I can only share my experience as I too haven't found any APV reviews on the net. I'm also from the Philippines BTW.
As a previous owner of Honda SUVs and minivans such as the 2001 MDX, 2002 2.4L CR-V, 1999 Odyssey (2nd gen) and 1996 Odyssey (1st gen), the 2005 APV isn't that bad considering that it offers the best 2nd row and 3rd row leg room not to mention the best 3rd row entry. A/T is also smoother than my 1999 3.5L V6 and 1996 2.2L SOHC Odysseys but Honda seem to have gotten it right (perfection in motion) in the 2nd gen CR-V. Been to Baguio and Subic with an observed mileage of 8.2 km/l. City driving is a different story though as it can be as low as 6.1 km/l. The small 1.6L engine produces adequate power probably because of its mid-engine/rear wheel drive configuration. It also has a great view of the road though the A-pillars seems to be a little too thick for visibility. With my 3M magic tints intact, the A/C's cooling prowess seems up there with the best. Infact, I thought it rivals my MDX's 19k BTU cooling system that slightly exceeds the heating and cooling capacity found in the average STET home (an 18K BTU A/C will cool an average 1100 sq ft home). It can cool the cavernous interior of the APV that was left under the sun for a day in seconds. BUT after a stone-throwing accident that got the tints removed, the A/C looks average (will install 3M magic tints again this week). Ergonomics seems to be at par with its Jap counterparts. The 2-DIN stereo w/ 6 speakers, reverse warning audible, 60/40 2nd/3rd row split seats, fog lights (which adds to an already good night visibility), and large side mirrors are also a pleasant surprise in this price range.
Nuff of the good stuffs and on to my rants. My main gripe as experienced are the tires. Besides being too puny looking, it could use a better set of quality tires that will not loose its grip of the road during emergency maneuvers. Although it is asking for too much in this price range, ABS would be a nice addition. I hate to bring this up as all the SUV's and tall station wagons are prone to rollover but the cornering of the APV is worse than the Montero I drove in the states (although we have to keep in mind that the APV's target audience are the family man thus the precious cargo). Steering is also numb on center and the 3rd row passengers better bring their combs after the ride.
The engine being under the drivers seat is a non-issue as Suzuki have done a good job of isolating the engine heat and noise . It also has its radiator under the hood for better ventillation which should give us peace of mind against overheating. And if this is not enough, Suzuki Philippines has thrown in a 3-year warranty and a 2-year free maintenance.
BTW, we got our unit for PHP 715K (w/ PHP 4K discount, free 3M magic tint, and free registration) and am beginning to be a Suzuki believer (am currently contemplating on getting the Swift as a 2nd car but the steep price is a deal breaker).
Hope this helps.
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Went to one of the dealers for a test run. The ride was not as smooth as i was hoping for. Any comments will be appreciated. Thanks.
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