Suzuki Wagon R Smile (2025MY Minor Change)

The Suzuki Wagon R Smile has been updated for its 2025 model year, and it is time to reintroduce this kei minivan from a different perspective. 

2025 Suzuki Wagon R Smile

Priced at 1,489,400 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the updated Smile is more than just its revised looks.

2025 Suzuki Wagon R Smile interior

Beginning with the exterior design, the Smile now features an updated front face that saw its front grille shortened to half, all in the name of gentleness and cuteness. Also, the plated back door garnish on the HYBRID X model has been revised and the shoulder line has been simplified.

There are no changes to the interior, but it now offers two new color combinations for the instrument panel: "Reflection Gray & Copper Gold" and "Moss Blue & Silver." The front door armrests also match the instrument panels. Additionally, a smartphone-linked memory navigation system is available as a manufacturer's option. This system includes a new drive recorder link, HDMI input, and Suzuki Connect functionality.

The Suzuki Wagon R Smile is built on the HEARTECT platform and features front MacPherson struts with coil springs. For front-wheel-drive (FF) models, there is a choice of a rear torsion beam, while 4WD models come with an Isolated Trailing Link. Additional features include torsion bar stabilizers, rack and pinion steering, and options for disc brakes on FF models and ventilated disc brakes on 4WD models. These dynamics make the Wagon R Smile enjoyable to drive, comparable to pushing a baby stroller with a peacefully sleeping child.

Under the hood, the Smile is equipped with a RO6D 660cc three-cylinder petrol engine, producing 49 PS of power and 58 Nm of torque. When paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), it achieves a fuel economy of 23.9 km/l on the WLTC scale.

For those interested in hybrid variants, they feature the same engine but are enhanced with a 1.9 kW electric motor, a lithium-ion battery, Idling Stop, and Eco-Cool technology, resulting in a fuel economy of 25.1 km/l on the WLTC scale. It's as efficient as today's Spacia, only slightly cheaper.

As always, the Suzuki Wagon R Smile comes equipped with the Suzuki Safety Support suite, which includes various driver aids to ensure safety everywhere.

If you're looking for a fuel-efficient kei minivan but can't afford a Spacia, consider the Smile you're affordable alternative.

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation

Subaru Chiffon Try

Remember the Daihatsu FunCross two years ago? Guess what, Subaru borrowed one for their own version of the said kei car. Called the Chiffon Try, it's for those who want a Daihatsu Tanto FunCross but their nearest dealership is Subaru's. Not bad.

2025 Subaru Chiffon Try

With prices starting at 1,831,500 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the Tanto FunCross is the rugged version of the current-generation Chiffon that features a rugged exterior with a tough front face and black claddings on the side and back. Although rugged, observers still consider it "cute", just like the rest of the Chiffon family.

On the interior, the Try's seats feature a camouflage design and some orange panelings that are in sync with its rugged design. Although they're somewhat show-off, their signature traits are still in this model; the signature pillarless door on the passenger side, space for four people, various seating arrangements, and various compartments to store your stuff, among many others. Word of advice, though, there are USB-C ports involved in this car so you better bring the right plug while on the go.

Like today's Chiffon range, the Chiffon Try runs on the DNGA architecture. Along with the rack-and-pinion steering, front MacPherson Strut suspension, ventilated disc front brakes, and leading trailing rear brakes, not to mention the torsion beams for FF models and 3-link rear suspension for 4WD models, the Try behaves pretty much like a Chiffon despite its rugged looks, as expected. Although made for the great outdoors, it's still a city car that fits well with the Tokyo traffic.

Under the hood, the Try runs on the KF 660cc 3-cylinder DOHC 12V EFI engine. Mated to a D-CVT, the fuel economy is up to 21.9km/L based on WLTC Mode standards.

Like most Chiffon models, the Try features Smart Assist, a suite of active safety features ranging from collision avoidance, detection, driving load reduction, and parking. It even comes with full LED headlamps, VSC, TRC, CTA, emergency stop signal, ABS, TAF body, SRS airbag, and ISOFIX.

So, if you want a Daihatsu Tanto FunCross but your nearest dealership is a Subaru dealership, the Chiffon Try is for you.

