Review: 2015 Chevrolet Captiva LS Diesel

Photos by Ulysses Ang

Despite its name, it seemed like the Chevrolet Captiva was merely content as the wallflower of the compact crossover segment. While everyone else boasted head-turning good looks or formidable performance (or both), the Captiva had an available diesel variant and seven seats. Sure, it was enough for a select few to part money for one, but the vast majority of Filipinos passed on it. Well, Chevrolet has finally understood that having a diesel and seven seats maybe good for few, but an updated styling and some spec tweaks are much more important. Enter the 2015 Captiva, a compact crossover that’s now slicker than your average.
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Review: 2015-2016 Mazda CX-5 AWD Sport

Photos by Ulysses Ang

The first of the full Skyactiv line of vehicles, the Mazda CX-5, first introduced in 2012, is still at the top of its game. It delivers a driver-centric experience without sacrificing practicality and efficiency. It’s a rare breed of car that’s both a personal and popular choice; something the husband and the wife won’t disagree over. Simply put, Mazda didn’t need to revamp it. It’s good as it is and still sells briskly. Except, the Mazda3 happened and since then, the company has had to sprinkle the same sort of updates particularly because the CX-5 commands a price premium over its non-crossover stable mate.
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First Drive: 2016 Hyundai Tucson GLS

Photos by Ulysses Ang

For most people, 2009 doesn’t seem like that long ago. For Hyundai though, this particular year was when everything began to change thanks to the introduction of Fluidic Sculpture and the second-generation Tucson. The swoopy, expressive lines introduced in the compact crossover enabled the Korean car brand to raise its flag not as a manufacturer of affordable utilitarian transport, but as a company that builds fashionable, well-equipped, and high-quality cars.
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