Renault-Samsung SM6 vs. GM Korea Chevrolet All New Malibu

Two luxury midsize saloons sourced from the West, one from France and the other from the United States, have finally made it into South Korean territories but adjusted for South Korean specifications. First and foremost, let's meet the South Korean version of the recently-released Renault Talisman saloon, the first-ever Renault Samsung SM6.

2016 Renault Samsung SM6

2016 Renault Samsung SM6 interior

Well, what do we have here is a midsize luxury saloon that got the South Korean folks from Renault noticed when they heard that their French parents launched the new Talisman saloon, the first to incorporate Renault's new design language applied in the new Megane, new Espace, and the upcoming Koleos crossover. Of course, China does had a Renault Talisman, but only in the SM7. Because the new Talisman is made to be the direct replacement to the aging Laguna and the less-successful Latitude flagship, which was sourced from Korea as an SM5, there's a one-sided theory that their new SM6 will replace both the SM5 and the SM7 at the same pace but while the two aging saloons are still in Renault-Samsung's lineup for now, we'll have to wait for Renault's South Korea subsidy to reach their verdict.

Anyway, the first-ever SM6 looks broadly similar to the Talisman at so many angles. You can expect the new Renault design implanted all over the outer details and so is the questionable interior with the touch screen implanted on the dashboard to warn speedo boys "you can't replace me, suckers!" Yep, today's modern cars feature irreplaceable stuff so no speedo boy can remove it with their bare hands. In partial terms of comfort, the new SM6 is German saloon quality despite being a French car with a South Korean passport booked in. You can really tell just how premium those seats are when you lay your butts on it and it's not surprisingly half bad to feel just how "luxurious" the interior is. Rest assured, they done it to make it as luxurious as the Germans.

One feature you will notice is the Multi-Sense feature which allows the driver to switch through four different modes (Neutral, Eco, Comfort, and Sport) and each mode affects different stuff around the car in terms of driving, comfort, tech, and so on. There's a Personal mode where the driver can customize the settings of his or her liking. You can change how it affects the lighting, the speedo, the engine sound, the climate control, the seats, the steering, the powertrain, or the suspension. Sounds fancy but complicating if you mess it up.

Under the hood, the SM6 offers a choice of a 1.6 TCe engine, a 2.0 GDe engine, or a 2.0 LPe DONUT (for rental use). The 1.6 TCe engine develops 190PS of power and 26.5kg.m of torque while delivering a claimed combined fuel economy of 12.8km/L while the 2.0 GDe engine produces 150PS of power and 20.6kg.m of torque with 12.3km/L of claimed combined fuel economy. Both of these engines come with a 7-speed EDC gearbox as well as auto start-stop system which allows its engine to shut off when stopped at a set of lights and then starts again when you set off.

For safety, the SM6 comes with Active Emergency Braking System, Safe Distance Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning, Automatic High Low Beam, Adaptive Cruise Control, and a feature that allows this car to park by itself.

The price? It starts from 23,760,000 to 31,900,000 Korean Won. That sounds more accessible to own than the SM5 and the SM7 saloons in the lineup but if you want more that you expect from the SM6 but unsure about its pricing, best to look at this alternative.

2016 GM Korea Chevrolet Malibu

2016 GM Korea Chevrolet Malibu interior

This is the all-new Chevrolet Malibu, the one that came out last year Stateside but this one's Korean-made and it's a well-match for the Asian markets desperate to get their hands on this potent rival to Korean-made saloons such as the Hyundai Sonata and the Kia K5, but since no Asia-Pacific country is heavily interested with the new Malibu, this car will have to make do with the South Koreans.

If I recall from last year, the new Malibu sounds very reasonable when compared against other family midsize saloons in its class, but with all that tech induced in this car, the new Malibu feels like a class apart, well despite the dynamics that doesn't feel like a European saloon. I once said that because it looks more American, chances are too slim for now. Guess what, Asian countries like South Korea and China has one and it's unsure if some other Asia-Pacific countries will get the new one, but in the meantime...

It still looks identical to the one sold in North America as are the features as well as the comfort and conveniences offered. Unlike the North American model, which comes with 4G LTE and Wi-Fi connectivity and as a first, it is available with the choice of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, this South Korean model doesn't have internet connectivity on it and it's only compatible with Apple CarPlay. No questions asked.

Under the hood, the Malibu, like the North American one, still comes with the turbocharged 1.5L ECOTEC engine with Variable Valve Timing and the more powerful and turbocharged 2.0L ECOTEC engine but both of these engines are mated with the GEN III 6-speed automatic gearbox. It's easier said than done because with the 2.0L is focused on performance, thanks to its 253PS of power, the 1.5L model focuses solely on fuel economy thanks to its combined fuel economy of 13km/L, Chevrolet claims but let's hope this fuel consumption doesn't cheat in the eyes of many drivers.

Keep this in mind because South Korea's new Malibu is different from USA's new Malibu, there is no Teen Driver Feature present here despite the new model is offered with seventeen driver aids available by request.

Anyway, wanna know how it cost? It's 23,100,000 to 31,810,000 Korean Won, so it's less expensive to own than the SM6 and it's more powerful as well. Now, you had a choice. If you were a businessman living in South Korea and you have a choice between two interracial luxury midsize saloons sourced from the West but altered for South Korean specifications, which would you pick?

GM Korea Chevrolet Captiva - 2016 minor change

2016 GM Korea Chevrolet Captiva

2016 GM Korea Chevrolet Captiva interior

The Captiva crossover has been in South Korean roads for five years and the folks from GM Korea managed to give it a much needed facelift to keep this once world-proven crossover afloat in times of challenges the South Korean division of General Motors faced following Chevrolet's withdrawal from the European market.

