Citroen C4 Cactus

The Citroen C4 range once has a hatchback, the Picasso minivans, and the Aircross compact SUV. Now, the C4 family has expanded with a new member and what's this? C4 Cactus? The Cactus is a crossover, just like the Aircross, but there's more to this story than that.

2015 Citroen C4 Cactus

You see the Citroen C4 Cactus isn't more of a crossover nor a compact in its own right. It was made for those who can't really afford a regular C4 hatchback because when you look at their prices, the C4 Cactus starts at 13,950 Euros TTC, which is 5,250 Euros less than the normal C4 hatchback. That's a good merit for the Cactus, but what can you expect from the C4's lesser sibling?

Judging by its looks, it can be somewhat too cheeky in design terms. The front face looks as if it has the headlamps of the new Jeep Cherokee while the paneling on the side view feels like when steel and chocolate got accidentally fused. Oh my goodness. It looks like a mutated chocolate bar on wheels and if anyone has a craving for chocolates, look away now because you've just chased a moving piece of chocolate bar. Ha ha ha...

2015 Citroen C4 Cactus interior

2015 Citroen C4 Cactus interior

What about the interior? Well, I was expecting good things and it is but only just. When fully equipped, you can enjoy what's inside the Cactus and you'll get the same experience as you would expect from a cheap girl's car from Japan. Yes, Toyota Passo reference. But this isn't a Toyota Passo for some unknown reasons. This is a budget car loaded with some premium stuff such as a digital instrumental panel, touch screen for climate control, navigation, radio, and some thingamabobs, and for the first time, the airbag was displaced to the roof. Sounds clever but what about driving.

It behaves like a normal and civilized car. There's no complicated wizardry involved and driving one of these is incredibly easy, although you might be experiencing some understeering but never mind about that. The C4 Cactus is a simple car made for novice of drivers because thanks to its low cost of ownership, almost everyone can afford this simple machine made of simple stuff.

For a car so simple, the Cactus is available with the choice of three petrol engines and two diesel engines. The top-of-the-line is the one with the BlueHDi 100 engine mated with a 5-speed manual gearbox. It will do 0-100kph in 10.7 seconds and a top speed of 184kph. It's not what you call quick but as a city car, the Cactus tries to be content with what it has but is the car content even though it doesn't have a split-fold rear seat or a wind-down back windows? Even though it doesn't have those like you would expect in a typical Citroen, it's natural.

2015 Citroen C4 Cactus

So would you buy one? Even though it costs less than a normal C4, you should go for it if you're new to the world of motoring but if you want something even more affordable than the C4 Cactus but sacrifice its sizing for something else, get yourself a new C1.

Photo: PSA Peugeot Citroen

Let's Do The News! (July 25, 2014)

The big scoop today...

- You may remember that yesterday, Air Algerie lost contact with one of their planes nearly an hour after takeoff from Burkina Faso to Algiers. Now, there's a new report stating that the Air Algerie flight AH5017, which carried 116 passengers inside, was likely crashed in the city of Mali. Reports stating that this flight asked to adjust its route due to the typhoon.

- AWESOME! The Bat Tumbler from The Dark Knight trilogy films has spawned a buildable LEGO version! The LEGO Bat Tumbler will go on sale this September at a very expensive $199 and it has 1,869 pieces for LEGO enthusiasts to build it themselves.

LEGO Bat Tumbler

- SUPER HEROES! SWEATY NERDS! AN EPIC BATTLE! There's a new special event going on now on the Family Guy: The Quest for Stuff app! On this special event, there's a Quahog Comic Con happening now and Peter Griffin can't wait to see celebrities guesting on this convention. Only problem is that nerds are infesting his day! Get a chance to score superhero-ish prizes as well as superhero costumes for Peter, Chris, Lois, and Quagmire. Not only that, you can also win special celebrities to use in-game such as Patrick Stewart, Ron Perlman, Felicia Day, Stan Lee, and our very own Mr. Sulu himself, George Takei! Get going! Oh, and tell those geeks and nerds to back off before you'll EXTERMINATE them. POW!

- Rainbow Rocks, the sequel to last year's My Little Pony: Equestria Girls, is hitting participating theaters this September 27, 2014!

- Subaru teases their brand new sports sedan, the WRX S4, coming this late August 2014. It comes with the same features as the LEVORG sports tourer. It has the 2.0L "Blue Boxer" DIT engine, Sport Lineartronic CVT, and Eyesight Ver. 3.

WRX S4

As you may know, the WRX S4 they're referring from Subaru is this...

2015 Subaru WRX

Just to let you know...

- Dog With A Blog's G Hannelius has a brand new single titled "4:45". This digital single is now available on iTunes!

4:45

- Since its launch last month, Daihatsu's revived Copen kei roadster has scored over 4,000 orders. Over 5 times more than the 700 monthly unit target.

