Martinpeter

I use Sygic GPS nowadays seems work fine on any Samsung phone here in Thailand adequate enough. Also offers updates free and about under 1,000 baht (one off fee) for Thailand map (you can get worldwide nowadays). You can easy buy here mobile window/dash fixing units to mount it near you in car, etc.

But you need good power supply (charging) whilst you use (seems to zap phone battery down quickly otherwise) but if you leave on charging in use is ok.

cheers (any help).

Do you have any evidence to back your claims there Martinpeter ?

Yes/. "All new Toyota vios" What is different" from the old model? only body style - can you expect any different with the new Fortuner?

wait and see? perhaps they say "New Fortuner" this time! Doesn't "All new" mean everything new in my book?

Why so much anger on this site over cars - wouldn't it be a boring world if every car was a Toyota Fortuner ops black/white or another Fortuner that one is black/white.

It takes many different opinions to make life interesting due to experiences? in life.

Hi Folks/.

Aren't you forgetting about one thing!

The new Fortuner will be an update of the current model. Ok maybe have a new body (shape) design? but the rest will have the same engines as current models. probably have the same technology of the ten year old design out now - just packaged differently - with a few updates!

Just like the (All new vios was) - different body (changed interior) a little bit but otherwise outdated technology! (packaged as the all new vios) - rubbish!

Toyota seem to be lagging behind very much nowadays - Lets have a new car from Toyota not just updates like for the last ten years or so?

That's why Toyota seems to be getting a bad name nowadays?

Where are the NEW cars/trucks - they promise us - what has happened to new ideas (hybrid / dual engine power / design, etc).

That's why I am an ex- customer now of Toyota? nowadays.

Why would you go to suk from nang linchi to go to impact? Surely the expressway near rama 4 would have been easier?

I wasn't going to Impact yesterday? I quoted going to motor show this Saturday? yesterday was Wednesday I think?

Yesterday shopping at Villa supermarket?

To avoid Asoke, best way to Villa (avoiding Asoke) from Nang Linchi is to take Rama 4, turn left at Sukh 24 (Davis Hotel), take leftmost branch turn to Soi 22, take 22 all the way to Sukhumvit, turn right and park at Villa. Nowhere near 3 hours.

Hi Thanks/. Keemapot

Yes/. normally I go into city (Villa) at weekend or very early in the morning 5-6am. via Rama 4/Asoke no problem, but I was visiting a friend yesterday in the morning at Soi Nan Linchi (and tried to kill two birds with one stone) and stock up my freezer while I was in the area.

Lesson learn't go early if I go into the city again. Glad I live in the sticks (over the river) and it's not quite as bad here (apart from building skye train) extension.

cheers

Why would you go to suk from nang linchi to go to impact? Surely the expressway near rama 4 would have been easier?

I wasn't going to Impact yesterday? I quoted going to motor show this Saturday? yesterday was Wednesday I think?

Yesterday shopping at Villa supermarket?

Hi there/.

Never mind going to the Motor Show - yesterday it took me 3 hours to drive from Nang Linchi Road to Sukhumvit Road (using Rama 3 road) which is only 8 kilometres in distance . In the afternoon period (That's in the week). Then another 3 hours to get out of the city to get home! Crazy traffic yesterday.

They would only let one/two cars at a time filter right onto Sukhumvit road.

So it took me over 6 hours to do a simple journey in the week time?

I think next time it will be quicker to walk around the city.

If I go to the motor on Saturday best leave home about 8am maybe I'll get there before it closes that day!!!!!

cheers/.

Hi Folks/.

Thinking about going to the Bangkok Motor Show this weekend? What is it like for traffic around there and the parking facilities like?

I am also thinking about looking at car accessory shops are their many at the show usually or what? I am looking to upgrade my built in cd player to a DVD/GPS player on my Ecosport if anything out their yet? also look at headrest dvd monitors/roof mount dvd player (best options) and look for other things while I am their. I currently have a I-phone with GPS (Sygic) which seems ok now for most directions.

cheers

Hi There/.

SpeedNavi maps are a very good system (easy to use) had one for 5 years in my vios - bought it direct and they installed it,

You can register on their website and obtain free upgrages twice a year free (the 1st year) - then pay 900 baht a year for new maps, also speedNavi show pictures for junction views (great). easy to use setup (just some patience).

Best way is to use google maps for lat/long figures and then enter in Speednavi - this is the quickiest and easiest way to add poi.

I am waiting for Zulex to make a gps/Speednavi for my current car. - Also try google Zulex shops/Dealers (all around) they use SpeedNavi and will help you learn how to use it properly? pity you are to far from me in Bangkae - or I would show you and set it up properly

now expert but 90% there or near.

cheers Martin

Hi all/.

I can't believe some of the prices of nearly new/second hand cars/trucks recently?

Looks like the good times - for selling a used purchase are over?

Just look on the web-sites etc, 2013/2014 models selling at 50% of the price bought new? somebody is losing a fortune?

