C! Magazine November-December 2021

F E A T U R E

S T O R Y

As the old 19th century Circus show business phrase goes, "the show must go on”, we fondly present the winners of the 17th Annual C! Awards.

4 -S E ATE R & 7-S

E ATE R

2022 LEXUS LM 350 T H E

H A L O E D

C O N U N D R U M

THE DRIVES

TUNER

Isuzu Mu-X LS-E 4x4, Nissan Terra VL 4x4, Subaru Outback 2.5i-T EyeSight, Nissan GT-R Premium, and Chevrolet Tracker LT Redline

EXTRA TIME

Becoming The Greatest Loser

W W W.C- M AG A Z I N E .CO M

1990 Nissan Sentra 1998 Nissan 240SX Silvia

WHEEL2WHEEL PhP 195 ISSUE 235 NOV-DEC 2021

Triumph Trident 660 KTM 390 Adventure

T H E U LT I M AT E AU TO M OT I V E AU T H O R I T Y

F E A T U R E

S T O R Y

As the old 19th century Circus show business phrase goes, "the show must go on”, we fondly present the winners of the 17th Annual C! Awards.

4 -S E ATE R & 7-S

E ATE R

2022 LEXUS LM 350 T H E

H A L O E D

C O N U N D R U M

THE DRIVES

TUNER

Isuzu Mu-X LS-E 4x4, Nissan Terra VL 4x4, Subaru Outback 2.5i-T EyeSight, Nissan GT-R Premium, and Chevrolet Tracker LT Redline

EXTRA TIME

Becoming The Greatest Loser

W W W.C- M AG A Z I N E .CO M

1990 Nissan Sentra 1998 Nissan 240SX Silvia

WHEEL2WHEEL PhP 195 ISSUE 235 NOV-DEC 2021

Triumph Trident 660 KTM 390 Adventure

T H E U LT I M AT E AU TO M OT I V E AU T H O R I T Y

A PIONEERING CROSSOVER THAT NEVER STOPS EVOLVING

THE LEXUS RX Experience a luxurious drive to the top with the Lexus RX. Designed with performance and sophistication in mind, the RX cements itself as our leading mid-size luxury SUV. With the RXL variant, it offers unique versatility without compromise with its added third-row that comfortably and luxuriously seats up to 7 passengers. Brave design and craftsmanship lead every detail, making it a uniquely progressive crossover car. The Lexus RX. Every drive is an iconic one.

Model shown is RX F-Sport variant

ASC Ref. No. T033N061121LS

EXPERIENCE AMAZING

Lexus.com.ph

/LexusManila

@LexusManila

(632) 8856 5050

EDITOR’S NOTE

nteresting how different countries want cars that they can’t easily get.

Apparently, there is a whole push in the US to get pickup sizes that are less than, in their terms, full size. The smaller ones we have around Asia would be just right, many say.

Same with our cover vehicles. We are surprised by the interest for the Lexus LM models for countries that don’t have them. Even countries that do, like ours. The LMs were selling well before they even arrived, and for many buyers, they are exactly what a van should be. We even had to delay a video shoot because someone walked in to buy the LM we were about to use. Which is why they are taking thunder from the Americans, and even the Europeans.

Not like they haven’t done that before. Lexus began life by astounding the world with seriously smooth, big engines, and with a class of vehicle that never really existed before. The luxury SUV.

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Elsewhere in this issue, we have our annual and always controversial list of what the C! guys think deserves the most attention. This isn’t an easy thing to do in the current environment, and indeed many global award-giving bodies have had to hold off. That is quite a shame, especially at a time when the automotive industry is going through some tough times. In some places, that is. In others, Lamborghinis and Porsches are selling out faster than they are coming in. In our own market, we are increasingly being contacted by readers/viewers/ followers because they are seeing big waves of change. New cars and new companies and new choices. Even old-school stalwarts long known for their simplicity of operation have upped their technology game. It has been very interesting that in this market, we have gotten more questions than ever, more requests for the Ultimate Buyers Guide even.

As always, thanks for letting us do all the things we do. And, especially now, be safe, be healthy, be kind.

“The LMs were selling well before they even arrived, and for many buyers they are exactly what a van should be. We even had to delay a video shoot because someone walked in to buy the LM we were about to use.”

Carl S. Cunanan E D I TO R- I N - C H I E F

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COVER S TORY

CONTENTS NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2021 — IS SUE 235

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2022 LEXUS LM 350 4-SEATER & 7-SEATER The Haloed Conundrum

“Think of wealthy and successful grandparents who want to travel around this coming Christmas holiday delivering gifts to all their children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren...”

— Kevin C. Limjoco

Founding Editor / President / Editorial Director

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FE ATURES

CONTENTS NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2021 — IS SUE 235

PAG E

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1 7

T H

AN N UAL

AWARDS WINNERS

CA R S | M O R E T H A N CA R S | M O T O R CYC L E S

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THE DRIVES

CONTENTS NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2021 — IS SUE 235

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ISUZU MU-X LS-E 4X4

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NISSAN TERRA VL 4X4

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SUBARU OUTBACK 2.5I-T EYESIGHT

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TOYOTA GR YARIS

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NISSAN GT-R PREMIUM

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CHEVROLET TRACKER LT REDLINE

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The Greatest Isuzu Ever

The Unconventional Valet

The Definitive Practical Supercar

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

The Renewed Mid-size SUV Standard

The Pocket Rocket that we all pined for

The Proper Replacement

E X TR A TIME

CONTENTS NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2021 — IS SUE 235

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BECOMING THE GREATEST LOSER After a yearlong journey of losing

70 lbs. and maintaining my weight, this is what I learned.

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“That is why I always tell people that there is no one diet that will work. But what will certainly work is a lifestyle change that is equal parts reasonable and enjoyable.”

—

Nicolas A. Calanos Executive Editor

TUNER

CONTENTS NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2021 — IS SUE 235

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BOOSTED!

By Francis G. Pallarco

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90’S REWIND

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SILVIA DREAMS

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

Let’s take a trip back to the nineties with this time capsule Nissan Sentra

There’s nothing like owning the car of your dreams

WHEEL 2WHEEL

CONTENTS NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2021 — IS SUE 235

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TWO WHEELS ONLY

By Maynard M. Marcelo

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BIKE REVIEW: 2021 TRIUMPH TRIDENT 660

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BIKE REVIEW: 2021 KTM 390 ADVENTURE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

WA N T T O G O FOR A RIDE?

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REG UL ARS

CONTENTS NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2021 — IS SUE 235

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19

Carl S. Cunanan

Chris Van Hoven

EDITOR’S NOTE

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Nicolas A. Calanoc

Georges B. Ramirez

APEX AND APERTURES

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INSIDE LINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

ON THE EDGE

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OUR PICKS : TOP 5 CARS FOR YOUR HOLIDAY TRIPS

By Nicolas A. Calanoc

APEX AND APERTURES

Nicolas A. Calanoc E X E C U T I V E E D I TO R

What Matters Most

“Reviewing cars was more than just horsepower and torque, but what these machines can offer you to make life more enjoyable...”

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t’s amusing that despite all our test drives together, the moments that I can paint a picture of have less to do with the cars and more to do with the camaraderie we had in between.

As I write this, the Philippine motoring journalism has lost one of their greatest giants: Dino Directo. It still feels surreal that one of our own has passed away. It is a reminder that nothing lasts forever. But man, a decade with him was filled with laughs and lessons.

When I was starting out, he would poke on me with good fun that I was “the new guy,” which basically meant that in whole day media test drives, I was going to be doing the bulk of the driving so that he can arrive at the destination well rested. He was well known for doing that and loved for the energy he brought to every single event.

But to no fail, we would have breakfast

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together at 6am because we were both early birds. And in those moments, he would ask me to explain my impression of the car I just drove. I remember I would be clinical with my explanations, basing my reasons with numbers and figures behind it, and he would stomp me with a “So? Why would an average person care?” And he was right. He was one of the many people in the industry that taught me that reviewing cars was more than just horsepower and torque, but what these machines can offer you to make life more enjoyable, whether it is attacking a corner at the racetrack, crawling through mud, or driving around your family to lunch.

Dino Directo has definitely touched everyone in this industry. And he did so not by being the most accurate or articulate in the group, but by brightening up the room and reminding us that the joy in cars is the love that it is able to nurture.

Rest in peace Dino. I will miss our 6am conversations.

INSIDE LINE

Chris Van Hoven M A N A G I N G E D I TO R

Gift Ideas for the Car Enthusiast

s we approach another end to the year technically still under some level of community quarantine as of this writing, it’s highly likely that people will still be relying on online stores for their Christmas shopping. Malls will still get visitors, sure, but I highly doubt it will be at the same volume we’ve been used to seeing pre-pandemic. In a way, the availability of online stores makes it easier to buy our Christmas gifts, as we no longer have to contend with available parking slots or horrendous traffic. With that said, getting a gift for the car or motorcycle lover in your life is much easier than you might think. Here are five great gift ideas for the motorheads on your list with their corresponding budgets.

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CAR CHARGER

With a love of all things motorized usually comes a love for all things electronic as well.

The car lover in your life probably has several gadgets such as mobile phones, cameras or tablets, and a car charger is the perfect way to make sure that they’re all juiced up while on the move. There are a wide variety of car chargers to choose from depending on your budget, but look for the ones with high power output, multiple USB slots, and a flush fitting design that makes it look factory-standard on any car.

Budget: P1,500 BIKE/CAR MOUNTS

Car mounts are extremely handy for those

who use bikes or motorcycles, or car owners who don’t have fancy, large touchscreens with Android or iPhone connectivity. There are mounts for cameras, tablets and mobile phones for bikes, motorcycles, and cars all available at different price points. But whether it’s for using a mobile phone for navigating, or to use a camera as a dash cam, mounts can be an affordable yet worthwhile holiday gift.

Budget: P400-P1000

abusive motorists on the road. Having a video recording of your driving experience provides clear evidence when you need it, getting you out of potentially sticky situations. A wide variety of models suiting every budget is available from online stores like Lazada or Shopee. However, we’ve realized through the years that you do get what you pay for when it comes to dash cams, and getting one with good resolution and high heat resistance is worth every penny.

Budget: P2,000 – P20,000

BASIC RACE TRAINING

The thrill of tearing up a track is a fantasy every motorhead dreams about. Tuason Racing School offers courses that allow you to have some fun at the track while learning essentials on circuit racing and highperformance driving. This is the best way to satisfy your car or bike lover’s need for speed in a safe, controlled environment. And best of all, they’ll end up becoming a better driver when the day is done.

Budget: Varies per course DASH CAM

Life as a motorist isn’t without its fair share of problematic situations. Dash cams provide some peace of mind by protecting yourself from unjust traffic citations and

CAR VACUUM CLEANER

Over time, cars get dirty just like anything else. While cleaning a car’s exterior can be a relatively simple affair, cleaning out the interior is another matter altogether. Cordless vacuum cleaners are great at getting rid of the dust, dirt and other particles that have accumulated through the years, even in hardto-reach places. Most affordable portable vacuum cleaners that are locally available are usually too weak to get the job done properly, so we recommend splurging on more highend models. They’re not cheap by any means, but if you’re looking to get some hard-core cleaning done even in a car’s smallest nooks and crannies, look no further.

Budget: P5,000-P20,000

“Getting a gift for the car or motorcycle lover in your life is much easier than you might think.”

C-MAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

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ON THE EDGE

Georges B. Ramirez S E N I O R E D I TO R

What makes a great race driver?

atching an F3 race earlier this year, it was quite amusing to see several familiar names of F1 drivers like Arthur Leclerc, brother of Charles. Other echoing names from F1’s history like Matteo Nannini, Alessandro’s nephew; Enzo Fittipaldi who is the grandson of Emerson, and finally David Schumacher, the son of Ralf Schumacher and cousin of current F1 driver Mic Schumacher. Speaking of F1, Mic is Michael Schumacher’s son and even Max Verstappen’s dad is Jos Verstappen. That was a lot for an afternoon of watching races!

This is not necessarily new to the racing world. In the ‘80s, there were several like Jackie Stewart’s son Paul, Graham Hill’s son Damon, Gilles Villanuve’s Jacque, and let’s not forget the multi-generational Andretti family. As much as that influence and exposure is a benefit, it certainly isn’t a “cure-all” to becoming a “great” race driver.

There are other ways of growing up into the sport that are also beneficial. Watching the movie Schumacher, you could see that being a son of a Go-Kart business owner can be beneficial too. Constantly testing the karts after his father would fix them not only

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sharpened his driving skills, but perhaps more importantly, it developed his ability to feel every change in each kart’s handling, each time it was worked on and provide feedback to his dad. Becoming “one” with the car is not limited to feeling that flow as you are driving around the track, it includes feeling and understanding what the car is doing to the point where you can tune the car to you.

The art of doing is not just inborn. It is a result of a lot of hard work, dedication and being totally committed to that single thing. I would say that focus and determination are crucial elements, but even that alone is not enough.

