Showing posts with label compact. Show all posts
Showing posts with label compact. Show all posts

Sunday, December 31, 2023

Mazda New Flair Wagon (MM94S)

Following the launch of the third-generation Suzuki Spacia range, it didn't take long for Mazda to borrow one for its Flair Wagon equivalent.

2024 Mazda Flair Wagon

Starting at 1,541,100 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the third-generation model features two different styles to choose from such as the all-familiar normal Flair Wagon and the stylish Flair Wagon Custom Style.

Apart from the revamped exterior design, the renewed interior features a wide array of convenient features such as the multi-use flap, independent rear seat slide, rear seat slide straps, and a personal table for rear passengers, not to mention lots of compartments to place, giving these new models plenty of uses in various situations. 

The third-generation Flair Wagon's Mild Hybrid technology features an Integrated Starter Generator linked to a lithium battery pack collaborating with its fuel-efficient R06D 660cc engine. Thanks to this fuel-efficient measure as well as the HEARTECT platform, the all-new Spacia has 25.1km/L of fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards.

The Flair Wagon Custom Style's turbo variant features Power Mode, which makes it more responsive on slopes or when merging onto the highway. It sounds great but the fuel economy is around 21.9kmpl.

For safety, the all-new Flair Wagon comes with a suite of safety features such as a Lane Departure Warning function, wandering alarm function, high beam assist, sign recognition function provided by its optional Omni-directional monitor camera package, advanced car departure notice function, dual sensor brake support, false start suppression, brake support, backward error start suppression, and more.

If you want a third-generation Spacia but the nearest dealership is a Mazda, this is your answer.

Photo: Mazda Motor Corporation

Third-generation Suzuki Spacia

The Suzuki Spacia range is all-new for its third generation as Japan's most fuel-efficient kei minivan has been reloaded with new ways and means to keep its crown.

2024 Suzuki Spacia
2024 Suzuki Spacia

2024 Suzuki Spacia
2024 Suzuki Spacia Custom

Starting at 1,530,100 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the all-new, third-generation Suzuki Spacia continues to maintain its crown as Japan's most fuel-efficient kei minivan while donning its new and exciting ways and means to keep it afloat in the midst of the new normal.

2024 Suzuki Spacia
2024 Suzuki Spacia interior

2024 Suzuki Spacia
2024 Suzuki Spacia Custom interior

In Spacia tradition, the third-generation model features two different styles to choose from such as the all-familiar normal Spacia and the stylish Spacia Custom that is now highly reminiscent of a Solio Bandit from a long time ago. Whichever Spacia you're on, you'll be greeted with redesigned looks that show not just proof of maturity but also how far the Spacia has gone since the first-generation model came out a decade ago.

The renewed interior features a wide array of convenient features such as the multi-use flap, independent rear seat slide, rear seat slide straps, and a personal table for rear passengers, not to mention lots of compartments to place, giving these new models plenty of uses in various situations. 

2024 Suzuki Spacia
2024 Suzuki Spacia

The third-generation Suzuki Spacia's Mild Hybrid technology features an Integrated Starter Generator linked to a lithium battery pack collaborating with its fuel-efficient R06D 660cc engine. Thanks to this fuel-efficient measure as well as Suzuki's HEARTECT platform, the all-new Spacia has 25.1km/L of fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards. It's still the most fuel-efficient kei minivan ever made and Suzuki still keeps its laurel intact. 

The Spacia Custom's turbo variant features Power Mode, which makes it more responsive on slopes or when merging onto the highway. It sounds great but the fuel economy is around 21.9kmpl.

For safety, the all-new Spacia comes with the latest version of SUZUKI SAFETY SUPPORT, which is a suite of safety features such as Lane Departure Warning function, wandering alarm function, high beam assist, sign recognition function provided by its optional Omni-directional monitor camera package, advanced car departure notice function, dual sensor brake support, false start suppression, brake support, backward error start suppression, and more.

The competition tried messing with the Suzuki Spacia and they failed. The Spacia is still the most fuel-efficient kei minivan ever made and in this third-generation form, the title stands. With its all-new look, convenient interior, and improved efficiency, this is the Suzuki Spacia reloaded for the new normal.

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation

smart #3

Following the advent of the smart #1 electric crossover, smart shook away its Little Tykes image in favor of a city-centric approach, and the renaissance continues with its coupe-crossover derivative, the smart #3.

2024 smart #3
2024 smart #3

Starting at 38,490 Euros plus additional costs, the first-ever smart #3 is basically a smart #1 with a sloping roofline. It's a city-centric coupe-crossover done the smart way and you'd better thank the Chinese overlords from Geely for making it possible.

2024 smart #3
2024 smart #3

2024 smart #3
2024 smart #3 interior

While the exterior and interior look and feel similar to its #1 equivalent, the #3's boot space has 370 liters with the rear seats present and up to 1160 liters with the rear seats folded down, that's more than you get from the #1 because of the longer wheelbase that makes up from its lowered height. This means the added dimensions made the #3 roomier than its #1 equivalent. Not bad for a coupe crossover, though.

