PEUGEOT 308 WAGON
The Good:
The Bad:
Price Range: P1,690,000-P1,890,000
Our Rating:
Last Update: November 28, 2015
Saturday, November 28, 2015
Car Profiles - Peugeot 308 Wagon
Car Profiles - Peugeot 308 Hatchback
PEUGEOT 308 HATCHBACK
The Good:
The Bad:
Price Range: P1,490,000-P1,890,000
Our Rating:
Last Update: November 28, 2015
Monday, November 23, 2015
Used Car Review - Ford Mustang (2012-2015)
A pony car for less? For this day, Myk Belmonte discovers the appeal.
2012-2015 Ford Mustang
History
Among the pony cars available in the US, only the Mustang stood the test of time especially that its production run was uninterrupted. While rivals such as the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger were killed but revived later, other contemporaries like the Plymouth Barracuda and Pontiac Firebird went to car heaven. Originally, this one was based on the North American version of the Ford Falcon (not to be confused with its Australian counterpart) with numerous generations that had the vehicle grow up in size and weight.
Debuted in 2004 (production started in September of that year) as a 2005 model, the fifth generation Mustang drew inspiration from its namesake concept car for both coupe and convertible models which was developed in 2002 and saw display in the 2003 North American International Auto Show. Revisions were done in late 2008 which saw numerous changes in the car debuted as a 2010 model while new engines saw usage in 2011, to replace the somewhat aging original ones.
Numerous fans of this pony car in the Philippines had to wait until 2012 for Ford Group Philippines to bring in this generation of Mustang. Prior to this, if one wanted this car sourcing Japan used units or personal imports (which are darn expensive to begin with) are the way to go. Initially, two variants were made available with either engine plus a special edition model months later came to the scene.
Value and Costs
Most American vehicles are plagued with low resale values; making the Mustang an exemption to the case. One can get a unit for as low as P2,000,000 (we are not kidding here) with later examples hovering to the P2,700,000 range. If there is one thing which makes residuals very high, it would be the heritage of the vehicle, which other compatriots including their SUVs lack.
As always, this vehicle would be expensive to maintain since high displacement engines are present plus with it being a niche model, parts are on the pricier side.
Exterior and Interior
If there is one highlight of this vehicle, it would be the exterior styling especially cues from the first generation model. Updated models like we have gain several changes including a revised grille, new headlight design with integrated turn signals, a slimmer side mirror design, among others. V8 models differentiate themselves through a glass roof, integrated blind spot mirrors, and pony projector lights while the special edition model adds vehicle stripes.
Going inside, touches of 1960s still continue but with the addition of modern touches. With ours being the revised model, Philippine market units have a higher interior quality, something that was criticized before, and the availability of a SYNC system (mounted in the center console) that's powered by Microsoft. The special edition model uses Recaro sport seats, while others make do with ordinary leather.
Engine
Fast and severely fast, these are the descriptive words that apply to the Mustang's available engines. First on the list would be the Duratec 3.7 V6 carrying 301hp at 6,500rpm and 380Nm at 4,250rpm in which power is decent enough for the size. The icing of the cake is the Coyote 5.0 V8 that has 414hp at 6,500rpm and 529Nm at 4,250rpm, in which it is very fast to the point fuel consumption is a weak point. Do take note these are the upgraded engines which were launched in 2011, replacing the 4.0 V6 and 4.6 V8 respectively.
Driving Impressions
Vehicles of this genre are known for their straight line acceleration, Ford took the effort on improving the suspension and chassis while adding driver's aids like the AdvanceTrac. Due to these efforts, driving feel when cornering is more secure especially when these aids are switched on. However, you should control the throttle since the power might kick in before you do.
Verdict
While rivals come and go (and some getting that revival), the Mustang definitely had a reason on why it stayed for a long time. Locally, rivals went in first but with outrageous prices that were out of reach. This one had a price that made the pony car experience attainable for the average joe.
2012-2015 Ford Mustang
History
Among the pony cars available in the US, only the Mustang stood the test of time especially that its production run was uninterrupted. While rivals such as the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger were killed but revived later, other contemporaries like the Plymouth Barracuda and Pontiac Firebird went to car heaven. Originally, this one was based on the North American version of the Ford Falcon (not to be confused with its Australian counterpart) with numerous generations that had the vehicle grow up in size and weight.
