We had fun at the first episode of Laugh Out Loud

The new show, Laugh Out Loud, is the next big thing since Just For Laughs and Wow Mali (now Wow Meganon). It was hosted by the charismatic Luis Manzano and Alodia Gosiengfiao (most anime fans remember her as the Cosplay Queen of the Philippines and she was "aIDOLa", one of the Ani-Mates from Animax Asia) and features nothing more but a variety of gags and pranks that made them go LOL.

In the pilot episode, Luis and Alodia invited a group of guests such as Ketchup, Empoy, Alwyn Uytingco, JM De Guzman, and Alyson Lualhati as the Laugh Team for the week. Pranks include Papa Picture (where a female gets one male to get pictured together), Jurassic I.D. (you can't gain access with a super large, carton-made, ID card), Parte People (use different body parts to gain access), Celeb Taxi (who's going to the CR after long taxi trips with a guest star driver?), Please Evacuate (someone at the office gets a surprise visit the CR!), and Electricute (someone who seats at the bench was unknowingly shocked by electric sounds).

That show is much more like Just For Laughs because of the gags pulled to trick other people for fun. I love it! I laughed at it! I enjoyed it!

Hope I can tune in next week for more gags and pranks on LOL!

Ford Explorer Mk.5 (U502)

2011 Ford Explorer

From mid-size SUV to full-size crossover SUV, the new fifth generation Ford Explorer is now evolved to take on all sorts of grounds and it will be the best Explorer ever made after months of countless teaser photos.

Consider this a rival to the Toyota Land Cruiser 200 or the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Explorer's full model change surprised us with its new unibody structure, new engine choices, new conveniences, and everything that is new to the latest Explorer.

On the design flow, the new Ford Explorer sports a corporate grille on the front, staying true to its roots. On the side view, the new Explorer looks more like a Toyota Fortuner, the Philippines' favorite Toyota full size SUV. On the rear view, what else? The rear view looks sharp at every angle. With its sharp design, the new Explorer will topple away against the Toyota Land Cruiser 200 and the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The main engine on the new Explorer is the 3.5L TiVCT V6 engine. This V6 engine that powers the new Explorer is the better than its predecessor thanks to its EPA rating of 17MPG City/25MPG Highway. Its power output is 290HP/6500rpm and the torque output is 255lb.-ft/4100rpm. This engine is much more powerful than the GMC Acadia but not powerful enough against the Toyota Land Cruiser 200. The fifth-generation Explorer comes with the Intelligent 4WD System that provides exceptional traction at every corner. There is also a Terrain Management System that allows the driver to take a pick on four options; Normal, Mud/Ruts, Sand or Grass/Gravel/Snow. Choosing the right option on the right terrain is the key to attain better cruising for the new Explorer.

While destined to be the safest SUV built for the American family, the new Ford Explorer has a wide array of safety and security features that provides the peace of mind for the owner and family. First off, there's Curve Control. The Curve Control system is a world's first, it will automatically slows down the new Explorer in case of an incoming tough curve. Next, is the Adaptive Cruise Control system that functions like conventional cruise control system, except now, let the sensors do the cruise control for you. The innovative Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert is a smart feature to monitor blind spots and seeks approaching vehicles. There is even a Collision Warning system that detects slow moving traffic and it flashes a warning signal. The biggest safety feature is the world's first inflatable air bag seat belts. There are so many safety features made the new Ford Explorer the safest SUV built for everyone.

In the convenience side, the new Ford Explorer provides exceptional hospitality for everyone. The third-row seats can be easily folded at the touch of a button without the stress. For entertainment purposes, the MyFord Touch is included, keeping you entertained with SYNC, satellite radio, HD Radio, and Advanced Navigation System. To keep the passengers entertained, there is even a Dual Headrest DVD Players that allows them to watch their favorite movies everywhere even when they're stuck at traffic No wonder the interior of the new Explorer is built to be on its premium status.

My thoughts about the Explorer:

I just really hope this new Explorer may come to the Philippines soon and it will be bought by wealthy people because of such heavy pricing and premium features that provide a touch of class among the rich and famous, even politicians. Consider this an American alternative to the Nissan Patrol Royale when it arrives in the Philippines soon.

The new Ford Explorer is the best Explorer ever made to surprise its rivals with its convenience, the safest features, and the premium status only Ford has to offer. Think of Grand Canyon, Mt. Pinatubo, Dubai, Hokkaido, and other places where tough terrain are a common oddity, this Explorer is a perfect bet for off-road enthusiasts!


Photo: Ford Motor Company

On the 12-03-10 episode of Banana Split...

On the 12-03-10 episode of Banana Split...

