One of the celebrated names, Myk Belmonte delves more of its allure.
2008-2014 Mazda MX-5
History
Sports cars, when checked in the price lists of some manufacturers, are out of reach within the buyers pockets. Then thanks to Bob Hall, a journalist at Motor Trend, who conceived an idea of making an inexpensive roadster, the MX-5 was born. Now at its fourth generation model, it had made enthusiasts reminiscing the good old times (60s concept) with modern touches.
Under the codename NC, the third generation MX-5 made a debut in May 2005 with deliveries starting August for model year 2006. Unlike the previous models, no exterior components were shared from the other, making it built up from scratch. Another change that was implemented is the switch from a four wheel double wishbone setup towards a front wishbone and rear multink combination. With updates done in 2008 and 2013 plus numerous special edition models, this generation ran until 2015 with the ND model replacing it.
Our love story with the MX-5 started when Columbian Autocar Corporation imported some of the NA models back in 1996. We had to wait for another decade for the nameplate to return through Ford Group Philippines in the form of the facelifted model. The series ended with 25 units (out of 1,000 worldwide) of the 25th Anniversary Edition being brought for local consumption in 2014.
Value and Costs
Brand new prices for the MX-5 back then would linger in the P2M range when Ford marketed it from 2008 until 2013 then the 25th Anniversary Edition would had a price tag of P1,8M sold by Berjaya. Second hand units would range between P890,000 to P1,000,000. Do not expect some units of the 25th Anniversary Edition to pop the used car market by now, especially that deliveries started only early this year.
The MX-5 units that you will encounter are the ones that are well taken care of, because most owners are mature enthusiasts, and not the ones of the "ricer" variety. Units bought from January 1, 2013 would mostly carry Berjaya's Youjin3 coverage that gives owners free maintenance and roadside help for three years. Since this is a convertible, check out the suspension and underchassis, since it is a lowered vehicle. Another item of inspection is the top, look out for leaks when doing your pre-purchase inspection.
Exterior and Interior
Mimicking the vibe of 60s British roadsters, the MX-5's does not stray to that idea. It rides low to the ground, complemented by wide fenders and tight overhangs. Ordinary models came with silver finish alloy wheels, and body color top and side mirrors, while 25th Anniversary Ed units came with gunmetal rims and black top and side mirrors. Do take note all models released here came with the standard power retractable top which can fold in 11 seconds while retaining respectable cargo space. One notable fact is it weighs less than the Toyota 86/Subaru BR-Z twins.
Definitely, the cabin is one of the tightest around but ergonomics are suited for a human, not for a gorilla. Hard plastics come standard but this has something to do in keeping the vehicle's weight light. 25th Anniversary models came with almond leather seats, as opposed to the ordinary model's black.
Engine
A MZR 2.0 with 165hp at 7,000rpm and 190Nm at 5,000rpm may look conservative if compared to the 2.0 Boxer engine that displaces 197hp, but it can pull well (it does not aim for fast driving, unlike what most think) plus produces a fine sound. One thing to remember is pre-2008 models get a 6,500rpm redline, which Philippine market models don't.
Driving Impressions
If you plan to use this as your daily commute vehicle, better go elsewhere, especially that seeing those side mirrors are difficult, no thanks to those wide fenders. However, if driving pleasure is what you seek, look no further since it can deliver the goods. Updated models like we receive get a revised steering which makes the car more tactile and a stiffer suspension eliminates some slop, but the vehicle experiences some body roll. Despite these shortcomings, this vehicle keeps you planted on pure concrete.
Verdict
While some rivals come and go, the MX-5 had stood the test of time for a reason. Driving fun does not need to be pricey nor spoiled with electronic nannies, just a plain platform with fun to drive genes and we have a winner. Jinba ittai (rider horse as one body when translated) was done well here, and top down experience can now cost you below a million bucks.
