Toyota Camry

·            The Camry has been around for years, and needless to say, the legacy continues. The question is “what makes this car such a best seller in multiple countries?”

·             Design & Engineering:

For one, Toyota has given the Camry a new facelift, giving the car a more masculine look. In addition, the bum of the Camry has been given sharper rear lights. Grey metallic has been added as a new available color.  A 2.0-liter and 2.4 liter engine is available, and both power the 1500kg+ car nicely. When I sat in the car and the accelerator was depressed, I noticed that the engine seemed to emit an airy electric sound, on both the 2.0 and 2.4 Camry. Nevertheless, being a reliable Japanese car, the engine of the Camry is known for its reliability.

·            Interior

Toyota has tried to give the interior of the Camry a classy yet modern feel, and as a result, all the Camry’s come with a plastic bright brown wood and metallic interior. The Camry now sports a standard built-in GPS system, alongside the orderly center console. What I like about the interior is the soft-touch beige leather seats (with lumbar support for the driver, along with full electric seats), the plasma cluster air-conditioning system, the classy “Optitron” meters, and the one-touch windows. At the back, space is relatively good especially with the well-positioned angle of the rear seats.

·            Ride & Handling

The Camry reveals its full potential once past the 100km/h mark, and pulls ahead of competition effortlessly. On the inside, wind / road noise and vibration is barely noticeable, and you feel as if in a lower range Lexus. Out on the road, the car feels large, and a large amount of body-roll is evident. Being a Japanese car, fuel consumption is superb—10.8 --> 11.2 km to the liter.

·            Verdict

The new Camry is definitely one of high build quality and improved refinement, but lacks ingenuity. Performance is substantial, with almost a lower range Lexus feel. Question answered?

o   Personal advice: Go for the 2.0 variant, as you get about the same levels of equipment, technology, and build quality as the 2.4 variant—at a lower price.

o   Picture from:

o    http://emacsz.com/uploadfiles/t_toyota-camry-china-minorchange-3_210.jpg

Saab 93~convertible

“Born from jets”. A quote from Saab that has truly been bred in the 93 convertibles—especially in the latest model. At first glance, the signature chrome air vents have been embossed on the nose of the car, highlighting the rich heritage and inner soul of the car. The rims depend on the trim, starting from linear towards aero. The rear proudly emblazons the blue SAAB badge, surrounded by a pair of neat looking lights. On the inside, the dials light up when the unique key fob is inserted into the ignition. An array of buttons scatters the center console, but is simple, and yet functional. One such button to look for would be the Night Panel function, where all lights on the dash black out, apart from the essentials, once again incorporating the quote “born from jets”. Adjustable seats and steering wheel come standard, along with a memory function for the steering wheel, making the 93 fit for all to use. Being a Swedish car, safety is axiomatic on the 93, along with trim finish. The seats are well bolstered, and the steering wheel comes with a superb grip. At the rear, space is slightly tight, but being a convertible, who sits at the rear? With the top down or up, out on the road, the 93 makes full use of the light pressure turbo engine, and races towards any destination with ease. On tight corners, you have utter confidence, due to the handling and grip. A premium sound system exudes premium sound quality even over the rushing of the wind over your head—so that the power of GAGA and MJ can be heard!
·            Verdict: top down or up, truly a car to own…

o   Personal advice: Go for the Linear trim, if you’re simply after plain convertible charisma. If not, go for the Aero trim in order to get a punchier engine, along with bolder looks. The price is right for this European convertible, so why not?

o   Picture from:

o    http://www.tuningnews.net/news/080424/saab-9-3-convertible-yellow-edition-01.jpg

o   For more information and pictures, you can visit:

o   http://www.topgear.com/uk/saab/9-3-convertible/verdict

~Posted from Bangkok, Thailand

Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf:

·            Since 1974, the Volkswagen Golf has been cruising around the globe, largely purchased by small families, or couples. Eventually, the looks of the Golf seemed to become somewhat ‘outdated’. Recently, the designers in charge of the Golf came back, and really put thought and soul into the latest model: the Mk6. This new and refined generation has truly left a stunning impression of many, therefore elected as Car of the Year (2009). What makes this car so stunning? Starting with the exterior, the Golf displays bold, fierce, and even enticing looks. The Golf comes in four trims: Golf, Golf GT, Golf GTI, and the Golf R. On the Golf, you get standard yellow lights, standard rims, fog lights, and a 1.4-liter TSI turbo charged engine. The Golf GT comes standard with yellow lights, sport rims, fog lights, and a tuned up 1.4-liter TSI turbo charged engine. The world-renowned Golf GTI comes standard with bi-xenon lights, fog lamps, larger 17-inch sport rims, sharper rear lights, and the famous 2.0-liter turbo charged 6-speed engine. The Golf R comes with an endless list of exterior features including 4WD, and costs a hefty amount for a car in that category. On the inside, all the Golf models have decent space in both the front and rear, for a 3 / 5 door hatch. The standard Golf comes with a boring, yet pleasant to look at radio/CD tuner, rear air-conditioning, and leather seats. The other Golf models come standard with Volkswagen’s infotainment system, which gives these models, differ from competitors. All the Golf’s have a sporty steering wheel that begs you to use it. Out on the road, all the Golf’s still manages to retain a certain hereditary friskiness, making it an exciting, adrenaline high hatch—especially the GTI and R models.

o   Personal advice: looking for a well-priced, relatively high-spec, modern, and fun to drive hatchback? Look no further than the GTI. Unless you’re into drag racing, track meets, etc., then buy the Golf R. If you’re not as intense, but still appreciate speed, thrill, and (somewhat) racing lineage, then go for the Golf GTI. If you’re just a starting entrepreneur looking for a practical, efficient, yet sporty and good looking hatchback, then look no further than the Golf GT, and standard Golf models. Made up your mind yet?

o   Picture from:

o    http://vvd1.net/.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_3D

o   For more information and pictures, you can visit:

o   http://www.whatcar.com/car-reviews/volkswagen/golf-hatchback/summary/25456-5

Jaguar XF

Jaguar XF

·            Swish. The fierce looks of a jungle cat are imprinted in your mind, followed by the mellow purring of the engine, and the proper use of curves and chrome. Welcome to the Jaguar XF. Having been in the market for a few years now, this car has still managed to win multiple awards for looks, editor picks, along with decent pricing. Well, what makes this car differ from the rest? From the outside, the bonnet is modeled somewhat after a luxury yacht, continuing on to a nice ‘sweep’ along the side of the car. The rear seems to slope downwards, making it seem to be a coupé, which adds sportiness to the car. Only the XF’s with the Premium Luxury trim (onwards) have bi-xenon headlamps, and a pleasing Bowers and Wilkins surround system—one that is able to match the renown BOSE speakers that come on Audi’s and Porsches. On the inside, when the car is started (start/stop button), the modern gearshift knob slides up, along with the air-con vents—not useful features, but pleasant to look at. The leather quality has improved significantly compared to previous Jag’s, and gives the car a more ‘expensive’ touch. A touch screen comes standard on all models, but is somewhat tricky to use, as it is not very sensitive. At the rear, space is adequate for 2 adults, or 3 teenagers—nothing more, which makes this car loose out to competitors like the E-class, A6, and 5 series. On the road things get much better. Being a Jag, the engine purrs like a fearsome cat, especially when the revs near 6000. Sitting in this car is heavenly, as the plush and extensive use of leather absorbs you, especially when you floor the gas. Ride quality and handling is relatively good, and so is the suspension, making this car somewhat FUN to drive! The XF has taken a real leap from it’s ancestors, and truly defines “composed, but with inner fury”. Roar…

o   Personal advice: Tick the Bowers and Wilkins audio system—smile guaranteed. If you are willing to splurge a few thousand more, buy the Luxury Plus OR Premium Luxury models.

