Friday, September 26, 2014

Car Features - August 2014 Philippines Car Sales Figures

Thankfully, our source (the Auto Focus Peoples Choice Awards app, so vote until September 30) had updated the sales figures of its nominated vehicles which is for August (January-July 2014 can be seen here). For the whole month of August, 20,521 new cars were sold which brings a year to date total of 143,503 vehicles.

For this month, seven Toyotas occupied the Top 10 slots with the Ford Ranger being the sole American car (a record, perhaps?) in the top. So lets jump to the figures.

DISCLAIMER: SALES FIGURES RELEASED BY CAMPI AND AVID MAY VARY FROM HERE, SINCE AUTO FOCUS GETS ITS DATA FROM STRADCOM, THE OUTSOURCED IT COMPANY OF LTO.

Note: Not all vehicles are included in this list such as the Suzuki Celerio, Kia Optima, Volvo S60, and Mitsubishi L300

THIS MONTH'S WINNERS

Toyota Vios - 2,197 units


Toyota Innova - 1,619 units


Toyota Wigo - 818 units


Ford Ranger - 671 units

Thursday, September 25, 2014

Car Profiles - Mercedes Benz C Class Coupe

MERCEDES BENZ C CLASS COUPE 

The Good: Has the kit you want and engines you desire
The Bad: Has the two door version which impedes practicality and refinement not a suit

Price Range: P4,020,000-P6,830,000
Our Rating: **

TABLE TO BE ADDED SOON

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Mercedes Benz C Class - Generation 3.2 (2011-2014)

MERCEDES BENZ C CLASS (2011-2014)

Revised for 2011, the C Class line gets the BlueEFFICIENCY engine treatment plus most get the 1.8 engine but with varying power outputs. Although the rest of the line-up was replaced in September 2014, the C 63 AMG remains.



Mercedes Benz C Class - Generation 3.1 (2007-2011)

MERCEDES BENZ C CLASS (2007-2011)

Under the W204 platform, the third generation C Class gets an extended wheelbase and unlike the previous model, more variants including a C 63 AMG model.





Car Profiles - Maserati Quattroporte (2006-2013)

2006-2013 Maserati Quattroporte

The Good: Fast, practical

The Bad: Expensive overall

The Say: Think a million times before going crazy over this.

Go For: Executive GT
Avoid: High mileage examples

Price Range: P7,500,000-P8,000,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2006-2008
2010-2013

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Car Profiles - Land Rover Defender

LAND ROVER DEFENDER

This one can go anywhere without sacrificing utility since interior is basic plus other components are rather un-Land Rover. Off-road, it performs well but not great on the pavement.

The Good: One of the best out there
The Bad: Leaves a lot to be deisred

Price Range: P2,875,000-P3,200,000
Our Rating: *

Last Update: September 23, 2014

BMW X1 - Generation 1.2 (2013-2016)

BMW X1 (2013-2016)

Updated in September 2013, the X1 of this series wore a rear wheel drive system and a twin turbo diesel engine.

See the latest model of the X1






Car Profiles - BMW X5

BMW X5

The first car in the X family receives a third generation model, the X5 has the same wheelbase as the previous model (don't get fooled). For a large SUV, it is refreshing to drive plus the cabin has decent space but refinement is not a suit.

The Good: Both a driver's and passenger's car
The Bad: Not refined

Price Range: P6,490,000-P6,990,000
Our Rating: ****

Last Update: March 8, 2015

Car Profiles - BMW X4

BMW X4

Complain all you want since the BMW X family is expanding with models that are filling niches, but the line is successful that they can't help but grow. With a platform and engines being shared with the X3, it will slot above the little brother but below the X5. A car for those who want to express themselves.

The Good: High levels of quality and driving excitement
The Bad: Not that practical as you think

Price Range: P4,890,000
Our Rating: ****

Last Update: February 5, 2018

Car Profiles - BMW 6 Series Coupe (2004-2012)

2004-2012 BMW 6 Series Coupe

The Good: Striking looks that are coupled with a strong V8

The Bad: Ain't a practical choice if you're growing a family or keeping a car for long

The Say: A car that is not for all.

Go For: 630i
Avoid: M6

Price Range: P3,000,000-P4,100,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:

Monday, September 22, 2014

Used Car Review - Mazda 3 (2012-2014)

With all the eyes on the new model, Myk Belmonte assesses the second generation model that was a wallflower.