Photo: Subaru Corporation

Honda N-BOX Joy

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

2025 Honda N-BOX Joy

2025 Honda N-BOX Joy

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

2025 Honda N-BOX Joy interior

2025 Honda N-BOX Joy interior

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Third-generation Suzuki Spacia Gear

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

2025 Suzuki Spacia Gear

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

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

2025 Suzuki Spacia Gear interior

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

2025 Suzuki Spacia Gear

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

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

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

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

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation

Lexus LBX Morizo RR

First made a worldwide premiere at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon, the Lexus LBX Morizo RR is now a living thing, and with prices starting at 6.5 million Japanese Yen plus additional costs, you can now have an LBX that is as good as a Toyota GR Yaris but with extra doors for your buddies.

2025 Lexus LBX Morizo RR

The first-ever Lexus LBX Morizo RR is the result of what happens when a regular Lexus baby crossover watches too much shonen anime content and goes over 9000 if you know what I'm saying. Metaphors aside, the naming is proof that this hi-performance compact is the handwork of Morizo, former Toyota boss Akio Toyoda's nickname.

2025 Lexus LBX Morizo RR

2025 Lexus LBX Morizo RR interior

Although it looks and feels just like a normal LBX, the sporty aerodynamics and the sports seats up front are proof that this is no ordinary LBX. This is basically a glorified Toyota GR Yaris with two extra doors for everybody. Want to know the kicker? A random 100 customers will have a chance to personalize their own interiors courtesy of the Bespoke Build variant with eight seat colors, three seatbelt colors, and three stitching offered for its 100 randomly chosen potential customers. Yes. Randomly chosen because of the lottery system implemented just like the Toyota GR Corolla a while back.

Powering the LBX Morizo RR is the same G16E-GTS 1.6L 3-cylinder intercooler turbo engine that powers the recently facelifted GR Yaris, producing 304PS power output and 400Nm of torque. In addition to the 8-speed Direct Automatic Transmission, which debuted on the GR Yaris minor change, the LBX Morizo RR is the first Lexus to be mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. Yes. The first-ever Lexus with a stick shift. How about that? Don't say anything.

Being pleased about the Lexus-first manual gearbox implemented on this crossover, the LBX Morizo RR accommodates its electronically controlled full-time AWD driveline with the suspension layout of the AWD version of the base LBX, which is MacPherson struts in front and a double wishbone arrangement at the rear. Thanks to the dynamics inherited from the facelifted Toyota GR Yaris, the Lexus LBX Morizo RR is well-prepared to tear through asphalt or dirt if you're into that.

At long last, there is now a Lexus that is worth addictive to drive in GR Yaris-sized chunks, and with the Lexus-first manual gearbox, the Lexus LBX Morizo RR is too awesome to be missed. This is your newest JDM favorite.

Available Colors: White Nova Glass Flake & Black, Heat Blue Contrast Layering & Black, Red Spinel & Black, Sonic Chrome & Black, and Graphite Black Glass Flake.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Third Generation Honda Freed

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

2025 Honda Freed

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

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

2025 Honda Freed interior

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

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

2025 Honda Freed

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

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

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

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

Available Colors:

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

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

Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Mini Cooper F66 and Cooper E J01

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

2024 Mini Cooper

2024 Mini Cooper E

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

2024 Mini Cooper

2024 Mini Cooper E

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

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

2024 Mini Cooper E interior

2024 Mini Cooper interior

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

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

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

2024 Mini Cooper

2024 Mini Cooper E

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

The Mini Cooper F66 has two versions; the C and the S. The Cooper C has a 1.5L turbocharged 3-cylinder engine that produces 181HP of power and it will go from 0-62mph in 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 140mph. The range-topping Cooper S, meanwhile, has a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 215HP of power. 0-62mph in 6.7 seconds and flat-out in 150mph seconds. All are mated to a 7-speed DCT.

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

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

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

Photo: MINI

MG MG3 (3rd Generation)

Over a decade has passed since the MG3 arrived in Britain. With the British carmaker, under Chinese ownership, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, the only compact car in the MG stable gained its full model change. The all-new MG3 is no longer the MG3 you were familiar with a decade ago.

2024 MG MG3

Starting at £18,495 plus additional costs, the all-new MG3 is a radical departure from its predecessor because, for the first time, it's hybrid-powered but this is not the Toyota Aqua, oh no, because this new model is a lot better than that.

2024 MG MG3

2024 MG MG3 interior

Beginning with the styling, the all-new MG3 features a sleek front view inspired by its all-electric cousin, the MG4, while the rear view looks broadly similar to MG's crossover offerings. It's a bit of a botched job but thanks to its compact sizing, which is an improvement compared to the previous model it replaces, the all-new MG3 feels right at home while cruising through the streets of London. Insert Getaway dialogue here.

The interior is more cutting-edge than before with its 10.25" color touchscreen with Sat-Nav and smartphone integration and with the range-topping Trophy variant, you'll get Heated Front seats, Heated Steering, Leather Upholstery, and Keyless Entry. 

Although the five-seater city car is comfortable, the boot space can accommodate up to 983 liters with the rear seats folded down, which is useful for transporting groceries from one suburb to another.

The all-new features a 102PS petrol engine connected to a 100kW electric motor, generating a total power output of 194PS of power and 313Nm of torque. This is more than what you get from a Toyota Aqua and unlike the Aqua, which only has CVT, the MG3 has a 3-speed AT. The lesser of the two boring ones.

The hybrid powertrain of the all-new MG3 does 0-62mph in 8 seconds and flat-out at 106mph. The CO2 emission is a combined 100g/km.

For a car that weighs over a ton, it feels downright regular to drive for a hybrid city car like this but it's just okay for first-timers behind the wheel. As for safety, the all-new MG3 comes with MG Pilot ADAS consists of Active Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning System, Traffic Jam Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Driver Attention Alert, and Forward Collision Warning. Blind Zone Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are exclusive to the Trophy variant.

The all-new MG3 is a hybrid city car that's a smart value for your money. It's a radical departure from its predecessor, with improved looks, a new interior, new tech, and new packaging. Its hybrid powertrain is more engaging than the Toyota Aqua. Make no mistake, this is the bargain of the year, like it or not.

Available Colors: Arctic White, Black Pearl, Monument Silver, Hampstead Grey, Battersea Blue, and Dynamic Red.

Photo: MG Motor

Second-generation Honda Vezel/HR-V - 2025MY minor change

The second-generation Honda Vezel, known across the Belt and Road Initiative as the HR-V, gained a minor change for the 2025 model year, keeping this best-seller fresh and perky having been on the road for three years.

2025 Honda Vezel

Starting at ¥2,648,800 plus additional costs, the facelifted second-generation Vezel saw some revisions to keep Honda's best-selling crossover ready for more, whatever the reason. 

2025 Honda Vezel

2025 Honda Vezel

Beginning on the outside, the facelift saw a revised front grille and bumper, resulting in an additional 10mm in length and a new rear taillight design. In addition to the normal Vezel, it can be kitted with two optional packages such as the PLaY Package which comes with a two-tone roof, blue accents on the side, and a tri-color accent on the right side of the revised grille, and the new HuNT Package which features copper accents at the front bumper.

2025 Honda Vezel interior

The interior is slightly revised for this minor change as demonstrated by the new front seat center console and that's about it. Apart from the black interior color offered on the normal Vezel, the PLaY Package features a Greige interior color as well as blue accents on the dashboard and door covers. In contrast, the HuNT Package features a Khaki x Navy interior color with FABTECT, a water and oilproof seat material. Good call.

2025 Honda Vezel

Like the pre-facelift, the Vezel features the 1.5L L15Z petrol engine, now exclusive to the 4WD variant, and the 1.5L e:HEV powertrain where the 1.5L LEC i-VTEC Atkinson Cycle engine is bolted to a 96kW H5 electric motor. Thanks to some minor recalibrations to the hybrid powertrain, the fuel economy has improved by 1km/L compared to the pre-facelift model, meaning it's got 26km/L based on WLTC Mode standards. The normal 1.5L petrol engine, available only in the G variant, is good for 15km/L.

Although the driving feel remains the same as the previous one, the new Vezel features an improved Honda Sensing suite of safety features ranging from CMBS, ACC, LKAS, Traffic Jam Assist, Sudden Acceleration Suppression Function, and Adaptive Driving Beam.

The second-generation Vezel is no doubt the best-selling Honda in the age of the new normal and with this minor change, there's more work to be done.

Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Toyota GR Yaris (2025MY minor change)

Toyota's GR Yaris is the only three-door super hot hatch they make. It's been given a minor change for the 2025 model year. Although controversial, it's been given major upgrades to make it more accessible for speedo boys everywhere.

