Let's Do The News! (September 5, 2014)

Things we learned so far...

- Looks like our very own GILAS Pilipinas will bag their souvenir from their 2014 FIBA World Cup match because a miraculous OT brought the Philippine national basketball team bagged their first win after their 81-79 win against Senegal.

Photo: FIBA.com

- US President Barack Obama and British PM David Cameron joined forces in the fight against the Islamic State In Syria or ISIS.

- Frenda Seivelun and Shizuri Mugino from To Aru Kagaku no Railgun S anime series gets the Beach Queens treatment from Wave. Both of these figures are set to arrive this February with the MSRP of around 6,200 Japanese Yen.

Beach Queens Shizuri Mugino

Beach Queens Frenda Seivelun

- CMC's Jaguar Mark II resto-mod, designed by Ian Callum, has been approved for limited production!

Classic Motor Cars' Jaguar Mark II

- Only one Koenigsegg Agera hypercar has been recalled by the NHTSA for its TPMS problems.

Koenigsegg Agera

-The C7-spec Audi A6 range has been given a minor change with new looks and new powertrain.  For added good news, the Multitronic CVT gearbox from the FF models has been dropped and replaced with S-tronic double clutch gearbox.

2015 Audi A6

- The Peugeot Exalt Concept from the Beijing Motor Show will make its Paris Motor Show debut next month, only this time, a different look on it.

2014 Peugeot Exalt Concept (Paris Motor Show model)

- The Divine DS Concept from Citroen previews a luxury compact car or rather...signalling an imminent sign that the DS from Citroen is becoming a stand-alone brand in its own right.

2014 Citroen Divine DS Concept

- BOO FOR BMW! BMW plans to launch six FWD models until late 2017.

2015 BMW 2 Series Active Tourer

- The members of the Air Force Academy men's gymnastics team were punished because of their underage drinking and rude behavior. No one knows what behavior was but there were no allegations of sexual abuse and drug abuse involved.

TTFN!!!

Let's Do The News! (September 4, 2014)

Things we learned so far...

- The GILAS Pilipinas team faced another loss against Puerto Rico at the score of 77-73 win at the 2014 FIBA World Cup in Spain. Even when GILAS kept losing, the Philippine national basketball team is still very happy to take on the world stage and they'll keep on playing for the sake of experience.

Photo: Youtube/FIBA

- The new Land Rover Discovery Sport was unveiled and this new crossover is served as the replacement to the ageing Freelander. The next-generation crossover boasts a wide array of electronics and seating for seven people, for the first time in a Land Rover.

2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport

- Revealed at this year's Salon Prive, the Morgan SP1 is a special machine handcrafted by the British carmaker's Special Projects division. The special machine features an ash wood frame combined with African Bubinga red hardwood, aluminum panels, sculpted wooden seats, and much more. It's powered by a 3.7L Ford V6 engine developing 280HP of power.

2014 Morgan SP1

- Nissan Motor Company's Andy Palmer is named as the new CEO of Aston Martin.

- Attention all Love Live fanatics! The folks from Good Smile Company unveiled a set of Nendoroid Petite figures featuring all nine μ's members wearing their stage outfits from the opening theme song "Sore wa Bokutachi no Kiseki'. Coming this January, each NenPetite costs 741 Japanese Yen (plus tax) and you have a chance to collect all nine μ's members; Honoka Kousaka, Umi Sonoda, Kotori Minami, Hanayo Koizumi, Rin Hoshizora, Maki Nishikino, Nico Yazawa, Eli Ayase, and Nozomi Tojo. There's even one secret figure as well!

Nendoroid Petite Love Live!:
Sore wa Bokutachi no Kiseki Ver.

- The South Korean government said that they would create a joint army between the South Korea and the United States, aiming to take out all North Korea's nuclear weapons in the event of an all-out conflict.

- Ayman al-Zawahiri, the chief of the terrorist organization Al-Qaeda, launched a new branch of global Islamist extremist movement to reinvigorate and expand its struggle in the Indian sub-continent.

- The Sandiganbayan rejected the transfer of Senator Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr. to a regular jail because of the lack of merit. Revilla, an actor-turned-politician, was accused for plunder over the PDAF scam.

- A clip from the FOX ADHD block introduced us a new word; PROD. What is PROD? Sad, but happy, but sad. Watch this clip and see for yourself!

- Arup Raha, the chief marshal of the Indian Air Force, states that they can't allow any delays on the $25 billion deal on the Rafale fighter aircraft.

TTFN!!!

