C! Magazine June 2021

FEATURE 2021 GAC GN6 GAC's GN6 is here to take the affordable MPV throne. Does it have what it takes?

LAND ROVER DEFENDER 110 T H E INF INITE P OSSIBILITIES O F AN ALL-NEW I N STANT ICON

T H E D RI V E S

T U NE R

2021 MERCEDES-BENZ CLA180 PROGRESSIVE • 2021 LEXUS LM 350 • 2021 GAC GS3 • 2021 HONDA BRIO RS BLACK TOP

1998 TOYOTA MR2 (SW20) V6-SWAP 1996 HONDA INTEGRA T YPE-R (DC2)

F EATU RE 2021 BMW X7 x DRIVE30d PURE EXCELLENCE 2021 SUBARU EVOLTIS

W W W.C- M AG A Z I N E .CO M

WHE E L 2WHE E L PhP 195 ISSUE 232 JUNE 2021

ROYAL ENFIELD METEOR 350 APRILIA RS 660

T H E U LT I M AT E AU TO M OT I V E AU T H O R I T Y

FEATURE 2021 GAC GN6 GAC's GN6 is here to take the affordable MPV throne. Does it have what it takes?

LAND ROVER DEFENDER 110 T H E INF INITE P OSSIBILITIES O F AN ALL-NEW I N STANT ICON

T H E D RI V E S

T U NE R

2021 MERCEDES-BENZ CLA180 PROGRESSIVE • 2021 LEXUS LM 350 • 2021 GAC GS3 • 2021 HONDA BRIO RS BLACK TOP

1998 TOYOTA MR2 (SW20) V6-SWAP 1996 HONDA INTEGRA T YPE-R (DC2)

F EATU RE 2021 BMW X7 x DRIVE30d PURE EXCELLENCE 2021 SUBARU EVOLTIS

W W W.C- M AG A Z I N E .CO M

WHE E L 2WHE E L PhP 195 ISSUE 232 JUNE 2021

ROYAL ENFIELD METEOR 350 APRILIA RS 660

T H E U LT I M AT E AU TO M OT I V E AU T H O R I T Y

EDITOR’S NOTE

“Timeless values and new ideas. Always a good thing. It was, twenty years ago, and it is today.” nteresting stuff we are seeing.

Because there are no car shows in general, we are missing out on a lot of the fun and excitement we are used to. Awards whether for full vehicles or engines and powertrains or vehicle dynamics. Big car companies have changed their schedules drastically in terms of releases and information going out.

One of the awards we have been involved with over the more recent years looks specifically at concept cars, and here things have been quite telling. The playing ground seems to have been leveled. Where previously, big names created a lot of buzz, now because everything is released online, small setups have been making big splashes. I say setups because it is somewhat hard to call them vehicle companies in many ways. But since these are all concept vehicles, prototypes and the like, we get to see some fresh ideas. And often the ideas are fresher from the upstarts simply because they don’t have the history or the constraints of decades of work, wisdom and baggage.

I was particularly intrigued by a pickup truck of all things, though perhaps I am influenced by Nics and his latest love. But I found that a pickup truck by a company called Canoo in the United States had an interestingly new take on the old workhorse. Meant to be fully electric, it takes advantage of the whole idea of a flat platform on which to work. And in this case, it really means work. Panels fold down and out to become work surfaces or toolboxes. The whole concept fits very much into the modern idea of the independent craftsman and artisan that is quite happily gaining ground. Not the rough outdoorsman you may think of with the usual

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Carl S. Cunanan E D I TO R- I N - C H I E F

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Canoo pickup truck

pickup trucks, but perhaps a more urbane flannelwearing latte-making modern man or woman.

It is quite a refreshing rethink, which may well be just what we need nowadays. It is nice to see old values come back into fashion (?) with more interest in craftsmanship, quality, levels of production and such.

People are appreciating the little stuff, the details that make the big stuff, more than ever. We choose what really should be taking our time, what we really should be spending our money on, what we really care about.

We look at classic timeless values in new ways.

We tell passionate stories with different voices. We share unforgettable experiences in different ways.

Lamborghini Design Head Mitja Borkert said to us that we are really in the Renaissance of the automotive industry. Car companies have so many new influences, new processes, new opportunities that new vehicles can really become almost transcendental in terms of change. That may well be true for a lot of the world. And that’s a good thing.

Timeless values and new ideas. Always a good thing.

It was, twenty years ago, and it is today.

COVER S TORY

CONTENTS JUNE 2021 / IS SUE 232

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2021 LAND ROVER DEFENDER 110 S D240 The Infinite Possibilities of an All-New Instant Icon

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“The pressure to realize a successful modern reinterpretation of the iconic Land Rover Defender could have been one of the most challenging automotive design and execution efforts in the past two decades.”

—

Kevin C. Limjoco

Founding Editor / President / Editorial Director

FE ATURES

CONTENTS JUNE 2021 / IS SUE 232

36 C! PICKS

FUN DA D CARS 40

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2021 GAC GN6

2021 SUBARU EVOLTIS

2021 BMW X7 xDRIVE30d PURE EXCELLENCE

A Worthy Competitor

The Better-Named Ascent

The X-Family Flagship

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THE DRIVES

CONTENTS JUNE 2021 / IS SUE 232

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MERCEDES-BENZ CLA180 PROGRESSIVE

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LEXUS LM 350

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GAC GS3 GS 150N

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HONDA BRIO RS BLACK TOP

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Maturing Mini CLS

Not to Be Ignored

JUNE 2021 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

The Definitive Luxury Mover

A Gem Carried Over

E X TR A TIME

CONTENTS JUNE 2021 / IS SUE 232

49 10

NOT YOUR EVERYDAY SUMAN

We get a taste of Budbud Kabog from the Visayas

JUNE 2021 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

TUNER

CONTENTS JUNE 2021 / IS SUE 232

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BOOSTED!

By Francis G. Pallarco

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AKRAPOVIČ TURNS 30

Celebrating thirty years of product excellence

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FOUR TO SIX

64

SECOND TIME

Check out this outrageous V6 engine-swapped MR2

Lawrence Go shows us how to build a proper Integra

WHEEL 2WHEEL

CONTENTS JUNE 2021 / IS SUE 232

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TWO WHEELS ONLY

By Maynard M. Marcelo

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2021 DISTINGUISHED GENTLEMAN’S RIDE TO FIGHT ANXIETY

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BIKE REVIEW: 2021 ROYAL ENFIELD METEOR 350

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BIKE REVIEW: 2021 APRILIA RS 660

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2021 HARLEY-DAVIDSON PAN AMERICA 1250

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REG UL ARS

CONTENTS JUNE 2021 / IS SUE 232

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20

Carl S. Cunanan

Georges B. Ramirez

EDITOR’S NOTE

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Nicolas A. Calanoc

Angel S. Rivero

APEX AND APERTURES

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INSIDE LINE

Chris Van Hoven

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ON THE EDGE

JUNE 2021 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

EVENT HORIZON

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MONTHLY BUYER’S GUIDE

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OUR PICKS : TOP 5 CAR DESIGNERS OF ALL TIME

By Nicolas A. Calanoc

APEX AND APERTURES

Nicolas A. Calanoc E X E C U T I V E E D I TO R

20 Years of Passion

ou have the coolest job I know.”

I get told that a lot, especially with people I just met once they ask me what I do. But really, the only reason why I get to do what I do is because of you guys. Whether you read my reviews or watched my videos online, it is because of you that I get the life I’m living now. But if you must know, I am what you call a C! Immigrant because I entered C! Magazine a decade ago, when in fact, C! Magazine as a

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company, has been around for twice as long.

That’s right: C! Magazine as a group, has been around for 20 years. For any company, that is no small feat. In fact, I’d say it’s impressive. In those 20 years, a lot has changed for everyone. Heck, I’d say even in just 10 years, so much has changed. We certainly have grown as a company. From just a print magazine, you can find us in almost every medium possible whether it be on your newsstand or on your phone. And now, we have people of all ages in all departments.

If there is one thing I appreciate about C!

If there is a quote that sums up what the 20 years of C! Magazine means to me, it is: “Be curious, not judgmental.”

— Walt Whitman

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Magazine, it’s the diversity of minds with the same burning passion to deliver the best.

But despite all these years and all these changes, there is one thing that I see as constant and consistent: the reason why C! does what it does, which is to educate the car buyers or future car buyers because we ourselves are car buyers. And we do so with passion and integrity. C! Magazine has really taught me a lot and it is evident in my work.

More than what this company has taught me as a professional, it is what C! Magazine taught me as a person that will really stick with me.

In this day and age with how easy it is to say your piece of mind, I can see so many people get carried away. C! Magazine taught me differently. This group taught me to make every idea count with the intention to better something while always looking at anything and everything in different points of views.

If there is a quote that sums up what the 20 years of C! Magazine means to me, it is: “Be curious, not judgmental.” — Walt Whitman

INSIDE LINE

Chris Van Hoven M A N A G I N G E D I TO R

Rainy Season Driving Tips

he heat has been sweltering lately, but that comes at an end as the rainy season is upon us once again. There might be a lot less cars on the road these days, but that doesn’t change the fact that the rainy season brings out all the bad driving habits from drivers once it starts to rain. Whether you’re one of those people and just don’t realize it, or are simply in need of a refresher course, here are some helpful tips for driving safely in wet weather.

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THE RIGHT LIGHTS Keeping yourself visible during a torrential downpour is extremely important, but switching your emergency lights on is the absolute worst thing to do. You might feel that turning on the emergency blinkers makes you more visible, but this actually makes you a hazard on the road by not being able to signal your possible intentions to change lane. Instead, keep your headlights on. This improves your visibility to other drivers and improves your own vision as well.

CHECK YOUR TIRES Keeping your tires properly maintained can mean the difference between staying on the road or losing control of your car completely.

Since those four pieces of rubber are the only thing between your car and the road, it pays to make sure they’re wet-worthy. The first thing to do is check your tire pressure. Low pressure creates a flatter contact point to the surface – effectively turning your tires into mini surfboards on wet, slippery surfaces.

And if your tires have little tread remaining, the risk of aquaplaning is compounded even further. If you find yourself losing control of your vehicle, do your best not to panic and brake. Instead, take your foot off the accelerator pedal and allow your car to slow down by itself while still keeping the steering wheel pointed where you want to go. Eventually, your tires will come back into contact with the road, allowing you to regain control.

WHEN YOU NEED TO WADE Unfortunately, floods are a common occurrence in Philippine roads. All it takes is five minutes of hard rain to turn your route into a raging river. If turning back isn’t an option and you absolutely need to traverse a flood, you’ll need to be absolutely sure that your car can make it through. Pickups and large SUVs normally have a wading depth of 500-800mm, but for sedans and other light vehicles, water above 100-150mm could spell trouble. Check to see if other cars are driving

through to get a feel of how deep the water is. Try to stay on the higher part of the road where the water is shallowest then make your way slowly while keeping the engine revs up, slipping the clutch on a manual transmission car if necessary. 5-6 km/h is a good, steady pace that keeps the water from sloshing up into the engine bay. Once you exit the flood, immediately test your brakes to make sure they still function properly.

HARD HABITS TO BRAKE One of the most important adjustments to consider when driving in wet is your own driving style. It’s important to remember that it takes twice as long to stop on a wet road as it does on a dry one. To check if you’re at a safe distance, wait for the car in front of you to pass an object such as a road sign or lamppost, then count how long it takes until you pass the same object. Four seconds is a safe distance for you to be behind another car if the road is wet. This gives you enough time to react and take action if the driver ahead comes to a stop or loses control of their vehicle. It’s also important to respect your car’s abilities when driving on wet surfaces. Since the level of grip is severely compromised on wet roads, try to avoid sudden moves that may unbalance the car such as sharp steering or braking.

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2021

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Georges B. Ramirez

ON THE EDGE

S E N I O R E D I TO R

A Brighter Future

midst the gloom and doom of the pandemic, it felt like a beam of light penetrating a big, dark cloud when I heard that the Nissan Leaf was launched in the Philippines in May. The momentum of electric vehicles or EVs that started before the pandemic hasn’t stopped.

Feeling like a broken record that keeps repeating and repeating, I find myself still talking about the Bill on the Electric Vehicles and Charging Station Act for as long as I have been writing for this magazine. Actually, it has been in Congress and the Senate even before I first wrote about it. It’s still there.

In a previous editorial, I wrote about how great it was that some of the car companies were not waiting for the much needed incentives, or at least, the removal of tax and duty burdens, but had started to bring these vehicles into the country.

Naturally, given the pandemic plus the tax and duty burdens, it becomes a case of costing a lot more to go green, which most people will not do. In addition, the lack of infrastructure needed to provide a convenient and practical way to use EVs is sorely lacking. So, in as much as it’s great, it’s not going to make any substantial changes, without addressing some or all of those things. It needs to be a

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financially viable proposition especially in times like these.

Let’s take the newly launched Leaf as an example. It sells for Php 2.798 million pesos, which is a hefty price for a similarly sized car.

Okay, it comes with all the bells and whistles but still hefty. It should be at least half of that (Php 1,400,000), even if you add up the other advantage that go with EVs. The Leaf’s fill-up cost per full charge is Php 363.40 and its range for that single charge is 311 km, that roughly equates to 43 km per liter. To put that into perspective, if you lived in Makati and went to school in U.P., you could do that roundtrip run from Monday to Friday on a single charge of Php 363. Or a one-way trip to Baguio. Now, let’s add Php 18,000 savings for its cheaper (PMS) Periodic Maintenance and Service cost.

PMS cost in (PHP)

Electric Leaf

Petrol Mid-Size Sedan

Labor Fees

18,460

11,826

Parts & MSC

36,979

61,550

5-year TOTAL

55,439

73,376

If we compute the fuel savings cost for 200,000 km, it’s roughly Php 767,442 plus Php 18,000 for the five-year PMS savings, that’s Php 785,442. So, even after deducting all that from the cost of the car, it would still

need another Php 600,000 just to sit at the table. What would really tip the scale would be an exemption of duties, or at least a massive reduction of it.

So, that is an example of the cost element.

In the case of convenience, Nissan is working to build the largest charging station network in the country, though, it only works for Leaf owners. They would have the quick charging station in every Leaf dealership. On May 10, there were three Leaf dealerships (Mantrade, Otis, and Cebu), with four more soon to follow.

But, you are certainly not limited to just that.

With a dedicated charging outlet, they have two charging systems, the regular system, which is the type you plug-in overnight for 15 to 18 hours, and the quick charging station that tops up in 40 to 60 minutes. If Sen. Win Gatchalian does succeed in pushing the incentives across the line, there is a real chance it may become law within 2021. If so, more homes, establishments, and parking areas will have them too. In fact, in other countries, these parking spaces are the best ones in the lot, just like PWD parking slots.

I am just happy because these car companies bit the bullet and provided the egg in the “chicken and egg” story, and that the longawaited bill seems to be moving along once again. It provides me hope in a time when it is very hard to come by. More power to them.

EVENT HORIZON

Angel S. Rivero C O N T R I B U T I N G E D I TO R

Flying Cars in 2030

ou’ve foreseen it since your childhood, via The Jetsons. But now, it seems like this is actually becoming a reality — flying taxis are expected to launch in cities like Singapore, come 2030!

Too good to be true? Well, that’s not what companies Toyota, US-based Joby Aviation, and German-based Jolocopter think! As a matter of fact, they already intend to unveil some flying vehicle products at the 2025 World Exposition in Osaka, Japan — and they’re already beginning to seek corresponding Japanese legislation for it, starting this June.

Unsurprisingly, the Japanese government appears to be fully on-board with this proposition, and openly says that Japan is already expecting flying cars to be launched full-scale within their urban areas, around

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2030. The forthcoming Osaka World Expo seems to only be an avenue to highlight this up-and-coming, new-age technology.

Unlike planes that require a runway, these proposed flying cars with multiple rotors reminiscent of that of a helicopter — or should I say, more similar to a giant drone — can takeoff and land vertically, making them more versatile for travel within cities.

As the upcoming Osaka World Expo is set to be held on the artificial island of Yumeshima, the joint developers Toyota, Joby Aviation, and Jolocopter foresee having attendees experience what it’s like to ride in one of these flying taxis — if the appropriate Japanese legislation can be passed in time to allow such operations within the area around Yumeshima, at least.

It is no secret that the World Expo is expected to highlight both manned and unmanned flying vehicles developed by

“Unsurprisingly, the Japanese government appears to be fully on-board with this proposition.”

multiple manufacturers; but certain rules such as the maximum allowable height for these flights for the purposes of this Expo, and where the launchpads should be, have yet to be defined and approved. Nevertheless, both manufacturers and potential users are already extremely excited.

Flying vehicles have long been a fond topic amongst citizens of almost any country, whenever there is a conversation around figuring out ways to ease a city’s heavy traffic congestion. I reckon most of us thought that autonomous cars alone were the closest, next big thing. Who would’ve thought that flying cars would also materialize this soon!

As a matter of fact, Japan already dares to say that it envisions flying taxis to help in transporting their local cargo as early as 2023!

That’s literally 2 years from now, and that’s already with the pains of COVID slowing things down, taken into perspective. They’ve already begun looking into defining design standards and air traffic rules for them, even before the pandemic started.