2025 Toyota GR Yaris

The 2025 Toyota GR Yaris, starting at 3,490,000 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, is the improved version of what Toyota claims to be a road-legal rally car. Although it's insane to call it, the latest revisions are a love-or-hate affair at first sight. Don't ask why.

Beginning with the exterior, the GR Yaris now sports a new front bumper design while the rear view ditches the Toyota logo while donning the Durango-esque taillights. The new look mimics its rally car equivalent, although explaining why is complicated.

2025 Toyota GR Yaris interior

The inside job is where the GR Yaris' minor change draws flak from observers. Instead of the dashboard from the normal Yaris, the new center console is repositioned to the driver's side, and as an optional extra for the entry-level RC version, you can have the handbrake positioned near the gear lever, giving you the experience that rally drivers and drifters do. Flashy but it works wonders.

The revised interior also sports the new 12.3-inch color instrument panel displaying real-time driving information and improved driving position to make driving slightly more accessible.

2025 Toyota GR Yaris

The G16E-GTS 1.6L 3-cylinder intercooler turbo engine that powers the GR Yaris has been improved with added 32PS of power compared to the pre-facelifted GR Yaris, meaning it produces 304PS power output and 400Nm of torque. With the 6-speed manual gearbox, fuel economy is 12.4km/L based on WLTC Mode standards.

The 2025 GR Yaris marks the debut of the 8-speed Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission, an automatic gearbox recalibrated with sporty driving in mind. Although it feels cheesy compared to the 6MT variant, it's good for 10.8km/L based on WLTC Mode standards.

In addition to numerous revisions underneath the shell, the GR Yaris is prepped with the Drive Mode Select, which allows drivers to select three different modes that can alter the electronic power steering, air con, and powertrain's behavior. There's even a Circuit Mode feature that unleashes the full majesty of the GR Yaris while you're in tracks like Tsukuba, Fuji, or Suzuka. Although mild and menacing for a 4WD super hot hatch, it's more addictive to drive compared to the old GR Yaris.

With the flagship RZ "High Performance" variant, you can expect specially tuned suspension, red-colored calipers, an air-cooled intercooler with spray, a piano black radiator griller, and brake ducts.

As expected, the GR Yaris comes with the Toyota Safety Sense, blind spot monitor and safe exit assist, rear cross-traffic alert for MT variants, parking support brake for AT variants, and a rearview monitor.

Love it or hate it, the 2025 GR Yaris minor change is a better version of Toyota's road-legal rally car that is not afraid to get itself dirty. From the streets of Tokyo to Hokkaido's dirtiest roads, this 4WD super hot hatch is ready to roll for more. Are you not entertained?

Available Colors: Super White II, Platinum White Pearl Mica, Precious Metal, Precious Black Pearl, and Emotional Red II.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Honda WR-V (DG5)

As Honda's SUV lineup consists of the Vezel, the WR-V, and the soon-to-be-released CR-V e:FCEV, the smallest member joins the party. Welcome to the all-new Honda WR-V.

2024 Honda WR-V

Priced at 2,098,800 Yen plus additional costs, the all-new Honda WR-V is the smallest in the Honda SUV lineup and the first Honda fully imported from India, the second Japanese carmaker to do so after Suzuki with its now-defunct Baleno hatchback. So, what can we expect from the fully-imported compact Honda crossover that's small enough to fit through the Tokyo traffic?

2024 Honda WR-V

Beginning with the exterior, the all-new WR-V measures 4,312 mm long, 1,790 mm wide, 1,650 mm tall, and has a wheelbase spanning 2,650 mm, smaller than today's Vezel. With a typical Honda design on the front, Ignis-esque side view, and Seltos-esque rear view, it's no wonder why the all-new WR-V is another Indo-Pacific fusion cuisine worth checking out if you're into that. Add the Tough Style package and it packs some bling into it.

2024 Honda WR-V interior

Inside, the all-new WR-V features a horizontal keynote design and texture of the details, as Honda claims. It even comes with an optional 9-inch Honda CONNECT navigation system as well as a 7-inch digital graphic meter, among others. The base X variant features fabric sheet material for the seats while the Z and Z+ variants come with the Prime smooth x Fabric sheet material as well as a genuine leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear lever.