First and not the most amusing one, the exterior has been revised with a new front view reflecting the new global look for Chevrolet and I know some of you never liked the new Chevrolet look in the front because some might complain that this new look might just spoil its once great look but while if you're not making an issue about the front, check out the rear side because the taillights have been given an updated look and aside from that, the 2016MY Captiva features refreshed wheel designs to keep its dynamic look alive and well despite the odds.

2016 GM Korea Chevrolet Captiva interior

2016 GM Korea Chevrolet Captiva

The interior is heavily revised with some new tech including the upgraded MyLink with phone projection technology featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, Bluetooth connectivity, and Siri Eyes Free which lets your voice do the operation. Its seven-seater capacity remains the same as well as seven ways to fold the seats to accomodate more luggage spaces especially the ones you bought at a nearby thrift store.

The only engine available for the facelifted Captiva is a Euro 6-compliant 2.0L ECOTEC diesel engine producing 170PS of power and 40.8kg-m of torque, mated with a 6-speed automatic gearbox sourced from Japan-based transmission manufacturer Aisin. This gearbox delivers improved acceleration, response, quietness, and better fuel economy. When switched to Sport Mode, it delivers direct throttle response to get things afloat. It even comes with a different kind of power steering called R-EPS, which provides a much direct handling for the new Captiva.

The new Chevrolet Captiva even comes with loads of safety features such as a rear-view camera, Blind Spot Alert, Rear cross traffic alert, electronic stability control, active rollover protection, Hill Start Assist, six airbags, and many more to keep this crossover safer than none.

The 2016MY Captiva starts at 28,090,000 Korean Won.

Photo: GM Korea Company

GM Korea Chevrolet The Next Spark

South Korea is the first nation to get the new-generation Spark, which will arrive in the USA in early 2016 and soon in other markets (except Europe because of Chevrolet's pullout in the EU market), and since the latest-generation Spark is built by Koreans, for Koreans, these people are lucky enough to gain early access to "The Next Spark", which is a compact car emerged from being a low-life Daewoo Matiz to a world-proven Spark that captured the global audiences, even first-timers.

2016 GM Korea Chevrolet Spark

2016 GM Korea Chevrolet Spark

Here it is, the latest version, and it's yours for an affordable 10,150,000 KRW (estimated 8,700 US Dollars), which is a smart buy for those who got themselves a driver's license for the first time but what do you get for this uber-cheap city car? For starters, the design looks not very premium-ish for the new model. The previous-model looks fine when kitted out with extras but for the new model, the design looks unpleasant for the Chevrolet, especially with its signature dual-port grille that has gone on the wrong side of the road by putting the Chevy badge to the top of the grille rather than the middle that mosts Chevys do. What retains from the previous model is the secret rear doors which makes it more of an occasion for the new car.

Since this is the Korean-spec new Spark, the only engine available for Korean customers is a newly-developed 1.0 SGE ECOTEC engine mated with either a 5-speed manual or a Next Gen C-Tech CVT gearbox. This small engine develops 75PS of power output and 9.7kg-m of torque, which isn't sounds like much but in the small car like this, it feels peppy and perky. There's also an optional feature where it can shut off its engine at a set of lights, capable of delivering a combined fuel economy of 15.7km/L.

2016 GM Korea Chevrolet Spark interior

Thanks to its aerodynamic design and enhanced chassis, the NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) has been improved, meaning that the new Spark delivers a best-in-class comfort unlike any other small cars in the market. This isn't half bad for a car suitable for first-time drivers but when it comes to your next barkada trip, you should better off with another car because even though it has seating enough room for your stuff and your mates, it's relatively small, meaning you can get bothered by people chit-chatting about what they saw on TV, what plans for the weekend, or any other blabbermouth your barkada might expect to ask.

What's also bizarre that this is the first-ever Chevy on sale to come with Apple Carplay which acts...just like your iPhone and that's it.

So, should you buy one? With the starting price of 10,150,000 KRW, yes, you can afford one but you have to spec it all out with some fancy stuff, including the CarPlay, to bring out the best to your city car, and since this car is ready to be sold in other markets soon, especially the Americas, this is one global car that deserves the credit of being a world-proven city car. Sadly, if you're European, you can't have one because of Chevrolet's pullout from the EU market but don't worry, the new Opel Karl/Vauxhall Viva compacts will supplant the Spark's EU demise. Look at this way, they're made in the same Korean factory, the same chassis, the same stuff, and the same behavior, despite their different appearances.

Available colors: Creamy Beige, Urban Titanium Grey, Blu-ray Blue, Carbon Flash Black, Blue Splash, Switchblade Silver, Mystic Violet, Fresh Lime Green, Solar Red, and Pure White

Photo: GM Korea Company

2014 Buick LaCrosse (GM Korea Alpheon) for NY debut

2014 Buick LaCrosse

Set for New York Auto Show debut, the minor change version of the Buick LaCrosse for the 2014 is getting a bit more interesting and a bit more "flagship" for a world-class luxury car. Aside from a well-refined exterior, the interior is now all new and it even comes with Buick's IntelliLink telematics system.

It's now safer as well thanks to numerous safety features such as Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Change Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Automatic Collision Preparation.

It still comes with front- and all-wheel-drive models with two gasoline powertrains: a 2.4-liter engine with eAssist or a 3.6-liter direct-injected V6, both linked to a six-speed automatic transmission.

This car is set for NY debut and sales start in Summer 2013. Sadly though, it is unclear for Koreans if the Alpheon will get the same treatment as the 2014 LaCrosse.