- Team RWBY returns as the first episode of RWBY Chapter 2 is now streaming on CrunchyRoll! In the first episode, the girls are back for their second semester at Beacon. Enjoy watching the first episode of the latest chapter of the popular RWBY web series now on CrunchyRoll.

- A 5.4M quake jolted Southern Leyte.

- When the next time you and your family are enjoying a movie time on cinemas, trailers of violent movies will no longer be present in theaters that show movies with the General Audience rating or those approved for young audiences, according to the MTRCB.

TTFN!!!

Let's Do The News! (July 24, 2014)

The big scoop today...

- During the onslaught of Typhoon Glenda, about 28 houses were destroyed by this deadly typhoon that ravaged the Philippines last week.

- Air Algerie lost contact with one of their planes nearly an hour after takeoff from Burkina Faso to Algiers. This is just another one of air travel problems moments after a SAM shot at a Malaysian Airlines plane in Ukraine.

- Cupcakes, rainbows, and murder?! If this could turn into a Robot Chicken sketch, I'm sold because recently, publisher Harper Collins pulled out most of the Hello Kitty Dictionary inventories after a complaint from a British mum regarding a "murderous description". The word in question from the Hello Kitty Dictionary is "necklace".

necklace noun (1) a piece of jewellery which a woman wears around her neck (2) In South Africa, a name for a tyre filled with petrol which is placed round a person's neck and set on fire in order to kill that person

Uh-oh...Looks like with that murderous description about the "necklace" word, it seems this dictionary is too inappropriate for the little girls.

- The Nissan Note E12 now comes with the NISMO model for the first time! Apart from the base NISMO model which comes with the 1.2L DIG-S engine and a CVT, there's the NISMO S model which uses the same 1.5L engine from the March K13 NISMO and it's mated with a 5-speed manual gearbox. It's coming this autumn 2014 exclusively to the Japanese market.

2015 Nissan Note NISMO

- IT'S THE NEW PORSCHE CAYENNE! Sort of... The facelifted second-generation Cayenne is now available with the Cayenne S E-Hybrid, which is the first plug-in hybrid in the premium SUV segment.

2015 Porsche Cayenne

- The third DLC catalog for the PS3-exclusive THE iDOLM@STER ONE FOR ALL has finally announced and it's available this 29th of July on the PlaystationStore. For this third DLC, experience an all new scenario known as ７６５プロ、常夏の島へ行く, which features a quintet performance from the song as heard from THE iDOLM@STER MOVIE called ラムネ色 青春 while most of your idols are now donned in their brand new outfit known as "Sea Bloom Curtain".

Also in the catalog is the special appearance of Ai, Eri, and Ryo from iM@S Dearly Stars. Then, new outfits to try on such as Abyssal Majesty, 765 Color Glitter, Sailor Swimsuit, Princess Melody, 765 Academy Jersey, Burning Performer, and Cyber Starship. And finally, additional songs such as 待ち受けプリンス, 神SUMMER!!, 七彩ボタン, and ポジティブ！

- The first 100 out of the 200 cars in the upcoming Forza Horizon 2 video game on the XBOX consoles are announced! On the first 100, there are new additions to the Forza series such as the Renault Alpine A110, Jeep Willys MB, and the Volkswagen Type 2 De Luxe (otherwise known as the SambaBus).

- Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte is offering everyone a PhP1,000,000 reward for those who can give information on the killers behind the murder of racing car driver Enzo Pastor.

- America's biggest fast food chains got dragged as the toxic food scandal in China lingers.

TTFN!!!

Driving Music (What is the name of the song on car commercial?) Vol. 63

As I checked into the inbox, I noticed that there's a message sent by some Facebook user a few days ago. Some guy sent me a link that it turns out to be a promo video of a luxury car. He even told me the words "Any idea of the song Leopaul?"

Well, I can't tell you the name of some sender but I'll respond to that message stating that music used in that promo video of a luxury car. Maserati Quattroporte to be exact.

Well, I'm very sorry. I tried identifying the song and the results came out empty. As it turns out, it's original. Thanks for asking.

I have an important announcement to make in this segment. Due to the quietness because I don't see any car enthusiasts snickering around the search engines asking what is the name of the song on a car commercial, it's time to double the list from the usual five to 10 songs! TEN SONGS! That's right. You heard me. Starting now, I'll be listing ten driving musics on the "DRIVING MUSIC" segment.

All right then, let's pump up the gas...and some volume. Ready? Engage!

10. Let's Go by Bean - from the 2014 Mitsubishi Motors USA Mirage "Big Night Out" commercial.

9. Fame by David Bowie - from the Cadillac Escalade "Evolution of Luxury" TV commercial.

8. Run To You by Bryan Adams - from the Suzuki Swift Style TV commercial from Japan.

7. スターライトパレード by SEKAI NO OWARI - from the Toyota Ractis commercial from Japan.

