffic. By Iñigo S. Roces