Car Profiles - Jaguar XJ (1997-2003)

1997-2003 Jaguar XJ

The Good: Heritage, somewhat nice to drive

The Bad: Old image may turn off some, materials are low quality, not that spacious

The Say: A statement of understated luxury, which German rivals can't be said about.

Go For: 3.2
Avoid: XJR

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

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1997-2003

Nissan Sentra - Generation 1.2 (2004-2014)

NISSAN SENTRA (2004-2014)

Technically riding on the Sylphy platform and this update had the "Exalta" name dropped and had new sets of lights, grilles, and some other items. There are numerous changes that occurred so pay attention to the unit.

See the overview of this Sentra

See the Generation 1.1 model

See the latest model of the Sentra

Car Profiles - Volvo S90 (1997-1999)

1997-1999 Volvo S90

The Good: Loaded to the brim

The Bad: Expensive ownership costs

The Say: Look elsewhere, unless you're a Volvo fan.

Go For: Good units
Avoid:

Price Range: P250,000-P260,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

Chevrolet Optra Sedan - Generation 1.3 (2008-2010)

CHEVROLET OPTRA SEDAN (2008-2010)

Last of its series before being replaced by the Cruze in 2010, the Optra gets new items like a front grille, auxiliary jack, steering wheel controls, and chrome bits.

See the overview of this Optra Sedan

See the Generation 1.1 or 1.2 model

Chevrolet Optra Sedan - Generation 1.1 (2003-2005)

CHEVROLET OPTRA SEDAN (2003-2005)

After the failure of the Cassia, Chevrolet had brought in the Optra which is based on a Daewoo. From launch, the 1.6 LS was available with a 1.8 model and a basic 1.6 followed suit.

See the overview of this Optra Sedan

See the Generation 1.2 or 1.3 model

Chevrolet Optra Sedan - Generation 1.2 (2005-2007)

CHEVROLET OPTRA SEDAN (2005-2007)

For its first update, the Optra loses the 1.8 model while the line-up gets expanded with the introduction of a wagon (separately featured), body kit clad SS, and an automatic transmission 1.6 L.

See the overview of this Optra Sedan

See the Generation 1.1 or 1.3 model

Car Profiles - Ford E150 (2009-2014)

2009-2014 Ford E150

The Good: Large space means room for seven, powerful engine

The Bad: Fuel unfriendly, not so practical at all

The Say: With greater image means more costs.

Go For: Club Wagon
Avoid: None

Price Range: P900,000-P1,200,000
Our Rating: *

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2009-2014

Car Profiles - Volvo 960 (1995-1997)

1995-1997 Volvo 960

The Good: Top levels of quality, space

The Bad: Expensive to keep and finding one is hard

The Say: Unless you want Volvos, find something else.

Go For: Any well maintained unit
Avoid:

Price Range: P100,000-P150,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

Mitsubishi Lancer - Generation 8.3 (2008-2012)

MITSUBISHI LANCER (2008-2012)

This version supplants the Lancer EX since this one has a 1.6 engine but overall, except for some interior bits, remained unchanged. Discontinued in July 2012 with the launch of the EX models with a 1.6 engine.

See the overview of this Lancer

See the Generation 8.1 or 8.2 model

See the latest model of the Lancer

Mitsubishi Lancer - Generation 8.2 (2004-2008)

MITSUBISHI LANCER (2004-2008)

Two updates were given for this version: one occurred in May 2004 which received a Boulay grille and ABS brakes while a second one that happened in June 2006 made the vehicle more longer (2004-2006 models are shorter than the original). All except the GLX and GLS were discontinued with the launch of the Lancer EX.

See the overview of this Lancer

See the Generation 8.1 or 8.3 model

See the latest model of the Lancer

Mitsubishi Lancer - Generation 8.1 (2003-2004)

MITSUBISHI LANCER (2003-2004)

Also called as the "Cedia" (or Century Diamond), the eighth generation Lancer's launch was a bit delayed locally. This model gets a continuously variable transmission which replaces the old 4-speed automatic but still uses the less powerful version of the previous 1.6 engine.

See the overview of this Lancer

See the Generation 8.2 or 8.3 model

See the latest model of the Lancer

Nissan Sentra - Generation 4.1 (1995-1997)

NISSAN SENTRA (1995-1997)

Called as the B14 Sentra, the fourth generation model implemented an all EFI line-up (the previous body LEC was sold). Initial models were the EX Saloon and Super Saloon with spin off models of the latter came to the picture.

