Saturday, February 1, 2014

Gran Turismo 6: X2014 Standard vs. X2014 Fan



Finally, the two of the four new cars added on Gran Turismo 6's UPDATE 1.04, now in commision, is the last two models of the new Red Bull X2014 range. You can refer to them as the king and queen or the Rubidium and Cesium when mixed with water, yeah yeah, I get it all messed up but hey, it's all in the name of Gran Turismo science, if you know what I mean?

UPDATE 1.04 sees Part Two of the Red Bull X Challenge and for this second installment, in case you cleared the Junior Championship, you can get access to the Standard Championship. In here you can master the X2014 Standard, the mid-range of the lineup, and if you win, not only you can keep the X2014 Standard but also access to the grand finale: SEBASTIAN VETTEL X CHALLENGE.

This final challenge consists of three driving missions in which you can set a lap time while taking on S. Vettel himself. Beat him or not, it's the Gold Target Time you'll be focusing. Stay cool and don't be afraid to take on the risks. Finish all three in gold and you can keep the flagship X2014 Fan Car in your collection.

Now that I have both of them, it's time to figure out how does these two differ and to find out, I used the Ascari Race Resort in Spain as the basis for this experiment.



The X2014 Standard is a "venturi car" with normal suspension and aerodynamics as found in any racing car. With no rear fan and ground-effect skirt on sight, this mid-range model's downforce follows the laws of aerodynamics and for a precaution as shown in the description: THE DRIVER MUST KEEP IN MIND THAT THE DOWNFORCE AVAILABLE DURING CORNERING CHANGES GREATLY AS SPEED INCREASES AND DECREASES.

In high-speeds and in braking through the corners, it's difficult to slingshot past through the curves because of the remaining downforce, meaning that I can get too much understeering no matter how hard I corner this. On the plus side, you can see some sparks coming out at the back for some spectacular light show, making this racer a show off. I lapped this car round the Ascari at 1:37.289. That seems quick but what about the Fan Car? The emperor of the range?



The X2014 Fan Car is the ultimate of the X2014 range because of its thousand horsepower output similar to the previous X models. But, here's a catch: the engine that powers it was toned down from 1479 to 1183HP. Quite a downfall for this model but hey, the aerodynamics are top-notch compared to the Standard model. Thanks to the rear fan and the biblical aerodynamic updates, it's the best handling racecar for thrill-seekers.

Having managed to brave through this machine, I posted a 1:23.503, making it one of the quickest car to run through this track...in my mind. I have to say, I'm very glad I take all of these machines for a spin from entry-level to flagship.

Unfortunately, I find them to be rather useless because for some Single Races, the maximum PP allowed is 750PP and toning them down to meet its regulations is a bit of a hassle, which means...there's no use for those...I should better wait until an update regarding QUICK MATCH where I can jump through an online race without the lobby. It's worth the wait...

Mazda Flair Crossover

2014 Mazda Flair Crossover

With the arrival of Suzuki's kei-crossover, the Hustler, it looks like Mazda wanted one of these so with Suzuki's permission, Mazda decided to sell one of these at their dealerships under the Flair Crossover name, the third installment of the Mazda Flair kei cars ranging from the Alto-based Flair and the Spacia-based Flair Wagon.

Time now for the 47 second science please to tell you what's what about the Flair Crossover. Ahem...

Like the Hustler, the Flair Crossover still caries a peculiar look that looks like it came from the Daihatsu Mira Cocoa. On the inside, this kei crossover still has all the right buttons and the optionals such as a smartphone-integrated sat-nav.

On the performance side,  it features the same 660cc engine complete with SUZUKI GREEN TECHNOLOGY in the form of ENE-CHARGE and ECO-COOL respectively. Combine these fuel-efficient technologies with the CVT and you'll get 29.2kmpl as calculated by JC08 Mode standards. That's not all, you can have a model with a 5-speed manual, or a turbocharged model mated to a CVT gearbox, whichever floats your boat.

Available colors: Passion Orange White 2 Tone Roof, Summer Blue Metallic White 2 Tone Roof, Phoenix Red Pearl Black 2 Tone Roof, Steel Silver Metallic Black 2 Tone Roof, Cool Khaki Pearl Metallic, Urban Brown Pearl Metallic, Pearl White, and Bluish Black Pearl 3.

