Friday, May 30, 2014

Car Profiles - Peugeot 307SW (2005-2007)

2005-2007 Peugeot 307SW

The Good: It has the space

The Bad: It isn't a pleasure to drive

The Say: A station wagon with some imperfections.

Go For: 2.0 SW
Avoid: 

Price Range: Data Not Available
Our Rating: ***

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:

Thursday, May 29, 2014

Car Profiles - BMW 1 Series

BMW 1 SERIES

The Good: Drives well and has powerful diesel engines
The Bad: Light steering spoils the fun

Price Range: P2,290,000-P2,690,000
Our Rating: ****

TABLE TO BE ADDED SOON

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Car Profiles - Audi A1

AUDI A1

Smaller than the A3 (which has morphed itself as a sedan), the A1 is one fine car from Audi and features either three or five door models. Small means easy to drive but not need compromise quality.

The Good: High levels of quality
The Bad: Limited practicality on three door

Price Range: P1,850,000-P1,950,000
Our Rating: *****

TABLE TO BE ADDED SOON

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

Car Profiles - Mini Hatch (2009-2014)

2009-2014 Mini Hatch

The Good: Fun to drive, great handling

The Bad: Pricey even at second hand prices, limited practicality

The Say: Funky car at attainable prices.

Go For: Cooper
Avoid: Early imports, they do have an incompatible fuel system

Price Range: P1,500,000-P2,000,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Mini Hatch

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2009-2014

Monday, May 26, 2014

Used Car Review - Volkswagen New Beetle (2000-2006)

Before summer ends, Myk Belmonte features a funky car to conclude the season.

2000-2006 Volkswagen New Beetle

History
We all know that the Beetle body and name is very classic. So classic that during the North American International Auto Show which happened in 1994, Volkswagen presented the "Concept One" which has some resemblance to the old Beetle. With public reaction very high, a production model was necessitated with production starting in October 1997.

Utilizing the Mk4 Golf's platform, the New Beetle was just a Beetle in looks and badge but everything else were taken from the popular hatchback. Good thing this one carried modern conveniences that we will tackle on the later portions of this article. 14 years later, the New Beetle was redesigned and sold as the plain "Beetle".

Auto Prominence Corporation revamped the Volkswagen line-up in 2000, which placed the Polo Classic to the graveyard and brought in new models such as the New Beetle, Passat, and Bora. As always, the New Beetle was the star but the price killed potential customers, especially that who would be thinking of buying a million peso car which can only seat two. Woes of the distributor made the Volkswagen brand (as a whole) to be pulled out in 2006. While the coupe was made available first, a convertible was later on added in 2004.

Value and Costs
There is no need to complain on the Beetle's stratospheric price, especially that a second hand unit will set you back between P400,000-P700,000 which is a mix of local and imported units. With minimal changes that happened, focusing on the vehicle condition is the prudent choice.

Solid as it is, this vehicle is notoriously included in the lists of vehicles with worst reliability, which makes it an alarm of concern. With that, check the vehicle thoroughly and prepare adequate funds especially you wouldn't want to frown when this car coinks out.

Exterior and Interior
The looks may be reminiscent of its grandfather but rather than placing the engine at the rear, luggages are invited to be stowed there. Anything else, we shall let the car's styling speak for itself.

Inside, only two people can join in the fun in a comfortable fashion especially the rear portion is best left empty or for packages only. Novelty pieces include the small tachometer and the famed flower vase inside which complements the clean and clutter-free dashboard.

Engine
When it was first launched, the APK 1,984cc carrying 114hp at 5,200rpm and 170Nm at 2,400rpm is the sole option for the early models and can be had with the convertible model. Three years later, a basic AWH 1,595cc having 100hp at 5,600rpm and 145Nm at 3,800rpm was launched for the hatchback models. There is no need to go for the larger engine especially their performance aren't far in between plus going low gives you less maintenance expenses.

Driving Impressions
Classic Beetle looks with modern day conveniences, driving this one does not need any adjustments especially if you are used from something modern. Acceleration is just average, not too fast but definitely not slow plus visibility is excellent.

Verdict
So, are you contemplating on buying this because you are a Beetlemaniac or of overall practicality? If you are going to use this one on a daily basis, other sub-compacts that offer more fun and practicality are better options. Unless you want Volkswagens, we wouldn't stop you and we'll say, have fun in hunting!