Monday, October 26, 2015
Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Car Profiles - Honda Legend
HONDA LEGEND
The Good: Advanced technologies packed into one
The Bad: Not for the brand snobs
Price Range: TBA
Our Rating: ****
Last Update: January 9, 2018
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Car Features - August-September 2015 Philippines Car Sales Figures
For our final installment, combined sales for the months of August and September totaled 46,221, with a year to date of 225,657 vehicles sold in the archipelago, a 37% increase compared to the same period. Down below is a comparison chart for 2014 in which you can see who sold more in that period
Two months alone saw numerous surprises, the Mirage G4 ranked #3 behind the Toyota Hiace and Fortuner while the Isuzu MU-X overtakes the Montero Sport (#7 for the two months, #5 overall) in the SUV race. There are lots of changes and we'll let you see them for yourselves.
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.
Two months alone saw numerous surprises, the Mirage G4 ranked #3 behind the Toyota Hiace and Fortuner while the Isuzu MU-X overtakes the Montero Sport (#7 for the two months, #5 overall) in the SUV race. There are lots of changes and we'll let you see them for yourselves.
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, Mazda MX-5, Mitsubishi L300, Subaru BRZ, Subaru Legacy, Suzuki Celerio, Suzuki SX4, and Volvo S60. Newly launched cars like the Hyundai i20 aren't also included here.
THIS MONTH'S WINNERS
Mitsubishi Mirage G4
Isuzu MU-X
Hyundai Accent
Ford Everest
Monday, October 19, 2015
Used Car Review - Mazda 2 (2010-2015)
Unappreciated when new, appealing now used. Myk Belmonte checks the allure of this sub-compact.
2010-2015 Mazda 2
History
We all know the relationship Ford and Mazda used to be years ago. Just like any typical marriage, the two manufacturers would usually share engines, platforms, and in some cases, vehicles. The union ended sometime in 2010 after the Blue Oval letting go of it due to the economic crisis which occurred two years prior.
Bet you don't know this one: the DE platform Mazda Demio/2, built from 2007 until 2014, utilizes its platform with the 2008 Ford Fiesta. It was the first M2 to get a sedan version for select markets and carry a CVT transmission for Japan and Hong Kong units only. You may not know this but the third generation model (the one you are reading here) won the World Car of the Year title in 2008.
To compete in the ever increasing sub-compact passenger sedan market, Mazda launched the 2 in 2010 with the hatchback first with the sedan preceding it a few months after. Although it may have some advantages, its cousin (the Fiesta) overshadowed its presence and was more sophisticated than its Japanese counterpart. Local sales ended in 2015 with a more advanced fourth generation model having its local launch on the same year. Variants available for both body styles include a 1.3 and 1.5 powered models.
Value and Costs
For just between P300,000 to P550,000, a used Mazda 2 is a good buy especially if you want more driving flair while retaining a small footprint in size and fuel consumption in your daily commute. In that price range, rivals exist but they may be less sporty to drive (excluding the similar Ford Fiesta here).
Units purchased from January 1, 2013 (translation: those bought from the time when Berjaya Auto Philippines took over distribution rights) benefit from the Youjin3 coverage, which promises free maintenance and roadside assistance for three years. One niggle to look at for 2010 to 2011 models are a noisy rack-and-pinion steering mechanism, in which affected units were fixed under warranty.
Exterior and Interior
Tiny it may seem, the Mazda 2 hatchback has better proportions than the sedan, which may look bulky for some. However, the design looked fresh despite newer competition. Do take note that 1.3 models have hubcaps as standard though there was an option for 14 inch alloys in December 2014 while 1.5 variants get 15 inch alloy wheels. Side skirts and rear spoiler come standard in the 1.5 hatchback, as well as the 1.3 Speed.
Space for the front occupants are decent but overall it trails behind class leaders when it comes to legroom, plus the rear seats are tight. Freeing space upfront is done by the shifter situated at the dashboard, which is a good thing. The center console is as narrow that only a single bottle can be held and only a few items can be stored. Lastly, the materials used aren't the high quality ones, unlike in its American brother.
Engine
Both the ZJ-VE 1.3 carrying 85hp at 6,000rpm and 122Nm at 4,000rpm and the ZY-VE 1.5 having 103hp at 6,000rpm and 135Nm at 4,000rpm have their own strengths and weaknesses. The former is smooth but does not have any top level punch while the latter can acquit itself well. Both of them are good and can carry themselves on, thanks to a lighter chassis and body.
