Isuzu Alterra - Generation 1.1 (2005-2009)

ISUZU ALTERRA (2005-2009)

This SUV isn't in the same league as the model it replaces, the Trooper. Rather, it is based from the D-Max especially that the platform is modified. A selling point of this vehicle is the standard entertainment system which includes a 5.1 Dolby surround system and LCD screens with DVD and VCD function.

See the overview of this Alterra

See the Generation 1.2 model

See the latest model of the Alterra

Honda CR-V - Generation 4.1 (2012, Japan)

HONDA CR-V (2012)

For a limited period, the fourth generation CR-V was imported from Japan while the Thailand plant is being fixed due to the flooding. Some items are only available in this version which the succeeding ones lost.

See the overview of this CR-V

See the Generation 4.1 or 4.2 Thailand model

See the latest model of the CR-V

Mitsubishi Pajero - Generation 4.1 (2007-2012)

MITSUBISHI PAJERO (2007-2012)

Although there were some improvements done in the exterior and interior, the engine options are still the same. A notable feature is the license plate holder situated at the spare tire cover and a Rockford Acoustic sound system.

See the overview of this Pajero

See the Generation 4.2 model

See the latest model of the Pajero

Car Profiles - Ssangyong Kyron (2006-2012)

2006-2012 Ssangyong Kyron

The Good: Feature loaded, decent interior quality

The Bad: Styling not for all

The Say: While it has everything you want, go elsewhere.

Go For: M270Xdi Diesel
Avoid:

Price Range: P665,000-P680,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2006-2012

Honda City - Generation 5.2 (2012-2014)

HONDA CITY (2012-2014)

The update gave the City some exterior nips and interior amenities like steering wheel controls and an ECO meter. Another update in April gave rise to two spin off variants that either had leather seats or stability control and 60/40 fold seats.

See the overview of this City

See the Generation 5.1 model

See the latest model of the City

Honda City - Generation 5.1 (2009-2011)

HONDA CITY (2009-2011)

A new City gave the car more space and more power than before. However, the 1.5 lost a manual transmission option and ULT seats which were options in the previous model.

See the overview of this City

See the Generation 5.2 model

See the latest model of the City

Car Profiles - Ssangyong Actyon (2006-2012)

2006-2012 Ssangyong Actyon

The Good: Capable on the worst situations, spacious cabin

The Bad: Limited on road abilities

The Say: It has some strengths that only a few can appreciate.

Go For: A200Xdi Diesel
Avoid: A230 Gasoline

Price Range: P450,000-P460,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2006-2012

Hyundai i10 - Generarion 1.1 (2008-2010)

HYUNDAI i10 (2008-2010)

Hyundai's smallest car in their line-up was first made available in 2008 with the 1.1 model being launched. MT models get an airbag while the AT has a 60/40 fold rear seat. February 2009 saw the addition of the 1.2 engine as well the 1.1 gaining the foldable seats.

See the overview of this i10

See the Generation 1.2 model

Hyundai i10 - Generation 1.2 (2011-2014)

HYUNDAI i10 (2011-2014)

A 2011 update gave the i10 a base model but some goodies were removed from the 1.1 models. Do take note the 1.2 was discontinued but returned for a brief period of time while the 1.1 GLS is still sold until stocks run out.

See the overview of this i10

See the Generarion 1.1 model

Car Profiles - Jeep Grand Cherokee (2011-Current)

2011-Current Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Good: Upscale cabin, great at hacking the bushes

The Bad: No third row seat, limited cargo place

The Say: It has everything but does not excel at any aspect.

Go For: 3.6 V6
Avoid: 5.7 V8

Price Range: P3,150,000-P3,200,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment
Latest Vehicle Profile: Jeep Grand Cherokee

Honda Jazz - Generation 2.1 (2008-2011)

HONDA JAZZ (2008-2011)

The second generation Jazz gained more room and engines were uprated (no more i-DSI technology). Do take note this version does not carry front fog lamps or paddle shifters for the 1.5 V.

See the overview of this Jazz

See the Generation 2.2 model

See the latest model of the Jazz

Honda Jazz - Generation 2.2 (2011-2014)

HONDA JAZZ (2011-2014)

Revised for 2011, this version saw the addition of a temporarily sold 1.5 V EX due to the flooding in Thailand that damaged Honda's plant. Other than that, Modulo and Mugen body kits were also made available.