Story: http://www.carscoops.com/2013/03/2014-buick-lacrosse-features-mild.html

GM Korea Chevrolet Trax

Ever since in two years ago when Mr. Mike Arcamone finally axed the Daewoo brand for good and use the Chevrolet brand to its Korean made cars (with the exception of the Damas, Labo, and Alpheon flagship sedan) to boost its sales as well as its renaming the South Korean division of General Motors from GM Daewoo to GM Korea Company, it bridged the gap between Hyundai-Kia and Renault-Samsung, becoming one of South Korea's biggest carmakers. I know it was a good idea to kill of that ugly Daewoo brand for good because nobody in the world really liked the Daewoo brand after all but sometimes, even the Korean-made Chevrolets should have known better than that because I don't think they fared well against the competition. The Chevrolet Cruze, for instance, is facing sluggish competition against the Avante and the K3 while the Chevy Aveo (Sonic in most markets) is making a deadheat against the Kia Pride and the Hyundai Accent RB and the Chevrolet Captiva is losing its ground against the Santa Fe DM and the Sorento R. Sadly though, GM Korea doesn't have a competitor against the Hyundai Tucson iX or the Kia Sportage R so when they guys went to the drawing board, this is what they came up what known to be as a proper rival to the Tucson or Sportage...

2013 GM Korea Chevrolet Trax

This might be a potential contender, it's called the TRAX and by the name TRAX, people should not to be confused with the 2007 concept car of the same name that inspired Mudflap from Transformers 2 or that K-POP duo called The Trax. He he he he he..... Anyway, while the name sounds confusing for a Korean, what's underneath the Trax is the chassis that was used on the Opel/Vauxhall Mokka (Buick Encore). It's even built by the same factory where most Korean-made Chevys were made. Where? Bupyeong-gu, Incheon, South Korea! Not sure where? Look at the map, okay?

2013 GM Korea Chevrolet Trax

 Anyway, the Trax is a compact crossover that slots below the Captiva and as a compact crossover, the TRAX was made to be for those who are living the urban lifestyle, it's like a relaxed adult spending hours listening to Crossover FM on his/her iPhone app or at a sound system that is five times more expensive than an ordinary radio while living in a very luxurious condo somewhere in Filinvest. The Trax though is like that, it's like being me who spend the rest of my free time shopping at Festival or at SM Southmall for some stuff that I like to make myself comfortable. Judging from my free time doing a bit of shopping or relieving my field trip memories, the Trax is just something that I'm easing my worries about.

However, as an alternative to the Tucson or the Sportage R, this is a fair choice because with the starting price of just 19,400,000 Korean Won, the Trax is the affordable of the three. Engine choices of these three? Let's have a look... Sportage R has 2.0L T-GDi and 2.0L CRDi-VGT, Tucson is available only with 2.0L CRDi-VGT, Trax is petrol only at that time. It has a 1.4L turbocharged engine that produces about 140HP of power and 20.4kg-m of torque while being mated with the GEN II 6-speed automatic transmission that you may expect on the Malibu. Fuel consumption takes about 12.2km/L for the only engine offered on the Trax.

Sadly though, no 4WD offered on the Trax, which is a bit of a problem for a crossover of this size and seems to be that those Koreans who want to buy the new Trax might have a bit of a rethink because when the Trax was premiered at last year's Paris Motor Show, it has 4WD but when GM Korea brought it here, where's the 4WD? There's none! The Trax is available only in FF, same as the upcoming Scenic X-MOD that has no 4WD on sight.

As for the driving feel, the Trax is a bit more athletic, it's like a nimble hatchback that really shows its grooves but remember, the Trax is always an urban life vehicle designed and made for those who are as much comfortable as living in a condo in Alabang, not an SUV that you can make some ridiculous stereotypes.

2013 GM Korea Chevrolet Trax interior

The interior of the Trax seems to be a bit cheap, feels like it was made of cheap materials and Chevrolet should have known better when it comes to make eye-catching interiors. Despite it's low-quality interior, the one thing I'm going to like about the Trax is the fact that it has Siri. No, I'm not joking and I'm not making this up because Trax got Siri. That's right, it's your personal assistant you often love or hate on your iPhone is in the Trax and while your iPhone's connected to the Chevrolet MyLink, talk to Siri, Siri knows what to do as you give Siri commands but best to speak clearly or Siri won't understand what you're saying. Trust me, my pronunciations are not that good than yours. He he he he....

To sum up then, what I like about the Trax is that it's got Siri, the turbocharged engine, nimble handling that feels like a sports hatchback, and the same feeling you felt on your posh condo. What I don't like about the Trax that the interior design looks cheap, no diesel and 4WD powertrain on sight, and the design that looks a bit more boxy. Now then, for my moment of truce with the TRAX, Siri, go play me Blind by Trax!

Available colors: Pure White, Snowflake White Pearl, Switchblade Silver, Satin Steel Grey, Velvet Red, Sand Beige Brown, Espresso Brown, Hawaiian Blue, Royal Solid Blue, and Carbon Flash Black.

PRICE LIST:

1.4 LS A/T - 19,400,000 Won
1.4 LS 디럭스 A/T - 20,150,000 Won
1.4 LT A/T - 20,900,000 Won
1.4 LT 디럭스 A/T - 21,900,000 Won
1.4 LTZ A/T - 22,890,000 Won

Photo: GM Korea Company

GM Korea Chevrolet "The Perfect Cruze"

It's been a year since GM Daewoo is now GM Korea Company and the transition from Daewoo cars to Chevrolet cars (with the exception of Damas, Labo, and Alpheon) under the supervision of CEO Mike Arcamone but hey, this became the most successful transition yet. This Chevrolet Cruze here, made in Gunsan, Jeonbuk, South Korea, is just one of the many examples why the Korean subsidiary of General Motors became a world-class hit.

It has been here for four years since the Lacetti Premiere but the Chevrolet Cruze, in sedan and hatchback form, are getting their very own minor change and dubbed as "The Perfect Cruze" because there are some features that will make you addicting, including the new Chevrolet MyLink feature.