2012-2014 Mazda 3

History
The second time for a car is one crucial period, especially that period can bring numerous blessings to that car (sales success or recognition) or numerous mishaps and misfortunes which can further damage the brand and whatever surrounds it. Second hit successes that had gained sales recognition include the second generation CR-V and Accent while second hit misses include the Grand Vitara and X-Trail.

First launched to the world in 2009, the second generation Mazda 3 had its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show with American markets getting it first. The platform is still shared with the Ford Focus and Volvo S40, but this one got larger than the previous model. You might not know this: development started in 2004, the year that the original model was introduced. Production ended in May 2013, with the third generation model being sold months later.

Our market got was the facelifted model, which was made available in 2012 in other overseas nations. The second generation Mazda 3 was one of the last (the distinction is held by the BT-50) Mazdas being handled by Ford Group Philippines before Berjaya Auto Philippines took responsibility in 2013. From launch, two 1.6 models (a hatchback and a sedan) were available and a less optioned Maxx model was added.

Value and Costs
When it was first launched, the base price started at P999,000 for a rather basic 1.6 sedan. Whether you call it "intentional" or not, this caused sales to be lower than the previous model which was a sales success. Due to this reason, only a handful second generation 3s can be spotted for sale which can be picked up for between P700,000-P850,000.

Since parts are similar with the first generation model, they can be used and mainlining one won't necessitate the need to skip meals. Units bought from January 2013 carry Berjaya's Youjin3 Program which gets free PMS for three years, or the equivalent of the warranty automakers usually offer for their vehicles.

Exterior and Interior
More curves and a halloween ready front grille are standard amenities of the exterior deisgn. From the looks of it, it gained more length, width, and height than the previous model. Try to look closer, notice that there is some resemblance to the first generation 3, only it was stretched to look bigger. Do take note Maxx models don't carry fog lamps as a standard option while a sun roof can be had with the hatchback and the 2.0 model.

Owners of the 2008-2013 Mazda 6 would feel loyal inside, since the interior materials and dashboard layout resemble its big brother. Quality of materials are on the high side, a good strength plus it uses a black finish inside that complements its sporty nature. Bad news: despite the extended dimensions given, space is not a suit since it is tight back there.

Engine
Basically, the 1.6 having 103hp and 144Nm and the 2.0 carrying 145hp and 182Nm from the MZR engine family are carryovers from the previous model. Same story goes with the antiquated 4-speed automatic, since rivals make do with 5 speeds during that time. Rounding up the engines, the 1.6 loves to be pushed hard but is one fun partner while the 2.0 that is paired to a 5-speed automatic is smooth but needs to be revved above 2,000rpm to show its potential.

Driving Impressions
Despite the mechanical settings being similar to the previous model, the fun to drive personality remains which the 3 was known for. It may be a delight for the driver but passengers wouldn't be happy since a harsh ride greets them throughout.

Verdict
While this one didn't sell well because of its stratospheric prices (which we repeat that it may be debatable), the Mazda 3 still carries the basic formula which made it a success.


Sunday, September 21, 2014

Car Profiles - Lexus NX

LEXUS NX

This is smaller than the RX in the stable but comes with a hybrid engine (for now, other variants will follow next year) in a body which is fun to drive. The environmental friendly SUV which does not need to give up driving athleticism.

The Good: Fun to drive in a guilt free package
The Bad: Expensive than a RX, which is bigger, slow acceleration

Price Range: P3,458,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Updated: January 9, 2018

Car Profiles - BAIC A5

BAIC A5

The most expensive vehicle in BAIC's line-up (and probably the flagship model), the A5 gets every gadgetry that a China car (and even other rivals) can dream of. While it has everything, the price can be hard to justify for something whose long term reliability has yet to be proven.

The Good: Has everything you want and need
The Bad: Very expensive for such a car with no reputation, yet

Price Range: P2,389,000
Our Rating: **

Last Update: September 21, 2014

Car Profiles - BAIC A1 Sedan

BAIC A1 SEDAN

Hate something without a trunk? Then this A1 is the pick. While it has a boot, it does not have the sun roof, front fog lamps, auto on/off headlamps, and rain sensing wipers of the hatchback sibling, despite the price premium.