This super light crossover from Mazda is priced at 1,285,000 Japanese Yen.

What's in our Car Town garage today? (February 1, 2014)

What's in our Car Town garage today?

1994 Toyota MR2

Japan's first mass produced mid-engine sports car, the Toyota MR2, underwent a full-model change in 1989, and because it has resemblance to the expensive berlinetta, it referred to as "Poor Man's Ferrari" but there's more to it than that because this MR2 comes with the turbocharged 2.0L engine generating 241HP of power and 224.2ft-lb of torque. It's still admired by enthusiasts of all kinds in the underground tuning scene.

1994 Toyota MR2

2000 Toyota Celica

The Celica in question is the seventh and final installment of Toyota's budget sportscar when it was launched in Japan since the fall of 1999. Moments after Toyota left the WRC for good, the seventh Celica struggles to reflect the sportscars of yesteryears while still delivering cutting-edge technology. Designed by Americans and built in Japan, the new Celica has the best of both worlds and it's offered with a small 1.8L engine delivering decent power while mated with a 6-speed manual gearbox.

2000 Toyota Celica

2010 Toyota Tundra

The American-built Toyota Tundra was specifically designed to compete with the likes of the Ford F-150, Dodge Ram 1500, and the Chevrolet Silverado. While it was made to do the work for those who are dealing with businesses big or small, it also doubles as an everyday car. You can use it to fetch kids at school, store your bought groceries at the rear, and the perfect road trip buddy if you have mates around you.

2010 Toyota Tundra

1959 Chevrolet El Camino

General Motors brought the Australian "ute" inspiration on American soil, moments after the Ford Ranchero was released and in response, they made the El Camino, which combines the utility of a pickup truck and the fun to drive characteristics of a sports car. El Camino is Spanish for "the road", making it the perfect choice for this "ute" to drive for the road ahead. While it has some underpinnings from its relatives like the Biscayne, the El Camino comes with three engine variations including a more powerful 5.7L V8 engine.

1959 Chevrolet El Camino
1980 VW Thing

What is The Thing? Nope, not that orange Hulk wannabe from Fantastic Four, it's VW's Thing. Originally made for the German army, this military vehicle has been sold to the general public as the Kurierwagen in the country where it was made and has some of the major components from the People's Car, the VW Beetle. This peculiar vehicle lasted until production ended in the early 80's.

1980 VW Thing

2010 Opel Corsa

Utilized in the platform co-developed with Fiat, the Corsa is a European compact hatchback targeted for Europeans who are a bit busy on their hectic schedules. While you may consider this the middle child of the Opel lineup, it still behaves like an upper-class workout thanks to its fuel-efficiency on par in its class and its fun-to-drive characteristics.

2010 Opel Corsa

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

Things we learned today...

- Some Californians are installing artificial lawn due to statewide drought.

- Bruno Mars to perform at the Super Bowl 48's Halftime Show

- A New Yorker pleads guilty for the smuggling of 40,000 pirahnas in the US at a year's time.

- US accuses Syria for the delay of the chemical arms handover.

- Despite reports regarding terror threats in Sochi, Russia, in time for the 2014 Winter Olympics, US President Obama said that it's safe to go to Sochi, if everyone wishes to visit for the winter sporting event.

- NBC cancels the comedy series "Sean Saves The World" after its unsuccessful first season. This comedy series aired on NBC since Autumn last year.

- Downton Abbey's Hugh Bonneville will be the first STAR IN A REASONABLY PRICED CAR in the 21st Season of BBC Top Gear.

TTFN!!!

"Your Love. Their Future."

On the January 31, 2014's episode of Bubble Gang...

- Feng Shui gags

- An interview with a First Aid expert...

- A lady's making a hassle at the bank...even at times of robbery...

- Life lessons we learned from Tata Lino

- Bubble Gang does Nido 3+ by spoofing this commercial as MEDO 3+! Your Love. Their Future.

- IKAW AT ANG INA takes on...photography!

- Mr. Assimo vs. Feng Shui!

- Ang Bagong Dating Doon answers questions and also discussing more wrong terms.

- Istambay, Istambay sa Looban, Ang kwento ni Subas ay pakinggan, lahat ng tao ay inuutangan, madalas laway lang ang...PUHUNAN!!!

- You're listening to Samut-saring Drama with Papa Pogi.