6. Nights Like This by Eli "Paperboy" Reed - from the Toyota USA RAV4 "Party" TV commercial.

5. Gunshot by Lykke Li - from the Peugeot 108 commercial.

4. Shady by Adam Lambert feat. Nile Rodgers and Sam Sparro - from the Kia Soul EV commercial.

3. Turn Me On by Vitamin C - from the Toyota Thailand Soluna commercial.

2. Send Me On My Way by Rusted Root - from a certain Enterprise Rent-A-Car commercial.

1. Love Never Felt So Good by Michael Jackson - from Jeep "Definition of Summer" commercial

Driving Music from Leopaul's Blog is the segment where solves every car enthusiasts' questions about the title of the song of car commercials...with the risk of MATCHED THIRD PARTY CONTENT on their status. Acknowledge or dispute, it's your choice.

2015 Nissan Fairlady Z NISMO

Last year, the Z34 Nissan Fairlady Z got itself a NISMO version and for the NISMO version, part of Nissan's revitalized NISMO performance brand, the speedo boy favorite Nissan FR sportscar has gotten even better and its VQ37VHR's power output is up from 336PS to 355PS of power while being mated with either a 7-speed auto or a 6-speed manual gearbox with SynchroRev match system in which the revs match the gearbox.

2015 Nissan Fairlady Z NISMO

In Nissan's quest for more Zswagger-ness, this Zswagger has been upgraded. Their 2015 update on the Fairlady Z NISMO is almost as sharper as its big brother, the GT-R NISMO, in terms of exterior design. See?

2015 Nissan Fairlady Z NISMO speedometer

2015 Nissan Fairlady Z NISMO interior

So, the exterior for the 2015 Z NISMO is new, right. Because of its GT-R-inspired front bumpers, not only it looks aggressive but it's also more aerodynamic than the last Z NISMO. Other changes include a deep front fascia with LED Hyper Daytime Running Lights, black headlight bezels, a Nismo emblem, and a signature Nismo red stripe accent on the integrated front chin spoiler. On the back, you will notice that the rear bumper's been redesigned and the rear spoiler has been reshaped and downsized. Also, its 19's rims, developed by RAYS ENGINEERING, have been redesigned and it's finished in charcoal gray instead of silver from the last model.

Inside, you can expect new black and red Recaro leather-appointed sport seats with red seat trim and stitching with the Nismo logo as well as an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel. The speedometer still reads up to 280kph, just like the previous Z NISMO. This will surely keep the Zswaggers longing for days on the road and on the track.

2015 Nissan Fairlady Z NISMO

Like the previous model, the Fairlady Z NISMO's VQ37VHR engine develops 355PS of power while being mated with either a 7-speed auto or a 6-speed manual gearbox with SynchroRev match system in which the revs match the gearbox. Handling aside, the NISMO model adds dynamics Zswaggers would only dream of such as extensive use of 4-wheel independent suspension, Nismo-branded strut tower brace, and performance dampers. There are even tons of several improvements for this 2015 model that will keep Zswaggers enjoying for days.

The 6-speed manual model costs 5,626,800 Yen while the 7-speed automatic model costs 5,734,800 Yen.

Available colors: Vibrant Red, Diamond Black, Brilliant Silver, and Brilliant White Pearl.

Photo: Nissan Motor Corporation

The Remixes Collection THE IDOLM@STER TO D@NCE TO

The Remixes Collection
THE IDOLM@STER TO D@NCE TO

While most of the iM@S fans in Japan are waiting for the 9th anniversary concert and as THE iDOLM@STER series is almost reaching its 10th birthday next year, wow, can't believe they're almost nearing its milestone since its inception. Anyway, as this series is gonna be 10 next year, the folks from Nippon Columbia is proudly present all the producers out there with this special remix compilation called "The Remixes Collection THE IDOLM@STER TO D@NCE TO". Most of the iM@S' greatest hits are handpicked to get the remix treatment and they're all remixed by some of the finest remixes in Bandai Namco history. Most of the iM@S remixes were done by the blokes involved in other great Namco games like Ridge Racer and Tekken.

13 remixed tracks will surely get you revved up for your 765 Production cravings and I'm sure most producers don't mind having one in their CD collection full of idol stuff.

TRACK LISTINGS:

01 IDOLM@STER -Rio Hamamoto Remix-

02 まっすぐ -Ryo Watanabe Remix-

03 Mythmaker -Taku Inoue Remix-

04 KisS -Hiroyuki Kawada Remix-

05 乙女よ大志を抱け！！ -Takafumi Sato Remix-

06 キミはメロディ -AJURIKA Remix-

07 my song -LindaAI-Cue Remix-

08 蒼い鳥 -Taku Inoue Remix-

09 GO MY WAY!! -ESTi Remix-

10 スタ→トスタ→ -AJURIKA Remix-

11 shiny smile -百引一 Remix-

12 キラメキラリ –おおくぼひろし Remix-

13 魔法をかけて！ -Ryo Watanabe Remix-

BMW X4

Remember the BMW X6? Yes. The X6 was too focused on being a road car than to be good off road and it's too focused to be tall and heavy to be any good on the road either. It's too cramped, too complicated, and it's too expensive. Now though, while BMW's working on the new model, looks like the X6 has spawned a baby in the lineup and it's called the BMW X4.

