Friday, May 29, 2015

Toyota Hiliux (non-VNT) - Generation 7.3 (2011-2012)

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

For 2011, the Hilux was treated to a facelift which included some revisions in the exterior and interior. No VNT engine treatment for this version, yet.

See the overview of this Hilux
See the Generation 7.17.2, or 7.3 VNT models
See the latest model of the Hilux



Toyota Hilux - Generation 7.2 (2008-2011)

TOYOTA HILUX (2008-2011)

For 2008, the Hilux was given a slew of updates twice in this version. One was in September of 2008 while the other occurred a year later. All units get a driver's airbag and auxiliary jack while the E gains more height and other upper models have more larger wheels.

See the Generation 7.1 or 7.3 (non-VNT)/VNT models

Toyota Hilux - Generation 7.1 (2004-2008)

TOYOTA HILUX (2004-2008)

Now based on the IMV Platform, the Hilux now boasts a larger profile, more power due to its CRDi engines, and brought in a rare gasoline engine from the Fortuner. The common rail injection technology was the first among rivals, which prompted Mitsubishi, Isuzu, Ford, and Nissan to launch theirs later on.

See the Generation 7.2 or 7.3 (non-VNT)/VNT models


Mercedes Benz SLK Class - Generation 1 (1996-2004)

MERCEDES BENZ SLK CLASS (1996-2004)

The R170 SLK Class (first generation model) that replaced the 190SL was noted for its folding metal top, which was Benz's first. It is based on the W202 C Class.

See the latest model of the SLK Class


Thursday, May 28, 2015

Toyota Hilux - Generation 6 (1997-2004)

TOYOTA HILUX (1997-2004)

The sixth generation Hilux arrived in 1997 with the SR5 and Standard models being available. The 2.4 engine (shared with the Revo and Hiace) are for two wheel drive while the 2.8 is reserved for four wheel drive models.



Mercedes Benz SL Class - Generation 5.1 (2004-2006)

MERCEDES BENZ SL CLASS (2004-2006)

The first SL Class can be had with 5.0 V8 or a 5.5 V8 with a supercharger which was followed by a 3.7 V6. This vehicle was first launched in 2001 as a safety car.

See the Generation 5.2 or 5.3 model
See the latest model of the SL Class





Mercedes Benz SL Class - Generation 5.2 (2006-2009)

MERCEDES BENZ SL CLASS (2006-2009)

For 2006, the SL Class was treated to an update that includes upgraded engines, a new 7-speed automatic, and some nips and tucks outside.

See the Generation 5.1 or 5.3 model
See the latest model of the SL Class






Mercedes Benz SL Class - Generation 5.3 (2009-2012)

MERCEDES BENZ SL CLASS (2009-2012)

The third and final update of the SL Class gave the vehicle an aggressive front and the engines are upgraded. The top end AMG gets a new 6.2 which replaced the 5.5 V8.

See the Generation 5.1 or 5.2 model
See the latest model of the SL Class





Wednesday, May 27, 2015

Nissan Frontier - Generation 1.1 (1998-2002)

NISSAN FRONTIER (1998-2002)

Replacing the D21 pickup series (Eagle/Pathfinder), the Frontier gets a larger 3.2 engine and a driver's airbag for the 4x4 variant. Do take note that the 4x4 became the Pleasure in 2001 which added leather seats and wood panels to the mix.

See the latest model of the Fronter

Nissan Frontier - Generation 1.2 (2003-2014)

NISSAN FRONTIER (2003-2014)

For 2003, the Frontier was given a facelift and later on, new variants and amenities were added to the mix. Trim levels include a fleet oriented Standard and Bravado, 4x2 Elite and Titanium and a sole 4x4. While the other models were replaced by the Navara, the Bravado stayed until 2014.

Mercedes Benz CLK Class Convertible - Generation 2 (2004-2009)

MERCEDES BENZ CLK CLASS CONVERTIBLE (2004-2009)

While the CLK Class is known to be a coupe, it was available for a brief period in a convertible body. Two V6 engines in the form of a 2.6 and 3.5 are standard. The line was dropped with the introduction of the E Class coupe in 2009.