With that comes the other trait, the “eye of the tiger.” It’s a certain type of confidence that you must have burning inside that makes you strive for number one! To win because you believe in yourself. Without it, it can be said that you may have lost the race before the flag even drops. All these are traits you will find in Juan Manuel Fangio to Hamilton and those in between, but unfortunately, that alone is still not enough.

Financial support. Oh yes, it’s very hard to secure and it gets even harder the higher you climb that motorsports ladder. This might be the one thing that has plagued many very talented drivers though, it can also make one develop his skills faster than those that have it. Having

said that, you can also have all the money in the world and it will still not be the one solution that does it, but it undoubtedly helps.

The next element is not quantifiable, can be the main element and in the same breath, it could not be one at all, and that is good, old-fashioned luck! It can come in a variety of ways, a simple punctured tire, choosing the wrong team, an non-racing related accident, it is endless really. But, it works both ways and can for you. The puncture could be your competitors, you choose the right team and so on. It does happen more often than you think, and in some cases can affect one’s mind, which brings me to the next.

The mind. The battle with your own mind may sound trivial but it can be enormous.

I have seen several really good race drivers and even other sportsmen and women fall prey to this seemingly benign matter, and they just couldn’t get out of the funk. It can be disastrous to a sports career. We just bore witness to this in the Japan Olympics with the world’s best gymnast Simone Biles suddenly and without warning just could not perform. It may be permanent or it may go away as suddenly as it came.

So, what makes a great race driver ends up being a lot of things. But what I can tell you is, when you love it, it’s all about the journey.

T H E U LT I M AT E AU TO M OT I V E AU T H O R I T Y

E D I TO R I A L

DESIGN

A D V E RT I S I N G

PUBLISHING

Carl S. Cunanan

Charie L. Biaden

Mayette L. Asis

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

DESIGN DIRECTOR

VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVERTISING SALES

C! Publishing and Media Group, Inc.

Nicolas A. Calanoc

Mark David A. See

Leslie G. Maxilom

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

SENIOR DESIGNER

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Chris Van Hoven

Mary Ann E. Marcelo

Mary Jane O. Salazar

MANAGING EDITOR

DESIGNER

TRAFFIC MANAGER

Paolo de Borja DEPUTY EDITOR

PUBLISHER

Carl S. Cunanan MANAGING DIRECTOR

Carl S. Cunanan, Kevin C. Limjoco, Michael L. Lhuillier, Paolo M. Puyat-Martel BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Georges B. Ramirez

Merline B. Urdas

SENIOR EDITOR

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT

Francis G. Pallarco

Mary Ann M. Benito

TUNER EDITOR

CREDIT AND COLLECTION OFFICER

Maynard M. Marcelo

Paredes Garcia and Golez

WHEEL2WHEEL EDITOR

LEGAL COUNSEL

Monica N. Legarda SENIOR COPY EDITOR

Dominique O. Cerqueda COPY EDITOR

Angel S. Rivero Iñigo S. Roces Isabel N. Delos Reyes

Contributing Writers Miguel C. Bichara, Telly Buhay, JP Calimbas, JP Cariño, EZ Ligaya, David Hardman, Peter Lyon, Mike Potenciano, Lindy Pellicer, Brando Rosales, Edrich Santos, Liam Talbot, Martin Ursua, Martin Revita, Steven Yu, Kap Maceda Aguila, Manny De Los Reyes, and Johnny Revilla

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Michael L. Lhuillier EDITOR-AT-LARGE

Kevin C. Limjoco

Contributing Photographers Andréas N. Delos Reyes, Kyle Estrella, Mike Miranda, Scott Nelson, Juanito Vinluan, Randy Silva-Netto, Patrick Mateo, Jerel Fajardo, Mike Sabarre, Joey Yepez, Bert Casal, Mariony Dela Cruz, Paulo Ferrer, Jakob Kurc, and Jordan Aparicio

FOUNDING EDITOR / PRESIDENT / EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

This issue would not have been possible without the help of: Hiroshi Suzuki, Shuzo Hoshikura, EJ Francisco, Rueben M. Jarvina, Nonoy Yulo, Steven Tan, Dax Avenido, Klaus D. Schadewald, Franz Decloedt, Timmy De Leon, Felix Ang, Rene Nunez, Atty. Albert Arcilla, Lyn Buena, Val De Leon, Manny Aligada, Mac Marcantonio, Chris Lee Yu, Nora Liquido, Lyka-Mae De La Cruz-Andres, Tony Si, Felipe Estrella, Sab Delos Reyes, Atsushi Najima, Wilbert Lim, Carlo Ablaza, Raymond Rodriguez, Angelo Barron, Paolo Ella, Chris Yu, Willy Tee Ten, Robert Coyiuto Jr., Benedicto Coyiuto, Prudencio Coyiuto, Robert Coyiuto III, Froilan Dytianquin, Saul Babas, Cameron Arciaga, Jelene Sulit, Felix Limcaoco, Michael Dennis E. Uy, Lawrence Dimaunahan, Akira Utsumi, Norminio Mojica, Dominic Busran, CJ Yucoco, Mark Parulan, Elgie Nunez, Jasper Castro, Nadinne C. Capistrano, Elijah Sue Marcial, Edmund Araga, Rommel Sytin, Ira Jornada, Spencer Yu, Ramon S. Ang, Nico Ylanan, Thea Geronimo, Hermes P. Canon, Jade Sison, Lawrence Dimaunahan, Germain Alilio, Dino Santos, Stacey Vasquez, Cherrey Lou Villaester-Alvarez, Tine Liwanag, Ann Tayao, Mia Dollentas, Angel Sardoma, Michael Breen, Takeshi Hara, Mavelle Durian, Yosuke Nishi, Alfred Ty, Vince S. Socco, May Moreno, and Bodie Pulido

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Copyright © 2021 The Editors and Publishers of this magazine give no warranties, guarantees or assurances and make no representations regarding any goods or services advertised in this edition. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, in part or in whole without written permission of the publisher.

The Drives

ISUZU MU-X LS-E 4X4

The Greatest Isuzu Ever Words by Kevin C. Limjoco Photos by Isabel N. Delos Reyes THE 2ND GENERATION all-new Isuzu Mu-X is quite simply the very best consumer vehicle that Isuzu has ever produced. If it had the additional optional equipment found in other markets combined with a 5-year warranty, it would have handily won the best-in-class C! Award this year despite the lofty price of the top-spec Mu-X LS-E 4x4 model tested here in its signature Marrakesh Brown exterior and interestingly designed 20-inch alloys that look like floating turbo blades.

Compared to the outgoing Mu-X, the handsome all-new model has a 10-mm longer wheelbase that is 23% more rigid (new bodyon frame Isuzu Dynamic Drive Platform), with a completely new 25-mm longer body that is 10-mm wider and 35-mm taller. Just like the all-new Isuzu D-Max, that did win the best in its pickup class with a long list of shared parts with the all-new Mu-X: engine power increased from 174 bhp to 188 bhp with torque jumping significantly from 280 lb-ft to 332 lb-ft mated to a more optimized 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission. The overachieving 148 bhp/258 lb-ft 1.9 Ddi (RZ4E) Blue Power turbodiesel

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alternative engine is carried over and powers the entry level 4x2 LS variant that retails for PhP 1,590,000.00 with organically reduced standard equipment.

The new Bi-LED headlights with signature DRL and auto-levelling function look great and cast an excellent field of illumination further supported with LED front fog lamps, way better than before. However, the throw is bested by the system on the Nissan Terra.

The rear light assembly has its own signature LED as well. The prominent central 10.1inch touchscreen infotainment system has navigation, a clinometer, rear guided camera, intuitive smartphone connectivity with Android Auto™ and wireless Apple CarPlay™, all through a very good 8-speaker surround sound system. The nice analog instruments have a 4.2-inch color LCD Multi Information Display now. The fully adjustable

steering wheel is appropriately weighted and communicative. The recalibrated and new 6-speed transmission is smoother and behaves better than some of the more complex systems in the segment. The electric parking brake also features Auto Brake Hold for convenience while driving in heavy city traffic. Unlike the Terra though, the Mu-X has a powered rear trunk and generally accommodates passengers with a touch more capacity.

The big new class-leading feature is the Smart 3D DUO Camera on the windshield that has the ability to detect obstacles intelligently to improve safety as well as convenience.

The Advanced Driver Assist System features adaptive cruise control with stop/go, pedestrian detection, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition. Other safety features

like blind spot monitoring and rear crosstraffic alert use the 4-eye sonar. Additional active, passive, and peripheral safety measures include standard 7 SRS airbags, automatic door locks, and rain-sensing wipers with built-in washer nozzles. The new front and rear brakes are larger and more robust to manage the more potent powertrain as well, 12.6-inch (320 mm) ventilated discs with 2-piston calipers up front and 12.5-inch (318 mm) ventilated rear discs with 1-piston calipers with ABS, TCS, EBD, ESC, EBA, AEB, HAS, HDC, Misacceleration Mitigation and Turn-Assist. All of these efforts culminate to a verified 5-Star ASEAN NCAP rating for the new Isuzu Mu-X. The Isuzu Mu-X LS-E 4x4 models have a proper electronic differential lock too for the more challenging off-road traversing. The 20 x 7.5J alloys have a stronger new two-tone design wrapped with 265/50R20 107S Bridgestone Dueler H/T 684II tires. The effortless smart 4x4 system uses “Rough Terrain Mode” and “Terrain Command” control with ‘shift on the fly’ 2-high↔4-high selection at up to 100 km/h, and 4-low with rear differential lock. Water fording depth is rated at 800 mm. Ground clearance is still 235 mm. For off-road use, the approach angle is 29.2 degrees; ramp-over angle is 23.1 degrees, while the departure angle is 26.4 degrees. Despite similar dimensions and thrust, the Isuzu Mu-X LS-E 4x4 is roughly 200 pounds heavier than the Nissan Terra VL 4x4, and you feel it.

The 2021 Isuzu Mu-X LS-E is a truly desirable and heavily loaded mid-size SUV that will reward its owner and passengers with a lifetime of adventure, utility, and versatility.

The sweet spot in the model range is the LS-E 4x2 variant that has all the best bits shared with the 4x4 model but without the weight of the 4x4 system for PhP 350,000.00 less.

That makes it a very compelling tall wagon that will still wade water at 800 mm deep but with reduced traction but it would perform optimally on the road with more athleticism and slightly better fuel economy, too.

SPECIFICATIONS — 2021 Isuzu Mu-X LS-E 4x4 Engine: Inline-4, 2999 cc, dohc 16V, Direct Injection Intercooled VGS Turbodiesel, VSS, 6-Speed AT | Max Power: 188 bhp @ 3600 rpm | Max Torque: 332 lb-ft @ 1600-2600 rpm 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 10.1 sec. | Top Speed: 196 km/h (122 mph) | Fuel Mileage: 12.04 Km/L overall as tested | Price as Tested: PhP 2,450,000.00 Plus: The very best Isuzu ever produced, solid reputation of reliability, good-looking, best crafted interior design in its class, the most safety measures in its class, very strong packaging. | Minus: Third-row best used for young children that don’t require a child-seat, 3-year factory warranty, price, manual rearview mirror. |

Rating: 10/10

C-MAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

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The Drives

NISSAN TERRA VL 4X4

The Renewed Mid-size SUV Standard Words by Kevin C. Limjoco Photos by Isabel N. Delos Reyes THERE HAS BEEN a tremendous amount of material both in print and online about Nissan’s award-winning and commercially successful mid-size Terra SUV. It made such a strong impression when it was first launched that it earned the 2018 C! Awards trophy for best-in-its class. Since then, the direct competition had their own scheduled evolution programs for their products, some more aggressive than others. As we had warned at the time, the Nissan Terra was still new and shiny when the direct competition not only caught up but surpassed it, namely the slightly larger Ford Everest with its potent twinturbodiesel mated to a 10-speed automatic gearbox with Electronic Locking Rear Differential, panoramic roof, stellar equipment packaging, and the best standard infotainment system for its class. The Ford would hold its C! Award class-lead for two years until the Nissan Terra received the substantial upgrades that it deserved to secure its win at the absolute slimmest margin against the handsome allnew Isuzu Mu-X. The 2021 Nissan Terra, with the top-spec VL 4x4 tested here in Nebula Metallic Red,

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representing the range, is a proper winner again as the most driver-centric of the midsize SUVs in our market. The upgrades for the heavily updated new Terra model range are class redefining. The suspension, independent double wishbone with coil springs and anti-roll bar and rear multi-link (5-Link) with coil springs and anti-roll bar were also tweaked for less overall body-roll. Though the 2.5-liter turbodiesel and 7-speed automatic transmission have been mechanically carried over, the powerplant tangibly feels more woke and attentive thanks to some recalibration to the transmission management. The updated comprehensive Nissan Intelligent Mobility Suite (Intelligent 360-degree Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection and Off-Road Monitor, Intelligent Rear View Mirror, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Intelligent Driver Alertness, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, Advanced Drive Assist Display and Tire Pressure

Monitoring System) is complete with quicker response and better visual outputs.

