Opel/Vauxhall Astra L

It's the beginning of the new era for the Opel/Vauxhall Astra as this latest generation is the first all-new Astra under the Stellantis arm and it no longer bears the bits and bobs from The General since they migrated to Peugeot. We know that moving to its French masters is a difficult thing to do for the new Astra but it's for its own good. Let's investigate.

2022 Opel Astra

2022 Vauxhall Astra

Priced at 22,456 Euros (23,805 Pounds) plus additional costs, the all-new Astra L departed itself from being a foundation for the now-defunct Chevrolet Cruze during its GM years to a German equivalent to the third-generation Peugeot 308, which is a good thing for this new model because it's now expressing the joys of being fully European inside and out, thanks to its French connection. Anyway, no time to express optimism over the new car's French connection. Let's begin with the design.

Starting with the design, the Astra L dons the Vizor front face first seen in the second-generation Mokka crossover, giving the new model some cyberpunk looks, which is rather impressive but its squarish looks made the new Astra feel as abstract as a fancy abstract painting you saw in the art gallery.

2022 Opel Astra interior

2022 Vauxhall Astra interior

While the new exterior is less stylish compared to its Peugeot 308 equivalent, the minimalist-themed interior holds a different story. Like the new Mokka, the all-new Astra comes with a footlong-sized monitor with two screens on it, one for the speedo and the other one for the touch-screen sat-nav with smartphone connectivity on it. Of course, there are buttons on it but adjusting the air-conditioning can be a real challenge for the driver. On the plus side, at least the steering wheel is positioned at the dashboard, unlike the 308 where the steering wheel is positioned below.

In terms of comfort, the new Astra is surprisingly bigger compared to its Cruze-derived predecessor. Not only that, it's slightly roomier than the new 308 it was based on, which is more of a win-win for this new model. 

2022 Opel Astra

2022 Vauxhall Astra

Because it now dons on the same platform used by the Peugeot 308, the all-new Astra almost fully behaves like a proper European car. Moderate but easy to live with. This is how this new model rolls on a typical European setting like Berlin or London. Although it's not as enjoyable as proper European hatchbacks, probably because of the rear torsion bar setting used on it rather than multilink or independent, it feels so good to drive on a daily basis. It's all about enjoying life through good driving and this new Astra appeals rather well.

Under the bonnet, the new Astra offers a choice of all-new powertrains such as the 1.2L turbo petrol, 1.5 diesel, and the range-topping 1.6L turbo-hybrid powerplant similar to the one used on the new Peugeot 308. 

The latter produces a high-performance 180PS of power output, 360Nm of torque output, and because it's mated to an 8-speed automatic, it does 0-100kph in 7.6 seconds and flat-out in 225kph. With the electric mode engaged, it's good for 73km.

With safety the new normal, the all-new Astra is armed with numerous advanced driver assistance systems courtesy of its Intelli-Drive 2.0, adaptive cruise control, Intelli-Vision, and many others.

The all-new Astra may be more of a Germanized version of the new Peugeot 308 with a squarish front face that looks abstract and pixelated but it's shaping up to be a proper European hatchback for the masses. Migrating to its French masters is a hard thing to do but as it turns out, it feels good for the new Astra and looks like it's on a roll.

Photo: Opel/Vauxhall

Cupra Born

After the Formentor crossover, the Cupra brand unleashed another beast of their own and it's an electric hatchback known as the Born. So, what's it all about the Cupra Born? Let's investigate.

Priced at 37,400 Euros plus additional costs, the first-ever Cupra Born is basically a Volkswagen ID.3 that consumed too much Sangria Rosa and then turned into its Spanish equivalent. Unlike the ID.3 it was based on, the Born's styling is surprisingly wild and tangy for an electric hatchback. There is a well-known tidbit that it was heavily inspired from the Seat el-Born Concept but because Cupra is now a brand and part of the Volkswagen Group, the el-Born Concept from Seat became known today as the Cupra Born, much like when the Volvo 40.2 Concept turned into a Polestar 2 without the Volvo connection.

While the exterior is cyberpunk-esque for a hatchback, the interior is like a darker version of the ID.3, although the minimalist interior only appeals to Gen Z customers because of its touch-screen setup and lack of buttons. Futuristic indeed but still, it fits up to five people and the boot space is from 385L to 1267L, which is similar to the Volkswagen ID.3 of course.

At launch, the Born is equipped with a 58kWh battery pack that produces 204PS of power, 310Nm of torque, a 0-100kph time of 7.3 seconds, and 160kph of top speed. Slower than Japanese cars but it fits well to the high-performance car class. As for range, it's good for 424km in one full charge based on WLTP standards and it will take about 6 1/4 hours to fully charge at home or 80% in 35 minutes while charged at public. By 2022, the Born will be joined by the lesser 45 kWh variant and the more powerful 77kWh with e-Boost Pack. Engage the e-Boost button and it will produce 231PS of power. Simple.

