JMC HUNTER
The Good: Simplistic mechanicals mean low maintenance
The Bad: Its the badge
Price Range: P680,000-P850,000
Our Rating: **
Last Update: March 8, 2015
Sunday, August 31, 2014
Car Profiles - JMC Hunter
Car Profiles - JMC Orion
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JMC ORION
A decent Chinese SUV which is aimed for Montero Sport buyer, this one has a Ford based diesel with VGT. Specifications list are decent enough, although the appeal is very limited.
The Good: Affordable and decently kitted
The Bad: Questionable durability
Price Range: P1,130,000
Our Rating: ***
Updated: August 31, 2014
Saturday, August 30, 2014
Toyota Echo - Generation 1 (2000-2002)
TOYOTA ECHO (2000-2002)
Launched in 2000 together with the Echo Verso and the RAV4, the Echo was imported from Japan and carried a high price premium than the Corolla. Despite this vehicle being discontinued in 2002, the successor was introduced years later under the Yaris moniker.
Toyota Echo Verso - Generation 1 (2000-2004)
TOYOTA ECHO VERSO (2000-2004)
The MPV version of the Echo, the Verso is made available in 2000 and sold until 2004. Apart from a larger body and engine, the Verso has numerous items standard than its lowly sibling including an airbag, rear fog lamp, rear wiper among others.
Friday, August 29, 2014
Car Features - January-July 2014 Philippines Car Sales Figures
After some time, we shall present to you the best selling vehicles in the country. For the first seven months, some 122,927 cars were sold (some brands are not counted, since they don't give theirs).
THE WINNERS:
Toyota Vios - 14,912 units
Toyota Fortuner - 9,739 units
Nissan Verita - Generation 2 (2000-2007)
NISSAN VERITA (2000-2007)
The Verita (or Bolero in some countries) is a second generation Micra which has luxurious appointments such as leather and wood trim. This was released during Yulon's term and it was quietly sold between 2005 to 2007.
Car Profiles - Volkswagen Touareg (2004-2006)
The Good: Excellent on and off the road
The Bad: Heavy, there's no dealer support
The Say: Volkswagen's entry to the SUV race had done it right.
Go For: 3.2 V6
Avoid: 4.2 V8
Price Range: P800,000-P850,000
Our Rating: ***
Related Review: Used Car Review - Volkswagen Touareg (2004-2006)
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2004-2006
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Car Profiles - Chevrolet Suburban (1996-2000)
The Good: You get tons of space and power
The Bad: Your wallet will suffer, also your patience on maneuvering one
The Say: Drive something else instead.
Go For: 5.7 V8
Avoid:
Price Range: P290,000-P500,000
Our Rating: *
Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Chevrolet Suburban
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Car Profiles - Chevrolet Tahoe
The smaller version of the Suburban, the Tahoe has the bigger brother skills for less the size. An update in 2010 gave the automatic transmission two more gears. This one can be bought via indent order basis, similar to the Suburban and Camaro.
See the overview of this Tahoe
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Car Profiles - Chevrolet Tahoe (2002-2007)
The Good: Space and power in a more manageable size
The Bad: Quality and interior design aren't the best
The Say: Unless you want more power, there are other SUVs that can do the job.
Go For: 4.8 LS
Avoid:
Price Range: P500,000-P700,000
Our Rating: **
Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Chevrolet Tahoe
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2002-2007
Monday, August 25, 2014
Kia Rio Sedan - Generation 1.2 (2003-2005)
KIA RIO SEDAN (2003-2005)
Months before the new City and Vios came to town, the Rio was refreshed with some exterior changes (it grew some length and width) and color palette was updated. The package remains the same, though.
Kia Rio Sedan - Generation 1.1 (2000-2002)
KIA RIO SEDAN (2000-2002)
First released in 2000, the Rio was meant to replace the Pride. This model had EFI engines and more modern looks than its replacement. While its hatchback sibling gets the larger engine, the sedan has a 1.3 engine and less power features.