2024 smart #3
2024 smart #3 Brabus

Like the #1, the smart #3 runs on the SEA platform developed by Geely, and because of its RR layout and city car sizing, it behaves in a unique and spartan manner even while going nuts with it. Most variants come with the TZ220XSA02 electric motor bolted to a NiCM battery that produces 272PS of power and 343Nm of torque, capable of hitting 100kph in 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 180kph. The #3 Brabus, meanwhile, produces  428PS of power and 543Nm of torque. Although it has the same top speed, the 0-100kph time was dropped to 3.7 seconds.

For safety, the smart #3 features a wide array of advanced driver assistance features such as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering assist, lane change assist, lane keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring, among many others.

For a coupe-crossover of its size, the smart #3 is becoming more of a big brother compared to its smart #1 equivalent because of its proportions. Has the whole world gone upside down? For the smart #3's case, it is.

Fiat 600 (365)

Fiat brought back the 600 naming for the successor to both the 500L MPV and the 500X crossover. So, what's it all about the all-new Fiat 600?

2024 Fiat 600
2024 Fiat 600

Starting at 24,950 Euros plus additional costs, the all-new Fiat 600 is the successor to the aging 500L MPV and the 500X crossover, and it's about time Fiat decided to merge the two aging 500-based derivatives into an all-new model that is also based on the 500, the new one of course.

2024 Fiat 600
2024 Fiat 600

Just like its predecessors, the all-new Fiat 600 is shaped like today's Fiat 500 but with the added bulk and extra doors to differentiate it from its little sibling. Despite being big in size, the 600 is still city-friendly, meaning it can squeeze through places where the big cats can't.

2024 Fiat 600
2024 Fiat 600 interior

The 600's interior dons the minimalist approach much like most of the "new normal" cars these days. Behind the wheel, the 600 is packed with a 10" Uconnect Radio with navigation, a 6-speaker audio system, and wireless charging for mobile devices. It even comes with 8 ambient colors, 8 different LED colors for the radio, and up to 64 combinations to personalize the interior.

Fiat says that the 600's interior is sustainable and refined with the 29,450 Euro La Prima variant featuring a premium ivory interior while the 31,950 (RED) variant, made in collaboration with (RED), features recycled black fabric seats. Either way, the 600's packed with chromotherapy massaging seats, space for five, up to 360L of boot space, and a hands-free opening tailgate.

2024 Fiat 600
2024 Fiat 600

The electric variants of the Fiat 600 are powered by a 156PS electric motor with a 54kWh lithium-nickel-mangan-cobalt battery. The electric powertrain made the 600 capable of sprinting 0-100kph in nine seconds and has a top speed of 150kph, slower than a typical Japanese car. As for the driving range, the 600 is good for over 400km in one full charge and it will take 24 minutes to hit 80% battery charge while plugged at a 100kW outlet.

There's also a hybrid variant where the 100PS 1.2L petrol engine with mild hybrid tech is connected to a Li-ion battery and a new 6-speed e-DCT, delivering a combined fuel economy of 5.1L/100km based on WLTP standards.

Apart from being easier to live with because of its sizing, the 600 is packed with 360° sensors, a rear parking camera with a 180-degree view, and blind spot detection for a safe trip home.

The all-new Fiat 600, in hybrid and BEV configurations, is the much-needed replacement for both the 500L and 500X, and although it feels as regular as the others, the 600 is the easiest compact crossover to live daily and you can't go wrong with it. This is how Fiat rolls in the new normal.

Photo: Fiat

Tuesday, December 26, 2023

Lexus LBX

Lexus's first-ever compact crossover, the LBX, looks more like a glorified Toyota Yaris Cross but there's something more about this entry-level Lexus crossover.

2024 Lexus LBX
2024 Lexus LBX

Starting at 4.6 million Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the first-ever Lexus LBX is ironically slightly more expensive than its big brother, the UX, but being the glorified Toyota Yaris Cross it was meant to be, the LBX prefers to keep it modest on the city streets even though it was classified as a luxury vehicle.

2024 Lexus LBX
2024 Lexus LBX

Beginning with the design, the Lexus LBX is sized like its Toyota Yaris Cross derivative, making it easy to live with and park at its pace. With the front view reminiscent of the LM, the side view is highly reminiscent of today's Honda Fit and the rear view can be easily mistaken for an Aston Martin DBX so yes, it's classified luxury crossover from scratch but despite its luxury status, the LBX feels right at home at typical Japanese suburbs because of such sizing.

