THE ULTIMATE CAR GUIDE: April 2015

Thursday, April 30, 2015

Suzuki Vitara - Generation 1 (1994-2004)

SUZUKI VITARA (1994-2004)

Apart from the utilitarian Samurai, Suzuki offered the Vitara. It does have power amenities, stereo system, and standard 4x4 system. Although the newer Grand Vitara was introduced in 2000, it was sold alongside but faced death (for the older body) in 2005.

See the overview of this Vitara

See the latest model of the Vitara

JAGUAR XJ (1997-2003)

Jaguar's flagship car had arrived first in 1997 locally. As always, a variety of models can be ordered from the basic V6 to supercharged V8 models.

See the overview of this XJ

See the latest model of the XJ

Car Profiles - Honda Mobilio

HONDA MOBILIO

This Brio based MPV competes with the likes of the Ertiga and Avanza but size actually rivals the Innova. Prices are same with the Avanza 1.5 G, which poses that of a better bargain though the RS is on the upper side. Honda may have an interesting alternative that's also a winner.

The Good: Drives like a car

The Bad: Cheap plastics

Price Range: P874,000-P1,058,000

Our Rating: ****

Last Update: January 9, 2018

SUZUKI GRAND VITARA (2005-2013)

The third generation model is developed by using some bits of GM's Theta platform but could not be considered as one. Local models had different engines from the basic 2.0 4-cylinder with either a manual or 'matic (the former was dropped when it was upgraded to a 2.4) to large V6 engines. As of 2015, only the 2.4 is still marketed.

See the overview of this Grand Vitara

See the latest model of the Grand Vitara

AUDI A8 (2005-2010)

The flagship Audi arrived in the country when the one distributing it changed. High end engines which included a W12 engine were made available first, followed by smaller displacement ones.

See the overview of this A8

See the latest model of the A8

Suzuki Grand Vitara - Generation 2 (2000-2005)

SUZUKI GRAND VITARA (2000-2005)

The Grand Vitara is basically a larger, more expensive, and more powerful variant of the Vitara. Coincidentally, the older body Vitara is sold alongside but not the smaller model of this one. It is available with a 2.0 4-cylinder or a 2.5 V6 for Grand Vitara models while the XL7 gains a larger 2.7 V6 plus seating for seven people.

See the overview of this Grand Vitara

See the latest model of the Grand Vitara

MASERATI QUATTROPORTE (2006-2008)

This is the first Maserati sedan to be brought in to local shores by the local distributor here. Unlike the GT and Spyder, this can be had in either Executive or Sport models. The pull out of the distributorship rights had the model discontinued at the end of 2008 before resurfacing in 2010 with different trim levels.

See the overview of this Quattroporte

See the Generation 5.2 model

See the latest model of the Quattroporte

Subaru Tribeca - Generation 1.2 (2008-2014)

SUBARU TRIBECA (2008-2014)

Designed for North America in mind (it is not sold or assembled in Japan), the Tribeca is based on the Subaru Legacy platform and can be had in either 5 or 7 seater model. Local units have the 3.8 six-cylinder and an option for seven seating capacity. Lackluster sales in its designated market had the vehicle discontinued in 2014.

See the overview of this Tribeca

LINCOLN TOWN CAR (1998-2002)

This was Ford's first sedan (Lincoln is their luxury brand) to be made available after nearly 12 years. Only a V8 engine is available, as with other Blue Oval models during their first years. It was discontinued in 2002.

See the overview of this Town Car

BMW 5 Series Sedan - Generation 5.2 (2007-2010)

BMW 5 SERIES SEDAN (2007-2010)

The 2007 update received more variants and engine upgrades. For this version, there's a total of two diesels and five gasoline engines.

See the overview of this 5 Series Sedan

See the Generation 5.1 model

See the latest model of the 5 Series Sedan

BMW 5 SERIES SEDAN (2003-2007)

The fifth generation 5 Series was criticized for its exterior design and its technology items inside, but it became a best seller and the first BMW sedan to have a diesel engine.

See the overview of this 5 Series Sedan

See the Generation 5.2 model

See the latest model of the 5 Series Sedan

BMW 5 Series - Generation 4.1-2 (1996-2003)

BMW 5 SERIES (1996-2003)

Debuted in 1996 as the third BMW vehicle to be available locally (after the 3 and 7 series). Initially, only a 523i model was offered until a late 2001 update made way to two variants. An M Sport and 520i models were launched later on.

