Toyota Camry - Generation 4 (1996-2002)

TOYOTA CAMRY (1996-2002)

Complementing the Corona is the Americanized Camry which was first sold in a sole GLE model until a 1999 update gave it two models (thereby discontinuing the single one) that coincided with its Philippine assembly. Before getting redesigned, a final update was given in late 2001.

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See the latest model of the Camry

Car Profiles - Volkswagen Golf GTI

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTI

The car gods had answered your prayers after many years, the Golf GTI had arrived. With more power and exciting handling, this can give the WRX a run for its money through a practical hatchback body. Combined with VW's high quality interiors, it is a winner.

The Good: An all around performance oriented hatchback

The Bad: No manual, what a shame

Price Range: P2,290,000

Our Rating: ****

Last Update: February 27, 2015

Ford Expedition - Generation 1 (1998-2002)

FORD EXPEDITION (1998-2002)

This SUV placed Ford on the Philippine automotive map. At launch, only a sole XLT model is available until other limited edition (there is one variant named as such) models complemented it. Do take note that Philippine spec models make do with 10 seating and two wheel drive.

See the overview of this Expedition

See the latest model of the Expedition

Chevrolet Lumina - Generation 4 (2005-2008)

CHEVROLET LUMINA (2005-2008) 

Chevrolet's first attempt in the mid-size car category is through the Lumina, essentially a Chinese market Buick Regal. Unlike most competitors, the Lumina (a minority in the market) has a 2.5 V6 as the only single engine model. Unfortunately, this one rather had a short selling life which ended in 2008.

See the overview of this Lumina

Ford Escape - Generation 1.4 (2009-2013)

FORD ESCAPE (2009-2013)

The last version of the Ford Escape, which can be considered as its swan song. A 4x2 XLT variant is added which has all the amenities of the previous XLT but without 4x4 capability. Numerous interior additions are present here.

See the overview of this Escape

See the Generation 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 models

Ford Escape - Generation 1.3 (2008-2009)

FORD ESCAPE (2008-2009)

Basically, this is the same model released in 2007 but with a different set of grille, rims, and other exterior fittings. Torque had been downgraded to 200Nm, too.

See the overview of this Escape

See the Generation 1.1, 1.2, or 1.4 model

Hyundai Sonata - Generation 4.2 (2003-2005)

HYUNDAI SONATA (2003-2005)

The Sonata nameplate was revived in 2003 due to a revision in vehicle excise taxes. However, it was only available in one variant which is powered by a 2.0 engine. This generation was short-lived, replaced by the fifth generation model in 2005.

See the overview of this Sonata

See the latest model of the Sonata

Ford Escape - Generation 1.2 (2007-2008)

FORD ESCAPE (2007-2008)

The 2007 update gave the Escape a more distant profile from its North American counterparts (Asia has a different face). The only engine choice is a 2.3 4-cylinder in either 4x2 or 4x4 models.

See the overview of this Escape

See the Generation 1.1, 1.3, or 1.4 model

Ford Escape - Generation 1.1 (2002-2006)

FORD ESCAPE (2002-2006)

After releasing large and gas guzzling trucks, Ford Group Philippines took in the Escape. For this version, numerous changes happened including the 2.0 engine (both two and four wheel drive) being replaced by a sole 2.3 4x2 and manual transmission models were dropped in 2003.

See the overview of this Escape

See the Generation 1.2, 1.3, or 1.4 models

Honda Accord - Generation 7.2 (2006-2008)

HONDA ACCORD (2006-2008)

Revised for 2006, the Accord deletes the basic VTi model, leaving the high end ones on board. It retains the same engine options, but they were updated.

See the overview of this Accord

See the Generation 7.1 model

See the latest model of the Accord

Honda Accord - Generation 7.1 (2003-2006)

HONDA ACCORD (2003-2006)

The second year where the rest of the world gets an Accord different from Japan, the seventh generation model has more room than the model it replaced. Initially, two variants with 2.0 engines were made available but a 2004 update receives a revised variant level with 2.4 and 3.0 powerplants being standard.

See the overview of this Accord

See the Generation 7.2 model

See the latest model of the Accord

Dodge Nitro - Generation 1 (2008-2012)

DODGE NITRO (2008-2012)

After the Raider's demise in 1990, the Nitro was Dodge's return to the compact SUV market. Among the numerous engines and variants available, the SXT with a 3.7 V6 is brought here. Worldwide, it was discontinued in 2011.

See the overview of this Nitro

Honda Accord - Generation 6 (1998-2003)

HONDA ACCORD (1998-2003)

Essentially the second generation model offered locally, the Accord gains more room and grows big. At its launch, it is available in 2.0 VTi and 2.3 VTi-L until a 2001 update forgone the 2.3 in favor of a 2.0 model of that variant. This would be the last Accord to have a manual, as it was dropped in early 2002.

See the overview of this Accord

See the latest model of the Accord

Car Profiles - Volkswagen Polo Hatchback

VOLKSWAGEN POLO HATCHBACK

Complementing the frugal (and rather basic) sedan sibling is the Polo Hatchback, which is the total opposite of its Notch brother. Differences include the choice of fuel and equipment. If you prefer something stylish, this is it.

The Good: Stylish than the sedan, fully loaded

The Bad: Priced expensively

Price Range: P950,000

Our Rating: ***

Last Update: February 23, 2015

Car Profiles - Audi Q3

AUDI Q3

The Audi Q3 is Audi's answer to the BMW X1. An entry level compact crossover, small it might be on the outside, engineers made the most out of the car's small footprint. Underneath the conservative sheetmetal hides a typically tasteful Audi interior. Combined with the car's small footprint and an updated 1.4 gasoline, the Audi Q3 is also a sporty SUV.

The Good: Strong, efficient diesel engine, typical Audi quality interior, excellent balance between ride comfort and handling
The Bad: Not an off roader in any single way

Price Range: P3,360,000
Our Rating: ****

Last Update: March 29, 2015

Dodge Durango - Generation 2.1-2 (2005-2009)

DODGE DURANGO (2005-2009)

The second generation model is more larger than the one it replaced which allowed a third row seat to reside in. From launch, a 4.7 V8 was the sole option while a 5.7 HEMI joined the line up later on. Equipment updates occurred in May 2007 and August 2008.

See the overview of this Durango

See the latest model of the Durango

Toyota Camry - Generation 5.2 (2004-2006)

TOYOTA CAMRY (2004-2006)

Perhaps the most notable change for this version was the 2.0 engines put to rest and replaced by an expanded 2.4 line up and the launch of a 3.0 engine. More amenities were added including HID lights, power seats for the V models among others.

See the overview of this Camry

See the Generation 5.1 model

See the latest model of the Camry

Toyota Camry - Generation 5.1 (2002-2004)

TOYOTA CAMRY (2002-2004)

Having more space and grew larger than the predecessor, the fifth generation (second locally) Camry gives way to a 2.4 engine as well as new interior features. A notable tidbit of trivia: this model of Camry rivaled the Cefiro when it comes to market share.

See the overview of this Camry

See the Generation 5.2 model

See the latest model of the Camry

Car Profiles - Isuzu Crosswind

ISUZU CROSSWIND

For the nth time (we lost count), the Crosswind is treated to an update involving some exterior changes and the return of the XUV model. The same ingredients remain, which may be good or bad depending on your point of view.

The Good: Basic mechanicals means easy to maintain
The Bad: Very long in the tooth, since an MU-X can be had if you add

Price Range: P1,260,000-P1,345,000
Our Rating: *

Last Update: January 29, 2018

Dodge Durango - Generation 1 (2000-2005)

DODGE DURANGO (2000-2005)

Dodge's first SUV offering is the Durango, which is a truck based vehicle. Only one engine is available for the Philippine market that can be paired to either two or four wheel drive: a 4.7 V8.