2024 Lexus LBX
2024 Lexus LBX interior

Asked about the interior, the LBX adopts the Tazuna concept approach applied in "new normal" Lexus vehicles, giving it a more minimalist approach. Behind the wheel, the LBX features a 12.3-inch TFT liquid crystal meter, a rather flashy HUD with touch tracer operation, and a 9.8-inch touch display audio, among others. As expected on a new normal Lexus, the controversial e-latch inside door handles are present, which is good until the car battery dies, rendering these handles inoperable, and leaving you trapped. Bad mark for Lexus there.

On the spacing side, this five-seater features foldable second-row seats, giving it 330 liters of boot space for FF variants when not using a 2-tier deck board. The extra two-liter under-deck storage gives slightly more space for goodies when needed.

2024 Lexus LBX
2024 Lexus LBX

The LBX is powered only by the 1.5L Hybrid Dynamic Force powertrain where the 1.5L M15A-FXE engine is connected to a 69kW electric motor and a Bipolar Nickel battery from the Aqua, producing a system power output of 136PS. Because all variants are mated to a CVT, the LBX's front-wheel drive variant can go up to 27.7kmpl of fuel economy under WLTC Mode standards while AWD variants get 26.2kmpl.

Running on the same GA-B platform as the Toyota Yaris Cross, the Lexus LBX behaves rather well on all walks of life even though it's a tad regular to drive on the open roads or with the AWD system that fits well on either tarmac, gravel, or snow. 

As for safety, the Lexus LBX is equipped with the evolved Lexus Safety System + and advanced parking assistance as well as Lexus Teammate Advanced Drive (Congestion Assistance), Lexus Teammate Advanced Park (with remote functionality), and Advanced Park remote functionality, among others.

It may be a glorified Yaris Cross that is slightly more expensive than its big brother, the UX, but the Lexus LBX is an entry-level crossover that prefers to be modest and down-to-earth not just on city roads but almost everywhere. Tackling through all walks of life and getting the job done is what the LBX does best, albeit not as exciting as expected, but still, it's all about keeping it plain and simple the Lexus way.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Fifth-Generation Suzuki Swift

Fresh off the Japan Mobility Show, the all-new, fifth-generation, Suzuki Swift has arrived and it promises to be the most advanced Swift ever made for the age of the "new normal".

2024 Suzuki Swift
2024 Suzuki Swift

With prices start at 1,727,000 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the all-new Suzuki Swift marks a radical shift for the brand's world-proven compact hatchback that was enjoyed not just in Japan but also across the Silk Road. From the streets of Tokyo to the winding roads of Switzerland, this world-proven hatchback has turned for the greater good.

2024 Suzuki Swift
2024 Suzuki Swift

First, let's take a look at the design and in a rather un-Suzuki way, the new front face saw the Suzuki logo positioned above the grille rather than into it that most of its predecessors done, making it easily mistaken for a Honda ZR-V. Apart from the questionable front face, it packs familiar-looking front lamps, rear lamps, and the recognizable silhouette that makes a Swift, well, a Swift.

2024 Suzuki Swift
2024 Suzuki Swift interior

The interior's heavily revamped for this new version and it comes with the nine-inch touchscreen positioned above the dashboard as well as a new instrumental panel with multi-information display, climate control, heated seats, and others. On the passenger side, this five-seater is as roomy as its predecessor and with the rear seats present it can still carry up to 265 litres of boot space but with the rear seats folded down, it can carry up to 980 litres of boot space, more than its predecessor so job done.

2024 Suzuki Swift
2024 Suzuki Swift

Time to dig deep into the performance side of the all-new Swift. Under the hood, it's powered by Suzuki's brand new Z12E 1.2L three-cylinder engine with available mild hybrid technology. The new engine produces 82PS of power and 108Nm of torque. Equipped with a new and improved CVT, it has a fuel economy of 24.5kmpl based on WLTC Mode standards. 

The all-new Suzuki Swift is the first MHEV model to be mated to a manual gearbox, a five-speed one to be precise, and this gearbox promises 25.4kmpl of fuel economy, more than the CVT-mated model, which sounds good.

Coupled with the improved suspension and chassis setup, electric power steering, and the HEARTECT platform that adds lightness and rigidity, the all-new Swift has a turning radius of 4.8 meters despite its long wheelbase, making it easy to corner and behave like a European car. Give it 4WD and it's capable on taking on tarmac, gravel, or snow. Another reason why the Swift is a world-proven car.

As for safety, the all-new Swift comes with Suzuki Safety Support, a series of preventive safety measures such as traffic sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, driver recognition, blind spot warning system, and others. It's compatible with the Suzuki Connect service where users can find their Swift or take advantage of emergency services in case of the inevitable such as accidents or car theft. It can even start remotely by smartphone as well.

A world-proven car not just in Japan but across the Silk Road from Peking to Paris, the Suzuki Swift has turned for the age of the "new normal", the first Suzuki Swift of the Reiwa era. From its radicalized looks, new interior, the new Z12E engine, and new technology, this is clearly the most advanced Swift ever made in this unstable world we live in and it tries to be as stable as stable should be.