Honda City - Generation 4.1 (2003-2005)
HONDA CITY (2003-2005)
Redesigned for 2003, the City gets new engines and a flexible interior thanks to the ULT feature. The 1.3 engine came first, with a 1.5 followed suit. Do take note that a Full Option model with dual airbags and ABS brakes exist, which means that models with these items may be hard to find.
Honda City - Generation 4.2 (2006-2008)
HONDA CITY (2006-2008)
Used Car Review - Chevrolet Suburban (2000-2007)
Desiring a large American SUV is easy when you follow Myk Belmonte's advice on it.
2000-2007 Chevrolet Suburban
History
Bet you didn't know that the Suburban nameplate was used in 1933 as a station wagon built on a truck frame until it evolve as the SUV it was known today. Twelve generations later, it gained powerful engines, more space, and a luxurious offspring in the form of the Cadillac Escalade. No other car manufacturer can use the "Suburban" name as General Motors was awarded an exclusive trademark in 1988 and it outlasted vehicles like the Jeep Wagoneer, Ford Excursion, and some other rivals that had gone to heaven.
Let us discuss here the tenth generation model known as the GMT800 that was made available in late 1999 as a 2000 model. One can order this generation of Suburban in 1/2 ton 1500 and 3/4 ton 2500 under the nameplates of Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon XL, and Cadillac Escalade ESV (themselves being longer versions of the Tahoe, Yukon, and Escalade SUVs respectively). While it gained a larger 8.1 V8 engine, there is no more diesel engine and manual transmission available. After a six year run, the Suburban and its related cousins were treated to a redesign in 2006 dubbed the GMT900.
December 2000 saw the Philippine introduction of the redesigned Suburban, the second generation model offered locally. One change that was done locally is the rear side facing seats, which makes local Suburbans 10 seater models to be tax exempt and it you can have one in 2WD guise. It was sold until 2007 where the next generation model was launched in August of that year.
Value and Costs
Typical with American SUVs, resale prices aren't known to be stellar especially you can buy one for as low as P480,000 for an older unit. There is a reason for such but if you have the money to begin with, you wouldn't complain.
There is no diesel engine, so fuel consumption will affect your savings. Maintenance costs would be similar to the Ford Expedition of the same period. Since this is a bulky SUV, check out the electricals present which may affect the vehicle's performance.
Exterior and Interior
Staring at the Suburban will give you one impression: it is huge. The huge exterior gives you an expansive space inside which we will tackle on the next paragraph. It is imposing at best, given its size. Do take note that pre-2003 models have polished aluminum wheels while later ones have cast aluminum ones.
This is one car that you can transform to a hotel room whenever you want it, since space inside is very very big. You can tag along 8 to 10 (driver included) of your friends for a ride inside, since they have adequate room inside. The first row can accommodate three people thanks to a bench seat, while the last row can accommodate four people facing sidewards that is not comfortable to begin with or two people upfront in comfort. If you encounter a 10 seater model, we suggest you to skip that if possible. A niggle common among American vehicles are their sub par interior quality.
Engine
From the Vortec engine family comes a 5,328cc V8 carrying 285hp at 5,200rpm and 449Nm at 4,000rpm that motivates the Suburban. It has the power when you need it at the expense of fuel consumption.
Driving Impressions
Even though it is large outside, it is easy to drive especially with some little practice. Those with senior members of the family wouldn't appreciate the high step in height, but they'll love the smooth buttery ride that the Suburban provides.
Verdict
If you can afford one at the first place, then the Suburban is one good candidate for a large SUV given it's price. However, we mere mortals would rather be practical and go for something smaller and has a diesel engine. The choice is yours, my friend.
2000-2007 Chevrolet Suburban
History
Bet you didn't know that the Suburban nameplate was used in 1933 as a station wagon built on a truck frame until it evolve as the SUV it was known today. Twelve generations later, it gained powerful engines, more space, and a luxurious offspring in the form of the Cadillac Escalade. No other car manufacturer can use the "Suburban" name as General Motors was awarded an exclusive trademark in 1988 and it outlasted vehicles like the Jeep Wagoneer, Ford Excursion, and some other rivals that had gone to heaven.