2013 GM Korea Chevrolet "The Perfect Cruze"

2013 GM Korea Chevrolet "The Perfect Cruze5"

Judging from its facelift, "The Perfect Cruze" sports a re-trimmed front grille featuring thick horizontal slabs and smaller vertical slats instead of a honeycomb scheme, and a redesigned front bumper with a different lower grille and fog-lamp surrounds similar in shape to those used on the Aveo/Sonic.

2013 GM Korea Chevrolet "The Perfect Cruze" interior

What amazed us on this minor change is on the inside, we'd expect keyless entry and start, a rear view camera, auto start-stop and Chevy’s MyLink infotainment system. Speaking of which, WHAT IS MYLINK?

The new Chevrolet MyLink system has three points of view; GET CONNECTED, GET ENTERTAINED, and TAKE CONTROL. This telematics system allows you to initiate phone calls, hands-free, while on the go, enjoy music, DMB, Navigation, watch movies, and so on. MyLink may also provide you with this addicting touch screen, Bluetooth connectivity, USB connectivity, and pairing up your device. For more info:
http://www.chevrolet.co.kr/mylink/index.jsp

You still expect the same and untouched 1.8 DOHC ECO-TEC engine and the 2.0L VCDi Common Rail diesel engine. The 1.8 DOHC engine produces about 142ps/6200rpm of power output, 17.8kg·m/3800rpm of torque output, and the fuel economy of 13.7km/L. The Cruze5's 2.0L CRDi engine releases a powerful 163ps/3800rpm of power, 36.7kg·m/2750rpm of torque, and the fuel economy of 15.9km/L. Consider the CRDi engine equipped on the Cruze5 a perfect balance of power and ecology because of its Euro V compliance. Most of them are fully equipped with the 6-speed Hydromatic transmission that allows this automatic transmission to go from AUTO to MANUAL for fun driving.

Available colors are; Espresso Brown, Pure White, Switchblade Silver, Velvet Red, Gunsmoke Gray, and Carbon Flash Black.

My comment:

This facelifted Cruze is definitely a head-turning fetish with an addictive Chevrolet MyLink feature that makes it more fun to enjoy. I am so really want one of these because not only it looks good at the start but the features are what made me pleased. A car with such perfect balance of style and performance made it ever perfect with "The Perfect Cruze".

Photo: GM Korea Company

GM Korea releases special edition Chevrolet Spark Tattoo and Spark Stripe

2012 GM Korea Chevrolet Spark Stripe

2012 GM Korea Chevrolet Spark Tattoo

 

GM Korea Company, the South Korean division of General Motors, launched two special editions for the Chevrolet Spark compact car. First up is the Chevrolet Spark Tattoo which features some "Circles" vinyl on the exterior. What's more, it's available in Sapporo White with pink circles vinyl and Monaco Pink with white circles vinyl, it's available only in 1.0L engine, and it comes with 15-inch rims. This special edition Spark is targeted for the young Korean females.

For the young Korean males, here comes the Chevrolet Spark Stripe. Available in 8 colors; Iceland Blue with White Stripes, Havana Green with White Stripes, Santorini Blue with White Stripes, Belgian Brown with White Stripes, Barcelona Red with White Stripes, Prague Black with White Stripes, Sapporo White with Black Stripes, and Manhattan Silver with White Stripes.

What's more, it comes with a stylish 15-inch rims.

Price List:

1) Chevrolet Spark 1.0L Stripe 5M/T - 11,330,000 Korean Won

2) Chevrolet Spark 1.0L Stripe 4A/T - 12,630,000 Korean Won

3) Chevrolet Spark 1.0L Tattoo 5M/T - 11,440,000 Korean Won

4) Chevrolet Spark 1.0L Tattoo 4A/T - 12,740,000 Korean Won

Scoop: http://www.megaauto.com/newcar/carinfo_body.php3?carinfoid=47686&family_id=icomes&menu_id=472&val=&Nstep=2&beforeyear=&frame_id=5&frame_url=list/drive.php3?id=55864

Forte Hatchback vs. i30 vs. Cruze5

2011 Kia Forte Hatchback

2012 Hyundai i30

2012 GM Korea Chevrolet Cruze5

The Forte Hatchback, new i30, and the Cruze5. What does these three have in common? They're both made in Korea and these Korean-made hatchbacks deserve a ship's passage to Cagayan, well kind of...

First off, the Kia Forte Hatchback was launched in South Korea since September 2010 as the expansion for the Kia Forte lineup. As of now, all Kia Forte models are equipped with the 1.6-L Gamma GDI I4 petrol engine that produces 140hp of power and 17.0kg-m of torque. AT versions can accumulate 15.7km/L while MT versions can accumulate 16.6km/L.

Then, the Chevrolet Cruze5 is the debutante and an additional model to the Korean-made Chevrolet Cruze. Since March 2011, the Daewoo Lacetti Premiere has been renamed to Chevrolet Cruze as part of shaking off the criticized Daewoo brand to make way for Chevrolet's South Korea launch. Unlike the Forte Hatchback, which is available only in petrol engine, the Cruze5 is available in 1.8L ECOTEC petrol and 2.0 VCDi diesel engine. Sadly, no manual transmission offered, just a 6-speed automatic transmission. First, the 1.8L ECOTEC petrol engine produces 142hp of power and 17.8kg-m of torque. It can achieve a fuel economy of 13.7km/L. That petrol engine powered the Cruze5 is proven to be more powerful than the Forte Hatchback. Here on the 2.0L VCDi engine, it produces 163hp of power, 36.7kg-m of torque, and 15.9km/L of fuel economy.

