Wednesday, February 24, 2016

Car Guide and Inspiration Car Profiles - Honda Pilot-Cars Blogging

HONDA PILOT

Staying away from its boxy stature of old and now possessing an exterior of the current, the third generation Pilot crams every available amenity that is found among high end mainstream branded vehicles. Sure, the engine has Honda's Earth Dreams technology and a lot of other features but the price has to be desired for some.

The Good:
The Bad:

Price Range: P3,380,000
Our Rating:

Last Update: February 24, 2016

OWNERSHIP DETAILS3.5 EX-L
PriceP3,380,000. Additional P20,000 for White Diamond Pearl
Warranty3 Years or 100,000kms
ENGINE SPECS
Engine3.5 DOHC 24V V6
Horsepower280hp @ 6,200rpm
Torque353Nm @ 5,000rpm
Fuel TypeGasoline/93 Octane
Fuel SystemDirect Injection with Variable Cylinder Management and Earth Dreams Technology
Transmission6-Speed Automatic
Fuel Tank Capacity74 Liters
DIMENSIONS
Length4,941mm
Width2,296mm
Height1,773mm
Wheelbase2,820mm
Curb Weight1,962kg
Body Style5 Door SUV
Engine/Drive TypeFront Engine/All Wheel Drive with Intelligent Variable Torque Management and Dynamic Torque Vectoring
Seating8
SUSPENSION & TIRES
Front SuspensionMcPherson Strut
Rear SuspensionMulti-Link with Trailing Arm
Front BrakesVentilated Disc
Rear BrakesDrum in Disc
Tires245/60 R18
Wheels18 Inch Alloy
SAFETY
Airbags8
Anti-Lock BrakesYes, with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
Traction/Stability ControlYes, Vehicle Stability Assist and Intelligent Traction Management
Other Safety FeaturesBlind Spot Information, Cross Traffic Monitor, Advance Compatibility Engineering, ISO-FIX Seats, Hill Start Assist, Seatbelt Reminder, Immobilizer, Parking Sensors, Multi-View Reverse Camera, Emergency Stop Signal, Transaction Control System, Trailer Stability Assist, Tire Pressure Monitor System, Lane Keeping Assist System, Road Departure Mitigation, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning
EXTERIOR
Fog LampsYes
Other Exterior FeaturesDaytime Running Lights, Chrome Door Handles, Front Rain Sensing Wipers, Rear Wiper, Tail Gate Spoiler, Side Mirror Signal Repeaters, Roof Rails, Reverse Auto Tilt Side Mirror, Rear Privacy Glass, Washer Level Sensor, Acoustic Windshield, Sunroof, LED Projector Headlights with Auto Leveling and Auto On/Off
INTERIOR
Steering Wheel AdjustmentTilt and Telescopic
Steering Wheel MaterialLeather
Seating AdjustmentPower, Driver and Front Passenger
Seating MaterialLeather
Other Interior FeaturesAdaptive Cruise Control, Agile Handling Assist, 12V Accessory Socket, Chrome Door Handles, Coat Hanger, Illuminated Glove Box, Rear Window Sunshades, 4.2 Inch Multi Information Display, Cargo Area Light, Blue LED Light, Active Noise Control, Remote Engine Start
CONVENIENCE FEATURES
Power AmenitiesSteering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors with Fold and Memory, Tailgate
Climate ControlAutomatic, Triple Zone
Audio SystemFront: 8 Inch Touch Screen Display Audio with AM/FM/CD/MP3/DVD/AUX/USB/Bluetooth/HDMI Port/iPod and iPhone/WiFi Connectivity. Rear: 9 Inch Entertainment System with Remote Control, 2 Wireless Headphones, DVD Player, and Auxiliary Jack
Speakers7
Steering Wheel ControlsYes, Audio, Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist System, Multi Information Display, Bluetooth Hands Free
AlarmYes, Security Alarm
Keyless EntryYes, Smart Entry with Push Start System
RIVALSDodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Hyundai Grand Santa Fe, Mazda CX-9, Mitsubishi Pajero, Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
See the different versions of the Pilot:

Sunday, February 21, 2016

Car Guide and Inspiration Used Car Review - Suzuki SX4 (2008-2015)-Cars Blogging

In a lazy Monday like this, Hubben Delcatro features a not-so-popular nameplate around.