The new corporate identity steering wheel was applied while the non-electric power steering system itself was retuned for better feel and reaction. The most profound dynamic upgrade to the new Terra are the brakes; the front get significantly larger twin-piston calipers squeezing massive 13.7-inch (348 mm) vented discs up from narrower 11.6-inch (295 mm) vented discs while the rear swapped dated drum units for 13-inch solid discs with single sliders to also work with the new electronic parking brake. With the powerful new brakes, the control and pace management of the Terra gains seriously better real-world functionality with even more confidence behind the steering wheel.

If these improvements were the only features that were upgraded, the Terra would have already become more compelling but not winning yet. The next salvo of upgrades sealed the deal combined with a class-leading 5-year warranty and competitive pricing. The new

The Drives

front-end design with the more pronounced deep V-grille and fabulous quad-beam LED headlights, LED front fog lamps, and new rear LED signature lighting applied throughout the model range now makes the Terra look very much related to its brethren in other markets from the new Patrol/Armada to the Rogue and Pathfinder. Those new headlights not only look awesome but, more importantly, are the most powerful in its class keeping in mind that the most vital safety measure is accident avoidance altogether.

And the hits keep coming. The VL 4x4 models have a proper electronic differential lock, the 18 x 7J alloys have a stronger new two-tone design wrapped with 255/60R18 108H Bridgestone Dueler H/T 684II tires.

The lovely new interior with contrasting Burgundy Red Leather (nice touch but I hope there will be more color trim options in the near future) on the dashboard, center armrest, and door panels, has been almost completely overhauled featuring a brilliantly crisp new factory 9-inch infotainment system powered by the acoustically optimized and best sounding 8-speaker BOSE® system in the segment with Wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto / Bluetooth (Handsfree Calling and Audio Streaming) / USB (Type A and Type C), wireless phone charger, automatic rain-sensing wipers, 4 front and 4 rear parking sonars, and new more powerful three-row climate control system. The Zero Gravity front two seats and the two primary second row seats now have tasteful quilted patterns in the middle portions of the seats, and the 11-inch flip-down rear ceiling monitor with HDMI input (found at the third-row left panel of the theater-style seating). Water fording depth is rated at 600 mm. Ground clearance is still 225 mm. And the dimensions are carried over, 2850 mm wheelbase, 4900 mm length x 1865 mm width x 1865 mm height. The approach angle is 32.3 degrees while the departure angle is 26.6 degrees.

The final result of all the factory improvements for 2021 is a genuinely balanced, thought-out, and thorough multi-purpose, multi-terrain people mover solution that Philippine buyers would really appreciate.

SPECIFICATIONS — 2021 Nissan Terra VL 4x4 Engine: Inline-4, 2488 cc, dohc 16V, Direct Injection Intercooled VGT Turbodiesel, 7-Speed AT | Max Power: 188 bhp @ 3600 rpm | Max Torque: 332 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 9.7 sec. | Top Speed: 203 km/h (127 mph) | Fuel Mileage: 16.1 Km/L overall as tested | Price as tested: PhP 2,339,000.00 | Plus: The Best-in-Class again, best lights in the segment, very comfortable, best audio quality in the segment, very full-featured, and athletic. | Minus: Third-row best for young children that don’t require a child-seat, 2nd-row bench should have a middle passenger headrest, non-powered rear trunk, and no telescopic steering adjustment. |

Rating: 10/10

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SUBARU OUTBACK 2.5I-T EYESIGHT The Unconventional Valet Words by Kevin C. Limjoco Photos by Andréas N. Delos Reyes THE ALL-NEW 6th generation Subaru Outback has been released in our market.

For the month of September 2021, Subaru Philippines is offering a promotional discount of P50,000.00. Only one heavily-loaded variant will be initially offered. Our test unit came in Brilliant Bronze Metallic with tasteful perforated and stitched black leather interior.

The exterior may not be very compelling for non-Subaristi but thankfully the very modern

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and trick interior more than compensates for the initial impression.

This new Outback is a clear representation of substance over aesthetics. If you can get past the looks, you will be rewarded with a truly comfortable and versatile driver’s station wagon. I think it is the very best station wagon currently offered in our market. The Outback uses the new Subaru Global Platform which is much more robust and scalable compared to its predecessor. We had a 3rd generation 245 bhp / 219 lb-ft Subaru Outback 3.0R in our C! Fastfleet many years ago that had a 5-speed automatic transmission and a soulful flat-6 engine that would accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 8.4 seconds with a 222 km/h top speed but we unloaded it fairly early because of its small cabin, wooden braking, and lack of creature comforts.

This matured all-new generation model, when packaged with the same engine found in the Evoltis, rips through from rest to 100 km/h in 6-seconds flat. Our market does not get that powerplant though yet, instead its gets the updated direct injection 2.5-liter flat-4 normally aspirated boxer engine (90% of the components in the new FB25 are new compared to its predecessor) that is surprisingly quite an overachiever mated to a simulated 8-speed CVT transmission.

Acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 8.7 seconds may look lazy but in reality, it is plenty quick through its powerband and it delivers smooth and linear propulsion. Since overall public speeds have come down significantly, what is more important today are interior comforts through technology, space management, quality and execution of materials, fuel

efficiency, occupant safety, and versatility. The new Outback has them all.

The brakes (front 12.4-inch vented disc with two-pot calipers / rear 11.8-inch vented discs with single calipers) are more powerful today than in previous generations combined with a suite of active and passive safety measures (Active Torque Vectoring with VDC and X-MODE®) thanks also to the updated Eyesight 4.0 system which now also offers active lane management like Lane Centering together with adaptive cruise control. Even the new tires are excellent. The 225/60R18 100V Bridgestone Alenza H/L 33 are grippy on road and mild off-road while being quiet and communicative. The tires work perfectly with the excellent asymmetrical all-wheel drive whose Active Torque Split system has a 60/40 ratio between the front and rear wheels for a forgiving and confident drive. It is 1.4 inches longer and 0.6 inch wider than its predecessor with a generous 8.7 inches of ground clearance that offers a reasonable wading depth of 430 mm through the fully independent raised suspension (struts up front and multilink at the rear). The hearty roof rack is rated to carry up to 220 pounds in motion and will support up to 700 pounds when parked.

The most obvious new interior feature is the central 11.6-inch vertical infotainment touchscreen that is supposedly similar to the unit used in the Toyota Prius Prime models that we have tested before. If that wasn’t enough, Subaru Philippines made sure that the sound system is the fantastic 576-wattequivalent GreenEdge® Harman Kardon with 12 speakers AND the screen displays the 360-degree camera. If you have an active lifestyle but you don’t need the hauling capacity and deep off-road abilities of a pickup truck but require a general purpose 5-seater crossover with generous packaging, the all-new Subaru Outback could fulfill all your practical needs with more space, luxury, and ability than the smaller but taller Forester.

SPECIFICATIONS — 2021 Subaru Outback 2.5i-T EyeSight Engine: Flat-4, 2498 cc, dohc 16V, Direct Injection, Dual Active Valve Control System (DAVCS), CVT | Max Power: 182 bhp @ 5800 rpm | Max Torque: 176 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 8.7 sec. | Top Speed: 210 km/h (130 mph) Governed | Fuel Mileage: 26 mpg City / 33 mg Highway | Price as Tested: PhP 2,330,000.00 (Special Introductory Discount of P50,000.00 until September 30, 2021) | Plus: The best station wagon in our market, very purposeful, 11.6-inch touchscreen, very comfortable, spacious, sensational audio system, dynamic all-season versatility, comprehensive standard equipment. | Minus: Uninspired exterior aesthetics, optional 260 bhp turbocharged flat-4 2.4-liter from the Evoltis and Wilderness Edition variant not available in our market. |

Rating: 9.5/10

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The Drives

TOYOTA GR YARIS The Pocket Rocket that we all pined for Words by Kevin C. Limjoco Photos by Isabel N. Delos Reyes

THE ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT Toyota GR Yaris exceeded all my expectations. I completely understand why every single allotted unit for our market, approximately less than 200 units, in every color (Super White II, Emotional Red, and Precious Black), was completely sold out before the first unit was released to a customer.

I’ve owned the older WRC homologated specials in the past; a Lancia Delta HF Integrale "Evoluzione I", Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV RS, V RS, and VI RS, and the Toyota GR Yaris is better than all of them!

Besides being obviously newer with the most current high technologies, safety, and engineering, the GR Yaris combines genuine dynamic ability with real-world everyday reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. The old cars will always remain desirable for their charismatic abilities and iconic personalities but the GR Yaris sits above them with maturity and refinement. The Toyota GR Yaris actually has a longer wheelbase than all of those seasoned rally cars and has more usable interior room in the cabin compared to the Lancia. The Philippine-spec GR Yaris may produce a little less power than in other

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markets to properly handle our fuel quality (257 bhp vs 268 bhp and 266 lb-ft vs 273 lb-ft of torque) but Toyota Philippines made up for it by adding other optional equipment like the front and rear LSD’s, the better GR high performance suspension setup, lighter but more rigid alloy wheels and stickier tires (forged BBS vs cast ENKEI and Michelin Pilots vs Dunlop SP Sport Maxx) as standard.

The 50 mm elevated gear shift lever reminded me of the awesome pistol grip 5-speed manual transmission found in the T-bar 1st generation Toyota MR2 Supercharged pocket rocket that I used to drive as a sophomore in college in San

Francisco, but the shortened shift stroke is not as extreme.

The genuine World Rally Championship homologation special 2021 Toyota GR Yaris is the C! Team’s unanimous choice as the C! Drive of the Year for the 17th Annual C! Awards. In such a cataclysmic period of time affecting the globe, Toyota’s fantastic limited GR Yaris super-hot hatch helped create much needed joy in our market.

It is said that in order to qualify with the WRC's homologation rules, Toyota would need to produce at least 25,000 units of the GR Yaris in a continuous 12-month period to supply the world. Toyota Philippines is currently

working on getting another limited batch for Philippine buyers who were not able to buy the sensual pocket rocket on the first round.

The legendary 4-time WRC champion Tommi Mäkinen worked with the Gazoo Racing team in developing the GR Yaris. Toyota Big Boss Akio Toyoda and Tommi Mäkinen collaborated during pre-production testing on multi-stage surfaces. Additional structural glue and an extra 200 welding points have been added to the GR Yaris to reach the necessary body rigidity. The GR Yaris’ unique build uses generous amounts of aluminum that include body panels, doors, hood and trunk. The roofline has also been lowered by 95mm to enhance aerodynamics. You can fold the rear seats to increase rear storage.

The end result of the development is a truly epic and balanced 2+2 supermini that can be driven comfortably every single day with all-time four-wheel drive, the Toyota Safety Sense suite of active and passive measures that include adaptive cruise control, front and rear Torsen® Limited Slip Differentials, Ultrasuede® Sports Seats, GR-FOUR AWD modes to vary torque distribution through Normal (60:40), Sport (30:70) and Track (50:50), aluminum sport pedals with optimal setup for heel-and-toe action, full LED lighting, fully-independent trick suspension, 6.9-inch infotainment system with 6-speakers, appropriately massive 14-inch (356 mm) two-piece vented and slotted front brake discs with red four-pot calipers and 11.6-inch (294 millimeter) ventilated and slotted rear brake discs with red two-pot calipers, 18x8J BBS forged alloys wrapped with tenacious Michelin Pilot Sport 4 XL 225/40R18 92Y gumballs, exciting blistered bodywork, functional open front brake ducts, a carbon fiber-reinforced plastic roof panel, WRC badge, all powered by a purpose Gazoo Racing-built, inline-3 cylinder 1.6-liter engine mated to a slick 6-speed V16series intelligent manual transmission ("iMT") for automated blipping and effortless shifting.

The Toyota GR Yaris is the most rewarding and affordable high-performance enthusiast’s car in our market. The standard aural cacophony maybe subdued but the resulting pace is real. For our Philippine driving conditions, there is no more complete tool to safely and swiftly travel.

SPECIFICATIONS — 2021 Toyota GR Yaris Engine: Inline-3, 1618 cc, dohc 12V, Port & Direct Injection Intercooled Single-Scroll Ball-Bearing Turbo, VVT-I, 6-Speed iMT | Max Power: 257 bhp @ 6500 rpm Max Torque: 266 lb-ft @ 3000-4600 rpm | 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 5.2 sec. | Top Speed: 230 km/h (143 mph) Governed | Fuel Mileage: 8.3 L/100km Overall Price as Tested: PhP 2,650,000.00 (Sold Out for now) | Plus: Uniqueness, explosive and explorable dynamic performance, excellent build-quality, hugely entertaining deep abilities, and ultra-limited. | Minus: No rear parking camera nor sonar, no wireless charger, no HUD, optional JBL® 8 speaker system not available in our market, and ultra-limited.

Rating: 10/10

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The Drives

NISSAN GT-R PREMIUM

The Definitive Practical Supercar Words by Kevin C. Limjoco Photos by Isabel N. Delos Reyes THE CURRENT GLORIOUS 565 bhp Nissan GT-R Premium variant is essentially the same ferocious supercar slayer prior to model year 2018 but with some extra refinements and polish at an organically higher selling price.

If you get sticker shock with this premium variant wait until you find out that the extra trick 600 bhp NISMO variant sells for a group fainting P19.9M for the extra 35 bhp and .2-second improvement in acceleration from naught to 100 km/h! As great as the Nissan GT-R NISMO is though, with full knowledge and appreciation of the great extra engineering efforts involved, I have great difficulty justifying an extra P11 Million bucks for the extra exclusivity, extra rigidity, enhanced aerodynamics, power, reduced weight, and upgraded equipment if you are driving on our public Philippine roads. The aesthetics, extra forgiveness and road condition compliance of the standard GT-R are definitely more sensible and already deeply untouchable.

There are 7 available exterior colors now; Pearl White, Ultimate Silver, Gun Metallic, Pearl Black, Katsura Orange, Pearl Blue (our

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test unit color and my 1st choice), and Vibrant Red with 4 different semi-aniline leather interior trim colors: Black Samurai, Red Amber, Saddle (my favorite), and ivory (our test unit color).

Aside from the new available exterior and interior palettes, the two most obvious updates are the beautiful intricate mixed multi-spoke forged 20-inch alloys (20 x 9.5J front / 20 x 10.5J rear) wrapped with 255/40R20 97Y front and 285/35R20 100Y rear Dunlop SP Sport MAXX GT600 DSST CTT NR1 run flat tires and an even lighter titanium exhaust system with exhaust sound control and exposed patina on the quad-tips. The purposeful interior looks mostly the same but the cabin is slightly quieter. The complex central 8-inch infotainment system continues to be powered

by a rocking 11-speaker Bose® sound system and showcases the cool custom factory view pages with Active Noise Cancellation and Active Sound Enhancement but the rear camera needs to be updated and the system still does not have offline navigation.

All the celebrated equipment has been mostly carried over, from the sophisticated adaptive Bilstein® DampTronic suspension (with generous forged aluminum components on the fully independent front double wishbone and rear multilink), exhaustive aerodynamic measures, and 1.5 Way Mechanical Limited Slip Differential, to the vital Brembo® 15.4-inch vented/crossdrilled front discs with rigid gold 6-piston calipers and 15.0-inch vented/cross-drilled rear discs with gold 4-piston monoblock

The Drives

calipers with 3-Point Radial Mounting. The sensational ATTESA ET-S (4WD) drivetrain with the patented independent rear-mounted transaxle effectively transfers thrust with a static distribution ratio of 54 front:46 rear (the system can send up to 50% of torque to the front wheels or provide nearly 100% of available torque to the rear wheels). You are never wanting for more power and ability, but you will be deeply frustrated looking for opportunities to unleash the monumental dynamic performance.

The updated Nissan GT-R Premium ticks all the boxes of a genuine supercar without the driving compromises that is usually associated with the genre. It does however have its own set of compromises. The low 110 mm ground clearance is certainly appropriate for the

GT-R’s reason for being but you always have to be fully aware that you don’t scoop anything up from the road. The GT-R is actually quite an imposing and stout vehicle but it only has 315 liters of capacity in the rear trunk which is only good for a weekend trip. The rear seats could barely accommodate my 7-rear old son though his only complaint at this point of time was that I was not driving fast all the time! He, like his father, loves the sensation of pressure on the body under hard acceleration and we both love all the unique mechanical sounds generated from the transaxle, gear whine and shifting, accompanied with the roar of the mighty Godzilla!

Despite that large road-print, the GT-R feels scalpel sharp and genuinely visceral. The steering and instant gearshifts are perfect

but I do wish Nissan added a seventh gear to further improve fuel efficiency and calm it down when cruising. It can be an effortless Gran Tourer too if you take it easy and imagine the air cleverly flowing as directed by extensive aerodynamic measures, most of which you cannot see underneath the car. That .26 drag coefficient figure doesn’t just mean than the GT-R slices through the wind, beyond 120 km/h, the effects of all those ducts, covers, fins, and such helps produce the ground effects to keep the car securely planted. Nissan has built an incredible sports car that everyone respects and even fears because of its astonishing ability and build quality. It also comes with a 3-year factory warranty. I wish I owned one.

SPECIFICATIONS — 2021 Nissan GT-R Premium Engine: V6, 3799 cc, dohc 24V, Direct Ignition Multipoint Injection Intercooled Twin-Turbo, CVVTCS, 6-Speed DCT | Max Power: 565 bhp @ 6800 rpm Max Torque: 467 lb-ft @ 3300-5800 rpm | 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 3.2 sec. | Top Speed: 314 km/h (196 mph) | Fuel Mileage: 16 mpg City / 22 mpg Highway Price as Tested: PhP 8,900,000.00 | Plus: Ferociously engaging, supremely fast and dynamic, luxurious, quieter, improved ride. | Minus: The rear seats will only fit two small 8-year-old children, speed-limits, I don’t own one. |

Rating: 10/10

C-MAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

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CHEVROLET TRACKER LT REDLINE The Proper Replacement

Words by Kevin C. Limjoco Photos by Isabel N. Delos Reyes

THE CHEVROLET TRAX subcompact crossover replacement, the all-new Tracker, was a surprise hit after our testing. The new overall design is very handsome and compelling; I reckon even the best looking in the segment. To our knowledge, as of this review, this Chevrolet Tracker version is sold only in Latin America, China, and the Philippines. The other markets get a more potent 1.2 and 1.3-liter turbo engine.

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Chevrolet Philippines is also importing the all-new 5-seater Trailblazer crossover using the new Vehicle Set Strategy (VSS-F) General Motors platform to replace the dutiful and larger ladder-framed 7-seater SUV in our market in name. Even if the outgoing Trailblazer is much larger than the all-new replacement model in physical proportions, I am confident that like this new Tracker that

the interior configuration will yield similar optimized results in a more affordable, more efficient, and more comfortable package sans the extra rear seating. To fill the capacity and duty void of the old Trailblazer, the all-new Blazer may eventually be fielded in the future.

There are two variants: a less equipped LS model at PhP 1,142,888.00, and this top-spec LT Redline model for PhP 1,242,888.00. During the promotional period, Chevrolet Philippines offers a special extra PhP 30,000.00 discount.

Our Satin Steel Gray Metallic LT Redline test unit performed astoundingly better than anticipated. The cabin is the absolute quietest and most comfortable in its segment. The interior is simple but very tastefully designed.

We liked the contrasting seats, dashboard, and side panels together with the awesome panoramic glass roof. The rear seats are also the most spacious with the most generous legroom in its segment. I wish the rear seats had their own climate control vents though like others in the genre.

Using the new General Motors GEM (Global Emerging Markets) platform in place of the old Gamma II platform, the Tracker feels significantly larger and more rigid even if its proportions are very similar to the old more upright Trax. Compared to the outgoing oddball Trax, the slick Tracker has a 15 mm longer wheelbase but it is actually shorter by 10 mm and lower by 47 mm. And despite losing power from the old 1.4-liter turbo producing 138 bhp and 148 lb-ft to the 1.0-liter turbo eagerly producing 116 bhp and 129 lb-ft, both mated to 6-speed automatics, the Tracker is only .4 seconds slower from rest to 100 km/h. However, it feels healthier and more willing compared to the sluggish old powerplant from 40 km/h to 160 km/h

The Drives

combined with at least 20 % better fuel efficiency.

Its real-world drivability on our roads is definitively superior to the Trax at a much more affordable price while also providing even more standard equipment that include excellent 215/55R17 94V Bridgestone Turanza T005 tires wrapping the unique 17-inch alloys with red accents, full LED lighting with effective turning corner lights (the Trax always used halogen bulbs), the Active Thermal Management System that optimizes the electric water pump, exhaust gas recirculation, variable displacement oil pump, engine performance, and engine temperature while expending lower battery power and fuel consumption, a water-cooled turbo intercooler, a strong 8-inch Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with Apple

CarPlay, 6-speakers, and 130-degree reverse camera, intelligent Engine Start/Stop System, comprehensive safety suite, 4 USB sockets, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), driver, front passenger, and side airbags, ISOFIX system, electric heated side mirrors, multi-colored driver information center and automatic climate control.

The all-new Chevrolet Tracker is available in five (5) colors: Agate Red Metallic, Satin Steel Gray Metallic, Black Meet Kettle Metallic, Summit White, and Pow Zinga Metallic, a color exclusive to the LS variant. The Tracker comes with the Chevrolet Complete Care package, which includes a 5-year warranty, automatic enrollment to the 24/7 Chevrolet Roadside Assistance for three (3) years, and immediate access to the 24/7 Chevy Hotline for convenient vehicle service and ownership needs.

SPECIFICATIONS — 2021 Chevrolet Tracker LT Redline Engine: Inline-3, 999 cc, dohc 12V, Direct Injection Intercooled Single-Scroll Turbo, DVVT, 6-Speed AT | Max Power: 116 bhp @ 5800 rpm Max Torque: 129 lb-ft @ 1500-4200 rpm | 0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 9.9 sec. | Top Speed: 182 km/h (114 mph) | Fuel Mileage: 5.5 L/100km Overall Price as Tested: PhP 1,242,888.00 | Plus: Well designed and attractive, very quiet and comfortable cabin, fuel efficient, peppy, refined, and uncommon.

Minus: Optional stronger power plants would make the model more engaging, no rear seat vents. |

Rating: 9/10

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THE HALOED CONUNDRUM Words: Kevin C. Limjoco Pictures: Isabel N. Delos Reyes & Andréas N. Delos Reyes

Let us begin with the question that will be in mind for most potential buyers in our Philippine market: “Is the additional cost of PhP 1,533,000.00 over the mechanically identical top-spec 3rd generation Toyota Alphard (AH30) in Luxury White Pearl, justifiable?”

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COVER STORY

2022 LEXUS LM 350 If you can afford it and you do like to take command behind the steering wheel, then the answer is a reluctant yes. Though the new Lexus LM 350 is heavily based on the Toyota Alphard, it is more than just an even more posh version of the already luxurious donner vehicle. The “LM” name actually means Luxury Mover.

The all-new model for Lexus is the first time for the brand but definitely not the first time that they share equipment with the mother company Toyota; that has been going on since the inception of the Lexus luxury brand. The differences though are that Lexus applies their distinct characteristics and treatments that define them. I do want to clarify that there are two versions of the LM: a 4-seater configuration with the most kit, and the 7-seater configuration that we have for our market for the moment.

Honestly, for the current retail price, I expected that Lexus would commit to the full-blown 4-seater to completely differentiate itself from the Alphard.

Before I indicate the nuances between the LM variants, you need to know the other key features that differentiate it from the Alphard beyond the obvious exterior aesthetics and Gin Sui Boku interior trim ornamentation. The most

For most affluent luxury buyers, the 7-seater variant is already an awesome indulgence of comfort for every person including the pilot!

profound mechanical improvements are the upgraded dampers on the fully independent suspension which now have swing-valves to help reduce excess vibrations which also organically improves ride comfort and promotes flatter handling. The intricate 18 x 7.5” alloys shod with 235/50R18 97V Toyo Proxes R30 tires are cast to reduce road noise with an additional special damper in the inner rim lip. The LM also has a 95 mm longer body and 5 mm lower height to liberate a bit more interior room and allow more design surfaces. The signature LED headlights and rear light assemblies look and function a bit better too compared with the Alphard. The cabin is considerably more insulated because of the extensive use of additional noise measures that include dual-pane windows.

In the cabin, the 7-seat configuration (powered on the front with climate controls and powered second rows with ottomans) is very similar to the Alphard but the designs are different and use a world-first implementation of AdaptiPedic foam for the cushions for a remarkably even more plush seating. There are more screens (13.3inch drop-down from the ceiling screen for the rear seat passengers to enjoy, and a revised center stack with a wider free-standing infotainment screen with the air vents positioned underneath) that are also larger and crisper in the LM compared to the Alphard combined with superior ambient lighting and a fabulous Mark Levinson® 17-speaker system instead of the Toyota’s merely satisfactory 6-speaker system. The Lexus switchgear, steering wheel, and controls are also way better than the units on the Toyota are.

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COVER STORY

On the “Emperor Suite” 4-seater configuration, the front dashboard also uses a 12.3-inch touchscreen with controls that are activated through a touchpad. The video rearview mirror is permanent in order to see through the solid divider between the front row and the rear passengers. The 19-speaker Mark Levinson® reference sound system has even more range and depth and also has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. There is an epic electronically adjustable and retractable privacy frosted glass cabin partition that also houses a huge high-resolution 26-inch screen fed with either a Blu-Ray/SDXC player or HDMI in the center armrest. The two AdaptiPedic passenger seats resemble first-class airline seats with Ottomans, air-cooling within the seats, are larger, and offer seven different massage programs at five levels of pressure. There is also an additional onboard refrigerator and briefcase storage.

With only two rear passenger seats, the powered rear trunk capacity is increased by approximately 25% too.