See the overview of this Jazz

See the Generation 2.1 model

See the latest model of the Jazz

Car Profiles - Jeep Grand Cherokee (2007-2010)

2007-2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Good: Strong engines, capable off road

The Bad: Jittery ride, cheap interior plastics

The Say: Unless you want a V8 powered SUV at low prices, look elsewhere.

Go For: 5.7 HEMI
Avoid: SRT-8

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

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment
Latest Vehicle Profile: Jeep Grand Cherokee

See the different versions of this vehicle:

2007-2010

Toyota Vios - Generation 2.1 (2007-2010)

TOYOTA VIOS (2007-2010)

The second generation Vios gets more room while having the same engines which are tried and proven. One noteworthy thing is production had been moved to Laguna, which means parts are easy to come by.

See the overview of this Vios

See the Generation 2.2 model

See the latest model of the Vios

Toyota Vios - Generation 2.2 (2010-2013)

TOYOTA VIOS (2010-2013)

This version of the Vios sprawled numerous variants than the earlier models. Added features include an auxiliary jack (omitted for the 1.3 E) and some years get a revised taillights and smoked rims.

See the overview of this Vios

See the Generation 1.1 model

See the latest model of the Vios

Honda CR-V - Generation 4.1 (2013-2014, Thailand)

HONDA CR-V (2013-2014)

With the normalization of Honda's Thailand plant, three variants were launched and it marked the return of the manual transmission. Special edition models were filtered to be regular ones included the Modulo Limited and the Cruiser Edition.

See the overview of this CR-V
See the Generation 4.1 Japan or 4.2 Thailand model
See the latest model of the CR-V

Mitsubishi Pajero - Generation 4.2 (2012-2014)

MITSUBISHI PAJERO

While the engine is still the same, there were some changes implemented including the change to a touchscreen monitor with an additional reverse camera and exterior tweaks. This version saw the launch of the 30th Anniversary Limited Edition which is only available in 300 units.

See the overview of this Pajero
See the Generation 4.1 model
See the latest model of the Pajero

Recall Alert - Honda Philippines Recalls City Due to Airbag

Honda Motor Company Ltd. had issued a recall in relation to the driver's side airbag due to the inflator. If you have a City built from 2003 until 2004, read this up.

Car Profiles - Jeep Grand Cherokee (1998-2000)

1998-2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Good: A great partner for both on and off road situations

The Bad: Fuel guzzler, expensive maintenance costs

The Say: A balance of on and off road that comes costly.

Go For: 4.0 V6 Laredo
Avoid: Poorly kept units and Japan converted ones

Price Range: P260,000-P370,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment
Latest Vehicle Profile: Jeep Grand Cherokee

Toyota Yaris - Generation 2.3 (2012-2014)

TOYOTA YARIS (2012-2014)

The final update for the Yaris gave the vehicle a revised tail lights, new mesh grille, and red stitchings. Otherwise, the engine and transmission are still the same.

See the overview of this Yaris

See the Generation 2.1 or 2.2 model

See the latest model of the Yaris

Toyota Yaris - Generation 2.2 (2009-2012)

TOYOTA YARIS (2009-2012)

For 2009, the Yaris receives a slew of upgrades that includes a new front, headlamps, steering wheel audio controls, side mirror signal repeaters, auxiliary jack among others.

See the overview of this Yaris

See the Generation 2.1 or 2.3 model
See the latest model of the Yaris

Toyota Yaris - Generation 2.1 (2007-2009)

TOYOTA YARIS (2007-2009)

With Toyota's failed attempt in the past, the Yaris was brought in to capture the sub-compact market. Unlike the Jazz, this one has only one variant and engine, so there's no need to look beyond.

See the overview of this Yaris

See the Generation 2.2 or 2.3 model

See the latest model of the Yaris

Car Profiles - Chrysler 300 Wagon (2010-2011)

2010-2011 Chrysler 300 Wagon

The Good: Rev happy HEMI engine, looks

The Bad: Expensive maintenance costs, poor rear visibility

The Say: Who says that wagons are boring?

Go For: HEMI Touring
Avoid:

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

Related Reviews: Used Car Review - Chrysler 300 (2005-2011)

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2010-2011

Car Profiles - Geely EC8

GEELY EC8

This mid-size sedan is priced similarly to top of the line compacts, but specifications aren't matching those of real ones. And don't forget the badge problems.

