Car Profiles - Geely LC

GEELY LC

Formerly named the "Panda", this Chinese car can rival the QQ when it comes to cuteness especially when you see those paw print inspired lights. For below 300k, you get power amenities, ABS brakes, and airbags (last two items for GL). Quality and ownership experience a big question mark for now.

The Good: Practical and cute

The Bad: Reliability is dubious

Price Range: P220,000-P250,000

Our Rating: *

Last Update: November 26, 2014

Car Profiles - Hyundai Eon

HYUNDAI EON

It was destined to replace the i10 back then but it did not went through. One of the entry level cars without looking very basic inside which comes with lots of headroom (Indians are tall people). The 0.8 engine is fuel friendly and it can pull decently.

The Good: Very fuel friendly

The Bad: No rear wiper

Price Range: P505,000

Our Rating: ***

Last Update: March 2, 2018

Car Profiles - Chevrolet Spark (2011-2016)

2011-2016 Chevrolet Spark

The Good: Practical and easy to drive

The Bad: Hard to reach rear door handle and overtaxed 1.0 with AT

The Say: Nice but competitors are worth a look.

Go For: 1.2 LT
Avoid: 1.0 LS AT

Price Range: P325,000-P450,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Review: Used Car Review - Chevrolet Spark (2011-2016)
Latest vehicle profile: Chevrolet Spark

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2011-2013
2013-2016

Car Profiles - Ford Fiesta Hatchback (2010-Current)

2010-Current Ford Fiesta Hatchback

The Good: An excellent drive with the matching looks

The Bad: You have to live with the tight rear seat and not-so flexible luggage capability

The Say: Fun to handle but not a passenger's delight.

Go For: 1.4 Trend
Avoid: 1.6 Sport Plus (yeah, the one with the stripes)

Price Range: P465,000-P650,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Ford Fiesta Hatchback

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2010-2013

Car Profiles - Suzuki Swift

SUZUKI SWIFT

Don't let the looks fool you, the Swift is a bit longer than the previous one. A 1.2 engine is now available to target the Mirage and surprisingly has enough kit for the price. There's the tight rear seat, and also the fun to drive moments.

The Good: A delight to drive

The Bad: Not the roomiest back seat out there

Price Range: P658,000-P698,000

Our Rating: ****

Last Update: January 9, 2018

Used Car Review - Honda Jazz (2008-2014)

You're graduating and you want your own set of wheels as a present, Myk Belmonte gives you a suggestion.

2008-2014 Honda Jazz

History
With manufacturers getting obsessed in extracting much space in a small vehicle, there are tons of magic tricks here at the expense of compromising one aspect of the vehicle. Honda had done it especially on the part of making the passenger feel at home.

Debuting at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, the second generation Jazz became more larger in length, fixed the chassis to a stiff one, and made way for a hybrid engine. The basics which made the Jazz a household name when it comes to interior flexibility. For the second time, it won the Car of the Year Japan award when it was introduced. September 2013 saw the launch of the third generation Jazz in its home market.

Late 2008 saw the arrival of the second generation Jazz to the Philippine market. It gained more length at the expense of a huge price increase (near rivals of the same displacement cost a hundred grand less) but still the benchmark of all hatches, despite the arrival of new entrants. It is available in S (1.3 only) and V (has the 1.5 engine standard) models but special edition models in Modulo and Mugen flavors are available. By the time you read this, a third generation model will be launched in the Philippines by this year.

Value and Costs
You may not need to proceed to a Honda dealer just to get a brand new unit especially changes were minimal (unless you count the color palette updates). Early units would cost P440,000 - basically half the price of a brand new one - while latest models are priced at the tune of P700,000 with units sold from May 2011 onward having a remainder of their warranty. Do take note Japan imported models were introduced in February 2012 having a slight difference in standard equipment while models wearing either Modulo or Mugen body kits were made as an option later that year.

Keeping this baby would not necessitate the need to sell your liver and kidney. When it comes to parts they are obtainable and attainable. A recall that involved units manufactured between September 2008 until April 2010 for their spring which may cause friction and noise in the engine if not performed, may put the engine to failure.

