Friday, September 30, 2016

Car Features - Cars Thais Can Buy That Filipinos Can't (And Vice Versa)

Considered as the Detroit of Asia, Thailand nearly builds the cars you are driving locally ranging from sub-compacts to large pickups and SUVs. All manufacturers have their assembly plants and they export these not just in our region but nearly everywhere. While we have vehicle assembly here, Thailand's favorable tax incentives and business environment wins the hearts of car makers.

Since Thailand sells nearly 500,000 units in a given year, we would fish out vehicles that they get but in return, we don't have (and we list cars that is not marketed there). This list does not include the likes of engine (hybrid and CNG are popular there) and body configurations (for the pickup trucks in Thailand) for both countries which makes it very long and we would only focus on popular brands, leaving out small players such as luxury brands and some unknowns. With the country being the first place in ASEAN to have car launches which follows in other nations, vehicles that are expected to be launched locally on a later (with some unannounced) date such as the Mazda CX-3 and Honda BR-V are not included on this list. Note: Mazda had launched the CX-3 at the Philippine International Motor Show two weeks ago. Honda had previewed the BR-V at the same event with deliveries starting December this year.

In reality, Thailand moves more cars but they have lesser vehicles in their line-up compared to ours.

Thursday, September 29, 2016

Quickie Used Car Review - Nissan Frontier Navara (2007-2015)

2007-2015 Nissan Frontier Navara

The Good: More power than before

The Bad: Less clearance and space than competitors

The Say: Still has an edge on the competition, though outclassed in some aspects.

Go For: 4x2 LE
Avoid: Tech Xtreme and Krome Editions

Price Range: P530,000-P950,000
Our Rating: ***

Full Review: Used Car Review - Nissan Frontier Navara (2007-2015)
Latest vehicle profile: Nissan Frontier Navara

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2007-2015

Quickie Used Car Review - Toyota Corolla Altis (2001-2007)

2001-2007 Toyota Corolla Altis

The Good: More space and practical

The Bad: Ain't a livelier partner

The Say: At these prices, this is a bargain.

Go For: 1.6 E
Avoid: 1.6 S

Price Range: P200,000-P350,000
Our Rating: ****

Full Review: Used Car Review - Toyota Corolla Altis (2001-2007)
Latest vehicle profile: Toyota Corolla Altis

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2001-2003
2004-2008

Monday, September 26, 2016

Quickie Used Car Review - Mitsubishi Strada (2006-2015)

2006-2015 Mitsubishi Strada

The Good: Great amount of space inside, available diesel engines (naturally aspirated and with VGT) in the used car market, rides like a car

The Bad: Soft suspension, soft looks, somewhat limited utility

The Say: A pick-up truck for the city dweller, but for more utility and off-road capability other choices are better.

Go For: GLX/GLX-V
Avoid: 

Price Range: P565,000-P900,000
Our Rating: ***

Full Review: Used Car Review - Mitsubishi Strada (2006-2015)
Latest vehicle profile: Mitsubishi Strada

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2006-2009
2009-2015 (non-VGT)/(VGT)

Quickie Used Car Review - Mazda 3 Hatchback (2012-2014)

2012-2014 Mazda 3 Hatchback

The Good: Fun to drive

The Bad: The engine must be worked hard

The Say: Still has that fun to drive persona.

Go For: 1.6
Avoid: Anything that is questionable

Price Range: P490,000-P710,000
Our Rating: ***

Full Review: Used Car Review - Mazda 3 (2012-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: Mazda 3 Hatchback

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2012-2014

Quickie Used Car Review - Mazda 3 Sedan (2012-2014)

2012-2014 Mazda 3 Sedan

The Good: Driving fun is still present

The Bad: But the 1.6 engine needs to be pushed

The Say: Has the credentials but comes late to the party.

