Kia Sorento (MQ4) Hybrid

When Kia launched the 4th generation Sorento early this year, only the diesel powertrain is offered at launch, but due to inconsistent demand, Kia finally added the cream of the crop of the 4th-generation Sorento; a hybrid powertrain unlike any other.

2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid

2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid interior

The arrival of the first-ever Sorento Hybrid showcases Kia's new way to make hybrids more enjoyable to drive unlike its Japanese competitors such as the Honda CR-V and the Toyota RAV4 because what the Korean carmaker did is creating a new hybrid powertrain that will upset the boring Japanese ones.

How did they do it? Simple, really. They slapped a turbocharger to the hybrid powerplant. The Sorento Hybrid features the first ever Smartstream Turbo Hybrid powertrain where the turbocharged 1.6L petrol engine is bolted to a 44.4kW electric motor and a li-ion battery, while mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. With this, total power output is a high-performance-class 230PS, 35.7kgf-m of torque, and up to 15.3km/L of combined fuel economy for front-wheel drive variants.

Like the normal Sorento, it features a generic exterior design, spacious interior for six or seven people, high-tech dashboard with a Jaguar-esque rotary shift knob, new platform, reworked suspension setup, optional 4WD with Terrain Mode, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, and so much more.

The Sorento Hybrid starts at 36,000,000 Korean Won, which is more expensive than the normal, diesel-powered model, but if you are growing unsatisfied over the new model's diesel powerplant like the rest of the world, consider the Sorento Hybrid the ideal alternative. Besides, with the turbo hybrid powerplant, the Japanese competitors are in for a world of disdain because while being another crossover in the neighborhood, the turbo hybrid powerplant will leave the Japanese rivals crying, wishing they had turbos and better gearbox like the Sorento's. The more you know.

Photo: Kia Motors

Nissan Kicks

Ten years ago, Nissan gave us the Juke which is cool to drive in the beginning but in the end, it's just a hideous piece of sheet metal that is about to be picked up under the bush for no reason. By common sense, the life and times of the Nissan Juke are well and truly over (shame about the turbocharged one, which is not bad) and its replacement is something more of a global model originally made for the developing world but now made its way to the First World. Enter Kicks.

2021 Nissan Kicks

The fully-imported-from-Thailand Nissan Kicks is a brand-new compact crossover that starts at 2,759,900 Yen (around $28,000) and with such pricing, that's about slightly more expensive than the hybrid variant of the Toyota C-HR, which is shame as such for the newcomer but what to expect at this new model?

2021 Nissan Kicks

For starters, the Kicks is better looking than the Juke it replaces because of its striking front face but the sidelines and the rear view are somewhat contemporary for crossover standards. Although better-looking than the Juke, the design is more of mixed nuts if you know what I mean and when you take it on the road, you feel like a commoner like the rest of the world. Common sense.

2021 Nissan Kicks interior

Inside, the Kicks is as comfortable as your dad's current car you're sitting on and it feels very decent to live with. On the driver's side, the dashboard works like every other car should and you can't go wrong about getting familiarized with the layout. Boot space wasn't so shabby either. So, if you are looking for a mature tall-riding hatchback that is fit enough for the trip to the mall with your friends or for work-related stuff in case of logistics and TNVS purposes, consider the Kicks your next go-to car for the job. Well done, Nissan.

2021 Nissan Kicks

The Kicks is the first Nissan crossover to come with the company's revolutionary e-Power powertrain, which is different than any hybrid car in the way it operates. First applied on the Note and Serena, the e-Power powertrain lets the 95kW EM57 electric motor do the talking while the HR12DE 1.2L petrol engine serves as the generator for its batteries. It's linked to a shift-by-wire system and comes with a similar One-Pedal function just like in today's Leaf. With this, fuel economy by WLTP standards is around 21.6km/L, which is less than the C-HR hybrid, but forget about that because, with the e-Power, the Kicks is in a totally different league compared to other hybrid crossovers.

Like most tiny crossovers, the Kicks is front-wheel drive only so the only thing it can do is a spot of urban living in the new normal, and while dynamics are decent, it's not as refined as the European opposition but for day-to-day use, the Kicks is not a bad crossover to live with it especially when it comes with the ProPilot safety system, which is too much information if you know what I mean.

