Thursday, July 31, 2014

Car Profiles - Kia Sephia (2000-2002)

2000-2002 Kia Sephia

The Good: Decent space

The Bad: Reliability is dubious

The Say: A Japanese car of the same period would be a better proposition.

Go For: LS
Avoid: Korean imports of the same name

Price Range: Data Not Available
Our Rating: **

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2000-2002

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Car Profiles - BYD L3

BYD L3

Battling it out in the Vios and City class is the L3 which has amenities for under 720k such as a reverse parking system and GPS navigation. Though the price is tempting, better be cautious first.

The Good: Tempting ownership proposition
The Bad: Reliability is questionable

Price Range: P738,000-P828,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: March 21, 2015

Car Profiles - Lifan 320

LIFAN 320

We know that Chinese copying car designs are old news, in which Lifan designers took a Mini Cooper and place a 1.3 motor in it while watching too much Mr. Bean in the designing process. While there is one thing that is questionable, as they say: God made the world and the rest made in China.

The Good: Mini Cooper looks.
The Bad: Not a Mini Cooper, unknown reliability

Price Range: P498,000
Our Rating: *

Car Profiles - Suzuki Alto

SUZUKI ALTO

This one received a new body while retaining its economical engine. While you can get this for below 450 grand, there are other choices that you can get while adding more. The old body K10 is still available but priced a thousand more than the newly restyled Deluxe.

The Good: Very fuel efficient. Having survived the 80's and still counting, means maintenance will be cheap. 
The Bad: Very basic and bare, safety is amiss, too. There's the Toyota Wigo E.

Price Range: P429,000
Our Rating: *

Last Update: April 5, 2018

Mazda 2 Sedan - Generation 3 (2010-2015)

MAZDA 2 SEDAN (2010-2015)

The sedan followed months later with the 1.5 engine coming first (it can be had with a manual, unlike the hatch). A 1.3 variant followed later on that rides on steel wheels and a manual only transmission.

See the overview of this 2 Sedan
See the latest model of the 2 Sedan


Car Profiles - Haima 2

HAIMA 2

Based on a Mazda, this Chinese hatch isn't feature scrimped (especially for the C Sport models) plus it gets an sequential transmission, the only Chinese brand to do locally. While the price is justifiable, reliability is a big question mark.

The Good: Feature packed
The Bad: Untested reliability, a legit Mazda 2 Speed isn't priced too far away. 

Price Range: P549,000-P749,000
Our Rating: ***

Car Profiles - Mitsubishi Mirage

MITSUBISHI MIRAGE

In what could be Mitsubishi's missing link, the Mirage was a sales success especially it offered more space at a price where others have smaller ones. Advanced MIVEC engine, lightweight construction and fuel thrifty CVT, makes this very capable of high MPG motoring.  Aimed at developing countries, don't expect high levels of refinement. 

The Good: Very fuel efficient, content for price ratio making it the best value in the super mini class.
The Bad: Unrefined, tinny feeling at times.

Price Range: P570,000-P743,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: March 2, 2018

Car Profiles - Honda Jazz

HONDA JAZZ

No more 1.3 engine but you get tons of neat stuff including six airbags and a touchscreen automatic air-con system. While the redesign had more equipment, 1.5 VX+ is priced dangerously. 1.5 V Mugen Limited Edition now available with 30 units for grabs.

The Good: Still the king of versatility, still one of the smartest in its segment.
The Bad: Pricing is kinda dangerous, the competition is also advancing for lesser entry price.

Price Range: P847,000-P1,058,000
Our Rating: ****

Last Update: January 9, 2018

Kia Rio Sedan - Generation 3.1 (2012-2015)

KIA RIO SEDAN (2012-2015)

An step up from its taxi-cab image predecessor, the Rio looks more solid and stately than before. The 1.4 EX went first with the 1.2 LX followed a month later. Off-shoot variants with each engine were introduced later on including a model having the same specifications of the hatchback.