2008-2015 Suzuki SX4

History
Suzuki has a history of vehicles which were produced for other manufacturers and vice versa, most of them are from General Motors that are sold anywhere else in the world. Other OEM deals are arranged with their fellow Japanese manufacturers which includes Mazda, Nissan (both in Japan), Mitsubishi (Indonesia), and Subaru (Europe).

If there is one vehicle in their stable that is sold as a Fiat, this is it. First launched as a hatchback in 2006 for the European market, the SX4 (an abbreviation of Sports X-Over 4 all seasons) can be had in either front or 4x4 drivetrain and a sedan, a replacement for the Aero/Liana and Forenza range in several markets. This one follows the mold of the Jimny and Vitara, vehicles that had defined Suzuki in a segment.

An addition to the passenger car portfolio of Suzuki, the SX4 arrived first in sedan guise with a hatchback followed that coincided with an update. The sedan was never a huge seller, so it was no surprise that it was dropped in 2011; the hatchback officially ended sales in 2015, marking the end of the SX4 range. Post 2010 models are called as the Aero for sedan models and Crossover for hatchback variants.

Value and Costs
Planing to set your eyes on the SX4 as your next car? Then here is a good news, prices range between P300,000 to P570,000 and that is for both sedan and hatchback models. To be honest, the sedan is surrounded by competitors that are much better in every aspect and costs cheap to keep while the hatchback is a better buy if you want this nameplate, simply because only a few rivals exist in this category.

Since this vehicle isn't much common in the market, no common problems were reported by owners so expect this vehicle to be reliable. One disadvantage that you must be prepared is cost of parts, as Suzukis are known for expensive spare parts.

Exterior and Interior
Styling per body style differ, so let us discuss them in detail for each one. Going with the sedan will give you a tall boy look but the roofline is awkward at best plus the standard 15 inch wheels for the earlier models contribute to a somewhat dinky look, this was rectified when it was upgraded and a rear spoiler was also added. Going for the hatchback treats you to something less off-looking plus roof rails comes standard.

Going inside will reveal something opposite of a true-blue Japanese CBU, cheap interior finish plus control switches that one snap you will feel it will give up. Otherwise, interior room is akin to an MPV and all models get a 60/40 fold rear seat as standard. Other good stuffs that come standard include a thick leather steering wheel with audio controls and large gauge instrumental reading.

Engine
Throughout selling life, only one engine exist: a M16A 1.6 carrying 102hp at 5,500rpm for 2008 to early 2010 models or 110hp at 5,600rpm for later releases and torque pegged at 145Nm at 4,200rpm for early variants or 150Nm at 3,800rpm if you are aiming for a later unit. Steer clear of the 102hp 1.6 especially that it struggles at weight plus engine sound is wheezy, at least it is well planted but you'll need to push hard. Choosing the 110hp 1.6 rewards you a much better driving experience plus the feeling of heaviness is nowhere to be found.

Driving Impressions
One advantage of this compact is a driving feel that is comfortable at best, especially it does not transmit any road imperfections and the suspension glides well, plus the tires that come standard is biased towards comfort. Drivers will receive a taller-than-average seating position, which is a good thing coupled with large windows.

Verdict
This vehicle will either make you go or avoid buying this one for a variety of reasons. The sedan is a choice if you want something that is not common and love cruising more, but we pick the hatchback since it is the practical all-rounder. Life is a compromise so choose wisely.