Mercedes Benz CLK Class Coupe - Generation 2 (2004-2009)

MERCEDES BENZ CLK CLASS COUPE (2004-2009)

The second generation CLK Class gained more mass and a convertible version for the Philippines. Two models are available including a 1.8 supercharged and a 2.6 V6. The CLK line was replaced by the E Class coupe.






Tuesday, May 26, 2015

Mercedes Benz CLK Class - Generation 1 (1997-2004)

MERCEDES BENZ CLK CLASS (1997-2004)

The first CLK Class to be made available locally have supercharged engines as standard. Regardless of engine, both models have standard fare of equipment (the 230 gets a sunroof though).






Monday, May 25, 2015

Mitsubishi L200 - Generation 3.1 (1999-2006)

MITSUBISHI L200 (1999-2006)

For 1999, the L200 was redesigned with more curves than its boxy predecessor. The L200 became the Endeavor while the Strada retains its name. An automatic transmission was added to the Strada later on.

See the overview of this L200

Mitsubishi L200 - Generation 3.2 (2006-2007)

MITSUBISHI L200 (2006-2007)

For 2006, the L200/Strada line had been reshuffled and renamed which resulted to new variants. The Endeavor is still sold in GL guise while three new Strada models are available. The L200 name was discontinued in 2007 but revived in 2012 as a single cab pick-up while the Strada is in use with the fourth generation.

See the overview of this L200

Maserati GT - Generation 1 (2003-2008)

MASERATI GT (2003-2008)

The internal code 4200 GT has two Maserati vehicles using it: a coupe named the GT and a convertible. Both vehicles are available until 2008.








Maserati Spider - Generation 1 (2003-2008)

MASERATI SPIDER (2003-2008)

The internal code 4200 GT has two Maserati vehicles using it: a coupe and a convertible called the Spider. Both vehicles are available until 2008.









Sunday, May 24, 2015

Lexus IS C - Generation 2.2 (2009-2013)

LEXUS IS C (2009-2013)

Basically the convertible version of the IS sedan, the IS C is also available with just one engine: a 3.0 V6. The following generation didn't get a convertible body.








Saturday, May 23, 2015

Jaguar XJ Convertible - Generation 1 (1997-2006)

JAGUAR XJ CONVERTIBLE (1997-2006)

Basically the first generation model of the XK series, which replaced the XJS. It comprises of a convertible and a coupe, with an engine upgraded occurred in 2002.








Jaguar XK Coupe - Generation 1 (1997-2006)

JAGUAR XJ COUPE (1997-2006)

Basically the first generation model of the XK series, which replaced the XJS. It comprises of a convertible and a coupe, with an engine upgraded occurred in 2002.








Friday, May 22, 2015

Mazda BT-50 - Generation 1.2 (2008-2011)

MAZDA BT-50 (2008-2011)

After nearly a decade that its predecessor was discontinued, Ford Group Philippines brought in the BT-50, basically a twin of the Ranger. The differences between its American brother is the lack of an automatic transmission, no ABS brakes for the 4x2 models, and no base model.





Honda S2000 - Generation 1.1 (2001-2002)

HONDA S2000 (2001-2002)

Honda's roadster was launched in 1999 to commemorate the manufacturer's 50th anniversary. It was sold in the Philippines for a short span of time and only a few were sold.








Thursday, May 21, 2015

Isuzu Fuego - Generation 3.2 (1997-2005)

ISUZU FUEGO (1997-2005)

The updated Fuego in 1997 is basically a renamed TF, which is technically the same vehicle. Do take note that all engines have turbo except for the base 4x2 S and an automatic transmission can be ordered in the 4x2 LS and Sport.

See the Generation 3.1 model

Ferrari F430 Convertible - Generation 1 (2005-2008)

FERRARI F430 CONVERTIBLE (2005-2008)

Either available as a coupe or convertible, the F430 is powered by a 4.3 V8. Regardless of body style, all models get the same equipment.









Ferrari F430 Coupe - Generation 1 (2005-2008)

FERRARI F430 COUPE (2005-2008)

Either available as a coupe or convertible, the F430 is powered by a 4.3 V8. Regardless of body style, all models get the same equipment.







Wednesday, May 20, 2015

Car Profiles - Ford Everest

FORD EVEREST

With fresher rivals coming to the scene, the redesigned and anticpated Everest (which is overdue, by the way) comes to the party by having an all new design plus engines from the Ranger makes things interesting. More variants from the very basic to the very sophisticated ones are available.

The Good: Better than the old model
The Bad: Some reliability problems

Price Range: P1,518,000-P2,288,000
Our Rating: ****

Last Update: January 23, 2018

Isuzu D-Max - Generation 1.2 (2007-2013)

ISUZU D-MAX (2007-2013)

For 2007, the D-Max was treated to an engine upgrade for the LX and LS models while a fleet oriented LT is added to the line-up. Numerous limited edition variants were launched here which can be added for the LS and Boondock Limited Edition. It was replaced by the second generation model in 2013.

See the Generation 1.1 model

Isuzu D-Max - Generation 1.1 (2003-2007)

ISUZU D-MAX (2003-2007)

Replacing the long in the tooth Fuego (which was sold until 2005), the D-Max was more refined and had more power (thanks to a direct injection engine) than rivals and more importantly, the vehicle it replaced. Initially an LS model with both two and four wheel drives are standard with an LX added later on.




BMW Z4 Coupe - Generation 1.2 (2006-2009)

BMW Z4 COUPE (2006-2009)

One of the results of the 2006 facelift is the coupe version, which can be had in either 3.0si or M flavors. No coupe version was offered for the next generation model.







Tuesday, May 19, 2015

Foton Blizzard - Generation 1 (2007-2014)

FOTON BLIZZARD (2007-2014)

Basically a knock-off model of the Isuzu Fuego (which shares most of its components), the Blizzard is targeted towards the fleet market. Turbo and non-turbo models are available, with the latter only in 4x2 guise.







BMW Z4 Convertible - Generation 1.2 (2006-2009)

BMW Z4 CONVERTIBLE (2006-2009)

An update done in 2006 gave birth to a revised 2.5 and 3.0 engines (the manual was dropped) and an M version. This generation lasted until 2009 where a second generation model was launched.




BMW Z4 Convertible - Generation 1.1 (2003-2006)

BMW Z4 CONVERTIBLE (2003-2006)

Larger than the Z3 it replaces, the Z4 has more mass and more stiff than the model it preceded. For this version, only the 2.5 inline six which can be had with either manual or automatic transmissions is available.




Monday, May 18, 2015

Ford Ranger - Generation 2.1 (2006-2009)

FORD RANGER (2006-2009)

A twin of the Mazda BT-50, this Ranger isn't sold in North America or Japan. While the 2.5 117hp is retained, a 2.5 and 3.0 diesels with common rail direct was introduced, as well as a first 5-speed automatic. Two years after its launch, the Mazda counterpart was made available.

See the latest model of the Ranger Non-Wildtrak/Wildtrak


Ford Ranger - Generation 2.2 (2009-2011)

FORD RANGER (2009-2011)

A mid-cycle refresh gave the Ranger some exterior nips, an auxiliary jack, and a Wildtrak variant added in September 2009. Other than these changes, there's not much to see.

See the latest model of the Ranger Non-Wiltrak/Wildtrak


BMW Z3 Convertible - Generation 1 (1996-2003)

BMW Z3 CONVERTIBLE (1996-2003)

BMW's first mass market convertible, the Z3 preceded the Z1. Initial models can be had with a 1.9 engine then a 2000 update brought in the 1.8 and 2.2 engines. Replaced by the Z4 in 2003.







BMW Z3 Coupe - Generation 1 (2001-2002)

BMW Z3 COUPE (2001-2002)

Basically a shooting brake version (which had a controversial styling) of the Z3 with a much stiff chassis, the Z3 Coupe can be had with a 3.0 inline six paired to a six speed manual.







Sunday, May 17, 2015

BMW 6 Series Coupe - Generation 2.1-2 (2004-2012)

BMW 6 SERIES COUPE (2004-2012)

Although the 6 Series name was last used in 1989 and replaced by the 8 Series, this is the second generation model which is based on the E60 5 Series. Initially it was offered in the 645Ci variant which was replaced by the 650i and joined by a 630i later on.

See the latest model of the 6 Series Coupe



BMW 6 Series Convertible - Generation 2 (2008-2012)

BMW 6 SERIES CONVERTIBLE (2008-2012)

March 2008 saw the addition of the convertible body, which is available since March 2004 in other countries. An inline six and V8 engine are the options available.

See the latest model of the 6 Series Convertible




Saturday, May 16, 2015

BMW 3 Series Convertible - Generation 5 (2008-2014)

BMW 3 SERIES CONVERTIBLE (2008-2014)

After the sedan body, the convertible version of the E90 3 Series followed after the coupe nearly a year later. Two engines, both inline sixes, are available with the 335i being a twin turbo one. The 3 Series convertible became the 4 Series in 2014.

BMW 3 Series Coupe - Generation 5 (2007-2014)

BMW 3 SERIES COUPE (2007-2014)

After the sedan body, the coupe version of the E90 3 Series followed suit. Two engines, both inline sixes, are available with the 335i being a twin turbo one. The 3 Series coupe became the 4 Series in 2014.






Friday, May 15, 2015

Ford Ranger - Generation 1.1 (1999-2003)

FORD RANGER (1999-2003)

Basically a rebadged Mazda B-Series (they had to pay Francisco Motors to build it), the Ranger was heaps better in terms of quality than the Mazda plus it brought in turbocharging in the pick-up race. Two limited edition models are available namely the Hurricane and Pinatubo.

See the latest model of the Ranger Non-Wildtrak/Wildtrak

Ford Ranger - Generation 1.2 (2003-2006)

FORD RANGER (2003-2006)

A 2003 update gave the Ranger a new face but the same old engines and space still remains. New for this version are an automatic transmission for the Trekker and a new Hurricane model.

See the latest model of the Ranger Non-Wildtrak/Wildtrak




Alfa Romeo GTV - Generation 1 (1996-2000)

ALFA ROMEO GTV (1996-2000)

Under Alfa's 916 internal designation, the GTV is basically the coupe model. While numerous engine variants are available, Philippine models are available with a 3.0 V6 paired to a manual.







Alfa Romeo Spider - Generation 1 (1996-2000)

ALFA ROMEO SPIDER (1996-2000)

Under Alfa's 916 internal designation, the Spider is basically the convertible model. While numerous engine variants are available, Philippine models are available with a 2.0 4-cylinder paired to a manual.






Thursday, May 14, 2015

Ford F150 - Generation 10 (1998-2004)

FORD F150 (1998-2004)

One of the first vehicles of Ford to be offered locally, the F150 was initially available as a regular cab truck with a crew cab body that followed in 2001. A manual transmission was available for the 4.2 V6 Styleside, while Lauriat models gets a 4x4 system. It was discontinued in 2004.

See the overview of this F150




Audi A6 Avant - Generation 3 (2005-2011)

AUDI A6 AVANT (2005-2011)

Unlike the sedan version, the Avant can be only ordered via indent. Only one model can be had and its is paired with a diesel engine.







Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Ford Explorer Sport Trac - Generation 1 (2000-2004)

FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC (2000-2004)

The Sport Trac is based from the, well you guessed it, Explorer SUV. Sold as a sport utility truck and slots between the Ranger and F150. A sole two and four wheel drive models are available with a special edition NBX having 2WD being launched in 2002.


Mercedes Benz E Class Estate - Generation 3.2 (2007-2009)

MERCEDES BENZ E CLASS ESTATE (2007-2009)

While the sedan derivative had four models with two engines, the estate can be had in two variants paired with the 3.0 V6. This is the last estate model of the E Class to be made available here.







Tuesday, May 12, 2015

Dodge Dakota - Generation 2 (2001-2004)

DODGE DAKOTA (2001-2004)

The folks at Transfarm brought in the Dakota truck, which rivals more the Japanese and Ford Explorer Sport Trac. A 3.9 V6 paired to an automatic comes standard. It was discontinued in 2004 and 10 years later CATS Motors brought in the Ram truck.






Volvo V70 - Generation 3 (2008-2013)

VOLVO V70 (2008-2013)

The third generation V70 is available with one V70 model and two XC70 variants (a gasoline and a diesel). The lower model was dropped in 2010 while the XC got the axe in 2013.