Quickie Used Car Review - Hyundai Sonata (2010-2014)

2010-2014 Hyundai Sonata

The Good: Comfortable ride, impressive handling

The Bad: Somewhat tight in rear headroom

The Say: Now one of the class leaders, not anymore the wallflower.

Go For: 2.4 GLS
Avoid: 2.0 Limited

Price Range: P495,000-P770,000
Our Rating: ****

Full Review: Used Car Review - Hyundai Sonata (2010-2014)
Latest vehicle profile: Hyundai Sonata

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2010-2014

Vehicle Overview
The Sonata nameplate started as a luxurious version of the Hyundai Stellar, which the latter was produced until 1997. On the other hand, the Sonata was spun-off as a separate model later in 1988 with an emphasis (among Korean models) on more content for less money while later efforts were placed in reliability throughout selling life.

Previous iterations of the Sonata had an option for a diesel and V6 engines, which this generation ditched and all remained was the 2.4 (gasoline direct injection, hybrid, and turbo options are added) 4-cylinder, which would be the common engine among Philippine market units. A second option is the 2.0 that is used in the Tucson and both engines acquit themselves in everyday driving. Body roll is balanced and modulated while the ride quality is as soft as a pillow. If you're expecting sporty handling, this isn't the car for you.

Although some cheap touches remain, the interior is a step-up from previous models. Interior space is decent but the swooping style at the rear limits visibility. One good thing is that a full range of options are available depending on trim.

What Should I Get
Beginning from its 2010 launch, two models with a 176hp 2.4 engine were offered. The GLS has dual airbags, ABS brakes, stability control, hill start assist, power drivers seat, fabric/leather upholstery, automatic climate control, steering wheel controls including paddle shift, alarm, keyless entry, and rear aircon vents. GLS Premium and Limited (it has a 163hp 2.0 standard, which was added in August 2012) models add side airbags, panoramic sun roof, powered seat for the front passenger, all leather interior, and push button start.

How Much Would It Cost Me
Comparing to the Japanese mid-size rivalry, the Sonata's maintenance costs are similar to them although we would like to remind you that keeping one is much expensive than the Elantra. Although not much problems were reported, keep an eye towards the electronic components.

Quickie Used Car Review - Kia Sportage (2011-2016)

2011-2016 Kia Sportage

The Good: Low resale value means good purchase as a second hand car, available diesel engine

The Bad: Poor ride quality, cheap interior finish

The Say: An improved beast that has some bad manners trapped.

Go For: Diesels
Avoid: 2.0 AWD

Price Range: P550,000-P900,000
Our Rating: ***

Full Review: Used Car Review - Kia Sportage (2011-2016)
Latest vehicle profile: Kia Sportage

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2011-2016

Vehicle Overview
The first generation Sportage is based on the Mazda Bongo and it was Kia's first attempt on the SUV race in the 90s which never caught on. It was revived in 2004 as a platform-mate of the Hyundai Tucson, which is based from the Elantra sedan and the set-up has been the same ever since.

Similar to its Hyundai counterpart, the Sportage gets a new set of engines for public consumption while offering both gasoline and diesel powerplants. The starting engine is the 2.0 gasoline that can be paired to both 2WD or 4WD systems which is quick enough although going for the latter may have the vehicle struggle (a 2014 update had its ratings decreased but offered much better performance and fuel economy) with the 2.0 diesel gives you smooth acceleration and more power and the same can be said with the 2.4 gasoline. For the driving experience, it also suffers the same problems of its Hyundai cousin: light steering which may be a boon for parking but has the tendency to be numb, a choppy ride, and poor rear visibility.

Although a step-up from the previous model, the interior is a mixed bag of a well assembled interior which has some cheap touches.