The Good:
  • Upright driving position
  • Practical hatchback configuration
  • Airy interior cabin
The Bad:
  • Early models struggling engine
  • Interior quality isn't the best
  • Expensive maintenance costs 
The Pick: Crossover

THE SPECS
Engine: 1,586cc M16A I4 gasoline
Power: 102hp @ 5,500rpm (2008-2010), 110hp @ 5,600rpm (2010-2015)
Torque: 145Nm @ 4,200rpm (2008-2010), 150Nm @ 3,800rpm (2010-2015)
Fuel Consumption: 8-10km/L (city), 11-13km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Suspension: Front McPherson strut, rear torsion beam

MORE INFO
Price (New): P814,000-P899,000
Price (Now): P300,000-P570,000
Rivals: Chevrolet Optra, Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Mazda 3, Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Sentra, Toyota Corolla Altis (Sedan/Aero); Ford Focus, Hyundai i30, Kia Soul, Mazda 3 (Crossover)
On Sale: 2008-2011 (Sedan/Aero), 2010-2015 (Crossover)
Resources:

Contacts:
Suzuki E. Rodriguez - (02) 726-2709

Friday, February 19, 2016

Car Guide and Inspiration Car Features - Best Selling Car Nameplates in the Philippines from 1995-2015-Cars Blogging

323,000 vehicles found a buyer in 2015, which was also a record year for the industry. This article sees new names and old timers beating their old records. This 20 year old data shows you the best sellers here.

Do take note that vehicle figures here are from the manufacturer itself and lists available information that are released, so other models that sold well but not reported will not be counted here.

See the records from 2011, 2013 and 2014.

Top 20 most successful nameplates in the Philippines from 1995-2015



1. Toyota Vios
Volume: 33,173
Peak Year: 2015


2. Toyota Fortuner
Volume: 18,643
Peak Year: 2014



3. Toyota Corolla
Volume: 17,686
Peak Year: 1996


4. Toyota Innova
Volume: 17,011
Peak Year: 2015


5. Mitsubishi Montero Sport
Volume: 16,766
Peak Year: 2014




6. Toyota Hiace
Volume: 16,675
Peak Year: 2015


7. Honda Civic
Volume: 15,899
Peak Year: 1996


8. Toyota Tamaraw FX
Volume: 15,661
Peak Year: 1995


9. Toyota Wigo
Volume: 13,433
Peak Year: 2015


10. Mitsubishi Lancer
Volume: 13,119
Peak Year: 1996*


11. Nissan Sentra
Volume: 12,658
Peak Year: 1995**


12. Toyota Revo
Volume: 12,001
Peak Year: 2003



13. Isuzu MU-X
Volume: 10,000
Peak Year: 2015


14. Honda CR-V
Volume: 9,708
Peak Year: 2003


15. Mitsubishi L300 FB/CC
Volume: 9,078
Peak Year: 1996


16. Honda City
Volume: 8,914
Peak Year: 2010


17. Isuzu Crosswind
Volume: 8,901
Peak Year: 2003



18. Toyota Hilux
Volume: 8,719
Peak Year: 2015



19. Ford Ecosport
Volume: 8,691
Peak Year: 2015



20. Toyota Avanza
Volume: 8,464
Peak Year: 2015

Notes:
* - Combined sales of "Itlog" and "Pizza" Lancer models, with the latter introduced in September 1996
** - Combined sales of B13 and B14 Sentra models, with the former being sold until 1999.

Sources: 

Sunday, February 14, 2016

Car Guide and Inspiration Used Car Review - Audi Q7 (2006-2015)-Cars Blogging

This long running luxury SUV has been changed, and Hubben Delcatro sees the old model further.

2006-2015 Audi Q7

History
You may not know this but Audi is owned by the Volkswagen Group, which is one of the largest car manufacturers in the world. Which means that your Audi A4 has an equivalent vehicle that shares its platform in the other brands stable (platform sharing done by the Volkswagen Group is common and a long list can be seen here) but making subtle differences from one another. Apart from Audi and Volkswagen themselves, they also own the following: Bentley, Bugatti, Lamborghini, Porsche, SEAT, Skoda, Ducati, MAN, Scania, and Neoplan trucks. This alone makes them have more brands compared to Toyota and General Motors.

One of the birth-child of the PL71 platform is the Audi Q7, which also shares its base together with the Porsche Cayenne and the Volkswagen Touareg and the upcoming Bentley Bentayga will use this also. The one thing in common among them are these are their first SUVs in their stable and the platform is meant for mid to large size SUVs. Among the three, the Q7 is the largest especially it uses an extended model that can accommodate three rows of seats. While it was the last to be produced (production started in 2005), it was the last for a second generation to be released, ten years later.

