2015 GBU: THE GOOD, BAD AND UGLY
Lamborghini Huracan LP610-4
One of the many all-new supercars arriving on Thai shores this year, Lambo’s junior Aventador now goes modern with dualclutch auto gearbox. Many enthusiasts may also be pleased that the non-turbo V10 powerhouse stays.
Mazda MX-5
A first drive in it in Japan revealed how sweet the roadster is with its smaller and lighter body, plus its sufficient 1.5-litre petrol engine and manual gearbox. But the specs in Thailand is 2.0-litre with auto option which we have yet to assess.
Mercedes-Benz GLC250d
The much-awaited rival to the BMW X3 looks promising. The GLC looks nice inside and out, scores on comfort and is practical. But considering what’s available in other Mercs, the 2.1-litre diesel-turbo is quite ordinary at under 4 million baht.
BMW X4 20d
It lacks the machismo looks of the bigger X6, but the X4 drives well. Based on the family-oriented X3, the X4 gets a sportier roofline and sharper driving dynamics. Better even is Thai assembly to bring down prices to woo Merc GLC punters.
Mazda CX-3 2.0
At first sight, Mazda’s HR-V fighter looks great on the eyes. Drive it and you’d be further impressed by the 150hp-plus performance and the way it generally handles. But SUVs bear families in mind and the CX-3 lacks purpose for them.
BMW 740Li
With some carbonfibre being employed into the body of the new 7-series, BMW’s challenger to the S-class draws aces in driving manners. But rather than coming with diesel or plug-in hybrid, it comes with an ordinary six-pot petrol head.
Toyota Alphard
Toyota understands its customers well. Most owners of its full-size MPV are chauffeur-drive, so Japan’s car giant quickly responded with super-comfortable seats in the latest Alphard. Cool, just don’t try giving the boat a steer.
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
Mitsu’s SUV has been given radical looks, generous kit and new eight-speed auto. But it can’t trump the Ford Everest for handling, ride and versatility. The all-new Triton donor vehicle? No, the pickup doesn’t get that gearbox of its SUV sibling.
Toyota Hilux Revo
Despite some aggressive moves by its rivals, Toyota has moved its pickup game forward too subtly. Yes, the Hilux has improved in many areas to keep existing clients happy but not by a large margin. The same goes for its Fortuner SUV derv.
BMW 218i Gran Tourer
BMW’s first-ever front-wheel-drive car, the 2-series Active Tourer is more about function than vogue. It was then followed by the seven-seat Gran Tourer which looks even blander. It still drives like a BMW but lacks desirability and panache.
Suzuki Ciaz
Suzuki’s latest saloon boasts cabin space of a C-segment car but comes with Ecocar prices. But that’s about it. No, it isn’t a bad car, it just lacks the wow factor to lure new buyers to showrooms – very much like the Ertiga mini-MPV.
MG3
MG’s B-segment hatchback looks quite okay on the skin with attractive prices to match. But wait until you see what’s under the skin: a so-so 1.5-litre petrol engine mated to a trashy automated manual gearbox unsuitable for real-world driving.