- Our newest superheroes, The Amazing Microwave Pandesal Rangers, springing in action. For those who haven't heard of it, this is about four siblings (Jayson Gainza, Jason Francisco, Nina Jose, and Badji Mortiz) who want to start their own baking business after their father's death. With the encounter of some mysterious microwave oven and when they put the flour on the oven, something strange happening to them and transformed into our breakfast's newest superheroes that is "THE AMAZING MICROWAVE PANDESAL RANGERS". On this episode, the Pandesal Rangers trying to stop the man who is going to commit suicide. After that, some villain saw the Pandesal Rangers, and the villain approached our heroes because of the microwave oven. Will the Rangers survive against this enemy? Find out in Monday!

- Kuya Keem (John Prats) tells more about Obesity and Igor Stojokovic Krystic (Ryan Bang) invents some crazy inventions such as the "i-Barbel 4" and "Dehydration Treadmill". The i-Barbel 4 part is darn hilarious.

- Jayson Gainza tells what another new jobs will our famous Pinoy boxer can take on such as being an interrogator, getting the buko, and becoming a MMDA officer.

- The Melason tandem is at it again as Melai Cantiveros and Jason Francisco (as Cheche and Monmon) tries to record a domino dropping sequence for YouTube. Oops! Cheche forgot to hit "record" on the video camera! LOL

Goodbye, Pinyoko (AGAIN) :-(

December 3, 2010 marks the finale of Kokey@Ako. What?! Aw man! We had fun with our alien pal!

Kokey@Ako ending

Aw man! We had all the good times with Bruce (Vhong Navarro), Princess/Jackie (Toni Gonzaga), Josa (Melai Cantiveros), Adonis (Jason Francisco), Kekay, and everyone's favorite alien buddy, Kokey!

The ending is simple. The final battle is set at the mansion where our friends now reside after Jackie was reunited with her family. Annie showed up and wants to take out Jackie and her family! The battle ends where Jackie used the mirror to reflect Annie's alien power against her.

After the battle, it was the day where Bruce and Jackie were finally married.

I never knew our alien buddy left before Christmas again! Just like the past three years when he left before Christmas!

Aw great! Now we're going to miss the fun filled adventures of Kokey and friends.

Nissan Leaf (ZE0)

2011 Nissan LEAF

The Leaf, Nissan's first-of-its-kind electric hybrid vehicle is the key to attain Nissan's brighter future for creating eco cars that serve as the mainframe to achieve a vision for the better tomorrow. With the rise of electric cars such as the Mitsubishi i-MiEV and the Chevrolet Volt, Nissan steps up to the electric car competition with the Nissan Leaf, to see which electric car reign supreme.

As an environmentally conscious car enthusiast. I like the way how the Nissan Leaf behaves. Look at the back, no tailpipes! The absence of the tailpipes is the main purpose for Nissan's Zero Emission program. This program will achieve a better tomorrow with the Leaf. Everyone knows how to recharge the Leaf. Charging to the Leaf's front is somewhat an originality.

The Leaf is powered with the electric powered EM61 motor that achieves the highest electric economy of 124km/L. 124km/L! This electric car is so amazing, you can go further every time before the battery drains! Think about going around the world with the Leaf. This is just perfect to achieve its true eco-car status. Aside from its eco-car status, there is a 100% tax cut thanks to Japan's "Eco Car Genzei" system. The plug to charge the Leaf's EM61 motor is 200V, so you need an 200V outlet to charge the Leaf. Plug the wrong side and boom! You're hopeless to charge the Leaf until you find another 200V outlet to charge it!

My thoughts about the Leaf:
I'm afraid that NMPI or Universal Motors Corporation can't bring the Nissan Leaf yet until our government approves the law to sell electric vehicles to our country. The question really is, can the Department of Environment and Natural Resources talk about the Nissan Leaf. Of course this is an electric car, imagine how many students from Philippines' most successful universities such as the UP, De La Salle, Ateneo, Far Eastern University, San Beda, and other universities take advantage of the Nissan Leaf for their science reports to discuss it in front. I'm sure these students may pass because of the remarkable inspiration of the Nissan Leaf.

The Leaf is scheduled to go on sale in Japan in mid-December, following with North America and Europe. Speaking of Europe, the Leaf won the 2010-2011 Europe Car of the Year, outwitting Europe's finest such as the Citroen C3/DS3 and Alfa Romeo Giulietta.

This electric car defines "biri-biri" to a new level...

Official Site:

Japan: http://ev.nissan.co.jp/
North America: http://www.nissanusa.com/leaf-electric-car/index
Global :http://www.nissan-zeroemission.com/EN/

Subaru WRX STi 4-door (GVB) at GT5

I love this kind of WRX STi! Even at Gran Turismo 5, it still runs like the real thing! The Subaru WRX STi 4-door is truly an eye-catching Subaru built for thrill-seekers. I gotta admit it, I love the rear wing of the GVB. It represents tradition from the past Impreza STi models from the first to second generation (the generation underwent two facelifts).