Asked about space, the wheelbase makes it roomy for a compact five-seater crossover and it can accommodate up to 458 liters of boot space. Decent enough to fit today's grocery shopping list.

2024 Honda WR-V

The all-new Honda WR-V has a 1.5L i-VTEC engine that produces 118PS of power and 142Nm of torque. It's mated to a CVT gearbox with paddle shifters and gets up to 16.4kmpl based on Japan's WLTC Mode standards.

The Honda WR-V is a front-wheel-drive-only crossover, so it's best suited for asphalt and some dirt areas. It's too cute for its own good, though, so don't plan on taking it to Hannibal's. The WR-V has front MacPherson struts, a rear torsion bar, front ventilated disc brakes, rear reading trailing brakes, and Rack & Pinion electric power steering. It has a turning radius of 5.2 meters, which is not too shabby.

For safety, the WR-V features the Honda Sensing suite of safety features as well as a reverse camera, LaneWatch, Vehicle Stability Assist, and Hill Start Assist.

The fully imported Honda WR-V proves that small is better in the new normal. Although more expensive than the Toyota Raize, it's more affordable than the Nissan Kicks, making the WR-V the bargain compact crossover of 2024.

Engineered in Japan, built in India, and finished in a choice of five colors, the all-new WR-V is worthy of becoming your first reasonably priced car if you're new to the driving thing.

Available Colors: Platinum White Pearl, Meteoroid Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Illuminous Red Metallic, and Gold Brown Metallic.

Photo: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

4th-Generation Citroen C3

The all-new, fourth-generation Citroen C3 marks the true beginning of the French carmaker's new era in the age of electrification, and being a back-to-basic hatchback with budget-friendly pricing, it's a good compact to start with.

2024 Citroen e-C3

Starting at 14,990 Euros plus additional costs, the all-new fourth-generation Citroen C3 brings Citroen back to being a humble French carmaker even under the thumb of Stellantis. Being the first model to proudly wear the new Citroen logo from the OLI Concept, it truly is a new start.

2024 Citroen C3

The fourth-generation Citroen C3 is the first model to bear the new Citroen logo. However, its design conveys a different message. With styling inspired by the OLI Concept, the C3 resembles a crossover more than a city car, especially with its black cladding on the side and rear. The C-shaped headlamps make the car look like a Rubik's cube, which seems to be a French expression of style. Mind you, the all-new C3 uses most of the bits and bobs from today's Peugeot 208 and Opel/Vauxhall Corsa rather than the new platforms Stellantis introduced a long time ago because it's too early to tell.

2024 Citroen C3 interior

The all-new Citroen C3 has a completely redesigned interior layout that adopts the brand's C-Zen lounge concept. It features a squarish steering wheel, a head-up display (HUD), a sat-nav touchscreen, and automatic air conditioning in MAX variants. The low-cost YOU variant has conventional climate control knobs and a smartphone holder, which is useful for those in the Gig Economy. In terms of space, the C3 has 310 liters of boot space, which is more than adequate for today's thrift store purchases.

2024 Citroen C3

The fourth-generation Citroen C3 is available in petrol and electric versions. The petrol version provides the most enjoyable driving experience, owing to its 1.2L HN09 PureTech engine, which generates 101 PS of power and 205 Nm of torque. When paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, this engine propels the C3 from 0 to 100 kph in 10.6 seconds and achieves a top speed of 183 kph. In terms of fuel economy, the petrol-powered C3 achieves 5.6 L/100 km combined based on WLTP standards.

The e-C3's electric powertrain has a 44kWh Lithium iron phosphate battery and an electric motor that powers the front wheels. It produces 113PS of power and 120Nm of torque, which enables it to go from 0 to 100kph in 11 seconds and reach a top speed of 135kph. The e-C3 has a range of 326km and takes less than 30 minutes to charge to 80% at a 100kw public charging station.

Although not the most fun to drive on the straights, its city-friendly handling and the signature Citroen Advanced Comfort suspension made the all-new C3 civilized and user-friendly in the real world. As for safety, the all-new C3 features a wide range of safety tech such as rear parking assist, Active Safety Brake, Active Unintentional Line Crossing Alert, speed sign recognition, and the MAX-exclusive reversing camera.

From its OLI-inspired exterior design, minimalist interior, a choice of petrol and electric, user-friendly driving feel, and loads of safety tech, the all-new fourth-generation Citroen C3 truly is the new start for the French carmaker and has the right to wear the new Citroen logo. Welcome to the subtle side.