Go For: 1.6
Avoid: 

Price Range: P490,000-P710,000
Our Rating: ****

Full Review: Used Car Review - Mazda 3 (2012-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: Mazda 3 Sedan

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2012-2014

Sunday, September 25, 2016

Car Profiles - Audi A4 (2008-2016)

2008-2016 Audi A4

The Good: Available diesel engine, interior quality

The Bad: Tight rear seat, complicated controls

The Say: An interesting alternative to the popular choices.

Go For: 2.0 TDI
Avoid:

Price Range: P900,000-P1,900,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: 
Latest vehicle profile: Audi A4

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2008-2016

Thursday, September 22, 2016

Quickie Used Car Review - Toyota Hilux (2005-2015)

2005-2015 Toyota Hilux

The Good: Durable, interior space

The Bad: Heavy steering, lacks some off-road kit

The Say: Balances comfort and practicality.

Go For: 3.0 G
Avoid: 2.7 G

Price Range: P430,000-P1,160,000
Our Rating: ***

Full Review: Used Car Review - Toyota Hilux (2005-2015)
Latest vehicle profile: Toyota Hilux

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2004-2008
2008-2011
2011-2015 non-VNT/VNT

Quickie Used Car Review - Nissan Sentra (2010-2014)

2010-2014 Nissan Sentra

The Good: Space and price

The Bad: Interior quality and CVT performance

The Say: Other 2.0 sedans are better buys.

Go For: 200
Avoid: 

Price Range: P290,000-P600,000
Our Rating: **

Full Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Nissan Sylphy

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2010-2014

Monday, September 19, 2016

Used Car Review - Mercedes Benz E Class Sedan (2009-2016)

Myk Belmonte finds something luxurious and desirable in a package you can afford for this month.

2009-2016 Mercedes Benz E Class Sedan

History
In June 2015 the E Class nameplate sold 13 million copies worldwide throughout its 68 year run which is unbroken among all Mercedes Benz vehicles and its lineage had started before World War II. From a variety of body styles including the ubiquitous sedan, wagon (a European favorite), coupe, and a long wheelbase model exclusive for the Chinese market, there is an E Class for everyone who can afford it.

Representing the fourth generation model of the E Class is the W212 chassis, which is available in sedan and wagon body styles while the convertible and coupe rides on the C Class' W202 chassis that is still produced until today. Development started in 2003 followed by styling work in 2004 with design cues reminiscent of certain then-current and past models from the brand. The previous model was marred with quality issues so this one had to return to its bank vault, high quality roots.

The Philippine market was the first South East Asian country to receive this model in the region, citing a stable market despite the global financial crisis affecting larger markets such as Singapore and Thailand. The E300 sedan came first followed by the E350 Coupe in October and other low displacement engines appeared later on, with an update in 2013 that had streamlined into two variants.

Value and Costs
With the W213 model being recently launched, expect prices to dip down further but if you are aiming for this one, prices range between P1,700,000 for the older units while going for a recent release will shell you at least P4,700,000. For peace of mind and security, we suggest going for a certified pre-owned unit since these are inspected and a limited warranty is offered. Other models such as the E500 are available from the grey market and can be serviced with a nominal fee.

Since Mercedes Benz promised to return to its bank vault roots and to leave out poor reliability from its equation, there are no problems reported as of now so it is safe to assume that this will hold long than its problem laden predecessor. For luxury models like this, do inspect electronic items since they have the tendency of being an expensive fix when they go wrong and the suspension system. The 1.8 engine is turbocharged, so use high octane fuels to be safe.

Exterior and Interior
As we said above, cues of some Benz models were integrated in this vehicle including the W204 C Class, W221 S Class, and 1950s "Ponton" era models. Although still luxurious looking, the design is a mixed bag since designers took a streamlined approach to keep up with the current design language of the brand.

Go inside and be pampered by a leather filled cabin coupled with high quality materials and a clean dashboard layout. Other highlights of this vehicle include a COMAND system which could be confusing for first timers, a Harman/Kardon sound system, and steering wheel controls for audio, Bluetooth, and information controls. For the passenger's point of view, it is still spacious and comfortable to be in.

Engine
First release models are in the form of the M272 3.0 gasoline that puts out 231hp at 6,000rpm and 300Nm at 2,500-5,000rpm with later engines such as the M271 DE 1.8 turbocharged gasoline having 204hp at 5,500rpm and 310Nm at 2,000-4,300rpm and a OM651 DE 22 LA 2.1 diesel churning out 201hp and 500Nm at 1,600-1,800rpm. Lets do a rundown of the engine's characteristics, the 3.0 V6 is a smooth performer, the 2.1 diesel is much fuel friendly and can go for long while retaining the petrol's traits, and the turbo having power at 2,000, will make the car lunge forward and can keep at bay while being fuel efficient thanks to the BlueEfficiency package.

Driving Impressions
Striking a balance between comfort and handling, the W212 E Class is a hoot to drive. A Direct Control selective damping which makes the suspension soft or firm automatically depending on the road condition comes standard. Despite the somewhat bulk, it defies its weight making it a great all around vehicle.

Verdict
While old E Class models were luxurious but afflicted with reliability problems, this generation is in fighting form especially that it comes more prepared than before. With a sheer driving pleasure rivaling BMW while retaining MB's luxurious cabin, you have a winner here for less the price.

Saturday, September 17, 2016

Car Profiles - Nissan GT-R

NISSAN GT-R

Well, the car gods had answered your prayers especially that Godzilla had arrived on our shores, in the form of the 2017 model. The same formula remains: an impressive engine (with a power bump), aggressive looks, and an advanced all wheel drive system. Bad news: only one dealer sells this one and the price you have to swallow.

The Good:
The Bad:

Price Range: P7,350,000
Our Rating:

Last Update: September 17, 2016

Car Profiles - Mazda CX-3

MAZDA CX-3

Based on the Mazda 2, this sub-compact crossover gives emphasis on sporty driving which the manufacturer is promoting. Yes, this is aggressive looking but its stubby size may not appeal to all.

The Good:
The Bad:

Price Range: P1,290,000-P1,600,000
Our Rating:

Last Update: February 5, 2018

Car Profiles - Jeep Renegade

JEEP RENEGADE

Since Jeep is in a roll (thanks to a trend towards SUVs), they need a sub-compact SUV. This Fiat based SUV has cute but rugged looks yet with Jeep capabilities. Too bad, the price does not fit with the size.

The Good:
The Bad:

Price Range: P1,941,000
Our Rating:

Last Update: September 17, 2016

Car Profiles - BAIC M20

BAIC M20

Apart from selling microvans, BAIC now expands its people carrier portfolio with the M20. Options between 7 or 8 people capacity in a roomy package for below 600k, it is a winner here except for the long term.

The Good:
The Bad:

Price Range: P548,000-P578,000
Our Rating:

Last Update: September 17, 2016

Friday, September 16, 2016

Car Features - 10 Commonly Repossessed Vehicles September 2016

Today is your payday and you are contemplating on getting a car. Rather than wasting money on new car depreciation, a late model repossessed car is a prudent choice since recent year models are available. This list reveals that one bank has a lot of cars repo'ed.

Do take note the list is accurate as of September 16, 2016. Sources include: PS Bank, Banco De Oro, RCBC Savings Bank, East West Bank, Unionbank, Maybank, BPI, and Security Bank.

See the top 10 of  the following months: October 2015November 2015, January 2016February 2016, March 2016, April 2016, May 2016, June 2016, July 2016 and August 2016. Original 2014 article here.

Thursday, September 15, 2016

Quickie Used Car Review - Isuzu Alterra (2005-2014)

2005-2014 Isuzu Alterra

The Good: Fuel friendly, cushy ride

The Bad: Engine clatter, unrefined

The Say: An interesting alternative which has some good and bad traits.

Go For: 4x2
Avoid:

Price Range: P480,000-P835,000
Our Rating: ***

Full Review: Used Car Review - Isuzu Alterra (2005-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: Isuzu MU-X

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2005-2008
2009-2014

Quickie Used Car Review - Kia Soul (2009-2014)

2009-2014 Kia Soul

The Good: Stylish, spacious

The Bad: Ride isn't that good, rear visibility

The Say: Funky looking vehicle that has problems.