Car Profiles - Hyundai Elantra Wagon (1996-2000)

1996-2000 Hyundai Elantra Wagon

The Good: Acceleration, practicality

The Bad: Poor refinement, reliability

The Say: A low cost wagon option if you are willing to overlook the iffy reliability.

Go For: 1.6 GLS
Avoid:

Price Range: P130,000-P150,000
Our Rating: **

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1996-2000

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Car Profiles - Daewoo Cielo (1996-2000)

1996-2000 Daewoo Cielo

The Good: Decent looks than the Racer, space

The Bad: Questionable reliability, age

The Say: Better look at rivals first.

Go For: 1.5
Avoid: Having high expectations

Price Range: P80,000-P120,000
Our Rating: **

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1996-2000

Monday, July 28, 2014

Car Profiles - Hyundai Grand i10 (2014-2016)

2014-2016 Hyundai Grand i10

The Good: Luxury car qualities in a lower segment

The Bad: Luxury car prices in a lower segment when brand new

The Say: Improved, but it comes at a price.

Go For: 1.0 S, if you can find one
Avoid: 

Price Range: P350,000-P460,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: 

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2014-2016

Car Profiles - Toyota Yaris

TOYOTA YARIS

The second generation Yaris addresses lots of criticisms which its predecessor faced including the lack of space for both people and cargo and the non-availability of a lower displacement engine. Well, with both sides covered there's a variant for you.

The Good: More space, more variants
The Bad: Some hard touch plastics

Price Range: P875,000-P1,040,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: January 9, 2018

Car Profiles - Suzuki Swift Dzire

SUZUKI SWIFT DZIRE

In an attempt to slug it out with the Vios, Suzuki brought in the Swift Dzire, an Indian specialty. The short rear means it has little trunk space but if you seek practicality for less, take a look.

The Good: Short length means easy to drive.
The Bad: What makes it an Indian delight isn't so applicable here. Limited trunk space

Price Range: P579,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: May 9, 2017

Chery QQ - Generation 1.2 (2013-2016)

CHERY QQ3 (2013-2016)

Essentially a remodeled Chery QQ of years past, the QQ3 gained more curves which does not shout Chevy Spark and gets a 1.0 engine. 


Nissan Almera - Generation 1.1 (2012-2015)

NISSAN ALMERA

Not to be confused with the Pulsar and Bluebird Sylphy based models offered 20 years ago, what we have here is a rebadged Nissan Latio (a sub-compact sold in Japan) specifically for Thailand's eco car program. First launched in 2012 at the Philippine International Motor Show and deliveries started in December of the same year

See the overview of this Almera
See the latest model of the Almera

Car Profiles - Chevrolet Spark

CHEVROLET SPARK

Sold as early as late 2015 in several markets, this late entry may have helped Chevrolet in a segment that is growing. Unlike the model it replaced, a larger 1.4 resides under the hood and comes with an optional CVT.

The Good:
The Bad: 

Price Range: P694,888-P859,888
Our Rating: 

Last Update: February 5, 2018

Car Profiles - Honda City

HONDA CITY

While the previous generation City is a good car, the newer one exceeds the standards. Kitted to a brim including items reserved for cars priced at a million pesos region, all retaining the space and making the return of the CVT for the second time. No more 1.3 engine but who's complaining?

The Good: More space than before, innovative as ever, raises the bar in safety, entry models are same priced with yesteryear's with almost better specs.
The Bad: TOTL model's prices may be justified but still high for a subcompact, no more 1.3 engine and rear disc brakes.

Price Range: P820,000-P1,041,000
Our Rating: ****

Last Update: January 9, 2018

Car Profiles - Ford Fiesta Sedan

FORD FIESTA SEDAN

Last year's make-over gave the Fiesta lots of changes, with the notable one being a 1.5L engine that had replace the 1.4L and 1.6L of yesteryear. An Aston Martin face comes standard that you'll need some time to appreciate it but the driving feel still remains.

The Good: Handles great, another Euro feel at mass market prices.
The Bad: Tight back seat and a styling that's a bit awkward.

