Saturday, November 5, 2016

Bubble Gang - November 4, 2016 #BGHunter

On the November 4, 2016 episode of Bubble Gang...

- Hunting gags

- King Solomon tests his judgment over a lovers' quarrel.

- The trouble of social media complaints are examined.

- Homeless TV Shopping



- More news for moms in Balitang Ina

- More PPAP jokes with Taran Taro

- Istambay, Istambay sa Looban, Tigil na Lahat ng Kalokohan, Mas Loko Ang Pinagusapan, Pag Tumambay dito sa...TINDAHAN!

- Using make-ups as bets

- A different kind of art exhibit

- Basa-basa-pik!

Marvel's Doctor Strange

While we are having some Marvel hangovers after last summer's Civil War and while we're still waiting for more Marvel films coming next year, including a new Thor film with Hulk in it, another Marvel superhero steps into the big screen and this one could be your newest favorite because...it's got a good looking guy in an accent playing the role of a powerful sorcerer who will be humanity's last hope against evildoers.

Doctor Strange

Marvel's Doctor Strange centers on a brilliant but arrogant neurosurgeon named Stephen Strange, played by Sherlock's  Benedict Cumberbatch, whose career is destroyed after a fatal accident. Following his accident, he travels to Nepal until he encounters The Ancient One, played by Tilda Swinton, the Sorcerer Supreme of the Earth who will lead him to an extraordinary life of becoming a powerful sorcerer who can save the world against evil zealots and other-dimensional beings as he engulfs on a magical war to decide the fate of the world.

The first half of the movie is pretty much regular like all superhero flicks discovering their origins but by the time this movie progresses, it's becoming as mind blowing as a disaster flick because of the scenes where everything is starting to crumble. Sure is traumatic even by sci-fi standards and by the fact that they're computer-generated, but because this is Benedict Cumberbatch we're talking about, his role of being a superhero is very unheard of by Marvel standards. We were getting accustomed by British celebs playing villains, even in Marvel movies, but for a British guy playing the hero in this film, that's very unique and as long as there's anyone getting hooked on him more than focusing on how the story unfolds.

Getting your eyes glued to this latest Marvel flick and Doctor Strange really is an attention-grabbing flick that doesn't care about its flaws as long as fans of Benedict Cumberbatch can see how his superhero role works in the same way as being a detective in a TV show and this movie, which has bits that can blow their heads off, is a clear example why we want to go to the movies.

My rating: 3.9 out of 5.

Trolls (2016 film)

If you're under 20, you have a very fond memory of collecting those hairy-looking cute dolls they called Trolls. Unique to their hair-raising looks, the Trolls became one of the most iconic toys ever collected for the 90's kids like you and I. Now, the remnants of our childhood memories has finally landed on the big screen from the people that brought you the Shrek films.

Trolls

Featuring the voices of Justin Timberlake, Anna Kendrick, Zooey Deschanel, among many others, Dreamworks' Trolls is an animated movie fit enough for the 90's kids to see their once favorite childhood toys springing into action in the big screen, although this is mainly a family movie that your kids ever wanted to see one for the weekends.

This movie is about a colorful, happy, bunch of creatures called the Trolls living in a magical tree until the larger creatures, called the Bergens, wanted those lovable creatures to be...(gulp)...their lunch. It's up to the Princess named Poppy and the only unhappy troll, Branch, to save the day by saving their friends before their becoming Bergen food.

If your kids ever managed to see this film as a whole family, chances are this will be a smorgasbord of awkward storyline that doesn't feel like an adventure movie at all as well as the awkward feeling that the colorful world of Trolls will make you feel "high" from the start of the film to the end. Yes, you may consider yawning while your kids are busy watching the film but if anyone around you called this film "cute", you'd better start asking because this film slightly packs a lot of cuteness from start to finish and they really don't care if you call it boring because, like I said it, it's "cute" from start to finish.

On the upside is, despite its lack of feel in the story, this film does pack some good vibes on it thanks to its unforgettable characters and their unforgettable moments in this film. This film is not just for family viewing, it can be a good date night movie if you tried. Trolls may not be an adventurous film when it comes to its storyline, but for a fun factor and good vibes loaded on it, it sure is a good film that you never know until you tried.

My rating: 3.2 out of 5

Forza Horizon 3: A new Asian treasure

As I thought that my treasure hunting days are well and truly over ever since I found all fifteen barn finds scattered throughout Down Under, looks like the latest update gave us a brand new barn find rumor, something they've never done that throughout the history of Forza Horizon.


The latest barn find rumor is hidden somewhere at Byron Bay, what else but the place where your Horizon adventure began but the real question is, what's inside the barn? Looks like the treasure hunt starts now...



So, what's inside the barn? Hold on, what's this?!



This is,,,a KPGC110 Skyline 2000GT-R. This kind of classic Skyline was called by speedo boys as the "Kenmeri" Skyline because of the advertising that has the couple named Ken and Mary on it. But this is the GT-R version. It was launched in 1972 following the original was launched. The Kenmeri Skyline GT-R was the first Japanese car to have disc brakes front and rear. Although popular, it was short-lived with 197 units made after stricter exhaust regulations were introduced. Wow, 197 units made, that made the Kenmeri Skyline 2000GT-R one of the rarest JDM cars in history and a good one can set them a massively priced 176,000 US Dollars. Now that's what I call a supercar money in an ultra-rare Asian treasure your parents surely remembered.

