Used Car Review Compilation (3/26/2012 update)

NOW UPDATED WITH LINKS TO NEW ARTICLES. LIST WOULD BE UPDATED ONCE IN A MONTH.

UPDATE AS OF MARCH 26, 2012.

I've started creating used car reviews since December 2011 in a weekly basis and it would be very hard for several of my blog visitors to wade around my blogsite. So, to simplify your life, I would be compiling all used car reviews done by me and this list would be updated once a month and you'll see the possible vehicles that I would be making a used car review in the future, and the existing ones. You may also suggest a car that you want to see in this page by commenting. Do take note I would not be reviewing all used vehicles locally, only those that are desirable as a used car purchase, or cars that demand as collectors items. All existing models are not included.

So, here are the cars. Links are provided for available articles.

Used Car Review - Mitsubishi Outlander (2007-2009)

It's now summer and it's road trip time! You prepare the gang, barkada, or your family; and the stuff for that journey. You prefer something car-like but with high ground clearance, and you don't need that space. And the requirement is something exciting to drive and enjoyable, without your passengers vomiting. The car that Myk Belmonte recommends would surely fit the criteria mentioned.

2007-2009 Mitsubishi Outlander

History
Majority of compact SUVs are based on a sedan. Honda used the underpinnings of the Civic for their CR-V, Subaru utilized the Impreza platform which resulted to the Forester, Toyota molded the RAV4's chassis from a Corolla, and the Outlander was based on the Lancer sedan. This resulted to a comfortable ride, excellent driving dynamics, and what sedans lack - ground clearance from floods and potholes.

Conceived from the Mitsubishi ASX Concept Vehicle exhibited at the North American International Auto Show, the Outlander initially started using the Airtrek nameplate in 2001 (the Outlander badge was used from 2003 to present). The difference between the Airtrek and Outlander are limited to exterior styling, engine choices, and interior design. The second generation Outlander was introduced in October 2005, and this caused the dropping of the Airtrek in Japan for uniformity purposes in its home market, which is Japan. The second gen Outlander also gave way to its European cousins, the Citroen C-Crosser and Peugeot 4007 as well as a short wheelbase version, named as the Mitsubishi RVR (ASX and Outlander Sport in other nations).

The Outlander was initially introduced in the Philippines in 2003 by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation. Sales were lukewarm against the competition but managed to hang on until 2007. The second generation had its launch in 2007 and trim lines marketed include a GLX 4x2, GLS 4x4, and the GLS Sport 4x4 with a V6 power plant. Japanese Yen to Philippine Peso exchange caused the discontinuation of the Outlander in 2010, which made it unfeasible and expensive. The ASX took the helm left by the Outlander later on that year.

Value and Costs
This vehicle can be obtained from P690,000-P860,000, a good bargain considering that one can experience this beast at half the price when it was new. A great option for those wanting a daily car that carries a spacious cabin and cargo area and at the same time, wanting an exciting vehicle to drive whether on the open road or during that morning rush. So, where do you get this type of vehicle exhibiting enjoyable driving dynamics which every occupant can feel the experience?

Although maintenance costs are at par with some Japanese and Korean rivals, one must prepare extra money for maintaining the large V6 engine and for all-wheel-drive variants, four wheels must be replaced altogether for better traction and safety purposes. Common problems involve the weather strips (this is a small issue) and the tints can have lines (which could be caused by the temperate weather in our country). Both of them should be fixed by the previous owner before purchasing a unit.

Exterior and Interior
Be thankful that the designers put the first generation's design to rest and chose to adopt the design motif worn by the Montero Sport and Strada. The front grill does not look funny or tacky but rather macho and has the appeal of its bigger brothers. Proud owners and obsessed with badge reading will be able to point out the differences between variants without closer inspection. Those who do not fit the said description would need a closer inspection for them to know that the fog lamps, the C-pillars, and the fender flares are different between variants.

With this vehicle being car based, it is not surprising that the interior resembles something taken out of a car. Fabric seats are used even for the top tier V6 variant, which is said to be waterproof but be careful not to stain them, no thanks to its beige color motif. Vehicle controls are placed logically and within reach of the driver, and even the Rockford Fosgate stereo system is easy to use. Interior room is good enough for five people.

Engine
You have the option of two engines for your Outlander, with one emphasizing on economy and one focusing on spirited driving. The economy minded engine is the 4B12 2,359cc which pumps out 170hp at 6,000rpm and 226Nm at 4,100rpm. While the 6B31 2,998cc V6 has 220hp at 6,250rpm and 277Nm at 4,000rpm - which makes a perfect companion for long drives. The GLX and GLS lines have the 4B12 powertrain and the GLS Sport possess the 6B31 V6. Both of these engines are no slouch performers and does their job well done. 

Driving Impressions
With its under-chassis being based on the driver-oriented Lancer, the Outlander does have a sporty pretense. With it you can drive on smooth roads, sands and rough roads, and during rainy days - courtesy of the standard all-wheel drive (GLX variant need not to apply) and the lockable center differential. Your passengers would appreciate the car-like comfort but be careful on twisty roads, for them not to vomit or puke. Just apply a smooth foot to avoid sudden influx of torque at lower speeds. It may not be the sportiest but will deliver the goods in a sporty fashion.

Verdict
Compact SUVs of car based underpinnings are in the rage today. And the Outlander is one of them. You get the driving excitement of the Lancer Evo with the ability of wading floods and you also get that cargo space twice more than it's rally-bred counterpart. Plus, it's a practical daily driver, which you can experience off the tarmac. It may be short lived due to economic reasons (blame the Japanese Yen for that), but the Outlander had enthusiasts have for more, with practicality.

Used Car Review - Honda Civic (2006-2011)

To all graduates of Batch 2012, we wish you all the luck and congratulations! Your hard work had been paid off and be ready to face the next stage (whether you are an elementary, high school, or college graduate) of your lives. And if you want a car as your graduation gift, Myk Belmonte picks out one good choice for you.

PS: This is a request by my friend Nicolo, he made this request months ago. So, here it is.

2006-2011 Honda Civic

Thanks to user GTi of Tsikot.com for correcting some data!

History
So, why is the Honda Civic a favorite among students (especially the ones in high school and college) and throughout the younger crowd? It does have the looks, striking and appealing looks (it does not look something from your tatay). It has the appeal, that brand appeal from a Honda and that one can blend well inside the school environment with a Honda. Maintenance costs are attainable and fuel consumption is friendly to the daily allowance. And for those car enthusiasts, the Civic is a modifiers dream. They can purchase aftermarket parts at affordable prices to have cool rides and those parts are obtainable.

After the lukewarm reception of the ES chassis Civic, the FD Civic was introduced in 2005. For the first time, two different platforms were made, with one for Europe (they get the hatchback) and one for the rest of the world (coupe and sedan versions). The difference between the two? The European model utilizes a simpler rear suspension from the Honda Jazz, while non-Europeans have a choice of two doors or four doors. Type-R and Si variants still remain for the tuner market. Acura (Honda's luxury marque) have their version called the CSX, which is more upscale and a bit different from the Civic. The Acura CSX is Canadian market exclusive.

The Philippine market received the FD Civic in April 2006, through a launch at the Manila International Auto Show. With futuristic styling (which resembles something from Battlestar Galactica and Star Trek) and a good all-around package, this became a best seller until the City dislodged it three years later. The public got wowed with its luxurious looks, the glowing instrumental gauges (every time you put the ignition), and a blast from the past - a digitally encrypted speedometer. Variants include the 1.8V, 1.8S, and the 2.0S (in both manual and automatic transmissions, with the former dropped in 2009 in anticipation of its mid-life cycle on that year). Sales and production continued until 2011, with the FB Civic replacing it the following year.

Value and Costs
With the current introduction of the FB Civic, expect FD Civic prices to drop slightly. And because of this, a buyer can see units priced between P460,000-P660,000. Thanks to depreciation, one can get this vehicle at less than the price when it was new. Be armed with a keen eye for modified and rice units, which can cause more problems and tend to be abused than stock ones. A limited edition variant with genuine Mugen body kits and a different set of rims which graced the 2.0 S was made available in 2011 and only 26 units were sold to the general public accompanied with a certification.

Maintaining an FD Civic is similar to its peers of the same time period. Pet peeves include (although this issue is prevalent within 2006-early 2007 models) the front power windows not functioning (it was later resolved by placing silicon on the assembly or replacing the entire mechanism, which should be done by the previous owner) and related to the power windows, some earlier models have misaligned power windows. Other than this minor quirk, this is a problem free car. The digital speedometer is not a liability unless the previous owner ruined the heck out of it (complaints against this part are non-existent as of now).

Exterior and Interior
One of the selling points of the FD is its exterior design. Come to think of it, this generation is ugly duckling no more - where in fact it is similar to the storyline of Betty la Fea. The exterior got its inspiration from the robots seen in sci-fi movies. The result? Short front overhangs, steeply-raked windshield, front fenders are sculptured, and a sleek profile; you can mistake the Civic as an expensive vehicle from Europe. 

The futuristic theme continues on inside. The famed instrumental gauges do have two tiers, one for the tachometer (which uses a conventional needle) and one for the speedometer (which is digitally labeled and uses bar graphs for the fuel and thermometer). The good thing is, this does not get washed by the extreme sunlight. The steering wheel has good grip and feedback; and while the handbrake may look weird at first, it is easy to manipulate. Paddle shifters are standard in the 2.0 version and trickled down to the 1.8S during its MMC in 2009.

Engine
Filipinos get to choose two engine configurations and two transmission choices to fit their Civics. A R18A1 1,799cc which carries 140hp at 6,300rpm and 177Nm at 4,200rpm and a K20Z2 1,998cc that has 155hp at 6,000rpm and 192Nm at 4,200rpm under its hood. V and S trim lines do have the R16 1.8 while the K20 2.0 is exclusive to the 2.0S. Both engines do have the VTEC technology and do have excellent high end torque. Just apply a light foot and the adrenalin rush is there, just like the EK Civic.

Driving Impressions
The Civic is definitely a treat to drive, for that daily commute or while cruising the winding roads that Baguio and Pagudpud have to offer. Definitely this is one responsive and smooth car, just give this a light foot and this kicks it's speed. Those who love to seat at the back can stretch their legs due to the flat floor and the extended cabin. Just be ready for that firm ride and it could get noisy at triple digit speeds, which is a characteristic of the VTEC.

Verdict
The Civic lived up to its sporty credentials on a practical package. It's not just the driver who can enjoy it, but it's passengers as well. From college students to old people, the Civic found fans in a wide range of market. If you are turned off by the 9th generation's styling and pricing (platform code FB), please to know that the FD Civic can be obtained at half the price of the new. Definitely the EK Civic of the 21 century and a future classic someday.

Used Car Review - Honda Accord (2003-2007)

This week, its time for our second premium or executive sedan. And if Myk Belmonte had featured something from the 90s last week, this time, it would be a wonder from the middle of the 21st century. And interestingly enough, the featured car is basically an arch-rival of last week's! Clueless? Just read on.

2003-2007 Honda Accord

Thanks to user GTi of tsikot.com for correcting some data!

History
Just like the human (according to our friend Charles Darwin, who can be seen in History and Discovery Channels), the Honda Accord had faced evolution stages. It was introduced in 1976 as a compact hatchback, but sedan, coupe, and wagon configurations had been added in 1981 (gradually discontinuing the hatch variant). With its sixth generation model (1994-1997), Honda went to intermediate size. It had one basic platform but with different versions and sizes to increase competitiveness against rivals worldwide. The current model - released in 2008 - graduated from intermediate to full-size class, as what the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classified.

The Seventh generation Accord was launched in 2002 and two versions were made available; one variant for the European and Japanese markets (although sold in Australia, and New Zealand as the Accord Euro and as the Acura TSX in North America) and the other for the North American and Asian (excluding Japan) markets. To differentiate the two, the Japanese one had the previous generation's chassis but wearing a new body. It was available in sedan and estate versions plus a sporty Euro R variant. The one that Americans and Asians drive is way different than the ones being purchased by Europeans and the Japanese. They do have sedan, coupe, and hybrid flavors - with the latter two being North America exclusive.

Locally, the 2003-2007 Accord is the third generation locally, with its introduction in 1994 (being a choice of affluent but low profile people). This generation of Accord was not to a sales success (against other Hondas in the line-up) but still a decent seller within the competition, which is composed of the Toyota Camry, and the Nissan Cefiro. It may not be feature loaded but it still remains a favorite for those who want to drive and stay in the backseat. Initially in 2003, a 2.0 K20 engine derived from the CR-V powers the sedan. But in late 2004, a 2.4 4-cylinder engine (for VTi-L trim lines) and a 3.0 V6 engine ditched the K20 power plant. The Accord was treated to a minor model change (MMC) in 2006 and sales continued until 2007, which gave way to its eighth generation the following year.

Value and Costs
With the fate that mid-size sedans receive locally when it comes to resale values, a seventh generation Accord retails between P365,000-P580,000. This is a good option for those who want a touch of class, luxury, and style at an affordable cost (but on an older model). Those with the 2.0 engine would take the lower end of the range while recent year models take the upper side of the scale.

The Accord's maintenance cost is nearly similar to Japanese premium sedans of the same era. The earlier models have the K20 2.0 engine that is shared with the second generation CR-V, so parts with the mechanicals are nearly identical. In contrast with the K20, the V6 engine would be costly to maintain due to - obviously - the fuel consumption and the complicated engine parts (this has to be purchased with the casa more often, due to limited parts outside of it). Have a keen eye on the automatic climate control, sensors (especially the ones controlling the VSA, or Vehicle Stability Control), and the sunroof in V6 models. And if possible, let the Accord drink 95 octane and above fuel to avoid engine issues.

Exterior and Interior
A trivia: Honda chose an animal to have some design inspiration, and that animal is a Cheetah. It may possess luxury car angles and edges but it is a bit bland and less luxurious looking than previous Accords. Try having a closer inspection that you'll see traces of cheetah design cues in the Accord, that is, until you reach the bland rear. The 2006 Minor Model Change had its rear resemble its coupe counterpart, which could be interpreted as ugly or awkward looking.

The interior does have the category usual faux wood paneling, but does not look tacky. Controls are legible, logically located, and avoids the usual problem with its high end counterparts, complicated function buttons - which are usually combined. The good thing is that, passengers do get decent space for their legs, head, and their body figures. Leather seating comes standard with higher trim lines, as well as a sunroof for the V6.

Engine
Three engine configurations were made available in the Philippine market. Initially available with the K20 1,998cc with 149hp at 6,000rpm and 186Nm at 4,500rpm from 2003-2004. Two engines replaced the K20 in late 2004, and these were the K24A4 2,354cc 4-Cylinder (upgraded to K24A8 for 2006-2007 that bumped out to 166hp at 5,500rpm and 217Nm at 4,000rpm) which possess 160hp at 5,800rpm and 220Nm at 4,000rpm; and a smooth J30A4 2,997cc V6 that has 240hp at 5,500rpm and 288Nm at 5,000rpm. VTi and VTi-S variants have both K20 and K24 engines, while the V6 variant is simply named as the 3.0 VTEC V6. The K20 engine is good for cruising in the highways but not a good companion in city driving, due to the weight penalty of the body and the small engine. We recommend springing-up for variants with the K24 engine, since it can propel the car well and decently. The V6 power plant is nothing but freakin' fast and goes to the limits without drama, just prepare the fuel bills and drive prudently.

Driving Impressions
Not all executive or premium sedans are for the chauffeur, and not all of them are for the older crowd (who are now of retirement age). The Accord balances passenger comfort and driver excitement. Handling is a bit numb and provides less feedback but still precise and accurate. Comfortable to be in, since you feel isolated with the outside world even at high speeds. Keeping the senior market in mind, suspension settings had been tuned to battle the rattles present on streets. The V6, as I mentioned earlier, is fast and you can (but don't tell the driver or your teenage kids, ok?) outsprint Civic SiRs and Corollas with 4AGE Black Tops at night.

Verdict
There are cars that appeal to those who want to be driven in, and there are cars that appeal to those who really want to drive. The seventh generation Accord is the best compromise between the two qualities. It does have a stronger V6 engine and good handling feedback for drivers and a spacious rear seat and something rare, a sunroof during cold, summer nights for those who have drivers. Now, where can you find a mid-size sedan having two personalities under one body?

Used Car Review - Nissan Cefiro (1997-2000)

This week (and definitely next week), Myk Belmonte hunts a premium sedan (two of them) for this week. This gives you a break from mainstream priced sedans, SUVs, and vans. We all know thanks to depreciation, you get to enjoy luxury at a less price (although somewhat older).

1997-2000 Nissan Cefiro

History
You might be surprised to know that the Infiniti 130 is basically a Nissan Cefiro (in majority of the world markets)? And the Maxima nameplate is used in the North American markets. While the Cefiro nameplate was gone in 2003, it had been used as a name for the Nissan Teana J31 - its direct replacement. The Cefiro name is used in Hong Kong, Singapore, Brunei, Bangladesh, Latin America, and the Caribbean (all of these markets had been using the Teana badge since its second version).

The Cefiro was made available in 1988 as a four door sedan, with its rear wheel drive chassis being shared with the sixth generation Nissan Laurel and the R32 Nissan Skyline. Its second iteration ditched the A31's sports car like pretensions and became a front wheel drive luxury sedan. The Infiniti counterpart was born and a station wagon was made available.

The first generation Cefiro didn't become a hit among consumers due to the prohibitive price back then. It was briefly sold from 1988-1990, and Nissan Pilipinas offered the Bluebird, Bluebird Altima, and the Cedric but none of them were successful. In late 1996, Nissan brought in the A32 Cefiro and was the first car to offer an automatic climate control system, keyless entry (alarm systems where a novelty back then),  automatic gas tank release, and a disc changer. It became a best seller, outselling competitors from Mitsubishi, Honda, and Toyota. Available until 2000, where it received a revision the following year including new trim lines and engines. Variants back then are a basic manual and automatic versions, but Elite and Brougham versions were made available in 1999 and in the millennium year respectively.

Value and Costs
With the reputation Nissan received locally, first gen Cefiro prices range between P160,000-P220,000. Prices vary from vehicle condition to vehicle trim line, with later year models being priced higher. Modified units (such as those with high inch rims, lowered suspensions, and side skirts) are rare to come by, but ask the owner if he has the original parts before purchasing it.

Do remember that maintaining an A32 Cefiro is not similar to maintaining a garden variety Sentra Super Saloon, a Corolla GLi, a Civic VTi, or a Lancer GLXi of the same age. It may be a bit costly than a Corona, Accord, or Galant due to the present number of electronic gadgets and the V6 power plant. Weak points of the car do include the radiator, which can crack and overheat (it is made of plastic and aluminum, with the former being on top); and the automatic climate control which does not respond. The sunroof in the Elite version must be checked if it opens properly. Parts are aplenty, available in original, and replacement flavors. Lastly, the Cefiro requires at least 95 octane gasoline to keep on chugging.

Exterior and Interior
Looking at the Cefiro's exterior, one may dismiss it as bland or classy, depending on one's taste. Clean lines and smooth curves are one of the Cefiro's appeals to its buyers, executives and those in the middle-upper class income bracket. The Brougham variant can beat the hell out of Benzes and Bimmers when it comes to bling factor, in stock form of course.

The interior has been one of the Cefiro's selling points. The standard leather seats ages well with the car, and there is decent room for both front and rear passengers. Most variants come with the above-mentioned leather seating plus automatic climate control, and a 10 disc CD changer (back then cassettes were the norm). A sunroof is standard in the Elite trim, which gives the occupants some needed airy experience at night.

Engine
Two engine choices are given to Cefiro buyers. These include a VQ20DE 1,995cc with 155hp at 6,400rpm and 190Nm at 4,400rpm under its hood and a rare VQ30DE 2,987cc with 190hp at 6,400rpm and 282 Nm at 4,000rpm. Both VQ engines are smooth operators and can reach the redline without any drama or noise from it. This results to the inception of the VQ series engine to a spot on the Ward's 10 best engines every year.