PGA Cars shipped in the Q7 in their portfolio back in 2006 as an answer to the booming luxury SUV market. While the first two platform-mates arrived earlier, it would be the last among the trio. Two engine options were offered: a 3.0 diesel and a 4.2 gasoline with a S-Line model reserved for the former in November 2009.

Value and Costs
Compared to contemporaries from BMW, Mercedes Benz, and Land Rover, the resale value of the Q7 is low especially that you get one for just P2,000,000. As a rule for premium brand vehicles, it pays to go the certified pre-owned route especially these have been inspected and backed up with a warranty if you desire one.

When it comes to taking care of one, maintenance costs aren't that too far from rivals coming from Europe and don't expect affordable cost of ownership, since it is not meant for one. Areas of concern are the EGR especially if dirty fuel is ingested throughout ownership life and the air suspension, especially if it malfunctions it would be a pain to fix.

Exterior and Interior
At 5,000mm, the Q7 makes the Touareg (4,700mm) and the Cayenne (4,700mm for the first generation, 4,800mm for the second) tiny in terms of vehicle length. The grille will definitely shout "Audi" that makes it a distinction from other stablemates while some hints of VW/Porsche exist can be seen from the sides and the rear. The latter, as always in the case of other vehicles, is plain looking at its best. S-Line models distinguish themselves by side skirts, revised bumpers, and 20 inch alloys; with the latter item inherited from the 4.2 model.

Going inside will reveal an interior that mimics the A6 or A8 without sacrificing a lot in terms of comfort or interior quality, which is a good proposition in itself. If BMW has the iDrive, the Audi carries the Multi Media Interface System which holds the controls of the air suspension system, air-conditioning, and the audio system which gets BOSE audio complemented with 14 speakers inside. Rear occupants are fine in the second row seat but will not appreciate the third row bench which is suitable for children or small build people. Folding the back seats will give you cavernous space for your precious cargo.

Engine
Both the 4.2 V8 gasoline that has 350hp at 6,800rpm and 440Nm at 3,500rpm and the 3.0 V6 diesel which displaces 233hp at 4,400rpm and 500Nm at 1,750-2,750rpm provide excellent performance and smooth delivery of power. However, most Q7 units in the market are diesel powered and we would vouch for this, since it is fuel friendly over the gasoline option.

Driving Impressions
Most SUVs aren't driven in dirt roads by most buyers, and the Q7 handles like a car plus the standard air suspension will lower the vehicle at high speeds or raise when tackling rough roads. Handling is similar to a sedan, considering it is very long, and has good body control. Lastly, you may appreciate the ride since it is floaty at best.

Verdict
Audi's first attempt at the popular SUV market is something to be proud of, they did it right the first time. Who wouldn't know that their first will also bear other small counterparts from the brand that shares the same philosophy later on.

The Good:
  • Powerful engines
  • High quality interior
  • Seating for three
The Bad:
  • Ride is too firm at low speeds
  • Cramped third row
  • Expensive maintenance costs
The Pick: 3.0 diesel

THE SPECS
Engines: 4,163cc V8 gasoline and 2,967cc V6 diesel
Power: 350hp @ 6,800rpm (gasoline), 233hp @ 4,400rpm (diesel)
Torque: 440Nm @ 3,500rpm (gasoline), 500Nm @ 1,750-2,750rpm (diesel)
Fuel Consumption: 4-7km/L (city), 7-10km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Suspension: Front and rear double wishbone

MORE INFO
Price (New): P6,000,000-P8,000,000
Price (Now): P2,000,000
Rivals: Mercedes Benz GL Class, Lexus LX570, Nissan Patrol Royale
On Sale: 2006-2015
Resources:

Contacts:
PGA Cars Mandaluyong - (02) 727-0145

Wednesday, February 10, 2016

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

324,000 vehicles were sold in 2015 and that was throughout the country; a portion of people who bought cars last year (and some in the previous years) will default on their payments either those who wanted a personal ride or those who invested for Grab/Uber units (which is not profitable in the first place). This list also aims to help buyers on which bank to go in finding a specific vehicle they want. For the first time, the Kia Rio takes a rest as the most repossessed vehicle and you will be surprised who is number one.