See the overview of this 5 Series

See the latest model of the 5 Series

Subaru Forester - Generation 2.1 (2002-2005)

SUBARU FORESTER (2002-2005)

It may look the same but Subaru made numerous improvements internally for the second generation model. The standard fare is a 2.0 non-turbo having 125hp that can be had with either a manual or automatic, with the former being dropped in its 2006 facelift. This would be the last Forester to be distributed by GM Automobiles Pilipinas.

See the overview of this Forester

See the Generation 2.2 model

See the latest model of the Forester

SUBARU FORESTER (2006-2008)

With the entry of new distributor Motor Image Pilipinas, the facelifted Forester is offered to Filipino consumers. Both non-turbo and turbo engines are offered, but the manual transmission option is dropped.

See the overview of this Forester

See the Generation 2.1 model

See the latest model of the Forester

MERCEDES BENZ E CLASS SEDAN (2009-2013)

A redesign for 2009 had the local version drop the wagon but a coupe resurfaced (which replaced the CLK) months later. The E300 Elegance was replaced by the E250 model.

See the overview of this E Class Sedan

See the latest model of the E Class Sedan

Car Profiles - Ford Mustang

FORD MUSTANG

One of the most anticipated models, the Mustang is now globalized with new engines (the EcoBoost technology is applied), some changes in dimensions, and a new rear independent suspension. No manual transmission here, a bummer.

The Good: Still retains the Mustang formula

The Bad: EcoBoost engine not for all

Price Range: P2,748,000-P3,358,000

Our Rating: ****

Last Update: January 23, 2018

FORD MUSTANG (2012-2015)

Although this vehicle was first launched in 2004, the Philippine market got the updated model launched stateside in 2010. A sole V6 engine and two V8 models were made available, with the former and one V8 got discontinued in November 2014.

See the overview of this Mustang
See the latest model of the Mustang

SUBARU FORESTER (2001-2002)

Using the Impreza's platform, the Forester had the design of a car but the height of an SUV. Only one model is available, a 2.0 non-turbo with 125hp with either a manual or automatic.

See the overview of this Forester

See the latest model of the Forester

MERCEDES BENZ E CLASS SEDAN (2007-2009)

A 2007 update gave the E Class some changes in quality and technical issues (including the dropping of Sensotronic) as well as simplification of line-up. Two engines are offered in two models each. This would be the last E Series to have a wagon model.

See the overview of this E Class Sedan

See the Generation 3.1 model

See the latest model of the E Class

MERCEDES BENZ E CLASS SEDAN (2002-2007)

A notable trivia about this car is it had its appearance in the movie Men in Black II prior to release in North America. But other than that, it was a revolution of the previous generation model. Do take note two updates were done in 2004.

See the overview of this E Class Sedan

See the Generation 3.2 model

See the latest model of the E Class

Subaru Forester - Generation 3.1 (2008-2011)

SUBARU FORESTER (2008-2011)

Not anymore looking a wagon, the SUV Forester now looks one. Still based on the Impreza, this vehicle can be had with either a 2.0 non-turbo or a 2.5 turbo. It lost the frame-less windows of old, a feature of Subarus since the 70s.

See the overview of this Forester

See the Generation 3.2 model

See the latest model of the Forester

SUBARU FORESTER (2011-2013)

Apart from some changes in the exterior and interior, the 2.0 engine gets a bump in power and torque and renaming it to 2.0 XS. Other than those changes, not much had occurred.

See the overview of this Forester

See the Generation 3.1 model

See the latest model of the Forester

MERCEDES BENZ E CLASS SEDAN (1995-2002)

While the previous E Class was a continuation of the W124 (the facelift model), this one is all new from the ground up. Until its 2000 update, it has a 2.3 4-cylinder as a standard engine. Later releases get V6 engines and a diesel motor.

See the overview of this E Class Sedan
See the latest model of the E Class

Car Profiles - Mitsubishi Fuzion (2007-2015)

2007-2015 Mitsubishi Fuzion

The Good: Rides like a car, good headroom

The Bad: Drinks gas like there's no tomorrow, body roll

The Say: While it has some strengths, there are rivals that do the job better.

Go For: GLS Sport
Avoid: GLX

Price Range: P350,000-P650,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Review: Used Car Review - Mitsubishi Fuzion (2007-2015)

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2007-2015

Toyota Fortuner (non-VNT) - Generation 1.3 (2011-2012)

TOYOTA FORTUNER (NON-VNT) (2011-2012)

For the third time around, the Fortuner (in this version) receives some exterior and interior additions. The engines still remain the same.

See the overview of this Fortuner

See the Generation 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 (VNT) model

See the latest model of the Fortuner

TOYOTA FORTUNER (2008-2011)

A facelift in 2008 gave the Fort revised lights and grille, a new set of alloy wheels, and other new equipment. Another update in late 2009 had power drivers seat and folding mirrors in the 3.0 V and a manual transmission for the 2.5.