o   Picture from:

o    http://vvd1.net/.i/po6s08Bv8iq3q3YzAupaOuM2ImYzAiYaIeY2cuM3Iupv9dLJq1LKVgrTLgZQHgZQtgZQxhLKAj/fframe

o   For more information and pictures, you can visit:

o   http://www.whatcar.com/car-reviews/jaguar/xf-saloon/summary/25700-2

Lexus RX

·            As a Lexus, there are certain things that come standard—comfort, quality build, quietness, safety, and luxury. All of this has been incorporated into the RX, making it one of the best selling SUV’s. Lexus has come up with 3 variants of the RX—the RX270, RX350, and the RX450h(hybrid). What makes the exterior so striking is the bold face of the car, and Lexus’s L-fitness design. Xenon lights come as standard, along with an adaptive front lighting system (optional for RX270) for the exterior of the car. Open the driver’s door, and the instrument panel needles begin to glow warmly. Lexus pride themselves for superb leather quality; step into the RX and it all becomes quite clear. The steering wheel has a comfortable, yet sporty feel and design, and the seats support you nicely. There are a good number of cubbyholes in this SUV, along with the excellent LEXUS Premium Sound speakers (Mark Levinson speakers are optional), and the bits of wood that add to the luxury in Lexus. The center consol is simple to use, and thankfully sweeps towards the driver. At the rear, legroom is more than enough, so much so that legs can be crossed. The rear seats can be folded, making this car perfect for dog owners. For an extra luxury that few SUV’s offer, you get an electric boot that ensures clean hands for luxury driving (optional for RX270). Out on the road, wind and road noise are considerably less than competitors, especially with the speakers cranked up at low volume. Power is readily available, and is more than adequate to pull the RX forward, even with the RX270’s 4-cylinder engine. If you are a fan of road-trips, outdoor sports, and pets, look no further.

o   Personal advice: Buy the RX350, as there are more features, along with a smoother and punchier engine.

o   Picture from:

o    http://www.cochesadictos.com/fondos/imagenes/lexus-rx-450h-2010.jpg

o   For more information and pictures, you can visit: http://www.businessweek.com/lifestyle/content/feb2010/bw2010029_724887.htm

Renault Laguna~ coupé 2.0T

 o   The thought that “first impressions are vital”, probably ran through the ‘little grey cells’ of those at Renault. At first glance, one just has to adore those flowing lines that enunciate the beauty and glamour of the coupé. Soon after, your eyes linger on to the complimenting rims, and the twin-exhausts. From the back, many have said that it looks like an Aston Martin—who wouldn’t wish for that? Despite the large headlamps, the elegance exudes from the coupé. On the inside, finish is top-notch, and is definitely and improvement from previous Renaults. Even though the word ‘elegance’ comes through, you still get a sense of sportiness—from the use of chrome and soft-plastics. At the back, space is adequate even for long-distance driving. Out on the road, the steering feels a little lifeless, but is soon made up for by the turbocharged four-pot that pulls the car forward effortlessly.

o   Personal advice: go for it! You get technology, luxury, and style for a great price! Pull up against an A5, IS, or CLK, and you feel as if you’re in they’re league—if not above. 

o   Picture from:

o    http://www.sgcarmart.com/news/gallery.php?AID=119&CUR=4&TYPE=reviews

o   For more information and pictures, you can visit:

http://www.whatcar.com/car-reviews/renault/laguna-coupe/2-0t-205-gt-line-tomtom-2dr/summary/62323

BMW 5 Series

o   As the 6^th generation 5 series, this car has definitely come a long way. Unlike the previous model that featured a boxy exterior, it now features a sleek, yet fierce exterior—much like the new 7 series. The engines range from a 2-liter diesel, to a V8 4.4 liter (in Asia you have the 523i, 528i, BMW’s signature twin-turbo charged V6, 535i, and V8 550i). On the inside, you get multiple features (even on the base model), for instance: audio/aux/usb port, smart entry/exit, i-drive, wood trim, full leather—the list stretches into next week!  The front seats envelop you, as you settle into the car. The center consol is great to look at, yet simple enough to use. At the back, you have adequate space for 2 adults, and 1 child. Out on the road, the 5 series is relatively quiet, and provides a smooth ride with great handling. The base models (520d & 523i) are good enough for city driving, but once on the open roads, the 535i and 550i would be the better bet.

Personal advice: pitched against competitors like the E-class, A6, XF, and the GS, this would be the car to go for. Forget the 520d, and 550i. Remember to tick the lane departure option too. The 535i would be my pick, as it provides relentless thrill, and a satisfyingly throaty growl...                        

o   Picture from:                       

o   http://cars.vc/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/2010_BMW_5-Series-3.jpg                 

                                                                                               

o   For more information and pictures you can visit: http://www.topgear.com/uk/bmw/5-series/road-test/535i-se