The Good: Practical
The Bad: Less equipment than hatchback

Price Range: P665,000-P780,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: September 21, 2014

Car Profiles - BAIC A1 Hatchback

BAIC A1 HATCHBACK

Universal Motors is now distributing BAIC vehicles and the cheapest one starts with the A1 Hatchback. A revelation for the price is that, for the Fashion model, a sun roof (something not associated with sub 1M vehicles) comes standard. While it looks tempting, long term quality is questionable.

The Good: Features for the price
The Bad: Unknown durability

Price Range: P648,000-P798,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: September 21, 2014

Car Profiles - Peugeot Expert Tepee

PEUGEOT EXPERT TEPEE

A common passenger or cargo van in Europe (it has Citroen, Fiat, and Toyota siblings), the Expert Tepee can haul 8 or 9 people inside. It does a Starex in function since it has dual sliding doors.

Price Range: P2,200,000

Last Update: September 21, 2014



Car Profiles - Peugeot 208 GTi

PEUGEOT 208 GTi

One of Europe's hot hatches is now available locally, the 208 GTi has a powerful and enjoyable 1.6 engine making 200hp and paired to a 6-speed manual. This hatch can kill the 86/BRZ on the tarmac.

The Good: Ordinary hatch with extraordinary skills
The Bad: Not as practical as you think

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

Last Update: September 21, 2014

Car Profiles - Kia Soul

KIA SOUL

For its second generation model, the Soul gets a standard diesel engine without retaining the funky looks it is known for. While the engine is an advantage, price is something wanting.

The Good: Ample interior room
The Bad: Pricey for such a car

Price Range: P955,000-P1,285,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: January 23, 2018

Cars of the 2014 Philippine International Motor Show

Yesterday, The Ultimate Car Guide went to the 2014 Philippine International Motor Show (if you're feeling nostalgic, here's our 2012 story) to check on the latest releases plus to cool concepts that are of interest to the enthusiast. With the industry on the roll, more cars are being launched to the public.

No need for some lengthy descriptions, let the pictures speak for themselves!

Friday, September 19, 2014

Car Profiles - BMW 3 Series

BMW 3 SERIES

Redesigned for 2012, the 3 Series still remains the benchmark of all compact executives. Two diesel engines and a sole gasoline are available that provide a balance of power and economy. Variants are definitely not for all, so pick wisely.

The Good: Drives well and has the power
The Bad: Basic interior and diesel clatter

Price Range: P3,550,000-P4,090,000
Our Rating: *****

Last Update: February 5, 2018

Car Profiles - Foton Thunder

FOTON THUNDER

While the Blizzard is relegated to fleet duties, the Thunder now aims to rival the big names in the pick-up race. One highlight is a strong Cummins diesel, which has 160hp. While it looks good, long term usage is a question mark.

The Good: Now a decent Chinese product
The Bad: Will it hold for long?

Price Range: P840,000-P1,248,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: January 23, 2018

Car Profiles - Tata Indica

TATA INDICA

The hatchback version of the Indigo sub-compact, the Indica has the same engine but different suspension and equipment specifications (it has airbags and ABS brakes). Aiming for the fleet buyer and the Mirage/Grand i10 buyer, you'll be happy with the fuel savings afforded by this car.

The Good: Diesel burner comes standard
The Bad: Worrisome aftersales support 

Price Range: P545,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: September 19, 2014

Car Profiles - Tata Indigo

TATA INDIGO

Now the entry level Tata, the Indigo has one competitive advantage: a diesel engine for sub-550k pricing. Specifications may be basic but then, there's a car that can keep fleet operators happy.

The Good: Available diesel engine
The Bad: Brand is known, but how will it fare here?

Price Range: P535,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: January 23, 2016

Thursday, September 18, 2014

Car Profiles - Nissan X-Trail (2010-2014)

2010-2014 Nissan X-Trail

The Good: Smooth on both the pavement and rough roads

The Bad: A tight rear seat is present

The Say: One of the SUVs which gives you the best of both worlds.