See the overview of this Fortuner

See the Generation 1.1 or 1.3 non-VNT/VNT model

See the latest model of the Fortuner

TOYOTA FORTUNER (2005-2008)

The last of the IMV vehicle siblings, the Fortuner rides on coil springs (but this version is known for its tagtag factor) and gets advanced engines at its time. Apart from the addition of leather seats and reverse parking sensors, not much changes had occurred.

See the overview of this Fortuner

See the Generation 1.2, 1.3 (non-VNT)/VNT model

See the latest model of the Fortuner

JAGUAR S TYPE (2000-2007)

Competing with the 5 Series and the E Class is the S Type, which was an old nameplate from the 60s. Do take note that various engines were sold throughout selling life, since it had started with a base V6 and V8 to four engines from the naturally aspirated to the supercharged. It was replaced by the XF in 2008.

See the overview of this S Type

Ssangyong Rexton - Generation 1.1-2 (2003-2012)

SSANGYONG REXTON (2003-2012)

Based on the first generation Benz M-Class SUV, this Giugiaro designed vehicle uses engines from the German manufacturer. At launch, it used a 2.9 engine but it was upgraded to a 2.7 CRDi engine later on.

See the overview of this Rexton

AUDI A6 (1998-2004)

While the first model was basically a renamed Audi 100, this is technically an all new one. Aluminum is the most abundant material here while the Quattro system can be had as an option.

See the overview of this A6

See the latest model of the A6

Car Profiles - BMW 4 Series

BMW 4 SERIES

Replacing the 3 Series Coupe, the 4 gains more dimensions than the model it preceded. What's being important for a Bimmer is the driving feel, which isn't lost plus practicality is decent.

The Good: Great to drive without losing some room

The Bad: Some rough edges

Price Range: P4,290,000

Our Rating: ****

Last Update: April 18, 2015

BMW 4 SERIES GRAN TURISMO

Another case of niche filling, the 4 Series Gran Turismo is basically a 4 Series with two extra doors at the rear. Even though it may be redundant, it is a delight to drive.

The Good:

The Bad:

Price Range: P4,590,000

Our Rating: ****

Last Update: February 5, 2018

BMW 3 SERIES GRAN TURISMO

Marketed as an independent model, the 3 Series GT has a longer wheelbase and a more roomier cabin. An all diesel line-up awaits buyers who shun the regular model.

The Good: More practical than a 3 Series

The Bad: Not for all

Price Range: P4,290,000

Our Rating: ****

Last Update: February 5, 2018

BMW 2 SERIES ACTIVE TOURER

On its quest on expanding its market, the 2 Series Active Tourer was born. Targeting the Benz B Class on its sights, this front wheel driver is a family friendly ride. Not definitely for the sporty crowd.

The Good: Practical without riding high

The Bad: Ain't sporty

Price Range: P2,950,000

Our Rating: ****

Last Update: April 18, 2015

MINI HATCH

Larger than the model it replaced, the Mini hatch gets all new engines plus a 5 door variant. The fun aspect is never ditched in this iteration, which is a plus here. Either available in regular or S flavors in both body configurations.

The Good: The fun never stops

The Bad: Not that much zippy as before

Price Range: P2,200,000-P2,800,000

Our Rating: ****

Last Update: April 18, 2015

FORD EXPEDITION

Although not anymore the top pick among the elite, the Expedition is a different beast than the original one. Extended length model made available with more room than before, making the discontinued E150 redundant. A facelift model is now available under a Platinum variant sporting a 3.5 Ecoboost engine with the same power ratings.

The Good: More space and presence

The Bad: Getting long in the tooth

Price Range: P4,208,000

Our Rating: **

Last Update: January 23, 2018

CHRYSLER 300 SEDAN (2005-2011)

While Chrysler's previous distributor used to offer SUVs and minivans locally, CATS Motors brought in the 300 mid-size. Basically, a 3.5 V6 and the HEMI were available with the SRT-8 (can be bought via indent) and a basic 2.7 V6 followed suit. Updates were done in May 2007, January 2009, and May 2010.

See the overview of this 300 Sedan

See the latest model of the 300

Car Profiles - Great Wall Wingle

GREAT WALL WINGLE

Ok, what is this pick-up wandering here? While specification levels are somewhat decent, with competitive trucks at the same price (including the Foton Thunder) coupled with unsure reputation and a funny name, go elsewhere.