Debuted in 2004 (production started in September of that year) as a 2005 model, the fifth generation Mustang drew inspiration from its namesake concept car for both coupe and convertible models which was developed in 2002 and saw display in the 2003 North American International Auto Show. Revisions were done in late 2008 which saw numerous changes in the car debuted as a 2010 model while new engines saw usage in 2011, to replace the somewhat aging original ones.
Numerous fans of this pony car in the Philippines had to wait until 2012 for Ford Group Philippines to bring in this generation of Mustang. Prior to this, if one wanted this car sourcing Japan used units or personal imports (which are darn expensive to begin with) are the way to go. Initially, two variants were made available with either engine plus a special edition model months later came to the scene.
Value and Costs
Most American vehicles are plagued with low resale values; making the Mustang an exemption to the case. One can get a unit for as low as P2,000,000 (we are not kidding here) with later examples hovering to the P2,700,000 range. If there is one thing which makes residuals very high, it would be the heritage of the vehicle, which other compatriots including their SUVs lack.
As always, this vehicle would be expensive to maintain since high displacement engines are present plus with it being a niche model, parts are on the pricier side.
Exterior and Interior
If there is one highlight of this vehicle, it would be the exterior styling especially cues from the first generation model. Updated models like we have gain several changes including a revised grille, new headlight design with integrated turn signals, a slimmer side mirror design, among others. V8 models differentiate themselves through a glass roof, integrated blind spot mirrors, and pony projector lights while the special edition model adds vehicle stripes.
Going inside, touches of 1960s still continue but with the addition of modern touches. With ours being the revised model, Philippine market units have a higher interior quality, something that was criticized before, and the availability of a SYNC system (mounted in the center console) that's powered by Microsoft. The special edition model uses Recaro sport seats, while others make do with ordinary leather.
Engine
Fast and severely fast, these are the descriptive words that apply to the Mustang's available engines. First on the list would be the Duratec 3.7 V6 carrying 301hp at 6,500rpm and 380Nm at 4,250rpm in which power is decent enough for the size. The icing of the cake is the Coyote 5.0 V8 that has 414hp at 6,500rpm and 529Nm at 4,250rpm, in which it is very fast to the point fuel consumption is a weak point. Do take note these are the upgraded engines which were launched in 2011, replacing the 4.0 V6 and 4.6 V8 respectively.
Driving Impressions
Vehicles of this genre are known for their straight line acceleration, Ford took the effort on improving the suspension and chassis while adding driver's aids like the AdvanceTrac. Due to these efforts, driving feel when cornering is more secure especially when these aids are switched on. However, you should control the throttle since the power might kick in before you do.
Verdict
While rivals come and go (and some getting that revival), the Mustang definitely had a reason on why it stayed for a long time. Locally, rivals went in first but with outrageous prices that were out of reach. This one had a price that made the pony car experience attainable for the average joe.
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Car Profiles - Lexus RX
LEXUS RX
The Good:
The Bad:
Price Range: P4,048,000-P4,848,000
Our Rating: ****
Last Update: January 9, 2018
Monday, November 16, 2015
Used Car Review - Kia Sorento (2009-2015)
From a wallflower to world performer? Myk Belmonte discusses this car in total.
2009-2015 Kia Sorento
History
Kia had been offering the Sportage during the 90s, in which that quality issues was too plenty for this vehicle. Too much embarrassment had its second generation model utilized a shared with the Hyundai Tucson, in which it is based from the Elantra. Thankfully, the memories of the past were purged away by these reliable successors, in which both Korean brands reaped their successes with.
Entering the crowded and popular SUV market is the Sorento, which had Kia a foothold on the segment. Slotting above the Sportage (which wasn't a big seller even in South Korea itself), the first generation model used a body-on-frame chassis while its successor is now based on a car chassis. The unibody construction and the removal of the low-ratio transfer case had the vehicle lose more weight. With this in mind, Consumer Reports gave the V6 model an excellent score in its July 2010 issue.