Friday, May 23, 2014

Car Profiles - BMW M3 Coupe (2008-2014)

2008-2014 BMW M3 Coupe

The Good: Acceleration is fierce, easy to live with

The Bad: Limited space

The Say: Super car performance at coupe levels.

Go For: M3
Avoid: None

Price Range: P3,400,000-P3,500,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2008-2014

Thursday, May 22, 2014

Car Profiles - Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X

MITSUBISHI LANCER EVOLUTION X

Whereas the WRX/WRX STi had been treated to a new body, this one would be put to rest next year. While the same body gives you the familiar impressive driving feel and excellent dual clutch tranny, it feels old since there are other newer rivals. Only can be purchased through indent order.

The Good: Excellent driving chardacteristics
The Bad: Stiff ride and it is aging

Price Range: By Order Basis
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: October 27, 2014

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Car Profiles - Audi R8

AUDI R8

While the 911 can play on its own, the R8 threatens its Porsche sibling by offering one thing: practicality. Good looking design coupled with a practical package that comes with an expensive price tag but not to Porsche levels.

The Good: One practical partner
The Bad: Expensive

Price Range: P12,500,000-P15,300,000
Our Rating: *****

TABLE TO BE ADDED SOON

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Car Profiles - Subaru Impreza WRX/WRX STi (2008-2014)

2008-2014 Subaru Impreza WRX/WRX STi

The Good: Happy engines when driven, practical hatchback body

The Bad: Power sapping automatic

The Say: You can live with this car on a daily basis while having fun during the weekends.

Go For: WRX
Avoid: WRX STi A Line Hatchback

Price Range: P900,000-P1,400,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: Used Car Review - Subaru Impreza WRX/WRX STi (2008-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: Subaru WRX/WRX STI

See the different versions of this vehicle:

Monday, May 19, 2014

Used Car Review - Subaru Impreza WRX/WRX STi (2008-2014)

With the new generation in the spotlight, Myk Belmonte evaluates the old model and sees if it is a bargain buy.

2008-2014 Subaru Impreza WRX/WRX STi

History
To steer clear of the expected words which will pop up on this paragraph, let me just tell this trait done in the car universe. Just like beer, car companies do offer regular, mild, and super versions of their vehicles. Regular are the plain jane performance models, mild are for those who wouldn't want to be intimidated, and super are reserved for the experienced.

Same story with the regular version, so let us just tell you the related items here. WRX models first debuted to the world, alongside with their regular counterparts, in April 2007 while the tamer STi model was made available in October 2007. Unlike the regular's 2011 availability, those who wanted the high performance model had to wait until 2013 but only available in a sedan body.

As mentioned in the Subaru Impreza review last year, the trunkless version came to the scene through the launching of both variants for the said body style. On the other hand, the sedan configuration was made available in April 2009 but only in WRX flavor. A late 2010 update had the WRX STi being refreshed and necessitated the discontinuation of the WRX variant. Last month, a new generation model of this rally bred vehicle is made available to Filipino consumers which makes this one a great bargain for less cash.

Value and Costs
Please to tell you this news that you can get this rally star for a snip of P900,000 for older models while recent ones costs you P1,400,000. As a general rule, going with a July 2011 and later model is the key to utilize the remainder of the warranty. Anything that appears to be modified extensively is a huge no-no, especially that it spoils the fun in a huge way including your money.

Basically, you should not expect low maintenance costs similar to your top end Corolla or Civic or heck, a regular Impreza. But be thankful that it is lower than a Mustang or that supercar you are drooling about. Apart from the regular wear and tear that one would expect, check if the vehicle is modified.

Exterior and Interior
Everything that is applicable to the regular version is applied here, but the differences include the following (and mostly apply to the WRX STi except when noted): a different rim design, the presence of a hood scoop (for both models), larger fenders, a rear spoiler, and more mufflers. The WRX may look plain but it is one sleeper car.

Space is excellent, something that competitors are ashamed of while interior quality is definitely tops. Everything else were lifted from its non-performance counterparts save for the glowing pink steering wheel on the WRX STi.