Go For: 2WD
Avoid:

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

Related Review: Used Car Review - Nissan X-Trail (2010-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: Nissan X-Trail

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2010-2014

Car Profiles - Nissan X-Trail

NISSAN X-TRAIL

Boxy no more, the third generation X-Trail (sold as the second generation Rogue in the US) has more space than the model it replaces that allows a third row seat. Engines may be the same but it is paired with Nissan's XTronic CVT.

The Good: A delight to drive
The Bad: Children only third row

Price Range: P1,534,000-P1,820,000
Our Rating: ****

Last Update: February 5, 2018

Car Profiles - Honda Brio

HONDA BRIO

Basically the entry level Honda you can buy, this one rivals the Mitsubishi Mirage and Suzuki Swift 1.2. While it is a bit expensive than the Mitsubishi, it does pack a 1.3 4-cylinder engine and a 5-speed automatic (for a 500k hatchback) plus 1.3 V gets an internet browser and wi-fi connection as standard.

The Good: Performs like top model Hondas
The Bad: Smallish back space, expensive for such offering

Price Range: P631,000-P791,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: January 9, 2018

Car Profiles - Honda Brio Amaze

HONDA BRIO AMAZE

Now the City had grew up (in terms of size), the Brio Amaze now takes the helm as Honda's (alongside the Brio hatchback) entry level vehicles. All models get power windows and door locks and dual airbags and ABS brakes. Top end 1.3 V rivals the Vios with the same engine.

The Good: Likes to be driven hard
The Bad: Somewhat pricey

Price Range: P651,000-P828,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: January 9, 2018

Wednesday, September 17, 2014

BMW Z4 - Generation 2 (2009-2016)

BMW Z4

Continuing for its second generation model, this one gets a 3.0 engine with lots of gadgetry and a metal folding roof. 

Car Profiles - Mercedes Benz CLS Class (2005-2011)

2005-2011 Mercedes Benz CLS Class

The Good: Looks and drives good

The Bad: Practicality isn't a suit

The Say: There is no need to compromise on looks and talent.

Go For: CLS350
Avoid: High performance versions, if there's any

Price Range: P3,000,000-P3,800,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2005-2011

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Car Profiles - Hyundai Genesis (2008-2013)

2008-2013 Hyundai Genesis

The Good: Has everything you want in a luxury car for less

The Bad: It lacks the brand cachet of one

The Say: If you're not a badge snob and a sucker for savings, get this if you can find one.

Go For: 3.8 V6
Avoid:

Price Range: P1,100,000-P1,200,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2008-2013

Monday, September 15, 2014

Car Profiles - Mercedes Benz A Class

MERCEDES BENZ A CLASS

Now returned as a more larger vehicle (remember the diminutive A Class back then?), the A Class can be had in regular A250 or sporty AMG. Our tip? Start with the C Class unless you are short in funds.

The Good: Decent engines, stylish
The Bad: Firm ride

Price Range: P2,680,000-P4,750,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: September 15, 2014

Used Car Review - Nissan Teana (2010-2014)

This week, Myk Belmonte gives you a comfortable car that can be yours for less.

2010-2014 Nissan Teana

History
We all know that Nissan was a choice among executives nearly 10 years ago or so. The magic of Nissan's cold air-con and the roomy cabin of the Cefiro isn't anymore a proposition that back-seat riding people take, since Camrys and Accords had taken the helm that Nissan used to dominate. With rising incomes, the upper echelons now line-up for BMW 5 Series and Benz E Class saloons to take them anywhere they wish.

Under the J32 platform code, the second generation Teana debuted in several ASEAN markets (like Thailand, where this one is aplenty) in 2008 under the Teana (other countries used the Cefiro badge) or Maxima - for consumers land down under - nameplates. The platform being utilized is also shared with the Murano and several Renault vehicles sold in France. Although being marketed in some nations, it is succeeded by the L33 Altima (and being renamed as such).

In the RP context, however, Nissan Motor Philippines Inc. is notoriously known to bring world acclaimed cars too late to the market, like three to five years past their selling date. The J32 Teana arrived in late 2010 with two engine options and more plush. In March 2014, alongside a transition to a united Nissan, the L33 Altima was brought here. One can get the 250XL and 350XV models when it was new.

Value and Costs
Since a new Altima was introduced (or brought up to the grave), second hand Teana prices may fall down a bit but not to an extent it will fall below the million peso range. As a golden rule regarding late model vehicles, get the newest model you can in which the remainder of the warranty can be used.