Columbian Autocar Corporation brought in the second generation Sorento in September 2009, together with the overpriced Soul and Forte. Initially, a 2.4 gas model available in 4x2 and 4x4 guise were first made to be available until the diesels arrived the following year. Like the previous model, it competed with PPV's from Thailand (think Toyota and Mitsubishi) and the Hyundai Santa Fe, its sister vehicle. From launch, all Sorentos were offered in EX models until a cheaper LX was introduced in a 2013 facelift, making the EX strictly 4x4 one time.
Value and Costs
With the launch of the third generation model last April, prices of 2009 to 2015 Sorentos had dropped considerably. Older units can be fetched for as low as P520,000 with newer ones still playing in the P1.1M range. Since Kias aren't known for stellar resale values, their poor depreciation will favor the second hand buyer and this one is a good alternative against popular nameplates.
This vehicle isn't anymore as unreliable like most Korean cars of old, which is a good thing. Just like any vehicle, check out for any wear and tear caused by daily driving. Some models gain electronic gadgets, so have an eye if these go wrong. Parts supply aren't a problem, thanks to Korean parts specialist shops that sprout like mushrooms. Lastly, Kia has a five year warranty, so find yourself a 2011 or later model to get the remaining chunk.
Exterior and Interior
If the first generation model has some resemblance from the Lexus RX SUV, then the second generation has more visual lines that is more striking even when afar. This vehicle ushered the usage of Peter Schreyer's "tiger nose" grille application, further extending to other Kia vehicles. LX models loses the fog lamps and roof rails while EX units have these.
Since our market favors vehicles that can seat more than five humans, the Sorento obliges this especially that it has a third row seat (thanks to a size increase). This feature was dropped in 2013 for LX models, while the EX 4x4 has this one among the variants. Apart from this, material quality is top notch plus they are logically placed and numerous pockets abound the vehicle. Mood lighting, which illuminates the door panels during evening, comes standard only for 2009 to 2012 models.
Engine
All new engines (for the Philippine market at least) have seen usage in this vehicle, and interestingly enough both engines are from Hyundai. The first engine to be offered is a Theta II 2.4 4-cylinder, shared with the Hyundai Sonata and several Kia vehicles, that has 174hp at 6,000rpm and 227Nm at 3,750rpm. The popular engine (and what we pick) is the R 2.2 diesel which produces 194hp at 3,800rpm and 436Nm at 2,500rpm. For all intents, skip the gasoline especially that the engine struggles to carry the weight in which fuel economy and acceleration suffers because of this. On the other hand, the diesel is much powerful and powerband is accessible at an early 2,500rpm. No more 4x4 locking hubs available, it utilizes an all wheel drive system for selected models while front wheel drive is the basic one.
Driving Impressions
Since it now uses a unibody platform, riding and driving one is more similar to a car with high levels of refinement. Steering and handling may be on the lighter side, but that is an advantage for easy driving. If you are considering trading a truck based SUV, this is one good bet.
Verdict
With lots of changes, the second generation Sorento is an improved beast with numerous accolades and acknowledgements under the name, Kia has a winner here. Though far from perfect, it has taken its efforts more seriously.
2009-2015 Kia Sorento
History
Kia had been offering the Sportage during the 90s, in which that quality issues was too plenty for this vehicle. Too much embarrassment had its second generation model utilized a shared with the Hyundai Tucson, in which it is based from the Elantra. Thankfully, the memories of the past were purged away by these reliable successors, in which both Korean brands reaped their successes with.
Entering the crowded and popular SUV market is the Sorento, which had Kia a foothold on the segment. Slotting above the Sportage (which wasn't a big seller even in South Korea itself), the first generation model used a body-on-frame chassis while its successor is now based on a car chassis. The unibody construction and the removal of the low-ratio transfer case had the vehicle lose more weight. With this in mind, Consumer Reports gave the V6 model an excellent score in its July 2010 issue.
Columbian Autocar Corporation brought in the second generation Sorento in September 2009, together with the overpriced Soul and Forte. Initially, a 2.4 gas model available in 4x2 and 4x4 guise were first made to be available until the diesels arrived the following year. Like the previous model, it competed with PPV's from Thailand (think Toyota and Mitsubishi) and the Hyundai Santa Fe, its sister vehicle. From launch, all Sorentos were offered in EX models until a cheaper LX was introduced in a 2013 facelift, making the EX strictly 4x4 one time.
