Product Showcase

Ciaz in focus

A closer look at Suzuki Ciaz.

Published

9 years ago

January 30, 2017

To be blunt, the first time I “encountered” Suzuki Ciaz was through an ad – there, the model unit was tan-colored (apparently they refer to this shade as “Prime Dignity Brown”) that, at any other time, may look okay, but didn’t do it for me because the shade reminded me of (sorry to say this) poop. So it was with abated breath that I waited for the unit to drive test to arrive (at my tita’s place in BF Resort Village in Las Piñas). A white unit (they call the shade “Pearl Snow White”) arrived, and I was pleasantly surprised that it didn’t look “wedding-y”; it was actually a pretty car (it isn’t drop-dead gorgeous, yes; but it’s not ugly at all).

And so I was exposed to Suzuki Philippines’ entry in the sub-compact sedan segment, the Ciaz.

Ciaz – said to be an acronym for “Comfort-Intelligence-Attitude-Zeal”, and which actually replaces Suzuki’s SX4 sedan – is, to my surprise, a nice looking car, with no out-of-place parts.

On the outside, the car is elegant – e.g. there are no lines out of place/un-sexy edges (making it look even sleek/sporty), unnecessarily large grills (as if calling for attention), unsightly headlights (as if they’re too big for the model; this one has projector-type headlamps), et cetera. Particularly when considered front-facing (complete with the signature Suzuki “S” logo in front), Ciaz looks like an executive sedan.

Inside, the Ciaz continues to be not bad. Some features worth highlighting:

Start with the all-black interior. Some may find this boring, but you know, black=class, at least most of the time. An issue for me here, though, is how easy it is to leave marks on… just about everything. I placed Baliwag chicken (inside a plastic bag inside a supot/paper bag) beside me, and upon removal, the mark left didn’t come off easily (no stains; but removing the mark was tedious).
The gear stick is “supported” by the dashboard – i.e. you can see what gear you’re on right on the dashboard, as opposed to other cars that: A) relies on you “knowing” your car enough to trust your shifting; or B) somewhat forces you to look at the light that appears beside the gear. The somewhat tricky part here is when you’re turning (and may have to change gears), and the dashboard is covered by the steering wheel.
The enhanced leg, head and shoulder room for all occupants (and I mean all). Ciaz claims to be the longest car in its class, measuring 4,490 mm (length), 1,730 mm (width) x 1,475 mm (height), with the car getting an extended wheelbase of 2,650 mm. Particularly when you check the back seats, the space is impressive – it ought to seat three, but four (admittedly slimmer) friends didn’t find the back tight at all. There are minute details worth mentioning – e.g. rear headrests don’t adjust – though these become trivial/appear like we’re nitpicking, considering that the back also has an armrest (as needed).
A keyless push start system – i.e. “Look, ma, no keys!”.
An Android OS-based multimedia system with mirror-link capability and GPS navigation (As a friend said, “It’s like having a tablet there.”). It’s not iPad-fast (or since it’s Android, Samsung-like); but considering that other at-par cars aren’t even touchscreen equipped, can’t complain on this one.
The trunk space isn’t bad – e.g. I carried three sacks of gravel (over 15 kilos per bag) alright; and another time, a bicycle (with the wheels removed) fitted inside nicely (plus some bags). Forget trunk space flexibility, nonetheless, since the rear seats don’t fold in any way.
Equipped with dual SRS airbags and ABS with EBD (on all variants).
It even has a heater – sorta (initially) out of place in a tropical country, though coming in handy when heading to places like Tagaytay or Baguio City.

Ciaz is powered by Suzuki’s K14B 1.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, and come with VVT (variable valve timing; with the VVT emblazoned at the side of the car) to generate up to 92 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 130 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Obviously depending on the variant, the engine can be mated to either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic.

But for me, more than the nimble performance, Ciaz also fares well because it offers a quiet(er) and smooth(er) ride. If you’re heading to Las Piñas coming from Pasay/Baclaran via Coastal, and turn right at BF Resort Drive at Casimiro/Alabang-Zapote, you’d encounter oh-so-many humps (not to mention potholes). Braving these (humps and potholes) didn’t bother me (and my passengers) at all. Turns aren’t problematic either (stable and quite sharp).

It’s this quietness that I also remember even in longer drives (e.g. Tagaytay) – though as my cousin (who also tried the unit) said, “this calm is tricky” as it “could cocoon you into a false sense of being secured”. More than once, I got a sense that Ciaz is a lightweight car (curb weight is 1,010-1,040 kilograms) because I could “feel” big (e.g. trucks) or speeding (e.g. jeepneys driven by barumbado drivers) vehicles “pushing” me, so that I had to cut speed (then at 80kph). And you know that oft-repeated stories about smaller cars, that when you reach a certain speed, your control over it lessens faster, too? I had some moments like those in Ciaz, too…