See the overview of this Sentra

See the Generation 4.2 or 4.3 models

See the latest model of the Sentra

Nissan Sentra - Generation 4.2 (1997-2000)

NISSAN SENTRA (1997-2000)

An update done in 1997 treated the Sentra for some exterior revisions and the Super Saloon finally gained airbags and ABS brakes. The FE and GTS (a limited edition model) was added.

See the overview of this Sentra

See the Generation 4.1 or 4.3 models

See the latest model of the Sentra

Car Features - Flop It: Vehicle Failures

Before we leave 2014, let us review the cars that failed for a certain manufacturer. So before anything else, we would not list down luxury brands since they do have low sales figures, something they're proud about. Limited edition vehicles are not counted here. Isuzu isn't counted since they have only a limited line-up and Ford since we had a hard time debating on what car to include especially some were victims of the mabenta-sa-umpisa-matumal-mamaya scheme (such as the Lynx, Expedition, F150, and Explorer Sport Trac) while there are none who flopped at all.

So, let us delve the main flop per brand (mainstream ones, of course) plus the other ones.

Special thanks to my friends at Team TopGear Philippines especially to Celvin Macayana, Juan Miguel Mendoza, Peter Valderrama, Isaac Atienza, Forevoever Gayo, Queruben Espadilla, Jetski Domalaon, Jeric Guevarra, Jaime Geronimo Garcia, Adrian Dmaxs, Aldre Garcia, Dominic Sobreo, and Johann Mendoza.

Car Profiles - Jaguar X Type Wagon (2006-2009)

2006-2009 Jaguar X Type Wagon

The Good: Has the space and panache

The Bad: Rare in the market, awkward driving position

The Say: One of the fine driving wagons out there.

Go For: 2.5 SE
Avoid: 2.0

Price Range: P1,500,000-P1,600,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2006-2009

Toyota Corolla Altis - Generation 9.2-3 (2004-2008)

TOYOTA COROLLA ALTIS (2004-2008)

This version received two updates during its run: first in January 2004 which got proximity sensors, sun shades among others and a second one for 2006 which launched the 1.6 S, gaining MP3 capability for all, and a standard six disc changer.

See the overview of this Corolla Altis

See the Generation 9.1 model

See the latest model of the Corolla Altis

Toyota Corolla Altis - Generation 9.1 (2001-2003)

TOYOTA COROLLA ALTIS (2001-2003)

This generation saw the usage of the Altis moniker (the previous generation model is still sold) and does not anymore carry any 1.3 engines. Do remember that 1.6 J has a different grille design than other variants in the range.

See the overview of this Corolla Altis

See the Generation 9.2-3 model

See the latest model of the Corolla Altis

Car Features - Top 10 Most Viewed New Car Profiles

Since adding new cars to the mix last July, we had tracked them in which more views meant their popularity and people searching them had interest. Half of them were sub-compacts, three mid-size SUVs (one is an anticipated vehicle, which we posted a day before its launch), and two MPVs. Unlike the most searched vehicles released by Google Philippines, the results are different from us (maybe we started late though).

Other cars like the Honda Brio and Brio Amaze, Toyota Vios (which, surprisingly, didn't make the list), and Mitsubishi Lancer EX were follow ups.

So we shall give to you the most viewed vehicle profiles

Car Profiles - Subaru Forester (2001-2002)

2001-2002 Subaru Forester

The Good: Drives like a car, standard AWD

The Bad: Ain't it spacious

The Say: While it has some virtues, it can't keep up with rivals.

Go For: 2.0X
Avoid:

Price Range: P200,000-P350,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Subaru Forester

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2001-2002

Chevrolet Optra Wagon - Generation 1.2 (2008-2010)

CHEVROLET OPTRA WAGON (2008-2010)

Before receiving a trip to heaven, the Optra Wagon gets a refresh for 2008 gaining new equipment like a front grille, auxiliary jack, steering wheel controls, and chrome bits.

See the overview of this Optra Wagon

See the Generation 1.1 model

Chevrolet Optra Wagon - Generation 1.1 (2006-2007)

CHEVROLET OPTRA WAGON (2006-2007)

The only wagon that can be purchased for below a million pesos, the first version of the Optra wagon was released in 2006. Apart from the body and a cargo net/cover, there's not much differences in terms of specifications.