In terms of dynamics, being a rear-wheel-drive car that weighs almost two and a half tons, the Born behaves like a hot hatch but in a mild and tangy way as expected. It has spartan driving manners just like a normal Porsche 911 as such and believe it or not, driving one is a piece of cake, thank you MEB platform and aluminum bodywork.

In terms of safety, the Born features a wide array of safety features such as Predictive Adaptive Cruise Control, Travel Assist, Side and Exit Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, Emergency Assist, and Pre-Crash Assist.

The Cupra Born truly is a Volkswagen ID.3 that consumed too much Sangria Rosa and with its cyberpunk-esque exterior design, minimalist interior fit for Gen Z, space, electric powertrain, and spartan driving manners, the Born is the go-to electric hatchback you want to drive.

Photo: Cupra

Second Generation DS 4

After a three-year hiatus, the DS 4 returns for its second generation and it's now a sleeker and more stylish hatchback that is as French as the Louvre. Like it or not, the all-new DS 4 is a bold fashion statement that balances the good and bad characteristics of a proper French car. Let's investigate.

2022 DS Automobiles 4

2022 DS Automobiles 4

Priced at 38,500 Euros plus additional costs, the all-new DS 4 marks the return of the DS brand's first five-door hatchback after three years in new and almost exciting ways that will tickle the drivers' fancies within. 

Beginning with the design, the new model is now sharper-looking compared to the old DS 4, which is surprisingly great for a French hatchback but when you parked somewhere at a fancy party place in Ibiza or near the casino at Monaco, it's hard to pass itself as a luxury car because, despite its premium design, it's basically a Peugeot 308 underneath, like a commoner dressed for JS Prom. Even the Cross variant with its rugged looks won't budge it because it's too obvious to know.

Obvious aside, the new model is heavily made of reusable and recyclable parts, meaning it has a conscience to the environment and sustainability, something that most carmakers will learn and adapt to someday.

2022 DS Automobiles 4 interior

Check inside and you will notice that the dashboard feels like a mashup between Star Trek and Beat Saber. Riffing aside, the minimalist layout spells trouble for speedo boys behind the wheel and that spells confusion unless you have a Bachelor's Degree in IT. To add more French salt to the wounds, it even comes with the DS IRIS SYSTEM that mashes up Alexa and the gesture control from BMW. Brace yourselves for some talk marathon if you're sitting at its sweet spot.

Because the new model is bigger than before, it's surprisingly roomier and more comfortable, giving the impression that you're like riding in an A-Class or an A3, which are the DS 4's targets but that would be burgeois to compare it to the German luxury hatchbacks that priced less than this. As for the boot, it's bigger than the previous DS 4 and the rear seats can be folded down for more.

2022 DS Automobiles 4

The all-new DS 4 is powered by three different powertrains; the 1.2 PureTech, the 1.5 BlueHDI, and the 1.6L E-TENSE PHEV powertrain. The said E-TENSE powertrain combines the turbocharged 1.6L petrol engine with an 81kW electric motor, lithium-ion battery, and an e-EAT8 gearbox. It delivers a combined power output of 225PS, 360Nm of combined torque, a 0-100kph time of 7.7 seconds, a top speed of 233kph, and 1.3L/100km of fuel economy.

Sounds high-performance class until we get to know about its dynamics. Despite its cheap suspension layout that behaves like a mainstream Japanese family hatchback, the new DS 4 drives better than the previous model. It even comes with the DS ACTIVE SCAN SUSPENSION which uses cameras that can detect road conditions and adapts through it like an auto-correct feature on your word processing software. The Cross variant features Advanced Traction Control and Hill Assist Descent Control, which are good enough while traversing through the dirt. Not exciting to drive but it feels good everywhere. It's about as civilized, as cultured, and as poised as the Germans. Respect for that.

As expected, the new DS 4 is loaded with the most cutting edge ADAS features offered in this semi-luxury hatchback courtesy of its DS DRIVE ASSIST 2.0 with cruise control, semi-automatic overtaking, speed adjustment, Radar Corners, and more, especially the DS NIGHT VISION system that detects stuff in the dark.

This is by no means a major improvement compared to the previous DS 4, like it or not. Despite its suspension setup that made it behave like a mainstream car, the all-new DS 4 is a premium-looking luxury hatchback that deserves to be driven every day. With such packaging, this French artwork is too impossible to ignore.