Go For: 1.6 LX
Avoid: 2.0 EX

Price Range: P350,000-P480,000
Our Rating: ***

Full ReviewUsed Car Review - Kia Soul (2009-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: Kia Soul

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2009-2010
2010-2014

Monday, September 12, 2016

Quickie Used Car Review - Ford Everest (2003-2015)

2003-2015 Ford Everest

The Good: Durable chassis, suspension won't break on you, excellent off-road skills

The Bad: Unrefined, bumpy ride

The Say: One outstanding pick if you are in the market for a mid-size SUV.

Go For: 2007 and above 2.5
Avoid: 2003-2006 2.5 AT

Price Range: P345,000-P1,000,000
Our Rating: ***

Full Reviews: Used Car Review - Ford Everest (2003-2006)/Used Car Review - Ford Everest (2007-2015)
Latest vehicle profile: Ford Everest

See the different versions of this vehicle

Quickie Used Car Review - Subaru Impreza Sedan (2009-2014)

2009-2014 Subaru Impreza Sedan

The Good: Choices of normal 2.0, WRX and WRX STI

The Bad: Not fuel efficient, old 4-speed automatic

The Say: You can enjoy the drive with the added trunk.

Go For: 2.0
Avoid: 

Price Range: P400,000-P1,500,000
Our Rating: ****

Full ReviewsUsed Car Review - Subaru Impreza (2008-2012)/Used Car Review - Subaru Impreza WRX/WRX STi (2008-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: Subaru Impreza/Subaru WRX/WRX STI

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2009-2012 (Regular Sedan)

Quickie Used Car Review - Subaru Impreza Hatchback (2007-2014)

2007-2014 Subaru Impreza Hatchback

The Good: More practical and spirited even without the trunk

The Bad: Fuel economy isn't great, power sapping automatic for the WRX STI

The Say: There is no need to sacrifice performance on a different body.

Go For: 2.0R Sport
Avoid: 

Price Range: P400,000-P1,500,000
Our Rating: ****

Full Reviews: Used Car Review - Subaru Impreza (2008-2012)/Used Car Review - Subaru Impreza WRX/WRX STi (2008-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: Subaru Impreza/Subaru WRX/WRX STI

See the different versions of this vehicle:

2007-2012 (Regular Hatchback)

Thursday, September 8, 2016

Quickie Used Car Review - Mitsubishi Montero Sport (2008-2015)

2008-2015 Mitsubishi Montero Sport

The Good: Not matagtag, plenty of models in the market, numerous features available

The Bad: Limited space in the third row, not great off-road, does not like low revs

The Say: Definitely lives up to its sporty name.

Go For: 2.5 GLS/GLX (non VGT)
Avoid: 3.0 V6

Price Range: P600,000-P1,300,000
Our Rating: ****

Full Review: Used Car Review - Mitsubishi Montero Sport (2008-2015)
Latest vehicle profile: Mitsubishi Montero Sport

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2008-2013 non-VGT/VGT
2014-2015

Quickie Used Car Review - Suzuki SX4 Hatchback (2010-2015)

2010-2015 Suzuki SX4 Hatchback

The Good: Spacious interior, all around vehicle

The Bad: Limited cargo space, poor residuals

The Say: Can act two cars in one body.

Go For: Crossover
Avoid:

Price Range: P340,000-P550,000
Our Rating: ***

Full Review: Used Car Review - Suzuki SX4 (2010-2015)

See the different versions of this vehicle:

Quickie Used Car Review - Suzuki SX4 Sedan (2008-2011)

2008-2011 Suzuki SX4 Sedan

The Good: Drives decently, looks sporty enough

The Bad: Early engines struggle with weight, cheap feeling interior

The Say: Nice car that struggles to stay afloat.