Driving the WRX STi 4-door (GVB) on GT5 feels like I'm driving the real thing! I even try to beat the car's Nurburgring Lap Time of 7:55:000 by myself, but everyone wants to beat that time with that car.

I really love to say that the WRX STi 4-door is much better than the original 5-door WRX STi!

Powerhouse of Proton Concepts at the 2010 KLIMS!

Just like Lotus showing off a powerhouse of concept cars at the Paris Motor Show 2010, Malaysian automaker Proton unveiled a powerhouse of five concept cars at this year's Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show.

2010 Proton Tuah Concept

2010 Proton Lukiu Concept

2010 Proton Lekir Concept

2010 Proton Katsuri Concept

2010 Proton Jebat Concept

First was the Tuah Concept, a medium sedan concept that if once heads to production, it will ruin the Kia Forte and Hyundai Avante MD for sure. 

Second was the Lekiu Concept, a crossover based on the Proton Exora MPV. 

Third was the Lekir Concept. Eh? A Proton Concept Sports Car based on the axed Lotus Europa? I know that the Europa is gone, but why they would made such a too-little, too-late, concept car based on some axed British sports car? Never mind, still it looks handsome.

Fourth was the Katsuri Concept. I'm not sure about this concept car but it hints on the Proton Saga's minor change coming to Malaysia since the Saga MC unveiled at the Thai Motor Expo 2010. 

Last but truly my favorite, the Jebat Concept, a sportier concept sedan based on the recently launched, Mitsubishi Lancer EX-based, Inspira sedan. I love the way it looks. So cool!

These concept cars were named after the Malaccan Hang (warrior) in Malaysian history. It represents Malaysian quality for the brand and shapes up the brand's image. If most of these go into production, best to hide our cars!

Photo: Paultan.org

Eh? Another new Volkswagen PH distributor in the works?

Read this scoop:

http://www.topgear.com.ph/news/so-who-s-bringing-in-volkswagen

I thought that PGA Cars will take the distribution rights for Volkswagen, but the Ayala Group joining the turf on who's going to be the new Volkswagen distributor in the Philippines.

Who's it gonna be, anyway? The answer will be revealed in the near future...

What makes the new Accent a Guy's License?

Remember the TV ad aired from Korea

You heard it. Gentlemen are too old and boys are too young. The new Hyundai Accent is really targeted for real guys in their right age. As if, GUYS ONLY!

About last night, the new Hyundai Accent RB is finally in the Philippine market!

Scoop: http://www.topgear.com.ph/news/price-of-hyundai-accent-revealed

Get it? GUYS ONLY! FOR PHILIPPINE GUYS ONLY!

Two engines are offered; a 1.4L Gamma DOHC engine and a 1.6L Gamma DOHC engine. The 1.4L variant is armed with a 5-speed manual and a 1.6L variant comes with a 4-speed auto. Suggested Retail Price starts at 588,000 to 808,000 Pesos. Sounds cheap! Can be a perfect taxi!

I just really hope for the 1.6L GDi variant or the CRDi variant. But anyway, time to play the song Cold Rock the Mic by Apollo 440! As you may know, the song Cold Rock the Mic by Apollo 440 was the song played on the new Hyundai Accent Korean commercial.

The new Hyundai Accent is really a GUY'S LICENSE!

Photo: Top Gear Philippines

Cocoa or Lapin?

Suzuki's Alto Lapin

and Daihatsu's Mira Cocoa

Both are JDM, both are kei cars, and both are targeted for the young and fashionable women. In my feminine side, I wonder which of these are the best?

CASE ONE:

The Suzuki Alto Lapin is a spin-off of the world-famous Suzuki Alto and it doesn't share the Alto's mainframe. This car was launched in 2002 and followed with a full model change in late 2008. There used to be a Mazda OEM of the Lapin, called the Spiano, but it was discontinued after the Lapin gained its second-generation. Two engine types are offered on the Lapin; a Natural Aspiration K6A engine and a Turbocharged K6A engine. Whoa! A turbocharged Lapin! Seems that someone would go for the Lapin rather than the Cocoa because of the turbo variant!

There is something cute about the Lapin, the interior... When you start the Lapin's engine, you will be greeted by some animated display on the Lapin's dashboard. How cute!

CASE TWO:

The Cocoa is a spin-off car from the Daihatsu Mira. Although it replaces the Mira Gino and the Move Latte, feminine side is always go first for the Mira Cocoa. Unlike the Lapin, the Cocoa is equipped with just only one engine, the KF-VE engine. No turbocharger included. On the bright side, this engine has more power output than the Lapin's Natural Aspiration K6A engine, but not quite fuel efficient than its rival even when both of them have CVT. There is one feature that the Lapin didn't have; the back monitor equipped on the Cocoa's room mirror.