Bad news? With this car being a low volume model, replacement parts are very limited so better be careful on driving. Also, with this car sporting a V6 engine expect high gas bills but if you can afford this type of car you should not be complaining.

Exterior and Interior
Large as it is, you wouldn't mind especially it provides the luxury that Nissans in the premium category give. So let the exterior speak for itself. One feature present in the 350XV is the panoramic glass ceiling which gives an airy feeling for the occupants.

The highlight, of course, goes to the cabin. The beige interior is nice to see but touching it with dirty hands is an eye sore plus a pain to clean. Of course, there's the wood paneling and the seating may be less for some, but with some magic strings they've done a way.

Engine
Unlike the predecessor, this generation offered two V6 engines which may suit both personalities. The basic is a 2.5 V6 having 182hp and 232Nm that may be lacking for some but you wouldn't mind it anyways. Our recommended engine is the 3.5 V6 with 248hp and 335Nm being shared with the 350z and Murano but tuned in a different way.

Driving Impressions
One great feature of this sedan is the Xtronic CVT that is up to the task of keeping the car in the right gear whether you have a feather foot or a speed devil, there's an appropriate speed for you. Handling is fine but the suspension system isn't great on isolating road imperfections towards the cabin, but then you wouldn't be complaining about it.

Verdict
There's no doubt the Teana is one fine vehicle, with the luxurious feeling that one can get without costing your arm and a kidney stone for a Benz. However, you may want to live with some imperfections that you'll encounter, so decide wisely.


Saturday, September 13, 2014

Car Profiles - Mercedes Benz C Class

MERCEDES BENZ C CLASS

Under the W205 platform code, the new C Class is lighter (thanks to aluminum usage) than its predecessor while gaining more space and exterior dimensions. Two AMG variants makes things exciting.

The Good: More lighter and roomier
The Bad: 

Price Range: P3,550,000-P3,980,000
Our Rating: ****

Last Update: September 13, 2014

Friday, September 12, 2014

Opel Astra Sedan - Generation 2 (1999-2004)

OPEL ASTRA SEDAN (1999-2004)

Introduced in 1999 as Opel's contender to the Corolla/Civic class, the Astra can be had in either sedan or wagon configuration. Unlike other rivals, this can be had in one trim level per body style. Sales stopped in 2004 to give way to the Chevrolet Optra.

See the overview of this Astra Sedan
See also the wagon version




Thursday, September 11, 2014

Car Profiles - Chery Cowin (2007-2012)

2007-2012 Chery Cowin

The Good: Cheap to buy

The Bad: The whole car is very old

The Say: Going for a 10 year old Japanese car is a better option than this.

Go For: Avoiding like the plague
Avoid: 1.6 L

Price Range: P120,000-P170,000
Our Rating: *

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2007-2012

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

Car Profiles - Opel Astra Sedan (1999-2004)

1999-2004 Opel Astra

The Good: Solid and comfortable

The Bad: Heavy and slow with an automatic

The Say: A genuine German car at affordable prices, just prepare to live with some compromises.

Go For: 1.6 Comfort
Avoid: 

Price Range: P100,000-P200,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Review: Used Car Review - Opel Astra (2000-2004)

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1999-2004

Tuesday, September 9, 2014

Car Profiles - Mazda 3 Sedan (2012-2014)

2012-2014 Mazda 3 Sedan

The Good: Driving fun is still present

The Bad: But the 1.6 engine needs to be pushed

The Say: Has the credentials but comes late to the party.

Go For: 1.6
Avoid: 

Price Range: P520,000-P790,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: Used Car Review - Mazda 3 (2012-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: Mazda 3 Sedan

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2012-2014

Monday, September 8, 2014

Car Profiles - Isuzu MU-X

ISUZU MU-X

Essentially the second generation Alterra, the MU-X just arrived recently (it debuted at Thailand last year) with lots of changes and the expansion of line-up. While you may say it resembles the Trailblazer, it does since it is its twin. A star in Isuzu's limited line-up.

The Good: Very refined for an Isuzu
The Bad: 

Price Range: P1,318,000-P2,145,000
Our Rating: ****

Last Update: January 29, 2018

Sunday, September 7, 2014

Car Profiles - Hyundai Elantra (2011-2015)

2011-2015 Hyundai Elantra

The Good: High levels of comfort and quality

The Bad: Somewhat limited headroom

The Say: One of the great compacts in the market.