25 Years of Mazda Roadster

The Mazda Roadster (MX-5 Miata in the world market) is now 25 years old. It grown up, it matured, but the secret formula for the Roadster's success never change; providing exhilarating thrills in a lightweight package, and that's good. While the Roadster was a Japanese sports car for the masses, it always goes under the influence of what true British sports cars do; aerodynamics over performance. As the late Colin Chapman from Lotus says that adding power makes you go faster on the straight line but subtracting weight makes you go faster everywhere. The Mazda Roadster is like that, being a lightweight car that makes you go faster everywhere.

Let's rewind the best 25 years of the Mazda Roadster with the best of what the past three generations have pulled together;

1) Eunos Roadster, we presented

The first Roadster (1989-1998)

The first Roadster (designated as NA) debuted in 1989 under the name, Eunos Roadster. which of course, Eunos is one of the brands from Mazda aside from Efini and Autozam back then. If you're new to the world of Japanese cars, let me get this straight; At the end of the 1980's, Mazda tries to diversify the Japanese car market by introducing three different marques. This is just like Toyota, Honda (with their Primo, Verno, and Clio marques), Mitsubishi, and Nissan from their heydays. The three marques are; Autozam (comprised of affordable entry-level cars), Efini (the exclusive luxury brand where the FD RX-7 is sold), and Eunos. Eunos is an upscale brand from Mazda and it's naming comes from the Greek word "eu" meaning "good" and "nos" referring to the abbreviation to the word "numbers".

For the list of Eunos cars aside from the Roaster, click here.

Anyway, The Eunos Roadster was exported worldwide as the Mazda MX-5 Miata. It was hugely popular among enthusiasts because of such lightweight chassis. The Eunos Roadster is powered with either a B6-ZE 1597cc 4-cylinder DOHC engine that produces 120ps/6500rpm of power or the BP-ZE 1839cc 4-cylinder DOHC engine that produces 130ps/6500rpm of power. There are so many special editions of the NA Roadster, including the S-Special, V-Special, or the J Limited. The first Roadster is all about choice.

2) ROADSTER, Reborn

The second Roadster (1998-2005)

In 1998, the arrival of the New Roadster came into reality. It even exported worldwide as the second-generation Mazda MX-5. The positive aspect about the NB Mazda Roadster is that it retains the styling from the Eunos Roadster, only this time, the retractable headlights from the NA Roadster has been replaced by the fixed headlights, providing the essence of style. This generation offers a 1.6L or a BP-ZE 1.8L 4-cylinder engine that produces either 145/160ps of power.

3) One car. One driver. One feeling.

The third Roadster (2005-2015)

In the year 2005, the Mazda Roadster (MX-5 Miata) received another full model change and gained the designation of NC. By November 2005, the NC Roadster won the 2005-2006 Japan Car of the Year.  When it first arrived in August 25, 2005, it became a sensation because the Mazda NC Roadster was just a miniature version of the Mazda RX-8 but the 3rd Roadster retains the 2-seater capacity from the previous two generations. The standard engine is the LF-VE 1998cc 4-cylinder DOHC engine that produces 170ps/6700-7000rpm of power and torque of 19.3kgf-m/5000rpm. Being an FR sportscar seems to be more enjoyable but for the Roadster, its about looking at its best. The concept of "One car. One drive. One feeling." really serves the point about the NC Roadster, even though in the year 2005, when the car was released, it gained a huge success and earned the title of being 2005-2006 Japan Car of the Year.

That's the end of it. These are the previous generations that helped shaped the Roadster image over the past two and a half decades and now, the moment of truth has arrived because Mazda finally showed the world the brand new 2016 Mazda Roadster (ND).

2016 Mazda Roadster

Set for its 2015 release, the new, fourth-generation, Mazda Roadster still retains the same Roadster legacy while gaining its new look and new features, although details remain scarce for now. With the KODO design language and SKYACTIV Technology in place, the ND Roadster will become the best Roadster the world has ever witnessed.

So thank you and happy 25th birthday, Mazda Roadster!

Renault Samsung New SM7 Nova

2015 Renault Samsung New SM7 Nova

The second-generation SM7, Renault Samsung's flagship saloon, has been around since it was launched in South Korea in August 2011 and has been around for three years here and in the People's Republic of China as the Renault Talisman. Yes, it's three years from now and it's time for the SM7 to get a minor change.

For the 2015MY minor model change, it's now called the "New SM7 Nova" and while it looks the same as the pre-facelift model, the New SM7 Nova features a brand new front face that, in my mind, looks better than the old one and this new look adds a dynamic flair for Renault Samsung's flagship saloon.

