C! Magazine June 2022

C O M PA R O

2022 Mitsubishi Xpander GLS vs 2022 Toyota Avanza G

THE SEGMENT CHAMPION

2022 Lexus NX 350h AWD Premier

EXTRA TIME

Our first deep dive impressions of the attractive new Chery mid-size crossovers.

FOCUS ON

Pioneering and creating new standards with the TAG Heuer and Porsche mavericks.

PhP 195 ISSUE 238 JUNE 2022

Editor’s Note

Going Full Circle

I

t’s astonishing where the wheels of fate will take you.

About twenty years ago, I was in a small race track in the South of Metro Manila with my TV crew to feature an iconic Japanese car, of which two exquisite examples of the same nameplate but generations apart, were there for us to shoot. That’s when I came across what looked like the entire team of this car and motorcycle magazine that was there to cover the same thing. I was so impressed with how enthused and serious they were, going about the shoot with a phalanx of photographers almost rabidly clicking away as the cars drove laps around the track. My crew was outnumbered three to one, and to cut the long story short, after we’ve acquired our video footage, I just had to interview the gentleman who seemed to be in charge of that team… it was the C! Magazine team.

Ten years later, I joined C! as a Contributing Editor, and went full-time five years later. I went on a hiatus for other creative pursuits after a couple of years in my post, but stayed on in the Motoring beat. Seven years later, I was offered the privilege to come back, but this time for the daunting, inspiring, and actually exciting task of taking the helm of this now iconic magazine. Truly, I am deeply honored and grateful.

Two decades is a lot of time to witness how the local automotive landscape as well as the various media platforms that cover it have evolved, and to say that they have by a huge degree is an understatement. We all have.

Time and the challenges that it brings change everything, and the last two years in a sad way, more than exemplify that. With much respect to the many who’ve been dealt the heaviest blows, we change along with it, not just to survive, cope and adapt, but to persevere, improve, and actually thrive. That is what’s evident with the local auto industry, for despite the hardships, the pandemic has subjected it to, it’s gained momentum and is totally alive and kicking and vibrant once again. We’re still treading through this lengthy tunnel, but the light by now is certainly within

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reach. And if there’s one virtue we all held on to that kept us going, it’s got to be passion. It transcends necessity. It’s what drives the industry and the readers we serve, and it’s what I know that’s at the core of C! Magazine.

We are going to embrace change even more, not as a holdout of an endangered medium, but as a keeper of that passion for cars, motorcycles, and the lifestyle it continues to move and represent, whatever it evolves to. We’ll drive cross-country and beyond through the virtual space and meet you there, but we’ll always be a tangible presence you can physically hold, feel, and actually smell, as you leaf through the pages.

It’s been a long journey, and it feels good to be back.

Thank you for always being here for C!, you can count on us to always be here for you. Now it’s time to roll our sleeves further up, see ya on the next drive!

“And if there’s one virtue we all held on to that kept us going, it’s got to be passion.”

Ardie O. Lopez EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Official Service Center: WATCHWORKS. 2/F ALI MALL, Araneta Center, Quezon City

C! June 2022 - TH Carrera Ryan Gosling Inside Page Ad - 9x12 in

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Serious Game From The New Luxury-Compact Standard 2022 Lexus NX350h AWD Premier

By Kevin C. Limjoco

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C OV E R STO RY

“With the entry of the allnew NX in our market, a fully energized Lexus Philippines has become the new overall champion of the premium luxury segment offering maximum values for money across the whole broad range.”

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F E AT U R E S

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The Car Show Circuit is Back!

The Father’s Choice C! Picks

After two years, the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) is back, and bigger than ever.

Here are our picks for the best “dad car” to celebrate Father’s Day.

55 COMPARO

2022 Toyota Avanza vs 2022 Mitsubishi Xpander

When Two Of The Greatest Rivals Go Their Own Way

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CONTENTS

THE DRIVES

28

Kia Carnival SX

The Mini-Van Grand Standard

32 Peugeot 3008 SUV

34 Chevrolet Trailblazer Premier

36 Kia Sorento SX

38 Volkswagen T-Cross SE

A Flamboyant Tapestry of Functional Form

The Storming Telluride Lite

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The Bold Reboot

The Banana Dinghy

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Chery Picking

2022 Chery Tiggo 8 Pro & PHEV

By Kevin C. Limjoco

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EXTRA TIME

“The Tiggo 8 Pro with the 1.6T is the new dynamic performance standard for its class and for the money. The Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV on the other hand is a true master of affordable efficiency and refinement.”

No hand held devices while driving Phones detract from your ability to concentrate on the road and increase your chance of a collision by nearly 400%.

A Safety Reminder From

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CONTENTS

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When authentic passions combine, across generations as well as industries TAG Heuer x Porsche

By Carl S. Cunanan

“That tradition continues today.

TAG Heuer and Porsche were both ground-breakers and rulebreakers of their times.”

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FOCUS ON

Right of way Always yield to pedestrians at a crosswalk.

Safety begins with all of us.

A Safety Reminder From

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CONTENTS

TUNER

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Event

JDMU “Yabangan Nights” 2022

Boosted!

By Francis G. Pallarco

Starting the year strong with nothing but the best modded rides

78 1999 Honda Civic Si (EM1)

Track-Ready

Check out Mike Bonafe’s build that’s based around functionality with meticulous execution.

82 1997 Honda Orthia Civic Wagon (EL2)

Wagon Delight

Who said that station wagons can’t be modded to look cool?

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Know when to stop. Drink responsibly.

Sure having a few drinks can be fun, and it’s easy to get carried away. But remember that when you drink, you’re compromising your cognitive ability and responsiveness, which increases your risk for an accident. Don’t drink and drive. It’s simply not worth the risk to yourself and others.

A Safety Reminder From

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CONTENTS

W H E E L 2W H E E L

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90

Saddled Freedom

Bike Review

2022 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Twin

By Kevin C. Limjoco

By Kevin C. Limjoco

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Bike Review

Bike Review

2022 Triumph Trident 660

By Kevin C. Limjoco

2022 HarleyDavidson Pan America™ 1250 Special

By Kevin C. Limjoco

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Bike Review

Bike Review

100th Anniversary Indian Chief Dark Horse

By Maki Aganon

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2022 CFMoto 700CL-X Heritage

By Maynard M. Marcelo

Keep calm on the road There are times when, due to uncontrollable circumstances, our minds tend to stray from the proper mindset when driving. What we must always remember is that driving is more than just a skill — it is a state of mind. Depending on our disposition when we get behind the wheel, we can be calm as cucumbers, or as savage as a raging pitbull. The latter, of course, is never ideal.

A Safety Reminder From

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CONTENTS

REGUL ARS

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By Ardie O. Lopez

By Nicolas A. Calanoc

By Chris Van Hoven

By Georges B. Ramirez

Editor’s Note

Apex and Apertures

Inside Line

101 Buyer’s Guide

MPV/AUV

The Foundation of Automotive Utility

112 Nic’s List

The Top 5 Father’s Day Gift Ideas

By Nicolas A. Calanoc

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On The Edge

Enjoy all of our best stories, instrumented test reviews, and so much more!

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Apex and Apertures

Tasting The Future of Everyday Driving Today

W

hen you look at the all-new Lexus NX that graces on our cover, it’s easy to see it as a luxury compact crossover that is every bit as opulent as it suggests. When you have the emotional elements of Takumi craftsmanship marrying gracefully with the human-centric design of Tazuna for the cockpit and controls, you are left with something exceptional that Lexus always pulls off. What may surprise most is that this search for luxury isn’t for the sole sake of grandeur, but also an expedition into the future of everyday driving for everyone.

If you look at any of the outgoing Lexus vehicles carefully, you will see that their technologies and lessons can be seen in the details of the Toyotas today. This can be seen from the design cues of the body and the interior to the implementations of materials and technologies to even the steering and pedal inputs as you drive. A Toyota and a Lexus will feel familiar in more ways than one, and yet the Lexus feels miles ahead. What struck

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“Executions like these are what make me hopeful for the future.”

Nicolas A. Calanoc TECHNICAL PUBLICATIONS MANAGER

me though, is that not only does Toyota take lessons from Lexus, but Lexus takes pointers from Toyota as well. Case in point: the adaptation of Android Auto and Apple Carplay instead of coming up something proprietary.

For Lexus and Toyota, connectivity is important. But Lexus being Lexus, they did end just there. They made sure to impress with the screen technology that comes with it.

Executions like these are what make me hopeful for the future. The way we see cars here in C! Magazine is more than just what is in front of us or what we feel behind the wheel. For us, it is the process of creating one that interests us just as much because the outcome depends heavily on its conception.

There are blockbusters that come from good directors and good production, and then there are masterpieces that come from great directors and a masterclass in vision. That is how we feel about Lexus today, and it is truly evident with the all-new Lexus NX. The best part: I am certain that the car owners of tomorrow will be enjoying all this sooner than we know it.

Inside Line

A Different Dad’s Day

E

ver since I became a dad, Father’s Day has held a completely different meaning for me. From being just another “Hallmark” day that I never paid attention to, I now realize that Father’s Day carries a bigger significance — a chance to be recognized for our roles as fathers. And really, being appreciated by our kids never gets old, and never will.

At C!, we’ve regularly had Father’s Day picks every year as well, where each editor selects what they think an ideal “Father’s Choice” car would be. Reflecting on my previous choices proved to be interesting. Back then, the ideal “dad car” would be something fun. Something I would use to escape from it all. Something that reflects all the hard work I’ve put in over the years. A Ford Mustang Convertible, perhaps. Or a Mazda MX-5. Or heck, why not a Nissan GT-R? It’s only after being an actual dad that I realized how inwardly focused these selections were. Maybe even selfish to a small degree. Sure, I still believe that every dad needs to kick back once in a while and enjoy the fruits of his labor, but as far as priorities go, my selections then and my selections now couldn’t be any more different. As a dad, I’m

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“It’s only after being an actual dad that I realized how inwardly focused these selections were.”

Chris Van Hoven EXECUTIVE EDITOR

constantly looking for things that are good for my entire family. Instead of asking myself “what’s an awesome car that I could have fun in,” I now ask myself “what car can carry all of my kid’s stuff while keeping everyone comfortable on long drives?” The latter question isn’t as easy to answer as the former one, too. Because now, I’m taking everyone’s needs into consideration besides just my own.

And I suppose that’s what being a dad is all about. Fantasizing about the cars that go from 0-100 km/h in the least amount of time is still something I do from time to time, but as the years go by, I find myself more impressed with luggage space and ground clearance. Because at the end of the day, any dad wants what’s best for his entire family, not just himself.

Sacrifices aren’t even thought of as sacrifices.

No payback required for money we spend on our family. No recognition needed for driving our kids to school. No feelings of regret for spending time with our kids instead of using that time for work. It’s just something dads do instinctively. It’s a complete shift from inward thinking to putting your needs aside to focus on what your family needs.

And at the end of the day, seeing your kid happy makes everything worth it.

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

www.c-magazine.com Enjoy all of our best stories, instrumented test reviews, and so much more, from our pages to your screen!

On The Edge

What’s Stopping Us

A

s mentioned in previous editorials, the electric car is coming sooner than you may think. If we look at the big picture, when Tesla instigated the (EV) Electric Vehicle revolution, the other American, European, and Asian automakers also started moving in that direction.

Toyota was not one of those who embraced this revolution, it was the opposite. Their top executives including Akio Toyoda felt hybrids were the way to go, until Hydrogen power was ready. But even they have come to realize that there was no stopping the EV revolution, and they have recently stunned the world automotive industry.

Akio Toyoda announced they were going all-out into the electric revolution. And when Toyota goes all-out, it’s all out! The Toyota bZ series as it’s called will have a range of vehicles to choose from, and oh yes, with an all-out Toyota budget!

They will increase their investment in battery technology from US$13.6 billion to US$17.6 billion, and their model range from 15 by 2025 to 30 by 2030. They plan to sell 3.5 million EVs by 2030 and make Lexus an all-EV company by 2035. So yeah, looks like almost everyone is onboard and racing forward.

Clearly, the world is ready and technology is too! We needn’t invent, develop, or even build anything. The products are now available by our most trusted suppliers, so there are no worries of quality and resale value. Even for

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the local builders, parts and equipment are also easily available.

Why can’t lawmakers seem to get a bill to exempt electric and other alternative fuel vehicles from the taxes and duties?

If it’s the loss of tax revenues from oil importation and/or at the fuel pumps, I am sure our experts would have no problem figuring out new ways to create revenue.

“With both the Bill and the exceptions of taxes and duties, then we will feel that the EV revolution is here.”

Georges B. Ramirez SENIOR EDITOR

Senate Bill 1382, which Sen. Sherwin Gatchilian is pushing across the line, is great, and kudos to him and all those who have slaved through the decades to get this Bill done. Let’s keep it safe and get it enacted.

Now, let’s work on step one. All of these efforts would be an exercise in futility if no one would buy an EV in the first place.

Without a removal of the taxes and duties, it is just too costly. Comparing similarly sized cars today, a 1.5 million peso gas-powered car’s EV counterpart is about 2.2 to 2.4 million pesos.

You are not going to get any real numbers if you had to put out an extra 700 to 900,000 pesos to go green. An extra 100 to 200,000 perhaps given the incentives in the 1382 Bill. With both the Bill and the exceptions of taxes and duties, then we will feel that the EV revolution is here.

If it’s the loss of revenue that is the concern, give a time limit of ten years then increase by 5% every five years after. There are many schemes that could be applied, but the main point is to give it time. You don’t want to add another sack of rice on someone’s back when he is just starting to stand. Wait for him to stand, and then add an extra sack..

Two more good reasons why the timing is right. First, the cost of fuel and goods increased since Russia waged war on Ukraine.

Second, a new government for the next six years. I can’t think of a better opportunity to make that push and really make a difference in all our lives.

What’s stopping us?

Tire checks are essential Make your tires last longer by practicing proper care and following maintenance procedures.

A Safety Reminder From

MASTHEAD

ED I TO RI A L

D E SI G N

A DVE RT IS IN G

P UBLIS H ING

Ardie O. Lopez

Charie L. Biaden

Mayette L. Asis

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

DESIGN DIRECTOR

VICE PRESIDENT

C! Publishing and Media Group, Inc.

Chris Van Hoven

Mark David A. See

Leslie G. Maxilom

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

SENIOR DESIGNER

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Lester R. Dizon

Mary Ann E. Marcelo

Mary Jane O. Salazar

MANAGING EDITOR

DESIGNER

ADVERTISING TRAFFIC MANAGER

PUBLISHER

Michael L. Lhuillier CHAIRMAN

Paolo M. Puyat-Martel MANAGING DIRECTOR

Georges B. Ramirez

Carl S. Cunanan Kevin C. Limjoco Michael L. Lhuillier Paolo M. Puyat-Martel

SENIOR EDITOR

Francis G. Pallarco TUNER EDITOR

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Monica N. Legarda

Merline B. Urdas

SENIOR COPY EDITOR

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT

Dominique O. Cerqueda

Mary Ann M. Benito

COPY EDITOR

CREDIT AND COLLECTION OFFICER

Angel S. Rivero Miguel C. Bichara Isabel N. Delos Reyes

Paredes Garcia and Golez LEGAL COUNSEL

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Michael L. Lhuillier EDITOR-AT-LARGE

Nicolas A. Calanoc TECHNICAL PUBLICATIONS MANAGER

Kevin C. Limjoco FOUNDING EDITOR / PRESIDENT / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

2022 Lexus NX 350h AWD Premier June 2022

DI GI TA L Gerard L. Castillo

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FOLLOW US

THE

DRIVES

Kia Carnival SX The Mini-Van Grand Standard Words: Kevin C. Limjoco Photos: Isabel N. Delos Reyes

WHEN WE ACQUIRED our 3rd generation Kia Grand Carnival EX 11-seater last December 2019 in time for Christmas, we knew that the all-new 4th generation replacement was imminent in other markets. The question at the time was whether we should wait another year or two before the all-new model would be available at our local dealership in the Philippines or fully commit to the outgoing model. Obviously, we assessed the pros and cons and arrived at the conclusion that the outgoing model, especially for the price at the time, was still an outstanding deal and it fulfilled our requirements.

Now that the all-new Kia Carnival has arrived, now universally known simply as the Carnival and not the Sedona in North America or Grand Carnival in other markets, I can now perform a full comprehensive review that includes instrumented dynamic

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testing. The final results were very significant.

their game across the board throughout their

The 2.2-liter engine designation may be the

The outgoing model is still a compelling and

entire model ranges. The levels of standard

same as before however the engine is new

practical multi-passenger mini-van that will

equipment, design, applied materials, fit and

with a slightly smaller displacement of 2,151 cc

continue to reward its current owners with a

finish, and engineering of the new Kia’s are

compared to the old 2,199 cc R-series II engine

lifetime of balanced good service however,

at their most profound without orphaning its

(which has a rated working life of at least

the new model is absolutely better in every

past customers.

250,000 kilometers). The more efficient and

single way, from the basic switchgear to the

Essentially, the only carried over mechanical

marginally more powerful new Smartstream

mechanical components, at a significant price

component from the outgoing Grand Carnival

D2.2 engine is the same as the unit on the

increase though.

is the 8-speed automatic transmission with the

new Sorento though the smaller brother uses

same gear ratios, but even that transmission

an even more dynamic 8-speed Dual-Clutch

which was inevitable, you have to understand

has been recalibrated to communicate and

transmission. The new powerplant uses a

and appreciate the sweeping improvements

optimize the new Smartstream 2.2-liter engine.

full aluminum block instead of compacted

that were made throughout the entire all-new

The only component that regressed with the

graphite iron with a timing belt instead of a

mini-van. For the past 5 years, beginning with

Carnival is the smaller fuel tank by 8 liters

timing chain that is 83.6 pounds (38 kg.) lighter

the Stinger GT, Kia has exponentially elevated

(72 liters now compared to 80 liters before).

than before, the engine compression ratio is

To make better sense of the loftier price,

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2022

29

THE

DRIVES still 16.0:1 though the piezo-electronic injector fuel pressure was increased from operating at 1,800 bar (21,000 PSI) to 2,200 bar (31,910 PSI).

The power increase may look inconsequential at 2 kW (2.7bhp) over the old engine, but the weight savings, increased efficiency, and new ECU programming working with a new electric-assisted, instead of hydraulic, steering makes the new Carnival more economical and astoundingly more alive.

