STAR Picks 2005

Three years ago, the regular contributors of this section decided to name our top ten automobile choices for the entire year and present them to our readers. We have since made it tradition and have thus come back once again this year with our year-ender aptly called STAR Picks 2005. For the uninitiated, let us make it clear that the following lists were compiled without strict compliance to any rules whatsoever. We could have chosen the vehicles for their handling, fuel efficiency, emotional impact, looks, safety features, technology or any combination of these. The bottom line is that we want you to know which cars made solid impressions on us as individuals and as motoring journalists over the past 365 days. For the record, we cannot explain our choices much too extensively due to space constraints, but we do at least give our most basic reasons for choosing the said vehicles. So read on and find out which cars made it to this year’s STAR Picks.

Manny’s Picks

1) BMW 120i — The lower the numerical designation of a BMW, the more affordable it gets. But while this line of reasoning still fails to make the 1-series 5-door hatchback a "people’s car", it does make a compelling argument for making it the best Bimmer for the buck. All the ingredients for a delectable Bavarian pastry are there: rear-wheel-drive and near 50:50 weight distribution for that BMW-definitive handling; strong variable valve timing-equipped twin-cam 16-valve engines; responsive automatic transmissions with Steptronic manual shifting; big wheels and wide, run-flat (natch!) tires; and a business-like cockpit with superbly supportive seats. That it has a body style that looks like no other BMW yet still manages to be instantly identifiable as one is a testament to American designer Chris Bangle’s inspired thinking.

2) Ford Focus Sport — Sharing its platform with the current Volvo S40, the new Ford Focus boasts ride, handling and overall refinement befitting a premium European automobile. Being a notch larger than most of its Asian rivals also helps its cause in the overall comfort department. But why did I single out the 5-door Sport variant instead of the more affordable 4-door sedan model? First, it’s got the looks that help it stand out among the ever-growing number of 3-box sedans out there. A more aggressive visage, bigger and sportier alloy wheels, and the steeply raked rear make sure of that. More tellingly, however, is that the Sport lives up to its name thanks to a muscular 2.0-liter DOHC motor (instead of the 1.8 in the 4-door sedan). Couple this with the Sequential Sports Shift automatic transmission, one of the sharpest steering responses this side of a BMW, strong brakes, a good audio system, and a power moonroof and you’ve got one head-turning ride that’ll put a smile on your face for many years to come.

3) Hyundai Getz CRDi — Reflecting yet again my fondness for hatchbacks, the Getz nevertheless makes my list for an entirely different reason: it’s got a cutting-edge common-rail turbodiesel engine. You might wonder why a tiny car with an equally small (and already fuel-efficient) gasoline engine would need a diesel motor. One word: torque. The kind of torque you’d feel in a gasoline engine with a 2.0-liter displacement or even more. If a Honda Jazz can make it to Pagudpud in one tank-full, the diesel Getz can probably make it back with the same amount of fuel — while overtaking much bigger-engined cars on the steepest upgrades. Power, fuel efficiency and a good-looking body with a functional interior — who wouldn’t want one?

4) Hyundai Tucson CRDi — Just like the aforementioned Getz, the Hyundai Tucson makes this list because of four letters in one of its variants: CRDi. And it is in that suffix that this stylish (the Honda CR-V-class Tucson has some BMW X3 styling cues, notably in the dog-leg D-pillar) and capable compact SUV stand out. CRDi is Hyundai-speak for common-rail direct-injection diesel engines, the same technology found in the state-of-the-art diesels found in Europe’s finest: BMW, Mercedes, Audi, VW, etc. But it is not solely the diesel technology in these two cars (three, including the Matrix MPV) that compelled me to include them on this list. It’s the fact that they blaze a trail in a segment that has steadfastly refused to offer the vastly more fuel-efficient, torquey and clean-burning common-rail diesel engine. Bravo Hyundai!

5) Mazda6 2.3L — The Mazda6 has always been a drop-dead gorgeous mid-sized sedan in need of more serious firepower. Well, 2005 is its year as Mazda has seen fit to drop in a bigger and certainly more authoritative motor under its sleek long hood: a 2.3-liter, DOHC, 16-valve motor that transforms Mazda’s flagship sedan from a sporty-looking poser to a serious driving machine. Although the 167-horsepower Mazda6 still won’t pose a serious challenge to the 220-hp-plus V6-equipped Camrys, Cefiros, and Accords in a straight line, bring it to a challenging set of twisting roads and the Mazda6’s newfound urge and fabulous handling will leave the rest understeering into the bushes. Driving hard through unfamiliar roads? This is as close to a front-wheel-drive BMW as you’ll ever get.

6) Mercedes-Benz B-class — Whenever we think of the marque with the three-pointed star, we think of expensive but extremely durable luxury sedans. This is precisely why I think Mercedes’ new B-class 5-door hatchback carves its own place in this list. It’s a Mercedes that’s a radical departure from the norm. Yes, it still feels as solid as a block of steel, has all the latest safety features, and makes you feel wealthy just sitting in it. But what it also does new is look different from any Mercedes-Benz before it. While the equally groundbreaking BMW 1-series looks sporty with a hint of practicality, the B-class reverses that styling trend by looking like an upscale hatchback with a dollop of sportiness thrown in. The tall but wide B-class’ overall shape is closer to a Honda Jazz’s than the entry-level Bimmer, even if the Benz is a whopping 17 inches bigger and a stunning 11 inches wider than the Honda. Power comes from 1.7- and 2.0-liter 8-valve engines driving the front wheels underpinned by front struts and a parabolic rear axle — specs you wouldn’t expect to see in a Mercedes. The B-class truly is a car that redefines an automaker; yet one that remains steadfastly loyal to all the virtues associated with its illustrious name.

7) Suzuki Swift — Last year, I picked the Honda Jazz as my fave hot hatch. While my enthusiasm for that perky and versatile little runabout hasn’t diminished one bit (especially with a 1.5-liter VTEC motor slipping under its hood this year), the spotlight nevertheless must be turned on perhaps an even more exciting example of the genre, the Suzuki Swift. Our heads never fail to turn whenever we glimpse one of those new gray-market Mini Coopers. Well, the Swift can best be described as a Japanese Mini (replete with broad shoulders, a wide stance and an overall aura of nimble power) which just happens to leave an extra P1 million bucks in your pocket. Fortunately, not all the goodies were spent on aesthetics. Under the hood lies a state-of-the-art DOHC 16-valve variable valve timing motor harnessed by capable suspensions and brakes. Previous Suzuki Swifts in Japan, Europe and the U.S. have always been known for spritely acceleration and handling and this model should easily live up to that reputation. (The Swift is Suzuki’s contender in the Junior World Rally Championships.) Beauty and brains — who can resist?

8) Toyota Fortuner — Easily the automotive homerun of the year, the Toyota Fortuner’s array of a variable valve-timing-equipped gasoline engine (or a refined, turbocharged common-rail diesel), a rugged ladder-framed chassis, a to-die-for body and a high level of features and specifications quickly conquered sales charts and stole customers’ hearts. And with shrewd chassis tuning and interior packaging, the Fortuner’s overwhelming package of performance, reliability, relative comfort, and upmarket image in this SUV-mad country easily trounced all comers despite skyrocketing fuel prices.

9) Toyota Innova — Here’s a car that needs no introduction and certainly no justification as to its inclusion on this list. Its affordable, well-built, good-looking, seats a fair number of passengers, offers two ultra-modern engines with decent fuel mileage, delivers a moderately comfortable ride, has above-average creature comforts and boasts Toyota’s legendary reliability and resale value. But you already knew that. If there’s one car that will satisfyingly serve a multitude of people and purposes to a high degree, it’s the Toyota Innova. Just don’t try hurtling it over rocks.

10) Volvo S60 T5 — There’s something about a premium European sedan that also happens to kick butt that I find simply irresistible. Sure you’ve got all manner of M-series BMWs, AMG-massaged Mercedes-Benzes and S-series Audis, but none of them can touch the Volvo S60 T5 at its just-over-P2 million price tag. For that money, you get a well-crafted, ultra fully loaded, super-safe luxury sedan powered by a 250-hp 2.3-liter turbocharged and intercooled 5-cylinder engine that will rocket you from naught to 100 kph in 6.8 seconds (with an automatic!) and tow you all the way to a breathtaking 255 kph. That it looks devastatingly beautiful from any angle is just the icing on the cake.

James’ Picks

1) BMW M5 — 507 horsepower, V10, SMG. ’Nuff said.

2) Mazda6 2.3L — If there ever was a poster car for cosmetic surgery, this is it! A nip, tuck and lift here and there; a new set of eyes and an athletic and very enthusiastic 2.3 liter has transformed this showroom wallflower into the bell of the ball! A hands down winner in my book. This is the kind of car that will get you out of bed on a Sunday morning. It has a superb power-to-weight ratio and does far better at the fuel pump than any of the other big boys in its class. Brakes are excellent and it has more body control than J Lo, with a much smaller rear end, too.

3) Audi A4 — Finally, a car that can take the fight right up to BMW’s doorstep. What Audi has managed to wring out of a naturally aspirated 2.0 should be a lesson to its competitors. This comes with the finest CVT in the business and an awesome set of steering wheel mounted paddle shifters.

4) Kia Sorento LX — Why not the Fortuner, you say? Well, this was meant to be our picks for 2005 and by the time my vote gets through the waiting list, it would be 2007! Out of all the SUVs I’ve driven this year, the Sorento has been the only one that gives the Fortuner a run for its money. There are even many areas where it does better than the Toyota. It’s biggest downfall is the lack of ABS and brand perception. Once resale values start stabilizing, this could be Toyota’s biggest headache.

5) Porsche Cayman — We’re trying to keep it real here. Sure I could have gone for the Carrera GT or, heck, lets go straight for the Bugatti Veyron, but the point here is that this little reptile from Porsche delivers the most thrills for the bills than anything else I’ve tested in the last 12 months. It is so good that the people at Porsche may want to rethink their marketing plan for the 911.

6) Ford Focus Sport — This could have made car of the year if it wasn’t for its little drinking problem. The Focus is a hugely capable, fun to drive hot hatch that can be very rewarding to its owner. Until you hit the fuel pump. Nevertheless, it is still a class act and one that can claim to be proudly Filipino!

7) Mitsubishi Grandis — Another underrated gem. The Grandis is one of those crossover vehicles that might have been a victim of its own versatility. Some buyers are not quite sure where to slot it in; is it mini van, wagon or MPV? It is all. And its fun. Damn fun.

8) Volvo V50 — Volvo has reinvented itself over the last few years and come up with some products that make the modern day soccer moms go weak at the knees. The V50 is a handsome wagon that pushes the design envelope and drives well enough for the Dads to offer to pick the kids up.

9) Volvo XC70 — I drove through five countries in four days in a six speed manual, diesel version of the XC70 during a recent trip to Europe. Looking back now, and given a choice, I can’t think of any other vehicle I would have rather spent my time in. It is quick enough to keep pace with anything else on the autobahn; its safer than bottled mineral water and has perhaps the most comfortable ride of anything on offer locally plus it has the practicality of all-wheel drive without the heft.

10) Toyota Innova — It won’t win any beauty pageants, sure, but this has been a true to life fairy tale for Toyota’s financial year. Hop in an AUV after driving this and you’ll feel as if you have gone back twenty years. Toyota hasn’t so much moved the goal posts as it has uprooted them and planted them in another playing field altogether.

Lester’s Picks

1) Honda Jazz — Even without the series of fluctuating fuel prices, I would still pick this econocar from Honda. Consider its neat features — a flexible folding seat arrangement that can swallow a ton of stuff, a svelte and compact body that is easy to maneuver and park anywhere, looks that can grow on you and a frugal 1.3-liter engine that sips gas up to a possible 1,400km to a tank full! That Honda Cars Philippines (HCPI) chose to introduce the 1.5-liter variant and subject it to the Honda Media Challenge is another feather in the Jazz’s cap.

2) Mazda3 — The Mazda3 has withstood the onslaught of compact cars that came out in the Philippine market this year. People are still lining up for the 3 and for good reason — it is an athletic performance compact sedan that takes corners well, feels good to drive or ride in and looks great straight from the factory. If I suddenly come into some money I can spend entirely on a car, line me up for a 2-liter Mazda3R!

3) Ford Everest — Sure, it may look uh, dated compared to the new mid-sized SUVs now in the market. But feature-for-feature, pound-for-pound, the Everest still shines because of its utilitarian design, take-the-whole-family-with-you-including-the-dog capabilities and thrifty and torque-y 2.5-liter, turbo-intercooled diesel engine. Get an automatic 4X2 if you’ll spend more time in the city than in the boondocks.

4) Kia Sorento LX — It looks like a European Sport Activity Vehicle (oh, you know who you are), has a strong, quiet and powerful Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) four-cylinder diesel that runs almost 15 kilometers to a liter, has a well-thought-of interior (though it seats only five) and has a stance that is not overly tall and acrophobic, but just right. In fact, the only thing going against this capable 4WD, 5-speed automatic-equipped SUV is the Pinoy’s stigma towards vehicles with Korean origins but hopefully, the Sorento can change all that.

5) Chevrolet Lumina — Maybe it’s my age (I’m 40), but this conservative-looking Chevy appeals to me because of its comfort, its smoothness and its anonymity. Yup, that’s right — people who want the luxury but need the anonymity in today’s KFR environment need only to take a short ride in the Lumina with its 2.5-liter V6 engine, soft-tuned suspension and luxurious leather confines to be illuminated.

6) Isuzu Alterra — This D-MAX-based SUV is a winner simply because it works well. It has strong aesthetic features, is powered by a robust Isuzu diesel engine, seats seven, has an optional in-car entertainment system that can rival home theater systems and can coddle you in comfortable security while it tackles the worst road conditions you can throw at it.

7) BMW 120i — What would you call a petite Bavarian 5-door hatchback that could take on a Ferrari Maranello V12 in an early-morning speed contest on EDSA, return 14.19 kilometers in an econorun, carve corners down a mountain road and seat your pregnant wife and 5-year-old daughter (and her dolls) comfortably while doing all these? A winner, that’s what! Pity the price, though — it’s still quite expensive for the average Pinoy yuppie.

8) Chrysler 300C — From here on, the next three STAR Picks are my dream cars, starting with this Chrysler. Give me a 5.7-liter Hemi (gas crisis and prices be damned!), 20-inch chrome wheels, and that honking, muscular body and I’ll scorch the roads, albeit the long, straight ones. Sized like a tank and built like one, this car will intimidate even the most hardened of the Philippine Rabbit bus drivers while coddling its occupants in utmost luxury, making the 300C an American Bentley, if ever there was a need for one.

9) BMW 325i, 330i — Note to self: If a financial windfall is suddenly found, proceed to the nearest BMW dealer and get a 3 with a 6. This new 3-series is so well sorted out, so refined and so pleasing that it must only be had with a BMW’s powerful yet silky smooth 6-cylinder engines, either in 2.5- or 3.0-liter displacements. Anything else would be a sacrilege.

10) Chevrolet Corvette — We tested this American sports car around the Batangas Racing Circuit when it came to town for a brief visit. The good people of GM Automobiles Philippines allowed us to flog the Vette no holds barred and car shined in almost all aspects: brutal acceleration from a 5.7-liter pushrod V8, tenacious road holding, vicious grip and a cozy interior that holds you firmly during the entire fun ride. Put all these in an attention-grabbing, voluptuous va-va-voom body (I’ll have mine in red, thank you), and you’ve got a realistic dream car that can whip the butts of other hyper-expensive super dream cars on the road.

Andy’s Picks

1) Toyota Innova — The most useful model in Toyota’s global IMV project, the first AUV cum MPV that even high rolling types wouldn’t mind being seen in. With a choice of sophisticated gas or diesel engines, an attractive and very passenger-friendly cabin, competent driving dynamics, and competitive pricing all wrapped in a friendly, timeless body, the Innova my number 1 choice for those in need of a good-looking, low-maintenance family vehicle.

2) Toyota Hilux — Driving this truck brings to mind the "Ford F-150" experience of towering over traffic and having more cargo space than you’ll likely ever need. The difference is that the Hilux doesn’t guzzle fuel like there’s no tomorrow, its cabin is almost as user-friendly as its sister Innova, and you can be assured of long-term Toyota reliability. Whether in entry-level trim or four-wheel drive with all the bells and whistles, the Hilux is an incredible value.

3) BMW 3-Series — Bigger, faster, and more frugal than its E46 predecessor, the E90 3-Series remains the executive sedan for discerning and well-heeled drivers. In 4-cylinder trim, it’s a docile sedan for personal urban transportation that can still show you a good time on those occasional weekends out of town. In 6-cylinder trim, it’s a sports sedan with unparalleled performance limits. Get the 330i and you might even show Porsche Boxster drivers who’s the real slim shady.

4) BMW 5-Series — Striking the right balance between space and performance, the middle-of-the-lineup 5-series can either be your executive transport or fleet-of-foot family car. With styling that looks new even today backed by sophisticated drivetrains (including a superb common rail diesel) and a suspension that sets the standard for the class, BMW’s 5-series is my most desirable car for those with executive-sized budgets.

5) Mitsubishi Pajero (Diesel) — With its Coke bottle-inspired shape, generous passenger and cargo space, and gutsy drivetrain, the Pajero will take you just about anywhere quickly and comfortably. Monocoque construction yields nimble handling and lots of interior room, while the electronic four-wheel drivetrain delivers miles of fuss-free piece of mind. The direct injection diesel might not sound flattering, but it gets the job done and can push this big SUV to triple digit cruising speeds easily — with a full load of passengers, too.

6) Mazda3 — Lean and mean, this is the car that puts the fun back in the family car. With a choice of a frugal 1.6-liter or a capable 2-liter engine, and supported by a highly competent chassis, who’d have thought that your erstwhile mainstream family car could be almost as fun to drive as a much more expensive Bimmer?

7) Mazda6 2.3L — Now powered by a much better 2.3-liter motor, the Mazda6 finally justifies its raffish looks with real verve under the hood. Not as spacious as a Toyota Camry or Honda Accord, it does, however, deliver a real sports sedan experience with a chassis that’s (naturally) even more nimble and sophisticated than the cheaper Mazda3, a 5-speed autostick, and enough comfort features to indulge the hedonist in you.

8) Honda City/Jazz — Proof that fun isn’t all about horsepower and G-forces, the nerdy City and Jazz press all the right buttons when you’re thinking "efficiency" and "practicality". Compact dimensions make it perfect for urban jousting, while the cabin is the most attractive and most practical we’ve ever seen in an econocar. Go hyper-efficient with the 1.3-liter engine, or splurge a little with the 1.5 VTEC. Either way, you won’t go wrong. I should know. I bought a Jazz this year, hehe.

9) Honda Accord — Those looking for an all-around family car that delivers a healthy bit of luxury and performance should look no further than this car. With the 4-cylinder engine, it’s a competent family car that’s loaded with all the trimmings one could ask for, while delivering a sublime driving experience that’s typically Honda. With the 3-liter V6, it hauls serious ass. The chassis might not be as nimble as a Mazda6’s or a rear-wheel drive 320i/318i, but show it a straight road and let it rip.

10) Honda CR-V — Sometimes, all you need is a really big box. The CR-V might not have the visual flash of its competitors, but in usable cargo space it rules. Like the Honda Jazz, the CR-V’s cabin is a model of user-friendliness and overall cargo capacity. Since I wouldn’t really want an SUV unless I really needed the space or the all-wheel drive, the CR-V’s practical RealTime technology and versatile interior make it into my list. Now available with a 2- or 2.4-liter engine, it’s no sloth either.

Dong’s Picks

1) Toyota Fortuner — Over the past three years, there have been sure shot releases that we from the motoring press knew would be winners from the get-go. Two years ago that vehicle was the bafflingly affordable Chevrolet Optra. Last year it was the gorgeous Mazda 3. This year the runaway winner is the Toyota Fortuner. The moment we laid our eyes on it, we knew that Toyota had hit a gold mine. Quite simply, it has turned out to be the most sought-after vehicle in the country today. If only Toyota could come closer to finding a solution to the supply and demand problem they’re still facing.

2) Audi A6 — Go ahead, ask me what was the most enjoyable car I drove all year — the most fun drive without price, fuel consumption and other practical issues to consider. Among all the cars I’d test driven over this entire year, ask me which one gave me the most jaw-dropping, awe-inspiring, spirited driving experience I had. I will tell you without batting an eyelash that it was the Audi A6. Oh yes, it’s that good a car.

3) Honda Jazz VTEC — It’s no joke trying to tow the line between sporty driving performance and fuel efficiency. While Honda has been known to produce some of the most fun drives in the automotive industry, they’ve also been trying to enhance that image by coming up with new, more frugal products in keeping with the needs of the times. The Honda Jazz VTEC, with a more potent 1.5L engine, is the successful marriage of both those goals. I’ll need just one word to describe this car — sulit.

4) Kia Picanto — While Honda got the hatchback ball rolling (again), it was really Kia that cashed in on the public’s demand for a frugal and affordable alternative to brand new sedans and SUVs (again). The Kia Picanto reestablishes the Korean carmaker’s image as this country’s favorite affordable alternative, and Kia did so with a sense of panache. The Picanto is more than just practical and frugal, it’s pretty in its own right!

5) BMW 3 Series — This year BMW launched the updated version of the biggest selling and most important production model in company history — and it was well worth the wait. Once again, the BMW 3 series raises the bar where expectations of an entry-level European sedan are concerned. BMW’s E90 will continue the tradition set by its predecessors and continue to be the car against which all other companies’ sport sedans are measured.

6) Audi A4 — Do we see anyone living up to the BMW 3’s challenge, then? Look no further than your nearest Audi showroom. The A4, which for all intents and purposes is a smaller, more affordable version of the A6, delivers staggering performance on almost every level. Does it approximate the performance levels of the BMW 3? That’s for you to decide. My advice is, if a small European sedan is on your buying list, a trip to both an Audi and a BMW dealership is a must.

7) Mazda6 2.3L — The perennial underdog in the Japanese M-class wars just reloaded with some pretty impressive firepower. Finally equipped with an engine that lives up to the "zoom-zoom" spirit of the brand, the Mazda6 2.3L is worth the driving fanatic executive’s second look. If you feel like you’ve graduated from the compact sedan market but still love driving cars with engines that impress, this is one car you’ll love.

8) Volvo V50 — A word of advice to the upscale car companies — the financially gifted moms of today love their station wagons, and if you don’t realize this fast, you’ll be choking on Volvo’s dust for quite some time. The Volvo V50 combines prestige, practicality, beauty and safety in one package that has little competition at the moment (off the top of our heads we count the Volvo XC70 and the Audi A4 Avant — which are both substantially more expensive). Talk about a hot momma!

9) Chrysler 300C — This car’s unbelievable combination of prestige and pricing makes it the steal of the year. Those who know their cars are aware of the Chrysler 300C’s reputation — and they’ve formed a beeline to the Chrysler dealership along EDSA. No, you won’t see too many of these cars around the country, but when you do, you’ll probably salivate.

11) Ford Focus Sport — Initially, we thought that the release of the Ford Focus sedan would be this year’s most significant launch next to that of the Toyota Fortuner’s. We were wrong. With the launch of the Ford Focus Sport, a whole new fanbase has been spawned and the hatchback finally officially makes its way back to the hearts of just about every Pinoy car buyer. While the Ford Focus takes the American carmaker right smack in the middle of the sedan wars, it looks like it’ll be the Sport version that changes the buying landscape drastically.