Although the interior looks the same as the outgoing model, there have been some minor updates to its hardware and for the fun of it, the "smart mirroring" system is introduced. The "smart mirroring" system uses Wi-Fi connectivity to link smartphones with the car's infotainment system. Best of all, it's standard on most variants.

2015 Renault Samsung New SM7 Nova

Like its pre-facelift model, the New SM7 Nova still comes with either a 2.5L or 3.5L V6 petrol engine while mated with a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The 2.5L V6 petrol engine develops 190HP of power, 243Nm of torque, and a fuel economy of 10.2km/L. The 3.5L V6 petrol engine, on the other hand, produces 258HP of power, 330Nm of torque, and 9.4km/L of fuel economy.

The SM7 Nova starts from 30,400,000 up to 38,700,000 Korean Won.

Photo: Renault Samsung Motors

Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG

The Mercedes-AMG 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo engine, first applied on the A45 AMG last year, brewed a new age for the high-performance brand of Mercedes-Benz and while this new engine pushed the A45 AMG as the most powerful hot hatch ever made, this engine scored two victories for Mercedes-AMG. It won two categories of the "Engine of the Year Awards 2014" in "New engine 2014" and "1.8L to 2.0L", showing the world how great AMG is. With the engine now in A45 and its CLA45 compact sedan, looks like the GLA-Class compact crossover will join the fray as the GLA45 AMG.

2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG

Well, here it is and by its first appearance, it doesn't look that different from the A45 AMG, which is based on and when you park it alongside the CLA45 and the A45 AMG, you will notice that these triplets truly shared the same blood. When it's in the blood, it's in the blood.

2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG interior

Before the sortie, let's observe what's what about the GLA45 AMG. Well, yes. It's a jacked-up A45 AMG so you do get the similar looks from the A45 AMG. On the inside, it's a similar issue as well. The interior can be fitted with numerous extras such as a steering wheel wrapped in black nappa leather or Alcantara, seats upholstered in ARTICO man-made leather or DINAMICA microfiber, carbon-fiber trim, and different upholstery colors. That's sound unique and then we take a look at the engine that powers it.

The AMG 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo engine, found int he A45 and CLA45. develops 360PS of power and 450Nm of torque. It's mated with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed gearbox. How does it perform? I'll tell you that when it's sortie time.

Speaking of sortie time, it's time now for the GLA45's sortie and this is the perfect time to explain how does the GLA45 perform in the world around it and why this high-performance crossover should aware the various regions in the world that surrounds it. This can do 0-100kph in 4.8 seconds, slower than the A45 AMG, and the top speed electronically limited to 250kph. For a crossover, that's quicker than memorizing the whole "real Chinese soup" jingle from your head, but as a car, this is a different topic that needs further explanation.

Reason why it's slower than the A45 is because the GLA45 is somewhat 30kg heavier than the A45 AMG and when it comes to fuel consumption, not as good as the A45 because while the A45's fuel consumption is a combined 14.5km/L, the GLA45 would do it in 13.3km/L. That's a double whammy for the AMG crossover but don't be silly because we're not going to compare it to the A45, we'll be using the RS Q3 as its chief rival.

When compared to the RS Q3, the GLA45 really top trumps it. It's 0.7 seconds quicker in the 0-100kph time, 145kg lighter than the RS Q3, and it's 1.9km/L more fuel efficient than the RS Q3. Yeah. Simple as that.

2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG

In the mobility stakes, the GLA45 really made me unaware because why would some people think that it's more fun to have one than the car that looks quite the same? The A45 AMG is a good hot hatch but its mobility, thanks to its power steering, really needs some tough love from the driver especially when it comes with the 4MATIC 4-wheel drive system. On the GLA45 though, that's a similar issue but because it's heavier than the A45 AMG, it's kinda nowhere near as good in the corners. Yes, you do get some understeering issues, but with patience and mastery, you would really know how to mobilize it like an ace.

Since this is a crossover, what if you were in the case of tarmac, gravel, and snow? Thanks to the 4MATIC system and its high ground clearance, taking it to the dirt is all's well that performs well, although Mercedes-AMG still need some improvement though. Being a high-performance model, the GLA45 may not be quite suitable for your adventures as summer draws near to the climax and for day-to-day use, it's a so-so. It has a slightly bigger boot fit enough for your stuff you spent from shopping or groceries. It's a decent all-rounder because this crossover is made for the job but as a theory, it needs reworking to get the job done.

