Mazda CX-7 - Generation 1.2 (2009-2012)

MAZDA CX-7 (2009-2012)

Classified as a mid-sized SUV (automatically slotting above the Tribute), the CX-7 was first launched elsewhere in 2006 with its Philippine arrival three years later (as a facelift model). Only one variant is available: a 2.5 4-cylinder. Falling sales worldwide had the vehicle replaced by the smaller CX-5.

See the overview of this CX-7

BMW 3 Series Sedan - Generation 4.2 (2002-2005)

BMW 3 SERIES SEDAN (2002-2005)

An update gave the 3 Series sedan more variants (from the original three) and some had engine upgrades. Do take note the 325i M Sport was first launched as a limited edition model before being relegated as a regular model in 2004.

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See the Generation 4.1 model

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BMW 3 Series Sedan - Generation 4.1 (1998-2002)

BMW 3 SERIES SEDAN (1998-2002)

Known as the E46 chassis, this model had spawned a convertible, coupe, and wagon versions which were officially sold (previous ones were through grey imports). The sedan was first available with a 1.9 and 2.5 engine but a base 316i resurrected later on.

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See the Generation 4.2 model

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Kia Sportage - Generation 2.1 (2006-2008)

KIA SPORTAGE (2006-2008)

After a two year break, the Sportage name was revived but it shares it platform with the Hyundai Tucson, which is based from the Elantra. It is an overall improvement from its prehistoric predecessor.

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See the Generation 2.2 model

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Kia Sportage - Generation 2.2 (2008-2011)

KIA SPORTAGE (2008-2011)

For 2008, the Sportage was treated to a new grille and some new standard equipment. The gasoline engine was dropped, which wasn't a loss.

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See the Generation 2.1 model

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Mercedes Benz C Sports Coupe - Generation 2 (2001-2004)

MERCEDES BENZ C SPORTS COUPE (2001-2004)

Essentially the two door C Class, the C Sports is priced lower than its four door counterpart back then.

See the overview of this C Sports Coupe

Mercedes Benz C Class Wagon - Generation 2 (2001-2004)

MERCEDES BENZ C CLASS WAGON (2001-2004)

Internationally, the wagon version of the C Class was added in 2001. Engine options (and its corresponding variants) were similar to the sedan.

See the overview of this C Class Wagon

Car Profiles - MG 350

MG 350

Basically the most conservative member of the MG line-up, the 350 shares its platform with the MG 5 hatchback (this one is sold as a Roewe, a marque based in China utilizing former Rover vehicles). Specifications are decent enough though basic, so as the price.

The Good: Features for the price

The Bad: Basic for some

Price Range: P745,000

Our Rating: ***

Last Update: March 28, 2015

Car Profiles - MG 5

MG 5

Combating the Ford Focus/Mazda 3 class, the MG 5 hatchback has more power and aggressive lines compared to the 3 (MG's, not the Japanese one). While first models have steel wheels and a sole 1.5 engine paired to an automatic, more models will roll out soon.

The Good: Price undercuts compact rivals

The Bad: Basic for some

Price Range: P795,000

Our Rating: ***

Last Update: March 28, 2015

Car Profiles - MG 3

MG 3

The entry level MG car, this one (initially, as more variants will be available soon) has a 1.3 engine paired to a semi-automatic transmission and a bewildering options to customize the exterior. It may look basic, but there are ways that you can standout from the crowd. Engine may lack power, but don't expect too much.

The Good: Lots of space for such a car

The Bad: Lifeless engine

Price Range: P695,000

Our Rating: ***

Last Update: March 28, 2015

Mercedes Benz C Class Sedan - Generation 2.2 (2004-2007)

MERCEDES BENZ C CLASS SEDAN (2004-2007)

A revision for late 2004 had a line-up change which included the regularization of the C180K model (while losing some items in the previous iteration). This time period also signaled the discontinuation of the wagon and coupe models.

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Mercedes Benz C Class Sedan - Generation 2.1 (2000-2004)

MERCEDES BENZ C CLASS SEDAN (2000-2004)

Launched as the W203 model, this version of the C Class included a wagon and a coupe called the Sports Coupe. For the sedan, two models were made available then a limited edition C180 was introduced later on.

