BMW 1-Series F70

The BMW 1-Series F70 may look new but it's a rehashed version of its F40 predecessor. The front-wheel-drive Bimmer just got improved and ready to draw some more flak from Bimmer purists everywhere...or will they?

2025 BMW 1-Series

Starting at 32,900 Euros plus additional costs, the F70 BMW 1-Series is a rehashed version of its F40 predecessor in the same way the Mini F66 model is a heavily revised F56 model. Long story short, here comes the real kicker; the F70 model rewrites the rules of BMW's trim naming scheme. Starting with this model, all petrol-powered BMW models will ditch the letter "i" at the end of the trim name because the letter "i" is officially exclusive to all-electric models such as the i4, the i5, and the i7. It's complicated but it goes a long way.

2025 BMW 1-Series

Beginning with the design, the F70 1-Series features a sharper front face compared to its predecessor and donning rear lamps shaped like the one from the Nissan Skyline V37, although the side view from the previous F40 model remains. The front grille can be configured to either weird or weirder but either way, this is still a Bimmer not suitable for purists wailing over the fact that this is a front-wheel-drive car with bits from the current Mini.

2025 BMW 1-Series interior

2025 BMW 1-Series interior

The revised interior features the new dashboard and center console, including a 10.25-inch digital instrument display and a 10.7-inch infotainment touchscreen powered by the latest Android-based BMW Operating System 9. Although more user-friendly than the previous model, some would have a hard time mastering it just like a newly-bought smartphone with advanced features. As for space and comfort, it accommodates up to five people. With the rear seats folded down, it has up to 1135L of boot space. Nice.

2025 BMW 1-Series

Like the F40 predecessor, the F70 1-Series still runs on the front-wheel-drive FAAR platform, making it mild on the corners and easy to drive everywhere.

As told earlier, the F70 model rewrites the BMW rules for time names as it is the first BMW model to ditch the "i" lettering at the end of the trim name for petrol-powered models while the "d" for diesel and "e" for PHEV models remain. There's no PHEV model for now. Only the 1.5L petrol and the 2.0L diesel are available in this model with various configurations.

The range-topper of the F70 1-Series is the M135 with 300PS of power and 400Nm of torque. With the available xDrive all-wheel-drive system, it does 0-100kph in 4.9 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250kph. This is your go-to hot hatch worthy of redemption from its purist-unfriendly platform.

As for safety, the new 1-Series features the Driving Assistant package and Parking Assist with a reversing assist that is now part of the standard specification. Customers can opt for the Driving Assistant Professional which adds adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centering assist, and speed limit assist, while the Parking Assist Professional enables remote park assist.

The previous F40 1-Series was one of the worst offenders from BMW because of the un-BMW-ish dynamics that upset longtime fans. With the F70 model, BMW's worst offender just got slightly improved for better and for worse.

Available colors: M Brooklyn Grau metallic, Skyscraper Grau metallic, Thundernight metallic, Fire Red metallic, Saphirschwarz metallic, M Portimao Blau metallic, BMW Individual Storm Bay metallic, BMW Individual Tansanitblau metallic, BMW Individual Frozen Portimao Blau metallic, BMW Individual Frozen Pure Grey metallic, and Alpinweiß uni.

Photo: BMW AG

BMW X2 U10 and iX2

The BMW X2 is now in its second generation and it gained its all-electric iX2 equivalent. So, what's it all about the all-new X2 and the first-ever iX2? Come here and let's explain.

2025 BMW X2

2025 BMW iX2

The BMW X2 U10, starting at 47,500 Euros plus additional costs, and the first-ever BMW iX2, starting at 49,900 Euros plus additional costs, showcased something that the predecessor failed to be, a proper coupe-crossover sized to X1 proportions.

While the coupe-crossover is something the all-new X2 wanted to be, there's something about its new looks. It looks like a mini-me XM, especially the crazy XM-styled front face. At the back, BMW borrowed something from Mazda's design department for the taillights.

2025 BMW X2 interior

Like its X1 equivalent, the all-new BMW X2 has an interior similar to the latest 2-Series Active Tourer. It has the new BMW Curved Display, which takes center stage on the driver's side. The display runs on the latest BMW Operating System 9, which has noticeable features, including voice control that works like Alexa. Unfortunately, the new model has a floating center console that removes the storage space under the armrest, making it more difficult to store your stuff. On the plus side, the X2 has more interior space than the previous model.

2025 BMW iX2

Because it runs on the improved FF platform just like its X1 equivalent, the X2 U10 feels slightly improved compared to the previous model, although unhappy about it.

Under the hood, the X2 is offered with the choice of a 1.5L petrol with 48V mild hybrid system, a 1.5L diesel, and exclusive to the M35i xDrive variant, a 2.0L turbo engine with 300PS of power. Mated to a seven-speed DCT, it does 0-100kph in 5.4 seconds and an electronically-limited top speed of 250kph.

The iX2, with its 64.8kWh lithium battery pack, is offered with a choice from a 150kW eDrive20 with 459km of driving range up to the 230kW xDrive30 variant that propels this SUV to a 0-100kph time of 5.6 seconds and a top speed of a Japanesey 180kph. If the iX2 is good enough on the streets of Tokyo, it's good enough on the streets of Berlin.

Both the new X2 and the iX2 are armed with the most advanced safety features offered. These include the Driving Assistant package with AEB, passive cruise control, and Parking Assistant, among others.

The X2 is the coupe-crossover equivalent of the X1 and this new version is literal indeed, although the XM-styled nose is something the neighborhood should look out for. Still, with its slightly improved packaging and the addition of the iX2 made the all-new X2 worth noticeable from top to bottom. In the end, this is the new normal, after all.

Photo: BMW AG 

Honda N-BOX Joy

The third-generation Honda N-BOX range welcomes its newest member; an outdoor-themed variant designed to take on the likes of the Mitsubishi Delica Mini, Daihatsu Tanto FunCross, and the Suzuki Spacia Gear.

2025 Honda N-BOX Joy

2025 Honda N-BOX Joy

This is the first-ever Honda N-BOX Joy, an outdoor-themed variant of the third-generation N-BOX priced at 1,844,700 Yen plus additional costs, which is cheaper than the recent Suzuki Spacia Gear but slightly more costly to own than the Mitsubishi Delica Mini. A fair trade in the market for outdoor-oriented kei minivans.

2025 Honda N-BOX Joy interior

2025 Honda N-BOX Joy interior

Although it's basically a third-generation N-BOX by the looks of it, the Joy features black cladding underneath, a front bumper with holes on the center-right followed by six holes above the front bumper, specially-made Full HED headlamps, taillights from the N-BOX Custom, black side mirrors, and to top it all off, the Joy badge. For an additional extra, customers can have a special package with front fog lamps and a front grille that spells Honda on it.

While the interior works just like the other N-BOX variants, the Joy features Brown-and-Black checkered seat fabric that is surprisingly stain-proof, making cleanup a breeze. Fold the rear seats down, and you will have a Furatto Terrace to relax. It even comes with a floor-under box to store your necessities. With a space of 148cm in length, 117cm in width, and 115cm in height, this outdoor-themed N-BOX means business and leisure at a snail's pace.

Like the rest of the lineup, the N-BOX Joy is powered by a 660cc i-VTEC engine that produces 58PS of power output and 65Nm of torque, and when mated with a CVT, fuel efficiency is around 21.3km/L based on WLTC Mode standards. That's more than the Delica Mini, as expected. Of course, you can exercise your options with the available turbocharged engine and four-wheel drive.

As for safety, the N-BOX Joy comes with Honda Sensing, VSA, emergency stop signal, hill start assist function, and a multi-view camera system, among many others.

The Honda N-BOX Joy is the first Honda N-BOX variant designed for outdoor enthusiasts. It's a kei minivan, which means it's small and light, but it has a lot of room inside. It also has a lot of features that make it perfect for camping and other outdoor activities. The market for outdoor-oriented kei minivans is growing thanks to the arrival of the first-ever Honda N-BOX Joy.

Available Colors: Platinum White Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Slate Grey Pearl & Black, Fjord Mist Pearl & Black, Autumn Yellow Pearl & Black, Botanical Green Pearl & Black, and Desert Beige Pearl & Black.

Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Honda Civic FL1 and Civic e:HEV FL4 - 2025MY Minor Change

The 11th-generation Honda Civic has gained its minor change for the 2025 model year and now's the ideal time to reintroduce this current-generation Civic to the world from a different perspective.

2025 Honda Civic

The latest minor change of the 11th-generation Honda Civic now starts at 3,448,500 Yen for the petrol-powered LX variant up to 4,307,600 Yen for the e:HEV EX variant, plus additional costs.

2025 Honda Civic

What's new in this minor change? Let's begin with the front view as it now dons the Acura-esque front grille as well as the new front bumper. The range-topper of the petrol-powered Civic FL1, the RS, features slightly larger air curtains and exposed tailpipes at the back, making it part-subtle, part-obvious but that's the Civic way and the RS is just the tip of the iceberg.

2025 Honda Civic interior

Inside, the updated Civic looks nearly identical to the pre-facelifted model except for the slightly enlarged touchscreen to differentiate it. Still, you can expect commodities such as push-button and remote engine start, the Honda Smart Key system, rear air-conditioning vents, automatic air-conditioning, Smart Key card, and dual-zone air-conditioning, among others.

2025 Honda Civic

The facelifted Honda Civic still offers a choice of a 1.5L VTEC TURBO and the 2.0L SPORTS e:HEV hybrid powertrain. The turbo variant produces 182PS of power and 240Nm of torque. Most variants are mated to a CVT gearbox that promises 15.7km/L of fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards while the RS-exclusive 6-speed manual gearbox returns a 15.3km/L fuel economy.

The LFC-H4 2.0L SPORTS e:HEV powertrain mated to a twin-motor electric CVT with manual mode operated via paddle shifters has a combined power output of 184PS, 315Nm of torque, and a fuel economy of 24.2km/L based on WLTC Mode standards.

The new Civic features an updated Honda SENSING system featuring a Forward Collision Warning System, Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Keeping Assist System, improved Adaptive Cruise Control, and Adaptive Driving Beam, among many others.

With this latest facelift, it's the ideal time to get familiarized with the 11th-generation Civic again.

PRICE LIST:

1.5 LX - 3,448,500 Yen

1.5 EX - 3,798,300 Yen

1.5 RS - 4,198,700 Yen

2.0 e:HEV LX - 3,998,500 Yen

2.0 e:HEV EX - 4,307,600 Yen

AVAILABLE COLORS: Platinum White Pearl, Sonic Grey Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Premium Crystal Red Metallic, and Seabed Blue Pearl.

Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Third-generation Suzuki Spacia Gear

The Suzuki Spacia Gear is back, and it's now based on the third-generation Spacia that was released last year. This new model is designed for the outdoors and aims to compete with the Daihatsu Tanto FunCross and Mitsubishi Delica Mini.

2025 Suzuki Spacia Gear

With prices starting at 1,952,500 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the all-new Spacia Gear chomps down its outdoor-oriented kei minivan rivals in the name of fuel efficiency while donning its new and exciting ways to keep it afloat in the midst of the new normal.

The new Suzuki Spacia Gear looks just like the third-generation Spacia. However, Suzuki revived the headlamps from the previous model and added a Jimny-styled grille. Flashbacks are anything but cute for the all-new Spacia Gear until you take a peek at its interior.

2025 Suzuki Spacia Gear interior

Just like the entire Spacia range, the renewed interior features a wide array of convenient features such as the multi-use flap, independent rear seat slide, rear seat slide straps, and a personal table for rear passengers, not to mention lots of compartments to place, giving these new models plenty of uses in various situations.

2025 Suzuki Spacia Gear

The all-new Spacia Gear has Mild Hybrid technology and features an Integrated Starter Generator linked to a lithium battery pack collaborating with its fuel-efficient R06D 660cc engine. Thanks to this fuel-efficient measure as well as Suzuki's HEARTECT platform, the all-new Spacia Gear has 23.9km/L of fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards. It's the most fuel-efficient outdoor-themed kei minivan ever made and Suzuki is still the king of fuel efficiency.

The Spacia Gear's turbo variant features Power Mode, which makes it more responsive on slopes or when merging onto the highway. It sounds great but the fuel economy is around 21.9kmpl.

For safety, the all-new Spacia Gear comes with the latest version of SUZUKI SAFETY SUPPORT, which is a suite of safety features such as a Lane Departure Warning function, wandering alarm function, high beam assist, sign recognition function provided by its optional Omni-directional monitor camera package, advanced car departure notice function, dual sensor brake support, false start suppression, brake support, backward error start suppression, and more.

The all-new Suzuki Spacia Gear is the most expensive of the outdoor-oriented kei minivans, but it's also the most fuel-efficient. That puts its rivals, the Daihatsu Tanto FunCross and Mitsubishi Delica Mini, back into the toybox. With this one, Suzuki is still the king of fuel efficiency, even in the midst of the new normal. Your quiet weekend drive to Mt. Fuji has turned into a fun and fuel-efficient adventure.

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation

Volkswagen Passat B9 vs ID.7 Tourer

Even in the age of the "new normal" the Volkswagen Passat managed to survive with its ninth generation but with only one twist; it's now wagon-only.

2024 Volkswagen Passat

That's right. The all-new Volkswagen Passat B9 is now offered exclusively as a five-door station wagon starting at 39,995 Euros plus additional cost. Sometimes, a painful sacrifice has to be made to keep the Passat alive and kicking amid the "new normal".

2024 Volkswagen Passat interior

Beginning with the design, the all-new Passat prefers to keep it clean and Golf-ish even in its sporty R-Line trim. While incorporating modern-day VW design standards, it's surprisingly bigger than the old Passat Variant thanks to the MQB evo platform it dons.

Step inside, the minimalist interior is getting more interesting to toy with because of the buttons of the steering wheel instead of the utterly irresponsible touch panels, not to mention two screens with the latter being the 15-inch touchscreen that controls the infotainment, navigation, smartphone connectivity, and climate control. It's a tricky job.

Getting accommodated with its ergoActive front seats with 14-way adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, the sharp increase in dimensions made it the most spacious Passat ever made and with up to 1920 liters of boot space with the rear seats folded down, Volkswagen's not joking about it.

2024 Volkswagen Passat

Under the hood, the Passat B9 is offered with the choice of a 1.5L turbo eHybrid, 1.5L eTSI, 2.0L TSI, and 2.0L TDi. The eHybrid is mated only with the 6-speed DSG while the eTSi, TSI, and the TDI variants are mated to a 7-speed DSG. The 1.5L eHybrid variant is the most powerful of the range with 272PS of power and 400Nm of torque. It does 0-100kph in 7.1 seconds and a top speed of 225kph. It has 0.4l/100km of fuel economy based on WLTP standards and running on electric power alone, it's good for 118km. Not bad for a German PHEV wagon.

The Passat B9 is more interesting to drive than previous models, especially with the available Dynamic Chassis Control Pro. This system features two valves that provide more precise control of the suspension's rebound and compression. The new Vehicle Dynamics Manager controls the electronic XDS system, which provides better handling and stability.

As for safety, the Passat B9 has a long list of available ADAS such as adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance), adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, lane change assist, and more. Coupled with the Park Assist Pro, it's now the most technologically advanced Passat ever made.

The Passat B9 is proof that it's here to stay even though it's a wagon only. However, despite being all-new, it feels like its days are already numbered thanks to this.

2025 Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer

This is the first-ever Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer, it's the all-electric alternative to the all-new Passat B9. With prices starting at 54,795 Euros, this is shockingly cheaper to own than the one Passat B9 variant I know, the 2.0 TSI R-Line 4MOTION DSG.

2025 Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer interior

The ID.7 Tourer features most of the bits and bobs from its saloon counterpart but with up to 1714 liters of boot space with the rear seats folded down. That's less than the Passat B9's boot space although the Tourer's dimensions are bigger than the Passat B9's.

Like its saloon version, the ID.7 Tourer is powered by the APP550 electric motor that runs the rear axles, producing 286PS of power and 545Nm of torque. It does 0-100kph in 6.6 seconds and a Japanese-esque top speed of 180kph. As for the driving range, it's good for 605km for one full charge.

Being aerodynamic is the top trump for the ID.7 Tourer. Despite being rear-wheel-drive, its mild driving feel is what sums up the ID.7 really well. As for safety, it comes with Travel Assist which comes with assisted lane change maneuvers and assisted parking maneuvers, among others.

If you prefer a conventional internal combustion engine or need a car with a well-established service network, the Passat B9 might be more suitable. If you're ready to embrace electric mobility and want the latest tech, the ID.7 Tourer is likely the better fit. It's the new normal, after all. Up to you.

Photo: Volkswagen AG

KGM Actyon (J120)

Long before the BMW X6, there was the Actyon. Launched in the autumn of 2005, the Actyon is the world's first sports utility coupe. Hot on the heels of its 20th anniversary, the Actyon returns as the coupe version of the Torres.

2025 KGM Actyon

Starting at 33.95 Million Won plus additional costs, the Actyon is back as the coupe version of the Torres, the crossover that made Ssangyong born again as KGM.

2025 KGM Actyon

Beginning with the design, the Actyon is nearly identical to the Torres but with an illuminating front grille reminiscent of the lines from the South Korean flag, showing its nationalism on four wheels. Although the Torres-esque looks is the tip of the iceberg, the rear view can be broadly mistaken for today's Range Rover Evoque. Can't blame them.

2025 KGM Actyon interior

The all-new Actyon's interior, like the exterior itself, is also a resemblance of the Torres but the differences are the steering wheel and the center console. On the driver's side, you are greeted with a panoramic wide screen with two 12.3 inch screens with the first half as the cluster and the latter half a touchscreen with INFOCONN that takes charge of the car in terms of airconditioning, telematics, entertainment, smartphone connectivity, and so on. It can be nerve-wracking for first-timers but it takes time to get used to it.

With the rear seats folded down, the all-new Actyon has up to 1,568 liters of boot space, which is less than the Torres because of its coupe formation.

2025 KGM Actyon

The all-new Actyon is powered by the same 1.5L T-GDi engine from the Torres mated to an Aisin 6-speed AT. This engine produces 170PS of power and 28.6kg-m of torque. It even comes with an ISG system that shuts the engine off when stopped at the red light and then restarts when set off. In FF configurations, it has a combined fuel economy of 11kmpl while AWD variants get 10.1kmpl.

The all-new Actyon has front MacPherson struts and rear multilink suspension. The front brakes are ventilated discs and the rear brakes are discs.

