It’s the first Sunday of May!

Five months in, the heat still isn’t letting up, with the government recently declaring an El Nino alert in the face of even more dry spells.

Keeping up with this intense heat is another edition of AutoFun Philippines' Rearview Roundup, which features the top five stories from May 1 to 7, 2023. Here are the articles that you enjoyed most!

To recall or not to recall?

The all-new Toyota Vios and Toyota Wigo have already been introduced in other ASEAN markets, but both cars are now in hot water.

A whistleblower report said Daihatsu, which developed the platforms for the two models, added modifications to the test vehicles to improve their crash performance. However, these alterations were not included in the regular production models.

Some countries have chosen to pause the sale of the 2023 Toyota Vios, while others have not. 

What do you think Toyota should do about this?

Mazda CX-9, beware?

The Mazda CX-9 is known for offering superb driving dynamics in such a large, seven-seater crossover.

But newcomers like the Changan UNI-K are out to get the big Mazda, with the Chinese upstart keeping toe-to-toe in specifications. AutoFun Philippines Junior Writer Joey Deriquito checks out which is better.

Which of these big crossovers would you go for?

Chinese three-way

Yet another story you enjoyed was Joey’s Spec Showdown of three Chinese crossovers.

Yes, even the all-new Ford Territory is still made in China. It takes on the very stylish Jetour Dashing and the handsome GAC Emkoo. Check out which wins in this triumvirate.

Would you stick with the Ford or try out the up-and-coming Chinese brands?

Diesel or gas?

The all-new Ford Ranger Raptor was an attractive showpiece when previewed at the 2023 Manila International Auto Show.

Although Ford Philippines has not yet given an official launch date for its “factory special” pick-up *<cough> we heard it's going to be this May <cough>*, the question on everyone’s mind is whether it will come with the twin-turbocharged V6 gasoline engine or the bi-turbo diesel.

I look into the advantages of having the trusty oil burner in the lineup. But perhaps Ford Philippines can bring in both power plants to make everyone happy. Although, the diesel would be a good choice, too. <wink>

Small, but not terrible!

Jetour Auto Philippines remains the only manufacturer offering a mini electric vehicle (EV) with a full warranty.

The ₱699,000 Jetour Ice Cream is a zero-emission, urban runabout that can seat four and fit in the smallest spaces. It has been a surprising hit for the company.

AutoFun Philippines content head Mikko David drives two other potential mini EVs Jetour could bring. Which would you pick?

AutoFun Philippines Rearview Roundup runs every Sunday. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on TikTok and Instagram!

And don’t forget to rate all of our stories using the stars below each article. It will help us develop stories that you enjoy!