Friday, January 31, 2014

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

What we learned today...

- IT'S THE NEW NISSAN LATIO!*

*Sort of. The facelifted model of the Nissan Latio N17 (sold in other countries as the Versa, Almera, and the Sunny) is sold in Thailand recently with the new face as seen from the Nissan Teana L33 as well as the refined interior. It went on sale earlier at a starting price of 433,000 Baht but when will the latest minor change hit Japan?

Report: http://indianautosblog.com/2014/01/nissan-sunny-facelift-launched-in-thailand-114483


- BBC planning a male-oriented channel

Looks like all hands on deck for the BBC because the British TV conglomerate plans for a male-oriented TV channel called BBC Brit. Doesn't say that much but by the time the Beeb launched this new male-focused channel for real men, its maiden broadcast kicks off with BBC's Top Gear following with the reality show titled Dragon's Den.


- V-Class


2015 Mercedes-Benz V-Class

Think of the new V-Class as Germany's answer to luxury MPVs such as the Chrysler Town and Country, Toyota Alphard, and Nissan Elgrand. This brand new model (replacing both the Viano and Vito) combines luxury and convenience all in one unique package. The only engine available is a 2.1L diesel engine with three different configurations mated to a 7G-Tronic.


- Subaru to reveal sixth-gen Legacy on Chicago

2015 Subaru Legacy teaser

This February's Chicago Auto Show 2014, Subaru will reveal the sixth-generation Legacy (in sedan trim) to the general public. There are some suspecting rumors that for this new generation, the Touring Wagon (as seen in all generations) will not be added because of the Levorg. So, what would it look like upon its regeneration?

- 6-speed manual for Mazda Axela 2.0 petrol variants

Mazda announced a new variant for the third-generation Mazda Axela and this time, the SKYACTIV-G 2.0L engine is mated to a SKYACTIV-MT 6-speed gearbox! On sale this April 2014 (to coincide with Japan's 8% vehicle consumption tax), it's all about being a driver-focused Axela thanks to the added power and the freedom to drive. However, it's available only in Sport hatchback model and it costs from 2,268,000 to 2,505,600 Japanese Yen.


- Tommykaira ZZ reboot

トミーカイラZZ
New Tommykaira ZZ

A small company called GLM (Green Lord Motors) gave a reboot to one of our favorite Gran Turismo cars, the Tommykaira ZZ, and for the newest reboot of the 21st century, the new Tommykaira ZZ is what you can refer to it as Japan's answer to the deceased Tesla Roadster. The electric motor generates an astonishing 305PS of power output and 415Nm of torque output. Because it weighs around 850kg, the 0-60mph time is 3.9 seconds. Only 99 units will be made, each costing an eye-watering 8,000,000 Yen or around 79,000 US Dollars.


Renault discontinues Fluence ZE

Following the bankruptcy of Israel's BETTER PLACE, Renault sadly announced the discontinuation of the Renault Fluence ZE electric midsize saloon. It's Korean equivalent, the Samsung SM3 ZE, will live on because of the South Korean government's support for electric cars.


TTFN and Happy Chinese New Year!

Sofia the First: Songs From Enchancia

Sofia The First: Songs from Enchancia

Last 2013, Disney Junior sees a welcome to the new girl in crown, Sofia the First. Over the course of this latest series, toddlers see little princess Sofia in the adventure of her lifetime as she try to adjust herself to her new royal family. Whether if its trolls, mermaids, flying carpet, Royal Prep, surprise appearances from Disney princesses, and so much more. This new Disney Junior series truly deserve the royalty little girls loved for.

Anyone who has the official soundtrack to the series waited no more as the second volume is now here. Songs from Enchancia sees the addition of 15 brand new songs from the hit TV series. Whether if its befriending a little witch, confronting against the wicked Miss Nettle, a big adventure with Aunt Tilly, Baileywick's Day Off, taming a wild carpet with Princess Jasmine, discover the Floating Palace with Ariel from The Little Mermaid, undo the curse with Belle from Beauty and the Beast, these new 15 songs (with the addition of those from episodes like Two to Tangu, The Amulet and The Anthem, and the TV special titled The Floating Palace) are sure enough to have the little girls' ears getting hooked for more of Sofia the First.