Engine
There are two separate engines for both variants which keeps their personalities distinct from one another. If you are purchasing the WRX model, then be informed that it has the EJ255 2,457cc belching out 230hp at 5,200rpm and 320Nm at 2,800rpm. For the power and rev happy in you, then the standard option for WRX STi models is an EJ257 2,457cc displacing 296hp at 6,000rpm and 407Nm at 4,000rpm for MT variants and 350Nm at 3,000-6,000rpm for AT models. Do remember that in a 2010 update, the MT is exclusive for the WRX STi sedan while the AT is reserved for the hatchback. When it comes to performance, both have different styles especially that the WRX is blistering fast but not to the point of scaring the first time driver while going with the WRX STi must be done wisely since the MT is a better pick against the AT which does not thrill the drive unless your route involves traffic jams.

Driving Impressions
Do take note that updated models carry a stiffer suspension which can be both an advantage and disadvantage for some people. When it comes to driving pleasure, it will give you smiles all day and the engine tears up the roof, just don't mind the horrible fuel economy which comes standard.

Verdict
This vehicle can perform two tasks in which you can take it to the daily grind and you can have fun during the weekends. Subaru's task is, in a way, succeeded well especially that its main rival is harsh. What can be expensive before is now affordable for ordinary blokes like us.


Friday, May 16, 2014

Car Profiles - Lincoln Town Car (1998-2002)

1998-2002 Lincoln Town Car

The Good: Comfortable to be ridden in

The Bad: Maintenance expenses aren't comfortable to deal with

The Say: Unless you have a driver and tons of cash, other choices are better.

Go For: 4.6 V8
Avoid: Dinging your car

Price Range: Data Not Available
Our Rating: *

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1998-2002

Thursday, May 15, 2014

Car Profiles - Infiniti Q45 (1997-2001)

1997-2001 Infiniti Q45

The Good: Has the power and space

The Bad: It comes with a stratospheric maintenance costs

The Say: Long before Lexus was a success, we had this.

Go For: 4.1 V8
Avoid: Anything spotty

Price Range: Data Not Available
Our Rating: ***

Related Reviews:
None as of the Moment

Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Car Profiles - Volvo 850 Sedan (1994-1997)

1994-1997 Volvo 850 Sedan

The Good: Tough, safe

The Bad: Expensive to keep

The Say: Will last longer than you'll do.

Go For: 2.5 GLT
Avoid: Poorly maintained units

Price Range: P100,000-P250,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1994-1997

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Car Profiles - Nissan Cedric (1994-1998)

1994-1998 Nissan Cedric

The Good: Opulence, space

The Bad: Limited availability, maintenance costs

The Say: A popular model is a better buy.

Go For: Any well maintained unit
Avoid: None

Price Range: P170,000-P200,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Review: None as of the Moment

Monday, May 12, 2014

Used Car Review - Toyota Crown (1988-1998)

Lets have a throwback this Monday with Myk Belmonte featuring a popular vehicle back then.

1988-1998 Toyota Crown

History
Back when the luxury car market was totally flooded with Benzes and the occasional Ford Cortinas and Granadas, Toyota was selling the high end Crown which is the highest in the hierarchy and slotted above the Cressida. Times had changed for the automotive landscape where the Camry is the top end model and Lexus had arrived, the Crown was an influential vehicle of its own and has a special spot among motorists.

This particular model that we are reviewing is the eighth generation model under the platform name S130 which was made available in 1987 in sedan, hardtop, and wagon models. In 1991, the hardtop became the S140 model while the other variants retained the S130 designation. The Crown Majesta was launched under the S140 platform as a much expensive model with more gadgetry thrown inside. Production ended sometime in the late 90s.

With Toyota's return to the Philippine market in 1988, one of the models that were first offered was the Crown. It was definitely a class of its own, especially that market leader Mitsubishi and Nissan had no counterpart models to it. As European competitors came to the scene, the Crown's relevance declined and Toyota dropped the model in 1998. Available variants include the Deluxe (sold until 1992), Super Saloon, and top end Royal Saloon.

Value and Costs
Crown prices do vary and buyers do get a wide range of models to choose from given its long production run. Older models can be obtained for less than six figures while later ones are priced in the P400,000 range. We advise you to get a 1992 and later model since old ones have a carburetor engine which is a pain to maintain.

As with age on these types of cars, maintenance costs would be surely on the expensive side. But unlike its European rivals, the Crown isn't that much crowded with electronic doodads and advanced engine technology which can break down after years of usage which makes this sedan a somewhat affordable (but not to Corolla levels) to keep. Check the wear and tear parts when buying and inspecting especially this is one bulletproof car

Exterior and Interior
Unlike today's luxury sedans which looks OA, the Crown's profile is discreet and low profile but elegant. Clean lines dominate the vehicle plus the grille is imposing in a way that it does not shout attention that much. Although this is an eighth generation model, past and succeeding models have styling similarities which makes it distinctively Crown. Saloon suffixed models get mud guards, extended bumpers, and fog lamps to differentiate themselves from the Deluxe.

It is always a Throwback Thursday inside the Crown especially the interior is dominated with flat panels in a black finishing. Covering the thickly padded seats are either fabric or leather upholstery which provides the passengers comfort for their daily routine. Combined with a low acquisition price and the famed Toyota reliability, it is one of the cheapest ways to get a power seats which recline in the rear, rear climate controls, and a beverage cooler which competitors copied.

Engine
Throughout its production life, each generation has a wide range of engines to choose from including diesels and for later models, hybrids. The S130 model had two sets of engines during its Philippine run, so lets discuss them one by one. Early models can be had with a 2.2 4-cylinder carrying 97hp and uses a carburetor fuel system or a 5M 2,759cc I6 having 116hp at 4,800rpm and 196Nm at 3,600rpm. Later models do gain (all of them are I6) either a 1G-FE 1,988cc with 135hp at 5,600rpm and 176Nm at 4,400rpm or 6M-GE 2,954cc having 190hp at 5,600rpm and 260Nm at 4,400rpm. We shall give the engines a rundown: the 2.2 is best avoided since it is weak, the 2.8 is decent, the 2.0 will have its engine strained when pushed hard, while the 3.0 is one heck faster. If you were to ask us, we'd bet our money towards either the 2.0 or 3.0 present in the updated models.

Driving Impressions
For those who are expecting something exciting, please find something else as the Crown does its best in one aspect: pampering the passengers. Giving the car some push will require some effort but you wouldn't mind it after all. Handling is decent for a car this size with the predictable body roll.

Verdict
Throwback Thursdays would let you remember some things of the past, and one of them is the Crown. Sure, we do have the Camry that offers the similar space but more technologically advanced and carries more kit but this vehicle has a special spot on our roads. It carried executives and presidents in style without being brand snobs.


Friday, May 9, 2014

Car Profiles - Ford Ranger (1999-2006)

1999-2006 Ford Ranger

The Good: Tough partner for business or personal use

The Bad: But you have to live with a tight rear bench

The Say: One of the durable trucks out there.

Go For: 4x2 Trekker
Avoid: Any beat up unit

Price Range: P310,000-P440,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Ford Ranger Non-Wildtrak/Wildtrak

See the different versions of this vehicle:

Thursday, May 8, 2014

Car Profiles - Nissan Frontier (1998-2014)

1998-2014 Nissan Frontier

The Good: Low maintenance costs, equipment for money

The Bad: Unrefined, weak engine

The Say: Other than durability, you can do better.

Go For: 4x2 Titanium
Avoid: 

Price Range: P300,000-P600,000
Our Rating: **

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Nissan Frontier Navara

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1998-2002
2003-2014

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Car Profiles - Chevrolet Silverado (2000-2004)

2000-2004 Chevrolet Silverado

The Good: Strong V8 engine, roomy cabin

The Bad: Inconsistent build quality, maintenance costs

The Say: Close but no cigar.

Go For: LS 4x4
Avoid:

Price Range: P350,000-P600,000
Our Rating: **

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:

Tuesday, May 6, 2014

Car Profiles - Dodge Dakota (2001-2004)

2001-2004 Dodge Dakota

The Good: Roomy cabin, off-road performance

The Bad: Expensive maintenance costs, rarity

The Say: Other trucks are better choices.

Go For: Quad Cab
Avoid: Anything else

Price Range: P400,000-P450,000
Our Rating: *

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2001-2004

Monday, May 5, 2014

Used Car Review - Ford F150 (1998-2004)

Having this bad boy in your garage is attainable. Let Myk Belmonte walk to you the details.

1998-2004 Ford F150

History
Probably beating the Toyota Corolla for the vehicle with the most number of generations (the F150 has 12 compared to the Toyota's 11 as of 2014), the F150 had been in existence in 1948 which replaced the car based pick-up truck line sold in 1942. Since then, it has been sold in a raft of configurations from two to four doors and regular and extended length versions to regular engined one to the powerful (think of the SVT and Raptor). It is still kicking on 66 years after it was first released.