Value and Costs
With the launch of the third generation model last April, prices of 2009 to 2015 Sorentos had dropped considerably. Older units can be fetched for as low as P520,000 with newer ones still playing in the P1.1M range. Since Kias aren't known for stellar resale values, their poor depreciation will favor the second hand buyer and this one is a good alternative against popular nameplates.
This vehicle isn't anymore as unreliable like most Korean cars of old, which is a good thing. Just like any vehicle, check out for any wear and tear caused by daily driving. Some models gain electronic gadgets, so have an eye if these go wrong. Parts supply aren't a problem, thanks to Korean parts specialist shops that sprout like mushrooms. Lastly, Kia has a five year warranty, so find yourself a 2011 or later model to get the remaining chunk.
Exterior and Interior
If the first generation model has some resemblance from the Lexus RX SUV, then the second generation has more visual lines that is more striking even when afar. This vehicle ushered the usage of Peter Schreyer's "tiger nose" grille application, further extending to other Kia vehicles. LX models loses the fog lamps and roof rails while EX units have these.
Since our market favors vehicles that can seat more than five humans, the Sorento obliges this especially that it has a third row seat (thanks to a size increase). This feature was dropped in 2013 for LX models, while the EX 4x4 has this one among the variants. Apart from this, material quality is top notch plus they are logically placed and numerous pockets abound the vehicle. Mood lighting, which illuminates the door panels during evening, comes standard only for 2009 to 2012 models.
Engine
All new engines (for the Philippine market at least) have seen usage in this vehicle, and interestingly enough both engines are from Hyundai. The first engine to be offered is a Theta II 2.4 4-cylinder, shared with the Hyundai Sonata and several Kia vehicles, that has 174hp at 6,000rpm and 227Nm at 3,750rpm. The popular engine (and what we pick) is the R 2.2 diesel which produces 194hp at 3,800rpm and 436Nm at 2,500rpm. For all intents, skip the gasoline especially that the engine struggles to carry the weight in which fuel economy and acceleration suffers because of this. On the other hand, the diesel is much powerful and powerband is accessible at an early 2,500rpm. No more 4x4 locking hubs available, it utilizes an all wheel drive system for selected models while front wheel drive is the basic one.
Driving Impressions
Since it now uses a unibody platform, riding and driving one is more similar to a car with high levels of refinement. Steering and handling may be on the lighter side, but that is an advantage for easy driving. If you are considering trading a truck based SUV, this is one good bet.
Verdict
With lots of changes, the second generation Sorento is an improved beast with numerous accolades and acknowledgements under the name, Kia has a winner here. Though far from perfect, it has taken its efforts more seriously.
Sunday, November 15, 2015
Car Features - 10 Commonly Repossessed Vehicles November 2015
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 November 15 2015. Sources include: PS Bank, Banco De Oro, RCBC Savings Bank, East West Bank, Unionbank, Maybank, BPI, Security Bank, and Chinabank
Do take note the list is accurate as of November 15 2015. Sources include: PS Bank, Banco De Oro, RCBC Savings Bank, East West Bank, Unionbank, Maybank, BPI, Security Bank, and Chinabank
Saturday, November 14, 2015
Car Profiles - Audi TT
AUDI TT
The Good: Advanced technologies come present
The Bad: Expensive for such offering
Price Range: P4,400,000-P4,900,000
Our Rating: *****
Last Update: November 14, 2015
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
Recall Alert - Nissan Philippines Recalls Frontier, X-Trail, Patrol, Teana
With Honda recalling nearly every vehicle in its line-up which were sold from 2003 to 2012, Nissan had followed suit but only involving four vehicles from 2003 to 2008. If there is a reason for this, it would be the defective airbags caused by the Takata fiasco. If you have a Nissan Frontier, Teana, X-Trail, or Patrol then read this one.
Lexus RX - Generation 3.1 (2009-2012)
Car Profiles - Lexus RX (2009-2015)
The Good: Car-like ride quality and handling
The Bad: Poor visibility, handling not to German level
The Say: The one that started a craze still goes strong.
Go For: RX350
Avoid: RX450h
Price Range: P1,750,000-P1,980,000
Our Rating: ****
Related Reviews: Used Car Review - Lexus RX (2009-2015)
Latest vehicle profile: Lexus RX
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2009-2012
2012-2015
Monday, November 9, 2015
Used Car Review - Subaru Outback (2010-2015)
This unusual car caught Myk Belmonte, and wonders how this car survived this long.
