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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 Reviews:
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
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 Reviews:
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Car Profiles - Chevrolet Captiva (2007-Current)
The Good: Available diesel engine, standard fare of equipment
The Bad: Lukewarm gasoline powerplant, kids only third row
The Say: Has the qualities but gets lost in the ocean of popular models.
Go For: 2.0 Diesel
Avoid: 2.4 Gasoline
Price Range: P545,000-P1,150,000
Our Rating: ***
Related Reviews:
None as of the Moment
Monday, June 17, 2013
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 doctor's order.
One of the worthy choices for students is the first generation Kia Sportage. Bet you didn't 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 didn't 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 wouldn't 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 isn't CRDi, wading through floods isn't a problem.
Exterior and Interior
Rugged is the word to describe the Sportage's 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 driver's 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 isn't 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 wouldn't doubt since it is based from the Mazda Bongo), refinement isn't 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.
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 doctor's order.
One of the worthy choices for students is the first generation Kia Sportage. Bet you didn't 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 didn't 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 wouldn't 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 isn't CRDi, wading through floods isn't a problem.
Exterior and Interior
Rugged is the word to describe the Sportage's 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 driver's 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 isn't 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 wouldn't doubt since it is based from the Mazda Bongo), refinement isn't 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.
Sunday, June 16, 2013
Car Profiles - Kia Sportage (1995-2002)
The Good: Rugged looks, off road capable
The Bad: Suspension did not go through etiquette classes, limited rear space
The Say: While this has its virtues, the same money can buy you a better car.
Go For: 2.0 AVEX diesel
Avoid: 2.0 MR gasoline
Price Range: P90,000-P250,000
Our Rating: **
Related Reviews:
None as of the Moment
Saturday, June 15, 2013
Car Profiles - Kia Forte Koup (2010-Current)
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The Good: Sleek looks, tons of standard amenities
The Bad: Impractical, rarity
The Say: Rare gem worth tracking down.
Go For: 2.0 SX
Avoid:
Price Range: P700,000-P850,000
Our Rating: ***
Related Reviews:
None as of the Moment
Friday, June 14, 2013
Car Profiles - Kia Forte Sedan (2010-Current)
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The Good: Decent pull from engine, standard features
The Bad: Rare in the market
The Say: A rare gem worth looking at.
Go For: 2.0 SX
Avoid:
Price Range: P800,000-P900,000
Our Rating: ***
Related Reviews:
None as of the Moment
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Used Car Review - Chevrolet Optra Sedan (2004-2009)
Another choice out there students, Myk Belmonte is giving out a second choice for your sedan shopping list.
2004-2009 Chevrolet Optra
History
Nearly a year ago, I was able to feature the wagon version of the Optra but with a request coming from Facebook, let's evaluate the sedan version of the Optra which might be an attractive proposition for students due to the cheap acquisition price.
Fact, the Chevrolet Optra (or known as the Daewoo Lacetti) is a Korean car with an American name. Similar to a Korean who acquired American residency, this is not new in the car industry by the practice of selling cars in multiple names. Since everything applied in this paragraph had been written in the wagon review, lets proceed.
With General Motors Automobiles Philippines expanding the Chevrolet line-up, the Optra was added in late 2003. This directly replaced the forgettable Cassia (itself a sedan version of the Suzuki Esteem) discontinued a few months back. While it sold well in the beginning, various quality problems as well as new yet equally superior competitors took a toll to the Optra's sales. Even with discounts and promos, this didn't sway people to the car. 2010 saw the Cruze replacing this vehicle and were not even wiping either. Available trim levels include the base L, LS, LT (only with the 1.8), and the sports kit clad SS.
Value and Costs
Students on a budget can get a Chevrolet Optra between P200,000-P300,000, which is somewhat a newer model compared to the Civic I had featured days ago. However, other popular rivals (read: Japanese and Ford) of the same time are similarly priced in which be careful on deciding before going with the Optra.
The current Chevrolet distributor does a good job on stocking basic parts, but other components entail a waiting time. Common problems include the ECU (Electronic Control Unit), which was to believed the cause of the lower than expected fuel efficiency and must be reprogrammed and some mechanical and electrical parts.
Exterior and Interior
With some designing help from Pininfarina, the Optra possess some clean styling that you'll say this is more European than Korean. In fact this is shorter than some direct rivals from Japan, maintaining a distinct styling. Facelifts had been done in 2006 (which makes do with a single piece grille) and 2008 (this one has chrome tacked on it).
The buyer is the winner in the Optra, as it has a bucket load of amenities that come in its low price. Controls are placed where the driver can reach it and tons of storage bins come standard. Since interior space is a big deal for the student who is the barkada's transportation provider, four can fit comfortably while five is a squeeze and the bags can be placed in the capacious trunk.
Engine
Among the two engines made locally available, the E-TEC II 1,598cc is the most popular with 110hp at 5,800rpm and 150Nm at 4,000rpm. Briefly sold, there is a E-DTEC II 1,799cc which has 115hp at 5,800rpm and 156Nm at 3,500rpm. Between the two, go for the 1.6 since you'll encounter this one more and this one provides decent acceleration. It is noisy at start but it will pacify itself when put in motion and driven under 3,000rpm. The 1.8 has more power but the slight difference makes the 1.6 a convincing buy.
Driving Impressions
Being behind the wheel is a mixed bag. This wants to be driven in the highway smoothly but high speed turns (which is dangerous, by the way) isn't the Optra's habitat. Getting the manual would result to a easy to modulate clutch but a notchy gear stick, the automatic is smooth and responsive. Steering and handling is balanced although it lacks some feedback.
Verdict
Bargains are hard to ignore for students, but lower prices does not equate to the word sulit. The Chevrolet Optra has a low price, but is it sulit? Well, as a daily car you might just like it but you'll be longing for a popular brand.
2004-2009 Chevrolet Optra
History
Nearly a year ago, I was able to feature the wagon version of the Optra but with a request coming from Facebook, let's evaluate the sedan version of the Optra which might be an attractive proposition for students due to the cheap acquisition price.
Fact, the Chevrolet Optra (or known as the Daewoo Lacetti) is a Korean car with an American name. Similar to a Korean who acquired American residency, this is not new in the car industry by the practice of selling cars in multiple names. Since everything applied in this paragraph had been written in the wagon review, lets proceed.
With General Motors Automobiles Philippines expanding the Chevrolet line-up, the Optra was added in late 2003. This directly replaced the forgettable Cassia (itself a sedan version of the Suzuki Esteem) discontinued a few months back. While it sold well in the beginning, various quality problems as well as new yet equally superior competitors took a toll to the Optra's sales. Even with discounts and promos, this didn't sway people to the car. 2010 saw the Cruze replacing this vehicle and were not even wiping either. Available trim levels include the base L, LS, LT (only with the 1.8), and the sports kit clad SS.
Value and Costs
Students on a budget can get a Chevrolet Optra between P200,000-P300,000, which is somewhat a newer model compared to the Civic I had featured days ago. However, other popular rivals (read: Japanese and Ford) of the same time are similarly priced in which be careful on deciding before going with the Optra.
The current Chevrolet distributor does a good job on stocking basic parts, but other components entail a waiting time. Common problems include the ECU (Electronic Control Unit), which was to believed the cause of the lower than expected fuel efficiency and must be reprogrammed and some mechanical and electrical parts.
Exterior and Interior
With some designing help from Pininfarina, the Optra possess some clean styling that you'll say this is more European than Korean. In fact this is shorter than some direct rivals from Japan, maintaining a distinct styling. Facelifts had been done in 2006 (which makes do with a single piece grille) and 2008 (this one has chrome tacked on it).
The buyer is the winner in the Optra, as it has a bucket load of amenities that come in its low price. Controls are placed where the driver can reach it and tons of storage bins come standard. Since interior space is a big deal for the student who is the barkada's transportation provider, four can fit comfortably while five is a squeeze and the bags can be placed in the capacious trunk.
Engine
Among the two engines made locally available, the E-TEC II 1,598cc is the most popular with 110hp at 5,800rpm and 150Nm at 4,000rpm. Briefly sold, there is a E-DTEC II 1,799cc which has 115hp at 5,800rpm and 156Nm at 3,500rpm. Between the two, go for the 1.6 since you'll encounter this one more and this one provides decent acceleration. It is noisy at start but it will pacify itself when put in motion and driven under 3,000rpm. The 1.8 has more power but the slight difference makes the 1.6 a convincing buy.
Driving Impressions
Being behind the wheel is a mixed bag. This wants to be driven in the highway smoothly but high speed turns (which is dangerous, by the way) isn't the Optra's habitat. Getting the manual would result to a easy to modulate clutch but a notchy gear stick, the automatic is smooth and responsive. Steering and handling is balanced although it lacks some feedback.
Verdict
Bargains are hard to ignore for students, but lower prices does not equate to the word sulit. The Chevrolet Optra has a low price, but is it sulit? Well, as a daily car you might just like it but you'll be longing for a popular brand.
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
Car Profiles - Chevrolet Optra Sedan (2004-2009)
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The Good: Affordable and full of kit
The Bad: Fuel thirsty, does not shine in any aspect
The Say: Attainable but not that exciting.
Go For: 1.6 LS
Avoid: 1.8 LT
Price Range: P210,000-P360,000
Our Rating: **
Related Reviews:
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