The Good: Low cost

The Bad: Not full equipped, quality issues

Price Range: P1,185,000

Our Rating: *

Last Update: November 21, 2014

Car Profiles - Geely Emgrand

GEELY EMGRAND

Geely's SUV offering competes with the Hyundai Tucson in price and offers two engines and even a sunroof, the latter that isn't available on lower priced SUVs. Before being tempted, look elsewhere.

The Good: Its cheap in price

The Bad: Cheap in quality

Price Range: P998,000-P1,168,000

Our Rating: *

Last Update: March 8, 2015

Car Profiles - Porsche Cayman (2005-2013)

2005-2013 Porsche Cayman

The Good: Performs, accelerates, and drives like the 911

The Bad: Expensive to maintain compared to contemporaries

The Say: Has the credentials of its bigger brother for less.

Go For: 2.9
Avoid: 3.4 with 291hp

Price Range: P2,980,000-P3,800,000
Our Rating: *****

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2005-2009
2009-2013

Chana Benni - Generation 1 (2008-2012)

CHANA BENNI (2008-2012)

Chana's passenger car in the range (other are multi vans) is decently executed. For those interested, do take note that MT models have a different kit from AT ones, so its a choice between efficiency and features.

See the overview of this Benni

Car Profiles - BMW 3 Series Coupe (2007-2014)

2007-2014 BMW 3 Series Coupe

The Good: A driver's delight, practical to live with

The Bad: Not as exciting design, rare in the market

The Say: Something that won't make your pulses quicken, but it does handles well.

Go For: 325i
Avoid: 335i

Price Range: P3,300,000-P3,400,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2007-2014

Chevrolet Spark - Generation 2 (2006-2010)

CHEVROLET SPARK (2006-2010)

Smaller than the Aveo, the Spark offers only one variant and was renamed in June 2007. July 2006 to May 2007 were named the 1.0 L while June 2007 and later were the LT that gains numerous equipment.

See the overview of this Spark

See the latest model of the Spark

Car Profiles - Porsche 911 Coupe (1998-2005)

1998-2005 Porsche 911 Coupe

The Good: It is fantastic yet realistic to own

The Bad: Good luck on owning one on the cheap

The Say: A supercar for everyday use and it succeeds.

Go For: Turbo
Avoid: Poorly kept units

Price Range: P2,100,000-P3,000,000
Our Rating: *****

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

Chery QQ - Generation 1.1 (2007-2013)

CHERY QQ (2007-2013)

With the QQ receiving a new face, the original one was first made available in 2007. Not much changes happened during selling period (assuming if you want one), so focus more on the condition.

See the overview of this QQ

See the Generation 1.2 model

Car News - Mitsubishi Launches All New Triton/Strada in Thailand

The last time that a Strada (Triton in some countries) received a new body was in 2005, that was nine years ago. It was also the same time the Toyota Hilux and Nissan Frontier Navara received a new body and while the latter had a new model which was launched recently, the Toyota is having a new model by next year.

This time, the new Strada has received a new body his year.

Car Profiles - Mercedes Benz CLK Class Coupe (2004-2009)

2004-2009 Mercedes Benz CLK Class Coupe

The Good: Exclusive looks, fun to drive

The Bad: Having one would cost you a fortune

The Say: It does look good but you'll have to live with some compromises.

Go For: CLK240
Avoid: CLK200K

Price Range: P1,300,000-P2,850,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2004-2009

Suzuki Alto - Generation 5 (2007-2013)

SUZUKI ALTO (2007-2013)

First launched in 2007 with the smaller displacement engines being available then a higher powered K10 in November 2011 that followed suit. Not much changes occurred during its selling time.

See the overview of this Alto

See the latest model of the Alto

Car Profiles - BMW 3 Series Coupe (2001-2004)

2001-2004 BMW 3 Series Coupe

The Good: A perky handler combined with a great engine

The Bad: Very rare to find and expensive to own

The Say: If you don't give practicality a priority, this is the pick.

Go For: 325Ci
Avoid: Poorly maintained examples

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

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2001-2004

Chevrolet Aveo Sedan - Generation 1 (2006-2010)

CHEVROLET AVEO SEDAN (2006-2010)

The sedan counterpart of the Aveo was made available in late 2006 as a 2007 model and only comes with one engine option (which is more modern than the one without a trunk). Although there are not much changes, do keep in mind that 15 inch wheels were standard in 2008.