Do take note the list is accurate as of February 10, 2016. Sources include: PS Bank, Banco De Oro, RCBC Savings Bank, East West Bank, Unionbank, Maybank, BPI, Security Bank, and Chinabank. UCPB does not have any active list as of writing time so we will be skipping them for now.

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

TOP 5 PER BANK

Top 5 PS Bank
VEHICLENumber of units present
1Toyota Vios37
2Hyundai Eon27
3Mitsubishi Montero Sport24
4Kia Picanto22
5Hyundai Accent21

Top 5 Banco De Oro
VEHICLENumber of units present
1Mitsubishi Montero Sport42
2Toyota Vios22
3Ford Fiesta18
4Mitsubishi Adventure15
5Mitsubishi Lancer14

Top 5 RCBC Savings Bank
VEHICLENumber of units present
1Mitsubishi Montero Sport21
2Kia Picanto/Hyundai Accent/Nissan Urvan13
3Ford Everest/Mitsubishi Adventure/Honda City10
4Hyundai Eon/Suzuki Grand Vitara9
5Nissan Frontier/Mitsubishi Mirage8

Top 5 EastWest Bank
VEHICLENumber of units present
1Kia Picanto31
2Kia Rio29
3Toyota Vios27
4Hyundai Eon21
5Ford Fiesta18

Top 5 Unionbank
VEHICLENumber of units present
1Kia Rio24
2Hyundai Accent11
3Foton View9
4Toyota Vios/Nissan Urvan8
5Nissan Almera/Kia Picanto/Mitsubishi Lancer/Mitsubishi Montero Sport6

Top 5 Maybank
VEHICLENumber of units present
1Kia Rio18
2Chevrolet Spark16
3Chevrolet Sonic/Ford Fiesta14
4Ford Everest12
5Nissan Frontier10

Top 5 BPI
VEHICLENumber of units present
1Kia Rio19
2Kia Picanto15
3Mitsubishi Adventure11
4Chevrolet Aveo10
5Hyundai Accent/Ford Everest9