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See the Generation 2.2 model

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Jaguar X Type Wagon - Generation 1 (2006-2009)

JAGUAR X TYPE WAGON (2006-2009)

Added to the line up in 2006, the wagon version is rather limited and only one model remained in 2009.

See the overview of this X Type Wagon

Jaguar X Type Sedan - Generation 1 (2001-2009)

JAGUAR X TYPE SEDAN (2001-2009)

Jaguar's first foray to the compact executive class is the X Type, which is based from the Ford Mondeo. Initially, 2.5 and 3.0 V6 models were made available then a 2.1 base plus two 2.5 models are added in 2002.

See the overview of this X Type Sedan

Kia Sportage - Generation 1 (1996-2002)

KIA SPORTAGE (1996-2002)

Long before the Sorento, Kia had the Sportage as its first SUV. Based on a Mazda Bongo platform, this vehicle used engines from the Japanese manufacturer. Early models were the short wheel base paired to a gasoline engine while the Grand Sportage is an extended version only available with a diesel.

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Volvo S60 - Generation 1 (2001-2010)

VOLVO S60 (2001-2010)

The S60 replaced the S70 sedan, which was overdue back then. The 2.0T and T5 are part of the regular line-up, while the R is only available through indent order. An update was done in 2005 and 2007.

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Kia Sorento - Generation 2.1 (2009-2012)

KIA SORENTO (2009-2012)

Moving to a unibody construction (it is considered as a crossover SUV), the second generation Sorento now has a mix of two and four wheel drive and gasoline and diesel engines. The former arrived first in seven seater guise until other variants came in.

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See the Generation 2.2 model
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Audi A4 Avant - Generation 1 (2002-2004)

AUDI A4 AVANT (2002-2004)

Launched together with the Quattro sedan, the Avant model for this particular generation was shortlived since it was sold for two years only.

See the overview of this A4 Avant

Kia Sorento - Generation 1.2 (2006-2009)

KIA SORENTO (2006-2009)

The update had the V6 gasoline discontinued (which was no surprise), a new grille, and gave rise to a budget trim TX which was offered for a limited time. The EX was given a third row bench until it was the standard fare later on.

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Kia Sorento - Generation 1.1 (2003-2006)

KIA SORENTO (2003-2006)

The first Kia Sorento is based from a truck (body-on-frame), a popular type back then. All models are strictly four wheel drive with either a choice of V6 gasoline or a 4-cylinder diesel.

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See the Generation 1.2 model

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Audi A4 Sedan - Generation 1 (1996-2004)

AUDI A4 SEDAN (1996-2004)

The first Audi badged vehicle (alongside the A6) to be made available in the country. While the turbo was initially available that is paired with Audi's Quattro, a non-turbo one replaced it in 2000.

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Lexus IS Sedan - Generation 2.2 (2009-2013)

LEXUS IS SEDAN (2009-2013)

Launched in 2009 as one of Lexus' first vehicles to be made available. Locally, it was only sold with a 3.0 V6 and no F Sport version until the third generation model.

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Car Profiles - BYD F0

BYD F0

Weird name aside, this one is basically the cheapest car in BYD's stable. All models get power windows and airbags (base model misses it out for a reason) but long term durability is questionable for now.

The Good: Cheap

The Bad: No idea if it will hold for long

Price Range: P468,000-P628,000

Our Rating: ***

Last Update: March 21, 2015

Car Profiles - Mitsubishi Strada

MITSUBISHI STRADA

With rivals having new bodies, it is now the Strada's turn. While it has the same engines, most components are changed. Too bad the power back windows is deleted, which was a nifty feature.

The Good: Still the same formula remains
The Bad: But the same engine is there

Price Range: P1,005,000-P1,695,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: March 2, 2018

Audi A4 Avant - Generation 3 (2005-2008)

AUDI A4 AVANT (2005-2008)

This would be the last A4 to be had in a wagon body that is available locally. Initially, a gasoline engine was the sole choice until a diesel was added as an option in 2006.

See the overview of this A4 Avant

Kia Mohave - Generation 1 (2009-2012)

KIA MOHAVE (2009-2012)

Larger than the Sorento in size, the Mohave technically replaces the Hyundai Terracan (whose cousin, the Veracruz, replaced it but not using the same platform). For the Philippine market, it uses the 3.0 V6 diesel paired to a six speed automatic.

