Let's Do The News! (September 20, 2012)

Whoa....you still getting BOVERED...

(audience laughing)

..again.

Why?

You still really bothered about the ASEAN idiots trying to get their hands on the Toyota Alphard and Vellfire. Don't you just change now you old haggard?

(audience laughing)

I really don't change at all. You know that UMW Toyota Motor, the Malaysian subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation, you know what models available in Malaysia as of now?

Uh....let's see...they have...

CENSORED

So, As of now, the available Toyotas in Malaysia as of now are the [CENSORED] That's it. UMW Toyota Motor never brought the Alphard or the Vellfire (NEVER WILL) in Malaysia as well as other Toyota minivans we know.

You are quite serious about that. Anyway, after we tackled about the G SPORTS versions of the Toyota minivans he disliked the most because of Malaysian smugglers, we just heard that Toyota unveiled special editions for the Alphard and Vellfire. First off, there's the Toyota Alphard 240S/350S Type Gold special model.

2012 Toyota Alphard Type Gold

For this special edition, the Type Gold Alphard features wooden panels, steering wheels, and the shift knobs all shine up in gold, special grille, super chrome rims, and a specially made smart key with the logo on it. This special model costs 3,670,000 up to 4,050,000 Japanese yen, has four variants (240S FF, 240S 4WD, 350S FF, 350S 4WD) and available in Toyopet dealerships across Japan.

2012 Toyota Vellfire Golden Eyes

Also is this special model called the Vellfire 2.4Z/3.5Z Golden Eyes. That naming for the special model sounds like the Bond movie but anyway, same treatments as expected on the Alphard Type Gold special model but what differs this was the headlights because the name of the special model is Golden Eyes, the projector headlights come with a Champagne Gold Ring on it, to make it more unique. Pricing starts at 3,670,000 up to 4,050,000 Japanese yen, has four variants (2.4Z FF, 2.4Z 4WD, 3.5Z FF, and 3.5Z 4WD) and it's available at your nearest Netz dealerships across Japan. LIMITED STOCKS...ONLY.

(audience laughing)

And now it's time to do the news and we begin with Astra Daihatsu Motor from Indonesia, they've just launched a Low Cost Green Car that was built and sold only to Indonesians, here it is look...

2013 Daihatsu Ayla

2013 Toyota Agya

The Indonesia-exclusive eco car known as the Daihatsu Ayla and it's Toyota cousin, the Toyota Agya. They'll be featured at this year's Indonesia International Motor Show tomorrow and up to September 30, 2012 at Jakarta International Expo.

Scoop: http://autoc-one.jp/news/1191819/

So, these are the low cost eco cars built and sold only to the Indonesian market? Hmmm....Not bad but they look a bit odd because the Ayla kinda looks like the Suzuki Alto while the Toyota Agya (not to be confused with the Europe-only Aygo) kinda looks like the...Perodua MyVi, which is sold in Indonesia as the Daihatsu Sirion by the way.

Yeah, indeed they really looked like the other eco-cars.

(audience laughing)

Fair enough...

For this year's Paris Motor Show, Hyundai and Kia gone on the offensive sides by launching Europe-only three door versions of the cee-apostrophe-d and the i30.

2013 Hyundai i30 3-door

2013 Kia pro_cee'd

Scoop: http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2012/09/hyundai-presents-thee-door-hatchback.html

Scoop: http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2012/09/2013-kia-procee-first-official-images.html

They look like...the Hyundai Veloster spawned its kids!

(audience laughing)

I know!

Yeah and what do you think are they? Are those two trying to think that they want a piece of them? Ahem! They're Korean, they're made in Europe, and what to expect to those un-Korean Korean cars?

Uh...nope.

Anyway, because they're not Korean-bound, let's look at this that's worth Korean-bound...I hope.

(audience laughing)

2013/2014 Kia Carens

Scoop: http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2012/09/all-new-kia-carens-compact-mpv-bows-to.html

That's the new Carens, right?

Yeah. New Carens, third-generation, 7-seater, to be continued on Paris.

(audience laughing)

Aston Martin just launched a brand new version of the DB9! Take a look! Look!

2013 Aston Martin DB9

(huh?)

Huh? But...that's just a Virage.

Yeah, looks like a Virage in terms of exterior and interior but the engine that powers it was came on the AM310 Vanquish. An AM11 5.9L V12 engine that generates about 510HP of power, more than the old model and even more than the outgoing Aston Virage.

(oohh)

Scoop: http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2012/09/aston-martin-plays-you-spot-differences.html

Oh, I see! The new 2013 DB9 is more like the Virage but now comes with a different version of the new V12 engine that powers the new Vanquish! What witchcraft those guys were!!!

(ahhhh)

Hey now. You know why most cars as of now don't have blu-ray players?

Uh...is it because their screens are too small for Blu-Ray discs that has perfect picture and perfect quality?

Exactly. But there's more to that why do most cars have no in-car Blu-Ray players. Now though, Toyota USA broke the mold and decided to make the first car that comes with the world's first Blu-Ray rear seat entertainment system.

(huh?)

No joke! It's real! Toyota USA updated their Toyota Sequoia for the 2013 model year to become the first car in the world to offer the world's first Blu-Ray rear seat entertainment system! It is the first production vehicle in the world to offer high-definition rear-seat entertainment.

Scoop: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/19/toyota-sequoia-dumps-4-6l-v8-for-2013-claims-industry-first-blu/

So, now, there's a car that can play Blu-Ray discs for the best viewing pleasure? No way! The Americans became the first to think of that idea!