TRACK LISTINGS:
1) Sisters and Brothers
2) Merroway Cove
3) The Love We Share
4) Bigger Is Better
5) (You Can Always) Count On Baileywick
6) Make It Right
7) Good Little Witch (Ballad)
8) Good Little Witch
9) The Ride of Your Lives
10) A Recipe for Adventure
11) Bring My Best Friend Back
12) The Simple Life
13) Make Way for Miss Nettle
14) Enchancia
15) Be Who You Wanna Be

Sherlock Series 3 OST

Sherlock Series 3 OST

The third season of BBC's phenomenal modern day crime drama based on the works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, SHERLOCK, finally answered the question on how did Sherlock Holmes (played by Benedict Cumberbatch) cheat death at the end of the second season but that's just the start because after revelations about his fake death, Holmes and Dr. John Watson (played by Martin Freeman) teamed up once again as they race against time to stop a bomb before blowing up the British Parliament, saving John Watson's wedding by no means necessary, figuring out who is Magnussen in His Last Vow, and the end of the third season sees the return of a familiar face. Who could that be? Some say, like Sherlock, he just don't fear death.

Now, there's an original soundtrack based on the third season of the hit TV series and it covers most of the BGM's heard in The Empty Hearse, The Sign of Three, and His Last Vow. Like the previous two seasons, David Arnold and Michael Price really did a one-two punch on creating memorable background musics as heard in the series and hey, these BGMs do match the suspense, the thrills, the wits, and the humor occurred over the course of this series. There are 23 tracks offered in this CD.

If you're in the UK, you can buy one now but if you're in the US, you have to wait until this Spring but who cares, this is a must have if you wish to complete the BBC Sherlock soundtrack collection.

TRACK LISTINGS:
1) How It was Done
2) God Rest His Soul
3) Floating Dust
4) #SherlockLives
5) Back To Work
6) Vanishing Underground
7) John is Quite a Guy
8) Lazarus
9) Lestrade - The Movie
10) To Battle
11) Stag Night
12) Mayfly Man
13) Major Sholto
14) Waltz for John and Mary
15) Magnussen
16) Forwards of Backwards
17) Redbeard
18) To Lie in Leinster Gardens
19) Addicted to a Certain Lifestyle
20) The Problems of Your Future
21) Appledore
22) The East Wind
23) End Titles

What's in our Car Town garage today? (January 31, 2014)

What's in our Car Town garage today?

1973 Toyota Celica Liftback

While many refer to this JDM classic as a "Japanese Mustang", probably because of the liftback looks that reminiscent of the classic Mustang Liftback, the Celica Liftback is just one of the many reasons how does the Celica story began. Of course, this model is based on the first-generation model, the one that started the Celica chapter.

1973 Toyota Celica Liftback

1967 BMW 2000 CS

Since BMW stopped making the Bertone-designed 3200 CS in 1965, they made this bespoke luxury coupe that succeeds where the 3200 CS left off, only this time as the name implies, it was powered by a 2.0L engine derived from the M10 engine. For the 2000 CS model, the 2.0L engine develops 120HP of power output thanks to the added dual carburetors while mated with a 4-speed manual gearbox.

1967 BMW 2000 CS

1966 Pontiac Bonneville

Made from the days when General Motors' Pontiac brand axed the Tri Power engines for corporate reasons, the fourth-generation models see a hike in the engine displacement and for this one, you can expect a big, bulky, 7.0L V8 engine developing 390HP of power output. This model uses GM's B platform, which at its time, it was the fourth best selling platform in history.

1966 Pontiac Bonneville

Thursday, January 30, 2014

What's in our Car Town garage today? (January 30, 2014)

What's in our Car Town garage today?

1991 GMC Syclone

GMC's high-performance midsize pickup truck is based on the Sonoma and although this pickup wasn't made to go off-road, underneath this pickup truck beats the heart of the muscle car. The V6 engine that powers it is turbocharged and develops a power output of 280HP. The only gearbox available for this Sonoma in steroids is a 4-speed automatic gearbox and with this setup, it gets from 0-60mph in 5.3 seconds.

1991 GMC Syclone

2003 Jeep Wrangler

The Wrangler served as a status symbol for Chrysler's Jeep brand and although this is as close to the vintage Willys as you can get, it's still coveted by most off-road enthusiasts because of its capability and heritage that lurks behind the bodywork. This is the TJ model and judging by the way it looks, it's all in the heritage for this model and it features a wide variety of updates to keep everyone's favorite offroader tough enough for the road ahead.

2003 Jeep Wrangler

2009 Ford Flex

So this is the Blue Oval's idea of a box car and judging by its bizarre looks, the Flex from Ford is classified as a crossover and it features a host of surprising features such as a class-exclusive refrigerator, Multi-Panel Vista Roof, seven-color ambient lighting, capless fuel filler system, Ford Sync, and much more, making this crossover truly unique ahead of time.

2009 Ford Flex

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Let's Do The News! (January 29, 2014)

Things we learned today...



- Recently, US President Barrack Obama held his own annual State of the Nation Address. Democrats were pleased while the Reps don’t. In his SONA, Obama talked about Obamacare, US Soldiers in Afghanistan to return home at year's end, Iran, the economic climate, everything that the US President done or will do.

- Lingenfelter and Southern Comfort Automotive collaborated for a tuning package for the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado that will give off-road enthusiasts leaving mud in the Raptor's face. It's called the Reaper and this tuned Silverado features a host of tuned features, 20-inch rims, 33-inch off-road tires, and much more. This conversion kits will be sold through select Chevy dealers.

Chevrolet Reaper


- Piper Curda, one of the stars of the recent Disney Channel comedy series "I DIDN'T DO IT" now has a single titled Losing You. Check out her official MV:



- You've played a lot of dashing games such as Temple Run, Despicable Me Minion Rush, and more of this genre but now, it's time to run as fast as your legs will carry you as developer Anino Games created Manila Rush, a dashing game where you have to dodge through the Manila traffic as well as other obstacles. There are powerups scattering around the Metro Manila that can help you get an edge from your opposition! This game is FREE ON ANDROID.



- Volkswagen's Polo gets a minor change and for this 2014 facelift, the new Polo gets a host of new engines and tech from other VW models. The new Polo comes with the brand new 1.0L turbo engine that promises 94g/km of CO2 emissions as well as new efficient diesel engines that can get 82g/km of CO2 emissions. The Polo GTi model though, gets a 12HP hike from its twincharged engine.

2014 Volkswagen Polo

TTFN!!!

Gran Turismo 6: Mercedes-AMG Vision GT Racing Series



To continue our quest for more of the Mercedes-Benz's Vision GT concept, the producers provided us with this...



Their new racing version of the first car of Vision GT is almost as what you can refer to as a copycat to the fabled Silver Lightning concept!



See?!



The Mercedes-Benz AMG Vision GT Racing Series concept model is just one of the latest additions on Gran Turismo 6 via the UPDATE 1.04, now in commission. You're now taking behind the wheel of the racing version of the Mercedes-Benz Vision GT concept and with this, it sure is a head turner when you put your foot down.



So, how does it differ? Well, for this race-spec version, it features improved aerodynamics and improved downforce that makes it more track focused and ready to slice down a corner or two. They even added a GT logo at the back to make it more unique. Also, the V8 BiTurbo engine that powers it is now 591HP of power output and it's mated with an updated 7-speed double clutch gearbox focused on performance rather than comfort. It lost 85kg of weight due to the deletion of equipment for utility and comfort. This is definitely a hardcore track weapon for the serious players.



Because of the weight loss, improved aerodynamics, and the added grunt, I can expect a few marginal error every time when I go round a corner or two and thanks to the standard Racing Hard tires, it sure knows how to glide through corners as easy as...cat-like reflexes. Sorry, Mercedes-Benz, for what I said that but you better believe me, your new concept machine really does out-reflexed the rivals' cat-like reflexes.

Which reminds me, the producers issued me a challenge between me and the car itself and to do that, why don't I tell you a little story about me packing things up to Australia and headed to Bathurst to take on the MB AMG VGT Racing Series challenge.



Mount Panorama, located in Bathurst, is one of the most famous race tracks in Australia. It's also one of the most treacherous tracks ever faced even the most professional drivers because of its elevation. Mark Skaife, Allan Moffat, Jamie Whincup, the most professional racers in history risked their lives to survive the perilous elevation in Bathurst, even the legendary racer in Australia known as Peter Brock.

To find out just how good the race-spec Mercedes Vision GT is, I took on the limited-time challenge to set the fastest lap time round the famed Aussie racetrack. They even lend this as a Courtesy Car and if I post my laptime, I get this car as a prize.