The Good: Low price

The Bad: Reliability in the long term

Price Range: P925,000-P1,025,000

Our Rating: *

Last Update: April 17, 2015

GREAT WALL HAVAL M4

Billed as an SUV (in their international website), the Haval M4 rivals the likes of the SX4 and Soul for less price. It has some traits of an SUV that can sway away sub-compact buyers.

The Good: More for less

The Bad: The usual Chinese car dilemma is here

Price Range: P740,000

Our Rating: **

Last Update: April 17, 2015

GREAT WALL HAVAL H5

One of the Chinese SUVs vying for your consideration, the Haval H5's aces include decent amount of specifications and a standard diesel engine. While it looks enticing, shop elsewhere first before making a decision.

The Good: Kit and equipment for the price

The Bad: Untested reputation

Price Range: P1,150,000-P1,240,000

Our Rating: **

Last Update: April 17, 2015

SSANGYONG KYRON (2006-2012)

Replacing the Musso (which we mentioned in the Actyon profile), the Kyron is designed by Ken Greenly of MG Cars and using Mercedes Benz engines. Unlike its smaller brother, it does have a 2.7 diesel offered. Just like the other vehicles from the Korean brand, it was discontinued in 2012.

See the overview of this Kyron

VOLVO S80 (2007-2011)

The second generation model was notable for bringing in a V8 engine (developed by Yamaha) to a Volvo sedan. Otherwise, variant positioning is the same.

See the overview of this S80

See the Generation 2.2 model

Ssangyong Actyon - Generation 1 (2006-2012)

SSANGYONG ACTYON (2006-2012)

Replacing both the Musso and the Musso Sport pick-up truck, this compact sized SUV can be had in either versions of the predecessor. Both gasoline and diesel engines are available. With the pull-out of the local distributor, the Actyon was discontinued in 2012.

See the overview of this Actyon

VOLVO S80 (2003-2007)

The S80 received an update in December 2003 as a 2004 model. Changes are limited to the grille design, line-up (the T6 was ditched in favor of the 2.5T), and the audio system.

See the overview of this S80

See the Generation 1.1 model

VOLVO S80 (2000-2003)

Replacing the aging S90, this sedan can be had with either a 2.0 turbo or a 2.8 six with twin turbos. This vehicle rivals the likes of the 5 Series and the E Class.

See the overview of this S80

See the Generation 1.2 model

Nissan X-Trail - Generation 1.2 (2005-2014)

NISSAN X-TRAIL (2005-2014)

An update in 2005 gave the vehicle additional equipment including overhead lights for the 250X. A Tokyo Edition model added some exterior kit and had its price lowered but went up when that series is discontinued. While the second generation model was introduced that caused the discontinuation of the 200X and 250X variants, the 200 stayed as a low cost option until March 2014.

See the overview of this X-Trail

See the Generation 1.1 model

See the latest model of the X-Trail

NISSAN X-TRAIL (2003-2004)

Although this SUV had been sold since 2001, it arrived two years later in the country. Two four wheel drive models (one with a 2.5 and a 2.0 engine) and a sole front wheeler is sold.

See the overview of this X-Trail

See the Generation 1.2 model

See the latest model of the X-Trail

OPEL OMEGA WAGON (1997-2003)

The Omega are one of the vehicles which can be had in either sedan or wagon configuration. At launch, it is available in either 2.0 4-cylinder or 2.5 V6 with the latter being dropped at a 2000 update.

See the overview of this Omega Wagon

Nissan Patrol (non-CRDI) - Generation 5.3 (2007-2014)

NISSAN PATROL (NON-CRDI) (2007-2014)

A third update in 2007 had the Patrol a new face and some additional updates later on, including a GPS navigation system. The gasoline model and the manual were dropped in June 2010, with the diesel automatic remaining.

See the overview of this Patrol
See the Generation 5.1, 5.2, or 5.3 (CRDi) models
See the latest model of the Patrol

NISSAN PATROL (2000-2003)

Launched in the millennium year, the redesigned Nissan Patrol featured new engines (gasoline or diesel), an optional automatic transmission, more room, and 10 seating function. Do take note that this model during this time can be had in 2WD guise.

See the overview of this Patrol

See the Generation 5.2 or 5.3 (non-CRDi or CRDi) models

See the latest model of the Patrol

Thursday, April 30, 2015

Wednesday, April 29, 2015

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

Monday, April 27, 2015

Sunday, April 26, 2015

Saturday, April 25, 2015

Friday, April 24, 2015

Thursday, April 23, 2015

Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Monday, April 20, 2015

Saturday, April 18, 2015

Friday, April 17, 2015

Thursday, April 16, 2015

Wednesday, April 15, 2015

Tuesday, April 14, 2015