What Should I Get
Depending on the year, some models get several items while some don't and the later the model, they tend to be stripped off. LX models are available for both gasoline (June 2012 with a manual then 2014 with automatics) and diesel (2014) engines that has all power features, driver's airbag, alarm, keyless entry, ABS brakes, and CD player with USB and Ipod. EX models are available in both gasoline (2WD and 4WD) and diesel engines which adds fog lamps, passenger airbag, daytime running lights, roof rails, trip computer, and for the diesel, steering wheel controls. The DLX adds a 175hp 2.4 gasoline, all wheel drive, side airbags, stability control, hill control assist, sun roof, power driver's seat, leather seats, cruise control, push button start, and automatic climate control.

With this in mind, try to search for an earlier model if you want something full equipped.

How Much Would It Cost Me
Most Sportage models are front wheel driven, so their problem points are the stabilizer link and some suspension noises. Parts are aplenty (components are Hyundai derived) with maintenance costs on the low side.

Quickie Used Car Review - Ford Lynx (1999-2005)

1999-2005 Ford Lynx

The Good: Fully equipped and choice of interior materials are excellent.

The Bad: Engines are buzzy at high speeds, firm ride

The Say: A budget car that has more room and equipment.

Go For: 1.6 GSi
Avoid: 1.3 LSi

Price Range: P100,000-P230,000
Our Rating: ***

Full Reviews: Used Car Review - Ford Lynx (1999-2005)/Used Car Review - Ford Lynx RS (2003-2005)

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1999-2002
2002-2005

Vehicle Overview
After selling high end but gas guzzling trucks, Ford released products that aim the lower scale of the spectrum such as the Lynx sedan, a compact car based on the Mazda 323/Familia line and sold elsewhere as the Laser, which was previously sold in the Philippines back in the 80s. Unlike earlier Blue Oval models, this one is assembled locally.

When it was first launched, a sole 1.6 engine is available with a base 1.3 and higher end 2.0 engines being made available. All of these engines are rev happy, regardless of what engine you choose and these are Mazda supplied, which means parts are compatible. Driving experience is on the fun side however ride comfort and road noise is a weakness.

Going inside, a conservative interior greets you with the Ghia receiving items reserved for luxury cars as options. Four people can join inside for the ride.

What Should I Get
Added in July 2002 is the basic LSI which has a 80hp 1.3, cassette tuner, and power steering. We'd suggest starting your search with the GSI since it has a 116hp 1.6 engine, all power features, alloy wheels, alarm, keyless entry, and 60/40 fold rear seat with items such as reverse parking sensors and an optional CD changer added later on. Going for the Ghia gives you dual airbags, ABS brakes, fog lamps, leather seats (became optional starting 2002), rear sun shade, disc changer, and sun roof as option. The RS/Centennial Edition, both added in October 2003, adds a 142hp 2.0 engine, sun roof, rear spoiler, a revised grille, sports seats, and standard manual transmission with the main difference lies on the exterior color (RS gets red, Centennials sport black) and interior stitching.

How Much Would It Cost Me
Since this is a Mazda based vehicle, parts and maintenance costs are similar with the usual Japanese nameplates though several replacement components should be sourced from specialist shops. Usual Lynx problem points lies on the suspension system and the idle air control valve.

Chevrolet Trailblazer - Generation 2.1 (2012-2016)

CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER

This was Chevrolet's first attempt at the PPV market which is popular in the Asian market. This shares a platform with the Isuzu MU-X and is related to the Chevrolet Colorado/Isuzu D-Max twins.