Available colors: Frontier Blue Pearl Metallic, Cool Yellow Metallic, Burning Red Pearl Metallic, Flame Orange Pearl Metallic, Caravan Ivory Pearl Metallic, Pure White Pearl, Premium Silver Metallic, Star Silver Metallic, Super Black Pearl, Frontier Blue Pearl Metallic Black 2-tone Roof , Cool Yellow Metallic Black 2-tone Roof, Burning Red Pearl Metallic Black 2-tone Roof, and Pure White Pearl Black 2-tone Roof.

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation

Sunday, November 19, 2023

Buick Encore GX (2024MY minor change) and Envista

The facelifted Buick Encore GX and the first-ever Buick Envista signaled the new era of Buick because these two crossovers are the first to don the new Buick look and logo. Let's take a look.

2024 Buick Encore GX
2024 Buick Encore GX

Beginning with the Buick Encore GX, this big minor change is the first to wear the new Buick look inspired by the Wildcat Concept. Although seeing the new Buick logo is the scariest thing to do, this new Buick look really means business for this $25,600 crossover.

2024 Buick Encore GX
2024 Buick Encore GX

2024 Buick Encore GX
2024 Buick Encore GX interior

In addition to the heavily revamped styling and the slightly revised rear design, the facelifted Encore GX features a premium Avenir variant with glossier details to ensure this is the top-of-the-line model. The interior layout has been heavily revamped for this minor change and the Avenir model, comes with a BOSE premium 7-speaker audio system including an amplifier, panoramic moonroof, and an Avenir engraving on the front seats, among others. Despite numerous revisions, it can still accommodate up to 50.2 cu. ft. of max cargo capacity, making it capable of almost everything.

The Buick Encore GX still comes with a choice of ECOTEC 1.2L turbo mated to a CVT capable of 30 city / 31 hwy fuel economy and the ECOTEC 1.3L turbo engine mated to a 9-speed AT with 155hp of power and 174lb-ft of torque. Yes, there's 4WD offered but no off-road tuned suspension in sight, meaning the Encore GX is best to be driven on the road rather than off the road because there are no special bits that make it well-behaved on dirt.

The Encore GX comes with Buick Driver Confidence as well as available safety & driver-assistance technologies but the Avenir variant comes with its signature Technology Package which comes with Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear Camera Mirror† with rear camera washer, and HD Surround Vision.

2024 Buick Envista
2024 Buick Envista

Now, let's get to know the first-ever Buick Envista, a coupe-crossover that is yours to drive for $22,400 plus additional costs, which is cheaper to own than the Encore GX.

2024 Buick Envista
2024 Buick Envista

2024 Buick Envista
2024 Buick Envista interior

Think of the first-ever Buick Envista as the fancy version of the Chevrolet Trax Crossover because even with the Wildcat-inspired looks, the similarities are all over the Envista apart from the fact that the Envista is cheaper to own than the Encore GX. 

Still, with its coupe-crossover styling, the available Avenir variant with glossier details, Ultrawide 11" Diagonal Infotainment Screen, wireless smartphone connectivity, seating for five, and 42.0 cu. ft. of max cargo capacity, it's no surprise despite being less spacious than its Chevrolet Trax Crossover equivalent, it still works and feels just like it.

Just like its Chevrolet Trax Crossover equivalent, the Buick Envista is front-wheel-drive only and it is powered only by an ECOTEC 1.2L turbo engine that produces 137HP of power and 162lb-ft of torque. Mated to a 6-speed AT, it has an estimated combined fuel economy of 28MPG city/ 32MPG hwy.

In terms of safety, the Envista comes with Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, IntelliBeam Auto High Beams, Following Distance Indicator, Front Pedestrian Braking, and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning as standard. Available extras such as Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert,† Rear Park Assist, Rainsense front wipers, and Adaptive Cruise Control, as well as an automatic-dimming outside driver mirror for the Avenir variant.

These two new crossovers signaled the new era of Buick because they were the first to don the new Buick look and logo. Although the new Buick logo is scary to look at, the Wildcat-styled nose and improved features really made a statement about the two. The question is, which of the new-era Buicks will you drive?

Photo: General Motors

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Mitsuoka Viewt story

Since 1993, the Mitsuoka Viewt has forever known as the Nissan March in a Jaguar Mark 2 clothing from the K11 model to the K13 model. When Nissan stopped making the March at the end of 2022, most observers said that this was the end of the road for the Mitsuoka Viewt. However, the Viewt's story is never done as it took a detour to the Toyota side for the new model.