Lastly is the second-generation Hyundai i30. Launched in Korea since October 20, 2011, the second-generation Hyundai i30 is the second member of Hyundai's new Premium Youth Lab sub-brand. Like the previous model, the Hyundai i30 uses a platform lifted from the Hyundai Avante/Elantra. It follows the "Fluidic Sculpture" design philosophy and this design for the new i30 is dubbed as the "Aero Active" concept. Surprisingly though, the new i30 features Flex Steer, which allows the driver to switch through three different modes; Comfort, Normal, and Sport. I kinda like the Sport mode because it sharpens the suspension system and this makes the new i30 feel more European to handle. Although it has a GDi 1.6L engine lifted from its Forte Hatchback cousin, the new i30 also comes with a 1.6 CRDi-VGT diesel engine that produces 128hp of power and 26.5kg-m of torque. An i30 1.6 VGT with 6-speed auto can go as much as 20km/L while the i30 1.6 VGT with 6-speed manual can go as much as 23.0km/L. Unlike the Forte Hatchback, the new i30 has a BlueSaver variant which uses IDLE STOP & GO that allows its 1.6 GDi engine to shut off automatically when stopped, providing reduced emissions and 17.3km/L of fuel economy.

So the verdict is that the new i30 is more fuel efficient and more fun to drive than the Kia Forte Hatchback and the Chevrolet Cruze 5. That's not the end of it because the new i30 has an impressive looking design but that's only in the front. The Cruze5 has a better looking rear that is somewhat original. The Forte Hatchback? Well, better luck next time.

GM Korea Chevrolet Malibu

The eighth-generation Chevrolet Malibu doesn't come out in the Unites States before Spring 2012, moments after the Super Bowl season, but here in South Korea, the new Chevrolet Malibu gets it first before most countries because now, this Chevrolet Malibu is now a global executive midsize sedan.

2012 GM Korea Chevrolet Malibu

2012 GM Korea Chevrolet Malibu

The exterior design was heavily inspired from the Camaro to provide sporty character cues to this executive midsize sedan that gives a commanding presence to the owners. Exterior details include the trademark dual-port grille, HID headlamps, Camaro-inspired rear lamps, 1465mm of height, 4865mm of length, 1855mm of overall width, and 2737mm of wheelbase.

2012 GM Korea Chevrolet Malibu interior

The interior is all marvelous thanks to its new dual cockpit design that provides the new Malibu to its premium level of appreciation. The meters were heavily inspired from the Camaro too and there is a new seven-inch touch-screen navigation system with a hidden six-inch deep storage area behind it to provide USB connectivity and storage for something else. The seats on the new Malibu provides the best-in-class comfort for five people and this is an excellent innovation for GM Korea to create a proper midsize sedan with a proper interior comfort.

Because the Chevrolet Malibu uses the Epsilon platform lifted from the Opel/Vauxhall Insignia, it provides European engineering and improved aerodynamics to give this car a sportscar-like feeling on the Korean roads. For the Korean-spec Malibu, it is available in two engine types such as the 2.0L and 2.4L petrol engines. The 2.0L ECOTEC engine provides 141ps / 6,200rpm of power, 18.8kg-m / 4,600 rpm of torque, and 12.4km/L of fuel economy. The 2.4L ECTOEC engine provides 170ps / 5,800rpm of power, 23.0kg-m / 4,600rpm of torque, and 11.8km/L of fuel economy. Both of these engines are mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission with Manual Mode.

The new Malibu provides the best safety features such as Lane Departure Warning System, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, Cruise Control, Electronic Stability Control, Brake Assist System, Hill Start Assist, six airbags, reinforced body, and active headrests. The Chevy Care 357 has your back.

Available in nine exterior colors such as Moulin Rouge Red, Poseidon Blue, Pure White, Carbon Flash Black, White Pearl, Smokey Gray, Switchblade Silver, Daydream Beige, and Placid Gray.

My comment:
What I like about the Korean-spec Malibu is its Camaro cue design, European engineering, impressive interior, and value for money for the fastest selling brand in Korea. What I don't like about the Korean-spec Malibu is that there is no hybrid or turbo GDI versions which the Hyundai Sonata/i45 and the Kia K5/Optima had. Anyway, this could be a good fighter to the Renault-Samsung SM5 though. Because this was made in Bupyeong, South Korea, I think there's a chance we can see the new Malibu arriving in the Philippines soon but in my opinion, TCCCI hasn't planned to bring the Malibu here but gray market importers such as Pitstop Motors or Hancars are planning to get it first. See if we care...



Photo: GM Korea Company

YOUR NEXT LEVEL - GM Korea Chevrolet Malibu's TV ads

GM Korea's Chevrolet Malibu doesn't come out at the dealerships until early next month but GM Korea Company launched two new commercials for the Korean-spec Chevrolet Malibu, adapting the slogan "YOUR NEXT LEVEL" because this medium sedan has progressed to its world level.

With European engineering and dynamic Camaro cue design, the 2012 GM Korea Chevrolet Malibu really is an impressive medium sedan that competes against the Hyundai YF Sonata, Kia K5, and the Renault Samsung SM5. Of course, it doesn't arrive in North America until Spring 2012 as a 2013 model year, way after the Super Bowl season, but the all new Chevrolet Malibu is the first to arrive in South Korea this year. This eighth generation model marks its Korean debut courtesy of GM Korea Company as the replacement to the highly criticized Daewoo Tosca.

Because this was made in Bupyeong, South Korea, there is high hopes that this new model will come to the Philippines soon if The Covenant Car Company Inc. has the chance.

Speaking of which, I am familiar with that song played on this Korean Chevrolet Malibu (쉐보레 말리부) TV Commercial. The title is Sunday Morning by MAROON 5. That song was used on the Japanese Toyota Vitz commercial starring Rie Miyazawa.

Like this commercial song? Find it on itunes!

All about eAssist

2012 Buick LaCrosse

2012 Buick Regal

Back in November 2010, at the Los Angeles Auto Show, General Motors announced the next generation BAS (Belted Alternator System) Hybrid system called "eAssist" and the first models to be equipped with this new mild hybrid system are the 2012MY Buick LaCrosse and 2012MY Buick Regal.