Let us discuss here the tenth generation model known as the GMT800 that was made available in late 1999 as a 2000 model. One can order this generation of Suburban in 1/2 ton 1500 and 3/4 ton 2500 under the nameplates of Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon XL, and Cadillac Escalade ESV (themselves being longer versions of the Tahoe, Yukon, and Escalade SUVs respectively). While it gained a larger 8.1 V8 engine, there is no more diesel engine and manual transmission available. After a six year run, the Suburban and its related cousins were treated to a redesign in 2006 dubbed the GMT900.
December 2000 saw the Philippine introduction of the redesigned Suburban, the second generation model offered locally. One change that was done locally is the rear side facing seats, which makes local Suburbans 10 seater models to be tax exempt and it you can have one in 2WD guise. It was sold until 2007 where the next generation model was launched in August of that year.
Value and Costs
Typical with American SUVs, resale prices aren't known to be stellar especially you can buy one for as low as P480,000 for an older unit. There is a reason for such but if you have the money to begin with, you wouldn't complain.
There is no diesel engine, so fuel consumption will affect your savings. Maintenance costs would be similar to the Ford Expedition of the same period. Since this is a bulky SUV, check out the electricals present which may affect the vehicle's performance.
Exterior and Interior
Staring at the Suburban will give you one impression: it is huge. The huge exterior gives you an expansive space inside which we will tackle on the next paragraph. It is imposing at best, given its size. Do take note that pre-2003 models have polished aluminum wheels while later ones have cast aluminum ones.
This is one car that you can transform to a hotel room whenever you want it, since space inside is very very big. You can tag along 8 to 10 (driver included) of your friends for a ride inside, since they have adequate room inside. The first row can accommodate three people thanks to a bench seat, while the last row can accommodate four people facing sidewards that is not comfortable to begin with or two people upfront in comfort. If you encounter a 10 seater model, we suggest you to skip that if possible. A niggle common among American vehicles are their sub par interior quality.
Engine
From the Vortec engine family comes a 5,328cc V8 carrying 285hp at 5,200rpm and 449Nm at 4,000rpm that motivates the Suburban. It has the power when you need it at the expense of fuel consumption.
Driving Impressions
Even though it is large outside, it is easy to drive especially with some little practice. Those with senior members of the family wouldn't appreciate the high step in height, but they'll love the smooth buttery ride that the Suburban provides.
Verdict
If you can afford one at the first place, then the Suburban is one good candidate for a large SUV given it's price. However, we mere mortals would rather be practical and go for something smaller and has a diesel engine. The choice is yours, my friend.
Sunday, August 24, 2014
Toyota Vios - Generation 1.2 (2006-2007)
TOYOTA VIOS (2006-2007)
Toyota Vios - Generation 1.1 (2003-2005)
TOYOTA VIOS (2003-2005)
Introduced in 2003 as Toyota's answer to the redesigned City, the Vios had EFI engines across the range but this version does not come with ABS brakes or airbags.
Mitsubishi Lancer - Generation 6 (1993-1999)
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MITSUBISHI LANCER (1993-1999)
Saturday, August 23, 2014
Ford Lynx - Generation 5.2 (2002-2005)
FORD LYNX (2002-2005)
Ford Lynx - Generation 5.1 (1999-2002)
FORD LYNX (1999-2002)
Mitsubishi Lancer Sedan - Generation 7.1 (1996-1999)
MITSUBISHI LANCER (1996-1999)
Mitsubishi Lancer Sedan - Generation 7.2 (2000-2002)
Friday, August 22, 2014
Honda Civic - Generation 6.1 (1996-1998)
HONDA CIVIC (1996-1998)
Honda Civic - Generation 6.2 (1998-2000)
HONDA CIVIC (1998-2000)
Toyota Corolla - Generation 7.1 (1992-1995)
Toyota Corolla - Generation 7.2 (1995-1998)
Car Profiles - Foton Blizzard (2007-2014)
The Good: Very similar to the Fuego
The Bad: Quality isn't to Fuego levels
The Say: Get something else instead, especially at second hand prices.