Price Range: P755,000-P905,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: March 11, 2017

Car Profiles - Toyota Wigo

TOYOTA WIGO

With the Vios going to P600 thousand territory, now Toyota needs something to attract newbies to the brand. Basically a Daihatsu from Indonesia, the Wigo has items that its Korean and Indian contemporaries lack such as a rear wiper and an automatic transmission.

The Good: Practical to own, Toyota badge is enough for some.
The Bad: Cheap interior materials, and there's the Mitsubishi Mirage.

Price Range: P537,000-P676,000
Our Rating: **

Last Update: January 9, 2018

Car Profiles - Hyundai Accent Hatchback

HYUNDAI ACCENT HATCHBACK

While other contemporaries are content on fitting in gasoline powerplants, Hyundai seemed to have its own opportunity by being the opposite. Having lots of power under the hood which returns very high fuel savings wrapped in a practical body is one offer that we wouldn't pass.

The Good: Very fuel efficient, torque galore, classy styling.
The Bad: Limited rear visibility, huge price premium against the sedan brother.

Price Range: P878,000-P970,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: March 2, 2018

Car Profiles - Mitsubishi Mirage G4

MITSUBISHI MIRAGE G4

While the Mirage hatchback was a runaway success, the G4 had to compete with nameplates having more power and amenities. Don't let the tiny footprint fool you, it has tons of space inside.

The Good: Interior space for its size, nice features and amenities thrown in generously.
The Bad: 1.2 engine may get strained, acquired taste styling.

Price Range: P584,000-P819,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: March 2, 2018

Car Profiles - Ford Fiesta Hatchback

FORD FIESTA HATCHBACK

Apart from the Aston Martin front and its simplification to 1.5 engine choices, one notable distinction from its sedan counterpart is the availability of the EcoBoost engine. While the drive is fun, rear seats aren't the roomiest.

The Good: Euro chic and fun to drive, brings innovation to the table. Upscale packaging.
The Bad: Unaccommodating rear seat makes it less practical than some rivals.

Price Range: P755,000-P905,000
Our Rating: ****

Last Update: March 11, 2017

Car Profiles - Volkswagen Polo Sedan

VOLKSWAGEN POLO SEDAN

This is totally different from the Polo Classic we had before. The Polo is basically a VW Vento (itself a stretched Polo) from India, a car developed for that market. It hits the notes right including a diesel engine.

The Good: Available diesel engine, cheapest 'German engineered' car locally available.
The Bad: Very basic amenities for the price

Price Range: P840,000-P860,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: January 31, 2016

Car Profiles - Hyundai Accent Sedan

HYUNDAI ACCENT SEDAN

An update done earlier in the year gave us sumptuous treats: a CVT transmission, a high end model, and the comeback of the diesel engine which makes fleets happy. While the line-up is expanded, some models aren't for everyone.

The Good: Comfortable ride
The Bad: Soft suspension

Price Range: P690,000-P925,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: March 2, 2018

Car Profiles - Toyota Vios

TOYOTA VIOS

Shedding its taxicab image, this Vios is still the one you know since yesterday. One major highlight is the migration of gauges to the driver side, where it should be. While faux stitches are a classy touch, hard plastics are still present, but who cares? Now with an upgraded engine and an optional CVT.

The Good: Cheap to buy and own
The Bad: Cheap feeling interior plastics

Price Range: P629,000-P1,043,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: January 9, 2018

Used Car Review - Daewoo Racer (1994-1998)

Before leaving the month of July, Myk Belmonte reviews this jalopy just for the heck of it.

1994-1998 Daewoo Racer

History
There are some car manufacturers who are willing to dispose their old body styles (with license, of course) so that other manufacturers can use it. Some Japanese manufacturers would lend their bodies of some cars to several Chinese manufacturers (those who would copy are a different manner) while in this case, Opel would donate some of their old cars to Daewoo to form their new cars. In fact, Opel donated the Kadett E who is going to be discontinued with some modifications by Daewoo and the end product is the LeMans.

