UPDATE AS OF JANUARY 31, 2013.
With the first month nears its end, I have posted tons of new reviews for the new year just for you my dear readers. Our first update for 2013, and stay tuned for more.
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Used Car Review Compilation (1/31/2013 Update)
NOW UPDATED WITH LINKS TO NEW ARTICLES. LIST WOULD BE UPDATED ONCE IN A MONTH.
Used Car Review - Toyota Avanza (2006-2011)
It has been nearly a year since the second generation Avanza hit the streets, and Myk Belmonte invites you to revisit the original version.
2006-2011 Toyota Avanza
History
I gotta admit this, I usually fail when it comes to predicting things. Why did I relate this to the Toyota Avanza? Simple, when it was launched back in 2006, my father bought one especially that this nameplate was new to the country and saw the ad in the newspaper, whereas this vehicle was making waves in Indonesia and all Avanzas are sourced there. I told to my self "nah, hindi ito bebenta". I was wrong, this car became a member of the Top 10 Best Selling Cars in the Philippines and taxicabs took a liking on this car. Although the Innova is still the Filipino Family's dream car, the Avanza played a role on providing Filipinos decent and affordable transportation.
You'll be surprised that the Toyota Avanza was designed by Daihatsu. This is not a typo, mind you. Daihatsu did the design and took the role of manufacturing this vehicle, and the results where the Daihatsu Xenia and the Avanza. You'll also notice that the windows have the Daihatsu logo. This MPV was launched in Indonesia in 2003 and was offered in South East Asia, and some countries in Africa, South Asia, and Central America. Sold until 2011, with the second generation model being launched in November 7, 2011 in Indonesia.
We had this vehicle in November 2006 and those who didn't have the budget for an Innova but found the vehicle big opted for this one. Taxi operators had a new vehicle to drive and passengers had a new cab to ride on, and speaking of that, those who own a white J variant had a paper saying "hindi po ito taxi!". This vehicle received a minor model change in late 2008 with a new color palette and other trim changes and sales ceased in 2011 with the second generation arriving in showrooms in January 2012. Two trims are available, the J and the G.
Value and Costs
Resale values of the Avanza is lower than the Innova, and if the lowest priced latter vehicle could be bought at P450,000, the former can be purchased between P320,000-P440,000. This analogy is simple, the mini-MPV costs less when brand new, and the Innova has more image; but then, low resale value means a good bargain for the used car buyer. I doubt about it but in the coming years, more ex-taxi Avanzas are coming to the market and thus, avoid them if possible.
Parts is one big advantage of the Avanza, you can purchase them anywhere thanks to the demand from taxi operators. There are various quality issues (although they are not major ones) that must be addressed by the previous owner and must be fixed before selling the unit to you.
Exterior and Interior
Let's compare the Innova's exterior dimensions with the Avanza's, the latter is 435mm short and 140mm narrow than the former, and it loses some proportions present. The tall tailamps resembles the ones in the Mitsubishi Adventure and the second generation CR-V.
Don't set your expectations high especially the interior has a lot of hard plastics from the base model up to the G. Cost cutting is very evident especially that the J has a side plastic material in the side panels that is detachable. The Corolla XL's side panels are integrated and is pleasing to the eye. The steering position is fixed and you have no chance of adjusting it, and the rear hatch lacks a handle to open it. One saving grace is the efficient seating layout that, unlike the Innova's side folding third row which hampers cargo space, the third row can be folded forward. The third row can accommodate children and the second row is habitable by anyone.
Engine
Two engines are available, and let's discuss first about the one you'll mostly encounter. Fitted in J variants is the K3-VE 1,298cc that has 92hp at 6,000rpm and 120Nm at 4,400rpm. Standard among G models is the 3SZ-VE 1,495cc which has 109hp at 6,000rpm and 141Nm at 4,400rpm. The K3-VE has the capability of speed well at low to mid revs even at full, but it will suffer once you reach highway speeds. If overloading is not recommended for the J, the 3SZ-VE fitted in the G is ok, especially that it has enough grunt to pull.
Driving Impressions
This vehicle is ideal inside the city limits especially with its manageable size, parking is a piece of cake. The suspension setting and the tall body delivered more body shake and roll, which may be acceptable. Twists present in the mountains must be taken carefully. Go beyond 100km/h and the Avanza feels light, and road imperfections and crosswinds are not much welcome. With that in mind, better stay in the city.
Verdict
The first generation Avanza was a mix of the good and bad stuff. It was affordable and reliable, but quality was something to be liking, but they said you get what you paid for. If you need something for city trips that has the capacity to sit seven people, this is one good choice. But if you plan to bring it for out of town trips, extend your budget for an Innova.
2006-2011 Toyota Avanza
History
I gotta admit this, I usually fail when it comes to predicting things. Why did I relate this to the Toyota Avanza? Simple, when it was launched back in 2006, my father bought one especially that this nameplate was new to the country and saw the ad in the newspaper, whereas this vehicle was making waves in Indonesia and all Avanzas are sourced there. I told to my self "nah, hindi ito bebenta". I was wrong, this car became a member of the Top 10 Best Selling Cars in the Philippines and taxicabs took a liking on this car. Although the Innova is still the Filipino Family's dream car, the Avanza played a role on providing Filipinos decent and affordable transportation.
You'll be surprised that the Toyota Avanza was designed by Daihatsu. This is not a typo, mind you. Daihatsu did the design and took the role of manufacturing this vehicle, and the results where the Daihatsu Xenia and the Avanza. You'll also notice that the windows have the Daihatsu logo. This MPV was launched in Indonesia in 2003 and was offered in South East Asia, and some countries in Africa, South Asia, and Central America. Sold until 2011, with the second generation model being launched in November 7, 2011 in Indonesia.
We had this vehicle in November 2006 and those who didn't have the budget for an Innova but found the vehicle big opted for this one. Taxi operators had a new vehicle to drive and passengers had a new cab to ride on, and speaking of that, those who own a white J variant had a paper saying "hindi po ito taxi!". This vehicle received a minor model change in late 2008 with a new color palette and other trim changes and sales ceased in 2011 with the second generation arriving in showrooms in January 2012. Two trims are available, the J and the G.
Value and Costs
Resale values of the Avanza is lower than the Innova, and if the lowest priced latter vehicle could be bought at P450,000, the former can be purchased between P320,000-P440,000. This analogy is simple, the mini-MPV costs less when brand new, and the Innova has more image; but then, low resale value means a good bargain for the used car buyer. I doubt about it but in the coming years, more ex-taxi Avanzas are coming to the market and thus, avoid them if possible.
Parts is one big advantage of the Avanza, you can purchase them anywhere thanks to the demand from taxi operators. There are various quality issues (although they are not major ones) that must be addressed by the previous owner and must be fixed before selling the unit to you.
Exterior and Interior
Let's compare the Innova's exterior dimensions with the Avanza's, the latter is 435mm short and 140mm narrow than the former, and it loses some proportions present. The tall tailamps resembles the ones in the Mitsubishi Adventure and the second generation CR-V.
Don't set your expectations high especially the interior has a lot of hard plastics from the base model up to the G. Cost cutting is very evident especially that the J has a side plastic material in the side panels that is detachable. The Corolla XL's side panels are integrated and is pleasing to the eye. The steering position is fixed and you have no chance of adjusting it, and the rear hatch lacks a handle to open it. One saving grace is the efficient seating layout that, unlike the Innova's side folding third row which hampers cargo space, the third row can be folded forward. The third row can accommodate children and the second row is habitable by anyone.
Engine
Two engines are available, and let's discuss first about the one you'll mostly encounter. Fitted in J variants is the K3-VE 1,298cc that has 92hp at 6,000rpm and 120Nm at 4,400rpm. Standard among G models is the 3SZ-VE 1,495cc which has 109hp at 6,000rpm and 141Nm at 4,400rpm. The K3-VE has the capability of speed well at low to mid revs even at full, but it will suffer once you reach highway speeds. If overloading is not recommended for the J, the 3SZ-VE fitted in the G is ok, especially that it has enough grunt to pull.
Driving Impressions
This vehicle is ideal inside the city limits especially with its manageable size, parking is a piece of cake. The suspension setting and the tall body delivered more body shake and roll, which may be acceptable. Twists present in the mountains must be taken carefully. Go beyond 100km/h and the Avanza feels light, and road imperfections and crosswinds are not much welcome. With that in mind, better stay in the city.