Go For: 4x2
Avoid:
Price Range: P200,000-P450,000
Our Rating: **
Related Reviews: None as of the Moment
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2007-2014
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Car Profiles - Mazda B Series (1988-1999)
The Good: Tough as nails despite the lack of support
The Bad: Not the leader in refinement
The Say: 25 years later, it can attack the bushes.
Go For: B2500 dual cab
Avoid:
Price Range: P120,000-P320,000
Our Rating: **
Related Review: None as of the Moment
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Car Profiles - Mitsubishi L200 (1993-1998)
The Good: Reliable, cheap to keep
The Bad: Not refined, basic interior
The Say: Your wallet will love this truck.
Go For: Strada
Avoid:
Price Range: P170,000-P300,000
Our Rating: **
Related Review: None as of the Moment
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Car Profiles - Haima Freema
Loosely based on a Mazda Premacy two generations down, the Haima Freema offers luxury items that shames other MPVS including leather seats and a sun roof. Options include a 1.6 or 1.8 engines but no diesel yet. While the package is tempting, reliability is something of a deal breaker.
The Good: Stylish and practical, gadget packed.
The Bad: Durability unknown, two generations old already.
Price Range: P749,000-P879,000
Our Rating: ***
Chevrolet Orlando - Generation 1 (2012-2017)
Kia Carens - Generation 3.1 (2013-2016)
KIA CARENS
See the overview of this Carens
Honda Odyssey (USA) - Generation 4.1 (2012-2015)
HONDA ODYSSEY (USA)
See the overview of this Odyssey
See the latest model of the Odyssey
Car Profiles - Toyota Avanza
TOYOTA AVANZA
The Good: Variants are well equipped
The Bad: Some hard plastics are present
Price Range: P721,000-P1,065,000
Our Rating: ***
Last Update: January 9, 2018
Last Update: January 9, 2018
Toyota Innova (Gasoline) - Generation 5.4 (2014-2016)
TOYOTA INNOVA (GASOLINE) (2014-2016)
See the overview of this Innova
See the Generation 5.1 (Gasoline or Diesel), 5.2 (Gasoline or Diesel), or 5.3 (Gasoline or Diesel) models
See the latest model of the Innova (Gasoline or Diesel)
Also see: Innova (Diesel)
See the Generation 5.1 (Gasoline or Diesel), 5.2 (Gasoline or Diesel), or 5.3 (Gasoline or Diesel) models
See the latest model of the Innova (Gasoline or Diesel)
Also see: Innova (Diesel)
Car Profiles - Peugeot 3008
On its second generation, the 3008 has improved inside out but with a corresponding price increase. The sole model makes do with a gasoline engine.
The Good:
The Bad:
Price Range: P2,590,000
Our Rating:
Last Update: November 2, 2017
Last Update: November 2, 2017
Car Profiles - Peugeot 5008
The Good: Practicality, panache and French style are all present.
The Bad: Image of Peugeots of yore, price gone up already
Price Range: P2,300,000
Our Rating: ****
Last Update: April 27, 2015
Last Update: April 27, 2015
Isuzu Crosswind - Generation 2.3 (2009-2015)
ISUZU CROSSWIND (2009-2015)
For the third time, the Crosswind was updated in 2009 for 2010 which gave a new face and some other updates. Numerous changes occurred throughout selling life which saw some variants removed.
See the overview of this Crosswind
See the Generation 2.1 or 2.2 model
See the latest model of the Crosswind
See the overview of this Crosswind
See the Generation 2.1 or 2.2 model
See the latest model of the Crosswind
Chevrolet Spin - Generation 1 (2013-2016)
Car Profiles - Toyota Hilux (1988-1998)
The Good: Great off road performer, simple to maintain
The Bad: Crude and unrefined
The Say: Unless you want its off-road credentials, look elsewhere.
Go For: Any well maintained unit
Avoid: Poorly maintained units
Price Range: P200,000-P500,000
Our Rating: *
Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Toyota Hilux
Monday, August 18, 2014
Nissan Grand Livina - Generation 1.1-2 (2008-2015)
NISSAN GRAND LIVINA (2008-2015)
Slotting below the Serena and an answer to the popular Innova, the Grand Livina utilizes a 1.8 gasoline engine and has a car-like ride as its ace. A special edition model featuring a GPS headunit debuted in 2011, while Highway Star models are only available with the automatics.
Used Car Review - Toyota Hilux (1998-2004)
Before buying this pick-up truck, Myk Belmonte spills out the details.
1998-2004 Toyota Hilux
History
Pick-up trucks are known to be indestructible, especially that they can hack the worst things which may happen. We know the Hilux being destructed several times by Jeremy Clarkson and his gang at Top Gear and it became an instrument on disposing Libyan dictator Muhammar Gaddafi out of Chad in 1987.
First made available in 1997, the sixth generation Hilux can be had in regular, extended, and crew cab flavors with this generation being the basis of the 4Runner/Hilux Surf SUVs (the last of it to based upon) and the Thailand exclusive Hilux Sport Rider which the Fortuner replaced it. Except for North America, it was sold internationally and interestingly enough, the last generation of Hilux to be sold or produced in its hometown market of Japan.
While it was a product of durability, the Hilux name isn't a popular choice among consumers back then preferring those trucks from Isuzu, Mitsubishi, Nissan, and even Ford. It remained in Toyota's line-up until 2004, with the seventh generation model (third in our shores) introduced in December of that year which became a market success. Variants available include the DLX in both 4x2 and 4x4 versions, XS 4x2, and SR5 4x4. A J variant which adds leather seats, spray-on bed liner, and window visors can be added in the SR5 and XS.
Value and Costs
As with Japanese pick-up trucks sold during the early 00s, prices of Hiluxes can range between P370,000 to P480,000.
Since there is no CRDi technology present here, maintenance costs would be on the low side. But then, it would be prudent to check if the tail pipe emits black smoke.
Exterior and Interior
Unlike other trucks of today which has some funny lines, the Hilux has clean and straight ones which produces a handsome profile. Non-DLX models get body stickers and alloy wheels while 4x4 models have side step boards as standard equipment.
The interior can be described as basic, but it is functional at the long run with the type of plastics being used are of the durable type. Except for the base DLX 4x2, all models come with complete power amenities.
Engine
Both the 2L 2,446cc having 83hp at 4,200rpm and 162Nm at 2,400rpm and the 3L 2,779cc carrying 88hp at 4,000rpm and 185Nm at 2,400rpm from Toyota's L engine family aren't exactly known for their miraculous pulling power or top levels of refinement, especially with the 4x4 system being activated. There are hubs and knobs for the usual off-road jaunts standard in the upper models. While it can pull you adequately, this is no sports car.
Driving Impressions
If you wish a smooth ride, you have read the wrong article especially the suspension is meant to be for hauling and not for comfort, good thing it wouldn't give up on you. Driving dynamics aren't also similar to a sedan, so do not expect too much.
Verdict
Planning to buy a truck which can hack the bushes without breaking anything down? Then this second generation Hilux is for you. However, if you really want a truck for personal usage then we suggest that you head to its competition.
1998-2004 Toyota Hilux
History
Pick-up trucks are known to be indestructible, especially that they can hack the worst things which may happen. We know the Hilux being destructed several times by Jeremy Clarkson and his gang at Top Gear and it became an instrument on disposing Libyan dictator Muhammar Gaddafi out of Chad in 1987.
First made available in 1997, the sixth generation Hilux can be had in regular, extended, and crew cab flavors with this generation being the basis of the 4Runner/Hilux Surf SUVs (the last of it to based upon) and the Thailand exclusive Hilux Sport Rider which the Fortuner replaced it. Except for North America, it was sold internationally and interestingly enough, the last generation of Hilux to be sold or produced in its hometown market of Japan.
While it was a product of durability, the Hilux name isn't a popular choice among consumers back then preferring those trucks from Isuzu, Mitsubishi, Nissan, and even Ford. It remained in Toyota's line-up until 2004, with the seventh generation model (third in our shores) introduced in December of that year which became a market success. Variants available include the DLX in both 4x2 and 4x4 versions, XS 4x2, and SR5 4x4. A J variant which adds leather seats, spray-on bed liner, and window visors can be added in the SR5 and XS.
Value and Costs
As with Japanese pick-up trucks sold during the early 00s, prices of Hiluxes can range between P370,000 to P480,000.
Since there is no CRDi technology present here, maintenance costs would be on the low side. But then, it would be prudent to check if the tail pipe emits black smoke.
Exterior and Interior
Unlike other trucks of today which has some funny lines, the Hilux has clean and straight ones which produces a handsome profile. Non-DLX models get body stickers and alloy wheels while 4x4 models have side step boards as standard equipment.
The interior can be described as basic, but it is functional at the long run with the type of plastics being used are of the durable type. Except for the base DLX 4x2, all models come with complete power amenities.
Engine
Both the 2L 2,446cc having 83hp at 4,200rpm and 162Nm at 2,400rpm and the 3L 2,779cc carrying 88hp at 4,000rpm and 185Nm at 2,400rpm from Toyota's L engine family aren't exactly known for their miraculous pulling power or top levels of refinement, especially with the 4x4 system being activated. There are hubs and knobs for the usual off-road jaunts standard in the upper models. While it can pull you adequately, this is no sports car.
Driving Impressions
If you wish a smooth ride, you have read the wrong article especially the suspension is meant to be for hauling and not for comfort, good thing it wouldn't give up on you. Driving dynamics aren't also similar to a sedan, so do not expect too much.
Verdict
Planning to buy a truck which can hack the bushes without breaking anything down? Then this second generation Hilux is for you. However, if you really want a truck for personal usage then we suggest that you head to its competition.
Sunday, August 17, 2014
Car Profiles - Haima 1
HAIMA 1
One of the Chinese cars which looks and spec'ed decently for below 500 grand. Good thing it has dual airbags, ABS brakes, and a decent amount of power kit. Although the brand has a long way to go, aftersales service is excellent.
The Good: Kit for the price
The Bad: Unknown durability
Price Range: P479,000
Our Rating: ***
Volvo XC90 - Generation 1.2-3 (2007-2015)
VOLVO XC90 (2007-2015)
Volvo S80 - Generation 2.2 (2011-2016)
VOLVO S80 (2011-2016)
See the overview of this S80
See the Generation 2.1 model
Car Profiles - Volvo V60
VOLVO V60
The Good: Looks good
The Bad: Falls short in trunk space
Price Range: P3,095,000
Our Rating: ***
Saturday, August 16, 2014
Car Profiles - Honda CR-V
The Good:
The Bad:
Price Range: P1,648,000-P2,086,000
Our Rating:
Last Update: January 9, 2017
Last Update: January 9, 2017
Car Profiles - Chevrolet Captiva
The Good: Available seven seater option
The Bad: Not a solid performer
Price Range: P1,313,888-P1,413,888
Our Rating: *
Last Update: August 23, 2015
Last Update: August 23, 2015
Car Profiles - Subaru Forester
The Good: Interior is roomy
The Bad:
Price Range: P1,468,000-P1,948,000
Our Rating: ****
Last Update: March 11, 2017
Last Update: March 11, 2017
Chery Tiggo - Generation 1.2 (2013-2016)
CHERY TIGGO (2013-2016)
One of the two remaining Chery vehicles (the other being the QQ3, which received a new face) since its first arrival, the Tiggo is one of the SUVs that can be bought for below a million bucks, brand new. In this update, the larger engine option remained.
Hyundai Tucson - Generation 2.2 (2014-2015)
HYUNDAI TUCSON (2014-2015)