While Volocopter targets its launch of air taxis within Singapore as early as 2023, Chinese startup company Ehang has already announced back in 2020 that it had a mass production facility for flying vehicles already in-the-works.

Perhaps, sooner than later, we’ll be up, up, and away!

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2021

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T H E U LT I M AT E AU TO M OT I V E AU T H O R I T Y

E D I TO R I A L

DESIGN

A D V E RT I S I N G

PUBLISHING

Carl S. Cunanan

Charie L. Biaden

Mayette L. Asis

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

DESIGN DIRECTOR

VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVERTISING SALES

C! Publishing and Media Group, Inc.

Nicolas A. Calanoc

Mark David A. See

Leslie G. Maxilom

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

SENIOR DESIGNER

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Chris Van Hoven

Mary Ann E. Marcelo

Mary Jane O. Salazar

MANAGING EDITOR

DESIGNER

TRAFFIC MANAGER

Paolo de Borja DEPUTY EDITOR

PUBLISHER

Carl S. Cunanan MANAGING DIRECTOR

Carl S. Cunanan, Kevin C. Limjoco, Michael L. Lhuillier, Paolo M. Puyat-Martel BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Georges B. Ramirez

Merline B. Urdas

SENIOR EDITOR

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT

Francis G. Pallarco

Mary Ann M. Benito

TUNER EDITOR

CREDIT AND COLLECTION OFFICER

Maynard M. Marcelo

Elsie A. Teofilo

WHEEL2WHEEL EDITOR

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

Monica N. Legarda

Paredes Garcia and Golez

SENIOR COPY EDITOR

LEGAL COUNSEL

Dominique O. Cerqueda COPY EDITOR

Angel S. Rivero Iñigo S. Roces Isabel N. Delos Reyes CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Michael L. Lhuillier EDITOR-AT-LARGE

Kevin C. Limjoco

Contributing Writers Miguel C. Bichara, Telly Buhay, JP Calimbas, JP Cariño, EZ Ligaya, David Hardman, Peter Lyon, Mike Potenciano, Lindy Pellicer, Brando Rosales, Edrich Santos, Liam Talbot, Martin Ursua, Martin Revita, Steven Yu, Kap Maceda Aguila, and Manny De Los Reyes Contributing Photographers Andréas N. Delos Reyes, Kyle Estrella, Mike Miranda, Scott Nelson, Juanito Vinluan, Randy Silva-Netto, Patrick Mateo, Jerel Fajardo, Mike Sabarre, Joey Yepez, Bert Casal, Mariony Dela Cruz, Paulo Ferrer, Jakob Kurc, and Jordan Aparicio

FOUNDING EDITOR / PRESIDENT / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

This issue would not have been possible without the help of: Mutsuhiro Oshikiri, Hiroshi Suzuki, Shuzo Hoshikura, EJ Francisco, Mavic Casas, Rueben M. Jarvina, Nonoy Yulo, Steven Tan, Dax Avenido, Klaus D. Schadewald, Franz Decloedt, Timmy De Leon, Felix Ang, Rene Nunez, Atty. Albert Arcilla, Lyn Buena, Val De Leon, Manny Aligada, Mac Marcantonio, Chris Lee Yu, Nora Liquido, Lyka-Mae De La Cruz-Andres, Tony Si, Felipe Estrella, Camille Lucero, Sab Delos Reyes, Atsushi Najima, Wilbert Lim, Carlo Ablaza, Raymond Rodriguez, Angelo Barron, Paolo Ella, Chris Yu, Willy Tee Ten, Robert Coyiuto Jr., Benedicto Coyiuto, Prudencio Coyiuto, Robert Coyiuto III, Jona Atienza, Froilan Dytianquin, Saul Babas, Cameron Arciaga, Jelene Sulit, Felix Limcaoco, Michael Dennis E. Uy, Lawrence Dimaunahan, Akira Utsumi, Norminio Mojica, Dominic Busran, CJ Yucoco, Mark Parulan, Elgie Nunez, Jasper Castro, Nadinne C. Capistrano, Elijah Sue Marcial, Edmund Araga, Rommel Sytin, Ira Jornada, Spencer Yu, Ramon S. Ang, Nico Ylanan, Thea Geronimo, Hermes P. Canon, PK Umashankar, Jade Sison, Lawrence Dimaunahan, Germain Alilio, Gil Balderas, Dino Santos, Stacey Vasquez, Cherrey Lou Villaester-Alvarez, Tine Liwanag, Ann Tayao, Mia Dollentas and Angel Sardoma

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Enjoy all of our best stories, instrumented test reviews, and so much more, from our pages to your screen!

Updated comprehensive buyer’s guide Car reviews Videos Feature stories Deep archives spanning almost two decades of dedication and passion!

The Drives

This new model is considerably better. The overall design is more elegant and sensual. You don’t get the feeling that you are forcing the issue to get into the brand by settling. The feeling now is the direct opposite; you feel like you are in a proper Mercedes-Benz that only differentiates itself from its current siblings by proportions and packaging. The only visually offensive feature on the body is the fake dual rear exhaust trim; except for that, the all-new CLA looks great with the tasteful snowflake designed 18 x 7.5J alloys wrapped with compliant 225/45R18 91W Hankook Ventus S1 evo2 tires.

MERCEDES-BENZ CLA180 PROGRESSIVE (C118) Maturing Mini CLS

Words by Kevin C. Limjoco Photos by Andréas N. Delos Reyes

THE 2ND GENERATION Mercedes-Benz CLA is a substantial evolution of the brand entry model. Compared to its predecessor, the all-new CLA (also known in most markets now as the A-class sedan) uses a longer by 30 mm (1.2 inches) new 2729 mm MFA2 chassis which allows more surface area to improve the overall design and yield more generous dimensions. The new model is 48 mm (1.9 inches) longer and 53 mm (2.1 inches) wider but has a slightly lower ceiling by 2 mm (0.1 inches). The old C117 CLA model was a commercial success principally because of its affordability despite having a generally rough ride and inconsistent packaging.

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Our Patagonia Red Mercedes-Benz C180 Progressive test unit (with black ARTICO leather interior with Carbon-fiber-look trim) certainly looks like it could get your adrenaline rushing until you open her up. MercedesBenz Philippines is doing their absolute best to package their vehicles with as much standard equipment possible while controlling their retail prices. They know full well that the luxury market is at its most challenging now, and they need volume sales so they are not pricing the cars to sit on the showroom floor. Having said that, naturally there are compromises. If you want the full-blown high performance AMG models, Mercedes-Benz

Philippines will definitely still sell them to you even if you can only truly explore the dynamics on the racetrack. Yes, there are new road arteries opening up all over the archipelago but they are also now very speed regulated.

High top-speeds are not important anymore, but acceleration, fuel efficiency, safety, ride and comfort are paramount. Sure, I wish the CLA200 were sold instead of the CLA180 at the same price as it uses exactly the same drivetrain and overachieving 1.3-liter direct injection turbocharged engine but the ECU tuning is more aggressive. However, what is more crucial for everyday driving entertainment would

have been the optional 225-watt multi-speaker Mercedes-Benz Advanced Sound system and the neat 64-color ambient lighting to complement the 7-inch touchscreen MBUX multimedia system with 180° reversing camera instead of the packaged standard 100-watt system with no cool cabin lighting.

The signature front and rear LED lighting is excellent. With the very quiet engine combined with an almost completely flat underbody, completely retuned suspension (MacPherson strut/wishbone front, multilink rear) and slippery .27 cd skin, the poised front-wheel driven CLA180 truly drives

very well. The steering is precise and nicely weighted. The front seats are comfortable and supportive while the rear is till best used for only two passengers. It is a pity, though, that the rear seats do not have their own a/c vents. The trunk holds 255 liters of capacity.

The brakes are excellent, 12.6-inch vented discs up front with 11.6-inch discs at the rear that support a comprehensive active and passive safety suite. As an entry model to the world of Mercedes-Benz, the CLA model range is exponentially better than before and is now genuinely desirable beyond the halo AMG variants.

SPECIFICATIONS — 2021 Mercedes-Benz CLA 180 Progressive Engine: Inline-4, 1332 cc, dohc 16V, Direct Injection Intercooled Turbo, 7-Speed DCT | Max Power: 134 bhp @ 5500 rpm | Max Torque: 148 lb-ft @ 1460-4000 rpm 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 8.9 sec. | Top Speed: 216 km/h (134 mph) | Fuel Mileage: 5.8 L/100 km Overall | Price as Tested: PhP 3,290,000.00 | Plus: Considerably better than its predecessor, styling, excellent build-quality, good ride and handling, very smooth and efficient. | Minus: Price. Faux-dual exhaust trim. No rear a/c vents. CLA200 much more appropriate for the class. |

Rating: 9/10

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2021

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The Drives

LEXUS LM 350

The Definitive Luxury Mover Words by Kevin C. Limjoco Photos by Andréas N. Delos Reyes

LET US BEGIN WITH the question that will be in mind for most potential buyers in our Philippine market: “Is the additional cost of PhP 1,533,000.00 over the mechanically identical top-spec 3rd generation Toyota Alphard (AH30) in Luxury White Pearl, justifiable?” If you can afford it and you do like to take command behind the steering wheel, then the answer is a reluctant yes. Though the new Lexus LM 350 is heavily based on the Toyota Alphard, it is more than just an even more posh version of the already luxurious donner vehicle. The “LM” name actually means Luxury Mover.

The all-new model for Lexus is the first time for the brand but definitely not the first time that they share equipment with the mother company Toyota; that has been going on since the inception of the Lexus luxury brand. The differences though are that Lexus applies their distinct characteristics and treatments that define them. I do want to clarify that there are two versions of the LM: a 4-seater configuration with the most kit, and the 7-seater configuration that we have for our market for the moment.

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Honestly for the current retail price, I expected that Lexus would commit to the full-blown 4-seater to completely differentiate itself from the Alphard.

Before I indicate the nuances between the LM variants, you need to know the other key features that differentiate it from the Alphard beyond the obvious exterior aesthetics and Gin Sui Boku interior trim ornamentation.

The most profound mechanical improvements are the upgraded dampers on the fully independent suspension which now have swing-valves to help reduce excess vibrations which also organically improves ride comfort and promotes flatter handling. The intricate 18 x 7.5” alloys shod with 235/50R18 97V Toyo Proxes R30 tires are cast to reduce road noise

with an additional special damper in the inner rim lip. The LM also has a 95 mm longer body and 5 mm lower height to liberate a bit more interior room and allow more design surfaces.

The signature LED headlights and rear light assemblies look and function a bit better too.

The cabin is considerably more insulated because of the extensive use of additional noise measures that include dual-pane windows.

In the cabin, the 7-seat configuration (powered on the front with climate controls and powered second rows with ottomans) is very similar to the Alphard but the designs are different and use a world-first implementation of AdaptiPedic foam for the cushions for a remarkably more comfortable seating. There are more screens (13.3-inch drop-down from

The Drives

the ceiling screen for the rear seat passengers to enjoy, and a revised center stack with a wider free-standing infotainment screen with the air vents positioned underneath) that are also larger and crisper in the LM compared to the Alphard combined with superior ambient lighting and a fabulous Mark Levinson® 17-speaker system instead of the Toyota’s merely satisfactory 6-speaker system.

The Lexus switchgear, steering wheel, and controls are also way better than the units on the Toyota. On the “Emperor Suite” 4-seater configuration that we don’t get yet, the Mark Levinson® audio uses 19 speakers. There is an epic electronically frosted glass cabin partition that also houses a huge high resolution 26-inch screen, the two passenger seats resemble firstclass airline seats which are larger and offer seven different massage programs and five levels of pressure, and an onboard refrigerator and briefcase storage. With only two rear passenger seats, trunk capacity is increased significantly too.

All this standard goodness adds more weight to the 7-seater Lexus LM 350 to the tune of at least 150 kg compared to the Alphard, so despite the claimed acceleration from 0-100 km/h of 7 seconds with a top speed of 230 km/h, the very best instrumented results we got with only the driver on board respectively was consistently 7.9 seconds and a top speed of just over 210 km/h which is still plenty quick and swift for a premium luxury mini-van.

Did we love it and want one in our garage?

Absolutely! But is the 7-passnger LM truly worth so much more than the already opulent Alphard? At this level, the answer is yes for the extra kit, pedigree, and exclusivity.

SPECIFICATIONS — 2021 Lexus LM 350 Engine: V6, 3456 cc, dohc 24V, Direct & Port Injection, Atkinson-cycle, Dual VVT-i, 8-Speed AT | Max Power: 296 bhp @ 6600 rpm | Max Torque: 1266 lb-ft @ 4600-4700 rpm 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 7.9 sec. | Top Speed: 210 km/h (130 mph) | Fuel Mileage: 7.5 L/100 km Overall | Price as Tested: PhP 5,458,000.00 | Plus: Exclusivity, outstanding standard equipment, excellent build-quality, the very best in the segment | Minus: Price |

Rating: 10/10

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GAC GS3 GS 150N Not to Be Ignored

Words and photos by Chris Van Hoven EVEN WITH INFLATION and car prices steadily increasing over the years, the sub 1-million Peso price bracket will always be hotly contested, often used as a benchmark for what an “affordable” car should be priced at. With even today’s small B-segment sedans passing the 1-million threshold, it becomes an extremely challenging task for manufacturers to offer cars that can be priced under 1-million while still keeping the cost cutting at a minimum.

GAC Motor Philippines has proven that their products return excellent value for

money, with almost half their entire product line priced under the 1-million mark. And while two GAC GS3 variants find themselves over the mark, the base model GS 150N trim slots itself right under. But what did GAC have to sacrifice to get it there? Let’s find out.

Stylistically, the GAC GS3 manages to set itself apart from the rest of the B-segment crossovers with some key design elements such as the front and rear skid plates, split rear shoulders, and the small rear spoiler. The GS3 lends itself quite nicely to the classic crossover silhouette, and would benefit tremendously from sportier rims with larger tires. At the front, the missing foglamps are covered with multi-fin designed plastic covers, and at the rear we see dual exhausts that serve no other purpose than improving aesthetics.

Inside, the GS3 reveals an impressive level of material choice and build quality. Instead of the usual hard black plastics we see adorning the door panels and dash at this price range, GAC has chosen a unique mix of both black and brown hard and soft touch materials. It gives the cabin a premium feeling of sophistication not usually found in this price range, and does a great job of breaking the monotony that an all-black interior usually brings. There are no audio controls on the steering wheel, but the knobs are buttons that control the audio system are within easy reach. The instrument cluster is highly legible, and everything from the air-conditioning controls to the gear selector feel great to the touch. It’s a pity that GAC could only fit their base model GS3 with a simple non-Bluetooth, black and white head unit powering only four speakers, as other manufacturers are starting to equip their entry-level models with large touchscreens.

Seating is comfortable for all passengers, though the rear seats would best serve two passengers instead of three, thanks to a rise in between the two rear seats. Leg room at the rear is adequate for medium-sized passengers, and headroom leaves nothing to complain about. At the back, luggage capacity is slightly impeded by encroaching wheel arches, though the rear seats can be folded down for added space if needed.

The GAC GS3 is a surprisingly nimble handler, with impressive driving dynamics hampered only by its ever-so-slightly underpowered 1.5-liter engine. Handling is direct and precise, and its short wheelbase lends itself nicely to a neutral balance around corners. The 215/65 R16 Maxxis Bravo HPM3 tires are a step down from the Michelin Primacy tires on higher variants, but still manage to offer a comfortable ride with minimal road noise.

What the GS3 GS 150N lacks in tech features, it makes up for in safety, offering two airbags, electronic stability control, ABS with EBD, traction control, brake assist, hillstart hold control, hill descent control, rear parking sensors, and rear disc brakes, which is uncommon in this price bracket. For the asking price of PhP 966,000, the GS3 proves that you can still buy a well-built vehicle that doesn’t sacrifice much in terms of driving fun, practicality, interior refinement, or safety, making it worth a look.

SPECIFICATIONS — 22020 GAC GS3 200T Engine: Inline-4, 1495 cc, dohc 16V, Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing, 6-speed AT | Max Power: 113 bhp @ 6000 rpm | Max Torque: 111 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 12.4 sec. | Top Speed: 182 km/h (114 mph) | Fuel Mileage: 9 km/L overall | Price as Tested: PhP 966,000.00 | Plus: Agile handling characteristics, 5-year worry-free warranty, impressive safety features | Minus: Modest trim components, space is limited |

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Rating: 8/10

HONDA BRIO RS BLACK TOP A Gem Carried Over

Words by Kevin C. Limjoco Photos by Andréas N. Delos Reyes I COULD BE THE very last media reviewer of the hugely practical and compelling Honda Brio RS Black Top. The C! Team members who have already tested every Brio variant leading to this top-spec test unit mostly had great things to share about it.

Except for the halogen headlights and fog lamps, the Honda Brio RS Black Top is the best looking in its segment. It differentiates itself from the other Honda variants with this unique Phoenix Orange Pearl exterior paint, a literally gloss black painted roof, RS Design gloss black front grille with moniker, 15-inch RS Design alloy wheels wrapped with excellent 185/55R15 82V Bridgestone Potenza RE030 tires, power folding side mirrors with side turn signals, and a tailgate spoiler with a LED third brake light.