Verdict
The first generation Avanza was a mix of the good and bad stuff. It was affordable and reliable, but quality was something to be liking, but they said you get what you paid for. If you need something for city trips that has the capacity to sit seven people, this is one good choice. But if you plan to bring it for out of town trips, extend your budget for an Innova.
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Car Profiles - Isuzu Crosswind (2001-2017)
The Good: Engine, chassis, and everything else is durable.
The Bad: Ride and handling is not great, plus the interior in later models can be a dirt magnet
The Say: An economical and reliable pick but refinement is a thumbs down.
Go For: XUV MT
Avoid: XUVi
Price Range: P350,000-P800,000
Our Rating: **
Related Review: Used Car Review - Isuzu Crosswind (2001-2017)
Latest vehicle profile: Isuzu Crosswind
See the different versions of this vehicle:
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
Car Profiles - Kia Carnival/Sedona (2000-2006)
The Good: Comfortable ride, diesel offers great pull, spacious interior
The Bad: Automatics tend to commit suicide, bulky and heavy, thirsty V6 engine
The Say: Bargain for the buck.
Go For: 2.9 diesel
Avoid: 2.5 V6 gasoline
Price Range: P250,000-P330,000
Our Rating: ****
Related Review: Used Car Review - Kia Carnival/Sedona (2000-2006)
Latest vehicle profile: Kia Carnival
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2000-2002
2002-2003
2003-2006
Monday, January 28, 2013
Used Car Review - Kia Carnival/Sedona (2001-2006)
Searching for a bargain minivan? Myk Belmonte finds a sensible choice among the sea of people carriers that gives you the cushy ride for the buck.
2001-2006 Kia Carnival/Sedona
History
Raising a family is one daunting task especially you need to work hard to earn some money for your daily expenses such as the house rent (unless you inherit that abode or live with your parents), the tuition fees for your kids, basic necessities like food and clothes, and utilities that you use and pay. Having a car can be good if your company would be paying for it, not good if you will pay for it. Commuting can be hard, you know what I mean. Having a car is basically a necessity for the family.
One family friendly ride that you can afford is a 2000-2006 Kia Carnival/Sedona especially that it is a steal for P300,000. First sold in 1998 under the GQ platform, this minivan sold well especially that it was priced lower than direct rivals and had more standard equipment than them. Although the Hyundai Starex was the first minivan (with the hood upfront) to be built by a Korean car maker, the Carnival was the first one to have a second generation model in 2006, as opposed to the Starex a year later. This model was replaced by the VQ Carnival in 2006 while this old body remained in production in some markets.
Started as a grey market favorite, Columbian Autocar Corporation brought this minivan to Kia dealerships in 2001 to contemplate the Pregio. It was one of the few minivans to arrive in the country which includes the Hyundai Starex, Mitsubishi Space Gear and the Chevrolet Venture during that time period. It was first available in a diesel powerplant that was followed (and replaced) by a gasoline engine in 2004. There was also some name change which became the Sedona in year 2003. Sales ceased in 2007 with the VQ Carnival that's more refined replaced it in the same year. Trim lines include the value oriented RS and the luxurious LS.
Value and Costs
Kia Carnivals and Sedonas, in second hand prices and condition, would cost between P250,000-P330,000. The good thing is that, you'll encounter both manual and automatic transmission models, gasoline and diesel variants, and units with different equipment levels. There are grey market units which are worth a look especially there is no risk in conversion problems. Your family might love this vehicle especially it is a bargain.
If there is one transmission to avoid, it would be the automatic ones. There have been reports that the slushboxes do not survive and most owners would have to spend for a rebuilt transmission. To save your money for the tuition of your children, better spare yourself by getting a manual variant. You can purchase parts anywhere and they are easy to find, thanks to the influx of imported units.
Exterior and Interior
Not much to be said about the exterior, which is a carbon copy of the American minivan. We imagine while Kia is developing this minivan they decided to print out a photo of a Dodge Caravan, place it in a photocopier, and replace everything except the body. Kidding aside, the large chrome grille, large hood scoop (available for diesel variants only), and multi-reflector headlamps brighten up this vehicle. A two-tone color scheme is an option for later year models. RS models have hubcaps while LS come with alloy wheels.
You'll never be mistaken for a bus driver inside the Carnival especially that the driving position is similar to a car. We're thankful for that, and other things that the kids would love is the easy access from the dual sliding doors and for the LS variants, easy access to the third row thanks to the standard captains chairs. RS models can seat 10 with three per row and the succeeding rows are bench seats. The gearshift is located in the center dash, thus freeing space in front. While the first two rows admits everyone, the third row and the jump seats for the RS are for kids only and those who have skills in gymnastics. Controls and switches are sensibly located where the driver can easily reach it.
Engine
It was a good thing for Kia to offer both diesel and gasoline powerplants for the Carnival/Sedona sold locally. The first engine option (and definitely the obvious choice) is the 2,902 I4 diesel engine which produces 135hp at 3,800rpm and a 315Nm at 2,000rpm. From 2004 up to discontinuation, a Rover KV6 V6 2,497cc that has 129hp at 6,500rpm and 220Nm at 4,000rpm. Going first to the diesel motivator, it decently moves this 1,990 kilogram vehicle when not loaded, filling it to the brim, progress would be slower but does not exhibit any strain. The V6, on the other hand, does well in low speeds but becomes boomy in higher speeds. Both engines excel in low to mid end torque runs but once you reach three digit speeds and the vehicle is in full capacity, the ride becomes crashy.
Driving Impressions
You wont feel any AUV driving characteristics in the Carnival/Sedona especially that it steers and corners like a sedan. While it has the handling of a sedan, steering response cannot be felt. Just remember to drive below 100km/h so you won't feel the car huffing and puffing like the big bad wolf did to the houses of the three little pigs.
Verdict
Family hood is one momentous event in life, and choosing the car that your family members would depend on is a bit hard. Your Ultimate Used Car Guide has reviews on family friendly rides and added to this list is the Kia Carnival/Sedona that you can buy for less cash than brand new. If you haven't decided yet, add this minivan to your shortlist and have your whole members check it out.
2001-2006 Kia Carnival/Sedona
History
Raising a family is one daunting task especially you need to work hard to earn some money for your daily expenses such as the house rent (unless you inherit that abode or live with your parents), the tuition fees for your kids, basic necessities like food and clothes, and utilities that you use and pay. Having a car can be good if your company would be paying for it, not good if you will pay for it. Commuting can be hard, you know what I mean. Having a car is basically a necessity for the family.
One family friendly ride that you can afford is a 2000-2006 Kia Carnival/Sedona especially that it is a steal for P300,000. First sold in 1998 under the GQ platform, this minivan sold well especially that it was priced lower than direct rivals and had more standard equipment than them. Although the Hyundai Starex was the first minivan (with the hood upfront) to be built by a Korean car maker, the Carnival was the first one to have a second generation model in 2006, as opposed to the Starex a year later. This model was replaced by the VQ Carnival in 2006 while this old body remained in production in some markets.
Started as a grey market favorite, Columbian Autocar Corporation brought this minivan to Kia dealerships in 2001 to contemplate the Pregio. It was one of the few minivans to arrive in the country which includes the Hyundai Starex, Mitsubishi Space Gear and the Chevrolet Venture during that time period. It was first available in a diesel powerplant that was followed (and replaced) by a gasoline engine in 2004. There was also some name change which became the Sedona in year 2003. Sales ceased in 2007 with the VQ Carnival that's more refined replaced it in the same year. Trim lines include the value oriented RS and the luxurious LS.
Value and Costs
Kia Carnivals and Sedonas, in second hand prices and condition, would cost between P250,000-P330,000. The good thing is that, you'll encounter both manual and automatic transmission models, gasoline and diesel variants, and units with different equipment levels. There are grey market units which are worth a look especially there is no risk in conversion problems. Your family might love this vehicle especially it is a bargain.
If there is one transmission to avoid, it would be the automatic ones. There have been reports that the slushboxes do not survive and most owners would have to spend for a rebuilt transmission. To save your money for the tuition of your children, better spare yourself by getting a manual variant. You can purchase parts anywhere and they are easy to find, thanks to the influx of imported units.
Exterior and Interior
Not much to be said about the exterior, which is a carbon copy of the American minivan. We imagine while Kia is developing this minivan they decided to print out a photo of a Dodge Caravan, place it in a photocopier, and replace everything except the body. Kidding aside, the large chrome grille, large hood scoop (available for diesel variants only), and multi-reflector headlamps brighten up this vehicle. A two-tone color scheme is an option for later year models. RS models have hubcaps while LS come with alloy wheels.
You'll never be mistaken for a bus driver inside the Carnival especially that the driving position is similar to a car. We're thankful for that, and other things that the kids would love is the easy access from the dual sliding doors and for the LS variants, easy access to the third row thanks to the standard captains chairs. RS models can seat 10 with three per row and the succeeding rows are bench seats. The gearshift is located in the center dash, thus freeing space in front. While the first two rows admits everyone, the third row and the jump seats for the RS are for kids only and those who have skills in gymnastics. Controls and switches are sensibly located where the driver can easily reach it.
Engine
It was a good thing for Kia to offer both diesel and gasoline powerplants for the Carnival/Sedona sold locally. The first engine option (and definitely the obvious choice) is the 2,902 I4 diesel engine which produces 135hp at 3,800rpm and a 315Nm at 2,000rpm. From 2004 up to discontinuation, a Rover KV6 V6 2,497cc that has 129hp at 6,500rpm and 220Nm at 4,000rpm. Going first to the diesel motivator, it decently moves this 1,990 kilogram vehicle when not loaded, filling it to the brim, progress would be slower but does not exhibit any strain. The V6, on the other hand, does well in low speeds but becomes boomy in higher speeds. Both engines excel in low to mid end torque runs but once you reach three digit speeds and the vehicle is in full capacity, the ride becomes crashy.
Driving Impressions
You wont feel any AUV driving characteristics in the Carnival/Sedona especially that it steers and corners like a sedan. While it has the handling of a sedan, steering response cannot be felt. Just remember to drive below 100km/h so you won't feel the car huffing and puffing like the big bad wolf did to the houses of the three little pigs.
Verdict
Family hood is one momentous event in life, and choosing the car that your family members would depend on is a bit hard. Your Ultimate Used Car Guide has reviews on family friendly rides and added to this list is the Kia Carnival/Sedona that you can buy for less cash than brand new. If you haven't decided yet, add this minivan to your shortlist and have your whole members check it out.
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Car Profiles - Chrysler Town and Country (2008-2017)
The Good: Flexible interior, easy ingress/egress for senior members
The Bad: Gulps a lot of gas (for the V6), maintenance costs can be expensive
The Say: Classy in a way, but best first to check alternatives before making a decision.
Go For: Touring CRDi
Avoid: Gas versions
Price Range: P1,200,000-P2,200,000
Our Rating: **
Related Review: None as of the Moment
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2008-2012
2013-2017
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Car Profiles - Honda Pilot (2006-2008)
The Good: Excellent power train, seats 8 in comfort
The Bad: Bland looks, expensive maintenance costs
The Say: Comfortable to be in, but there are other lower priced alternatives that can do the job.
Go For: 3.5 V6 EX
Avoid: None
Price Range: P950,000-P1,150,000
Our Rating: ***
Related Review: Used Car Review - Honda Pilot (2006-2008)
Latest vehicle profile: Honda Pilot
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2006-2008
Friday, January 25, 2013
Car Profiles - Chrysler Pacifica (2005-2008)
The Good: Drives like a car, first class interior
The Bad: Lifeless steering, quality issues
The Say: A nice vehicle, only if reliability problems didn't spoil.
Go For: 4.0 Touring AWD
Avoid: 3.8 Touring FWD
Price Range: P950,000-P1,100,000
Our Rating: ***
Related Review: Used Car Review - Chrysler Pacifica (2005-2008)
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2005-2008
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Used Car Review - Chrysler Pacifica (2005-2008)
Luxury cars , when already used, are bargains and Myk Belmonte checks out this vehicle that was priced prohibitively can be yours at low prices.
2005-2008 Chrysler Pacifica
History
History books tell us that Daimler Benz and Chrysler Corporation merged in 1998 in which they call it as the "Merger Of Equals". This was met with success and controversy especially that investors are questioning whether the transaction was the "Merger of Equals" itself that upper management claimed or totaled to Daimler Benz's claim of Chrysler. DaimlerChrysler did not have any integrated product lines but after 2002 they saw the Chrysler Crossfire convertible utilizing the Mercedes SLK platform and using its 3.2 V6 engine and the Dodge Sprinter being a rebadged Mercedes Benz Sprinter van. This partnership did more worse than good and Chrysler ended up being purchased by Ceberus Capital Management. It was a marriage gone bad, similar to what had happened to Kris Aquino and Philip Salvador or if you like golf, Tiger Woods and Elin Norgeden.
The Chrysler Pacifica is a product of this union with Daimler Benz and Chrysler jointly engineered this vehicle, which took some inspiration from the 1999 Chrysler Pacifica and the 2000 Chrysler Citadel concept cars. While it cost them little less than a billion Dollars in just 30 months to develop this vehicle, DaimlerChrysler lost money on every Pacifica sold especially it used a modified minivan platform but the interior does not have any commonality with any Chrysler vehicle. Tons of problems when it comes to marketing and quality concerns took a toll on the vehicle's sales and thus, having it discontinued in November 2007 with 2008 being leftover units.
CATS Motors brought this crossover SUV in the Philippines in 2005, after the takeover of distributorship from Norkis Motors. Initially, the 3.8 engine arrived first with the 4.0 following suit two years later. Together with the US market, the Pacifica was dropped from the line-up in 2008.
Value and Costs
You can have this smooth operator for just P1,500,000 especially if you care more about comfort and don't give a damn about gas prices. A wise decision is picking up a pre-owned unit from CATS Motor's pre owned selection. This ensures that these vehicles are inspected and given a limited warranty to ensure worry free ownership.
Various reliability problems that the Pacifica faced include mechanical glitches related to the transmission and engine, some interior flaws, electrical headaches, and low built quality that plagued this vehicle. Browse Google or read some copies of Consumer Reports magazines and you'll get what I mean. Have these components fixed before driving one home, or you'll be shocked with the total repair bills. Parts are to be purchased in either the casa or specialist shops.
Exterior and Interior
I'm confused on what should I call this car. An SUV? A minivan? An MPV? Its a crossover, especially that you combine the driving behavior of a sedan, the utility of an SUV, and the versatility of a minivan. Notice the hood which has vertical slats that resembles the power board of a yacht. Some hard creases and a swooping roof design contemplate this large SUV.
Chrysler did it right when it designed the interior which resembled some Benz vehicles. Fit and finish are commendable and right for the then new price tag of P2M ones. Let's talk about the seating capacity, it has six individual seats that those who had not taken a bath or madamot in sharing their seats can rejoice. But, better leave the third row empty since legroom is lacking, despite the second row being moved forward. Flexibility with the seats occupied is limited, better tag along four people for the trip to Greenbelt or Divisoria.
Engine
There are two engines that PHDM Pacificas are fitted with. Initially, an EGH 3,778cc that has 200hp at 5,000rpm and 332Nm at 4,000rpm but in 2007 a 3,952cc V6 with 253hp at 6,000rpm and 355Nm at 4,100rpm. The first engine did not have the capacity of carrying the bulky weight and had a hard time puffing, and making things worse is a 4-speed automatic; while it is available in front wheel drive, better avoid this engine. The 4.0 does the job well especially it is paired with a 6-speed automatic and can carry the weight well.
Driving Impressions
Good thing this vehicle drives like a car, especially it is based from the famed Chrysler minivans. Drive slowly and it is quiet like a baby sleeping but when you feel the need for speed the weight (it has a total weight of 2,068 kilograms) penalty is felt. Visibility is not a strength no thanks to the blind spots present in the third quarter area.
Verdict
Trying an interesting alternative? The Pacifica is one good pick especially if comfort and luxury are priorities. Facifica Falayfay (played by the late but legendary Dolphy) might got this as his (or her) ride if this was sold during the film's release. Reliability problems tarnish this otherwise impressive vehicle, so if you prioritize quality, look elsewhere.
2005-2008 Chrysler Pacifica
History
History books tell us that Daimler Benz and Chrysler Corporation merged in 1998 in which they call it as the "Merger Of Equals". This was met with success and controversy especially that investors are questioning whether the transaction was the "Merger of Equals" itself that upper management claimed or totaled to Daimler Benz's claim of Chrysler. DaimlerChrysler did not have any integrated product lines but after 2002 they saw the Chrysler Crossfire convertible utilizing the Mercedes SLK platform and using its 3.2 V6 engine and the Dodge Sprinter being a rebadged Mercedes Benz Sprinter van. This partnership did more worse than good and Chrysler ended up being purchased by Ceberus Capital Management. It was a marriage gone bad, similar to what had happened to Kris Aquino and Philip Salvador or if you like golf, Tiger Woods and Elin Norgeden.