2015 BMW X4

The new BMW X4 maybe more of a jacked-up BMW 3-Series saloon or 3 Series Gran Turismo or 4-Series Gran Coupe or whatever the heck BMW's thinking of but on the upshot, the new X4 is shorter and lighter than its big brother, the X6. Like the X6, this is a Sport Activity Coupe that you can expect rear passengers to get cramped by its low roofline even though this jacked-up saloon can seat four people.

2015 BMW X4 interior

On the inside, it's all typical uniform-ish BMW interior because why the designers still stick to the same BMW interior regardless of which model. If there's a game guess which interior is which, I'm guessing that 99% percent of car enthusiasts will get it wrong. If that BMW interior wasn't enough to keep you confused, the iDrive system on it can quite confusing if you're trying it for the first time. It's so bothersome, connectivity may take a few minutes until your devices are linked to this car. It's all too bothering as I've been in numerous BMWs in my life, trying out most of its connectivities.

2015 BMW X4

The X4 is offered with a choice of two petrol engines and two diesel engines; from a 2.0L to a 3.0L. The top-of-the-line 35i has 306PS of power, 400Nm of torque, and it can do 0-100kph in 5.5 seconds but the 3.0L diesel engine-powered 35d develops 313PS of power, 630Nm of torque, and a 0-100kph time of 5.2 seconds, 0.3 seconds faster than its petrol equivalent. That all sounds fine but those figures are a load of rubbish because whichever spec you'll be choosing, you will always get cranky and grumpy because of its harsh ride and its understeer issues. Yes, it has xDrive all-wheel drive system so it's well balanced and precise when driven carefully even when wet but when you turn it hard, you'll get the feeling that you expect from playing a game of tug of war until you got...dropped and your opposing team wins. Don't even think about being rugged either because the X4 is...more of a semi-rugged rather than a rugged SUV but despite its xDrive system, crossing on the hills offroad is like the same thing happened to the X6. Bummer. Dirt, snow, it's all in that scenario.

2015 BMW X4

The X4 starts at 45,600 for the base xDrive20d model and you can expect this price to spike when you lavish it with some optional extras and some accessories but is it worth it? With or without, it's still just a game of eenie meenie miney moe to settle the differences but if you can't afford a terribly confusing X6, why not give it a try? Who knows, you might be sharing the same miserable life as you'd expect from the X6. In essence then, this is just another one of BMW's wrongs that cannot be rewritten right.

Photo: BMW AG

Let's Do The News! (July 22, 2014)

The big scoop today...

- Earlier, all classes from Muntinlupa City, four southern Luzon provinces, and a town in Biliran Island in Eastern Visayas has been suspended due to the bad weather from the hanging habagat enhanced by Typhoon Henry. PAGASA earlier warned of monsoon rain over parts of Luzon and Visayas.

- Poor sales lead Opel/Vauxhall to remove the Ampera PHEV car from their lineup. The Ampera is the European equivalent of the Chevrolet Volt.

Opel Ampera

- Lowrider cars are the feature on the latest Jay Leno's Garage webisode.

- OFFICIAL: The 2015MY Chevrolet SS will have a 6-speed manual gearbox standard as well as the magnetic shocks.

- Manila Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada wants Manila policemen to hunt down crooks using Nissan Latio saloons as the city government recently purchased 12 units for the Manila cops.

Manila Police Nissans

- A welovefine.com exclusive MLP Nightmare Moon vinyl figure has appeared! She's up for grabs exclusively at the welovefine online shop! Those who've pre-ordered will receive a special coin.

- Disneyland's Haunted Mansion attraction will spawn an animated special.

- FOR VERIFIED USERS OF THE WATCH DISNEY CHANNEL APP: Did you know that you can get an early access to the upcoming Phineas and Ferb Star Wars TV Special? Yes. Verified users can get an early access to the latest special before it airs on the 26th of July. Kids, get your parents' permission first before doing so.

Phineas and Ferb Star Wars

- In celebration of the upcoming live-action Lupin The Third movie, Fiat Chrysler Japan, the Japanese distributor of Fiat and Chrysler automobiles, and toymaker Takara Tomy are collaborating with the movie by presenting Lupin the Movie Caffe at the FIAT CAFFE and many others. For details: http://www.fiat-auto.co.jp/lupin

Lupin the Third

- Moments after ASKA's drug arrest, Chage from CHAGE&ASKA forms a new band called "1/6".