2024 Mitsuoka Viewt story
2024 Mitsuoka Viewt story

This is the all-new Mitsuoka Viewt story, the newest version of the Viewt that is now based on the fourth-generation Toyota Yaris hatchback. That's right. Ever since the discontinuation of the Nissan March, its long-time host car, at the end of 2022, the Viewt's will lives on in its new host car, the Toyota Yaris. For 2.8 million Japanese Yen plus additional costs, you can now have a fancied-up Toyota Yaris if you disagree with the Yaris's sporty looks.

2024 Mitsuoka Viewt story
2024 Mitsuoka Viewt story

In classic Viewt tradition, it mimics the Jaguar Mark 2 styling as seen from its Nissan March-derived predecessors but because this is based on the fourth-generation Toyota Yaris, there's no hiding the fact that this is actually a Yaris in a Jaguar Mark 2 attire. It's about as fancy as an anime girl in Sherlock Holmes' attire, metaphorically speaking.

2024 Mitsuoka Viewt story
2024 Mitsuoka Viewt story interior

Yes, you can expect the same interior from the Yaris as well, meaning it's nicer to live than its March-derived predecessor, probably because of the TNGA platform underneath. It seats up to five people and has up to 768 liters of boot space with the passenger seats folded down in case you're in the middle of delivery work if you're into that.

2024 Mitsuoka Viewt story
2024 Mitsuoka Viewt story

Because it's based on the Yaris, the Viewt story is powered by a choice of two petrol engines, a Dynamic Force 1.5L, and a 1.0L, and the hybrid variant is powered by a 1.5L Hybrid Dynamic Force powertrain (engine + electric motor + li-ion battery), a first for a Viewt. All variants are mated to CVT but the front-wheel-drive 1.5L variant comes with an available six-speed manual gearbox while all 1.5L variants, petrol or hybrid, come with available 4WD, giving you plenty of reasons to enjoy the Viewt story.

In terms of safety, the Viewt story is packed with numerous advanced safety features such as Pre-Crash Safety, Lane Tracing Assist, Automatic High Beam, Road Sign Assist, secondary collision brake, parking support brake, blind spot monitor, panoramic view monitor, and others.

Having the Viewt migrated from the now-defunct Nissan March to the Toyota Yaris is a difficult thing to do but this new version found itself a new lease of life in its new host. It really is the "second coming" for the Mitsuoka Viewt and it's even more livelier than before.

Available colors: Tulle Top Black Mica, Berry Purple, Pumps Red, Dressy White Pearl, Pistachio Khaki, Cut Sew Gray, Gateau Chocolate Metallic, Turquoise Blue Metallic, Terracotta Orange Mica, Beige Gilet, Coral Beige Metallic, and Washed Denim Blue.

Photo: Mitsuoka Motor Co., Ltd.

Thursday, October 5, 2023

Honda N-BOX (Third Generation)

The first of Honda's N line of kei cars is now on its third generation as the all-new N-BOX promises to fit through the demands of the new normal with its new style, new interior, and new tech while retaining the classic N-BOX brand that made it the best-selling Honda in ages.

2024 Honda N-BOX
2024 Honda N-BOX

The best-selling Honda in Japan, the N-BOX, has reached its third generation and this all-new model marks the new start for the first of Honda's N line of kei cars in this Reiwa era we lived in. Catering to the demands of this era of the new normal, the N-BOX of the Reiwa era puts its emphasis on usability, comfort, and efficiency, in somewhat ascending order just like most kei cars should. Yours for 1,648,900 Japanese Yen plus additional costs.

Like its predecessors, the third-generation N-BOX is offered in two different styles; the normal one and the Custom one. While the normal one looks pretty much the same as the previous model, the Custom one looks like a mini-me StepWGN Spada of today. Either way, the new styling is one of the main feats of the all-new N-BOX.

2024 Honda N-BOX
2024 Honda N-BOX interior

2024 Honda N-BOX interior
2024 Honda N-BOX interior

Apart from the new exterior design, the interior is all-new for this model, as demonstrated by the new dashboard layout packed with a seven-inch TFT unit as the dial display and a nine-inch touchscreen mounted in the middle. As for comfort, it still snugs just like the previous model and can still carry most of today's grocery list as usual.

For those who have a cart or a wheelchair, a Slope variant was offered which comes with a rear super flex slope, electric winch, back door lamp, and a wheelchair fixing belt, among many others. Quite handy, I dare say.

2024 Honda N-BOX
2024 Honda N-BOX


The third-generation N-BOX is powered by a 660cc i-VTEC engine that produces 58PS of power output and 65Nm of torque, and when mated with a CVT, fuel efficiency is around 21.6km/L based on WLTC Mode standards. Of course, you can exercise your options with the available turbocharged engine and four-wheel drive just in case.

With usability one of the main feats of the new model, Honda wasted no time recalibrating its dynamics to give a 4.5m turning radius, making it easy to get in and out of the parking spot. As for safety, the third-generation N-BOX comes with Honda Sensing, VSA, emergency stop signal, hill start assist function, and a multi-view camera system, among many others.