All this standard goodness adds more weight to both the 7-seater and 4-seater Lexus LM 350 variants to the tune of at least 150 kg compared to the Alphard, so despite the

2022 LEXUS LM 350

2022 LEXUS LM 350 Engine: V6 60° Location: Front, Transverse Displacement: 3456 cc Cylinder block: Cast Aluminum Cylinder head: Cast Aluminum, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, VVT-iW intake, VVT-i exhaust Fuel Injection: Port and Direct Fuel Injection, Atkinson-cycle Max power: 296 bhp @ 6600 rpm Max torque: 266 lb-ft @ 4600-4700 rpm Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic, Front-Wheel-Drive Front suspension: Independent MacPherson struts with coil springs, Swing-valve gas-pressurized shock absorbers and stabilizer bar.

Rear suspension: Independent Double Wishbone, coil springs, Swing-valve gas-pressurized shock absorbers Steering: Rack-in-Pinion, Electronic Power Steering (EPS) Boot capacity: 480 liters Fuel Capacity: 5040 mm x 1850 mm x 1890 mm L x W x H: 4,305 mm x 1,670 mm x 1,515 mm Wheelbase: 3000 mm Brakes: Front 12.9” (328 mm) ventilated discs with twinpiston calipers / Rear 12.5” (317 mm) vented discs with single-piston caliper, ABS, EBD, BA, Traction & Stability Controls.

Wheels: 7.5J x 18” Multi-spoke Chrome Aluminum Alloys with noise-reduction.

Tires: P235/50R18 97V Toyo Proxes R30 Weight: (kerb) 2180 kg. (4796 lbs.)

0-100 km/h (0-62mph): 7.3 sec.

Top Speed: 210 km/h (130 mph) Governed Fuel Mileage: 7.5 L/100 km Overall Price as tested: PhP 5,458,000.00 (7-Seater) / PhP 9,178,000.00 (4-Seater)

The dedicated video rearview mirror must be used to see safely behind the fixed passenger divider. The little refrigerator adds more travel luxury options like F & B and medicines. The adjustable ambient lighting is great as well as the comprehensive passenger comfort control panel.

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Aside from the neat analog clock, the retractable privacy frosted glass cabin partition can be controlled independently to suit your comfort and privacy needs.

“ The most profound mechanical improvements are the upgraded dampers on the fully independent suspension which now have swingvalves to help reduce excess vibrations which also organically improves ride comfort and promotes flatter handling. ”

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C! RATING 10 ⁄ 10 PLUS

Exclusivity, outstanding standard equipment, excellent build-quality, the very best in the segment.

MINUS Price

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COVER STORY

2022 LEXUS LM 350

“ All this standard goodness adds more weight to both the 7-seater and 4-seater Lexus LM 350 variants to the tune of at least 150 kg compared to the Alphard, so despite the claimed acceleration from 0-100 km/h of 7 seconds with a top speed of 230 km/h, the very best instrumented results we got with only the driver on board respectively was consistently 7.3 seconds with a governed top speed of just over 210 km/h which is still plenty quick and swift for a premium luxury minivan. ”

claimed acceleration from 0-100 km/h of 7 seconds with a top speed of 230 km/h, the very best instrumented results we got with only the driver on board respectively was consistently 7.3 seconds with a governed top speed of just over 210 km/h which is still plenty quick and swift for a premium luxury minivan.

Did we love either “unrivaled chauffeured experience” MPV’s and want one in our garage? Absolutely! But is the 7-passenger LM truly worth so much more than the already opulent Alphard? Or more critically, is the lovely White Pearl Crystal Shine 4-seater LM worth the extra P3,698,000.00 over the Black 7-seater variant which it shares about 85% of its standard equipment that includes the Lexus Safety System +, dual moonroofs and the excellent full-LED lighting?

At this level, for the buyer who has it all already, the answer is yes for the extra kit, pedigree, and exclusivity. Think of wealthy and successful grandparents who want to travel around this coming Christmas holiday delivering gifts to all their children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren, the 4-seater Lexus LM would be the most awesome Santa Claus sleigh yet and it would still be more affordable with more space and active luxury features than a Bentley or Rolls-Royce. Both luxury MPV’s are actually great to drive too by the way, their dynamic but compliant performance would embarrass quite a few sporty sedans on the road.

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CA R S | M O R E T H A N CA R S | M O T O R CYC L E S

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"I CAN PROUDLY SAY THAT PHILIPPINE MOBILITY CONSUMERS TODAY HAVE THE WIDEST AND HIGHEST QUALITY PRODUCTS AVAILABLE EVER IN OUR MARKET. AT THIS POINT IN TIME, THERE ARE NO “BAD” VEHICLES THAT CONSUMERS SHOULD AVOID. THE COMPETITION IS SO HEIGHTENED AND ROBUST THAT EVERY MANUFACTURER IS SELLING THEIR VERY BEST TO THE DIRECT BENEFIT OF THE END USERS. THERE ARE NO LOSERS IN THE C! AWARDS TODAY BUT THERE ARE DEFINITIVE WINNERS THAT SECURED THEIR HARD EARNED TOP SPOTS EVEN BY THE TINIEST OF MEASURES."

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s the old 19th century Circus show business phrase goes, "the show must go on,” we fondly present the winners of the 17th Annual C! Awards. This is the second C! Award program during the pandemic.

For those who may not fully understand why we have 17 award programs despite being an over 20-year old publication, here is the brief reason: After C! was established in June 2001, we released our very first full print publication on January 2002 during our epic launch at the former NBC tent in Bonifacio Global City. On the recommendation of C! editor-at-large Michael L. Lhuillier that the team had fully established ourselves professionally by 2004, we created and presented the 1st C! Awards at the ballroom of the former Intercontinental Hotel in Makati.

Aside from the external challenges that plague us all, for the C! Awards, the nominees this year, similarly to the year before, were even more tightly contested. In the past six years the quality, engineering, fit and finish, and packaging of each model per category has increased exponentially.

Naturally, final pricing and aftersales support remain the last decision points during deliberation.

The deliberation per category and class are defined by the C! Team. Testing is very comprehensive taking into account every aspect and feature of each vehicle that includes overall dynamic performance, instrumented performance testing, aesthetics/design, packaging/standard equipment, comforts/luxuries, safety, efficiency, audio/infotainment quality, length of factory warranties, extent of supported aftersales maintenance, pride-of-ownership, value-formoney, resale values and so much more.

Some models that were perennial winners or nominees but are now in the process of being replaced or updated would automatically be disqualified. Some models may have also lost their position due to being unavailable, reconfigured and/or priced drastically too high.

Ultimately, the nominees in each category already represent the finest of the genre, so if the vehicle you love did not win that does not mean that it couldn’t have been the top selection.

Perhaps we voted on criteria that may be less important for you but more important to someone else, but I assure you all that we treated every test unit with respect and without bias.

Kevin C. Limjoco President/Founding Editor/ Editorial Director

AND THE WINNERS ARE...

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AWARDS WINNERS

CARS MINICOMPACT

SUBCOMPACT

Suzuki S-Presso

Honda City RS Hatchback

COMPACT

MID-SIZE

Mazda 3

Volkswagen Lamando

PREMIUM SUBCOMPACT

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

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AWARDS WINNERS

CARS PREMIUM COMPACT

PREMIUM EXECUTIVE

Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

Lexus IS-Series

PREMIUM MID-SIZE

PREMIUM FULL-SIZE

Volvo S90

BMW 7-Series

ULTRA-LUXURY

Bentley Flying Spur

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AWARDS WINNERS

CARS LUXURY GRAND TOURER

SPORTSCAR

Aston Martin DB11

Mazda MX-5 RF

PREMIUM SPORTSCAR

SUPER SPORT

Nissan GT-R

Porsche Taycan

SPECIAL CATEGORY - SOLO SEGMENT

Suzuki Jimny

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AWARDS WINNERS

MORE THAN CARS MINICOMPACT CROSSOVER

SUBCOMPACT CROSSOVER

Volkswagen T-Cross

Geely Coolray

COMPACT CROSSOVER

MID-SIZED CROSSOVER

Geely Azkarra

Mazda CX-8

STATION WAGON

Subaru Outback

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AWARDS WINNERS

MORE THAN CARS PREMIUM SUBCOMPACT CROSSOVER

PREMIUM COMPACT CROSSOVER

Lexus NX

Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class

PREMIUM MID-SIZED SUV

PREMIUM FULL-SIZED SUV

Land Rover Defender 110

BMW X7

MID-SIZED LADDER FRAME SUV

Nissan Terra

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AWARDS WINNERS

MORE THAN CARS FULL-SIZED SUV

COMPACT CARRIER

Subaru Evoltis

Mitsubishi Xpander Cross

MPV

MINI VAN

Geely Okavango

GAC GN8

VAN

Toyota HiAce Super Grandia Elite

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AWARDS WINNERS

MORE THAN CARS PICK-UP

FULL SIZE PICK-UP

Isuzu D-Max LS-E

Jeep Gladiator

HYBRID

EV

Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

Nissan Leaf

LUXURY EV

Jaguar I-Pace

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AWARDS WINNERS

MOTORCYCLES SCOOTER 110cc

SCOOTER 125cc

Suzuki Skydrive Crossover

Suzuki Burgman Street

SCOOTER 150cc

SCOOTER 300cc

Yamaha Mio Aerox 155

Yamaha Xmax 300

SCOOTER 400cc

Kymco Xciting S 400

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AWARDS WINNERS

MOTORCYCLES UNDERBONE DUAL PURPOSE

UNDERBONE 150cc

Suzuki Raider J Crossover

Yamaha Sniper 155

BACKBONE 150cc

STANDARD MIDDLEWEIGHT

Suzuki Gixxer Fi

Triumph Trident 660

STANDARD 1000cc+

Indian FTR 1200

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AWARDS WINNERS

MOTORCYCLES SPORT NAKED 150cc

SPORT NAKED 400cc

Yamaha MT-15

KTM 390 Duke

SPORT NAKED MIDDLEWEIGHT (INLINE-2)

SPORT NAKED MIDDLEWEIGHT (INLINE-3)

KTM 790 Duke

Triumph Street Triple RS

SPORT NAKED 1000cc

Yamaha MT10

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AWARDS WINNERS

MOTORCYCLES SUPER NAKED

SPORTBIKE 150cc

Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory

Suzuki GSX-R150

SPORTBIKE 300cc

SPORTBIKE 400cc

Yamaha YZF-R3

KTM RC390

SPORTBIKE MIDDLEWEIGHT

Aprilia RS660

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AWARDS WINNERS

MOTORCYCLES SUPERBIKE

SPORT TOURER MIDDLEWEIGHT

Aprilia RSV4 Factory

CFMoto 650GT

SPORT TOURER 1000cc

ADVENTURE MIDDLEWEIGHT

Suzuki GSX-S1000F ABS

KTM 790 Adventure R

ADVENTURE 400cc

KTM 390 Adventure

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MOTORCYCLES

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ADVENTURE 1000cc TO 1300cc

CRUISER ENTRY-LEVEL

BMW R1250GS

Royal Enfield Meteor 350

POWER CRUISER

DUAL SPORT

Ducati Diavel 1260 S

Yamaha WR155R

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E X T R A T I M E There is more to life than just cars, so we got you covered on the other things that might interest you.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

E X TR A TI M E

BECOMING THE GREATEST LOSER After a yearlong journey of losing 70 lbs. and maintaining my weight, this is what I learned.

WORDS AND PHOTOS

NICOLAS A. CALANOC

O

ne day I looked into the mirror and realized how big I was. I was so big, I was afraid to even check the weighing scale. It was to the point that in order to check my weight, I couldn’t use the weighing scale at home because I was sure to break it. Surrounded by the possibility of getting infected by what started the global pandemic, I knew that I was on the top of the list of “most likely to die” because my obesity II was a comorbidity.

The real tipping point wasn’t what I saw or felt, but it was when I was told what could have happened. When I got back news that I was prediabetic, that is when it hit me that I did have to change. But that same statement had a silver lining: I had a chance to turn things around.

I did my research and a lot of reading.

When things were set, it was just a matter of executing them and adjusting along the way. In this article, you won’t be finding any exercise routines or diets. Instead, I will be sharing the lessons I have learned that will not only get you started, but will hopefully steer you in the right direction:

IF YOU WANT CHANGE IN YOUR LIFE, YOUR LIFE WILL HAVE TO CHANGE Before I started my change in life, I was that guy that drank liters of iced tea a day, would eat cups of rice in the double digits, and eat way more than I should.

As you can see, the lifestyle I had was the same reason why I was 300 lbs. So, it wouldn’t make sense to think that after reaching my goal weight that I can go back to living like that.

If I wanted to change my weight, I had to accept that there would be parts

E X TR A TI M E

in my life that had to change as well.

It boils down to recognizing that it’s all a matter of always choosing what is good for me in the long run versus momentary pleasure. In my case, I used to choose every time to enjoy my meals versus watching what I ate and drank to live a healthy life. Now, I choose to play it smart by watching what I eat, but also to enjoy it as much as possible.