In the end, after checking everything from top to bottom, all the way to the inside out, the Kicks feels a bit like the Juke it replaces. While it's better looking than the Juke and nice to live with, the powertrain and dynamics need a bit more oomph, although the e-Power powertrain does live up to its name. The Kicks is a decent crossover for the urban landscape of the new normal but it deserves better and that is the bottom line.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Tenth Generation Honda Accord

The tenth-generation Honda Accord is now landed in Japanese roads with a starting price of 4,650,000 Japanese Yen (around US$46,500), and although the pricing is more expensive than its main rival, the Toyota Camry, the new Accord promises to be the most advanced Accord ever made thanks to its new e:HEV dual-motor hybrid powertrain, evocative styling, luxurious interior, and cutting edge technology that sets them apart. So, let's take the Why Card out in the bag and get to know more about the new Accord.

2020 Honda Accord

For its tenth-generation of Honda's D-segment luxury midsize sedan that is targeted at the hard-working salarymen whose wives have their hands full on their part-time businesses, the new Accord is all about getting the job done from Day 1 until the time comes when the driver becomes fully satisfied with this hybrid saloon and then switch off to another one.

2020 Honda Accord

The new model's design is more of an enlarged version of the current Honda Civic, meaning it incorporates some coupe-like sidelines to give it a more athletic vibe to this four-door saloon. Size-wise, the new Accord is 34mm shorter, 12mm wider, and 55mm more wheelbase than the previous model, meaning this coupe-like four-door saloon really shows its big impression on its potential customers.

2020 Honda Accord interior

Thanks to its increased wheelbase, the new Accord's interior is surprisingly more spacious than its predecessor, meaning there's more space in the back for those who Uber-red you after work and enough boot space to carry a golf cart for a trip to the country club. On the driver's side, the new dashboard layout is anything but basic to toy around with. This new interior really spells work day for the new Accord every day.

2020 Honda Accord

The new Accord is the first Honda saloon to be powered by the company's brand new e:HEV dual-motor hybrid system that first debuted on the fourth-generation Honda Fit. The 145PS 2.0L LFB 4-cylinder DOHC 16v PGM-FI i-VTEC Atkinson Cycle engine is mated to a 135kW H4 electric motor, a lithium-ion battery, and e-CVT. When used efficiently, it delivers 22.8kmpl of fuel economy by WLTP standards, which some say it's more efficient than the Toyota Camry, which is a plus but don't get too excited because on highway roads, it feels a tad sluggish. 

The only redeemable shot of love for the Accord is the way it handles courtesy of its rack and pinion steering, front MacPherson struts, rear multilink suspension, front ventilated disc brakes, rear disc brake, and its new body that is stiffer and lighter than the previous model by about 50kg. With its good dynamics fit for a hybrid saloon, the Accord is no doubt something to live with as well as its wide array of safety tech courtesy of its Honda Sensing suite of driver aids.

So, has the new model improved from the previous model seven years ago? Slightly yes, of course, because the new model really means business, and if you called yourself a middleman, consider this executive sedan fit for the job. Not the most exciting saloon you wished for but it's one of the most promising saloons of the new decade and whether you're using it for personal use, for delivery use, or for TNVS purposes, the Accord is all about getting the job done without all the drama.

Available Colors: Platinum White Pearl, Luna Silver Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Passion Red Pearl, and Brilliant Sporty Blue Metallic.

Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

4th Gen Toyota Yaris vs. 4th Gen Honda Fit

The two compact hatchback rivals, the Toyota Yaris and the Honda Fit, are now on their fourth generation, and even though they have differences, these two Japanese compacts are redesigned to be more advanced, more efficient, and more enjoyable for drivers who want to take them for either work or play.

2020 Toyota Yaris

We start with the Toyota Yaris, an all-new model from Toyota, and the long-awaited replacement for the Vitz hatchback. With prices starting at 1,395,000 Japanese Yen, the Yaris is a reasonably-priced hatchback that is designed from the ground up and promises to be a revolution rather than an evolution for this freshman favorite.

2020 Toyota Yaris

Unlike the last-generation Vitz it replaces, the Yaris’s exterior design is like a Toyota Aqua getting mashed up by any European hatchback you know, meaning this new model looks and feels like a European city car and that design really is worth having.

2020 Toyota Yaris interior

On the interior, the Yaris is nicer to live with than the Vitz it replaces. Spacious as well thanks to its wider stance and the TNGA platform it uses. Whether it can be used for work or for play, the Yaris is a do-all compact that does any tasks like a real yuppie on city life.

2020 Toyota Yaris

Because of its TNGA platform, as well as its clever suspension setup, the Yaris is more fun to drive than the Vitz at all corners of the city or on the open road, meaning such dynamics got the Europeans stunned at first sight.