Okay, let's try out this Asian treasure on the road because my schedule's just cleared so I can try out this legendary machine.



Nothing like going back to our grannies' timeline to see how fast the Kenmeri Skyline 2000GT-R is and it would be a shame to miss out this legendary Asian treasure if you haven't heard about the latest FH3 that featured a brand new barn find never done in the Horizon series.

Friday, November 4, 2016

Let's Do The News! (November 4, 2016)


- The Bureau of Customs has sacked lawyer Arnel Alcaraz as officer-in-charge of the Enforcement Group after President Rodrigo Duterte mentioned that he wanted a an alleged corrupt official like him to be remove. In an interview with Duterte, he has yet to talk to Colonel Nicanor Faeldon about the deputy for intelligence at Customs but he had instructed to his aide to relay and want Alcaraz to be sacked.

- Sung Kim was named as the new US ambassador to the Philippines. Secretary of State John Kerry expressed confidence that the US relationship with the Philippines can survive recent turbulence as he swore in a new US ambassador to the Southeast Asian nation.

- In an attempt to blow a hole on Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, a US judge upheld a Pennsylvania state law that could make it difficult for his supporters to monitor Election Day activity in Democratic-leaning states. Trump once warned a few moments ago that the 2016 elections will going to be "rigged."

- The convertible version of the second-generation Audi A5 has unveiled before its world premiere at this month's LA Auto Show.


- Honda is prepping next year's Super GT season with a GT500-spec version of their new NSX hybrid sportscar, the NSX-GT.


- Remember Iowa? The American battleship who recently became part of the cast of playable characters on the KanColle browser game. Guess what? She gets hew own Nendoroid that you can now place orders starting at 7,222 Yen plus tax and delivers this April. Time to insert American jokes here on KanColle's first American battleship in the fleet that swoon fans with her American tastes and jokes.


TTFN!!!

Forza Horizon 3: Assignment NSX

The Alpinestars Car Pack for Forza Horizon 3 gave us one of the most sensational cars of 2016 and by no means one of the most hotly anticipated comebacks in the history of automotive industry. Ladies and gents, say hello to the brand new NSX from Acura. Precision Crafted Performance.



Before getting too excited about taking behind the wheel of the brand new NSX, let's take a quick briefing about what's it all about this reborn sportscar that rose from the ashes of its decade-long absence. It was the year 2012 when Honda/Acura announced that they will revive the NSX sportscar since its 2005 discontinuation and with their concept version first shown at the 2012 North American International Auto Show, anticipation is sensing towards the rebirth of the NSX, which occurred about three years later at the same venue.

Now as a hybrid sportscar, NSX is powered by an all-new 3.5L V6 Turbo engine coupled with three electric motors and a Li-ion battery, generating an overall power output of 581PS and mated to a 9-speed DCT built exclusively for the NSX. Performance aside, the new NSX  features a Sport Hybrid SH-AWD drivetrain with instant acceleration and direct yaw control as well as multi-material body construction to make it lighter and more rigid unlike any other. Aerodynamics aside, the new NSX's total airflow management allows this car to be more stable at high speeds and it has the lowest center of gravity.



Although wary at first the moment I became part of the NSX experience in Forza Horizon 3, I am very more than happy to get my first dibs on the American-made, Japanese-engineered, hybrid sportscar that serves as the new gold standard in performance while trying to pick a fight against the Nissan GT-R. For a hybrid car of that caliber, with the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD locked and loaded for action, the new NSX feels so rewarding at so many levels and the more you're driving this car, the more you'll start to realize that this could be your favorite car in FH3 by a long mile. Trust me, you can get really hooked to this sportscar by the moment you set foot on this one.

Now that the all-new NSX has arrived on Australian roads for us to see how it works, work time has begun for me as the filming for this car has commenced in a metropolitan area they called Surfers Paradise, but first, it's off to the make-up room it goes for the new NSX.





Didn't see that thing coming, did you? I've been planning for this moment to come as I came up with a special NSX featuring the same color theme as Dia Kurosawa, a character who appears at the Love Live! Sunshine!! TV series. Dia's a student body president of the Uranohoshi Girls High and a very strict girl who...um...let me look back at the dossier... Aha! There it is. She's prideful and perfectionistic in her ways and she can't abide it when things are done wrong. She has a little sister named Ruby.

Anyway, let's move on to my new work of art because this specially prepped NSX which is now themed after Dia is what you can call the "five-letter-curse-word-that-starts-with-b in the red dress." Sorry, can't do expletive dialogue in her but you get the idea because of (sigh) women. The trouble with women.

With everything set, I'm getting my clapper ready and my butt on the director's chair to witness this red rogue in action. However, since this is Dia I'm talking about, I gave a very special privilege for her. NOTE: I used a temporary perk that allows my car to start in 1st place for four races. So, with a special privilege set, the stage is set and the spotlight is on her. Lights, motor, action!





So, the new NSX, what can I say? Well, even though this is a hybrid supercar that is nowhere near as powerful as the P1 and the LaFerrari, its performance and dynamics are top-notch and I believe this is starting to behave like a Nissan GT-R on so many levels, although both may result in a possible dead heat in a cold light of day as the opportunity rises. With Europe's finest sportscars got into its crosshairs, the new NSX is a definite threat to the opposition and for speedo boys everywhere, this calls for a celebration that we can have our dibs on the rebirth of the iconic legend that was made two and a half decades in the making.

It truly is an ORIGINAL that MUST BE DONE. Now, if you excuse me, I need to take a break after all the fun I had in the new NSX.

Thursday, November 3, 2016

Let's Do The News! (November 3, 2016)


- The Philippine National Police is ready to cooperate with South Korean authorities in their conduct of an independent investigation pertaining to the deaths of some South Korean nationals in the country. According to PNP Chief Director General Bato Dela Rosa, the investigation into the deaths of some South Koreans were behind the commission of crimes not just in Metro Manila but nationwide. However, the PNP chief said, these cases had nothing to do with illegal drugs but had something to do with their respective businesses.

- From the words of President Rodrigo Duterte, he said that even if the US won't sell assault rifles to them, they can still fight criminals with non-lethal weapons and fists. Also, he's consider continuing to acquire weapons and defense equipment from the US if his military recommends to, despite offers from China and Russia. And then, Duterte said his country has no plans to adopt nuclear energy during his six-year term because of safety concerns.

- Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Jesus Dureza fetched fugitive MNLF founding chairman Nur Misuari from Sulu to meet President Duterte. MNLF's Islamic Command Council chair Habib Mujahab Hashim said Dureza presented Misuari, who emerged with numerous armed followers, a copy of the order suspending the warrant.

- Reports revealing Donald Trump's dangerous foreign business entanglements that made the Republican presidential nominee and businessman failed to disclose the whole story of his business record. It also pointed out that he and his children worked with abroad include the family of a Indian developer who is a ruling party politician, an Azerbaijani government minister's son, and a media company that became the Turkish president's outlet during the failed coup attempt since July 15, 2016.

- An independent panel has determined that the United Nations will revise their failed South Sudan peacekeeping operation. According to a spokesperson to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, at least 73 people were killed during three days of attacks on UN and private compounds housing refugees in their capital, Juba. It also found that a lack of effective leadership and failure of UN peacekeepers to respond contributed to their poor performance.

- A nitrocharged Hyundai IONIQ Hybrid set a land speed record of 157.825mph at the Bonneville Salt Flats.


- Eat Bulaga presenter Paolo Ballesteros won the Best Actor award at the Tokyo Film Fest 2016. His film Die Beautiful won the Audience Award as well.

- Actor Michael Fassbender is expected to play as two different characters in the upcoming Alien Covenant movie, the sequel to 2012's Prometheus film, which is a prequel to 1979's Alien film, whatever that is.

TTFN!!!

Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe

In the ongoing tradition of luxury carmakers making four-door crossover coupes since the BMW X6, Mercedes-Benz unveiled a four-door coupe derivative of the practical midsize luxury crossover, the GLC-Class, and what this is isn't your auntie's Mercedes anymore. In fact, the new GLC Coupe trades away its utilitarian traits for curves.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe

Yes, when I say curves, one look and you will notice that it might think this is just a C-Class saloon but with bigger wheels on the mix but the GLC-Class Coupe, being a four-door version of the crossover version of the C-Class, isn't just more of a hunk of a saloon, in fact, its eccentric looks can set you to a state of confusion, knowing why companies like BMW and Mercedes-Benz are making weird-looking four-door crossovers like this one. If you look at the other guys, say the BMW X4 and X6, as well as its big brother, the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, you'll know that it wasn't made for the adventurous or those who had a little class, in fact, cars like these should have a little class or else they'll end up being compared to a tall Hong Kong skyscraper for no reason.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe interior

Same issue goes to the inside of the car because even though it's very nice to accommodate, the rear space is what get you noticed due to its sloping roof line but all in all, it's just the same raw deal when you're sitting in the car as long as there's no one getting in your sweet spot at the back. Although the rear space is less than the normal GLC-Class due to its sloping roof line, there's still lots of rooms for your everyday needs and with the rear seats present, there's more room for two macho boxes inside.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe

Let's see what's like behind the wheel. Despite being sleek and sporty in terms of design, the way it behaves is pretty much average for a luxury crossover and when you opt in for the DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL with steel springing, you can really feel the mildness within reach, which makes the most for being a normal handling car with normal driving characteristics. With 4MATIC as the only standard feature, any condition can be a play day as long as you don't make a mess while driving with it because doing it too hard, you'll face some cataclysmic understeering if you're not very careful so patience is a virtue when you're taking this all-weather friend on the go. Under the hood, the GLC Coupe comes with a range of 2.0L turbo petrol and a 2.1L turbodiesel with the higher output produces 204PS of power and 500Nm of torque. All models are mated with nine gears and later on, there's a plug-in hybrid variant called the GLC 350 e 4MATIC with a combined power output of 319PS of power, 550Nm of torque, and 235kph of top speed.

2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC43 Coupe
2017 Mercedes-AMG GLC43 Coupe

Of course, if you're a speedo boy who wants to get to work quicker than the other guys at the office, there's a semi-high performance variant from Mercedes-AMG called the GLC43 Coupe, which comes with 9G-TRONIC gearbox, 4MATIC all-wheel drive, and a 3.0L V6 twin turbo engine producing 367PS of power and 520Nm of torque that can get you from 0-100kph in 4.9 seconds. Simple as that and as for the dynamics, the GLC43 won't make you feel numb while on the road, no matter the weather forecast you heard from the news.

So, would you buy one, perhaps? The new GLC Coupe starts at 49,445 Euros, which is over four grand more than its chief rival, the BMW X4, but who cares about it? Who would ever want to have a four-door crossover coupe in the first place that trades practicality for sloping roofs? Only time will tell to decide the outcome but if you're not happy about the GLC Coupe, get a normal GLC-Class instead because it's way more like your auntie's Mercedes, only better.

Photo: Daimler AG

Forza Horizon 3: Shin Godzilla

Here it is. Thought they'll never feature it but they really did. Yes, this is the 2017 Nissan GT-R, the latest update on Nissan's halo sportscar that has championed the hearts of every speedo boy in the world when it was launched almost a decade ago and now it's here on Forza Horizon 3 for everyone to take their first dibs on the recently updated R35 GT-R.



Okay, before I call dibs on "Shin Godzilla", let's take a quick briefing about the new model because it's been almost a decade when Nissan unveiled the R35 GT-R at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show and drawn a lot of attention from the world on a car that was a concept turned reality and setting the standards on supercar territory.

Apart from its updated design, as shown by its new V-motion grille, Daytime Running Lamps, and a new interior, the 2017 GT-R's performance has been updated from a significantly reinforced chassis and more power from its 3.8L VR38DETT twin turbo V6 engine, Because of its increase in boost pressure and an ignition-timing system that's controlled at each individual cylinder-technology, power output is now up from 542HP to 565HP. The 6-speed double clutch gearbox has been recalibrated for better refinement and performance in different driving situations.



Judging from its improvements, I can really feel how much Godzilla has matured after a decade of introduction and despite its age, the Nissan GT-R really knows how to keep on standing despite all the wear and tear it faced through the years. Longevity is what best sums it up but while it retains one of the fastest cars in the world, it feels like it's losing its charm and strength in numbers having faced different cars that are way faster than this enthusiastic veteran. Cars like the Audi R8 V10 plus and the McLaren 570S, they are just one of the cars fresh enough to dethrone our favorite Nissan famous for thrashing down other cars two or three times the price.

It maybe a supercar slayer no more but I know how to regain its charm after all of what happened so far because I got a little serial shooting coming up in all corners of Horizon Australia, except for the Outback because it's starting to feel like it's reserved for offroaders only. It's a four-race championship I've came up with to showcase how good the new model is despite its decade-long age but before I say "it's showtime", time for Mr. Godzilla to go to the changing room. Get it?






Oh dear. It's Godzilla no more and it's becoming more of a "Step Zero To One" right now because the folks messed it up with a hint of Chika minute on it. In English, they themed it after Chika Takami, a character who appears on Love Live Sunshine. Man, you can never have too much idol girls in your design catalog, right? Guess I've been fallen to their trap like most grown men and women did when they see one image of an idol girl on it. But anyway, after some major improvements before the big show, it's time for me to get the clapper ready because...IT'S SHOWTIME!



After spending a whole day driving the new GT-R on FH3, I think this old-timer finally got its mojo back and it feels like it's ready to get back on the road again and give some European supercars some more good kicking in their rear bumpers. Ah, talking about the good days, huh? But my work here is never done because there are still more roads to explore, more cars to drive on, and more fun I can pull off until it's completely "off the record."

Wednesday, November 2, 2016

1, 2, Sing for You!/So Beautiful Story/STARJET!

1, 2, Sing for You!/So Beautiful Story/STARJET!

The latest single of the hit TV series, Aikatsu Stars, has arrived and in this single, there are three new songs you can listen to not just for the little kids in your family but for the hardcore Aikatsu fans everywhere.

Well, there are two songs heard from the TV show while the third one is a brand-new, never before heard Aikatsu Stars track exclusive to this maxi single album. In here, there's the latest Aikatsu Stars opening theme song titled "1,2, Sing for You!", which sounds very nice, and the second one is the latest closing theme that will put some mellow to their earbuds after a long day, titled "So Beautiful Story". The new song added in the single "STARJET!" is, like I said, a never before heard song new to this so feel free to listen to all three tracks in the latest single.

Anyway, those who got lucky enough to get a limited edition will score a special card for use in the DATA CARDDASS Aikatsu Stars arcade game so if you got your hands on those, feel free to use these special coordinates while continuing to rack up the points in the game.

Keep watching Aikatsu Stars every Thursday nights on TV Tokyo!

TRACK LISTINGS:

01 1, 2, Sing for You!
02 So Beautiful Story
03 スタージェット!
04 1, 2, Sing for You! (off vocal)
05 So Beautiful Story (off vocal)
06 スタージェット! (off vocal)

Let's Do The News! (November 2, 2016)



- President Rodrigo Duterte will discuss possible joint military and police operations with Malaysia in the ongoing fight against the Abu Sayyaf terrorists. Addressing the "deteriorating peace and order" in those water will top the agenda when Duterte meets Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak and other top officials in Malaysia next week.

- Although President Duterte confirmed the resignation of former president Fidel V. Ramos as special envoy for China following Duterte's successful Chinese visit, Palace officials still believe that FVR will continue to play a tole in the Duterte administration's engagement with Beijing.

- Clashes in ideology threaten to split Duterte's ruling party PDP-Laban, according to reports. Reports told that Cabinet Secretary Leoncio Evasco Jr., a top political adviser of Duterte, launched the Kilusang Pagbabago movement that could be turned into another political party and vanguard of the Duterte administration to ensure delivery of government programs to the masses. The new movement would soon register as a political party that could undermine the PDP-Laban party and put them on the sidelines of the political landscape.

- PHLPost planned to turn the Philippine Postal Savings Bank into a bank for overseas Filipino workers. Last month, Philippine President Duterte, during his Japan visit, mulls a postal bank for OFWs. But to do that, PHLPost assistant postmaster general for marketing Luis Carlos said it might require him or the Department of Finance to infuse about two to three billion pesos in capital to PHLPost.

- Certain reports revealed that Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump engaged in "legally dubious" schemes to avoid paying millions in federal income taxes, even as his own lawyers made clear they likely would not hold up to IRS scrutiny. Trump's campaign denies everything, of course.

- Iraqi troops have entered Mosul to recapture the country's second-largest city from Islamic state militants. The Iraqi forces announced that they've entered the city, gaining control of the eastern district of Kokjali, and continued to advance to the wet bank of the Tigris River.

- At the SEMA Show, Ford Performance unveiled a new data logging app that lets users to share their on-track performance with their smartphones. Taking advantage of the SYNC 3, the new app displays  relevant track information as well as utilizing their smartphones to record video of their track day.

- Unveiled at this week's SEMA Show, Mazda showcased their special Speedster and RF Kuro concepts inspired from the Roadster ND.



- Following Audi's departure from Le Mans, Volkswagen announced its leaving the World Rally Championship at the end of this season, following the dieselgate scandal and their push to move away from fossil fuels and to electrification.

- The new Acura NSX, the new Dodge Viper ACR, and the new BMW M4 GTS, just one of the seven new rides you can drive on the new Alpinestars Car Pack only on Forza Horizon 3. Car Pass owners can get it for free or can be bought for $7 plus tax. Also, there's a new update featuring a new barn find rumor and "winter is coming" to Forza Horizon 3 before the year ends.



TTFN!!!

Nissan Note E12 (2017MY Minor Change) and Note E-Power

The current-generation Nissan Note has been on the road for four years and for the 2017 model year, not only the Note E12 sees a minor change on the inside out but this is the first time this Nissan Note 2017 Minor Change introduces a revolutionary E-Power variant that will game-changing the compact car segment in terms of fuel efficiency.

2017 Nissan Note
2017 Nissan Note interior

Of course, the minor change sees a revised exterior design complete with the V-Motion grille that will serve as the new signature design for future Nissan models since the Serena and the GT-R as well as a revised interior featuring a new steering wheel design, also on the new Serena and the new GT-R, that will soon be applied on future Nissan models, but the e-Power variant will be the key topic for this 2017MY minor change Nissan Note.

What is e-Power? Time to get your notebooks, folks, because this innovative drive system is pretty much new to us. Ready? Okay. So, e-Power features a full electric-motor drivetrain in which the wheels are completely powered by the electric motor, and the Note's 1.2L HR12DE petrol engine simply charges the batteries. The way how electricity is made is what differs it from an electric vehicle or conventional hybrid and with e-Power, the 1.2L engine and the wheels are not connected similar to an electric car as the power is sourced from the petrol engine, allowing it to run without having to charge the battery from an external source.

2017 Nissan Note interior

Because the batteries are 1/20th the size of the ones from the Nissan LEAF, its compact sizing made it to fit under the front seats without cramping the interior space and the e-Power's total power output is 109PS and a massive torque output of 254Nm, similar to those from two-liter engines. Fuel efficiency? It's a whopping 37.2kmpl on JC08 Mode standards and with this kind of efficiency, it's a clear vision to the future of Nissan's electrification strategy under Nissan Intelligent Mobility.

2017 Nissan Note

So, with the quick and clear lecture about how e-Power works is done, let's move on to other stuff, shall we? In the 2017 minor change Nissan Note E12, there's a brand new Smart Room Mirror that when activated, the rear view cameras will provide a full rear view on the mirror. Useful for those who are being pursued by some stalkers or for some reverse parking. Also, the new Note comes with an array of safety tech that is part of the Nissan Safety Shield technology such as the Intelligent Around View Monitor, Intelligent Emergency Brake, Lane Departure Warning, and a collision prevention assist.

The e-Power variant will cost you about 1,772,280 Yen while non e-Power models start 1,393,200 Yen. Rest assured, the ones didn't had e-Power on it comes with two kinds of 1.2L petrol engines; a naturally aspirated one or a supercharged one with 26.2kmpl of fuel economy. For those who prefer the look of a pre-facelifted model because the V-motion grill look isn't too pleasant to look at, fear not because a special Mode Premier model, courtesy of Autech, is available starting from 1,906,200 to 2,207,520 Yen. Still has the same engine choices as well as the brand new e-Power variant but you'll get a Note with pre-facelift looks and a touch of class.

Available colors: Premium Corona Orange, Galaxy Gold, Olive Green, Garnet Red, Super Black, Dark Metal Gray, Brilliant Silver, Shining Blue, Sonic Blue, Nadeshiko Pink, Brilliant White Pearl, and White,

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Tuesday, November 1, 2016

F1 2016: Mexican GP

Photo: Associated Press

The Mexican Grand Prix of the 2016 Formula One season is a cyclone of calamity from start to finish, as demonstrated by those disastrous crashes that turned race day into a complete nightmare, although there are some drivers managed to brave through the horrific nightmare just to survive themselves all the way to the end of the race.

At the end of this piled rubble of mess, only a handful of drivers made it to the finish line and thanks to the recent win for Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton, the gap between him and Nico Rosberg has been narrowed to just 19 points in the fight for the driver's championship, although a 1-2 finish would mean that they can keep on fighting until the winner is decided.

For third-placer Sebastian Vettel of Ferrari, his day's never going to end as a recent radio conversation that made Max Verstappen's move upset him. Right now, Verstappen's been penalized for a move he made on Vettel.

The next race will be on Brazil on the 13th of November.

Let's Do The News! (November 1, 2016)


- The Malacanang Palace has appealed for a clean, orderly, and crime-free observance of All Souls Day. In a press statement released on Tuesday by Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar urged the public to observe the solemnity of the occasion. Almost 10,000 police personnel were deployed to secure various areas of interest in the observance of All Souls' Day.

- Senator Ping Lacson said that the Philippines did not lose anything after the US State Department reportedly stopped the planned sale of about 26,000 rifles to the Philippine National Police because they can look elsewhere. The decision was made after US Senator Ben Cardin oppose the planned sale because of alleged human rights violations. Lacson believes that there are other countries that manufacture better and affordable rifles than the US and added the Department of National Defense has even more reason to revive the country's self-reliance program to produce its own weapons and ammunition.

- With the Philippines' affair with China is done with greater results at a cost, former president Fidel V. Ramos announced yesterday his resignation as special envoy in China. Ramos' announcement came amid his scathing criticisms of President Duterte's pronouncements and priorities.

- A bipartisan group of almost 50 State Attorneys General issued a following letter expressing concern over FBI Director James Comey following last week's letter to the congress regarding e-mails in connection to Hillary Clinton, calling it "unacceptable" and a "serious mistake".

- A new report showing that the Trump Organization has a secret server registered to Trump Tower that has been secretly communicating with a Russian-based bank, proving possible links between Donald Trump and Russia.

- Retired army general Michel Aoun was elected by the parliament as the new president of Lebanon, ending a political standoff that lasted for over 2 years. The appointment of Aoun, a Maronite Christian, came as different factions reached an agreement to elect him on Monday.

- Mercedes-Benz unveiled four brand new engines with the half being straight-six engines. The new engines consist of a 3.0L straight-six petrol as well as its diesel equivalent, a 4.0L twin-turbo V8, and a 2.0L twin turbo engine. The new V8 and the straight-six petrol engine will make it on the upcoming Mercedes S-Class minor change while they're still deciding which cars will have their new engines.

- Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' offerings on this week's SEMA Show include a modernized 1971 Dodge Challenger, a CJ66 concept made with mashed-up Jeeps of the past and present, a Ram ProMaster bar, a Mopar Pacifica, a Dodge Durango Shaker concept with a V8 engine, and a Ram Macho Power Wagon.

- Chika Takami from Love Live Sunshine gets her own figma! This figma based on the character who appears on the hit TV series can now be yours to order for 5,370 Yen plus tax and deliveries will commence this April!


TTFN!!!

Forza Horizon 3: Godzilla flashback

Yes, there is now a recently facelifted Nissan GT-R offered in Forza Horizon 3 but before driving the current version, let's take a trip down memory lane on the previous facelift circa 2010 to 2016.


Okay, when I drove the previous facelift of the Nissan GT-R in the original Horizon four years ago, I had a sensation to think that it was a major improvement over to the one that was launched since 2007. As you know, next year's going to be the R35 GT-R's 10th anniversary so what I'm going to do with this one though is to make the most of it out of Godzilla's anatomy. As a car built from a hermetically sealed factory, it became the last name for speed. The body, the brakes, the 3.8L twin-turbo V6 engine, the steering, the dual-clutch gearbox, everything works like this car means it.


Speedo boys who are enjoying the previous facelift of the R35 Nissan GT-R are pleased that it was listed as one of the cars that come with upgrade presets. In fact, it comes with a special body kit courtesy of Liberty Walk and with this body kit, one squint and you'll notice that it has a close resemblance to Brian's GT-R from Fast and Furious 6...or so I thought. I know this body kit looks similar to the one from the movie but for sharp-eyed speedo boys, it wasn't nearly as "Brian's car" they've hoped for, but who cares about it. With all that erectus dominus dominated on every bit of Godzilla's tough body, and in the subject that I'm on vacation leave, better hit it to the streets to show everyone the "way of the road" but first...


Anyone familiar with this design I made back in Europe in the previous Horizon 2 game? Yep, that's the one but this time, a new Ritsuko Akizuki from THE IDOLM@STER Platinum Stars was made to keep up with the times. So with a fresh new update on a familiar design I made, some major adjustments to be made to make it more competitive and here's the thing. Because this car's four-wheel drive, even trying to max it up to over a thousand horsepower won't try to kill you and you can still survive driving it unless if you're on a catastrophic understeer, of course. Anyway, here comes the R35 GT-R with a Liberty Walk kit in action.



Even when you made it up to over a thousand horsepower, which sounds scary if you're in a rear-wheel drive car, that GT-R can still survive like a big boss. So, now that you know about the previously facelifted R35 GT-R circa 2010 to 2016, next time, let's focus on the 2017MY GT-R and I can't wait to see how it behaves.

Monday, October 31, 2016

Let's Do The News! (October 31, 2016)


- PAGASA warned that the Philippines can expect five more cyclones until the end of the year. Right now, two low pressure areas will enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility this week and may intensify into typhoons.

- Two members of the Abu Sayyaf Group were killed during a gunfight at Indanan, Sulu yesterday. Army Scout Rangers fought the bandits starting at 0645 hours, local time, according to sources. The body of one of the killed terrorists was recovered at the scene of the fighting, while residents saw the other body being dragged by retreating comrades.

- Despite fishermen happily return to fishing at the disputed Panatag Shoal, the Chinese Coast Guard vessels are still guarding the shoal, according to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr.

- Another quake struck the central Italy as a M6.6 quake jolted the city of Norcia on Sunday. About two months ago, a strong quake killed nearly 300 people in central Italy.

- A group of nearly 100 former federal prosecutors and high-ranking Department of Justice officials, issued a following joint letter expressing serious concerns about FBI director James Comey's departure regarding last week's letter sent to the Congress regarding fresh batch of e-mails in connection to Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton.

- Meanwhile, another revelation regarding Clinton's Republican foe, businessman Donald Trump's lack of charitable giving, despite his history of making promises of donations and the scandal that hit the Trump Foundation.

- The next-generation Mazda CX-5 crossover is set to debut at November's Los Angeles Auto Show with its first teaser.


- Tesla CEO Elon Musk unveiled the company's solar roof-top panels as well as the new Powerwall 2 high-capacity residential battery pack for both home and businesses.

- Next year's Pripara movie has a title! Their fourth movie based on the hit TV series will be called PriPara Minna de Kagayake! Kirarin Star Live and in this movie, set to hit theaters this March 2017, our favorite characters are going for a tour around the solar system!

TTFN!!!

Peugeot 3008 II

This is not deja vu, folks. Of course the name is the same as the old one but look closely that everything's all new inside out because Peugoet's medium-sized crossover, the 3008, has been regenerated with an all new look, all new interior, all new performance, and all new tech that will surely shape up the crossover competition.

2017 Peugeot 3008

So, what's it all about the new Peugeot 3008? First of all, let's take a look at the details before going deeper to its core as you can see, the new design is basically an improvement compared to the previous model. It's like a beefed up 308 hatchback after going to the fitness center to do some workout but while the front and back is basically nice to look at, the sidelines are a bit redundant and it needs a little class to bring out its alluring looks in order to swoon the customers.

2017 Peugeot 3008

That said, with the new exterior is almost a letdown on the sidelines, the interior is worth a redeemable one, almost, because with so many stuff around the inside, flickering one of these features to see how it works will take about half an hour before getting off and giving way to anyone who want to check out the interior. One word of warning, however, is because everything's high-tech, especially the touch screen sat-nav, the digital curiosity will almost scare away the speedo boys everywhere because, like most speedo boys feared, there is no radio or CD player to replace on. Just iPod connectivity that speedo boys find it complicated. Fact it folks, this is the future and in the future, radios are irreplaceable on cars like these.

Anyway, while the dashboard is not made for speedo boys many, the new interior is even more practical and more convenient than the last one and as a five-seater car that is fit for work, for groceries, for shopping, or whatever they want to do in their free time, the 3008 really knows how to double-checking listings one after another. Space-wise, thanks to the new platform implemented on it, it's even bigger than before and with the rear seats folded, it takes two office chairs laying under (and some other thrift store hauls) to fill it up. Well, as a theory.

2017 Peugeot 3008

Because it was utilized on the same new platform derived from the latest 308, the all new 3008 is more sharper and comfortable than the last one, although sportiness is isn't in this crossover's mind, especially when you go for the semi-sporty GT model, which comes with a 181PS 2.0L BlueHDi engine and a 6-speed automatic gearbox. Needless to say, with a 1.2L PureTech, 1.6 THP, 1.6 BlueHDi, and 2.0L BlueHDi engines available at the very start, choosing which engine to go for in terms of performance, efficiency, or both can be a pain in the brain cells but it can be somewhat an enjoyable customer experience because choices play a crucial part of buying a crossover like this.