Exterior and Interior
We imagine this: Honda engineers giving the Jazz some growing pills and vola, the length of the vehicle was stretched. The 1.3 models were conservative looking while the 1.5 gets aggressive looking body kits and the base of the overpriced Mugen variant. Besides, the exterior speaks for itself until we lead to the next paragraph.

The famed three cargo configurations are still retained which is a strength. Put the seats up for the humans with some space for their luggage while fold them down for some serious business (which is, ehem, hauling cargo). Control layout is on the logical side, placed within reach of the driver.

Engine
The second generation Jazz gave a new engine technology for the L13A 1,339cc carrying 100hp at 6,000rpm and 127Nm at 4,800rpm: the VTEC technology. The other option is the L15A 1,496cc which dishes out 120hp at 6,600rpm and 145Nm at 4,800rpm. The 1.3 engine, despite having VTEC, would fit the city landscape especially going fast with a full load isn't its habitat. The 1.5 gives you that extra power whenever needed although the engine may get strained, it is less evident.

Driving Impressions
Good thing it retains the driving dynamics the previous model has. It loves to be tossed around the twisties at the expense of a firm ride and noise intruding the cabin. The latter can be experienced when the driver goes fast enough.

Verdict
There is no other hatchback that can balance fun moments and doubles practicality. The Honda Jazz can still acquit itself despite the influx of new competitors.

Ford Expedition - Generation 3.1 (2007-2015)

FORD EXPEDITION (2007-2015)

The third generation Expedition marked the introduction of long wheel base models marketed under the Eddie Bauer and XLT variants. It also used a 5.4 V8 paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Do take note that a trim swap occurred in late 2010 as a 2011 model.

See the overview of this Expedition
See the latest model of the Expedition

Car Profiles - Mercedes Benz GL Class

MERCEDES BENZ GL CLASS

The Good: Powerful, seats seven inside
The Bad: Thirsty for fuel (gasoline)

Price Range: P7,380,000
Our Rating: ***

TABLE TO BE ADDED SOON

Car Profiles - Lexus LX

LEXUS LX

Say all you want that this is a gussied up Land Cruiser, but it carries more luxury appointments and the renowned Lexus badge. We would assume that this will give you command on the road despite having a different badge. Unlike the Toyota, this one has a V8 engine so don't complain for fuel bills.

The Good: More luxurious than a Land Cruiser

The Bad: Poor fuel consumption

Price Range: P8,238,000

Our Rating: ***

Last Update: January 9, 2018

Car Profiles - Land Rover Range Rover (2002-2013)

2002-2013 Land Rover Range Rover

The Good: You can take this anywhere without losing luxury

The Bad: You must live with the horrible fuel consumption and expensive maintenance costs

The Say: There is no car that can flaunt your status which can take you anywhere.

Go For: 4.4 V8 gasoline
Avoid: Being kuripot, you can't

Price Range: P2,700,000-P3,000,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: None as of the Moment

Used Car Review - BMW X5 (2007-2014)

This model is getting replaced and the previous model will have its last hurrah courtesy of Myk Belmonte.

2007-2014 BMW X5

History

SUVs - or sport utility vehicles - were in the rage until the Europeans (as a whole) joined the party in the late 00s. Mercedes Benz first fielded the M Class which despite some quality quirks, became popular. Then BMW rewritten the norm: marketing these vehicles as SAVs or Sport Activity Vehicles. First in the family is the X5 with the members expanded later on. See, you need not to be the same with others in order to be salable, sometimes being unique is the key.

Going to its second generation model under the codename E70, the E70 X5 model incorporated new technologies, a reworked interior, and an electronic gearstick known as the 'joystick' among others. The FlexRay, used to control the chassis damping system, first saw use in this vehicle. No more manual transmission available but it paved way for an M variant, which was only exclusive for the passenger car line-up. The F15 X5 replaced this one in late 2013.

The local BMW distributor brought in the E70 X5 in early 2007 to make battle with the newbie Audi Q7 and the updated Porsche Cayenne. M models were launched in 2010 while the gasoline models were discontinued in 2013. By this time, F15 models are now available at the nearest BMW dealer.

Value and Costs

With the introduction of the F15 X5, expect used prices to drop further with the oldest models lingering in the P1.5M range. Like we always say, going to the certified pre-owned route is the best way for your ownership experience. Diesels are the majority of units sold locally, which is what we choose (more on this one later).

Maintenance prices are at par with rivals from Germany, whether you choose a gasoline (with the exception of the M) or diesel model. Since this vehicle has tons of electronic gadgets, have an eye on them. If it has run-flat tires, do check them since replacing a set of them is very expensive.

Exterior and Interior

Although it looks smaller than the model it replaced in pictures, length, width and wheelbase were stretched although the height is still the same. If there are some sharp creases existed in the older model, some soft lines while remaining attractive is evident here.

The big news for the E70 X5 - which is totally relevant to the Philippine market - is the availability of a third row bench. Only children and people with short build are welcome to apply there as it is cramped and better used for emergency purposes only. As usual, interior quality is topnotch and the iDrive is much simpler than before. A joystick type shifter is the 6-speed automatic which looks quirky. Replacing the old interface is a touch screen monitor which houses the radio.

Engine 

Let us start with the popular (and our recommended) engine: the M57TU2D30 2,993cc diesel which carries 235hp at 4,000rpm and 520Nm giving out needed torque at the range of 2,000 to 2,750rpm. There are two options for a gasoline powered X5 and start from the N52B30 2,996cc V6 having 272hp at 6,650rpm and 315Nm at 2,750rpm. If you gotta go petrol, get this one but go on an extensive search since it was dropped in February 2010. Those who crave more power can opt for the N62B48 4,799cc V8 that possess 355hp at 6,300rpm and 475Nm with a range between 3,400-3,800 rpm. Any of the three are fast but the diesel is what we pick due to its blend of low maintenance costs and performance. The 3.0 gasoline is fine while the V8 is ferocious both in acceleration and fuel consumption.

Driving Impressions

Thank goodness, the drive is still as enjoyable as before especially when driven on twisty paths but body roll (which is minimal) and a firm ride is there. The latter can be rectified with an optional adaptive suspension, which may be standard in a unit you are looking for. Driving layout is flexible for every position one desires and no noise intrudes the cabin that disturbs the occupants.

Verdict

Luxury SUVs have their own unique traits and the second generation X5 has its own set of abilities and flaws. For those who want the prestige of a Bimmer while needing the added height (do not use it for off-road abilities) for less cash might want to consider a pre-loved unit.

Car Features - We Rate the Vehicle Introductions During Fidel Ramos's Term (Part 2)

The second part of rating vehicle launches during the Ramos administration comes to a second page. This time, vehicles from Mercedes Benz to Volvo are being evaluated according to their market significance.

We would rate the vehicle launches between June 30, 1992 to June 30, 1998 by their success and significance in their market. Some vehicles paved way to future trends in the market while some were regarded as future classics and collectibles.

Shown below are the vehicles, date of introduction (those after June 1998 are excluded), short introduction, and significance rating (out of five) with some commentary.

To view the first part of this series, click here

Car Features - We Rate the Vehicle Introductions During Fidel Ramos's Term (Part 1)

The administration of Fidel Ramos had car sales reaching the six digit mark until the Asian Financial Crisis spoiled the fun. Although his 86th birthday is on the 18th of March, we decided to have it earlier since weekends are reserved for special features.

So let us revisit the vehicle launches during his term especially that the Philippine economy is booming with many a car flying off dealer floors.

We would rate the vehicle launches between June 30, 1992 to June 30, 1998 by their success and significance in their market. Some vehicles paved way to future trends in the market while some were regarded as future classics and collectibles.

This will be divided to two parts; and for the first part we will feature launches from Alfa Romeo to Mazda from the said period.

Shown below are the vehicles, date of introduction (those after June 1998 are excluded), short introduction, and significance rating (out of five) with some commentary.

To view the second part of the series, click here

Car Profiles - Jaguar XK Coupe (1997-2006)

1997-2006 Jaguar XK Coupe

The Good: Can acquit itself well

The Bad: But lacks the space

The Say: Be the star for less.

Go For: XK8
Avoid: XKR

Price Range: P1,500,000-P1,700,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: Used Car Review - Jaguar XK (1997-2006)

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1997-2006

Car Profiles - Alfa Romeo GTV (1996-2000)

1996-2000 Alfa Romeo GTV

The Good: Attention drawing looks

The Bad: Reliability will take the attention away

The Say: Will make you smile at the expense of other things.

Go For: 3.0 V6
Avoid: There is none

Price Range: Data Not Available
Our Rating: **

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1996-2000

Car Profiles - Mercedes Benz CLC Class (2009-2014)

2009-2014 Mercedes Benz CLC Class

The Good: Cheap to buy

The Bad: The rest of the car isn't great

The Say: Your money could do better.

Go For: CLC 180K Sport
Avoid:

Price Range: P1,350,000-P1,800,000
Our Rating: **

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:

2009-2014

Car Profiles - BMW 1 Series Coupe

BMW 1 SERIES COUPE

The Good: Drives well, high levels of quality
The Bad: Very very impractical to own

Price Range: P3,950,000-P4,590,000
Our Rating: ***

TABLE TO BE ADDED SOON

Used Car Review - Mitsubishi Eclipse (2007-2011)

Summer is near and Myk Belmonte gives you a suggestion for something pleasurable to drive.

2007-2011 Mitsubishi Eclipse

History
According to everyone's best friend in the web named Wikipedia, an eclipse "is an astronomical event that occurs when an astronomical object is temporarily obscured". Other referrals to the word may include a song by Bonnie Tyler and one of the film adaptation of a popular novel series by Stephanie Meyer. However, let us not delve far from the car we are talking about here.

Launched in 1991 as a shared model with the Plymouth Laser and Eagle Talon, the Eclipse had gone through four generations but starting with the third it became an independent model, mostly sharing parts and its platform with the Galant. The 4G Eclipse was first made available in 2006 in either 4-cylinder or V6 engine and coupe or convertible bodies. It grew in size but carried a less desirable driving characteristics (more on this later). As with the Endeavor and US Galant, the Eclipse hit the graveyard after 20 years of existence due to sagging sales.

Nearly 10 years after the 2G Eclipse's local release, Mitsubishi offered this one as a niche model alongside the Lancer Evolution. It was silently dropped after four years in the line-up, which saw the rise of the category the following year due to the arrival of the Toyota 86 and Ford Mustang.

Value and Costs
Imports from the US (which is fine) and locally purchased units would cost you P1,000,000-P1,500,000, a reasonable price for a two door coupe sold in limited quantities.

Fuel consumption is on the lower side given the larger engine, which is expected in this class. Parts availability would be limited to the dealership especially this is a low volume vehicle.

Exterior and Interior
Although it looks less aggressive than before, sleek curves are still the spotlight of the Eclipse. While the coupe comes stock locally, US models can be customized with various accessories that fits the buyer's personality and lifestyle.

Despite a slung exterior design, the front seats fits anyone just right while the rear is a generalization of all coupes - reserved for kids. A space era themed interior which is complemented by an instrument panel and controls with a blue hue. Don't fret, a sunroof, leather seats, and a Rockford Fosgate sound system are standard.

Engine
A wise decision by Mitsubishi is to bring the 6G75 3,828 V6 having 267hp at 5,750rpm and 357Nm at 4,500rpm at tap, since the other option - a naturally aspirated 4-cylinder - is sluggish at best. It is powerful but does it ignite driving excitement? To the next paragraph.

Driving Impressions
No thanks to a heavy body and a front wheel drive layout, it wouldn't want curved roads for lunch but prefers straight roads for its diet. Handling is sporty enough to fulfill your fantasies, though. Americans like straight lines but enthusiasts prefer the other way around.

Verdict
Just like someone getting older, the Eclipse went far from its memorable experience. While it may have some fans, the appeal is very limited. If you want something fun to drive, consider other choices first before arriving to a decision.

Car Profiles - Dodge Caravan (1998-2002)

1998-2002 Dodge Caravan

The Good: Spacious and practical

The Bad: Spotty reliability, sub-par interior materials

The Say: The minivan which comes stylish but falls short.

Go For: Grand Caravan
Avoid: Anything with spotty maintenance records

Price Range: P130,000-P200,000
Our Rating: **

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1998-2002

Car Profiles - Chrysler Voyager (2000-2003)

2000-2003 Chrysler Voyager

The Good: Drives like a car

The Bad: Budget car interior is present

The Say: The cheapest way to fulfill your American dreams in a practical size.

Go For: LXI
Avoid: None

Price Range: P220,000-P320,000
Our Rating: **

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2000-2003

Car Profiles - Honda Odyssey (1997-1998)

1997-1998 Honda Odyssey

The Good: Sedan driving characteristics

The Bad: Sedan derived engine for a people carrier

The Say: A van which came way ahead of its time.

Go For: Local units
Avoid: Abused imported units

Price Range: P160,000-P260,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Honda Odyssey

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1997-1998

Kia Carnival - Generation 2.2 (2010-2015)

KIA CARNIVAL (2010-2015)

Receiving the "Tiger Nose" treatment for late 2010, this Carnival was reduced to two models each for wheelbase.

See the overview of this Carnival
See the Generation 2.1 model
See the latest model of the Carnival

Used Car Review - Kia Carnival (2007-2015)

It's vacation time and Myk Belmonte throws a van for the road trips you had planned.

2007-2015 Kia Carnival

History
In order to expand to Europe, car manufacturers having business there must offer MPVs or people carriers. Why we say so? They have narrow roads which makes an SUV cry and they are obsessed with diesels, which makes them suitable in these types of vehicles that haul people inside.

The second generation Carnival (under the VQ codename) was first launched in 2006 and one unique trait is the availability of both short and long wheelbase models. Since this is a global model, equipment levels and body configurations vary per market which is a good thing when related to the first paragraph.

2007 saw the Philippine arrival of the Carnival and undercut most rivals having a front nose and sliding doors (the Grandis and Starex are excluded here) when it comes to price, since most of them linger above the P2M mark. As with the world market, short and long wheelbase variants are made available in its existence with the model available in LX (emphasized on value) and EX (luxury focused) variants.

Value and Costs
Hate spending a million bucks for a brand new vehicle? Then the used car gods gave you one solution to your question. A decently owned unit can be had for less than a million bucks which is a bargain to begin with. June 2009 and later sold units have a five year warranty, so search for a unit sold during that period to take advantage of that.

Since this van drinks diesel fuel for lunch, maintenance costs is on the low side but do take note the engine has a common rail technology than its predecessor. Do check out the sliding door if it works flawlessly and the various parts with a qualified mechanic.

Exterior and Interior
When it comes to exterior dimensions, the short and long wheelbase models differ from one another. SWB variants has a length of 4,810mm and a wheelbase of 2,890mm while the LWB carries 5,130mm worth of length and 3,020mm of wheelbase. Some early models of the LX SWB wear steel wheels which was later changed to 16 inch alloys.

Space-wise, the LWB models gain an advantage here since the third row has little rear legroom for kids. Not tight but space found in the SWB is significantly smaller than its longer counterpart. Other than the issue of space, interior flexibility is decent with a 60/40 split third row for LWB and the second row seats (for all models) can be flipped forward or removed all together. It is practical with some high quality materials although some of the low end ones are evident. Before anything else, all PHDM Carnivals can accommodate eight people.

Engine
A J 2,902cc diesel carrying 160hp at 3,700rpm and 354Nm at 2,000rpm is the only option for the Carnival which we think you need not to look for other ones. Despite its heavy mass, it keeps up to carrying the occupants whether in a low or high speed fashion.

Driving Impressions
For a minivan, it is stable even if its full to the brim which is definitely important for such a vehicle. Ride is on the comfortable side, a plus for those sick and tired of archaic rides possessed by AUVs. Handling and not so precise steering comes standard, but you should not expect too much since it is made to haul people, not to be raced.

Verdict
Going to the used route gives you unlimited possibilities of purchasing something better for less. Once a million peso vehicle, the second generation Carnival is a great bargain. Have fun conquering new paths this coming summer season!

Car Features - North American Car of the Year Winners

Every January of the year, the North American Car of the Year acknowledges the best new or redesigned vehicles (both from car and truck categories) available in the continent. This Saturday, let us revisit the winners of the award from 1994.