2010-2015 Subaru Outback
History
Success is one word in which the party (singular or plural form) enjoys the fruits of their labor with demand for it is huge. This is true in the automotive industry, especially that cars are successful in different aspects like practicality, price, and reliability. Some, don't succeed in a multitude of reasons and cost them a lot. The featured car here became a runaway success and had a group of fans in one part of America.
Back in the early 90s, Subaru faced declining sales in the US due to the fact they lack an SUV offering, which was hot stuff back then. With no money for development (the Forester was light years away), Subaru took the Legacy wagon and added some body cladding and lifting the height in the process. The result: it saved their US operations while offering an alternative to big truck based SUVs back then. Australian and Japanese introductions followed suit, as well as a limited edition Legacy Sport Utility Sedan, not related but a similar concept to it. So successful it went on to be available in the succeeding generations.
Launched alongside the fifth generation Legacy, the Outback equivalent arrived locally. It utilized a larger engine, a first for its nameplate.
Value and Costs
Those who want the versatility of a wagon while retaining SUV skills and Subaru's driving dynamics can rejoice, you can obtain one for as low as P700,000 while latest models with the chunk of their warranty will cost you in the P1.5M range. Unlike the Forester or its sedan counterparts, Outbacks are rare in the second hand market so better look carefully on the unit you are eyeing.
Maintenance costs are similar to its sedan counterparts in the same category, especially for those with larger engines. However, expect higher fuel costs due to the presence of an all wheel drive system and a large engine displacement. Good thing is that dealer service is top notch.
Exterior and Interior
Compared to the previous generation, the Outback gains more ground clearance but losing the frame-less window concept in the process. Do not fret though, the cladding remains while making the vehicle look muscular and brute. It may look too plain for some, especially when parked beside European rivals that offer more image and prestige.
Going inside will give occupants a seating position that smacks between an ordinary sedan and a legitimate SUV. Interior cabin resembles the Legacy, which evokes a luxurious cocoon while having an outgoing image. For a vehicle that pictures out of tough adventures involving light off-road, leather seats and wood panels come standard, as well as an unconventional electronic parking brake.
Engine
Turbo engines aren't available anymore in this generation, rather two naturally aspirated gasoline movers and a diesel powerplant is available. Philippine market models utilize a EZ36 3.6 H6 (boxer type) belching out 245hp at 5,600rpm and 350Nm at 4,400rpm. This engine can pull the vehicle without strain, even if it's in full load.
Driving Impressions
Some say wagons are plaid and boring as vanilla ice cream, but Subaru wants you to debunk this notion. A secret switch called the S-Drive allows you to drive conservatively, fun but moderate (Sport), or hardcore level (Sport+) and exploit the car's chassis and abilities. Handling is similar to a car, not a hulking SUV plus ride quality is topnotch.
Verdict
There is a reason why the Outback sold well: a height similar to an SUV, drives and rides like a car, and fuel consumption isn't wallet draining. People in Colorado and New England wouldn't be wrong in this car, and also you. If you prefer your ride low but with the skills of a larger car (without feeling one), this is a sensible pick. No diesels available here, so head to the Europeans if you want one though.
Saturday, November 7, 2015
Car Profiles - Nissan Almera
First launched in 2012 and subsequently released the following year, the Almera slugged it out in the super competitive sub-compact class. While late to the party, its strength lies on the spacious room and trunk at the expense of an awkward rear design that you wouldn't mind anyways. A 2016 update gets more variants including an entry level with a 1.2 engine
The Good: Spacious cabin and trunk
The Bad: Bland driving dynamics, even blander styling.
Price Range: P657,000-P933,000
Our Rating: ***
Last Update: February 5, 2018
Car Profiles - Nissan Almera (2013-Current)
The Good: Oodles of rear and trunk space for the class
The Bad: The vehicle's styling and driving feel is bland
The Say: Apart from space, nothing shines for this car all around in its class.