See the overview of this Optra Wagon

See the Generation 1.2 model

Car Profiles - Mitsubishi Pajero (1988-1994)

1988-1994 Mitsubishi Pajero

The Good: Lots of headroom, simple mechanicals

The Bad: Outdated by modern standards

The Say: Tough as nails, just prepare for the compromises.

Go For: Any well maintained local unit
Avoid: Japan converted units

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

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Mitsubishi Pajero

Nissan Sentra Exalta - Generation 1 (2001-2004)

NISSAN SENTRA EXALTA (2001-2004)

This generation is not based on the Sentra, but rather on the Bluebird Sylphy first sold in 2000. Under the N13 platform code, the Philippine version gets three 1.6 models and a sole 1.5 with a 1.3 followed in November 2002.

See the overview of this Sentra Exalta

See the Generation 1.2 model

See the latest model of the Sentra

Car Profiles - Volvo V70 (2008-2013)

2008-2013 Volvo V70

The Good: XC70's balance between a car and a SUV, solidity, comfort of a car

The Bad: Not the fun thing to drive, choppy ride

The Say: A proper definition of a Volvo estate which falls short.

Go For: XC70 D5
Avoid: XC70 3.2 and V70 2.5

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

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2008-2013

Honda Civic - Generation 7.1 (2001-2003)

HONDA CIVIC (2001-2003)

Redesigned for 2001, the seventh generation Civic gets more space, a flat rear floor, and safety kit for the VTI-S model. This version spawned a CE model that can be customized and an RS which mimics the SIR of the past.

See the overview of this Civic

See the Generation 7.2 model

See the latest model of the Civic

Honda Civic - Generation 7.2 (2003-2006)

HONDA CIVIC (2003-2006)

This version got updated twice with the one in February 2004 being significant of them all with the launch of a 2.0 model that ditched the 1.5 LXi. Do take note that March 2003-February 2004 VTi-S can be had with an all leather interior, as well as a manual option until March 2006.

See the overview of this Civic

See the Generation 7.1 model

See the latest model of the Civic

Car Profiles - Volvo V70 (1997-2000)

1997-2000 Volvo V70

The Good: Comfortable interior, solid

The Bad: Ain't that spacious at the back, high maintenance costs especially it is old

The Say: If there's a reason to buy a Volvo, this is one.

Go For: Choice of 10 or 20 valve engines
Avoid:

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

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

Toyota Corolla - Generation 8.2 (1999-2005)

TOYOTA COROLLA (1999-2005)

The launch of the 1.8 Altis SEG signaled the facelift of the Corolla which featured a new grille (the XL and LE does not get it) plus the top end model has leather seats and a CD changer. While all except the XL and LE got replaced by the Corolla Altis, the two are still marketed until 2005.

See the overview of this Corolla

See the Generation 8.1 model

See the latest model of the Corolla

Toyota Corolla - Generation 8.1 (1997-1999)

TOYOTA COROLLA (1997-1999)

Called the "Love Life" due to an emphasis on safety brought by standard (except for the XL) airbags and ABS brakes. The first version had an optional TOMS Limited Edition with a supercharged 1.6 engine but sold in limited quantities.

See the overview of this Corolla

See the Generation 8.2 model

See the latest model of the Corolla

Ford Everest - Generation 1.3 (2009-2013)

FORD EVEREST (2009-2013)

For the third consecutive time, the Everest is treated to an update. Changes in this model are limited to the exterior and the introduction of a Limited 4x2 model.

See the overview of this Everest

See the Generation 1.1, 1.2, or 1.4 model

See the latest model of the Everest

Ford Everest - Generation 1.1 (2003-2006)

FORD EVEREST (2003-2006)

Based on the Ranger/B-Series pick-up, the Everest is basically a pick-up truck converted for people carrying usage. Do take note that initial models can be only had with a manual transmission with an automatic followed suit. 

See the overview of this Everest

See the Generation 1.2, 1.3, or 1.4 models

See the latest model of the Everest

Hyundai Starex - Generation 1.2-3 (2004-2007)

HYUNDAI STAREX (2004-2007)

A 2004 facelift gave the Starex one main feature, a CRDi engine which became a selling point of the Korean brand. Do take note that the previous model's engine is offered until 2005. Another exterior update occurred sometime in late 2006 while retaining its equipment level.

