From a communist nation closed to the world back then, Vietnam is becoming one of the rising economies in ASEAN. While they do have a larger market for motorcycles (similar to us), their car market is booming with several car assembly plants located there.
Lets discover the Vietnamese market by determining what cars we get (and in return they don't) and vice versa. The list does not include the likes of engine and body configurations for both countries and we would only focus on popular brands, leaving out small players such as luxury brands and some unknowns.
Before we start, we'd remind you this list on has cars and not motorcycles so don't expect Honda Cubs on this one.
Monday, November 28, 2016
Monday, November 21, 2016
Used Car Review - Audi A4 (2008-2012)
This compact executive is being replaced and Myk Belmonte discovers this gem.
2008-2012 Audi A4
History
Mention the word "compact executive" and the top two answers would be two German compatriots: the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C Class. Heck, the Lexus IS would also be mentioned at the same breath leaving some rivals such as the Audi A4 or the Volvo S60 out of the equation. Sure, the A4 doesn't have any faults but with rivals overshadowing over its popularity, this one deserves a keen look at the second hand market.
Released in September 2007 at the Frankfurt Motor Show for the sedan (with the Avant having its debut in March 2008), the B8 series A4 represented the fourth generation model of the vehicle line. This generation utilized a variant of the Audi Modular Longitudinal Platform which allowed the vehicle to utilize a longer wheelbase without growing in length which made improvements in its handling due to the redistribution of the center of gravity.
Locally, it had its debut sometime in mid-2008 which competed with the fresh C Class, long-in-the-tooth S60 and class leader 3 Series. Both diesel and turbocharged gasoline models were made available to Filipino consumers.
Value and Costs
If you are not a fan of the bling-bling that a Benz or a Bimmer gives you, even on a second hand package, then the allure of an Audi may suit you. Prices for this Ingolstadt assembled vehicle ranges from P900,000 to P1,900,000, which may also include rivals from Europe and Japan given the range. Our advice for premium brands when going second hand is to go certified pre-owned, as such PGA Cars has a wide range of certified units available.
Between the two engines, we'd pick the diesel due to the savings that can give you. Common problems for this vehicle include the EGR in diesel models and the headlights have the tendency to blacken out. Early release models have their MMI interface freeze, so make sure it works properly.
Exterior and Interior
As we said earlier, the redesign gave this vehicle more space without looking bulky and making it more longer than its two German rivals. Its styling is definitely timeless and can withstand the test of time without making this vehicle look outdated.
The interior is where Audi excels, and they succeed in this redesign with high quality materials abound this vehicle. Inside it may be bare but it was crafted perfectly. When placing in passengers, the rear is best left to two since the middle seat has the driveshaft tunnel (to make way to an all wheel drive system) passing through making the one sitting there uncomfortable.
Engine
If you prefer the quietness of a gasoline engine, the sole option would be the 1.8 turbocharged which puts out, depending on the year model, 158hp at 4,500-6,200rpm and 250Nm at 1,500-4,500rpm for 2008 to 2011 models while later ones play at 170hp at 3,800-6,200rpm and 320Nm at 1,750-3,000rpm. Choosing the diesel will opt you for a 2.0 unit having 143hp at 4,200rpm and 320Nm at 1,750-2,500rpm. Both engines are impressive enough on their own intents, with the diesel masquerading for something as gasoline driven.
Driving Impressions
Having a suspension set-up for touring purposes, the ride will not beat you up and still bring your tired body home with ease. Steering is on the sharp side and ride quality is excellent.
Verdict
Sure, it may not have the badge of a Benz or the driving feel of a BMW, the Audi A4 makes an excellent proposition if you value economy and presence more without the flash.
2008-2012 Audi A4
History
Mention the word "compact executive" and the top two answers would be two German compatriots: the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C Class. Heck, the Lexus IS would also be mentioned at the same breath leaving some rivals such as the Audi A4 or the Volvo S60 out of the equation. Sure, the A4 doesn't have any faults but with rivals overshadowing over its popularity, this one deserves a keen look at the second hand market.
Released in September 2007 at the Frankfurt Motor Show for the sedan (with the Avant having its debut in March 2008), the B8 series A4 represented the fourth generation model of the vehicle line. This generation utilized a variant of the Audi Modular Longitudinal Platform which allowed the vehicle to utilize a longer wheelbase without growing in length which made improvements in its handling due to the redistribution of the center of gravity.