TTFN!!!

The Philippine Arena - almost everything you need to know...

Yesterday, the members of Iglesia ni Cristo inaugurated the world's biggest indoor dome called the Philippine Arena. This arena, located in Bocaue and Santa Maria, Bulacan, was opened yesterday, just ahead of INC's centennial celebration on the 27th of July.

This arena took 8.7 billion pesos and 30 months to build the largest theater on Earth while leaving two construction workers died while building the arena. The four establishments that was housed by the arena itself are Eraño Manalo Medical Center, the Bulacan campus of the New Era University, the Philippine Stadium and the Philippine Sports Center

An average coliseum can seat up to 22,000 people but in this Philippine Arena, it has a seating capacity of over 55,000 people, more than the MOA Arena and the Smart Araneta Coliseum. The lot area is 74,000 square meters and 99,000 square meters on the total floor area.

That's some engineering connections that needs to be figured out how this Philippine Arena was made but again, this Philippine Arena is one of the key examples of what humans can do by pushing the boundaries of engineering greatness.

Report, Image: The Philippine Star

Super GT 2014 - Sugo

In the fourth round of the 2014 Super GT held at Sugo, there's no wonder that one of the finest racing drivers won't hold back in the middle of the racing battleground and 79 laps later, winners do exist in Sugo. In the GT500 class, the winner is the #1 ZENT Cerumo RC F piloted by Yuji Tachikawa and Kohei Hirate, posting their 1'14.832 best lap time. 2nd place goes to the #37 Keeper TOM'S RC F driven by Daisuke Ito and Andrea Caldarelli and 3rd place goes to the #17 KEIHIN NSX CONCEPT-GT driven by Koudai Tsukakoshi and Toshihiro Kaneishi.

In the GT300 class, the winner goes to the #88 MANEPA Lamborghini Gallardo GT3 driven by Manabu Orido and Takayuki Aoki, while 2nd place goes to the #65 LEON Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 driven by Haruki Kurosawa and Tsubasa Kurosawa, and 3rd placer goes to the #21 Audi R8 LMS ultra driven by Richard Lyons and Tomonobu Fujii.

HIGHLIGHTS:

The next round of the Super GT 2014 season will be at Fuji Speedway this 10th of August.

F1 2014: German GP

It looks like Mercedes' Nico Rosberg tries to play catch-up against his teammate Lewis Hamilton a little further as in the Hockenheimring, the venue for the German GP of the Formula One 2014 season, he is the winner and leaving Lewis Hamilton on third place and rookie Valtteri Bottas of Williams placed 2nd. As the catch-up continues, looks like Hamilton's 14 points behind Rosberg in the standings while Ricciardo still in 3rd place overall with 106 points.

Next time as the F1 racers will be competing on Hungary this 27th of July.

Report: http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2014/7/16124.html

Image: Top Gear

BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe

The 4-Series is the coupe version of the latest-generation 3-Series because of BMW's naming scheme to use odd numbers as saloons and even numbers for coupes but not at all. Last year, the 3-Series spawned a Gran Turismo model and it's not half bad unlike the rhetorically ugly 5-Series Gran Turismo which is a bit like an unholy product between a whale or a turtle. Now, in a terribly confusing way, the 4-door version of a 2-door version of a 4-door saloon, called the 4-Series Gran Coupe, has arrived and judging by the looks of it, the new model kinda feels like the twin car of the 3-Series Gran Turismo.

2015 BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe

2015 BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe

Oh dear, it looks like this car faced an identity crisis because in the view of many, since this is the 4-door version of the 4-Series, what on Earth did they think that BMW wants to stay true to their namesakes because with the case of having odd numbers as saloons and even numbers as coupes, looks like BMW begins to lie on us because I don't think they really did a good job on the naming scheme and if customers showed up on the dealerships, the theory is that the sales between the 3-Series Gran Turismo and the 4-Series Gran Coupe are on a balance because if they went to the 4-Series Gran Coupe, the 3GT will hurt in the sales department because what was the whole point about selling two cars with the same specs in one dealership? This is like when two identical objects suffer the same identical damages when dropped on each other.

What's the difference between the 3-Series Gran Turismo and the 4-Series Gran Coupe? Almost nothing except the 4GC is shorter than the 3GT in terms of wheelbase and it's shorter but despite being shorter than the 3GT, the 4GC is much roomier at the back and because the rear boot opens like a spaceback of some sorts, it's quite a versatile one.