The best-selling Honda vehicle in Japan has leveled up as the all-new N-BOX caters to the demands of the era of the new normal with its usability, comfort, and efficiency. Welcome aboard.

Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Saturday, September 30, 2023

Kia Ray EV

Originally available only for rental or car-sharing purposes until 2019, the Kia Ray EV returns, and this time, it's available to the general public starting at 27,750,000 Korean Won plus additional costs, making this the cheapest Korean electric car you can buy and own today.

2024 Kia Ray EV
2024 Kia Ray EV

2024 Kia Ray EV
2024 Kia Ray EV interior


No strings attached, of course. The Kia Ray EV made its comeback after a four-year absence and unlike the previous one, it's yours to drive and keep if you have the budget to fully own it.

The reborn Kia Ray EV looks just like the recently facelifted Kia Ray, meaning you can still expect the squarish front face with EV9-inspired headlamps, grille-less design, revised rear lamps, and the slightly revised interior with a 10.25-inch color LCD cluster and console-type gear lever as expected but because this is the electric version, you can expect a number of features to differentiate it such as the charging port, exclusive Smoke Blue exterior color, unique 14-inch alloy wheels, and the i-PEDAL mode that can be engaged via paddle shifters.

Micro-business entrepreneurs can have either the two-seater or the single-seater van variants where the rear seats have been deleted for the sake of extra cargo space needed to deliver some balikbayan boxes if you're into that.

2024 Kia Ray EV
2024 Kia Ray EV

The Kia Ray EV's electric powertrain is powered by a 35.2kWh battery pack, making it capable of producing 64.3kW of power output and 147Nm of torque. As for driving range, it's good for 205km in one full charge. As for safety, the Ray EV comes with numerous features such as Rear Collision Prevention Assistance, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Prevention Assist, among many others.

Made for the new normal, the Kia Ray EV is a budget-friendly electric vehicle you can really own and drive with confidence.

Photo: Kia

Thursday, September 14, 2023

Mazda MX-30 Rotary-EV

Ever since the discontinuation of the RX-8 in 2012, Mazda became a shadow of its former self without the one engine that made it great, the rotary engine. Over a decade later, the rotary engine roars back but not in the way you're expecting.

2024 Mazda MX-30 Rotary-EV
2024 Mazda MX-30 Rotary-EV

Rotary power is back in the Reiwa era and this time, it's in the form of the MX-30 compact crossover, the game-changer in the Mazda lineup because of its questionable powertrains including the Mazda-first electric powertrain. Yours for 4,235,000 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, which is slightly cheaper to own than the fully-electric model.

At first glance, it looks and feels just like your typical MX-30, meaning it still has the same RX-8-derived freestyle doors, which is cool, the same minimalist dashboard, the same cork trims, the same struggling access through the rear seats, and the same boot space as usual. However, this is the Rotary-EV model and the only way to distinguish it is by looking at the rotary emblem embedded on the side as well as the e-SKYACTIV R-EV badge at the back. The real has come!

Let's get to know more about the e-SKYACTIV R-EV powertrain, the one that generated a blaze since its world premiere. It's basically a plug-in hybrid powertrain, a first for Mazda, where the newly developed 830cc single-rotor 8C-PH engine is bolted to a 125kW MV electric motor and a 17.8kWh lithium-ion battery. Stealing the idea from Nissan's e-POWER, the rotary engine doesn't power the wheels directly but acts as a generator to charge the batteries, making the MX-30 R-EV behave just like its fully-electric equivalent but with more range compared to its mild-hybrid equivalent.

Thanks to the e-SKYACTIV R-EV powertrain, the fuel economy is 15.4km/L based on WLTC Mode standards and while running on electric power alone, it's good for 107km.

Like the EV Model, the MX-30 Rotary-EV is front-wheel-drive only and it comes with rack and pinion steering, front MacPherson struts, rear torsion beam, and front ventilated disc brakes, meaning it behaves just like it for a commoner's car of course but thanks to its R-EV powertrain, it feels like smooth sailing. As for safety, you can expect an advanced i-Activsense with Smart Brake Support with Turn-Across Traffic in addition to a 360-degree camera, Driver Monitoring, and front cross-traffic alert, among many others.

Mazda has a record of putting the signature rotary engine on basic models including the infamous Parkway Rotary 26 bus from the mid-1970s. Consider the MX-30 Rotary-EV added to the list. Although it's not as exciting as the world hoped for, it's decent enough to welcome the rotary engine back in the Reiwa era. Consider it a new beginning for the engine that made Mazda great.

Photo: Mazda Motor Corporation

Tuesday, May 9, 2023

Abarth 500e (FA1)

Abarth welcomes the age of electrification with the all-new electrified 500, which is basically an FA1 Fiat 500 on steroids. A rather unwelcoming but welcoming way to introduce speedo boys to the new age of Abarth.

2024 Abarth 500e
2024 Abarth 500e

2024 Abarth 500e
2024 Abarth 500e

With prices starting at 37,950 Euros plus additional costs, the Abarth 500e welcomes speedo boys to the dark side of electrification as this electrified hot hatch completely vandalized the EV rulebook in the name of performance and freedom that will keep them addicted for more.

Beginning with the styling, the Abarth 500e looks pretty much the same as the normal Fiat 500e, in normal and cabrio versions, but it's been given Abarth credentials such as the show-off ABARTH lettering at the front, unique bumpers, and wild-looking 17-inch wheels, not to mention the new scorpion badging on the sides that signals Abarth's new generation.

Inside, the new Abarth 500e works pretty much the same as the normal Fiat 500e as well but the sat-nav is packed with performance pages with the odd-looking Drag function that checks acceleration and braking times. It even comes with an Abarth sport steering wheel, sports seats, and a rather flashy feature called Abarth Sound Generator that generates faux engine noises inside and out. Yes, the sound part is flashy indeed because why would they want to put noise in a noiseless EV car? Bad idea but speedo boys don't care about bad ideas anyway. They'll rather ignore such flashy stuff like this.

While the faux engine sound gimmick is deemed flashy by most speedo boys, is the performance worth redeeming in this electrified Abarth? With a 42kWh battery pack installed, the Abarth 500e's electric drivetrain pumps out 155ps of power output and 235Nm of torque, making it capable of a 0-100kph time of seven seconds and has a top speed of 155kph. The driving range is around 265km on one full charge and when plugged at a public charging station, it will take 35 minutes to get to 80% battery capacity, the size of one episode watched and three hail marys.

Although heavier than the old 500-based Abarth hot hatches, the Abarth 500e still behaves like a hot hatch because the dynamics are so out-of-character for an electric city car of this magnitude, and with the Scorpion Track in place, you can really drive this thing harder and louder for longer on the track. 

While driving on a comfort-oriented Turismo mode or sport-oriented Scorpion Street, the Abarth 500e features one-pedal driving, an idea stolen from today's Nissan Leaf. When you lift your foot off the pedal, it slows down and recovers kinetic energy to recharge the batteries, eliminating the need for applying brakes. Of course, you'll need one in case you want to make a full stop.

As expected the Abarth 500e features Level 2 autonomous driving in the form of intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control and Intelligent Speed Assist, among many others.

Although one of the most controversial vehicles ever made this year, the Abarth 500e is one of the must-haves this year. Despite its show-off faux engine sound that is a real turn-off for speedo boys behind the wheel, the electrified performance is what made Abarth adapt to this new normal, and like it or not, the world's experiencing burning jealousy, wishing they want to drive one. Come on, Abarth. We're waiting.

Photo: Abarth

Wednesday, January 18, 2023

Hyundai Kona SX2

Hyundai's kicking off the new year with the arrival of the second-generation Kona crossover, packed with new and improved features fit to become your first ride for the first day of your driving life, whatever the reason.

2024 Hyundai Kona
2024 Hyundai Kona

Priced at 24,680,000 Korean Won (around $25,000) plus additional costs, the all-new, second-generation Kona is the evolution of Hyundai's first-ever compact SUV sold in the Korean market and although no longer as compact as it looks because its youngest brother, the Casper, takes the spot, it's still worth enough to humiliate crossovers like the Nissan Kicks and the Toyota Yaris Cross in a heartbeat.

2024 Hyundai Kona
2024 Hyundai Kona

2024 Hyundai Kona
2024 Hyundai Kona

Beginning with the design, the new Kona adopts the Staria's front face, which is rather unorthodox because with Hyundai took a liking to the Staria's front face, they've decided to plaster it on newer and future models like this and last year's Grandeur GN7. Apart from the face, the sleek side view and the rear lamps inspired by the IONIQ 6 really made a clear statement about the all-new Kona, and when kitted with the N Line variant, it's the first impression in a nut shack.

2024 Hyundai Kona
2024 Hyundai Kona interior

Inside, the new model matches the theme of today's Hyundai interiors while jam-packed with heaps of gadgets to play with. On the driver's side, you will be greeted by the massive split horizontal monitor where the 12.3-inch instrumental cluster and the 12.3-inch touchscreen mean business for the all-new Kona. The gear lever is positioned near the steering wheel rather than below, just like the new Grandeur, it's got dual full-auto aircon, ambient lighting, and other stuff you can find on the new model. In terms of spacing, the all-new Kona is slightly more spacious compared to the previous model thanks to the added wheelbase provided by its new platform. It's packed with smart features such as the Digital Key 2 Touch and the Smart Power Tailgate for added convenience.