Locally, it had its debut sometime in mid-2008 which competed with the fresh C Class, long-in-the-tooth S60 and class leader 3 Series. Both diesel and turbocharged gasoline models were made available to Filipino consumers.
Value and Costs
If you are not a fan of the bling-bling that a Benz or a Bimmer gives you, even on a second hand package, then the allure of an Audi may suit you. Prices for this Ingolstadt assembled vehicle ranges from P900,000 to P1,900,000, which may also include rivals from Europe and Japan given the range. Our advice for premium brands when going second hand is to go certified pre-owned, as such PGA Cars has a wide range of certified units available.
Between the two engines, we'd pick the diesel due to the savings that can give you. Common problems for this vehicle include the EGR in diesel models and the headlights have the tendency to blacken out. Early release models have their MMI interface freeze, so make sure it works properly.
Exterior and Interior
As we said earlier, the redesign gave this vehicle more space without looking bulky and making it more longer than its two German rivals. Its styling is definitely timeless and can withstand the test of time without making this vehicle look outdated.
The interior is where Audi excels, and they succeed in this redesign with high quality materials abound this vehicle. Inside it may be bare but it was crafted perfectly. When placing in passengers, the rear is best left to two since the middle seat has the driveshaft tunnel (to make way to an all wheel drive system) passing through making the one sitting there uncomfortable.
Engine
If you prefer the quietness of a gasoline engine, the sole option would be the 1.8 turbocharged which puts out, depending on the year model, 158hp at 4,500-6,200rpm and 250Nm at 1,500-4,500rpm for 2008 to 2011 models while later ones play at 170hp at 3,800-6,200rpm and 320Nm at 1,750-3,000rpm. Choosing the diesel will opt you for a 2.0 unit having 143hp at 4,200rpm and 320Nm at 1,750-2,500rpm. Both engines are impressive enough on their own intents, with the diesel masquerading for something as gasoline driven.
Driving Impressions
Having a suspension set-up for touring purposes, the ride will not beat you up and still bring your tired body home with ease. Steering is on the sharp side and ride quality is excellent.
Verdict
Sure, it may not have the badge of a Benz or the driving feel of a BMW, the Audi A4 makes an excellent proposition if you value economy and presence more without the flash.
Saturday, November 19, 2016
Car Profiles - Honda BR-V
HONDA BR-V
Still derived from the Brio platform, the BR-V (short for Bold Roundabout Vehicle) has chunky looks while being practical and importantly, cheap. Price places it as a tweener, same with size. Do not expect high levels of quality inside though.
The Good:
The Bad:
Price Range: P1,030,000-P1,210,000
Our Rating:
Last Update: January 9, 2018
Car Features - 10 Commonly Repossessed Vehicles November 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 November 19, 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 2015, November 2015, January 2016, February 2016, March 2016, April 2016, May 2016, June 2016, July 2016, August 2016, September 2016, and October 2016. Original 2014 article here.
Do take note the list is accurate as of November 19, 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 2015, November 2015, January 2016, February 2016, March 2016, April 2016, May 2016, June 2016, July 2016, August 2016, September 2016, and October 2016. Original 2014 article here.
Thursday, November 17, 2016
Quickie Used Car Review - Nissan Murano (2010-2015)
2010-2015 Nissan Murano
The Good: Drives like a car
The Bad: Some traits of a car remain for a crossover SUV
The Say: A car that has the talents which comes unappreciated.
Go For: Z51
Avoid:
Price Range: P1,200,000-P1,300,000
Our Rating: ****
Full Review: Used Car Review - Nissan Murano (2010-2015)
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2010-2015
The Good: Drives like a car
The Bad: Some traits of a car remain for a crossover SUV
The Say: A car that has the talents which comes unappreciated.
Go For: Z51
Avoid:
Price Range: P1,200,000-P1,300,000
Our Rating: ****
Full Review: Used Car Review - Nissan Murano (2010-2015)
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2010-2015
Quickie Used Car Review - Chevrolet Traverse (2011-2015)
The Good: Can fit eight people in comfort, space
The Bad: No diesel, dated interior
The Say: A worthy car ruined by poor pricing and marketing.
Go For: LT 4x2
Avoid:
Price Range: P1,400,000-P1,650,000
Our Rating: ***
Full Review: None as of the Moment
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2011-2015
Monday, November 14, 2016
Used Car Review - Toyota Prius (2009-2016)
Revisiting in what could be a game changer is Myk Belmonte's duty for today.
2009-2016 Toyota Prius
History
Once upon a time, there was a car named Toyota Prius whose original concept can be traced from an exhibit at the 1995 Tokyo Motor Show which was followed by a testing a year later. The first generation model, which utilized a sedan body, went on sale in December 1997 in Japan which became the first mass market hybrid vehicle and worldwide launch happened at the turn of the millennium. Because of its popularity with environmentalists and became popular when fuel prices shot up, the Prius family was expanded to include a smaller version known as the Prius c (or Aqua in Japan), Prius V wagon, and the Prius plug-in hybrid.
Running on its third generation model, the XW30 Prius continued on with its hatchback body with a debut at the 2009 North American International Auto Show and sales started in May 2009 for the Japanese market. There were 1,000 patents that had filed for this model and several changes for this model happened which includes a bump in engine displacement to 1.8 liters, a change of transaxle to THS III, and had used a new range of plant-derived ecological bioplastics extracted from the wood's cellulose with kenaf and ramie as its principal crops. Interestingly enough, this generation saw the launch of the full Prius family for worldwide consumption.
While the XW20 model was brought in for testing purposes, it was this model that had its official launch and was the first hybrid car to be sold here. While the motoring press jumped for joy, the regular folks cannot afford due to its prohibitive price no thanks to taxes. While it wasn't a big seller, we can now consider this one as a niche vehicle with a niche market.
Value and Costs
Priced at P2.2M when it was brand new, the Prius had only a few units sold throughout its life (estimates fall in less than 100 units or so) which means finding one at the used market could be difficult. If you want one, then you may have to shell out P800,000 for a decent unit.
Since this is a hybrid, fuel consumption is excellent and will beat out any vehicle sold in the market. When it comes to hybrid parts especially for the battery pack, you have to go to your nearest Toyota dealer for stocks or order online. A recall in February 2010 was issued to install a modified ABS management program due to reports of slight delay in braking by owners.
Exterior and Interior
Retaining its hatchback body and its familiar silhouette that we know since 2004, this generation gained cutting edge looks with lines that is meant to lower fuel consumption due to drag coefficient which Toyota painstakingly spent lots of hours on this aspect alone. In the end, you get something decent looking while saving more on the pump without being mistaken for a science project back in high school.
The interior is now more car than something science related (do we see a chemistry here?) since it is accommodating plus high quality materials greet occupants. The dashboard has a floating design reminiscent of the Swedish and the center display cluster is situated above which drivers can read vital statistics like if you are running on battery or gasoline. Lastly, a joystick inspired transmission shift remains there.
Engine
All Prius (or Prii as Toyota calls it as its plural form) models come with a 2ZR-FXE 1.8 gasoline which has 98hp at 5,200rpm and 142Nm at 4,000rpm on tap. Drive below 40km/h, you'll be treated to some sound of silence while going beyond that will have the conventional engine kick in. Utilizing an Atkison cycle, it prioritizes fuel consumption over optimal power and after all, this is a hybrid car. Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Ride transitions from electric power to conventional engine and so forth.
Driving Impressions
Yes, we have to admit this that you wouldn't be buying this beast to have fun. With two motors inside, it can carry you away with three power modes: EV for full electric mode with no noise, ECO mode for economy which adjusts the air-conditioning unit, and Power mode for more throttle response. It is one simple car to drive, no doubt. However, it is heavy and you'll feel this one you have lessen speed since the battery cells and regenerative braking system comes standard.
Verdict
While this vehicle had some good intentions, no tax exemptions for hybrids limited its appeal and it was a right car that went to a wrong market. At least, Filipinos became aware of the hybrid car and we wish to the Duterte administration to grant incentives for fuel saving cars since our planet is at stake.
