Used Car Review Compilation 11 27 2012 Update

NOW UPDATED WITH LINKS TO NEW ARTICLES. LIST WOULD BE UPDATED ONCE IN A MONTH.

UPDATE AS OF NOVEMBER 27, 2012.

Ive started creating used car reviews since December 2011 in a weekly basis and it would be very hard for several of my blog visitors to wade around my blogsite. So, to simplify your life, I would be compiling all used car reviews done by me and this list would be updated once a month and youll see the possible vehicles that I would be making a used car review in the future, and the existing ones. You may also suggest a car that you want to see in this page by commenting. All existing models are not included.

So, here are the cars. Links are provided for available articles.

AUDI

* Audi A4 (1998-2004)

* Audi A4 (2005-2008)

* Audi A6 (1998-2004)

* Audi A6 (2005-2011)

* Audi A8 (2005-2010)

* Audi TT (1998-2006)

BMW

* BMW 1 Series (2004-2011)

* BMW 3 Series (1995-1998)

* BMW 3 Series (1999-2004)

* BMW 3 Series (2005-2011)

* BMW 5 Series (1995-2002)

* BMW 5 Series (2003-2009)

* BMW 7 Series (1995-2001)

* BMW 7 Series (2002-2008)

* BMW M3 (2001-2004)

* BMW M3 (2005-2011)

* BMW X3 (2005-2010)

* BMW X5 (2001-2006)

* BMW Z3 (1997-2002)

* BMW Z4 Roadster (2003-2009)

* BMW Z4 Coupe (2006-2009)

CHEVROLET
* Chevrolet Aveo (2004-2012)
* Chevrolet Optra Sedan (2003-2009)

* Chevrolet Optra Wagon (2006-2009)
* Chevrolet Spark (2006-2010)

* Chevrolet Suburban (2000-2006)

* Chevrolet Tahoe (2000-2006)
* Chevrolet Trailblazer (2005-2008)
* Chevrolet Venture (2002-2007)

* Chevrolet Zafira (2001-20 05)

CHRYSLER

* Chrysler 300 (2005-2011)

* Chrysler Pacifica (2005-2008)

* Chrysler Town & Country (2004-2008)

DAEWOO
* Daewoo Cielo (1996-2000)
* Daewoo Espero (1995-1998)
* Daewoo Prince (1995-1999)
* Daewoo Racer (1994-1998)

DAIHATSU
* Daihatsu Charade (1990-1998)

* Daihatsu Feroza (1989-1999)

DODGE
* Dodge Durango (2000-2005)

* Dodge Durango (2005-2009)
* Dodge Journey (2008-2011)

FORD
* Ford Escape (2002-2012)

* Ford Everest TCi (2004-2006)

* Ford Expedition (1998-2002)

* Ford Expedition (2003-2006)

* Ford Explorer (2005-2006)

* Ford Explorer (2007-2011)

* Ford Explorer Sport Trac (2000-2004)

* Ford F150 (1998-2004)

* Ford Focus (2005-2012)

* Ford Lynx (1999-2005)

* Ford Lynx RS (2003-2005)

* Ford Ranger, non-CRDi (1999-2006)

* Ford Ranger, CRDi (2007-2012)

HONDA

* Honda Accord (1994-1998)

* Honda Accord (1998-2002)

* Honda Accord (2003-2007)
* Honda Accord (2008-2012)

* Honda City (1996-2003)

* Honda City (2003-2009)

* Honda Civic Hatchback (1992-1995)

* Honda Civic (1992-1995)

* Honda Civic (1996-2000)

* Honda Civic (2001-2005)

* Honda Civic SiR (1998-2000)

* Honda Civic (2006-2011)

* Honda CR-V (1997-2001)

* Honda CR-V (2002-2006)

* Honda CR-V (2007-2012)

* Honda HR-V (1999-2001)

* Honda Jazz (2004-2008)
* Honda Odyssey (1997-1998)

* Honda Pilot (2006-2008)

HYUNDAI

* Hyundai Accent (2006-2011)

* Hyundai Coupe (1997-2000)

* Hyundai Coupe (2002-2006)

* Hyundai Coupe (2007-2009)
* Hyundai Elantra (1996-2000)
* Hyundai Elantra (2007-2010)
* Hyundai Excel (1995-1998)

* Hyundai Getz (2005-2011)

* Hyundai Matrix (2003-2007)

* Hyundai Santa Fe (2006-2012)

* Hyundai Starex (1997-2004)

* Hyundai Starex CRDi (2004-2007)

* Hyundai Tucson (2005-2009)

* Hyundai Veracruz (2007-2012)

ISUZU
* Isuzu D-Max (2003-2012)

* Isuzu Fuego (1998-2005)
* Isuzu Hilander (1997-2001)

* Isuzu Trooper (1998-2005)

JAGUAR

* Jaguar S-Type (1998-2008)
* Jaguar X-Type (2001-2009)

JEEP

* Jeep Commander (2006-2011)

KIA
* Kia Carens (2007-2012)

* Kia Carnival/Sedona (2000-2007)
* Kia Carnival (2007-2012)
* Kia Mohave (2010-2012)

* Kia Picanto (2004-2011)

* Kia Pride (1990-2002)
* Kia Rio (2000-2005)

* Kia Rio (2006-20 11)

* Kia Sorento (2003-2009)
* Kia Sportage (1995-2000)

* Kia Sportage (2007-2010)

LAND ROVER
* Land Rover Discovery (1996-1999)

* Land Rover Discovery (2004-2009)

* Land Rover Freelander (2004-2007)

LEXUS
* Lexus ES330 (2009-2012)
* Lexus GS400 (2009-2012)
* Lexus LS400 (2009-2012)

MAZDA

* Mazda 3 (2004-2011 )

* Mazda 323 (1993-1998)

* Mazda 323 Familia (1996-2000)

* Mazda 6 (2004-2007)
* Mazda 6 (2008-2012)

* Mazda 626 (1993-1998)

* Mazda Astina
* Mazda BT-50 (2009-2011)

* Mazda CX-7 (2009-2012)

* Mazda Lantis

* Mazda MPV (1996-1998)

* Mazda Miata (1997-1998)

* Mazda Tribute (2004-2009)

MERCEDES BENZ

* Mercedes Benz C Class (1993-1999)

* Mercedes Benz C Class (2000-2007)

* Mercedes Benz CLK Class (2002-2009)

* Mercedes Benz E Class (1995-2002)

* Mercedes Benz E Class (2003-2008)
* Mercedes Benz M Class (2006-2012)
* Mercedes Benz S Class (1995-1999)

* Mercedes Benz SLK Class (1997-2003)

* Mercedes Benz SLK Class (2003-2010)

MITSUBISHI

* Mitsubishi Eclipse (1997-1998)
* Mitsubishi Endeavor (2007-2009)

* Mitsubishi Galant (1989-1992)

* Mitsubishi Galant (1993-1997)

* Mitsubishi Galant (1998-2005)
* Mitsubishi Galant (2006-2012)

* Mitsubishi Grandis (2005-2011)

* Mitsubishi Lancer Box Type

* Mitsubishi Lancer (1993-1999)

* Mitsubishi Lancer (1996-2002)

* Mitsubishi Lancer GSR (1997-2002)

* Mit subishi Lancer (2003-2012)

* Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IV (1997)

* Mitsubishi Lancer Evo V (1998)

* Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VII (2002)

* Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VIII (2004)

* Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX (2006-2007)

* Mitsubishi L200 Strada (1999-2006)

* Mitsubishi Outlander (2003-2006)

* Mitsubishi Outlander (2007-2009)

* Mitsubishi Pajero Intercooler (1993-1998)

*  Mitsubishi Pajero Field Master (1999-2008)
* Mitsubishi Space Gear (1997-2007)

NISSAN

* Nissan 200SX Silvia (1997-1998)

* Nissan 350Z (2004-2008)

* Nissan Altima (1993-1998)

* Nissan Cefiro (1997-2001)

* Nissan Cefiro (2002-2007)

* Nissan Frontier (1998-2007)

* Nissan Murano (2006-2009)

* Nissan Patrol Safari (1993-1999)

* Nissan Sentra (1992-1999)

* Nissan Sentra (1995-2001)
* Nissan Sentra 200 (2010-2012)

* Nissan Sentra Exalta (2000-2001)

* Nissan Sentra Exalta (2001-2003)

* Nissan Serena (2002-2007)

* Nissan Terrano (1996-2003)
* Nissan Teana (2007-2010)

* Nissan Verita (2001-2007)

* Nissan X-Trail (2003-2012)

OPEL

* Opel Astra (2000-2004)
* Opel Omega (1997-2002)

* Opel Tigra (1997-1999)
* Opel Vectra (1997-2002)

PORSCHE

* Porsche 911

* Porsche Boxster (1997-2004)
* Porsche Boxster (2003-2011)

* Porsche Cayenne (2003-2009)

SUBARU

* Subaru Forester (2000-2002)

* Subaru Forester (2002-2008)

* Subaru Impreza (2008-2012)

* Subaru Impreza WRX (1996-1998)

* Subaru Impreza WRX (2006-2007)

* Subaru Impreza WRX STI (2006-2007)

* Subaru Legacy (1996-1999)

* Subaru Legacy (2006-2009)

* Subaru Outback (2006-2009)

SUZUKI
* Suzuki Esteem
* Suzuki Grand Vitara (2000-2005)

* Suzuki Swi ft (2005-2011)

* Suzuki Vitara (1995-2003)

TOYOTA

* Toyota Avanza (2006-2011)

* Toyota Camry (1997-2001)

* Toyota Camry (2002-2006)

* Toyota Camry (2007-2012)

* Toyota Corona (1993-1999)

* Toyota Corolla (1988-1992)

* Toyota Corolla (1993-1998)

* Toyota Corolla (1998-2001)

* Toyota Corolla Altis (2001-2007)

* Toyota Crown (1991-1998)

* Toyota Echo (2000-2002)

* Toyota Echo Verso (2000-2002)

* Toyota Hilux (Pre 2005)

* Toyota Land Cruiser (1993-1998)

* Toyota Land Cruiser (1999-2007)

* Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (1996-2001)

* Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (2002-2009)

* Toyota Liteace (1989-1999)

* Toyota Previa (2004-2006)
* Toyota RAV4 (1997-2000)

* Toyota RAV4 (2000-2005)

* Toyota Revo (1998-2005)

* Toyota Vios (2003-2007)
* Toyota Vios (2007-2012)
* Toyota Yaris (2007-2012)

VOLVO

* Volvo S40 (1998-2004)

* Volvo S40 (2005-2012)

* Volvo S60 (2000-2010)

* Volvo S80 (1999-2007)

* Volvo V50 (200 5-2012)

* Volvo XC70 (2000-2007)

Car Profiles Mazda BT 50 2008 2011

2008-2011 Mazda BT-50

The Good: Great off-road abilities, sporty in image

The Bad: No automatic option, interior space

The Say: Everything that the Ranger has treated to that sporty touch.

Go For: 2.5 4x2
Avoid: 

Price Range: P560,000-P900,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Mazda BT-50

See the different versions of this vehicle:

2008-2011

New Fiesta here at end of the month

The seventh generation Ford Fiesta is arriving in Ireland in two weeks time at a starting price of €16,550, writes Trish Whelan from the international launch in Valladolid in Spain.

Larger and more roomy than the current car, and targeted at a more upmarket buyer profile, it offers a range of engines including 1.1 normal aspirated and 1.0 turbo 3-cylinder petrol engines, and a 1.5 turbo 3 with 200hp.

Two version of a 1.5 diesel are in the powertrain mix. Five- and 6-speed manuals, and a 6-speed automatic are transmission options.

Active cruise control, lane-keeping assist, road sign recognition, and active parking assist are among the technologies available. These include an enhanced Pedestrian Detection system that for the first time can help prevent collisions at night, and the first Ford Active Park Assist system that can deliver brake interventions to prevent low-speed bumps when parking hands-free.

Grades include Zetec and Titanium which will arrive in showrooms before the end of the month. The ST-Line and Vignale versions will arrive at the end of October, and there is a crossover variant called Fiesta Active due in 2018, as will be a new ST performance version.

"We now have a Fiesta option for every driver, with advanced technologies and features that small-car customers could only have dreamed of j ust a few years ago," says Ciaran McMahon, chairman and MD of Ford Ireland.

Ciaran McMahon, chairman and MD of Ford Ireland, with the new Fiesta in Valladolid.

Honda City Generation 5 2 2012 2014

HONDA CITY (2012-2014)

The update gave the City some exterior nips and interior amenities like steering wheel controls and an ECO meter. Another update in April gave rise to two spin off variants that either had leather seats or stability control and 60/40 fold seats.

See the overview of this City

See the Generation 5.1 model

See the latest model of the City

< td>Airbags

OWNERSHIP DETAILS	1.5 ENC	1.5 EL	1.5 E	1.3 S
Years Available	April 2013-April 2014< /td>	April 2013-April 2014	January 2012-April 2014	January 2012-April 2014
ENGINE SPECS
Engine	L15A7 1.5 SOHC 16V I4	L15A7 1.5 SOHC 16V I4	L15A7 1.5 SOHC 16V I4	L13A 1.3 SOHC 16V I4
Horsepower	118hp @ 6,600rpm	118hp @ 6,600rpm	118hp @ 6,600rpm	99hp @ 6,000rpm
Torque	145Nm @ 4,800rpm	145Nm @ 4,800rpm	145Nm @ 4,800rpm	127Nm @ 4,800rpm
Fuel Type	Gasoline/93 Octane	Gasoline/93 Octane	Gasoline/93 Octane	Gasoline/93 Octane
Fuel System	PGM-FI	PGM-FI	PGM-FI	PGM-FI
Transmission	5-Speed Automatic	5-Speed Automatic	5-Speed Automatic	5-Speed Manual, 5-Speed Automatic
Fuel Tank Capacity	42 Liters	42 Liters	42 Liters	42 Liters
DIMENSIONS
Length	4,430mm	4,430mm	4,430mm	4,430mm
Width	1,695mm	1,695mm	1,695mm	1,695mm
Height	1,470mm	1,470mm	1,470mm	1,470mm
Wheelbase	2,550mm	2,550mm	2,550mm	2,550mm
Curb Weight	1,145kg	1,145kg	1,147kg	1,095kg (MT), 1,133kg (AT)
Body Style	4-Door Sedan	4-Door Sedan	4-Door Sedan	4-Door Sedan
Engine/Drive Type	Front Engine/Front Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Front Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Front Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Front Wheel Drive
Seating	5	5	5	5
SUSPENSION & TIRES
Front Suspension	Independent McPherson Strut with Stabilizer	Independent McPherson Strut with Stabilizer	Independent McPherson Strut with Stabilizer	Independent McPherson Strut with Stabilizer
Rear Suspension	H-Shaped Torsion Beam with Stabilizer	H-Shaped Torsion Beam with Stabilizer	H-Shaped Torsion Beam with Stabilizer	H-Shaped Torsion Beam with Stabilizer
Front Brakes	Vented Disc	Vented Disc	Vented Disc	Vented Disc
Rear Brakes	Solid Disc	Solid Disc	Solid Disc	Drum
Tires	175/65 R15	175/65 R15	175/65 R15	175/65 R15
Wheels	15 Inch Alloy	15 Inch Alloy	15 Inch Alloy	15 Inch Alloy
SAFETY
2	2	2	2
Anti-Lock Brakes	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
Traction/Stability Control	Yes, Vehicle Stability Asisst	None	None	None
Other Safety Features	ISO-FIX Child Seats Provision, Seatbelt Reminder for Driver and Front Passenger	None	None	None
EXTERIOR
Fog Lamps	Front	Front	Front	None
Other Exterior Features	Adds: None	Adds: None	Adds: Chrome Door Handles, Side Mirror Signal Repeaters, Exhaust Pipe Finisher. Option: Modulo Body Kits	Body Color Door Handles. Option: Modulo Body Kits
INTERIOR
Steering Wheel Adjustment	Tilt/Telescopic	Tilt/Telescopic	Tilt/Telescopic	Tilt/Telescopic
Steering Wheel Material	Leather	Leather	Leather	Urethane
Seating Adjustment	Manual	Manual	Manual	Manual
Seating Material	Fabric	Fabric	Fabric	Fabric
Other Interior Features	Adds: 60/40 Fold Rear Seat	Adds: None	Adds: Driver and Front Passenger Vanity Mirror, Gun Mettalic Door Garnish, Chrome Handles, Center Console Box with Card Holder, Paddle Shifters, ECO Drive Indicator	Accessory Tray, Accessory Socket
CONVENIENCE FEATURES
Power Amenities	Steering (Electric), Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors	Steering (Electr ic), Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors	Steering (Electric), Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors	Steering (Electric), Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors
Climate Control	Manual	Manual	Manual	Manual
Audio System	AM/FM/CD/MP3/AUX/USB	AM/FM/CD/MP3/AUX/USB	AM/FM/CD/MP3/AUX/USB	AM/FM/CD/MP3/AUX/USB
Speakers	4	4	4	4
Steering Wheel Controls	Yes, Audio	Yes, Audio	Yes, Audio	None
Alarm	Yes, with Immobilizer	Yes, with Immobilizer	Yes, with Immobilizer	Yes, with Immobilizer
Keyless Entry	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
NOTES			Modulo Body Kits became an option in December 2012 until April 2014, becoming standard in April 2013 as the regular model gave way to the EL and ENC.	Modulo Body Kits became an option in December 2012 until April 2014.
RIVALS	Chevrolet Aveo, Chevrolet Sonic, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, Mazda 2, Toyota Vios

Car Profiles Land Rover Freelander 2001 2007

2001-2007 Land Rover Freelander

The Good: Unique styling, can hack the bushes

The Bad: Some reliability quirks, expensive to maintain

The Say: The SM of compact SUVs, with reliability a downer.