What is more important than the “right diet and exercise” is to recognize that we have the power to choose.

CONSISTENCY IS KEY One of the usual questions I get is: “When do you do cheat meals?”, which is basically a meal wherein you don’t watch your diet. When I answer that I don’t, they get surprised. But there is a reason why I answer them with a “no.”

It’s easy to tell yourself “That one cheat meal wouldn’t hurt you”. For me though, it is such a misunderstood statement that makes the best excuse for people to go off the rails on their diet. I am guilty of that too. There is a time and place for “cheat meals,” but I will explain that later. For now,

let us talk about the importance of consistency.

If you have only started a week in your diet and decide right away to have a cheat meal to reward your “hard work and suffering,” that is 4.7% of your progress that you choose to give up.

That number may seem small, but if you have been behaving for a year, that one cheat meal is .01% in a year’s worth of progress.

The lesson to be had there is that consistency makes those off-days insignificant. That is the reason why you must find a diet that you are reasonably enjoying while living healthy; so that it is easier to stay consistent. I see so many people grinding through different diets and rewarding their suffering by telling me “I lost XX pounds this week.

Therefore, my diet works and is the best.” Their common denominator though: they all weren’t enjoying and eventually gave up.

If you are suffering through a diet, it is only a matter of time until you rebound and go back to what is comfortable. Consistency is the key, and the trick is to find a diet that is healthy while being comfortable.

How I would eat before

Start at 300 lbs

Packing lunch helps diet

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Progress 240 lbs

E X TR A TI M E

CALORIES IN < CALORIES OUT I start this section with a quote from a friend and inspiration in this journey of mine that has really stuck to me.

It basically sums up the truth that weight loss or weight gain is governed by the laws of thermodynamics. Food is converted to energy. We use energy throughout the day. We store energy through fat. Therefore, if we want to lose weight, we must eat less than our body needs. If we eat more than that, then we gain weight.

It is because of that where there is no diet that works without counting calories. I remember people telling me their diets that worked for them such as Intermittent Fasting, Keto Diet, Paleo Diet, etc. I heard them all. For the ones that worked, they were clearly on a calorie deficit. And for those that were following these diets but were not losing weight, it was because they were in a calorie surplus.

One example was a friend of mine who was doing the Intermittent Fasting, but she was gaining weight.

She said that others were doing it and it worked for them and not for her. I told her to list down everything she ate and weigh them for a week. We found out that she was eating just as much as she did before. What was happening was that after the interval of not eating for a long time, she made up for it by eating way more at the window of time she was allowed to eat. I notice that people forget to read the fine print of the different diets and the reasons and methods on why it can work.

I believe that a non-negotiable if you want to start losing weight is a food scale, tracking what you eat, and being as accurate as possible with the calorie count. Have a daily goal, but measure progress by the week’s average.

THE BEST EXERCISE “What is the best exercise to lose weight?”

The answer is simple: the exercise you enjoy doing.

The truth is if losing weight is just a matter of having more calories burned than consume, then you don’t need to do any exercise to lose weight. And based on my experience

“YOU CAN EAT ANYTHING, BUT YOU CAN’T EAT EVERYTHING” — JASON TULIO

1000 calories steak dinner

600 Calorie Steak dinner

Eating out can be healthy

Fatty fish is good for joints

of still losing weight in a week even without exercising, it does hold true theoretically and anecdotally.

But I encourage everyone to exercise for 2 reasons: First, exercising increases how much calories you burn in a day. Adding exercise on top of what you do in a day will add to the energy you use up in a day. This results in you burning more in the day. With that in mind, it allows you to either burn more or eat a little bit more. So with me as an example, I have an average Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) of 2100 calories. So for me to lose weight, I eat 300 calories less than

Don't worry about seeing results right away. They will all add up and will show in a big way down the road.

I need in a day, which in my case makes it 1800 calories. When I workout, I burn around 350 calories. With exercise, it allows me to burn more in a day or give me room to eat a bit more. Keep in mind though that these numbers I got are from weeks of collecting data. Your numbers will vary and usually are lower than what the internet will tell you.

Second, exercising makes your body stronger. If you do weight training, it gives you stronger muscles plus more muscles mean that you burn more daily. Cardio like running, biking, or swimming exercises the heart muscle, which in turn makes you have

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E X TR A TI M E

“LIFTING WEIGHTS HAS ALWAYS BEEN A HOBBY OF MINE, BUT NOT SOMETHING THAT EVERYONE HAS TO DO TO LOSE WEIGHT.”

a stronger heart. So really, anything that gets you active is good for you. But when you enjoy it, it makes you more likely to do it. And if there isn’t anything that entices you, you can go for a simple 1-hour walk while listening to a podcast or music. That alone does wonders.

MIND OVER MATTER 90% of people who try to lose weight will end up failing and regaining it.

In the process of losing weight, there will really be some level of sacrifice and discomfort. It really comes with the territory of giving up the things we love like savory delicious food and sugary drinks. So, to hear that the failure rate was 90% made me think twice about even starting my weight transformation.

But instead of giving up, I decided to look for the root cause of it.

In bodybuilding, you will see the strictest of diets to reach single digit

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bodyfat. But what is interesting is after a competition, you will see these winners bloat up and get fat in a matter of weeks. It was then I realized that there was some correlation between proportion of suffering during the diet and the rebound. The more suffering you feel in the diet, the more likely you will rebound.

That is why I always tell people that there is no one diet that will work. But what will certainly work is a lifestyle change that is equal parts reasonable and enjoyable. I’ve seen people diet so hard and feel great for the attention they receive. They use that high to justify drastic changes no matter how dangerous it gets. It ends up either in an eating disorder or a rebound when they eventually give up. So to avoid a rebound, there shouldn’t be any need or feeling to give up.

That is why just as much as we are

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dieting for our physical health, we should also keep our mental health in check.

TAKE YOUR TIME AND ENJOY THE JOURNEY Whether it's swimming, bicycling, lifting or running, the best exercise is the one you enjoy doing.

Now that you have a general roadmap to start a weight loss journey, it is important to remember that it is a process that will take a lot of time. It is nice to hear so many pounds lost over a day, but when it eventually slows down, we shouldn’t be discouraged and be reminded that it’s normal. In fact, a good number of pounds to lose per week is 1 – 0.5% our body weight.

We must trust the process and adjust slowly and accordingly.

Once you get the hang of it, make sure you are enjoying the new lifestyle change because the real change isn’t the number of pounds lost, but the new life you earned that is making you healthier and happier.

TUNER LO U D ER, BA D D ER, FAS TER!

1998 NISSAN 200SX/SILVIA S-14 “KOUKI” "Aside from being an RWD fan, what I really like about the Silvia is that it’s such a proven and versatile platform for track and drift use and is still being used for competition."

— Stephen Ng

(page 66)

N OV E MBE R / D ECE MB E R 2 0 21 — IS S U E 23 5

Francis G. Pallarco

BOOSTED!

T U N E R E D I TO R

EXTERIOR CAR CARE Giving your car that “like-new” appearance

part from taking care of your car’s mechanical well being, the exterior also requires care and maintenance. And it doesn’t matter if it's ten years old or brand-new for it’s never too late to bring it back to its like-new condition or simply protect the new paint. Our harsh environment and acid rain bring with it all sorts of contaminants including damaging bird droppings, which collectively cause paint oxidation, swirls, scratches, etc. It’s not that hard really, as all it takes are these five steps, Wash, Clean, Polish, Protect, and Maintain. If you’re the DIY type of person who personally attends to the cleanliness of your car then this should serve as a guide towards proper exterior car care. Remember, Mother Nature doesn’t like clean cars.

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1. Wash A good wash using quality automotive shampoo will remove all the accumulated dirt and grime on the exterior. Very basic, although this is the very root cause of swirl marks caused by dirty wash mitts or microfiber towels. This is why it is important to wash the top half of the car before the lower half, where dirt is more concentrated. Better yet, use a separate mitt and wash buckets with a dirt separator.

2. Clean This step removes the contaminants that have bonded onto your paint surface. These are the stubborn ones, which cannot be removed through a simple car wash. For this purpose,

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a clay bar or detailing clay used together with a clay bar lubricant or quick detailer will remove most unwanted contaminants like asphalt road tar including light overspray.

More importantly, this step prepares the paint for the polishing and protecting steps.

3. Polish This step aims to remove the defects in your paint including swirls, stains, and to enhance its overall shine. Depending on the defect, it may require light to moderate buffing using fine to coarse rubbing compound. For newer cars without visible defects, a simple pre-wax cleaner will get the job done as it preps the paint for waxing or paint protection.

Polish Tip: A pre-wax cleaner is a handy product which will thoroughly deep clean the paint and remove any residue or dirt that regular washing may have missed.

4. Protect This step aims to protect the paint from harsh environmental elements and prevent premature aging with car wax, paint protectant or paint sealant. Car waxes, paint protectants and paint sealants all fall into the same "paint protection category". Although some do a better job than others, they all protect against and help prevent premature

deterioration caused by the onset of oxidation.

Waxing Tip: Using a wax applicator, apply the wax one panel at a time so you don’t miss any spots. Wait a few minutes for the wax to dry, and then use a clean microfiber cloth to buff the wax to a shine on each panel.

5. Maintain Done in between waxing periods or whenever the vehicle has just been washed. Quick detailing spray is used for this step as it maintains the paint quality. It’s very simple to apply as it evaporates quickly and easily buffs to a shine using a clean microfiber cloth.

For the OC car enthusiast, a quick detailer is more than just a convenient time saver; it is a necessity to keep the paint quality looking great for those in between waxing periods.

6. Plastics and rubber Textured black plastic parts on the exterior of your car can fade from their rich color.

They often look cloudy or whitish, or a faded resemblance of the color they used to be. You can restore them to their original appearance by using an all-purpose cleaner and finishing it off with plastic trim restorers. As for the rubber parts including the tires, a thorough cleaning together with using a protectant and non-sticky tire dressing is all that’s needed.

“Remember, Mother Nature doesn’t like clean cars.”

an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of repairs Every new car has a periodic maintenance schedule that lessens the need for repairs in the future.

So it pays to follow the schedule.

A SAFETY REMINDER FROM

90’s Rewind LET’S TAKE A TRIP BACK TO THE NINETIES WITH THIS TIME CAPSULE NISSAN SENTRA WORDS

FRANCIS G. PALLARCO PHOTOS

PAULO FERRER

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s with everything else, the ongoing pandemic has immensely affected our beloved automotive hobby. In fact, it’s reaching the point where it’s getting difficult to enjoy our rides on the street or on the track as meets and racing events continue to be prohibited. Times like these surely make us reminisce how simple it was back then. Remember when we could just randomly get in our car and go out for a drive or attend a car meet? It also dawns on us that it’s not always about achieving stratospheric horsepower numbers or being able to get loads of hard-to-find aftermarket parts, but rather the sheer gratification we get from simply being able to enjoy our rides. As proof, take a look at this 1995 Nisan Sentra of Charles Ty that never fails to spread good vibes and takes anyone who checks it out back to the nineties.

Despite having his hands full with a couple of interesting project cars that

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required a lot of attention, Charles Ty sold them and decided to build something from the eighties. Having grown up cruising inside Greenhills during that time made a big impact on him. That and the realization of the difficulty that lay ahead as majority of the needed parts weren’t locally available and to make matters worse, he adds., “Our household staff mistook my balikbayan box of parts that I have collected for these projects and threw them out as trash.” Wasting no time in searching for a suitable candidate, he came across this Sentra as he explains, “I saw a friend post his collection of 90's Sentras on Facebook and one in particular caught my attention and ultimately all the contents of my wallet. It was a 1995 version in the color I've always wanted back then and unbelievably was still in stock form all these years. The Sentra has always been near to my heart since I’ve always wanted one in college. I used to have a 1990 “box-type” SLX version.”

Locally sold from 1991 to 1998, the

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This Sentra proves that a build/project car doesn’t need to be fast to be cool and full of character.

It’s all about keeping it clean and closely adhering to a desired theme

third generation Sentra (B13) was as popular as its closest rivals like the Corolla and Lancer during its time as Charles recalls, “This model Sentra had all the things you could ask for in a car during that time, it was complete! It had fuel injection, all power features, safety lock, accessories like the coin holder, under seat tray, third brake light, defogger, cup holders, seatbelts front and rear, speakers also front and rear.” But one thing that really set it apart from the competition was its fuel-injected GA16DE engine that also boasted of a 16-valve, DOHC cylinder head design. I can still remember revving my friends Sentra which greatly impressed me compared to my carbureted 1.6-liter 4AF engine Corolla back in the early nineties.

It does look stock, but upon closer inspection, there’s just something about it that screams I’m not your average Sentra. It might not boast of an SR20DET engine under the hood, but it does have a few tricks here and there. The stock front bumper, grille and rear bumper have been replaced with JDM-Spec, Nissan Sunny GTS-2 pieces, which were then color-matched.

The front bumper also houses a pair of rare Ichikoh fog lamps while a Sunny emblem can now be found on the rear trunk. The stock engine has been left as-is with the exception of a smart LiteIon, lithium-ion battery. To improve its overall handling performance, KYB SR Special struts were chosen as it offers better than stock damping qualities without compromising comfort. Even the brakes were upgraded with bigger front discs with a rare disc brake conversion at the rear. Adhering to its JDM theme, it rolls on OEM steel rims with a set of rare swirl hubcaps from the 60th anniversary edition Sunny. Or it could also go period correct with a set of 15-inch Ronal R8 wheels, which were definitely the wheels to have during those times. Majority of what’s on the inside remains factory original which attests to its time capsule state.

A Momo Prototipo steering wheel and shift knob are the only aftermarket pieces that prevent the interior from being totally stock. Oh, there’s also a short throw shifter hiding beneath the Sentra SE-R leather shift booth.

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This Sentra proves that a build/ project car doesn’t need to be fast to be cool and full of character. It’s all about keeping it clean and closely adhering to a desired theme as Charles sums it up, “I've only replaced some parts for personal aesthetic purposes because I want to retain the "Tito" vibes of the car.

What I like about owning it is that it puts a smile to people I come across on the road, gas station etc. They would give me a thumbs up or tell me that it was their car back in college or it was their Dad’s car when they were little. It is such a good vibes car.” Now that’s something we all could use, especially in these times we live in, wouldn’t you agree?

Specifications

1995 Nissan Sentra Super Saloon (B13) Sunny 60th Anniversary theme (GTS-2) — Charles Ty — ENGINE GA16DE ENGINE TYPE 1.6-Liter, Inline-4, DOHC, 16v with ECCS TRANSMISSION 5-Speed Manual HORSEPOWER 110 hp (Factory Figure) SUSPENSION MODS KYB SR Special Struts, Front Upper Strut Bar BRAKE MODS AD22VF Bigger Front Discs, JDM B13 Saloon Rear Disc Brake Conversion ROLLERS Nissan OEM Steel Wheels (15x6.5), Nissan 60th Anniversary edition Sunny “Swirl” Hub Caps; Ronal R8 Wheels (15x6.5), Falken Sincera 831i Tires (195/55R15) INTERIOR MODS Momo Prototipo Steering Wheel, Momo Shift Knob, Nismo Horn Button, GTS-2 Fog Light Switch, Sentra SE-R Shift Boot, Short Throw Shifter, Pioneer Head Unit, UV Protect Clear Tint, Nissan Clarion Backboard and Door Speakers EXTERIOR MODS JDM Nissan GTS-2 Front & Rear Bumper, JDM Nissan GTS-2 Ichikoh Foglamps, JDM Nissan Clearance Lights, JDM Nissan Sunny Emblem, JDM Nissan Gen2 Front Grille, JDM Nissan Rain Visor w/Complete Clips OTHER STUFF Lite-Ion Smart lithium-ion Battery

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Silvia Dreams T

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE OWNING THE CAR OF YOUR DREAMS WORDS

FRANCIS G. PALLARCO PHOTOS

RANDY SILVA-NETTO

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hanks to his father’s passion for performanceoriented cars, Stephen Ng now owns and drives the car of his dreams.

But it wasn’t a simple case of "father hands over car keys to his son" kind of thing.

You see, in the beginning he had to gain his father’s trust and from then on, he meticulously modified it to what it is now as Stephen recalls, “This was my Dad's car that he bought back in 2000 with aftermarket wheels and an exhaust. What I remember most about it was that it immediately became my dream car. But I patiently waited until I was in college then I asked if I could have it. Even though I knew it was a long shot, he agreed knowing fully well that I would take care of the car. That

was back in 2013 and up until now, it’s still with me.”

Anyone who’s into Japanese cars, will of course be familiar with this 1998 Nissan 200SX that’s also identifiable as the Silvia S-14. Coming from the previous generation S-13, this model was lower and wider with all the qualities that truly define what a sports coupe should be. A lengthy hood, a fast back roofline, and a short deck lid. But it's important to note the difference between the S-14 first variant or early period that’s referred to as the “Zenki” with rounded headlamps and specific tail lamp design. Then there’s the “Kouki” or late period with sharper headlamps and somewhat aggressive front end and specific tail lamps found on our featured Silvia that look so much better.

Tuner For Nissan fanatics, the lightweight, all aluminum, head and block SR20DET turbocharged engine remains a fourcylinder favorite. Factory-rated to put out over 200 plus horses, it enjoys a plethora of aftermarket support. As such, the possibility of making more is something that comes naturally. In this case, tried and tested aftermarket engine upgrades were utilized like the Blitz front mount intercooler, blow off valve, aluminum piping and more. The mods were all done by David Feliciano of DMF Drift, who’s no stranger when it comes to modding Silvias. Taking the place of the stock ECU is a Link programmable unit that’s been dynotuned, allowing the engine to easily make 270 whp with room for more.

Nothing makes an RWD car sit and handle better than a set of adjustable coil overs together with a staggered set of wheels/tires. Measuring in at 18x10 up front and 18x11 at the back, these awesome-looking CR2P wheels from Work come with polished, deep wheel barrels, and concave wheel centers. But in order to pull off this mod properly, it requires some custom body work.

Most notably a set of fender flares that’s been seamlessly blended with the body for a cleaner look. This perfectly does the job of tucking in those wide wheels that was executed and refinished by

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Tuner

Specifications

1998 Nissan 200SX/Silvia S-14 “Kouki” — Stephen Ng — ENGINE SR20DET “Notch Top” ENGINE TYPE 2.0-liter, Inline-4, DOHC, 16v, Turbocharged and Intercooled, with Nissan Valve Timing Control (VTC) ENGINE MODS Garrett GT28 Turbo, Blitz Intake, Blitz FMIC, Blitz blow off valve, Blitz radiator Cap, Aluminum Radiator, Espelir Exhaust, ARC Plug Wire Cover ENGINE MANAGEMENT Link ECU TRANSMISSION 5-Speed manual

JCB Auto Shop. They also added an aftermarket front bumper, side skirts and a JGM ‘Kouki’ rear wing to create a look that presents a very clean and effective aesthetic upgrade. The brake department also gets an upgrade with a D2 (8-Pot) Big Brake Kit composed of an 8-pot caliper up front while the Silvia was dropped on a set of adjustable D2 coil overs.

Inside, Stephen has kept things clean and functional with just basic upgrades geared towards the needs of the driver. The seats are Recaro SR3’s while he steers with a Nardi deep corn

For Nissan fanatics, the lightweight, all aluminum, head and block SR20DET turbocharged engine remains a four-cylinder favorite.

wheel, and a custom audio system are the highlights of the cabin. It’s simple but effective. Just like the car, most of the interior remains original and intact, from the rear seats to the door cards and carpet. Qualities that’s getting harder and harder to come by with cars such as these that are mostly used for competition as Stephen notes, “Aside from being an RWD fan, what I really like about the Silvia is that it’s such a proven and versatile platform for track and drift use, and is still being used for competition.” Lucky for Stephen as he was able to build the car of his dreams.

HORSEPOWER 270 WHP SUSPENSION MODS D2 Coilovers, D2 Camber Plates (Front) BRAKE MODS D2 (8-Pot) Big Brake Kit, Braided Brake Lines WHEELS/TIRES Work Emotion CR2P Wheels Full Reverse barrels & Deep Concave faces, (F-18x10, R-18x11), Yokohama Advan Tires (F-215/35R18 R-245/35R18) INTERIOR MODS Recaro SR3 Seats, Nardi Deep Corn Steering Wheel, Pioneer Head Unit, Focal Speakers EXTERIOR MODS Aftermarket Front Bumper, Side Skirt, Rear Skirt, JDM ‘Kouki” Rear Wing, Custom Fender Flares BODY & PAINT JCB Body Shop DETAILING LG2 Autostation

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WHEEL2WHEEL E V ERY THIN G A ND A N Y THIN G T WO WHEELS

2021 TRIUMPH TRIDENT 660 “With the Trident 660, Triumph created a motorcycle that’s well equipped and friendly to new riders; even experienced riders will truly enjoy riding at a very competitive price point.” ( p a g e 7 2 )

N OV E MBE R / D ECE MB E R 2 0 21 — IS S U E 23 5

TWO WHEELS ONLY

Maynard M. Marcelo S E C T I O N E D I TO R

Dream Big, But Start Small

“You see, on a small bike you can concentrate more on the basic fundamentals of machine control without the complexity, weight, and speed normally associated with bigger displacement bikes.”

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ig things often come in small packages. Take the new Suzuki Burgman Street, for instance. It may be small and may not be the fastest among its peers but it is packed with big features like a 125cc fuel-injected motor capable of addressing your need for a fun to use and fuel efficient city runabout scooter for your everyday commute. It also comes with a large compartment under the seat so your personal belongings are secured and dry when it rains.

There are plenty of scooters from other manufacturers that come with the same or better specifications so it all boils down to what brand you personally prefer. But when looking for a starter bike, it’s ok to aspire for a big bike but for your own safety, please start small.

Let’s say you have the money to buy the biggest and fastest sport bike available in the market. But without the proper skills to operate it, that dream bike of yours could easily kill you if you’re unskilled and careless.

Heck, even a small bike like the Suzuki Burgman Street can potentially kill you if you underestimate its modest capabilities.

But your chances of acquiring the needed skills to ride safely and confidently on the road is easier achieved in a smaller bike. You see, on a small bike you can concentrate more on the basic fundamentals of machine control without the complexity, weight, and speed

B

normally associated with bigger displacement bikes. And when riding any type or size of motorcycle, it’s all about proper machine control and discipline.

It also pays in the long run to enroll yourself in a proper motorcycle riding school to learn the basics of riding. But most of all, always wear all the necessary riding gear when riding a motorcycle. Yes, even if you’re just going to nearby shops.

I was once told by a pilot friend that riding a motorcycle is a lot like flying an airplane. Aircraft pilots earn their wings after accumulating a certain number of “flying time” flying small single engine aircrafts like the Cessna. From there they work their way up the aircraft ladder until they’re qualified enough to fly large commercial airplanes like the Airbus A320 and Boeing 777.

Hence, to become a skilled motorcycle rider, you should accumulate as much “saddle time” as you could, in every weather condition as possible, because like flying an airplane, there’s simply no substitute for experience.

You could always accelerate the learning process by enrolling in a riding school like the Honda Safety Driving Center and Mel Aquino’s Yamaha Off Road Training Camp. Because at the end of the day, it is you who controls the machine and not the other way around. By starting small, you open yourself up to bigger possibilities. Having said that, please stay safe, get vaccinated, and may you have a Merry Christmas and a happy new year!

share the road check your mirrors for motorcyclists

a reminder from

ride safe.

stay alive.

Wheel2Wheel

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BIKE REVIEW

2021 TRIUMPH TRIDENT 660 WORDS

PHOTOS

MAYNARD M. MARCELO

RANDY SILVA-NETTO

M

iddleweight bikes are like the middle child of the motorcycle world; often overlooked, seldom acknowledged, and sometimes outright ignored. That’s because middleweights are considered transition bikes to bigger and faster machines after stepping up from smaller displacement bikes. But middleweight bikes play an important role in our journey up the displacement ladder. They help prepare us for the speed and handling characteristics of a bigger machine without being overwhelmed with too much weight and power. In fact, I know of some experienced riders who gravitate back to middleweights after years of riding bigger displacement bikes because they offer real-world performance they can fully exploit for riding in Philippine roads. Proof that sometimes it’s more fun to ride a slow bike fast than to ride a fast bike slow.

This was exactly my thoughts after riding the 2021 Triumph Trident 660, the newest middleweight offering from the land of Hinckley, United Kingdom that should make other motorcycle manufacturers, especially the Japanese, take notice. Not only is it priced competitively with their middleweight offerings but also packs quite a punch in terms of refinement, attention to detail, performance, and technology coming from a premium European motorcycle brand.

Introduced sometime in 2020 as a 2021 model after a four-year development program, the Trident 660 was developed as Triumph’s entrylevel motorcycle for new riders. And it’s quite evident when you look at its specs sheet; 80 bhp at 10,250 rpm, 47 lb-ft of torque at 6,250 rpm, 189kg curb weight, just to name a few, putting it on par with its middleweight counterparts.

But spec sheets only tell us one side of the story, how they translate to the road is entirely another. After spending several days with the Trident 660, I can honestly say that Triumph hit the proverbial nail on the head.

Powering the Trident 660 is a new 3-inline cylinder motor derived from the Daytona 675 but with a slightly reduced stroke for an overall capacity of 660cc in a mild state of tune. It's also got a new crankshaft, camshafts, pistons, cylinder head, cylinder liners, crankcase, oil sump, cooling system, radiator, alternator and stator, air intakes, and exhaust system that qualifies it as an all-new motor.

Rounding up the package is a slip and assist clutch to reduce engine braking and a lighter clutch lever action.

Fuelling benefited from a modern rideby-wire system that controls everything from fuel delivery to the two preset riding modes; road and rain.