2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG

So, should you buy one? Uh...not quite yet because the GLA45's intro price starts at 55,871 Euros, which is almost six grand more than the A45 and it's almost 1,300 Euros more than the Audi RS Q3 but as part of the AMG suvs, this is affordable to buy unless you are a mogul breaking things badly for science. Well, that's the end of it. While it's not quite as good as an A45, I certainly don't want the GLA45 to be in the pile of shame, although it could need some work done before its next sortie on the next day.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz

Super GT 2014: Suzuka

#36 PETRONAS TOM'S RCF

In case you missed last week's Super GT 2014 match in the Suzuka Circuit, here's the quick sum up on who won this round. In the GT300 category, the winner is the #60 TWS LM corsa BMW Z4 driven by Akira Iisa, Hiroki Yoshimoto, and Shinya Sato. The 2nd placer is a #31 OGT Panasonic Prius driven by Miro Nitta, Koki Saga, and Yuichi Nakayama. 3rd placer is the #7 Studie BMW Z4 driven by Jorg Muller, Seiji Ara, and Augusto Farfus. In the GT500 category, winner goes to the #36 PETRONAS TOM'S RC F driven by Kazuki Nakajima and James Rossiter. 2nd placer goes to the #23 MOTUL AUTECH GT-R driven by Tsugio Matsuda and Ronnie Quintarelli. And lastly, 3rd placer is the #18 Weider Modulo NSX CONCEPT-GT driven by Naoki Yamamoto and Frederic Makowiecki.

Highlights:

On the GT500 Driver Rankings; the #23 MOTUL AUTECH GT-R driven by Tsugio Matsuda and Ronnie Quintarelli are still in 1st place overall with a total score of 60 while in the GT300 Driver Rankings, it's the #4 GOODSMILE HATSUNE MIKU Z4 driven by Nobuteru Taniguchi and Tatsuya Kataoka retained their 1st place overall with the score of 56 pts.

The next race will be held on Thailand on the 5th of October, 2014.

Let's Do The News! (September 2, 2014)

Things we learned so far...

- On the 2014 FIBA World Cup, GILAS Pilipinas faced its 3rd loss after leaving four points behind from its Argentinian rivals.

- Mercedes-Benz will unveil their brand new Mercedes AMG GT next week.



- Watch a home video footage showcasing Lamborghini Huracan LP610-4 taking on a Su-30 Flanker C jet somewhere in Russia.

 

- Max Verstappen accidentally crashed a Toro Rosso F1 car he drove on during his public debut in Rotterdam.

- Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling is now working on a movie version of Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them. The book was launched in 2001 and it was inspired by the book appeared in the first Harry Potter movie; Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone.

- Yesterday, the NAIA Terminal 3 was on heightened alert after authorities have discovered some explosives inside a car parked at Parking Lot B inside the airport complex. The bomb threat has been neutralized and three suspects were arrested by the National Bureau of Investigation. Recently, Justice Secretary Leila De Lima disclosed today that it was one of the four targets by an armed terrorist group planning to attack Chinese-owned business establishments in the Philippines.

The armed terrorist group revealed as USAFFE, shamelessly taken its name from the former US Armed Forces in the Far East during WWII, and they intended to plant one of their explosives inside a comfort room inside the NAIA while the other three were intended to destroy SM Mall of Asia, the main office of the DMCI, and the Chinese Embassy. The USAFFE comprised of former and active members of the military, police, and former members of the New People's Army and the Moro National Liberation Front.

It is said that this armed terrorist group wants to show the world that the Philippines can strongly bring China down to its knees. If the Aquino administration fails, it is the duty of the soldiers to do so. This is all just plain propaganda.

The USAFFE's manifesto
(Photo: Philippine Daily Inquirer)

- The House of Representatives justice committee rejected the three impeachment raps targeted against the Philippine President Benigno Aquino III, stating that they've found insufficient evidences.

- The Ukrainian Defence Minister, Valery Heletey, has accused the Russian government for launching a "great war" against Ukraine that claimed tens of thousands of lives.

- The Islamic State militants were accused for carrying "a wave of ethnic cleansing" against minorities in Northern Iraq, according to Amnesty International.

- The Toyota Estima minivans are now on its 2015 Model Year and for the 2015 Model, S-VSC is now standard on all models. There's a special edition VERY in collaboration of VERY Magazine. The special Estima VERY models feature "all-black paint" discharge headflamps, soft leather trim, LED spot lamp, door courtesy lamp, removable deck board, and front pillar garnish. The special edition model starts at 3,338,182 Yen for the 2.4 Aeras model while the Estima Hybrid VERY starts at 4,363,200 Yen.

Toyota Estima Hybrid VERY

- Toyota's Mark X sport saloon goes yellow with the special edition "Yellow Label" model. Based on the 250G models, the Yellow Label features super chrome metallic aluminum wheels, yellow stitching on the interior, pinkish gold accents, stainless door scuff plate, and a choice of Yellow and Black on the interior seats. Available exterior colors are White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, Black, and specific for the special model; Awaken Yellow. It's yours for just 2,883,600 Japanese Yen.

Toyota Mark X 250G Yellow Label

- Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. introduced a brand new generation of the Hijet Truck light commercial vehicle in Japan. Starting at 653,400 Japanese Yen, the new-generation LCV has the best card-frame length of 1,945mm, capable of fitting forty 20L tanks, 48 apple containers, and 54 orange containers. It's also the most fuel efficient kei truck ever made by Daihatsu because with its fuel economy of 19.6kmpl, as calculated by JC08 mode standards, the new Hijet is a kmpl ahead from its chief rival, the Suzuki Carry Truck.

2015 Daihatsu Hijet Truck

- Following with the launch of the new Hijet Truck, Toyota Motor Corporation is not far behind as its equivalent, the Pixis Truck, is now regenerated. Just like the Hijet Truck, the new generation Pixis Truck from Toyota has a fuel economy of 19.6kmpl, as calculated by JC08 mode standards. Prices for the new model starts at 653,400 Japanese Yen.

2015 Toyota Pixis Truck

TTFN!!!

A statement of Mark Gil's death was released

File photo

The press statement regarding the death of actor Mark Gil was released. Here's what the statement said for his family and relatives, especially those who worked with him in the field of showbiz;

We, the Eigenmann Family, would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everybody who has shown their concern for Ralph these past few weeks.

It is with much sorrow that we announce that he passed away this morning at exactly 8am. He died peacefully in his sleep in the arms of his wife, Maricar, and surrounded by family. 

Ralph was first diagnosed with liver cancer two years ago, but it was only in June of this year that he found out that it was terminal. It was Ralph’s request that this should not be revealed, and we did not question his decision.

To those who have asked us about his condition, especially his colleagues, the press and fans, we apologize for not being forthright, but we also ask for understanding.


We would, however, like everyone to know that he spent his last days in comfort and in no pain. In fact, he was in good spirits and humor, and enjoying the presence of his entire family. Even then, he was still bringing us together, as he always has, and we are now all complete.

Until the very end, he was a warrior. Ralph faced death with courage and grace, while still bringing laughter to the room. That was his gift: the ability to make those around him better.

Ralph had told us that he only wanted to spend and cherish the remaining precious days of his life in the company of his family and closest friends. He also wished that we be allowed to grieve his passing in private.

We all request that the public please respect his wish and allow us to mourn his passing accordingly.

Please allow us this time as well to remember Ralph: husband, son, brother, father and grandfather. 

For the outpouring of love for Ralph that we’ve received on his behalf, we thank you. It is deeply appreciated. 

For those who’ve known and loved him throughout his career in cinema, and television, we will hold a celebration of his life and work. We will announce the details at a later time. But for now we would like to assure everyone that as long as Filipino films are being watched and appreciated, there will always be Mark Gil. 

To quote a line from Batch ’81, one of the many movies he made his own, and characteristic of Ralph himself: 

“Sa simula’t katapusan ay kapatiran.”

That's the end of it. Actor Mark Gil died at the age of 52 due to liver cirrhosis disease. Known by his full name Raphael Joseph Eigenmann, Mark Gil was born on the 25th of September, 1961 and he is one of the three children of Eddie Mesa and Rosemarie Gil. He was the middle of the three siblings between Michael de Mesa and Cherie Gil, both are celebs. Most of Mark Gil's children have different showbiz careers.

He was married to Maricar Jacinto eight years ago.

His last appearance on television was in ABS-CBN's The Legal Wife, which starred Angel Locsin, Maja Salvador, and Jericho Rosales.

Let's Do The News! (September 1, 2014)

The big scoop today...

- Our very own GILAS Pilipinas faced another loss when they've faced against the Greek basketball team at the 2014 FIBA World Cup in Spain. The Greeks won at the score of  82-70.

- It is with regret that reports told that veteran actor Mark Gil passed away at the age of 52. He died earlier at 8 in the morning due to liver cirrhosis disease. Mark Gil, known by his full name Raphael Joseph Eigenmann, was one of the three children of Eddie Mesa and Rosemarie Gil. His last appearance was in the TV drama, The Legal Wife.

- The National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky, will fill in the sinkhole that happened a few months ago but will leave the five damaged Corvettes unrestored.

- IT'S THE KALOS POKEDEX! The folks from Takara Tomy will be rolling out the Kalos PokeDex toy, as seen from the Pokemon XY anime series this September and it's priced at 7,980 Japanese Yen. Want to have this toy? Go to Japan by yourself. Sorry...

Kalos PokeDex

- A new magical girl is coming to Disney Channel! The new series is titled Star Vs. The Forces of Evil and it's created by Daron Nefcy, making this the first ever animated TV series from Disney that was made by a female creator since...Pepper Ann. It's going to be premiered on Disney Channel and Disney XD next year. It's very rare to see women taking charge of creating animated TV shows...

Star Vs. The Forces of Evil

- Some Arab comedy show is making fun against the ISIS and Lebanon's Ktir Salbe Show is no exception. The producers of that said show believed that the whole ISIS threat became a sensitive issue but it's one way to reject extremism so the Arab people are not afraid of it.

- The Japanese government is urging citizens to stock up on, and they're not joking, toilet paper because 40% of the nation's supply of toilet paper comes from high-risk earthquake zones.

- On today's Jay Leno's Garage webisode, Jay Leno heads to Willow Springs in a Porsche 997 GT3 RS to test out Carbon Fiber Wheels created by Carbon Revolution.

TTFN!!!

Wow Mali! - August 31, 2014

Highlights on the August 31, 2014 episode of Wow Mali Lakas Ng Tama!

- SUMUKO KA NA! - We have you surrounded! Surrender now or...well, you get the idea. Let's Dance!

- This episode's "MR. FU, KERI MO?" will blow everyone's faces...with a vacuum cleaner for 30 seconds!!!

- MULTO DAW O! - Take it easy, Miss Kasambahay! There's no ghost! That's just granny desperate for a wee-wee!

- THE HEAD LINE - The CALAMITY FUN are back and to keep themselves awake, they're going to do the most painful stuff using a rubber band on their heads! WARNING: Don't try this at home, or anywhere else for that matter!

- JEEP SAGAD AH - Next stop, SAGADA! Wait, what?!

- EMOTE CONTROL: HE'S DATING THE MOTHER - On this episode's Emote Control, celeb Carl Guevarra is dating his mom...until the unexpected arrived!

Let's Do The News! (August 31, 2014)

Things we learned so far...

- The Croatian basketball team pinned down GILAS Pilipinas at the score of 81-78 in a certain round of the 2014 FIBA World Cup in Spain. Win or lose, it feels good to see GILAS taking on the world stage.

- Dave Cox, one of the producers of the ill-fated Castlevania franchise, has left Konami after being on service in the last 17 years.

- The classic Jaguar Mark 2 saloon gets revived  by Classic Motor Cars. Designed by Ian Callum, this restoration took 18 months to complete it but for a modern twist, it comes with an enhanced version of the 4.3L engine sourced from the Jaguar XK while mated with a 5-speed manual.

Jaguar Mark 2 from Classic Motor Cars

- It's the new Challenger Drag Pak! Well, a concept for now. Mopar previews a 2015 update on the drag strip-built Challenger Drag Pak. The one that Rutledge Wood sent this on an epic wheelie in one episode of Top Gear USA. While the performance of the 7.0L Hemi Race V8 engine remains unknown for now, it's been armed with a Chrysler 727 automatic gearbox with a racing-style shift lever with integral line lock.

2015 Mopar Challenger Drag Pak

- A few weeks after Tony Stewart accidentally killed Kevin Ward Jr. during a race in New York, the controversial NASCAR driver is resuming his racing career.

- The European Union has given the Russian government "one week" to avert the Ukraine Crisis or face tighter sanctions. Over the course of the Ukraine Crisis, over 2,600 people died in battle.

- IT'S THE NEW NINTENDO 3DS! Announced at a Nintendo Direct event, they've announced a new and improved versions of the 3DS and its bigger 3DS LL hand-held console. Set for its October 11 debut, the new 3DS  features a new C-stick, which is more of a tiny joystick on the right side of the 3DS, ZR and ZL buttons, 3D shake prevention, NFC compatibility, customizable cover plates, extended battery life, and so much more.

The new Nintendo 3DS range

- Also, the new 3DS comes with a very complicated Content Filter that blocks offensive content unless you pay a very small fee to unlock it.

TTFN!!!

Doctor Who S08E02

Doctor Who S08E02

A bad Dalek turned good...That was quite an unexpected turn for this episode titled "Into The Dalek" and for The Doctor and Clara, along with the help of a female soldier named Journey Blue (played by special guest Zawe Ashton), they CAN make a good Dalek. I know, the words "Dalek" and "good" are not the two words that fit in the same sentence but that turned out to be a good thing for this episode.

Journeying through the inside of the Dalek is definitely one of the most dangerous attempts ever witnessed but for that kind of situation, there is no other choice.

I was quite impressed to see the first appearance of a new character named Danny Pink, played by Samuel Anderson.

What made me bizarre is that female character from the previous episode making a comeback. Who is she? We don't know but they're currently investigating about this mystery character...

Here's the BTS from this episode:

And here's what to expect on next week's episode:



Another new clothes for The Doctor?! Robin Hood? A robot terrorizing Sherwood? That's what to expect next week...

Kia All New Sorento (UM)

2015 Kia Sorento

The Kia Sorento is now on its third-generation and the Korean carmaker says that this new model is moving upmarket with its new features that makes this new model a class ahead from its rivals. I was surprised by this one but I want further explanation about the latest generation. Without further ado, let's investigate what's what...

Okay, now tell me. What's new?

Well, this is a totally new model just like the Hyundai Santa Fe DM two years ago but unlike the Santa Fe, the new Sorento has a clean muscular design that really stands out more than its previous model. Looks like its image of being a crossover has now been sharpened to give you a glimpse of the future ahead from the Korean carmaker. However, sharp-eyed spotters might think that the new rear design looks more like a Toyota S#q#### . (Sorry, vowels blocked for search engine reasons)

Dimensions?

Well, the new model is now bigger than its previous model. You can see that the new Sorento has gained 95mm of length and 5mm of width but the height has dropped from the previous model's 1,700mm to 1,685mm. Thanks to its added length, the All New Sorento has a wheelbase of 2,780mm, 80mm more than the last one.

What's it like inside?

2015 Kia Sorento interior

2015 Kia Sorento interior

In the previous model, the interior looks okay but it can be somewhat lacking. On the new model, its "bold and premium" character really pulled it off and this new interior really does suit its personality very well. Because it can fit up to seven people, the new Sorento really suits well as a family car for everyday use. If there are any downsides, I believe that the 3rd row seats doesn't have enough room but no matter.

You can also expect a wide variety of conveniences such as the heated/cooled seats, cluster ionizer, heated steering wheel, wide panorama sunroof, smart tailgate, UVO 2.0 eServices, JBL sound system, and so much more to bring out the best for its premium taste.

Did you know that you can fold the 2nd and 3rd row seats for added luggage capacity that is fit enough for factory-fresh shipments the clients awaiting for these? This car supposed so...

Hey, there's something new about that body, right?

Oh, you're right. I almost forgot. The new model is now constructed from Advanced High Strength Steel that has 60kg of tensile strength but it's 10% lighter than the last one. It also comes more than twice as much of ultra-strong hot-stamped steel than the last one, by about 10.1%, sharply strengthening the pillars.

What's it like to drive?

2015 Kia Sorento

The new model now matches the same level of driving from its European counterparts...well, almost. For engine choices, it still retains the same diesel-only lineup as the last one. It comes with a 2.0L 4-cylinder and 2.2 4-cylinder. The 2.0L diesel produces 186PS of power and 402Nm of torque. Fuel economy is about 13.5km/L if you would go for the 2WD model. The 2.2L diesel, on the other hand, delivers 202PS of power, 441Nm of torque, and 13.4km/L of fuel economy, should you go for the 2WD model. Both of these engines are bolted to a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

It still comes with a not-so-bad fully-independent suspension setup but with some minor alterations. On the rear multi-link suspension, the subframe has gained bigger bushings to better isolate it from the interior and the larger shock absorbers have been mounted vertically behind the axle line to enhance body control motion. That all seems fine but because it comes with a brand new electric motor-driven power steering system, it's starting to get more responsive and more agile than the last one while retaining its ride quality most luxury SUVs have.

It's a good thing it doesn't feel as cheap as a second-hand Korean SUV from the last decade but still, the best of Europe are still edging on such competition and the new Sorento tries to brave through this obstacle like handicapped darts.

Should I buy one?

The new Sorento is now priced from 2.765 million Korean Won up to 3.685 Korean Won (around $28,000 to $36,300) so not only it's becoming more affordable to own than the previous model, it's affordable to own than the Hyundai Santa Fe but that's only for the entry-level model. For a top tip, you can have this than the Hyundai Grandeur diesel because why? It has more room, more seats, and it has 4WD optional. The Grandeur doesn't have that so this can be a decent chauffeur-driven car if you're a celebrity or a politician of a certain province.

Available colors: Snow White Pearl, Silky Silver, Imperial Bronze, Metal Stream, Platinum Graphite, and Aurora Black Pearl.

Photo: Kia Motors Corporation

Thank You and Goodbye to Car Town

So, it's been four years since Car Town began in the summer of 2010 and it's been a long journey. We come a very long way. So what's it all being about?

Well, we learned that it's more enjoyable to collect tons of cool cars than any other game in the world, you can race against friends, you collect more cash from jobs, the DeLorean Time Machine saves your jobs in case you missed them, and we learned that recreating the best Fast and Furious moments using Fast and Furious cars is a lot more enjoyable.

We know that because the plural of the Prius is Prii, we all have different Priuses to choose from, Prius V's five-seater capacity and boot space means good for a camping trip, we learned that Camaros rule than Mustangs, Corvettes rule than Vipers, we can distinguish a car whether if its a road car, a track-day car, or an offroader, we had numerous experiences on adventures such as the desert, the arctic, United Kingdom, Brazil, Italy, the US, Japan, and so many places. 

We also learned that the Scion xB can have different shapes and styles depending on the occasion, that you can fit cars with the best parts to give out the full potential within them, that decorating your car is a work of art from a true car enthusiast, and your garage is your own infinite world of possibilities.

But in the end of it all, maybe we discovered just one thing that in this crazy, fast-moving world of Car Town, WE LOVE CARS.

Today, Car Town is officially ceased to exist. The message goes like this;

We want to thank you all for your patronage over the last 4 years. We all here have enjoyed bringing you this car collecting experience and we feel that we have been truly blessed with a great community and hope you join us in our future projects.. --Car Town Facebook Team / GLU

Thank you and goodbye, Car Town. We all going to miss you.

IMPUL gets their work on the V37 Skyline (Q50)

Nissan specialist, IMPUL, finally got their mojos to work on their latest tuning project using the Nissan V37 Skyline (Infiniti Q50) as the base. Although release schedules aren't announced as of press time, the V37 Skyline tuning program from IMPUL comes with an array of aero kit upgrades and IMPUL has put a price tag each.

The The front bumper with daytime running lamps on it starts at 145,000 Japanese Yen (around $1,450), the side steps costs 95,000 Japanese Yen (around $950), the rear half costs 85,000 Japanese Yen (around $850), and the rear spoiler costs 95,000 Japanese Yen (around $950). Have them all and this full kit will cost you 400,000 Japanese Yen (around $4,000).

IMPUL will also offer an OHLINS SUPER SHOCK suspension, priced at 338,000 Yen (excluding tax), which IMPUL said that it offers great cornering stability.

URL: http://www.impul.co.jp/products/model/V37_SKYLINE.html

CHILDHOOD RUINED: Hello Kitty is NOT a cat!

Hello Kitty's 40th anniversary

The year 2014 marks the 40th anniversary of one of the most loved cute characters of all time, Hello Kitty. When it was launched in 1974 by Sanrio, Hello Kitty won millions of fans and not only that, she spawned countless merchandises from toys, video games, clothing lines, and tons of Kitty-ness. If I can only remember that in the Philippines, there was a store called the Gift Gate where Hello Kitty and other Sanrio merchandises were sold exclusively there.

For its 40th birthday, Hello Kitty will have a special exhibit at the Japanese American National Museum, located somewhere in Los Angeles, California, this mid-October and after the exhibit, there's going to be a first-ever Hello Kitty-dedicated convention at the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Hello Kitty fans are looking forward to say Happy Birthday to Hello Kitty this year but some conspiracists are trying to uncover Hello Kitty's untold secrets that was never told over the past 40 years. Those damn conspiracists, exposing conspiracies to childhood favorites for the hell of it.

Christine R. Yano, the anthropologist from the University of Hawaii and author of her book titled "Pink Globalization: Hello Kitty's Trek Across the Pacific" revealed that when she was working for the script for the show, the folks from Sanrio stopped by and told that Hello Kitty is NOT a cat. I repeat, Hello Kitty is NOT a cat. Instead...she is a little girl. Really?

Also, it is revealed that Hello Kitty is not her real name. In fact, her real name is in fact Kitty White. Her parents are named George and Mary. Her birthdate is November 1st, she's a Scorpio, she's a third-grader, and she has a twin sister named Mimmy (but we know that). What we also didn't know is...she's British. Why she's British? That's a conspiracy...

Report: Los Angeles Times

Image: Sanrio