What I did is heavily focus on beating the Gold Target Time of 2:07.000 and with that, challenge accepted.

This track is quite dreaded thanks to its elevation that even a slight error would cost more that what you've bargained for. In theory, the VGT Racing Series' aerodynamics would help me get through the dreaded elevation as well as the tight corners but I find myself struggling to survive the stranglehold. It's like getting choked by a crocodile in a cagefight. Crikey!

There's also the near-end part that when after a straight run, you just need the right reflexes to brake and steer through the second-to-last corner because one mistake could spell doom to your driving skill.

In the end, I managed to beat the Gold Target Time and my time is 2:05.956.



So there we go folks. This Mercedes-Benz concept puts the WEH in the cat-like reflexes of the opposition, proving that driving one of these is like a Mercedes-Benz...just before the chicken gets eaten by a jaguar. Good to be bad? Nope. It was born to be wild on the track!

Next time...the final two X2014 models...

What's in our Car Town garage today? (January 29, 2014

What's in our Car Town garage today?

1961 Jaguar E-Type Convertible

One of the most beautiful vintage classics of all time, the Jaguar E-Type represents a new era of cars in its time. You know, numerous celebrities in the past decades had this car though, and with this convertible version of the legendary Jag, this lightweight British classic sure knows how to let the good times roll.

1961 Jaguar E-Type Convertible


2004 Mini Cooper

When BMW purchased the MINI brand, the German luxury car company decided to recreate it for the 21st century and in the year 2001, the 21st Century Mini is born. Even though it's German-engineered because it has some nooks and crannies from BMW, the New MINI still packs some British flair.

2004 Mini Cooper

2010 Land Rover Discovery LR4

The Discovery 4 or LR4 in the United States is more of an updated version of the Discovery 3/LR3 offroader and with some new nooks and crannies loaded on the new model, it also introduced a more powerful TDV6 diesel engine which delivers 9% more fuel efficiency and 10% less CO2 emissions than the outgoing model.

2010 Land Rover Discovery LR4

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

One episode of Good Luck Charlie featured lesbian couples...

These are the couples in question from
an episode of Good Luck Charlie

The second-to-last episode of Disney Channel's family comedy series, Good Luck Charlie, throw a curve to the viewers when in the episode titled "Down a Tree", the characters named Susan and Cheryl were introduced and suddenly...Bob Duncan (played by Eric Allan Kramer) said to wife Amy Duncan (Leigh Allyn Baker) "Taylor has two moms!" and she replied "Wow! Nothing gets past you, Bob."

The scene in question generated numerous reactions from the social media, mostly were appreciated about showing gay couples in a kid-friendly channel. A spokesperson from Disney Channel said that it was developed under the consultancy of child development experts and community advisors and like most Disney shows, it was developed to be relevant to families globally, reflecting themes of diversity and inclusiveness.

Quite the first time this thing happened in Disney Channel history though... I wonder how does families react to this episode?

Report: http://hollywoodlife.com/2014/01/27/good-luck-charlie-lesbian-couple-fans-disney-same-sex/

Let's Do The News! (January 28, 2014)

Things we learned today...

- The Season 3 finale of Disney XD's original comedy series, Kickin It, sees a fond farewell to one of the characters. To be exact, the season finale bids farewell to Kim Crawford, played by Olivia Holt. Oh yeah, for the biggest sendoff, Kim and Jack (played by Leo Howard) got kissed. In case you missed it...a farewell kiss just for Kim.

- The Twelfth Doctor's outfit is finally revealed at last! Armed and ready for the upcoming Series 8 of Doctor Who, this new look shows off its rebellious look and with this outfit...this means business for our new Doctor Who.

12th Doctor

- For some strange news in the tech world, Google challenged even the skilled hackers to hack Google Chrome OS and whoever done it, gets a $2 million reward. How hard can it be?

- The next season of the hit swimming anime Free!, as what one of the staff said, is going to be hotter. Now if you recall last year, the Free finale ends with the message "see you next summer". So...with the people behind the swimming anime said that they've renewed it for a new season...will it stay true to its promise?

- NO MORE SPEEDING BUSES. The LTFRB Chairman promises to implement the mandatory installation of speed limiters on all buses and trucks after the petition garnered almost 13K signatures.