Go For: 1.6 GL
Avoid: 1.8 L

Price Range: P500,000-P750,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Reviews: Used Car Review - Hyundai Elantra (2011-2015)
Latest vehicle profile: Hyundai Elantra

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2011-2013
2014-2015

Car Profiles - Isuzu Alterra (2005-2014)

2005-2014 Isuzu Alterra

The Good: Fuel friendly, cushy ride

The Bad: Engine clatter, unrefined

The Say: An interesting alternative which has some good and bad traits.

Go For: 4x2
Avoid:

Price Range: P550,000-P1,100,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Review: Used Car Review - Isuzu Alterra (2005-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: Isuzu MU-X

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2005-2008
2009-2014

Saturday, September 6, 2014

Chevrolet Aveo Hatchback - Generation 1.2 (2008-2009)

CHEVROLET AVEO HATCHBACK (2008-2009)

The 2008 update gave this hatchback Chevrolet's VGIS system, which makes it more fuel friendly and having 16 valves. Other than the engine, a new grille and an auxiliary radio comes standard. Although the sedan lives on until 2013, this one got killed in late 2009 and replaced by the Sonic three years later




Chevrolet Aveo Hatchback - Generation 1.1 (2003-2008)

CHEVROLET AVEO HATCHBACK (2003-2008)

First launched in 2003 together with the Optra, the Aveo hatchback was made available in one model with a basic 1.2 launched in 2006.






Car Features - Car of the Year Philippines Winners

Every year, the Car of the Year Philippines acknowledges the best new or redesigned vehicles available in our 7,107 islands. This Saturday, let us revisit the winners of the award for both car and categories from 2004 to 2014 respectively.

Friday, September 5, 2014

Kia Rio Hatchback - Generation 1.1 (2000-2002)

KIA RIO HATCHBACK (2000-2002)

Basically, this one is more fully loaded than its bare bones sedan sibling. The hatchback gets a powerful engine and more power amenities also. 






Kia Rio Hatchback - Generation 1.2 (2003-2005)

KIA RIO HATCHBACK (2003-2005)

An update gave the hatchback model some added amenities and options including an automatic transmission apart from some exterior changes and color choices. 




Car Profiles - Chery QQ Sedan (2009-2011)

2009-2011 Chery QQ Sedan

The Good: Has more power than the unrelated hatchback sibling

The Bad: Has the space similar to its hatchback brethren

The Say: You wouldn't want this and better steer clear of this.

Go For: 
Avoid: QQ6

Price Range: Data Not Available
Our Rating: *

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2009-2011

Thursday, September 4, 2014

Chery QQ Sedan - Generation 1 (2009-2011)

CHERY QQ SEDAN (2009-2011)

Although it has the same name with its hatchback cousin, the two aren't sharing the platform. Battling for taxi fleet sales, the QQ Sedan didn't make the cut and left unloved to be discontinued in 2011.


Also see: QQ Hatchback



Hyundai Matrix - Generation 1.2 (2006-2007)

HYUNDAI MATRIX (2006-2007)

A 2006 facelift gave the Matrix a diesel engine which Hyundai was pushing through with that technology during that time. Otherwise, there's no more automatic transmission, driver's airbag, and ABS brakes. Discontinued at the end of 2007 due to production movement to Turkey which may end up costly.





Hyundai Matrix - Generation 1.1 (2003-2005)

HYUNDAI MATRIX (2003-2005)

Somewhat replacing the Atoz is the Matrix that has more power, more space, and somewhat more features (driver's airbag, ABS brakes). Do take note this one has a gasoline engine, with a 2006 update getting a diesel one.





Honda City - Generation 3.1 (1996-1999)

HONDA CITY (1996-1999)

This one slots below the Civic in terms of price and engine size. Its 1996 debut the 1.3 engines introduced first with a 1.5 that followed two years later.


Honda City - Generation 3.2 (1999-2003)

HONDA CITY (1999-2003)

This update gave the City a new grille, new lights, and an updated engine for the top end model. The EXi became the VTi Type Z with the addition of the VTEC technology while the LXi gets all power windows. The GL model was dropped earlier, however.