See the overview of this Trailblazer
See the latest model of the Trailblazer

OWNERSHIP DETAILS	2.8 LTZ/LTZ SE	2.8 LTX	2.8 LT	2.5 LT	2.8 L
Years Offered	LTZ: October 2012-September 2016 LTZ SE: April 2015-September 2016	July 2014-September 2016	October 2013-September 2016	October 2012-September 2016	February 2015-September 2016
ENGINE SPECS
Engine	Duramax 2.8 DOHC 16V I4 VGT with Intercooler	Duramax 2.5 DOHC 16V I4 FGT with Intercooler or Duramax 2.8 DOHC 16V I4 VGT with Intercooler	Duramax 2.8 DOHC 16V I4 VGT with Intercooler	Duramax 2.5 DOHC 16V I4 FGT with Intercooler	Duramax 2.8 DOHC 16V I4 VGT with Intercooler
Horsepower	180hp (2012-2013) or 200hp @ 3,600rpm (2013-2016)	163hp @ 3,600rpm (MT) or 200hp @ 3,600rpm (AT)	200hp @ 3,600rpm	150hp (2012-2013) or 163hp @ 3,600rpm (2013-2016)	200hp @ 3,600rpm
Torque	470Nm (2012-2013) or 500Nm @ 2,000rpm (2013-2016)	380Nm @ 2,000rpm (MT) or 500Nm @ 2,000rpm (AT)	500Nm @ 2,000rpm	350Nm @ 2012-2013) or 380Nm @ 2,000rpm (2013-2016)	500Nm @ 2,000rpm
Fuel Type	Diesel	Diesel	Diesel	Diesel	Diesel
Fuel System	Common Rail Direct Injection	Common Rail Direct Injection	Common Rail Direct Injection	Common Rail Direct Injection	Common Rail Direct Injection
Transmission	6-Speed Automatic	6-Speed Manual, 6-Speed Automatic	6-Speed Automatic	6-Speed Manual	6-Speed Automatic
Fuel Tank Capacity	77 Liters	77 Liters	77 Liters	77 Liters	77 Liters
DIMENSIONS
Length	4,878mm	4,878mm	4,878mm	4,878mm	4,878mm
Width	1,902mm	1,902mm	1,902mm	1,902mm	1,902mm
Height	1,848mm	1,848mm	1,848mm	1,848mm	1,848mm
Wheelbase	3,096mm	3,096mm	3,096mm	3,096mm	3,096mm
Curb Weight
Body Style	5 Door SUV	5 Door SUV	5 Door SUV	5 Door SUV	5 Door SUV
Engine/Drive Type	Front Engine/Four Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Rear Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Rear Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Rear Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Rear Wheel Drive
Seating	7	7	7	7	7
SUSPENSION & TIRES
Front Suspension	Independent Short Long Arms	Independent Short Long Arms	Independent Short Long Arms	Independent Short Long Arms	Independent Short Long Arms
Rear Suspension	5-Link with Coil Spring	5-Link with Coil Spring	5-Link with Coil Spring	5-Link with Coil Spring	5-Link with Coil Spring
Front Brakes	Ventilated Discs	Ventilated Discs	Ventilated Discs	Ventilated Discs	Ventilated Discs
Rear Brakes	Solid Disc	Solid Disc	Solid Disc	Solid Disc	Solid Disc
Tires	265/60 R18	265/60 R18	245/70 R16	245/70 R16	245/70 R16
Wheels	18 Inch Alloy	18 Inch Alloy	16 Inch Alloy	16 Inch Alloy	16 Inch Alloy
SAFETY
Airbags	2	2	2	2	2
Anti-Lock Brakes	Yes, with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Cornering Brake Control	Yes, with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Cornering Brake Control	Yes, with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Cornering Brake Control	Yes, with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Cornering Brake Control	Yes, with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Cornering Brake Control
Traction/Stability Control	Yes, Electronic Stability Program and Traction Control	None	None	None	None
Other Safety Features	Adds: Hill Start Assist, Panic Brake Assist, Hydraulic Brake Fade Assist, Hill Descent Control	Adds: Tire Pressure Monitor	Adds: None	Adds: None	Immobilizer, Electrical Theft Deterrent, Rear Parking Assists Sensor Indicator
EXTERIOR
Fog Lamps	Front and Rear	Front and Rear	Front and Rear	Front and Rear	Front and Rear
Other Exterior Features	Adds: Roof Rails, Chrome Turn Lights. LTZ SE Adds: Revised Bumpers, LED Projector Headlamps, Daytime Running Lights Deletes: License Plate Holder, Back Up Camera	Adds: License Plate Holder, Back Up Camera, Rear Park Assist Sensor Indicator	Adds: None	Adds: None	Step Board, Headlamp Leveling System, Rear Wiper
INTERIOR
Steering Wheel Adjustment	Tilt	Tilt	Tilt	Tilt	Tilt
Steering Wheel Material	Leather	Urethane	Urethane	Urethane	Urethane
Seating Adjustment	Power, Driver	Manual	Manual	Manual	Manual
Seating Material	Leather	Leather	Fabric	Fabric	Fabric
Other Interior Features	Adds: Cruise Control	Adds: Digital Inside Rear View Mirror with LCD Monitor, Digital Compass, Back Up Camera, and Electro Chromatic Auto Dimming	Adds: None	Adds: None	Information Instrument Display, 60/40 Split Fold 2nd Row, Foldable 3rd Row
CONVENIENCE FEATURES
Power Amenities	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors with Fold	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors
Climate Control	Automatic, Dual	Manual, Dual	Manual, Dual	Manual, Dual	Manual, Dual
Audio System	7 Inch Touchscreen with AM/FM/MP3/AUX/USB and MyLink System with Multimedia, Smartphone, iPod, iPhone Connectivity, Internet Browsing Support, Audio and Video USB/Aux with Clock, Thermometer, HVAC, and Bluetooth	AM/FM/CD/MP3 /WMA/Bluetooth  and MyLink System with Multimedia, Smartphone, iPod, iPhone Connectivity, Internet Browsing Support, Audio and Video USB/Aux with Clock, Thermometer, HVAC, and Bluetooth (MyLink for AT only)	AM/FM/CD/MP3 /WMA/Bluetooth	AM/FM/CD/MP3 /WMA/Bluetooth	AM/FM/CD/MP3 /WMA/Bluetooth
Speakers	8	6	6	6	6
Steering Wheel Controls	Yes, Audio	None	None	None	None
Alarm	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Keyless Entry	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
NOTES	*Power upgraded in October 2013			*Power upgraded in October 2013
RIVALS	Ford Everest, Hyundai Santa Fe, Isuzu Alterra, Kia Sorento, Mitsubishi Montero Sport, Toyota Fortuner

