Erwan Heussaff gives tips to first-time car buyers

MANILA, Philippines — Aside from food, restaurateur Erwan Heussaff also loves cars.

This may be the reason why he was chosen by Land Rover to be its brand ambassador for the past two years.

"Nowadays, especially in an urban setting, it’s important to own something like that," he said referring to big cars, particularly to Land Rover’s Discovery Sport model launched on Tuesday.

In choosing a car, Erwan took account several factors, especially since he has an active lifestyle.

"Style is really huge for me, obviously," he replies when asked what he looks for in a car. "Then I look at the utility of the vehicle in terms of where I can use it, how far I can go with it. Third, I like [a] big engine, I like hearing them and feeling them."

Of course, people's preferences vary depending on their needs and lifestyle. So for those who are considering to buy a car for the first time, Erwan gave a few tips.

"For me what's important is active service, it's great to have a beautiful car, to have a great sound and active service that's helping you on the side. So for me that's important," he said.

Active service refers to engines equipped with a microcomputer, which calculates a maintenance plan for engines and reminds the owner when the car needs a maintenance check.

Another factor Erwan said should be considered is fuel efficiency.

"Some people like diesel, some people like gas cars, it really depends on the person. Diesel cars tend to be trickier to maintain whereas gas cars are easier to maintain," he explained.

Finally, he said reselling value is important because "you look for a car that will kind of last you for a while," Erwan said. "If it doesn't, if you want to give it up in two years' [time], then you can resell it [for] a proper price."