2009-2016 Toyota Prius
History
Once upon a time, there was a car named Toyota Prius whose original concept can be traced from an exhibit at the 1995 Tokyo Motor Show which was followed by a testing a year later. The first generation model, which utilized a sedan body, went on sale in December 1997 in Japan which became the first mass market hybrid vehicle and worldwide launch happened at the turn of the millennium. Because of its popularity with environmentalists and became popular when fuel prices shot up, the Prius family was expanded to include a smaller version known as the Prius c (or Aqua in Japan), Prius V wagon, and the Prius plug-in hybrid.
Running on its third generation model, the XW30 Prius continued on with its hatchback body with a debut at the 2009 North American International Auto Show and sales started in May 2009 for the Japanese market. There were 1,000 patents that had filed for this model and several changes for this model happened which includes a bump in engine displacement to 1.8 liters, a change of transaxle to THS III, and had used a new range of plant-derived ecological bioplastics extracted from the wood's cellulose with kenaf and ramie as its principal crops. Interestingly enough, this generation saw the launch of the full Prius family for worldwide consumption.
While the XW20 model was brought in for testing purposes, it was this model that had its official launch and was the first hybrid car to be sold here. While the motoring press jumped for joy, the regular folks cannot afford due to its prohibitive price no thanks to taxes. While it wasn't a big seller, we can now consider this one as a niche vehicle with a niche market.
Value and Costs
Priced at P2.2M when it was brand new, the Prius had only a few units sold throughout its life (estimates fall in less than 100 units or so) which means finding one at the used market could be difficult. If you want one, then you may have to shell out P800,000 for a decent unit.
Since this is a hybrid, fuel consumption is excellent and will beat out any vehicle sold in the market. When it comes to hybrid parts especially for the battery pack, you have to go to your nearest Toyota dealer for stocks or order online. A recall in February 2010 was issued to install a modified ABS management program due to reports of slight delay in braking by owners.
Exterior and Interior
Retaining its hatchback body and its familiar silhouette that we know since 2004, this generation gained cutting edge looks with lines that is meant to lower fuel consumption due to drag coefficient which Toyota painstakingly spent lots of hours on this aspect alone. In the end, you get something decent looking while saving more on the pump without being mistaken for a science project back in high school.
The interior is now more car than something science related (do we see a chemistry here?) since it is accommodating plus high quality materials greet occupants. The dashboard has a floating design reminiscent of the Swedish and the center display cluster is situated above which drivers can read vital statistics like if you are running on battery or gasoline. Lastly, a joystick inspired transmission shift remains there.
Engine
All Prius (or Prii as Toyota calls it as its plural form) models come with a 2ZR-FXE 1.8 gasoline which has 98hp at 5,200rpm and 142Nm at 4,000rpm on tap. Drive below 40km/h, you'll be treated to some sound of silence while going beyond that will have the conventional engine kick in. Utilizing an Atkison cycle, it prioritizes fuel consumption over optimal power and after all, this is a hybrid car. Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Ride transitions from electric power to conventional engine and so forth.
Driving Impressions
Yes, we have to admit this that you wouldn't be buying this beast to have fun. With two motors inside, it can carry you away with three power modes: EV for full electric mode with no noise, ECO mode for economy which adjusts the air-conditioning unit, and Power mode for more throttle response. It is one simple car to drive, no doubt. However, it is heavy and you'll feel this one you have lessen speed since the battery cells and regenerative braking system comes standard.
Verdict
While this vehicle had some good intentions, no tax exemptions for hybrids limited its appeal and it was a right car that went to a wrong market. At least, Filipinos became aware of the hybrid car and we wish to the Duterte administration to grant incentives for fuel saving cars since our planet is at stake.
Thursday, November 10, 2016
Quickie Used Car Review - Chevrolet Tahoe (2007-2014)
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: P1,100,000-P1,300,000
Our Rating: ***
Full Review: None as of the Moment
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2007-2014
Quickie Used Car Review - Chevrolet Suburban (2007-2015)
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: P1,350,000-P1,800,000
Our Rating: ***
Full Review: Used Car Review - Chevrolet Suburban (2007-2015)
Latest vehicle profile: Chevrolet Suburban
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2007-2015
Monday, November 7, 2016
Used Car Review - Hyundai Genesis Coupe (2009-2016)
Bringing a renaissance in the past, Myk Belmonte revisits a car that brought new heights.