First launched in 1986, the LeMans was sold under a variety of names including under those of Asuna, Pontiac, and Passport under a variety of engines and either available in sedan or hatchback. The nameplate ran for two generation models until it was replaced by the Daewoo Lanos in 1997. Some countries have the second generation model (Cielo/Nexia) still under production.

Locally, it was the first Daewoo badged vehicle to be sold under Transfarm and Co. Inc based in Cebu. While it had some success in its early years, the financial crisis crippled Quisimbing's distribution rights for the vehicles of the Korean company. Variants sold include the ETi and GTi with a TXi model aimed for taxi fleets launched in late 1994.

Value and Costs
If you are determined in buying one, then you'll jump for joy that prices range in the P30,000 to P60,000 price bracket. With that money, you can buy a brand new laptop, cellphone, a semester's worth in college, or a brand new motorcycle; but then think many times before committing to buy one.

When it comes to maintenance costs, there are parts specialists for old Korean vehicles that exists but overall finding them can be a huge headache. Old Korean vehicles aren't exactly known for their reliability, so better check the car overall before buying one.

Exterior and Interior
Laying your eyes upon one, you would say that this is not one of the most beautiful of them all. Some lines and blocks make this one somewhat outdated. Do take note that ETi and GTi models have a different trunk design from the TXi, plus the latter does not have any hubcap covers while the GTi can be ordered with alloy wheels though.

This budget car has tons of space for the passengers, which is a strength. Interior quality can be described as a hard plastic party but you do not have any right to complain about it. Some models have an analog clock which was added in 1996 while the GTi can be had with power windows, dangerously situated in the middle console.

Engine
While other engines of the same size had a carburetor system, the Racer's 1.5 engine carrying 89hp at 5,500rpm and 127Nm at 3,000rpm has a fuel injection system with throttle body injection that provides smooth acceleration but fuel consumption isn't good when it is not cleaned.

Driving Impressions
Ever since it was sold, technology and driving dynamics aren't the latest ones especially that one must consider it was based on a 1980s Opel. It provides a smooth acceleration but other than that, one must look elsewhere.

Verdict
If you really want this Daewoo, prepare to load yourself with tons of patience. However, there exists better cars if you are willing to shell out more money.

Friday, July 25, 2014

New Car Profiles Compilation

Buying a new car is a daunting task, especially that you get easily confused on a sea of models. Since we're not just about used cars, The Ultimate Car Guide features new vehicles in which they are sorted alphabetically plus details spec-by-spec are provided in the profiles themselves.

As much as possible, we would want to keep the information posted accurate as possible, but we do not guarantee that they are 100% correct. Do remember that manufacturers and distributors can change vehicle specifications without further notice, so if you spot any mistake please leave us a comment below and we will fix them as soon as possible. Models without hyperlinks (those in black) means that information about them are being gathered and we will mark them as "new entry" once done.

To view at used car profiles, check the Used Car Profiles Compilation.

Here are some markers:
NEW - A totally new vehicle or a minor update such as a facelift
SOON - Vehicle to be launched soon, with an entry to follow
UPDATE - Ranges from price changes, additional or deletion of equipment, or new variants
DISC - Vehicle to be discontinued (either being replaced by a new model or having no direct replacement), in which these entries would be transferred to the Used Section soon

Vehicle Ratings as follows:
N/R - Given to commercial vans
* - Ain't worth it to buy
** - Not trash, but buy one if really needed
*** - Average, not that good but ain't bad also
**** - Exceptional, misses some notes
***** - Hurry, buy now!

Car Profiles - Mini Clubman (2009-2014)

2009-2014 Mini Clubman

The Good: A joy to drive, added space

The Bad: Rear visibility, funny looks

The Say: Unless you like minis, there are other practical and fun options out there.