See the overview of this Mohave

Audi A4 Sedan - Generation 3 (2005-2008)

AUDI A4 SEDAN (2005-2008)

While you think this is an older version of the A4 which had not been released locally, this one is heavily revised with new engines, suspension and steering settings, and electronics. This model marked the availability of the Quattro system locally.

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Mitsubishi Strada - Generation 4.1 (2006-2009)

MITSUBISHI STRADA (2006-2009)

Replacing the somewhat overdue L200, the Strada gets an upgraded engine (now with CRDi). First releases are 4x4 models while in August 2007 a 3.2 4x4 and 4x2 variants were launched.

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See the Generation 4.2 (non-VGT) or VGT model

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Mitsubishi Strada (non-VGT) - Generation 4.2 (2009-2011)

MITSUBISHI STRADA (NON-VGT) (2009-2011)

An update done in December 2009 gave the Strada some exterior revisions and for the 4x4 models, larger wheels. Otherwise, no engine upgrades until the arrival of the VGT in 2011 that killed the 3.2 GLS Sport (and done in a separate post).

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See the Generation 4.1 or 4.2 (VGT) model

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Jeep Commander - Generation 1 (2006-2011)

JEEP COMMANDER (2006-2011)

Basically the 7 seater model of the Grand Cherokee in which its platform is based on, the Commander is Jeep's largest vehicle in terms of passenger capability. Two V8 gasolines and a sole diesel engine are the choices. The third generation Durango replaced this.

See the overview of this Commander

BMW 3 Series - Generation 5.2 (2010-2012)

BMW 3 SERIES (2010-2012)

An update for 2010 reduced the model line-up to two models which eliminated other engine options. The remaining powertrain options were upgraded while the 318i had a severe downgrade to steel wheels. It would be replaced by the F30 model in 2012.

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See the Generation 5.1 model

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BMW 3 Series - Generation 5.1 (2005-2010)

BMW 3 SERIES (2005-2010)

Redesigned for 2005, the fifth generation 3 Series (locally the third) carries the E90 designation with coupe, convertible and M3 versions (featured separately) available. Six models are available overall but some had been introduced and discontinued throughout the years.

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Isuzu Trooper - Generation 2 (1996-2005)

ISUZU TROOPER (1996-2005)

One of the first Isuzus, the Trooper arrived first with either a V6 gasoline or a diesel, with the former having an upgrade to DOHC in 1998. Later units sold from 1999 have the 3.0 diesel which was a subject of controversy due to failing injectors. Spin off variants of the 3.0di include the Skyroof and 2005 Edition.

See the overview of this Trooper

Nissan Altima - Generation 1 (1993-1998)

NISSAN ALTIMA (1993-1998)

Replacing the less successful Bluebird is the Altima, which follows the Bluebird lineage (a related model from the US market models). Unlike other competitors during that time, it was offered in two engine models. This model was replaced by the Cefiro in 1996.

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Mitsubishi Galant - Generation 8 (1997-2005)

MITSUBISHI GALANT (1997-2005)

Originally called the "shark" due to its resemblance to the said animal, this generation of Galant would be the last to offer a V6 engine. Numerous line-up changes happen with the Super Saloon being replaced by the GT-A in 2003 and the former's MT option dropped in 2001.

See the overview of this Galant

Hyundai Veracruz - Generation 1 (2007-2012)

HYUNDAI VERACRUZ (2007-2012)

Hyundai's entry to the larger SUV race is in the form of the Veracruz. It does have a 3.0 V6 diesel under the hood, making the first Hyundai to carry it. While a promising product, it wasn't a success no thanks to its price tag.

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See the latest model of the Veracruz

Mitsubishi Galant - Generation 7 (1993-1997)

MITSUBISHI GALANT (1993-1997)

This generation of the Galant signaled the loss of the carburetor engine as well as the GTi model replaced by a 2.0 V6 engine. This model was particularly successful although the next one faced falling sales.

See the overview of this Galant

Hyundai Tucson - Generation 2.1 (2010-2013)

HYUNDAI TUCSON (2010-2013)

Based on the ix-onic concept car, the Tucson's engines (both gasoline and diesel) and safety features were upgraded. This generation brought in the Premium variants reserved for the 2.4 and diesel models.