See the overview of this Durango

See the latest model of the Durango

Opel Vectra Wagon - Generation 2 (1997-2003)

OPEL VECTRA WAGON

When it was first made available in 1997, it was essentially the entry level model Opel until the Tigra took the title a year later. Both engines were made available but the 4-cylinder remained as the V6 got discontinued in 1999. 

See the overview of this Vectra Wagon

Dodge Journey - Generation 1.1 (2008-2011)

DODGE JOURNEY (2008-2011)

This vehicle (classifying it is a headache) essentially replaced the short wheelbase Caravan in North America. Only one variant is available, the SXT having a not-marketed-in-US 2.7 V6, which is also utilized by its Chrysler cousins. It was replaced by the revived Durango in 2011.

See the overview of this Journey

Opel Vectra Sedan - Generation 2 (1997-2003)

OPEL VECTRA SEDAN (1997-2003)

When it was first made available in 1997, it was essentially the entry level model Opel until the Tigra took the title a year later. Both engines were made available but the 4-cylinder remained as the V6 got discontinued in 1999. 

See the overview of this Vectra Sedan

Car Profiles - Chevrolet Traverse (2011-2015)

2011-2015 Chevrolet Traverse

The Good: Can fit eight people in comfort, space

The Bad: No diesel, dated interior

The Say: A worthy car ruined by poor pricing and marketing.

Go For: LT 4x2
Avoid:

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

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2011-2015

Car Profiles - Nissan Murano (2010-2015)

2010-2015 Nissan Murano

The Good: Drives like a car

The Bad: Some traits of a car remain for a crossover SUV

The Say: A car that has the talents which comes unappreciated.

Go For: Z51
Avoid:

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

Related Reviews: Used Car Review - Nissan Murano (2010-2015)

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2010-2015

Chrysler Pacifica - Generation 1 (2005-2008)

CHRYSLER PACIFICA (2005-2008)

The first product under the Chrysler-Daimler Benz marriage, the Pacifica crossover is derived from the division's minivans. It was a product failure, since it didn't sell well plus numerous issues hounded the vehicle. From start, a basic Touring was sold until May 2007 had the front and all wheel drive models launched.

See the overview of this Pacifica

Nissan Cefiro - Generation 3.3 (2004-2007)

NISSAN CEFIRO (2004-2007)

The final update before being replaced by the Teana line, the Cefiro loses its sun roof and reclining rear seats while the base Classic model returns. There are several suspension revisions and a 3.0 engine was brought in for the first time.

See the overview of this Cefiro

See the Generation 3.1 or 3.2 model

Nissan Cefiro - Generation 3.2 (2002-2004)

NISSAN CEFIRO (2002-2004)

Although the exterior design resembles the earlier models, this one gets more length, width, and height and some power increase. This model was simplified to two trims only.

See the overview of this Cefiro

See the Generation 3.1 or 3.3 model

Nissan Cefiro - Generation 3.1 (2000-2002)

NISSAN CEFIRO (2000-2002)

Redesigned for 2000 and signaling the usage of the A33 chassis, the Cefiro retains the variants of its predecessor but gets more equipment (for the Brougham) while retaining the sole 2.0 V6.

See the overview of this Cefiro

See the Generation 3.2 or 3.3 model

Chevrolet Trailblazer - Generation 1 (2004-2009)

CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER (2004-2009)

Totally unrelated to the Fortuner/Montero Sport fighter, the first Trailblazer was meant to combat the Explorer while replacing the rather aging S10 Blazer. Philippine market models do come with the 4.2 six cylinder in either two (later launched) or four wheel drive.

See the overview of this Trailblazer

Honda Civic Hatchback - Generation 5 (1992-1995)

HONDA CIVIC HATCHBACK (1992-1995)

First launched as an entrant to the Peoples Car Development Program, the Civic hatchback has a 1.2 engine and less equipment. This would be eventually the last hatchback to be made available due to less profits in the said category.

