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Displaying items by tag: thunder The Philippines’ first and longest running on-line automotive magazine. http://www.kotse.com Wed, 22 May 2013 09:27:58 +0000 Joomla! 1.5 - Open Source Content Management en-gb Closing the Gap | 2012 Foton Thunder 2.8L CRDi 4x2 MT http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/test-drives/pickup/item/1269-2012-foton-thunder-28l-crdi-4x2-mt http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/test-drives/pickup/item/1269-2012-foton-thunder-28l-crdi-4x2-mt

Words by Beeboy Bargas | Photos by Christopher Kho

2WD and 4WD pickup trucks are an intriguing kind. Why? First of all, pickup trucks are basically hauling vehicles for items that one would not normally put in an SUV; like something fairly large, heavy, and most probably dirty, or smelly. They're also regularly used by utility companies and all sorts of fleet services for cargo transport. But what makes them really intriguing is how today's lifestyle has made pickup trucks de riguer for bringing mountain bikes, dive gears, motorcycles, and what have you. It’s even no longer uncommon to see the fairer sex drive them on the streets.

This brings me to the latest test unit Foton has generously lent me. Having driven Foton's old pickup truck some three years back, one could easily tell that this Chinese commercial vehicle manufacturer still had some miles to go in terms of closing the quality gap to its American and Japanese counterparts. Think how Korean cars were back in the 80's and early 90's. But that was before. Now, Foton is presenting its second generation pickup truck called the Thunder. And dare I say, if you're a serious buyer who is more concerned with getting what you to do in a pickup truck, then the Thunder should be for your serious consideration.

Ready to Rumble

It all begins with protecting your investment with Foton's extensive dealer and service network located in key cities all over the country. They currently have around two dozen dealerships and several accredited service centers that will gladly keep your Foton in tip top shape. This means less down time for you and, maybe, your business.

The Foton Thunder is also powered by a Cummins-sourced 2.8 liter CRDi diesel engine that puts out 160 hp and 380 Nm of torque. For those of you who aren't old enough to know who Cummins is, they've been building diesel engines for about 96 years now, from small generators to ones as big as locomotives. Simply put, the engine under the Thunder's hood should last a long time.

From our drive, the 2.8 liter diesel unit managed to return 14 km/L on the highway and about 9 km/L in the city. Not bad for a pickup truck of this size. There is, however, quite a bit of turbo lag where power only comes in at around 2,500 rpm. It's also not the quietest of engines out there, but the noise is well insulated from the cabin. Shifting duties is done via 5-speed manual transmission that's actually more car- than truck-like.

As for the structure, if it has a ladder frame chassis, leaf spring suspension on the rear, and a independent front suspension upfront, then the Thunder should last two decades of maintained use. Abuse is whole different story. The ride was a bit springy, which is expected from a pickup, but is otherwise acceptable.

Being Practical
The Thunder's interior appointment is what makes it a daily driver rather than a utility vehicle. This “truck” comes with leather seats, wood trims, and a parking sensor. They've even included a 2 DIN head unit that has AUX and USB connectivity, which actually sounds pretty good. It also doesn't fall short in terms of safety features. ABS, EBD, and dual front airbags all come standard.

As a proper dual cab pickup, both front and rear passengers get a lot of head and legroom. Meanwhile, fit and finish of the interior is close, if not at par, with its Japanese counterparts. Styling, on the other hand, is a matter of taste, so I won't touch on that topic.

Almost There
It's amazing how, in such a short time, Foton was able to close the “quality gap” with its competitors in terms of vibration, harshness, and build. The Thunder might not be the best out there today, but when all is taken into consideration, including the low P878,000 price tag for this 4x2 MT model, it might just take the thunder away from the competition. And for a extra P210,000, you can actually buy the 4x4 MT version, which is still cheaper than what other brands offer.

But don’t take my word for what it is. Although I’m sure your opinion won’t vary much from mine, I encourage you to go out there, and do a test drive from one of Foton's dealers; it’s free.

]]> Pickup Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:15:57 +0000 COTY 2012 - 2013 Test Fest Day 7: Big, small, and everything in between http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/features/car-of-the-year/item/1200-coty-2012-2013-testfest-day-7 http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/features/car-of-the-year/item/1200-coty-2012-2013-testfest-day-7

Words by Christopher Kho | Photos by Hans Gerald Chua and author

On a regular day, we'd have around 8 to 10 cars to drive at the Qualitative Testing for the 2012 - 2013 Car of the Year Philippines (COTY-P). But this was no regular day. Last January 12, 2013, the boys and girls of the Car Awards Group Inc. (CAGI) found themselves face-to-face with 17 shiny new cars and they had to drive every single one of them. Though the experience was fun, we were all left battered and bruised by the day's end. Still, we got to drive big, small, and everything in between.

The smallest of the bunch were all four variants of the all-new Mirage from Mitsubishi. Following on its trail are the trio of Chevrolet Sonics, in both hatchback and notchback (sedan) forms. Then there were the heavyweights. Chevrolet brought three Colorados with 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains; Foton stepped up with their own all-new Thunder 4x2 and 4x4; and Mitsubishi fielded their 3.0L V6-equipped Montero Sport. But I guess it goes without saying that the crème de la crème were from newcomer Peugeot, who brought their entire line-up: the 3008 crossover, 5008 mpv, 508 sedan, and RCZ sports coupe.

After a long day of mixed sunshine and rain, these are three best cars that left their biggest impressions with the Kotse.com Crew.

Leslie Sy, Kotse.com Online Expert: 2013 Mitsubishi Mirage

There was a time not too long ago when buying a brand new car in the P500,000 price range meant a comprise of choosing something between Chinese or Korean models that felt like they were built using leftover parts. But with the recent entry of the all-new Mitsubishi Mirage into the local scene, the meaning of “entry level” has totally changed.

Powering the Mirage is a 78 hp three-cylinder 1.2L DOHC MIVEC engine, which shares the same design as the unit in the Lancer EX 1.6L, minus one cylinder. It's then matched to a five speed manual or a smooth shifting CVT. Acceleration is brisk but not enough to win any races.

Ride is very comfortable with its soft suspension, although it does have some excessive bodyroll in tight maneuvers. The electric power steering makes light work of driving and parking. It also helps that there is excellent visibility all around. It seats five people with lots of room for everyone, which is pleasantly surprising because cars of this category tend to be a tight squeeze. The GLS model comes very well equipped with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, touchscreen headunit with GPS navigation, and climate control - features you'd normally equate to cars with at least twice its price.

The Mirage 1.2L is a real game changer and means buying an affordable car can now give you great value from a well trusted car brand with top-class features.

Hans Chua, Kotse.com Contributor: 2013 Chevrolet Colorado

I’m not really a fan of pick up trucks, but I'm willing to change my mind after spending some time behind the wheel of the all-new Colorado. Big and tough (not to mention handsome), it gives an impression that it can handle any terrain that stands in front of it, be it on- or off-road. Meanwhile, the spacious interior made it easy for me to find the perfect driving position without having to sacrifice rear legroom. There was plenty of elbow room too for five full grown passengers. Unlike other overly-decorated dashboards I've seen, the Colorado has a clean and simple layout with everything you needed within reach. The Camaro-inspired gauges were also a big plus for me. And despite the Colorado's tall ride height, its wide opening doors made it easy for me to get in and out.

The 2.8L four-cylinder VGT diesel engine was quite responsive and purred silently even at higher revs. Likewise, both manual and automatic transmissions were smooth and made the Colorado drive in a more car-like manner. Although, I do hope that they come out with a six-speed manual gearbox, instead of the current five, for that extra low end grunt and slightly lower rpms at high speed.

Overall, the driving experience made me realize that pick ups too can be fun to drive, and I enjoyed every single minute of it.

Christopher Kho, Kotse.com Editor-in-Chief: 2013 Peugeot 508

If you think that you're too hip for a Honda Accord and too chic for a Toyota Camry, then the Peugeot 508 should suit you perfectly. So it looks a bit odd from certain angles, but who cares? It got your attention, didn't it? And that's exactly what people who drive a 508 want. Plus, I'm pretty sure the French design will eventually grow on you in a few months' time.

I know I'm gonna get burned for saying this, but the 508's interior looks a lot better than its similarly-priced Japanese and Korean counterparts. Everything is beautifully covered in supple black leather, and they managed to properly arrange the multitude of buttons without making the dashboard look like a scientific calculator. Simply put, it looks classy without having to try so hard.

The engine was so silent and smooth that it took me quite a while to realize that the 508 was indeed powered by a 1.6L turbo diesel. Power and torque were more than adequate to send it up to speed, but don't expect it to blow your socks off. The ride is quite supple, but driving over potholes is definitely not its forte.

For P1,995,000, you're actually getting something at par, or even better, than what the Germans have to offer. In fact, the 508 is currently Peugeot's best-selling model in the Philippines.

]]> Car of the Year Sun, 20 Jan 2013 23:22:34 +0000 Foton's Big Show returns this 2012 to Empower Your Business http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/upcoming-events/item/1007-foton-big-show-2012 http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/upcoming-events/item/1007-foton-big-show-2012

Now bigger, better, and brawnier, Foton's Big Show returns this October 19 to 21, 2012 to “Empower Your Business.” And this time around, they've moved to a bigger venue to accommodate their huge line-up and even bigger Power Deals, at the Main Hall A of the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

After Foton's new heavy and construction equipment headlined last year's Big Show, another behemoth is set to step into the limelight this year. The all-new Foton Thunder, which debuted at the Manila International Auto Show last April, will finally step up to the challenges of the road. This is not simply your basic utilitarian pick-up truck, but instead, is aesthetically and functionally equipped to take what the Japanese and Americans have to offer head-on. And the best part is, you get to Test Drive it at the show.

Of course, Foton's Big Show 2012 wouldn't be complete without their unbeatable deals. Here's the 7 Power Deals you shouldn't miss:

Extensive Line-up of Commercial Vehicles

Come to the exclusive exhibition of Foton's complete product line - made up of pick-ups, vans, light duty trucks, heavy duty trucks, and heavy machineries - and make sure to go home with the perfect business partner for you.

Trade-In and Power Up

Power-up by trading in your old vehicles for a brand new Foton of your choice. They're sure to offer a high appraisal value for any type of vehicle... well, except for jeepneys anyway.

Power Up Rewards and Savings

At the Big Show 2012, you can avail of special discounts whenever you purchase a brand new Foton. On top of that, visitors get the chance to win gifts and prizes.

Experience the Power

Only at this big event can you test drive any of Foton's passenger vehicles and heavy machineries. But remember, if you break if, you buy it. Would be nice though if they let you drive their steamroller along Buendia.

Informative Forums

As your business partner, Foton put importance on after-sales service. That's why they'll be conducting Technical Trainings for all visitors. Take advice from industry professionals from both the government and private sector on maintenance, road safety, vehicle registration, traffic regulations, and more.

On-Site Financing Approvals

To help give your business a boost, Big Show 2012 also offers on-site bank financing application and approval. Processing and evaluations of credit applications and loan approvals can now be processed in just one day with the help of partner banks.

Attractive Payment Terms

Flexible financing schemes are also on offer when you buy a Foton. Avail of special low downpayment schemes to kick-start your business only at Foton's Big Show 2012.

Foton is exclusively distributed in the Philippines by the United Asia Automotive Group, Inc. Established in 2006, it now has 20 dealerships nationwide.

For more info, contact (02) 459-2121 / 0922-801-7217, log on to www.foton.com.ph, or email inq@foton.com.ph. Don't forget to LIKE FOTON Philippines on Facebook.

]]> Upcoming Events Mon, 08 Oct 2012 22:21:03 +0000 Foton steps-up with the all-new Thunder pick-up at MIAS http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/newly-launched/item/712-foton-all-new-thunder-mias http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/newly-launched/item/712-foton-all-new-thunder-mias

Words and photos by Christopher Kho

Best known for their line of heavy equipment, utilitarian trucks, and trailers, United Asia Automotive Group Inc. (UAAGI), the exclusive distributor of Foton in the Philippines, is now ready to take on new territory after launching their latest pick-up at the 8th Manila International Auto Show (MIAS). While the Blizzard was the trusty workhorse for the field, the all-new Thunder is a noble steed that should have no problems rubbing elbows with the big boys.

Originally called the 'Tunland', the model was renamed to make its moniker sound more familiar. After all, Foton does have a habit of labeling their vehicles after forces of nature. Surprisingly, the Thunder is quite the looker from all angles. But unlike some of its siblings in Foton's passenger line-up, this pickup does not resemble any other existing vehicle in the market. It definitely comes dressed it to impress with projector headlights, an enormous chrome grill, large fenders, and front fog lamps. And at 5.31 meters long, 1.88 meters wide, and 1.81 meters high, the Thunder measures bigger than the Toyota Hilux in all dimensions.

Making the Thunder rumble is a 2.8L turbo diesel engine sourced from Cummins that's clean enough for Euro IV emission standards. According to specs, it puts out 160 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque that should allow it to reach a top speed of more than 160 km/h, not that we want to find out for ourselves. It also allows this pick-up to haul up to 1,100kg of cargo, which are impressive numbers for a mid sized truck.

Foton designed and equipped the Thunder to take the competition head-on, rather than to just to become a cheap alternative. It's also up to par with the competition in terms of safety with dual front airbags, ABS+EBD, and a four-star Euro NCAP safety rating. Of course, it does have its shortcomings such as the interior's hard plastic panels and the stiff clutch pedal on the five-speed manual. But tagged at P878,000 for the 4x2 version with a five-speed manual transmission, it's cheaper than the equivalent Japanese pick-up, and most definitely a better value than the similarly-priced Blizzard. Plus, it comes with wood trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and leather seats. Pricing for the 4x4 version have yet been announced.

]]> Newly Launched Tue, 10 Apr 2012 02:03:32 +0000 10 cars making their debut at the 8th Manila International Auto Show http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/newly-launched/item/675-10-cars-debut-at-8th-mias http://www.kotse.com/home/index.php/news/newly-launched/item/675-10-cars-debut-at-8th-mias

Words by Christopher Kho

The 8th Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) is all set to go this March 29, 2012 at the World Trade Center (WTC) in Pasay City. With 26,000 sq. meters of exhibit space, it promises to be the Philippines' biggest motoring event of the year yet again. And in line with year's theme “Life in the Fast Lane,” we're giving you a quick preview of the 10 new cars scheduled to make their official Philippine debut at the show.

#1 Subaru XV

The the XV is the soft-roader equivalent of Impreza, much like what the Outback is to the Legacy. Fitted with bigger wheels and a higher ground clearance, the XV is surprisingly able to maintain its proportions and look just as good. And despite its compact size, it doesn't feel any smaller than your average crossover. Powered by a new four-cylinder 2.0L boxer engine with a CVT drive, reports say that it can do 16 km/L on the highway - impressive numbers especially when you consider that it runs on permanent all-wheel-drive. While the compact crossover is not due to for its public debut until MIAS, the test unit from Motor Image Pilipinas has already been spotted making rounds in and out of the Metro.

#2 Hyundai Eon

Meant as a cheaper entry-level alternative to the i10, the EON is a little five-door hatchback that claims to have greater interior space than a Suzuki Alto and hold more luggage than a Chevrolet Spark. This micro car is powered by a frugal 814cc engine that can easily do 21.1 km/L of fuel. Equipped with features such as front power windows and a driver's side airbag, expect prices to go below P500,000.

#3 Hyundai Veloster

Hyundai's sporty three-door coupe is finally arriving in the Philippines. Some units, however, have already found their way into the country through grey imports, but nothing beats HARI's 5-year warranty. And though the 1.6L four-cylinder Gamma engine might not be that speedy, we wouldn't really mind just strolling around in something that looks this good.

#4 & 5 MINI Coupe and Roaster

See MINI turn the cute and cuddly Cooper into a drop dead gorgeous Coupe and a drop top sexy Roadster. Still packing a punch in S and John Cooper Works form, the two-door sportsters stand as much as 52 mm lower and have two less seats than the standard Cooper. And with each holding 240 liters of luggage space, these Coopers are meant to be taken on long drives in the countryside.

#6 Ford Ranger

Previewed earlier, the all-new Ford Ranger is finally stepping into the limelight after its official launch was delayed by a month due to supply problems. Both the five-cylinder 3.2L and inline-four 2.2L DuraTorq TDCi versions are expected to arrive locally where prices are tipped to be in the P1.1 to 1.4 million range. Though pricey, do consider that this is not just your ordinary pickup truck, and it comes with Dynamic Stability Control, Hill Start Assist/Hill Decent Control, a 4.2-inch LCD Multi-Information Display, Dual Zone Auto Climate Control, Rear Parking Sensors, Keyless Entry, and Security Alarm.

#7 Ford Explorer 2.0L GTDi EcoBoost

The new variant of the Explorer will be powered by a smaller, thriftier, yet just as powerful four-cylinder 2.0L EcoBoost engine, and guzzle up to 12% less fuel than its V6 brother. Available only with front-wheel-drive, expect prices to be within the P2 million range.

#8 Range Rover Evoque

Technically speaking, both the three- and five-door versions of the Range Rover Evoque were indeed launched back in January. But with so few examples plying the streets, this should be the first time most us would ever see it in the flesh and get up close. Packing 240 horsepower, three 8-inch touch-screen displays, five digital cameras, a 380 watt 11-speaker Meridian sound system, and two digital wireless headphones, this could just be the most awesome SUV yet.

#9 Foton Thunder (Tunland)

Officially named the Tunland, we're speculating that Foton Motor Philippines renamed their upcoming pickup to make it at least more easily pronounceable and sound more familiar. The Thunder should be powered by a Cummins 2.8L turbo diesel engine with 160 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque. Measuring up to be bigger than the Toyota Hilux, it's not meant to replace the dependable Blizzard, but instead, become an upscale alternative. But with no official word for Foton, we could be wrong.

#10 King Long Univan

It has been four long years since Focus Ventures Inc., the local distributors of Chana and FAW, has come out with something new. And with their new brand King Long, they're hoping to re-enter the passenger car market with the Univan. But even with our best efforts, we couldn't find anything over the web that describes what the Univan is or what it remotely looks like. I guess we'll just have to wait until the opening day to find out.

The 8th Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) runs from March 29 to April 1, 2012 at the World Trade Center (WTC) in Pasay City and is open from 10 am to 10 pm.

]]> Newly Launched Tue, 20 Mar 2012 22:44:29 +0000