Photo: Citroen

Mazda New Flair Wagon (MM94S)

Following the launch of the third-generation Suzuki Spacia range, it didn't take long for Mazda to borrow one for its Flair Wagon equivalent.

2024 Mazda Flair Wagon

Starting at 1,541,100 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the third-generation model features two different styles to choose from such as the all-familiar normal Flair Wagon and the stylish Flair Wagon Custom Style.

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

The third-generation Flair Wagon's Mild Hybrid technology features an Integrated Starter Generator linked to a lithium battery pack collaborating with its fuel-efficient R06D 660cc engine. Thanks to this fuel-efficient measure as well as the HEARTECT platform, the all-new Spacia has 25.1km/L of fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards.

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

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

If you want a third-generation Spacia but the nearest dealership is a Mazda, this is your answer.

Photo: Mazda Motor Corporation

Third-generation Suzuki Spacia

The Suzuki Spacia range is all-new for its third generation as Japan's most fuel-efficient kei minivan has been reloaded with new ways and means to keep its crown.

2024 Suzuki Spacia

2024 Suzuki Spacia Custom

Starting at 1,530,100 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the all-new, third-generation Suzuki Spacia continues to maintain its crown as Japan's most fuel-efficient kei minivan while donning its new and exciting ways and means to keep it afloat in the midst of the new normal.

2024 Suzuki Spacia interior

2024 Suzuki Spacia Custom interior

In Spacia tradition, the third-generation model features two different styles to choose from such as the all-familiar normal Spacia and the stylish Spacia Custom that is now highly reminiscent of a Solio Bandit from a long time ago. Whichever Spacia you're on, you'll be greeted with redesigned looks that show not just proof of maturity but also how far the Spacia has gone since the first-generation model came out a decade ago.

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

2024 Suzuki Spacia

The third-generation Suzuki Spacia's Mild Hybrid technology features an Integrated Starter Generator linked to a lithium battery pack collaborating with its fuel-efficient R06D 660cc engine. Thanks to this fuel-efficient measure as well as Suzuki's HEARTECT platform, the all-new Spacia has 25.1km/L of fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards. It's still the most fuel-efficient kei minivan ever made and Suzuki still keeps its laurel intact. 

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

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

The competition tried messing with the Suzuki Spacia and they failed. The Spacia is still the most fuel-efficient kei minivan ever made and in this third-generation form, the title stands. With its all-new look, convenient interior, and improved efficiency, this is the Suzuki Spacia reloaded for the new normal.

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation

smart #3

Following the advent of the smart #1 electric crossover, smart shook away its Little Tykes image in favor of a city-centric approach, and the renaissance continues with its coupe-crossover derivative, the smart #3.

2024 smart #3

Starting at 38,490 Euros plus additional costs, the first-ever smart #3 is basically a smart #1 with a sloping roofline. It's a city-centric coupe-crossover done the smart way and you'd better thank the Chinese overlords from Geely for making it possible.

2024 smart #3

2024 smart #3 interior

While the exterior and interior look and feel similar to its #1 equivalent, the #3's boot space has 370 liters with the rear seats present and up to 1160 liters with the rear seats folded down, that's more than you get from the #1 because of the longer wheelbase that makes up from its lowered height. This means the added dimensions made the #3 roomier than its #1 equivalent. Not bad for a coupe crossover, though.

2024 smart #3 Brabus

Like the #1, the smart #3 runs on the SEA platform developed by Geely, and because of its RR layout and city car sizing, it behaves in a unique and spartan manner even while going nuts with it. Most variants come with the TZ220XSA02 electric motor bolted to a NiCM battery that produces 272PS of power and 343Nm of torque, capable of hitting 100kph in 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 180kph. The #3 Brabus, meanwhile, produces  428PS of power and 543Nm of torque. Although it has the same top speed, the 0-100kph time was dropped to 3.7 seconds.

For safety, the smart #3 features a wide array of advanced driver assistance features such as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering assist, lane change assist, lane keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring, among many others.

For a coupe-crossover of its size, the smart #3 is becoming more of a big brother compared to its smart #1 equivalent because of its proportions. Has the whole world gone upside down? For the smart #3's case, it is.