See the overview of this Civic Hatchback

Chevrolet Tahoe - Generation 2 (2002-2007)

CHEVROLET TAHOE (2002-2007)

The smaller version of the Suburban SUV, the Tahoe gets a smaller 4.8 V8 and a same seating (also reduced later on) configuration of its larger sibling.

See the overview of this Tahoe

See the latest model of the Tahoe

Honda Civic Sedan - Generation 5 (1993-1995)

HONDA CIVIC SEDAN (1993-1995)

The sedan version of the Civic followed the hatchback a year later, which had more powerful engines and kit. This version was the last to carry a carburetor engine as the succeeding models are all fuel injected.

See the overview of this Civic Sedan

See the latest model of the Civic

Chevrolet Suburban - Generation 10 (2000-2007)

CHEVROLET SUBURBAN (2000-2007)

The second iteration of the Suburban which is brought here had a seating configuration for 10 people (it was reduced to 8 in 2005) and a 5.3 V8. A major update in 2003 had numerous equipment added in the mix.

See the overview of this Suburban

See the latest model of the Suburban

Daewoo Cielo - Generation 2 (1996-2000)

DAEWOO CIELO (1996-2000)

Essentially the second generation Racer but sold simultaneously with the Cielo being the high end model. This is an improvement when it comes to equipment as the predecessor was a bit spartan.

See the overview of this Cielo

Chevrolet Captiva - Generation 1.1 (2007-2012)

CHEVROLET CAPTIVA (2007-2012)

Competing in the compact SUV category, the Captiva's advantage is the option for a diesel, something that rivals lack. Numerous updates occurred which included the addition of a third row seat and GPS navigation on separate occasions, and one in 2010 involving some exterior and interior additions.

See the overview of this Captiva

See the latest model of the Captiva

BMW 1 Series - Generation 1.1 (2004-2008)

BMW 1 SERIES (2004-2008)

Slotting below the 3 Series in size and price, this hatchback replaces the 3 Series Compact range. Do take note that some trim variants are available in all engine models only to be made available in one or two in several years.

See the overview of this 1 Series

See the Generation 1.2 model

See the latest model of the 1 Series

BMW 1 Series - Generation 1.2 (2008-2011)

BMW 1 SERIES (2008-2011)

An update gave the 1 Series a diesel engine, as well as a more simplified line up. The 118i has a 2.0 engine but was discontinued in 2010. Although the F20 1 Series was launched in November 2011, some were still sold until 2012.

See the overview of this 1 Series

See the Generation 1.1 model

See the latest model of the 1 Series

Chevrolet Venture - Generation 1 (2001-2007)

CHEVROLET VENTURE (2001-2007)

This van isn't based on the Venture sold in North America, rather it is based from the Buick GL8 van sold in China. Early models have their seats configured for 10 people but a 2005 update reduced it to eight. After this van, no other similar vehicles were brought in.

See the overview of this Venture

Volvo C30 - Generation 1.1 (2007-2010)

VOLVO C30 (2007-2010)

Cheaper than the S40 back then, the C30 represented a new direction when it comes to Volvo's styling. First launched in 2007, it was made available in a regular 2.4 and T5 models which was followed by an uplevel 2.4 SE in 2008.

See the overview of this C30
See the Generation 1.2 model

Volvo C30 - Generation 1.2 (2010-2014)

VOLVO C30 (2010-2014)

An update done in 2010 had the 2.4 models replaced by a sole 2.0 while the T5 remains unchanged, apart from some exterior changes. Although the top end model got axed in 2012, the surviving one remained two years later or when stocks depleted.

See the overview of this C30
See the Generation 1.1 model

Toyota Hiace - Generation 4 (1995-2005)

TOYOTA HIACE (1995-2005)

After years of discontinuation, the Hiace name was revived starting with a sole GL variant having a diesel engine. An update in 1999 introduced numerous trim models including a Super Grandia a year later and a limited edition J three years later.

