Car Guide and Inspiration Quickie Used Car Review - Toyota Yaris (2007-2014)-Cars Blogging

2007-2014 Toyota Yaris

The Good: Practical, a pleasure to drive

The Bad: Interior is not that flexible

The Say: Something unnoticed that has character.

Go For: 1.5
Avoid: You have no other choice

Price Range: P285,000-P400,000
Our Rating: ***

Related review: Used Car Review - Toyota Yaris (2007-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: Toyota Yaris

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2007-2009
2009-2012
2012-2014

Vehicle Overview
Sharing the platform with the Toyota Belta, the Yaris is still European designed similar to the first generation model. Both the sedan and hatchback use the same engines and components but utilizes a different sheet metal. While the first generation model which was launched in 2000 utilized the Echo nameplate, the second generation model now gets the Yaris badge.

Compared to its dinky predecessor, this one grew in size both inside and out while retaining the easy to drive personality it has. Going inside reveals more space and a dashboard similar to the Vios, a car whose platform it shares. While a lot of cubby holes and storage bins are present, a single fold bench poses a lack of flexibility especially if the need arises for cargo loading you would be in trouble.

Unlike the Vios and the current model, this one has a sole engine option in the form of a 1.5 engine which has ample power from low to mid range plus Toyota's VVT-I technology comes standard. And unlike its sedan sibling, this one has a fun to drive personality which you'll enjoy. Outward visibility is topnotch and it is complemented by an upright seating position.

What Should I Get
No need to worry for a variant to look at, rather several model years have equipment updates and it pays to look carefully as the later the unit, the more kit it has. Initial models from 2007 has all power features, alarm system, keyless entry, dual airbags, fog lamps, ABS brakes, MP3 function, and rear wiper. Models sold from June 2009 adds side mirror signal repeaters, auxiliary jack, and steering wheel audio controls while March 2012 had some exterior updates and red stitching. Only one engine is available: a 107hp 1.5.

How Much Would It Cost Me
This vehicle didn't sell well throughout, which translates to limited parts availability especially for the exterior components. However, several mechanical parts are similar to the Vios which makes things easy for the wallet. Fuel consumption is on the average with several rivals. Although not much problems were reported, do take a look for the alternator which has a weak characteristic in several instances.

Car Guide and Inspiration Car Profiles - Chevrolet Sail-Cars Blogging

CHEVROLET SAIL

Replacing the Sonic sedan is the dinky Sail whose origins are traced from China and based on a small Opel. Engines rival the likes of the Vios but this actually competes with the Mirage G4 and Brio Amaze. We think this wouldn't succeed well given the size to price ratio plus Chevy's weakness in the passenger car segment.

The Good:

The Bad:

Price Range: P688,888-P858,888

Our Rating:

Last Update: July 16, 2016

OWNERSHIP DETAILS	1.5 LTZ	1.5 LT	1.3 LT
Price	P858,888	P768,888	P688,888 (For Cash Purchases), P713,888
Warranty	5 Years or 100,000kms	5 Years or 100,000kms	5 Years or 100,000kms
ENGINE SPECS
Engine	1.5 DOHC 16V I4	1.5 DOHC 16V I4	1.3 DOHC 16V I4
Horsepower	107hp @ 6,000rpm	107hp @ 6,000rpm	72hp @ 6,000rpm
Torque	141Nm @ 4,000rpm	141Nm @ 4,000rpm	127Nm @ 4,000rpm
Fuel Type	Gasoline/91 Octane	Gasoline/91 Octane	Gasoline/91 Octane
Fuel System	Multi Port Fuel Injection	Multi Port Fuel Injection	Multi Port Fuel Injection
Transmission	4-Speed Automatic	4-Speed Automatic	5-Speed Manual
Fuel Tank Capacity
DIMENSIONS
Length	4,300mm	4,300mm	4,300mm
Width	1,735mm	1,735mm	1,735mm
Height	1,504mm	1,504mm	1,504mm
Wheelbase	2,500mm	2,500mm	2,500mm
Curb Weight
Body Style	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
Seating	5	5	5
SUSPENSION & TIRES
Front Suspension	McPherson Strut	McPherson Strut	McPherson Strut
Rear Suspension	Torsion Bar	Torsion Bar	Torsion Bar
Front Brakes	Disc	Disc	Disc
Rear Brakes	Drum	Drum	Drum
Tires	185/55 R16	175/70 R14	175/70 R14
Wheels	16 Inch Alloy	14 Inch Alloy	14 Inch Steel
SAFETY
Airbags	2	2	2
Anti-Lock Brakes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Traction/Stability Control	None	None	None
Other Safety Features	Adds: Rear Parking Sensor, Rear Camera	Adds: None. Optional: Rear Camera	Speed Sensitive Door Locks. Optional: Rear Camera
EXTERIOR
Fog Lamps	Front	Front	Front
Other Exterior Features	Adds: Black B Pillar, Sunroof	Adds: None	Body Color B Pillar, Body Color Side Mirrors and Door Handles
INTERIOR
Steering Wheel Adjustment	Tilt	Tilt	Tilt
Steering Wheel Material	Urethane	Urethane	Urethane
Seating Adjustment	Manual	Manual	Manual
Seating Material	Fabric	Fabric	Fabric
Other Interior Features	Adds: Chrome Door Handles, Retractable Rear Headrests	Adds: Driver Information System	Front Power Outlet, Rear Window Defogger
CONVENIENCE FEATURES
Power Amenities	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors with Fold	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors with Fold	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors with Fold
Climate Control	Automatic	Manual	Manual
Audio System	9 Inch Touchscreen with AM/FM/CD/MP3/AUX/USB/Ipod, Iphone Mirroring, Mobile Hotspot, Waze, Spotify, Google Play Store	1DIN AM/FM/CD/MP3/AUX/USB/Ipod. Optional: Iphone Mirroring, Mobile Hotspot, Waze, Spotify, Google Play Store	1DIN AM/FM/CD/MP3/AUX/USB/Ipod. Optional: Iphone Mirroring, Mobile Hotspot, Waze, Spotify, Google Play Store
Speakers	4	4	2
Steering Wheel Controls	Yes, Audio and Bluetooth	None	None
Alarm	Yes	Yes	Yes
Keyless Entry	Yes	Yes	Yes
RIVALS	Honda Brio Amaze, Mitsubishi Mirage G4

Car Guide and Inspiration Car Features - 10 Commonly Repossessed Vehicles July 2016-Cars Blogging

2 weeks from a new administration and a payday Friday, let us discover the most repossessed cars this month. If you see a trend here, the top 10 are mostly sub-compacts, where most people start buying cars. The economy is doing fine with people are on a buying spree for cars but finishing their payments are just a different topic. This list aims to help buyers on which bank to go in finding a specific vehicle they want.

Do take note the list is accurate as of July 15, 2016. Sources include: PS Bank, Banco De Oro, RCBC Savings Bank, East West Bank, Unionbank, Maybank, BPI, and Security Bank.

See the top 10 of  the following months: October 2015, November 2015, January 2016, February 2016, March 2016, April 2016, May 2016, and June 2016. Original 2014 article here.

TOP 5 PER BANK

Top 5 PS Bank

	VEHICLE	Number of units present
1	Mitsubishi Mirage G4	32
2	Mitsubishi Montero Sport	31
3	Kia Picanto/Toyota Vios	26
4	Hyundai Accent	21
5	Hyundai Eon	19

Top 5 Banco De Oro

	VEHICLE	Number of units present
1	Ford Fiesta	13
2	Mitsubishi Lancer/Mitsubishi Mirage	12
3	Kia Picanto	11
4	Mitsubishi Mirage	10
5	Toyota Vios	9

Top 5 RCBC Savings Bank

	VEHICLE	Number of units present
1	Kia Picanto/Hyundai Eon	8
2	Hyundai Accent	7
3	Honda City/Mitsubishi Montero Sport	6
4	Ford Fiesta/Mitsubishi Adventure/Nissan Frontier/Kia Sportage	5
5	Toyota Vios/Kia Sorento/Suzuki Alto/Suzuki Celerio	4

Top 5 EastWest Bank

	VEHICLE	Number of units present
1	Toyota Vios	50
2	Kia Picanto	48
3	Kia Rio	41
4	Hyundai Eon	34
5	Hyundai Accent	19

Top 5 BPI

	VEHICLE	Number of units present
1	Kia Rio	11
2	Ford Fiesta/Kia Picanto	15
3	Toyota Vios/Mitsubishi Montero Sport/Mazda 2	7
4	Hyundai Eon/Hyundai Accent	6
5	Ford Everest/Honda City	5

TOP 10 FOR JULY 2016

1. Kia Picanto

2. Toyota Vios

3. Kia Rio

4. Hyundai Eon

5. Hyundai Accent

6. Mitsubishi Mirage G4

7. Ford Fiesta

8. Mitsubishi Montero Sport

8. Nissan Almera

9. Mitsubishi Adventure

10. Ford Everest

	VEHICLE	PSB	BDO	RCB	EW	UBP	MYX	BPI	SECB	TOTAL
1	Kia Picanto	26	11	8	48	4	3	8	12	120
2	Toyota Vios	26	9	4	50	9	9	7		114
3	Kia Rio	5	3	3	41	10	2	11	6	81
4	Hyundai Eon	19	5	8	34	2	3	6	2	79
5	Hyundai Accent	21	8	7	19	9	3	6	2	75
6	Mitsubishi Mirage G4	32	10	3	12	6	5	4		72
7	Ford Fiesta	18	13	5	16	1	1	8	3	65
8	Mitsubishi Montero Sport	31		6	5	2	2	7		53
9	Nissan Almera	9	3	3	6	9	19	3	1	53
10	Mitsubishi Adventure	13	8	5	10	3	2	4	1	46
11	Ford Everest	6	5	2	14		1	5	2	35
12	Mazda 2	6	2	1	9	4		7		29
13	Toyota Innova	7	6	3	6		4	3		29
14	Ford Focus	2	6	1	15	1	1	1	1	28
15	Mitsubishi Mirage	10	12	1	3			1		27
16	Honda City	4	4	6	2	2	1	5		24
17	Suzuki Alto	2		4	14	2		1		23
18	Nissan Urvan	4	4	3	3	3	2	3		22
19	Mitsubishi L300	10	3		3	2	2	1		21
20	Mitsubishi Lancer	2	12		2	3	1	1		21
21	Nissan Frontier	1	8	5	2		2	3		21
22	Kia Sportage	2	5	5	1		3	1	1	18
23	Foton View	1	1	2		9	4			17
24	Hyundai Elantra	2	5	5	1	3		1		17
25	Ford Ranger	5	4	1	1	1	3	1		16
26	Suzuki Celerio	2		4	4	2		3		15
27	Kia Sorento	2	2	4	4		1	1		14
28	Mitsubishi Strada	2	2	3	1	2	1	2	1	14
29	Toyota Avanza	5	3	3	3					14
30	Toyota Corolla Altis	3	5		2	1	1	2		14
31	Toyota Fortuner	6	4	1	1	1			1	14
32	Isuzu Crosswind	3	6	2	1			1		13
33	Nissan Sentra	4		1	4	1		2	1	13
34	Suzuki Swift	6	3		2		1		1	13
35	Chevrolet Colorado	1	8	1				2		12
36	Ford Escape	4		1	2		1	3		11
37	Suzuki Grand Vitara		5	2			1	3		11
38	Chevrolet Spark	2	3		1	1		3		10
39	Hyundai Tucson	2	3	1	1	2			1	10
40	Mazda 3	3	2	1	2			1	1	10
41	Suzuki APV	1	3	2	1	2		1		10
42	Toyota Hiace	3	5		1		1			10
43	Chevrolet Sonic		2		3	2	2			9
44	Nissan Sylphy	2		3		3	1			9
45	Suzuki Swift Dzire	1	3	1	3	1				9
46	Suzuki SX4		3	1	2	2		1		9
47	Chevrolet Captiva	1	2		1	1		1	2	8
48	Foton Tornado	1	1	1	1	4				8
49	Honda Civic		4		1		1	1	1	8
50	Hyundai i10/Grand i10	2		1	4	1				8
51	Kia Carens	2	1		1	2	1		1	8
52	Mazda BT-50		3	1		1	3			8
53	Foton Thunder			3	2		1		1	7
54	Hyundai Grand Starex/Starex	1		1	1	1		3		7
55	Toyota Hilux		5		1				1	7
56	Chevrolet Trailblazer	1	5							6
57	Suzuki Ertiga	2	1	1		1			1	6
58	Suzuki Kizashi			1	4	1				6
59	Toyota Wigo	2	1		2			1		6
60	Chevrolet Aveo		2		2			1		5
61	Ford Ecosport	1	1	1	1			1		5
62	BMW 3 Series			1		2			1	4
63	Chevrolet Spin		1			1		2		4
64	Isuzu D-Max	1	2		1					4
65	Peugeot 3008			3				1		4
66	Chevrolet Cruze			1	1			1		3
67	Ford Explorer					1		2		3
68	Honda Brio	1		1				1		3
69	Honda Jazz		1				1		1	3
70	Hyundai H100	2						1		3
71	Isuzu Alterra		1		1				1	3
72	Kia Carnival			1				1	1	3
73	Kia Forte	1	1		1					3
74	Kia K2700		1			1		1		3
75	Mercedes Benz E Class					2		1		3
76	Nissan Teana						2		1	3
77	Audi A4		1			1				2
78	BMW M5			1		1				2
79	Dodge Durango		2							2
80	Hyundai Getz					2				2
81	Hyundai Sonata		1				1			2
82	Isuzu NHR	2								2
83	Kama KMC				2					2
84	Kia Optima		1						1	2
85	Kia Soul		1		1					2
86	Mitsubishi ASX		1	1						2
87	Mitsubishi Canter	1				1				2
88	Mitsubishi Pajero	1	1							2
89	Nissan Patrol	1						1		2
90	Nissan X-Trail					1		1		2
91	Toyota Camry			1	1					2
92	Toyota Yaris		2							2
93	BMW 1 Series							1		1
94	BMW 5 Series			1						1
95	BMW X6					1				1
96	BYD F0		1							1
97	BYD L3				1					1
98	Chery V2		1							1
99	Chevrolet Malibu					1				1
100	Chevrolet Optra				1					1
101	Chevrolet Orlando		1							1
102	Chevrolet Traverse		1							1
103	Ford Expedition								1	1
104	Foton Blizzard					1				1
105	Foton MP-X					1				1
106	GMC Savana					1				1
107	Haima 1								1	1
108	Haima 2					1				1
109	Haima 7				1					1
110	Haima Family					1				1
111	Haima Freema				1					1
112	Haima F-Star				1					1
113	Honda Brio Amaze			1						1
114	Honda CR-V						1			1
115	Honda Mobilio							1		1
116	Hyundai Genesis Coupe		1							1
117	JAC DFM		1							1
118	JMC New Kompadre			1						1
119	Land Rover Range Rover					1				1
120	Lexus CT					1				1
121	Lexus IS		1							1
122	Lincoln Navigator		1							1
123	Mazda CX-5						1			1
124	Mazda CX-7				1					1
125	Mazda CX-9							1		1
126	Mercedes Benz B Class					1				1
127	MINI Paceman					1				1
128	Mitsubishi Grandis								1	1
129	Mitsubishi L200	1								1
130	Porsche Cayenne					1				1
131	Subaru Forester								1	1
132	Subaru Impreza		1							1
133	Tata Indica				1					1
134	Tata Vista							1		1
135	Toyota Prius			1						1
136	Volvo S80		1							1
137	Volvo V40							1		1
		340	262	146	391	142	95	149	54	1579

Buying a repossessed car? Check this buying tip.

Car Guide and Inspiration Quickie Used Car Review - Honda Jazz (2008-2014)-Cars Blogging

2008-2014 Honda Jazz

The Good: Flexibility in a small package, reliability

The Bad: Firm ride and wind noise intrudes the cabin

The Say: An all around vehicle hampered by imperfections.

Go For: 1.5 V
Avoid: 1.5 V Mugen

Price Range: P350,000-P580,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: Used Car Review - Honda Jazz (2008-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: Honda Jazz

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2008-2011
2011-2014

Vehicle Overview
The second generation Jazz, which was introduced in August 2008 as a 2009 model locally, offers a longer wheelbase and a wider profile while the cabin gets more larger but trunk space is smaller. This model signaled the drop of the CVT transmission (a conventional automatic was used here, although it was reverted back for the third generation) and the i-DSi engine.

As mentioned earlier, the exterior dimensions grew larger although its height remained the same. The growth in size translated for more space for humans but lost some trunk space. The famed three cargo configuration modes are retained and there is no need to push the front seats forward to give way for the rear headrests, just release the locks and push the seats which results to a flat cargo space.

While the occupants get great visibility, it is still the same old Jazz you got to know which has that easy to drive personality and fun to steer dynamics. Unlike the previous model, this one has an all VTEC technology engine line-up that gives both the 1.3 and 1.5 more grunt. Choosing the 1.3 will require you to push the pedal harder to have decent acceleration and going for the 1.5 doesn't have any drama when accelerating. If you aim for a manual for the 1.5, better luck next time my friend since there is none for this generation.

What Should I Get
You'll mostly encounter two variants during your Jazz search: the S and V. Going for the S gives you the 99hp 1.3 engine, all power features, dual airbags, ABS brakes, CD player with MP3 and auxiliary function, rear wiper, alarm with immobilizer, keyless entry. V models add a 118hp 1.5 engine, side mirror signal repeaters, and folding side mirrors to distinguish from its lowly brother. An update in March 2011 added USB function for all models and for the V these exclusive goodies like fog lamps and paddle shifters. A limited edition V EX was introduced in February 2012 which was imported from Japan (late 2011 saw Honda's plant in Thailand flooded) and has features that aren't available among local models including a cruise control, glovebox cooler, and steering wheel controls. Mugen and Modulo body kits were made as an extra cost option for the V from August (Mugen) and December (Modulo) 2012 respectively

How Much Would It Cost Me
If the previous model was plagued of the CVT issues, fear not as you don't need to worry for one plus keeping this baby is on the average range of rivals. Since this has more power and torque than before plus the rev-happy characteristic of this vehicle means fuel consumption is high. Common problems that this generation of Jazz face include the starter system which makes has the tendency of starting the engine difficult especially when the vehicle is shut down for a short time and a weak alternator.
Watch out for the different recalls which were issued for this vehicle, since you must look out if these were performed, and these include a spring that causes friction resulting to stalling or engine failure (for 1.5 models assembled between August 2008 to April 2010, issued last February 2011) and suspected defect in the driver side airbag's deflator (2009 to 2011 assembled models issued last September 2015 and 2012 to 2014 assembled models issued last March 2016).

Car Guide and Inspiration Quickie Used Car Review - Chevrolet Aveo Sedan (2006-2013)-Cars Blogging

2006-2013 Chevrolet Aveo Sedan

The Good: Numerous equipment, not expensive

The Bad: Cheap plastics, less space

The Say: Apart from price, it does not excel in any way.

Go For: 1.4 LT
Avoid: 1.6

Price Range: P220,000-P450,000
Our Rating: **

Related Review: Used Car Review - Chevrolet Aveo Sedan (2006-2013)

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2006-2010
2010-2013

Vehicle Overview
Apparently, this vehicle was an intended replacement to the Daewoo Lanos whose development was done prior to GM's takeover of the bankrupt Korean car maker and was the first to be released after the acquisition of the American car maker. The aim of this vehicle is simple: sell this vehicle at an affordable price but with generous amount of equipment. For the Philippine market, the sedan configuration arrived three years later after the hatchback's release. Unlike the latter, this one was sold until 2013, where it got replaced by the Sonic.

Going inside the cabin will reveal two things: a not-so-spacious interior (although comfortable to be in) and a dashboard filled with hard plastic. Four passengers would fit fine though squeezing isn't that good plus trunk space isn't that big also.

Driving this car wouldn't inspire anything, it does the job decently without any drama. Occupants would be treated to a high seating position and an expansive outside visibility. Unlike the hatchback which gets a weak engine, the sedan utilizes a somewhat smaller but more powerful engine which is adequate for one's needs. One thing to keep note for manual models is the location of the reverse gear, which is beside the first gear.

What Should I Get
A sole variant sporting a 94hp 1.4 engine was first sold from October 2006 until the line-up was expanded in 2010. The single model has all power amenities, alloy wheels, dual airbags, ABS brakes, fog lamp, 60/40 fold rear seats, CD player with MP3 capability, alarm, and keyless entry. That variant became the LS (has a manual transmission) or the LT (only with an automatic) in 2010. Other variants that came out include the L which does have steel wheels with cover, no airbags, no ABS brakes, power windows, power door locks, and no security features and the LT Sport which adds body kits and a rear spoiler available in either 1.4 or a 103hp 1.6 engine. Among the variants, no need to look beyond the 1.4 LS or LT since the LT Sport models aren't that common plus you get most kit with what we recommend.

How Much Would It Cost Me
Yes, it is cheap to buy especially that low resale values attract potential buyers. The good news end here as this vehicle has limited parts availability and high fuel consumption compared to rivals. Yup, maintenance costs are also on the upper scale when compared to the Japanese and Korean competition. Not much problem points here as not much of this vehicle were sold throughout selling life.