See the overview of this Starex

See the Generation 1.1 model

See the latest model of the Starex

Car Profiles - Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (2005-2008)

2005-2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

The Good: A great handler, top notch all wheel drive

The Bad: Basic interior, firm ride

The Say: One of the excellent rally bred cars on the cheap.

Go For: Toss up between a five speed stick (RS) or six speed (MR)
Avoid: Imitation models

Price Range: P1,800,000-P1,900,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2005-2008

Car Features - 2014 Ultimate Car Guide Car of the Year

2014 was a year to remember, especially for the automotive industry. Lots of exciting introductions greeted consumers and enthusiasts alike. While some names went away (Sentra, Alterra, Teana), some got new bodies (Altis, Mazda 3, City, C Class, X-Trail), and some were new names (MU-X, Wigo, Ecosport, Ertiga), it was the year to be in since consumers have a lot of choices to pick. With the industry hitting the 200k mark, things are getting thrilling.

First of all, this Car of the Year award does not aim any manufacturer and the choices are the opinions of the writers/contributors here. Voting process is done individually to avoid any voting manipulation here.

The question here is "what car released in 2014 made a huge impact to the consumer and to the market while having some impact to the manufacturer itself." Every writer/contributor have to pick five cars and rank them from 5 with the highest to 1 being the lowest. Results will be published here for transparency, as well as the reason why the writers/contributors chose that car.

The nominees:

• BMW 4 Series
• BMW X4
• BMW X5
• Ford Ecosport
• Honda Accord
• Honda Brio and Brio Amaze
• Honda City
• Honda Jazz
• Hyundai Grand i10
• Hyundai Grand Santa Fe
• Isuzu MU-X
• Jeep Cherokee
• Kia Soul
• Lamborghini Hurracan
• Lexus NX
• Lexus RC
• Mazda 3
• Mercedes Benz C Class
• Nissan Altima
• Nissan Sylphy
• Nissan X-Trail
• Porsche Macan
• Peugeot 208 GT
• Peugeot Expert Tepee
• Subaru WRX/WRX STi
• Suzuki Ertiga
• Tata cars
• Toyota Corolla Altis
• Toyota Wigo
• Toyota Yaris
• Volkswagen Beetle

Volkswagen Bora - Generation 4 (2000-2003)

VOLKSWAGEN BORA (2000-2003)

Essentially a Golf in sedan from, the Bora (sold as the Jetta in other countries) is only available with a 2.0 engine paired to an automatic transmission. This one had been discontinued in 2003 and replaced by the Mk6 Jetta nearly 10 years later.

See the overview of this Bora

See the latest model of the Bora

Car Profiles - BMW M5 (2005-2010)

2005-2010 BMW M5

The Good: A discreet sports car for daily usage

The Bad: Not for the faint heart or the cash strapped 

The Say: Useful all day around.

Go For: Sedan
Avoid: Touring, good luck on finding one

Price Range: P3,100,000-P4,300,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2005-2010

Volkswagen Golf - Generation 4 (2000-2003)

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2000-2003)

A best seller in Europe, the Golf was brought in as a part of Volkswagen's new distributor line-up change. Unlike in other countries, it is only offered with a 1.6 engine paired to an automatic transmission. Leather seats are standard, as well as a 10 disc changer.

See the overview of this Golf

Car Profiles - Smart Roadster (2004-2006)

2004-2006 Smart Roadster

The Good: Fun to drive, unique looks

The Bad: Very very slow

The Say: It is a fun car which comes with lots of compromises.

Go For: Good luck finding the rare unit
Avoid: Expecting too much

Price Range: Data Not Available
Our Rating: **

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:

2003-2006

Volkswagen Polo Classic - Generation 3 (1996-1999)

VOLKSWAGEN POLO CLASSIC (1996-1999)

After a long hiatus, Volkswagen made a return to the Philippines with the Polo Classic as their main vehicle. Not much changes occurred during its period here, so focus more on the condition.

See the overview of this Polo Classic

See the latest model of the Polo

Car Profiles - Hyundai Sonata

HYUNDAI SONATA

The seventh generation Sonata may lose some radical lines, but the silhouette is the same. Variants and engines are similar from the previous generation. Despite these things, it is one great buy and a competitive vehicle.