TOP 10 FOR FEBRUARY 2016

1. Toyota Vios

2. Kia Picanto

2. Mitsubishi Montero Sport

3. Kia Rio

4. Ford Fiesta

5. Hyundai Accent

6. Ford Everest

7. Mitsubishi Adventure

8. Hyundai Eon

9. Nissan Urvan


10. Nissan Frontier Navara


VEHICLEPSBBDORCBEWUBPMYXBPISECBCHIBTOTAL
1Toyota Vios37226278181110
2Kia Picanto226133169156108
3Mitsubishi Montero Sport244221663312108
4Kia Rio653292418193107
5Ford Fiesta20186182147489
6Hyundai Accent2191315118986
7Ford Everest1510101612972
8Mitsubishi Adventure151510104511171
9Hyundai Eon279215567
10Nissan Urvan118135824152
11Nissan Frontier68811105241
12Mitsubishi Lancer314426521239
13Mitsubishi Mirage G41284252639
14Nissan Almera535369233
15Toyota Innova137442333
16Mazda 2761842432
17Chevrolet Spark33216428
18Mitsubishi L300775211427
19Honda City55101526
20Toyota Fortuner88213325
21Suzuki Grand Vitara59413224
22Chevrolet Sonic12214423
23Ford Focus139141221
24Hyundai Tucson242343321
25Mitsubishi Mirage4581321
26Kia Sportage2213244220
27Mitsubishi Strada2951320
28Ford Ranger432413219
29Hyundai Elantra321532319
30Suzuki Alto6433319
31Suzuki Celerio64321319
32Isuzu Crosswind3851118
33Chevrolet Aveo212101117
34Mazda 32311324117
35Suzuki APV143213216
36Toyota Corolla Altis162114116
37Chevrolet Colorado143222115
38Kia Sorento1256115
39Toyota Avanza6521115
40Toyota Hilux33512115
41Hyundai Grand Starex/Starex261121114
42Foton Tornado13521113
43Foton View19313
44Suzuki SX424121313
45Hyundai i10/Grand i1041231112
46Kia Carens2341212
47Ford Escape3222211
48Nissan Sentra111114211
49Chevrolet Captiva221121110
50Suzuki Swift4311110
51Suzuki Swift Dzire2122310
52Toyota Hiace32211110
53Honda CR-V2211129
54Mazda BT-5012111129
55Chevrolet Cruze221128
56Isuzu Alterra1111228
57Kia Forte31318
58Honda Civic112217
59Kia Soul131117
60Chevrolet Orlando31116
61Chevrolet Spin31116
62Hyundai H10012216
63Hyundai Santa Fe1111116
64Toyota Wigo11226
65Foton Thunder145
66Kia Carnival1315
67Nissan X-Trail11215
68Suzuki Ertiga1225
69Suzuki Kizashi12115
70Chevrolet Trailblazer11114
71Ford Ecosport11114
72Ford Explorer11114
73Isuzu D-Max1214
74Kia Optima11114
75Mitsubishi Pajero2114
76Nissan Grand Livina11114
77BMW 3 Series213
78Ford E-150123
79Foton Blizzard1113
80Honda Jazz1113
81Isuzu NHR1113
82Kia KC27001113
83Nissan Teana213
84Peugeot 30081113
85Subaru Impreza123
86Audi A422
87Chevrolet Optra112
88Ford Expedition112
89Haima Freema112
90Honda Accord22
91Honda Brio Amaze112
92Hyundai Getz112
93Hyundai Sonata22
94Kama KMC22
95Mazda CX-5112
96Mazda CX-922
97Mitsubishi ASX22
98Mitsubishi Fuzion112
99Nissan Sylphy112
100Audi 9011
101Audi A811
102Audi Q511
103BMW M511
104BMW X311
105BYD L311
106BYD F011
107Chery A111
108Chery V211
109Chevrolet Malibu11
110Chevrolet Tahoe11
111Chevrolet Traverse11
112Chrysler Town and Country11
113Foton MP-X11
114Haima 111
115Haima 211
116Haima 311
117Haima 711
118Haima Family11
119Haima F-Star11
120Honda Brio11
121Isuzu Trooper11
122JAC DFM11
123Jinbei Haise11
124Jinbei Shenyang11
125JMC Compadre11
126King Long Max11
127Land Rover Range Rover11
128Lexus CT11
129Lexus IS11
130Lincoln Navigator11
131Mazda 611
132Mazda Tribute11
133Mercedes Benz B Class11
134Mercedes Benz C Class11
135Mercedes Benz E Class11
136MINI Countryman11
137MINI Paceman11
138Mitsubishi Canter11
139Mitsubishi Galant11
140Mitsubishi Grandis11
141Mitsubishi L20011
142Nissan Patrol11
143Nissan Terrano11
144Peugeot 50811
145Subaru Forester11
146Toyota 8611
147Toyota Camry11
148Toyota Prius11
149Toyota RAV411
150Toyota Revo11
151Volvo S8011
34435127028717123322834301,948


Buying a repossessed car? Check this buying tip.

Sunday, February 7, 2016

Car Guide and Inspiration Used Car Review - Chevrolet Suburban (2007-2015)-Cars Blogging

Large is the theme and Hubben Delcatro has one for this review.

2007-2015 Chevrolet Suburban

History
When it comes to vehicle names, the Suburban name dates back in 1935, which means it will celebrate 81 years in existence. It started as a station wagon built on a 1/2 ton truck frame using wood and specifically assembled for United States National Guard and Civilian Conservation Corps units. Twelve generations later which saw different emission standards going strict and economic crises that had gone through, it stood the test of time especially that other rivals were killed, the Suburban is going strong. We bet that the great-grandfathers during its early years had their great-grandchildren ride the latest models. Some information: a thirteenth generation model will be released in 2019 and will utilize Ford's 10-speed automatic transmission under a joint venture.

What we will be reviewing here is the eleventh generation, that was first produced in January 2006 as a 2007 model (yes, Americans are obsessed with model years) and dealer deliveries commenced in April. What is new for this generation include an aerodynamic styling since it ditched several boxy cues of its predecessors, a redesigned dashboard, and improved seats. The formulas are still retained, which are larger engines, a long length, the options between a 1500/2500/3500 ton carriage, and the various seating capacity which can be ordered for six to nine persons.