2024 Hyundai Kona
2024 Hyundai Kona

Petrol and hybrid are the only powertrain choices offered in the all-new Kona at launch. On the petrol side, it's offered with a choice of a Smartstream G 2.0L and the powerful Smartstream G 1.6T engine. The one with the Smartstream G 1.6T engine produces 198PS of power and 27kgf-m of torque. They're all mated to an 8-speed AT and can be fitted with an HTRAC All-Wheel-Drive system for better driving on and off the road. Handy if you're itching to have a picnic at Hannibal's.

The FF-only Kona Hybrid's Smartstream G 1.6 petrol engine is bolted into a 32kW electric motor and Li-ion battery as well as a regenerative braking system, producing 141PS of power output. The only gearbox offered in the hybrid is a 6-speed DCT. Despite being FF-only, the Kona Hybrid comes with e-Motion Drive and rear multilink suspension for a dramatic driving feel that can upset the Nissan Kicks full stop.

Coupled with the Hyundai Smart Sense and parking assist features, the all-new Kona is by no means the safest compact crossover in its class, which is rather surprising and annoying at the same time for the yuppies behind the wheel.

The second-generation Hyundai Kona truly is all-new from top to toe and it really is a class apart compared to the likes of the Nissan Kicks and the Toyota Yaris Cross. Like it or not, this is the Kona that everybody deserves, and looks like Hyundai is doubling down on the all-new Kona. That's the new normal for you.

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

Tuesday, January 10, 2023

5th-Generation Toyota Prius (WH60/65)

From its first launch at the end of 1997 onwards, the Toyota Prius is forever known as the originator of the hybrid race, and thanks to the Prius, the motoring industry is following the Prius's example, reducing carbon emissions every mile away. Built to tackle the challenges of the new normal in this unstable world, the Prius of the Reiwa Era was born, and Toyota's ringing in the new year with the fifth-generation Prius.

2023 Toyota Prius
2023 Toyota Prius

Starting at 3.2 million Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the all-new, fifth-generation, Toyota Prius, is the newest take on the pioneering hybrid vehicle that started it all. It's built to tackle the challenges of the new normal in this unstable world we live in and being the first Prius of the Reiwa Era, it's a challenge accepted.

2023 Toyota Prius
2023 Toyota Prius

Beginning with the design, the iconic Prius silhouette was retained in this new version while incorporating a sleek and stylish design fit for the new normal. On the front, it dons one similar to the Ferrari SF90 Stradale, which is rather intriguing because Toyota began copying the front face of modern Ferraris in cars like the bZ4x and the recent Crown Crossover. On the rear end, well, it really is even and squared to perfection. The questionable but futuristic styling really made a statement about a Prius built for the Reiwa era.

2023 Toyota Prius
2023 Toyota Prius

The new interior signaled the end of an era where Prius speedos are positioned in the middle because, unlike past generations, the new Prius has its instrumental panel positioned to the driver's side while the touchscreen positioning is highly reminiscent of BMWs of today. The gear lever is now positioned below rather than into the dashboard and with numerous features implemented on the driver's side, the new Prius is now civilized and sensible for everyone behind the wheel. Oh, and hope you got your USB-C cables handy because there are no Type-A outlets in the new Prius. Just USB-C outlets only.

In terms of spacing, it's slightly more spacious compared to the previous model, meaning there's slightly enough room for your recent purchases from the thrift store if you catch my drift.

2023 Toyota Prius
2023 Toyota Prius

Running on the second-generation TNGA platform while being coupled with MacPherson struts at the front and a double wishbone setup at the rear, the new Prius drives better than the previous model and it's more rigid as well, making it the Prius you would really like to drive on a daily basis. Add an e-Four system and it adds some all-weather capabilities to the new model.

Under the hood, the new Prius is offered only with an M20A-FXS 2.0L Dynamic Force engine bolted to an electric motor and a Li-ion battery. It produces up to 193PS of power output and while mated to a CVT, fuel economy is around 31.5km/L for FF models while 4WD models get up to 29.2km/L, based on WLTC mode standards. A PHEV variant will arrive later this spring.

If you're on a business trip, you can rent the 1.8L model via KINTO for 16,610 Yen per month but it's only applicable for the KINTO Unlimited plan. The 1.8L rental car has 32.6km/L of fuel economy. Should cover your sensible business trips across Japan.

Being the Reiwa-era Prius, the new model's Toyota Safety System was greatly expanded and revised with the addition of the rear vehicle proximity notification and secondary collision brake. These new features, along with familiar advanced driving assistance systems offered as well as the Toyota Teammate - Advanced Park, made the new Prius safer than ever, although there might be some downsides for speedo boys behind the wheel. That's autonomy for you.

To buy, to drive, or to burn? That is the question that pops up on every customer's mind when they lock their sights on the all-new Prius. Because being the Reiwa-era Prius that tackles the challenges of the new normal, it sure knows how to be topical and current at the same time in this unstable world we live in. With climate change and rising gas prices becoming the new normal in this unstable world, the new Prius is common sense for the common good because, in the end, this will be the people's car of the new normal. The more you know.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation