ISUZU ALTERRA (2005-2009)
Saturday, November 29, 2014
Isuzu Alterra - Generation 1.1 (2005-2009)
Honda CR-V - Generation 4.1 (2012, Japan)
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.
Friday, November 28, 2014
Car Profiles - Ssangyong Kyron (2006-2012)
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.
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.
Thursday, November 27, 2014
Car Profiles - Ssangyong Actyon (2006-2012)
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.
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.
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Car Profiles - Jeep Grand Cherokee (2011-Current)
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.
Honda Jazz - Generation 2.2 (2011-2014)
HONDA JAZZ (2011-2014)
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
Car Profiles - Jeep Grand Cherokee (2007-2010)
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:
Toyota Vios - Generation 2.1 (2007-2010)
TOYOTA VIOS (2007-2010)
Toyota Vios - Generation 2.2 (2010-2013)
TOYOTA VIOS (2010-2013)
Monday, November 24, 2014
Honda CR-V - Generation 4.1 (2013-2014, Thailand)
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
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)
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)
Toyota Yaris - Generation 2.2 (2009-2012)
TOYOTA YARIS (2009-2012)
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.
Sunday, November 23, 2014
Car Profiles - Chrysler 300 Wagon (2010-2011)
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
Friday, November 21, 2014
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
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)
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)
See the overview of this Benni
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Car Profiles - BMW 3 Series Coupe (2007-2014)
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.
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Car Profiles - Porsche 911 Coupe (1998-2005)
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)
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
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)
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)
Monday, November 17, 2014
Car Profiles - BMW 3 Series Coupe (2001-2004)
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.
Chevrolet Aveo Sedan - Generation 1 (2010-2013)
CHEVROLET AVEO SEDAN (2010-2013)
Sunday, November 16, 2014
Car Profiles - Audi A6 (1996-1998)
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)
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
Friday, November 14, 2014
Car Profiles - Volkswagen Passat (2000-2004)
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.
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Car Profiles - Mercedes Benz CLK Class (1997-2004)
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)
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.
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
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)
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)
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
Car Profiles - Hyundai Coupe (1996-2001)
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.
Monday, November 10, 2014
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.
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.
Friday, November 7, 2014
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