The new 7-seater Kia Carnival SX is approximately 317 pounds (144 kg.) lighter than the outgoing Grand Carnival EX 11-seater despite being much larger and fuller featured.

It has a longer wheelbase by 30 mm (1.2 inches), a longer body by 40 mm (1.6 inches), is 10 mm wider, and 20 mm taller. The cabin has approximately 88-liters more interior volume. The suspension is all-new and the brakes are much more powerful than before with larger calipers and larger discs (from 12.6 inch vented discs before to 12.8 inches up front while the solid disc rears are up from 11.9 inches to 12.8 inches). There are new tastefully designed additional brake cooling ducts in the front bumper. The superior new brakes are supported with a considerably more comprehensive standard active and passive safety suite as well. The intricate 19inch x 7.5J” alloys are half an inch wider than the smaller old 18-inch x 7J” alloys and are wrapped with much more premium Continental CrossContact RX tires instead of the old Kumho Crugen Premium units.

The overall driving and passenger experience are leveled up. With the new 4-drive modes managing efficiency, steering and engine response combined with all the new hardware, the new Carnival accelerates from naught to 100 km/h in almost a full half second quicker in Sport mode with less drama, vastly less noise, and an elevated sense of effortlessness. The steering is very smooth, precise and refined, making the Carnival perform like it is a much smaller vehicle with the compliance of a luxury sedan.

Compared to the aftermarket 13-speaker system installed in our silver C! Fastfleet Grand Carnival model, the stock 6-speaker system on the new Carnival actually sounds better overall and it comes with many more standard features that now also include a wireless phone charger in a properly secure area for consistent charging. We still own three 11-seater Grand Carnival variants in our C! Fastfleet and we are generally still satisfied with their versatility, performance, general ride comfort, and capacity but now I severely covet the new Carnival because it does

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THE

DRIVES

everything better and looks so good inside and out. Even if I represent the tiny percentage of premium mini-van owners that actually drive their vehicles, I recognize that most owners will enjoy being chauffeured by their drivers especially since the new adjustable captain chairs have powered ottomans and climate control (and dual moonroofs and ambient lighting). I encourage owners to drive their new Carnival like most people do around the world so you can appreciate how great a vehicle it is and how much pampering the driver and front passenger also enjoy with the plethora of standard features. Even the third row is fully adjustable and has its own USB charging points. I want to point out in particular that both the captain chairs and the third-row seats have ISOFIX mounts and are adjustable and reclinable, a still often overlooked important safety feature for growing families, so now you can fully optimize everyone’s passenger comfort without compromising safety.

"The overall driving and passenger experience are leveled up."

The new headlights, fog lamps, and rear signature lighting not only all look aesthetically impressive but more importantly they are also much more effective than before which only improves safety and comfort. The powered smart side doors and trunk are brilliant. Every detail was improved and added where once it was not offered.

The all-new Kia Carnival is the best handling, best braking, most thoughtful, most efficient, and most balanced premium mini-van in our market. Kia built on the strengths of the old Grand Carnival and simply made it better in every way.

Plus: The absolute best

Rating

10/10 in its class, the new standard in Grand MPV travel, very full featured, tastefully attractive.

Minus: Price.

Specifications — 2022 Kia Carnival SX Engine: Inline-4 • Location: Front, Transverse • Displacement: 2151 cc • Cylinder block: Cast Aluminum • Cylinder head: Cast Aluminum, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder Fuel Injection: Direct Commonrail Fuel Injection, Intercooled E-VGT Turbodiesel • Max power: 199 bhp @ 3800 rpm • Max torque: 325 lb-ft @ 1750-2750 rpm Transmission: 8-speed automatic, Front-Wheel-Drive • Front suspension: Independent MacPherson Strut with Gas-Pressurized dampers and anti-roll bar Rear suspension: Independent Multi-link, coil springs with Gas-Pressurized dampers and anti-roll bar. • Fuel Capacity: 72 liters (19 gallons) • Load Capacity: 1,133 liters Ground Clearance: 172 mm • Approach Angle: 16 degrees • Departure Angle: 20 degrees • L x W x H: 5155 mm x 1995 mm x 1740 mm • Wheelbase: 3090 mm Brakes: Front 12.8-inch (325 mm) ventilated discs with 2-piston calipers / Rear 12.8-inch (325 mm) solid discs with single piston calipers Integrated Electric Parking Brake, ABS, HAC, ESC, MCV, TSA • Wheels: 19”x 7.5J Multi-spoke Two-Tone Glossy Black Aluminum Alloys. • Tires: P235/55R19 101H Continental CrossContact RX Weight: (kerb) 1963 kg. (4319 lbs.) • 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): 9.1 seconds • Top Speed (mph): 205 km/h (128 mph) Governed • Fuel Mileage: 8.4 L/100 km Overall Price as tested: PhP 2,988,000.00 (Astra Blue)

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2022

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Peugeot 3008 SUV

property that features some of the most beautiful exquisitely landscaped indigenous flora and fauna that we have seen in a very long time. Even with just the front wheels being driven, we had no issues whatsoever

A Flamboyant Tapestry of Functional Form

soft-roading in routes usually traversed with a Polaris Multi-Terrain Vehicle thanks to the long-stroke suspension and generous ground

Words: Kevin C. Limjoco Photos: Isabel N. Delos Reyes

clearance of the 3008 without even engaging the Grip Control that regulates power in four settings (Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand) depending on the surface.

PEUGEOT IS WELL KNOWN for their

Part of our comprehensive testing of the new

​The new Philippine-spec Peugeot 3008

very unique designs and engineering. For

Peugeot 3008, seen here in the very tasteful

crossovers are extra desirable too because

their newly facelifted 2nd generation 3008

Amazonite Grey, included driving it to El

they use the 2.2-inch longer wheelbase EMP2

compact crossover, they have truly outdone

Jardin de Zaida, a spectacular eleven-hectare

chassis that can only be availed from markets

themselves. The all-new 2008, new 3008,

resort, spa, and events location in Sitio Lagkit,

that source from either Malaysia or China.

and new 5008 models are all presented at

Brgy. Abung San Juan, Batangas. A distinctly

Our market sources from the Stellantis plant

this year’s MIAS 2022, so do check them out

designed crossover requires a destination that

in Gurun, Kedah, Malaysia. It has a 2730 mm

so you can appreciate the fine details and

represents parallel levels of desirability and

wheelbase, a length of 4510 mm, width at 1850

craftmanship in person.

tangible enjoyment. We explored the gorgeous

mm, and height at 1628 mm with a 7.8-inch ground clearance.

The new front frameless radiator grille looks brilliant, accentuated by the new signature DRL “fangs” lighting on the metallized fairing bumper and glossy black side scoops combined with the full-LED headlights and chrome-plated tips. The new rear lights also feature three dimensional claws with a transparent smoke window and sequential indicators. The stylish 18-inch “Los Angeles” alloys (ironic that Peugeot used the moniker despite not being officially sold in the North American market since 1992) are wrapped with excellent 225/55R18 98V Continental ContiCrossContact LX2 tires. The suspension (MacPherson struts up front and rear torsion beam) with these alloys totally managed the harsh highway concrete and provincial roads expertly. Peugeot calibrated the suspension very well for our Philippine driving surface and traffic conditions. We always felt very planted and nimble with strong compliance and without sloppiness.

The awesome fully-adjustable electric steering wheel is perfectly balanced and very precise. The small steering wheel size also makes viewing the cool digital iCockpit 12.3-inch customizable TFT instrument panel resemble a heads-up display. The dashboard design, soft materials, and even the hard plastics in the entire cabin are very upmarket. The leather seats with contrasting stitching look great and are both comfortable and properly supportive. The central 10-inch control touchscreen infotainment system with 6 speakers and Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™, has thoughtful shortcut toggle switches, and rear 180° reverse camera with

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front and rear parking sonar. The wireless phone charger is secure so your phone does not lose its charge position easily.

The steering wheel paddleshifts work very well managing the excellent Aisin 6-speed automatic when you want extra entertainment from the overachieving award-winning 1.6-liter turbocharged engine that used to be also enjoyed in both MINI and BMW vehicles not too long ago.

The cabin is genuinely very spacious for a compact crossover especially for the rear passengers thanks to the longer wheelbase.

The fabric dash and door panels are also a refreshing design touch. The trunk capacity is 591 liters with the second-row seats fixed, and 1,670 liters with the second row folded with a powered smart trunk. The panoramic moonroof and ambient lighting also contribute greatly to the overall sense of passenger comfort and enjoyment. The rear climate vents also have an extra USB port to charge a device. If you need even more capacity and additional passenger seating, the larger 5008 fulfills those requirements.

It has additional standard driver aids as well; the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite has Active Blind Spot Detection, Active Lane Keep Assistance, Advanced Driver Attention Warning, the Advanced Grip Control, Hill Start Assist, and Hill Assist Descent Control (HADC).

The Peugeot 3008 is arguably the most stylish, most loaded, and most affordable European crossover offered in our market that is also a very good dynamic performer. It is a practical, elegant, and versatile five-seater with remarkable build quality and fit/finish. If you want your new compact crossover to be an extra special European solution with the elusive pride-of-ownership experience, then the new 2022 Peugeot 3008 will absolutely entertain and enthrall you.

Plus Beautiful and

intricate facelift, nicely balanced design/ function ratio, energetic, uncommon.

Rating 9/10

Minus Price. Faux dual exhaust finish.

Specifications — 2022 Peugeot 3008 SUV Engine: Inline-4, 1598 cc, dohc 16V, Direct Injection, Intercooled Twin-Scroll Turbo, VVT, 6-Speed AT • Max power: 165 bhp @ 6000 rpm • Max torque: 177 lb-ft @ 1400-4000 rpm 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 8.8 sec. • Top Speed: 210 km/h (130 mph) • Fuel Mileage: 6.9 L/100 km Overall • Price as tested: PhP 2,090,000.00

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Chevrolet Trailblazer Premier The Bold Reboot Words: Kevin C. Limjoco Photos: Isabel N. Delos Reyes

FIRST, LET’S PLEASE get the model’s name discussion out of the way. The 2nd generation midsize ladder-framed 7-seat capacity genuine SUV turbodiesel Chevrolet built in Thailand for our regional market, and the models sold in Brazil, South Africa and the Middle East markets that alternatively used a 279 bhp 3.6-liter V6 gasoline powerplant that bore the name Trailblazer, all have absolutely nothing to do with the all-new global subcompact crossover of the same name. The chassis and component sharing between the secondgeneration Chevrolet Trailblazer and firstgeneration Isuzu MU-X also ended with the Japanese manufacturer building their own new larger chassis for their outstanding 2nd generation all-new model.

So, with a clean slate to build a completely new mobility solution for the global market, Chevrolet has produced this all-new Trailblazer imported from South Korea built on the monocoque VSS-F platform, General Motor's primary front-wheel drive chassis that is also capable of all-wheel drive. Our test unit here is the top-spec Premier variant in Crimson Metallic (the other available colors for both variants are Summit White, Black Meet Kettle Metallic, Blue Glow Metallic, Vivid Metallic, Mahogany Red Metallic, Abalone White Tri-

includes models from Volkswagen, Honda,

Sport and Subaru XV, but it is P86,888.00

Coat, and Satin Steel Grey Metallic) that costs

Kia, Hyundai, Subaru, and Mazda. Once the

more expensive than the Kia Seltos SX in

P133,000.00 more than the second variant

alternative brands in our market from China are

two-tone paint. Though they are both actually

called the LT which shares roughly 85% of

introduced to the mix however, like MG (Morris

in the same subcompact crossover class, the

the standard equipment. For the extra money,

Garage is also distributed by The Covenant

Trailblazer Premier is much larger and more

you get full LED lighting that includes the

Car Company Inc. also known as TCCCI, the

engaging than its also new brother the Tracker,

front fog lamps and rear signature stoplight,

same company that is also the distributor for

but it also costs a lot more.

silver colored skid plates, automatic climate

Chevrolet and Volvo), Geely, Chery, and GAC,

control with air moisture sensor, hands-free

the buying decision would get exponentially

featured, attractive 5-seater subcompact

power liftgate with LED logo projection light to

more complex. Chevrolet brand fans would

crossover with comprehensive active and

literally indicate where one should swipe kick

rejoice to have a completely new model to

passive safety features, I like the all-new

to activate the function while the key fob is on

explore and enjoy but undecided new buyers

Trailblazer and think it is even more compelling

your person, and a roof rail.

would be most concerned with its retail price.

than the Kia Seltos. Thankfully, Chevrolet

With a 2640 mm wheelbase, length at 4408

In the North American market, the front-

Philippines chose the more potent 1.3-liter

mm, width at 2052 mm, and height at 1656 mm

wheel driven Chevrolet Trailblazer with the

turbo engine over the 1.2-liter turbo that is also

with a 7-inch ground clearance, the all-new

1.3-liter turbo and CVT is rated higher than

available and is used in the all-new Tracker.

Chevrolet Trailblazer is the most spacious and

a Mazda CX-30, Subaru Crosstrek, and Kia

It does not have the optional AWD system

most dynamic in its traditional subcompact

Seltos. In our market, the Trailblazer is much

mated to a 9-speed automatic, which would

crossover class direct competition that

less expensive compared to the Mazda CX-30

definitely make the Trailblazer even more price

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JUNE 2022 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

For what it is; a peppy, comfortable, well-

THE

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challenging, in its place is the new optimized Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with multimode drive system that communicates so well with the new inline-3 cylinder engine that I can say that the synergy and final results are the very best that I have ever experienced. The torque powerband works so perfectly with the CVT that the engine feels much more potent than what the numbers state. The entire system is so synchronized that you do not feel any breathlessness or slop in its functionality which makes the driving experience quite enjoyable.

The suspension is straightforward, MacPhersons upfront and a torsion-beam setup for the rear. The ride is really quite good, balanced, and compliant. Not sloppy at all or unnecessarily taut. At a kerb weight of 1373 kg., the Trailblazer actually feels even lighter than that when you are on the move.

The standard two-tone 17 x 7.5J alloy wheels are wrapped with well-balanced performance 225/60R17 99H Continental ProContact TX tires. The brakes are vented 11.8-inch discs up front and 10.4 inch solid discs at the rear.

The 8-inch high definition MyLink infotainment system has the updated Apple CarPlay and Android Auto mobile integration and rear parking camera that supports the rear sonar. The 6-speaker acoustic performance was also better than average. I wish the front passenger door trim extended to the rear seats to complete the look and feel of the commodious cabin. The automatic climate control is effective and cools fairly quickly but rear passenger vents would have made the system even better.

The all-new 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer is very well built, appealing and an uncommon crossover with smart packaging. For our Philippine market, it is really only the retail price that would dictate its commercial success. It is a very good option for young families with an active lifestyle that require the versatility of a tall wagon.

Plus An attractive and

effective real-world subcompact crossover with spunk.

Rating 9/10

Minus Price, no rear seat a/c ventilation,

and no optional 7-speaker Bose® audio.

Specifications — 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer Premier Engine: Inline-3, 1341 cc, dohc 12V, Direct Injection, Intercooled Turbo, Atkinson-Cycle, VVT, CVT • Max power: 155 bhp @ 5600 rpm • Max torque: 174 lb-ft @ 1600-4000 rpm 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 9.6 sec. • Top Speed: 210 km/h (130 mph) • Fuel Mileage: 7.6 L/100 km Overall • Price as tested: PhP 1,621,888 (PhP 1,488,888 for LT variant)

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Kia Sorento SX The Storming Telluride Lite Words: Kevin C. Limjoco Photos: Isabel N. Delos Reyes

you get the SX or entry level EX variant), would have all the updated equipment available from previous generations.

Kia Philippines certainly did the best they could to offer the outstanding all-new Kia Sorento midsize crossover with the most salient standard features packaged with the new Smartstream 2.2-liter turbodiesel and 8-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (the first

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JUNE 2022 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

IT IS HARD to believe that over a dozen years

application of Kia’s DCT in the Philippine

have passed since we acquired our special

market) while managing the retail price.

edition bespoke C! Fastfleet Kia Sorento

Despite that effort, there were sacrifices and

Deluxe. At that time our 2nd generation

the costs are still challenging. The good news

Sorento CRDi had AWD, a high-fidelity multi-

though is that the Sorento SX is ultimately

speaker system, a panoramic roof, and so

still very desirable and it is at its overall best

much more. So, I was hoping that the all-new

in our market. Together with the all-new Kia

4th generation Kia Sorento, here tested in its

Carnival, the Sorento also displays the new

current top-spec SX guise in Snow White Pearl

tasteful brand identity and loads of great

for an extra P10,000.00 above the standard

standard equipment.

color of Silky Silver (funny that the only other

Compared to the previous generation,

alternative color is Aurora Black Pearl which

the all-new Sorento has grown significantly

costs the same additional premium whether

larger in every proportion combined with an

THE

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powerplants and electrification found in other markets, nor the optional 12-speaker Bose® sound system, panoramic roof, and other kit.

Though it does have a few surprises in the SX variant like the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that can superimpose images from the blind-spot monitors in the most effective way possible. We first experienced the very useful and practical feature in Kia’s flagship K900 sedan which you can read at https://www.cmagazine.com/car-reviews/kia-k900-luxury/.

The chiseled 2022 Kia Sorento is a compelling substitute for the Telluride in a package that has more interior room and adjustability than a Toyota Fortuner. The acceleration, fuel efficiency, ride, handling, and braking are superior to any midsize crossover and ladder-framed SUV in our market. The new interior design and abundant multiple rhombus-shaped cooling vents are the finest and most unique in its segment as well. The 8-inch central infotainment system may not be as large as the 10.3-inch systems in other markets but I prefer it as it is less distracting and retains almost all the functionality that includes the 360-degree camera. One of the most important details that both the all-new Carnival and Sorento have are third-row ISOFIX mounts which allow owner-driven vehicles to safely and properly position young children at the most rearward row in order to maximize space and comfort for adults in the second row. aggressively designed body that mirrors the

the Torque-vectoring All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

larger Telluride which we think is the absolute

w/ Center-Locking Differential system which

best in its segment in North America (it is not

would have also raised the ground clearance

offered in our country principally because it

further by 1.3 inches. The new DCT may have

uses a 291 bhp 3.8-liter V6 gasoline engine

some slight throttle lag from rest or when

which would make it too expensive). You can

transitioning from reverse to drive, but the

read about the brilliant Kia Telluride at https://

transmission otherwise performed smoothly.

www.c-magazine.com/car-reviews/2020-

As a luxurious 7-seater crossover however,

kia-telluride-sx-awd/. The Sorento uses an

with fully independent suspension that uses

even longer wheelbase than before, by 35

liberal amounts of aluminum, the Sorento is

mm (1.4 in), while the vehicle's overall length

the third most dynamic, quickest and fastest

is stretched by 10 mm (0.4 inches). At the

vehicle in the Kia showrooms following

moment for the Philippines, the Sorento is

the Stinger GT and the outgoing Forte GT

purely a front-wheel drive with no option for

sedans. It may not have the other optional

Rating 9.5/10

Plus The absolute

best in its class, very attractive, fabulous LED-lights, exemplary build quality and very handsome.