Before we explain about the new eAssist system, let's talk about what just happened at the Buick LaCrosse and the Buick Regal for the 2012 Model Year. The change was the trim names. As of now, Buick will start ditching the CXL/CX/CXS trim names in favor of something specific like Base, Convenience, Leather, Premium, or Touring. That's all, let's explain about eAssist:

The new eAssist system features a powerful 115-Volt Lithium-ion battery sourced from Hitachi, generating a 20HP, 79lb-ft electric motor that provides aid to the 2.4L ECOTEC engine. This new system will provide useful features such as idling stop system, regenerative braking, and a fuel economy of 36MPG (15.3km/L) highway. The new eAssist system comes standard on the 2012 Buick LaCrosse but on the 2012 Buick Regal, it may be considered an optional feature. Either way, they both come with a modified version of the 6T40 6-speed AT FWD transaxle.

Learn more: http://www.buick.com/eassist-fuel-efficient-technology.html

Luxury for Professional - 2012 Alpheon

2012 GM Korea Alpheon

Einige Verbesserungen für die Alpheon...

韓国ＧＭ, アルフェオンを一部改良...

The launch of the 2012 GM Korea Alpheon, the Korean equivalent of the Buick Lacrosse, is imminent. For this updated version of Korea's most prestigious sedan that made it the "Luxury for Professional", the 2012 Alpheon gets new features such as Lane Departure Warning System and Smart Audio Color System. For the 2.4L variant, the fuel economy is improved from 10.6km/L (estimate 25MPG) to now, 11.3km/L (27MPG estimate).

Made by professionals, for professionals.

Official site: http://www.gmalpheon.co.kr/

Scoop: http://www.megaauto.com/newcar/carinfo_body.php3?carinfoid=47140&family_id=icomes&menu_id=472&val=&Nstep=2&beforeyear=&frame_id=5&frame_url=list/drive.php3?id=54857

Active Life Vehicle Chevrolet Orlando, now with LPGi!

2012 GM Korea Chevrolet Orlando

GM Korea's Chevrolet Orlando was the Active Life Vehicle designed and engineered in South Korea and it was the first out of the eight new Chevrolet models to hit South Korea as part of renaming GM Daewoo Auto and Technology into GM Korea Company. Since it made a preview at the 2011 Manila International Auto Show last April, along with the Traverse, we're still waiting when will TCCCI bring the Chevrolet Orlando to the Philippines soon (before the end of 2011 perhaps?) and if it does, it will pose a huge threat to the Toyota Avanza, Mitsubishi Fuzion (known in Taiwan as the Zinger), and the Nissan Grand Livina.

Now, the Chevrolet Orlando is added with the new variant called Orlando LPGi. The Chevrolet Orlando LPGi is powered with the ECOTEC 2.0 LPGi (Liquefied Petroleum Gasoline injection) engine. This is the world's first from General Motors because the ECOTEC LPGi engine is the first from the company and the Chevrolet Orlando was the first to have one. It packs with features like FICM (Fuel Injection Control Module), DIS (Direct Ignition System), and D-CVCP (Dual-Continuous Variable Cam Phaser).

The ECOTEC 2.0 LPGi engine has a power output of 140PS/6000rpm, torque output of 18.8kg-m/4600rpm, and the fuel economy of 8.7km/L. It is mated with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Not quite fuel efficient than the diesel-fed Chevrolet Orlando but whatever.

The much-awaited Spark 1.0L

2011 Chevrolet Spark

When the Chevrolet Spark landed in South Korea as a replacement to the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative, as part of replacing the Daewoo name into Chevrolet (and the company name from GM Daewoo Auto and Technology into GM Korea Company), we noticed that they got a 1.0L DOHC engine. Ours got a 1.2L engine, so that makes it "BITIN" for sure.

By special request, a 1.0L DOHC engine is now available for the Chevrolet Spark, The Covenant Car Company said...

Scoop:

http://www.topgear.com.ph/news/chevrolet-spark-now-available-in-1-0-liter-variants#comments-1

About time they showed up the real fuel-efficient Chevrolet Spark...

TRANSFORM YOUR FUTURE WITH A CHEVROLET!

2012 Chevrolet Camaro Transformers Edition

2011 GM Korea Chevrolet Spark Transformers Edition

Those two special edition Chevrolet models are commemorating the premiere of the third Transformers movie titled Transformers: Dark Of The Moon, showing now.

In the United States, there will be a new Camaro Transformers Edition for the 2012 Model Year while in Korea, the Chevrolet Spark will receive a special Transformers Edition this next month, making it resembling to Skids and Mudflap.

Bumblebee wows North America while Skids and Mudflap wow South Korea. Wonder when will both of these Transformers special editions of both the Camaro and the Spark hit the Philippines soon...

One phrase has it all: TRANSFORM YOUR FUTURE WITH A CHEVROLET!

GM Korea Chevrolet Cruze5

2012 GM Korea Chevrolet Cruze5

When the Chevrolet Cruze arrived in South Korea in March 2011 (when Chevrolet is officially official in South Korea) as a replacement to the highly criticized GM Daewoo Lacetti Premiere, it became the status symbol of being a global compact sized sedan targeted against the Kia Forte and the Hyundai Avante/Elantra. When Summer 2011 begins in South Korea, GM Korea Company sizzles up the heat with the addition of the 5-door variant of the Chevrolet Cruze known as Cruze5 (쉐보레 크루즈5).

GM Korea's Chevrolet Cruze5 has the same "perfect balance" of style and performance of its sedan counterpart now with the added space that makes it a decent rival to the Kia Forte Hatchback and Hyundai i30. The South Korea's "Big 3" are ready to lash out their blend of hatchbacks and this Cruze5 tops it all with its European design, dynamic front view, attractive rear view, and the same interior styling from the sedan. As a hatchback ready to take on Europe soon and the rest of the world, the Cruze5 is designed to fit the most out of everyone with its 5-seater capacity and the seating arrangements that will surely fit your personal preferences.