Go For: Cooper
Avoid: 

Price Range: P2,000,000-P2,400,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Review: Used Car Review - MINI Clubman (2009-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: MINI Clubman

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2009-2014

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

Car Profiles - Dodge Caliber (2007-2009)

2007-2009 Dodge Caliber

The Good: Easy to live with, equipment

The Bad: Quality quirks, interior quality does not match its brand new price

The Say: Other rivals that cost less are better.

Go For: SXT
Avoid: Having high expectations

Price Range: P750,000-P850,000
Our Rating: **

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2007-2009

Monday, July 21, 2014

Used Car Review - Volvo C30 (2007-2013)

Myk Belmonte evaluates the recepie of this unique hatchback.

2007-2013 Volvo C30

History
Volvos are known to be utterly conservative vehicles that are aimed towards the senior demographic of the market. They are safe that they are fitted with tons of safety features but something that is definitely not associated with fun and funky. In the new millennium, they had numerous efforts on making their cars something to be worthy of consideration by the younger market.

It started life as the Volvo Safety Concept Car displayed at the 2001 Detroit Auto Show with production being planned in 2002 and it was made available as a production car in 2006 with the first units being sold in Europe. It shared the platform with the S40, V50, and C70 plus other Ford and Mazda vehicles sold internationally. To further tap the younger market, it had a premier in the Twilight Saga movies with Edward Cullen driving it. After calling it a day, Volvo discontinued the vehicle in 2013.

2007 saw the introduction of the C30 in the Philippine market which made this vehicle as the cheapest Swedish car (SAAB isn't here so, the distinction is there). Although this vehicle is technically discontinued, there are some stocks available locally.

Value and Costs
Thanks to the mighty power of depreciation, second hand C30s range between P750,000 to P1,200,000 for later units. As the drill, go with a pre-owned unit since it will give you a peace of mind.

Since this vehicle comes from the Continental side of the planet, expect maintenance costs to be slightly higher than those from the Land of the Rising Sun. There are no reliability issues, but it pays to check the vehicle thoroughly.

Exterior and Interior
With some bits of inspiration from the P1800ES and 480ES, the C30 looks sporty on paper thanks to its two door styling. We shall not delve on this one more since let us have the design speak for itself.

If you have kids, look elsewhere as the C30's interior isn't that much friendly especially the rear area isn't hospitable at all. Dealing with the other details, there is the floating dashboard that carries an easy to reach controls that are logically placed.

Engine
Throughout selling life, there had been three engines available. The original options were a B5244S4 2,435cc carrying 170hp at 6,000rpm and 230Nm at 4,400rpm and a turbocharged B5254T7 2,521cc displacing 230hp at 5,000rpm and 320Nm at 1,500-5,000rpm. In a March 2010 update, the bigger 2.4 I5 was dropped in exchange of the B4204S3 1,999cc with figures rated at 145hp at 6,000rpm and 185Nm at 4,500rpm. For the low run of the engine options, the 2.0 is enough for your needs while the 2.4 has more oomph and the turbocharged 2.5 is fast but pointless.

Driving Impressions
We have bad news here, as the C30 does not posses a sporty drive complementing its styling. At least this vehicle has some firm body roll but the ride is a somewhat firm. Steering this coupe slash hatchback is on the middle part. This is no sports car, mind you.

Verdict
This is a hybrid car in a sense it confuses people whether it is a coupe or a hatchback. A used C30 will give you a practical yet stylish hatchback but this is no sports car. If you are a fashion setter without any intentions of raising a family and not a sporty minded person, then go for a pre-owned C30.

Wednesday, July 16, 2014

Car Profiles - Great Wall Coolbear (2009-2012)

2009-2012 Great Wall Coolbear

The Good: Funky looks, interior space

The Bad: Name is on the funny side, quality isn't great

The Say: There are other funky looking hatchbacks without that funny name and reliability

Go For: 1.5L
Avoid:

Price Range: Data Not Available
Our Rating: **

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2009-2012

Monday, July 14, 2014

Used Car Review - Toyota Yaris (2007-2014)

Myk Belmonte explores the magic of this unnoticed hatchback back then.

