This writer was astounded driving this Mitsubishi Mirage 1.2L hatchback, it was so nimble it felt like the vehicle was running on rails when tackling turns at extra-legal speeds with stabilizers, tolerable body roll was felt, on straights the ride was very comfortable compared to vehicles in its category, while the nail pounding brakes with ABS kept the vehicle at a halt when the situation requires. The size of the Mitsubishi Mirage GLS 1.2L hatchback is ideal for our local roads and parking spaces, with optional rear parking sensors; it will not only aid the driver but definitely prevents a slow speed rear end collision. The panoramic view at the helm of the driver seat was sufficient enough to anticipate traffic situations but when doing a reverse mode the rear windshield angle tends to hamper the lower view. Aside from the well-lit instrument cluster and standard multi-information display, it is also more informative than most vehicles in its class. The Mitsubishi Mirage GLS 1.2L had a standard navigation device on board, to help find unknown destinations with just a few buttons to be touched. The cool fully automatic air-conditioning system together with a touch-screen multimedia entertainment system can keep the passengers cool and with the right music…calm. The keyless operation system comes as standard in this variant and can start the engine with a push of a button, while all windows, side mirrors, central locking system and the steering are all electric driven. The cabin space has adequate elbow, leg and head room that could fit five adults and the 235 liter cargo space was more than generous. For added safety features front dual airbags and side impact beams comes standard with all variants. Even at extra-legal speeds the cabin noise was at a very low decibel and the vehicle was stable.
The Mitsubishi Mirage GLS 1.2L was pulled by a (3A92)1193cc 3-inline DOHC 16 valves MIVEC petrol engine matched on to a gate type INVECS-III Continuous Variable Transmission that could deliver a lusty 76.93hp/6000rpm maximum power and 100nm/4000rpm maximum torque to the front wheels. A 35 liter petrol tank maybe small but for the 1.2 liter petrol engine this was more than enough to run your errands and go to places of choice.
For a more personal look visit your nearest Mitsubishi dealer and get the best deal in owning one.

The day started at 2211WORKS, here Stella Owners from the north, east and west gathered. Then proceeded to Alabang via the East Service road to meet with the Stella Owners from the south. The road trip was led by Mr. Sonny Navarro from Malate to Tagaytay and the trip was hassle-free while the weather cooperated with a few unplanned stop overs for rider friends who joined and were not familiar with the venue. The lunch venue in Tagaytay was at the residence of the first Stella Owner in the Philippines Mr. Dennis Marfori Floro and the gourmet food served was "Magnifico" while the sub zero beer was for the Stella Owners staying overnight. For the Stella Owners just staying for the day ice cold soda was served. Looking forward for the next Stella Owners Ride.

Mr. Louie V. Andaya was born in Las Pinas on October 29, 1980. He is presently a Chef Instructor and Director of Chefs Den Culinary School in Malate Manila. He is more commonly known as “Chef Louie” to his colleagues and students, he rides his 2011 Genuine Stella 150 in powder blue to and from work and without his scooter he would probably be always late in his appointments. Compared to his 4-wheel vehicle the scooter could lane split through traffic, maneuver between vehicles like a bicycle and is certainly a big advantage, with present traffic situations. Louie is no new rider, he actually is a self-taught rider, he first learned to balance a 2-wheel bicycle in 1993 and in 1995 he purchased a Yamaha Monkey bike as his first motorcycle after which he had a 1996 Honda Trendy then a 2000 Honda Dio which he had modified and used for racing. In 2004 he eventually levelled up to a Honda CB750 but after he experienced being close to nature, he scaled down to a Motorstar Panther 150. A year after he got himself a 2008 Motorstar Z200 Dual Sport, now he is presently enjoying his 2011 Genuine Stella 150 which is also very economical in terms of fuel consumption and spare parts cost. Louie has travelled farthest south to Tagaytay and farthest north in Bulacan but as solo rider, he is looking forward in joining a Stella Owners Ride soon, hopefully if his schedule permits. Louie is comfortable with a pillion but reserved only for the ladies. Louie always rides with his helmet and gloves as his minimum riding gear ON and he also makes sure his cellular phone is always fully charged, just in case he needs assistance from 2211WORKS the distributor of the Genuine Stella 150 in the Philippines. Louie after all is a Chef by profession and a lover boy in his spare time.

The Stella, most of the time, was called a mistress by its owners, simply because, you will fall in love with her. With three quarters of the year of use with 1400 plus miles on the odometer, the Genuine Stella 150 ran smoother and it’s powered by a 4-stroke smoke-free petrol engine. As the miles are added on the odometer, this writer is enjoying riding her even more. Since the day the Genuine Stella 150 was handed by no less than 2211WORKS Big Boss, the scooter received options like dog leg clutch lever, rear rack with top box, front rack, tool tray (Courtesy of Scooter Depot) and for the next Genuine Stella 150 accessory installed for this issue was the folding pillion foot rest from 2211WORKS and was very practical for Pillion’s with shorter legs since the folding foot rest height was ideal for a more relaxed ride and after the Pillion has disembarked the foot rest could be folded inward.
As a daily city ride, the Genuine Stella 150 was very nimble, getting in and out of traffic and the remarkable turning radius capability, could actually do an about face, so to speak. The accessories installed not only assisted in being practical with load capabilities but also the weight of the scooter was more balanced and could now help the rider run at walking speed without putting down the feet. More of City riding and running at speeds of just about 60-80 KM/H and occasional 100 KM/H the present fuel consumption averaged 46 kilometers to a liter. For Urban rides average of 50-52 kilometers to a liter.
For the next report, this writer will have another accessory for the Genuine Stella 150 and more riding impressions.
Till the next update on the Genuine Scooter Stella 150 long term test ride.

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) starts the fun as it announced the pre-selling of the All-New Toyota Vios this June 2013. Customers can visit any authorized Toyota Dealer and place their reservations as early as now.
  With the launch of the All New Toyota Vios,   TMP aims to raise the bar and set a new standard for vehicles in its category. The All New Toyota Vios has evolved into the perfect balance between dynamic styling and class leading performance. The Vios sports a new and improved cutting-edge design. With its dynamic styling, this car is meant to inject more fun in to the brand while creating a stronger emotional connection between the vehicle and the driver. Aside from this, the Vios has a new interior design which gives the vehicle a more sophisticated and upscale feel. Moreover, the 3rd generation Vios has a larger cabin for a more comfortable ride. This car exhibits the same reliable 1.5 VVT-i engine that has made it the best selling vehicle for almost a decade now.  
So what are you waiting for? Head on over to the nearest Toyota dealer and start the fun today!  
For more information, contact your Toyta Dealer or please call the Toyota Customer Assistance Center at (02) 819 2912.

It was a fantastic day to test drive in Clark Pampanga the Mazda 6 2.5L and the Mazda CX5 2.5L AWD. A group of Motoring Journalists had a first-hand experience to drive and feel the capability of the Mazda 6 in a Gymkhana exercise while the Mazda CX5 AWD was tested off-road and its maneuverability in tight turns. After a sumptuous lunch the participants together with the Mazda Berjaya top brass drove to Baguio in a fleet of Mazda vehicles. Although a route book was to be followed and a meet up time was prescribed in a petrol station in La Union, the participants did not have a clue that it would be an eco-run. It was definitely a great chance to get to know the Mazda vehicles available on this eco-run but since our team had no idea, although clues were given out. Our team decided to run our assigned meteor gray Mazda 6 in a speed test. The Mazda 6 we tested ran very stable at extra-legal speeds and the speed was hardly felt. As we ascended to Baguio the Mazda 6 gripped well during turns and that was on a wet road surface, all the way up. The cabin space was more than enough, especially the rear seat leg room. When we reached the petrol station in Baguio City to top up fuel to the brim and for the trip meter to be logged, that was the only time that it was confirmed, an eco-run was just concluded. Fortunately our team won the eco-run. So running the Mazda 6 at extra-legal speeds was still economical…isn’t that fantastic…ZOOM-ZOOM!

This June 2013, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) teases you with a more dynamically -designed car that has grown to be a favorite amongst the Filipinos. Catch a glimpse of the much-awaited vehicle as it storms the streets of Manila and key areas in Luzon from June 5 – June 23, 2013! Be the first to start the fun by taking a snapshot of the all-new Vios!
Now on its 3rd generation, this year will get customers excited for a sportier look of this much-celebrated car! Having sold over a 100,000 units since it was first introduced; this car has gained much acclaim not just because of its value-for-money but for its quality and reliability.
Get to see it in the metal as the Vios visits a place near you this week! Don’t forget to contact the dealer* near you for more information. You may also call Toyota’s Customer Assistance Center at (02) 819 2912 for other inquiries.
Are you ready to start the fun?

This year, the #1 Automotive Company in the Country has added four more dealerships to its network to kick-off the next phase of its expansion plans. Toyota Calamba, Laguna (TCL), Toyota Mandaue South, Cebu (TMD-S), Toyota Marilao, Bulacan (TMR) and Toyota Tacloban (TTL) opened its doors to the public recently to cater to the growing demand of the market in these provinces. The opening of these dealerships in key strategic areas outside NCR aims to bring Toyota’s products and services closer to its customers. In 2012, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) opened 3 new dealerships namely: Toyota Global City (TGC), Toyota La Union (TLU) and Toyota San Pablo (TSP). With the addition of these new outlets, Toyota’s network of dealerships has already reached 35 and this number is expected to increase by the end of the year.
 Equipped with spacious and modern showrooms, customers can view various Toyota models and choose the car that best fits their lifestyle or need. Furthermore, the dealership’s state-of-the-art service facility combined with Toyota’s renowned quality service allow Customers to have their vehicle maintained and drive out with much peace of mind. Fully equipped parts and accessories are also available on display. Moreover, clients can comfortably sit back at the timeless yet dynamic designed customer lounge while waiting for their vehicle being serviced.
In a statement, TMP President Michinobu Sugata expressed, “The opening of several new Toyota dealerships since last year is part of TMP’s overall network expansion program.  The market demand, especially outside the National Capital Region is expected to grow further in the coming years and it is our responsibility to reach out and provide our services that will make it more accessible and convenient to our customers.  Currently, we already have 35 dealerships nationwide and the public can expect more soon.”
 For more information log on to www.toyota.com.ph  or visit these new dealerships: Toyota Calamba is located in National One Highway, Bo. Turbina, Calamba City, Laguna. Toyota Mandaue-South, Cebu is situated in Ouano Ave. North Reclamation Area, Mandaue City. Toyota Marilao is found along Mc Arthur Highway, Abangan Sur, Marilao. Lastly, Toyota Tacloban is situated in Brgy. 71, Maharlika Highway, Naga Naga, Tacloban City, Leyte.

This writer was overwhelmed driving this Chevrolet Sonic LTZ 1.4L hatchback, it was so nimble it felt like the vehicle was running on a train track when tackling turns at extra-legal speeds with hardly any body roll, while the nail packing brakes with ABS kept the vehicle at a halt when the situation requires. During hard braking the brake lights flash to warn the motorist behind of the situation. The size of the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic LTZ 1.4L hatchback is ideal for our local roads and tight parking spaces, with the rear parking sensors; it not only aids the driver but definitely prevents a fender bender. Aside from the well-lit motorcycle inspired LED instrument cluster and standard information, it is also more informative than most vehicles in its class. The cool air-conditioning system together with the in-dash CD/MP3/Aux-port/AM/FM/WMA/USB port with Bluetooth wired to 6-speakers can keep the passengers cool and with the right music…relaxed. The cabin space has adequate elbow, leg and head room and the cargo space was ideal for Mall shoppers. Even at extra-legal speeds the cabin noise was at a very low decibel and the vehicle was stable. Running at 100 km/h the rpm was averaging at 2000, being a participant in several eco-runs this a good formula for fuel economy.
The 2013 Chevrolet Sonic  LTZ 1.4L was pulled by a 1398cc 4-inline DOHC 16 valves D-CVCP ECOTEC petrol engine mated on to a 6-speed automatic transmission with driver shift control that could deliver a lusty 98.63hp/6000rpm maximum power and 130nm/4000rpm maximum torque to the front wheels. A 46 liter petrol tank maybe small in terms of quantity but for the 1.4 liter petrol engine, this was more than enough to run your errands and go to places where long stretches of roads were of abundance with twist and turns.
For a closer encounter visit your nearest Chevrolet dealer and get the best deal in bringing home one.

More and more Ford Explorers are seen on local roads and the numbers are still growing, to the tough exterior looks and the very interesting SYNC with MyFord Touch TM with 2 configurable displays in the instrument panel, these are just the teaser the 2013 Ford Explorer can brag. Inside, at the helm of the driver seat in perforated dark shaded leather-trim, you will feel in total control with (heated and cooled) electric controlled front seat adjustment in 10-ways plus memory settings for the driver seat only. Even the 2nd and 3rd row seats are adjustable and capable of split folding and the world’s first inflatable seatbelts are standard, while only the 3rd row can be folded with a flick of a button in several ways. Everything seem to be within reach, even the diameter size of the steering wheel creates a nimble feel especially in tight maneuvers. The dual-zone electronic automatic temperature controlled air-conditioning system can set the positive mood. The 8-inch LCD touch screen located on the center of the dashboard and headrest mounted 7-inch LCD wide-screen monitors are very hard to miss out and for techy people it would be a sin not to tinker with it. The “bombastic” SONY sound system will not only appeal to the young but to the young at heart as well and during night driving the cabin could be lit in several choices for ambient lighting. The auto lamp feature with U.S. specs would function earlier than other vehicles this writer had tested; now for this variant, HID lamps are standard with auto high/low beam function that provided good density over the road ahead.
Nevertheless even with the size of the 2013 Ford Explorer 4x4 Limited and a power plant of a 3.5L that could push a maximum power of 290hp/6500rpm and 346nm/4000rpm of maximum torque linked to a 6-speed select shift automatic transmission with intelligent 4-wheel drive capability and the rest of the alphabet safety aids, driving felt so easy and long road trips seemed shorter. Parallel parking now made easy with Active Park Assist now standard on this variant. Check out the 2013 Ford Explorer, in Quezon City visit your nearest Ford dealer in Balintawak, Quezon Avenue, Libis and Commonwealth and feel the difference.