This second-generation Honda Brio has been completely redesigned from the ground up from its predecessor. C! Managing Editor Chris Van Hoven says, “Gone are the cartoonish, almost caricature characteristics that the first-generation Brio had, replaced by a sleek, handsome exterior that borrows the best bits from the Honda design language. Its

proportions are great too, with a well-balanced silhouette not usually found on hatchbacks.”

And I agree with him.

There are a lot of vehicles within this price range now though so I hope that Honda Philippines attends to some recommended key improvements that would help keep the practical Brio RS competitive. It does have 258 liters of cargo capacity which swells to 710 liters when the rear bench is folded. So, cabin capacity and comfort are not issues for me. I also did not have issues with the engine power, handling, braking, and transmission which are all appropriate in general and can be fun when properly engaged within reason.

It is quite zippy! But, the lights should all be LED for the top spec model, with a push-start ignition button, smart key, and it should have parking aids too since the direct competition have them.

As a city car, the Brio RS is almost a surgical tool darting around town effortlessly. On the open road, it can hold its own fairly well. It may be Honda’s most affordable range of vehicles but they did not compromise on safety and build quality.

SPECIFICATIONS — 2021 Honda Brio RS Black Top Engine: Inline-4, 1199 cc, sohc 16V, EFI Port Injection, i-VTEC, CVT | Max Power: 88 bhp @ 6000 rpm | Max Torque: 81 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 12.8 sec. | Top Speed: 152 km/h (95 mph) | Fuel Mileage: 14 km/L Overall | Price as Tested: PhP 735,000.00 | Plus: Leading choice for the segment, good looking, hugely practical and versatile for its size. | Minus: Halogen headlights and fog lamps, conventional key fob, no rear parking sensors or camera, 60/40 split folding rear seat would extend usability. |

Rating: 8.5/10

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THE INFINITE POSSIBILITIES OF AN ALL-NEW INSTANT ICON WORDS: KEVIN C. LIMJOCO PHOTOS: ANDRÉAS N. DELOS REYES & ISABEL N. DELOS REYES

Thriving automobile icons are fast becoming a rarity despite an abundance of genuinely great vehicles available in the market. There aren’t many vehicles sold today deeply rooted with heritage that are so universally desired than a Land Rover Defender. What began as a British alternative to the Willys Jeep after World War II, the Land Rover Defender was simply named as the Ninety when it was launched in 1948.

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COVER STORY 2021 Land Rover Defender 110

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For the next 67 years up to 2016, the Land Rover 90, 110, and 130, the model numbers representing the respective wheelbase lengths in inches, would successfully find just over two million homes worldwide.

With such an enormous cult following, the pressure to realize a successful modern reinterpretation of the iconic Land Rover Defender could have been one of the most challenging automotive design and execution efforts in the past two decades. Look at what happened to the Volkswagen Beetle; the modern versions, despite so much effort, never realized the same desirability and character of the original. That job went to Gerard Gabriel McGovern who in 2020 was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire for his services to automotive design. That alone is quite a confirmation of his talent and ability, and thereafter Land Rover earned the 2021 World Car Design of the Year award at the annual World Car Awards. McGovern was the design director for the Jaguar Land Rover group and was the lead on both generations of Range Rover Evoque as well as with the evolution of the Range Rover, Range Rover Sport and Discovery.

Once again, with the all-new Land Rover Defender series, it rolled out with the 90 and 110 first. Both using the new aluminum unibody (monocoque) on the scalable D7x (the “x” stands for extreme, being at least 3 times more robust than before and currently the most rigid chassis in the whole Land Rover family) Premium Lightweight Architecture (PLA) aluminum platform. The model names are the same as before for familiarity’s sake though their wheelbases are both roughly 10 inches longer than their predecessors are. Land Rover is also scheduled to release bookend models in 2022, a shorter 80 variant and a three-row seating 130 at about 5,105 mm long that adds length to the rear of the 110 after the back axle rather than expand the wheelbase to manage cost. With these four variants in the model range with multiple 4-, 6-, and 8-cylinder powerplants in diesel and gasoline fuels further combined with force-fed high-performance variants, Mild Hybrid (MHEV) and Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) models, the Defender family will become the most important and widest market-reaching in the entire Land Rover portfolio. Naturally, every Defender features four-wheel drive and locking differentials for navigating treacherous terrain. The new Defender uses fully independent suspension instead of solid axles.

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In other markets, the Defender is available in Standard, S, SE, XS, HSE, X, V8 and V8 Carpathian Edition trim lines. In addition to the incredible customization possibilities available, Land Rover also offers four packaged accessory kits, called Explorer, Adventure, Urban and Country. Our awesome Defender S D240 test unit in Pangea Green (Light Oyster Morzine headliner with Robust Woven Textile accent and Lunar interior) came with the Explorer pack that has a variety of optional equipment that includes a very well-designed raised air intake even if the 110 with adaptive air suspension that can also adjust ride height, can already ford through 900 mm (conventional coil dampers wade at 850 mm) without the snorkel, a side-mounted storage box like a saddle bag, a cool looking Deployable Roof Ladder, a massive Expedition Roof Rack, extended mud flaps and so much more. The electrical system is tested to IP67 standard so, in theory, the Defender 110 should be able to withstand about an hour submerged in water without damage. The new electronic architecture uses 85 ECUs that communicate at up to 100Mb/s and manage everything from the LED headlights to the intelligent AWD system.

The Defender 110 D240 uses a very refined, efficient, and gutsy inline-4 2.0-liter twin-turbodiesel that is light and potent but it will be discontinued in most markets by the end of the year, as it will be replaced with the D250 model that uses a single turbo force-feeding an inline-6 cylinder 3.0-liter engine. If the retail price shocks you, do know that the pricing is actually correct.

Let’s face it, in this day and age, the Defender is no longer a bargain and it is priced according to its liberal application of standard equipment. It might be possible

COVER STORY 2021 Land Rover Defender 110

The all-new Land Rover 110 is no longer the hardcore adventurer best used off-road, it does it all now, it is now a proper premium luxury daily driver as well!

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2021 LAND ROVER DEFENDER 110 S D40 (L663) Engine: Inline-4 Location: Front, Longitudinal Displacement: 1999 cc Cylinder block: Cast Aluminum Cylinder head: Cast Aluminum, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder Fuel Injection: Direct Commonrail Fuel Injection, Intercooled Twin-Turbodiesel Max power: 237 bhp @ 3750-4000 rpm Max torque: 317 lb-ft @ 1400-3750 rpm Transmission: ZF 8-speed automatic coupled with a 2-speed transfer case Front suspension: Independent SLA suspension with twin tower links, adaptive electric air shock absorbers Rear suspension: Independent multi-link adaptive electric air shock absorbers Fuel Capacity: 83.5 liters (22 gallons) Load Capacity: 1,875 liters (behind 1st row) / 786 liters (behind 2nd row) Ground Clearance: 218 mm Normal / 291 mm Off-Road Wading Depth: 900 mm Approach Angle: 37.5 degrees Departure Angle: 40 degrees Ramp-over angle: 31 degrees L x W x H: 5018 mm x 2105 mm x 1967 mm Wheelbase: 3022 mm Brakes: Front 13.7-inch (349 mm) ventilated discs with 2-piston calipers / Rear 12.8-inch (325 mm) vented discs with single piston calipers Integrated Electric Parking Brake, ABS, DSC, ETC, RSC, CBC, HLA, LKA, HDC, Wade sensing & Electronic Brake Force Distribution.

Wheels: 19”x 8J Multi-spoke Style 6010, Glossy Black Aluminum Alloys.

Tires: P255/65R19 114H XL Good Year All-Terrain Adventure Wrangler Weight: (kerb) 2323 kg. (5110 lbs.)

0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): 9 seconds Top Speed (mph): 192 km/h (120 mph) Governed Fuel Mileage: 8.8 L/100 km Overall Price as tested: PhP 6,619,000.00 (Includes Optional Explorer Pack and additional equipment) Explorer Pack: PhP 420,000.00 • Wheel Arch Protection • Front Classic Mudflaps • Rear Classic Mudflaps • Matte Black Bonnet Decal • Side Mounted Gear Carrier • Raised Air Intake • Spare Wheel Cover • Deployable Roof Ladder • Expedition Roof Rack Additional Optional Equipment: PhP 109,000.00 • Gloss Black Wheel Arch Protection • Gloss Black Side Mounted Gear Carrier • Gloss Black Spare Wheel Cover • Gloss Black front and rear letterings • Gloss Black front and rear bumper trims • Gloss Black front and rear lower bumper / lower 4-door claddings • Gloss Black front grille

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COVER STORY 2021 Land Rover Defender 110

C! RATING 10 ⁄ 10 PLUS

Painfully desirable.

Worth every cent. Exceeds all expectations. The most important member of the Land Rover family.

Infinite possibilities and customization.

MINUS None

to import one for less, but the fractional savings won’t make up for the peace of mind of a full factory warranty supported by the official Philippine distributor. I honestly think that our test unit sans the optional equipment is the very best bang-for-buck in the entire family of Land Rovers sold in our country.

As great looking as all that optional kit on our test unit is, I would not get the ladder, the 24-liter Exterior Side-mounted Gear Carrier, and the enormous roof rack that creates a tremendous amount of drag and wind noise above 100 km/h. The Defender is the luxury utility tool with genuine purpose and can be outfitted to suit practically every requirement. That huge aluminum roof rack, for example, combined with the ladder and side container all makes complete sense if you and your family intend to live off the land in a location that can only be traversed with such a capable vehicle. The optional Deployable Side Steps, which our test unit did not have, would be great for everyday use as they retract cleanly when not in use. This all-new Defender may be inspired by and may resemble its forefather, but it shares nothing else. We still have a couple of the characterful old BMW Philippines sold manual transmission TD5 Defender 110s in our C! Fastfleet and they have tremendous capability but they are very spartan, noisy, thirsty, and best optimized for off-road and mostly provincial roads.

The new 110 mixes elements of the original's functionality with the technology and equipment you expect from a premium luxury sport utility vehicle. The exposed screw heads, aluminum panels, and ruggedized surfaces blend enticingly with the new padded areas.

The magnesium beam that runs the full width of the dashboard is both structural as well as aesthetic. Oddly enough, despite all the fabulous textures and modern gadgetry, I wish there was an option to use analog driver instrumentation or a combination of both instead of the pure TFT screen. The rest of the tech controls can be displayed and managed by the 10-inch Pivi Pro touchscreen infotainment system anyhow. My only other critique is the audio system which has a 180-watt amp powering only six speakers, which is satisfactory but not great. At this price either the 400-watt 11 or 700-watt 15-speaker Meridian stereo should have been included as standard. Other nice touches are the ClearSight rear-view mirror for when your Defender is loaded to the hilt and the 360-degree surround camera system w/ ClearSight Ground for parking and trailing.

The Land Rover Defender 110 is a revelation. The agility and precision of how it carries itself and how it handles with a very compliant ride and excellent body control without compromising its ability to go anywhere comfortably will convince you that there is no better vehicle in its class. I just wish I could afford it.

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Feature

C! PICKS

FUN DA D CARS In celebration of fathers’ month, the C! Team has compiled a list of top picks for Fun Dad Cars available in today’s market.

As parents, we know you’d like a vehicle that offers features tailored for your own driving pleasure without compromising practicality and responsibility. A Happy Father’s Day to all the loving, dedicated, and car nut dads out there!

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Volkswagen T-Cross SE Price: PhP 1,168,000.00 introductory price as tested

WITH THE INTRODUCTORY PRICE discount of P30,000.00 until supplies last, I recommend the Syringa Violet (eggplant) all-new 2021 Volkswagen T-Cross SE. We get the extra comfortable LWB model for our market with a modest 114 bhp /107 lb-ft 1.5-liter gasoline engine mated to a 6-speed automatic.

It is reasonably peppy and very frugal yet full featured. It does 0-100 km/h in a relaxed 10.1 seconds with a top speed of 194 km/h. I like that the rear signature lighting resembles a “C”! Using the excellent MQB A0 chassis, the little Volkswagen is a handsome comprehensively packaged subcompact crossover with genuine desirable brand characteristics. It feels solid and planted. The cabin fitment, standard features, and design are refreshingly fun and very

accommodating. The all-disc brakes are great, the best in its class and the ride comfort is exemplary. The steering is a little too boosted but then again, this little crossover is meant to be a practical and reliable everyday commuter. The VW T-Cross is a proper world-car that will be a standout on the road and a joy to drive supported by excellent LED lighting, strong climate control with rear vents, and an excellent infotainment system.

Kevin C. Limjoco President / Founding Editor / Editorial Director

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Kia Seltos 2.0 SX Two-Tone Price: PhP 1,525,000.00

YES, I KNOW WHAT YOU’RE THINKING. The Kia Seltos is targeted more as a lifestyle vehicle for young adults, rather than a dad car suitable for the family. But it’s also this characteristic that makes it so appealing. After all, no dad wants to drive a boring car for “old people”. The Kia Seltos covers every aspect of what a fun “dad car” would be: loads of great tech, a comfortable ride, a compliant and responsive engine, fun driving dynamics, and a relatively large luggage area that any dad can use to convince himself that the Kia Seltos is still a practical choice for the family. Those 147 horses and 132 lb-ft of torque from the 2.0-liter engine certainly won’t hurt, together with its attractive exterior styling.

Chris Van Hoven Managing Editor

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C! PICKS

Subaru Levorg 2.0 GT-S EyeSight

FUN DA D CARS

Price: PhP 2,098,000.00

WATCHING MY DAD AS I GREW UP, I always saw the duty to take

Nicolas A. Calanoc Executive Editor

care of your loved ones no matter the cost. But I also saw deep down inside that there were things that he wanted to have, but they clashed with the idea of family first. With cars these days though, you can have both! And I think that the perfect example of that is the Subaru Levorg 2.0 GT-S.

With its Symmetrical AWD system together with the Subaru Eyesight, the Levorg is definitely one of the safest vehicles you can be in. When you add to the fact that it is a wagon, it is as practical as a crossover SUV. And for the kids at the back, there are 2 USB charging ports that they can use for their phones and other gadgets.

But what they don’t know is that the Subaru Levorg is essentially a WRX in wagon's clothing, thanks to its turbocharged 2.0L liter engine. This car is such a joy to drive when the family isn’t around.

I’m not a father and yet I enjoyed driving this car. That’s how much fun the Subaru Levorg is, and yet it fulfills everything a practical car should be.

Lexus NX 300h Price: PhP 3,528,000.00

WE ARE GOING COOL AND PREMIUM for this month’s entry.

Paolo de Borja Deputy Editor

After all, dads out there deserve a good mix of technology, luxury, and practicality — all while rolling in green technology. The Lexus NX 300h is not the most affordable vehicle on this list, but it does offer a certain kind of craftsmanship and classy excitement only a Lexus can

offer. It’s also equipped with the latest safety features that’s highlighted by 8 airbags. As parents and at this price, safety is likely a priority when purchasing a vehicle. Interior comfort and accessibility are also important factors when choosing a fun dad car. The NX 300h offers the quintessential Lexus technology in the cabin with leather seats,

leather paddle shifters, a unique dashboard, and 10-speaker setup. More importantly, the hybrid system also makes it a more sustainable and fuel efficient luxury crossover. Lexus is one of the premium brands advocating green technology in their products and that’s something worth noting as modern car consumers.

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Feature

2021 GAC GN6

A Worthy Competitor 40

WORDS

PHOTOS

CHRIS VAN HOVEN

ANDRÉAS N. DELOS REYES & AUTHOR

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T

owards the end of 2020 and the beginning of 2021, one automotive segment has been heating up in an unusually rapid way; quickly becoming extremely competitive when just a few months prior, only one model dominated. The segment — MPVs; the model - the Toyota Innova. In the span of just a few months, we’ve seen manufacturers introduce several competitors to the Toyota Innova, which has comfortably enjoyed being the de facto choice for families looking for a reliable vehicle to ferry passengers from point A to point B. New challengers like the Maxus G50 and Geely Okavango are giving the Toyota Innova some stiff competition, so much so that Toyota themselves recently gave the Innova some key updates that we featured in our recent April/May issue. The latest contender is GAC Motor’s GN6, and it looks to be the Innova’s fiercest challenge yet.

On first glance, there’s no mistaking what the GAC GN6 was built to do. While the GN6 features a decidedly MPV-ish silhouette, it avoids looking too outdated by offering an attractive large grille and other details it borrows from the other models in the GAC stable, such as the extended rear overhang and a thick, blacked-out D-pillar giving the impression of a floating roof. It’s a pity that the GN6 still uses halogen headlights, though it does come equipped with LED daytime running lamps and LED taillights. Credit goes to the GAC/Trumpchi design team for creating a design that doesn’t go too overboard with trying to look modern. By sticking to the fundamentals, the GN6 avoids the overdesigned MPV trap with a timeless look that will most likely age well.

GAC has always impressed us with their interiors, and the GN6 thankfully doesn’t disappoint. Following a motif used in other GAC models, the GN6 cabin features a mix of brown and black materials, which keeps things looking interesting. Soft touch leatherette fabrics abound on the door panel and dash, which gives the cabin a decidedly premium feel. In typical GAC fashion, buttons and knobs all feel nice to the touch and well built, all the way to the solid gear selector.