Photo: DS Automobiles

Chevrolet Bolt EV (Minor Change) and Bolt EUV

First launched in 2016, the Chevrolet Bolt EV is a full-fledged zero-emission electric car that envisions General Motors' commitment to reducing carbon emissions for many generations to come. Fast forward to the year 2021 and the Bolt EV received a minor change as well as the addition of the first-ever Bolt EUV, its crossover cousin.

2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV

2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV

The Bolt EV, Chevrolet's first and only fully-electric city car that feels almost irrelevant in today's America, received its big minor change for the 2022 model year, and judging by the looks of it, the new Bolt EV is now sharper looking than the pre-facelifted one, although the thinned headlamps gave us some Jeep Cherokee vibes. The first-ever Bolt EUV, meanwhile, looks almost the same as the facelifted Bolt EV but it's slightly bigger and it has a roof rack for a few reasons. Despite their size differences, they're still relatively small and easier to live with.

2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV interior

2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV interior

The interior has been heavily revised in the latest version as well. On the dashboard, the touch screen spawned buttons on the left for the volume and radio stations while the climate control's whole again. On the downside, the gear lever from the pre-facelift is gone and replaced by switches. Who cares about it? It's an electric car, after all.

Although it is as comfy and spacious as the previous version, the Bolt EUV is slightly roomier in the back while the boot space is almost as good as its little brother. Either way, they're both great for all walks of life. All business, all pleasure. This is what they're made for.

2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV

2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV

Although new, the Bolt EV's electric powertrain with the 66kWh battery pack still produces 200hp of power and 360Nm of torque, capable of going from 0-60mph in 6.5 seconds and an EPA-estimated range of 259 miles in one full charge. The Bolt EUV still packs the same electric powertrain as its little brother but because it's slightly heavier than the Bolt EV, it's 0.5 seconds slower and 12 miles less in distance. At this rate, it will take over four and a half times to charge these little tykes while going on a road trip from Seattle to Los Angeles. 

Speaking of charging them, they're both come with an 11.5kW Level 2 Charging Capability and standard DC fast charging capability. At home, it will take about eight hours to fully charge the batteries like what civilized human beings need. At the nearest public charging station, meanwhile, it will take about two episodes of your favorite anime show to fully charge it. Better late than never.

Both models still feature the One-Pedal Driving feature that helps the driver transfer energy to the battery in many ways but they've added a new Sport Mode feature to make things more interesting. Cheesy but it's worth trying out even while driving through the tight spots of nearby apartment buildings in downtown Hollywood.

In terms of safety, both the Bolt EV and the Bolt EUV are equipped with Chevy Safety Assist, a wide array of safety features such as Lane Departure Warning, Rear Camera Mirror, Surround Vision, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, and Forward Collision Alert, among many other features that promise peace of mind for the occupants. Exclusive to the Bolt EUV is the shocking addition called Super Cruise, an available hands-free driver assistance technology that uses cameras and sensors for lane detection purposes and it's compatible in over 200,000 miles in the US and Canada. It's similar to Tesla's Autopilot feature in several ways but it's not foolproof so common sense is needed before giving this autonomous trick for a go.

Both the Bolt EV and the first-ever Bolt EUV are your go-to city cars fit for the new normal. Although irrelevant to today's America because Americans today prefer bigger cars, of course, it's still worth fun driving one of them, even if you're on a business trip. It's a great thing Chevrolet kept the only American city car alive in the midst of the new normal and the latest version is proof that it's still in business.

Photo: General Motors

Audi RS3 (Typ 8Y)

After a year of waiting since the arrival of the current Audi A3, the ultimate version known as the RS3 has arrived in sedan and Sportback form, and this means party time for speedo boys who have waited long enough to get their filthy hands on the latest version that promises to be as awesome as the previous RS3.

The RS3 (priced at 62,000 Euros plus additional costs) and the RS3 Sportback (priced at 60,000 Euros plus additional costs) are back in the Typ 8Y generation and the latest versions promise to be as enjoyable to drive as the previous model, something that speedo boys are looking forward to.

At first glance, the new versions are like the normal Audi A3 8Y, but with the RS3, this is what these A3 models looked like after last night in Ibiza. Such party animals they, and when you check through the design and its interior, it smells like one of the frat boys on steroids. Now that's manly, but just like the normal A3, speedo boys can get easily plagued by its minimalist interior layout because like the normal model, you don't get buttons and dials to adjust the touch screen sat nav's volume.  You get buttons only on the climate control. Period.

Anyway, with the beefed-up exterior design and a dark interior theme that smells manly for hot hatch standards, the new models' performance and dynamics are something to spark a conversation about. The new models retained the same 2.5L TFSi engine from the previous model. Sure, it produces the same 400PS power output as the original but they've managed to add 20Nm of torque to make it 500Nm, allowing it to rev as much as 7000rpm. Mated to an S Tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive, it can go from 0 to 100kph in 3.8 seconds and with an optional extra online, it can go up to 290kph, that's 10kph quicker than the previous model.

Aside from the improved performance, the new RS3's dynamics are getting more enjoyable than ever because underneath, the old model's rear axle differential has been replaced with a torque splitter that comes with a special feature that makes the RS3 drift like a rear-wheel-drive car. Not a Focus RS as such but it feels so addictive and enjoyable. Couple that with the RS sports suspension and the ceramic brake system, along with other improvements, the result is a mild but menacing ride that speedo boys will never forget. Once they drive it, it's prime time.

Is this the best RS3 Audi ever made? It's a 3-to-2 split decision but either way, the all-new RS3 range, in sedan and Sportback forms, loves to party through the roads and tracks like a real party animal. Although speedo boys are getting problems with the interior, the fun-to-drive character is still pretty much alive and kicking and looks like we are feeling the jealousy from within, wishing we want to experience one of these on our own terms. This is the RS3 that is too cool to be ignored for Gen Z.

Photo: Audi

Peugeot 308 III

The Peugeot 308 has been known for rewriting the French carmaker's customs with the second-generation model rewrote Peugeot's naming strategy to freeze the -08 instead of advancing to the next number as models evolved. The advent of the third-generation 308 marks a bold new era for Peugeot, now that it's part of the newly-christened Stellantis family of car brands from PSA and FCA. It's the first to don Peugeot's new logo first seen on the e-Legend concept. Let's get to know the first Peugeot of its new era.

With prices starting at 24,800 Euros plus additional costs, the all-new Peugeot 308 is once again rewriting the Peugeot custom with its evocative styling, new interior, improved performance, and a plethora of driving tech that will attract neophyte drivers and get acquainted with it until the end.

Starting with the design, the new model has an aggressor feel than the previous model's generic approach. Speedo boys could say that the new model's aggressive exterior design is a recipe for a hot hatch but hold it right there boys because even though the new model has the striking looks of a cobra, Stellantis says no for the new model to become a hot hatch, unlike the previous model, because of the new normal. Boo.

Although the new exterior design is the main reason to fall in love with the all-new 308, the new interior is a worthy challenge. The i-Cockpit has been given a major overhaul on the new model with the introduction of the first-ever Peugeot i-Connect. While the new interior gives drivers the feeling of a sci-fi fighter, the minimalist approach and the gear select buttons in place of a lever can easily scare speedo boys straight or as some would say, "Marty, we got to go back!". What's also worse is the voice control that works like Alexa so expect trouble for those sitting on its sweet spot.

In terms of comfort, the new 308 is as comfortable as most mainstream cars should and it's surprisingly more spacious than the previous model it replaces because of its increased wheelbase. Also, the boot space is slightly more as well. With such room, the new 308 is capable of almost all walks of life.

The new 308 is powered by a choice of a 1.2L PureTech, 1.5 Blue HDi, and a 1.6 HYBRID variant, all mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. The most powerful version is the 1.6 HYBRID variant, which is basically a plug-in hybrid with the turbocharged 1.6L petrol engine connected to an 81kW electric motor. It produces a system power output of 225PS of power, has a 0-100kph of 7.5 seconds, a top speed of 235kph. The HYBRID 180 variant is the most efficient because of its 1.1L/100km combined fuel economy based on WLTP standards. You can kiss your Corolla Sport hybrid goodbye.

In terms of dynamics, the new 308 is part comfortable, part sporty at the same time thanks to its reworked suspension setup and the Driving Style Selector. Whichever style you're driving, rest assured that the new 308 is better to drive than the previous model. Not perfect but it will do.

As the car that represents the new era of Peugeot, the new 308 comes with a wide array of driving tech such as Semi-automatic lane change, anticipated speed recommendation, curve speed adaptation, long-range blind-spot monitoring, RCTA, Peugeot Open & Go, E-call+ emergency call, and more, standard or with the Drive Assist pack.

The new 308 truly is the start of the new era of Peugeot, apart from being the first to proudly wear the new Peugeot logo. Although not suitable for speedo boys because Stellantis says no to a hot version of this new model, it has the credentials normal drivers need to get through the new normal in style and dynamics. Not perfect but it's the best 308 made for the new normal.

Photo: Peugeot

Skoda Fabia (4th Gen)

The commoners' Skoda, the Fabia, is now on its fourth generation and it promises to be the best Fabia ever made because of its newly improved dynamics thanks to its new platform, the design that fits the Simply Clever slogan, the new interior, and a host of safety features fit for commoners. Not for speedo boys.

2022 Skoda Fabia

With prices starting at 339,900 Koruna plus additional costs, the reasonably priced, fourth-generation Skoda Fabia marks a fresh new start on the commoners' Skoda, which is basically a Czech cousin of the Volkswagen Polo as most say. Digging through every nooks and cranny, it seems Skoda did a fantastic job revamping the Fabia to adapt to the new normal, starting with the design.

2022 Skoda Fabia

The massive horizontal grille, at first, can be easily mistaken for a BMW or a Kia, but because huge grilles are the new normal, you can't really tell. Putting aside its front face, the new Fabia is styled just like its big brother, the Golf-sized Scala. It's all in the family if you ask them.

2022 Skoda Fabia interior

Step inside, the new Fabia has gone to the minimalist interior route because minimalism is also the new normal and that's bad news for speedo boys behind the wheel because look at the touch screen, there are no buttons in it. At least, climate control still has dials in it, which is good for a city car like the Fabia. Lamenting on the dashboard with the buttonless touch screen aside, the new Fabia dons a digital instrumental panel akin to the Audi virtual cockpit. Speed, range, navigation, this instrumental panel has it all.

Thanks to the use of its MQB-A0 platform, a first for the Fabia, the new model is surprisingly roomier than the old model and more spacious in the boot as well because of its additional 50L boot capacity. With a bigger boot space to boot, the Fabia works on all walks of life, whether if it's for another courtesy visit to relatives, another day at work, special deliveries, or TNVS.

2022 Skoda Fabia

The all-new Fabia is offered with a choice of a fuel-efficient 1.0L MPI or a 1.0L TSI engine in different configurations. There are no diesel variants, of course, because today's Europe despises diesel because of you-know-what-and-why. Manual and DSG are offered, depending on the variant.

The most powerful version has a 1.0L TSi engine producing 110PS of power and 200Nm of torque. With the 7-speed DSG, it sprints from 0-100kph in 9.5 seconds and flat out in 205kph. Enough to embarrass a Toyota Yaris on the highway, of course. Those who are interested in fuel economy, meanwhile, should go for the cheapest version with the 1.0 MPI engine mated to a 5-speed MT because of its combined fuel economy of 20kmpl based on WLTP standards.

Back to the new Fabia's use of the MQB-A0 platform, this new platform gave this tiny little hatchback more character, meaning it's so much more fun to drive than the previous model. Coupled with the sports chassis, the Fabia possesses hot hatch levels of enjoyment without all the drama. Of course, you can opt-in for the Rough-Road package in case you're in a mood for sandblasting at the beach but that would be a cheese-fest for a front-wheel-drive hatchback that wants to be taken care of in the suburbs and the city centers of Europe, so just ignore the Rough-Road package.

Like the cars of today, the new Fabia dons a wide array of active and passive safety features, including the ones that were originally offered exclusively for luxury cars such as Travel Assist, Park Assist, Lane Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, Side Assist, Front Assist with Predictive Pedestrian and Cyclist Protection, and Manoeuvre Assist. Coupled with up to nine airbags and you got yourself a high-quality city hatchback possessing high-quality levels of safety, whatever the reason.

The new Fabia truly adapts to the new normal with its new platform, the design that fits the Simply Clever slogan, the new interior, and a host of safety features fit for commoners. Like it or not, if you are the kind of person who wants a spacious city car but despises city crossovers, consider the new Fabia as your bet. The more your know.

Photo: Skoda Auto

Nissan Note Aura Nismo

The Note Aura, the dark side of the new Nissan Note that shares the same stuff as the regular one but with luxury touches and a wide form to differentiate, has been given the NISMO treatment and nothing says darker than a semi-hot hatchback fit for the grassroots racer starting his first track day at Tsukuba.

2022 Nissan Note Aura NISMO

2022 Nissan Note Aura NISMO

Priced at 2,869,900 Japanese Yen (around $29,000) plus additional costs, the Note Aura NISMO turns an oversized woman's purse into a speedo boy machine that looks like what speedo boys wanted but with the performance not yet ready to become a speedo boy's favorite. More with that later on but first, the styling.

2022 Nissan Note Aura NISMO interior

The normal Aura features a unique exterior design and a more premium interior to differentiate itself from the normal Note. The Aura NISMO, meanwhile, features signature NISMO elements implemented not just on the exterior but on the interior as well. The exterior features a signature NISMO aero kit to make look speedo-boy-friendly while the interior features a red-and-black theme just like most NISMO vehicles wear, not to mention the available RECARO sports seats to give speedo boys a much driving experience on the road and track.

No power boost here, sorry speedo boys. The Aura NISMO still runs on the e-POWER powertrain mated to a CVT gearbox. If you don't know what e-POWER is, it's where the 100kW electric motor does the talking while the 1.2L petrol engine supplements the battery and the motor.

The front-wheel-drive Aura NISMO features a specially-made NISMO mode that gives this hatchback a more responsive driving feel even while enjoying a nice Sunday drive at the Hakone turnpike. With cornering as its main topic, the Aura NISMO's aero kit features a greater downforce fit for cornering. Along with its sport-tuned suspension setup, monotube-type rear shock absorber, optimized body rigidity, and specially-made MICHELIN PILOT SPORT 4 tires, the Aura NISMO feels surprisingly accessible to drive on the road and track. Although not as fun as what the speedo boys hoped, it's rather impressive for a different kind of JDM hot hatch.

Of course, like today's cars adjusting to the new normal, the Aura NISMO features a wide range of ADAS such as Pro-Pilot, Intelligent BSI, and Intelligent FCW to name a few.

So, the Aura NISMO, what's it feel like? Although it's not what the speedo boys hoped for, this near-thirty-grand hot hatch is reasonably priced and fit for the grassroots driver within. Enjoy your Sunday drive with this newest NISMO vehicle.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Nissan Note Aura

Launched last year, the third-generation Nissan Note is the first Nissan car sold in its new era judging by the implementation of the new Nissan logo first applied in the Ariya. It continues Nissan's success story of its e-Power system in its new and functional form and in the midst of the new normal, this new economy car is ready to show the world how it's made.

2022 Nissan Note Aura

2022 Nissan Note Aura

For those who want the new Note that works just like the new Note but with a lavish affair, Nissan welcomes you to the dark side of the new Note, it's called the Note Aura, the luxury version of the third-generation hatchback.

Priced at 2,610,300 Japanese Yen (less than $27,000) plus additional costs, which is more expensive than the normal Note it was based on, the Aura is known as the dark horse of the new Note because of its lavish features not seen in the regular model as well as its unique styling fit to become the modern Japanese woman's new accessory.

Beginning on the exterior, the Aura differentiates itself from the normal Note with its Ariya-styled design and wider body size that still works on Japanese roads just like the normal Note. When parked alongside the normal Note, you can really tell the difference between them but either way, they're still the same species.

2022 Nissan Note Aura interior

2022 Nissan Note Aura interior

The interior feels like the new Nissan Note but because this is the dark side of the new Note, the Aura features premium amenities such as wood-grain trims on the dashboard, special leather seats on the Leather Edition, and Bose Personal Plus sound system that comes with speakers on the front headrests, among many others. That's "house fancy" for compact hatchback standards.

Despite the fancy treatments, the Aura still fits just like the normal Note for up to five people and it's got ample boot space fit enough for all your daily needs, be it for weekend trips with family and friends, grocery shopping, door-to-door deliveries, or TNVS.

2022 Nissan Note Aura

The Note Aura, just like the normal Note, is powered by Nissan's hallmark e-Power hybrid powertrain where the 100kW electric motor does the talking while the 1.2L petrol engine supplements the battery and the motor. Combined with the CVT gearbox, fuel economy is rated at 27.2km/L based on WLTC Mode standards, which is less than the normal Note gives.

If you're feeling under the weather, the Aura comes with the available all-wheel-drive system with the additional electric motor on the rear for a slightly added power despite the fuel economy cut to a mere 22.7km/L, which is modest for an AWD hatchback ready to take on today's weather forecast.

In terms of dynamics, the Aura still behaves like the normal Note despite its wide form, although it feels a bit old-fashioned compared to the competition, bearing suspension setups more sophisticated than this. Underneath, it comes with Rack & Pinion steering, front independent suspension with struts, rear torsion beam, front ventilated disc brakes, and rear leading trailing type brakes. Not as sophisticated as the mainstream Euro hatches but it's manageable.

Like the normal Note, the Aura comes with ProPilot driver-assist tech with Navi-link which allows this car to take advantage of the car's sat-nav to check for corners, speed limits, and more while taking advantage of its wide variety of semi-autonomous driving tech.

The Aura really is the dark side of the new Note because of its lavishly-equipped features fit for a woman's next accessory while traveling through one of Japan's fanciest cities like a semi-one-percenter. Although it's not really made for the 1%, the premium touches really made the Aura a class apart despite the fact that it runs on the same bits and bobs as the normal Note. Which one will you go for?

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Honda Civic FL1

The Civic, the car that became the icon of Honda and highly coveted by speedo boys worldwide, is now in its 11th generation and it promises to be the best Civic ever made despite the fact that it's offered in just one body style, unlike its predecessors.

2022 Honda Civic

Priced at 3,190,000 Japanese, which is more expensive than its predecessor, the 11th-generation Honda Civic is now offered exclusively as a hatchback because most of the customers of the previous generation went for the imported hatchback rather than the Japanese-made sedan. It's the main reason why they will not bring the sedan to this latest generation. Anyway, unlike the previous Civic Hatchback that is imported from Great Britain until the end of its operations due to restructuring, the 11th-generation Honda Civic hatchback is now made in Japan, the way the Honda Civic should be made.

2022 Honda Civic

Beginning with the design, the new model is surprisingly well-balanced compared to the previous model. Although it's no longer a sharp-looking hatchback, its geometrical styling made it look clean to look at it, regardless of location. In terms of dimensions, the new model is lower and longer compared to the previous model while keeping the width friendly for Japanese and European roads because of its narrow spaces. It's common sense.

2022 Honda Civic interior

The interior is now more spacious than the previous model due to its longer wheelbase, making it the ideal car for all walks of life, be it a family car or a road trip buddy for up to five people on board. On the driver's side, it's all back to basics as the sat-nav and the air-con has been repositioned with the former on top and the latter below. It's weird that the new sat-nav screen is somewhat tiny compared to the previous model. 

The instrumental panel is now back to basics and it now bears a tachometer on the left and a speedo on the right that reads up to 180kph of top speed. That's very Japanese, of course.

On the passenger side, meanwhile, because of its longer wheelbase, it's easy for the rear passengers to get accommodated and because it's a hatchback, the rear seats can be folded down for your additional spacing needs.

Whether for work or fun, the new Civic does it all.

2022 Honda Civic

The 11th-generation Honda Civic retains the same 1.5L VTEC TURBO engine as the previous model. It produces 182PS of power and 240Nm of torque and can be mated to either a 6-speed manual gearbox (the speedo boy favorite) or an improved CVT with a more robust electric hydraulic pump, ball-bearing secondary shaft, and revised Step-Shift programming, not to mention the idling stop system and the new catalytic converter design. Whichever transmission you go for, the new Civic has a fuel economy of 16.3km/L based on WLTC standards.

As for dynamics, Honda promises that the new Civic is more fun to drive than the competition and they almost stick to their word because it's a Honda. With the front McPherson struts, rear multilink suspension, rack-and-pinion steering, front ventilated disc brakes, and rear disc brakes, it's no wonder the new model has the behavior of a European hatchback that fits well everywhere and you can really spend a lot of time toying around with it as much as you want.

The new Civic comes standard with the new Honda Sensing suite of driver aids featuring a new single-camera system that provides a longer, wider field of view than the previous model. It even comes with Traffic Jam Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist System, and many others.

Made in Japan, fit for worldwide use, the 11th-generation Civic is the hatchback that delivers the same Civic pledge that has been coveted by its massive fanbase, including speedo boys. It was a surprisingly close call for Honda to keep building the Civic in Japan now that it's offered exclusively as a hatchback but in the end, it's all common sense.

Available colors: Platinum White Pearl, Sonic Gray Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Premium Crystal Red Metallic, and Premium Crystal Blue Metallic.

Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Toyota Aqua - Second Generation

In late 2011, Toyota unveiled the Aqua, a hybrid hatchback that not only it's cheaper than the Prius but more economical as well. With the advent of the more economical Yaris Hybrid, we all thought that the Aqua would meet its demise because of the Yaris's success but Toyota wouldn't let go of the Aqua because, in honor of the car's 10th anniversary this year, the Japanese motoring behemoth decided to give a brand new life for the compact hybrid hatchback for the masses. That's right, the Aqua's evolved.

2022 Toyota Aqua

2022 Toyota Aqua

You are looking at the all-new, second-generation, Toyota Aqua, the evolution of the hybrid compact hatchback for the masses. Starting at 1,980,000 to 2,598,000 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the all-new Aqua retains its value-for-money charm, meaning those who can't afford a Prius can buy this affordable and fuel-efficient hybrid hatchback to live with.

First, let's take a look at the exterior design. On the front, you can think of it as a rehash from the previous model, but when you look at its side and rearview, you'll have a quirky impression that it looks vaguely similar to the Ford Fiesta. Toyota says the new Aqua is targeted at young women in their 20s and 30s because to them, cars are like an accessory, but judging from its design, it feels like it's a general audience vehicle.

2022 Toyota Aqua interior

The new interior looks almost identical to the Yaris from last year. Look closely and you'll notice that the dashboard positioning, the steering wheel, and the speedo look almost identical to the Yaris, the hatchback that took its place. Similarity aside, the new Aqua is slightly roomier than its predecessor and slightly more spacious as well, meaning you can fit tons of shopping bags as well as some groceries. Apart from being used for leisurely city trips, the new Aqua is fit for delivery and TNVS duties if you're into that.

2022 Toyota Aqua

The new Aqua now runs on the similar TNGA compact platform first applied on the Yaris and when compared to the previous model, it is more fun to drive and easier to live within the city center or in the suburbs. Although not as sophisticated and fun to drive as the European hatches, the new Aqua still has checks and balances to give drivers a more relaxing driving feel all the time.

Under the hood, the Aqua runs on the new 1.5L Dynamic Force engine bolted to an electric motor and the world's first bipolar Ni-MH battery, offered on more expensive models. This new kind of battery has twice the output, improved throttle response, and smooth low-speed acceleration compared to a normal nickel-metal battery. You can even drive it on electric power only as well. 

For the first time, the all-new Aqua can be offered with the E-Four hybrid four-wheel-drive system that sure is coming in handy in case of weather change or in need of some extra power as well as a lithium battery-powered entry model.

An entry-level Aqua with a lithium-ion battery has a fuel economy of 35.8km/L based on WLTC standards, which is slightly less than the Yaris, of course, but more importantly, more fuel-efficient than the new Nissan Note e-Power! Now that is a real bargain.

Apart from that, the all-new Aqua marks the debut of Toyota's brand-new Comfort Pedal feature which allows the car to create regenerative braking force when you gently put your foot off the pedal.

In terms of safety, the all-new Aqua features a wide range of safety techs such as the Pre-Crash Safety System, Radar Cruise Control, and the Toyota Teammate, a first for a compact Toyota car, among many others.

Despite having its place taken by the Yaris, the Aqua is back for its second generation and with its new hybrid powertrain, tech, and style, it's proof that this affordable hybrid hatchback is still alive and has become the ideal new car for the new normal. Whatever the reason, the arrival of the second-generation Aqua is a decade in the making.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Kia K3 (BD) - 2022 minor change

Introduced in 2018, the second-generation K3 sedan excels on its value for money, good looks, tech, and space while its GT hatchback is all about being a fun-to-drive car you can afford. Fast forward to today and the second-generation Kia K3 gained a minor change for the 2022 model year. So, what's new for the K3?

The second-generation Kia K3 received a minor change for the 2022 model year with prices start at 17,700,000 Korean Won, which is more expensive than its main rival, the latest Hyundai Avante. Yes, while it's expensive than its Hyundai relative that gained its full model change last year, there is so much to dig about this latest minor change starting with its design.

The revised design features a more streamlined front where the headlamps and the Tiger Nose grille are now conjoined. It's a pattern similar to the previous generation's facelift a few years ago and because Kia now lives in its new era, the new Kia logo has been applied of course. Oh, and the rear lamps have been revised as well. Just don't let the new Kia logo startle you. That new logo gave them the creeps.

The interior has been slightly revised on this minor change as well and in addition to the new Kia logo slapped on the steering wheel, the updated interior features a longer 10.25-inch UVO Navigation, an electronic parking brake that replaces the traditional one, which is bad news for speedo boys behind the wheel of course because they're not fans of the electronic parking brakes, and for the first time in four-door saloons, a smart trunk that can be opened automatically when it senses an incoming driver holding a smart key. Although the changes were minimal, it still snugs up to five people and still delivers the same boot space as usual with the K3 GT carrying more stuff than the sedan version, of course.

Nothing's changed on the specs, of course. The K3 sedan is still powered by the SmartStream G1.6 petrol engine mated to a SmartStream Intelligent Variable Transmission or IVT, a CVT that uses a chain-type belt instead of a push belt. Fuel economy is still 15.2km/L.

The K3 GT hatchback, meanwhile, still runs on a 1.6L Gamma T-GDi four-cylinder engine producing 204PS of power and 27.0kg•m of torque while mated to a 7-speed double-clutch gearbox. Fuel economy is around 12.1kmpl.

While the dynamics of these two body styles remained the same, with the K3 sedan focused on being a comfortable everyday car to drive just like your dad's Honda Civic, while the K3 GT is all about being sporty all over thanks to its sporty suspension setup implemented, the list of safety features have been greatly expanded and revised with the implementation of the navigation-based Smart Cruise Control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision avoidance assistance, rear collision avoidance assist, and Safety Exit Assist.

Despite numerous improvements, it's still basically the second-generation K3 the world's familiar with and it works and feels just like the pre-facelift model, only better.

Photo: Kia