Car Guide and Inspiration Quickie Used Car Review - Mazda 2 Sedan (2010-2015)-Cars Blogging

2010-2015 Mazda 2 Sedan

The Good: A perky handler with a trunk

The Bad: Cheap interior quality, smallish rear seat

The Say: Practical and fun to drive that isn't perfect.

Go For: 1.3
Avoid:

Price Range: P300,000-P450,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Reviews: Used Car Review - Mazda 2 (2010-2015)
Latest vehicle profile: Mazda 2 Sedan

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2010-2015

Vehicle Overview
Mazda's first attempt in the sub-compact race for the Philippine market is with the Mazda 2, known as the Demio in other markets and shares a platform with the Ford Fiesta. While the hatchback was first introduced, the sedan came to the market after a few months but with some differences in the lineup.

For the first time, a sedan configuration of this vehicle was introduced which is sold mostly in several markets outside Japan and Europe. If you're going to buy this one to transport passengers more often, this isn't an impressive option especially that cabin space is limited especially for your legs and mostly for the rear occupants. Unlike the Fiesta whose interior quality is praised, the 2's carries the opposite as hard plastics are mostly used.

If you would be purchasing this vehicle for the driving experience, then you have come to the right place. While this one has a precise steering, a lightweight body, and a supple suspension, a short drive would be a driver's delight but no thanks to its exterior proportions, the sedan has a tendency to feel loose on certain situations.

What Should I Get
First released in March 2010, the 103hp 1.5 variant is fully kitted which includes dual airbags, ABS brakes, alloy wheels, fog lamps, 60/40 fold rear seat, all power amenities, CD player with auxiliary and USB jack, alarm with immobilizer, and keyless entry. A year later, an 85hp 1.3 model was introduced which loses the alloy wheels and fog lamps although the former became a cost added option in late 2014.

How Much Would It Cost Me
Purchase a unit from January 2013 and above and you will benefit from Mazda's Youjin3 coverage that promises free maintenance and roadside assistance throughout the warranty period. Fuel consumption is below a notch over several rivals, which is one thing to consider. If you are considering a 2010-2011 model, check the rack-and-pinion steering since it has a tendency to be noisy and these are replaced under warranty.

Car Guide and Inspiration Quickie Used Car Review - Kia Rio Sedan (2006-2011)-Cars Blogging

2006-2011 Kia Rio Sedan

The Good: Ride is comfortable, rev happy engine

The Bad: Simplistic interior, absence of safety features

The Say: A basic car perfect for the lowly budget, but if you are willing to look beyond the badge.

Go For: 1.4 EX
Avoid: Ex-taxi units

Price Range: P240,000-P320,000
Our Rating: ***

Full Review: Used Car Review - Kia Rio (2006-2011)
Latest vehicle profile: Kia Rio Sedan

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2006-2009
2010-2011

Vehicle Overview
After the lackluster first generation model sold in the earlier part of the decade, the second generation Rio now shares a platform with the Hyundai Accent which made things more better. While a hatchback was offered in this generation, it was dropped after a year due to slow sales.

If the first generation model was crude enough, this one improved a notch by offering higher than average reliability and decent driving experience. Only one engine option is available, a 1.4 gasoline which does not carry any variable valve-timing technology but is flexible enough at any situations. Ride quality is biased towards comfort, especially that passengers get thick seats as standard.

Although hard plastics come standard, the interior is as basic as one can get especially that no airbags come present. Cabin space is spacious enough for four people and going beyond would mean uncomfortable plus trunk space is decent for the category. For those who are considering a 2010 and above unit, do take note that is has a reverse gear placed beside the first gear which may be daunting for first timers.

What Should I Get
Throughout selling life, the main variant would be the EX and this is our choice especially that it is fully kitted that includes the 93hp 1.4 engine, CD player, all power features, 60/40 fold rear seat, steel wheels, and that's it. An automatic transmission option was added in late 2007 as initial models were sold with a manual. An update in October 2009 had a basic LX added in the line-up which only retains power steering and an audio system plus you can get it in color white and manual transmission. LX models are differentiated by their black door handles and side mirrors, as opposed to the EX's body colored ones.

How Much Would It Cost Me
Since this vehicle had its stint as a taxicab, parts availability is tops and there are Korean parts specialist shops as an alternative to a dealer. Fuel consumption is decent for the category with manuals being more efficient compared to their automatic counterparts. One thing to look are the stabilizer links, which is a weak point of this vehicle.