The tenth generation F150 first debuted in 1995 as a 1997 model and featured more curves than the model it replaced, which made Ford selling the previous model alongside since they had predicted it would not be a hit among consumers (trucks are meant to be boxy and handsome, you know). But alas, it sold well and another feature is the separation of the F250 and F350 were split while a Lincoln version called the Blackwood that was a market flop. Production ended in 2009 in Mexico while early as 2004 for the other markets.

Ford made a comeback in 1998 and one of the products is the F150 pickup, which made the Japanese rivals dwarf in size. Gasoline was very very cheap back then and the crisis was just a word when the truck arrived to the shores. Dwindling interest towards pick-up trucks with gasoline engines (the last one to be sold was the Hilux G with a 2.7 lifted from the Fortuner) caused the F150 to be discontinued, leaving the Ranger in the truck range. One can get the F150 through a local Ford dealer in Styleside 4x2, Flareside 4x4, and Supercrew 4x4 while succeeding versions through the grey market. Supercrew versions remained until its 2004 dropping, with the other models had it early in 2003.

Value and Costs
American trucks and cars with large engine displacements have poor resale values, and one can get an F150 for the price equivalent of a 2001-2011 model Honda Civic. One can get a Chevrolet Silverado of the same period but Ford has the edge on dealer support. Just prepare to read the next paragraph if you really want one.

Planning to get one would necessitate to pay more at the pump, since fuel consumption is not a huge forte (but then that's the reason for the low resale values) plus maintenance costs are expensive for such an old car. One deficiency to look for are the electrical components which may conk out especially if the unit you are checking is very old.

Exterior and Interior
One may choose between a two door plus two hidden door available in the Styleside and Flareside or a crew cab Supercrew. Parking and maneuvering one can be a chore, especially for the first time driver but the stares and pride in driving one is priceless.

If you intend to transport people, then get a 4-door version since the low end models have a tight rear bench. Owners of the first generation Expedition would have some comments that they are similar to each other, and they are from the automatic shift knob (manual models have them floor mounted) to the radio. One good trait are the adjustable pedals that can give the driver a comfortable seating position.

Engine
Rocking your world (or in this case, your drive) are two gasoline engines in the form of the following: an Essex 4,195cc V6 having 205 at 4,750rpm and 345Nm at 3,000rpm and  a Triton 4,601cc V8 carrying 220hp at4 4,500rpm and 398Nm at 3,250rpm. Both engines provide sufficient power when it comes to acceleration (the V8 has more than enough) plus a sports car growl comes bonus when driven hard.

Driving Impression
Those who want something fun to drive are advised to look elsewhere, since steering precision is lacking and going to potholes gives you a bouncy feeling. Although driving and maneuvering one isn't a strength, the added height gives you security during the rainy season or traversing in rough roads.

Verdict
Desiring a pick-up truck without the diesel engine noise and lingering at the price range of a sedan is a reality thanks to the F150. Being low priced means it has some drawbacks such as its fuel efficiency and pricey maintenance costs but then, the Ford is a better pick among the American trucks.


Saturday, May 3, 2014

Car Features - Si Clio, Primo, at Verno

Pardon the title, you might think that Clio, Primo, and Verno are names of people, members of a band, or drug syndicates. No, these are the names of Honda's dealership networks in Japan in which various vehicles are sold there.

According to everyone's best friend on the web named Wikipedia, Honda chose to diversify its dealership networks by first launching the Verno in 1978. Due to some competition from Nissan and Toyota, they had added the Clio and Primo in the 80s. However, the dealership channels were merged to one in 2006.

Six years later, this similar concept was revived with the launch of the Honda Cars Small Store that sold compacts and kei cars.

So, lets go to each detail one by one.

Friday, May 2, 2014

Car Profiles - Kia Pregio (1996-2005)

1996-2005 Kia Pregio

The Good: Smooth ride, cheap to buy

The Bad: Questionable built quality, ergonomics

The Say: Other than its buttery ride, there are more better vans out there.

Go For: LS
Avoid: Units which look tired

Price Range: P120,000-P360,000
Our Rating: *

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:

Thursday, May 1, 2014

Car Profiles - Mitsubishi L300 (1987-2012)

1987-2012 Mitsubishi L300

The Good: Cheap to maintain, practicality

The Bad: Unrefined, fuel thirsty gasoline engine

The Say: Something that keeps on chugging despite its age.

Go For: 2.5 diesel
Avoid: 2.0 gasoline

Price Range: P85,000-P400,000
Our Rating: *

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1987-2012