Locally, this SUV arrived in May 2007 together with the Tahoe, days after the midterm elections which occurred that time. Unlike the smallest brother, both 2WD and 4WD options were made available to the buying public.

Value and Costs
If your budget dictates those Thailand assembled PPVs but your heart shouts luxury level, then a second hand Suburban is a bargain between P1,600,000 to P2,500,000. Don't expect resale values to be similar with a Japanese luxury SUV but for the price, it is decent enough.

No diesel engine is available here, especially that it had been discontinued a long time ago; an available powerplant is a 5.3 V8 gasoline which is fuel thirsty but you shouldn't complain if you are into these types of vehicle. Parts availability are not to the level of several mass market American models, so finding a parts specialist shop or importing from abroad are several of your options. With this being a luxury SUV, many electrical parts come present and inspect them if they work or not. While you're at it, inspect the spark plugs and the transmission if they are on the poor side.

Exterior and Interior
Just like we said in our previous paragraphs, the Suburban receives a more modern looking exterior and sheds its boxy styling prevalent in the older models. Compared to the Tahoe's 5,100mm length, this one gets a massive 5,600mm which means more space inside and more patience that the driver must deal while maneuvering. 4WD models can be distinguished by their standard fender flares and skid plates, something that models that are two wheel driven don't get.

Going big means you have a lot of room for seven people inside, especially that no more cramped seating of the older models come standard but rather all three rows face front. An improvement that is seen here is that no more cheap touches come standard, though some may persist in small percentage. Do take note that a manual mode and push button for trailer towing is situated in the column shifter, while a power tailgate comes standard. A long list of entertainment system equipment includes a DVD player with overhead display. BOSE sound system, and two wireless headphones.

Engine
Still from the Vortec family range is the 5.3 V8 petrol that possesses 326hp at 5,300rpm and 470Nm at 4,400rpm. Although this is the entry level among the engine options, it feels strong despite the active fuel management that will only use four cylinders during normal operations and all will be used when driven fast. Do take note earlier models have four forward gears, while a 2010 gains an additional two more.

Driving Impressions
Compared to its predecessor, handling is more agile while steering and braking is better. However, you wouldn't be bringing this vehicle to drag races but a stability control comes standard if things go wrong. Ride quality is more composed than the previous one, which is an ace. Overall, it now matches the Expedition toe-to-toe.

Verdict
Previous model Suburbans aren't stellar vehicles to begin with, however the twelfth generation model improved itself in a lot of aspects. Innovations include a cylinder shut-off mechanism and other goodies not found in the predecessor make it a good choice if budget permits.

The Good:
  • More interior space
  • Power and cylinder deactivation mode
  • Improved interior quality
The Bad:
  • Not so good fuel economy
  • Low third row seat
  • Maneuvering takes time
The Pick: 2WD more than enough

THE SPECS
Engine: 5,328cc Vortec V8 gasoline
Power: 326hp @ 5,300rpm
Torque: 470Nm @ 4,400rpm
Fuel Consumption: 4-6km/L (city), 8-10km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)
Transmission: 4 or 6 speed automatic
Suspension: Front and rear coil spring

MORE INFO
Price (New): P4,500,000
Price (Now): P1,600,00-P2,500,000
Rivals: Ford Expedition EL
On Sale: 2007-2015
Resources:

Contacts:
Chevrolet Shaw - (02) 721-0021

Wednesday, February 3, 2016

Car Guide and Inspiration Car Profiles - Honda Pilot (2012-2016)-Cars Blogging

2012-2016 Honda Pilot

The Good: Oodles of space of eight people, lively engine

The Bad: Braking isn't that good

The Say: While a good pick, other rivals do the job well.

Go For: 3.5 EX-L
Avoid: You have no choice

Price Range: Data Not Available
Our Rating: ***

Related Reviews: Used Car Review - Honda Pilot
Latest vehicle profile: Honda Pilot

See the different versions of this Pilot:
2012-2016