2009 Honda Accord 3.5 S-V

“You know what it's like getting up every morning? Feeling hopeless, feeling like the love of your life is waking up with the wrong man. But, at the same time hoping that she still finds happiness, even if it's never going to be with you.” - dialogue from Hitch, where Albert Brennaman bemoans to Alex Hitchens regarding the hopelessness of dating socialite Allegra Cole

In the same manner, that’s how this writer felt the day after returning the 2009 Honda Accord to Honda Cars Philippines Inc.’s headquarters. Knowing that he finally was able to tango with someone – or something (like an executive car, to be exact) - that got him smitten the first time he got to know her in early 2008, but given the only means of admission into her heart (P2.015 million), he’ll settle for the fact that she will belong to someone else with the financial capacity and with the capability to treat her right (read: drive it hard, not just ride in it).

It’s not hard to imagine why.

When you approach her from any angle, you get the feeling that you’ve met her before. And perhaps you have. The full side profiles have a beltline and upper area reminiscent of the current model Mercedes Benz C-Class, while the rear quarter panel glass is similar to those on present-day BMW units (the so-called Hofmeister kink). The headlight’s flanks (where the headlights meet the beltline) are similar to the wing-tipped designs on the E60 BMW 5-Series. The whole front fascia is one big smile, albeit one with braces due to the look of the lower front grille. The rear is similar to that of the current Toyota Camry, but no way did this writer tell that to her face. Some women just don’t take criticism very well, especially when it comes to their derrière.

When you get to know what’s makes her tick or what she’s all about (read: what’s inside), she’s simple and straightforward. At first glance the cabin looks complex (particularly the middle dashboard area), but all controls are logically placed and easy to see and reach. For example, you turn on the radio via pushing down on a knob at the lower middle dashboard (below the CD slot), adjust the volume with the said knob, and fiddle with bass/treble/fader/balance inputs via a knob below the volume/on-off knob and the menu button to its right. Aircon controls have a unique approach. You turn on the aircon using the large blower switch at the middle of the center dashboard, and turn it off via an “off” button near the driver’s side aircon controls.

When it comes to what’s inside, she does have a few quirks. Apparently she’s mostly concerned with what’s up front, or those in the front. All windows have power-assisted side mirror folding, but only the front windows have one-touch/up-down power-assist. In contrast her Camry arch-rival has all windows equipped with the aforementioned feature. The aircon vents for rear occupants are at the base of the center console, parallel to passengers’ lower shins. It would be better if they (the rear aircon vents) were incorporated into the b-pillars.

Then there’s the fact that she can be open, but it can be hard to tell what she wishes to convey or keep secret. For example, the rear windshield has a power-assisted folding sunscreen to keep the sun (and onlookers from behind) out, and its button is to the right of the a/t stick. In contrast, the Toyota Camry’s power-assisted folding sunscreen button is in the lower middle area of the dashboard. However, the Accord does not have pull down rear side window sunscreens like those on the Camry to increase rear occupants’ privacy. Also, the menu screen in the upper middle dashboard is small, and so are its fonts. It’s hard to read what’s on the menu screen, especially when the sun is directly above the unit. Lastly, the headlight/foglight “on” icons are at the upper rightmost part of the gauge cluster, right above the fuel gauge. It’s hard to see them because the steering wheel bisects them at an angle. It’s better to place them somewhere between the rev counter and speedometer for the driver’s easier reference.

Despite that quirk, she’s accommodating. The cabin can fit five average Filipinos comfortably. Put two six footers in front and you still have a fistful-and-a-half of kneeroom and legroom. The storage bin under the head unit is two-tier, and its rubber-lined lower level keeps small items from tumbling out during hard cornering. The trunk can fit two golf bags, but there’s no outside trunk hatch release lever; however, there’s a trunk hatch release button on the key fob. The center console can fit three paperback books, and has an external MP3 player jack and a 12-volt outlet.

Just because she looks large doesn’t mean that she can’t hang with you physically. She now totes displacement/horsepower/torque numbers rivaling that of sportscars, which you can access (read: enter the powerband) at a notch above 2750 rpm (2,800-2,900 rpm) and the i-VTEC waking up at a notch above 3,500 rpm. The a/t is willing to downshift at one-half throttle effort, but for best acceleration results, put the a/t stick to the “(S)port” mode and use the paddle shifters since the shift points are much higher. The results are jaw dropping, to say the least - a 219 kph top speed (ECU-governed) and a 9.68-second 0-100 kph acceleration time.

