Car Profiles - Ford Focus Hatchback (2005-2012)

2005-2012 Ford Focus Hatchback

The Good: Driving dynamics, diesel pull, versatile

The Bad: Less room, flimsy interior, 6-speed MT not traffic friendly

The Say: An outstanding hatchback, despite the less roomy interior and cheesy interior.

Go For: 1.8 Sport
Avoid: 2.0 Sport gas

Price Range: P300,000-P780,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: Used Car Review - Ford Focus (2005-2012)
Latest vehicle profile: Ford Focus Hatchback

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2005-2008
2008-2012

Used Car Review - Ford Focus (2005-2012)

It is American in the name, but Myk Belmonte dishes out why isn't American at all. The answer lies throughout the article.

2005-2012 Ford Focus

History
The Ford marque has a strong presence in the continent named Europe. In fact, there are some instances that the rest of the world receives what the European gets, as opposed with the North American exclusive models. With that description in mind, the Ford Focus is one vehicle that fits in the bill, especially that what is sold in North American Ford dealers are way different (way too) than the one sold for consumers in other countries.

This generation of the Focus (the Mk2) had its worldwide debut at the Paris Motor Show last September 23, 2004. Codenamed C307, this vehicle also utilizes Ford's C1 platform that is also shared with the Volvo S40, V50, and C70, the Ford C-MAX, and our featured vehicle last Monday, the Mazda 3. It is available in three and five door hatchback, four door saloon, five door estate, and two door coupe body configurations. This generation was available brand new until 2010 (while some countries have this for a little longer), with the Mk3 Focus being launched the year after.

Replacing the popular Laser lineup (this includes the Lynx, basically a Ford Laser), the Focus arrived in our soil in 2005. Prior to that year, the Focus was an export only vehicle to other nations, now production had been shared for local and export markets. With numerous engine changes and a minor model change in late 2008, the Focus bowed out in 2012, as well as local production for Ford, to make way for the Mk3 Focus later that year.

Value and Costs
Wishing for a European car with European car driving characteristics at low prices? Well, the used car Gods answered your wish with the Focus costing P260,000-P580,000 at second hand prices. A good thing is that, you have a wide range of engines and body configurations to choose from, and some units have the remainder of their basic warranty. For peace of mind, try scouting for a 2010 and recent model to get the chunk of the warranty.

Maintaining one wouldn't cost you an arm and a leg. Thanks to being locally assembled, parts are easy to acquire. However, make sure that you maintain the Powershift transmission well to avoid self suicide, and ensure that you fill up the CRDi models with the right amount of oil and fuel from clean gasoline stations.

Exterior and Interior
Glancing or staring at one, you'll say that the Focus looks conservative, which is a compliment to itself and those who want a low profile life, consider this vehicle. Let's describe each body style, the sedan aims to be luxurious but dull and plain looking, while the hatchback is more on the sporty side. Fact: the Focus shares the same design motif with the same period Mondeo and Fiesta.

Still separated at birth, the sedan and hatchback have different interior treatment, while the Germanic feel is still there. The sedan carries a beige/black interior with some dash of wood, leather and matte aluminum which has the color silver. If you're planning to get the base 1.6 Trend, the interior loses the chrome and wood and gets away with a black/beige color scheme. Black is the theme for the hatchback, with the interior gives lots of it, and some aluminum bits to brighten up the interior.

Engine
One good thing about the Focus is the wide range of engine choices available to the buyer. The first engine that is available from 2005-2007 in the entry level 1.6 Trend is the Zetec 1,596cc that carries 104hp at 6,000rpm and 145Nm at 4,000rpm. The other gasoline powerplants that remained throughout production life are the Duratec 1,798cc that has 123hp at 6,000rpm and 165Nm at 4,000rpm and still from the Duratec family, a 1,999cc which carries 143hp at 6,000rpm and 185Nm at 4,500rpm. For the lone diesel model, the main engine is a Duratorq 1,997cc with 134hp at 4,000rpm and 320Nm at 2,000rpm that can be boosted to 340Nm with the same revs. Both the 1.6 and 1.8 engines are decent movers, while the 2.0 gasoline has improved off-the-line power than the movers that are 200cc to 400cc less. The diesel engine is the one to have, especially that it will push you back to your seat but you need to travel more often to recoup the fuel savings as it is expensive to maintain.

Driving Impressions
For sure, this car is heavy, but it is comfortable to ride in. To compare the Focus with its platform-mates, if the Mazda 3 is the go-cart, while the Volvo S40 is the cruiser, the Ford smacks in the middle of the two. Forget about the heavy weight, it can take on corners with grace and confidence. With that in mind, you can enjoy the thrill of the drive (although not Mazda 3 levels) while your passengers can enjoy the ride without being thrown upon.

Verdict
Balancing both what the driver wants and the passenger wants is one difficult task. But the Mk2 Ford Focus accomplishes this job by providing great handling and a magic carpet like ride. The diesel proposition is one offer not to resist, especially that the current model does not have one.


The Good:

• Wide array of body styles and engines
• Chassis willing to play
• Responsive handling

The Bad:

• Cabin ain't roomy
• Plasticky interior
• Not traffic friendly diesel MT variant

The Pick: Diesel variants for long trips, 1.6 for daily driving

THE SPECS

Engines: 1,596cc Zetec, 1,798cc Duratec, and 1,999cc Duratec I4 gasoline. 1,997cc Duratorq I4 diesel

Power: 104hp @ 6,000rpm  (1.6), 123hp @ 6,000rpm (1.8), 143hp @ 6,000rpm (2.0 gasoline), 134hp @ 4,000rpm (2.0 diesel)

Torque: 145Nm @ 4,000rpm (1.6), 165Nm @ 4,000rpm (1.8), 185Nm @ 4,500rpm (2.0 gasoline), 320Nm @ 2,000rpm (2.0 diesel), 340Nm @ 2,000rpm (2.0 diesel with overboost)
Fuel Consumption: 7-12km/L (city), 9-13km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)
Transmission: 5-speed manual (1.6 and 1.8), 6-speed manual (2.0 diesel) 4-speed automatic (1.6, 1.8, and 2.0 gas), 6-speed Powershift (2.0 diesel)
Suspension: Front independent McPherson strut, rear control blade strut

MORE INFO
Price (New): P799,000-P1,195,000 (range from 2005-2012, encompasses all variants)
Price (Now): P260,000-P580,000
Rivals: Honda Civic, Mazda 3, Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Sentra, Toyota Corolla Altis, Chevrolet Optra, Chevrolet Cruze
On Sale: 2005-2012
Resources: 
http://www.fordclubph.com/
http://www.focusfanatics.com/

Contacts
Ford Libis - (02) 637-2044
Ford EDSA - (02) 744-2222
Ford Quezon Avenue - (02) 361-9503

Photos from Myk Belmonte

Used Car Buying Tips - Buying a Korean Surplus Car

We are no strangers to the K-Pop wave, from their noodles to their Koreanovelas. And for those looking for an affordable vehicle option, going for a Korean surplus car is worth a look. But as with other vehicles, careful research must be done and reading my tips on buying one is included. Here are my handy tips for you.

TIPS TO REMEMBER:

• Korean vehicles are already left hand drive, so you are spared from the conversion problems that their Japanese counterparts face.
• Make sure that you know where the parts for these vehicles are available for purchase, and also have counterparts if the model was not sold locally. If you bought a Hyundai Starex from a surplus dealer, parts are easy to acquire but for vehicles not available like the Hyundai Galloper, you can use Mitsubishi Pajero parts for them.
• Bring a mechanic with you to check if the unit has problems and drives well. Do not forget the test drive.
• Since South Korea experiences snow, make sure that the tires are replaced.
• Papers and taxes are very important especially if they are lacking, you will be a target of the Highway Patrol Group for your car being smuggled.

There you have it, study your options and chose wisely.

Car Profiles - Hyundai Elantra Sedan (1996-2000)

1996-2000 Hyundai Elantra Sedan

The Good: Zippy engine, spacious cabin,

The Bad: Questionable quality, refinement is poor

The Say: Has the looks and pace, but refinement is something to be desired.

Go For: 1.6 GLS
Avoid: Previous generation models that are labled with this gen's year models

Price Range: P100,000-P170,000
Our Rating: **

Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Hyundai Elantra

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1996-2000

Used Car Review - Mazda 3 (2004-2012)

Searching for great used car bargains is definitely fun, but finding a car that is fun to drive can be difficult. Myk Belmonte finds a great choice for you.

2004-2012 Mazda 3

History
There is one question that car manufacturers face, would you rather kill a popular nameplate or still use it for the next generation model? If they rather place the name 6 feet underground, and rename it with something new, there would be some mixed results. Using the old name is still a good decision but how about the case of Mazda? They did replace the Familia/323/Protege nameplate with the 3, and it was a success for the brand.

Introduced worldwide in 2004, the Mazda 3 (or Axela for those obsessed with badge reading) is based on Ford's C1 platform used globally. This platform is also utilized by the Ford Focus and the Volvo S40 of the same period. For the Mazda, Moray Callum led the designing of this vehicle, so thank him for not including any awkward lines that the current one has (a smiley that can scare off children). Available in both sedan and hatchback bodies in either natural or Mazdaspeed flavors, this generation was sold until 2009, with some countries having it a little longer.

If Mazda's return to the Philippines was a success, better thank the Mazda 3 especially this sold extremely well throughout its shelf life than the model that replaced it. It was locally manufactured during its time, the 3 found more homes and was a hit among the younger crowd. A minor model change occurred in 2007 and it was finally placed out of pasture in 2012. The sedan came in first in 2004 while the hatchback followed a year later. Available models include the value oriented S, V (both in sedan and hatchback), and the top tier R.

Value and Costs
There is a good reason why the Mazda 3 depreciates faster than other Japanese compacts, they are good buys for those seeking a sporty car with the practicality of a sedan. Thinking of buying one? Prices range from P350,000-P550,000 which encompasses all variants and year models. Avoid modified units since they can bring potential headaches to you.

Thanks to the numerous units plying the streets, as well as the online market, parts can be purchased from outside-the-casa shops from the genuine, replacement, to the third party ones. However, maintaining one can be somewhat higher in costs than main competitors due to one reason, fuel expenses. Having a sole automatic transmission option does not help but consume more fuel, so drive prudently or set aside some money for gasoline.

Exterior and Interior
Making a distant past of bland Mazda designs, the 3's exterior shouts "European". This vehicle (sedan or hatchback) exhibits chiseled lines and sporty proportions. This design would age very well, unlike the current one that is perfect for halloween (October is very far away).

Driver rules inside the cabin, especially that all controls are aimed towards the captain of the vehicle. Being sporty in theme, it does not have the dreaded fake wood trim and opts to use black materials. Leather seats and (surprise) a sunroof comes standard in the top end model, which is a steal for these prices. Although seat support for the front is ok, rear occupants may have some time to be comfortable due to the less ample room provided and sitting at the back is tight, which makes it more of a driver's car. The hatchback provides more space for your gear, as the rear seats fold down.

Engine
Two engines from the MZR family are available for PHDM Mazda 3's. The first one is a MZR 1,598cc that has 104hp at 6,000rpm and 145Nm at 4,000rpm, you'll encounter this engine more often since this is popular among consumers. But the engine to have is still from the MZR clan, a 1,999cc with 147hp at 6,500rpm and 187Nm at 4,500rpm. The 1.6 engine would be lively if you push it above 2,000rpm, this is useless if you are driving inside the city or trying to achieve fuel economy records. For sheer pleasure get the 2.0 model especially that it works well with the transmission to get you in the triple digit territory.

Driving Impressions
No road straight or curved the Mazda 3 will fear, it wants to have fun driving. Climbing up Kennon Road in Baguio or Bitukang Manok in Quezon is never a dull moment especially that it can keep up with the bends by offering a great steering feedback and a compliant suspension. You're in control, and what shall you do? Just shut up and drive.

Verdict
Hatchback or sedan configuration but the requirement is something that is fun to drive then add the Mazda 3 to your list. It is entertaining to drive and you'll have that grin especially in the challenging roads that our country has to offer. Just keep in mind to drive prudently and don't find a clutch, but there is the manual drive option that is integrated in the automatic.


The Good: 

• Great handling
• Classic looks
• Low prices means an excellent buy

The Bad: 

• No manual transmission
• 1.6 engine lacks low end grunt
• Less room at the back

The Pick: Spoil yourself for a 2.0R version

THE SPECS

Engines: 1,598cc MZR and 1,999cc MZR I4 gasoline

Power: 104hp @ 6,000rpm (1.6), 147hp @ 6,500rpm (2.0)

Torque: 145Nm @ 4,000rpm (1.6), 187Nm @ 4,500rpm (2.0)

Fuel Consumption: 6-9km/L (city), 8-11km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)

Transmission: 4-speed automatic

Suspension: Front independent McPherson strut, rear independent E-type multi-link

MORE INFO

Price (New): P790,000-P1,039,000 (range from 2004-2012)

Price (Now): P350,000-P550,000

Rivals: Honda Civic, Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Sentra, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Optra

On Sale: 2004-2012

Resources: 

http://www.mazdatech.org/community/

http://www.mazda3forums.com/

Contacts:

Mazda Quezon Avenue - (02) 712-3355

Mazda Greenhills - (02) 722-1102

Mazda Alabang - (02) 772-3618

Photos by Myk Belmonte

Car Profiles - Chevrolet Cruze (2010-Current)

2010-Current Chevrolet Cruze

The Good: Decent space, comfortable ride, plenty of features

The Bad: 1.8 engine somewhat under powered, not sporty to drive, bulky

The Say: Perfect for cruising, but not for speeding.

Go For: 1.8 LS
Avoid: 2.0 TCDi

Price Range: P500,000-P870,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Chevrolet Cruze

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2010-2013

Mitsubishi Fuzion - Generation 1 (2007-2015)

MITSUBISHI FUZION

Seven years ago, it meant to kill the Innova and Adventure. Seven years later, both of these vehicles lived on while the Fuzion stayed stagnant. There's nothing wrong with this car, but rivals outdone this one. The GLS Sport went away in October 2014 with the lower model getting the same fate months later.

See the overview of this Fuzion

OWNERSHIP DETAILS	GLS Sport	GLX
Years Offered	June 2007-October 2014	June 2007-March 2015
ENGINE SPECS
Engine	4G64 2.4 SOHC 16V I4	4G64 2.4 SOHC 16V I4
Horsepower	134hp @ 5,250rpm	134hp @ 5,250rpm
Torque	203Nm @ 4,000rpm	203Nm @ 4,000rpm
Fuel Type	Gasoline/93 Octane	Gasoline/93 Octane
Fuel System	Multi Point Injection	Multi Point Injection
Transmission	4-Speed Automatic	4-Speed Automatic
Fuel Tank Capacity	65 Liters	65 Liters
DIMENSIONS
Length	4,585mm	4,585mm
Width	1,775mm	1,760mm
Height	1,805mm	1,800mm
Wheelbase	2,720mm	2,720mm
Curb Weight	1,725kg	1,660kg
Body Style	5 Door MPV	5 Door MPV
Engine/Drive Type	Front Engine/Rear Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Rear Wheel Drive
Seating	7	7
SUSPENSION & TIRES
Front Suspension	Double Wishbone with Coil Spring and Stabilizer Bar	Double Wishbone with Coil Spring and Stabilizer Bar
Rear Suspension	Rigid 3-Link Coil Springs with Stabilizer Bar	Rigid 3-Link Coil Springs with Stabilizer Bar
Front Brakes	Ventilated Disc	Ventilated Disc
Rear Brakes	Leading and Trailing Drum	Leading and Trailing Drum
Tires	225/60 R16	205/70 R15
Wheels	16 Inch Alloy	15 Inch Alloy
SAFETY
Airbags	2	0
Anti-Lock Brakes	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution	None
Traction/Stability Control	None	None
Other Safety Features	Adds: Tire Pressure Monitor, Reverse Sensors	Load Sensing Proportioning Valve
EXTERIOR
Fog Lamps	Yes	Yes
Other Exterior Features	Adds: Chrome Grille, Fender Flares, Chrome Taillight Garnish and Door Handles, Rear Spoiler with LED Brake Lamp	Black Grille and Door Handles, Rear Wiper
INTERIOR
Steering Wheel Adjustment	Tilt	Tilt
Steering Wheel Material	Leather	Urethane
Seating Adjustment	Power	Manual
Seating Material	Leather	Fabric
Other Interior Features	Adds: Silver and Wood Accents, Luggage Room Lamp	60/40 Folding and Tumble 2nd Row Seat, Instrument Panel Center with Lid, Map Lamp, Seat Back Pockets, Seat Back Cargo Hook
CONVENIENCE FEATURES
Power Amenities	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors
Climate Control	Automatic	Manual
Audio System	1DIN AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA/WAV/DVD/USB/IPOD with 7 Inch Monitor	1DIN AM/FM/CD/MP3/USB/IPOD
Speakers	6	4
Steering Wheel Controls	None	None
Alarm	Yes	Yes
Keyless Entry	Yes	Yes
NOTES
RIVALS	Chevrolet Orlando, Toyota Innova Gasoline