Two engine types are available of the Chevy Cruze5 such as 1.8 DOHC ECO-TEC engine and the 2.0L VCDi Common Rail diesel engine. The 1.8 DOHC engine produces about 142ps/6200rpm of power output, 17.8kg·m/3800rpm of torque output, and the fuel economy of 13.7km/L. The Cruze5's 2.0L CRDi engine releases a powerful 163ps/3800rpm of power, 36.7kg·m/2750rpm of torque, and the fuel economy of 15.9km/L. Consider the CRDi engine equipped on the Cruze5 a perfect balance of power and ecology because of its Euro V compliance. Most of them are fully equipped with the 6-speed Hydromatic transmission that allows this automatic transmission to go from AUTO to MANUAL for fun driving.

My Comment:
A perfect balance of style and performance is what you expect on the Chevrolet Cruze sedan that was made in Bupyeong-gu, Incheon. With the hatchback brother, the Chevrolet Cruze5, you can expect the same perfect balance of style and performance from a sedan, now with the added space perfect enough for the long Korean summer getaway. This looks great for the young adults when they want to do some free time anywhere at the streets of Seoul.

If only The Covenant Car Company Inc. has the chance to bring the Korean-made Chevy Cruze5 to the Philippines, this could be the perfect rival to the Mazda3 hatchback, Hyundai i30, or even the Ford Focus.





Photo: GM Korea Company

Morning vs. Spark

2012 Kia Morning

2011 GM Korea Chevrolet Spark

Yes, both of these fuel-efficient compacts were made in South Korea. The Kia Morning was made in Seosan, South Korea, while the Chevrolet Spark, in the other hand, was made in Changwon, South Korea. For the fact, the Kia Morning is now on its second-generation model while the Chevrolet Spark is the new name of the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative since the GM Daewoo name was replaced into GM Korea Company, using the Chevrolet brand as their front. The Spark was arrived in the Philippines a few months ago while we are still waiting when will Columbian Autocar Corporation bring the second-generation Morning as the new Picanto (2nd half of this year perhaps?). Let's tackle both of these Korean made compacts and try to figure which fits my discriminative taste.

CASE ONE:

First of all, the second-generation Kia Morning (known worldwide as the Picanto) takes center stage in the compact category since it was debuted in late January 2011. Come to think of it, the design looks more matured since the first generation but to me the round shape on the new exterior looks more bubbly and chubby, making it one big fat compact car others wouldn't know what comes next. Under the hood, the new Morning is equipped with the Kappa MPI 1.0L engine that produces 82ps/6400rpm and in terms of fuel economy, the 4-speed automatic variant can go for about 19km/L while the 5-speed manual transmission goes to about 22km/L.

CASE TWO:

As always said, the Chevrolet Spark from Hankook GM (GM Korea Company) is the new name of GM Daewoo Matiz Creative as part of replacing the highly criticized GM Daewoo Auto and Technology name into Hankook GM (GM Korea Company), using the internationally-acclaimed Chevrolet as a primary brand in Korea. Other cars from GM Daewoo such as the Damas van, Labo truck, and the premium sedan Alpheon (based on the second-generation Buick LaCrosse) retains under unique brands. Anyway, enough what I said, the Chevrolet Spark offers the best design only this compact hatchback can achieve, unlike its rival, the second-generation Kia Morning, which has some weird bubbly and chubby look. The Spark offers two engine types; a 1.0L DOHC petrol engine and a 1.0L LPGi engine that runs on Liquefied Petroleum Gas. The 1.0L DOHC petrol engine produces 70ps/6,400rpm of power output and with a 5-speed manual, it goes for about 21.0km/L of fuel economy. The 4-speed automatic transmission equipped on the Spark can go for about 17.0km/L.

OK, so I admit it. The Spark is more stylish than the new Morning/Picanto while the new Morning/Picanto is more fuel efficient than the Chevrolet Spark made from Hankook GM.

GM Korea Chevrolet Aveo Sedan

2012 GM Korea Chevrolet Aveo Sedan

The addition of the 4-door sedan variant to GM Korea's Chevrolet Aveo (coming soon to North America as the Sonic) marks the sixth Chevrolet out of the eight models to arrive in South Korea thanks to the company name transition from GM Daewoo to GM Korea, using the Chevrolet brand as a front. The first five were the active life vehicle Orlando MPV, the Aveo 5-door hatchback, Bumblebee Camaro, C6 Corvette coming soon, and the real SUV Captiva (changed its name from the highly criticized Daewoo Winstorm). The last two remaining are the Cruze Hatchback and the global Malibu mid-size sedan, which they will be built at Bupyeong-gu, Incheon, South Korea. Seems that GM Korea Company's aggressive launch portfolio seems to be working after all and everyone appreciated the positive tactics done by GM Korea Company CEO, Mike Arcamone.

The same fun riding goodness from the Aveo five-door hatchback now in the 4-door sedan form. This will be the hardcore compact sedan Koreans would love to have it since the Aveo hatchback went on sale at March 2011, which is the date when GM Daewoo changed it into Chevrolet officially except for the Damas van, Labo mini truck, and the Alpheon flagship sedan. The four-door look of the GM Korea Aveo sedan makes it even more enticing but the lines made it more disappointing in the eyes of design-conscious consumer. Most of them think that the Aveo 4-door is more poorly designed and some would prefer the Hyundai Accent RB or the upcoming Kia Pride/Rio/K2 in my opinion. Once they look at the Aveo sedan, they would react that this car was made in China because it looks similar to the China-made Chevrolet Sail. It was a rather disappointing design but will this work against the Hyundai Accent RB and the upcoming Kia Pride/Rio/K2 in terms whatever the heck is?

Despite the design is mistakingly Chinese, the Korean-made Aveo sedan comes with the 1.6L 16-valve DOHC engine, capable of releasing 114ps/6000rpm of power output, 15.1kg-m/4000rpm of torque output, and it comes with two transmission types; a 6-speed automatic transmission and a 5-speed manual transmission. The 6-speed automatic transmission comes with a Manual Mode that allows the driver to press the "+" button to shift up and the "-" button to shift down. This would be rather disappointing and the 5-speed manual seems to rather redundant even for those young Korean drivers who have desires over manual transmission cars. In terms of fuel economy, the Aveo sedan's 1.6L 6AT grade can go up to 15km/L while the Aveo sedan's 1.6L 5MT grade can go up to 17.6km/L. I would recommend them the 5MT variant of the Aveo sedan because of its fuel efficiency.

2012 GM Korea Chevrolet Aveo interior

Despite the ugly exterior design on the Aveo Sedan, the interior looks cool enough to please the customers. With the Dynamic Meter Cluster penned from the Chevrolet Spark, three-spoke steering wheel, ice blue ambient lighting, and a hint of entertainment system, the Aveo sedan satisfies the customers' cravings over compacts.

My Comment:
It's rather disappointing about the Aveo sedan's design and I still prefer the 5-door hatchback variant of the GM Korea Aveo because the rear view was heavily inspired from the Chevrolet Spark. Despite the troubles I said, the Aveo 4-door sedan is the sixth Chevrolet out of the eight models coming to South Korea thanks to the transition from GM Daewoo Auto and Technology to GM Korea Company. With the arrival of the Orlando, Aveo 5-door, Camaro, Corvette, Captiva, along with the remaining two Korean-made Chevrolet cars to be built in the Bupyeong plant soon are the Cruze Hatchback and the new Malibu mid-size sedan, the sixth member makes GM Korea's aggressive launch campaign more interesting and this latest variant matches up against the Hyundai Accent RB and the upcoming Kia Pride/Rio/K2. If it hits the Philippines soon, if TCCCI has the chance, this would be a fierce rival against our compact favorites such as the Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Accent, Toyota Belta, or even the Mazda 2/Demio.

Photo: GM Korea Company

GM Korea Chevrolet Cruze

2011 GM Korea Chevrolet Cruze

The GM Korea Chevrolet Cruze (쉐보레 크루즈) is the new name of GM Daewoo's Lacetti Premiere as part of changing the name GM Daewoo Auto and Technology into GM Korea Company and it's not part of the eight new vehicles to be launched in South Korea this year. This is the response from 50% of the Lacetti Premiere customers the option to change nameplates to Chevrolet Cruze according to GM Korea CEO, Mike Arcamone.

What retains are the 1.6L petrol engine and the 1.8L petrol engine. The 1.6L petrol engine offers 124ps/6,400rpm of power output, 15.7kg.m/4,200rpm of torque output, and it can go for about 13.0km/L for the 6AT grade to 15.0km/L for the 5MT grade. The 1.8L petrol engine, on the other hand, offers 142ps/ 6,200rpm of power output, 17.8kg.m/3,800rpm of torque output, and 13.7km/L of fuel economy. The 6-speed auto is standard on this one.

COLOR VARIATION:
1) Gunsmoke Gray
2) Olympic White
3) Velvet Red
4) Pewter Grey
5) Switchblade Silver
6) Carbon Flash Black

My Comment:
Get used to more Koreans, because this is what you demanded for. The GM Korea Chevrolet Cruze can always look at its best. It is a world-proven medium sedan. The North Americans, Europeans, and Asians are already indulged with the Cruze's global success. Now it's the Koreans' turn to fall in love with the Cruze because this is the response from 50% of the Lacetti Premiere owners the option to change their badges into Chevrolet Cruze, that's what Mr. Arcamone said.

Photo: GM Korea Company

GM Korea Chevrolet Spark

2011 GM Korea Chevrolet Spark

The GM Korea Chevrolet Spark (쉐보레 스파크) is the new name of GM Daewoo Matiz Creative as part of replacing the name GM Daewoo Auto and Technology into GM Korea Company, using the fastest growing Chevrolet brand as a front according to the company's CEO, Mike Arcamone. Despite its name change, it is not counted as one of the eight new vehicles to be launched in South Korea. It is Mike Arcamone's response to 38% of the Matiz Creative customers swapping badges into the Chevrolet Spark. This decision is done under the demands of South Korean customers. As of now, most Matiz Creative customers in South Korea have the option to change nameplates into the Chevy Spark.

What retains is two engine types; the 1.0L gasoline engine and the 1.0L liquefied petroleum gas (LPGi) engine. The 1.0L gasoline engine provides 70ps/6,400rpm of power output, 9.4kg.m/4,800rpm of torque output, and in can go for about 21.0km/L for the 5-speed manual and 17.0km/L for the 4-speed auto. The Spark LPGi drops 5ps of power, 1kg.m of torque, and can travel up to 17.0km/L for the 5MT grade and 13.6km/L for the 4AT grade.

SPECIAL EDITION:

2011 GM Korea Chevrolet Spark
Special Edition

As a welcome treat in South Korea, GM Korea Company offered the Chevrolet Spark Special Edition, which sports Camaro-like stripes, piano black paneling, and sporty 15-inch rims.

COLOR VARIATION:
1) Iceland Blue
2) Havana Green
3) Santorini Blue
4) Monaco Pink
5) Belgian Brown
6) Barcelona Red
7) Prague Black
8) Sapporo White
9) Manhattan Silver

My Comment:
The Spark is a world-proven compact car packed with world-proven size, world-proven space, world-proven performance, and world-proven fuel economy customers will love. This response from 38% percent of Matiz Creative customers changing their badges into Chevy Spark sounds demanding but this is a cause for the Korean market.

Photo: GM Korea Company