For those who are willing to take her on food trip dates, there could be problems. The Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system – found only on the 3.5L V6 Accord variants - that’s supposed to disable one bank of cylinders during specific conditions (for example, highway driving) to save fuel – via a solenoid on either one of the overhead camshafts’ followers from their respective rockers, with the valve springs (and the valves) closed, aided by drive-by-wire technology to smooth out power delivery – tends to jerk the cabin slightly when activated, be it at 30 or 120 kph. Toss in a curb weight of 1,650 kg and the result - 7.37 km/l (five days mixed driving) – isn’t exactly fuel efficient.

But hey, given her build, bulk (1,650 kg curb weight) and consumption problems, she’s surprisingly nimble. There’s little body lean, and grip from her Michelin Energy MXV 8 225/50R17 shoes hold up to 110 kph sans traction control. The sharp steering feedback - to this writer - is better than the Camry and rivals that of the current Subaru Legacy and Audi A4. On sweeping turns and corners with frequent change of camber the feedback is blunt, but the feedback becomes tactile on level ground bends. The ride is generally comfortable, but tends to be a bit stiff on deep potholes and tall humps/speed bumps (especially at the rear). Speaking of tall humps, one must take extreme caution (read: slow down to at most 10 kph) when approaching dips with 20 degrees or lower, as the front bumper’s chin sits low and a cavalier approach to the said road hazards might give a whole new meaning to the Accord "taking it on the chin.” The good news is that the brakes have good grip, biting hard when you need it. One niggling problem – hard braking causes the whole car to wiggle and vibrate. However, the handbrake just needs a five-degree pull on the handlebar for passable bite.

Overall the new Accord’s occupant friendly ergonomics, bold exterior design and eye-popping performance make it the perfect broom to sweep away the boardroom bigshot in fantasies of tarmac and trip tango. To those that have the monetary means to bring her home and make her meet your folks, salutations are in order, as the union of Accord and driver/owner will be very rewarding. But for ordinary folk (like this writer) who’s still trying to swing for the fences every time – and crashing/burning more often than not – a brief dalliance with a(n executive sedan) stunner got him swept away and still wanting more.

2010 Honda CR-V to Arrive February Next Year

Available initially in the United States and in Japan, the new CR-V is set to reach Philippine shores by February 2010, according to Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI). Exuding sleek sophistication, solid stance and refined functionality, the 2010 CR-V puts up a bold statement that is sure to complement the demands of urban living.

The CR-V now comes with new front grille, bumper and alloy wheel designs to bring out a tougher and more distinct look. Its revitalized front end styling balances smoothly with the CR-V’s clean lines and premium finish.

The CR-V is a vehicle of substance. Under its hood lies the same i-VTEC engine that cleverly combines powerful performance with fuel economy. It comes in 2.4 liter and 2.0 liter variants which produces maximum power of 170 ps and 150 ps, respectively.

Per US Environment Protection Agency (EPA), the 2010 CR-V with 2.4 liter engine has an estimated fuel efficiency rating of 27 miles per gallon (11.48 km/li) under highway condition and 21 miles per gallon (8.93 km/li) under city driving condition. The CR-V is also engineered to meet the stringent EURO 4 emission standard level.

The CR-V has been a breakthrough model since the introduction of the first generation model in 1997, consistently leading its class to higher levels. Successfully introducing the crossover concept with the launch of the third generation model in 2007, the CR-V provides sedan-like comfort and performance, ample SUV space and exquisite design. With the market’s warm appreciation of the CR-V’s premium quality and styling, the third generation CR-V leads the compact SUV category with cumulative sales of 8,945 units. Honda further improves on the CR-V’s suspension system and NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) levels for better ride and passenger comfort. 3812, 3202, 1831

As a manufacturer of high quality vehicles fitted with modern technologies, Honda products are known for its reliability and high resale value. The Kelley Blue Book, one of the most trusted resources in the US for used car values, recognizes the Honda CR-V as the Best Resale Value Awardee under the compact utility vehicle category for years 2009 and 2010.