What's the answer? buy new now and keep many years, or buy a nearly new model less than one year old (big savings nearly 50%) and take the risk, that everything goes ok. Seems the later is now a good way to go. Surely the 400k plus saving or more, will not come back bite you later in major problems hopefully.

any thoughts members

cheers

Would be nice if most Thai's would carry "common Sense" in their cars?

Maybe I am asking to much!!!!!!!

Went out yesterday nearly 3 incidents in one drive!

Bus decided to pull out from side of the road (at least he used his indicator) then cut me up and everybody, crossed 4 lanes of traffic so he could U-turn

Then I was at a U-turn waiting and a lorry came round the outside, jumping the queue - if I didn't move quickly would have taken all the side of my SUV off.

Then a bit further down the road - I met a pick up driving the wrong way - down the road, just so he could save time a turn into his house (instead of going the proper way a little bit more.

Another thing - install a web camera for sure.

cheers

We had the Ecosport at the top of the list for our second car until recently. Unlike every other Ford I have driven, the Ecosport is dull to drive, poorly made, poor ergomics (rear doors too big, stupid tailgate and small boot) and not particularly frugal with the crappy 1.5l engine.

It's a real shame as we both prefer Fords.

Hi There/. I guess everyone has there own thoughts/. don't knock it to you have tried it?

Having traded up from a vios to a Ford Ecosport, I am finding it a refreshing change (now some 9 weeks old).

As for crappy 1.5i engine - its fairly quick on acceleration after my vios (like the 6 speed auto box) and has lots more room inside - rear doors to big? there smaller than most cars, boots not vast but adequate space (its higher than most) fold down seats if you want more space. Poorly made? why - you could buy a Proton, Skoda there's a lot worse cars/trucks out there.

Can't argue with Ford service - dealership satisfaction either.

At least I am enjoying my Ecosport now and not waiting for Honda Vezel that's already been delayed? - how many times - when is it available to buy? guess not in the near future?

cheers

Hi There/.

I think i,ve solved the problem now, on my Ecosport there is a small window between the mirror and front of the door - just above the dashboard - so I can fix a flexible window mount one onto this area and it will rest on the dashboard ok. I have seen them (this type) for sale at the Mall, fixing to the windscreen type, Hopefully it is out of the direct sunlight and will stay put.

I,ll get one and give it a try. otherwise what I found on internet this one seems very good. (if helpful to others)

Montar by Winnergear car mount

http://www.ebay.com/itm/MONTAR-By-WinnerGear-Car-Mount-For-iPhone-5-Works-With-Otterbox-Defender-Case-/151055196793?

pt=US_Mounts_Holders&hash=item232b976279

Anyway thanks for your help

cheers

Our Ecosport has been perfect in every way in the short 4 months we have had it, and our dealer has been exemplary as well. The dealer even is holding a "tutoring session" tomorrow where all Ecosport owners are invited to the dealer for training on the somewhat complex on board computer system, etc.. They are giving a 1,000 Baht coupon for free fuel too for this. I was a bit unhappy about the fuel mileage, and they said that is a small tweak on some deliveries, and after doing the tweak it should get about 17km/liter city and 20km/ltr highway. I spoke to the mechanic about this for some time. Some owners on the Ecosport thread are already reporting such higher mileage figures. The car is tight, quiet, and rides much better than its price. Still gets lots of comments and especially ladies want one.

Regarding Ford dealers, this is my second Ford in Thailand, I bought an Everest new in 2004 from the Phuket dealer. I had absolutely no issues or problems whatsoever in 4 years of ownership, and never had any complaints with service in both Phuket and Bangkok.

However, there are a few legitimate complaints from Ford owners on this forum (mostly concerning service), and you should read those BUT pointedly ignore the one blabber mouth who constantly on every thread spouts how bad Ford is. I think he got rejected in the back seat of a 57 Fairlane.

Thanks Keemapoot/.

For info - I'll check with my Ford dealer about tweak (has mine been done), Yes attracting a lot of attention in soi already from locals (and the ladies) - my neighbours are impressed with level of things for a small SUC LED lights on when you (open doors) and also pull the high beam level to steering wheel and the main lights come on (great for lighting up gates on drive way) also sync'th, stereo quality, LED door still scuffs, etc. It's got more spec (nearly) than his BMW. Also I am so impressed with the leather seats (glad I up graded) really smart colour/red stitching, etc

Yes computer - seems like I need more training on display - shows P/PD off or something and shows different than online manual. I'll need to spend a lot more time getting to know things over the next few weeks?

cheers

I have a Samsung Galaxy Core (Duos) mobile and I am looking for a DASHBOARD mount kit/. (not a window) device so I can use my mobile as a GPS device for driving around on trips!

In my previous car I had a singing and all dancing GPS/DVD player fitted in the dashboard. (was great) and a great price to/.

I am now more aware as to most routes/places to get around in Thailand now after 5 years driving.

I have downloaded Sygic map on my mobile and seems to work ok! maps not 100% but good enough for general help directions etc, when I am not sure and Zulex don't make a in dash player yet? (on it's way). Ford Ecosport.