In terms of performance, the Yaris is a city car in its own right that is powered by a choice of two petrol engines, a Dynamic Force 1.5L, and a 1.0L, and the hybrid variant is powered by a brand new 1.5L Hybrid Dynamic Force powertrain (engine + electric motor + li-ion battery) that promises up to 36kmpl on the combined WLTP scale. It is the first Toyota compact to have an E-Four hybrid four-wheel-drive system that sure is coming in handy in case of weather change. While the hybrid is mated exclusively with a CVT, the normal ones can be fitted with either a CVT or a 6-speed manual, something speedo boys are looking for.

Aside from that, the Yaris boasts class-leading safety features that translate to serious business when it comes to keeping the occupants safe.

2020 Honda Fit

Now it’s the turn of the fourth-generation Honda Fit, which starts at 1,557,600 Japanese Yen, slightly more costly than the Yaris.

2020 Honda Fit

Whereas the Yaris has evolved from being blunt to sharp, the new Fit is the exact opposite. What do you mean? Well, the previous Fit is sharp-looking even as years pass by but the new model shies away from being edgy and instead of looking round, clean, and simple. For this new version, the Fit is offered in various variants such as the Basic, Home, Ness, Luxe, and the outdoor-oriented Crosstar. Sadly, no sporty variant is in sight. Shame.

2020 Honda Fit interior

Although the new look is just okay, which is not okay for some because like they said, just okay is not okay, the new interior is anything but basic and because of its better visibility, you can really see things clearly while driving. Space? Well, the Fit has better space than the previous model, meaning this new model doesn’t matter whether it is an all-work, all-play simpleton that loves to stretch itself.

2020 Honda Fit

The old model’s hybrid powertrain had a nice double-clutch gearbox, making it more engaging to drive on a normal basis. The new model, sadly, no longer bears such enjoyment because it is now mated to a CVT and the compact version of the dual-motor hybrid powertrain derived from the Accord. Now called e:HEV, Honda’s dual-motor hybrid system is going to be the future of Honda’s electrification ambition, and expect future Honda hybrids bearing the e:HEV powertrain soon.

The 1.5L e:HEV powertrain delivers 38.6kmpl of fuel economy based on WLTP standards, meaning it’s more fuel-efficient than the Yaris, meaning it’s the lesser of the two naughties, and with that kind of efficiency, the new Fit can do all of the deliveries and TNVS stuff while leaving room for its day out at the mall and back home, especially when it lets its highly advanced safety features do the talking.

Of course, there’s a 1.3L i-VTEC petrol variant as well but because it's mated only with a CVT gearbox, it’s just okay, which is not for some because again, just okay is not okay.

So there you have it; the Yaris and the new Fit are compact hatches with different ways and means to satisfy yuppies across Japan. The Yaris is all about being sporty and enjoyable while the new Fit is all about being a basic necessity for the normal driver. In the end, it’s hard to decide which one is best and in the end, it’s everybody’s guess.

Photo: Toyota/Honda

Kia Niro (2020 minor change)

The Kia Niro, a hybrid crossover that runs on the same mechanical bits and bobs s the Hyundai Ioniq crossover, gained a minor change for the 2020 model year and this minor change is all about "new look, same taste" for Kia's dedicated hybrid crossover that is not as boring to drive as any Japanese hybrid crossovers it can lash into.

2020 Kia Niro

2020 Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid

Starting at 24,200,000 KRW MSRP, the 2020 Kia Niro follows the footsteps of the recently facelifted Hyundai ioniq and that is all about "new look, same taste" in terms of style, comfort, ecology, and tech, no doubt.

Firstly, the revised design of the facelifted Niro draws inspiration from its Niro EV variant, meaning it's got that new projector-type headlamps and fog lamps, new grille design, dual chevron-shaped LED DRLs, revised faux skid plate, rear LED combination lights, and new wheel designs to choose from. On the inside, the Niro's slightly revised with a new 7-inch instrument cluster and new 8-inch touchscreen display with the optional 10.25-inch UVO navigation system, climate control, optional paddle shifters, and others, which is good for a five-seater hybrid crossover with decent spacing inside and out.

2020 Kia Niro interior

The powertrain remains the same for the 2020 Niro, meaning you can still expect the same Kappa 1.6L GDi engine connected to a 32kW electric motor and a lithium-ion battery for the hybrid model, mated to its double clutch gearbox to deliver 19.5km/L of combined fuel efficiency. On the PHEV model with the Kappa 1.6L GDi engine connected to a 44.5kW electric motor and a 6-speed Double Clutch Gearbox, that's about 18.6km/L combined with the electric driving range of 5.1km/kwh.

For safety, the facelifted Niro comes with a wide array of available Advanced Driver Assistance Systems such as the new Lane Following & Lane Keeping Assist and High Beam Assist.

One of some reasons new and existing owners to get their hands on the revised hybrid crossover that has been craving on the road for three years.

Photo: Kia Motors

Fifth-generation Toyota RAV4

After years of being absent in the Japanese market while the rest of the world enjoyed one, the Toyota RAV4, the one that started the crossover trend, is back and Toyota promises that the new RAV4 is now better than ever thanks to its earful TNGA platform, Dynamic Force engines, new technology, and that's it. After three years of being absent in Japan, the new RAV4 is ready to pick up where its overseas-only predecessor failed and looks like it's going to be a big one now that it's back for real.

2019 Toyota RAV4

2019 Toyota RAV4

Having debuted at the 2018 New York International Auto Show and then went on sale globally before its comeback in the Japanese market, the new Toyota RAV4, the one that invented the crossover trend, is ready to pick up where its predecessors left off and everything you know about the RAV4 has been restarted back because it now runs on the TNGA platform and Dynamic Force engines with more to come later on.

First off, the design and for starters, Toyota uses the design from the FT-AC Concept as inspiration for this new model, and no matter which variant you're on; the normal or the Adventure variant, the new RAV4 is a sharp-looking crossover that shows its working-class charm, whatever that is. Although this is a sharp-looking crossover, it's hard to squeeze the details of its new design while squinting your eyes to get a closer look at it but once you get the picture, it looks somewhat above average.

2019 Toyota RAV4 interior

2019 Toyota RAV4 interior

Inside the new RAV4, it's surprisingly as spacious as the previous model that never saw the light of day on Japanese roads, and while the digital instrumental panel's nothing unusual on the rather functional dashboard, the creature comfort is about as pleasant as a compact sedan and there's plenty of room for some everyday junk from the thrift store, hunk of metals you're selling to customers or stuff you bought from the grocery, whatever it takes. The new RAV4 is basically a five-seater crossover so while it's not useful to occupy the whole second-row seats with child seats, it works only as a joyriders' car while going out to see some beauty spots. Yes, your little sister would love it more than her old Honda CR-V, that's for sure.

2019 Toyota RAV4

Thanks to its TNGA platform that contributes to its spacious interior, the RAV4 is now a livelier crossover to drive every day and in connection with the more rigid unibody chassis, MacPherson struts, double-wishbone rear suspension, shorter front and rear overhangs, and increased ground clearance, this new model deliver a relatively superior driving experience you can use it for work or for play.

The new RAV4 comes with the M20A-FKS Dynamic Force 2.0L inline-four-cylinder engine mated to a Direct Shift CVT and an A25A-FXS Dynamic Force 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder Toyota Hybrid System II engine with Electronically-Controlled CVT and while they are rather sluggish to drive in the middle of the Shutokou, their additional AWD systems are rather handy-capable to drive through different road surfaces like the elephant in the room.

That's because the new RAV4 comes with the world's first Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD with Rear Driveline Disconnect which sends half of the torque to the back, then it distributes it to the left or right rear wheel for better handling and in the case of e-AWD on the hybrid models, it increases the overall torque to the back wheels by 30%. This system makes the new RAV4 a lot more enjoyable to drive even while going sandblasting at the beach.

Asked about fuel economy, the 2WD petrol variants can get up to 15.8km/L while 4WD petrol variants get up to 15.2k/L. The hybrid gets 20.6 for 4WD and 21.4 for 2WD. All are calculated under the honest-to-goodness WLTP regulations.

For safety, the new RAV4 comes with the next generation of Toyota Safety Sense, which adds new active-safety technologies and capabilities including Lane Tracing Assist and Road Sign Assist, among many others, making it a certified Safety Support Car or Safety Support Car S (Wide), depending on the variants.

The new RAV4 starts from 2,608,200 to 3,817,800 Japanese Yen (around 1,223,000 to 1,800,000 Philippine Pesos), making it one of the most reasonably priced crossovers in Japan today and that price really means business for the RAV4. Most Japanese people are missing out on the previous model while the rest of the world got their hands on it, probably because of such cowardice just like what happened to the Honda Civic and the Toyota Hilux but now that the RAV4's back in the Japanese market, looks like there's a lot of catching up to do for this new model, either good times or bad times.

Available colors:
Ash Gray Metallic x Urban Khaki, Ash Gray Metallic x Cyan Metallic, Ash Gray Metallic x Attitude Black Mica, Ash Gray Metallic x Gray Metallic, White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, Sensual Red Mica, Dark Blue Mica, Urban Khaki, Cyan Metallic, Attitude Black Mica, and Gray Metallic.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Hyundai IONIQ (2020 minor change)

Since two years ago, Hyundai launched the IONIQ as a response to the Toyota Prius and while it wasn't as efficient as its chief rival, this hybrid does all the things the Prius can't and that is behaving like a normal car. With the latest minor change, there's more work to do for Hyundai's dedicated eco car for the masses.

2020 Hyundai IONIQ

2020 Hyundai IONIQ interior

Available in hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid versions, the facelifted Hyundai IONIQ has made it even more clever than the previous model. With a new grille, new LED lights, and new wheels, the revised exterior design really means business and on the inside, the dashboard's revised with a new touchscreen (in 8-inch display audio or 10.25-inch navigation guise) and a new climate control. That's pretty much it for the new interior, which is still as comfortable as the old model and sustainable as well thanks to extensive use of sustainable materials.

The fuel efficiency remains the same for these models. The hybrid model with its Kappa 1.6L GDi engine connected to a 32kW electric motor and a lithium-ion battery, mated to its double clutch gearbox, delivers a combined fuel efficiency of 22.4km/L while the Plug-in with its Kappa 1.6L GDi engine connected to a 44.5kW electric motor and a 6-speed Double Clutch Gearbox promises a combined rate of 20.5km/L. Nothing's changed of course but these models are getting a new mode that switches these IONIQ models into electric-only mode when driving into designated low-emission zones. It works well on city centers but sounds above average if you ask them.

For the sake of cleverness, the facelifted IONIQ's been offered with a wide range of tech such as regenerative braking, optional one-pedal operation, Hyundai SmartSense safety features, and many others.

The Hyundai IONIQ minor change starts at 24,680,000 Won while the IONIQ Plug-in minor change starts at 28,940,000 Korean Won.

Photo: Hyundai Motor Company

Third-generation Honda Insight and Clarity PHEV

After two failed attempts to challenge the Toyota Prius, the Honda Insight hybrid has returned and this time as a four-door saloon that blends style with ecology that makes it unique in every single way but unlike its failed predecessors, the new Insight doesn't really want to pick fights with the Toyota Prius. Instead, it wants to take on a different approach now as a four-door saloon that serves as the successor of the old Civic Hybrid from the distant past.

2019 Honda Insight

2019 Honda Insight

Priced from 3,261,600 to 3,826,570 Japanese Yen, the third-generation Honda Insight departs from being a Prius fighter its predecessors failed to attempt and instead, because it's now a Civic-sized hybrid sedan, it wants to take on the likes of the Corolla Axio Hybrid, which is shockingly cheaper than the Insight but because the Toyota Corolla Axio's reached its prime, the new Insight's ready to shine and judging from every angle, the new Insight really is a concept turned reality as it draws inspiration from the concept car as seen from the 2018 NAIAS and just as we thought that the Insight might end up being an American-only model, we'd be dead wrong because it's already arrived in Japan and it's here to stay.

2019 Honda Insight interior

While the Insight's exterior is very Civic-influenced to give it a more coupe-like approach at every angle, the driver-focused interior is far beyond the competition and while it works like it means it, the comfort is pretty much feels like every family car in the world and while the rear legroom's surprisingly spacious enough for six-footers to breathe their legs out, the trunk space is pretty ample enough for someone who can jam through numerous thrift shop hauls while leaving some room for some minor grocery shopping treats. Interesting.

2019 Honda Insight

The new Insight features a third-generation Sport Hybrid i-MMD system, a two-motor hybrid system that combines the new 109PS 1.5L Atkinson-cycle petrol engine and a powerful 96kW electric drive motor, allowing this car to run as a series hybrid, as an electric, or as a petrol-powered car. This hybrid setup is capable of delivering the new Insightt a WLTP-based combined fuel economy of up to 28.4km/L.

Apart from the hybrid powertrain, the new Insight's body and chassis is actually an improved version of the one used from today's Honda Civic and while this is not essentially a fun-to-drive car like most Japanese hybrids possess, the new Insight is surprisingly comfortable and quiet and when armed with the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver safety features, the journey home never felt so safe and secured and this could be the ideal family car you wouldn't want to let your eyes off.

The Insight really is a classy hybrid with loads of tech in it and as an alternative to the Civic, which doesn't have a hybrid variant from its previous eight-generation model, for the regular joes rather than speedo boys who like to keep the Civic anyway, this is an everyday car that you can really take it with you for work or for play. However, if you need more than the Insight, consider its another alternative if you consider planning extra trips.

2019 Honda Clarity PHEV

2019 Honda Clarity PHEV

This is the new Honda Clarity PHEV and while this is based on the Clarity Fuel Cell, what's different between the two cars is the powertrain because while the normal Clarity Fuel Cell is an FCEV car much like the Toyota Mirai, the Clarity PHEV uses an LEB-H4 1.5L iVTEC Atkinson Cycle engine combined to an 135kW electric motor and li-ion battery made for plug-in use.

2019 Honda Clarity PHEV interior

2019 Honda Clarity PHEV interior

Running as a hybrid, this has a combined fuel efficiency, by WLTP standards, of 24.2km/L but using its full capabilities as a plug-in hybrid vehicle, it has a class-leading PHEV combined fuel efficiency, by WLTP standards, of 101km. Consider how many places you can get into whereas the new Insight can't. But with all that distance comes with the price because the Clarity PHEV is priced at 5,880,600 Japanese Yen and that over two and a half million more than the new Insight. But let's not mince words for the time being.

In the end, if you want a luxurious compact hybrid sedan that behaves like a normal family car fit for everyday use, try the Insight, but for further journeys, consider the new Clarity PHEV for a change.

Photo: Honda Motor Co. Ltd.

Lexus UX

Toyota's Lexus brand continues to cash in on their crossover hits such as the RX and the NX and because most European luxury carmakers pooling in with their smaller crossover offerings such as BMW's X1, Audi's Q2, and Mercedes' GLA, Lexus responds with their smallest crossover offering dubbed the UX. Let's investigate what's what with the new UX.

2019 Lexus UX

2019 Lexus UX

This is Lexus' smallest crossover offering for people who are spending the rest of their free time going to places in the Metro they've never been before. The UX truly responds to the urban city life with its hatchback-like styling which is average by crossover standards, well-minded interior, decent performance, and tech fit for the urban millennials ready to go for more.

For a glorified Toyota C-HR, the UX's styling is quintessentially Lexus indeed from front, center, and back and from every angle, you can really trace the UX's styling from its big brothers such as the NX and the RX. It's all in the family, right? And then, we check on the inside of the UX...

2019 Lexus UX interior

2019 Lexus UX interior

The inside of the UX maybe inspired from the LS but some say, the UX's interior feels somewhat average for a luxury compact crossover so it's hard to take chances with its interior. On the driver's side, toying around with the dashboard is a bit more on the NORMAL level so you may or may not be familiarized with the layout of the UX. There's the steering wheel, the LC-inspired speedo, the Remote Touch that takes time to familiarize with it, the Mark Levinson premium surround sound system, climate controls, everything offered on the UX's dashboard and it takes some reasonable time to toy around with it. On the passenger side, it's not so bad to get into the sweet spot and the boot space is reasonable enough to fit some stuff you bought from the thrift store or from a rummage sale you found on the sat-nav.

2019 Lexus UX

Yes, the Lexus UX is basically a glorified Toyota C-HR because the T-NGA platform underneath is the same one used on the C-HR as well. People who are familiarized with the Toyota C-HR may have the same driving feeling they get on the Lexus UX but what's under the hood is a different story. In the UX200, it's powered by a M20A-FKS 2.0L Dynamic Force 4-cylinder petrol engine producing 174PS of power and 209Nm of torque, mated to a new Direct-Shift-Continuously Variable Transmission which promises a smoother driving feel and when you put your foot hard, it can freely adjust the transmission ratio to simulate gear changes like a multi-gear automatic transmission. Not bad for such gearbox that promises 16.4kmpl of fuel economy combined by WLTP standards.

The UX250h, meanwhile, features the M20A-FXS 2.0L Dynamic Force 4-cylinder petrol engine connected to an electric motor and Ni-Mh battery. It's weird that while most carmakers are adopting Li-ion batteries for their hybrids, Toyota's lagging because of extensive use of Ni-Mh batteries for cost-effective reasons, but let's not talk about it for now because what matters with this hybrid powertrain is that it can be equipped with E-Four electric all-wheel drive, which can actively improve stability by adjusting rear-wheel power to help correct an over- or understeer condition. Sounds nice but if the WLTP combined fuel economy is you're after, the front-wheel drive hybrid variant promises 22.8 while the E-Four can get up to 21.6kmpl.

In terms of dynamics, the UX comes with the Lexus Adaptive Variable Suspension which decreases body roll when cornering and enhances ride comfort over bumpy urban streets. In other words, it's decent to handle and nice to live with while driving on your night out at the City of Dreams, especially when the UX comes with a sophisticated suspension layout that works like a European car, Active Cornering Assist, and Vehicle Stability Control. Behind the wheel, it feels quite normal, and on the passenger side, it feels quite normal also. However, if you go for the F Sport variant, your reaction changes because with all the sporty dynamics actuated for this variant, expect some drama while driving.

Going home after a night out at the City of Dreams, the UX comes ready with the Lexus Safety System+ with All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Road Sign Assist, Adaptive High-beam System and Intelligent High-Beam headlamps/Automatic High Beam. It also comes with eight airbags, Parking Support Alert, and Parking Support Brake as well for a much safer experience worth noticeable.

Should you buy it? The UX starts at 3,900,000 Yen for the petrol and 4,250,000 Yen for the hybrid variant. It maybe more costly to own than the now-outdated CT200h but it's now the most affordable Lexus to own right now. It's cheaper to own than all of the saloons Lexus offered so it's hard to explain why more and more people are buying SUVs like these and for a glorified Toyota C-HR, the Lexus UX is not half bad to start with and while this is not a very exciting car to drive on your free time, it's one of the most interesting luxury compact crossovers ever to emerge from the land of hybrids. Who wouldn't?

Available colors: Sonic Quartz, Mercury Grey Mica, Platinum Silver Metallic, Sonic Titanium, Black, Graphite Black Glass Flake, Mader Red, Amber Crystal Shine, Blazing Carnelian Contrast Layering, Terrain Khaki Mica Metallic, Celestial Blue Glass Flake, and Heat Blue Contrast Layering.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Lexus ES 300h (AXZH10)

The Lexus ES is more than just a glorified Toyota Camry with the Lexus badge in it because back when it was known as the Toyota Vista, then Windom, it was truly recognized as a "world prestige class" saloon that is rich in features and has an impeccable silence fit for a luxury car. Even though Lexus has a presence of Japan, the ES is one of the cars not available in the Japanese market until now...

2019 Lexus ES

For the first time on Japanese roads, the all-new Lexus ES is now available starting at 5,800,000 Japanese Yen, which is very expensive for what's underneath a Toyota Camry but to put in broad context, it's somewhat more affordable than the main opponent, the Audi A6. So, good mark for Lexus on the pricing but actually, no.

2019 Lexus ES

Observing through the styling, the front of the new ES looks vaguely similar to the new Lexus LS, apart from the rakishly trademark Spindle Grille that adorns most Lexus of today, while the sidelines reminded you of the second-generation Mazda Atenza, and the rear view looks like the Hyundai YF Sonata. In other words, it is as Asian as Asian cars can get and speaking of identity crisis aside...

2019 Lexus ES interior

2019 Lexus ES interior

The new ES's interior was heavily influenced by its bigger brother, signalling the future of Lexus interiors, whatever that means. What this interior translates is that all of the main information displays are now into the driver's line of sight such as the LCD instrument panel, optional heads-up display, Lexus Multimedia System, upgraded Remote Touch Interface, and so much more. Focusing on the creature comfort, the new ES can be very nice to chauffeur some rich people, even your Boss Madam wouldn't mind while taking her to the office. While the interior comfort is somewhat Mercedes-level rather than Audi-level, the boot space is now surprisingly bigger and because the battery pack is located underneath the rear seat, you can store less than 17 cubic feet of trunk space along with the secret compartments for smaller items.

2019 Lexus ES

The new ES maybe a new Camry underneath but because it's running on its earful TNGA platform, it's now more comfortable and stable to impress the salarymen. Apart from the platform, the new ES features a reworked suspension that adapts to its surroundings, all thanks to its Dynamic Control Shocks capable of responding to event the smallest movements. Of course, being a luxury car, the new ES comes with a new rack-assist type Electric Power Steering that promises precise steering feel. It feels nice to drive on normal roads but when it's too much to bear, it's going to behave like an Audi A6 per se and even in the F SPORT variant with Adaptive Variable Suspension, it's going to take some dramatic logic to understand the new ES's behavior rather well because being a front-wheel drive car, the struggle really is real.

Because the new ES is a hybrid-only saloon that serves as the replacement for the HS250h, it sports the same new hybrid powerplant as the new Camry, meaning it bears the brand new 2.5L A25A-FXS petrol engine mated to an 88kW electric motor and an old-fashioned nickel metal battery. Fuel economy is around 20.6km/L on the WLTC Mode scale and while focusing more on the hybrid powerplant, the new ES features a parallel shaft gear and a multi-function gear that incorporates a power split planetary ring gear, parking gear, and counter drive gear into one compact unit. The hybrid control system now promises more responsiveness and when engaged to Sport mode, you can take advantage of its paddle shifters to control six simulated gears, which is nice but so-so. Also, there's the new Auto Glide Control system which addresses the one where drivers misjudge the drag imposed by regenerative brakes as they approach a stop and then move back and forth between the brake and the accelerator. Sounds convenient, if you know what I mean.

The new ES boasts most of the groundbreaking safety features under the new Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 such as the Pre-Collision System with daytime bicyclist detection, Lane Departure Assist, new Lane Tracing Assist, new All-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Road Sign Assist, and many more. However, apart from the many safety features, the new ES comes with a brand new party piece that will get you notice. In the old days, drivers tend to check the side view mirrors and get into the hassle of adjusting it to get the best possible view. In the new ES, it comes with the world's first Digital Outer Mirrors with side-view cameras. Instead of side view mirrors, it uses cameras to provide a live feed display on the left and right screens inside the cabin, allowing for enhanced views of the area around the car at night and in inclement weather. It also offers an expanded view of the car's surroundings by augmenting the display area during turns or reversing.

The bottom line? The new ES may have suffered some identity crisis and the idea that is offered only in hybrid but the interior comforts, the safety features, the pricing that can outflank the A6, and the new Digital Outer Mirrors really makes this glorified Camry a class apart from the rest. It's great to see the Lexus ES arrived in Japan for the first time since forever and there's so much to learn from this glorified Toyota Camry while eating some California Maki on the platter.

Source: Toyota Motor Corporation

Toyota Sienta - Second Generation (2019 minor change)

The second-generation Toyota Sienta was launched in Japan since three years ago and for the first time, it managed to touchdown in other Asian markets and the biggest fan base for this generation was in Southeast Asia. With the second generation Sienta reached its minor change for the 2019 model year, looks like the ASEANs are going to be desperate over what's new on this 2019 minor change and for that, a quick rundown.

2019 Toyota Sienta

2019 Toyota Sienta

On the 2019 minor change, the Sienta's front face has been revised as well as the rear taillights which are very nice to see and some new wheel designs to choose from. On the inside, the dashboard's slightly revised as well as the upholstery's and while the Sienta retains its third-row capability, there is now a much cheaper five-seater variant, dubbed the FUNBASE, where space in the back really matters but with the absence of a third-row seating on the FUNBASE, it's slightly lighter compared to the seven-seater variants and whether you use it for work or for play, the five-seater could be your ideal Sienta to start with.

2019 Toyota Sienta interior

2019 Toyota Sienta interior

The Sienta's hybrid powertrain consisting of a 1NZ-FXE engine mated with a 45kW electric motor and a traditional nickel metal hydride battery, as well as its specially-made CVT, has been recalibrated to meet WLTC Mode standards and while the performance figures remain the same as the pre-facelift, fuel economy under WLTC Mode standards is an acceptable 22.8km/L. The one with the 1.5L 2NR-FKE VVT-iE engine and Super CVT-i remains in the lineup but fuel efficiency, based on now-outdated JC08 Mode standards, is now dropped to 20.2km/L.

Most models are front-wheel drive standard but only seven-seater variants can be fitted with four-wheel drive in the case of weather conditions making the road somewhat slippery. As for dynamics, they've bolted the Sienta with Electric Power Steering to make it more civilized to drive, although not enjoyable if you ask, and with the MacPherson strut and coil springs in the front suspension and a rear torsion beam for the rear suspension, the dynamics are above average if you ask.

For safe driving, the 2019 Sienta comes with the newly improved Toyota Safety Sense of safety features with Pre-Crash Safety, Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beam, Advance car launch notification function, and Intelligent clearance sonar with parking support brake, among many other useful features that will make the journey home safe and secured.

The 2019 Sienta starts at 1,776,600 Japanese Yen (around $17,800) for the five-seater petrol variant up to 2,532,600 Japanese Yen (around $25,330) for the seven-seater hybrid Cuero variant. The 2019 Sienta minor change is starting to shape up the minivan market despite the odds now but the main concern is, should ASEAN Toyota branches stopped selling the second-generation Sienta in their markets, chances of smuggling this new one to the Southeast Asian region with be 1 to 100. Whatever that odds is, this is something that needs to keep an eye on much like every successful luxury Toyotas that made its way in ASEAN markets by legitimate means rather than being smuggled for show and tell.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation