Used Car Review - Volkswagen Beetle (2014-2017)

Want fun and nostalgia in a cute package, we have one nominee for you.

2014-2017 Volkswagen Beetle

History
We all know the story of the original Beetle where it was first introduced in 1938 and only to be sold until 2003, despite the fact that the Golf (its intended replacement) was introduced in 1974. Sure, it became an icon and had outlived with most contemporaries but is outsold by modern competition which is expected for something that was unchanged. The second generation model, called the New Beetle, was introduced in 1997 with the older model's silhouette as an inspiration but wrapped in a modern package. This one lived longer, with a lifespan of 13 years, especially that two or three generation models of the Golf or Jetta were introduced during those times.

Introduced in 2011 using the PQ35 chassis code that is shared with the Jetta, the Beetle (dropping the New moniker) aims to feature a lower profile and an aggressive personality without straying to the shape of the original model and making a distance to its predecessor. Unlike the Golf or Jetta that is marketed towards a general audience and a mainstream market, the Beetle is a niche car, just like its predecessor but not its grandfather is aimed at.

Ayala Corporation, which is responsible for having a stake in Honda and Isuzu, brought in the updated Beetle after nearly a decade of absence. It was priced lower than its direct rival, the MINI, but commands a premium against natural rivals from East Asia and the West assembled nearby (no thanks from being sourced in Mexico). It was quietly removed from the line-up in late 2017, with a Club Edition being its last hurrah.

Value and Costs
The oldest unit that you may encounter would even set you back P1,000,000 with the most expensive that you can get is P1,600,000. Have a keen eye towards the overall condition especially that not much changes were done and it was sold briefly, plus a later model will give you a remainder of the warranty.

Expect somewhat higher maintenance costs with this one especially that this car may either have a turbo or twin charger in it although PMS schedules are marked every 15,000kms that may offset its premium cost. Unlike its lolo, this isn't the reliable car it used to be as problem points for this car lies on its airconditioning and transmission.

Exterior and Interior
Sure, the Beetle's design is identifiable and widely known by anyone and VW's designers think that why would they fix something that is not broken. This means that the original shape (we have mentioned it numerous times) remains the concept but several modern touches were done to reflect current market trends. Club Edition models distance themselves from their regular counterparts in their black rims and a sticker. Dual clutch models have a spoiler to distinguish from their three pedaled models.

Inside is a mishmash of retro touches while being a relevant vehicle in the 21st century, with body color panels that is patterned with the exterior which is reminiscent of metal but they're actually plastic. Sure, two in the front are just right but adding two more at the back is torture plus visibility is wanting. Going for the Club adds leather seats, navigation system, Bluetooth, and a SD card reader.

Engine
Two engines are available, depending on the transmission you want. Manual models get a 1.2 turbocharged engine with 104hp at 4,500rpm and 175Nm at 1,400rpm while dual clutch ones have a 1.4 twincharger coupled to 158hp at 5,800rpm and 240Nm at 1,500-4,500rpm to play with. Both engines are capable at low speeds, but terrible when driven fast due to its noisy nature.

Driving Impressions
Despite the fact it shares its underpinnings with the impressive Golf, it does not share its traits and that is a sad fact. Braking and handling are fine but nothing special to write about plus it is overshadowed by the MINI Hatch.

Verdict
Unless you prioritize attention and nostalgia, our nod goes to the British/German rival for being more practical while retaining its fun to drive roots. Sure, its has some flaws but the allure of a Beetle cannot be denied.

Used Car Review - Toyota Previa (2006-2017)

One of the vehicles which that had started a craze in Japan got the axe recently.

2006-2017 Toyota Previa

History
Toyota's Previa minivan was one of the first vehicles to jump on a new concept which shed people movers that had no nose and has the ability of walking between rows with all the requisite sliding door. With minivans being a popular choice among the Japanese due to their narrow roads which makes an SUV impractical.

Although the original model was first launched in 1990, the third generation Previa came to life 16 years later. Unlike other Toyota vans, this vehicle was restricted among Asian markets with gasoline and hybrids (Japan exclusive) engines available. Oddly enough, this vehicle had a long lifespan than the first model, and as of this year, it is available in the Japanese market for twelve straight years with some cosmetic changes.

Competing in the luxury van market locally, this generation of the Previa arrived at the same time its Japanese model had its debut. While it was a favorite among the elite, the arrival of the larger and luxurious Alphard four years later ate its sales with Toyota Philippines not even bothering to put some love in this car. Without a 2016 facelift on our shores, it was quietly discontinued. Heck, it had outlived the first generation Innova and Fortuner in terms of selling life.

Value and Costs
With an 11 year run and one facelift occurred in 2009, if you want a Previa do focus on the overall condition rather than the equipment. Early models can be had for P560,000 with later releases costing P1,000,000.

Compared to its bigger brother, the Alphard, this one is decent in standards when it comes to maintenance costs. Things to check on this car include power seats and the sensors that come standard in this car. When it comes to fuel consumption, it may have the similar figures to a diesel competitor but definitely higher than a V6 gasoline.

Exterior and Interior
Remember the original model's looks? Its egg like shape makes the vehicle timeless but does not make it loud. Not much to be said outside, especially the magic lies inside.

Since this vehicle costs P2,000,000, the usual stuff expected on a vehicle priced that much comes standard that includes leather seats (a lower model with fabric velour is available), wood trim, leather touches, and the middle seats are captain's with foot rests. As expected, seating comfort is excellent and interior quality is top notch.

Engine
Only one engine is available: a 2.4 4-cylinder gasoline with 165hp at 6,000rpm and 224Nm at 4,000rpm paired to an automatic with four speeds. No V6 or a six speed matic is available locally, though. Even if the car is full, the engine is capable enough to deliver the goods.

Driving Impressions
Thanks to its larger windows coupled with a smoother but somewhat firm ride (thanks to increased insulation materials), the Previa is a delight to drive. Yes, this vehicle may be boring for some but thanks to a precise steering and excellent braking. One has to drive the car to fully explore its potential.

Verdict
Despite the fact the Alphard had outsold and placed this car out of the spotlight, the Previa was an outstanding vehicle. Too bad, Toyota didn't put some more love on this van which became a rich family plaything.

Car Profiles - Hyundai Accent Hatchback (2013-Current)

2013-Current Hyundai Accent

The Good: Styling, generous heaping of equipment

The Bad: Some cheap touches, some models lack kit

The Say: One step forward that is hampered by several flaws.

Go For: Any
Avoid:

Price Range: P430,000-P650,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile:
Hyundai Accent Hatchback

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2013

Car Features - Same Car, Different Names: Volkswagen Group

After talking American and Japanese brands when it comes to badge engineering, for the next few weeks our focus is now with the Europeans (except for Fiat, we have featured it already) and the first brand on the spotlight is Volkswagen, with multiple brands under their wing this scenario could happen.

In order for a car to be counted on this list, the vehicle must have a different name using the same shell (exterior modifications are usually done) but sold under a different brand. And to avoid a super long list, we would limit vehicles which were launched from 1990s and above. Do take note the year range represents the entire vehicle line (including those of its twins) even if the original model was killed. In order to be listed, the base vehicle must be from a Volkswagen subsidiary including the likes of Audi, Porsche, SEAT, and Skoda.

For the largest German (and European) automobile brand, let us see which wore different badges.

Car Features - Same Car, Different Names: Suzuki and Subaru

For our last Japanese car feature about changing names, we would be squeezing two brands for in one article since they represent a minority of the Japanese market. Suzuki is tops when it comes to sales of Kei cars (smallish cars with a mandated minimum size and engine displacement) which are big in Japan and Subaru has three rebadged entries which is the base car.

Unlike our previous Japanese brands, the two brands only have one dealer network which means that having multiple names in one car isn't a big chance. For a car to be counted on this list, the vehicle must have a different name using the same shell (exterior modifications are usually done) but sold under a different brand. And to avoid a super long list, we would limit vehicles which were launched from 1990s and above. Do take note the year range represents the entire vehicle line (including those of its twins) even if the original model was killed.

Let us check which of the two S brands had different names.

Car Features - Same Car, Different Names: Mazda

After a month, our feature is back and we haven't stopped featuring Japanese brands and this week, the brand has its fair share to a point it didn't made sense to the manufacturer but that was almost 25 to 30 years ago. Mazda did this by having three dealership networks which they followed the strategy of Toyota, Honda, and Nissan. No thanks to making numerous vehicles that had consumers confused and a poor economy, this experiment was killed in the mid-90s.

As with Japanese brands, this list would be separated in two categories: the first one is the same car but different brand and the second is the same car of the same brand but wearing a different name. For the latter category, they must be sold in a different dealer network (Mazda's dealer network included Autozam, Efini, Eunos, M2, Xedos). Cars launched from 1990 and above would be included on the list to avoid a long list. Do take note the year range represents the entire vehicle line (including those of its twins) even if the original model was killed. It will include vehicles born under joint ventures as a base car and vehicles made during Ford's ownership are listed under the Blue Oval brand.

What Mazda models had a different name for other brands?

PS: Mazda's dealer network demands a separate article, wait for it soon.

Used Car Review - Peugeot 5008 (2013-2017)

This unappreciated vehicle will live on in this review.

2013-2017 Peugeot 5008

History
Mention the words European Car and Filipinos will have the following results: luxury brands like BMW, Benz, or Audi, sports car brands like Porsche or any exotic from Italy, Land Rover for off-roaders, and old VWs for nostalgia stake. For any car brand from the Continental side, you'll be treated like a stranger unless there is enough marketing done. Peugeot was one of the casualties here, until the guys from Kia brought these French stuff with a decent number of promotion until the momentum is there, prices were jacked up which caused their value for money proposition, to be gone.

First introduced as an MPV to the European market in 2009, this vehicle developed a fan base due to its spacious cabin and futuristic exterior and owners call it the "Space Wagon". After a seven year run, it bowed down and was replaced by a crossover SUV version of this vehicle.

Under the helm of Columbian Autocar Corporation (Kia, BMW, Mahindra), the Peugeot brand had a comeback with the 5008 being the first four models to be brought in. Three models were available  paired to two engines were first made available from November 2012 until an update three years later reduced to one model - the expensive top of the line. The Active model is the base while the Allure has more fancy features added.

Value and Costs
Unlike the 3008 crossover, this vehicle can be had for less than a hundred grand and we think its one heck of a vehicle: something that seats seven with a French flair. Not much changes occurred during its run, which is a good thing, so focus on the condition more than the year model.

European brands would usually have maintenance costs that are higher than the Japanese so if you are the kuripot type, this is not the car for you. There are available specialist parts for French cars and fuel consumption is good, since this vehicle is a diesel powered one. Problem points for this vehicle mostly involve the transmission. But if there is one thing to be careful of, it is the diesel injectors given the fact the engine is of advanced state.

Exterior and Interior
Modern in style yet practical, this vehicle does hit the middle spot which isn't flashy nor plain looking. All models come with a panoramic sun roof and daytime running lights as standard equipment.

Seven people can jump in to this stylish MPV but the interior may be plain looking for some people. The three rows, depending on the usage, can be cramped or spacious. Control layout is a mixed bag, some are good while some are not and the bonus heads-up display is a help.

Engine
With the local Peugeot distributor pushing with diesels, the 5008 has two oil burners throughout selling life. Lower models sold from 2013 to 2015 have a 1.6 diesel which gets 112hp at 3,600rpm and 285Nm at 1,700rpm paired to a semi-automatic transmission. Higher end models gain a 2.0 diesel utilizing 163hp at 3,750rpm and 340Nm at 2,000rpm that is matched to a conventional automatic. The semi-automatics could be a complicated combo but you would get used to it later on when you get the hang of it while the automatics are a fine partner. Both engines are fine but we suggest to get the lesser one since it will give you a slight advantage on fuel consumption. Another great feature is this model gets a unique diesel particulate filter which removes harmful particles for zero emissions and a start-stop system.

Driving Impressions
If you want something that is fun to drive yet without sacrificing practicality, this is it. It steers with confidence, has less body roll, and offers an accurate steering. However, the suspension setup will give you a firm ride.

Verdict
It seemed the current Peugeot distributor got the right product when it was first made available and priced accordingly. Later models were messed up since the top end is retained with a jacked up price, but at second hand prices this is a steal already.

Car Features - Top 30 Best Selling Vehicles of Thailand for 2017

After years of decline, the Thai market went up 13% which is a sign of relief for 2017. Despite the mourning of the King, Thais went on buying spree for automobiles. Compared to the Philippines, Thailand has fewer choices but moves a lot of cars and in this article, you will see what Thais mostly buy and you can make it as a comparison against our market.

Let's check out what they had bought for the 365 days of 2017. We have included the rest of the vehicle rankings below (no photos though)

Car Features - Same Car, Different Names: Mitsubishi

Our featured Japanese brand regarding rebadging is Mitsubishi Motors, whose automotive building venture is included in a conglomerate that includes other businesses involving mining, shipbuilding, electronics, aviation, heavy industries, among others. Just like other Japanese car brands, they do tend to borrow their vehicles to sell under their name or use one car but sell at a different name.

As with Japanese brands, this list would be separated in two categories: the first one is the same car but different brand and the second is the same car of the same brand but wearing a different name. For the latter category, they must be sold in a different dealer network (the practice was stopped due to the discontinuation of sedan models). Cars launched from 1990 and above would be included on the list to avoid a long list. Do take note the year range represents the entire vehicle line (including those of its twins) even if the original model was killed. It will include vehicles born under joint ventures as a base car. Some vehicles involved in the Diamond Star Motors between Chrysler and Mitsubishi are listed in the former brand which can be seen here.

Let us check what vehicles from the Red Three Diamond brand that had different names for a single car.

Car Features - Best Selling Car Nameplates in the Philippines from 1995-2017

Thanks (or no thanks, depending on your perspective) to the TRAIN law which meant people panicked in buying cars due to a price increase for taxes, 476,073 cars were sold in 7,107 islands in the Philippines for 2017. This article sees new names and old timers beating their old records. This 22 year old data shows you the best sellers here.

Do take note that vehicle figures here are from the manufacturer itself and lists available information that are released, so other models that sold well but not reported will not be counted here. For 2017, we will wait for further reports from other brands if there's any.

See the records from 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016.

Top 30 most successful nameplates in the Philippines from 1995-2017