The instrument cluster is easy to read and understand at a glance, featuring a large color screen which relays all the important information, sandwiched by analog dials. An 8-inch touchscreen controls the infotainment system going to 6 speakers, with the ability to

Feature connect Apple phones using Apple CarPlay, with Android users getting the short end of the stick with the lacking Android Auto compatibility. The seats are some of the best in its class, with excellent bolstering and support for both the legs and back. The best seats in the car are arguably at the second row, where two passengers get to enjoy an extremely roomy captain’s chair experience.

The captain’s chairs can be reclined and adjusted forwards and backward, which allows the passengers to find the best compromise for the third row passengers. GAC boasts that the GN6 has an industry-leading second row corridor at 7.5 inches, which makes it easy for passengers to move from one row to another.

It’s a good thing too, since this seems to be the only way to actually get to the third row, with the captain’s chairs lacking any sort of tumble

feature. The third row itself can be reclined and is extremely usable by three medium-sized passengers, and two large passengers, each with their own headrest. The most interesting aspect of the GN6’s interior lies with its cargo space and versatility. With the third row up, the GN6 can store 324-liters of cargo using a recessed floor, but thanks to a unique functionality that allows the third row to use that recessed floor to hide in and lie completely flat, cargo space opens up to an extremely generous 1,100 liters when needed. It’s one of the best implementations of the third row we’ve seen, and certainly trumps the old “just flip them sideways” system used by the competition that occupies much more space.

Another pleasant surprise makes itself known after flooring the accelerator. 169 bhp and 195 lb-ft of torque is nothing to sneeze at,

Feature

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Feature

and the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine provides enough grunt to actually trigger the car’s stability control system when floored. Needless to say, there’s plenty of power for overtaking scenarios, but more importantly, the Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission translates that power smoothly when cruising at low speed as well, with seamless shifts at jumping from one low gear to another. The GN6 also provides an extremely comfortable ride, with its McPherson independent front and twisting beam rear suspension doing a great job of absorbing pretty much every small bump and road irregularity on the road. Braking is handled nicely by ventilated disc brakes up front and disc brakes at the rear, which honestly should be a standard for MPVs by now considering how much weight they need to stop with a full complement of passengers.

Safety is covered with dual front and side airbags, together with a Bosch 9.3 Electronic Stability Program, ABS with EBD, hill-start assist, hill descent control, and a rearview camera. It’s a safety suite that should be the bare minimum for new cars these days, and it’s good to see it present on the GN6. One of the main shining points of the GN6 however is how GAC Motors managed to get all these features while keeping a sub-1.5 million Peso price tag. With its main competitor, the Toyota Innova hitting almost 1.6-1.74 million for its competitively specced variant, the GAC GN6 becomes an incredibly tempting choice at PhP 1,480,000, while doing a lot of things better than the Innova does. If this trend continues, Toyota will have no choice but to pay attention and up their game; and that’s when things will get really interesting.

Specification

2021 GAC GN6 ENGINE: Inline-4, 1495 cc, dohc 16V, Port Injection Intercooled Turbo, 6-speed AT MAX POWER: 169 bhp @ 5000 rpm MAX TORQUE: 195 lb-ft @ 1700-4000 rpm 0-100 KM/H (0-62MPH): 11 sec.

TOP SPEED: 182 km/h (114 mph) FUEL MILEAGE: 9.5 km/L overall PRICE AS TESTED: PhP 1,480,000.00 PLUS: 5-year worry-free warranty, impressive NVH levels, generous passenger and cargo space, competitive pricing MINUS: Halogen headlights, no Android Auto compatibility, exterior styling is not exciting.

RATING:

9/10

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THE BETTER-NAMED ASCENT 2021 Subaru Evoltis

WORDS

PHOTOS

KEVIN C. LIMJOCO

ANDRÉAS N. DELOS REYES

T

he all-new mid-size 7-seater Subaru Ascent crossover is finally in the Philippines but with a more compelling model name: the Evoltis. We get the version with the more popular captain’s chairs instead of the bench which would have increased capacity by one passenger but be less enticing. The Evoltis is absolutely everything that both versions of the old Subaru Tribeca hoped to be except for one aspect, exterior design. The 1st generation Tribeca B9 looked like nothing else on the road but it was too small and underpowered. When Subaru redesigned the Tribeca for its swift facelift, it

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lost its aesthetic edge but gained a bit more interior space and a stronger flat-6 engine.

The Evoltis looks like it would sit between the designs of the last Tribeca and a 6th generation Legacy. Thankfully, the overachieving high-capacity crossover makes up for its pedestrian design with an excellent cabin and proper dynamic performance. So, for this Subaru flagship, it is about function well before form. Its most direct competition is the outgoing Ford Explorer and the current multiaward-winning Mazda CX-9 since Honda stopped selling the Pilot, the Volkswagen Atlas (Teramont) is not available yet, Hyundai Philippines paused their selling of the excellent turbodiesel Palisade, Kia Philippines

hasn’t imported the Telluride and Toyota does not offer the Highlander in our market.

If Hyundai Philippines reactivated their sales of the Palisade, Subaru would have an even more challenging time in our market. So, the current reality is that the Subaru Evoltis would appeal most to hardcore Subaristi and for customers looking for better off-road and towing abilities. The Evoltis can tow up to 5,000 pounds; the Mazda CX-9, if you tried, can tow up to 1,500 pounds. The Mazda is a soft-roader and travels mostly frontwheel driven while the Subaru uses a fully committed mechanical AWD. To maximize the system further, Subaru offers the X-MODE® which optimizes engine output and CVT transmission ratios, increases all-wheel drive system engagement and uses enhanced control of the VDC system to reduce individual wheelspin, providing optimal traction on low friction surfaces. X-MODE also incorporates Hill Descent Control for stability when descending more difficult grades. The Evoltis has more interior capacity, is quicker and better braked than the Mazda CX-9, too.

As a Subaru, the Evoltis has the most luxurious interior in the entire family model range with nice padded ivory trim, ambient lighting that extends to the rear doors, and generous 19 cup and bottle holders. The

Feature

Specification

2021 Subaru Evoltis ENGINE: Flat-4 LOCATION: Front, Longitudinal DISPLACEMENT: 2387 cc CYLINDER BLOCK: Cast Aluminum CYLINDER HEAD: Cast Aluminum, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Dual Active Valve Control System (DAVCS) FUEL INJECTION: Direct Injection, Intercooled Turbo MAX POWER: 260 bhp @ 5600 rpm MAX TORQUE: 277 lb-ft @ 2000-4800 rpm TRANSMISSION: Lineartronic® CVT, Intelligent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive FRONT SUSPENSION: Independent MacPherson strut with anti-roll bar.

REAR SUSPENSION: Independent Double wishbones with anti-roll bar.

FUEL CAPACITY: 73 liters (19.3 gallons) LOAD CAPACITY: 2,449 liters (both rows folded) / 1345 liters (3rd row folded) / 498 liters (all seats up) GROUND CLEARANCE: 220 mm WADING DEPTH: 500 mm APPROACH ANGLE: 17.6 degrees DEPARTURE ANGLE: 21.8 degrees RAMP-OVER ANGLE: 18.2 degrees L x W x H: 4999 mm x 1930 mm x 1819 mm WHEELBASE: 2891 mm BRAKES: Front 13.1-inch (333 mm) ventilated discs with 2-piston calipers / Rear 13-inch (330 mm) vented discs with single piston calipers Integrated Electric Parking Brake, ABS, X-MODE®, VDC, HDC, TCS, TSA, Active Torque Vectoring.

WHEELS: 20”x 7.5J Multi-spoke Aluminum Alloys.

TIRES: P245/50R20 102H Falken Ziex ZE001 A/S

panoramic roof is enormous at 54 inches with 95% UV light reduction compared to the tiny moonroof for the front passengers on the CX-9. It has an additional 180-degree FrontView Monitor and Smart Rear-View Mirror to maintain maximum visibility when required.

The LED Steering Responsive Headlights and High Beam Assist work very well and are the best-looking bits in the front. The comprehensive EyeSight system monitors traffic movement, optimizes the adaptive cruise control, and warns you when you're swaying outside your lane while the Automatic Pre-Collision Braking feature can apply full braking force and bring you to a complete stop in emergency situations. Another strong

feature is the audio system, the very best in a Subaru ever, an awesome 792-watt 14-speaker Harman Kardon Quantum Surround Sound audio system that bests the Bose in the CX-9.

There is a lot going for the halo Subaru flagship but its selling price may hinder its commercial success though that could conversely make the Evoltis more special and more exclusive on the road.

Interested customers who want to learn more about the Evoltis may register at www.subaru. asia/evoltis. The first 50 customers who sign-up and complete their purchase of a brand-new Evoltis will receive an exclusive Evoltis watch to

WEIGHT: (kerb) 2090 kg. (4600 lbs.)

0-100 KM/H (0-62 MPH): 7.1 seconds TOP SPEED (MPH): 210 km/h (130 mph) Governed FUEL MILEAGE: 20 mpg City / 26 mpg Highway PRICE AS TESTED: PhP 3,480,000.00 PLUS: A mature Subaristi’s Dream.

Very capable and comfortable.

Clever EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology. The best intelligent AWD system in its class. Great sound system. Very well appointed.

MINUS: Price. Uninspired exterior design.

RATING:

9.5/10

match their car!

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Feature

2021 BMW X7 xDrive30d Pure Excellence

THE X-FAMILY FLAGSHIP

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WORDS

PHOTOS

KEVIN C. LIMJOCO

ANDRÉAS N. DELOS REYES

E

Feature

ver since I watched the action sequences of the remotecontrolled BMW 750iL (E38) in the 1997 James Bond film Tomorrow Never Dies when it was released in the US, I dreamt of a gadget-filled Bimmer similar to the original Aston Martin DB5 but in a tall wagon with all-wheel-drive! A couple of years later, BMW launched the sensational all-new X5 (E53) sans the film gadgetry of course. So, when the allnew BMW X7 (G07) was released in 2018, yes 21 years after I fantasized about the concept, I cheered with delight, though it would be another three years before I would finally test drive its most affordable variant, the xDrive30d Pure Excellence, in the Philippines.

The domestic offering may be described as an entry model because of its power output, which is more than sufficient, and slightly smaller front brake discs, but it has all the essential and sensational new equipment deserving of BMW’s X-family flagship.

There are multiple trim and powerplant models available in other markets that include the epic 613 bhp / 590 lb-ft twin-turbo V8 Alpina XB7 that rockets from 0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and BMW’s own quad-turbo X7 M50d which adds three more turbos to the incredible inline-6 diesel engine. But for our market, honestly, the “standard” xDrive30d does everything you need and more plus it is the most fuel-efficient setup in the family range too. It is only 3-tenths of a second slower from 0-100 km/h compared to an X5 xDrive30d. The 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission has been revised with a wider ratio spread and new control electronics with new torsion dampers to reduce rotational forces and converter slip for further improved shift comfort. The rear-bias xDrive system has also been updated to its newest tuning. It is able to split torque between the front and rear axles with even greater precision and reaction speed, while also being able to direct all the power to the rear wheels automatically when AWD is not required.

The X7 is truly an elevated version of the 7-series saloon with grand accommodations for more occupancy and versatility. It is the more practical full-size premium luxury solution for those who have it all and want to travel everywhere in our country without boarding an airplane. The quilted Merino leather seating resembles the saloon with the addition of a third row. The effortlessly versatile configurability of the seating is astonishing and thoughtful. The road footprint

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Feature

Specification

2021 BMW X7 xDrive30d Pure Excellence (G07) ENGINE: Inline-6 LOCATION: Front, Longitudinal DISPLACEMENT: 2993 cc CYLINDER BLOCK: Cast Aluminum CYLINDER HEAD: Cast Aluminum, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder FUEL INJECTION: Direct Commonrail Fuel Injection, Intercooled VGT Turbodiesel MAX POWER: 262 bhp @ 4000 rpm MAX TORQUE: 457 lb-ft @ 2000-2500 rpm TRANSMISSION: 8-speed automatic, intelligent xDrive AWD System FRONT SUSPENSION: Independent double-wishbones, adaptive & selflevelling air shock absorbers.

REAR SUSPENSION: Independent lightweight multi-link adaptive & self-levelling air shock absorbers.

FUEL CAPACITY: 80 liters (21 gallons) LOAD CAPACITY: 2,120 liters (both rows folded) / 750 liters (3rd row folded) / 326 liters (all seats up) GROUND CLEARANCE: 220 mm WADING DEPTH: 500 mm APPROACH ANGLE: 25 degrees DEPARTURE ANGLE: 22.2 degrees RAMP-OVER ANGLE: 19.8 degrees L x W x H: 5151 mm x 2000 mm x 1805 mm WHEELBASE: 3105 mm BRAKES: Front 14.7-inch (373 mm) ventilated discs with 4-piston calipers / Rear 14.6-inch (371 mm) vented discs with single piston calipers Integrated Electric Parking Brake, ABS, BA, DSC, EBD, VSA, HSA. WHEELS: 21”x 9.5J Multi-spoke Aluminum Alloys.

TIRES: P285/45R21 113Y Pirelli P Zero RSC WEIGHT: (kerb) 2320 kg. (5104 lbs.)

0-100 KM/H (0-62 MPH): 6.9 seconds TOP SPEED (MPH): 230 km/h (144 mph) FUEL MILEAGE: 7.2 L/100 km Overall PRICE AS TESTED: PhP 9,290,000.00 PLUS: A dream realized. Extremely desirable. A proper flagship on stilts.

MINUS: Price. Limited color variety in our market.

RATING:

10/10

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is a scaled up X5 with more capacity with no tangible compromises. The X7 chassis uses the extended version of the now ubiquitous modular Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform that incorporates steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber in varying proportions.

Compared to the X5, it essentially uses a 130 mm longer wheelbase, which gives the X7 a 230 mm longer body, with about the same width, and a 60 mm taller roofline.

Using the very familiar switchgear, it can be raised or lowered by 40 mm (1.6 inches) and will automatically lower the car by 20 mm (0.8 inches) at speeds just shy of 140 km/h. Another button in the luggage compartment activates a loading mode that lowers the vehicle by 40 mm (1.6 inches) to make loading easier even when the engine is off. The air supply is controlled individually for each wheel using an electrically driven compressor which also automatically balances out an unevenly loaded

vehicle to maintain the dynamic handling behavior that you would expect from a BMW. The extensive standard equipment includes four-zone climate control, iDrive 7.0, fabulous adaptive laser headlights, active kidney grille, a multitude of driver assistance systems, the crafted glass gear knob, electrically adjustable and heated three row seating, a fully adjustable second row bench (captain chairs are optional), a panoramic moonroof with LED light patterns and a second moonroof for the third-row, 'Fineline Stripe' brown high-gloss fine-wood trim, roller sunblinds for rear side windows, aluminum running board and aluminum satinated roof rails, soft-close function for doors, 1,500-watt Harman Kardon surround sound system with two 10.2-inch HD screens for rear-seat entertainment, multiple USB ports, and so much more. The only drawback really is the financial challenge of acquiring the brilliant BMW X7.

E X T R A T I M E There is more to life than just cars, so we got you covered on the other things that might interest you.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

E X TR A TI M E

Not Your Everyday Suman WORDS

CHRIS VAN HOVEN When Antonio Pigafetta returned to Spain on board the Victoria after the famous Battle of Mactan in April 1521, tales of his journey with Ferdinand Magellan were well-documented by him in his writings of The First Voyage Round the World by Magellan. When recalling their visit to the islands of Palawan and Borneo, one chapter states, “Then they made us a present of various victuals, but all made with rice, either wrapped in leaves in the form of a long cylinder, or in the shape of a sugar loaf.”Centuries later, suman is a quintessential snack in pretty much every Filipino household, and one of the most well-known delicacies in the country.

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E X TR A TI M E

“Budbud Gourmet Suman’s Budbud Kabog uses ingredients sourced directly from Dumaguete and its neighboring cities, ensuring its authenticity.”

SUMAN, JUST LIKE OTHER “KAKANIN” SNACK, HAS MANY REGIONAL VARIATIONS, EACH WITH THEIR OWN TWIST OR TAKE ON THE DISH. But despite the dozens of variations, all of them have several things in common. The main ingredient is usually glutinous or sticky rice cooked with coconut milk and wrapped in either palm or banana leaves, which is then steamed or boiled. One interesting variant comes from the Visayas region, specifically the islands of Cebu and Dumaguete, called Budbud Kabog. What separates this Visayan suman from the rest is that it isn’t made from rice at all. Instead, it’s derived from a local small-seeded cereal plant known as millet. The Cebuano word Budbud or budbod means scattering seeds, while kabog means “bat” in English. It’s said that Budbud Kabog originated from a farmer from Catmon, Northern Cebu, who discovered millet seeds scattered on a cave floor, which bats were using as food. He then took the millet seeds home and decided to cook with it by pounding them and adding sugar.

Hence, a new delicacy was born.

Millet seeds themselves have many health benefits, packing several vitamins and minerals, which are not present in rice. Millet seeds provide more essential amino acids than most other cereals, and boasts the highest calcium content of all cereal grains. It’s also rich in antioxidants as well as fiber and non-starchy polysaccharides, two types of carbohydrates that help control blood sugar levels, making it an ideal grain for people with diabetes. It’s also gluten-free, making it a great choice for people with celiac disease.