Car Profiles - Chevrolet Trailblazer (2012-2016)

2012-2016 Chevrolet Trailblazer

The Good: Enormous power, spacious cabin

The Bad: Plasticky interior, bulky nature

The Say: An Americanized truck done the Asian way.

Go For: 2.8 LT
Avoid: 

Price Range: P825,000-P1,380,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review:
Latest vehicle profile: Chevrolet Trailblazer

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2012-2016

Quickie Used Car Review - Hyundai Tucson (2010-2015)

2010-2015 Hyundai Tucson

The Good: Fully equipped at the price, powerful diesel engine

The Bad: Refinement is not good, interior trim quality

The Say: An improvement which is still hampered by bad manners.

Go For: 2.0 GL Diesel
Avoid: 2.4

Price Range: P460,000-P930,000
Our Rating: ***

Full Review: Used Car Review - Hyundai Tucson (2010-2015)
Latest vehicle profile: Hyundai Tucson

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2010-2013
2014-2015

Vehicle Overview
While the first generation Tucson was popular on some aspects, the second generation model became successful and is Hyundai's cash cow for sometime. Although the italicized H brand had increased sales, after sales declined based on owner's complaints.

New set of engines were launched which included the usual fare of offering both gasoline and diesel engines. The base engine is the 2.0 gasoline is capable enough of carrying its weight while updated models in 2014 have their ratings decreased but offered better performance and fuel consumption while the top 2.4 gasoline is fast enough. The cream of the crop is the 2.0 diesel which can be paired to an all wheel drive system that rewards you with lots of power and smooth acceleration at the expense of fuel consumption (only the 2.0 petrol is less fuel friendly by some kilometers). When it comes to driving this car, steering is light making driving easy but may act dumb on certain situations and the suspension is choppy resulting to a firm ride. Rear visibility is poor, no thanks to a design that favored fuel consumption than practicality.

Before thinking that the interior is filled with high quality materials, we'll tell you this one: although the interior is designed professionally, some materials used are of the cheap type. Depending on year model, some units gain a touchscreen monitor which is DVD and GPS ready.

