Car Profiles - Toyota Hilux

TOYOTA HILUX

10 years later, a new styled Hilux makes its debut. A cabin which is as comfy as a car and new sets of engines having more grunt comes standard. Prices have gone high though.

The Good: New and neat technologies tucked in

The Bad: Prices are higher than before

Price Range: P906,000-P1,592,000

Our Rating: ***

Last Update: January 9, 2018

Hyundai Elantra Wagon - Generation 2 (1996-2000)

HYUNDAI ELANTRA WAGON (1996-2000)

Hyundai's first attempt locally to compete with the Corolla/Civic rivalry, the Elantra Wagon (a rarity) has all McPherson struts, all disc brakes, and ABS braking system, The nameplate would return seven years later after being discontinued.

See the overview of this Elantra Wagon

Peugeot 206 - Generation 1 (2003-2007)

PEUGEOT 206 (2003-2007)

The smallest vehicle in Peugeot's line-up, the 206 is similarly sized to the Jazz but equipment levels are Picanto like especially that rear windows are manually operated for a French vehicle costing more. With continuous price increases and less dealer support, Peugeot pulled the plug in 2007 until a return five years later.

See the overview of this 206

Volvo V50 - Generation 2 (2004-2013)

VOLVO V50 (2004-2013)

Simultaneously released with its sedan (S40) counterpart, the V50 does not have any differences other than body style. Apart from that, there's not much else and this one got discontinued in 2011 although sales stopped in 2013.

See the overview of this V50

Chery Cowin - Generation 1 (2007-2012)

CHERY COWIN (2007-2012)

Slotting below the A5, the Cowin is aimed primarily towards the taxi and fleet market. The SEAT Toledo inspired sedan falls flat, and got discontinued in 2012.

See the overview of this Cowin

Chery A5 - Generation 1 (2007-2012)

CHERY A5 (2007-2012)

Released in 2007, the A5 is positioned above the Cowin (which is a crude car) that carries a 1.6 engine and power amenities. Although it looked decent, not so good sales had it discontinued in 2012.

See the overview of this A5

Car Profiles - Mahindra Enforcer

MAHINDRA ENFORCER

Your next patrol car that protects your municipality would be this Mahindra SUV, which can be had in either single or double cab in both 4x2 or 4x4 models. 

Price Range: P750,000-P995,000

Last Update: September 3, 2016

Car Profiles - Mahindra Xylo

MAHINDRA XYLO

Competing with the Innova and Crosswind, the Xylo offers a fresh breath from the popular rivals. One advantage is a diesel engine which produces more torque than its main rival and a multitude of seating configurations for just a snip above a million bucks.

The Good: You get more options for the price

The Bad: Some unrefinement

Price Range: P1,050,000

Our Rating: ***

Last Update: September 3, 2016

Car Profiles - BMW X6

BMW X6

The king of niches was treated to a second generation model which gains more luggage room and an 8-speed automatic. Only one engine is offered: a 3.0 diesel that produces 560Nm of torque.

The Good: BMW's performance is still there

The Bad: Not for everyone

Price Range: P8,490,000

Our Rating: ***

Last Update: February 5, 2018

Car Profiles - MG GT

MG GT

The GT may be the brand's expensive offering for now, but looking at its option sheet may justify things. Turbo engines and a sunroof can be availed for just below a million bucks, with good looks a bonus.

The Good: Amenities for the price
The Bad: Unknown and untested

Price Range: P895,000-P995,000
Our Rating: ***

Last Update: July 25, 2015

Dodge Caliber - Generation 1 (2007-2009)

DODGE CALIBER (2007-2009)

After getting luck with high end American automobiles, CATS Motors tried their luck with the Caliber, which was packaged as a high end vehicle in Asia (it is Dodge's cheapest car in its line up back then) but falls short to hide its economy car roots. Not enough fortunes with this, it was pulled out in 2009.

See the overview of this Caliber

Car Features - May 2015 Philippines Car Sales Figures

In May 2015, 23,248 cars found a buyer which brings the total to 131,846 for the year. They've just updated the figures just recently so let's go to the details.

No bunch of surprises here, the Vios sells 2,886 (that's just almost the same amount when the sales of the Fortuners and Montero Sports sold in the same month are combined) units, which incidentally was their record month. The other three vehicles following are also Toyotas, which are the Fortuner at #2 (also it's year to date), Hiace at #3, and Innova at #4 (the Innova stands tall against the former car in a yearly basis though). Lastly, the Montero Sport is the non-Toyota in the top 5 which despite threats from the leader seller, it does not rest on its laurels.

Other great performers in the top include the Toyota Wigo, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Mirage G4, Honda City, and Isuzu MU-X

DISCLAIMER: SALES FIGURES RELEASED BY CAMPI AND AVID MAY VARY FROM HERE, SINCE AUTO FOCUS GETS ITS DATA FROM STRADCOM, THE OUTSOURCED IT COMPANY OF LTO.

Note: Not all vehicles are included in this list such as the Audi A4, Chevrolet Camaro, Chevrolet Suburban, Hyundai Eon, Lexus RX, Kia Optima, Mitsubishi L300, Subaru BRZ, Subaru Legacy, Suzuki Celerio, Suzuki SX4, and Volvo S60. Newly launched cars like the Honda Mobilio aren't also included here.

THIS MONTH'S WINNERS

Toyota Vios - 2,886 units

Toyota Hiace - 1,513 units

Mitsubishi Mirage G4 - 873 units

Honda City - 618 units

Mazda MPV - Generation 1.2 (1996-1998)

MAZDA MPV (1996-1998)

With Francisco Motors having the E200 Power Van, Columbian Autocar Corporation imported the MPV from Japan. This one gets a 2.5 diesel engine and seating for 7, as opposed to the gasoline and 8 seater combination elsewhere.

See the overview of this MPV

Honda Odyssey - Generation 1 (1997-1998)

HONDA ODYSSEY (1997-1998)

The Odyssey was Honda's first vehicle with a third row seat to be offered locally. With just below 200 units being brought here, it is marketed as a limited edition vehicle. The nameplate would return after 14 years.

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See the latest model of the Odyssey

Foton View - Generation 1 (2010-2014)

FOTON VIEW (2010-2014)

This Hiace clone (how many Hiace vans had the Chinese copied?) from Foton but with 15 seats and a 2.8 diesel. Aimed towards the fleet market, this one does not have any power amenities save for steering and carries a basic interior. This van was replaced by the more upmarket (but Hiace Super Grandia looking) View Traveller.

See the overview of this View

See the latest model of the View

Toyota Land Cruiser - Generation 8 (2003-2007)

TOYOTA LAND CRUISER (2003-2007)

The original Land Cruiser (1993-1998) was dropped from the line-up but Toyota brought in this vehicle in eight generation guise in 2003. Local models gained TEMS suspension, active height control, automatic sound levelizer among others. However, the 4.2 diesel comes with a manual and rear wheel drive. Grey market models have varying kits.

See the overview of this Land Cruiser

See the latest model of the Land Cruiser

Volkswagen Touareg - Generation 1 (2004-2006)

VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG (2004-2006)

Volkswagen's first attempt in the SUV race, the Touareg shares its platform with the Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne. Two models are available, a 3.2 V6 and 4.2 V8 petrol engines. No thanks to poor management, the entire Volkswagen line was discontinued in 2006.

See the overview of this Touareg

See the latest model of the Touareg

Car Profiles - Chevrolet Tahoe (2007-2014)

2007-2014 Chevrolet Tahoe

The Good: Lots of power in a manageable size

The Bad: Lots of fuel is consumed, lacks a 4x4 option

The Say: A practical partner while retaining the power.

Go For: 4x2
Avoid:

Price Range: P1,050,000-P1,275,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Reviews: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2007-2014

Car Profiles - Chevrolet Suburban (2007-2015)

2007-2015 Chevrolet Suburban

The Good: Oodles of space inside, smooth ride

The Bad: Size and fuel consumption isn't great

The Say: It gives you more space and presence, but not the practical choice.

Go For: 4x2
Avoid: 

Price Range: P1,600,000-P2,500,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Review: Used Car Review - Chevrolet Suburban (2007-2015)
Latest vehicle profile: Chevrolet Suburban

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2007-2015

Car Profiles - Chevrolet Camaro (2010-2015)

2010-2015 Chevrolet Camaro

The Good: Acceleration with either engine, striking looks

The Bad: Rear view visibility, limited units in the market

The Say: While ain't practical, this is one hell of a car.

Go For: 3.6 is enough for daily usage
Avoid: Anything poorly maintained

Price Range: P2,100,000-P2,800,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2010-2015

Volvo XC90 - Generation 1.1 (2003-2007)

VOLVO XC90 (2003-2007)

Volvo's first SUV made its debut at the North American International Auto Show and it was a commercial success. Its Philippine introduction had the 2.5 arrive first in 2003 with the 2.8 T6 being launched two years later. 

See the overview of this XC90

See the Generation 1.2 model

See the latest model of the XC90

Porsche Cayenne - Generation 1.1 (2003-2007)

PORSCHE CAYENNE (2003-2007)

Porsche releasing an SUV is something questionable, but it was a success. First released in 2002, it arrived in 2003 locally as the first SUV of the German brand. Numerous engines are available including a basic V6 and V8 and turbocharged V8 engines.

See the overview of this Cayenne

See the Generation 1.2 model

See the latest model of the Cayenne

Porsche Cayenne - Generation 1.2 (2007-2010)

PORSCHE CAYENNE (2007-2010)

The facelifted model was launched to the public in 2007, which gave new kit, new looks, upgraded engines, and an optional manual. Four V8 engines of varying power are offered. It was replaced by the second generation model in 2010.

See the overview of this Cayenne

See the Generation 1.1 model

See the latest model of the Cayenne

Mercedes Benz M Class - Generation 2.1 (2005-2010)

MERCEDES BENZ M CLASS (2005-2010)

Larger than the model it replaced, the second generation M Class is now car based and numerous improvements were done (the previous one had limited space at the rear adding a useless third row and it had bad reliability). New items include a 7-speed automatic and it is now car based. No more seating for seven, it has been relegated to the GL Class.

See the overview of this M Class

See the Generation 2.2 model

See the latest model of the M Class

Mercedes Benz M Class - Generation 2.2 (2010-2012)

MERCEDES BENZ M CLASS (2010-2012)

The facelifted M Class marked the entry of the diesel engine and AMG body kits in the range. Two oil burners joined the line-up which complemented the sole gasoline.

See the overview of this M Class

See the Generation 2.1 model

See the latest model of the M Class

Mercedes Benz M Class - Generation 1.1 (2000-2001)

MERCEDES BENZ M CLASS (2000-2001)

While the G Class SUV is getting old, development for this vehicle came to fruition in the early 90s. While it was a sales success, reliability problems tarnished this one. For the Philippine market, a 2.7 diesel was sold. 

See the overview of this M Class

See the Generation 1.2 model

See the latest model of the M Class

Mercedes Benz M Class - Generation 1.2 (2001-2005)

MERCEDES BENZ M CLASS (2001-2005)

An update occurred in November 2001 gave the M Class some exterior treatments including signal lights on the side mirrors and interior changes. The engine option, a 2.7 diesel paired to a 5-speed automatic, remains. 

See the overview of this M Class

See the Generation 1.1 model

See the latest model of the M Class

Land Rover Freelander - Generation 2 (2007-2014)

LAND ROVER FREELANDER (2007-2014)

This British SUV utilized a Ford platform plus got a ground clearance and height similar to its larger brothers. It was the first Freelander to offer a diesel engine, Ford derived again. It is replaced by the Discovery Sport SUV.

See the overview of this Freelander

Land Rover Freelander - Generation 1 (2001-2007)

LAND ROVER FREELANDER (2001-2007)

Land Rover's smallest vehicle in the line-up, the Freelander was launched in 1997 after a market study during the 80s and two failed partnerships. Among the numerous body styles offered, a five door model is available for the local market.

See the overview of this Freelander

Land Rover Discovery - Generation 3.1 (2005-2009)

LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (2005-2009)

A redesigned Discovery was made available locally in 2005 and retains the previous model's traits. This would be the first to feature air suspension, while Ford derived engines come standard.

See the overview of this Discovery

See the latest model of the Discovery

Chevrolet Zafira - Generation 1 (2000-2005)

CHEVROLET ZAFIRA (2000-2005)

Launched alongside the Cassia, this German (it is an Opel) MPV didn't succeed because of its expensive price tag plus its size didn't help also. It took a one year break until being relaunched in 2003 but with more equipment. This seven seater was discontinued at the end of 2005.

See the overview of this Zafira

Chery Tiggo - Generation 1.1 (2007-2012)

CHERY TIGGO (2007-2012)

This RAV4 carbon copy (previous model actually, since the third generation model was being sold during that time) can be had with either a 1.6 or 2.0 gasoline. The 1.6 motor is from Fiat while the 2.0 is Mitsubishi sourced.

See the overview of this Tiggo

See the Generation 1.2 model

BMW X5 - Generation 2.1-2 (2007-2013)

BMW X5 (2007-2013)

The second generation X5 saw many additions to the vehicle including an iDrive system, a third row bench, heads up display, a joystick like transmission shifter, among others. A 3.0 gasoline was made available until it was dropped in 2010, retaining the diesel and the 4.8 V8 gasoline.

See the overview of this X5

See the latest model of the X5

BMW X5 - Generation 1.1-2 (2001-2006)

BMW X5 (2001-2006)

BMW's first attempt on the growing (then) SUV market and it was a success. Local models can be had with either V8 gasolines, diesels, or inline sixes gasoline. With numerous trims being offered in different years, check the unit well if your preferred amenities are there.

See the overview of this X5

See the latest model of the X5

BMW X3 - Generation 1.2 (2007-2010)

BMW X3 (2007-2010)

The X3 receives a host of updates which includes upgraded engines, a new diesel engine, and some exterior and interior revisions. Do take note that first models of the 2.0d only get a manual while an automatic followed suit in March 2008.

See the overview of this X3

See the Generation 1.1 model

See the latest model of the X3

BMW X3 - Generation 1.1 (2004-2006)

BMW X3 (2004-2006)

Smaller than the X5, the 3 Series derived crossover was made available in 2004 locally. Marketed as a Sports Activity Vehicle, this compact crossover had three variants available with all wheel drive as standard.

See the overview of this X3

See the Generation 1.2 model

See the latest model of the X3

BMW X1 - Generation 1.1 (2010-2013)

BMW X1 (2010-2013)

Slotting below the X3 in terms of size and price, the X1 shares a platform with the 3 Series. Two models with standard all wheel drive that can be had with a diesel (a popular option) or a gasoline (available through indent).

See the overview of this X1
See the Generation 1.2 model

See the latest model of the X1

Foton MP-X - Generation 1 (2009-2014)

FOTON MP-X (2009-2014)

After offering pick-up trucks and commercial vehicles, it was time for Foton to offer a vehicle which can seat more than five though the MP-X. At launch, a 10 seater is offered which was followed by an 8 seater. It was discontinued in 2014.

See the overview of this MP-X