For styling, I think I'll go for the Daihatsu Cocoa, but for performance-wise women, the Suzuki Lapin takes the bet. It depends on how Japanese women think about these two super-cute kei cars targeted for a certain young Japanese woman.

Lexus LFA

2011 Lexus LFA

After years of extensive R&D, Intel, and testing through world famous racetracks, including the Nurburgring, the Lexus LFA revealed its true self after years of being a concept car several times. It was unveiled at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show and production for the LFA starts at the end of 2010 to 2012, limited to just 500 copies worldwide (with 165 available in Japan).

This LFA faced many struggles, including the death of its own Godfather, Hiromu Naruse, at a car accident, driving an LFA Nurburgring Prototype, then crashed with some BMW test vehicle face to face. It seems this will take some time for the LFA to heal its own wounds after the loss of its creator.

This LFA project began in 2000 under the supervision of Mr. Haruhiko Tanahashi, chief engineer, during the Sugo Test Drive. It took 10 years, and a process of trial and error to create an ultimate masterpiece only Toyota Motor Corporation has to offer. In 2005, at the North American International Auto Show at Detroit, the first Lexus LFA was unveiled, following with the sculptured LFA concept at the 2005 Design Week Milan. After showing the concept, the team continues for another trial and error process, and right until 2007, an LFA Concept Type-II is shown at the 2007 North American International Auto Show at Detroit, showing its work in progress. After times of showing its concept form, the LFA prototype joined the legendary Nurburgring 24-Hour Endurance in 2008 and 2009. After prototype testing, the true LFA was unveiled at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show.

Powered with the new 1LR-GUE engine, this 4.8L V10 masterpiece can go to about 560PS/8,700r.p.m. and the torque output of 48.9kg-m/6,800r.p.m. It's armed with the 6-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox. Judging with this new engine, this LFA is truly a Japanese masterpiece under Toyota's right. It's biggest rival was the Nissan R35 GT-R. At first, the LFA defeated the GT-R barely, but this was just the beginning. With the newly facelifted GT-R armed with the improved VR engine, will this rematch between the LFA and Godzilla became a reality? I think I hope so because I can't wait to see this kind of rematch very soon.

LFA customers can choose which color of the LFA suits their taste. There are normal colors and special colors (available in early 2012) available to mix and match for their own personal preference. There are dozens of interior color combination offered which is mostly like the Lexus LS' L-Select customization program offered for Japanese customers or the Godzilla (Nissan GT-R) version of the Lexus L-Select offered from its EGOIST variant. For me, the LFA's car color would be "Whitest White" and the interior should have contained black paneling and red leather seats.

My thoughts about the LFA:
In the Philippines, Toyota Motor Philippines and Lexus Manila will bring the LFA in just one WHITE copy at the cost of over forty million Philippine Pesos. Who would buy that rare item, but they'll have to leave it on display at Lexus Manila. Those who are dreaming to try the Lexus LFA can also try Forza 3 Ultimate Collection (with Stig's Garage Pack DLC) for the XBOX 360 and Gran Turismo 5 for the Playstation3 to test out the capability of the Lexus LFA. It's hard buying the limited-production LFA but thanks to racing video games, they had their first taste.

The Lexus LFA is limited to just 500 models worldwide and remember the saying, first come, first served. But most customers already served their orders since the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show. Anyway, my impression about the LFA is its remarkable 1LR-GUE engine that has a remarkable power that can blow away the likes of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG!

Guess I already had my taste on the Lexus LFA courtesy of video games such as Forza 3 Ultimate Collection and Gran Turismo 5, so there is nothing to worry about how the Lexus LFA feels like. Besides, the starting sound of the Lexus LFA sounds awesome, I just want to record that sound and be my cellphone's ringtone all day!

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation
Official Site: http://www.lexus-lfa.com/

Leaf is 2011 Europe Car of the Year even it hasn't been in showrooms yet!

The Nissan Leaf is haven't been on sale in Japan before the end of the year, but it got something that makes it proud.

The Nissan Leaf is awarded 2010-2011 Europe Car of the Year!

Scoop: http://paultan.org/2010/11/30/nissan-leaf-is-the-2011-european-car-of-the-year/

Honestly, it's Japanese. But how did one Japanese electric car beat against Europe's finest such as the Alfa Romeo new Giulietta, Citroen C3 and DS3, or even the Opel/Vauxhall Meriva?

I don't know, but anyway, congrats to Nissan for winning the holy grail for European cars. The Japanese car that won the Europe Car of the Year made it the biggest competitor in the new age of electric cars.

Sadly, we can't get the Nissan Leaf to the Philippines yet unless the PH Government has to approve the law that allows sale of Electric Cars to our country.