Gran Turismo 6: SEMA 2013's C7 Corvette Concept



Thanks to the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette C7 Stingray's wide acclaim and its exclusivity in the world of Gran Turismo because GM and Gran Turismo were heavily involved in the development of the C7 Corvette, they made this...





This customized C7 Corvette concept was displayed at the 2013 SEMA Show, signalling the C7 Corvette's commitment of being a Gran Turismo exclusive.



See?



The C7 Corvette Stingray Gran Turismo Concept is just one of the additions to the latest UPDATE 1.04 and it's now ready for commission. With the latest update, GT6 players are looking forward to take a spin on the customized C7 Corvette as seen from the 2013 SEMA Show. They can even take part in a limited-time Seasonal Event where they can post their lap times to claim this special car for no charge or stop by at the Dealership to buy one.



Distinguished by its custom matte blue paint, yellow headlamp bezels, a rear spoiler, and a host of aerodynamic updates, this C7 Corvette customized for last year's show tries to be more of a show-off but oh no. This car isn't a show-off when you set yourself into this on GT6.  It still packs the same fun as the regular C7 Corvette Stingray so you can expect a fair bit of difference between them.

But just how good is the Gran Turismo-fied C7 Corvette Concept and how does it stack up against the normal C7 Corvette?



Well, I'm still in Ascari but this race resort makes it a perfect setup for experimenting new cars in Gran Turismo 6. Need comparisons? I'm your Jon Tickle, man. I'll be the man who walked on custard.



First off, I'm going to drive this regular C7 Corvette round Ascari. That's got to be the control for this experiment. With its sleek aerodynamic styling combined with sophisticated handling and the raw power of its LT1 V8, the C7 Corvette is on par with its European rivals and believe me, for an American car like this, it doesn't feel like an American muscle car. It feels like a track-day weapon in its own right and I managed to post a lap time of 2:25.784.



Now, it's transition time and I'm taking behind the wheel of the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Gran Turismo Concept. The question is, will I need? With its perfect weight distribution, I'm away in a blur of blue and yellow streak and raw V8 power but I was betrayed by my clumsy handling sending me some minor understeer. However, in the end, I posted a 2:24.600, a second quicker.



So, there we are. Even though it managed a second quicker round Ascari, the C7 Corvette GT Concept, as seen from the 2013 SEMA Show, still behaves like the same thing even though it comes with a host of aerodynamic updates. But still, it's a lot more fun to drive this customized C7 Corvette, though.

Next time, the Mercedes AMG Vision GT Racing Series, which is part of Update 1.04...

JC De Vera, IHAW NA!

On the January 27, 2014's Banana Nite's IHAW NA segment, the guest of the day was none other than JC De Vera. Since taking part on GMA's Starstruck, JC's proven to be quite a matinee idol and when he became part of TV5 in shows like Lokomoko and Ang Utol Kong Hoodlum, JC's stardom is like on the top of the world. Now that he's a Kapamilya, let's see how far JC De Vera can go further in the latest TV drama, THE LEGAL WIFE, starring Angel Locsin.

Meanwhile, more funny pics from the internet on ETO NA POST...and then some more pickup lines in KONTRA PICK-UP.

What's in our Car Town garage today? (January 28, 2014)

What's in our Car Town garage today?

1991 Honda CRX

It used to be part of the Ballade line under the Ballade Sports CR-X but when it was launched in 1987, the CR-X is now based on the Civic. Adopting the banner "Cyber Sports", the CR-X is quite a welcoming treat for tuners everywhere because while it was based on the tuner-favorite Civic, it's definitely a hot hatch in its own right.

1991 Honda CRX

2011 Chrysler 200 S by Mopar

Although serving as a replacement to the aging Sebring midsize saloon, the 200 from Chrysler never fond any mass audience due to the competition heating up. At the hands of Mopar, Chrysler's specialist tuner, you know that this 200 makes sense. Not only the 200S by Mopar looks good on the streets, it feels good to drive.

2011 Chrysler 200 S by Mopar

1991 Nissan 300ZX

If the Skyline represents the pinnacle of Nissan's sportscar lineup, the Z car is by no means one of the most ideal sportscars Nissan ever made. The Z32 model marks a huge change as it comes with a wide, flat body and a size fit for global standards, not restricted by Japan's size classes per car.

1991 Nissan 300ZX