Sturdy bodywork and eight airbags aside, the all-new Actyon features DeepControl, a suite of ADAS such as Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Detection warning, Blind Spot Detection Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Assist, and Safety Exit Warning.

The all-new Actyon is no longer the one you've been familiar with since your high school days. It's now a muscular sports utility coupe that blends its Korean nationalism, the KGM way. After all, isn't what KGM's slogan is all about? Korea Great Mobility. Although not as great as the X6 and the Evoque, it's the bargain of the season.

Available Colors: Royal Copper, Royal Copper 2 Tone, Grand White, Grand White 2 Tone, Latte Greige, Latte Greige 2 Tone, Iron Metal, Iron Metal 2 Tone, Forest Green, Forest Green 2 Tone, Dandy Blue, and Space Black.

Photo: KGM

Kia K8 (2025MY Minor Change)

The Kia K8 was launched three years ago and was the first car to wear the new logo. For the 2025 model year, the K8 has undergone a "Big Minor Change" and promises to be a better-looking luxury premium sedan that can outclass the Toyota Crown by a long shot.

2025 Kia K8

2025 Kia K8

The New K8 is the cleanest-looking Korean premium saloon to ever come out of Kia's lineup. It's the result of a major redesign of Kia's flagship saloon. The controversial front view has been reskinned with the EV9-styled nose, which became the blueprint for Kia's new design language. The caltrop-styled rear taillights have been revamped, and it now dons squarish wheel designs. This new design proves that today's K8 is coming on clean.

2025 Kia K8 interior

2025 Kia K8 interior

The interior has been heavily revamped for this big minor change with the new dashboard layout, a new floating dual-widescreen driver’s instrument and infotainment display ensemble with ccNC and OTA updates, a new steering wheel design with the KIA logo aligned to the right, dual wireless charging port, Meridian Premium Sound System, Ergo Motion front seats, and Dynamic Ambient Lighting, among others. Even with numerous improvements on the inside, The New K8 is still more than enough to accommodate VIPs, bodyguards, associates, and even CEOs of a big company, not to mention a decent boot space for sensitive goods.

The New K8 comes with a "dynamic escort light" function that lights up from below to welcome and see off occupants as they enter and exit the vehicle. This adds a bit of flashiness to this facelifted model if you catch my drift. It also comes with the Kia Digital Key 2 and the utterly important built-in camera in case of incoming sweet potatoes meddling your way.

2025 Kia K8

The powertrain lineup has been carried over from the pre-facelifted model. On the ICE side, The New K8 is still powered by a choice of two petrol engines and a 3.5L LPG variant which is very cheap to fill. The 2.5L petrol engine produces 198PS of power and 25.3kgf-m of torque while the most powerful of the range, the Smartstream G 3.5 GDi engine, produces 300PS of power and 36.6kgf-m of torque. All are mated to an 8-speed AT, which is operated by a rotary knob selector.

The New K8 Hybrid features a turbocharged 180PS 1.6L petrol engine bolted to a new 47.7kW electric motor and a lithium-ion battery, while mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. As a result, it has a fuel economy of 17.9kmpl.

The New Kia K8 is a front-wheel-drive vehicle that offers a stable ride on the road. The predictive suspension does a good job of smoothing out rough patches as well as its Highway Body Motion Control and Active Load Noise Control for a quieter and more comfortable driving feel. The 3.5L variant has an available all-wheel drive, which gives it even more stability and a ride that's as smooth as an Audi, without the drama. 

The New K8 hybrid variant is even more noticeable than the gasoline model, thanks to the E-Ride and E-Handling systems first seen on the facelifted K5. These systems give the K8 hybrid a sportier ride and handling.

Of course, there's no shortage of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems for this facelift but The New K8 comes with a capacitive sensor-based steering wheel grip detection as well as Vehicle Stability Assistant 2 which now uses a steering angle control method instead of the traditional torque control, improving overall performance. 

The New K8 starts at 37,360,000 Korean Won, which is about $33,000. That's a lot of money, but it's a lot of a car. The New K8 is a luxury car that's designed to compete with the Toyota Crown.

The Kia that started the "Movement that Inspires" movement has turned.

Available Colors: Snow White Pearl, Ivory Silver, Moonscape Matte Grey, Sunset Beige, Interstellar Grey, and Aurora Black Pearl

Photo: KIA

Kia EV3 vs Hyundai Casper Electric

The first-ever Kia EV3 all-electric crossover slots in as the most affordable model in Kia’s lineup of electric crossovers, with prices starting at 39.95 million won (around $33,000). While it is the most affordable of Kia’s electric crossovers, it’s still not cheap. After factoring in additional costs like taxes and registration, the price of an EV3 will likely be closer to $40,000. That’s still a solid value for an all-electric crossover from a reputable automaker.

2025 Kia EV3

A concept turned reality, the EV3 takes over the void left by the Soul when it was gutted off from the lineup three years ago, moments after the new Kia logo's unveiling.

2025 Kia EV3

The EV3 is a concept car turned reality. It fills the gap left by the Soul crossover, which was discontinued three years ago. The EV3 has nearly identical styling to the concept car it was inspired by, and it's sized like the defunct Soul. This compact size makes it easy to live with, though it's obviously also a "mini-me" EV9. The cubic-styled wheel designs add a nice touch and give the vehicle a distinctive and futuristic look. It looks like something straight out of Tetris.

2025 Kia EV3 interior

The Kia EV3 also features a minimalist interior. The materials used to construct the cabin are also recycled. It’s a great look that makes sense for an electric vehicle. Plus, you’ll feel good about reducing waste every time you get behind the wheel. 

While drivers are greeted by its 30-inch screen on the driver's side with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a five-inch air-conditioning touch panel, there's one annoying feature that will ruin someone from his or her sweet spot; the Kia EV-first AI assistant that works just like the Amazon Alexa nonsense.

Of course, being a five-seater crossover, the EV3's rear seats can be folded down for added space. It even comes with a rear hidden compartment to store some more. Having a compact crossover with a 25-litre frunk and a 460-litre boot really means business, especially if it's a Kia.

2025 Kia EV3

Built on the Hyundai Motor Group's E-GMP, the EV3's electric powertrain runs on a 400V architecture and an 81.4-kWh NMC battery for the Long Range variant while Standard Range variants run on a 58.3-kWh NMC battery. Both variants run on a front-mounted electric motor that produces 204PS of power and 283Nm of torque. It does 0-100kph in 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 170 km/h. Fair enough.

The Long Range variant is good for up to 501km of driving range in one full charge and it will take around 30 minutes to reach from 10% to 80% while charging at a public charging station.

Being front-wheel-drive only, the EV3 features eDTVC for better traction for moderate reasons. It even comes with the new i-Pedal 3.0 regenerative braking with one-pedal operation just like the Nissan Leaf. As for safety, the EV3 is prepped with notable features such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Highway Driving Assist, Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Remote Smart Parking Assist, among others. 

The Kia EV3 crossover is the baby of the Kia EV lineup. There's also the recently facelifted EV6 and the king-sized EV9. The EV3 looks like the concept car it was inspired by, and it's sized like the discontinued Soul crossover. It's a compact size that's easy to handle in the city. I'm not sure how I feel about the AI assistant. It's kind of annoying and might be hard for people to fall asleep in the back seat.

However, if you find the Kia EV3 too expensive or too annoying because of the AI assistant injected inside, there is a cheaper and simpler alternative: the Hyundai Casper Electric.

2025 Hyundai Casper Electric

2025 Hyundai Casper Electric interior

Priced at 31,493,670 Korean Won plus additional costs, the simple-looking Casper Electric brings everything Koreans loved about the Casper, now with the all-electric powertrain to back it up.

Although it looks and feels just like its petrol-powered equivalent, the Casper Electric features specifically-made front lamps, tail lights, and a new interior featuring a new digital instrumental cluster and touchscreen that are longer than the one from the normal Casper. Asked about the boot space, it's good for up to 351 liters with the rear seats folded down. It's offered only in one variant with five seats.

Bolted to a front-mounted electric motor and a 49 kWh battery, the Casper Electric produces 115PS of power and 147Nm of torque. It does 0-100kph in 10.7 seconds and a top speed of 150kph. As for driving range, it's good for up to 315km on one full charge.

The Casper Electric features a wide array of safety techs such as lane keeping assist, lane following assist, blind spot collision avoidance assist, forward collision-avoidance assist 1.5, and parking collision avoidance assist rear. It even comes with rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist, safety exit warning, smart cruise control with stop-and-go, highway driving assist 1.5 (HDA 1.5), intelligent speed limit assist, driver attention warning, high beam assist, leading vehicle departure alert, and rear occupant alert.

To sum things up, the Kia EV3 is the more expensive and feature-rich of the two, and it's also a larger car. The Hyundai Casper Electric, on the other hand, is more affordable and simpler. Both are fun to drive, but I would recommend the Casper Electric to people who are on a budget or who don't need all the bells and whistles.

The more you know...

Photo: Kia, Hyundai

Peugeot 3008 III

The Peugeot 3008 is now in its third generation, and it comes with a brand-new all-electric version: the e-3008. What's it all about the all-new model?

2024 Peugeot 3008

Starting at 34,700 Euros plus additional costs, the all-new third-generation Peugeot 3008 pens a new chapter in Peugeot's "new normal" era with its new design language fit for future Peugeots, a new Peugeot i-Cockpit, and the addition of its new electrified variant.

2024 Peugeot 3008

The all-new Peugeot 3008 has a futuristic coupe-like design inspired by its smaller sibling, the 408. It’s a radical change from its predecessor. The new face of the 3008 is proof of Peugeot’s latest design language. Its front face was inspired by the Inception Concept. The 3008 is the first model to feature this new look.

2024 Peugeot 3008 interior

Aside from its polarizing exterior design, the all-new 3008 features the all-new Peugeot i-Cockpit featuring a 21-inch curved touchscreen display standard on the GT variant or a pair of 10-inch displays for lesser variants like the Allure, customizable touch-sensitive buttons, spacious center console, and the gear lever positioned inboard of the steering wheel just like today's Hyundais. It even comes with Peugeot-first front seats with adaptive side bolsters which can inflate or deflate to adapt the occupant's body.

But what’s the scoop on the boot space? It can accommodate up to 520 liters with the rear seats in place, but when folded down, it can fit up to 1,480 liters, which is two liters less than the previous model. This could be because of its new coupe-like form. What do you think?

2024 Peugeot 3008

The all-new third-generation Peugeot 3008 is offered with a choice of a 1.2L hybrid with 136PS of power and mated to a 6-speed e-DSC, and of course, the electric powertrain with a 73kWh Lithium battery pack. The e-3008's electric powertrain has 210PS of power output and 345Nm of torque. It does 0-100kph in 8.8 seconds and flat-out in 170kph. The driving range is 524km in one full charge and it will take half an hour to reach 80% while charging at a public charging station. You get the point.

Because it now runs on Stellantis' STLA platform, the all-new 3008 behaves better than the previous model thanks to its low center of gravity. It may be front-wheel-drive only as expected but it feels just okay for a French car.

Peugeot’s new Drive Assist Plus, an optional feature for the 3008, makes it easy to navigate tight spots and other potential hazards. It includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring. It can even automatically change lanes and correct lane departures. You can also add on speed limit notifications and hill descent control.

The Peugeot 3008 is back with a bang for its third generation. It now comes with an electric version, and the design is more futuristic than ever, inspired by its smaller sibling, the 408. It may be slightly less spacious than the previous model, but the Inception-styled front, new i-Cockpit, the additional electric variant, and a host of new packaging are a sign of things to come from Peugeot under the thumb of Stellantis.

Available Colors: Gris Titane, Bleu Ingaro, Noir Perla Nera, Bleu Obsession, Gris Artense, and Blanc Okénite.

Photo: Peugeot

Third Generation Honda Freed

The Honda Freed minivan has come out with its third generation, and this car is ready to take on the “new normal.” The Freed has a new design, interior, performance, efficiency, and technology. It also comes in a hybrid version for those who want to be more environmentally friendly.

2025 Honda Freed

The all-new third-generation Honda Freed is all about being a versatile family vehicle that fits all types of lifestyles. It’s subtly stylish and has a new design, technology, performance, and efficiency. The third generation of this Honda minivan comes in a hybrid version for those looking for a more eco-friendly option. Priced at 2.508 million Yen plus additional costs, the Honda Freed is a subtle yet sleek choice for your next family car.

The boxy design of the all-new Honda Freed is a significant departure from its predecessor, and it’s sure to turn heads. It's offered in two different styles: the subtle Air and the slightly rugged Crosstar variant, which features black cladding underneath.

2025 Honda Freed interior

Inside, the all-new Freed features an N-BOX-inspired dashboard layout, a new digital instrumental display, a two-spoke steering wheel, a rather unique compartment for your tissue box, and a touchscreen infotainment system with Honda CONNECT, among others. The Freed Air variant is offered in a choice of a six-seater or a seven-seater but the Freed Crosstar, being the outdoor-oriented one, is offered only with five or six seats. It even has a modular cargo space, utility mounting points, a pegboard, and a lamp. An optional Slope for the Crosstar variant sure comes in handy for storing either a stroller or a wheelchair.

No matter which version you're on, rest assured that all seats can be folded down to your liking, whether for work or for leisure. Of course, having the third-row seats present eats away the boot space to almost never. Good for a family of four kids, but bad for boot space, just like the defunct Jade a long time ago. The sweet spot? Good luck finding one, kiddo. It's going to be a long day.

2025 Honda Freed

The all-new Freed is now offered with a 1.5-liter L15D petrol engine and a 1.5-liter e:HEV hybrid powertrain. Both of these powertrains are mated to a CVT.

The petrol variant is less powerful than the previous model and it produces 118PS of power and 142Nm of torque. The fuel economy is around 16.5km/L based on WLTC mode standards. However, the e:HEV powertrain features a 106PS 1.5-liter petrol engine bolted to a 90kW electric motor and a 48-Ah lithium-ion battery. It's less powerful than the old Freed Hybrid but the fuel economy is around 25km/L based on WLTC mode standards.

Although the performance is slightly short compared to its predecessor, the all-new Freed still feels so easy to drive, park, and live with, especially with the available 4WD system prepped for weather-related happenings. It also packs the latest Honda Sensing with autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and more.

The all-new third-generation Honda Freed hybrid minivan is the perfect vehicle for parents, no matter what kind of family you have. It’s not great in the speed department, but it is very easy to park and drive. It comes with the latest Honda Sensing technology, so you can feel secure that the Freed has your back on the road. And of course, it has that typical Japanese reliability.

Available Colors:

Freed Air: Fjord Mist Pearl, Platinum White Pearl, Luna Silver Metallic, Sonic Grey Pearl, Meteoroid Grey Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Premium Crystal Garnet Metallic, Seabed Blue Pearl, and Twilight Mist Black.

Freed Crosstar: Desert Beige Pearl, Platinum White Pearl, Sonic Grey Pearl, Meteoroid Grey Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Premium Crystal Garnet Metallic, Seabed Blue Pearl, and Twilight Mist Black.

Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Mini Cooper F66 and Cooper E J01

Welcome to the all-new Mini Cooper which now comes in two distinct flavors; the electric (J01) and the ICE-powered one (F66). Whichever Mini you choose, these new versions fit the "new normal".

2024 Mini Cooper

2024 Mini Cooper E

The "new normal" MINI Cooper starts at £23,135 plus additional costs while the electric version, imported from China, starts at £30,000 plus additional fees, making them the must-have bargain of 2024 and beyond. These new models still boast the classic MINI design while incorporating new and interesting ways to make them suitable for the "new normal" lifestyle.

2024 Mini Cooper

2024 Mini Cooper E

Beginning with the design, the all-new Mini Cooper retains the iconic design fans love but for the sake of MINIMALISM, pun intended, the new model sheds away the predecessor's fender flares and side scuttles while retaining the signature three-part paint scheme and flush door handles for better aerodynamics. Although the front view is as MINI as it should be, the new triangular taillights are a radical departure from its predecessors. Kind of a sacrilege, I dare say.

To differentiate the two models, they've been given different bonnet mechanisms. The J01 MINI Cooper E uses a conventional bonnet, while the F66 MINI Cooper uses the same clamshell bonnet as its F56 predecessor.

2024 Mini Cooper E interior

2024 Mini Cooper interior

True to the new model's character is the all-new interior that is as minimal as you can feel. Again, pun intended. On the driver's side, you are greeted by the new round 9.4-inch OLED touchscreen on the dashboard that works as a speedometer also, backed by MINI Operating System 9. This OLED touchscreen features an onscreen mascot named Spike and he pops up upon using the rather annoying and Alexa-ish MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant feature.

There are switches below the screen that can control the power, the volume, the air conditioning, and of course, seven MINI Experience Modes that each have a specific user interface design that also affects the lighting inside the vehicle.

Spacing issues, the petrol-powered MINI Cooper can accommodate up to 725L of boot space with the rear seats folded down while the Cooper E can do up to 800L, which is surprisingly more.

2024 Mini Cooper

2024 Mini Cooper E

Behind the wheel, both the Mini Cooper F66 and the Mini Cooper E J01 have different driving experiences judging from how they're made. The F66 model feels more of an improvement from its F56 predecessor while the J01 model, the electric one, is about as exciting as an ORA Good Cat. Thank you, BMW Group-Great Wall Motor joint venture.

The Mini Cooper F66 has two versions; the C and the S. The Cooper C has a 1.5L turbocharged 3-cylinder engine that produces 181HP of power and it will go from 0-62mph in 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 99mph. The range-topping Cooper S, meanwhile, has a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 215HP of power. 0-62mph in 6.7 seconds and flat-out in 106mph seconds. All are mated to a 7-speed DCT.

The Mini Cooper E J01, meanwhile, features two battery packs; a 40.7kWh one for the base Cooper E and a 54.2kWh one for the Cooper SE. The latter produces 218PS of power, 0-62mph in 6.7 seconds, and a top speed of 112mph. The driving range is around 250 miles on one full charge.

For safety, the all-new Mini Cooper range features 12 ultrasonic sensors and four surround-view cameras that take advantage of its Parking Assistant and optional Parking Assistant Plus systems. It even comes with autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and Remote 360, among others.

Love it or hate it, the Mini Cooper F66 and Cooper E J01 are two different all-new Minis built for the new normal. From its revamped iconic looks, new interior, dynamics with different variables per Mini, and an array of safety features, not to mention a run for your money, the "new normal" Mini sends a clear message to the motoring world that this legend has turned.

Photo: MINI