Go For: Base, it is more than enough
Avoid: Mid, no need to go for the extras
Price Range: P450,000-P550,000
Our Rating: ***
Related Reviews: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Nissan Almera
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2013-2015
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
Car Profiles - Ford Focus Hatchback
The Good: Fun to drive and handle
The Bad: Cramped rear seat
Price Range: P1,088,000-P1,278,000
Our Rating: ****
Last Update: November 3, 2015
Car Profiles - Ford Focus Sedan
The Good: Fun to drive and handle
The Bad: Cramped rear seat
Price Range: P1,088,000-P1,278,000
Our Rating: ****
Last Update: November 3, 2015
Car Profiles - Ford Focus Hatchback (2012-Current)
The Good: A hatchback that is fun to drive and handle
The Bad: A hatchback that carries a cramped back seat and no manual option
The Say: A stylish car which retains its predecessor's known traits.
Go For: 1.6 Trend
Avoid:
Price Range: P490,000-P700,000
Our Rating: ****
Related Reviews: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Ford Focus Hatchback
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2012-2015
Car Profiles - Ford Focus Sedan (2012-Current)
The Good: Great to drive and a perky handler
The Bad: Tight rear seat, powershift transmission takes time to get used to
The Say: The core formulas remains while receiving a modern package.
Go For: 1.6 Trend
Avoid:
Price Range: P490,000-P700,000
Our Rating: ****
Related Reviews: None as of the moment
Latest vehicle profile: Ford Focus Sedan
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2012-2015
Car Profiles - Kia Optima (2012-2015)
The Good: Feature loaded, sleek looking
The Bad: Somewhat tight headroom
The Say: Does everything the Sonata can while remaining a distinct profile
Go For: 2.4 EX
Avoid:
Price Range: Data Not Available
Our Rating: ****
Related Reviews: None as of the Moment
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2012-2015
Monday, November 2, 2015
Used Car Review - Subaru Legacy (2010-2015)
Myk Belmonte's treat for the second day of November, this executive car which you can have for less.
2010-2015 Subaru Legacy
History
Americans love mid-size sedans, in which every manufacturer had to place their bet in which is a crowded market. In fact, the Toyota Camry still sells well since taking the title as the best selling passenger car (overall, the Chevrolet Silverado and Ford F-Series sells more) in 1997 while the Honda Accord got to snatch the title for just one year, in 2001. With the exception of Mitsubishi and Suzuki who had given up the mid-size sedan market among the Japanese makes, competitors from other brands stayed strong for mostly 20 years plus, and Subaru was one of them.
Since it's 1989 launch, the Legacy had undergone six generations with numerous changes. The fifth generation model that we will be reviewing was first previewed as a concept car in commemoration of its 20th anniversary. Production started in May at the Indiana plant while Japanese sales commenced the same month, together with the related Subaru Outback. A CVT transmission was introduced here, while the wagon body was the last for the nameplate as it was ditched for the next generation.
Locally, this was the second time the Legacy was sold with a sedan and wagon body back to back. Motor Image Pilipinas brought in the fifth gen alongisde the Outback in 2009 as a 2010 model, which utilized a 2.5 turbo engine underneath paired to a 5-speed automatic. The wagon was first discontinued in November 2014 with the entire line-up replaced by the sixth generation the following year.
Value and Costs
This Subaru can be obtained for as low as P800,000 while later models flirt around the P1M range, give or take the condition. This is a good choice for those who want more driving presence and power through a turbo powerplant while having a more premium image that can keep with the various Bimmers and Benzes of the same time.
Compared with its Japanese peers, maintenance costs are on the upper scale due to the presence of a turbo and an all wheel drive system. Make sure to check any electronics especially it is loaded with them, just like any vehicle in this segment. Lastly, inspect if the turbo works fine; if it got shot, replacing it will cost you more.
Exterior and Interior
Outside, it may look somewhat ordinary when compared to most contemporaries but some flanks give resemblance to several German sedans. Twin exhaust pipes come standard, giving the vehicle a more sporty stance. Overall, it is a standout in a sea of bland competitors while having a European flair. Before we leave this paragraph, the frame-less windows were dropped, ending a Subaru tradition.
Unlike rivals from Deutschland, rear space is habitable while overall quality is topnotch. Panels are of the faux carbon fiber and aluminum variety that contemplate the numerous cabin storage spread throughout the vehicle. An electronic parking brake comes standard, unlike the conventional that others offer.