2007-2014 Toyota Yaris

History
The Yaris (or Echo for some folks) nameplate was first launched in 1999 in hatchback, sedan or coupe styles that is based from the Toyota Platz in which it replaced the long due Starlet. It had three generations using that name in which one can buy with a trunk or not in a variety of names worldwide.

Made available in 2005, the Yaris hatchback is designed in Europe while the sedan derivative (known as the Belta) was conceived in Japan. Both variants share drivetrain components and the frame but their sheet metal is different. Bet you didn't know that from 2011 until 2013, this vehicle was sold using the Daihatsu Charade badge in Europe, as it is the last vehicle bearing the Daihatsu badge since it was leaving that market in January 2013.

After the Echo's unfavorable run, the Yaris was launched in 2007 to compete in the intense rivalry of sub-compact hatchbacks sparked by the Honda Jazz. Although not a flop compared to its predecessor, it sold less than the main market leader. It hanged on to receive updates in June 2009 and March 2012 until a replacement model was introduced in April 2014.

Value and Costs
Since it has been three months after the launching of the new model, prices are flirting between the range of P300,000-P450,000. Best bet is to find a unit sold in September 2011 or later to take advantage of the remainder of the warranty.

This is a Toyota, so expect it to last longer than you will do. Parts are similar to the Vios despite this one being a limited quantity model. With most units that you might encounter being mostly used inside the city, checking them out rigorously for wear and tear parts is the key.

Exterior and Interior
Unlike the bulbous flanks of the Vios, the Yaris is more attractive to look at unlike competitors that are too pedestrian to look at. We shall let the design speak for itself, and oh, lest I forget, the updated models in June 2009 and March 2012 have different grilles, bumpers, headlamps, and one set of wheels for the remainder period.

Going inside, you will have a hint towards its design target: the youth and younger drivers. There are tons of storage bins inside, but the biggest flaw is the lack of flexibility especially it has a single folding rear bench that will do trouble when you need it. Another weakness is the small aircon controls and the gauges (situated at the center) and radio screen tend to wash out on extreme sunlight. Other than these gripes, occupants get comfortable seating inside.

Engine
While the Jazz carries two engines, the Yaris has only one to make you life easier in the form of a 1NZ-FE 1,497cc with figures of 107hp at 6,000rpm and 142Nm at 4,200rpm. You will like revving this engine unlike in its sedan sibling, it is willing and fun.

Driving Impressions
It has its own distinct personality, especially it is well planted around the twisties outside the city although the steering is light and sensitive. Its short length gives it a strength over maneuvering around town.

Verdict
While Toyotas are known to be dependable appliances, the Yaris has some qualities to get it going. If you can live without carrying passengers too much, then the Yaris is a good choice but the Jazz is the best overall.

Friday, July 11, 2014

Car Profiles - Mercedes Benz S Class (1995-1999)

1995-1999 Mercedes Benz S Class

The Good: Has the power, space, and presence

The Bad: Very very expensive to keep and maintain

The Say: Even if its old, it still has class.

Go For: S320
Avoid: Poorly kept examples

Price Range: P800,000-P1,500,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: None as of the Moment

Thursday, July 10, 2014

Car Profiles - Audi A8

AUDI A8

Retaining its low profile but luxurious theme, the A8 is one hell of a car without going the Benz route. There's the technology laden cabin that falls short of space while enjoying the oomph of the standard diesel engine.

The Good: Has all the bells and whistles
The Bad: Not that spacious compared to rivals

Price Range: P8,500,000-P10,800,000
Our Rating: ****

TABLE TO BE ADDED SOON

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Car Profiles - Jaguar XJ

JAGUAR XJ

The Good: Acceleration and driving athletics are tops
The Bad: Rear headroom isn't the best

Price Range: P7,400,000-P9,650,000
Our Rating: ****

TABLE TO BE ADDED SOON

Tuesday, July 8, 2014

Car Profiles - BMW 7 Series

BMW 7 SERIES

The Good: Technology laden, impressive engines
The Bad: Not that much prestigious as a Benz

Price Range: P8,100,000-P11,200,000
Our Rating: ***

TABLE TO BE ADDED SOON

Monday, July 7, 2014

Used Car Review - BMW 7 Series (2002-2009)

This July 7th, Myk Belmonte reviews a namesake car just for the heck of it.