Go For: 1.6 Aero (2010-2011)
Avoid: 1.6 Sedan (2008-2010)

Price Range: P320,000-P340,000
Our Rating: **

Full Review: Used Car Review - Suzuki SX4 (2008-2015)

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2008-2010
2010-2011

Monday, September 5, 2016

Quickie Used Car Review - Toyota Fortuner (2005-2015)

2005-2015 Toyota Fortuner

The Good: Wide variety of engines and examples in the market, durable

The Bad: Some unrefinement, 2.5 non-VNT lacks oomph

The Say: Despite the influx of new competitors, the Fortuner is a great buy in the market.

Go For: 3.0 V
Avoid: 2.7 G

Price Range: P550,000-P1,250,000
Our Rating: ****

Full Review: Used Car Review - Toyota Fortuner (2005-2015)
Latest vehicle profile: Toyota Fortuner

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2005-2008
2008-2011
2011-Current non-VNT/VNT

Quickie Used Car Review - Chevrolet Optra Wagon (2006-2009)

2006-2009 Chevrolet Optra Wagon

The Good: Load anything you want at the rear

The Bad: Engine is thirsty than other contemporaries

The Say: Buy this if you are after flexibility, not for driving fun.

Go For: 1.6 LS
Avoid: 1.6 SS

Price Range: P220,000-P390,000
Our Rating: **

Full Review: Used Car Review - Chevrolet Optra Wagon (2006-2009)

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2006-2007
2008-2010

Quickie Used Car Review - Chevrolet Optra Sedan (2003-2009)

2003-2009 Chevrolet Optra Sedan

The Good: Affordable and full of kit

The Bad: Fuel thirsty, does not shine in any aspect

The Say: Attainable but not that exciting.

Go For: 1.6 LS
Avoid: 1.8 LT and 1.6 SS

Price Range: P140,000-P300,000
Our Rating: **

Full Review: Used Car Review - Chevrolet Optra (2003-2009)

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2003-2005
2005-2007
2008-2010

Friday, September 2, 2016

Car Profiles - Hyundai Azera (2013-2016)

2013-2016 Hyundai Azera

The Good: High levels of quality

The Bad: Rare in the market

The Say: A fine car, if not only for the badge

Go For: 3.0
Avoid:

Price Range: Data Not Available
Our Rating: ****

Related Review:

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2013-2016

Car Profiles - Toyota Prius (2009-2016)

2009-2016 Toyota Prius

The Good: Earth saving vehicle with excellent fuel consumption and decent interior room

The Bad: Not much in the used market

The Say: Saving the earth does not come easy.

Go For: 1.8
Avoid: 

Price Range: Data Not Available
Our Rating: ***

Related Review: Used Car Review - Toyota Prius (2009-2016)
Latest vehicle profile: Toyota Prius

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2009-2016

Thursday, September 1, 2016

Quickie Used Car Review - Ford Focus Hatchback (2005-2012)

2005-2012 Ford Focus Hatchback

The Good: Driving dynamics, diesel pull, versatile

The Bad: Less room, flimsy interior, 6-speed MT not traffic friendly

The Say: An outstanding hatchback, despite the less roomy interior and cheesy interior.

Go For: 1.8 Sport
Avoid: 2.0 Sport gas

Price Range: P300,000-P780,000
Our Rating: ****

Full Review: Used Car Review - Ford Focus (2005-2012)
Latest vehicle profile: Ford Focus Hatchback

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2005-2008
2008-2012

Quickie Used Car Review - Ford Focus Sedan (2005-2012)

2005-2012 Ford Focus Sedan

The Good: Juggles between sharp handling and passenger comfort

The Bad: Cramped interior

The Say: Unless you need the boot, the hatchback versions would give you great satisfaction.

Go For: 1.6 Trend
Avoid: 2.0 Ghia Gas

Price Range: P200,000-P500,000
Our Rating: ****

Full Review: Used Car Review - Ford Focus (2005-2012)
Latest vehicle profile: Ford Focus Sedan

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2005-2008
2008-2012