See the overivew of this Hiace

See the latest model of the Hiace

Mercedes Benz A Class - Generation 1 (2000-2003)

MERCEDES BENZ A CLASS (2000-2002)

Considered as the smallest Benz vehicle in the line-up (entry level in other words), the A Class has lots of kit for the size and this is the model affected by the infamous flipping in the elk test. While the novelty was there, it got worn off by a 2003 discontinuation.

See the overview of this A Class

See the latest model of the A Class

Toyota Liteace - Generation 3 (1989-1999)

TOYOTA LITEACE (1989-1999)

Toyota Motor Philippine's first people mover was the Liteace, which was before the Tamaraw's existence. First models didn't have any power amenities but GXLs of 1993 gained those. It was discontinued in 1999.

See the overview of this Liteace

Mini Hatch - Generation 2 (2009-2014)

MINI HATCH (2009-2014)

While the rest of the world got the second generation model in 2007, it hadn't gotten its official launch two years later. Initially, the regular model and the S arrived first with the JCW followed later on. While this one got replaced by an all new model in 2014, the convertible lives on.

See the overview of this Hatch

See the latest model of the Hatch

Car Profiles - Audi A3

AUDI A3

The Audi A3, which was only available in 3-door and 5-door hatchback bodies, has now gained a boot, the same way the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class is a boot-ed A-Class. The entry level luxury sedan done right, without making any compromises in interior quality. One of the highest rated cars of 2014, the Audi A3 Sedan narrowly edges the Mazda 3 in garnering the 2014 World Car Of The Year Award.

The Good: Everything the car has must be good

The Bad: Except for those who want to be at the rear

Price Range: 
Our Rating: *****

Last Update: February 8, 2015

Car Features - Best Selling Car Nameplates in the Philippines from 1995-2014

2014 was a record year for the industry, which saw some nameplates increase their sales (and in the case of old timers, beating their own records) and some declining.

For this year, new entries had their debut in this list with older cars such as the Kia Besta, Kia Pride, and Isuzu Hilander got knocked out of the list. The Mirage hatchback, who got its break in 2013 saw declining sales the following year causing its fall from this list. And after five years, the Fortuner bested the Montero Sport.

Do take note that vehicle figures for 2014 are from the manufacturer itself (Toyota) and while the Montero Sport's figures are estimates from our sales report.

See the records from 2011 and 2013.

Top 20 most successful nameplates in the Philippines from 1995-2014

Toyota Tamaraw FX - Generation 3 (1993-2002)

TOYOTA TAMARAW FX (1993-2002)

1991 saw the launch of the Tamaraw van but it wasn't until 1993 that the FX body came into fruition. This vehicle became a hit and inspired other manufacturers to bring their own versions. Due to declining sales brought by more modern rivals, it was discontinued in 2002.

See the overview of this Tamaraw FX

See the latest model of the Tamaraw FX (Gasoline or Diesel)

Volvo S40 - Generation 2.1-2 (2004-2013)

VOLVO S40 (2004-2013)

Now sharing its platform with the Ford Focus and Mazda 3, the S40 remains its Volvo roots. Unlike the model it replaced, it can be had with one engine although some T5 models arrived in limited quantities. The wagon version is named the V50.

See the overview of this S40

Toyota Avanza - Generation 1 (2006-2011)

TOYOTA AVANZA (2006-2011)

Slotting below the Innova in size and price, the Avanza can be had with either 1.3 or 1.5 gasoline engines. A five seater model of the J, aimed towards fleets, was launched in 2008.

See the overview of the Avanza

See the latest model of the Avanza

Volvo S40 - Generation 1.1-2 (1997-2004)

VOLVO S40 (1997-2004)

One of the five vehicles Volvo launched in June 1997 locally to complement the 850/960 replacements, the S40 is based on the Mitsubishi Carisma alongside its wagon counterpart, the V40.

See the overview of this S40