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See the Generation 2.2 model

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Honda Accord - Generation 5.2 (1996-1998)

HONDA ACCORD (1996-1998)

A 1996 update gave the Accord a revised grille, bumpers, and more notably, the expansion of two more trims carrying a 2.2 VTEC engine. This would be the last of the series for the 2.0 engine not having the abovementioned technology.

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See the Generation 5.1

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Honda Accord - Generation 5.1 (1994-1996)

HONDA ACCORD (1994-1996)

Honda's first attempt in the executive class category, the first version of the Accord was only available in one model with a 2.0 non-VTEC engine.

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See the Generation 5.2 model

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Toyota Corona - Generation 10.2 (1995-1999)

TOYOTA CORONA (1995-1999)

The last version of the Corona received revised bumpers (which led to the license plate holder to be trunk integrated), a rear spoiler, and safety amenities like ABS brakes and airbags. Although it was available in EX Saloon, 1996 added the Exsior models. It was replaced by the Camry in 1999.

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See the Generation 10.1 model

Toyota Corona - Generation 10.1 (1992-1995)

TOYOTA CORONA (1992-1995)

Probably the last of the Corona lineage, this version has only one model and basic amenities in the class (power features, fabric seats). No carburetor engine is available, replacing it by a 2.0 fuel injected unit.

See the overview of this Corona
See the Generation 10.2 model

Subaru Legacy - Generation 2 (1996-1999)

SUBARU LEGACY (1996-1999)

The first Subaru badged vehicle to be locally sold through Columbian Autocar Corporation, the Legacy had an all wheel drive system which was a selling point over other rivals back then.

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Hyundai Tucson - Generation 1 (2005-2009)

HYUNDAI TUCSON (2005-2009)

With the Santa Fe growing up in size, the Tucson is now Hyundai's compact SUV and the first Sport Ute by the Korean brand to be offered locally. Initially, a diesel 4WD was made available which was followed by a diesel 2WD and a gasoline model. A monotone color option is available for the base gasoline and Spec Up models are available for the gasoline and diesel 2WD.

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See the latest model of the Tucson

Toyota Corona - Generation 9 (1991-1992)

TOYOTA CORONA (1991-1992)

Released in 1991, this generation of the Corona was sold briefly especially that a year later, the next generation model was made available.

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Car Profiles - Peugeot 301

PEUGEOT 301

Combating the Vioses while targeting the Polo Notch, the 301 is built with emerging markets in mind. Options include a gasoline engine paired to an automatic or a diesel-manual tranny combo. Compared to the Japanese, it may be too much but offers more than the VW.

The Good: Available diesel engine

The Bad: Size for the price

Price Range: P990,000-P1,090,000

Our Rating: ***

Last Update: March 12, 2015

Hyundai Santa Fe - Generation 2.2 (2010-2012)

HYUNDAI SANTA FE (2010-2012)

For 2010, the Santa Fe's update gave the vehicle numerous changes in its exterior, interior, and the most prominent of all, the engine and transmission. While the V6 engine went away, it was replaced by a 2.4 gasoline while the 2.2 had its power bumped and a six speed automatic comes standard for all models.

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See the Generation 2.1 model

See the latest model of the Santa Fe/Grand Santa Fe

Hyundai Santa Fe - Generation 2.1 (2006-2010)

HYUNDAI SANTA FE (2006-2010)

This crossover is Hyundai's second SUV offering but rivals truck based SUVs such as the Fortuner and Everest. Two engine options are available which include a 2.2 diesel and a 2.7 V6 gasoline.

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See the Generation 2.2 model

See the latest model of the Santa Fe/Grand Santa Fe

Mitsubishi Galant - Generation 6 (1987-1993)

MITSUBISHI GALANT (1987-1993)

This particular generation of Galant is noted for offering a GTI variant, which rivals back then did not have any sports model (what rivals?). It presented a balance of fun and comfort back in the day.

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Honda Pilot - Generation 1.2 (2006-2008)

HONDA PILOT (2006-2008)

Larger than the CR-V, the Pilot is basically the most expensive vehicle in Honda's line-up. Only a few were sold since it was meant as a limited edition vehicle. Only one variant is available, the EX with a 3.5 V6.

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See the latest model of the Pilot