2002-2009 BMW 7 Series

History
Whenever a car reaches a controversial point, it can mean a make or break status. Even before the car reaches production thanks to some photos that are leaked online, people would even rush to the dealers to buy the last examples of that beautifully styled predecessor. But, styling is just one part of the car.

BMW's E65 designation for the 7 Series had a fair share of drawbacks related to its exterior design and its fussy iDrive interface that some folks bought the old model to spare them from the two problems. It was first developed in 1996 and finalized in 2001, with a launch for the European market in November 2001. Unlike its predecessors, it had specific codes for each version which were: E65 for short wheelbase models, E66 for long wheelbase models, E67 for bulletproof versions, and E68 for the hydrogen propelled models. There is no M7 version, but it was consoled by the Alpina B7 sold between 2007 and 2008. It was replaced by the F01 7 Series in 2008.

Locally, the E65/E66 7 Series arrived in late 2002 to replace the overdue E38. It was the most expensive Bimmer that you can buy locally, with the top end model costing P15M back in 2008. A myriad of engines and models (which will be discussed further) were made available throughout the years.

Value and Costs
What was once prohibitively can be now yours for the price of a brand new car. Old but less engine displacement models linger in the P850,000-950,000 range while later ones are on the upper scale. There are numerous variants sold so further research is needed to determine the variant right for you. Short wheelbase models are only available between 2002 to 2003, which means majority of them are long wheelbase ones.

For the cheapskates in you, this is definitely not the car to buy if you have limited funds to begin with. Since this is has the iDrive, a trip to a BMW dealer to check things out before you buy is the most prudent option. Testing out each function such as the air suspension, air-conditioning, boot release mechanisms, and other electronic doodads is preferable.

Exterior and Interior
While some criticize the exterior design because of its boldness (which is prevalent in its early years), some praise its bold move to shed BMW's conservative image. Our beloved Chris Bangle gave his artistry when he was designing this, with some bits that had caused the controversy include the two-level rear styling with separate rear fenders and "bustle-back" boot lid that led to the term "Bangle Butt". A 2005 update made this vehicle more subtle and pleasing to the eyes.

Space, space, and more space, this is what the 7 Series in long wheelbase trim obliges you that plus the interior has tons of equipment that will please both driver and passenger. The iDrive system controls most of the vehicle's gadgets by rotating and clicking a silver button between the front seats and following the menus on the dash, which isn't user friendly to begin with. Apart from that, there are LCD monitors with TV and DVD function so that you can catch your favorite telenovela or flick while stuck in traffic.

Engine
A wide range of engines from the basic 3.0 inline six gasoline to a monstrous V12 engine. In total, there is one inline six, four V8s, one V12, and one diesel so it better pays to choose your engine well. They are willing to be revved but for all day usage, we suggest to stick with the 3.0 in either gas or diesel flavors. The V8s will make sense if you have the money while the V12 is best left behind.

Driving Impressions
Still, the driving joy of a BMW remains despite the hefty body. Steering is accurate and body lean is controlled without compromising comfort. As always, road imperfections do spoil the fun.

Verdict
As they say, beauty lies on the eyes of the beholder. What may be put down for its styling makes up for its balance of power and luxury.

Saturday, July 5, 2014

Car Features - European Car of the Year Winners

Every year, the European Car of the Year acknowledges the best new or redesigned vehicles sold throughout the continent. This first Saturday of July, lets revisit the winners composed of European and some foreign (to them) brands.

Friday, July 4, 2014

Car Profiles - Subaru XV

SUBARU XV

Your eyes aren't fooling you, this is the second generation model patterned after the new Impreza. Good thing the same formulas were retained as well as the price.