The Chrysler Pacifica is a product of this union with Daimler Benz and Chrysler jointly engineered this vehicle, which took some inspiration from the 1999 Chrysler Pacifica and the 2000 Chrysler Citadel concept cars. While it cost them little less than a billion Dollars in just 30 months to develop this vehicle, DaimlerChrysler lost money on every Pacifica sold especially it used a modified minivan platform but the interior does not have any commonality with any Chrysler vehicle. Tons of problems when it comes to marketing and quality concerns took a toll on the vehicle's sales and thus, having it discontinued in November 2007 with 2008 being leftover units.
CATS Motors brought this crossover SUV in the Philippines in 2005, after the takeover of distributorship from Norkis Motors. Initially, the 3.8 engine arrived first with the 4.0 following suit two years later. Together with the US market, the Pacifica was dropped from the line-up in 2008.
Value and Costs
You can have this smooth operator for just P1,500,000 especially if you care more about comfort and don't give a damn about gas prices. A wise decision is picking up a pre-owned unit from CATS Motor's pre owned selection. This ensures that these vehicles are inspected and given a limited warranty to ensure worry free ownership.
Various reliability problems that the Pacifica faced include mechanical glitches related to the transmission and engine, some interior flaws, electrical headaches, and low built quality that plagued this vehicle. Browse Google or read some copies of Consumer Reports magazines and you'll get what I mean. Have these components fixed before driving one home, or you'll be shocked with the total repair bills. Parts are to be purchased in either the casa or specialist shops.
Exterior and Interior
I'm confused on what should I call this car. An SUV? A minivan? An MPV? Its a crossover, especially that you combine the driving behavior of a sedan, the utility of an SUV, and the versatility of a minivan. Notice the hood which has vertical slats that resembles the power board of a yacht. Some hard creases and a swooping roof design contemplate this large SUV.
Chrysler did it right when it designed the interior which resembled some Benz vehicles. Fit and finish are commendable and right for the then new price tag of P2M ones. Let's talk about the seating capacity, it has six individual seats that those who had not taken a bath or madamot in sharing their seats can rejoice. But, better leave the third row empty since legroom is lacking, despite the second row being moved forward. Flexibility with the seats occupied is limited, better tag along four people for the trip to Greenbelt or Divisoria.
Engine
There are two engines that PHDM Pacificas are fitted with. Initially, an EGH 3,778cc that has 200hp at 5,000rpm and 332Nm at 4,000rpm but in 2007 a 3,952cc V6 with 253hp at 6,000rpm and 355Nm at 4,100rpm. The first engine did not have the capacity of carrying the bulky weight and had a hard time puffing, and making things worse is a 4-speed automatic; while it is available in front wheel drive, better avoid this engine. The 4.0 does the job well especially it is paired with a 6-speed automatic and can carry the weight well.
Driving Impressions
Good thing this vehicle drives like a car, especially it is based from the famed Chrysler minivans. Drive slowly and it is quiet like a baby sleeping but when you feel the need for speed the weight (it has a total weight of 2,068 kilograms) penalty is felt. Visibility is not a strength no thanks to the blind spots present in the third quarter area.
Verdict
Trying an interesting alternative? The Pacifica is one good pick especially if comfort and luxury are priorities. Facifica Falayfay (played by the late but legendary Dolphy) might got this as his (or her) ride if this was sold during the film's release. Reliability problems tarnish this otherwise impressive vehicle, so if you prioritize quality, look elsewhere.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Car Profiles - Chevrolet Trailblazer (2004-2008)
The Good: Practical for the Philippine setting, generous power from the inline six
The Bad: Ungainly steering, cheap materials
The Say: A better choice than the hulking brothers, but does not excel in any category.
Go For: EXT 4x2
Avoid: EXT 4x4
Price Range: P490,000-P780,000
Our Rating: ***
Related Review: Used Car Review - Chevrolet Trailblazer (2004-2008)
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2004-2009
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