80 horsepower may not sound very much in this day and age when people are obsessing over near 200 hp sport naked bikes (Triumph has the Speed Triple 1200 RS if that’s what you

Wheel2Wheel

want). The Trident 660, on the other hand, is all about finding the right balance; power to weight, sportiness and practicality, comfort and agility, price and equipment. Combine all of these in one handsome package and you have all the right ingredients for a fun middleweight motorcycle. If that sounds bland to you, wait till you twist the throttle.

Press the starter button and the 3-inline motor springs to life and settles to a smooth idle. Crack the throttle a little and the familiar triple sound makes itself audible, but just barely. Give it a handful, however, and the motor roars into a melodious triple symphony.

An aftermarket exhaust system will definitely do wonders in the sound department if you find it, shall I say, too polite. The triple layout isn’t known to be the smoothest among engine configurations and the 660cc inline-3

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on the Trident have some vibrations that somehow make their way to the handlebars and foot pegs at high rpm.

But thankfully it doesn’t detract from the fun factor of riding the Trident 660.

For an entry-level offering, Triumph certainly bestowed the Trident 660 with plenty of premium features worthy of more expensive models, and the attention to small details adds to its premium feel. You will find, for instance, small Triumph logos on the leg pads, handlebar clamp, fuel filler cap, headlight, and tail light. There are also LED lights, self-cancelling signal lights, an immobilizer, span adjustable brake lever, five spoke aluminum wheels shod with Michelin tires. Switches have a high quality and tactile feel to them. The round instrument panel blends well with the overall styling and is divided into two. The monochromatic screen on

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 • C-MAGAZINE.COM

The Trident 660 may be designed as an entry-level bike but Triumph gave it the same level of treatment as their top offerings, giving it plenty of standard tech, superb build quality, and attention to details.

top displays speed, revs, and fuel. The color TFT screen below it displays gear, odometer, trip meters, clock, calendar, set-up menus, and when used with Triumph’s mobile app can be used to display turn-by-turn sat nav, music, and call functions.

Swinging a leg over the Trident 660 for the first time, I was delighted that the 805mm seat height allowed me to reach the ground with both feet, and I’m just 5’7 in height. Nervous new riders will certainly find this helpful in boosting their confidence. The foot pegs are placed a bit high but leg room is plentiful even for taller riders and the reach to the handlebar is short with a slight forward bias. Overall ergonomics is comfortable for short hops across town or even on long rides but being a naked, wind blast at elevated highway speeds can be bothersome after some time.

Expressways are a boring place to ride anyway, it’s on twisty mountain roads where you really want to ride the Trident 660. The short ratios of the first 3 gears provide lively acceleration at low speeds while the tall 4th to 6th gear ratios provide a more relaxed cruising at higher speeds, making good use of the triple’s modest 80bhp power and 47 lb-ft of torque, 90 percent of which are available across the rev range according to Triumph. And they are probably right because you always feel that you’re always on the right gear.

Steering is light and very accurate when you’re stitching a series of corners. The chassis is forgiving when making mid-corner corrections, when let’s say you overcooked a corner. Just put on a little more counter-steering pressure on the inside handlebar to tighten up your line and the Trident

The characterful 3-cylinder motor on the Trident 660 provides plenty of usable torque down low like a twin and the top end rush of an inline-4 cylinder.

The best of both worlds.

660 will oblige without drama, making it friendly and accessible for developing rider skills. The KYB upside-down fork, although basic and lacks adjustments, provides supple damping characteristics for a generally comfortable and well controlled ride. Although not readily apparent, the rear shock absorber is adjustable for preload and has a linkage instead of directly bolted onto the swingarm. This setup provides more progressive damping characteristics throughout the suspension travel.

The Nissin brake calipers in front are of the sliding caliper variety and not radially mounted like most of its competitors but they provide plenty of power to stop the 189kg Trident 660.

Braking forces are controlled by the Trident’s ABS and ride modes of which there are two; Road and Rain. Paired with the standard fitment Michelin

Road 5 tires provide confidenceinspiring grip; ABS are hardly triggered even on wet riding conditions on road and rain modes. The riding modes also control the Trident’s traction control system, which can be switched off if for some reasons you gather enough courage to pop a wheelie.

With the Trident 660, Triumph created a motorcycle that’s well equipped and friendly to new riders; even experienced riders will truly enjoy riding at a very competitive price point. Most middleweights, especially entry-level offerings, are often compromised because manufacturers need to find the right balance of price and level of equipment. You don’t feel that with the Trident 660, especially if you keep your expectations in check considering its place in the big bike hierarchy. Kudos, Triumph.

Specifications: 2021 Triumph Trident 660 — Engine: fuel-injected, liquid-cooled, Inline-3, dohc, 12 valves, 4 stroke | Displacement: 660cc | Max Power: 80 bhp @ 10250 rpm | Max Torque: 47 lb-ft @ 6250 rpm Transmission: 6-speed | Seat Height: 805 mm | Fuel Capacity: 14 liters | Tire, front: 120/70 x R17 | Tire, rear: 180/55 x R17 | Brakes, front/rear: 2 Disc/Disc ABS Curb Weight: 189 kg | Top Speed: 209 Km/h | Price: PhP 506,000.00 | Plus: Characterful triple cylinder motor, superb build quality, newbie friendly | Minus: Not much, but it could use some mounting points for luggage. |

Rating: 10/10

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Wheel2Wheel

BIKE REVIEW

2021 KTM 390 ADVENTURE WORDS AND PHOTOS

MAYNARD M. MARCELO

T

his bike is just amazing.

I know it's good. But I didn't expect it to be THIS good. I mean, it's made by KTM and assembled locally by the good folks at the KAMMI assembly plant in Laguna so you wouldn't expect anything less.

But after riding it for more than 1,200 kilometers around Northern Luzon during the 2021 KTM Orange Ride Out I am pretty convinced that it is the best value entry-level adventure bike in the market today. Except on the really long straights, the KTM 390 Adventure can keep up with its bigger stablemates and it proved to be more than a match on the twisty stuff, showing that the 390 Duke, which it was based on, is very much alive deep within. Plus it has the added benefit of having more advanced features such as adjustable suspension, traction control, and cornering ABS. Powering the 390 Adventure is the same tried and proven liquid-cooled 373.2cc (rounded off to 400cc, of course) single cylinder with double overhead cams and 4 valves also found on the 390 Duke and RC390. It makes a healthy 43.5 hp at 9500 rpm and a maximum torque of 26 lb-ft at 7000 rpm that’s more than enough to allow the lightweight 390 Adventure to run with the big dogs, well, until it reaches its 160 km/h top speed. Not that there are many places where you can actually go beyond the posted speed limit anyways.

Top speed may be the 390 Adventure’s biggest handicap, but when the road turns twisty, the 390

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Duke within takes over, allowing the 390 Adventure to carve corners with pinpoint precision despite having a bigger 19-inch diameter front wheel compared to 17 on the Duke. It also helps that the 390 Adventure is equipped with higher spec WP Apex 43 upside-down forks in front and a WP Apex monoshock in the rear, providing a more supple ride and stable cornering. The slipper clutch also helps smoothen downshifts, not only preventing annoying rear wheel chatter while decelerating but also gives a lighter clutch lever action.

Two advanced rider aids not available on the 390 Duke, however, are Traction Control and cornering ABS.

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The traction control system on the 390 Adventure is lean-angle sensitive that reacts immediately when the system detects a discrepancy in the rear wheel speed that’s disproportionate to the riding situation, and reduces engine output that’s barely perceptible until slippage is reduced to optimum proportions for the selected ride mode and lean angle.

The ABS, on the other hand, has an offroad function, which is optimised for use in slippery environments. In this mode, ABS is deactivated on the rear wheel while ABS intervention on the front wheel is reduced, allowing the rider to lock up the rear wheel to steer the rear end into corners. Wheels are

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cast aluminum while standard fitment rubbers are Continental TKC 70 that provide plenty of grip on and off road.

Brake calipers are made by Bybre, a subsidiary of Brembo.

The 390 Adventure is equipped with the same large color TFT display found on the 390 Duke and can be easily controlled using the 4-way buttons on the left hand switchgear.

Most important information is readily available on the main screen like speed, tachometer, gear, engine temperature, trip meter, odometer, battery voltage, fuel level, fuel range, ABS and traction

control status, and time. Other settings can be accessed on the sub menus like ride modes and traction control.

Speaking of traction control, we wish there’s a dedicated button for turning it on or off so we don’t have to dive into the sub menus to deactivate it everytime we switch off the motor.

We covered more than 1,200 kilometers, most of which were on pavement, during the 2021 Orange Ride Out and that allowed me to thoroughly test the 390 Adventure’s touring ability.

I must say I was immensely impressed with the 390 Adventure but it’s not

without some faults. First of all, the seat height. At 855mm it’s a bit on the tall side and this might present some problems to short Filipino riders, especially the new ones which KTM targets for the 390 Adventure. Perhaps an adjustable seat or a redesign of the subframe will address this issue on the next 390 Adventure. Secondly, the footpegs are canted forward and while it felt natural when attacking corners, it felt awkward when standing up while riding offroad.

A 390 Adventure owner and follower of our social media page, Mr, Ipe Reibaus, suggests that we opt for the optional quickshifter. He said it is worth every centavo and makes the 390 Adventure so much more fun to ride. And we agree with him. The 390 Adventure was designed with a quickshifter in the first place and even without it installed, the ECU somehow auto blips the throttle when you’re downshifting a gear which feels a bit disconcerting at first until you inevitably get used to it. We wish for KTM to make the quickshifter standard on the 390 Adventure. These are some minor faults to an otherwise perfect platform and can be dismissed if you’re not as nitpicky as we are.

Along with the 200, 390, and 790 Duke, 790 Adventure and 790 Adventure R, the 390 Adventure is proudly made in the Philippines at the KAMMI (KTM Asia Motorcycle Manufacturing, Inc.) factory in Santa Rosa, Laguna and not only do these models give much needed employment to Filipino workers, they can also be priced much lower compared to when they were imported from other countries. At PhP 309,000 the 390 Adventure presents extreme value in the entry-level adventure touring bike segment and should be included in your list if you’re shopping for one.

No wonder it won for two consecutive years in our annual C! Awards.

Specifications: 2021 KTM 390 Adventure — Engine: efi, liquid-cooled, 1 cylinder, 4 stroke, 4 valve, dohc | Displacement: 373cc | Max Power: 43.5 hp @ 9500 rpm | Max Torque: 26.03 lb-ft @ 7000 rpm | Transmission: 6-speed Seat Height: 855 mm | Fuel Capacity: 14 liters | Tire, front: 100/90-19 | Tire, rear: 130/80-17 | Brakes, front/rear: Disc/Disc Cornering ABS | Curb Weight: 163 kg | Top Speed: 160 Km/h Price: PhP 309,000.00 | Plus: Punchy motor, agile chassis, comfortable ergos, advanced electronics, value for money | Minus: Tall seat height, canted foot pegs. |

Rating: 10/10

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OUR PICKS

TOP 5 CARS FOR YOUR HOLIDAY TRIPS Mitsubishi Mirage (Day Trips)

With the holidays at an arm’s reach, it’s easy to be thinking of getting a brand-new car. And what better way to celebrate that milestone than by taking a road trip with said car. So for those who aren’t buying a new one, we will be indicating the kinds of trips you can make with a car that you may have that is similar to our recommendation.

Words by Nicolas A. Calanoc

Isuzu D-Max

5

(Overnight Camping)

4

There is a ton you can do with a humble sub-compact car! Their greatest asset is that they can take you to the next hip restaurant that you and your loved ones have been dying to try without it being difficult to find a parking spot. What makes the Mitsubishi Mirage a recommendation is not only because of its ease to drive, but because they all come with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to further enhance the convenience!

With a pick-up, all you need is to store everything at the flatbed, and you are good to go! All you have to bring is a tent, cooking gear, a bed, and a cooler to get started. The best part is that there are many destinations that even 4x2s can get through that deliver the off-the-grid experience. So why the all-new Isuzu D-Max despite the lack of a rear-locking differential?

It’s because its on-road behavior is on top of the game.

Subaru Evoltis

Honda Civic RS

(Destination Picnic)

3

(Track Day)

With the rising popularity of picnic grounds emerging outside the metro, a full-size SUV that still caters to a joyful driving experience ensures that your time spent at the picnic is just as great as getting there. For this, we recommend the Subaru Evoltis for all the conveniences and features it packs while delivering the driving experience they are best known for.

1 Toyota Corolla Cross (Shopping) How can we end the list without shopping?

For that reason, the best car to bring you and your loved ones around while being able to carry a lot of cargo and drive easily is a compact crossover. That being said, there are tons of options out there especially today. The reason why our top pick for this category is the Toyota Corolla Cross is because it is just the right amount of everything,

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2

If you have a car that is fun to drive and a group of friends that do too, why not spend a day at the racetrack? Stretch your legs and the legs of your cars!

I know there are tons of sports car options out there, but the reason why we choose the Honda Civic RS is that from its price to the performance it delivers, it brings the joy of having something like a sports car while being a convenient daily driver.