Go For: 2.5 V6
Avoid: Thrashed units

Price Range: P800,000-P900,000
Our Rating: **

Related Review: Used Car Review - Land Rover Freelander (2001-2007)

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2001-2007

Skoda to reveal new compact SUV

Hot on the wheels of the new Skoda Kodiaq SUV, the brand is introducing a new compact SUV in Stockholm in the middle of May, writes Brian Byrne.

The video above is a teaser for the reveal, outlining Skoda’s design background and how the name Karoq has been derived … again with Alaskan links.

The 4.4m car is completely new and the company claims ‘exceptional’ space inside. There will be new driver assistance systems, LED headlight option, and a digital instrument panel.

The car will launch with five engine variants â€" two petrol and three diesels â€" in 1.0, 1.5, 1.6 and 2.0 litres displacements and in power from 115hp-190hp.

Nicely done. Like the Kodiaq, an interesting new push in Skoda’s SUV direction.

Car Profiles Nissan 200SX 1997 1998

1997-1998 Nissan 200SX

The Good: Strong engine, sleek looks

The Bad: Manual transmission is not available and finding a stock unit is a needle in a haystack

The Say: Buy this car and youll enjoy some side drifting fun.

Go For: Stock units
Avoid: 

Price Range: P450,000-P700,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: Used Car Review - Nissan 200SX Silvia (1997-1998)

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1997-1998

Used Car Review Kia Sportage 1995 2002

With June a rainy month, Myk Belmonte pitches a compact SUV that can hack the floods without drama.

1995-2002 Kia Sportage

History
In college, suspension of classes are declared at the discretion of the school (it is heaven when the local government would announce it) and at that scenario, floods attack the roads which means commuting can be hard while taking a sedan is a risky choice. In that scenario, an off-road (in this case, flood) capable vehicle must be the doctors order.

One of the worthy choices for students is the first generation Kia Sportage. Bet you didnt know that majority of the components are supplied by Mazda with the base from the Bongo van. From its 1993 launch, standard and extended length (dubbed as the Grand Sportage) as well as convertible versions were made available. 2002 saw the discontinuation in South Korea (it didnt sell well) and United States with other countries following suit.

Columbian Autocar Corporation brought in the Sportage in 1995 as a part of their product line-up expansion (the company used to build and distribute numerous brands back then). Initially available with a gasoline engine, with a diesel under the hood of the Grand Sportage model replacing it in 1999. After its 2002 discontinuation, first generation models were popular second hand imports in Cebu and most of Mindanao.

Value and Costs
Local and imported units are priced between P90,000-P250,000, which is reasonable for its age and Kias of old are not known for their stellar residuals. While Korean surplus units are worth looking, dubious papers and document deficiencies are problems, so be careful with them or you wouldnt want your car to be impounded.

With the influx of Korean specialist shops, as well as the numerous surplus imports, parts are easy to find and purchase. Various nibbles include ignition problems (for gasoline variants), dirty sensors, and engine overheating. Going to the concern of students, since the diesel engine isnt CRDi, wading through floods isnt a problem.

Exterior and Interior
Rugged is the word to describe the Sportages exterior, despite the influx of competitors boasting sleek lines, this stood time and does not get old. The Grand Sportage model can be differentiated from the short length model sold from 1995 to 1998 with its long body, no spare tire at the back, hood scoop, and body stickers. Opening the rear door for those models with a spare tire is complicated, and this impedes rear visibility; so the logical choice is the extended version which is a conventional lift type.

Whether the short or extended wheelbase, the interior is basic but does the job well. Another plus are the legible labels and controls are within drivers reach. However there are some quality quirks that cannot be avoided on some 90s era Korean vehicles. Downside is for the passengers who love to sit at the back is the limited legroom there, but cargo space for the extended model is excellent.

Engine
Both engines are supplied by Mazda, and the short wheelbase pre-1999 models have the FE 1,998cc gasoline which churns out 130hp at 5,500rpm and 172Nm at 4,000rpm. Those with extended bodies have the RF 1,998cc diesel with 91hp at 6,000rpm and 205Nm at 4,200rpm. How do they perform in the real world? Gasoline engines have decent acceleration but isnt behaved, diesels are economical but very weak. The manual would be standard transmission with an automatic being added in the 1999 update.

Driving Impressions
Do not expect too much on this aspect, as this one has a handling which reminds you of a truck (you wouldnt doubt since it is based from the Mazda Bongo), refinement isnt to the levels of the same time RAV4 or CR-V, crude suspension settings, and while the manual is vague, matics has the tendency to hunt for gears. There is one aspect where the Sportage shines, off-road capability. The sub-par refinement levels would give you confidence off the trails (or in this case, flooded streets).

Verdict
Students on a tight budget who need a flood wading vehicle should look no further than the Sportage. However, at that price better (and way superior) choices can be had. My tip? Study all available options.



The Good: 

• Affordable
• 4WD ready
• Rugged looks

The Bad:

• Questionable reliability
• Not a drivers delight
• Tight inside

The Pick: AVEX Diesel

THE SPECS

Engines: 1,998cc FE I4 gasoline and 1,998 RF I4 diesel 

Power: 130hp @ 5,500rpm (gasoline), 91hp @ 6,000rpm (diesel)

Torque: 172Nm @ 4 ,000rpm (gasoline), 205Nm @ 4,200rpm (diesel)

Fuel Consumption: 7-10km/L (city), 9-12km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)

Transmission: 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic

Suspension: Front independent double wishbone, rear rigid axle five link with coil springs

MORE INFO

Price (New): P680,000-P870,000

Price (Now): P90,000-P250,000

Rivals: Suzuki Vitara, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4

On Sale: 1995-2002

Resources:

http://www.kia-forums.com/kia-sportage-forum/

http://www.kiaforumph.com/v2/viewforum.php?f=26

Contacts:

VGT Korean Auto Parts - 0922 266-1106

Photos from http://cebucity.olx.com.ph/1998-kia-sportage-ref-9873-iid-499111479

Used Car Review Hyundai Starex CRDi 2004 2007

Need space? Myk Belmonte has found a solution for you. If the previous vehicle is small for your daily needs (bring the kids to school, family escapades to the malls, running the daily errands, and road trip to the beach), this one is more larger that you can fit the family, plus the dog and some stuff.

2004-2007 Hyundai Starex CRDi

History
There is this saying goes "Change is imminent, Change is constant". This saying goes to a vehicle, when it is a best seller, why fix something that isnt broken? Whenever a new version of an impressive vehicle goes bold, its a love it-or-loathe it affair. Examples of market hits are the Second generation Montero Sport and the Sixth gen Honda Civic. Market misses do include the "Love Life" Toyota Corolla (many people bought the EK Civic despite nearing expiration date) and the current but late Nissan X-Trail. From a grey market favorite, the Hyundai Starex evolved and changed in a lot of ways sinc e its "unofficial" introduction. It had introduced accessories such as roof racks, bull bars, rear ladder, and it had been different among its direct competition, by having a "nguso" which its engine is in front, not underneath that can cook eggs under the heat of the sun.

Hyundai Asia Resources Incorporated, the local distributor of Hyundai vehicles from 2001, decided to give the competition a shocker, placing a CRDi engine under the hood. Back in 2004, very few vehicles do have that technology to brag the competition. The intercooled diesel engine is still available for public consumption, which primarily moved the Starex way back before.

It was then Hyundai made the move of having a full CRDi line up from 2005 onwards. Currently, nearly every vehicle is powered by that diesel technology. This Filipino favorite truly evolved and the Philippine Car Market can go by with change, but it can be a smashing success or a doomed failure. Now thank the Sta rex CRDi and other vehicles in the early 00s for bringing in that type of technology to nearly every vehicle, with that novelty turned out to be mainstream. Variants available back then include the Gold, GRX, Jumbo, and a 4WD variant (this is rare).

Value and Costs

A used unit of this popular van can cost a prospective buyer between P520,000 to as high as P800,000! One good thing about the popularity of the Starex is that a fish of units can be found with an array of locally sold ones to those parallel imports. The Starex commands a premium over its "archaic" competitors, and even luxurious ones. A variant available only in color white is marketed to businessmen and entrepreneurs.

Parts availability is one advantage of this vehicle, from the OEM to the replacement and surplus ones. There is no need to worry if the unit is a parallel import, especially if it has converted from the "wrong side". Do take note that there is no Hyundai Starex sold in Japan. Maintenance costs are comparable to its contemporaries having that type of engine. Do have the oil changed regularly to avoid the engine giving up on you.

Exterior and Interior
What people might or not know that this generation is basically a facelift of the original brethren. Having a flat nose that can be either a good or bad thing. It does not look like an oven toaster, a chest freezer, or worst, karo ng patay. The imposing grill can be gorgeous or ugly, depending on whom you ask.

Being a driver, the Starex is one treat. Why do I say so? You would not look like a family driver with one. The dashboard is similar to a sedan, with the steering wheel titled to near sedan levels. Ample space greets passengers boarding. Unlike the competition, the Starex has easy ingress/egress, which is a good thing for senior citizens and the vertically challenged. And the ride is d efinitely comfortable, credit the retuned suspension, revised NVH insulation, and equipped with better build materials. Safety is definitely a priority, with majority of variants having Anti-lock brakes and a drivers side airbag.

Engine
Propelling this 1,620kg van is a 2,497cc diesel powered engine with CRDi technology that has 145hp at 3,800rpm and 360Nm at 2,000rpm. This van can propel to three digit speeds but not in excess. Two transmission options can be paired with the powerful engine, a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic with overdrive option. This engine bowed out in late 2007, where a monstrous 2.5 engine with VGT technology was placed under the hood. This also commenced its new name to Grand Starex.

Driving Impressions
Remember the time when driving a van would make you feel like driving a truck? Thanks to its engine location, and high levels of insulation; the Starex would let you experience car like driving an d comfort, with the added security of the high ground clearance. Just be careful not to scrape the underpinnings, or it will definitely be costly to fix. This is one good prospect for someone wanting a vehicle that can ferry 12 bodies in a low profile way, but without irking the Human Rights Commission - unless your passengers are close but loyal friends.

Verdict
There is nothing wrong on being "old school", but there are times that we must go with the flow (why am I comparing a car to a person?). The Starex had truly evolved from a wanderer in our country back in the 90s to a vehicle that got loved by the official distributor itself to achieving celebrity status. The Starex is one worthy candidate for a buyer prioritizing space, comfort, performance, and even prestige.



The Good:

• No more egg cooking during summer - the hood is infront
• Headroom and legroom is adequate
• Car-like interior position

The Bad:

• Huge grill (but this is subjective)
• Bulky body
• Kids only third row

The Pick: Gold variant

THE SPECS
Engine: 2,497cc I4 diesel
Power: 85hp @ 4,000rpm (TCi), 145hp @ 3,800rpm (CRDi).
Torque: 170Nm @ 2,200rpm (TCi), 360Nm @ 2,000rpm (CRDi)
Fuel Consumption: 7-10km/L (city), 9-12km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)
Transmission: 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic
Suspension: Front independent double wishbone, rear rigid axle 5-link

MORE INFO
Price (New): P1,050,000-P1,468,000 (range from 2004-2007)
Price (Now): P520,000-P800,000
Rivals: Mitsubishi L300 Versa Van, Nissan Urvan, Toyota Hiace, Kia Pregio
On Sale: Late 2004-2007
Resources:
http://hyundaiclubph.proboards.com/index.cgi
http://www.hyundai-forums.co m/

Contacts
Hyundai Quezon Avenue - 374-3911
Hyundai Commonwealth - 951-2201
Hyundai Pasig - 672-3801

Photos by Myk Belmonte

Starex unit provided by J. Palarca

Car Features Top 30 Best Selling Vehicles of Japan for 2013

For the last Japan best seller series, we shall go to year 2013. Two years since a deadly earthquake and tsunami hit the country, car sales were down in that year but shot up the following year only to go down in 2013.

Regular cars sold during the year totaled to 3.2 million with Kei cars at 2.1 million and 346,000 imported cars. This list only counts regular models especially that our source doesnt include Keis and imports but these are just the minority.

30. Toyota Sienta, (22,371 units sold, %)

29. Mazda Atenza (6), (22,388 units sold, %)

28. Toyota Ractis, (25,688 units sold, %)

27. Toyota Wish, (26,021 units sold, %)

26. Nissan March, (27,711 units sold, %)

25. Nissan X-Trail, (28,198 units sold, %)

24. Suzuki Solio, (30,296 units sold, %)

23. Toyota Porte, (31,649 units sold, %)

22. Toyota Noah, (32,306 units sold, %)

21. Toyota Alphard, (33,764 units sold, %)

20. Toyota Estima (Previa), (34,882 units sold, %)

19. Subaru Forester, (35,166 units sold, %)

18. Mazda CX-5, (38,520 units sold, %)

17. Suzuki Swift, (40,926 units sold, %)

16. Toyota Voxy, (41,918 units sold, %)

15. Toyota Passo, (42,805 units sold, %)

14. Mazda Demio (2), (43,575 units sold, %)

13. Toyota Spade, (48,584 units sold, %)

12. Toyota Vellfire, (50,575 units sold, %)

11. Subaru Impreza, (58,243 units sold, %)

10. Honda Stepwgn, (62,206 units sold, %)

9. Honda Freed, (68,371 units sold, %)

< img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcpX2NotNj35XqlqfORQdXOtLv0Mq3QiSQ8DIN77QwFz8j2BX_dVNTnPVqzMxVDphO7s2ujfqNLU7PPREQ06ylmkioJCW9-Grzo_TI7f07qU5vvloNakfuSOf2IVSz0u-DEeWtIq7WEoT_/s400/carlineup_crownathlete_customize_trd_sportivo_3_01_pc.png" width="400" />

8. Toyota Crown, (82,701 units sold, %)

7. Toyota Vitz, (85,903 units sold, %)

6. Nissan Serena, (96,407 units sold, %)

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5. Toyota Corolla Axio, (101,664 units sold, %)

4. Nissan Note, (147,634 units sold, %)

3. Honda Fit (Jazz), (181,414 units sold, %)

2. Toyota Prius, (253,711 units sold, %)

1. Toyota Aqua (Prius C), (262,367 units sold, %)

Source:

• http://www.jada.or.jp/contents/data/ranking.html#

Car Profiles Fiat Uno 1992 1998

1992-1998 Fiat Uno

The Good: Compact to drive, tons of headroom, available diesel engine

The Bad: Limited parts availability, bare interior

The Say: Youre better off with a Kia Pride.

Go For: 1.0 gasoline
Avoid: 1.3 diesel

Price Range: P55,000-P90,000
Our Rating: *

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1992-1998

150 million VWs have been produced

A Golf GTE that rolled off the Volkswagen assembly line at Wolfsburg yesterday marked a very particular anniversary for the car brand, writes Brian Byrne.

It was the 150 millionth vehicle to be built by VW since it was founded over 80 years ago.

The first car, built on December 27 1945, was named the Type 1 Kafer. From there what became known as the Beetle underpinned the image and the profitability of Volkswagen until the Golf came along.

Of the 150 million vehicles, 21.5m of the original Beetle were built, the Golf has notched up more than 34m, and the Passat more than 20m.

Easytrip comes through for the Blood Bikes

An imminent threat to a voluntary blood delivery service in Ireland has been resolved thanks to the intervention of mobility solutions specialist easytrip, writes Brian Byrne.

The Blood Bikes organisation, whose volunteer motorcycle riders deliver blood to hospitals and medical centres across Ireland had been facing closure because of the impact of tolls on their routes.

But easytrip is now covering all their toll charges, both saving the group money and speeding up the delivery process because the riders no longer have to take detours to avoid the tolls.

All funding for Blood Bikes comes from private donations, and the groups very existence means that vehicles and personnel from eme rgency services are not taken out of service to do deliveries.

Pictured are Colin Delaney, CEO of easytrip Ireland, and members of Blood Bikes Leinster, at the easytrip HQ in Mulhuddart, Dublin.

Mercedes Benz C Class Generation 3 1 2007 2011

MERCEDES BENZ C CLASS (2007-2011)

Under the W204 platform, the third generation C Class gets an extended wheelbase and unlike the previous model, more variants including a C 63 AMG model.

See the overview of this C Class

See the Generation 3.2 model

See the latest model of the C Class

OWNERSHIP DETAILS	C 63 AMG	C350 Avantgarde/AMG Sport	C300 AMG Sport	C280 Avantgarde	C250 Avantgarde	C200 Elegance/ Avantgarde	C180 Elegance/ Avantgarde
Years Available	December 2009-2011	June 2007-2011	May 2010-2011	June 2007-May 2010	May 2010-2011	June 2007-2011	June 2007-2011
ENGINE SPECS
Engine	M156 KE 63 6.2 DOHC 32V V8	M272 KE 35 3.5 DOHC 24V V6	M272 KE 25 3.0 DOHC 24V V6	M272 KE 25 3.0 DOHC 24V V6	M272 KE 25 2.5 DOHC 24V V6	M271 DE 18 AL RED 2.0 DOHC 16V I4 Supercharged	M271 DE 16 ML RED 1.8 DOHC 16V I4 Supercharged
Horsepower	457hp @ 6,800rpm	272hp @ 6,000rpm	231hp @ 6,000rpm	231hp @ 6,000rpm	204hp @ 6,100rpm	184hp @ 5,500rpm	141hp @ 5,200rpm (2007-2008) or 156hp @ 5,200rpm (2008-2011)
Torque	600Nm @ 5,000rpm	350Nm @ 2, 400-5,000rpm	300Nm @ 2,500-5,000rpm	300Nm @ 2,500-5,000rpm	245Nm @ 2,900-5,500rpm	250Nm @ 2800-5000rpm (2007-2010), 270Nm @ 1800-4600rpm (2010-2011)	220Nm @ 2,500-4,200rpm (2007-2008) or 230Nm @ 2,800-4,600rpm (2008-2011)
Fuel Type	Gasoline/95 Octane	Gasoline/95 Octane	Gasoline/95 Octane	Gasoline/95 Octane	Gasoline/95 Octane	Gasoline/95 Octane	Gasoline/95 Octane
Fuel System	Electronic Fuel Injection	Electronic Fuel Injection	Electronic Fuel Injection	Electronic Fuel Injection	Electronic Fuel Injection	Electronic Fuel Injection	Electronic Fuel Injection
Transmission	7-Speed Automatic	7-Speed Automatic	7-Speed Automatic	7-Speed Automatic	7-Speed Automatic	7-Speed Automatic	7-Speed Automatic
Fuel Tank Capacity	66 Liters	66 Liters	66 Liters	66 Liters	66 Liters	66 Liters	66 Liters
DIMENSIONS
Length	4,726mm	4,581mm	4,581mm	4,581mm	4,581mm	4,581mm	4,581mm
Width	1,795mm	1,770mm	1,770mm	1,770mm	1,770mm	1,770mm	1,770mm
Height	1,447mm	1,447mm	1,447mm	1,447mm	1,447mm	1,447mm	1,447mm
Wheelbase	2,765mm	2,760mm	2,760mm	2,760mm	2,760mm	2,760mm	2,760mm
Curb Weight	1,730kg	1,610kg	1,555kg	1,555kg	1,530kg	1,490kg	1,485kg
Body Style	4-Door Sedan	4-Door Sedan	4-Door Sedan	4-Door Sedan	4-Door Sedan	4-Door Sedan	4-Door Sedan
Engine/Drive Type	Front Engine/Rear Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Rear Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Rear Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Rear Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Rear Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Rear Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Rear Wheel Drive
Seating	5	5	5	5	5	5	5
SUSPENSION & TIRES
Front Suspension	McPherson Strut	McPherson Strut	McPherson Strut	McPherson Strut	McPherson Strut	McPherson Strut	McPherson Strut
Rear Suspension	Multi Link	Multi Link	Multi Link	Multi Link	Multi Link	Multi Link	Multi Link
Front Brakes	Vented and Cross Drilled Disc	Vented and Cross Drilled Disc	Vented Disc	Vented Disc	Vented Disc	Vented Disc	Vented Disc
Rear Brakes	Vented and Cross Drilled Disc	Vented and Cross Drilled Disc	Solid Disc	Solid Disc	Solid Disc	Solid Disc	Solid Disc
Tires	235/40 R18 (Front), 255/35 R18 (Rear)	225/45 R17 (All from 2007-2008 or Front from 2008-2011), 245/40 R17 (Rear)	225/45 R17 (Front), 245/40 R17 (Rear)	225/45 R17	225/45 R17	205/55 R16 (Front and Rear, Elegance), 225/45 R17 (Front and Rear, Avantgarde and later models)	205/55 R16 (2007-2010) or 225/45 R17 (2010-2011)
Wheels	18 Inch Alloy	17 Inch Alloy	17 Inch Alloy	17 Inch Alloy	17 Inch Alloy	16 (Elegance) or 17 (Avantgarde) Inch Alloy	16 Inch Steel with Cover (2007-2010) or 17 Inch Alloy (2010-2011)
SAFETY
Airbags	7	7	7	7	7	7	7
Anti-Lock Brakes	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist, and Adaptive Brake System	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist, and Adaptive Brake System	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist, and Adaptive Brake System	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist, and Adaptive Brake System	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist, and Adaptive Brake System	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist, and Adaptive Brake System	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist, and Adaptive Brake System
Traction/Stability Control	Yes, Electronic Stability Program	Yes, Electronic Stability Program	Yes, Electronic Stability Program	Yes, Electronic Stability Program	Yes, Electronic Stability Program	Yes, Electronic Stability Program	Yes, Electronic Stability Program
Other Safety Features	Adds: None	Adds: None	Adds: None	Adds: None	Adds: Pre-Safe System	Adds: None	Tire Pressure Monitor System, Front and Rear Proximity Sensors, Hill Start Assist, Automatic Slip Reduction
EXTERIOR
Fog Lamps	Front and Rear	Front and Rear	Front and Rear	Front and Rear	Front and Rear	Front and Rear	Front and Rear
Other Exterior Features	Adds: LED Exterior Lighting Package, Quad Exhaust Tips, AMG Body Kit	C350 Avantgarde Adds: Active Automatic HID Headlamps, Bo dy Kit. C350 AMG Sport Adds: AMG Body Kit with Revised Front Bumper and Side Skirts	Adds: AMG Body Kit with Revised Front Bumper and Side Skirts	Adds: Sun Roof	Adds: Active Automatic HID Headlamps	C180 Elegance Adds: None. C200 Avantgarde Adds: Revised Front Grille, Blacked Rear Lamps, Chrome Dual Exhaust Tips. C200 Avantgarde SE Adds: Tinted Headlamps.	Automatic Headlamps, Rain Sensing Wipers, Side Mirror Signal Repeaters
INTERIOR
Steering Wheel Adjustment	Tilt/Telescopic	Tilt/Telescopic	Tilt/Telescopic	Tilt/Telescopic	Tilt/Telescopic	Tilt/Telescopic	Tilt/Telescopic
Steering Wheel Material	Leather	Leather	Leather	Leather	Leather	Leather	Leather
Seating Adjustment	Power, Driver and Fro nt Passenger	Power, Driver and Front Passenger	Power, Driver and Front Passenger	Power, Driver and Front Passenger	Power, Driver and Front Passenger	Power, Driver and Front Passenger	Power, Driver and Front Passenger
Seating Material	Sports Leather	Leather	Leather	Leather	Leather	Leather	Fabric (2008-2010), Fabric/Leather (2010-2011), or Leather (2007-2008)
Other Interior Features	Adds: AMG Instrumentation	Adds: None	Adds: None	Adds: 60/40 Fold Rear Seats	Adds: None	C180 Elegance Adds: None. C200 Avantgarde Adds: Aluminum Accents, COMAND System with 4.5 Inch Colored Instrument Panel Display. C200 Avantgarde SE Adds: Brushed Stainless Steel Accents, Rear Seat Pass Thru	Wood (2007-2010) or Aluminum (2010-2011) Accents, COMAND System with 4.5 Inch Colored Instrument Panel Display, Bluetooth Hand s Free Phone
CONVENIENCE FEATURES
Power Amenities	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors with Fold, Heat and Dim	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors with Fold, Heat and Dim	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors with Fold, Heat and Dim	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors with Fold, Heat and Dim	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors with Fold, Heat and Dim	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors with Heat and Dim	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors with Heat and Dim
Climate Control	Automatic, Triple	Automatic, Triple	Automatic, Triple	Automatic, Triple	Automatic, Triple	Automatic, Dual	Automatic, Dual
Audio System	4.5 Inch COMAND with AM/FM/6 CD/DVD/MP3/ AUX/SD Card with Voice Command and Harman Kardon Logi c 7 Surround Sound System	4.5 Inch COMAND with AM/FM/6 CD/DVD/MP3/ AUX/SD Card with Voice Command and Harman Kardon Logic 7 Surround Sound System	4.5 Inch COMAND with AM/FM/6CD/DVD/ MP3/AUX/SD Card with Voice Command and Harman Kardon Logic 7 Surround Sound System	4.5 Inch COMAND with AM/FM/ 6CD/DVD/MP3/ AUX/SD Card with Voice Command and Harman Kardon Sound System	4.5 Inch COMAND with AM/FM/6 CD/MP3/AUX with Harman Kardon Logic 7 Surround Sound System	4.5 Inch COMAND with AM/FM/ 6CD/MP3/ AUX/SD Card/Bluetooth	4.5 Inch COMAND with AM/FM/ 6CD/MP3/ AUX/SD Card/Bluetooth
Speakers	12	12	12	12	12	8 (2010-2011) or 9 (2007-2010)	8 (2010-2011) or 9 (2007-2010)
Steering Wheel Controls	Yes, Audio and Telephone	Yes, Audio and Telephone	Yes, Audio and Telephone	Yes, Audio and Telephone	Yes, Audio and Telephone	Yes, Audio and Telephone	Yes, Audio and Telephone
Alarm	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Keyless Entry	Yes, Keyless Go	Yes, Keyless Go	Yes, Keyless Go	Yes, Keyless Go	Yes	Yes	None
NOTES		Sold in Avantgarde model between June 2007 to 2009, with the AMG Sport model replacing it and being sold between 2009 to May 2010. Replaced by the C300 in May 2010. Disc brakes upgraded to cross-drilled in October 2008.		Replaced by the C250 in May 2010.		Available in both Elegance and Avantgarde models between June 2007 to May 2010, with the Avantgarde model being the sole option with two sub-models being sold between May 2010 to 2011. Torque updates occurred in May 2010. Revised front grille, blacked rear lamps, and chrome dual exhaust Tips d eleted in May 2010 for the main Avantgarde model, named as the C180. Downgraded to partial electric front seats in May 2010. Auxiliary jack and SD car function replaced the Bluetooth function in October 2008, with SD card fuction deleted in May 2010.	Sold in Elegance model between June 2007 to May 2010, with the Avantgarde model replacing it and being sold between May 2010 to 2011. Power updates occurred in October 2008. Downgraded to partial electric front seats and auto dim mirrors removed in May 2010. Auxiliary jack and SD car function replaced the Bluetooth function in October 2008, with SD card fuction deleted in May 2010.
RIVALS	Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Jaguar X Type, Lexus IS, Volvo S60

2016 Hyundai Veloster Turbo Release Date

2016 Hyundai Veloster Turbo Release Date

2016 Hyundai Veloster Turbo 

For those who owned the 2016 Hyundai Veloster Turbo in past times, they agree that whether or not it is among the best sporty vehicle, it is still to rival having other performance car within the same categories. Even so, everything is anticipated to change with the particular 2016 Hyundai Veloster. The new model may include sport grille while using revise d headlight and its bumper also could be redesigned. The rear also might have to pass through some changes together with new graphics regarding tail lights. The auto inside will also have some tweaks in its interior and the infotainment system will likely be upgraded.

2016 Hyundai Veloster Turbo interior

The 2016 Hyundai Veloster engine is anticipated to do better and it will squeeze the particular turbocharged 1. 6 model to give a better serp. The horsepower of 201 are often updated. The suspension on t he new car is usually expected to be tuned and the R-spec may have upgrade that could filter across a normal model with substantial spring rates plus a more rigid transmission and the brake based torque vectoring program.

The 2016 Hyundai Veloster Turbo seemed to be spotted first through its test driving but it was under the particular camouflage, which you possibly can tell base upon our spy shots. However, in addition on the changes which is to be made on the auto, the engine is usually expected to possibly be better. It will include improved exterior having new bodywork which can make it to be nearer to the top sports activity cars. The grille on the new Veloster will be similar to the one spotted upon Genesis but while using new car its going to look tougher. The headlights could be also small while doing so redesigned.

The 2016 Hyundai Veloster Turbo is an ticipated to reach to this market in the very first month of 2015 and the price would be the same as the current model. This means that the expense of the base model will begin at $17, 800 and it will go $5, 000 for you to $6, 000 way up for better set up models.

The 2016 Hyundai Veloster Turbo can have a more highly effective train but its not yet clear in the event the company will improve old engine or will increase the new engine. The options involving boosting the old engine are the one that many people discuss. This means the current engine of 1. 6 L T-GDi Gamma engine could be boosted using many angry race horses. By now this engine has got the torque of 195 lb-ft torque along with 201 horsepower.