Despite being an SUV, it's front-wheel drive only just like the original, meaning it's just another commoners' car on the city and when you take it off from the city streets to the grassy mountainside, its city car characteristic is still noticeable until you flicker the traction control switch that can handle mud, snow, or sand, which makes it barely an adventurous car while keeping its city car trait intact. It's like being a city boy taking a time out on the wooden village along with his family for a night.

The performance can be somewhat average for a crossover like this one but the tech is what goes around, comes around for the new 3008 and with the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems along with its Visio Park and Park Assist stuff, it's a prime example why tech is becoming a dominant force for cars like these and although very nice to accommodate for the commoners, the tech features will make speedo boys unhappy with it until they fiddle with the nuts and bolts of it.

2017 Peugeot 3008

So, should you buy one? The new 3008 starts at 25,900 Euros up to 41,650 Euros for the GT version. Sounds expensive compared to the Japanese-made crossovers but it's a competitive one because with all these features that revolutionized this new model, the all new 3008 is a crossover that will rise to the challenge on this category and everyone's looking forward to see how the new model unfolds.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

Forza Horizon 3: Rivals, friends and foe alike!


Having managed to escape EA exclusivity following their appearance from last year's NFS game, as a theory that someone tested it and failed, the brand new Ford Focus RS and the newest addition to the Forza Horizon 3 family, the brand new BMW M2 Coupe (part of The Smoking Tire Car Pack) are finally getting a little day out round Australia or so I thought because, between these two machines, they can make a dignified rivalry to show which one is best.

But first, let's start with the basics.


Ever since Ford announced that they decide to sell the new Focus RS on American soil, the speedo boys rejoice because, for the first time in forever, they got a chance to try out the ultra-hot Focus they never tasted for years ever since the foundation of Ford Performance that brought America's SVT and Europe's RS together as one forging force to be reckoned with. It has a 2.3L EcoBoost engine that produces 320PS and it has the strongest braking system ever made for a Ford. Unlike the previous Euro-only Focus RS, the new model is now all-wheel drive, just like the Subaru WRX STi, and it comes with a super-secret Drift Mode feature that allows anyone (almost) to drift this car a la Ken Block Hoonigan clips. For an all-weather hot hatch with some tricks up to its sleeves, I knew that this ultra-hot Focus never fails to impress the speedo boys, especially me.


The new BMW M2 Coupe picks up where the old 1M Coupe left off. In fact, this car is discerning for those who believe that the bigger M4 Coupe is a bit grown-up and matured for no reason. Under the hood lies a brand new 3.0L six-cylinder turbo engine that produces 370HP of power and 465Nm of torque. It can be mated to either a 6-speed manual, which is okay for us, and a 7-speed M DCT for the purpose of being quick on the line. I still remember driving the 1M Coupe a few years ago in past installments and in this M2, the spirit of the 1M comes alive in its new form and the way it moves is just one way there some cockamines began migrating from Bimmers to Audis because the more things change, the more that says the same. For a fun car that is more enjoyable than the M4, the new M2 is a clear example that even the smallest can enjoy crashing piling on anyone, and force them to say "uncle."

Well, that's it for my quick evaluation of these two and because these two crossed the borders just to get a little time out Down Under, I have a better idea that will make these two border-crossing sportscars a lot more interesting for anyone who wished they were migrated from NFS to here.


Rivals! Today and tomorrow! Oh, sorry about that but anyway, speaking of rivals, see the new designs I made for these cars? They're all themed right after the stars of Aikatsu Stars; Yume Nijino and Rola Sakuraba.



While I'm busy preparing what to do with these two, both these specially-prepped machines are showing what they can do by partaking in several events.



So, now that these cars showcased what they're made of, I made a little something for these two cars. It's a challenge involving getting from Coober Pedy Town, which is one of the Bucket List Blueprint Points I set, to the Surfers Paradise Festival Site within 3 minutes and 30 seconds. The fastest time wins and because this is Horizon, it's by any means necessary. Time to hit the concert at the metropolis as these two rivals will show how are they capable.

Lights! Motor! And Action!!!



Is anyone wondering why a piece of background music from Halo 5 Guardians was played? Because it's empowering every time I use it on my own Bucket List challenges. And why is the horn sounded like the Halo theme? I unlocked it at the recent Forzathon event. Anyway, now that these two rivals showed what they're truly capable of, I think the Focus RS beats the M2 despite its power and weight advantage because while the M2 is rear-wheel drive, the Focus RS is all-wheel drive, meaning it has no problem getting through the dirtiest of conditions, although it could use a little drift mode to slip through the corners before arriving through the concert in style.

Still, I love driving the BMW M2 more because although the Focus RS has beaten it by a long shot, it is an enjoyable character that the 1M Coupe retains in this new car and the more I'm getting swooned by its character, the more I'm going to drive this car over and over again, all in the name of breaking its limits.

Like a heated rivalry between those two, this will go on because the more they always change, the more they'll stay the same until one of them comes out on top.

Rivals! Friends and foe alike, today and tomorrow! I'm gonna take a vacation for a while before the top brass yells at me for a bit...