Minus Price. No moonroof. No AWD.

Limited available exterior colors. No optional premium audio.

Specification — 2022 Kia Sorento SX Engine: Inline-4 • Location: Front, Transverse • Displacement: 2151 cc • Cylinder block: Cast Aluminum • Cylinder head: Cast Aluminum, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder Fuel Injection: Direct Commonrail Fuel Injection, Intercooled E-VGT Turbodiesel • Max power: 199 bhp @ 3800 rpm • Max torque: 325 lb-ft @ 1750-2750 rpm Transmission: 8-speed Smartstream Dual Clutch, Front-Wheel-Drive • Front suspension: Independent MacPherson Strut with Gas-Pressurized dampers and anti-roll bar Rear suspension: Independent Multi-link, coil springs with Gas-Pressurized dampers and anti-roll bar. • Fuel Capacity: 67 liters (17.7 gallons) Load Capacity: 357 liters with third-row up, 1274 liters with third-row folded • Ground Clearance: 176 mm • Approach Angle: 16.8 degrees • Departure Angle: 22.1 degrees L x W x H: 4810 mm x 1900 mm x 1700 mm • Wheelbase: 2815 mm • Brakes: Front 12.8-inch (325 mm) ventilated discs with 2-piston calipers / Rear 12-inch (305 mm) solid discs with single piston calipers Integrated Electric Parking Brake, ABS, HAC, ESC, DBC, TSA • Wheels: 19”x 7.5J Multi-spoke Two-Tone Glossy Black Aluminum Alloys.

Tires: P235/55R19 105V Good Year Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 SUV • Weight: (kerb) 1811 kg. (3984 lbs.) • 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): 8.7 seconds Top Speed (mph): 210 km/h (130 mph) Governed • Fuel Mileage: 8.1 L/100 km Overall • Price as tested: PhP 2,598,000.00 (Snow White Pearl)

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2022

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THE

DRIVES additional tweeters. Hopefully, future models will fill the recesses with the available optional premium 300-watt Beats™ audio system with 8-channel digital amplifier and subwoofer.

Notable reminders regarding the Volkswagen T-Cross for the Philippine market; we get the extra comfortable Long Wheelbase model combined with a modest 110 bhp / 107 lb-ft 1.5-liter gasoline engine mated to a 6-speed automatic (essentially the same power unit and transmission found in the Santana and Santana GTS), it is very frugal yet full featured, it accelerates from 0-100 km/h in a relaxed 12.2 seconds with a top speed of 189 km/h, the rear signature lighting resembles a “C”, it uses the excellent MQB A0 chassis, it has comprehensive safety equipment, the suspension are independent MacPherson struts up front with a coil sprung torsionbeam at the rear, and brakes are vented discs up front and solid discs at the rear. The suspension tuning is appropriate for our road conditions combined with the conservative 205/55R17 91V Hankook Kinergy EX+ tires wrapping fairly good-looking 17 x 6.5J alloys.

The cabin fitment, standard features, and design are refreshingly fun and accommodating. It is 4218 mm long, 1760 mm wide, and 1599 mm tall on a 2651 mm wheelbase. The electric-boosted steering is numb but very easy to use. The T-Cross is a practical and reliable everyday city commuter, but can feel quite winded if driven aggressively.

The Volkswagen T-Cross SE is a purposeful

Volkswagen T-Cross SE The Banana Dinghy Words: Kevin C. Limjoco Photos: Isabel N. Delos Reyes

world-car that is a visual standout on the road and you can take pride in its ownership.

For P152,000.00 more than the entry level “S” variant, you get the excellent LED lighting (in projector low and high beams with DRL), the new digital instrumentation, autonomous emergency braking, electronic stability control, LED reading lights, a panoramic moonroof, cruise control, front halogen fog lamps with corner lights, combination leather and fabric seats with matching interior stitching and matching exterior color for the

ASIDE FROM THE Tribu Yellow exterior

front interior dashboard trim, climate control

and matching interior trim color, our updated

with rear vents and additional backlit USB A &

2022 Volkswagen T-Cross test unit has the

C ports, additional side and curtain SRS bags,

new 10.3-inch digital Active Info Display

rear parking sonar with rear camera, smart key,

instrumentation instead of the traditional

and the 1.2-inch larger infotainment system

analog system that allows the operator to

with gesture control and Apple CarPlay®

customize the output of driver information.

wired/wireless connectivity.

This new display matches the crisp quality

The T-Cross is a handsome and fairly

and graphic themes of the standard, for the SE

well packaged subcompact crossover with

variant, 9.2-inch central infotainment system

genuinely desirable brand characteristics. Our

which functions very well but unfortunately

market gets a nice palette of available colors

sends audio through only 4 speakers though

with matching interior trim for particular SE

the A-pillars have obvious mounting points for

models: Tribu Yellow, Syringa Violet, Romance

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JUNE 2022 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

THE

DRIVES

Red, Polar White, and Chinchilla Gray. Load

but the T-Cross and its future owners deserve

capacity is 329 liters with the rear seat up and

more. With the competition in the segment

when the rear seats are folded, handles 1,319

only becoming exceedingly fiercer almost

liters. The ground clearance is 185 mm.

every month, the Volkswagen T-Cross also has

It would perform even better dynamically

to keep up by adding more standard equipment

if the more potent TSI (Direct Injection with

features on top of a better audio system that

Turbocharging) powerplants, in either 1.0-liter

also includes Android Auto™ connectivity,

or 1.4-liter capacities mated to a 7-speed DSG

wireless smartphone charging, automatic

transmission are used hopefully in the near

rain sensor wipers, more active driver aids,

future. The 1.5-liter MPI engine is certainly

ambient interior lighting, and an automatic

practical and sufficient for general routine duty

dimming interior rear-view mirror.

Plus Refreshing

Rating

packaging, versatility 8.5/10 and comfort, comprehensive driver aids, pedigree, build-quality, and very efficient.

Minus Wish it had either the 1.0-liter TSI

or the 1.4-liter TSI engine mated to the 7-speed DSG, and more than 4 speakers for the audio system.

Specifications — 2022 Volkswagen T-Cross SE Engine: Inline-4, 1498 cc, dohc 16V, Multipoint Injection, Atkinson-cycle, 6-speed AT • Max power: 110 bhp @ 6000 rpm • Max torque: 107 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 12.2 sec. • Top Speed: 189 km/h (118 mph) • Fuel Mileage: 5.9 L/100 km Overall • Price as tested: PhP 1,250,000.00

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39

SERIOUS GAME FROM THE NEW LUXURY COMPACT STANDARD

words:

Kevin C. Limjoco Isabel N. Delos Reyes & Nicolas A. Calanoc

photos:

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c ov e r s t o r y

2022 Lexus NX 350h AWD Premier

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41

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c ov e r s t o r y

2022 Lexus NX 350h AWD Premier

he 1st generation Lexus NX was a very successful model for the marque in every market that it was available.

In North America, its sales were second only to the larger RX. It sold alright in our market and the NX was a very good luxury compact crossover but not the best in its class. It was a little small, the drivetrains were not too exciting, and the packaging was not in full measures. That all changes with the all-new Lexus NX, which is not only larger, exceedingly more refined, and generously packaged, but it is also brimming with truly desirable drivetrains.

For the all-new 2nd generation NX, Lexus Philippines is offering three outstanding models that cater to buyer’s particular needs.

And they are all variations of great, seriously. Our test unit featured here is the mid-range NX 350h AWD Premier hybrid in Sonic Chrome exterior color and Dark Rose leather with contrasting Ash interior that retails for PhP 4,488,000.00 (the entire model range is available in 9 exterior and 4 interior colors). If you don’t need the extra traction, performance dynamics, and trim, there is the purely front-wheel drive model at PhP 3,338,000.00. The more powerful NX 450h+ AWD (the first Plug-In hybrid model for Lexus), that shares its higher performance all-wheel-drive system and extra EV range

The all-new 2022 Lexus NX350h AWD champions quite a few firsts for the brand, from new moniker labeling and interior design configuration to innovative e-locks. The Lexus NX is a very thoroughly sorted luxury compact crossover that drives with purpose, balance, and lasting style.

with the Toyota RAV-4 Hybrid Prime, is not currently available at the showroom. Though I am confident that if you really wanted to own one, Lexus Philippines would be open to indent the order as they have the infrastructure and aftersales service training to manage all the new models.

For buyers seeking a premium luxury compact crossover with a deeper focus on driver enjoyment, Lexus does offer the NX 350 F-Sport variant. This has additional distinctive trim, more aggressive but adaptive variable suspension and a more committed 275 bhp and 317 pound-feet of torque through a 2.4-liter direct injection air-toliquid intercooled turbo and an 8-speed automatic transmission without electrification mated to the same all-wheel-drive system for PhP 4,548,000.00. A mere PhP60,000.00 more than our fabulous NX350h Premier test unit. That extra cash improves acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h by .6 seconds, from 7.4 seconds to 6.8 seconds, severely sacrificing emissions and fuel economy from 5 L/100 kms. to 8.1L/100 kms. though, while overall ride comfort is marginally less plush at the most aggressive Sport+ setting. Both models are brilliant, and either would provide fulfilling joy for years.

With the entry of the all-new NX in our market, a fully energized Lexus Philippines has become the new overall champion of the premium luxury segment offering maximum value for money across the whole broad range. The institutional European brands have their own full model ranges available as well but in order to manage their retail costs, most of the models have heavily curated packaging.

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2022

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The all-new Lexus NX shares its TNGA-K architecture and drivetrain with the all-new Toyota RAV4. However, in keeping with engineered tradition since inception of the luxury brand, Lexus always builds on the monumentally solid foundation of Toyota to reinterpret their products decisively. I am very thankful for this synergy as it ensures optimal consumer pricing, packaging, and reliability. Beginning with the power, the dynamically superior Lexus NX350h produces 20 bhp more than the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. It has more sophisticated suspension damping and superior and larger brakes as well. The NX is 2.6 inches longer than the RAV4 Hybrid but instead of using the space for literally more interior capacity, the Lexus’ interior used the proportions to create a dramatically more alluring yet intimate cabin to optimize driver and passenger comfort for 4 adults. Yes, the all-new NX compared to the first-generation model is longer by 20mm, wider by 20mm, and taller by 5mm on a 30mm longer wheelbase, and it does technically accommodate 5 adults better than before, however it is best experienced with 4. The handsome cabin has significantly more sound-deadening foam and rich materials generously applied with new glass and seals that reduce NVH intrusion by a claimed 15% and contribute greatly to creating a new elevated level of interior comfort. Out back, the NX incorporates a new "Lexus" script across the tailgate with a different font in place of the typical oval "L" logo, which remains in the new front spindle grille. The look and function of the new signature full-LED lighting is astoundingly better than before, yet looks more like a tasteful segue rather than a complete design evolution.

The NX debuts a completely new infotainment interface featuring a massive and crisp 14.0-inch touchscreen combined with physical shortcut knobs.

The high-definition screen CPU (central processing unit) is 3.6 times faster than before.

“The handsome cabin has significantly more sound-deadening foam and rich materials generously applied with new glass and seals that reduce NVH intrusion by a claimed 15% and contribute greatly to creating a new elevated level of interior comfort.”

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c ov e r s t o r y

2022 Lexus NX 350h AWD Premier

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S P E C I F I C AT I O N S

2022 Lexus NX350h AWD Premier Engine: Inline-4 Location: Front, Transverse Displacement: 2487 cc Cylinder Block: Cast Aluminum Cylinder Head: Cast Aluminum, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, VVT-i Fuel Injector: Direct & Port Injection, Atkinson-cycle, Front 180 hp (134 kW) / 199 lb-ft / Rear 54 hp (40 kW) 89 lb-ft Permanent-magnet synchronous AC motors, 1.6kWh (259V) lithium-ion battery pack.

Max Power: 189 bhp @ 6000 rpm (Combined power with EV: 240 hp) Max Torque: 176 lb-ft @ 4300-4500 rpm (Combined torque with EV: 288 lb-ft) Transmission: eCVT with manual-shifting mode, All Wheel Drive Suspension: Front: Independent MacPherson struts with coil springs, gas-pressurized shock absorbers, performance damper

Convenience for everyone on board is addressed with four USB ports in the cabin, two front and two rear (three are USB-C standard).

The wireless phone charger is 50% faster with wireless connection for Apple CarPlay™ smartphone integration. The new NX marks the beginning of the new Lexus design philosophy “L-finesse” that applies leading-edge design and technology, with the goal to create “functional beauty”. One example is the new engine undercover design with a dimpled surface, like a golf ball, that supposedly creates micro-vortices in the airflow beneath the car to improve straight-line stability. The new NX also marks the first application of Lexus’s new “Tazuna” (horse and rider control) concept for the driver’s cockpit design for a more rewarding and tactile driver experience.

The steering wheel, switchgear and its layout are completely different, more practical, more intuitive, and more functional. The cross-section of the wheel was precisely determined to give the best grip, feel and ease of operation, while the shift lever was made as compact as possible. The new Lexus NX is also the first model to be fitted with the smart e-latch electronic door release system. This is the single new feature that has generated contrasting dialogue, some C! Team members were uncomfortable with replacing the familiar mechanical internal door handle with a push-button switch positioned next to the armrest in the door panel. You will get used to it. The e-latch electronic system is also linked to the car’s Blind Spot Monitor to warn of any traffic approaching from the rear. If it detects a risk, it will trigger a warning light and buzzer, and cancel

and stabilizer bar.

Rear: Independent Double-wishbones type with coil springs, gas-pressurized shock absorbers, performance damper and stabilizer bar.

Fuel Capacity: 55 liters (14.5 gallons) Drag Coeffcient: .35 cd Ground Clearance: 195 196 mm Approach Angle: 16 degrees Departure Angle: 25 degrees Load Capacity: 643 liters with second-row fixed, 1328 liters with second-row folded L x W x H: 4660 mm x 1865 mm x 1670 mm Wheelbase: 2690 mm Brakes: Front 12.9-inch (328 mm) ventilated discs 2-piston calipers / Rear 12.5-inch (317 mm) vented discs with 1-piston calipers Integrated Electric Parking Brake, ABS, ECB, EBD, BA, Regenerative function.

Wheels: 20”x 8J 7.5J Multi-spoke Two-tone Aluminum Alloys Tires: P235/50R20 100V Bridgestone Alenza 001 RFT Weight: (kerb) 1854 kg. (4080 lbs.)

0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): 7.4 seconds Top Speed (mph): 198 km/h (124 mph) Governed Fuel Mileage: 5 L/100 kms. Overall, 41 mpg City / 37 mpg Highway Price as tested: PhP 4,488,000.00

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C ! R AT I N G : 1 0 / 1 0 W H AT ' S G R E AT

The Most complete packaging and most spacious in the luxury subcompact crossover segment, desirable, quiet and opulent.

Exceptional cabin design and interior materials, Mark Levinson® 17-speaker 1800-watt Premium Surround Sound audio, and a long list of standard kit.

W H AT ' S N O T S O Price. Lexus NX450h+ even better.

c ov e r s t o r y

2022 Lexus NX 350h AWD Premier

the door unlatching. Lexus believes this system can help prevent the majority of the accidents caused by the door opening without seeing cyclists, motorcycles, or pedestrians. Lexus updated the standard active and passive safety suite to a whole new level as well. The PreCollision System can recognize and help to avoid 36 % more accident scenarios than previously. The brake system is excellent and now has a new pedal return damping mechanism, which aims to “enhance the dynamic quality of the pedal release operation” resulting in a very communicative feel.

Even the operation of the power tailgate has been improved to function quieter and quicker by 50%. The NX drives with enhanced rigidity without feeling the weight. The new structure includes the world-first use of 1180MPa steel for the rocker reinforcement and 1470MPa steel for the roof reinforcement. The front fenders and hood are made from aluminum and a new laser peening technology has been developed, in addition to laser screw welding and the use of

special adhesives for joining the structure. A twin bonnet latch design has been adopted, with a transverse reinforcement between the two locks, which adds the rigidity of the bonnet to that of the overall body and suppresses vibration caused by air turbulence.

The all-new 2022 Lexus NX350h AWD Premier is the new standard for its class. It is a genuinely great all-weather crossover to drive and ride in. Unlike before, the rear electric motor is always operational, providing more torque and driver communication too.

There is so much effortless and potent power on tap that the NX350h felt like it had even more power than what is indicated on the spec sheet. I never felt wanting for more power or capability. Every single component in the NX is exemplary, from the magnificent Mark Levinson® 17-speaker 1800-watt audio to the fabulous hybrid drivetrain. Truly, with Lexus, the products are about the finest craftsmanship, comforts, and performance applied in different load capacities, you simply cannot make an error of judgement.

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2022

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Feature

Peugeot

THE CAR SHOW CIRCUIT IS BACK! After two years, the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) is back, and bigger than ever.

Words and Photos:

Lester Dizon

T

he 7th of April 2022 marked the auspicious return of the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), which is heralded as the country’s premier auto show. Held at the World Trade Center in Pasay City, this year’s MIAS signaled the return of live events after a virtual online version was held during the pandemic. The event, which ran from April 7-10, also serves as the barometer for the country’s auto industry and the public’s clamor for motor vehicles and motoringrelated shows.

01

1

Engr. Alberto Suansing representing Hon. Arthur Tugade, DOTr Secretary

2

With the support of Stellantis, the parent company of French automaker Peugeot, and Astara, its new distributor in the country, Peugeot Philippines held a public launch of the all-new Peugeot 2008 compact SUV at MIAS 2022. Peugeot Brand Head Maricar Parco and Marketing and Product Director Prudz Castillo introduced the new model as well as the other new SUVs in their lineup, the 3008 and 5008, and the Traveller Premium passenger van.

Subaru Motor Image Glenn Tan, the Deputy Chairman and Managing Director of the Tanchong Group, flew all the way from Singapore to unveil the latest models from Subaru — the all-new BRZ 2.4 AT 2-door sports coupe and the new Forester 2.0i-S 5-door SUV.

Changan

“We are limitless!,” declared Fe Perez Agudo, the President of Changan Philippines, as she introduced their company’s model line-up, from the Alsvin 4-door sedan to the CS35 and CS75 5-door SUVs. She emphasized the company’s slogan “Be Amazed, Be Moved and Be Changed with Changan Mobility” when she unveiled the EADO EV460, the brand’s all-electric vehicle.

02

Mr. Joe Ferreria, Automotive Association of the Philippines (AAP) President

Volvo

03

Mr. Joseph Ang, Worldbex Services International Founding Chairman (Organizer of MIAS 2022)

3

04

Mr. Peter Eric Pardo, Chief of Staff, Pasay City Mayor’s Office

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4

Scandinavian Motors Corporation, the Philippine distributor of Volvo automobiles, showcased their lineup of plug-in hybrid vehicles under their “Volvo Recharge” campaign. The models on display include the Boost Hybrid versions of the S90 premium 4-door sedan, the XC60 and XC90 5-door SUVs.

Feature

Nissan Nissan Philippines Inc. (NPI) continues to promote the “Nissan Intelligent Mobility” campaign with their allelectric Nissan Leaf and how it can transport not just people and goods, but energy as well.

Geely

“Our goal is to be among the Top 10 automotive brands in the Philippines by 2023,” announced Yugo Kiyofuji, the newly appointed President and CEO of Sojitz G Auto Philippines Corporation, the exclusive distributor of Geely automobiles.

Kiyofuji launched the new Geely Coolray with Froilan Dytianquin, Geely Philippines’ General Manager for Sales and Marketing, and enjoined the attendees to experience the entire model line-up including the Emgrand sedan and Azkarra and Okavango SUVs.

Chery United Asia Automotive Group Incorporated (UAAGI) and Chery Auto Philippines President Errol Dueñas along with Vice President for Sales and Marketing Luigi Ignacio launched the newest Chery crossover SUVs — the Tiggo 5X Pro, the Tiggo 8 Pro, and the Tiggo 8 Plus plug-in hybrid (PHEV). Buoyed by its 223% sales increase in 2021, the company is gearing up for even better sales in 2022.

Foton UAAGI President Errol Dueñas wore his “other” cap as President of Foton Motor Philippines, and with Vice President for Sales and Marketing Levy Santos, launched the all-new Foton Thunder 2.0 pickup truck under the slogan “A New Power is on the Move.” The

new Foton Harabas TM300 MPV and the Foton Transvan 15-seat passenger van flanked the new Thunder. Foton also displayed their heavy-duty trucks and provided a Modern Jeepney as the Official Mobility Partner of MIAS 2022.

JAC JAC Motors Philippines displayed their “Royals of the Road” light and mediumduty trucks and buses with the JAC Prince and JAC Queen models. Their activity focused on the launch of their light commercial vehicle (LCV), the new JAC X100 with FB body. Priced competitively, the X100 is also available as a cab-and-chassis variant, which can be fitted with an aluminum van body.

GAC GAC Motor Philippines President Wilbert Lim was beaming with excitement with the new GAC vehicles he introduced during MIAS 2022. Along with his son, Brennan Lim, and Vice-president and COO Giovanni Frias, Wilbert unveiled the all-new GS8 premium full-size SUV and the Empow sports sedan to the delight of the attendees. Previewed as a semi-concept car at the 2020 Guangzhou Auto Show and launched in the 2021 Shanghai Auto Show, the Empow is based on GAC’s Global Platform Modular Architecture (GPMA).

MG and Chevrolet Under its President and CEO, Atty.

Albert Arcilla, The Covenant Car Company, Incorporated (TCCCI), which distributes Morris Garages (MG) and Chevrolet vehicles showcased their best models like the Tahoe Z71, all-new Trailblazer, Tracker, the latest Camaro for Chevrolet and the 5 and 6 sport sedans, RX5 crossover, ZS and ZST compact SUVs, and HS mid-size SUV for MG.

Maserati Modena Motorsports, which markets Maserati automobiles in the country, displayed their aspiration line of fine Italian automobiles including the Ghibli and Quattroporte sports sedans, the Levante premium SUV, and the Gran Turismo Convertible Sport.

Mitsubishi During the show, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines showcased their new familial front design, especially with the MPVs and SUVs. The latest Xpander Cross multipurpose vehicle (MPV) has design cues that associate it clearly with its other siblings such as the Strada pickup truck and Montero Sport SUV.

Autohub Group The Autohub Group, led by its President, Willy Tee Ten, showcased most of the automotive brands that they market or distribute including MINI, Vespa, Triumph, Lotus, Shelby automobiles, V-Kool window tints, among Aprilia, which they recently acquired. At their MIAS 2022 display area was the MINI Countryman, Vespa Primavera, an Aprilia scooter, and Triumph Scrambler.

MUTT Motorcycles UAAGI, the distributor of Foton and Chery vehicles, has also dipped their hand in the motorcycle industry and brought a unique brand to market. MUTT Motorcycles is based in Birmingham, England, the historic home of British motorcycling and the birthplace of heavy metal. As such, MUTT motorcycles are radically-styled and are powered by a singlecylinder air-cooled engine with either 125cc or 250cc displacements. The MUTT display area was right next to the C! Magazine area.

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Feature

C! Picks

The Father's Choice With Father’s Day coming up, we thought of dedicating our C! Picks to the man of the house. Thankfully, there are so many choices nowadays that the “dad car” doesn’t have to be boring. Whether you are a dad looking for a new hobby, a toyfor-the-big-boy in you, or a car that can do it all; we got you covered for this issue’s C! Picks.

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Feature

2022 GAC GS8 Price — PhP 2,288,000.00

of all that, that thankfully ticks the box of the first aspect I mentioned.

The GAC GS8 is a premiumbuilt mid-sized SUV that provides abundant power and a sporty demeanor from its 2.0L Turbo

A R D I E O. L O P E Z — E D I TO R - I N - C H I E F

gasoline engine. It seats seven Within the Daddy

with ample space to spare, but

demographic I

isn’t overtly huge. Its top tier

belong to, it’s

variant is an AWD, so if Dad

hard to shake off

chooses to be a bit adventurous

the practicality

whether alone or with the fam,

aspect when choosing the ideal

it’s capable. It also caters to

car for Father’s Day. That’s

Dad’s discerning standards with

especially tricky when leaning

a tastefully designed interior and

towards something premium,

a Harman Kardon entertainment

reliable, enjoyable, and has looks

system with Onkyo speakers. Best

that project a certain aesthetic

of all, it has a price tag that will

that synchs with my perceived

allow Dad to be all he can be for his

self-image. Here’s a good balance

beloved family. I pick you, GS8.

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2022

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N I C O L A S A . CA L A N O C — T E C H N I C A L P U B L I C AT I O N S M A N AG E R

Feature

52

2022 Suzuki Jimny GLX Price — PhP 1,275,000.00

more of a toy that a father can enjoy everyday of the week. For this case, I would choose the Jimny.

The Suzuki Jimny GLX is one of the most affordable brand-new 4x4 vehicles out there, meaning that it is a very capable off-roader for hobbies

When someone

such as river crossing, rock

asks what is a

crawling, and the growing-in-

car perfect for

popularity overlanding. Not only

a father, the

is it capable, it is also highly

usual answer

customizable with so many parts

is something that allows them

to choose from and shops to

to take their family with them.

help you with. With the endless

Nothing wrong with that, but the

possibilities with the Suzuki

answer may feel repetitive to

Jimny GLX, it is truly the toy for

most. For this year, I was thinking

the big boy in every father.

JUNE 2022 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

C H R I S VA N H OV E N — E X E C U T I V E E D I TO R

Feature

2021 Isuzu mu-X LS-E 4x4 Price: PhP 2,450,000.00

4x4 has it in spades. First of all, that Isuzu “bulletproof” engine is more than just an urban legend.

There’s a reason it’s garnered that reputation - it’s stood the test of time and has proven to be a reliable engine through decades of actual use in farms all over the country. Plus its 188 bhp and

Being a father

332 lb-ft of torque is nothing to

means some

sneeze at. This mu-X refresh is

priorities need

also its most refined iteration

to get moved

yet, with important updates all

around, and

around including new brakes, a

that includes priorities in what

longer, wider, and taller body and

to look for in a car. Mine have

updated safety features. It’s also

grown to be quite simple - space,

got loads of room with an actual

comfort, and reliability, and the

usable third row. What more could

top-of-the-line Isuzu mu-x LS-E

a dad ask for?

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2022

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Feature

54

2022 Mitsubishi Xpander GLS vs 2022 Toyota Avanza G

WHEN TWO OF THE GREATEST RIVALS

JUNE 2022 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

GO THEIR OWN WAY

After test driving the upcoming refreshed Mitsubishi Xpander and the all-new Toyota Avanza, we take a look on how their differences set the stage for the Words and Photos: Nicolas A. Calanoc compact MPV segment.

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2022

55

Feature

2022 Mitsubishi Xpander GLS vs 2022 Toyota Avanza G

B

efore we begin this important comparo between the 2 giants of the compact MPV segment, we have to look back at the history of their competition.

Toyota hit the demand for small MPVs with their Avanza back in 2003. They then followed up with their 2nd generation in 2011 and concluded a few months ago. In 2017, Mitsubishi saw an opportunity to join the segment with the Xpander. If you look at the years carefully, you will see that each car model has a 9-year life cycle. This means that the Mitsubishi Xpander is in its midlife while the all-new Toyota Avanza has just begun.

In this comparo, it’s really important to keep this in mind because as much as the Toyota Avanza has the advantage of being all-new, the new Mitsubishi Xpander has the mechanical components that have proven itself to be reliable so far. So this match initially starts out as brand-new versus tried-and-tested.

By the numbers, these cars look identical in a lot of ways. They both use a 1.5L naturally aspirated gasoline engine that basically churns out the same amount of power and pull. When it comes to size, the Mitsubishi Xpander has the advantage, meaning that when it comes to overall interior space, the Xpander should have the same advantage. When it comes to payload, both the Toyota Avanza and the Mitsubishi Xpander have a similar carrying capability of 1,261 lbs. So, the Xpander can take bigger items, but the Toyota Avanza can carry a similar amount of weight.

Bigger isn’t always better though. Sure, the Toyota Avanza may be smaller, but its smaller size means it is lighter, can turn tighter, and should be easier to park. But if need be, it can carry as much as the Mitsubishi Xpander can.

So far, it looks like a battle that is won by inches and not by miles. It is when you look at the two factors that split the two that you

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“When it comes to size, the Mitsubishi Xpander has the advantage, meaning that when it comes to overall interior space, the Xpander should have the same advantage.”

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“Sure, the Toyota Avanza maybe smaller, but its smaller size means it is lighter, can turn tighter, and should be easier to park. Plus, it is all-new.”

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2022 Mitsubishi Xpander GLS vs 2022 Toyota Avanza G

Feature

will realize you have two compact MPVs that are targeting two different needs. These two factors are minimum ground clearance and transmission.

The difference in ground clearance is 30mm, with the Mitsubishi Xpander being higher than the Toyota Avanza. 30mm may not seem much, but it is a height difference enough to make a hatchback considered a crossover or an SUV to be considered raised. This means that between the two, the Mitsubishi Xpander is more SUVlike while the Toyota Avanza is more sedanlike. Despite the increase in ground clearance even when compared to its previous face, the Xpander manages to have the same driving dynamics with its tuned suspension.

The Mitsubishi Xpander and Toyota Avanza mechanically look the same, but they hugely differ when it comes to transmission.

The Xpander uses a conventional 4-speed automatic transmission, which means that there are actual physical gears that grab onto each other when the torque comes in. The Avanza, on the other hand, uses a Dual-Mode CVT, which means that it uses a pulley system that makes it more efficient. Keep in mind though, it isn’t a conventional CVT, thus having the name “Dual-Mode.”

The dual-mode CVT allows the Toyota Avanza to seamlessly shift into a split mode, engaging the drive gear that delivers better power and efficiency in that scenario. Thanks to the Dual Mode CVT of the Avanza, there is a 12 percent increase in efficiency at 60 km/h and a whopping 19 percent increase at 100 km/h. Engine speed is also reduced, making it more efficient and quieter.

When you look at the Mitsubishi Xpander and Toyota Avanza closely, you will slowly realize that what started out as two MPVs duking it out has ended up with these competitors going their separate ways and embracing what they think is their demographic need. The new Mitsubishi Xpander is the MPV that embraces more SUV qualities with its sizable ground clearance increase and sticking to the conventional 4-speed automatic, while the all-new Toyota Avanza takes advantage of the latest and greatest to make an MPV that feels more sedan-like than ever, including being a great long-distance cruiser.

As much as this comparo rivalry between the new Mitsubishi Xpander and the all-new Toyota Avanza may have ended with an “it depends,” the real winner in the end is us consumers with more options and variations at reasonable prices.

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Feature

2022 Mitsubishi Xpander GLS vs 2022 Toyota Avanza G

2022 Mitsubishi Xpander GLS Price: PhP 1,078,000.00 Engine: 1.5L | Inline-4 | DOHC MIVEC Power: 103 bhp @ 6,000 rpm Torque: 104 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm Transmission: 4-speed Automatic Length: 4,595 mm Width: 1,750 mm Height: 1,750 mm Wheelbase: 2,775 mm Curb Weight: 1260 kg Payload: 580 kg

The refreshed Mitsubishi Xpander sticks to the conventional, making it feel more SUV-like for those looking for that inherent advantage.

Minimum Turning Radius: 5.2 m Minimum Ground Clearance: 225 mm

2022 Toyota Avanza G Price: PhP 1,039,000.00 Engine: 1.5L | Inline-4 | DOHC Dual VVT-i Power: 105 bhp @ 6,000 rpm Torque: 102 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm Transmission: Dual-Mode CVT Length: 4,395 mm Width: 1,730 mm Height: 1,700 mm Wheelbase: 2,770 mm Curb Weight: 1140 kg Payload: 565 kg Minimum Turning Radius: 4.9 m Minimum Ground Clearance: 190 mm

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The all-new Toyota Avanza breaks new ground in so many ways and results in a sedanlike behavior on an MPV platform.

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I S S U E

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T H E R E I S M O R E TO L I F E T H A N J U S T C A R S , S O W E G OT YO U C OV E R E D O N T H E OT H E R T H I N G S T H AT M I G H T I N T E R E S T YO U .

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2022 CHERY TIGGO 8 PRO & PHEV

CHERY PICKING

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Words:

Kevin C. Limjoco Photos:

Isabel N. Delos Reyes

C

hery has had a very colorful storied journey since it was founded in 1997 as a large state-owned enterprise with headquarters in Wuhu, China. Chery Automobile Co. Ltd. began their exports in 2001, and by 2003, they were recognized as being China’s largest automobile exporter. By 2011 Chery’s volume of exports accounted for 25% of its annual production. Then in 2012 Chery went into a 50:50 joint venture with the Jaguar Land Rover Group (the first Sino-British joint venture for high-end automobiles in China) to produce vehicles (Evoque L and Evoque PlugIn Hybrid, Discovery Sport and Plug-In Hybrid, Jaguar XF-L, Jaguar XE-L, Jaguar XE-L, and Jaguar E-Pace model family) and Ingenium engines for the China market. The Changshu production site is Jaguar Land Rover's first vehicle manufacturing plant outside of the United Kingdom and it is a Global standard model plant.

In 2020, Chery rabidly returned to our domestic Philippine market with the striking mid-size pre-facelift Tiggo 8 crossover in its top Luxury EX trim. They swiftly followed with the Tiggo 7 Pro, Tiggo 5x, and Tiggo 2 to cover the market spectrum.

This is the fourth time that the Chery brand enters our market. I remember when James Deakin and I awarded the entry level Chery QQ the “Best-in-Class” C! Award back in 2004, we received a lot of flak from consumers who were in disbelief. I still stand by that award because the QQ was genuinely the best in its segment at the time.

It offered car buyers a very affordable city solution that came with considerably more standard equipment than

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any other vehicle in its class and it did perform precisely as designed. It also planted the seed that established brands had to further be aware of more competition in the market, and adjust accordingly.

The biggest issue back then with the first importer was not even about the Chery brand but its aftersales support.

Chery Automotive is now handled by its new official Philippine distributor, the United Asia Automotive Group, Inc. (UAAGI) which is also the distributor of Foton. So I am confident that buyers will certainly get the guaranteed support that they deserve and even more. UAAGI had concrete plans to have 30 dealerships throughout the country within two years before the pandemic struck.

Chery currently supports their entire model range with a 10-Year or 1,000,000-kilometer engine factory warranty, a 5-Year or 150,000-kilometer General Vehicle Warranty, free preventive maintenance service for three years, and 3 years of free roadside assistance! These are very serious after-sales consumer support commitments from Chery Philippines and they plan to expand these commitments with the three new model variants, two of which are seen and reviewed here: the Tiggo 8 Pro powered by a very lively 194 bhp / 214 lb-ft of torque direct injection 1.6-liter with intercooled turbo engine, and the debonaire Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid) that has a 95-kilometer pure EV range and has the combined ICE and EV power of 242 bhp and 281 lb-ft of torque through a 1.5-liter multipoint turbo engine and 19.27-kWh (55Ah) lithium-ion battery pack. The third variant of the heavily updated Tiggo 8 Pro, that is coming soon, is powered by a 2.0-liter direct injection intercooled turbo (241 bhp @ 5500 rpm & and 277 lb-ft @ 2000-4000 rpm) and will have features that are enjoyed in the PHEV model.

The Tiggo model series name may be identified, in Western perspective, to 1891 Derbyshire, central United Kingdom. Chery Automobile was supposed to enter the North American market this year under HAAH Automobile Holdings with the VANTAS brand based on the Chery Exeed models and the T-GO brand. HAAH announced that the bespoke Vantas VX and TXL would be assembled in China and would arrive in the United States of America by the end of 2022, however, due to difficulties as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and other external factors, the company filed for bankruptcy in July 2021. I am confident that a new group will work on it; the new Chery products are genuinely world class and desirable.

The new Tiggo 8 Pro series are Chery’s flagships

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for our Philippine market. On a side note, the Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV was developed and produced principally for their China market only. Thankfully, Chery Philippines was able to convince them and merited a production run for the Philippines, so our market is the very first outside of China to enjoy the feature rich and sensible electrified 7-seater crossover.

The rigid modular T1X chassis with fully independent suspension is once again the base of both new Chery Tiggo8 Pro models, which was developed with Jaguar Land Rover

technology and influence, together with the Bosch ten-in-one ESP 9.3 control systems. The updated and facelifted new Chery Tiggo 8 Pro models are built on the carried over chassis from the previous outgoing Tiggo 8 model, with completely redesigned front and rear ends with the "Life in Motion 3.0" design language combined with a complete overhaul in the cabins and drivetrains. The new models are slightly longer by 22 mm (0.9 in) and marginally taller by 1 mm compared to the Tiggo 8. The Pro PHEV further distinguishes itself from its

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unelectrified brothers with a different contrasting and more pronounced front grille surround, different front bumper cooling ducts, and for the rear, the dual exhausts are faux but real in the 1.6T and 2.0T variants.

In the very attractive interior cabins, the dashboards are different.

The Pro PHEV features continuously presented dual 12.3-inch displays with the LION4.0 infotainment system, very tasteful homogenous climate control venting, and a Sony 8-speaker surround audio system, while the 1.6T uses a more traditional layout treatment

with separate instrumentation (12.3inch digital instrumentation and 10.25-inch floating touchscreen) and venting. Both models have excellent full LED-lighting (with integrated front Dynamic Turning Signal) on both ends, 360-degree AVM (Around View Monitor) in 720p, an 8-inch control screen for the climate control, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, aluminum alloy one-piece load-bearing roof racks that supports a load of up to 80kg, and massive 1.96m2 skylight panoramic moonroofs. The very stylish seat designs and comfort levels

are identical, though the 1.6T comes with active ventilated front seats in delightful brown surfaces, and ambient interior lighting. I must emphasize that the level of comfort from the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro and PHEV seats are absolutely exemplary.

The climate control system uses pharmaceutical-grade air purification. The N95level air-conditioning purifier filters more than 95% of particles and pathogens, while the AQS + PM2.5 air quality control system detects irritating gas, automatically switching between inside and outside circulation to block harmful bacteria. The Tiggo 8 Pro also comes equipped with RICSCS (remote initiative cabin self-cleaning system), which automatically enables the intelligent cabin to self-clean, purify the air, sterilize bacteria, and remove dust and odor.

The Tiggo 8 Pro with the 1.6T is the new dynamic performance standard for its class and for the money. It is smooth and versatile when required and enthusiastic when the opportunity presents itself. The shifting can be overridden with the steering wheel paddleshifts with adjustable driving modes managing the excellent 7-speed DCT transmission.

The Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV on the other hand is a true master of affordable efficiency and refinement. The Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV can also be quite swift but there is a profoundly stronger emphasis on fuel and emission efficiencies. For maximum operating range, the Plug-In battery can be fully charged using a common grounded household 240V plug with the supplied charger for approximately 5 hours of charging from a completely depleted battery pack to gain as much as 95 kilometers of pure EV range in silence and with no carbon emissions. Once you speed past 38 km/h though, the engine will wake up and take over with the traditional hybrid system. The capabilities and adjustability of the system is remarkable. You can also adjust the brake regeneration settings to suit your driving requirements. The DHT Super Hybrid Continuously Variable Transmission combined with the multiple drive modes is also one of the keenest that I have ever tested.

We tested both new Chery Tiggo 8 Pro units before their launch at the MIAS 2022 so you may notice that the rear monikers on the purple PHEV unit are either taped up or state a different “Plus” name instead. As it stands, Chery has solid winners here worthy of long-term duty and love from buyers looking for tremendous value in intelligent and thoughtful packaging for their next 7-seater crossover.

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Plus

The most dynamic in its class, very attractive, balanced ride, very comfortable seats, feature-rich.

Minus

No AWD. Wish the Sony audio was standard.

Specification – 2022 Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Engine: Inline-4 • Location: Front, Transverse • Displacement: 1598 cc • Cylinder block: Cast Aluminum • Cylinder head: Cast Aluminum,

Rating 9.5/10

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder • Fuel Injection: Direct Injection, Intercooled Turbo • Max power: 194 bhp @ 5500 rpm • Max torque: 214 lb-ft @ 2000-4000 rpm • Transmission: 7-speed Dual Clutch, Front-Wheel-Drive • Front suspension: Independent MacPherson Strut with GasPressurized dampers and anti-roll bar. • Rear suspension: Independent Multi-link, coil springs with Gas-Pressurized dampers and anti-roll bar. • Fuel Capacity: 51 liters (13.5 gallons) • Load Capacity: 889 liters with third-row fixed, 1179 liters with third-row folded, 2101 liters with 2nd-row folded • Ground Clearance: 190 mm • L x W x H: 4722 mm x 1860 mm x 1745 mm • Wheelbase: 2710 mm • Brakes: Front 12.4-inch (316 mm) ventilated discs with single-piston calipers / Rear 12.3-inch (314 mm) solid discs with single-piston calipers Integrated Electric Parking Brake, ABS, HAC, ESC, DBC, TSA • Wheels: 18”x 7.5J Multi-spoke Two-tone Aluminum Alloys • Tires: P235/55R18 100V Cooper Evolution CTT SUV • Weight: (kerb) 1565 kg. (3443 lbs.) • 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): 7.9 seconds • Top Speed (mph): 218 km/h (136 mph) Fuel Mileage: 6.8 L/100 km Overall • Price as tested: PhP 1,645,000.00

Plus

The most affordable and most versatile fullfeatured Plug-In PHEV in the market, balanced ride, desirable, good Sony audio, very efficient, remarkable cabin design and interior materials, very comfortable and peppy.

Minus

Price. No AWD. No powered trunk. No wireless smartphone pad.

Specification – 2022 Chery Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV Engine: Inline-4 • Location: Front, Transverse • Displacement: 1498 cc • Cylinder block: Cast Aluminum • Cylinder head: Cast Aluminum, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Dual VVT • Fuel Injection: Multipoint Injection, Atkinson-cycle, One 33.5 hp (25kW) / 59 lb-ft @ 2984 rpm & One 54 hp (40 kW) / 52 lb-ft @ 5457 rpm Permanent-magnet synchronous AC motors, 19.27-kWh (55Ah) lithium-ion battery pack.

Max power: 155 hp @ 5500 rpm (Combined power with EV: 242.5 hp) • Max torque: 170 lb-ft @ 1750-4000 rpm (approximately 281 lb-ft combined with EV) • Transmission: DHT Super Hybrid CVT, Front Wheel Drive • Front suspension: Independent MacPherson Strut with Gas-Pressurized dampers and anti-roll bar. • Rear suspension: Independent Multi-link, coil springs with Gas-Pressurized dampers and antiroll bar. • Fuel Capacity: 45 liters (12 gallons) • Ground Clearance: 190 mm • Load Capacity: 889 liters with third-row fixed, 1179 liters with third-row folded, 2101 liters with second-row folded • L x W x H: 4722 mm x 1860 mm x 1747 mm • Wheelbase: 2710 mm Brakes: Front 12.4-inch (316 mm) ventilated discs with single-piston calipers / Rear 12.3-inch (314 mm) solid discs with single-piston calipers Wheels: 18”x 7.5J Multi-spoke Two-tone Aluminum Alloys • Tires: P235/55R18 100V Cooper Evolution CTT SUV • Weight: (kerb) 1769 kg.

(3892 lbs.) • 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): 8.9 seconds • Top Speed (mph): 212 km/h (132 mph) • Fuel Mileage: 6.4 L/100 kms. Overall (95 kilometer Pure EV Range) • Price as tested: PhP 2,400,000.00

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Rating 9.5/10

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I N S E A R C H O F A B A D G E ' S G R E AT N E S S

TAG H E U E R X P O R S C H E

When authentic passions combine across generations, as well as industries Words: Carl S. Cunanan

FOCUS ON TAG Heuer x Por s che

I once bumped into McDreamy.

I was outside the Porsche paddock facilities at Le Mans walking out, and he was walking towards them and we were both pre-occupied.

Him with his racing team and me with my phone trying to get updates.

Patrick Dempsey is a very passionate racecar driver, so much that his very lucrative media career often had to work around the schedule of car races he wanted to run. He has been a Porsche fan and has been running his own cars privately for quite awhile.

He is also, as many car guys are, a big watch geek. He quite loves, as again many car guys do, his TAG Heuer Monaco. Just as his love for Porsche vehicles combines the old, a 1963 356, and the newest in what he would use to go racing, his love for watches bridges the worlds of time and technology as well.

Patrick Dempsey is a brand ambassador for TAG Heuer, and his choices for modern watches are appropriately racing-related. For many traditional car-watch guys, the square Monaco will always hold a special place in the heart. But the TAG Heuer name was connected with motor racing far before it became a trendy or marketing-oriented thing to do. Indeed, TAG Heuer watches often were first introduced to people not in watch shops but in specialist car arenas such as racetracks, events and car shops. TAG Heuer watches were on the wrist of the most important racecar drivers over generations, and on the timing equipment that recorded and verified many world-class wins and events.

The current direct TAG-Heuer x Porsche connection is perhaps one of the most appropriate of its kind. The watch industry has had many tie-ups that just don’t work, but this one does. The heritage and drive towards the technology of both companies match almost perfectly.

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Pat Dempsey’s choices from the latest crop of TAG Heuer watches focus on the most technologically advanced timepieces but with perhaps the most interesting history.

The Carrera Panamericana was a 2,000-mile or more road race across Mexico that was extremely dangerous to say the least. Jack Heuer used it as inspiration for the first Carrera wristwatch released in 1963.

The connection between the watches and the cars, and perhaps more accurately the enthusiasts and professionals of the watches and the cars, was pretty much instant. Jo Siffert was one of the heralded racing names of the 1960s and early 1970s, and probably fortuitously, he was Swiss. He was close to Jack Heuer and both his wrist and his racing suit bore the Heuer name, one a chronograph

The Porsche TAG Heuer Esports Supercup (PESC) features top-tier sport racing and position battles.

“That tradition continues today.

TAG Heuer and Porsche were both ground-breakers and rule-breakers of their times. A square watch? A rear-end heavy sportscar going against more powerful bigengine behemoths? Yet both prevailed in their particular fields.”

FOCUS ON TAG H euer x Pors che

Porsche's visual appeal adds to the Chronograph's sportiness. The yellow color is used in many components of this creation, which is inspired

by Porsche's racing yellow shade.

and the other a patch. His first major victories were at Daytona and at Sebring in a Porsche 907. And he was also friends with Ferry Porsche. So the ties were more about like minds than they were about constructed marketing.

That tradition continues today. TAG Heuer and Porsche were both ground-breakers and rule-breakers of their times. A square watch? A rear-end heavy sportscar going against more powerful big-engine behemoths? Yet both prevailed in their particular fields. In today’s world, Porsche is committed to producing cars and racecars using the latest technologies, such as all-electric racing series. But has also has committed money and resources to developing sustainably-produced fuel they call eFuel.

They see the value of the past and keeping it going, but they are also used to being at the forefront of technology.

TAG Heuer also happily inhabits both worlds. The Swiss watch company takes watchmaking expertise to make smart watches that properly bring forth the fit, design, and finish of true luxury and premium timepieces, but it also uses traditional yet innovative mechanical movements for their wristwatches.

The TAG Heuer x Porsche watches also touch both worlds. On the latest smartwatch, you can get a special Porsche face!

On the mechanical side, the Watches And Wonders 2022 special releases the TAG Heuer Carrera x Porsche Limited Edition. The 44mm Automatic Chronographs use the stalwart in-house Calibre HEUER02 Automatic movement, which provides stopwatch accuracy at 4Hz with a power reserve of 80 hours. There is no date window, so the face is relatively clean and balanced with just the three subdials. The Carrera name sits above the TAG Heuer logo, which makes it all look particularly tight and elegant, and the numerals are for minutes rather than for the hours. Note that the 5 minutes indicator says “05” so it balances well against the “55” on the other side. There are slight touches of color, in the Pantone Yellow Porsche tone, on things like the PORSCHE name on the ceramic bezel, the crown, and parts of the subdials. All this is encased in a black DLC stainless steel case, with a sapphire crystal caseback that allows you to see the movement with the special detailing and logo. The yellow PORSCHE logo looks particularly good against certain parts.

The partnership between the two brands continues elsewhere, of course. February 5, 2022 saw the opening of the new season of the Porsche TAG Heuer Esports Supercup. The Porsche 911 GT3 Cup saw its digital racing debut on the virtual version of the Hockenheim Grand Prix Circuit.

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Just a click away That one clip of the seatbelt can turn a fatal car accident into one you can walk away from. We think that is worth a little tug around the body, don’t you?

A Safety Reminder From

TUNER J U N E

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LO U D E R , B A D D E R , FA ST E R !

1999 Honda Civic Si (EM1) "My main purpose was to have a trackready car. Something which you can walk into any of our local racetrack."

— Mike Bonafe page 78

Boosted!

Weather Proof

Getting our vehicles ready for the rainy season

W

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.

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 being 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.

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

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

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, loose terminals and corrosion around the terminals.

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 won't start at all) this time of year, it could be a dead battery.

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.

Staying visible to other drivers during heavy rainfall is essential, so make sure that all the

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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 sticks on the rocker panels. Doing so also provides a protective layer as well.

Battery Check

Tire Check

Light Bulbs

Washing Required

Brake Check

Francis G. Pallarco TUNER EDITOR

Finally, have your brakes checked for proper operation and 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.

When was the last time you had an oil change?

The engine oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle. It keeps the many components of the engine working efficiently, and it helps reduce the accumulation of varnish and carbon from collecting on the engine. As oil collects heat, varnish and carbons during the course of protecting and keeping the engine running smoothly, it eventually becomes a sludge, no matter how good the oil is. That’s when you should have your oil changed.

A Safety Reminder From

TUNER

EVENTS

JDMU “Yabangan Nights” 2022 Starting the year strong with nothing but the best modded rides Words: Francis G. Pallarco Photos: Jordan Aparicio

A

dmittedly, the past few years weren’t favorable for car enthusiasts and car-related activities like car shows and meets. A sad realization since car enthusiasts spend lots of time in, under, or looking at cars. So much in fact that it has become a huge part of the very fabric of their social lives.

Thankfully, things are finally looking up this year.

As proof, various car groups have already held respective meets that serve as a reunion of sorts.

One of them happens to be Jdmunderground who has been a proponent of proper tuning and modding practices since 2008.

With outdoor activities finally allowed, they recently held their first ever official JDMU “Yabangan Nights” for 2022 ever since the whole pandemic started. That’s a couple of years ago since their last event back in 2019 with the “Cars and Chicken” YN. As expected, the event saw a huge turnout, with as much as 300 plus cars showing up according to Pow Anticamara of JDMU. What’s more, the event provided a perfect opportunity to leave behind those pandemic blues and catch up with familiar faces and cars. JDMU also offered the YN to fellow wildboy and friend Ralph, He was good friend and supporter of the community. He will be missed.

JDMU Would like to thank: MySip and Keng for providing drinks and refreshments for everyone, To JDMSelect, Pristine Autos Co., Vape and Play, AK SPEC, Option Access, Maniobra, Nicoh Roque, Complex Carbon, Joel Zap, Carbon Cartel, Marvin Ang Go, Dens Dela Cruz, JM Resurection, JM Lopez, Mic Dela Rosa for all the raffle prizes we have given away to fellow wildboys. We hope you guys enjoy them. We would also like to thank MOTUL — Infiniteserv who has been there always for the community. Thank you so much.

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TRACKREADY

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TUNER

Words:

Francis G. Pallarco

Photos:

Jordan Aparicio

C H E C K O U T M I K E B O N A F E ’ S B U I L D T H AT ’ S BASED AROUND FUNCTIONALITY WITH METICULOUS EXECUTION.

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TUNER

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imes may have drastically changed over the past years, but some things like car modifications haven’t.

Same in the sense that it continues to revolve around improving the car’s performance or looks. In most cases, I’d say both. Performance is objective driven as the goal is to make it faster, handle and stop better. On the other hand, looks are another matter, as it is subjective to one’s personal taste.

Something that begs the question, does form have to follow function, or is it the other way around? I’d say it would heavily weigh on the planned purpose.

Take our featured USDM Honda Civic Si coupe (EM1) as a perfect example of a build that’s based around functionality coupled with meticulous execution.

From modding old-school cars all the way to Porsches, Mike Bonafe surely knows his stuff as he explains, “I’ve always wanted the newer one (EM1) since I already finished the later one (EJ1). Thanks to a friend who agreed to a trade, I already had plans even before having it. My main purpose was to have a track-ready car. Something which you can walk into any of our local racetrack.

Having taught at Tuason Racing School and raced go-karts before, it has been my dream to have my own car that’s set up for the track. But at the same time, I wanted a car-show quality execution which is very clean and highly detailed.”

Highly detailed it is, just one glance at the lengthy list of aftermarket parts and his commitment towards the build becomes obvious. But here’s the thing though, it’s not as simple as ordering the entire parts catalog and putting them on. Choosing properly without going overboard is easier said than done.

Thankfully, his influences consisted mainly of clean and functional builds from the States, more particularly the ones usually featured by “The Chronicles/Stickydiljoe” which enjoys a huge following as Mike adds, “Just keeping it clean and having your own identity is how they do it in the States.

The parts were sourced mostly from the States, being a USDM theme set up, while some were locally sourced.”

Looking at the coupe, the first thing that stands out or immediately gets

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noticed is its well-executed paint work.

It’s the end result of an arduous strip to metal refinish that’s nothing but flawless. Using Cromax paints, they even let the paint cure for a year before buffing it. The second thing that grabs anyone’s attention whenever the hood is propped up would have to be the K20 engine swap that’s anything but stock.

Aside from making 200-plus horses, the tuned engine is a visual treat in itself. The combination of the neatly shaved engine bay and the wire tuck treatment effectively highlights the engine as the sole centerpiece. That,

Closely adhering to its track-oriented build theme, the interior would make any racecar driver feel right at home.

and the intimidating individual throttle body unit from Kinsler. An addicting soundtrack comes from four, 70 mm throttle bodies while they ingest huge amounts of air and gasoline.

Closely adhering to its track-oriented build theme, the interior would make any racecar driver feel right at home.

From the fixed bucket seats, roll cage, LCD gauge cluster display and more, it has all the top-notch components needed for an exhilarating day at the racetrack. But what separates it from most racecars is the paint quality inside the cabin that matches the exterior.

“Sure enough, this is one epic build that will be hard to beat, based on what it has and how it was built.”

Mugen MF10 wheels on Falken Azenis tires set the performance tone for the exterior that hides some of the biggest work underneath. Details like the racespec Alcon big brake kit and the various aftermarket suspension components ensure that this coupe handles extremely well on the racetrack.

All the hard work poured into this coupe paid off bigtime by winning the Best Racecar trophy and Best in Engine Display during last year’s Manila Auto Salon. Sure enough, this is one epic build that will be hard to beat, based on what it has and how it was built. What’s more, it stands out by presenting an entirely different approach towards mainstream Honda builds. Something Mike agrees to as he quips, “We always see the same tuner-themed set-ups over and over again.” But apart from raising the bar and setting a new benchmark among Honda builds, this coupe means a lot as Mike explains, “This Civic will be number one in terms of my builds.

The Celica will be a close second because of sentimental reasons. This one matters a lot because this has been a childhood dream. Come to think of it, all my other builds were also childhood dreams, but that’s the reason why I do it.” I guess in Mike’s case, dreams do come true after all.

An addicting soundtrack comes from four 70mm throttle bodies while they ingest huge amounts of air and gasoline.

Specifications — 1999 Honda Civic Si (EM1) / Mike Bonafe Engine: K20 (Type-R), 2.0-Liter, Inline-4, DOHC with i-VTEC • Engine Mods: Drag Cartel Street Camshafts, ARP Studs and Bolts, CNC Port Matched Cylinder Head, Kinsler Individual Throttle Body Unit (70mm), Kinsler Fuel Rail, Grams (340LPH) Fuel Pump, 1320 Performance Headers, Grams Fuel Regulator, RDX (410cc) Fuel Injectors, AEM Fuel Filter, Vibrant 3” Race Muffler (Full Exhaust) • Other Stuff: Bnew Tensioner & Timing Chain, Circuit Hero Chain Guide, Bnew Coil packs, Speedfactory Racing Tucked Radiator, Titanium Studs & Nuts, K-Tuned Side Pulley Kit, Upper Coolant kit w/ Filler Neck, Heater Delete Plug, K-Tuned Race Spec Shifter Box, Shifter Cables, Cable Bracket, K-Tuned Firewall Grommet, Thermostat Housing, Oil Dip Stick, Throttle Cable, K-Tuned Tucked Braided Clutch Lines, Timing Chain Guide, K-Tuned Fuel Pressure Gauge, Vibrant Braided Race Water Hoses, Vibrant Water Hose Fittings, Drag Cartel VTEC Oil Strainer, Skunk2 Intake Manifold Gasket, Circuit Hero Oil Pan Baffle, Circuit Hero Aluminum Plug Cover, Hasport Engine Mounts (Black), Feel’s Oil & Radiator Cap, Spoon Thermoswitch & Low Temp Thermostat, SPAL Dual Radiator Fans, HKS Sandwich Plate, Chasing J’s Titanium Oil dip stick, Titanium Valvecover Washers, Chasing J’s Titanium Shock Tower Nuts, Vision Hood Dampers, (EPS) Power Steering Delete, OEM Honda Fender Bolts Hood Stand Grommet, Motul 300V Oils, Motul Mocool, Motul Inugel, Motul MT-90 LSD Oil, NGK V-Power Plugs, Checkered Sports Battery Relocation Kit • Transmission: 6-Speed Manual with MFactory 5th gear (close gear ratio), Action Clutch (6-Puck) Race Kit, Action Clutch Flywheel • Engine Management: Hondata KPRO V4 ECU • Horsepower: 260 WHP Dyno Tuned • Brakes: Alcon Caliper BBK (Tucked Brake Lines), Alcon Floating Rotors BBK, Alcon Brake Pads, Alcon Stainless Steel Braided Brake Lines • Suspension: BC Coilovers 10/8 spring rates, Hardrace Camber Kits (F&R), Polyurethane Energy Suspension Bushings, Spoon Rigid Collars, ASR Subframe, BWR Rear Lower Control Arms, DC2 Front Swaybar, EK9 Rear Swaybar Circuit Hero 2pt. Strut Bar, DC2 5 Lugs Brakeset, Bnew OEM Honda Hub covers, Cusco Rear Strut Bar • Rollers: Mugen MF10 Wheels (16x7 +42), Falken Azenis Tires RT615K+ (215/45/16), ARP Extended Wheel Stud, Muteki Titanium Lugnuts Interior: ICB Motorsport Kevlar Bucket Seats, Bride Low Pos Seat Rails, Cusco 6-Point Roll Cage, Rear Strut Bar, Carbon Fiber Adjustable Cross Bar, Cusco Floor Plates, SARD Analog/Digital Race Gauge Cluster, Personal Neo Grinta Steering yellow stitch (Suede), Chasing J’s Titanium Steering Bolts, Titanium Horn Button, Checkered Sports Billet Steering Hub Cusco Carbon add on bar, Mugen Rear View Mirror Cover, Pedals, 6 speed Carbon Fiber Shiftknob, K-Tuned Race Billet Shifter Box, Shifter Box Adapter Plate, DEFI BF Gauges AEM Wideband Air/Fuel Ratio Gauge, Blox Gauge Pod, APEX-i VAFC Controller, OEM Honda Brandnew trunk board, Honda Key ring light, OEM Honda Console light, Honda Dimmer switch, OEM Honda Cruise control switch, Honda Trunk Board • Exterior: Vision Type DC Carbon Fiber Side Mirrors, Bnew Blue Glass Front & Rear Windshield, Honda Tail lights, Honda OEM Honda Front Chin, Front/Rear Windshield Mouldings, Honda Type R Headlights, Honda Door Sash, Honda Wiper Cowl and Clips, Honda Door outer Mouldings, Moonroof Mouldings, Hood Rubber Mouldings Honda Front and Rear Bumpers, Honda Roof Sill Mouldings, Honda Door Catcher, Honda Trunk Catcher, Honda Trunk Lock, Bnew Honda Bolts for Seat Rails Honda Side Skirts, Honda Antenna Cap Delete • Body & Paint: Phoenix Yellow Cromax Paint Painted inside and outside, underneath.

Stripped to Metal Custom Paint Work by Steve’s Car care

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WHO SAID T H AT S TAT I O N WAGONS CAN’T BE MODDED TO LOOK C O O L?

Words:

Francis G. Pallarco Photos:

Randy Silva-Netto

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TUNER

WAGON DELIGHT

TUNER

H

ighly regarded as the family car, just about every car manufacturer had a station wagon in their vehicle line up back in the day. Aside from taking the kids to school, it could accommodate every family member, including the dog on out-of-town vacation trips. It sure sounds utilitarian if you ask me, but that doesn’t mean they couldn’t be modded to look great. What’s more, I think it’s time to change the family-oriented image of the station wagon with Sonson and Alex Lim’s ultra-cool Honda Orthia Station Wagon that never fails to attract attention wherever it goes.

Based on the popular, sixthgeneration, Honda Civic platform, the Orthia Station wagon looks familiar because it is essentially a Civic station wagon. Made exclusively for the Japanese market, this explains why there’s hardly any example roaming our streets. It was available from ’96 to ’02, with Honda calling it a "Sport Utility Wagon" and was sold at Honda Primo dealerships. Engine options were between the 1.8- or 2.0-liter, twin cam, B-series engine

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with manual or automatic trannies.

But what’s interesting is the 2.0-liter variant that came with an all-wheel drive system. Yep, it’s the same AWD Honda technology found on the firstgeneration CR-V. Once the system senses that it's losing traction, it engages the rear differential with a multi-plate clutch for improved traction.

It’s highly uncommon, so imagine their surprise when Sonson stumbled upon one up for sale as he recalls, “It was 2019 when I saw this ’97 Honda

Based on the popular sixthgeneration Honda Civic platform, the Orthia Station wagon looks familiar because it is essentially a Civic station wagon.

Orthia posted on a large group for EK enthusiasts, but somehow it wasn’t getting any attention. So, when me and my brother saw the post, we immediately called the owner and told him to take down the post, and we’ll arrange the payment for the purchase.

To cut the long story short, we bought it without looking at the condition of the car and immediately had it shipped here in Manila from Mindanao.” Having finished a stunning Corolla (AE-101) Wagon build that won its class during

the 2018 Trans Sport show, they were really looking for another unique wagon project when they came across this Honda Orthia, which became what Sonson calls he and his brother’s 2020 pandemic joint project.

A significant portion of the wagon’s build was devoted to the body and paint process done by HQ Restoration. This includes changing the front fascia with a Civic SiR front end and the rear fascia with updated Orthia components.

Something that proved to be a challenge to source as Sonson says, “We had difficulty looking for the Orthia rear end conversion than the Civic SiR components. But it was necessary because we wanted it to match the 1999-2000 (SIR) front face and more importantly make it look proper. In the process, this Orthia is the first with a Civic SiR front end converted in the Philippines, making it a Civic wagon. A lot of kind people helped us source the right parts and right process for the car, and we want to thank each and every one of them.” I must say, the results speak for itself, having pulled off a seamless conversion that really looks factory correct from any angle. I can only imagine the huge demand if Honda locally sold wagons like this back then.

Adding to the nostalgic nineties-vibe is the slightly tweaked Sunburst Yellow color that’s also period correct. This was locally offered by Honda only on select models and for a limited time during ’99-’00 as Sonson quips, “We settled on using Sunburst yellow, which is a classic Honda color, but we made it slightly darker just to make the wagon stand out more.”

Since this wagon will be more of a cruiser, they opted to keep everything intact. I agree and more importantly, I think this helps a lot in preserving

“Judging by how it turned out and given its rarity on our local car scene, this Orthia wagon is a certified attention magnet.” the wagon’s value. This includes the 2.0-liter engine, automatic tranny and the fully functional AWD driveline. Summing up the Orthia’s intact interior, Sonson quips, “Since we like how fresh and complete the black/red interior is, we decided not to change it anymore and keep it as stock as possible.” They did, however, add an aftermarket piece that also hails from the era. It’s a colorful, three-spoke steering wheel from Benetton that was all the rage during the nineties. Being in the business of selling suspension components,

A significant portion of this Orthia wagon build was devoted to the body and paint process done by HQ Restoration.

this is one aspect that surely won’t be left stock. “We customized our Dynamics coil overs and incorporated an air suspension system to achieve a more stunning stance for the car.

Breaking necks every now and then.”

It rolls on everyone’s favorite 17-inch TE-37 wheels from Rays and wrapped with Sailun Attrezo tires. Judging by how it turned out and given its rarity on our local car scene, this Orthia wagon is a certified attention magnet.

Most especially the moment the air suspension drops it on the ground. I mean, literally.

Specifications — 1997 Honda Orthia Civic Wagon (EL2) / Alex and Sonson Lim Engine: Honda B20B, 2.0-Liter, Inline-4, DOHC with VTEC • Other Stuff: Dynamics Oil Cap, Dynamics Radiator Cap, Dynamics VTEC Solenoid Cover, Emtrac Battery, Totachi Fluids Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic with Honda AWD System • Brakes: Dynamics (6-Piston) Brake Calipers, Dynamics (304mm) Rotor Discs, Dynamics Stainless Steel Braided Brake Lines • Suspension: Dynamics Coil Overs & Fitment Engineering Air Suspension System, Dynamics (Front & Rear) Camber Correction Kit • Rollers: Volk Rays TE37 Wheels (17x7.5), Volk rays Type-B center Caps, Sailun Atrezzo ZSR Tires (204/40ZR17) • Other Stuff: Momo/Benetton Steering Wheel, Spoon (Front) Strut Bar, Spoon Rearview Mirror, PIAA Otto Style Horn • Body & Paint: HQ Restoration • Kudos To: Leonard Lim & Noli Cabreros of HQ Restoration/JC Auto Electrical, Dynamics performance Engineering, Banawe Boy, Emtrac/Varta Batteries PH, Sailun Tires, Totachi, jdmundergroundph, Stance Pilipinas, Legends of the 90’s, Johnd Santos - Buff n’ Grime, Harold Canarias - JDMUSDM Parts, Glenn Porcalla - Japanice Parts, Bodz Garcia - B-Spec Aftermarket, Kevin Limpiada - Zidcar, Chris Albao - OSMR, Kyle Erald - Fitment Engineering, Jack Cruz - Jackula Wheels, Buzzhype Motorsports, Kowloon House, DBTK, Illest, Fixman, Modiparts, Bad Boy Sagad, No Limit, Glass Monkey, Maffy Yu Tan, Franklin Lu, Orlando Jarlego, Ivan Ng, Erik Rugayan, Aristotle Kang, Michael Lim

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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 J U N E

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E V E RY T H I N G A N D A N Y T H I N G T WO W H E E L S

2022 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Twin Individual mobility with joyful charisma and rider satisfaction! page 90

Saddled Freedom

A Renaissance of Motorcycle Culture

T

he incredible breadth of variety and attainability of motorcycles in our market is unprecedented. The growth of the industry has been truly great but with the huge numbers on the road, regulations and new rules should now be applied swiftly to protect both the riders and their automobile road sharers, as well as the general public. Following the Honda Safety School, the Ducati Riding Experience and the California Superbike School programs, which are purely voluntary, more if not all motorcycle distributors and dealers should have compulsory rider training programs to educate their customers not just for their personal and tandem rider safety but also for the safety of the general public. I can’t emphasize that enough.

We are seeing an entry of even more new brands, a recirculation or division of some current brands like Aprilia for example, and a whole new barrage of electrified mobility solutions. The particular segment that has really tugged at my heart strings have been the retrospective motorbikes. I love the fusion of old school character with modern safety, efficiency, and dynamic performance.

The Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Twin is my current favorite. The Continental GT has so much real-world charisma. It is certainly not the quickest or the fastest in its segment, and it has its own unique quirkiness. But for seasoned riders who recognize that outright blinding pace is not

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“We are seeing an entry of even more new brands, a recirculation or division of some current brands like Aprilia for example, and a whole new barrage of electrified mobility solutions.”

Kevin C. Limjoco FOUNDING EDITOR / PRESIDENT / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

as critical as the overall riding experience, it is still plenty swift and agile when required.

It rides with a characterful and completely inoffensive standard exhaust system and it is also fully legal on the highway too for all day effortless cruising throughout the archipelago.

For those riders who want more modern dynamic performance and serious pace, the standard well established brands have their own distinct representations of the retro/ heritage bikes. Such examples from Kawasaki are the iconic Z1-inspired Z900RS (MSRP: PhP 664,000.00), W800 Street (MSRP: PhP 515,000.00) and the Z650RS (MSRP: PhP 469,500.00). And from Suzuki there is the modern classic Katana-inspired GSX-S1000 (MSRP: PhP 710,000.00). I look forward to reviewing these models myself soon so I can share the experience and present the instrumented performance results.

The latest brand to enter our market, which was also presented during the recently concluded MIAS 2022, is Mutt Motorcycles out of Birmingham, United Kingdom. These new semi-bespoke thumpers look brilliant though they are limited to Suzuki-sourced GN 125cc and 250cc powerplants so far. We should be testing these very soon too.

Motorized personal mobility for the Philippines has never been this great. But with all this goodness comes the greater responsibility to make sure that riders are trained and licensed properly for everyone’s road safety and enjoyment.

Share the road. Ride safe. Stay alive.

Check your mirror for motorcyclist.

A Safety Reminder From

WHEEL2WHEEL

T

he Royal Enfield Classic 350 thumper is a great entry point for practical rider nostalgia and for general usage, but for those novice or returning seasoned riders looking for significantly more oomph and even more pronounced charisma, then the new Continental GT 650 Twin is the steed to have. Once again, the model has been reviewed before but I wanted my own direct experience with it to either reconfirm how great it is or perhaps reel it back for revaluation. I am so pleased that I did take the opportunity to test the brilliant café racer, it exceeded my expectations, I loved it!

I can genuinely confirm that the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Twin is the most compelling standard mid-range bike in our market today for its value-for-money, its overall design and packaging, and ultimately the joy it creates while you are zipping

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Bike Review

2022 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Twin The Café Racer Standard Words:

Kevin C. Limjoco

Photos:

Isabel N. Delos Reyes

effortlessly along with its cool clip-on handlebars and unique voice.

Our test unit came in British Racing Green livery which is very tasteful with a balanced amount of contrasting colors and materials. The cafe-racerstyled Continental GT 650 Twin is a middleweight by displacement but it handles like a 200-cc motorcycle on

2 liters of coffee. It is a proper retromodern standard. The Continental GT 650 Twin uses fuel injected Mikuni throttle bodies to fuel the lovely polished air/oil-cooled, SOHC, 648cc, parallel-twin, four-valve-per-cylinder engine with a 270-degree crankshaft.

The valve rocker arms utilize rollers on the cam side and screw/locknut

adjustable tappets on the valve side, a smooth power assist/slipper clutch, and a primary gear-driven clutch with a 6-speed transmission to optimize the more than sufficient 47 bhp @ 7,250 rpm and 38 pound-feet of torque @ 5,250 rpm. More than 80% of the torque is available from 2,500 rpm so the GT does not feel underpowered at all.

The steel double-downtube cradle frame was designed with the help of renowned chassis builders Harris Performance. The non-adjustable 41mm conventional front forks with rubber gaiter boots and twin reservoirequipped shocks (with seven-step rear spring preload adjustments) are from Gabriel. The brakes are handled

by ByBre (Brembo subsidiary) with Bosch dual-channel ABS, a twin-piston slide-pin caliper up front squeezing a single 12.6-inch (320 mm) drilled disc and a single piston slide-pin caliper at the rear managing a 9.45-inch drilled (240 mm) rear disc. The wheels are glorious vintage 36-spoke aluminum

Rating 10/10 Plus

Oozing with charisma, traditional effortless use, solid reputation, hugely fun to ride, fuel efficient.

Minus

H4 halogen bulb headlight (which thankfully can easily be replaced with an LED unit), non-LED turn signals and stoplight.

alloy rims, fitted onto bespoke inner tube-type CEAT Zoom Cruz F tires, specially developed for Royal Enfield, 2.50 x 18-inch rim with 100/90-18 M/C 56H in the front and slightly wider 3.50 x 18-inch rear rim shod with 130/70-18 M/C 63H. The tires are dynamically balanced but I would prefer the optional Pirelli Phantom Sportscomp tires which offer more grip for more aggressive riding. Ground clearance is 174 mm with a 24-degree rake angle and 106 mm of trail, and weighs in wet at 450 pounds (204 kg.) so the GT rides with pronounced nimbleness.

The Continental GT’s instrumentation is straightforward with a traditional yet tasteful round tachometer and speedometer setup that includes a digital fuel gauge and odometer but I wish it had both mph and km/h speed measure formats included. I also wish the lighting was updated to LED for illumination strength, better aesthetics, energy efficiency, and reduced heat. The

lovely sculpted tank holds 13.7 liters of fuel with a neat Monza-style fuel cap.

The standard mirrors work well but I wish the optional bar-end mirrors (P7,616.00) were packaged together with the Continental GT pre-release.

A matching optional rear green seat cowl at P5,890.37 would complete the look too. The great news is that you can tailor your bike to you own tastes at the dealership level with many optional equipment and 4 more available color packages that include the chrome-tank Mr. Clean variant.

The Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Twin has its own unique sound from the nicely upswept twin pipes massaged by the unique buzzy characteristics of the air-cooled twin engine. The switch gears are simple and all function well.

The engine likes to rev but you will not get much more power beyond 7,250 rpm.

Best to ride within the sweet powerband and within the limits of the tires and suspension. Acceleration is fairly strong from naught up to 160 km/h, all you will ever need on public roads. The next 40 km/h takes much more conviction to kiss 200 km/h but it is unnecessary. On spindly tires and naked, with modest power and suspension optimized for real-world use, the Continental GT is best enjoyed solo and ridden with reserved persuasion. If you want an aggressive and tactile speed demon, this Royal Enfield is not for you even if it is hugely rewarding and supremely entertaining at normal travel speeds.

The steering is delightfully light and neutral, though the rear will twitch a bit when ridden aggressively.

Considering the ease of use, the sublime styling, and the authentic enjoyment that the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Twin produces for the price, it is a total bargain. The build quality and detailing are excellent.

And since it is a 650cc motorbike, you can use it legally on all our Philippine motorways too. So, as it stands, given the unique combination of design, capable performance, affordability, and build quality, the Continental GT is a resounding and characterful hit.

Specification — 2022 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Twin Engine: Parallel Two-cylinder, Air/Oil-cooled, 648 cc, SOHC, 8 valves, EFI, 6-speed MT. • Max power: 47 bhp @ 7250 rpm • Max torque: 38 lb-ft @ 5150 rpm 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 5.8 sec. • Top Speed: 192 km/h (120 mph) • Fuel Mileage: 3.57L/100km overall • Price as tested: PhP 394,000.00

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Bike Review

2022 Triumph Trident 660 A Unique Triple Threat Words:

Kevin C. Limjoco

T

Photos:

Isabel N. Delos Reyes

he middleweight standard bike from Hinckley, United Kingdom, the new Triumph Trident 660, may be deemed as a stepping stone model for many riders, but for many others it could be the special generalist

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tool with distinctive style that they have been longing for years. With 80 horsepower on tap at 10,250 rpm, 47 lb-ft of torque at 6,250 rpm, 189 kg. light weight, narrow proportions, and comfortable ergonomics, the Trident 660 is a very agile and potently swift daily use motorbike. At P512,000.00

though for our test unit with red contrasting painted radiator cowls, it certainly is not a quick purchase.

It is priced fairly competitively against other comparatively dynamic middleweights in our market. So, how does the Triumph stand out amongst all the other very compelling alternatives?

Performance, pedigree, and packaging, in varied measures.

The Trident 660 was specifically developed as Triumph’s entry-level motorcycle for new riders but it doesn’t feel marginalized or compromised at all. The new 3-inline cylinder motor is derived from the Daytona 675 model with modifications and it's very healthy.

There is a slip and assist clutch to reduce engine braking and lighten clutch lever action as well. There are two riding modes managed by the ECU; road and rain. It has a balanced power to weight ratio, it is practical, very quick, and easy to maximize despite the reduced suspension adjustability. There is some buzziness inherent with inline-3 engines but it is inconsequential.

The 7” LED headlight and general lighting are good. I like that the signal lights self-cancel too but I do have some issues with the monochromatic instrument screen that displays speed, engine speed, and the fuel gauge. The color TFT screen below it displays gear selection, odometer, trip meters, time, calendar, set-up menus, and when used with Triumph’s mobile app can be used to display turn-by-turn sat nav, music, and call functions. But I wish that the top instrumentation for the speedometer and tachometer were analog, while all the rest of the data could be displayed in a color screen, just my thoughts.

The 805mm seat height is very forgiving for vertically challenged riders like myself which certainly

helps with building rider confidence.

I am a husky 5’6” in height and weigh in close to 200 pounds yet I felt that the Trident 660 produced strong and unencumbered motivation at all times. I love the look of standard naked motorcycles but you do have to contend with all the wind turbulence and how it severely affects aerodynamics at aggressive speeds.

The tubular steel perimeter frame and twin-sided, fabricated steel swingarm are very compliant and forgiving. The Showa 41 mm upside-down forks up front with 4.72 in (120 mm) wheel travel and the rear Showa monoshock RSU with preload adjustment and 5.25 in (133.5 mm) wheel travel suspension systems provide supple damping

Rating 9.5/10 Plus

New riderfriendly, build quality, pedigree, agility, dynamic performance.

Minus

Lacks the sense of occasion

characteristics for a generally comfortable and well controlled ride combined with the versatile Michelin ‘Road 5’ tires (120/70ZR17 58W front mounted on an aluminum 17 x 3.5” wheel / 180/55ZR17 73W rear mounted on an aluminum 17 x 5.5” wheel).

Speed management and ABS safety is handled by the excellent Nissin braking system (2-piston sliding front calipers with twin 310 mm drilled discs and single piston caliper on a 255 mm drilled rear disc).

The Triumph Trident 660 is a wellequipped and friendly middleweight standard motorcycle that both new and experienced riders will enjoy. It is an accomplished generalist that can exploit its bulbous 14-liter fuel tank to maximum benefit all day and every day.

Specification — 2022 Triumph Trident 660 Engine: Inline-3, Liquid-cooled, 660 cc, DOHC, 12 valves, EFI, 6-speed MT • Max power: 80 bhp @ 10250 rpm • Max torque: 47 lb-ft @ 6250 rpm 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 3.9 sec. • Top Speed: 214 km/h (134 mph) • Fuel Mileage: 5.1L/100km overall • Price as tested: PhP 512,000.00

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Bike Review

2022 Harley-Davidson Pan America™ 1250 Special Adventures with Spirit Words:

Kevin C. Limjoco Photos:

Isabel N. Delos Reyes

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T

he last Harley-Davidson that I’ve had the pleasure of riding was back in 1992 on an air-cooled 883 Deluxe Sportster. The highlight then was that the attainable and charismatic bike had the Evolution engine combined with a 5-speed transmission and a belt drive.

It has literally been 30 years since I’ve actually ridden a Harley-Davidson until this 2022 Pan America 1250 Special adventure bike. So, yes even if I am totally aware of the progress and literal evolution of the product range over the years that now include electrified propulsion, I was very surprised with how starkly different the riding experience was even taking in full consideration the tall adventure bike configuration.

The traditional mighty rumble has been silenced. Don’t get me wrong, I honestly do not like the excessively loud aftermarket exhaust pipes, more particularly the systems that also remove the catalytic converters that liberate a little power but sacrifices

our environment and creates too much noise pollution in the process. But I did miss the characteristic low resonance notes nonetheless.

Once again, our test unit of the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special was possible through the courtesy of Wheeltek Harley-Davidson of Cavite (Wheeltek Harley-Davidson of Cavite, Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, Anabu 2-D, Imus Cavite, Contact person: Louise Cabral, Sales & Marketing Manager, 0917-6014240 and (046) 4027844, www.wheeltekharleydavidsonofcavite.com).

When many seasoned fellows like myself think about the HarleyDavidson brand, the images that swiftly pop up in mind automatically are leather clad and heavily tattooed biker gangs cruising the open roads of Middle America in huge numbers.

In fact, before throwing my leg over the Pan America 1250 Special, my introduction to the new adventure bikes of Harley-Davidson was through the awesome latest documentary series of Ewan McGregor and Charley

Boorman, their third series, called The Long Way Up, where they rode bespoke LiveWire electric bikes from Ushuaia in Argentina through South and Central America to Los Angeles in the United States. So, riding the Pan America 1250 in the flesh was certainly exciting and I was already mentally prepared for the non-traditional but tasteful and unique styling.

The Pan America 1250 Special is a lot of motorcycle but its size is mostly accentuated by its height. Once you are on the bike and moving, it rides like a much smaller bike. The excellent semiactive suspension and adaptive ride height (under normal operation the front and rear suspension have a total of 191mm (7.48 inches) of travel, and lowers the suspension a couple of inches while at a standstill, allowing vertically challenged riders to reach the ground with both feet, and raises the suspension to its optimum ride height when at speed) all contribute to a sensational riding experience with genuine confidence.

Our Wheel2Wheel Editor Maynard Marcelo expertly reviewed the bike awhile back and his shared experience was so compelling that he made me want to give it a try too. I am a bit shorter and much heavier than Maynard so I was worried that my chunky legs would struggle with mounting and managing bike. Thankfully, the two-toned Orange Pan America is a very well-engineered and thoughtful multi-purpose riding tool. I can’t say it was easy to manage at first but you adapt swiftly to its proportions and customizable riding modes.

The all-new Revolution Max 1250 V-twin motor is a very smooth and linear powerplant that produces all the power you need to explore our archipelago. The only criticism I may have is that it may even be perhaps too refined. But that is obviously a good thing; for example, the hydraulic valve adjusters of the Revolution motor don’t need as much attention like the older Harley engines so you save on maintenance costs and down time. Unlike older generation powerplants, the Revolution Max 1250 runs on significantly higher engine speeds and seems to relish it too.

The torque delivery, though substantial at 94 lb-ft, arrives at a higher peak engine speed so that it is easier to manage low-speed trailing off-road.

Our Baja Orange/Stone Washed White Pearl test unit came with a good number of optional equipment like additional lighting, a Screamin’ Eagle exhaust (which was thankfully muted) and the rear aluminum TopBox for bringing

extra gear. The dealer has a long list of available optional equipment to suit every rider’s requirements.

Thankfully too, much like most available premium motorcycles in the market, Harley-Davidson made sure that the standard safety equipment and rider aids like the five pre-programmed riding modes for Rain, Road, Sport, Off-Road, and Off-Road Plus with two additional customizable modes are very thorough combined with the vital ABS systems. A 6-axis IMU governs the semi-active electronic suspension, cornering ABS, lean sensitive traction control, hill hold control, and for the 1250 Special, the cornering lights.

The large 6.8-inch TFT color touchscreen instrument panel is fairly straightforward and necessary nowadays but I honestly wish the instrumentation still had a separate analog speedometer and tachometer combined with the screen.

For off-road ability and versatility, the Pan America 1250 Special rolls on 19-inch front (120/70-19) and 17-inch rear tubeless laced wheels shod with (170/60-17) H-D co-branded Michelin

Scorcher Adventure tires that are designed for 70 percent road and 30 percent off-road use.

The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special adventure bike is a charismatic and classy tool to own and enjoy for a lifetime. It is generally quite a substantial motorcycle for our riding environment that would be blissfully enjoyed further in less restrictive theaters but for the few that can afford the brilliance of it and have the physical ability to explore its very deep abilities, their spirits would soar every second behind those lofty handlebars.

Plus Innovative

Rating

9.5/10 adaptive ride height, hydraulic valve lash adjuster, powerful and smooth motor, fully customizable ride modes and suspension settings.

Minus No quick shifter, cumbersome button control layout, unusual side-stand placement.

Specification — 2022 Harley-Davidson Pan America™ 1250 Special Engine: 60° V-Twin, Liquid-cooled, 1252 cc, 4 valves, EFI, DOHC, VVT, 6-speed MT. • Max power: 150 bhp @ 9000 rpm • Max torque: 94 lb-ft @ 6750 rpm 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 3.5 sec. • Top Speed: 228 km/h (142 mph) • Fuel Mileage: 5.1L/100km overall Price as tested: PhP 1,520,000.00 (two-tone and our test unit sans the optional equipment) / PhP 1,500,000.00 (single color) / PhP 1,480,000.00 (black)

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Bike Review

100th Anniversary Indian Chief Dark Horse Smart and Iconic Words:

Maki Aganon Photos:

Randy R. Silva-Netto

C

hief means leader of a tribe or clan.

Chieftain as it's fully disclosed, it simply suggests authority, significance and principal manifestation.

A purveyor of American motorcycle's traditional styling, a company with a legacy of over 100 years, a history of pioneering in the US motorcycle industry, and leading the charge in motorcycle production and innovation. In short, America's first motorcycle company.

Brand Over its years of existence, the company displayed extraordinary resilience, withstanding two World Wars, significantly contributing to the war effort during the conflict. It is also the company that built the first, now-iconic V-twin used as a racing engine, also introduced as a consumer model.

Today, Indian Motorcycles has been revitalized with the acquisition by Polaris Industries by still offering iconic models such as the Scout and Chief.

The company has also embraced new technology, better partnerships and new lineup expansion.

Design After 100 years, since 1921, the Indian Motorcycle Chief is reborn, retaining its iconic novelty now equipped with modern technology. It retains its timeless design, commanding stance, steel frame, 64-inch wheelbase and neck-breaking aura that shout's "Hey! I'm here".

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Engine In 2013, Indian Motorcycle unveiled a massive 111-cubic inch engine called Thunderstroke. It pumps 115 footpounds of torque that set a land speed record in the Salt Flats dubbed as "The World's Fastest Indian."

This Indian Chief Dark Horse is equipped with 116 Thunderstroke, aircooled, with heart-pumping 120 ft-lbs torque that leaves everything behind in the breakaway.

Handling Surprisingly, the Indian Chief Dark Horse is very quick and responsive on corners and has good balance. The suspension is well behaved on straight line touring performance, and "not a pain-in-the-ass" on sudden bumps. It can glide smoothly on corners without any worry that the footpeg might scrape, thanks to the mid-mount foot controls. The drag bars give the rider a forward and more aggressive riding posture. The clutch is butter-soft, wet multi-plate.

Here's the thing, the brute weighs about 650 lbs, has a 5.33-foot wheelbase with 19's in the front and 180 at the back. The cruiser spells a 18.5-degree lean angle that will blow anyone's mind.

How the heck is this bike flickable with a 1890cc engine?

Call it science and engineering.

Equipment It's a 100 year old geek. First, it has LED H/T. Standard equipped with ABS, USB charge port, and rear cylinder deactivation. Then it has a Touchscreen display called Ride Command, a 4-inch round display that shows navigation, real time traffic and weather, time, ambient temperature, heading, audio info display, vehicle status, vehicle info, ride trip meter, distance, ride mode selector (Tour, Standard & Sport), screen brightness and vehicle trouble code. It basically has everything that you need to familiarize yourself with.

The Ride Command is a canned technology that hides in plain view.

It allows you to control your screen

WHEEL2WHEEL I'm literally caught off-guard by how well the bike corners like any standard.

I have very little expectations trying to play catch-up riding a cruiser, but this is entirely different. The mid-rise pegs don't scrape, it handles well and the wheelbase and tire size combo is perfectly complementing. I'd bet that any skilled rider that tries the bike would say that this is one of the better handling cruisers on the market today.

Lobo loop with a cruiser is such an amazing experience. It did not fail mechanically, bouncing on big rocks.

The clutch and gearing system works as commanded, and thanks to its low seat height, I was able to maintain balance when I needed it most. It was uncomfortable but it was really satisfying. The Indian Chief Dark Horse was not in its comfort zone, but this ride tends to bring out the best in any bike. At least, we all know. If the Chief can come in, it definitely can make it out. Happiness is not just about you and your bike, it is how well man and machine can carry it through and call it a good day. One for the books, indeed.

Verdict without taking your hands off the handlebars. It has a joystick that allows you to manipulate your riding experience, visuals and navigation that will surely enhance your riding pleasure. It has selectable day and night mode, answer and decline calls and connect via Bluetooth to select your tunes on the road.

Value If you're in the market for an iconic conversational bike that has an undeniable history of records and legends of old, then this is one that you should consider. A true American bike that retains its proud pioneering looks, commanding stance and minimalist looks. Not to mention, it is equipped with all the latest technology that any owner can personalize for his/her riding experience, then this is for you.

If you enjoy long, scenic views owning the power within your handlebars, I'm sure any long distance highway trip is attainable with ease, and is also capable of any twisty road you might encounter.

Actual Usage Unplanned rides turn out to be one of the best ones. A trip to Lobo didn't seem like a bad idea and I figured it would be worth doing since I had never been there before. It was both exciting and nerve wracking because one, it would be my first time there, and two, I'd be riding a 650-pound, 1890cc cruiser. As expected, the Indian Chief Dark Horse is all-power in the straights.

You can't even maximize up to 6th gear.

At 4th, I'm already within my speed limits. It feels like authority. Like a power-conserving master that has a lot of energy to spend for the real battle.

Rating 9/10 Plus

Light on its feet, stable and predictable handling, superb build quality, attention to details.

Minus

Another disc at the front would be nice, and a louder exhaust system.

If only they can upgrade it into a double disc brake, then that would be the cherry on top. The amount of torque output should complement the stopping power as well. The exhaust sound is a bit...nice, I'm looking for a more bad-arse tune to complement its style. Spoked wheels could also help shed some weight off the bike, to make it more flickable.

Overall I would recommend this to anyone who is a long distance traveller that also seeks twisty road fun and loves to play around with modern technology. You can't go wrong with massive power, simple and iconic styling equipped with the latest tech. The bike has a strong branding foundation, like a tribe that keeps it true and adapting to the changes of time.