The Good: Feature packed

The Bad: Conservative looks not for all

Price Range: P1,878,000

Our Rating: ****

Last Update: September 7, 2017

Car Profiles - BMW M3 Convertible (2010-2014)

2010-2014 BMW M3 Convertible

The Good: High levels of engineering and high powered V8 engine

The Bad: Very expensive to own and hard to find

The Say: More power means more wind in your face.

Go For: M3
Avoid:

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

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2010-2014

Volkswagen Lupo - Generation 1 (2000-2003)

VOLKSWAGEN LUPO (2000-2003)

With a revised line-up in 2000, the Lupo became Volkswagen's entry level vehicle. It is classified as a city car, hence the 3 door configuration that limits practicality.

See the overview of this Lupo

Car Profiles - BMW 6 Series Convertible (2008-2012)

2008-2012 BMW 6 Series Convertible

The Good: Strong V8 engine, fully loaded

The Bad: Space is too little

The Say: An expensive and classy convertible.

Go For: 630i
Avoid: M6

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

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:

2008-2012

Fiat Uno - Generation 2 (1992-1998)

FIAT UNO (1992-1998)

Before a time the Accents and the Getzs had diesel engines, the Uno came in first (also the Sentra during 1987). Two diesels were made available while a gasoline model was standard too.

See the overview of this Uno

Car Profiles - Hyundai Sonata (2010-2014)

2010-2014 Hyundai Sonata

The Good: Comfortable ride, impressive handling

The Bad: Somewhat tight in rear headroom

The Say: Now one of the class leaders, not anymore the wallflower.

Go For: 2.4 GLS
Avoid: 2.0 Limited

Price Range: P780,000-P1,000,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Reviews: Used Car Review - Hyundai Sonata (2010-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: Hyundai Sonata

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2010-2014

Car Profiles - Maserati Spider (2003-2008)

2003-2008 Maserati Spider

The Good: Fast, smooth, and rides excellently

The Bad: Expensive to maintain, lacks body rigidity

The Say: One of the low profile choices for a European convertible.

Go For: Cambiocorsa
Avoid:

Price Range: P2,700,000-P3,000,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2003-2008

Daihatsu Charade - Generation 3 (1990-1998)

DAIHATSU CHARADE (1990-1998)

A participant in the People's Car Development Program, the Charade can be either had in 3 or 5 door models. Although majority of models have the manual, there's an automatic transmission with 3-speeds.

See the overview of this Charade

Car Profiles - BMW Z4 Coupe (2006-2009)

2006-2009 BMW Z4 Coupe

The Good: Great performance, rigidity due to metal top

The Bad: Firm ride, not for everyone

The Say: A looker and a tire screamer at the same time.

Go For: 3.0si
Avoid: M Coupe

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

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2006-2009

Hyundai Excel - Generation 2 (1995-1998)

HYUNDAI EXCEL (1995-1998)

Hyundai's first model to be available here and rivals Daewoo's Racer and other base to mid Japanese compacts. Although it had been discontinued in favor of the Accent worldwide in the same year, it was first launched during that time also.

See the overview of this Excel

Car Profiles - Maserati GT (2003-2008)

2003-2008 Maserati GT

The Good: V8 engine is nice, charming looks

The Bad: Built quality isn't good

The Say: A great alternative to the imposing Germans but comes short.

Go For: Cambiocorsa
Avoid:

Price Range: P2,700,000-P3,000,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2003-2008

Car Profiles - BMW Z3 Coupe (2001-2002)

2001-2002 BMW Z3 Coupe

The Good: Practicality, engine performance

The Bad: Looks not for all

The Say: A choice if dictated by badge than performance

Go For: 3.0
Avoid: Units lacking maintenance records

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

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2001-2002

Daewoo Racer - Generation 1 (1994-1998)

DAEWOO RACER (1994-1998)

Daewoo's first vehicle to be sold locally in 1994 which also rivals several Japanese cars. Originally, the GTi and ETi were made available first with a taxi oriented TXi followed months later. Falling sales lead to its discontinuation in 1998.

See the overview of this Racer

Also see: Daewoo Cielo (essentially a second generation model)

Car Profiles - Ferrari F599 (2006-2008)

2006-2008 Ferrari F599

The Good: Modern while remaining true to Ferrari's roots

The Bad: You can't just afford it

The Say: A road friendly Ferrari that can be yours.

Go For: GTB Fiorano F1
Avoid: Trash units

Price Range: P18,000,000-P18,400,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2006-2008