See the overview of this Aveo Sedan

See the Generation 1 (2010-2013) model

Chevrolet Aveo Sedan - Generation 1 (2010-2013)

CHEVROLET AVEO SEDAN (2010-2013)

With a new distributor, the Aveo had new variants ranging from the basic to the fully kitted. No other changes occurred until the Sonic (a related vehicle) replaced the line-up

See the overview of the Aveo Sedan

See the Generation 1 (2006-2010) model

Car Profiles - Audi A6 (1996-1998)

1996-1998 Audi A6

The Good: Reliable and durable, affordable prices

The Bad: Expensive to keep

The Say: A low profile option which is cheap to buy.

Go For: Local models
Avoid: Poorly maintained units

Price Range: P200,000-P250,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

Car Profiles - Audi A4 Avant (2002-2004)

2002-2004 Audi A4 Avant

The Good: Top levels of quality

The Bad: Not as spacious as you think

The Say: A wagon with a touch of sensibility.

Go For: 1.8 Quattro
Avoid: Poorly maintained units

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

Related Reviews: Used Car Review - Audi A4 (1996-2004)

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2002-2004

Car Profiles - Volkswagen Passat (2000-2004)

2000-2004 Volkswagen Passat

The Good: Classy, spacious cabin

The Bad: Not that fun to drive, expensive to maintain

The Say: Something that is upmarket that is rare to find.

Go For: 1.8T
Avoid: V5

Price Range: P350,000-P400,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2000-2004

Kia Rio Hatchback - Generation 2.1 (2006-2007)

KIA RIO HATCHBACK (2006-2007)

Unlike the sedan, the hatchback body is only sold for a year. There is not much of a difference between the trunked brother apart from a cargo cover.

See the overview of this Rio Hatchback

See the latest model of the Rio Hatchback

Car Profiles - Mercedes Benz CLK Class (1997-2004)

1997-2004 Mercedes Benz CLK Class

The Good: It looks elegant while being comfort biased

The Bad: Very very expensive to buy and own

The Say: The price of buying and owning one is high.

Go For: CLK230 Kompressor
Avoid:

Price Range: P680,000-P1,500,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1997-2004

Kia Rio Sedan - Generation 2.2 (2010-2011)

KIA RIO SEDAN (2010-2011)

A 2009 update (released as a 2010 model) gave the Rio sedan a basic model for taxi fleets and a new grille. Otherwise, there are no other significant changes until it was redesigned in 2012.

See the overview of this Rio Sedan

See the Generation 2.1 model

Kia Rio Sedan - Generation 2.1 (2006-2009)

KIA RIO SEDAN (2006-2009)

A 2006 redesign gave the Rio a more improved status than the model it replaced. Not much basic in package as before (it has power amenities and a 60/40 fold rear seat) which is a good thing. Initial models have a manual, with an automatic in late 2007.

See the overview of this Rio Sedan

See the Generation 2.2 model

Car News - Mercedes Benz Announces New Naming Scheme, Revives Maybach

With Mercedes Benz having an expanded line-up, they had announced that it will be having a new naming scheme for its models, particularly for their SUVs and roadsters.

Car Profiles - Lexus IS C (2009-2013)

2009-2013 Lexus IS C

The Good: Fully loaded, quality is tops

The Bad: Limited rear visibility, cramped interior

The Say: Sophisticated and refined but misses the mark.

Go For: IS300 C
Avoid:

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

Related Reviews: Used Car Review - Lexus IS (2009-2013)

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2009-2013

Hyundai Accent - Generation 3 (2006-2010)

HYUNDAI ACCENT (2006-2010)

First made available in December 2005, the Accent is Hyundai's pitch in to the sedan market at the lower scale. The GLS came in first with a much "basic" GL in late 2007. While the successor didn't get a diesel in sedan form, it has one in the hatchback.

See the overview of this Accent

See the latest model of the Accent (Sedan/Hatchback)

Car Profiles - Hyundai Coupe (1996-2001)

1996-2001 Hyundai Coupe

The Good: Cheap to buy, looks good

The Bad: Reliability is dubious, low on power

The Say: If you value design more than anything else, this is the pick.

Go For: 2.0
Avoid: 1.6 imported ones

Price Range: P230,000-P325,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

Suzuki Swift - Generation 2 (2005-2011)

SUZUKI SWIFT (2005-2011)

Suzuki's return to the passenger car market (remember the Esteem?) is the Swift, which was also a success for the brand. No further changes happened apart from the addition of a manual in 2008.

See the overview of this Swift

See the latest model of the Swift

Used Car Review - Nissan X-Trail (2010-2014)

Myk Belmonte discovers the secret why the X-Trail is a great buy, in spite of the new model.

2010-2014 Nissan X-Trail

History
When it comes to SUVs, the Japanese can't be beat. While Nissan had the Pathfinder that is based on a truck, there's also the X-Trail whose underpinnings are also utilized by the Primera/Almera/Sentra sedans. Before anything else, the 'Trail replaced the Nissan Rasheen which predated the benchmarks of the compact SUV race: the RAV4, CR-V, and Forester.

2007 marked the launch of the second generation X-Trail in Europe and Japan which had a slightly larger dimension than the model it replaced. Although it has the same silhouette when compared to the old one (more on this later), it retains the formula that made this one successful while adding new technologies.

Our market technically got the facelifted model, which was introduced in 2010 elsewhere. Unlike the previous generation model, it has a 2.5 engine as the base model. Interestingly enough, the previous one is sold together until Nissan's new management axed it in March 2014. On the other hand, this model was discontinued and replaced by the larger third generation. While there's only one trim model for two and four wheel drives, a Tough Rider model (it adds a front and rear bumper overrider, three dimensional headlamps, HID lamps, and a hyper roof rail for the 2WD) that was only made available in 2011 can be had in both drive trains.

Value and Costs
Since this car is a low volume seller plus not all owners are parting theirs, only a handful of these are advertised on the classified block or online selling sites so have lots of patience when finding one. If you want one, expect them to be priced between P750,000-P850,000 for a decently kept unit and also in the same range of same period rivals.

Despite being a not-so-decent-seller, maintenance and operating costs are similar to its Japanese and Korean rivals. Just do remember that following the regular maintenance intervals will give you a worry free ownership.

Exterior and Interior
While you may love or loathe the new model's styling, the words "boxy yet rugged" is attached to the second generation X-Trail since it can do some smooth moments on the road yet can conquer the bad ones. It does have the same exterior concept but have a closer look and there are some angles that strays far from the old one.

Getting inside the car would greet you to a cavernous cabin which is spacious enough for both human and cargo, save for the middle backseat passenger who may suffer a tight position no thanks to the transmission tunnel. If you need to haul something then folding the rear bench gives you more space to spare. But the biggest news for this car is the gauges are now positioned on where it should be: in front of the driver. Otherwise, controls are logically positioned and placed.

Engine
Unlike the previous generation model, this one makes do with just one engine option: a QR25DE displacing 2.5 liters with 168hp at 6,000rpm and 230Nm at 4,400rpm that is paired to Nissan's famed Xtronic CVT. You may say that the power and torque combo isn't that impressive, but thanks to the CVT it will utilize every ounce of power and torque in all of your driving without the shift shock associated with automatics.

Driving Impressions
While this car will bring you to your destination whether it is smooth or rough, it still has that smooth ride which is a good thing. Also all around visibility is excellent, thanks to the larger windows which the X-Trail has.

Verdict
One of the hidden gems out there, the second generation X-Trail has the qualities of a car based crossover SUV that can be an all around vehicle. Even though it didn't sell well, finding one is worth it.

Car Features - September 2014 Philippines Car Sales Figures

With a little delay, we present to you the sales figures for the month of September (August 2014 can be seen here) from the same source. September 2014 saw 21,445 units (Auto Industriya reported 23,895 units for that month) which brings a year-to-date sales of 164,948 units, an increase of 22% from last year.

Same old news, Toyota dominates the top 10 with six (last month there were seven) models with the Montero Sport overtaking the Fortuner this month (the Fort is still number 3 year to date). One surprise is the Hiace breaking the 1,000 unit per month barrier while the Mirage G4 overtakes the City (the Honda City still remains above the Wigo and the Mitsubishi on the total nine months).

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, Audi A4, and Mitsubishi L300

THIS MONTH'S WINNERS

Mitsubishi Montero Sport - 1,334 units

Toyota Hiace - 1,148 units

Toyota Wigo - 993 units

Mitsubishi Mirage G4 - 807 units