While Budbud Kabog is common in Cebu, Dumaguete, and neighboring cities in the Visayas region, it continues to be elusive in Manila. One of the only sources for Budbud Kabog comes from a small family-run store called Bubud Gourmet Suman, which sells traditional Budbud Kabog alongside various other flavors of suman made with rice. Budbud Gourmet Suman’s Budbud Kabog uses ingredients sourced directly from Dumaguete and its neighboring cities, ensuring its authenticity. Unlike the traditional rice suman that we’re all familiar with, kabog is decidedly less sweet, with a unique

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E X TR A TI M E

“Budbud Gourmet Suman makes it a point to ensure that only fresh ingredients are used when cooking each flavor, and no shortcuts are made during the cooking process.”

flavor that is favorably paired with a sharp cheese or garlicky butter. Budbod Kabog is also usually paired with a thick chocolate drink, making it a popular choice for quick breakfast meals.

Catering to a more upscale market, Budbud Gourmet Suman makes it a point to ensure that only fresh ingredients are used when cooking each flavor, and no shortcuts are made during the cooking process.

For example, instead of simply using ube powder or flavoring for the ube-flavored suman, they use actual ube or purple yam, which is then turned into a jam.

Budbud Gourmet Suman also goes through great lengths to ensure that no preservatives are used in the products, going as far as ripening the mangoes themselves to avoid the use of harmful chemicals such as calcium carbide (locally known as “carburo”), which is often used to artificially speed up the ripening

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process. The same goes for the chocolate flavors such as tsokolate and champorado. Instead of using cocoa powder simply sprinkled on top, Budbud Gourmet Suman uses pure tablea capsules sourced from Dumaguete as well. While this means that the prices of the suman per piece is more expensive than what we’re used to seeing in our local market, the premium pricing comes with the peace of mind that only the healthiest ingredients are going into your body.

With so many wonderful variations of our favorite local “kakanin” found around the Philippines, it’s great that we don’t have to travel very far to sample them. Budbud Gourmet Suman brings Negros Oriental’s favorite delicacy Budbud Kabog closer to home, and we hope to see this trend continue for other regional delicacies as well. Our tummies are all the better for it!

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TUNER LO U D ER, BA D D ER, FAS TER!

1996 Honda Integra (DC2) “I love this integra because of the nostalgic feel. The era of the car was the one which sparked my interest for Hondas. Plus, the sound of the VTEC, nothing can compare. I’m happy with the outcome and enjoying it even when I’m just looking at it while its parked.” ( p a g e 6 4 )

J U NE 2 0 21 / IS S U E 232

BOOSTED!

Francis G. Pallarco T U N E R E D I TO R

Weather-Proof Getting our vehicles ready for the rainy season

ith the rainy season in full swing, several preventive measures and checks are needed to protect your car during the season’s heavy rainfall. While it doesn’t require making any major modifications to your car, following these simple car care tips and basic precautions will make driving easier and safer this rainy season.

W

CLEAN WIPER BLADES We only recognize the importance of these strips of rubber when the rainy season begins.

Clean or have them cleaned with car shampoo whenever you have your car washed. You’d be surprised to find how much dirt it can accumulate. It’s also a good idea to apply some rubber protectant on the blade after washing to prevent the rubber from becoming brittle and hard. But once you notice cracks or tears

along the blade itself, then it’s time to have them replaced. Don’t forget to top up your windshield washer reservoir.

are in proper working condition. Check and replace them especially if there are black spots on the glass.

TIRE CHECK

WASHING REQUIRED

One of the most critical features of a tire is the tread. The grooves and channels on the tread provide grip on the road by channeling water and debris away from the contact patch.

With use, the tread wears down and could easily lose grip on wet surfaces. All modern tires have a safety hump located in between the tread. If it is flush with the tread, it’s time to have them replaced. It would also be a good time to rotate the tires.

Some might think it’s foolish to have a car wash during the rainy season. But regular trips to the local car wash will do wonders in protecting your car’s exterior paint from contaminants that can damage the paint. To further protect your car’s paint, have your car regularly waxed to remove light scratches and harmful contaminants such as sticky bits of asphalt that stick on the rocker panels. Doing so also provides a protective layer.

LIGHT BULBS

BATTERY CHECK

Staying visible to other drivers during heavy rainfall is essential, so make sure that all the light bulbs and not just the headlight bulbs, but the other bulbs like the park light bulb, plate light, signal light, brake light and so on

Did you know that heavy rainfall and increased humidity can put an extra strain on your battery?

As such, it is vital to have it regularly checked for proper charging, and checking of loose terminals and corrosion around them. Frequent use of headlights, A/C, and the windshield wipers also uses up much of the battery. If you notice your car struggling to start (or if it can't start at all) this time of year, it could be a dead battery.

“Following these simple car care tips and basic precautions will make driving easier and safer this rainy season.”

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BRAKE CHECK Finally, have your brakes checked for proper operation and have worn brake pads replaced immediately. This should include a thorough cleaning of the entire brake components using brake cleaner to remove all traces of accumulated brake dust and grime.

Tuner

Event

AKRAPOVIČ TURNS 30 C E L E B R AT I N G T H I R T Y Y E A R S O F P R O D U C T E XC E L L E N C E

F

ounded in Slovenia 30 years ago by former motorcycle racer Igor Akrapovič, the brand has grown to international prominence through its successful support of leading motorsport teams.

To date, the company has secured 140 world championship titles with its partner racing teams in various racing disciplines, along with numerous victories in FIM MotoGP, FIM WorldSBK, FIM MXGP, FIA WEC, and

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DTM, famous races like the Isle of Man TT, 24 Hours Nürburgring, 24 Hours of Le Mans, 24 Hours of Daytona, and Dakar Rally, and more.

Since its inception, the company has two state-of-the-art production sites in Slovenia, with over 1,300 employees and are distributing its products in more than 80 countries. The facilities at the company’s headquarters in Ivančna Gorica comprise an in-house titanium foundry, a durability dyno on which a robot rides the motorcycle, a metallurgical lab, an R&D department,

and a racing department. The entire production, from tube making to final assembly, takes place in a large production hall at Črnomelj.

The company’s attention to detail and desire to create only the best products for ordinary customers have brought the company numerous honors and awards. Very important among them are the fourteen Red Dot awards won over the past eight years, including the Red Dot: Best of the Best award in the Product Design category for the Evolution Line (Titanium)

exhaust system for the Ducati 1199 Panigale in 2014.

“From the very beginning, the company's vision and culture have stayed the same: we continue to focus on developing the perfect product, placing innovation, research, and

For Inquiries: EXCELLAR ENTERPRISES 72 Nicanor Roxas St., Brgy. Sto. Domingo, Banawe Area, Quezon City | (02) 712-9999 or www.excellar-auto.com

application of top-notch technology and state-of-the-art materials at the forefront. Development and curiosity drive us forward to keep looking for solutions on how to improve and upgrade our products and make them even more attractive for our

customers. Development has no limits because technology can always be improved.” — Igor Akrapovič.

To mark the company’s 30th anniversary, Akrapovič engineers used the company’s long years of experience and know-how to design two special Evolution Line (Titanium) 30th Anniversary* exhaust systems for the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR / ZX10R and the Ferrari F8 Tributo, with a limited edition of only 30 pieces each.

You may follow all the information on the company’s 30th anniversary on its official social media channels under the hashtag #30YearsAkrapovic or visit Akrapovič 30 Years, a special website dedicated to the company’s 30th anniversary, where new content will be posted throughout the year, including a special issue of Akrapovič Lifestyle Magazine in digital format. The 30th issue of the magazine will feature selected articles from the previous issues, alongside new material looking back at the company’s development over the past thirty years.

Excellar Enterprises is also the sole exclusive and authorized importer for RECARO, BBS wheels, TWS/Tan-Eisya Wheel Supply, HRE Wheels, ADV:1 wheels, Eventuri Carbon-Fiber Intake systems, ATS, KMP Drivetrain Solutions, RSS, Bimecc, NOCO, CSF Cooling Experts, bbi Autosport, Manthey Racing, Schroth racing,

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2021

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Tuner

WORDS

PHOTOS

FRANCIS G. PALLARCO

RANDY SILVA-NETTO

Check out this outrageous V6 engine-swapped MR2

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Tuner

W

ithout question, Toyota has produced and developed a lot of desirable models that enjoy cult-car status the world over. One model that uniquely stands out is the Midship Rear-drive 2-seater or commonly known as the MR2. Whether it’s the first-gen (’84-’89) AW11 or the (’89-’99) SW20, both share a unique drivetrain layout found on some of the world’s best sportscars. It comes blessed with a near 50-50 weight distribution and more than enough power in a relatively lightweight unibody. This ensured that it was fast, agile, and powerful.

Desirable traits indeed, but here’s the thing, the car itself was prone to snap-oversteer. Something dangerous under the hands of an inexperienced driver. That coupled with normal

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issues like engine cooling and the lack of a trunk made it too quirky for the regular tuner crowd. Surprisingly, such characteristics didn’t hamper its popularity among those who appreciate the MR2 for what it is and have the passion to further explore its capabilities in terms of performance and looks.

One such person sharing those attributes is Marc Baltao of N1 Spec Car Exchange and Auto Detailing who owns our featured second-gen MR2 since his college days. It’s all sorted out, and as to be expected is loaded with a ton of mods as he quips, “This car was built from scratch, every detail and every single issue was addressed properly by myself. This is well taken care of to the point where it is loved like a member of the family. All the replacement and aftermarket parts were sourced by myself locally and internationally.”

Indeed, the MR2 is already a great-looking car in factory form, but there’s always room for improvement.

In this case, Marc added just a few bits that allow it to shed some weight and improve its overall looks.

What’s really interesting is that this MR2 has already gone through several engines leading up to what it has now as Marc explains, “Initially, the car came with a 2nd-Gen 3SGE, then I swapped it with a 4th-Gen Beams 3SGE, next came a 3rd-Gen 3SGTE turbocharged engine.

The one it has now is a 3.5-liter, 2GRFE, V6 engine.” Factory rated between 295 to 315 horsepower, this V6 powerplant propels cars such as the Camry, Lexus ES and RX, all the way to the Lotus Evora and the Exige V6. Toyota’s varied choice of engines explains why Toyotas continue to be popular among tuners and enthusiasts. As far as the swap is concerned, working around the tight confines of the MR2, I’m sure it proved quite a challenge.

Given that Marc regularly uses it for track days and even drag racing, the 2GRFE engine has undergone basic mods to ensure reliability while getting a bump in power. It mainly addressed the engine’s fuel supply with aftermarket fuel injectors, fuel pump, and a fuel pressure regulator upgrade. Even the E153 transmission was fortified with an LSD unit, heavy duty axles, lightened flywheel and racing clutch. An aftermarket aluminum radiator wih matching shroud houses two slim fans to ensure that the engine temps stay cool. A dyno tuning session is still in the works, but Marc notes that his current engine set-up should easily put out 300-plus whp as he explains, “The engine now pulls and feels a lot stronger than before with the custom-tuned ECU from Frankenstein Motorworks in the States where I also bought a lot of parts from as he pioneered the 2GRFE engine swap for MR2’s.”

To keep it glued on the track and prevent chassis flex, Marc saw it proper to install an assortment of chassis stiffeners and braces. Apart from the coilover dampers, the major steering components were also refreshed and replaced with OEM parts. This augments the quick steer conversion, which uses an aftermarket quick steering pinion gear. I’m sure the stock MR2 steering is already efficient, so why bother? First, it would make changing directions much easier.

Secondly, it would make catching

Tuner TRANSMISSION E153 5-Speed transmission with LSD

Specifications

1998 Toyota MR2 (SW20) — Marc Baltao N1 Spec Car Exchange & Auto Detailing — ENGINE 2GR-FE, 3.5 liter, V6, 48-valves, DOHC, Dual VVTi ENGINE MODS Deatschwerks (255-lph) fuel pump, 450cc Fuel injectors, Tomei adjustable fuel pressure regulator, HKS Cold air intake, Mishimoto 3 rows aluminum radiator & Silicone hose set, KOracing engine lid fan shroud with Denso slim cooling fans, 2.5"-3” Full stainless steel custom dual exhaust,HKS titanium burnt exhaust tip OTHER STUFF TOM’S engine oil filler cap, TOM’S 1.2 bar radiator cap, Lexus Sport 0w40 fully synthetic engine oil, Denso Iridium Spark Plugs, Brand new OEM oil seals, gaskets etc., Brand new OEM timing belt Brand new drive belt, Polyurethane engine mounts ENGINE MANAGEMENT Frankenstein Motorworks custom tuned ECU, Power enterprise CamCon VVTi and AFC controller, BeeR Power Builder (2-step) ignition cut, rev limiter and launch controller HORSEPOWER 300-plus whp (Scheduled for Dyno Tuning

oversteer much easier, which it is prone of doing.

Speaking of handling, my initial thoughts was that it became heavier at the rear, but it’s actually lighter as Marc explains, “The 3SGTE engine weighed 421 lbs. compared to the 2GRFE V6 at 359 lbs. Its handling changed because of the monstrous torque from the V6. If tires are good and sticky, it’s not prone to oversteer, but when it's old and worn, then it is really prone to oversteer.

Taking advantage of the mid-engine layout and to gain better traction, it follows a double-staggered wheel/ tire fitment where the rear wheels are larger in terms of width and diameter.

The Enkei RPF1 wheels up front are 17-inches while the rears are 18-inches and wrapped in GT Radial SX2 tires, which have proven their capabilities on the track. Peering through those wheel spokes are the upgraded brakes consisting of D2 Racing, 8-pot calipers and cross-drilled rotors up front, and 1-pot caliper at the rear to ensure it stops more efficiently.

Indeed, the MR2 is already a greatlooking car in factory form, but there’s always room for improvement. In this case, Marc added just a few bits that allow it to shed some weight and

TRANSMISSION/DRIVELINE MODS OEM E-Series heavy-duty axles with intermediate, Helical LSD unit, Redline MT90 fully synthetic trans oil, Brand new OEM axle oil seals, Fidanza lightened custom flywheel, Exedy tri-puck racing clutch disc, Brand new OEM 3SGTE pressure plate and Release Bearing BRAKE MODS D2 Racing (8-pot) Caliper w/ Cross-drilled (330mm) Rotors (Front), D2 Racing (1-pot) Caliper disc brakes with ACRE brake pads (Rear), APP steel braided brake lines, Endless DOT-4 brake fluid, Double diaphragm brake booster SUSPENSION & STEERING MODS TEIN Monoflex coil-overs (circuit-spec), Pillow ball top mounts (F&R), Prothane polyurethane master bushing kit, Brand new OEM tie rod ends, CUSCO adjustable caster arm/tension rods, Brand new OEM tie rod bars, Brand new OEM ball joints, Ultra Racing fender bars and under brace, OEM rear X-brace strut bar and 3-pt. front strut bar, FET Sports strut bar, Sheepdog rear strut tower bar, Quick-steer conversion ROLLERS Enkei RPF1 Double-Staggered Wheels (F-17x7.5, R-18x9.5), GT Radial SX2 Tires (F-215/40R17, R-265/35R18)

improve its overall looks. Aftermarket stuff like the front bumper, side skirts, trunk and more that looks like the MR2 came that way, which is a good thing. Safety features were also added inside like roll cage, racing seats, safety harness and of course, an array of Defi gauges to keep tabs on what’s happening to the engine.

I guess Marc sums up his car best as he says, “It’s a dream build for me to have a V6-powered MR2. It’s like

INTERIOR MODS Defi Advance CR tachometer, oil temp, oil pressure, water temp, Defi Advance CR boost/ vacuum, fuel pressure, Defi Advance Control Unit, Pivot digital speedometer, Custom Defi gauge cluster, MOMO Competition steering wheel, OEM leather red stitch shift boot, Sparco racing pedals and shift knob, TRD short throw shifter, TRD handbrake dory button, Recaro SR3 racing seats, TOM’S 4-point safety harness, CUSCO 6-point full rollcage, Pioneer DEH-7650 Head unit, Rockford Fosgate front separates, Rockford Fosgate rear coaxials, AVT Underseat 8" subwoofer, Original LHD dashboard, AC ducting, center panel, gauge panel, cluster EXTERIOR MODS Airwalker front bumper, Greddy side skirts and rear skirts, FRP lightweight trunk and Gen-IV wing, JDM “Kouki” round tail lights, Border Racing motorized side mirrors, Poon SW20 flush fixed headlights, Projector headlights by Redline Autoworks, AutoArt crystal clear bumper lights, Orig LHD wiper cowl, OEM turbo engine lid BODY & PAINT Strip to metal body work using Anzahl Candy Tone Fierce Red N1 SPEC CAR EXCHANGE AND AUTO DETAILING 0917 887 8978

After going through its impressive spec list, I have yet to see another MR2 with the same amount of wellthought mods.

having a super car on a budget, taking inspiration from the Lotus Evora V6.

We all know how a Lotus behaves on a track, if driven properly, it’s a monster machine under the hands of a capable driver. Just beware of snap oversteer.”

After going through its impressive spec list, I have yet to see another MR2 with the same amount of well-thought mods.

What’s even great is that it looks just like any other MR2. That is, until the engine bonnet is opened.

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Tuner

Second Time

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Tuner

Lawrence Go shows us how to build a proper Integra WORDS

PHOTOS

FRANCIS G. PALLARCO

JUN VINLUAN

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Tuner

G

iven that all car enthusiasts possess many traits, there is one that probably ranks high up in the list.

