The Best in Class Just Got Better

When the current generation Honda Civic was chosen as our Best Buy among small cars two years ago, the universal opinion was that it delivered roominess, high-quality materials, and features expected from a class-above vehicle. None of that has changed. In fact, Honda has stepped up its game with a 2019 refresh that not only addresses some of our niggling points about the car (hello, volume knob on the infotainment system), but also takes into consideration larger issues like making the Honda Sensing suite of driver assists standard across the board. Taking these upgrades and adding them to Honda’s reputation for durability, reliability, high resale and low cost of operation, it’s easy to see why the Civic is back for the fifth time as our Compact Car Best Buy Award winner.

 
 

The Japanese car company Toyota isn't stopping when it comes to conceptualizing all new vehicles or improving their lot. Just weeks after it was first spotted, the 2019 Toyota Avanza is now all set to be released to the world. An official reveal in Indonesia showed that the comfy vehicle will be sporting a rather new look, probably inspired by its larger troop mates. The front-end of the vehicle looks similar to the one seen in the Predator movies so it might actually need some getting used to in the beginning. However, all variants now come equipped with LED lighting and a Shark's Fin-type antenna, similar to the ones featured on the Toyota Rush.

The 2019 Toyota Avanza's upper trims also get side-mirror-mounted signal indicators. The vehicle's rear showcases another distinct feature from its twin brother, the Toyota Avanza Veloz - the tailgate-mounted garnish with better execution this time. It also kept the Veloz' pleasant and cosmetic front bumper and two-tone alloy wheels. Ensured safety is a must when it comes to buying vehicles and the 2019 Toyota Avanza boasts of dual SRS airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and ABS braking.

As for its interiors, the company definitely upped their game as the 2019 Avanza now has a more techy and modern feel to it. There's the all-new central cluster with a digital type A/C display, new gauges, a new steering wheel, push-button start/stop, power points for the first and second rows, and USB ports for the third row.

When it comes to performance, there's a choice between a 1.3L and 1.5L Dual VVT-i engine. The smaller displacement comes with 97 horsepower and 120 Nm of torque, while the bigger displacement option comes with 104 horsepower and 136 Nm. Options for transmission still remain at either 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual. There's also an added sound insulation making the 2019 Avanza relatively quieter than its predecessors.

At the moment, the company has started accepting reservations in Indonesia. The Philippines will have to wait for its turn, which will probably come around the third quarter of 2019.

Source: https://ph.priceprice.com/news/

 

The 10 finalists of the hotly-anticipated Japan Car of the Year Award 2018–2019 have finally been revealed. The 10 models were chosen from the 27 nominees selected earlier this month. The 10 vehicles will reportedly be tested at the Fuji Speedway on November 20.

So, just how does the Japan Car of the Year get its ratings? For the uninitiated, the noted institution comprises approximately 59 board members from numerous fields which include some car media personnel, TV and radio presenters, motorists, and car industry experts.

Each of the board members is given 25 points to allocate on the announced finalists which will then be reduced to five cars from which the ultimate winner will be fished out. In no particular order, here now are the 10 finalists of the Japan Car of the Year 2018-2019.

Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is noted for its comfortable cabin, its standard all-wheel drive, great visibility, and the expansive cargo space, among others.

Toyota Corolla Sport

This new compact car is famed for its affordable price, plus its enduring reliability, beefier safety features, spacious back seats, and decent fuel economy.

Toyota Crown

The new generation Toyota Crown features an updated design language, alongside an array of cleaner and more efficient engines.

Honda Clarity PHEV

Honda's latest plug-in hybrid electric vehicle is noted for its high efficiency on moving people. This is mainly attributed to its roomy space, stellar fuel economy, beefier safety features, and a design language that is simply a head-turner.

Mazda CX-8

The Mazda CX-8 is famed for its overall comfort, cabin quietness, diesel refinement, and versatile seating.

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Akin to the Honda Clarity PHEV's aesthetics, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross' styling is also a magnet for attention. Beyond that, it also comes with an exceptional warranty package, excellent infotainment system, supple ride and lively driving dynamics.

Alfa Romeo Stelvio

The smooth-operating, premium SUV, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio is famed for its fast outing, precise steering, and excellent breaking. It also packs a lot of amenities which all improve the driver's navigation.

BMW X2

One of the most versatile all-wheel-drive variants, the BMW X2 is noted for its engine that boasts of power that is more than efficient enough to propel the vehicle out of most situations.

Volvo XC40

The Volvo XC40 is highly competitive in terms of its powertrains. Interestingly, this variant also comes with an affordable starting price!

Volkswagen Polo

The main attributes of the Volkswagen Polo are its robust engine, modern design, and interiors that are luxurious enough to impress even the upmarket.

The winner among the ten finalists of the Japan Car of the Year Award 2018-2019 will be announced on December 7 at the Tokyo International Exchange Center.

Source: https://ph.priceprice.com/news/

About DRS

DRS Auto International is a reliable car importer in Sri Lanka with the experience of more than 13 years in the field. We have a direct partnership with DRS Auto Company Ltd in Japan.

We are located in Rambukana but still, we cater our customer islandwide. You can visit us to select a car from our existing stock, select from a live auction in Japan as well as to get it selected with our help to suit your requirement and budget.