New Mazda MX-5

It was in 1989 when Mazda MX-5 was launched at the Chicago Auto Show. Known as Mazda Miata in North America and Roadster in Japan, the two-seater roadster sports car built by Mazda in Hiroshima in Japan became the fastest-selling sports car in its generation. It was hailed as the most popular open-top sports car in the world. The second generation Mazda MX-5 was launched in 1998 featuring a more powerful engine and external styling cues. In 2005, Mazda unveiled its third generation and in the following year, Mazda MX-5 Retractable Hard Top (RHT) was launched featuring a button that would enable the driver to enjoy the comfort and convenience of a hard top and the exhilaration of a convertible in just 12 seconds. Fast forward to 2009, Mazda Philippines recently gave the Miata Club Philippines a peek at the New Mazda MX-5 during the club’s monthly meeting at the Manila Polo Club. Miata club members were in awe at the sight of the New Mazda MX-5. Mazda Philippines Brand Manager Prudz Castillo summed it best about the Mazda MX-5 facelift, “The New Mazda MX-5 RHT is the epitome of Mazda’s stylish, innovative brand essence and the realization of Zoom-Zoom spirit Mazda is known for.” Built with the principle Jinnba-Ittai or “the car and the driver as one”, the Mazda MX-5 is indeed a car that proves to be the most fun to use, to drive and to own. The New Mazda MX-5 proves that genuineroadster thrill still exists. The latest Mazda MX-5 enhancements indeed cement its reputation as the most enjoyable lightweight two-seat sports car.

Local Hyundai Distributor Unveils All-New 2010 Tucson

With its functional styling, solid build quality, a choice between fuel-efficient gasoline and common-rail diesel engines, and a price tag that’s hard to beat, the Hyundai Tucson has been a perennial hot-seller in the compact SUV stakes.

And while that state of affairs might cause some automakers to rest on their laurels, Hyundai had absolutely no intention of doing so. Hence the head-turning all-new 2010 Tucson that was unveiled to much Gary V.-led song-and-dance fanfare last week at the A. Venue hall in Makati Ave.

With its provocative front end and curvaceous lines, the 2010 Tucson’s head-turning styling should handily vault it to the top of the wishlist of people shopping for a compact SUV. The flowing and graceful design starts at the front with a sexy hood character line, followed by a “Z” form side character line that exhibits a strong and artistic 3-dimensional embellishment for a dynamic sports car-like profile.

Lancer Assembly Back to Filipino Hands

The return of the Mitsubishi Lancer to Philippine assembly lines was marked with the relaunch of the 2010 Lancer EX a few weeks ago.

The sedan was unveiled as the 500,000th unit to roll off Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp.’s (MMPC) Rizal plant since 1964, when it began manufacturing in the country under Chrysler Philippines Corp.

The decision to revive local production instead of sourcing the vehicle from Thailand is claimed to boost MMPC’s manufacturing capabilities via a P200-million investment and also shield the unit from forex fluctuations, officials said.

Before this, Mitsubishi’s local unit only made utility vehicles, trucks, vans and buses.

For buyers, the Lancer EX’s Philippine assembly will mean the sedan can be had at a lower price, Executive vice-president Taizo Furuhashi said at a press briefing.

“The main reason we stopped in 2002 was because of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Free Trade Area tariff reduction,” MMPC President Masahiko Ueki said.

“But even with reduced tariff, competitors produced locally. We couldn’t enjoy the price gap.”

Now, Mitsubishi is targeting selling 2,000 of the locally made Lancer EX per year, Mr. Ueki said. If achieved, this will mean the sedan cornering roughly 5% of annual passenger car sales based on full year industry sales in 2008.

The model goes for P920,000 to P1.29 million depending on the variant. All are fitted with a two-liter 16-valve DOHC Mivec gas engine with a maximum power of 155 ps/6,000 rpm and a torque of 199 N-m/4,250 rpm.

It comes with either a manual tranny or a Sportronic transmission, the term used for a hybrid system that allows the driver to choose between automatic gear-shifting or electronically-guided manual shifting. The manual variant, the Lancer EX 2.0 GLX MT, is a five-speed while the Sportronic GLS CVT and GTA CvT are six-speeds.

Aside from the Philippines, the sedan is also manufactured in Japan, China, Taiwan and Thailand

Honda City Wins Awards in Subcompact Category

he Honda City is the country’s subcompact sedan of choice not only for the motoring critics but the general public as well. Winning back-to-back recognition from two premier award giving bodies in the motoring realm, the introduction of the 3rd generation City early this year is a ground-breaking treat for the industry.

The Honda City is named the subcompact sedan of the year during the 5th Auto Focus People’s Choice Awards (AFPC) and the Car of the Year Awards (COTY). These awards groups aim to assist consumers in making a sound choice when purchasing a vehicle.

From July to September of this year, AFPC empowered the general public to vote for their favorite automobiles. AFPC winners were determined by tallying all votes generated from online, newspaper, magazine and radio polls. AFPC has been running its search for the most popular and most appealing automobiles in the market for five years now.

Meanwhile last October, the Car Awards Group Inc. composed of motoring journalists from print and broadcast media conducted qualitative and quantitative tests on qualified vehicles. Tested models included newly launched models with major modifications and those with upgrades that have effect on the power train, drive train or suspension.

“These recognitions are very dear to us because these attest the local market’s warm appreciation of the third generation City. Year 2009 is indeed very significant for the City. The third generation City has not only been introduced at the onset of the year but is also on its way in setting a new sales milestone. With City sales averaging to 3,400 units per year, the new City already hit more than 8,000 sales mark with still one month to go before the year ends. We thank our dear customers and the motoring media for their nonstop support.” said Mr. Hiroshi Shimizu, President and General Manager of Honda Cars Philippines, Inc.

The third generation City presents cutting-edge design and technologies that set new standards in it class. It bears sleek and powerful stance, spacious interior with advanced audio system and comes equipped with the i-VTEC engine technology. Merging modernism with practicality, the City simply changes the rules on how subcompacts should be like.

Honda has earned good reputation for its unceasing quest to improve its products and services. The birth of the first generation City in 1996 was Honda’s response to the growing demand for automobiles in the Asian market.

Through the years, the City’s over-all value for money package gained worldwide market acceptance as it came loaded with functionality features while keeping maintenance and fuel consumption costs low.

Such key strengths paved way for the 3rd generation City to reach beyond Asia and Oceania and advance to the Middle East, Europe and Latin America.

To know more about the award-winning City, visit any of Honda’s 26 authorized dealerships in the country. Be smart and schedule a testdrive.

Honda Jazz Test Drive

If you have a mom who happens to love compact hatchbacks and you are a family of five and each of you having a BMI of more than 30, then you can’t miss the Honda Jazz on your list for a new car. Many subcompacts nowaday are too compact, but the Jazz is different in a way that is longer, fuel efficient and a space eating cute monster. No wonder during its release, it instantly became a hit! While the rumors of the second generation Fit/Jazz will arrive this year, my itch of waiting should be solved by finally writing a piece of my review.

The Jazz is not a kei car but a hatchy small car manufactured by Honda. Since its debut in 2001 (mid 2003 here in the Philippines), it sold over two million units around the world. Japan itself was proud to say that it’s their best selling hotcake in 2002. Of course, to meet the demand, the Jazz is produced in five factories; Japan, Brazil, China, Thailand, and Indonesia. The Jazz sold in the Philippines came from Thailand since models coming from Japan are for the European, Canadian, American and some Asian markets like Singapore and Hong Kong. You’ll find a China-made Jazz in mainland China and Brazil for the Latin America market. The Jazz is also called Fit in some countries and it is based on Honda’s Global Small Car Platform which is also used in the City/Fit Aria, Airwave, and the weird looking boxy Mobilio.

I met the car for the second time, it was waiting for me at the Cagayan de Oro Domestic Airport. Subjectively speaking, the Jazz will always remain cute for the coming years. It might even be a timeless looker in the future. It doesn’t look beefed up, conservative in a way that it can still be aggressive with the body kits installed.The Jazz , however, it may look more like a small MPV for some people but it’s actually a small hatch with a minivan DNA. Throw anything in the back and you’ll be surprised how much things it can swallow. Fold the larger rear seat flat and you will be given an extra space, fold another rear seat flat and there goes another space. Unlike the Toyota Yaris which has a lot of small compartments in the front for storing small stuffs, the Jazz can only give less than half, but do not despair, the Jazz actually has more tricks in stored for you.

The seats for instance can be in different configurations, 2+3 (Front and Rear, respectively), 2+2, 2+1, 2, 1 and the best part would be the ULT configuration where the back seat cushions can be lifted and locked. It is very useful in loading tall items that shouldn’t be lying flat such as plants. Open the door, you’ll instantly be greeted by an interior that looks fresh for the 21st century. It is well-lighted, relaxing to the eyes and the roomy interior is good for claustrophobic therapy session, even I can do a full range of motion exercise inside the car. Honda’s are known for having good instrument panels and the Jazz is no exception, both dials and buttons are big enough to read. The dashboard design may not be that driver-oriented compared to Saab and Audi’s but reaching the controls provides less effort to be reached. Turning my attention to the steering wheel, well it’s grippy and properly beefed up, the material used to cover the steering wheel is excellent, it doesn’t only look good, it feels good too.

The only thing Honda forgot to make the Jazz more enjoyable is a door lock switch, reaching the lock is a pain and disturbing because you have to use your right hand to do the work. As for the quality of plastics, it doesn’t disappoint really, it feels high grade and durable, however, after three years since brand new, I can see some faded paint near the power window buttons. Close the door, and you’ll hear a good solid shut that could increase your confidence about the vehicle’s solidity. Again, you’ll be impressed how quite it is inside, turn the engine on and you’ll never hear it until you press the accelerator. While on the move, the front seats feel supportive and comfortable but once you try sitting in the back, it feels stressful knowing that you don’t have the freedom to recline the seats to give you a better position. But still, knee and leg room are plenty enough to provide an ample space.

The car I tested was a 2003 1.3L (L31A) i-DSI (Intelligent Dual Sequential Ignition) engine mated with a 7 speed CVT transmission. I can say that the engine is responsive enough to roll the streets of Cagayan de Oro City. Use the button to downshift and you will find a little force pushing your body backward. Limit yourself to cruise under 2,000 rpm and it will reward you a delicious fuel economy, you can actually save money on this car that even your wallet can ask for a birthday party.

The engine is good in terms of fuel appetite and adequate push, but once you see the demanding slopes of Bukidnon, you might actually wish for a diesel or a muscular V6 instead. Despite all the ridicule it got from other critics about saying that the 8V-SOHC engine is “old tech”, everybody should make room for praises because Honda actually made an engine that provides maximum torque output at low rpm’s. This is a fact that can be useful on mountain roads, but in reality, I always hit higher than 3000rpm’s when the car was climbing hills for more than 30 kilometers thereby letting the car drink more fuel, that time I got the worse fuel figure of 8 km/l. It is not healthy to get 8 km/l in the Jazz because I usually get an average of 15 km/l, the best I got so far was 19 km/l considering all those steep hills, and the load I was carrying. In terms of handling, the car doesn’t roll a lot thanks to the performance oriented suspension, it feels well planted thus saying that cornering with the Jazz is fun, it also feels nimble but the steering doesn’t confirm it, maybe because it is equipped with an EPS (Electric Power Steering) which most manufacturer’s now offer today. The EPS gives you the feeling of a properly weighted steering response, not only that, it will also give you a better fuel mileage.

But I have something more to share, drive the Jazz at the speed of more than 60kph into uneven and broken asphalted roads found in Bukidnon and the steering will feel really heavy making turning becomes a struggle to do. I was approaching to a corner when this happened and I actually fought for a right turn, the key is to slow down to receive a lighter feel. The seats found onthe Jazz may be comfortable, but the ride is too firm due to the performance oriented suspension tuning. However, driving it gently is a different story. I can still remember good memories of myself driving with matching bossa music, I feel spirited, it became more like a food to my soul.

When it comes to safety, Honda is one of the most active researchers around the world. I think they were the first Japanese manufacturer to adapt pedestrian safety tests. The car I tested was a limited edition model equipped with an ABS + EBD (Electronic Braking Distribution)and Dual SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) Airbags which is handy on slippery conditions. It is also recommended for panicking mothers in case of emergency situations. And if the environment is your concern,the Jazz is green, efficient, and contributes only 134g/km of CO2 which is almost guilt-free. And with Honda’s testament of proven reliability and durability,the Jazz will truly be a joy to own.

CHANA BENNI 1.3L A/T Test Drive

Chinese products are not only common they are actually everywhere. From cellular phone, tires, to DVD players and even cars… After all, China has produced a lot of affordable products, although sometimes with iffy quality.

So it wasn’t much of a surprise when China-based Chana Motors decided to follow Chery’s lead and enter the local automotive market. And they did so by launching at the Manila International Auto Show. After the event, the Chana brand was talked and argued by many people, intrigued by the low prices but concerned about the un-established quality of China-made cars.

Despite (but then again, maybe inspired by) all the endless debates with fellow tsikoteers, I heard myself asking, “I want to test drive a Benni sir!” This is in order to finish some questions that kept ringing in my head. For starters, the Benni is a small car made by Chana to compete against Chery’s QQ and the well-established sub-compact cars such as the Hyundai Getz, Kia Picanto, Suzuki Alto and the rumored upcoming Hyundai i10. The Benni is powered by a 1.3L engine that produces a reasonable 84 horsepower at 6500 rpm with a torque of 110 at 3500 rpm. The engine meets Euro III compliant standards which is good for those tree huggers who want an earth-friendly vehicle that is affordable and able to seat five people all-in-one go.

When I first saw this car, I immediately like it for being an original Chinese vehicle with an Italian ’sguardo e tatto’ style and feel on the outside. As a matter of fact, I like it because it reminds me of the Mercedes Benz A-Class. Although the A-Class comes from a luxury brand, the interior felt and looked cheap looking.

With the Benni, it feels like a massed produced car for the masses who seek economy class mobility. The car is surrounded by plastics that appear slapped on. Sure it’s got fabric but most of the other parts are made of plastics — cheap looking plastics at that. It also has small dials and buttons that are both hard and confusing to see and use.

In this car, you’ll feel hotter in the literal meaning of the word. I was expecting it to be like snowland inside due to the fact that this is a small vehicle that is easy to cool. But alas, even with the fan settings to the max and the thermostat set to the coldest, the A/C wasn’t much help.

It’s quite prolific in producing various sounds too. The moment you start the car, you can instantly hear the engine from the inside. The moment you close the door, you’ll hear no thud sound but instead a ‘clack-ety’ sound.

Still, I behaved like a good boy while driving the Benni. I felt terrible nodding at the staff making them think the Benni is a great car. Sadly it is not. Sure it feels quite solid inside, and has real suspension that performs like one. It has comfortable seats with enough room for those who have heads, shoulders and legs. It feels stable; it has no rattles and no loose bolts. And it is also well-equipped for safety, having dual airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic braking distribution and err… seat belts! But these things don’t really move me because I never felt the Benni to be a fun and a nimble car.

The car needs quite some attention too. The electric power steering for example is a great feature but it acts strangely different from other cars equipped with the same technology. Turn the steering wheel to either side and you’ll notice it has a second delay before you’d be given a turn thereby driving on straights can be quite a challenge. Approach the corners and it rolls like a tall car like the Benni itself is. Another issue would be the automatic transmission that shifts too lazily and the brakes that feel like a little weak for my taste. Thankfully this car is neither fast nor quick. Heck, who cares and wants it to be fast? The car isn’t built for speed and handling. It was made to mobilize small families, save fuel, decrease the rapid rate of global warming and swallow quite a lot of stuff in the back.

But again this car isn’t Casper. The Benni is more like Stinky, Fatso and Stretch combined into one. Unfortunately it comes with too many doubts carried by our own experience with Chinese quality. Truth is, Chinese cars aren’t like ChineseDVD players whose inferior quality are easy to accept if they break down easily. We travel with our loved ones in them, trusting our lives on them.

I would want myself to believe that what I drove is a lemon, that way, I know the real Benni is somewhere out there that is a good comfortable commuter, with a freezing air-conditioning system, and with the steering that behaves like it is directly connected to the tires. But if this is what it really drives, then I’ll wait for the next, hopefully improved version. Nevertheless, the brand has still a long way to go to prove its reliability.

The Mazda BT-50 2.5L 4X2 First Drive

Mazda Philippines has enjoyed long years of pride within their line-up of highly anticipated vehicles such as the Mazda 3, Mazda 6 and the head turning CX-9. Now the company has another ‘zoom-zoom’ product that pushes their market coverage towards hard-working businessman and farmers alike, that is their new Mazda BT-50.