This is the ability to instinctively recognize a car’s potential even though it’s in dire need of repair. To the average person, it’s just another dilapidated heap of scrap metal, but the car enthusiast is able to see what’s beyond as he’s already envisioning a nice and shiny project car. To prove what I’m driving at, let’s take this well-built Integra of Lawrence Go as an example since it started in an all-too familiar situation. “I was on vacation overseas when a friend called me up regarding an Integra that was

A look inside reveals a simple yet functional approach with a Mugen theme that’s prevalent all throughout.

being left to rot. Since I’ve already built an Integra in the past, I kind of miss driving one. So, thanks to my friend for he even volunteered to pay for it.

To my surprise, when I got the car, it had no engine, the conversion was awful and the dashboard was gutted up and patched together. The only thing it had going for it was the fact that it was an original Type-R chassis, which strengthened its potential to become a great build.”

For something that’s been out of production since 2001, the Honda Integra (DC2) continues to be revered by performance enthusiasts to modify.

In fact, it’s been widely regarded as one of the best handling Front-Wheel Drive compact cars from the '90s era. A rev-

happy engine coupled with a multi-link independent suspension ensured that it was a blast to drive. And don’t forget the addicting soundtrack coming from the engine the moment that VTEC system is engaged. Even to date, it still provides a strong sense of raw excitement that only comes from driving a vehicle that’s devoid of traction control and continuously variable transmission.

After going over the bare shell and ending up with a rather lengthy list of things to be done and parts needed, Lawrence went ahead with the build as he recalls, “I started searching for parts which wasn’t easy as I even encountered a local parts supplier who wanted to charge me per part for the conversion kit. Thus, I decided to import one for my own. The engine, seats, wheels, and the rest I found through my friends.” After completing most of what’s on the list, he brought it over to Splitsecond Autoshop as they redid most of the previous conversion including the body and paint. “Since good restorers are hard to find, I had to wait for my slot. It even went ahead of my Evo that was also scheduled for restoration work. The estimated time frame was six months, but dragged on due to the lockdown and overnight parts even got held up at customs.”

Whoever thought that building a car from scratch is easy is out of his mind.

One of the things I really like about cars from this era is the sight of the engine bay. The engine looks nice with aluminum cast manifolds, seeing the exhaust and all. Everything seems more intuitively laid out. It’s a far cry from what we normally see today when lifting the hood of a modern car with plastic manifolds that snake on top of the valve cover that just doesn’t look right. Totally different from this one where the Type-R engine has been rebuilt by Goldstar Turbochargers and treated to a host of aftermarket parts which are all period-correct that make up for one impressive engine bay.

A look inside reveals a simple yet functional approach with a Mugen theme that’s prevalent all throughout.

On the dash is the very expensive and elusive Mugen gauge cluster, a Mugen shift knob and then the equally sought after Mugen FG360 steering wheel, or more popularly known as “Mickey

Tuner Lawrence is still looking for parts because he knows how hard it can get as he says, “The hardest aspect is parts sourcing, especially conversion parts from the States. Add to the fact the huge demand for Honda parts worldwide leaves me no choice but to buy rare parts at a premium.” Difficult and costly it may be, but that’s the reality of taking on a proper build without cutting any corners. “I love this integra because of the nostalgic feel.

The era of the car was the one which sparked my interest for Hondas. Plus, the sound of the VTEC, nothing can compare. I’m happy with the outcome and enjoying it even when I’m just looking at it while its parked.” Now that kind of satisfaction is priceless.

Specifications

1996 Honda Integra (DC2) — Lawrence Go — ENGINE B18C Type-R, 1.6-Liter, DOHC, VTEC, Inline-Four ENGINE MODS Spoon Throttle Body, TODA Camshafts, TODA Timing Belt, TODA Cam Gears, Edelbrock Victor X Intake Manifold, AEM Fuel Rail & Fuel Regulator, Mugen Headers, HKS Full Exhaust OTHER STUFF JUN Spark Plug cover, Mugen Oil Cap, Greddy Radiator Cap, Koyo Aluminum Radiator, Russel Stainless Steel Braided Fuel Line and AN Fittings, Samco Radiator Hose, Custom Stainless Airbox ENGINE REBUILD Goldstar Turbochargers TRANSMISSION Spoon (close gear) 5-Speed Transmission

Mouse.” This is due to the pair of Mickey Mouse-eared horn buttons on either side taking inspiration from classic Formula One technology while the 360 denotes the wheel’s circular shape.

These steering wheels are so rare that it’s even harder to find than a set of Mugen wheels, a reality which forced Lawrence to actually buy a car just to get one as he quips, “Since I can’t get hold of one, and I don’t want to spend 250k for a steering wheel, I ended up buying a car just to get one and sold it after.” To finish off the interior, a pair of Recaro SPG seats featuring a wildcat center fabric affirm its performance status.

One of the things I really like about cars from this era is the sight of the engine bay.

The engine looks nice with aluminum cast manifolds, seeing the exhaust and all.

Straying away from the usual OEM, Type-R themed builds, Lawrence got hold of a rare C-West DC2 N1 body kit consisting of a front bumper with enlarged ducts for cooling, side skirts, rear bumper and wing. During its time, it was the most popular body kit to have for the Integra next to the one made by Ings+. A In order to properly keep the nineties vibe going, it rolls on a set of 16-inch, Advan RG wheels in gold finish that sets off nicely against the silver body color. As the Zeal coil-overs lower the car properly, there’s a pair of Spoon calipers up front that let it stop better.

While it looks like a finished build,

SUSPENSION MODS Omni Racing Camber Kit, Spoon Lower Tie Bar, Zeal Coil-Overs BRAKE MODS Spoon Monoblock Calipers (Front), Mugen Stainless Steel Braided Brake Lines ROLLERS Advan RG Wheels (17x7.5), GT Radial SX2 Tires (215/40ZR17) INTERIOR MODS Mugen Gauge, Mugen FG360 Steering Wheel, Mugen Shift Knob, Recaro SPG (Wildcat) Seats, Alpine 9887 Head Unit, Morel Separate Speakers EXTERIOR MODS C-West Bodykit, Bumpers (F&R), Side Skirts. C-West Rear Spoiler, USDM Taillights, Honda OEM Sunroof BODY & PAINT PLUS CONVERSION Splitsecond Autoshop

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an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of repairs Every new car has a periodic maintenance schedule that lessens the need for repairs in the future.

So it pays to follow the schedule.

A SAFETY REMINDER FROM

WHEEL2WHEEL E V ERY THIN G A ND A N Y THIN G T WO WHEELS

2021 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 “I like to think of motorcycles as music that has different genres. Riding sportbikes is like listening to electronic punk; it's edgy, fast, and upbeat.

Riding a scooter is like listening to country music; it’s mellow and soothing.

Riding cruisers is like listening to rock and roll, characterised by heavy beats accompanied by simple melodies. Riding the new Royal Enfield Meteor 350, I must say, is like a mix of mellow rock with a hint of Bollywood.” ( p a g e 7 4 )

J U NE 2 0 21 / IS S U E 232

TWO WHEELS ONLY

Maynard M. Marcelo S E C T I O N E D I TO R

Sacrifice Sale

can still vividly remember the day when somebody came to pick up my beloved bike- a Kawasaki Xanthus.

It was a cool summer afternoon 13 years ago when I decided to take her out for one last spin. Upon returning home I handed over the key to her proud new owner and I couldn't help but fight back my tears. Memories of sleepless nights polishing chrome, countless kilometers I spent riding with my ride buddies and beautiful places I had visited flashed before my eyes. As they loaded the bike onto a waiting pickup truck, I was somehow half expecting to wake up from a horrible dream. But sadly it’s for real. It was a sacrifice sale.

If you can relate to the story above then you probably know the feeling. It’s certainly far from pleasant but sometimes when we’re desperate for fast cash we can’t help but to resort to a sacrifice sale, or to sell at a price less than the actual cost or fair market value of the item. But from the buyer’s point of view, it’s nothing less than the deal of the century. So when you’re scanning the Facebook Marketplace for a used bike, always

I

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keep an eye for the keywords: Sacrifice. Sale.

Who knows, you might stumble upon a real bargain. But don't buy on impulse. More often than not when a deal sounds too good to be true they usually are. So be sure to ask the seller as many questions about the bike and inspect it thoroughly before you part ways with your hard earned money. And it doesn't hurt to bring along a friend who knows a great deal about motorcycles to check the bike for you.

If you don't want all the hassles associated with buying a used bike, then nothing beats buying brand new. In this issue of Wheel 2 Wheel we tested the 2021 Aprilia RS 660 and 2021 Royal Enfield Meteor 350, two bikes that belong on opposite ends of the motorcycle spectrum but are designed to give their riders a fun and engaging riding experience. The Aprilia RS 660 is the newest parallel-twin powered middleweight sportbike that’s designed to be versatile, safe, and fun for everyday use. The Meteor 350, on the other hand, is the newest “easy cruiser” from Royal Enfield inspired by the original Super Meteor 700 of the 50’s and 60’s. The new Meteor 350 boasts of features, refinement, and specs first seen on a cruiser

at this price range. Turn the page over to learn more about this easy cruiser from Royal Enfield.

We also took a short break from our boring work-from-home setup to join the 2021 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride to Fight Anxiety. Now in its 10th year, the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, also known as DGR, is a global motorcycle event raising funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men's mental health programs on behalf of the Movember Foundation.

This year’s event however focuses on mental health due to the covid-19 outbreak. Unlike previous iterations of the DGR, this year’s event promoted social-distance by allowing participants to ride solo.

Back to the subject of buying used, always remember the magic words: sacrifice sale.

Think of it this way. You’re not only helping the seller get the cash he or she needed, you’re most likely getting a cherished item at an unbelievably low price. Last night as I looked at my Facebook memories a picture of my old bike popped up, and once again the sad and mostly happy memories I had with it came flashing back. Damn you Facebook.

Damn you Covid.

share the road check your mirrors for motorcyclists

a reminder from

ride safe.

stay alive.

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Wheel2Wheel

News

2021 DISTINGUISHED GENTLEMAN’S RIDE TO FIGHT ANXIETY Words and photos by Maki Aganon ONE OF THE MAIN advocacies of DGR, or Distinguished Gentleman's Ride, is suicide prevention. 2021 marks Distinguished Gentleman's Ride, a Decade of Riding Dapper for men's physical and mental health.

Over 500,000 men die from suicide every year, amplified by the pandemic, economic problems and livelihood on the Philippines, to be there for each other is certified urgent in the name of motorcycle brotherhood. As anxiety creeps in, there is a lot of uncertainty, the pandemic has brought upon everyone.

Since 2014, thousands of classic and vintage riders have joined DGR and keep exponential growth with each and every successive year. The first 'DGR' was a mock up named "Magigiting na Ginoo',

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with current DGR volunteer organizer Mark Laccay, who started with a handful of gentlemen, paraded around Metro Manila, spreading an advocacy, up until the grant in Manila was awarded by the DGR HQ. Today, DGR Philippines is composed of volunteers and freelance professionals who share their work to strengthen the community and unite riders in the Philippines and continue to operate as a non-profit advocacy organization for the love of classic and vintage motorcycles.

From the usual long parade, Manila opted to adapt the 'Ride Solo Together' in compliance with social distancing protocols and minimum protective health standards. In continuation, riders take part through an online culmination activity and contest led

by Philippine presenter, Triumph Motorcycle Philippines, to award standout participants by means of prizes from sponsors.

We took part in this tweaked activity, thanks to Yamaha Motor Philippines for letting us try the Yamaha Bolt-R Spec. A bike that pumps a lot of grunty torque, that isn't snatchy in the low rev ranges, and totally enveloped into a modern-cruiser character. The bike was certainly handy for DGR, despite numerous pit stops, narrowing streets and open roads, with low seat height, comfortable buckskin seats and really soft clutch mechanism.

This year's setup, riders are tasked to visit at least 4 pit stops from 7am-12nn, take a selfie, and tag the place, and post on social media. Over 20 pitstops of participating establishments welcome riders with refreshments, coffee and various freebies to make it really exciting.

While this year's DGR is special and constrained, DGR HQ was still able to commend Manila as one of the biggest content contributors of the advocacy worldwide. DGR is also participated by different key cities all over the Philippines — Cebu, Laguna, Batangas, Davao, Rizal, just to mention a few.

DGR has always been one of the catalysts for the growth of Sport Heritage, Classic and Vintage-inspired motorcycles where manufacturers took notice and created products to support the market segment. It also reflects the Philipine market and these types of motorcycles are well received for being nostalgic in nature, with modern features.

During the culmination activity, 'Kuya' Kim Atienza, who wasn't able to participate this year, still led the traditional opening prayer for everyone. Jay Taruc, who was streaming from home, reminisced on the old times when Ride PH Moto Heritage Weekend would house the DGR post-parade.

Times have changed, but the people remain the same. Being there for each other is the least we can do to get through this.

News

Wheel2Wheel

2021 HARLEYDAVIDSON PAN AMERICA 1250 Words by Maynard M. Marcelo Photos by Harley-Davidson Press

HARLEY-DAVIDSON OF MANILA

and Harley-Davidson Cavite held a simultaneous launch of the 2021 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250, one of the most highly anticipated adventure bikes this year, in their respective showrooms. During the launch, both dealerships gave avid fans of the iconic American brand an up close and personal look at the revolutionary adventure tourer designed and engineered to conquer any terrain.

The liquid-cooled, Revolution Max 1250 engine with a six-gear drivetrain powers the 2021 Harley-Davidson Pan America Special 1250. This pairing offers a maximum of 94.40 lb-ft of torque. With fuel economy rated at 5.5 liters per 100 kilometers and a fuel capacity of 21.2 liters, this touring is also destined to cover more — even the road less travelled.

Such a vigorous machine needed an equally potent stopping power, which is why Harley-Davidson fitted radially mounted, monoblock four-piston

calipers in the front and floating single piston calipers in the rear to ensure your safety on the road.

The 2,265mm-long 2021 HarleyDavidson Pan America Special 1250 has a wheelbase of 1,580mm and a laden seat height of 836mm that guarantees optimum riding comfort for long journeys.

Since it is designed to take all roads, the 2021 Harley-Davidson Pan America Special 1250 presents a myriad of technological advancements to help riders enjoy every route they may take.

The 6.8-inch gauge TFT touchscreen display shows the speedometer, gear,

odometer, clock, trip meter, ambient temperature, low temperature alert, side stand alert, TIP over alert, cruise, range, and tachometer indicator. This is also Bluetooth-connectivity ready and can be paired with mobile phones to access phone calls, music, navigation, (via H-D App only).

Available in four colors such Deadwood Green, Baja Orange/ Stonewashed White Pearl, Gauntlet Gray Metallic and Vivid Black. The 2021 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 is ready to take on the road’s toughest challenge with the starting price of PhP 1.4 million.

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BIKE REVIEW

2021 ROYAL ENFIELD METEOR 350 WORDS

PHOTOS

MAYNARD M. MARCELO

RANDY SILVA-NETTO

I

like to think of motorcycles as music that has different genres.

Riding sportbikes is like listening to electronic punk; it's edgy, fast, and upbeat. Riding a scooter is like listening to country music; it’s mellow and soothing. Riding cruisers is like listening to rock and roll, characterised by heavy beats accompanied by simple melodies.

Riding the new Royal Enfield Meteor 350, I must say, is like a mix of mellow rock with a hint of Bollywood. It’s fun, characterful, and very easy to ride.

The Meteor 350 inherits its name from another iconic Royal Enfield motorcycle of the 1950’s. Launched at the end of 1952, the original Meteor was a touring motorcycle developed specifically for the US market powered by a 692cc, air-cooled, overhead valve, parallel twin motor capable of 160 Km/h top speed.

The new Royal Enfield Meteor 350, on the other hand, is designed for the Global market and carries Royal Enfield’s signature styling but powered by a newly developed 349cc long stroke air/oil-cooled single cylinder motor that generates 20.2 bhp and 20 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm, resulting in an abundance of the low-down torque that’s a fundamental characteristic

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of a cruiser. Erase old memories of shakey thumpers because these new generation motors from Royal Enfield are equipped with a counterbalancer for a super smooth and vibrationfree ride. Acceleration is leisurely at best but fuel efficiency is stellar at 25 kilometers per liter of mixed city and highway riding. Top speed is a decent 120 Km/h in 5th gear, but another gear would be nice for a more relaxed cruise on the highway.

Just like other cruisers that have characteristically low seats for that ‘slammed to the ground’ look, the Meteor 350’s also feature a low seat height of 765mm (31.1 inches) that will be appreciated by most riders, especially nervous newbies who want a solid foothold to the ground. The two-piece saddles are well padded and reasonably comfortable for long rides. The pillion seat is a little bit on the small side but at least it’s thickly padded, and on the Supernova it even comes with a backrest. They also feature gray piping and white stitching that contrasted tastefully to the dark brown color of the seats that came with our dual-tone Supernova test unit. In front of it is the teardrop shaped fuel tank that holds 15 liters of fuel.

Vertically challenged riders will appreciate the mid-mounted foot pegs and controls for the rear brake

Wheel2Wheel

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Wheel2Wheel

and 5-speed transmission. The riding position is upright with a short reach to the tall and swept back handlebars.

Nestled snugly on top of the top triple clamp are two round gauges; the larger one on the left side is the speedometer with a large circular multi information LCD in the middle that displays the fuel gauge, gear indicator, odometer, trip meter, periodic maintenance reminder, and a clock.

The smaller gauge on the right is the new TBT (Turn-By-Turn) navigation pod called the Royal Enfield Tripper, a highly focused navigation display device for real time directions, built with Google Maps Platform. The Tripper displays the best route to reach a destination using Google Maps’ two-wheeler navigation, a first for any Indian made motorcycle.

Paired via the Royal Enfield App to the rider’s smartphone, the Tripper clearly and efficiently gives real-time information while remaining discreet and unintrusive during operation.

The Meteor 350’s head and tail lights combine the clean, contemporary look of modern LEDs with the efficiency and timeless appeal of a well-sorted halogen headlamp. Simple and uncluttered handlebar controls and switchgear feature rotary power and lighting switches giving a gentle nod to the past. Another feature exclusive to the Supernova is a tall and clear windscreen that effectively reduces wind blast at freeway speeds. For convenience, a USB port is available for charging your mobile phone.

Styling wise the Meteor 350 is an undeniably handsome motorcycle, thanks to the talented team of designers and engineers based at Royal Enfield’s two state-of-the-art technical centers, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, and Bruntingthorpe, UK. But what strikes us the most about the Meteor 350 is the high level of refinement that reflects all throughout the bike; from the paint quality, fittings, and to the mechanical components, nothing was spared, which belies the Supernova’s low PhP252,000 asking price. The Fireball and Stellar variants cost even less at PhP232,000 and PhP241,000, respectively. People who saw the Meteor 350 for the first

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time always thought it cost much higher than its actual SRP. But that’s not all. The Meteor 350 is not just about good looks, it rides and handles very well, too. We had the pleasure of riding the Meteor 350 to Lobo, Batangas on the day of its Philippine launch and we were pleasantly surprised by its on-road, as well as off-road performance. To live up to its ‘Easy Cruiser’ tagline, the Meteor 350’s twin downtube spline frame has been designed to inspire confidence in the twisties, be rock-solid on the highway, and easily maneuverable on

The all-new Royal Enfield Meteor 350 boasts of superb build quality and attention to details first seen on any entry-level cruiser offering at this price point.

congested city streets. The Meteor 350’s short 1400mm wheelbase allows it to filter in traffic and execute tight U-turns with relative ease.

Surefooted handling and comfortable ride are aided by 41mm telescopic forks with 130mm of travel and twin tube emulsion shock absorbers with 6-step adjustable spring preload at the rear with 80mm of travel. We took the Meteor 350 to the unfinished portion of the Lobo-Laiya road where it coped very well in off-road conditions, we jokingly called it the adventure cruiser. Cast aluminum wheels fitted

Wheel2Wheel

with tubeless tires gives confidence and peace of mind. For that authentic cruiser look, a 100/90–19 tire is used on the front and a 140/70–17 at the rear.

Braking duties are handled by a 300mm disc with a Bybre 2-piston caliper in front and 270mm disc in the rear with a 1-piston Bybre caliper controlled by a two channel ABS. They are not the most powerful brakes setup out there but they proved to be more than adequate for the 191 kg Meteor.

The Meteor 350 has a catalogue full of genuine accessories designed and developed for it which can be added when ordering the motorcycle.

The selection includes functional accessories, such as the passenger backrest, touring screens, luggage options, robust engine and sump guards, as well as classic styling embellishments, including a variety of brushed stainless steel and black powder-coated slip-on silencer options and beautifully crafted touring seats, all of which come with a 3-year warranty.

For further individual self-expression, there’s a wide selection of riding gears like helmets in complementary colours, t-shirts, and personal accessories that have been developed around the Meteor and the cruiser lifestyle.

If there’s one shortcoming we wish the Meteor 350 didn’t have, it’s the 51cc engine displacement it lacks for it to be allowed access in our expressways.

But if entering the tollways is the least of your concern, then the Meteor 350 is certainly worth considering especially if you’re looking for a stylish, solidly built, superbly finished, and reasonably priced cruiser that’s easy to ride in the city as well as on the open roads. If you’re not always in a hurry to reach your destination, then cruising leisurely on the scenic backroads almost always offers the best riding experience. Riding on the expressways is boring anyway.

Specifications: 2021 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 — Engine: fuel-injected, air/oil-cooled,1 cylinder, sohc, 2 valves, 4 stroke | Displacement: 349cc | Max Power: 20.12 hp @ 6100 rpm | Max Torque: 20 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Transmission: 5-speed | Seat Height: 765mm (31.1 inches) | Fuel Capacity: 15 liters | Tire, front: 100/90–19 | Tire, rear: 140/70–17 | Brakes, front/rear: Disc/Disc 2-channel ABS Curb Weight: 191 kg | Top Speed: 120 km/h | Price: PhP 252,000.00 (Supernova), PhP232,000.00 (Fireball), PhP 241,000.00 (Stellar) | Plus: Superb build quality and finish, smooth motor, light and easy handling, price | Minus: Another gear would be nice. |

Rating: 9/10

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Wheel2Wheel

BIKE REVIEW

2021 I APRILIA RS 660 WORDS

MAYNARD M. MARCELO PHOTOS

RANDY SILVA-NETTO

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’m quite lucky to be among the first in the Philippine motorcycle media to test the 2021 Aprilia RS660 and I sincerely thank Bikerbox Inc., the exclusive Philippine distributor of Aprilia motorcycles, for the special privilege. We were only given two days to test the bike. While it’s mighty tempting to bring the RS660 to the Batangas Racing Circuit or even to Clark International Speedway, the strict travel restrictions in place due to the covid pandemic simply wouldn’t allow it. So for the sake of compliance we just decided to head to our favorite secluded spot in Cavite that’s still well within the so-called ‘NCR Plus Bubble’ to test the real-world performance of the RS 660.

STYLING AND ERGONOMICS Looking at the RS660 for the first time, it’s easy to see the resemblance to its bigger superbike brother, the RSV4,

with its signature triple headlight arrangement. But that’s where their similarities end. Instead of halogen, the RS 660 has new LED headlights with a new DRL (Daytime Running Lights) that looks really cool. Sizewise the RS 660 is very compact like a scaled down RSV4, it almost feels like a 400cc sportbike in its lightness. At just 183 kg fully fueled, the RS 660 feels light and nimble with almost telepathic-like handling (more on this later).

The RS 660 was designed to be a practical sportbike that’s more accessible and usable for both experienced and novice riders for everyday use. Sitting on the RS 660 for the first time, it somehow reminds me of the riding position of the KTM RC390, where the clip-on handlebars are neither too low nor too high, just the right height and distance relative to the seat for a comfortable ride without desensitizing front end feel. According to Aprilia, the RS 660 sits in the middle of the Kawasaki Ninja 650 and Yamaha

Wheel2Wheel YZF-R6 in terms of riding position which is pretty much accurate by our estimate. The footpegs are also not set as high or as rearward compared to current inline-4 supersport 600 standards and there’s plenty of legroom even for tall riders.

With a seat height of only 820mm from the ground, the RS 660 should suit most riders of average height, but most importantly the seat is well padded and comfortable for several hours of riding. Our test unit came with a thickly padded pillion seat that looks comfortable as well, but an accessory seat cowl is available if you don’t plan on using it. The sculpted fuel tank cutouts allow your thighs to be closer together for more control under hard braking or when leant over during cornering. The double fairing design makes the RS 660 look wider than it truly is and the MotoGP style winglets serve a function and not just a styling exercise. They provide stability at high speeds and also help divert hot air away from the rider.

CHASSIS AND BRAKES If there’s one thing Aprilia is most known for, it’s producing a great chassis.

For the RS 660, Aprilia designed an all-new aluminum beam frame that uses the compact parallel twin motor as a stressed member. A separate headstock is bolted to the aluminum frame. The aluminum asymmetric gullwing swingarm is bolted at the back of the parallel twin’s crankcase. To keep weight at the very minimum, Aprilia uses plastic dash and fairing supports, one-piece cast rearsets, one-piece welded exhaust system, a slim subframe, a lithium battery, and lightweight aluminum wheels. The RS 660 rolls on 17-inch wheels shod with Pirelli Rosso Corsa II 180/55-R17 tires in the rear and 120/70-R17 in front that provide excellent grip for spirited riding.

Suspending the RS 660 from the road chaos below are 41mm KYB upside-down forks in front with spring preload and rebound adjustments and a linkageless KYB shock absorber in the rear with the same adjustments. Despite lacking adjustments for compression, the suspension offers a plush and well controlled ride quality in their stock settings in various road conditions.

The rear shock doesn’t squat when entering and powering out of corners.

There’s a moderate amount of dive under hard braking but proper front brake modulation, instead of grabbing a handful, pays big dividends for front end stability when entering corners.

Which brings us to the next noteworthy topic, the excellent brake setup. The RS 660 is equipped with radial master and four-piston Brembo radial calipers in front biting on a pair of 320mm discs. In the rear is a twopiston caliper biting on a 220mm disc.

Steel braided brake lines means every bit of lever pressure is transferred to the calipers, with a soft initial bite but with loads of power and solid feedback.

And with just 183kg of bike to stop, the brakes are bordering on overkill. Which needless to say is perfect.

ENGINE AND ELECTRONICS

The Aprilia RS 660 ushers a new era of lightweight sportbikes that values functionality more than outright racetrack performance.

At the heart of the RS 660 is the new 659cc parallel twin-cylinder motor that’s essentially the forward half of the RSV4 motor with the same 81mm bore but with a slightly longer stroke of 63.93 mm (from 52.3mm). The motor utilizes a 270-degree crank so it actually sounds like a V-twin with a fruity exhaust note from low to mid revs. At high revs the parallel twin almost sounds like a V4 even with the Euro 5 exhaust system.

The induction noise it makes from the airbox as you near the redline is also

Wheel2Wheel addicting. I wonder how this motor will sound like with a decat or a full aftermarket race exhaust system, now that should be interesting.

Aprilia claims 100hp at 10,500 rpm and 49.41 lb-ft of torque at 8,500 rpm. While these figures may be a bit low compared to current inline-4 supersport 600s, the RS 660 produces 80 percent of its torque from as low as 4,000 rpm. Keep it spinning past 6,300 rpm and the parallel twin will race towards its 11,500 redline very quickly.

This type of powerband is suitable for use in the city or on tight canyon roads where you can capitalize on its healthy mid-range when accelerating away from stops or punching out of corners.

With an experienced rider on the saddle the RS 660 will definitely challenge, if not outrun, higher displacement bikes on your favorite mountain roads.

The only place where we think the RS 660 will be lacking is on high speed racetracks where high rev ceilings are often an advantage. But then again, it all boils down to the rider.

The RS 660 has the latest APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) electronics package that uses a more powerful Marelli 11MP ECU and sixaxis IMU that controls everything from the ride-by-wire throttle, cornering ABS and traction control, bidirectional quickshifter (up/down), cruise control, to lean sensitive rider aids like the cornering LED headlights and selfcancelling turn indicators. The RS 660 is equipped with a large TFT screen that shows speed, tachometer, gear position, odometer, trip meter, ride modes, clock, coolant temperature, and a fuel gauge. You can scroll through the submenus by using the four-way buttons on the left switch gear. A nice safety feature of the RS 660 is the emergency brake function, where the turn indicators flash simultaneously when you apply the brakes suddenly.

There are three sets of engine maps and two sets of riding modes, one for the street and one for the racetrack. The street riding modes are Commute, Dynamic, and Individual (customisable). The track riding modes are Challenge and Time Attack. In Commute mode the parameters for power delivery, engine braking, and cornering ABS are set to their highest,

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JUNE 2021 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

The RS 660's superb power-to-weight ratio, comprehensive electronic rider aids, and comfortable ergonomics makes it a fun everyday sportbike and a weekend canyon carver.

or most intrusive, No.3 settings, while traction control is set to No.8. In Dynamic Mode the power delivery, engine braking, and cornering ABS are set to the middle No.2 settings, and traction control to No.4. In both Commute and Dynamic riding modes the Wheelie Control is always on. In Individual mode every parameter can be adjusted to your personal preference and you can even turn Wheelie Control off.

In Challenge and Time Attack modes all parameters are set to their least intrusive setting No.1 and the engine map to its most aggressive. ABS is always turned on except in Time Attack mode where you can disable ABS on the rear tire. In Track mode the TFT screen also switches into an entirely different display with a lap timer included.

Please note, however, that even in these

most aggressive ride modes the linear powerband of the 100hp parallel twin motor is still very manageable. It’s not like the motor will suddenly produce 200hp. Power is set at 100hp in all ride modes, you just have to get used to the more direct throttle response. The good thing about the RS 660’s APRC is that you can customise every aspect of its riding modes depending on your skill level for a more fun riding experience be it on the street or on the racetracks.

RIDING IMPRESSION The first thing you will notice when you ride the RS 660 is its riding position.

As mentioned earlier it’s neither too low nor too high. It’s spot on perfect for daily riding and the occasional track days. The clip-ons are spaced wide apart just like on the RSV4, giving you plenty of leverage and room to move

about when cornering. The RS 660 also has a very small turning radius, making it easy to execute a U-turn in tight parking spaces or when filtering in traffic. The next thing you’ll notice is its weight, or its lack thereof. You will notice this the moment you pick it up from its side stand or when you swing it from side to side while seated on the saddle. Low speed balance is also good; you can ride it at walking pace without putting your feet down.

The cable clutch is light but you’ll only be using it coming to or from a full stop in first gear because most of the time you’d be wanting to use the super slick bidirectional quickshifter for shifting up and down the 6-speed gearbox. It’s not that you’d be frantically shifting gears all the time on the RS 660 as with most supersport inline-4 600s. It’s broad spread of

power means you can stick to a gear and keep it there for most of the time while riding in the city or on the highways. In the city with moderate vehicular traffic, 2nd gear and 3rd gear is enough to get you around most of the time; while on the highway, the tall 6th gear can be used for cruising at a steady 100 km/h in 4,500 rpm, preferably using the cruise control, to prevent exceeding the posted speed limits.

Speaking of which, the cruise control can be used from 3rd to 6th gear and from as low as 60 km/h, which is very convenient when you regularly pass

by NAIAX and Skyway Stage 3 where they strictly monitor speed. Shifting up and down a gear using the quickshifter doesn’t disengage the cruise control which is nice. It’s only when you tap on the brakes, pull the clutch lever, or apply throttle do they cancel

Aprilia RS 660 Riding Impression

by Miguel Bichara

H

ad this awesome 2021 Aprilia RS660 middleweight Sportbike the whole weekend. She was a blast to ride, literally. It’s fast enough to keep you smiling! Believe me, I had so much fun

using this bike. It’s a compact 659cc parallel twin pumping out a claimed 100hp. Did a back to back test with a 2018 Yamaha R6 yesterday at the Sierra Madre twisties just for comparison.

This Aprilia wins hands down for “road use.” Very agile, easy to ride, almost telepathic and so darn stable! For the track, the R6 may be a better choice due to its higher Rev ceiling. But for the road, this is “my” middleweight of choice. Period!

It’s a parallel twin motor with a 270-degree crank utilising a firing order very similar to a VTwin. I can imagine how this would sound with a Decat exhaust.

This motor gives more midrange torque than an inline 600cc four.

Don’t be deceived by its clip-on bars. The bike has ergos almost very sport-touring-like. Super comfy for long rides. Bars are high and seat is wide and soft. Electronics? You name it, it has it. From a Bidirectional Quickshifter, Engine brake control, riding modes, Aprilia’s 5 programmable Engine Mapping you can customize, multilevel traction control, switchable IMU rear ABS system, wheelie control, slipper clutch, gas gauge, cruise control, LED lights, TFT screen, I can go on and on.

Simply impressive motorcycle! Expected equipment on a more expensive motorcycle double its price.

In the hands of an experienced rider, this bike won’t be left behind in tight twisties and fast sweepers. Come to think of it, I was never left behind. Infact, I couldn’t see them behind me most times! Real World power that is so usable on the road. This RS660 is that good. I enjoyed the bike so much and would love to keep her longer.

100hp is not overwhelming power for road use!

With an SRP of P860,000 from Aprilia Bikerbox in Sucat, this bike should be an aspirational choice for newer riders and experienced ones as well. You guys and gals have to give this bike a go. Bravo Aprilia!

no need for exaggerated hang out body position to bring it down to full lean.

The chassis is also very stable; you can get away with minor mid-corner steering corrections without upsetting the bike’s balance. I also like how the upper fuel tank ‘wing’ is shaped like on the RSV4 where you can secure your knee when you shift your upper body weight towards the inside corner (or side mirror). Be warned though, riding the RS 660 is so effortless and fun you won't want to be riding anything much bigger afterward. Getting hooked to it is gonna cost you PhP 860,000 in Philippine currency.

OUR VERDICT

automatically. You may or may not use the cruise control regularly but the fact that it’s included with the RS 660 says a lot about its intended purpose.