Engine
No V6 engine option yet, rather a EJ25 2.5 4-cylinder displacing 261hp at 5,600rpm and 350Nm at 2,400-5,200rpm. One unique trait is that a turbocharger comes standard, hence the broad torque curve. Enter the powerzone at 2,500 and up with boost coming at 2,700rpm while full blast plays at the 4,000rpm range. Do take note the engine is shared with the Forester XT and Impreza WRX of the same period.
Driving Impressions
Despite being redesigned, the core competence still remains. It still has the fun to drive characteristic complemented with a switch (Sport gives you more fun while Sport Sharp is hardcore) that controls the way you want it. We invite you to have fun behind the wheel but do it carefully.
Verdict
A redesign may be a make or break for a vehicle. Subaru sticked to its guns, by improving the vehicle further while retaining things that made the Legacy known for. If you value space and presence while retaining sports car driving, then this is the pick. While a new model is available, the fifth generation won't disappoint you, we promise you that.
2010-2015 Subaru Legacy
History
Americans love mid-size sedans, in which every manufacturer had to place their bet in which is a crowded market. In fact, the Toyota Camry still sells well since taking the title as the best selling passenger car (overall, the Chevrolet Silverado and Ford F-Series sells more) in 1997 while the Honda Accord got to snatch the title for just one year, in 2001. With the exception of Mitsubishi and Suzuki who had given up the mid-size sedan market among the Japanese makes, competitors from other brands stayed strong for mostly 20 years plus, and Subaru was one of them.
Since it's 1989 launch, the Legacy had undergone six generations with numerous changes. The fifth generation model that we will be reviewing was first previewed as a concept car in commemoration of its 20th anniversary. Production started in May at the Indiana plant while Japanese sales commenced the same month, together with the related Subaru Outback. A CVT transmission was introduced here, while the wagon body was the last for the nameplate as it was ditched for the next generation.
Locally, this was the second time the Legacy was sold with a sedan and wagon body back to back. Motor Image Pilipinas brought in the fifth gen alongisde the Outback in 2009 as a 2010 model, which utilized a 2.5 turbo engine underneath paired to a 5-speed automatic. The wagon was first discontinued in November 2014 with the entire line-up replaced by the sixth generation the following year.
Value and Costs
This Subaru can be obtained for as low as P800,000 while later models flirt around the P1M range, give or take the condition. This is a good choice for those who want more driving presence and power through a turbo powerplant while having a more premium image that can keep with the various Bimmers and Benzes of the same time.
Compared with its Japanese peers, maintenance costs are on the upper scale due to the presence of a turbo and an all wheel drive system. Make sure to check any electronics especially it is loaded with them, just like any vehicle in this segment. Lastly, inspect if the turbo works fine; if it got shot, replacing it will cost you more.
Exterior and Interior
Outside, it may look somewhat ordinary when compared to most contemporaries but some flanks give resemblance to several German sedans. Twin exhaust pipes come standard, giving the vehicle a more sporty stance. Overall, it is a standout in a sea of bland competitors while having a European flair. Before we leave this paragraph, the frame-less windows were dropped, ending a Subaru tradition.
Unlike rivals from Deutschland, rear space is habitable while overall quality is topnotch. Panels are of the faux carbon fiber and aluminum variety that contemplate the numerous cabin storage spread throughout the vehicle. An electronic parking brake comes standard, unlike the conventional that others offer.
Engine
No V6 engine option yet, rather a EJ25 2.5 4-cylinder displacing 261hp at 5,600rpm and 350Nm at 2,400-5,200rpm. One unique trait is that a turbocharger comes standard, hence the broad torque curve. Enter the powerzone at 2,500 and up with boost coming at 2,700rpm while full blast plays at the 4,000rpm range. Do take note the engine is shared with the Forester XT and Impreza WRX of the same period.
Driving Impressions
Despite being redesigned, the core competence still remains. It still has the fun to drive characteristic complemented with a switch (Sport gives you more fun while Sport Sharp is hardcore) that controls the way you want it. We invite you to have fun behind the wheel but do it carefully.
Verdict
A redesign may be a make or break for a vehicle. Subaru sticked to its guns, by improving the vehicle further while retaining things that made the Legacy known for. If you value space and presence while retaining sports car driving, then this is the pick. While a new model is available, the fifth generation won't disappoint you, we promise you that.
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