The BT-50 is a straight heir to the ever reliable B-Series pick-up which we can still see a lot in the streets today. During its time, Mazda marketed it as a lifestyle pick-up that not only boasts its functionality, but a legendary heritage of toughness in which some of us may know. Not surprising (I must say) that the new one just got even better in terms of power and refinement yet still feels robust in every detail.

As the ‘zoom-zoom’ philosophy goes, this pick-up is one of it. Though the Mazda BT-50 shares almost the same under parts as the Ford Ranger in a different styling. It looks better up close and personal with its athletic and muscular stance. Function-wise, the BT-50 doesn’t lack any of it as it is able to haul a ton of cargo in the back and tow three tons. Getting in and out of the BT-50 after a long day of dirt driving means the driver will probably get dirty shoes as well, standard sidestep fittings provides a good brush to remove the mud away.

Inside, the BT-50 also boasts a ‘zoom-zoom’ like atmosphere though (again) every detail is much similar to the Ford Ranger its amber interior illumination makes it unique and sporty. The two-tone colour scheme of grey and with silver-finish accents gives more detail that provides a clean and modern impression of quality. The cabin is big enough for anyone who is less than 5’10”, sadly, anyone taller than that will be deprived of a relaxing ride. Standard features include power windows, locks, steering, and mirrors; a 6 disc changer and mp3 player w/ auxiliary input and an Auto Level Control (ALS) that automatically adjusts the volume according to the vehicle speed; and a slide-out tray for paper documents. The seats are comfortable and offers the best support in any modern pick-up I have driven. Now despite having no freedom for height adjustment it still provides a good commanding view. The truck showed good suspension rebound and has reasonable body roll control, and regardless of its truck-ness, it remains to be a comfortable highway cruiser.

Powered by a new 2.5L MZR-CD 16 valve CRDi engine, it doesn’t depress any driver because the 143 horsepower and 330 Nm torque guarantees a good punch towards the redline thanks to the added variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). It’s so good that it will keep you smiling all day. While the 5-speed Manual gearbox delivers smooth shifting. But just like any other diesel engine, this too, sounds agricultural, by operating it below 2500 rpm the clattering sound will be kept minimal. A drive to the Subic race track showed the BT-50’s dynamic handling, the steering and ABS-equipped brakes felt progressive throughout. From 60 kph to a complete stop gives it about 25 meters of stopping distance and a 0-100 kph run in less than 13 seconds which is already good for a hefty truck. As far as safety is concerned, the BT-50 is equipped with dual SRS airbags, side impact beams, rear door child locks, anti-lock brakes and EBD (4X4 only). These offerings makes it a practical and safe ute for both family and business use.

The Mazda BT-50 is currently offered at an introductory price of P1.329M for a 3.0L 4X4 version. Our tester, the 2.5L 4X2 version runs for P949,000. Interested buyers may schedule their test drive by calling the Mazda hotline at tel. no 85-MAZDA or visit their site at www.mazda.com.ph.

Honda' s New Small Car Concept

Honda

unveiled its upcoming small car concept in the on-going Auto Expo 2010 in New Delhi, called the 'New Small' for now. The car features a truly radical design that stands out from the current pack of small cars.

The front has a pair of striking pulled back headlamps with LED being the source of illumination, giving it a very futuristic look. The grille has a prominent arrow shaped which extends over to the engine bonnet and the large Honda logo taking centre stage. Below you can see the gaping air inlet split horizontally by a thin bar which ends in cool looking fog lamps.
On the sides one can see the fairly prominent wheel arches and a sharp cut crease along the waistline which extends from the front bumper, all the way to the rear door window. The new Honda car as the interesting two-door effect like the one on the Chevrolet Beat, with the door handles being cleverly concealed. The mirrors are by far the most interesting looking objects on the entire car but it remains to be seen how something so small will be of any practical value on our roads. The rear side carries the futuristic look of the car but doesn't look nearly as good.

The 'New Small' is believed to come with a 1.0L version of Honda's VTEC engine and might also get the 1.2L version from the Jazz. You can expect good fuel efficiency as well as decent performance from both the engines, along with the usual Honda refinement. The pricing is not revealed but it should be prices on par with the Hyundai i10 and the Maruti Ritz. The 'New Small' is slated for launch in 2011 in India and Thailand.