Driving Impressions
Driving feel is one thing that this vehicle is known for, with a precise steering, lightweight body, and a supple suspension. Give it a curved road and this small car will glide and dance without any drama. However, the sedan has a tendency of feeling lose due to a tall and long trunk, while the hatchback is much better in this aspect alone. Both variants have their positives and negatives, so it is a matter of compromise. Do take note that the 1.3 can be only had with a manual while 1.5 variants are available in both transmission options.
Verdict
There are cars that are easy to drive and own for the city living, and there are cars that are fun to drive which are reserved for weekend driving. The Mazda 2 converges the two ideas into one body, and with a cheaper price now, the sports car traits coupled with a economy car body is a good purchase if you want that type.
2010-2015 Mazda 2
History
We all know the relationship Ford and Mazda used to be years ago. Just like any typical marriage, the two manufacturers would usually share engines, platforms, and in some cases, vehicles. The union ended sometime in 2010 after the Blue Oval letting go of it due to the economic crisis which occurred two years prior.
Bet you don't know this one: the DE platform Mazda Demio/2, built from 2007 until 2014, utilizes its platform with the 2008 Ford Fiesta. It was the first M2 to get a sedan version for select markets and carry a CVT transmission for Japan and Hong Kong units only. You may not know this but the third generation model (the one you are reading here) won the World Car of the Year title in 2008.
To compete in the ever increasing sub-compact passenger sedan market, Mazda launched the 2 in 2010 with the hatchback first with the sedan preceding it a few months after. Although it may have some advantages, its cousin (the Fiesta) overshadowed its presence and was more sophisticated than its Japanese counterpart. Local sales ended in 2015 with a more advanced fourth generation model having its local launch on the same year. Variants available for both body styles include a 1.3 and 1.5 powered models.
Value and Costs
For just between P300,000 to P550,000, a used Mazda 2 is a good buy especially if you want more driving flair while retaining a small footprint in size and fuel consumption in your daily commute. In that price range, rivals exist but they may be less sporty to drive (excluding the similar Ford Fiesta here).
Units purchased from January 1, 2013 (translation: those bought from the time when Berjaya Auto Philippines took over distribution rights) benefit from the Youjin3 coverage, which promises free maintenance and roadside assistance for three years. One niggle to look at for 2010 to 2011 models are a noisy rack-and-pinion steering mechanism, in which affected units were fixed under warranty.
Exterior and Interior
Tiny it may seem, the Mazda 2 hatchback has better proportions than the sedan, which may look bulky for some. However, the design looked fresh despite newer competition. Do take note that 1.3 models have hubcaps as standard though there was an option for 14 inch alloys in December 2014 while 1.5 variants get 15 inch alloy wheels. Side skirts and rear spoiler come standard in the 1.5 hatchback, as well as the 1.3 Speed.
Space for the front occupants are decent but overall it trails behind class leaders when it comes to legroom, plus the rear seats are tight. Freeing space upfront is done by the shifter situated at the dashboard, which is a good thing. The center console is as narrow that only a single bottle can be held and only a few items can be stored. Lastly, the materials used aren't the high quality ones, unlike in its American brother.
Engine
Both the ZJ-VE 1.3 carrying 85hp at 6,000rpm and 122Nm at 4,000rpm and the ZY-VE 1.5 having 103hp at 6,000rpm and 135Nm at 4,000rpm have their own strengths and weaknesses. The former is smooth but does not have any top level punch while the latter can acquit itself well. Both of them are good and can carry themselves on, thanks to a lighter chassis and body.
Driving Impressions
Driving feel is one thing that this vehicle is known for, with a precise steering, lightweight body, and a supple suspension. Give it a curved road and this small car will glide and dance without any drama. However, the sedan has a tendency of feeling lose due to a tall and long trunk, while the hatchback is much better in this aspect alone. Both variants have their positives and negatives, so it is a matter of compromise. Do take note that the 1.3 can be only had with a manual while 1.5 variants are available in both transmission options.
Verdict
There are cars that are easy to drive and own for the city living, and there are cars that are fun to drive which are reserved for weekend driving. The Mazda 2 converges the two ideas into one body, and with a cheaper price now, the sports car traits coupled with a economy car body is a good purchase if you want that type.