What Should I Get
The base model is the GL which gets the 165hp 2.0 gasoline (2014 models and above get 156 horses), an option between manual and automatic transmissions, driver's airbag, all power features, reverse parking sensors, roof rails, CD player with USB and auxiliary jack, rear wiper, alarm, and keyless entry with fog lamps added later on. The GLS adds a passenger side airbag, ABS brakes, fog lamps, leather accents, rear cargo cover, heated mirrors, and steering wheel controls (deleted in a later update) with items such as a touchscreen monitor with DVD function added in the 2014 update. The R/GL diesel gets the 174hp 2.0 engine and is paired to an all wheel drive system while having the amenities of the GLS gasoline except for the controls. The 2.4 GLS adds the 176hp 2.4 engine, side airbags, down hill brake control, stability control, power driver's seat, leather seats, auto dimming rear view mirror, folding mirrors, and dual air conditioning. Premium models are available for both the 2.4 gasoline and 2.0 diesel from 2010 until 2013 that gains a rear view camera, cruise control, SmartCard keyless entry, and a panoramic sun roof while a Limited model wearing the 2.0 gasoline paired to AWD sprouted in 2013 having the same amenities of its Premium counterparts.

How Much Would It Cost Me
Although the previous model is reliable, it does not mean its successor will be one. If you want one, check the inhibitor switch that may affect on viewing where the transmission is slotted and the thermistor coil in the air-conditioning unit which may shut off the compressor thus making the aircon turned off. Since this vehicle is a volume seller, parts are aplenty plus maintenance costs are on par with rivals from Asia.

Quickie Used Car Review - Honda Civic (2001-2005)

2001-2005 Honda Civic

The Good: Cavernous cabin, peppy and fuel efficient engines

The Bad: Cheapo interior trim

The Say: Does not have the driving excitement of its elder generations but is a great family car.

Go For: 1.6 VTi-S
Avoid: 1.5 LXi

Price Range: P180,000-P310,000
Our Rating: ****

Full Review: Used Car Review - Honda Civic (2001-2005)
Latest vehicle profile: Honda Civic

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2001-2003
2003-2006

Vehicle Overview
The seventh generation Civic saw numerous changes which included a size bump to compact category, a flat rear floor for the comfort of rear seat passengers, and the usage of a McPherson strut, which ditched the double wishbone setup used in previous models. While this one became more mature, this one became "disappointing" for some Honda loyalists.

Utilizing carryover engines from the previous model (the SIR's 1.6 isn't available, though), the 1.5 shows its life at 3,000rpm and can carry the heavy body while the common 1.6 has more power on the lower end and is more relaxed, and a 2.0 whose trait is a smooth delivery to the top. Driving experience is good with precise steering and excellent braking (for models with ABS brakes) but going to road bumps tends to bottom up the car.

As mentioned earlier, the interior became roomier than the previous model with the rear passenger in the middle need not to dangle his/her legs. Controls are easy to reach within the driver but cheap plastic materials come standard among low models.

What Should I Get
Offered from 2001 until 2004, the LXI gives you a 108hp 1.5 engine, all power features, alloy wheels, AM/FM tuner with CD player added in a 2003 update, this rather basic variant is best skipped for this generation of this Civic. Aim for models having the 128hp 1.6 engine which starts with the VTI that adds CD tuner and for facelift models, alarm, keyless entry, and MP3 function. Our pick is the VTI-S that adds vital items such as ABS brakes, dual airbags, and fog lamps (2003 and above). Introduced in 2004 is a 153hp 2.0 which adds a larger engine and can be ordered with either fabric or leather seats. A special edition RS model was introduced in September 2002 which has the specifications of the VTI-S but available in black and with a manual transmission plus only a few units are available.

How Much Would It Cost Me
For a 15 year old vehicle, this one would give you plenty of parts access while maintenance costs are on par with Japanese rivals. While you have to worry about the air conditioning unit, this car was involved in numerous recalls for the following issues: a fuel tank which isn't tightened in 2005, passenger airbags for 2001 to 2002 VTI-S in August 2010 and April 2013, and for front airbags in July 2014.