The annual STAR Motoring Top Picks

MANILA, Philippines – Journalists from the STAR’s Motoring section have been choosing their top personal choices of the literally hundreds of cars on the market for over a decade now. It started out as Top 10 Picks but has since been whittled down to each individual’s Top 5 due to space constraints.   

These are not scientific or quantified tests; just seat of the pants feel from test drives conducted exactly how the vast majority of us use our cars—day to day driving from home to office and/or school with the occasional out-of-town drives thrown in for good measure.

We are not out to find the fastest or quickest accelerating sports car or the most spacious people-carrier or the most opulent luxury sedan. Neither are we looking for the strongest or most rugged truck or SUV or the most fuel-efficient economy car.

We don’t choose by vehicle category or price bracket, either. What we do is to individually pick the top five vehicles that our very subjective and personal tastes dictate.

This year for instance (and I’m not saying this is the constant rule), my preference for small, fun to drive cars that can fit my family is evident. Karen’s predilection for spacious and luxurious vehicles is evident in her choices. Kap, on the other hand, shows his gravitation towards performance and sport utility. Angel and Uly, meanwhile, show their practical side (with one exception).

So without further ado, here are our respective Top 5 Picks, each arranged in alphabetical order.

Manny’s Top 5 Picks

1. BMW 420d Gran Coupe

For driving purists like me who need more space than a sports car or coupe can deliver, the BMW 420d Gran Coupe presses all the right buttons. As four-door sedans go, it can go head to head with a Porsche Panamera on a twisty, sweeping road. Style-wise, it’s arguable one of the best-looking sedans ever thanks to its sleek, fastback styling. Power? Try a 7.5-second 0-100kph sprint—and probably the strongest tip-in throttle response this side of an M5, thanks to a whopping 400Nm of torque available from as low as 1,750rpm. Best of all, the liftback and the huge cargo area give it surprising functionality. A mountain bike will fit with the rear seats folded. Try that in your 5 Series. All this for a price just a little more than a similarly engined 3 Series.          

2. Honda Civic RS Turbo

The new Honda Civic is not only the best Civic ever, it is also the best compact sedan money can buy now. Like the Mazda CX-3, its popularity and desirability does not come from having the lowest price in its class. In fact, the RS Turbo is the priciest model in its segment. But it’s a case of “you get what you pay for.” And that is one of the handsomest styling on the road; a formidable array of performance, comfort, convenience, and safety features; and pure unadulterated driving dynamics. If Ferrari were to create a compact sedan and sell it for the price of a Honda Civic, the result would be very, very similar to the RS Turbo.          

3. Mazda CX-3

It might not win in the value for money stakes, but the Mazda CX-3 is such a joy to behold and an even bigger joy to drive. Trademark Mazda driving dynamics and delightfully upscale trim in the cabin make for a thoroughly enjoyable ride for driver and passengers alike. The compact exterior dimensions is a huge boon in tight traffic and when parking, yet interior space is hardly compromised. Probably the best choice for single-car owners or families who value style and driving excitement. 

4. Nissan GT-R

It’s easy enough to shoehorn a monster engine in any car to give it monster performance. Even backyard mechanics can do that—while grilling hotdogs and chugging a beer. But to make a car that will set the fastest lap time in the legendary Nurburgring circuit in Germany—beating the likes of Ferrari, Lamborghini and Porsche—takes massive engineering and design sophistication. It demands world-beating power, braking and handling. But to deliver that level of performance for the fraction of the price of those supercars is perhaps the most challenging part. Nissan has done just that with its all-conquering twin-turbo all-wheel drive GT-R.

5. Toyota Innova

The Philippines’ go-to vehicle when it comes to affordable people-moving gets better than ever. It’s spacious and comfortable for seven to eight people. It’s very thrifty with fuel, especially when equipped with the diesel motor and a stickshift. The available petrol engine and automatic give it near-luxury minivan levels of powertrain refinement. Riding comfort, too, is commendable, despite the old-school rigid rear axle. Best of all, interior materials and build quality are top notch and are a perfect match for the stylish new sheetmetal.

Karen’s Top 5 Picks

1. Mercedes Benz E-Class

The E-Class epitomizes elegance and innovation. While donning a sportier exterior, it has all the bearings of a luxury car. Its 2.0L inline four-cylinder petrol engine, new 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission and 360-degree network of cameras, sensors and radars give the E-class a powerful, yet safe drive. Passengers also enjoy more legroom with the longer length of the E-class.

2. Nissan Juke

The Juke has a very distinctive look from other compact SUV’s. It possesses the toughness of an SUV and the dynamism of a sports car. It’s easy to handle, is fuel efficient, and equipped with new Nissan innovations such as the Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and a multi-color “Integrated Control System” (I-CON).

3. Peugeot 3008

While the Peugeot 3008 is yet to be launched in the Philippines, this crossover stood out in the Paris Motor Show 2016. Its bold yet elegant design is characteristically French. It features a powerful, fuel-efficient engine, beautiful interiors, and the third generation of Peugeot’s unique i-Cockpit. There are plenty of reasons to be excited about the 3008’s arrival in the Philippines.

4. Toyota Fortuner

The top-of-the-line Fortuner may be more expensive than its predecessors, but drive it and you’ll realize this is a good deal for an SUV. It drives smoothly, without the bumpiness or noise of older Fortuner models. It looks sleeker, too.  The leather seats and interiors have a luxurious touch, complementing the Fortuner’s ruggedness with a premium feel.

5. Volkswagen Beetle

A classic icon from the late 1930’s, the 2016 VW Beetle has not lost its luster. Its exterior is more modern, while keeping the classic “Beetle look” that triggers feelings of nostalgia. Some of its modern enhancements include an Electronic Stabilization Program and a 7-speed DSG gearbox that gives the convenience of an automatic but the fuel-efficiency of a manual.

Uly’s Top 5 Picks

1. Honda Civic

The 2016 Honda Civic’s main strength lies in its clever packaging. Not only does it offer head-turning good looks and some fun-to-drive character, but it’s mighty practical even for family use. Spaciousness and packaging aside, the equipment level, specifically for the 1.8 E, has made it good value-for-money. It’s the best Civic to come out in decades.

2. Mazda3

The Mazda3 is 2016’s biggest surprise and the one that caused a major upset. Despite being just a refresh (it was one of my top picks in 2014), it manages to hold out on its own. It’s a showcase of how Mazda continuously improves its cars packaged around the most important person of all: the driver. The Mazda3’s tweaked exterior and plusher interior are already great on their own, but the new technologies have simply made it the better drive.

3. Mitsubishi Montero Sport

Pickup-based Passenger Vehicles or PPVs have become a necessary evil here in the Philippines. Not only do they provide enough space to ferry the entire clan, but they provide the water-wading capability so necessary for flood-prone streets. There are some who cannot accept them for their lack of driving dynamics and refinement until the arrival of the Mitsubishi Montero Sport. Categorically, this is the best one from the driver’s seat.

4. Nissan Juke

Say what you want about the Juke, but there’s no denying the impact this vehicle has had on Nissan. Single-handedly, it’s proven that Nissan isn’t simply “your tito’s car.” It may be fighting in the price-sensitive subcompact crossover segment, but thanks to its out-of-the-box styling and pleasant road manners, it’s become a standout in more ways than one.

5. Toyota Innova

Currently, PPV’s have become the de facto car of choice (see above). Yet surprisingly, if you want one that does the job just as well, there’s the all-new Toyota Innova. Whether you’re looking for performance, comfort, economy, space, or practicality—you get it all. Well, maybe except for macho styling. It’s a mind over heart purchase for sure, but there’s no better family car in this price range.

Angels’ Top 5 Picks

1. Honda Civic RS Turbo?

Some people argue that it is descended from the much-celebrated SiR of old—that alone is enough to have me sold! Admittedly, Honda’s latest rendition of the Civic is probably the best it’s had, in a while now; and frankly, it’s about time, as Civic fans have long been waiting. The styling looks great; the cockpit and gauges modern and sharp; the fit and finish, flawless. Combined with its proprietary Earth Dreams engine, the drive comfort is distinctly Honda. Needless to say, the turbocharged part equates to much driving pleasure!

2. Mazda3?

If I were to get myself a new car anytime soon, it would probably be the Mazda3 Hatchback. Need I say more? The car is undeniably handsome, the interior, upscale and intimate, the seats delightfully snug, and the driving pleasure, totally praiseworthy. The new, face-lifted version makes it bolder and more attractive. Couple that with the Bose sound system, and the prospect of being integrated into the tightly knit Mazda family, and one will completely understand why a car purchase is often, an emotional one.

3. Nissan GT-R

OMGT-R! Clearly, the expression was coined with good reason. Also fondly referred to as ‘Godzilla’, this vehicle truly is a mechanical monster in its own right. The robust, twin-turbo 3.8L V6 sports car has left fans rabid the world over; and now comes with a retuned engine and transmission management systems. It is also now bestowed with an even better suspension system that is great for customers looking at using it as a daily drive. Needless to say, it lives up to the legend of being amazingly fast; and it doesn’t hurt that it looks uber macho, too.

4. Peugeot 308

Peugeot’s remarkably nimble 308 took me completely by surprise, with so much pulling power in that compact, upscale body—a true pocket rocket that is bound to please any driving enthusiast. Its minimalist i-Cockpit is architectured in such a way that the dash layout and instrument clusters are uncluttered, but thoughtfully intuitive. And its new, lightweight chassis (that is based on the patent-heavy EMP Modular platform) and lower center of gravity are an excellent combination for great handling and spirited, everyday driving!

5. Toyota Vios

It’s hard to debunk the institution that is the Toyota Vios – the country’s bestselling subcompact car for 14 years in a row; and icon of affordability, fuel-thriftiness, availability of spare parts and reliability.

Kap’s Top 5 Picks

1. Honda Civic RS Turbo

When the 10th-generation Civic recently snapped up the Car of the Year-Philippines plum of the Car Awards Group, Inc. (CAGI), there was hardly any surprise. Media members had eagerly, patiently lined up for their turn at loaning a unit from HCPI (Honda Cars Philippines, Inc.) once it was available, and most everyone chorused admiration of the delicious, turbocharged 1.5-liter RS which returned both peppy performance and fuel efficiency. The naturally aspirated 1.8-liter is equally delightful, even if it boasts fewer horses. Honda deserves style points as well by daring to evolve its sedan staple into a true showcase of tech and sporty design.

2. Mitsubishi Montero Sport

Call it vindication, call it justice, call it the revenge of the Montero Sport. That whole debacle which shall not be named is not merely just behind it; Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation is surely having a very happy holiday season. The all-new Montero Sport is vastly superior in all things, and customers who know better have rightfully gravitated to it. Available in five delicious flavors – each more compelling than the next – Mitsubishi’s amazing SUV marque is still getting a whole lot of love. A clean-burning Euro 4-compliant 2.4-liter diesel engine is the star of the stable, but whatever variant you choose, there’s plenty of stuff to like in the all-new Montero Sport.

3. Nissan GT-R

When you have the unofficial title of “best bang-for-the-buck street-legal racing machine,” you expect people to swoon and drool at your arrival. That’s exactly the case when the Nissan GT-R officially rumbled into the Philippines via a licensed Nissan dealership. In fact, two units were snapped up even before the ink dried on the official contract to distribute the monster car. And why not? Under the hood rumbles a hand-assembled (only five master craftsmen in the world are allowed to do so) awe-inspiring 3.8-liter V6 corralling 562 horses and 637Nm, promising performance usually reserved for vehicles twice or thrice the Godzilla’s price tag. To boot, the GT-R is pretty docile and civilized as well – displaying good behavior even when not on the track (where it should be most comfortable). The interiors are, gasp, downright comfortable and luxurious as well. What’s going on around here?

4. Porsche 718 Boxster/Cayman

There’s a new way of thinking at Porsche, and it’s on full, glorious display in the new-generation siblings Boxster and Cayman – prefixed 718 as a doff of the hat to these Porsches’ winning ancestor. Promising both exciting performance and conscientious fuel economy, the dichotomy comes courtesy of lower-displacement, turbocharged engines. Bid goodbye to the flat six of old and welcome the more powerful four. A base 2.0-liter engine yields 300hp, while S versions feature a 2.5-liter power plant good for 350 horses. Couple this with a frugal thirst of up to 14.5 kilometers per liter, and you truly get the best of both worlds.

5. Toyota Fortuner

The all-new Toyota Fortuner is not incrementally improved; it’s leaps-and-bounds better – which means all that nail-biting anxiety waiting for it was rewarded big time. The Philippines’ top-selling SUV in 2015 cornered 22.9 percent of the pie, and returned this year with equal thirst for blood. With a reimagined, if familiar, profile, the Fortuner is sleeker, more luxurious, and boasts powerful engines – two new power plants for diesel fans; 2.7-liter and 2.4-liter (with dual VVTi) gas-fed hearts. Longer, wider, and squatter, the Fortuner is just what the doctor ordered for Toyota to be healthy in an increasingly clogged SUV market.

The Tally

Theoretically, out of a possible maximum of 25 cars (five automotive journalists each picking five vehicles), we end up with 15. Out of 15 automobiles, eight garnered one vote each while five vehicles gained two votes each. Only one car (the stupendously over-achieving Nissan GT-R) earned three votes out of a possible maximum of five while another sole car won the nod of no less than four out of five STAR journalists.       

Brand-wise, we get (in alphabetical order), one BMW, one Honda, two Mazdas, one Mercedes-Benz, one Mitsubishi, two Nissans, two Peugeots, one Porsche, three Toyotas, and one Volkswagen. 

Category-wise, we have a subcompact sedan, two subcompact crossovers, two compact sedans (with one available as a hatchback), a compact luxury 5-door sedan, a couple of sports cars, two midsize SUV’s, a premium compact hatchback, a midsize luxury sedan, a premium crossover, an MPV, and the Beetle (which practically defies categorization).

The Winner

That car that garnered an almost unanimous pick (4 out of 5) is none other than the game-changing new Honda Civic (in both 1.8 and RS Turbo guises). Hail the 2016 STAR Top Pick, the all-new Honda Civic!