Saturday, October 17, 2015
Recall Alert - Mitsubishi and Honda Recalls
With Honda and Mitsubishi issuing vehicle recalls within a span of days, it would be better if they would be published together in one article. The recalls involve Mitsubishi Lancer EX and Evolution models and Honda City and Jazz units for various issues.
Monday, October 12, 2015
Used Car Review - Mitsubishi Strada (2006-2015)
Another truck which was replaced recently is under Myk Belmonte's scrutiny.
2006-2015 Mitsubishi Strada
History
How the mighty had fallen; if last week I tackled in my Honda Odyssey review that Honda struggled back in the early 90s that Japanese media predicted it will be taken over by Mitsubishi unless they don't act on it, decades later the opposite happened with Honda going afloat while Mitsubishi in trouble in most of North America and Europe but is alive and kicking in Asia. While products like the Eclipse, Galant, and the Lancer Evolution fading to obscurity, the Mirage and Strada keeps them profitable.
Launched in pick-up crazy Thailand, the fourth generation Triton (or Strada or L200, depending on where you live) made its debut in 2005 and this truck is exported to 140 countries (excluding the likes of North America, where the Dodge Dakota based Raider is offered instead). This truck introduced CRDi engines and was the basis of the second generation Pajero/Montero Sport which was introduced three years later.
Replacing the overdue L200 series, the Strada offered car-like comfort and has numerous amenities that undercuts established rivals. February 2011 saw the arrival of an engine upgrade through a variable-geometry turbocharger which saw an upgrade in both power and torque. This generation was made available until 2015, with its successor having its introduction in March this year. 4x4 models were first made available with two-wheel drive and a 3.2 top model (killed later in favor of the VGT variants) followed suit. Special edition models were introduced between 2013 to 2014.
Value and Costs
With the new model on the horizon, Strada prices can range between P660,000 to P980,000 (this does not include the L200, a related model aimed at fleets). Considering its price positioning, it holds its value well except for the Hilux.
The 4D56 engine is notorious for its smoke belching nature, so check out for black smoke out of its tailpipe. Apart from this, first releases had problems with the suction control valve no thanks to low fuel standards. Other known problems include the alarm, leaf springs that squeak, and the undercarriage (which is serious for such a car).
Exterior and Interior
If there is one thing that makes the Strada known for, it would be the separator between the cabin and the bed called the "J-line", making it more car-like but more softer than rivals which has an emphasis on a brute personality. A bed liner comes standard for GLX models and above while an electronically operated dual lift cargo cover can be had with the GLS Sport V SE. Upper models gain a window which one can access the bed area from the cabin, something that was dropped in the current model. Before we forget, the bed area isn't a big as most rivals.
Unlike rivals that are cramped, the Strada is car-like, which is a good thing. The 2011 update made a touchscreen monitor standard (navigation ready for some, do take note) in all but the GL models, while paddle shifters situated behind the steering wheel are reserved for top models. 4x4 models (not including the GL) also gain an automatic climate control.
Engine
We shall first go with the common engine powering most of its kind: the 4D56 2.5 that displaces 134hp at 3,500rpm and 314Nm at 2,000rpm which shoulders in the lower models. The next one from the same engine family but with VGT gains 176hp at 4,000rpm and 350Nm at 1,800-3,500rpm for automatics while manuals have 400Nm at 2,000-2,850rpm. Lastly, there is the 4M41 3.2 with 163hp at 3,500rpm and 343Nm at 2,000rpm powering the top model GLS Sport from 2007 to 2011. Going with the engine characteristics, the 134hp 2.5 is fine enough and can deliver the goods while the 176hp has a wide range of rpm with going to the upper range rewarding you with lots of power (we do not recommend speeding with a truck, though), and choosing the 3.2 rewards you more power (without any excessive smoke).
Driving Impressions
Depending on the persons you'll be asking, this one is biased towards a comfortable ride, an advantage when it comes to ferrying elderly people or anyone with back problems. When it comes to acceleration, it goes well on a straight line but falls flat on mountainous roads no thanks to slow steering, soft suspension, and a less than impressive braking. For long drives, this is one great companion, credit a car-like position and ride plus it will give in to your desire for more speed.
Verdict
Pick-up trucks have different personalities, and the Strada is the more subtle type while having some muscle to spare. If you value a smooth ride with more equipment and treating cargo capacity as a bonus, this is the one. Rivals may outplace this one, but it still can hold a candle.
2006-2015 Mitsubishi Strada
History
How the mighty had fallen; if last week I tackled in my Honda Odyssey review that Honda struggled back in the early 90s that Japanese media predicted it will be taken over by Mitsubishi unless they don't act on it, decades later the opposite happened with Honda going afloat while Mitsubishi in trouble in most of North America and Europe but is alive and kicking in Asia. While products like the Eclipse, Galant, and the Lancer Evolution fading to obscurity, the Mirage and Strada keeps them profitable.
Launched in pick-up crazy Thailand, the fourth generation Triton (or Strada or L200, depending on where you live) made its debut in 2005 and this truck is exported to 140 countries (excluding the likes of North America, where the Dodge Dakota based Raider is offered instead). This truck introduced CRDi engines and was the basis of the second generation Pajero/Montero Sport which was introduced three years later.
Replacing the overdue L200 series, the Strada offered car-like comfort and has numerous amenities that undercuts established rivals. February 2011 saw the arrival of an engine upgrade through a variable-geometry turbocharger which saw an upgrade in both power and torque. This generation was made available until 2015, with its successor having its introduction in March this year. 4x4 models were first made available with two-wheel drive and a 3.2 top model (killed later in favor of the VGT variants) followed suit. Special edition models were introduced between 2013 to 2014.
Value and Costs
With the new model on the horizon, Strada prices can range between P660,000 to P980,000 (this does not include the L200, a related model aimed at fleets). Considering its price positioning, it holds its value well except for the Hilux.
The 4D56 engine is notorious for its smoke belching nature, so check out for black smoke out of its tailpipe. Apart from this, first releases had problems with the suction control valve no thanks to low fuel standards. Other known problems include the alarm, leaf springs that squeak, and the undercarriage (which is serious for such a car).
Exterior and Interior
If there is one thing that makes the Strada known for, it would be the separator between the cabin and the bed called the "J-line", making it more car-like but more softer than rivals which has an emphasis on a brute personality. A bed liner comes standard for GLX models and above while an electronically operated dual lift cargo cover can be had with the GLS Sport V SE. Upper models gain a window which one can access the bed area from the cabin, something that was dropped in the current model. Before we forget, the bed area isn't a big as most rivals.
Unlike rivals that are cramped, the Strada is car-like, which is a good thing. The 2011 update made a touchscreen monitor standard (navigation ready for some, do take note) in all but the GL models, while paddle shifters situated behind the steering wheel are reserved for top models. 4x4 models (not including the GL) also gain an automatic climate control.
Engine
We shall first go with the common engine powering most of its kind: the 4D56 2.5 that displaces 134hp at 3,500rpm and 314Nm at 2,000rpm which shoulders in the lower models. The next one from the same engine family but with VGT gains 176hp at 4,000rpm and 350Nm at 1,800-3,500rpm for automatics while manuals have 400Nm at 2,000-2,850rpm. Lastly, there is the 4M41 3.2 with 163hp at 3,500rpm and 343Nm at 2,000rpm powering the top model GLS Sport from 2007 to 2011. Going with the engine characteristics, the 134hp 2.5 is fine enough and can deliver the goods while the 176hp has a wide range of rpm with going to the upper range rewarding you with lots of power (we do not recommend speeding with a truck, though), and choosing the 3.2 rewards you more power (without any excessive smoke).
Driving Impressions
Depending on the persons you'll be asking, this one is biased towards a comfortable ride, an advantage when it comes to ferrying elderly people or anyone with back problems. When it comes to acceleration, it goes well on a straight line but falls flat on mountainous roads no thanks to slow steering, soft suspension, and a less than impressive braking. For long drives, this is one great companion, credit a car-like position and ride plus it will give in to your desire for more speed.
Verdict
Pick-up trucks have different personalities, and the Strada is the more subtle type while having some muscle to spare. If you value a smooth ride with more equipment and treating cargo capacity as a bonus, this is the one. Rivals may outplace this one, but it still can hold a candle.
Monday, October 5, 2015
Car Profiles - Nissan Juke
NISSAN JUKE
Arrived after five years, this mini-SUV has a lot of amenities for a snip below a million bucks. While styling may be a love it or hate it affair, it is one heck of a practical vehicle (if you look over the lack of space).
The Good: Bold styling for such pricing
The Bad: Not that spacious, if you think
Price Range: P1,021,000
Our Rating: ***
Last Update: February 5, 2018
Used Car Review - Honda Odyssey (2012-2015)
Another luxury van gets the spotlight, with Myk Belmonte dealing in the details.
2012-2015 Honda Odyssey
History
The 90s proved to be a turbulent period for the Japanese, no thanks to the asset price bubble affecting all industries including car manufacturers themselves. It also caused the discontinuation of several novelty cars such as the Toyota Sera and Suzuki Cara and Mazda dropping its Amati luxury brand that was on their pipeline. With Soichiro Honda's death in 1991, Honda found itself being outpaced in product development by its compatriots and was caught off-guard by the booming SUV market and was itself at a risk of being in a takeover of Mitsubishi, whose Pajeros and Diamantes being bought made them profitable. If there is one product which had saved Honda from that takeover, it would be the Odyssey.
Although the original Odyssey was lower and didn't have any sliding doors, a model split between North American and other countries made two versions for two different markets. Japan and other non-western countries get a different model which is only available with a 2.4 engine while the other side of the globe gains a more larger unit that has a V6. The fourth generation North America market Odyssey was first launched in June 2010 as a 2011 model that saw the usage of high strength steel and got a lot of new options.
Honda Cars Philippines used to bring in the first generation Odyssey in limited numbers back in 1997. The nameplate was revived 15 years later with the fourth generation model being launched as a rival to the very successful Alphard and another American contender, the Town and Country. Unlike the original, it used a 3.5 V6 and was priced at P2.8M apiece. The facelifted model never arrived but rather, the fifth generation international model replaced it with a lower price entry.
Value and Costs
USDM Odysseys in the used car market can be purchased at P1,900,000, but only a few are being sold. With the new model being available for a few months, expect owners to trade theirs sooner than later.
Just like any high end vehicle, there is a possibility that electrical components like the power tailgate and sliding doors and the sunroof breaking down, so take a look carefully and inspect before signing the deal. Fuel consumption isn't outstanding, especially if you are used with diesels. Engine components are similar with the Accord and Pilot, which is a good thing.
Exterior and Interior
Minivans had a stigma that mostly mothers would love it, but Honda made efforts to avoid the generic styling which makes it more pleasing to look at. When it comes to size, it is longer and wider than its main rival but height is lower though.
Unlike other competitors who pitch in the middle captain's chairs,.eight people can join in the fun, which is a good thing for a family oriented market like the Philippines. The third row can fold flat for those who need more space for your stuff. Other than that, it gets as feature loaded as you wish which includes: a triple zone automatic climate control, a sun roof, sunshades, and the ability to close the sliding doors and the tailgate through the key or a button inside.
Engine
Typical of US market vehicles, the Odyssey utilizes a J35A 3.5 V6 gasoline with 247hp at 5,700rpm and 343Nm at 4,800rpm with Honda's Variable Cylinder Management as standard. Acceleration is decent enough but the VCM's magic works when cruising at highway speeds in which up to three cylinders shut down that helps lower fuel consumption.
Driving Impressions
Lets deal with being the passenger, this van is as comfortable as it gets and maintains its posture, despite the road imperfections that afflict the metropolis. If you are the driver, let us say this is one fine drive since it has Honda genes in it. Maneuvering is a piece of cake, thanks to a standard back-up camera with sensors.
Verdict
With Honda asking their people on what they want in a car (rather than their engineers building a car and forcing people to like it), the Odyssey was born and saved them from that takeover. Generations later and with rivals coming out, this van still holds a candle. Moral lesson: it does not hurt to ask your customers and if you build them right, they will come.
2012-2015 Honda Odyssey
History
The 90s proved to be a turbulent period for the Japanese, no thanks to the asset price bubble affecting all industries including car manufacturers themselves. It also caused the discontinuation of several novelty cars such as the Toyota Sera and Suzuki Cara and Mazda dropping its Amati luxury brand that was on their pipeline. With Soichiro Honda's death in 1991, Honda found itself being outpaced in product development by its compatriots and was caught off-guard by the booming SUV market and was itself at a risk of being in a takeover of Mitsubishi, whose Pajeros and Diamantes being bought made them profitable. If there is one product which had saved Honda from that takeover, it would be the Odyssey.
Although the original Odyssey was lower and didn't have any sliding doors, a model split between North American and other countries made two versions for two different markets. Japan and other non-western countries get a different model which is only available with a 2.4 engine while the other side of the globe gains a more larger unit that has a V6. The fourth generation North America market Odyssey was first launched in June 2010 as a 2011 model that saw the usage of high strength steel and got a lot of new options.
Honda Cars Philippines used to bring in the first generation Odyssey in limited numbers back in 1997. The nameplate was revived 15 years later with the fourth generation model being launched as a rival to the very successful Alphard and another American contender, the Town and Country. Unlike the original, it used a 3.5 V6 and was priced at P2.8M apiece. The facelifted model never arrived but rather, the fifth generation international model replaced it with a lower price entry.
Value and Costs
USDM Odysseys in the used car market can be purchased at P1,900,000, but only a few are being sold. With the new model being available for a few months, expect owners to trade theirs sooner than later.
Just like any high end vehicle, there is a possibility that electrical components like the power tailgate and sliding doors and the sunroof breaking down, so take a look carefully and inspect before signing the deal. Fuel consumption isn't outstanding, especially if you are used with diesels. Engine components are similar with the Accord and Pilot, which is a good thing.
Exterior and Interior
Minivans had a stigma that mostly mothers would love it, but Honda made efforts to avoid the generic styling which makes it more pleasing to look at. When it comes to size, it is longer and wider than its main rival but height is lower though.
Unlike other competitors who pitch in the middle captain's chairs,.eight people can join in the fun, which is a good thing for a family oriented market like the Philippines. The third row can fold flat for those who need more space for your stuff. Other than that, it gets as feature loaded as you wish which includes: a triple zone automatic climate control, a sun roof, sunshades, and the ability to close the sliding doors and the tailgate through the key or a button inside.
Engine
Typical of US market vehicles, the Odyssey utilizes a J35A 3.5 V6 gasoline with 247hp at 5,700rpm and 343Nm at 4,800rpm with Honda's Variable Cylinder Management as standard. Acceleration is decent enough but the VCM's magic works when cruising at highway speeds in which up to three cylinders shut down that helps lower fuel consumption.
Driving Impressions
Lets deal with being the passenger, this van is as comfortable as it gets and maintains its posture, despite the road imperfections that afflict the metropolis. If you are the driver, let us say this is one fine drive since it has Honda genes in it. Maneuvering is a piece of cake, thanks to a standard back-up camera with sensors.
Verdict
With Honda asking their people on what they want in a car (rather than their engineers building a car and forcing people to like it), the Odyssey was born and saved them from that takeover. Generations later and with rivals coming out, this van still holds a candle. Moral lesson: it does not hurt to ask your customers and if you build them right, they will come.
Saturday, October 3, 2015
Car Features - 10 Commonly Repossessed Vehicles 2015 Edition
Last year, we had published a list of vehicles that are commonly repossessed by banks. For this year, let us see the top 10 repossessed vehicles (last time was 12 due to a tie) overall with a top five per bank. This list also aims to help buyers on which bank to go in finding a specific vehicle they want. With automotive sales on the rise plus the fad of Uber/GrabCar services, there would come a time people would default on their monthly payments.
Do take note the list is accurate as of October 2, 2015. Sources include: PS Bank, Banco De Oro, RCBC Savings Bank, East West Bank, Unionbank, Sterling Bank of Asia, Maybank, and BPI.
Do take note the list is accurate as of October 2, 2015. Sources include: PS Bank, Banco De Oro, RCBC Savings Bank, East West Bank, Unionbank, Sterling Bank of Asia, Maybank, and BPI.
Car Profiles - Foton Toplander
FOTON TOPLANDER
In what could be Foton's missing link in the market, the Toplander has amenities that are present in most SUVs but undercutting them in price (base model can be had under a million bucks). It could be a winner, only if resale value and reliability are proven plus there are desirable brands for more cash.
The Bad: Will it stand the test of time
Price Range: P1,280,000-P1,400,000
Our Rating: ***
Last Update: January 23, 2018
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