2015 BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe interior

Yes, because the 4-Series Gran Coupe feels more of an identical twin to the normal 3-Series saloon and the 3GT, expect the same engine choices from them ranging from the 2.0L TwinPower-Turbo petrol, a 3.0L TwinPower-Turbo petrol, 2.0L diesel, and 3.0L 6-cylinder diesel engine. Oh, and BMW recently added a new version to the 2.0L diesel engine. This recent diesel engine, to be added on most 4-Series models, especially on the Gran Coupe, develops 218PS of power, 450Nm of torque, and can go 0-100kph in 6.5 seconds when equipped with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

Like its 2-door derivative, the 4-Series Gran Coupe comes with chassis improvements allowing this car for a more responsive steering  but can get some minor understeering issues if you going on the bends too quick. It maybe precise when driven carefully but it can be quite harsh in the ride comfort stakes.

2015 BMW 4-Series Gran Coupe

Prices for the 4-Series Gran Coupe starts at 35,750 Euros for the 420i model up to 53,850 Euros for the 435i Luxury Line Steptronic. At that starting price, it's cheaper to own than the 3-Series Gran Turismo but more costly than the 3-Series saloon. The F30 one. The BMW F30 3-Series I'm referring. So, would you refer one than...well, you know what? They're all the same beings. You can use your mystic other-worldly powers to decide which.

Photo: BMW AG

#BubbleGangEnkantoGags

On the July 18, 2014 episode of Bubble Gang...

- An old man's date with a lady is going sweet...and sour.

- Enkanto gags

- IKAW AT ANG INA takes on...taking pics about your new phone!!!

- Lala Ytera bashes on someone at the bus stop.

- SUMBATAN

- Bubble Gang does Wafrets by spoofing this commercial as HEYFRETS! Basya Heyfrets, Panalo!

- Istambay, Istambay sa Looban, Makinig sa kuwentuhan kapekehan, may bagong nagangaraket sa tambayan, nagulo lahat ng...TAONG BAYAN!!!

- Don Cantoni gives orders from his criminal goons.

- Your wife really can recognize what you've been doing all night long...

- How come she gets her money while I don't?!

- A lonely man and an old lady truly have their own secrets to tell.

- A celeb explains to the cops that his showbiz career days are well and truly over.

Let's Do The News! (July 18, 2014)

Things we learned today...

- Cleanup for the debris caused by Typhoon Glenda is underway by the MMDA, DPWH, and the LGU.

- A Malaysia Airlines plane got hit by a SAM from Eastern Ukraine, killing all 295 people onboard.

- Former Ford Motor Company CEO Alan Mulally joins internet giant Google.

- Did you know that the creator of Yowamushi Pedal, Wataru Watanabe, was a guest commentator from the recently concluded 2014 Tour de France?

- Get to know about the Kanjozoku, Osaka's notorious street racing Honda Civic drivers who are causing havoc in the Kansai highways using heavily modified Honda Civics, in this clip courtesy of Bowls Films.



- OFFICIAL: The 2015 Ford Mustang's 5.0L V8 engine will be producing 435HP of power, 305 for the V6, and 310HP for the new 2.3L EcoBoost turbo engine. Go spread the word.

2015 Ford Mustang

- Lamborghini teases their race-spec Super Trofeo track car based on their new Huracan LP610-4 supercar.

Huracan Super Trofeo teaser

- While the Hamilton vs. Rosberg is still heating things up in this year's Formula One, looks like Nico Rosberg recently renewed his contract with the Mercedes F1 team.

- Honda Cars Philippines' Alabang dealership is now back to normal after the damage caused by Typhoon Glenda.

TTFN!!!

Cadillac Escalade (GMT K2XL)

2015 Cadillac Escalade

The Cadillac Escalade, the SUV favored by the generation of hip hop and gangsta rappers from the ghettos, has been regenerated to an entirely new look complete with a brand new platform, new interior, and new features that will keep this new model back to its clean slate after years of being treated as a car for the ghetto goons or so we thought.

So, what's new about this new model?

The new model is kinda like its lesser cousins, the Chevrolet Suburban/Tahoe and the GMC Yukon, because they both wear the same underpinnings derived from its you-know-whats. Like these, this new platform will not spawn an EXT sport truck and its hybrid derivatives because...like it says on its books, this new Escalade will not spawn a hybrid model as well as its EXT sport truck. Dismissed.

Dismissed?

Dismissed. No Escalade Hybrid nor Escalade EXT for this generation. So sorry...

Anyway, like what I said, WHAT'S NEW?!

Oh! Okay! The new model now looks more well-tailored on the exterior, like a heavily armed bodyguard who is heavily armed to the teeth, guarding a social party for the VIP. Judging by the way the new exterior design looks, that is as first class as a cargo plane all smothered with some palace-like comforts fit for a tyrant.

Hmmm...what about the interior?

2015 Cadillac Escalade interior

2015 Cadillac Escalade interior

Although while the exterior is new to us, the new interior of the Escalade is pretty much like the Cadillacs of today. It's just like when BMW still using the same interior design to all models with absolutely no differences whatsoever. You still have the configurable cluster display, the Cadillac CUE, and those catastrophically difficult dashboard  which makes your fingers deemed to be confused. Apart from its cockpit confusions, the passenger comforts is pretty much like those Japanese luxury MPVs of today but of course, this isn't one of them. This is an all-American made SUV built for the crooks and cools.

When fully equipped, you can expect a rear-seat entertainment system that plays your favorite DVD (or Blu-Ray) movies while on the go. Of course, while some consider it a family car, no other family can afford the Suburban with a Cadillac badge on it. Only the gangsta rappers, MVP athletes, or the Men In Black from the CIA, NSA, or any government organizations snooping on us can drive those.

If you can opt in for the long-wheelbase ESV model, you can have extended luggage space fit enough for some man stuff to put in to your man cave at your home. Tough stuff, though.

Tough?

Well, yeah. It is kinda tough indeed thanks to its extensive use of high-strength steel and it's not just all about being tough on the outside, it's the inside that counts thanks to its host of safety features such as Lane Departure Warning System, Rear Cross Traffic, Side Blind Zone Alert, Safety Alert Seat and Forward Collision Alert. Combined with Rear Vision Camera, Rainsense automatic wipers, and IntelliBeam headlamps.

What about performance?

The new Escalade now comes with the new and more powerful 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8 FlexFuel petrol engine, the same engine used to power the new GMC Yukon Denali models. It develops a class-leading power output of 420hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. It features Advanced Direct Injection, Active Fuel Management, and Variable Valve Timing. With that engine output, the EPA estimated fuel mileage is 21MPG highway. That sounds less but some say, it's an improvement from the last model.

Handling aside, the new Escalade comes with the Magnetic Ride Control, which lets the Escalade behave like a full-size saloon but honestly, being a big and burly car the size of five or six burly American football players, getting through the bends is an expert level worth unfathomable. When normally driven, it feels more comfortable like a luxury limo as long if there's someone not waving hands like a show off.

Should I buy it?

2015 Cadillac Escalade

At the start, the new Cadillac Escalade is priced from $71,695 to $92,840 so not only it's expensive than its GMT K2XX cousins, it's more expensive than its rivals such as the MB GL-Class and the Infiniti QX80 but on the upshot is that you can afford one rather than the Range Rover.

Sadly though, because this is too expensive, you can't afford one of these unless if you're working with the music industry or with the MIB.

Available colors: Dark Granite Metallic, Majestic Plum Metallic, Radiant Silver Metallic, Crystal Red Tintcoat, Silver Coast Metallic, White Diamond Tricoat, and Black Raven.

Photo: General Motors

Let's Do The News! (July 17, 2014)

The big scoop today...

- Continuing on the Typhoon Glenda updates, the NDRRMC reported that at least 38 people died during the wrath of this typhoon.

- The Australian government gives ten million Philippine pesos of emergency aid to the Philippines. These funds were made to aid victims of Typhoon Glenda.

- Senator Bong Revilla's pre-trial has been postponed by the Sandiganbayan, giving way for the pending motion of the prosecution to amend the graft charge of Revilla over his alleged involvement with the PDAF scam.

- The United States and the European Union continues to escalate economic sanctions against Russia with US President Obama declaring that Russian leaders must see that their actions supporting Ukrainian rebels have consequences.

- The next generation of smart city cars, the fortwo and the forfour, was finally revealed!

2015 smart fortwo and 2015 smart forfour

- THIS IS THE NEW MAZDA DEMIO: The fourth generation of Mazda's city car, the Demio (known globally as the Mazda 2), was finally revealed and its set to go on sale in Japan this late 2014.

2015 Mazda Demio

- Good Smile Company revealed a new Nendoroid based on Rozen Maiden's Suigintou! A must have for every fan of Rozen Maiden!

Nendoroid Suigintou

TTFN!!!

Let's Do The News! (July 16, 2014)

The big scoop today...

- Focusing on the Typhoon Glenda updates, there was a major power outage occurred in most parts of the Metro Manila as the typhoon continues to ravage most parts of the Luzon region.

- As Metro Manila is still under Signal No. 3, Subic is the next area to get hammered by the wrath of Typhoon Glenda.

- Most of the LRT and MRT operations were suspended due Typhoon Glenda.

- During the wrath of Typhoon Glenda in Metro Manila, a fire broke out in the warehouse of the Wendy's fast food chain in a commercial-residential area in Marikina City, although no casualties were reported.

- Despite LeBron James' announcement that he'll be coming back to the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat star player, Dwayne Wade, said that he'll be staying with the Heat.

- A nuclear power plant in southern Japan has received a passing grade for safety requirements raised after the March 11, 2011 disaster.

- The jury trial of a Filipino man named Igmidio Mista, who was suspected of killing three people in a Ohio bar shooting, was postponed to give the defendant's lawyers more time.

- The Aston Martin V12 Vantage S gets a Roadster model. Even though it comes with the same 565HP 6.0L V12 engine as the hardtop model and despite being heavier and slower than its hardtop equivalent, this is Aston Martin's fastest open top sportscar.

2015 Aston Martin V12 Vantage S Roadster

- Jaguar's 3-Series rival, the XE, will be revealed this September.

- The occupancy rate of Mazda's Hofu plant has been maintained and production of the next-generation Mazda Demio (or Mazda 2) has been commenced.

- The next-generation smart fortwo city car will be revealed this 16th of July.

- END OF AN ERA: Chevrolet's Express 1500 and GMC Savanna 1500 vans were officially discontinued, although its HD 2500 and 3500 models will continue to live on as expected.

- Production of Acura's new TLX sports saloon has commenced in Honda's Marysville Plant in Ohio.

TTFN!!!

Let's Do The News! (July 15, 2014)

Things we learned so far...

- The facelifted Audi A7 gained a special edition 3.0 TDI competition model in celebration of the TDI's 25th anniversary. The 3.0L TDi engine develops 326HP of power, 650Nm of torque, and 0-100kph in 5.1 seconds.

Audi A7 Sportback 3.0 TDI competition

- The supporters of both Marjorie and Julia Barretto have spoken about the petition set by Dennis Padilla to change the name of this teen actress.

- Because of Typhoon Glenda forecasted to hit Metro Manila, work at the Senate was suspended on Wednesday.

- Because of Typhoon Glenda, Camarines Norte declared state of calamity.

- Moments after the Philippine Basketball Team, GILAS, defeated Chinese Taipei and Singapore, they've defeated Jordan at the score of 71-70 and they've advanced to take on India in the elimination rounds of the 2014 FIBA Asia Cup in China.

- It is revealed that the Department of Health has used 3.3 Billion pesos worth of DAP funds to purchase medicines and improve health centers.

- IN CASE YOU REALLY REALLY MISSED IT: Elevator Girl Cheridel Alejandrino was the latest to be evicted from the Pinoy Big Brother House.

- Most of Wednesday's games of the UAAP were suspended due to Typhoon Glenda.

- Audi has built its 6,000,000th Quattro-equipped car and that 6,000,000th quattro car built was the SQ5 in Monsungrau Metallic.

The 6,000,000th Quattro car made is an SQ5

- On the latest Jay Leno's Garage webisode, Jay Leno tackles on Paul Jackson Jr.'s 1969 Oldsmobile 442 muscle car.

TTFN!!!

Cars GT6 Should Put (Volume 22)

In a galaxy far far away, just off our backyard, lies Leopaul's Blog; boldly pushing the boundaries of car culture because there's some CARS GT6 SHOULD PUT.



1) Daihatsu Copen Robe '14

The Daihatsu Copen has returned this year with a new look, new interior, and a customizable body frame. While it retains the concept look as seen from the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show, the new Daihatsu Copen is one of the finest examples of what an affordable open-top sportscar could be and we, the fans of Gran Turismo, are more than welcome to try out the reborn Copen the way we want.



2) Ford Mustang GT '15

For its 50th anniversary offering, the Ford Mustang has reached its 6th generation and for this generation, it's now modernized, more civilized, and more Mustang unlike any other. The top spec model comes with the 5.0L V8 engine developing over 420HP of power and 390lb-ft of torque. Everyone from the Gran Turismo community wanted to know what is like to drive the latest-generation Ford Mustang in the world of Gran Turismo.

3) SRT Challenger SRT Hellcat '15

For 2015 model year, the Dodge Challenger SRT gained the new Hellcat version and this is now hailed as the king of American cars because of its supercharged V8 engine developing a whopping 707HP of power output. With that kind of power, the Hellcat will bring every single European machines down to its knees and we just want this car to be on GT6.

4) BMW i8 '14

The BMW i8 revolutionized the plug-in hybrid genre by providing space-grade materials and the joined forces of the 1.5L petrol and the hybrid synchronous motor developing a total output of 362PS of power while providing lower emissions than any sportscar in the world. This PHEV sportscar is one of the must haves for the year 2014 and I believe that this is a must have for every Gran Turismo fan because this game had some eco-cars to choose from. Come on PDI, the i8 needs a spot on GT6 and we're waiting for your verdict.

5) Lexus NX200t F Sport '14

The Lexus NX could be a potent contender to the fast-growing crossover segment but what made the NX a game changer is the application of Toyota Motor Corporation's brand new 8AR-FTS 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo engine, their first ever turbo engine since the Caldina discontinued in 2007. Although I'm kinda skeptical about Toyota going on the downsizing route but their new 2.0L turbo engine develops more than what you can expect from a 2.5L V6 engine mated to any Toyota or Lexus saloon. Let's hope this crossover gets the spot on GT6 any time because...I can't wait to hear the sound of the 8AR-FTS engine.

The results please? So when one of these cars showed up in future updates on GT6, you can't say I have a little bit to do with that.

Take that to Kaz Yamauchi!