Despite having counterbalancers, vibration starts to build up past 7,500 rpm and remains constant all the way to the 11,500 rpm redline. They’re not bothersome but enough to blur the mirrors and send some tingles to the footpegs, seat and clip-ons. Thankfully, the flexible nature of the parallel twin and its broad spread of torque means you rarely need to rev beyond its 1,000 rpm to 7,500 rpm sweet spot during

The Aprilia RS 660 is the perfect bike for those who've grown tired of riding their superbikes at only 80% of its full potential and want something more versatile for everyday use without sacrificing performance.

normal riding. As I mentioned earlier, 80 percent of its torque is readily available at 4,000 rpm and you can use it to get you up to speed. Pin the throttle up to 11,000 rpm in 6th gear, however, and you will reach upwards of 225 km/h very quickly. That’s plenty fast for a 659cc parallel twin.

When the roads get twisty that’s where the RS 660 truly shines. The RS 660 responds to steering inputs almost telepathically and it goes where you point it with such pinpoint precision you’d be hunting for corners like there’s no tomorrow. Handling is light, there's

There was a time in the 90s when riding middleweight sportbikes on a daily basis was a fun experience. There were bikes like the Honda CBR600F2 and Yamaha YZF600R Thundercat that’s fast and fun to ride yet accommodating for daily use. But throughout the years the pursuit for speed and racetrack dominance have evolved the supersport class beyond reach of the everyday rider; riding positions have become too extreme and the powerband shifted to stratospheric heights they’ve become really hard work to ride even for short distances. While they remain the choice of the most dedicated riders for weekend blasts in the canyons, club races, and the occasional trackdays, they’re often left in the garage in favor of a, shall I say, more humane but less engaging alternatives like the Honda CBR650R and the Kawasaki Ninja 650.

Finally, Aprilia acknowledged the void and created a lightweight sportbike that combines the attributes of the best supersport middleweight inline-4 600s and commuter parallel 650 twins and infused it with premium hardware and latest electronics often reserved for superbikes costing twice its price.

The resulting RS 660 is the perfect real world sportbike made for experienced riders even novices can truly enjoy. A new era of lightweight sportbike begins, thanks to Aprilia.

Specifications: 2021 Aprilia RS 660 — Engine: fuel-injected, liquid-cooled, Inline-2, dohc, 8 valves, 4 stroke | Displacement: 659cc | Max Power: 100 hp @ 10500 rpm | Max Torque: 49.41 lb-ft @ 8500 rpm Transmission: 6-speed | Seat Height: 820mm | Fuel Capacity: 15 Liters | Tire, front: 120/70 x ZR17 | Tire, rear: 180/55 x ZR17 | Brakes, front/rear: 2 Disc/Disc Cornering ABS Curb Weight: 183 kg | Top Speed: 225 Km/h | Price: PhP 860,000.00 | Plus: RSV4 junior styling, peppy parallel twin motor, lightweight handling, latest APRC rider aids, powerful brakes, and comfortable riding position. | Minus: Not much |

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Rating: 10/10

M AGAZINE'S

BUYER'S GUIDE MID-SIZE SUV LARGER FOR THE DAILY GRIND

BUYER’S GUIDE

Chevrolet Trailblazer Chevrolet Trailblazer

Engine/Drive: Front/ Rear or Four

Body/Seats: 5 dr SUV/ 7

POWERTRAIN

L/W/H: 4887mm/2132mm/1852mm PERFORMANCE

Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 3096mm

SAFET Y

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 1550-1700kg

INTERIOR

PRICE

Fuel

Displacement (L)

Config.

Power (bhp)

TM

0-100 km/h

ABS

Airbags

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

Leather

Sun Roof

2.5 4x2 LT

D

2.5T

I4

163

280

6M

12.5

180

10.1

14.1

S

4

N

S

N

N

1,618,888

—

2.8 4x2 LT

D

2.8T

I4

200

369

6A

10.1

200

8.5

13.5

S

4

N

S

N

N

—

1,708,888

2.8 4x2 LTX

D

2.8T

I4

200

369

6A

10.1

200

8.5

13.5

S

4

S

S

S

N

—

1,805,888

Z71

D

2.8T

I4

200

369

6A

10.1

200

8.5

13.5

S

4

S

S

S

N

—

1,998,888

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

Ford Everest Ford Everest

Engine/Drive: Front/ Rear or Four

Body/Seats: 5 dr SUV/ 7

POWERTRAIN

84

L/W/H: 4893mm/1862mm/1836mm PERFORMANCE Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 1866-1968kg

INTERIOR

PRICE

Fuel

Displacement (L)

Config.

Power (bhp)

TM

0-100 km/h

ABS

Airbags

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

Leather

Sun Roof

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

2.2L Trend 4x2

D

2.2T

I4

160

284

6A

11.2

180

10.3

13.2

S

4

S

S

N

N

—

1,738,000

2.0L Turbo Sport 4x2

D

2.0T

I4

180

310

10A

10.4

190

8

16

S

4

S

S

N

N

—

1,868,000

2.0L Turbo Titanium 4x2

D

2.0T

I4

180

310

10A

10.4

190

8

16

S

8

S

S

S

S

—

1,995,000

2.0L Bi-Turbo Titanium+ 4x4

D

2.0TT

I4

213

369

10A

9.8

200

8.5

14.5

S

8

S

S

S

S

—

2,299,000

JUNE 2021 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 3226mm

SAFET Y

BUYER’S GUIDE

GAC Trumpchi GS8 GAC Trumpchi GS8

Engine/Drive: Front/Front or Four

Body/Seats: 5 dr SUV/ 7

POWERTRAIN

L/W/H: 34810mm/1910mm/1770mm PERFORMANCE

Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2800mm

SAFET Y

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 1840-1990kg

INTERIOR

PRICE

Fuel

Displacement (L)

Config.

Power (bhp)

TM

0-100 km/h

ABS

Airbags

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

Leather

Sun Roof

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

4x2 GE

G

2.0T

I4

199

236

6A

8.9

203

6.1

12.1

S

6

S

S

S

S

—

1,880,000

4x2 Sports GE

G

2.0T

I4

199

236

6A

8.9

203

6.1

12.1

S

6

S

S

S

S

—

2,188,000

4x4 GL

G

2.0T

I4

199

236

6A

8.9

203

6.1

12.1

S

6

S

S

S

S

—

2,388,000

Hyundai Santa Fe Hyundai Santa Fe

Engine/Drive: Front/ Front

Body/Seats: 5 dr SUV/ 7

L/W/H: 4770mm/1890mm/1680mm

POWERTRAIN

PERFORMANCE Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2765mm

SAFET Y

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 1870 -1995kg

INTERIOR

PRICE

Fuel

Displacement (L)

Config.

Power (bhp)

TM

0-100 km/h

ABS

Airbags

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

Leather

Sun Roof

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

2.2 CRDi GLS 2WD (Mid Variant)

D

2.2T

I4

197

325

8A

9.1

198

13.3

19.3

S

6

S

S

S

N

—

2,158,000

2.2 CRDi GLS 2WD

D

2.2T

I4

197

325

8A

9.1

198

13.3

19.3

S

6

S

S

S

N

—

2,338,000

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2021

85

BUYER’S GUIDE

Isuzu mu-X Isuzu mu-X

Engine/Drive: Front/ Rear or Four

Body/Seats: 4 dr SUV/ 5

POWERTRAIN

L/W/H: 4825mm/1860mm/1840mm PERFORMANCE

Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2845mm SAFET Y

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 1650- 1750kg

INTERIOR

PRICE

Fuel

Displacement (L)

Config.

Power (bhp)

TM

0-100 km/h

ABS

Airbags

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

Leather

Sun Roof

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

RZ4E LS 4x2

D

1.9T

I4

150

258

6A

12.7

170

10.2

18.2

S

2

N

S

N

N

—

1,350,000

RZ4E LS-A 4x2

D

2.5T

I4

134

236

6M

12.7

170

10.2

18.2

S

2

S

S

N

N

1,670,000

1,545,000

LS-A 3.0 4x2 Blue Power

D

3.0T

I4

163

280

6A

13.2

170

8.1

16.1

S

2

S

S

S

N

—

1,795,000

LS-A 3.0 4x4 Blue Power

D

3.0T

I4

163

280

6A

—

—

—

—

S

2

S

S

S

N

—

2,145,000

Kia Sorento Kia Sorento

Engine/Drive: Front/ Front or Four

Body/Seats: 5 dr SUV/ 7

POWERTRAIN

86

L/W/H: 4800mm/1890mm/1685mm PERFORMANCE Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 2560kg

INTERIOR

PRICE

Fuel

Displacement (L)

Config.

Power (bhp)

TM

0-100 km/h

ABS

Airbags

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

Leather

Sun Roof

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

2.2L EX FWD

D

2.2T

I4

200

325

8A

9.3

210

8.8

13.5

S

6

S

S

N

N

—

1,895,000

2.2L EX AWD

D

2.2T

I4

200

325

8A

9.3

210

8.8

13.5

S

6

S

S

S

S

—

2,195,000

JUNE 2021 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2780mm

SAFET Y

BUYER’S GUIDE

Maxus D60 Maxus D60

Engine/Drive: Front/Front

Body/Seats: 5dr SUV/ 5

POWERTRAIN

L/W/H: 4720mm/1860mm/1736mm PERFORMANCE

Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2760mm

SAFET Y

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 11560kg

INTERIOR

PRICE

Fuel

Displacement (L)

Config.

Power (bhp)

TM

0-100 km/h

ABS

Airbags

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

Leather

Sun Roof

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

Pro

G

1.5T

I4

166

184

7DCT

9.8

200

12.2

16.2

S

6

S

S

N

N

—

1,148,000

Elite

G

1.5T

I4

166

184

7DCT

9.8

200

12.2

16.2

S

6

S

S

S

N

—

1,258,000

Mitsubishi Montero Sport Mitsubishi Montero Sport

Engine/Drive: Front/ Rear

Body/Seats: 5 dr SUV/ 7

L/W/H: 4785mm/1815mm/1805mm

POWERTRAIN

PERFORMANCE Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2800mm SAFET Y

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 1935-1910kg

INTERIOR

PRICE

Fuel

Displacement (L)

Config.

Power (bhp)

TM

0-100 km/h

ABS

Airbags

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

Leather

Sun Roof

GLX 2.4D 2WD

D

2.4T

I4

176

317

6M

10

180

12.5

18.5

S

2

N

S

N

N

1,565,000

—

GLS 2.4D 2WD

D

2.4T

I4

176

317

8A

10.5

200

12.5

18.5

S

2

N

S

N

N

—

1,769,000

GT 2.4D 2WD

D

2.4T

I4

176

317

8A

10.5

200

12.5

18.5

S

6

S

S

S

S

—

1,999,000

GT 2.4D 4WD

D

2.4T

I4

176

317

8A

10.5

200

12.5

18.5

S

6

S

S

S

S

—

2,450,000

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2021

87

BUYER’S GUIDE

Nissan Terra Nissan Terra

Engine/Drive: Front/Rear or Four

Body/Seats: 4SUV/ 7

L/W/H: 44885mm/1865mm/1835mm

POWERTRAIN

PERFORMANCE Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2850mm

SAFET Y

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 2056kg

INTERIOR

PRICE

Fuel

Displacement (L)

Config.

Power (bhp)

TM

0-100 km/h

ABS

Airbags

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

Leather

Sun Roof

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

EL 4x2

D

2.5T

I4

190

322

7A/6M

11

170

9

13

S

6

N

S

N

N

1,524,000

1,640,000

VE 4x2

D

2.5T

I4

190

322

7A

11

170

9

13

S

6

N

S

N

N

—

1,737,000

VL 4x2

D

2.5T

I4

190

322

7A

11

170

9

13

S

6

S

S

N

N

—

1,949,000

VL 4x4

D

2.5T

I4

190

322

7A

11

170

9

13

S

6

S

S

S

N

—

2,176,000

SsangYong Rexton SsangYong Rexton

Front/ Rear or FourFront/ Front

Body/Seats: 5 dr SUV/7

L/W/H: 4850mm/1960mm/1825mm

POWERTRAIN

88

PERFORMANCE Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 2175kg

INTERIOR

PRICE

Fuel

Displacement (L)

Config.

Power (bhp)

TM

0-100 km/h

ABS

Airbags

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

Leather

Sun Roof

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

Rexton 4x2

D

2.2T

I4

173

310

7AT

11.1

195

11.2

17.2

S

6

S

S

S

—

—

1,760,000

Rexton 4x4

D

2.2T

I4

173

310

7AT

—

—

9.3

15.3

S

6

S

S

S

S

—

2,260,000

JUNE 2021 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2865mm

SAFET Y

BUYER’S GUIDE

Toyota FJ Cruiser Toyota FJ Cruiser

Engine/Drive: Front/ Four

Body/Seats: 5 dr SUV/ 5

L/W/H: 4670mm/1905mm/1830mm

POWERTRAIN Fuel

Displacement (L)

G

4

PERFORMANCE

Config.

Power (bhp)

Torque (lb-ft)

V6

268

280

Wheelbase: 2690mm

SAFET Y

TM

0-100 km/h

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

ABS

Airbags

5A

8

180

6.1

8.1

S

2

Curb Weight: 1948kg

INTERIOR

PRICE

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

Leather

Sun Roof

S

S

N

N

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

2,083,000

Toyota Fortuner Toyota Fortuner

Engine/Drive: Front/ Rear or Four

Body/Seats: 5 dr SUV/ 7

POWERTRAIN

L/W/H: 4795mm/1855mm/1835mm PERFORMANCE

Torque (lb-ft)

295

Wheelbase: 2745mm

SAFET Y

TM

0-100 km/h

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

ABS

Airbags

6M/6A

13.2

180

13

19

S

3

Curb Weight: 1752kg

INTERIOR

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

S

S

PRICE

Fuel

Displacement (L)

Config.

Power (bhp)

Leather

Sun Roof

2.4 4x2 G

D

2.4T

I4

148

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

N

N

1,633,000

1,723,000

2.4 4x2 V

D

2.4T

I4

148

295

6A

13.2

180

13

19

S

3

S

S

N

N

1,633,000

1,827,000

2.8 4x2 Q

D

2.8T

I4

201

369

6A

12.2

180

13

19

S

3

S

S

N

N

—

1,998,000

2.8 4x2 LTD

D

2.8T

I4

201

369

6A

10.2

180

13

19

S

7

S

S

S

N

—

2,244,000

2.8 4x4 LTD

D

2.8T

I4

201

369

6A

10.2

180

13

19

S

7

S

S

S

N

—

2,404,000

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2021

89

BUYER’S GUIDE

Toyota Prado Toyota Prado

Engine/Drive: Front/ Four

Body/Seats: 5 dr SUV/ 7

POWERTRAIN

90

L/W/H: 44780mm/1885mm/1890mm PERFORMANCE Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 1870-24600kg

INTERIOR

PRICE

Fuel

Displacement (L)

Config.

Power (bhp)

TM

0-100 km/h

ABS

Airbags

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

Leather

Sun Roof

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

4.0L V6

G

4

V6

275

281

6A

11.7

175

9.3

13

S

7

S

S

S

N

—

3,363,000

3.0L Diesel

D

3.0T

I4

161

302

6M/5A

11.7

175

9.3

13

S

7

S

S

S

N

4,001,000

4,101,000

JUNE 2021 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2790mm

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OUR PICKS

TOP 5

CAR DESIGNERS OF ALL TIME 5

4

Words by Nicolas A. Calanoc

MALCOM SAYER

The world knows Horacio Pagani as the Founder and CEO of Pagani Automobili Modena, but many forget that he was also the designer of the modern classic Pagani Zonda and the aesthetically artistic Pagani Huayra. But even before then, he had his hand on the redesign of the Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary Edition that showed he had a grasp on functional art.

If there was a man that made the concept of aerodynamics in cars one to be desired, it would be Malcom Sayer. During World War II, Malcom worked in the Bristol Aeroplane Company, which is where he got his inspiration of aerodynamics. Mix that and his background in engineering, it was only a matter of time until he applied what he learned to Jaguar. His list of contributions are the Jaguar C-Type, D-Type, and arguably, the most beautiful car of all time, the Jaguar E-Type.

BATTISTA “PININ” FARINA

GIORGETTO GIUGIARO

If you love Ferrari, then you probably know Pininfarina, the Italian car design firm that designed almost every classic iconic Ferrari on the top of your head, like the Ferarri 250GT, Testarossa, and of course, the F40. But if there is one design of his that truly spoke of his mind, it would be the Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider.

This man is definitely here at the podium of the list, not only because of his contribution to the automotive world, but also because he is one incredible designer that has also dabbled in designing motorcycles, cameras, and even firearms. If we had to pick from the long list of cars he designed, it would be the Volkswagen Golf because of the impact it has made in the automotive industry.

If there is one man we have to thank when it comes to car design, it will arguably have to be Marcello Gandini for making the first step in designing the first super car: The Lamborghini Miura. If it wasn’t for this car, who knows where every other car would have been. Even up to this day, so many design cues considered beautiful can be traced back to the work of Marcello Gandini. For that, he takes the top spot for the car designer of all time for us here in C! Magazine.

JUNE 2021 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

With that in mind, these are who we think are the top 5 car designers of all time (for now).

HORACIO PAGANI

MARCELLO GANDINI

96

In the spirit of Father’s Day, we decided to collect the list of the masterminds that gave birth to the beautiful car designs that helped shape what we know, love, and probably drive today. If it weren’t for these brilliant minds, cars may have not been as aesthetically pleasing and well-loved as they are now.

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