The Good: 
The Bad: 

Price Range: P1,348,000-P1,538,000
Our Rating:

Last Update: September 8, 2017

Thursday, July 3, 2014

Car Profiles - Mazda CX-5 (2012-2016)

2012-2016 Mazda CX-5

The Good: Space, engine performance

The Bad: Ride, noisy at speeds

The Say: While it is perfect, there are some weak spots in this SUV.

Go For: 2.0
Avoid:

Price Range: P790,000-P1,150,000
Our Rating: *****

Related Review: Used Car Review - Mazda CX-5 (2012-2016)
Latest vehicle profile: Mazda CX-5

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2012-2015
2015-2016

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Car Profiles - Honda CR-V (2012-2017)

2012-2017 Honda CR-V

The Good: Interior space, practicality

The Bad: Limited rear visibility

The Say: The magic of the CR-V is still there.

Go For: 2.0S, Thailand spec
Avoid: 

Price Range: P650,000-P1,100,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: Used Car Review - Honda CR-V (2012-2017)
Latest vehicle profile: Honda CR-V

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2012, Japan
2013-2014, Thailand
2015-2017

Tuesday, July 1, 2014

Used Car Review - Honda HR-V (2000-2003)

For the very first day of July, Myk Belmonte features a rather unpopular SUV to see it more.

2000-2003 Honda HR-V

History
First conceived as the Wildful and Joyfull JW-J concept car displayed at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1997, the HR-V was placed in production a year later after its popularity. Based on the smaller Honda Logo while having lower emissions and unique styling, it can be (which is debatable) considered as one of the first crossovers out there.

The HR-V abbreviation stands for Hi-rider Revolutionary Vehicle, which Honda billed it so. Apart from Japan and some Pacific countries, it was also sold in Europe without a diesel engine. You may buy one in either a three or five door configuration until its 2006 discontinuation, with no direct successor.

While the CR-V was an immense hit in the Philippines back then, the HR-V was rather a novelty vehicle that sold less. First made available in the millennium year, the HR-V had fairly a limited market no thanks to a steep price tag due to its made in Japan status. Having no choice and after a limited run, Honda dropped this one in 2003.

Value and Costs
For just between P250,000-P370,000, the HR-V can be yours especially that you will also encounter first and some second generation CR-Vs in the classified block. If you really want one, a local unit is the way to go since there have been imported units from Japan which are converted and can be money pits if not properly maintained.

Since this vehicle isn't a best seller from the start, parts can be hard to come by quickly. With local HR-Vs having 4WD, checking out the drivetrain rigorously is the way. But then, this is a Honda which is reliable plus take care of this and you'll have years of worry free driving.

Exterior and Interior
Its exterior styling can elicit good or bad reactions, especially the boxy shape isn't for everyone and has its own purpose for that. Let me tell you one secret of this car: it boasts one of the best occupant and pedestrian protection ratings in an accident. The bumpers were raised high for aerodynamic reasons, the entire front end was designed to be less fatal for the pedestrian which means the hood absorbs the impact. Nice effort.

Sitting in the driver's seat is a convenience, especially the driving position is upright plus controls are logically placed and easy to reach. On the other hand, the rear seats aren't that comfortable for those who are beyond the average height but if you do not need to haul people all the time, the back seats can be stowed for maximum storage. Unlike other Hondas, the interior design wouldn't win any awards especially it looks plain to begin with.

Engine
Powering this crossover is a D16W1 1,590cc carrying 105hp at 6,200rpm and 138Nm at 3,400rpm that does not have any VTEC magic. Despite lacking that technology, it can accelerate with ease plus it has lower emissions that can outpace modern competitors. In other countries, a variant with VTEC is made available.

Driving Impressions
Despite lacking power, it is fun to drive which proves its sports name in the SUV plus it has a predictable steering. The suspension is well footed despite its tall height, the latter an advantage towards everyday driving.

Verdict
There are reasons for you to get and not to get the HR-V. If you want something unique while conquering the everyday rigors of work, this is for you. If you need something larger and powerful, consider other options.