2009-2016 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
History
Hyundai making a "real" sports car had everyone's head shaking, especially that the brand is synonymous for high content but low priced vehicles. After all, when Project Genesis was conducted in 2003 and research was done years later, it was deemed (in our minds) that an accompanying sports car is in order.
While the Genesis sedan was first conceived in 2003 (which had its debut in 2008), the Genesis Coupe had the internet crazy when photos of a heavy camouflaged unit appeared online in May 2007. Accompanying spy photos suggested that it was rear wheel drive based on a layout photo and a wide range of engines from a turbocharged four cylinder to a Tau V8 and lastly, a spy shot showing a Genesis Coupe parked to an apparent rival, the Ford Mustang. It first debuted in October 2008 in South Korea followed by its North America launch in February 2009. Before we forget, Hyundai mentioned that this vehicle does not directly replace the front wheel drive Coupe/Tiburon/Tuscani.
For the Philippine market, the Genesis Coupe was launched in 2009 which replaced the Coupe. This vehicle became Hyundai's halo car which had American rivals brought in theirs later on and had inspired the Japanese to do so. Although part of their regular line-up, it was relegated to indent order status by 2016 until its discontinuation.
Value and Costs
Brand new prices nearly had rivals worry since the most expensive variant didn't exceed P2M back then, with westernized pony cars and two Japanese AWD rally breds costing more. The only vehicle which rivaled in price was the Toyobaru twins but these were smaller in size. Nowadays, the cheapest model can be had for just P730,000 with latest models lingering in the million peso range. Do take note that for 2013, manual transmission models gain Brembo brakes although it was an option in certain early models.
When it comes to maintenance costs, this one would be somewhat higher than the 86 due to the presence of a turbocharger for the four-cylinder but on par with a Mustang V6, but do not expect to be similar (or even) to a Santa Fe. If you are considering this vehicle with a manual transmission, do check the clutch if its worn out. And lastly, make sure the unit you want had not been abused in short, had used mostly for leisurely trips.
Exterior and Interior
Moving or just parked, this vehicle will elicit that wow factor and people would stare at you by just driving it. Its wide and low body coupled with some curves and a pinch of aggressiveness evokes that it is ready for the world and should be taken seriously.
Going inside, the Genesis Coupe invites you to drive this baby while having a hint of luxury. You get a good audio system, supportive seats, and for some models, like a push button start and sunroof. While the trunk is cavernous, filling it up to the brim may require some effort due to the unusual design. Lastly, the back seat is best left for cargo or kids since full sized adults wouldn't fit there.
Engine
Mild or extra spicy, these what best describe the engines of the Genesis Coupe and for nearly everyone, we get two engine options. The base engine option is the Theta 2.0 which has a turbocharger in it has power ratings pegged at 210hp at 6,000rpm and 299Nm at 2,000rpm for 2009 to 2012 models while later ones get 256hp at 6,600rpm and 353Nm at 2,000-4,500rpm. For that extra kick, there's a Lambda 3.8 that carries 303hp at 6,300rpm and 361Nm at 4,700rpm. When it comes to the transmission options, manuals have six forward gears and can be paired to any engine except for the V6 from 2013 onwards while the automatics can be had in either five (2009-2012) or eight (2013-2016) for any engine.
Driving Impressions
For the drifter in you, read this one since you would encounter them when doing that trick: you'll encounter twitchy steering on medium to hard turns with initial turn-in being understeer biased and the rear having the tendency to fishtail due to its heavy body. At low speeds, this is one fine car since it drives with grace especially that its steering is light but braking for models without Brembo brakes isn't excellent for such car. Driving carefully is a must, especially if you have no idea on utilizing 200 plus worth of horsepower.
Verdict
Models such as this one from Hyundai gave the world a new identity which they must be taken seriously. While this is not perfect, it had done it well and wouldn't remind you of the past. And with the mercy of depreciation, you may now enjoy one of Korea's best kept secrets. Just drive responsibly.
2009-2016 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
History
Hyundai making a "real" sports car had everyone's head shaking, especially that the brand is synonymous for high content but low priced vehicles. After all, when Project Genesis was conducted in 2003 and research was done years later, it was deemed (in our minds) that an accompanying sports car is in order.
While the Genesis sedan was first conceived in 2003 (which had its debut in 2008), the Genesis Coupe had the internet crazy when photos of a heavy camouflaged unit appeared online in May 2007. Accompanying spy photos suggested that it was rear wheel drive based on a layout photo and a wide range of engines from a turbocharged four cylinder to a Tau V8 and lastly, a spy shot showing a Genesis Coupe parked to an apparent rival, the Ford Mustang. It first debuted in October 2008 in South Korea followed by its North America launch in February 2009. Before we forget, Hyundai mentioned that this vehicle does not directly replace the front wheel drive Coupe/Tiburon/Tuscani.
For the Philippine market, the Genesis Coupe was launched in 2009 which replaced the Coupe. This vehicle became Hyundai's halo car which had American rivals brought in theirs later on and had inspired the Japanese to do so. Although part of their regular line-up, it was relegated to indent order status by 2016 until its discontinuation.
Value and Costs
Brand new prices nearly had rivals worry since the most expensive variant didn't exceed P2M back then, with westernized pony cars and two Japanese AWD rally breds costing more. The only vehicle which rivaled in price was the Toyobaru twins but these were smaller in size. Nowadays, the cheapest model can be had for just P730,000 with latest models lingering in the million peso range. Do take note that for 2013, manual transmission models gain Brembo brakes although it was an option in certain early models.
When it comes to maintenance costs, this one would be somewhat higher than the 86 due to the presence of a turbocharger for the four-cylinder but on par with a Mustang V6, but do not expect to be similar (or even) to a Santa Fe. If you are considering this vehicle with a manual transmission, do check the clutch if its worn out. And lastly, make sure the unit you want had not been abused in short, had used mostly for leisurely trips.
Exterior and Interior
Moving or just parked, this vehicle will elicit that wow factor and people would stare at you by just driving it. Its wide and low body coupled with some curves and a pinch of aggressiveness evokes that it is ready for the world and should be taken seriously.
Going inside, the Genesis Coupe invites you to drive this baby while having a hint of luxury. You get a good audio system, supportive seats, and for some models, like a push button start and sunroof. While the trunk is cavernous, filling it up to the brim may require some effort due to the unusual design. Lastly, the back seat is best left for cargo or kids since full sized adults wouldn't fit there.
Engine
Mild or extra spicy, these what best describe the engines of the Genesis Coupe and for nearly everyone, we get two engine options. The base engine option is the Theta 2.0 which has a turbocharger in it has power ratings pegged at 210hp at 6,000rpm and 299Nm at 2,000rpm for 2009 to 2012 models while later ones get 256hp at 6,600rpm and 353Nm at 2,000-4,500rpm. For that extra kick, there's a Lambda 3.8 that carries 303hp at 6,300rpm and 361Nm at 4,700rpm. When it comes to the transmission options, manuals have six forward gears and can be paired to any engine except for the V6 from 2013 onwards while the automatics can be had in either five (2009-2012) or eight (2013-2016) for any engine.
Driving Impressions
For the drifter in you, read this one since you would encounter them when doing that trick: you'll encounter twitchy steering on medium to hard turns with initial turn-in being understeer biased and the rear having the tendency to fishtail due to its heavy body. At low speeds, this is one fine car since it drives with grace especially that its steering is light but braking for models without Brembo brakes isn't excellent for such car. Driving carefully is a must, especially if you have no idea on utilizing 200 plus worth of horsepower.
Verdict
Models such as this one from Hyundai gave the world a new identity which they must be taken seriously. While this is not perfect, it had done it well and wouldn't remind you of the past. And with the mercy of depreciation, you may now enjoy one of Korea's best kept secrets. Just drive responsibly.
Thursday, November 3, 2016
Quickie Used Car Review - Honda Odyssey (2012-2015)
The Good: Fun for the driver and more space for the family
The Bad: No diesel option available
The Say: An Americanized minivan done the Japanese way.
Go For: 3.5 EX-L
Avoid: Scrimping for fuel money
Price Range: P1,600,000-P1,700,000
Our Rating: ****
Full Review: Used Car Review - Honda Odyssey (2012-2015)
Latest vehicle profile: Honda Odyssey (Japan)
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2012-2015
Quickie Used Car Review - 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: P830,000-P1,000,000
Our Rating: ****
Full Review: None as of the Moment
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2012-2015