(applause)

So, the first car to have a Blu-Ray entertainment system was the 2013 Toyota Sequoia! An American-made Toyota became the first to have that feature! Can't believe that the future REALLY is NOW! NOW as in TODAY! Wouldn't you believe it? What's next?

Uh, let's wait for a couple of years to have this...feature.

Right.

Anyway, while waiting for the much awaited Call of Duty Black Ops II this fall, we just heard that in Japan, Black Ops II join forces with an anime for a special joint operation. Wanna guess what anime is on the joint operation for Black Ops II?

(audience murmuring)

Wrong! Because...ladies and gents, it's Jormungand!

(wow)

JORMUNGAND? The anime that was aired a couple of months ago but the second season, which is titled Jormungand Perfect Order, is set this fall?

Correct, Captain Slow. It's Black Ops II meets Jormungand! It's a joint ops for the first time ever!...and not much details right now until further notice...

(awww)

Scoop: http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/interest/2012-09-19/call-of-duty/black-ops-ii-jormungand-anime-join-forces

Yeah, not much info right about now. Let's move on...

Right, on the 2012 Australian International Motor Show this October, Mazda showed up an updated version of the 7-seater SUV, the Mazda CX-9. This time, it wears its Kodo face first applied on the CX-5 and later the Atenza.

2013/2014 Mazda CX-9

Scoop: http://www.topgear.com.ph/news/mazda-freshens-up-cx-9-sport-ute

Ahem. What's that?

A CX-9. Mazda CX-9.

Does this car available in Japan?

Uh...no.

No. So then. Don't even talk about cars not available on home countries.

Sorry...

And on that bombshell, that's the news! For an announcement, XTM's Top Gear Korea returns for Season 3 this October 2012!

Toyota Alphard and Vellfire G's (G SPORTS)

2013 Toyota Alphard G's

2013 Toyota Alphard G's

This is the latest chapter to Toyota's sports conversion series dubbed as G's or G SPORTS. This is the new Toyota Alphard 350S/240S G's (G SPORTS)...

2013 Toyota Vellfire G's

2013 Toyota Vellfire G's

...and the Toyota Vellfire 3.5Z/2.4Z G's (G SPORTS). What GAZOO Racing did to these two of these...Toyota flagship minivans that most Malaysian idiots love to smuggle one because UMW Toyota Motor has no plans to bring either these two in Malaysia (as it happens, NO, UMW will not bring them here) is simple. They've lowered both the Alphard and Vellfire by about 30mm thanks to its sport-tuned suspension developed specifically by GAZOO Racing. Not just that, they even dress them up with Gazoo Racing-made body kit to make them look sharper and aggressive, then there are sport brakes fitted for increased stopping power.

2013 Toyota Alphard/Vellfire G's interior

2013 Toyota Alphard/Vellfire G's interior

There's more too. The interior's all smothered up with G's peripherals. The instrumental's changed, the seats are embroidered with red stitching while being covered in Alcantara, the engine start button's colored red, and here come the sport pedals. Besides, they still accommodate up to seven people while the 2nd row seats are a fit for royalty. So what they did here is turning a luxury MPV into a bragging machine that deserves a bragging rights to the crowd who owns minivans and showing up to the Daikoku parking area.

Sure, they both come with sports suspension, sports brakes, sport tires courtesy of TOYO TIRES for added grip, 19-inch rims, quad exhausts, and everything G's on it but performance remains the same. You still have a choice of a 2.4L engine mated with a CVT or a 3.5L V6 engine mated with a 6-speed ECT.

As for the pricing, well because the Alphard's available at Toyopet dealerships while the Vellfire's available at Netz dealerships, the Alphard 240S G's and Vellfire 2.4Z G's cost about 4,040,000 Japanese Yen while the Alphard 350S G's and Vellfire 3.5Z G'S costs about 4,420,000 Japanese Yen. They'll both arrive in selected dealerships across Japan this November 2012.

So, there you are. The G's (G SPORTS) versions of the Alphard and Vellfire are made for bragging rights at the parking lots but if you are an Malaysian trying to smuggle one, be warned. As told that UMW Toyota Motor will never EVER bring either the Alphard or Vellfire, don't even think about smuggling one or you could be in big trouble. That's an order.

Out at the park...

Hello world.

It's me again, Leopaul.

Feeling bored while doing absolutely nothing, my mum told me that we should go to the park. One park to be precise; Seward Park (http://www.seattle.gov/parks/environment/seward.htm)

Me, dad, mum, and my sis are having to have some fresh air but there is a problem. Somewhere at the park, there are crooks talking trash while cookinh up barbecue and playing very loud music on their stereos. It was like who are those? And then, I judt caught ip two heavily modified Chevy SUVs with the oversized rims and candy paint, thinking that you are the kind of person who belongs to Seattle's most notorious gangs.

Heh, because of all that crooks and criminals driving souped up cars with huge speakers and hanging out with some beer and snacks, we decided to retreat back home.

How come society often turned out like this?

Speaking of which, my office chair that I have for a few months ago got unexpectedly broken. We had that chair for months as a replacement to a two-year old office chair that went flimsy. I just really don't know how come that chair can easily became so flimsy. Also, the height adjustener's jammmed. A months-old chair feels like the old broken office chair we had. Is it because of my weight that can't keep up with the chair?

Oh my gosh....Something's has to be done...

Welcome Back: 2008 Alfa Romeo MiTo

Alfa Romeo used to have so many models but as of now, Alfa Romeo now only has two models; the MiTo and the Giulietta. Can't believe it's been reduced to a two-model brand but Alfa's future seems to be bright indeed...or is it? Besides, Alfa's future's looking bleak due to the economy right now. In the meantime, how about taking a spin on the MiTo, the baby Alfa?

Cheap and cheerful Alfa

The Alfa Romeo MiTo served as the compact of the Alfa Romeo lineup while it shares the same platform as the Fiat Punto.

The MiTo naming was meant to be a combination of cities Milan and Turin because it was designed in Milan and built in Turin but it can also be derived from the word "mito" meaning "myth" or "legend".

It was the first to come with the new Alfa DNA system which allows the owner to switch between three different modes; Dynamic, Normal, and All-Weather. The Alfa DNA system changes the behavior of the MiTo's engine, brakes, steering, suspension, and gearbox.

When it was first launched in 2008, this car won numerous awards and accolades such as Quattroruote "New Car of the Year", Quattroruote "My favorite cars" in small cars category, Repubblica.it "Most beautiful car of 2008", Survey of automotive press (February ‘09) Poland "Auto lider 2008", "Motor" and "Auto Moto" (February ‘09) Poland "Top cars of 2008", and  "Motor" e "Auto Moto" (February ‘09) Poland "Most beautiful car of 2008".

Richard Hammond drove the Alfa MiTo while Jeremy Clarkson's in a Skoda Roomster and James May's in a Toyota iQ on the Small Cars Challenge from Top Gear Season 13 Episode 3.

Anime Saimoe Tournament 2012 update (September 18, 2012)

So, that wraps up Round 1 of the 2012 Anime Saimoe Tournament. Let's see the remaining few to compete for Round 2...

Group H

September 16, 2012

Mio Akiyama - K-ON - 243
Saki Nagatsuka - Ro-kyu-bu! - 162
Nagi - A-channel - 61

Popura Tanegashima - Working! - 215
Mayaka Ibara - Hyouka - 132
Miu Takanashi - Papa No Iukoto O Kikinasai! - 123

Marika Katou - Bodacious Space Pirates - 206
Minori Kushieda - Toradora! - 135
Yukimura Kusunoki - Boku Wa Tomodachi Ga Sukunai - 103

September 17, 2012

Rika Furude - When They Cry - 237
Ayumi Takahara  -156 - 156
Uta Mihirogi - Saki - 0

Shana - Shakugan no Shana III -FINAL- - 293
Izumi Akazawa - Another - 252
Mizuki Himeji - Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu Ni - 95

Sena Kashiawazaki - Boku Wa Tomodachi Ga Sukunai - 273
Himawari Furutani - Yuru Yuri - 139
Miu Amaha - Mashiroiro Symphony - 0

END OF ROUND 1.

Here's the list of entries advanced to the next round of the 2012 Anime Saimoe Tournament

GROUP A:
Saki Miyanaga
Mahiru Inami
Reika Aoki
Kobato Hasegawa
Illyasviel Von Einzbern
Yuno Gasai
Yuki Kataoka
Koromo Amae
Nako Oshimizu
Miki Hoshii
Remon Yamano
Haruka L. Morishima

GROUP B:
Yuka Hanaki
Kanade Suzutsuki
Akari Akaza
Mei Misaki
Iori Minase
Yozora Mikazuki
Azusa Nakano
Shinobu Oshino
Ran (A-Channel)
Minna-Dietlinde Wilcke
Chris Yukine
Shizuno Takakamo
Ringo Oginome
Kanon Nakagawa
Toki Onjouji

GROUP C:
Hisa Takei
Eila Illmatar Juutilanen
Ui Hirasawa
Cthugha
Yune (Ikoku Meiro no Croisee)
Astarotte Ygvar
Yayoi Kise
Mao Sakurada
Sherlock Shellingford

GROUP D:
Houki Shinonono
Yasuna Oribe
Sana Inui
Kurisu Makise
Chihaya Kisaragi
Louise de la Valliere
Hajime Kunihiro
Makoto Kikuchi
Madoka Kyono
Nagi Sanzenin
Hinata Hakamada
Saber

GROUP E:
Sakuno Uryuu
Sanae Nagatsuki
Charlotte Dunois
Sanya V. Ltvyak
Yuu Matsumi
Kurumi Hazuki
Hibiki Ganaha
Taiga Aisaka
Rin Tohsaka
Yayoi Takatsuki
Yui Hirasawa

GROUP F:
Ryuka Shimizudani
Kanna Tanigawa
Hercule Barton
Seraphim
Eru Chitanda
Haruka Amami
Yui Funami
Kuro Matsumi
Ririchiyo Shirakiin
Kirame Hanada
Nyarlathotep
Miyako

GROUP G:
Momoko Touyoko
Kanzaki H. Aria
Rea Sanka
Nodoka Haramura
Ako Atarashi
Hitagi Senjougahara
Kotori Otonashi
Ai Nanasaki
Ika-Musume
Aoi Yamada
Hina Takahashi
Mael Strom

GROUP H:
Airi Kashii
Nasuna Takahashi
Kuroyukihime (Black Lotus)
Minko Tsurugi
Nano Shinonome
Elsie
Mio Akiyama
Popura Tanegashima
Marika Katou
Rika Furude
Shana
Sena Kashiwazaki

Let's Do The News! (September 18, 2012)

Wait? What do you mean THE POWER OF THREE? Don't think we've been invaded by a bunch of small black cubes counting down from five to zero?

Yes. Power of three. The K3 is a fine midsize sedan and I think it looks better than any other midsize sedans worldwide.

Ahem...you know it does look like a copycat of the Renault Samsung SM3, I mean look at these...

2013 Kia K3

2013 Renault Samsung SM3

They really looked exactly the same! From the front and back, they really really looked similar you fat boring middle-aged man!

Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Manners, hamster! Manners!

(audience laughing)

Uh...oh all right. I have to watch my manners, but still this Kia K3 is a rubbish idea from the Koreans, don't forget that.

(audience laughing)

Hmph...

Right, the news and that really bothers me every time during the Doctor Who opening sequence. It seems that in Season 7, the Doctor Who logo's texture is changing and it seems that it varies by episodes.

Take a look at this...

That's the Doctor Who logo when Series 7 began and look at those circular stuff all over the logo, reflecting to the Asylum of the Daleks episode...

...and this is the Doctor Who logo when Dinosaurs on a Spaceship began and you can see, the logo's all smothered in a bit more dinosaur-ish texture, reflecting to that episode.

(ooohhh)

Oh...I see that beginning Season 7, the logo's covered in different texture, reflecting on the episode...

Last week, the Doctor Who logo became like this...

..it's a bit more wooden texture with some bullet shots on it, reflecting to last week's episode called A TOWN CALLED MERCY.

Whoa!

It seems that the texture of the Doctor Who logo changes everytime per episode.

So...what texture's going to be on THE POWER OF THREE? Do you think the logo's all smothered in black, reflecting to the black cubes falling down in the sky?

Uh...that I don't really really know...

(audience laughing)

We'll find that out on BBC One this Saturday, shall we?

Yeah, we'll find that out on BBC One, BBC One HD, BBC America, Space, and ABC Australia....oh and speaking of the bullet hole, I find that the bullet hole on the stetson during that last week's episode, does it sound familiar to you? Let's recall that scene...

_________________________________________________________________________________

The Doctor: Ah, well, he wasn't a very good shot then.

Isaac: He was aiming for the hat

The Doctor: He shoots people's hats?

Amy: I think it was a warning shot.

The Doctor: Ha? No. Yes. I see. Hmmm.

_________________________________________________________________________________

HE SHOOTS PEOPLE'S HATS?!

(audience laughing)

Don't you think it was someone who shot the fez from the Season 5 finale and a stetson on the Season 6 opener?

(audience laughing)

Never mind, but here's a top tip: If your friend says that you have a nice hat, don't say that your hat you're wearing, like a fez or a stetson, is cool, otherwise, someone's going to shoot your hat unexpectedly...

(audience laughing)

Yeah, watch out for that. He he he...

Okay, let's leave the stetson behind us and moving on because...Anyone remembered a Korean drama titled Dae Jang Geum (Jewel in the Palace)? I'm sure most people saw that Korean drama years ago. Anyway, we just picked up that Manwha Broadcasting Corporation, the station behind Dae Jang Geum, is making a sequel to that drama next year.

(ooohh)

Scoop: http://www.allkpop.com/2012/09/mbc-to-produce-jewel-in-the-palace-sequel-next-year

Really? They're making a sequel of Jewel in the Palace? Wow! I was amazed to hear that. I wonder what could this be...

Uh, Capt. Slow, I'm afraid you have to wait till next year to find that out what it is...

(audience laughing)

Anyway, China, I'm sure everyone around the world might have heard about Japan buying some parts of the Senkaku Islands and then most Chinese sparked fury and enraged to start anti-Japan protests. I think that the Senkaku Islands dispute is somewhat China vs. Japan, much like us, Philippines vs. China over Scarborough Shoal.

So, the case about Japan vs. China over an island is much more similar to us? Hmmm...can't believe the Philippines and Japan do have in common, they're fighting against China for control over the island. Sure, the Chinese are protesting against Japan because of the Senkaku Islands dispute. But what's the next step for the protestants in China? Boycott Japanese goods?

I believe yes. But would the Japanese boycott the Chinese? Oh wait! No Chinese products sold in Japan!

Ahem...Made in China stuff...

(audience laughing)

Anyway, while leaving on the subject of Japan vs. China over Senkaku Islands, do you have something to share about? How about you hamster?

Me? I went to California's Great America, which is a theme park in San Francisco, California. Yesterday, ABS-CBN stormed through the Great America theme park for this year's ONE KAPAMILYA GO. On that venue, the stars of the critically-acclaimed TV drama, WALANG HANGGAN, were there ranging from the good guys such as Coco Martin, Julia Montes, Richard Gomez, and Dawn Zulueta and the bad guys such as Paulo Avelino, Melissa Ricks, and Joem Bascon. Those fans were really thrilled to see their favorite Walang Hanggan stars invaded California's Great America for some...well you know fun. Also on that venue, Slater Young was there and also comedian Pokwang (who was Lady G from TODA MAX) as well. They even had auditions for an upcoming reality show titled The Voice of the Philippines, which is a Pinoy version of the worldwide talent show titled The Voice.

Were you there?

Uh...no...

(audience laughing)

The auditions, no but on the main event with the Walang Hanggan stars, yes.

Oh. I see...

And that's my story...

Thank you hamster, for your interesting story at California's Great America. Anyway...

HEY! GREAT NEWS!!!!

(audience laughing)

WHAT?

DACIA LAUNCHED THE NEW VERSION OF THE LOGAN AND SANDERO!!!

2013 Dacia Logan 2

2013 Dacia Sandero 2

Scoop: http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2012/09/first-photos-of-2013-dacia-sandero-2.html

Scoop: http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2012/09/new-dacia-logan-series-2-sedan-breaks.html

EXCELLENT!

(audience laughing)

(applause)

Anyway, last week, we heard that The President of the Philippines signed the Cybercrime Prevention Act as a law and it seems that this law has devastating results. Although this Cybercrime Prevention Act is served to fight against different kinds of cybercrime, especially piracy, but that worried me about limiting the expression of free speech.

Huh?

Yeah. Oh, and there's the worse part of it. This law is made to up against libel or infamy. With this, politicians can easily file charges against ‘hostile and combative’ critics and witnesses by claiming that virtual protesters have threatened their life and property, according to Kabataan Rep. Raymond Palatino.

Scoop: http://www.interaksyon.com/infotech/new-cybercrime-law-could-lead-to-warrantless-takedowns-of-websites-privacy-violations

Yeah, that seems to be scary.

Uh-huh. Who knows? They're going to take us down if they see the error of our ways...

(audience laughing)

...and on that bombshell, that's the news.

Kia K3

2013 Kia K3

THE VALUABLE 3

This is the very latest global mid-size compact sedan from Kia, the K3. Astonishing, isn't it? And that's not something you can say about many of its efforts from the last few years. The Sephia (1992-2000) for instance kinda feels like a Toyota Corolla but with a bit too Korean hallyu on it. At some point, I think that South Korea in the 1990's brought out odd advertising on cars, that's for sure. The Spectra (2000-2003) is one of my favorite mid-sized Kias probably back in 2002, Korean actress Jang Na-Ra even endorses it. However, the interior kinda feels like a 1995 Mitsubishi Lancer (the one with the pizza-shaped rear lamps on it), I'm still not satisfied with it. The Cerato (2003-2008) is a bit blur, it's a bit confusing, and it's a bit too...misleading. Lastly, the Forte (2008-2012) seems to be striking the right note probably because of the birth of the new Tiger Nose, designed by Peter Schreyer, that adorned most Kia models from the present and the future, but sadly, it's a bit too obvious, too weird, and undeniably boring. No wonder the slogan for the Forte "Luxury 1.6" is too misleading, thinking that this mid-size car has the comfort of a luxury car.

2013 Kia K3

This one though, it's just right. Although it may look like a Renault Samsung SM3 because the exterior kinda looks like the SM3 but it seems that Kia finally manages to balance it out the combination of compact and luxury in this package. It's compact meets luxury with a bit of Oppa Gangnam Style on it. Also, it has a Gamma 1.6L Direct Injected (GDi) engine from the Hyundai Avante MD, which produces about 140PS of power, 17kg-m of torque, and fuel economy ranging from 14.0km/L to 16.7km/L, all mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Sadly, I don't think I'm going to accept the one with the paddle shifters on it because they don't work normally. Also, they even fitted with Active Eco Assist and Idle Stop & Go which doesn't make any sense at all, although Kia says these will help with the fuel consumption but really?

2013 Kia K3

And then, the Kia K3 is the first ever Kia to be fitted to the one first seen on the new Hyundai i30, which is called the Flex Steer. The default setting is NORMAL but when I set it to COMFORT, it feels more comfortable, like a luxury car. Ideal if I am driving on normal roads and city streets but when I set it to SPORT, the K3 is getting more responsive in the handling department and it gets more agile, more precise and with a bit more feel. COMFORT, NORMAL, and SPORT, these are three modes that came from the i30-derived FLEX STEER.

2013 Kia K3 interior

On the inside, the K3 is even more better than the previous Kia midsize sedans of yesteryears and most of the Kia peripherals of the other Kia K-sedans were there such as this instrumental cluster with high visibility, heated steering wheel, an optional DMB navigation, and some other stuff that made the K3's interior more luxurious. Sounds intriguing and then this is just another Kia that comes with the Kia UVO telematics system, first applied on the Kia K9 flagship sedan. Much like Hyundai's BlueLink first applied on the new Santa Fe, it allows the user to use the smartphone as a carkey to start the engine, open or close doors, and it can ever monitor your car. Imagine if someone stole your K3 unexpectedly, it seems that all hope is not lost because thanks to UVO, you can monitor where your K3's going and for the fun of it...immobilizer so the carnapper won't think that it's slowing down and then it stopped, confusing the carnapper to get away and then get hammered by the cops. Sounds juicy, but does it worth it? I believe not because it's just an option to have Uvo on your Kia K3.

To sum up then, the Kia K3 is one ambitious but rubbish new age global midsize sedan from Kia and this Korean car is promised to sweep the world market with its sense of Hallyu (Korean wave) but when exported globally, it would either be called a Cerato or a Forte or whatever you may want to call it. Sadly though, the new K3 will not come in Europe, where the cee-apostrophe-d takes place. This car is all about THE POWER OF THREE and I do believe this is more better looking than the Avante MD and this is a proper midsize sedan I really like.

AVAILABLE COLORS: Aurora Black Pearl, Snow White Pearl, Bright Silver, Glittering Metal, Golden Beat, Temptation Red, Planet Blue, and Abyss Blue.

PRICE LIST (at South Korean Won/KRW):

K3 1.6 GDI 디럭스 M/T - ₩13,450,000

K3 1.6 GDI 디럭스 A/T - ₩14,920,000

K3 1.6 GDI 럭셔리 A/T - ₩16,770,000

K3 1.6 GDI 프레스티지 A/T - ₩18,410,000

K3 1.6 GDI 노블레스 - ₩19,390,000

K3 1.6 GDI 럭셔리 ECO PLUS A/T - ₩17,880,000

Photo: Kia Motors

Two hard-working Chevys for the hard-working

Two hard-working Chevys for the hard-working petrolheads

Really, about a couple of weeks ago, I got a Chevrolet Nova SS 396 for a test drive on Car Town and I spend several days (well, a 1 week limit for a test drive, get enough wins to keep it) to get enough wins to keep the Nova SS 396. Then, earlier, I won the 1953 Chevrolet Corvette C1, which is the first ever Corvette, on a weekly challenge to see how much points I racked up on a drag race (win or lose, it doesn't matter). I got over the 1,250,000 point mark to achieve the weekly challenge prize.

These were the Chevys I worked so hard to get it on Car Town but I really wonder what is like to take a spin on these two classic Chevys. So I have to play Forza Motorsport 4 to see what is like to be on the 1953 Corvette and the Nova SS 396...

The genesis of the Corvettes

1953 Chevrolet Corvette (C1):

The first generation Chevrolet Corvette was debuted in 1963 and it was truly a successful car that captures the essence of the 1957 Stingray Racer that shook the world with its futuristic design.

By the time it was debuted in 1953, about 300 units were built, making it one of the lowest-volume Corvettes on that generation. Most models do come with Polo White exterior color with red interiors, and black canvas soft tops. The order guides showed that both the heaters and AM radios are optional features which most 1953 models have both. The price to build a Corvette in 1953 was $3490.

In December 1953, Chevrolet opened a St. Louis plant to produce ten thousand Corvettes annually but negative customer comments led sales to plummet, probbably because of its problems such as the quality of the fiberglass body, water leaks, and doors that could open while running.

Nova SS 396 - setting the standards for the Chevy muscles

1969 Chevrolet Nova SS 396:

Chevrolet redesigned the Nova for the 1967 model year while retaining its tamed design. Only this time, it uses the same platform as the Chevrolet Camaro so it can fit big block engines. If that wasn't enough, they even introduced the SS 396 model, which features a 396-cid V8 engine, in 1968 and this produces 350BHP of power.

Car and Driver reported the Nova SS 396 as the "junior Chevy with the senior engine" and it was an instantly recognized and feared street cleaner that most should have expected but as wild as it at hoped. 

My verdict:

The classic Corvette C1 wasn't really a bad car to drive. Sure, it may be a slow start when it was first debuted in 1953 but when I drove this first Corvette, it doesn't really want to mess me up, not unlike the present Corvettes of today that always loves an assault to the driver. This one's a bit a goodie. Despite that the one I have has a two-speed transmission, it's always a great car if you want to go out cruising on the fantastic mountain roads. It is as romantic as taking your date at a drive-in theater.

The Nova SS 396 though, that is a very tricky muscle car to get off the line. It maybe a muscle car that works well on straight lines but because of my iffy gear changes, it's a bit nasty to master the Nova SS 396. I need more time to master it and yes, I REALLY DID NEED MORE because when it comes to handling, I really have to be careful or else I would mess this up. Despite everything, the Nova SS 396 really is the fruit of my labor. I wonder if there are loyalists to this Nova SS 396?

Anyway, let's find out which of these fruits of my labor is faster round the Top Gear Test Track and of course, handing them over by a tamed racing driver...

The 1953 Corvette C1 did it in 1:42.791 while the 1969 Chevrolet Nova SS 396 did it in 1:34.016 so I guess these fruits of my labor really worked hard for me. REALLY REALLY worked hard to win my heart. American iron always roars back!

BMW 1-Series 3-door (F21) and Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W176)

Let's start with the BMW 1-Series. Well, for the all new F20 model, the 1-Series is getting a bit more eccentric, a bit too odd, and most of all, it's a bit too creepy. As scary as...Psycho Mantis. (laughing)  But let's remind that even though the F20's a bit ugly, this is the last of its kind. The last of the rear-wheel drive hatchbacks. This is the only RWD hatchback you can buy. Nothing else....

2013 BMW 1-Series 3-door

2013 BMW 1-Series 3-door

However, BMW finally came up with a new 3-door version and this is a little bit too different. You get the same features, the same Urban Line, the same Sport Line, and the same engine choices from the standard 5-door model and like the 5-door model that we tried last autumn, they now come with the 114i (the one with the 1.6L twin turbo engine), 125i (the one with the 2.0L twin turbo engine), 116d EfficientDynamics Edition (the one with the 1.6L diesel engine but with even more eco-car peripherals), 125d (the one with the 2.0L diesel engine), and this...

2013 BMW M135i

..they even made a hotter version of the 1-Series F20/F21. It's part of the all new BMW M Performance Automobiles, a side story of the BMW M Division that they maybe not M worthy but they have capabilities of a BMW M car. But first, what is this BMW M Performance Automobiles? That is a tricky one because BMW M Performance Automobiles are extra-sporty vehicles with a superior combination of dynamic ability and fuel efficiency. They benefit from the unique expertise of BMW M engineers, with a special, fine-tuned powertrain, suspension and steering system. Most examples were the BMW M550d XDrive, BMW X5 M50d, BMW X6 M50d, and the one we're going to feature here...the M135i.

So, what makes the M135i the last of the rear-wheel drive hatchbacks made even better? This is just like a Scottish woman in her 20's who gave up law enforcement and trades her law enforcement for a modelling contract. You wanna know who? I'm sorry but NEVER APPLY LOGIC TO WHO. So, for this former policewoman turned supermodel, she tries to bare it all and oh....she got caught by some evil robots and taking her from space along with her husband. Uh...what did I just said? Something irrelevant on this topic?

Sorry everyone. Anyway, back on the M135i, this is the first ever petrol-powered member of the new BMW M Performance Automobiles; those that look like normal BMWs with M genes included. It's just like the former policewoman turned supermodel I've told, it looks fiercer, it looks tender, and best off all, this car would be brave enough to say "Scared? Who's scared? Geronimo." 

However, there's more to this GERONIMO stuff. Now, as I told after the Easter vacation, the BMW 1-Series M Coupe ended production since the day of the Easter bunny. That was disappointed to discontinue the baby M much like General Motors killing the Pontiac G8 in 2009, which is a great car killed prematurely.  I was concerned about the death of the BMW 1M Coupe but for this BMW M135i, would it be a proper substitute?

First off, the M135i is powered by a 3.0L N55B30 twin turbo engine which generates about 320PS of power, which is 20PS less than the defunct 1M Coupe but the 450Nm of torque is the same as the defunct 1M Coupe. For 0-100kph time, the M135i can do it in 5.1 seconds in a 6MT, but with the 8-speed automatic, that should do it in 4.9 seconds, and with the 8AT and xDrive combined, that should do it in 4.7 seconds. To sum this up, the M135i with the 8AT and xDrive combined is faster than the defunct 1M Coupe's 4.9 second time even though they're both electronically limited to 250km/h. That sounds a bit fair but be warned, the M135i XDrive is notoriously trickier to get off the line. If you get it right, you get a win but if you mess it up, you lose so the differences is all up to the driver.

2013 BMW 1-Series 3-door interior

When it comes to cornering, both the 1-Series 3-door and its M135i spin-off are good and when it comes to driving it, all I can think off is Haruka Amami's bangs. Don't you just love it when you sniff around her hair? Anyway, this car will make you feel high like a bunch of rugby boys in the streets. If you don't know what a rugby boy is, he's not a fan of the sport of rugby but an idiot who's busy sniffing a solvent branded as rugby. Driving this FR hatchback feels like you're sniffing rugby to get yourself high and you can't stop this addiction. I would gladly want to cut down Haruka Amami's bangs that's for sure.

The performance really is a good stuff for this Bimmer but in terms of design, I just really don't like the way it looks because it kinda looks like Psycho Mantis. Even covering it with the M Sport Pack, it doesn't really cut the mustard. It still looks like the bad guy that made you miserable unless you are opted to use Controller number 2 to end the misery. What I need is a car that is all about style and all Nina Williams-ish...and I think I got one...

2013 Mercedes-Benz A-Class

This one's all about style. It's the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class and for this regenerated model, it has been graduated from a supermini to a small family car. The entry-level model of Mercedes-Benz is now even larger than before. It might be even more elegant than the 1 Series and the new Audi A3 but I'm not sure if this is worth it...or do I?

2013 Mercedes-Benz A-Class interior

 Firstly, the exterior is more similar than today's CLS and it reflects Mercedes-Benz's new design philosophy while the interior has some vents that look like it came from the SLS AMG but what surprises me was its convenience. There was this Digital DriveStyle & Drive Kit Plus for the iPhone which does come with the personalised internet radio by AUPEO! Personal Radio, Garmin navigation software, and the best part was its Facebook and twitter integration that lets me share my status while driving. Cool, isn't it? This is becoming a yuppie sensation in the making and there was the COMAND Online with Colud technology and App Shop! An app shop for a Benz? Cool, this is like an iPhone on wheels but for its primer, the first two apps available are the Parking Finder and Morningstar Finance. More apps will be added later.

Like the Bmw 1-Series, which serves the Urban and Sport Line, the new A-Class does have three lines that suits the flavor; one is the Urban line which is like the Urban Line from the BMW 1-Series, it's all about being civilized on the city streets. Second was the Style line which adds a bit of elegance for the drivers. Lastly was this one; the AMG Sport. Much like the BMW M Sport pack on the 1-Series, the A-Class' AMG Sport line features some of the AMG styling bits that makes it more sporty and with the addition of sports suspension, direct-steer, and a large brakes. Sounds intriguing, but what about choices?

The new A-Class comes with a 1.6 L M270 I4 Turbocharged, 2.0 L M270 I4 Turbocharged, 1.5 L OM607 Diesel I4, 1.8 L OM651 Diesel I4, and 2.2 L OM651 Diesel I4 engine at its launch. As of now, the most powerful of the new A-Class range was the A250 Sport model which has a power output of 211PS of power. Standard transmission on models such as the A180, A200, A180 CDi, and the A200 CDi was the 6-speed manual transmission, but for other models such as the A250, A250 Sport, A180 CDI (OM 651), and the A220 CDI, they do come with a 7-speed double clutch transmission, which Benz says that it has a faster shifting time than manuals. Want a refresh? Simple, when clutch no. 1 is at 2nd gear, clutch no. 2 prepares the 3rd gear and then...shift it to 3rd gear, nice and easy, meanwhile, clutch no. 2 is preparing 4th gear for me and when its ready, shift it to 4th gear. This double clutch witchcraft, it has the odd numbers on the first while the other clutch has the even numbers. Again, when I was at 3rd gear, the 2nd clutch is pre-selecting 4th gear for me and when I shift it to 4th, the 2nd clutch is preparing 5th for me. What a seamlessly witchcraft!

2013 Mercedes-Benz A-Class

It is becoming an interesting feature but what about cornering? Let's remember that this one's front wheel drive so too much grip and understeering are occurred. With the AMG Sport pack, this feels a bit hotter like a hot hatch. You can see the reflexes of a silver wolf transformed into a beautiful white-haired young woman..with the eyepatch..waiting to grapple you down the bed. It's still a mild car but I'm starting to like this car in a different way I like the RWD 1-Series.

Choosing either of these cars is not easy, sure the 1-Series is a bit of a Psycho Mantis controlling the steering wheel while you seat and waiting for him to kill you with his mind while the A-Class has the elegance of Takane Shijou with the power of the Bad Wolf. Both of these urban lifestyle compacts are a fun way to take them out on the streets as long as you have your parents' permission. 

Maisto Chevrolet Express Van 1/64 scale

This is what I got from a little flea market. It's a Maisto 1:64 scale version of the Chevrolet Express Van. Sure, I'm not quite a fan of the Chevrolet Express Van because it a van used for business purposes but this toy version really sure that I wanted to collect every Chevrolet model and store it on my toy box. Oh wait, I don't have a toy box...

I think it looks absolutely brilliant. I am a die-cast car fan now. I was wrong about it. I really want to collect for my spare time. Old-fashioned toys can be sometimes MORE FUN than computer games! It just is!



Guess I should put it on this new stuff in my bed room and appreciate what I got...

Anime Saimoe Tournament 2012 update (September 16, 2012)

Right, another week has passed but what about those who got advanced to the next round of the 2012 Anime Saimoe Tournament? Well, let's find out, shall we? Good thing, we got the results from trusted sources. I will highlight those winners in BOLD.

Group G (September 10, 2012)

Momoko Touyoko - Saki achiga-hen episode of side-A - 261
Mayoi Hachikuji -  Nisemonogatari   - 195
Yukiho Hagiwara - THE IDOLM@STER - 179

Kanzaki H. Aria - Hidan No Aria - 263
Rihoko Sakurai - Amagami SS+ - 166
Angelina Nanatsu Sewell - Mashiroiro Symphony ~The Colour of Lovers~ - 164

Rea Sanka - Sankarea - 270
Tsukihi Araragi - Nisemonogatari - 270
Siesta - Zero no Tsukaima F - 73

September 11, 2012

Nodoka Haramura - Saki achiga-hen episode of side-A - 296
Mio Kitahara - Ano Natsu De Matteru - 122
Ami Futami - THE IDOLM@STER - 91

Ako Atarashi - Saki achiga-hen episode of side-A - 293
Yuniko Kouzuki - Accel World - 124
Rena Ryuuguu - When They Cry - 89

Hitagi Senjougahara - Nisemonogatari - 239
Kouko Fukuyo - Saki achiga-hen episode of side-A - 131
Suzuha Amane - Steins;Gate - 120

September 12, 2012

Kotori Otonashi - THE IDOLM@STER - 211
Nao Takanashi - Onii-chan No Koto Nanka Zenzen Suki Janain Dakara Ne! - 101
Mio Sakamoto - Strike Witches - 77

Ai Nanasaki - Amagami SS+ - 183
Saku Touyama - Tantei Opera Milky Holmes - 142
Sawako Yamanaka - K-ON! - 59

Ika-Musume - Ika-Musume - 234
Yuuko - A-channel - 117
Sakuya Aizawa - Hayate the Combat Butler! HEAVEN IS A PLACE ON EARTH - 48

September 13, 2012

Aoi Yamada - Working! - 249
Rise Kujikawa - Persona 4 THE ANIMATION - 104
Habara - Daily Lives of High School Boys - 69

Hina Takahashi - Papa No Iukoto O Kikinasai - 175
Miyuki Hoshizora - Smile Pretty Cure - 154
Laffinty Fin E Ld Si - Rinne No Lagrange - 101

Mael Strom - Kore Wa Zombie Desu Ka? - 171
Akane Hino - Smile Pretty Cure - 143
Minami Shimada - Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu Ni - 108

Group H
September 14, 2012

Airi Kashii - Ro-kyu-bu - 184
Tsubasa Hanekawa - Nisemonogatari - 144
Hecate - Shakugan no Shana III -FINAL- 78

Nazuna Takahashi - WORKING! - 164
Azusa Miura - THE IDOLM@STER - 146
Sora Takanashi - Papa No Iukoto O Kikinasai - 116

Kuroyukihime (Black Lotus) - Accel World - 220
Ritsuko Akizuki - THE IDOLM@STER - 124
Hiroko Funakubo - Saki achiga-hen episode of side-A - 70

September 15, 2012

Minko Tsurugi - Hanasaku Iroha - 197
Shouko Kirishima - Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu Ni - 179
Kirie Konoe - Dusk Maiden of Amnesia - 82

Nano Shinonome - Nichijou - 244
Henrietta De Tristain - Zero no Tsukaima F - 124
Ako Shirabe - Smile Pretty Cure - 119

Elsie - The World God Only Knows - 209
Kana Ikeda - Saki achiga-hen episode of side-A - 198
Eucliwood Hellscythe - Kore Wa Zombie Desu Ka? - 112

It's as Red Dead as a Spaghetti Western

Maybe Amy Pond was right. Maybe he DID traveled alone for too long. Most of the people who died during The Doctor's past journeys is because of HIS MERCY...What could that mean?

Never mind, but I had fun watching a Doctor Who episode titled A TOWN CALLED MERCY. You know what? I'm not going to spill the details about what just happened on that episode but when it comes to impressions, I gotta say that this episode is as RED DEAD as a Spaghetti Western and loads of suspense and drama uncovered for The Doctor.

Well, I think we had enough of this HIGH NOON SALOON stuff. Next week, it's the cube invasion. That's new...Perhaps next week is...THE POWER OF THREE. Get your pants up when you're surrounded by troops...

Until then...GET OUT OF THE WAY!