Car Features - September 2009 Philippine Car Sales Figures

Before we leave the month of September, let's go back three years ago to September 2009. On that month, Ondoy wrecked havoc to most of Metro Manila and the surrounding provinces. If we include some people who bought replacement vehicles in the latter days of September and the brand new ones that got flooded, 11,305 vehicles had been purchased by Filipinos nationwide during that month. Which means year to date figures reached 93,385 units

Selling 986 units in September, the Toyota Vios is the king at #1 with 8.7% market share, and out of the 12 months, the record was stopped by the Honda City in February 2009, relegating the Vios at the number 2 spot. After going down to the fourth spot last month, the Toyota Innova climbs back to second place with 846 sales and 7.5% market share for September. Despite the long lines, the Mitsubishi Montero Sport is a hit among consumers at #3 with 842 units being delivered and 7.4% share of the market. However, it is number four year-to-date.

The Honda City is at #4 sells 807 units with 7.1% market share, but remains number three year-to-date. With the Montero being on command, the Toyota Fortuner is up 2 places to #5 with 562 consumers driving off dealership lots with 5% market share. Another Toyota rounds the top six with the Avanza, selling 449 units and receiving 4% market share during the month of September.

With 406 sales, the Mitsubishi Adventure, receiving a minor model change, is at #7 with 3.6% share of the market. Selling one unit less than the Adventure is the Isuzu Crosswind, at #8 with 405 units sold taking also 3.6% market share. The Toyota Hilux captures the 9th spot with 394 units driving off Toyota dealers and taking the 3.5% share for this month. Rounding off the top 10 is the Honda Civic, which received a facelift and sells 340 units and taking 3% market share.

Top 30 ranking for September 2009

Used Car Review Compilation (9/25/2012 Update)

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

UPDATE AS OF SEPTEMBER 25, 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 - Dodge Durango (2005-2009)

If one says SUV, one thinks of American. And with the month of September coming to an end, it would be unfair not to feature an American SUV on our pages. Myk Belmonte picks out a muscle that America has to offer the local market. If you haven't decided on what SUV is it, this is the last chance.

2005-2009 Dodge Durango

History 
Notice the pattern among some American vehicles, they do have names patterned after several places in North America. There exists the Chevrolet Tahoe which is named after Lake Tahoe in Nevada, and the Chevrolet Malibu whose name was from Malibu, California. Dodge had its Dakota, named after the twin states and the Pontiac Montana, whose name drew inspiration from the state bordering Canada. And lets not go further with our featured car, which is based from a city in the state of Colorado.

The first generation Durango was launched in 1998 and ended production life in 2003. The second gen became available in dealerships in 2004 shortly before the sibling Dakota's. It possessed a habitable third row seat, a new coil-spring rear suspension, and a solid rear axle. A luxurious sibling in the name of Chrysler Aspen was made available via Chrysler sales outlets in North America as well as a hybrid version. With falling sales, Chrysler had to discontinue both the Durango and Aspen in 2009. The former resurfaced as a crossover SUV two years later with mechanical parts and assembly plant identical with the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

CATS Motors - who distributes Mercedes Benz and Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles - introduced the second generation Durango to the Philippine market in 2005, a one year delay compared to the US market. It was positioned to compete with the Chevrolet Tahoe and Ford Expedition, hence with the availability of V8 engines. It was refreshed in 2007 and dropped from the line-up two years later together with the discontinuation in the US.

Value and Costs
You can acquire a second hand Durango for half the price when it was brand new. Expect to pay between P1,000,000-P1,300,000 for a decently maintained unit. However, it would be better to check for service records since fixing this would be costly (what more with its V8 engine) and an inspection is better. While you're at it, picking up a pre-owned example is a wiser decision.

Finding parts is a little bit difficult than a Ford Everest, no thanks to the low sales and the perils of owning a vehicle with a V8 engine. But servicing it is now easy thanks to the influx of Daimler-Chrysler service centers outside the casa. If you want to have one parked inside your garage, better save some bucks for fuel allowance since it would cost you nearly a month's worth of groceries. Plus, numerous electronic aids such as the electronic stability control, and the tire pressure monitor must be in good shape.

Exterior and Interior
While retaining the mid-size proportions, the Durango has that macho stance even from afar. See the big "eyes" that lead to the fenders and an imposing grille that compliments a budging hood line. You'll say its American due to the fender flares, slabbed sides, and that big grille.

If Dodge vehicles offered in the US are criticized due to cheap feeling plastic materials, the Durango does not have it. There are bits of hard plastic but they are presented well, with first-class materials all over. Leather seating is standard (which should be since you are paying two mil on a brand new SUV), an high end sound system courtesy of Infinity, and for 2008 and later models, a MyGIG media interface. Despite the small exterior dimensions, a family of eight (more than the average) can fit inside in comfort.

Engine
Two V8 engine options are available for the Filipino buyer. These engine choices include a 4,698cc Magnum V8 with 230hp at 4,600rpm and 393Nm at 3,600rpm and a 5,654cc HEMI (yes, the one that has been used in Ram Trucks) V8 that carries 335hp at 5,200rpm and 509Nm at 4,200rpm. In North America, a 3.7 V6 is offered but was slammed by reviewers because it is underpowered and inadequate for the weight of the body, and it was a good thing this engine did not see Philippine roads. Honestly, you can never go wrong with any of the two V8 engines, since both of them are very quick and satisfy one's desire for power.

Driving Impressions
Driving the Durango won't necessitate the need for special driving lessons due to the similar dimensions of a Toyota Fortuner. With the suspension tandem of double wishbone and a rigid axle that has Watt's linkage on it, a comfortable ride is in store for the passengers. You don't need trips to the drug store due to motion sickness since the suspension set-up vindicates well, which competitors are guilty of. Handling is fine but don't do your Alonso mimicry.

Verdict
Saying the word power is easy, but experiencing it all together is one different can of worms (this does not involve singing Snap's 'The Power', joining politics, or entering network marketing). The Durango is one SUV that balances power and daily driving usage, and you can get one since prices have plummeted. It is rare to see Durangos in the classified ads online or every Sunday so wish you all the luck in hunting.

Used Car Review - Land Rover Discovery (1996-1999)

Everyone wants a European car, right? But buying a new one would cost you a fortune and Myk Belmonte suggests to check out the used car market since there are tons of them. Word of advise: be careful on scouting for one but the rewards are worth it.

1996-1999 Land Rover Discovery

History
It was in the 90s that the money was on Sports Utility Vehicles due to their high profit margins. This meant every car maker have to sell an SUV (developed on their own or use-their-own-name-but-other's-body) so they can see their sales soar high. 4x4 specialist Land Rover was not contented with their luxurious Range Rover and their utilitarian Defender and with that in mind, the Discovery was developed and sold to the mass market with its lower price.

Code-named as "Project Jay" under development stages, this sport ute was made available in 1989 in the United Kingdom. This SUV was priced lower than the Range Rover but had the chassis and drive train of the upscale brethren. At first, three doors are the only option with a five door configuration followed. Various engine choices include a 2.0 liter four cylinder (the only Discovery generation to have this), a diesel power plant, and three V8 motivators. In fact, this was utilized as the ride of Prince Philip during his Park Ranger stint in the Windsor Great Park.

A Filipino Rovernut had to wait until 1996 for the official launch of the Discovery. It was brought in to the country by Asian Carmakers Corporation (who used to distribute and assemble Kia, BMW, Subaru, Daihatsu, and Mazda passenger vehicles back then) with a stratospheric price of P4.4M. Fully loaded automatic units are very common, while Discoveries with stick shifts are rare.

Value and Costs
You may rejoice that the British experience can be obtained for less a million bucks. A locally purchased unit could set you between P650,000-P750,000, which is a bargain. However, spotting this SUV in the weekly classified ads is uncommon. If you find a unit, make sure it seen road usage than being driven in rough terrain. There are units that are from Japan which should be avoided without any second thought, since owning a problematic luxury vehicle can spoil the experience.

The common stereotype which involves European vehicles that are hard to maintain. But Beeboy Bargas of Top Gear Philippines said in an article of his that "the cost to maintain a Discovery is not prohibitive". Land Rover specialist shops had been sprouting like mushrooms and parts sourcing are not difficult. If the desired part is not available, there is the online market which your desired part would be delivered in just less than a week. Before committing to fix it by yourself, make sure to ask fellow Rover enthusiasts for advice.

Exterior and Interior
With the vehicle made in aluminum from the start, there is a little chance spotting rusted Discoveries. This is a good thing especially that this Land Rover can withstand the harsh weather conditions that the Philippines has to offer.

Tagging four of your buddies with average Asian height and built is easy, since they can fit comfortably inside but not that big to be overwhelmed by it. Those who love to peek out of the windows regularly and who are claustrophobic would be thankful for the abundance of headroom and the standard Alpine Windows for that pleasurable viewing experience. Cargo space is not as big as what you expect, but decently enough for long trips.

Engine
Asian Carmakers was right when they brought in a diesel mover for this Rover. Among all engines available, it was a 2,495cc with 112hp at 4,250rpm and 265Nm at 1,800rpm. Economy and performance wise, this can rival current model SUVs due to the light weight to chug around and the abundance of low end torque. It nay not be the fastest, but for those craving for more, there is the V8 petrol trim, but you have to learn to live with the consumption it offers.

Driving Impressions
True 4x4 vehicles wont fear any road - paved, unpaved, or beaten. At any surface (drivable of course) and speed, it provides unparalleled grip. There is no need to fear for bounces and rollovers due to the comfort biased coil springs (on rigid-axle suspension). The transfer-case stick is a good companion for any good or bad road conditions. But, the accelerator is long reach (and it necessitates the use of thick soled shoes for your, well, feet) and the clutch for stick shift variants is hard to operate especially if you graduated from a sedan.

Verdict
Who said that if its a off-road machine, it must have a bouncy ride. The Land Rover Discovery debunks this notion by offering a comfort tuned suspension and retaining the Land Rover heritage. With lower prices, it is a steal if you are seeking an all around companion - rain or shine - in a luxurious package. May I ask you, have you encountered a Land Rover whose price falls below a million bucks? This is the answer, and this might be your ticket to the 'Ultimate Driving Experience' ownership.

Used Car Buying Tips - How To Avoid Flooded Cars

Floods are now a common occurrence in our 7,107 islands, no thanks to the effect of global warming and the clogged drainages around us (who causes it? Us). You are not sure if the unit you're checking is flooded since signs of flood cannot be seen by the naked eye itself. Have a mechanic with you and a second companion (a relative or a trusted friend) to help you check and have a second opinion.

So, here are some tell-tale signs that a car was flooded:

• If there are traces of water marks or mud marks in the exterior.
• If oils look soggy and contaminated with water.
• If the engine bay looks dirty.
• If the interior has funny smells and looks dirty.
• If rust in the small hinges (most of them) are evident.
• If electronic gadgets are not working well, this is a sign (and do not attempt it since water and electronics do not mix).
• Wiring could corrode.
• And lastly, if the papers are wet. If it is, walk away.

If you encounter any of these signs, better walk away since it could be a liability in the end. 

Source: http://tsikot.com/forums/car-buying-talk-138/problems-buying-flooded-water-submerged-car-%5Bmerged%5D-63417/

Car Features - Cars That Filipinos Bought in 2001

Car sales figures are nowhere to be found in this site, but with the commemoration of the 9/11 attacks that changed the world and if he was still alive, former President Ferdinand Marcos could have celebrated his 95th birthday, let's go back to the year 2001 and know the vehicle preferences of the Filipinos before, thanks to this article in Top Gear Philippines, with percentage figures from Best Selling Cars Blog.

The total industry sold 76,668 units, which is very heartbreaking for the whole industry since during the 90s which had car sales above the 100,000 unit mark. Couple this with the reeling effects of the financial crisis that crippled our promising economy as well as the political instability brought about the removal of President Estrada in Malacanang. Enough of news items, Asian Utility Vehicles and family sedans are the popular choices of consumers back then, and in this list the last appearance of the Mitsubishi Lancer in the top 10.

In 2001, the Toyota Revo is still the king of the roads with 10,115 units despite a decrease of 14%, this figure was apparently the second to the lowest record in the nameplate's history (2004 had seen 9,413 Revos driving off Toyota dealers). Ten years later, the Innova sold more units than the Revo with 11,000 ones in 2011.

Thanks to a mid-cycle refresh, the Mitsubishi Adventure is up 13% with 7,711 sales in contrast to the Revo's falling sales, but still solid at number 2.

At third place, we see the Isuzu Crosswind and Hilander selling 6,891 units up 60%, but with this a combined sales of the two, I assume that majority of them are Crosswinds. With this alone, Isuzu bucked the industry trend.

After two years of the Honda Civic being the best selling passenger car in the country, the Toyota Corolla (counting the sales of the "Lovelife" and the Altis) wrestles back this title and up 1%, with 5,419 sales at 4th place. This time, they got Brad Pitt to endorse this new vehicle.

The Seventh Generation Honda Civic is number 5 on the sales charts with 4,917 units sold, down 10%. But with that in mind, the Honda Civic used to be the best selling passenger car in 1999 and 2000 despite nearing expiration date. We guess a lot of buyers didn't like the redesign and switched to the Altis.

Steady at number six is the Nissan Sentra (which includes the older B14 body and the Exalta nameplate) down 26% with 2,993 units - possibly the lowest figure of the Sentra name before falling down to the 1,000 unit mark the year later.

Visiting again for the last time in the top 10 is the Mitsubishi Lancer, selling 2,595 units.

The Honda City is down 27% with 2,480 units, in contrast to the 8,000 ones sold in 2010.

The Nissan Frontier enters at number 9 with 2,252 units sold.

And rounding up the Top 10 is the Mitsubishi Pajero which sold 2,108 units alone. The Montero Sport did it better eight years later selling thrice more units.

How times changed, especially that the Filipino consumer has more choices and with the sales charts in the Philippines not exclusive to the Japanese only, with the Koreans and the Americans wanting to have a slice of the action. And in fact, 2001 saw three Mitsubishis in the list compared with 2 each for Toyota, Honda, and Nissan (they are no show recently in the top 10). Now, Toyota and Mitsubishi almost dominated the top 10 with either 3 to 4 vehicles on the list.

Used Car Review - Isuzu Trooper (1996-2005)

There are cars that are out of the spotlight for so long and some are as impressive and competitive with today's cars. With that in mind, Myk Belmonte reviews a classic which would give modern competitors a run for their money. He hopes to reminisce with you, too.

1996-2005 Isuzu Trooper

History

There was a time that sport utility vehicles had to do with basic amenities and anemic engines - but had a step in height not friendly to the senior crowd. What do I mean with this? Passengers had to roll down the windows, air-conditioning had to be purchased separately (in some markets, but this is hell in the Philippines), and it would give you pogi points outside but very bare inside - which didn't matter before.

The Trooper was both a success and a controversy for Isuzu. It became a runaway success for the truck maker. This vehicle sold well and exported to different parts of the world as the Isuzu Trooper, Isuzu Bighorn, Caribe 442, Acura SLX, Chevrolet Trooper, Subaru Bighorn, Honda Horizon, Opel/Vauxhall Monterey, Holden Jackaroo, and Holden Monterey.  If there is good news, the bad news involved the rollover controversy that a consumer oriented magazine found out. This issue caused Isuzu some sales and the discontinuation of the Trooper in 2002 (but others had it a little bit longer).

In the Philippines, the Trooper was a behind choice of executives, with most of them driving the Pajero or Patrol Safari. Re-introduced in 1996 by Isuzu Motors Philippines, the Trooper was offered in both gasoline (possibly the only Isuzu with a gasoline engine sold locally) and diesel engines. An update in the millennium year dropped the gasoline motivator and added luxury features such as LCD monitors and a sunroof (dubbed as the Skyroof). The Trooper's name got tarnished with engine defects and Subic imports (specially with the Bighorn name), and with these factors, the Trooper made way for the D-Max based Alterra in 2005.

Value and Costs

If you find Pajeros and Patrols out of your budget, please to know that the Trooper's second hand prices could get you nearly the cheapest unit you can find. A local unit can set you back P400,000-P680,000 which encompasses various year models and standard equipment. Be cautious of units bearing the Bighorn, Plaisir, and Lotus names since they are Japan sourced units. As always, steer clear from these since they can be potential headaches and spoil the ownership experience.

Parts can be obtained at a good price, but the gasoline engine is an exception. To explain further, the gasoline engine is such a rarity from Isuzu that has been sold locally with most of their vehicles are diesel powered. Since I had mentioned earlier the failure of the 4JX1 engine, it would be better to examine the unit by conducting a test drive, and asking for the service maintenance records. If you seek is a 2002 and after models with sunroof, best to check if it functions well.

Exterior and Interior

The second generation Trooper leaves the previous gen's razor sharp corners and replacing them with soft sides that make the SUV smooth looking while remaining macho. Notice the plastic fender flares and side body cladding adds a touch of ruggedness while providing a limited amount of resistance from stone chips and dings. Standard is a side swiveling rear loading doors that open 75:25 with a mounted spare tire that can be a boon or a bane for some.

You can describe the Trooper's interior as bare, or functional - depending on what you perceive. Interior nitpicking aside, the seating and driving position is impressive all around. Front and second row space is good but the jeepney style third row seats are definitely the antithesis of comfort, but you'll remove them anyways. Sunroof (with the Skyroof edition released in 2002), and a VCD player (this is definitely useless in the age of flash drives and blu-ray discs) are standard amenities. Controls are easy to reach for and manipulate.

Engine

Two diesel motivators and a lone gasoline engine rounds up the Trooper's power plant choices. Listing down the diesels (since they're the most popular among buyers) are a 3,059cc with 114hp at 3,600rpm and 260Nm at 2,000rpm and a 4JX1 2,999cc that carries 160hp at 3,900rpm and 333Nm at 2,000rpm. The only engine choice that consumes gasoline fuel is a 3.5 6VE1 V6 with 215hp at 5,000rpm and 312Nm at 3,000rpm. Both diesel engines are quick off their feet even without that heavy foot, unless you have overloaded the vehicle. And mind you, these two diesel engines defy their body mass since they accelerate quickly. The gasoline engine is nothing special to write about since you'll be picking the diesel ones right?

Driving Impressions

Thanks to the abundance of low end torque (attainable at 2,000rpm), the Trooper is one fuel efficient mate and infact, reaching 16km/L with diesel fuel is attainable in the open roads if you are easy on the pedal. Mash it up, and get 12-13km/L - still decent figures. Handling is well even in stock and breaking is excellent, but emergency breaking is wanting because of the over reactive brakes and make the Trooper lundag which is something not unusual among SUVs. To compare this with the Alterra, this one offers a comfortable ride

Verdict

This SUV can be an alternative to an expensive European SUV. It possess all the qualities that one looks for a SUV and the Trooper still has the presence despite being an old model.

Wildcard Pick of the Month - Mazda 6 (2004-2007)

For this month's wildcard pick, Myk Belmonte will feature a sedan that would surely rock. It may have a premium price but this one is for the driver. Up and coming executives who wants an entry level sedan but the soul of a sports car is there, this is it.

2004-2007 Mazda 6

History
Once upon a time, executive sedans are definitely common with males with higher rank positions, nearing retirement age, having tons of money in the bank, and sports buldging bellies and having poor eyesight. We all know they can afford to pay a driver that can take them places and these sedans are usually passenger oriented - with numb steering and a lifeless ride, a tradeoff for a cushy ride. This leaves young people no choice but to buy executive sedans suited for their dads.

Mazda, with its sports car heritage, decided to infuse their sports car genes (prevalent with their RX-7 sports car) with the Mazda 626 (the predecessor) throughout of its selling life (except for the 1998-2002 model, with car magazine reviews dismissing it as bland and soft than the previous model). The 6 (or Atienza if you live in Japan) was introduced in 2002 which includes a sedan, hatchback, and wagon body configurations. In 2005, a MazdaSpeed variant of the 6 made way to Mazda dealers until 2007. The 2002-2007 Mazda 6 carried the GG platform, with several Ford sedans also utilizing this. Production continued until 2007, with the GH Mazda 6 replacing it in 2008.

The 6 (together with the 3 and Tribute) had their Philippine introduction with the brand's comeback in 2004. It was not like any other executive sedan sold locally, with the 6's emphasis on driving dynamics (the 2003-2007 Honda Accord nearly made the cut when it comes to driving feel) than passenger comfort. Together with the international market, selling time ended in 2007 and the GH Mazda 6 introduced in the following year.

Value and Costs
In the Philippine context, mid-size sedans (and nearly any sedan with two liter engines and above) do have poor resale values. With the Mazda 6 being a casualty of this crime, you would see 2004-2007 models flirting in the P500,000-P700,000 price range. This is a good choice if you prioritize driving than back seat riding for less.

Unlike the Mazda 3, parts may be available outside the casa but some components are exclusively available in the dealership parts section. Prepare spare cash for fuel expenses, and maintaining one - since taking care of this sedan costs more than the lowly priced M3. Common problems with the M6 involve road noise. It may be attributed to the standard tires or with the underchassis, but make it sure to check them before signing the deal.

Exterior and Interior
One thing the afflicts mid-size sedans are the increase in weight and bulk, the 6 gets rid of it due to the target market. If you get a magnifying glass, you'll notice some Mazda RX-8 (may it rest in peace) styling cues albeit stretched and blends well. You may confuse it for a hatchback (there exists a hatchback version internationally) since the rear windshield is heavily raked. To sum this paragraph, it says goodbye to bland edges and goes daring when it comes to designing the exterior.

Earlier models possess a dowdy looking interior, with gauges not enticing excitement when looked to and the  strips of chrome and carbon fiber doesn't collaborate well with the black and silver plastic pieces. While an update in late 2005 had improved materials, possess leather trims, gauges that are not boring to stare at, and the addition of creature comforts such as an automatic climate control (previous ones utilize a manual one) and a 6-disc changer. A sunroof (very useless during the typhoon season) is standard on all year models. Room for occupants is excellent, even the ones who want to sit at the back would feel comfortable despite the presence of the sunroof. Visibility is generous since this is a driver-oriented car.

Engine
For Philippine market M6's, there are two 4-cylinder engine choices per period. One is a 1,998cc that has 131hp at 6,000rpm and 176Nm at 4,500rpm for 2004-2005 models while a 2,261cc motivates late 2005-2007 Mazda 6's and carries 164hp at 6,500rpm and 207Nm at 4,000rpm. The 2.0 engine does not fit the sporty demeanor of the 6 although not insufficient in power, expect to hear it wheeze in steep inclines, similar to someone who gets asthma attack. The 2.3 engine - added in late 2005 - finally does justice to the 6, with the injection of Sequential Valve-Timing and Variable Intake System and you may freak out with this combo - a racy engine noise and a 7,000rpm redline.

Driving Impressions
The Mazda 6's forte is the driving characteristics, which is very un-executive car like to tell the obvious truth. You can feel the balance from attacking corners to twist the steering wheel. Thanks to the lighter body, you won't feel the bulk while changing lanes. With the suspension combo of the double wishbone and multilink E-type, it ensures the car is still planted on the ground and providing a firm but tolerable ride.

Verdict
As they say, life begins at age 40. But, you can stay forever young by going against and defying your age by buying a second hand Mazda 6. With a balance between comfort and driver involvement, this car is a bargain, thanks to the power of depreciation. So, where can you find this combo if you want the appeal of an executive?

Used Car Review - Suzuki Vitara (1994-2004)

With the CR-V's and the RAV4s dominated the streets, Myk Belmonte revisits this little SUV that can dominate the rough roads. It may be small but this one does the job terribly when tackling floods or the uneven terrain. So, are you ready for this SUV?

1994-2004 Suzuki Vitara

History

If you think that the Vitara is sold as a Suzuki exclusively, you'll be surprised with what would I mention on the next sentence. Motorists would see the Vitara's body sold in Asuna (Canada exclusive), Chevrolet, Geo (the entry level brand of General Motors back then), GMC, Mazda, Pontiac, and Santana (a car maker based in Spain) dealerships. Enough of badge reading, all (except for the Chevrolet) badges are gone with the wind, with these brands not offering their rebadged Vitaras after the first one.

Available in both 2 and 4 door SUV and convertible body configurations, the Suzuki Vitara (Sidekick or Escudo names are also used) was offered from 1988 to 1999 (although some nations had this body for a little longer). This SUV sold well due to the mini dimensions, a wide range of engine configurations (this depends on the country), and the affordable price. An identical vehicle with the name of X-90 with rounded styling and a removable top (similar to the Daihatsu Feroza and Suzuki Samurai) was launched in 1996. Suzuki called it a day and the X-90 was dropped two years later with disappointing sales.

The Vitara was the first vehicle (along with the Samurai) were the two vehicles wearing the Suzuki badge that are available locally in 1994. At first, all Vitara buyers had to make do with a manual transmission, with an automatic transmission variant launched in 1996. This version stayed - mostly unchanged - for 10 straight years. For good reason, it was discontinued in 2004 due to the entrance of new competitors. Only one variant was sold - the JLX with a 1.6 liter engine standard

Value and Costs

Those interested on a small off-road ute that can double everyday duties will find the Vitara a bargain. From the price ranges of P150,000-P270,000, one can obtain this little SUV and there are plenty of examples to choose from. Again, the Feroza and Samurai of the same period can be had but not civilized on the roads and won't be a good companion for everyday living. A warning, there are used imports from Japan bearing the Escudo name and conversion quality are suspect, so steer clear from them.

One good news for prospective buyers is that, parts are widespread and inexpensive. Check out the oil pan area if oil leaks are present, steering play, and with old vehicles, the automatic transmission. These are inexpensive fixes and can be done by a component mechanic. Go with a unit that had been used within the paved roads than one seen days in the beaten path.

Exterior and Interior

Among all the words that exist in the dictionary, the Vitara is best described as 'boxy' and 'bare'. But despite this, this SUV manages to have a timeless exterior. While designing this SUV, it had to be overhang-free so it could tackle the worst off-road paths can offer with ease. The narrow body is one advantage, especially if one intends to use it in everyday driving.

Utilitarian against its direct competitors, the Vitara has the basics - which includes an air conditioning system, power amenities (be thankful for that since others have a watered down version, but if you plan to use it in the city) and a then trend cassette player. Please be reminded that the driver-side power controls for the rear windows are placed in the center console. Front seats are decently enough while the rear won't be easy to live with for tall people.

Engine

A 1,590cc I4 gasoline engine that carries 95hp at 5,600rpm and 135Nm at 4,000rpm which powers this mini-ute is not outstanding in any way, since it does not produce much power as other similar-displacement engines of the period. For comparison, the Chery Tiggo has a 1.6 engine but with figures of 107hp and 144Nm, which can outsprint the Vitara.

Driving Impressions

Start the engine and you'll be greeted with a agricultural-like tone. Shift to first gear (or drive if in case its an automatic) and you're good to go in a balanced run - not too fast but not slow. It hums well, but don't let it reach 6,000rpm since it would get out of stream. Handling requires some patience due to a stereotype that it will tip over. Honestly, it wont unless you do something crazy. Visibility is top-notch, a good thing to avoid pot holes and bumps.

Verdict

If you seek a compact off-road companion that can perform daily driver duties with a fair share of creature comforts, the Vitara is one good choice. However, if you are more picky when it comes to driving characters, and standard features; other modern choices are available and the Vitara is not for you. Besides, the Feroza and Samurai are very hard core.

The Ultimate Used Car Guide now on Facebook

This is my first post for the month of September, and I have some good news for you, The Ultimate Used Car Guide is now on Facebook. While it is up last August 5, I'm announcing it for this very first time.

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/UltimateUsedCarGuide

What you'll see on the Facebook page are identical to what you see here, and I will be updating you whenever a new article is up. Not all of you can remember the url link to the site so via Facebook you can have a chance to read the article that will bring you here. Feel free to comment, share, and say anything since your comments would be a help to improve this site.

Oh, btw, I'm taking the opportunity to share some numbers with you. As of September 1, 2012, page views for all articles last August reached 4,947 views which from December 2011 to this moment overall page views are a total 17,232 as of 9:45AM. Data is according to the statistics section of Blogger. So thank you for all the support and expect more articles to come!

Below is a screenshot of the Facebook page