Specification — 2022 Indian Chief Dark Horse Engine: Thunderstroke 116; fuel-injected, air-cooled, V-twin, 4 valves • Displacement: 1890 cc • Max Power: 79 hp @ 4720 rpm • Max Torque: 120 lb-ft @ 2900 rpm Transmission: 6-speed • Seat Height: 662mm • Fuel Capacity: 15.1 Liters • Tire, Front: 130/60-19 • Tire, Rear: 180/65-16 • Brakes, Front/ Rear: Disc/Disc ABS Curb Weight: 304 kg. (with oil and full tank) • 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 4.6 sec. • Top speed: 201 Km/h (126 mph) Price: PhP 1,285,000 (Stealth Gray), PhP 1,250,000 (Black Smoke and Alumina Jade Smoke)

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Bike Review

2022 CFMoto 700CL-X Heritage Masterful Undercut Words:

Maynard M. Marcelo Photos:

Randy R. Silva-Netto

I

t took two years before the CFMoto 700CL-X Heritage made its Philippine debut after seeing it for the first time at the 2019 EICMA show in Milan, Italy. But after spending a week with it, courtesy of Motostrada, the Philippine distributor of CFMoto motorcycles, we reckon it was worth the wait.

COVID-19 restrictions notwithstanding, we went to the spacious CFMoto Philippines showroom in Caloocan City a day after being told to collect the test unit. Looking rugged yet elegant at the same time with its dark blue metallic on matte silver colorway, it’s easy to see where CFMoto got its inspiration for the styling of the 700CL-X. I like the Coal Gray variant more with its brown leatherette seat cover and bronze painted aluminum wheels but after seeing the Twilight Blue for the first time I must say it looks equally as good.

The 700CL-X Heritage is one of three 700CLX models that were launched back in 2019 in EICMA; namely the 700CL-X Heritage, 700CLX Sport, and 700CL-X Adventure. Of the trio, only the 700CL-X Adventure has yet to arrive on Philippine shores. The 700CL-X Sport was launched to the Philippine market last year.

What makes CFMoto motorcycles very appealing to Filipino consumers are their affordability, and the new 700CL-X Heritage is no exception. Priced at PhP369,800 the 700CLX Heritage undercuts its closest Japanese competitors by several thousand pesos while offering a whole lot more in terms of standard

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features and a unique neo-retro styling.

Speaking of which, the design of the 700CL-X is an expression of pure simplicity, using modern technology and craftsmanship to interpret the retro styling. Naturally, a large number of vintage elements are present: round headlights, round gauges, round rearview mirrors, relatively exposed frames, slim fuel tank and retro seat cushions.

Attention to details and much emphasis on the CL-X branding can be

seen all over the bike. The “X” design element of the headlights and the “H” design element of the rear tail lights enhance the model recognition. The 700CL-X possesses the innovative lighting system that automatically switches on/off according to ambient light brightness.

To add more value and peace of mind to would-be buyers, CFMoto equipped the 700CL-X Heritage with high quality components. Standard

WHEEL2WHEEL

Pirelli tires provide outstanding grip in all weather conditions, fully-adjustable KYB front and rear suspension system, and highperformance J. Juan braking system (now owned by Brembo, no less) that will allow you to confidently travel in different road conditions and environments.

Setting the 700CL-X Heritage apart from its competitors are top notch electronics such as two-channel ABS, electronically controlled throttle, slipper clutch, electronic protection control unit, cruise control, and the retro inspired LCD instrument with a 75mm surface diameter that can be paired to your mobile device via

Bluetooth. The information center can also display a variety of real-time information such as fuel consumption and incoming calls. The 700CL-X is also equipped with a USB charging port under the seat, allowing the rider to charge electronic devices on the go.

Obviously designed with new riders in mind, CFMoto equipped the 700CLX Heritage with a host of standard safety features like the ignition protection. The bike can only be started in neutral gear or with the clutch held and side stand released. It also has a built-in rollover sensor. When the bike is dropped or tilted to a certain degree, the sensor reacts and shuts off the engine. In case of an engine control

Rating 10/10 Plus

Affordability, good build quality, top rate components, and long list of standard features Minus

Lack of mounting points for a tail bag

unit failure, a Limp Home Mode will take effect and the driver can still ride at a limited speed without being left stranded on the side of the road.

Thankfully, we had no need to use the Limp Home Mode feature during our time with the 700CL-X Heritage.

The newly developed 692cc parallel twin-cylinder liquid-cooled engine on the 700CL-X embodies over thirty years of refinement, featuring splittype connecting rods, forged pistons, electronic throttle, and slipper/assist clutch. The optimized intake system improves efficiency and increases the peak power of the engine to 74 bhp and 50 lb-ft of torque compared to the 650cc parallel-twin motor (60 bhp and 41 lb-ft) it was based on. There are two ride modes available: Eco and Sport.

Eco provides a softer throttle response while Sport is more aggressive.

Making more power and weighing significantly less than its 650 NK sport naked sibling, the 700CL-X Heritage feels faster accelerating and more agile in corners even with its scrambler size 17-inch rear and 18-inch front wheels.

Less weight also translates to more responsive braking performance.

What we are sure everyone will appreciate on the 700CL-X Heritage is its broad spread of torque. There’s plenty of usable torque at just above tickover that you can leave it in second or third gear, depending on your speed, and it will chug along smoothly even going uphill and with little throttle inputs. The cruise control is also easy and a joy to use.

With its low price vis-a-vis its standard list of features, Asian friendly seat height of just 800mm, light handling, comfortable ergonomics, and accessible performance, the 700CL-X Heritage will certainly appeal to many riders of any skill levels. Even if you have qualms about buying a China brand motorcycle, a quick spin on the 700CL-X Heritage just might change your perception.

Specification — 2022 CFMoto 700CL-X Heritage Engine: Fuel-injected, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin, dohc, 8 valves • Displacement: 693 cc • Max Power: 74 hp @ 8500 rpm • Max Torque: 50 lb-ft @ 6500 rpm Transmission: 6-speed • Seat Height: 800mm • Fuel Capacity: 13 Liters • Tire, Front: 110/80 x 18 • Tire, Rear: 180/55 x 17 • Brakes, Front/ Rear: 2 Disc/Disc ABS Curb Weight: 196 kg. • 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 4.3 sec. • Top Speed: 198 Km/h (124 mph) • Fuel Mileage: 4.3L/100km overall • Price: PhP 369,800.00

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2022

99

It looks even more stupid on your car.

According to Presidential Decree No. 96, the use of sirens is reserved for select government and emergency vehicles. If your car isn’t one of them, you’ll not only look silly, you’ll also be breaking the law.

A Safety Reminder From

BUYER'S GUIDE

MPV/AUV

THE FOUNDATION OF AUTOMOTIVE UTILITY

BUYER’S GUIDE

BAIC M50S BAIC M50S

Engine/Drive: Front/ Rear

Body/Seats: 5 dr MPV/ 5

POWERTRAIN

L/W/H: 4525 mm/1700 mm/1818 mm PERFORMANCE

Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2790 mm

SAFET Y

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 1270 kg

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)

LS

G

1.5

I4

114

111

5M

15

150

9

13

S

2

N

S

S

N

638,000

—

LT Readline

G

1.5

I4

114

111

5M

15

150

9

13

S

2

N

S

S

N

668,000

—

BAIC M60 BAIC M60

Engine/Drive: Front/ Front

Body/Seats: 5 dr MPV/ 7

POWERTRAIN

102

L/W/H: 4800mm/1824mm/1725mm PERFORMANCE Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 1445 kg

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)

Standard

G

1.5T

I4

148

155

CVT

14

170

9.1

15.1

S

2

N

S

N

N

—

998,000

Luxury

G

1.5T

I4

148

155

CVT

14

170

9.1

15.1

S

4

S

S

S

N

—

1,068,000

JUNE 2022 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2760 mm

SAFET Y

BUYER’S GUIDE

BAIC MZ BAIC MZ

Engine/Drive: Front/ Rear

Body/Seats: 5 dr MPV/ 8 Seater

POWERTRAIN

L/W/H: 4030 mm/1500 mm/1500 mm

PERFORMANCE Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2700 mm

SAFET Y

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 1165-1185 kg

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)

MZ40 Cargo (2-Seater)

G

1.2

I4

86

80

5M

N

130

—

—

N

N

N

S

N

N

488,000

—

MZ40 Luxury (7-Seater)

G

1.2

I4

86

80

5M

N

130

—

—

N

N

N

S

N

N

498,000

—

MZ45 Transporter (11-Seater)

G

1.2

I4

86

80

5M

N

130

—

—

N

N

N

S

N

N

598,000

—

Honda BR-V Honda BR-V

Engine/Drive: Front/ Front

Body/Seats: 5 dr SUV/7

POWERTRAIN

L/W/H: 4453 mm/1735 mm/1666 mm PERFORMANCE

Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2662 mm

SAFET Y

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 1250 kg

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)

S

G

1.5

I4

116

107

CVT

10.2

184

11.1

15.1

S

2

S

S

N

N

—

1,048,000

V

G

1.5

I4

116

107

CVT

10.2

184

11.4

15.1

S

2

S

S

N

N

—

1,168,000

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2022

103

BUYER’S GUIDE

JAC M3 JAC M3

Engine/Drive: Front/Rear

Body/Seats: 4 dr Van/8

POWERTRAIN Fuel

Displacement (L)

Config.

Power (bhp)

1.6 MT

G

1.6

I4

117

2.0 MT

G

2

I4

L/W/H: 4715 mm/1740 mm/1900 mm PERFORMANCE

Torque (lb-ft)

111

Wheelbase: 2810 mm

SAFET Y

TM

0-100 km/h

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

ABS

Airbags

5M

14.8

160

9.8

15.8

S

2

S

2

5M

Curb Weight: 1670 kg

INTERIOR

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

N

S

N

S

PRICE

Leather

Sun Roof

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

N

N

895,000

—

N

N

935,000

—

JAC M4 JAC M4

Engine/Drive: Front/Rear

Body/Seats: 4 dr Van/11

POWERTRAIN

104

JUNE 2022 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

Fuel

Displacement (L)

D

1.9T

L/W/H: 5200 mm/1890 mm/1970 mm PERFORMANCE

Config.

Power (bhp)

Torque (lb-ft)

I4

121

210

Wheelbase: 3080 mm

SAFET Y

TM

0-100 km/h

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

ABS

Airbags

6M

14.1

170

7.5

13.5

S

2

Curb Weight: 2020 kg

INTERIOR

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

N

S

PRICE

Leather

Sun Roof

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

N

N

1,220,000

—

BUYER’S GUIDE

Mitsubishi Xpander Mitsubishi Xpander

Engine/Drive: Front/ Front

Body/Seats: 5 dr Crossover/ 7

POWERTRAIN

L/W/H: 4595 mm/1750 mm/1750 mm PERFORMANCE

Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2775 mm

SAFET Y

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 1230 kg

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)

GLX

G

1.5

I4

105

104

5M

13.5

170

6.5

10.5

S

2

N

S

N

N

1,030,000

1,018,000

GLS

G

1.5

I4

105

104

4A

13.5

170

6.5

10.5

S

2

N

S

N

N

—

1,078,000

Suzuki APV Suzuki APV

Engine/Drive: Front/ Rear

Body/Seats: 5 dr MPV / 8

POWERTRAIN

L/W/H: 4230 mm/1655 mm/1865 mm PERFORMANCE

Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2625 mm

SAFET Y

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 1270 kg

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)

Type II GA

G

1.6

I4

91

94

5M

14

142

7

15

N

0

N

S

N

N

651,000

—

Type II GLX

G

1.6

I4

91

94

5M

14

142

7

15

N

2

N

S

N

N

843,000

—

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2022

105

BUYER’S GUIDE

Suzuki Ertiga Suzuki Ertiga

Engine/Drive: Front/ Front

Body/Seats: 5 dr MPV/ 7

POWERTRAIN

L/W/H: 4395 mm/1735 mm/1690 mm PERFORMANCE

Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2740 mm

SAFET Y

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 1090-1135 kg

INTERIOR

PRICE

Fuel

Displacement (L)

Config.

Power (bhp)

TM

0-100 km/h

ABS

Airbags

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

Leather

Sun Roof

GA

G

1.5

I4

103

102

5M

9.9

183

11.1

15.1

S

2

N

S

N

N

763,000

—

GL

G

1.5

I4

103

102

5M/4A

9.9

183

11.1

15.1

S

2

N

S

N

N

883,000

923,000

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

Suzuki XL7 Suzuki XL7

Engine/Drive: Front/ Front

Body/Seats: 5 dr MPV/ 7

POWERTRAIN

106

JUNE 2022 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

Fuel

Displacement (L)

G

1.5

L/W/H: 4450 mm/1775 mm/1710 mm PERFORMANCE

Config.

Power (bhp)

Torque (lb-ft)

I4

103

102

Wheelbase: 2740 mm

SAFET Y

TM

0-100 km/h

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

ABS

Airbags

4A

12.6

160

11.1

15.1

S

2

Curb Weight: 1135 kg

INTERIOR

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

S

S

PRICE

Leather

Sun Roof

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

N

N

—

1,098,000

BUYER’S GUIDE

Toyota Avanza Toyota Avanza

Engine/Drive: Front/ Front

Body/Seats: 5 dr MPV/ 7

POWERTRAIN

L/W/H: 4395 mm/1730 mm/1700 mm PERFORMANCE

Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2750 mm

SAFET Y

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 1090 -1140 kg

INTERIOR

PRICE

Fuel

Displacement (L)

Config.

Power (bhp)

TM

0-100 km/h

ABS

Airbags

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

Leather

Sun Roof

1.3 J

G

1.3

I4

95

89

5M

14.9

163

9

12

S

2

S

S

N

N

813,000

—

1.3 E

G

1.3

I4

95

89

5M/CVT

14.9

163

9

12

S

2

S

S

N

N

928,000

984,000

1.5 G

G

1.5

I4

103

100

CVT

11.6

170

7.7

11

S

6

S

S

N

N

—

1,039,000

PhP (MT)

PhP (AT)

Toyota Innova Toyota Innova

Engine/Drive: Front/ Rear

Body/Seats: 5 dr MPV/ 7

POWERTRAIN

L/W/H: 4735 mm/1830 mm/1795 mm PERFORMANCE

253

Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

ABS

Airbags

6M

10

170

11.1

22.2

S

3

Fuel

Config.

2.8 J Diesel

D

2.8T

I4

167

2.8 E

D

2.8T

I4

167/171 253/266 6M/6A 10/9.8

170

11.1

22.2

S

3

S

S

N

N

1,285,000

1,355,000

2.8 G

D

2.8T

I4

167/171 253/266 6M/6A 10/9.8

170

11.1

22.2

S

3

S

S

N

N

1,522,000

1,592,000

2.8 V

D

2.8T

I4

170

11.1

22.2

S

7

S

S

N

N

—

1,739,000

6A

9.8

Stability

USB/ AUX/BT

S

S

PRICE

Power (bhp)

266

TM

0-100 km/h

Curb Weight: 1545-1665 kg

INTERIOR

Displacement (L)

171

Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2750 mm

SAFET Y

Leather

Sun Roof

PhP (MT)

N

N

1,186,000

—

PhP (AT)

C-MAGAZINE.COM • JUNE 2022

107

BUYER’S GUIDE

Toyota Rush Toyota Rush

Engine/Drive: Front/ Rear

Body/Seats: SUV/ 5 or 7

POWERTRAIN

108

L/W/H: 4435 mm/1695 mm/1705 mm PERFORMANCE Top Speed (km/h)

City km/L

Highway km/L

Curb Weight: 1245 kg

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)

1.5 E

G

1.5

I4

102

99

5M/4A

12.9

160

13.2

7.2

S

6

S

S

N

N

983,000

1,023,000

1.5 G

G

1.5

I4

102

99

4A

12.9

160

13.2

7.2

S

6

S

S

N

N

—

1,100,000

JUNE 2022 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

Torque (lb-ft)

Wheelbase: 2685 mm

SAFET Y

It sounds wrong because it is wrong.

Let’s not turn our public roads into racetracks.

A Safety Reminder From

05

04

03

02

Nic's List

THE TOP 5 FATHER’S DAY GIFT IDEAS If you are reading this, there is a high chance that you’re into cars because of your dad. And if you are reading this fresh from the press, then Father’s Day is most likely around the corner. With that being said, here are some gift ideas for your father or for your father figure that got you into cars.

Words:

Nicolas A. Calanoc

5 — Cordless Drill

3 — Emergency Roadside Kit

Whether it is drilling a hole on the

Sometimes the best way to

wall for housework or using a drill

show your dad that you care is

brush for interior detailing of your

by making sure that he is safe.

car, a cordless drill will get the job

The best way to do that is by

done with the convenience of not

making sure that his car has an

being restricted to your outlet.

emergency kit on standby. Have

What’s great about a cordless

a dead batt? Jumper cables or

drill is that it is a versatile tool

car jump starter to the rescue.

that has many attachments for so

Flat tire? Here comes the air

many uses and cases. And when

compressor for the tire problems

it comes to cars, there is so much

and a reflective road sign for

work that can be done with a really

the bigger problems. Need to

good cordless drill. Make sure to

be towed? Would be great to

buy from a reputable brand so that

have a towing cable. You can buy

you can use the battery system for

emergency roadside kits online or

other cordless tools.

assemble one yourself!

4 — Torque Wrench

2 — Insulated Coffee Thermos

Take your wrench game to a

With so many styles, colors,

whole new level with a torque

and combinations out there; an

wrench. It isn’t enough just

insulated coffee thermos that fits

to tighten bolts. If you look at

perfectly in a car’s cup holder is a

specification manuals, you will

nice personalized gift that can be

1 — Little Trees Air Freshener

find out that every bolt has a

used by your dad every day. The

There are many air fresheners out there, but this one is extra special

desired torque spec so that you

best part about it, it isn’t limited to

because it emits nostalgia as much as it smells fresh. The Little

put things in place just right. If

just coffee! Not only will it prolong

Trees Air Freshener is an automotive icon in its own right, signifying

your father is into DIY or fixing

his morning brew, but it will keep

that wherever it is hanging is fresh. Today, Little Trees have a lot of

his car on his own, a good torque

him company at work, making

variations from fiber cans to vent wraps if air freshness is the only

wrench would certainly be the

sure that his beverage of choice is

concern. But for those who want to have that classic ornament for

perfect gift for any gearhead’s

at its optimal temperature as long

everyone to see, there is always the green Little Trees Royal Pine Air

garage.

as possible.

Freshener to show the age of wisdom of the driver.

112

JUNE 2022 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

01