Fuel use isn’t fixed. In ideal (and I’d say often city driving) conditions, just as when I received the unit, the dashboard boasted that consumption is at 8.8L/100 km. Driving around the city (e.g. from Las Piñas to Quezon City), this went to 8.1L/100 km. And on the way to Tagaytay, this went up to 9.1L/100 km. I’d say more than acceptable…

To sum up, this isn’t gonna be on everyone’s must-have car (particularly with cars fast mimicking tech goods, with newer units released before you can say “HELLO!”). There’s bound to be a model (or two, or three – depending on needs and budgets) that one would want to get hold of. But having said this, Ciaz is not at all a bad car particularly in its category. Sleek (even sexy), not-a-bad performer, no voracious gas guzzling, et cetera, it’s not surprising for Ciaz to be noticed. And so, yes, I do see you Ciaz…

The Suzuki Ciaz is available in five colors (Pearl Snow White, Metallic Star Silver, Metallic Mineral Grey, Pearl Super Black, and Prime Dignity Brown), and sell for P738,000 (GL M/T), P773,000 (GL A/T), and P888,000 (GLX A/T).

Ciaz3
Ciaz4
Ciaz5
Ciaz6
Ciaz7
Ciaz8
Ciaz9
Ciaz10
Ciaz11
Ciaz12
Ciaz13

Up Next

AIVITA Biomedical launches PROVOQUE Eye Complex

Don't Miss

Alternative to disposable diapers introduced

M.D. dela Cruz Tan, MDC

M.D. dela Cruz Tan is the founder of Zest Magazine. And no, the initials (i.e. M.D.) do not make him a "medical doctor" (as many have erroneously thought in the past); he is actually a graduate of Bachelor of Arts (Communication Studies) of the University of Newcastle in New South Wales Australia (just don't ask when, he says), and Master of Development Communication from the University of the Philippines-Open University. He can: photograph, do artworks with mixed media, write (of course), shoot flicks, community-organize, facilitate, lecture, research (with pioneering studies under his belt)... this one's a multi-tasker, who is even conversant in Filipino Sign Language. Cross his path is the dare (read: It won't be boring).

Product Showcase

Manulife brings personalized gut health insights to PH

Manulife customers in the Philippines will now be able to access a personalized gut health screening designed specifically for Asian populations.

Published

3 days ago

November 3, 2025

ZestMag.com Staff

Manulife is introducing a new health initiative in the Philippines that offers personalized gut microbiome screening through its collaboration with AMILI, Southeast Asia’s first microbiome insights company.

In the Philippines, this partnership is especially timely. According to the 2025 Asia Care Survey, 82% of Filipinos cite rising healthcare costs as their top concern, and many feel uncertain about their ability to maintain physical and financial well-being in the future. The screening provided by AMILI helps address these anxieties by offering science-backed, preventive care that supports better health outcomes and reduces long-term medical risks.

“At Manulife Philippines, we are focused on delivering innovative solutions that support the evolving health needs of Filipinos,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. “This collaboration with AMILI allows us to offer a unique health experience that goes beyond traditional insurance, empowering our customers to take a proactive approach to their health.”

Manulife customers in the Philippines will now be able to access a personalized gut health screening designed specifically for Asian populations. The service includes tailored nutrition recommendations and teleconsultation to help interpret results. This empowers customers to better understand their health and take preventive steps to improve immunity, brain function, heart health and overall longevity. The service also provides a meaningful way to address rising health concerns in the Philippines by showing how Manulife delivers on its promise to support longer, healthier lives—through early detection, personalized care, and preventive action that can help reduce long-term healthcare costs for individuals and the system

“Our goal is to be a true partner in our customers’ health journey—not just by helping them prepare financially, but also by giving them access to tools, services, and support for prevention, care, and overall well-being,” said Grace Mallabo, Chief Health and Product Officer, Manulife Philippines. “By integrating personalized health insights into our offerings, we are helping Filipinos make informed decisions and improve their quality of life.”

AMILI’s screening leverages the region’s largest multi-ethnic gut microbiome database, delivering insights that support digestive health, immunity, mental well-being, and chronic disease prevention.

“We’re proud to support Manulife’s customers in the Philippines with actionable, science-backed health insights,” said Dr. Jeremy Lim, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder, AMILI. “This partnership is a step forward in making predictive, preventive care more accessible across Southeast Asia.”

This initiative in the Philippines is an expansion of the First-in-Asia Gut Microbiome Screening collaboration between Manulife and AMILI, launched in 2024 in Singapore. It is part of Manulife’s broader strategy to support health and longevity through value-added offerings across Asia, helping customers take control of their health in meaningful ways.

Details on the collaboration between Manulife Philippines and AMILI can be accessed at https://www.manulife.com.ph/services/manulife-move.html.

Product Showcase

AIA Philippines CEO named Executive Champion of the Year in Asia

The award recognizes leaders who go above and beyond in championing insurance advisers, equipping them to thrive in an evolving distribution landscape while shaping the insurance industry through innovation, growth, and purpose.

Published

1 week ago

October 29, 2025

ZestMag.com Staff

Melita Teo, Chief Executive Officer of AIA Philippines, formerly Philam Life and the local arm of multinational insurer AIA Group, has been honored as Executive Champion of the Year at the 10th Asia Trusted Life Agents & Advisers Awards held in Singapore. The award recognizes leaders who go above and beyond in championing insurance advisers, equipping them to thrive in an evolving distribution landscape while shaping the insurance industry through innovation, growth, and purpose.

“This recognition is not mine alone, as it reflects the dedication, resilience, and passion of One AIA,” Teo said. “Across our entire business, every team member plays a vital role in earning the trust of Filipino families, and that is something I value deeply. Every success we achieve at AIA comes from their heart, dedication, and the lasting relationships they build in the communities they serve, all in living by our Purpose to empower more people to live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives.”

Since stepping into leadership in 2024, Teo has boldly transformed AIA Philippines’ distribution strategy, driving sustained growth, elevating BPI AIA to the forefront of bancassurance, and strengthening the brand’s resonance with Filipino customers.

Teo has also spearheaded digital transformation initiatives, including upgraded sales and recruitment platforms, AI-assisted training programs, and affordable digital insurance products like BPI AIA PamilyaProtect and InstaProtect. These tools and solutions have given AIA Life Planners and Bank Sales Executives the tools to streamline workflow and enhance productivity.

Beyond business performance, Teo has championed programs with social impact. The AIA Healthiest Schools initiative, launched in 2024, has already reached more than 7,200 students and educators across five regions, while the company reinforced its ESG commitments through AIA Net Zero. Under her watch, AIA Philippines was also certified as a Great Place to Work® and Best Place to Work, and recently honored at the 2025 HR Asia Awards for Best Companies to Work for in Asia; Diversity, Equity & Inclusion; Sustainable Workplace; and Tech Empowerment.

Her leadership has also helped the company earn external recognition at the 2025 Insurance Asia Awards for its cutting-edge digital innovations, customer-first solutions, and strong employee engagement—highlighting AIA’s continued commitment to empowering employees and agents while deepening its service to Filipino families and communities.

Looking ahead, Teo remains committed to empowering AIA Philippines with innovative tools, comprehensive training, and purpose-driven programs, as they continue to deliver long-term value to Filipinos. “We will keep investing in technology, training and development, and wellness initiatives so our Life Planners can thrive. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of more Filipinos and to those who matter to them most,” she added.

Now in its 10th year, the Asia Trusted Life Agents & Advisers Awards continues to spotlight leaders who go above and beyond in serving their communities. With this recognition, Teo and AIA Philippines reaffirm their commitment to strengthening its agency force and helping more Filipinos live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives.

Product Showcase

Korean brand Wells showcases 23 years of engineering innovation

The event highlighted The One as a superior quality water source with an award-winning design that seamlessly fits modern Filipino homes.

Published

1 week ago

October 29, 2025

ZestMag.com Staff

Korean home appliance brand Wells introduced premium water purification solutions to Filipino households in an exclusive event, with its flagship product Wells The One as front and center. The event highlighted The One as a superior quality water source with an award-winning design that seamlessly fits modern Filipino homes.

The One features a body detection sensor, a 180-degree body spin design for effortless use, a 2.8-inch full-color display—the first in a Korean water purifier—and an ultra-compact footprint of just 8.8cm in diameter. Its innovative design has garnered international recognition, winning four major awards. The One is available in colors Red, Dark Brown, Mint, Pink, and White.

Wells also has other notable variants perfectly tailor-fitted to the different needs of Filipino homeowners. Introducing the Slim One, it is one of the slimmest water purifiers in the Korean industry that has patented third-generation dual pipe technology. This significantly reduces size while maximizing performance, and provides clean, splash-free hot water with no interruptions. Slim One also brings Korea’s first-ever Mineral Care System to the Philippines, enriching water with ionized minerals, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and silica. Lastly, it comes in three colors—Marble White, Marble Gray, and Rose Gold—to complement any home décor style.

“Wells is all about elevating your lifestyle through premium water purification,” said Avelyn Lim, Vice President of Larx Trading, Wells’ partner in the Philippines. “For a decade, Wells perfected the art of combining Korean engineering precision with thoughtful design. Now, we’re bringing that excellence to Filipino families who deserve nothing less than the best.”

What sets Wells apart is its distinctly Korean approach to home appliances. Rather than treating water purification as a purely functional necessity, Wells elevates it into a lifestyle choice. The brand’s sleek design reflects contemporary Korean aesthetics, transforming what was once a utilitarian appliance into a statement piece that homeowners can proudly display.

Wells’ arrival in the Philippine market coincides with a growing trend among Filipino consumers to be more discerning about both their health and home aesthetics. The brand bridges the gap between these priorities, offering a solution that doesn’t compromise on either front.

For Filipino families tired of choosing between functionality and style, or between space efficiency and performance, Wells presents a compelling alternative. It’s the embodiment of Korean ingenuity meeting Filipino lifestyle needs—and your home truly deserves nothing less.