Selasa, 02 Januari 2018
Car Features The Three Pops and Flops of 2012
Before we leave 2012, The Ultimate Used Car Guide goes back to 12 months of new automotive releases and among the new cars available in the market, there are some that fled off car dealerships like wild while some remained glued and unloved. With some of my friends in Tropang TopGear Ph, we had listed the pops and flops of 2012.
In this case, only new releases in the form of a new nameplate, redesign, engine upgrade, or a new trim level are counted.
Many thanks to Dominic Sobreo, Mark Lester, and Carl Pacis for contributing!
THE HITS
Toyota 86 - We are used on seeing bread and butter vehicles from Toyota that are capable but boring. But June 2012 saw the arrival of the what could be the most exciting car that Toyota made in years. We all saw and cried when the Celica, MR2 Spyder, and Supra are hoisted in heaven; but things are changing and in fact, more sports cars from the oval brand with the T are coming.
Kia Rio - What used to be a favorite of cab drivers from Manila, Cebu, and Davao is now a desirable choice for sub-compact buyers. Cheap plastics may be abound but not that much, plus looking at it can shame some European sub-compacts. Good gamble by Kia.
Ford Mustang - The pony car wars in the country had the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger arrive first in the year when PNoy assumed presidency, but the two didnt sell well due to their stratospheric prices. Ford made a shocker in this years Manila International Auto Show that it displayed and much to the delight, introduced the Mustang. The good thing is that, it was priced at the P2M range, while the other Detroit compatriots are retailing for more than 3M.
THE MISSES
Mazda 3 - It has been three years since the second generation 3 was launched and they brought in this late? And overpriced?? (the Honda Civic and Ford Focus, all new, have justifiable prices) Not to forget under-speced; if it had the SkyActiv engine, the pr ice could have been spot on and justifiable. But with a new distributor, things might change for the better.
Suzuki Kizashi - Critically acclaimed by the press worldwide but not a sales success in the Philippines. Sure it may have an exciting drive plus a cheaper price (it under cuts the very affordable trim of the Sonata), but this failed to lure executives and gushed over the Camry, redesigned for 2012 and introduced last April. Being different has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Subaru Impreza - A great ve hicle in the somewhat crowded compact category but somewhat cheaper competitors had eaten its market share plus the arrival the of the XV didnt help either. We wish all the luck for Subaru to sell a decent number of them next year.
Read More..
In this case, only new releases in the form of a new nameplate, redesign, engine upgrade, or a new trim level are counted.
Many thanks to Dominic Sobreo, Mark Lester, and Carl Pacis for contributing!
THE HITS
Toyota 86 - We are used on seeing bread and butter vehicles from Toyota that are capable but boring. But June 2012 saw the arrival of the what could be the most exciting car that Toyota made in years. We all saw and cried when the Celica, MR2 Spyder, and Supra are hoisted in heaven; but things are changing and in fact, more sports cars from the oval brand with the T are coming.
Kia Rio - What used to be a favorite of cab drivers from Manila, Cebu, and Davao is now a desirable choice for sub-compact buyers. Cheap plastics may be abound but not that much, plus looking at it can shame some European sub-compacts. Good gamble by Kia.
Ford Mustang - The pony car wars in the country had the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger arrive first in the year when PNoy assumed presidency, but the two didnt sell well due to their stratospheric prices. Ford made a shocker in this years Manila International Auto Show that it displayed and much to the delight, introduced the Mustang. The good thing is that, it was priced at the P2M range, while the other Detroit compatriots are retailing for more than 3M.
THE MISSES
Mazda 3 - It has been three years since the second generation 3 was launched and they brought in this late? And overpriced?? (the Honda Civic and Ford Focus, all new, have justifiable prices) Not to forget under-speced; if it had the SkyActiv engine, the pr ice could have been spot on and justifiable. But with a new distributor, things might change for the better.
Suzuki Kizashi - Critically acclaimed by the press worldwide but not a sales success in the Philippines. Sure it may have an exciting drive plus a cheaper price (it under cuts the very affordable trim of the Sonata), but this failed to lure executives and gushed over the Camry, redesigned for 2012 and introduced last April. Being different has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Subaru Impreza - A great ve hicle in the somewhat crowded compact category but somewhat cheaper competitors had eaten its market share plus the arrival the of the XV didnt help either. We wish all the luck for Subaru to sell a decent number of them next year.
Senin, 01 Januari 2018
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 doesnt 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 redis tribution 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, wed 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 hav e 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 2 011 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.
The Good:
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 doesnt 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 redis tribution 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, wed 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 hav e 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 2 011 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.
The Good:
- Diesel power
- Interior quality is tops
- Refinement
The Bad:
- Tight rear seat
- Complicated controls
- Anonymity of the brand< /li>
The Pick: 2.0 TDI
THE SPECS
Engines: 1,798cc I4 turbocharged gasoline, 1,968cc I4 diesel
Power: 158hp @ 4,500-6,200rpm (1.8, 2008-2011), 170hp @ 3,800-6,200rpm (1.8, 2012-2016), 143hp @ 4,200rpm (2.0)
Torque: 250Nm @ 1,500-4,500rpm (1.8, 2008-2011), 320Nm @ 1,750-3,000rpm (1.8, 2012-2016), 320Nm @ 1,750-2,500rpm (2.0)
Fuel Consumption: 7-11km/L (city), 9-15km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)
Transmission: 6-speed automatic (2008-2011), 8-speed automatic (2012-2016)
Suspension: Front multilink, rear trapezoidal link
MORE INFO
Price (New): P2,800,000-P3,500,000
Price (Now): P900,000-P1,900,000
Rivals: BMW 3 Series, Lexus IS, Mercedes Benz C Class, Volvo S60
On Sale: 2008-2016
Resources:
Read More..
http://www.audiforums.com/forum/audi-a4-8/
Contact:
PGA Cars Pre-Owned: (02) 725-3948
Minggu, 31 Desember 2017
Used Car Review Volvo XC60 2009 2017
This unappreciated vehicle will live on in this review.
2009-2017 Volvo XC60
History
One of the last manufacturers to jump in the SUV craze, Volvo joined the bandwagon in 2002 with the XC90 and became a smashing success for the Swedish brand. With Continental based manufacturers wanting sport utes on their line-up which means going smaller, everyone wanted the piece of the pie.
Unveiled at the 2007 North American International Auto Show as a concept car and with the actual vehicle seeing sales a year later in most parts of the world. The first generation XC60 is part of the 60 family of automobiles that includes the S60 and V60. It shares the platform with the Ford Galaxy MPV and Mondeo sedan, and Land Rover Freelander SUV. Considering Volvo is owned by Ford a decade ago, development is split between subsidiaries with the former taking care of the technology part and the British off-road specialist contributed to its off-the-pavemen t skills. It was the first vehicle in the brand to introduce an auto brake feature called City Safety, a system where it prevents collisions for speeds below 30km/h.
Between 2008 to 2009, the Philippine market was awash with compact SUVs from Europe which gave the BMW X3 some competition. Volvo arrived ready with one unique selling proposition which the same period models lacked: a diesel engine, which BMW and sister company LR had. A facelift was introduced in 2013 that had added a two wheel drive model with a lower displacement diesel and a powershift transmission.
Value and Costs
With the launch of the 2018 model just months ago, expect prices to fall down with the oldest models going at P890,000 and the recently purchased ones priced at P2,500,000. Most models are AWD, especially that these were offered for a long time. Just like what we say with premium brands, go to the certified pre-owned section for peace of mind.
Volvo vehicles w ould have expensive maintenance costs but choosing the diesels will keep it lower. Parts are limited to the casa although there are specialist shops to help you, but if you know where to find them.
Exterior and Interior
Stare at this vehicle and you would be surprised that this is a Volvo, especially that at that time the brand is straying away from its boxy and safe image which became a mindset among consumers. Sure, it may have some conservatism in certain areas but the rear portion is where it shines. Only the gasoline model gets the sun roof, which the diesel burners dont get.
The interior is unmistakably European, with a high quality trim, modern styling, and loads of aluminum that you can mistaken it for a showroom for a premium brand furniture. You get a loaded interior from its audio system to seat controls and safety features (because Volvo, duh). Space for both humans and cargoes are decent, a plague for some competitors.
Eng ine
At launch, you get two engine options of different fuel requirements: a 3.0 gasoline having 304hp at 5,600rpm and 440Nm at 2,100-4,200rpm and a 2.4 diesel that utilizes 215hp at 4,000rpm and 420Nm at 1,500-3,000rpm. Added as a low cost option during the mid-cycle facelift is another diesel rated at 2.0 with 240hp at 5,500rpm and 320Nm at 1.800-5,000rpm. If you want this car, go for the diesels and call it a day as it is the logical choice.
Driving Impressions
Thanks to a platform utilized by the Volvo S60 and Ford Mondeo, youll be treated to a smooth ride (despite road imperfections), nimble handling, and excellent NVH levels. Sure, the BMW X3 is fun to drive but has a harsher ride that not all folks would like.
Verdict
This SUV may not be the first in mind when it comes to premium compact SUVs but the Volvo XC60 is one great contender.
The Good:
2009-2017 Volvo XC60
History
One of the last manufacturers to jump in the SUV craze, Volvo joined the bandwagon in 2002 with the XC90 and became a smashing success for the Swedish brand. With Continental based manufacturers wanting sport utes on their line-up which means going smaller, everyone wanted the piece of the pie.
Unveiled at the 2007 North American International Auto Show as a concept car and with the actual vehicle seeing sales a year later in most parts of the world. The first generation XC60 is part of the 60 family of automobiles that includes the S60 and V60. It shares the platform with the Ford Galaxy MPV and Mondeo sedan, and Land Rover Freelander SUV. Considering Volvo is owned by Ford a decade ago, development is split between subsidiaries with the former taking care of the technology part and the British off-road specialist contributed to its off-the-pavemen t skills. It was the first vehicle in the brand to introduce an auto brake feature called City Safety, a system where it prevents collisions for speeds below 30km/h.
Between 2008 to 2009, the Philippine market was awash with compact SUVs from Europe which gave the BMW X3 some competition. Volvo arrived ready with one unique selling proposition which the same period models lacked: a diesel engine, which BMW and sister company LR had. A facelift was introduced in 2013 that had added a two wheel drive model with a lower displacement diesel and a powershift transmission.
Value and Costs
With the launch of the 2018 model just months ago, expect prices to fall down with the oldest models going at P890,000 and the recently purchased ones priced at P2,500,000. Most models are AWD, especially that these were offered for a long time. Just like what we say with premium brands, go to the certified pre-owned section for peace of mind.
Volvo vehicles w ould have expensive maintenance costs but choosing the diesels will keep it lower. Parts are limited to the casa although there are specialist shops to help you, but if you know where to find them.
Exterior and Interior
Stare at this vehicle and you would be surprised that this is a Volvo, especially that at that time the brand is straying away from its boxy and safe image which became a mindset among consumers. Sure, it may have some conservatism in certain areas but the rear portion is where it shines. Only the gasoline model gets the sun roof, which the diesel burners dont get.
The interior is unmistakably European, with a high quality trim, modern styling, and loads of aluminum that you can mistaken it for a showroom for a premium brand furniture. You get a loaded interior from its audio system to seat controls and safety features (because Volvo, duh). Space for both humans and cargoes are decent, a plague for some competitors.
Eng ine
At launch, you get two engine options of different fuel requirements: a 3.0 gasoline having 304hp at 5,600rpm and 440Nm at 2,100-4,200rpm and a 2.4 diesel that utilizes 215hp at 4,000rpm and 420Nm at 1,500-3,000rpm. Added as a low cost option during the mid-cycle facelift is another diesel rated at 2.0 with 240hp at 5,500rpm and 320Nm at 1.800-5,000rpm. If you want this car, go for the diesels and call it a day as it is the logical choice.
Driving Impressions
Thanks to a platform utilized by the Volvo S60 and Ford Mondeo, youll be treated to a smooth ride (despite road imperfections), nimble handling, and excellent NVH levels. Sure, the BMW X3 is fun to drive but has a harsher ride that not all folks would like.
Verdict
This SUV may not be the first in mind when it comes to premium compact SUVs but the Volvo XC60 is one great contender.
The Good:
- Flexible
- Stylish
- Safe
- Busy looking dashboard
- Design not for everyone
- Aint that fuel friendly
The Pick: Diesels
Engine: 2,953cc I6 gasoline, 2,400cc I5 (2009-2017) and 1,9845 I4 (2013-2017) diesel
Power: 304hp @ 5,600rpm (3.0 gasoline), 215hp @ 4,000rpm (2.4 diesel), 240hp @ 5,500rpm (2.0 diesel)
Torque: 440Nm @ 2,100-4,200rpm (3.0 gasoline), 420Nm @ 1,500-3,000rpm (2.4 diesel), 320Nm @ 1.800-5,000rpm (2.0 diesel)
Fuel Consumption: 5-9km/L (city), 8-13km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)
Transmission: 6-speed automatic (3.0 gas and 2.4 diesel), 6-speed powershift (2.0 diesel)
Suspension: Front McPherson strut, rear multilink
MORE INFO
Price (New): P3,445,000-P4,295,000
Price (Now): P890,000-P2,500,000
On Sa le: 2009-2017
Rivals: Audi Q5, BMW X3, Land Rover Freelander, Mercedes Benz GLK Class
Resources:
https://volvoforums.com/forum/volvo-xc60-51/
Contacts:
Volvo Makati - (02) 893-6621
Sabtu, 30 Desember 2017
Quickie Used Car Review Suzuki Swift 2005 2011
The Good: A Mini Cooper at friendly prices
The Bad: This is a drivers car, not a chauffeur driven car
The Say: Brings back all the goodness of driving in a small package.
Go For: MT Units
Avoid:
Price Range: P280,000-P400,000
Our Rating: ****
Related Review: Used Car Review - Suzuki Swift (2005-2011)
Latest vehicle profile: Suzuki Swift
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2005-2011
Vehicle Overview
Suzuki is known for small hatchbacks and 4x4s worldwide, and its presence in this field locally is done via the likes of the Jimny and Vitara. After a failed attempt with the Esteem station wagon, the Swift had the fanfare especially that its exterior design draws similarity to the Mini Cooper. Although never a huge seller, this one had its cult following.
In contrast to its main rivals from Toyota and Honda, this vehicle isnt that spacious for those who want to sit at the back and it is not flexible especially if the seats are all up. Fit and finish is tops, typical comments of Japan CBU vehicles.
If driving excitement is a requirement, look no further since the Swift fits the bill. With an excellent handling, short body, and a firm suspension, this one is a delight to drive. The sole engine choice is responsive if you push it at 4,000rpm and it is no slouch when compared to rivals.
What Should I Get
Throughout selling life, no changes had occurred so pay attention to the vehicle condition more. All Swifts of this generation come with a 110hp 1.5 engine, dual airbags, ABS brakes, fo g light, rear wiper, all power features, CD player, alarm, keyless entry, and steering wheel audio controls. The only known update is the addition of a manual transmission in August 2008.
How Much Would It Cost Me
One deal breaker for this vehicle is the requirement of 95 octane fuel, with rivals contended on 91 octane ones. Another thing is that Suzuki maintenance costs are higher than an average Toyota or Honda but not that much. If you are aiming for one, do take a test drive if the automatic downshifts with delay and the aircon has the tendency to weaken.
Jumat, 29 Desember 2017
VW to show electric crossover concept in Shanghai
Described by VW as a crossover utility vehicle, or CUV, it is a 4-door coupe and SUV in one.
The concept is that the all-electric drivetrain will be as much at home on urban streets as it is on rugged terrain. Destined to offer autonomous driving in whatever production car derives from it, a push on a VW badge on the dash will switch it into self-driving mode, and the steering wheel will retract out of the way into the dashboard.
VW has an objective to have its ID cars in large scale production by the middle of the next cen tury.
Kamis, 28 Desember 2017
Car Profiles Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2003 2009
The Good: Capable on the beaten path, tough
The Bad: Some body roll, lacks refinement
The Say: You get the image at a practical size.
Go For: 3.0 VX diesel
Avoid: 4.0 V6 gasoline
Price Range: P1,090,000-P2,200,000
Our Rating: ***
Related Review: Used Car Review - Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (2003-2009)
Latest vehicle profile: Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2003-2009
Rabu, 27 Desember 2017
Volvo going completely electric
The company will launch five fully electric cars between 2019 and 2021, three of which will be Volvo models and two of which will be high performance electrified cars from Polestar, Volvo Cars’ performance car arm.
Others will be a range of petrol and diesel plug in hybrid and mild hybrid 48 volt options on all models.
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