Driving Impressions
The letter "C" in Cefiro might mean Comfortable and Classy. The two descriptive words are befitting the car, which found fans with executives, and the older crowd. Even at high speeds, the Cefiro is stable, and comfortable, with your passengers being able to sleep. The manual transmission is fine but automatics are snail. However, those who are preferred to be driven most of the time would not mind the driving dynamics, but rather the comfort.

Verdict
When it comes to comfort and class, nothing beats the mid-size sedans of Nissan. They do have what executives and the older crowd wants - comfort, quiet, and amenities that are easy to manipulate. It may be old, but still has the appeal and the presence when arriving on a five star hotel, a corporate meeting, or during a church wedding. The premium car wars had been passed to the Camry and Accord 10 years later. Up and coming executives, this is your first car at a lower price, and couple it with the presence.

Used Car Buying Tips

You need a car for your daily commute to school, or to work. You need a car to serve as a secondary car for the requisite trips to the palengke or making sundo the kids in school. You need a car for your ever growing business. And you need a car because you dreamt of driving one during your teenage years (feeling young again). And you do have a smaller budget or a budget for brand new but does (and) believe in the power of new car depreciation (new cars can depreciate as much as 73 percent in 3 years, according to a data from Kelley Blue Book). So, you do desire to get a second hand car. This requires a lot of effort and time, but taking them one step at a time, you'll get to drive home that used car you desire.

EVALUATE YOUR WANTS AND NEEDS
You need a van for the growing family but want the looks of a mid-size SUV with a third row. So, what do you prioritize? Practicality for carrying multitudes of stuff? Comfort for the extended family on vacations? Something zippy on parking lots? Or something fast and agile? List down the things you want to see on your desired car, and read various reviews from magazines, the internet, or join automotive forums. It does not hurt to do a little research, to avoid regret and buyer's remorse in the end.

Also not forget to evaluate your financial capabilities, since you'll be paying the seller with either cash or through financing (depends on the agreement). Count in the fuel and maintenance expenses, since it would be a trouble to pay something that is not working.

CHECK THE PROSPECTS
Have you narrowed your choices to several models? It's now time for the treasure hunt finding someone's treasure. Various sources do include the internet (think of the sites sulit.com.ph, ayosdito.ph, olx.com.ph), magazine classifieds, and the popular Manila Bulletin classified ads every Sunday. You made the calls to their owners or the dealers, now is the time to make a thorough inspection. Bring a competent mechanic with you, and a companion to keep things safe. Let the mechanic inspect the car from its mechanicals to the interior. If the owner or dealer does not allow you to inspect the car, walk away. Take the car for a spin that involves various routes and road conditions. Try every available gear and every available gadget that the car has. If the owner or dealer does not permit to take a car for a test drive, it means the car has a problem that he/she does not want you to know. It would better to take the occupants (kids, spouse, any family members, or friends that would use the car) for the test drive and if one of them will use the car, let them experience. The first drive is the make or break of the used car purchase. And don't forget to verify the car's clean status through LTO Text, just key in LTO (vehicle's license plate number) and send it to 2600.

PREPARE THE PAYMENT
So, how would you pay the owner or dealer? Cold cash (in a suitcase) or through financing (either bank or those from lending institutions)? Your call, there are some older cars (usually older than 10 years old) that cannot be financed by some banks. And some vehicles five years or less have unfinished payments, which you can continue the payment (called assume payment in classifieds) or the owner can plunk in the final payment. If the owner wants a swap or trade in, and your car is his/her prospect, you pay the value of the car (the car itself, ok?) plus additional cash in excess.

THE DOCUMENTS
Everything had been set, but you want to see your name on the registration documents. Let you and the owner/dealer have sign a deed of sale between the two of you. Plus, have the two of you go to a LTO office to have the car registered under your name. And also verify it with the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) if it is a hot car (in other words, nakaw ang kotse), if the car is considered as, be careful! Walk away from the deal.

There you have it. You can get the used car of your dreams for any purpose without any hassle. Just remember, don't be nervous, and in the end, the keys are yours. Follow these tips and worry free driving years are to come.

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