I bought a cheap mount - but it won't stick to my Ford dashboard (seems very rough and pimples on the surface). I would like the phone near me, not a long way a way on the windscreen. I don't really want to get out my glue pot and stick it there for good yet? being a new car? (may have to later though).

Looked on the internet?

Somebody out there must have a good one (experience that actually holds on well)- or otherwise found a good one that will (work) and sticks (holds properly to the dashboard).

Please let me know what you have found out there (preferably) I can buy in Thailand not on the internet (and risk the same) not working again.

cheers - I appreciate any help you can give me!

Hi There/.

Just an update on my Ford (Phetkasem) dealer experience so far?

After negotiations with my local Ford dealer in Bangkae, we finally decided to purchase a Ford Ecosport last month (see my previous post). They promised me delivery (1 month) and colour of my choice, we placed a deposit on 11th June. They wouldn't give us any discount off the price, but gave us many normal extra's (to many to list, but equated to 15 items i.e 3M film, reversing sensors, etc). They sales staff and manger where friendly and it seemed a pleasant buying experience all together with this dealership (mainly in Thai, little English).

now waiting time: we agreed a 5 week delivery time (yesterday) allowing them time to get the car ready and satisfy the misses for a lucky day to receive the car (yesterday 18th).

I was wondering about all the things I've seen on this forum about sales staff and Ford promises and the problems in past?

Anyway they called us on the 10th to notify us that our car has been delivered to their dealership on time and colour? - I am happy!

They made their promise and we collected the Ecosport yesterday and everything was up to spec? no problems!

I drove away as a happy customer: so far I am very pleased in my Ecosport after owing a vios for 5 years - seems a lot more get up and go after my vios (same engine power 1.5 litre). (but vios engine technology is over 8 years old). My Toyota experience was less pleasant they could not supply me a car on time or colour, I had to settle for second best (only colour they could get) after much aggravation on many telephone calls, visits later.

I look forward to having many more pleasant driving experiences in my Ford Ecosport driving around Thailand.

Lets see what happens, during maintenance, service times ahead.

just thought I would share some good news with you for a change

Here is my baby:

cheers

Ask the dealer what the waiting time is for a Chilli Orange Wildtrak. then make your decision if you still want one.

They have in stock at Phetkasem Dealer! waiting a customer - or 1 month delivery now.

Hi There/.

Well regarding the colour, my thoughts after having a silver car for 5 years -

I am after a change from normal boring Thailand colours like silver, bronze, black and I Like the Mars red (Ford colour) this time. Don't know what touch/paint match will be like in a few years from minor dings/scratches that you will get in Thailand though. My silver vios silver paint never matched that great on a few minor scratches.

White seems ok for a couple of years, but without great car care, seems to turn yellow or dull white later.

Anyway - I am ready for a change this time and have ordered a Ford Ecosport in Mars Red, taking delivery next Friday- they are busy now fitting all my free extra's now with the SUV, no discounts around much now but plenty of extra's though, managed to get a list of 15 things extra with the Ecosport.

cheers

Hi Guys/ owners - Ford Ecosport

couple of questions!

What fuel are you running on? which is best for power/consumption? do you think? (or what fuel can the Ecosport run on).

Also what about service schedule? Ford informed me 1st service i.e: 9 months/15,000 kilos - have you bothered to change your oil or will you - after running in (about 1,500 kilos) or what? what do you suggest? seems a long time after bedding in a new engine (9 months).

cheers

Thanks

Hi All/.

Reference my previous posts (last week).

Have moved on now - my vios has been sold and gone and I have ordered and put down a deposit on a Ecosport "Trend" model color "Mars Red".

This seemed my best option (don't like the sunroof and even see me using it) maybe could leek later in life (a risk) and I didn't like the wheels on Titanium model. Up-graded though to leather seats from Titanium (only 9,800 baht difference) seems ok and extra LED door sills skuffs (3,900 baht). Otherwise many free extra's in with deal, normal stuff, i.e 3 M film, free insurance, paint cover protection vouchers, reversing sensors, carpets and mats, boot liner, chrome exhaust end tip, mud flaps, Window (rain protectors) and more little things.

They promise me - color delivery 1 month - from factory order, so I see what happens.

I am also looking around for a GPS in dash system, contacted Zulex - tell me two early yet for production 2/3 months wait - or maybe I,ll look at SpeedNavi PND model have seen advertised model to stick in the window - but would prefer fitted system better and rear monitors. I have had SpeedNavi in vios and really liked it. I,ll look more into later.

OK, wait and see what happens upon delivery of Ecosport next month.

cheers

Hello are there any Ford Ecosport owners out there/. (with reference to my post yesterday).

Today I went home via Big C, near my home and they have had a Ford Display there now for about 4-5 weeks (showing a Ranger and Ecosport).

I caught the salesman - jump starting the Titanium Ecosport (with jump leads) and questioned him why - this is a brand new car unregistered?

His reply was, you must run the car every couple of days at least (thought this was strange) a new car why?

Have any of you had this similar problem yes?

I currently leave my vios all week and start at the weekend and never had this problem in 5 years (also leaving my 2 alarm systems on).

Are Ford right telling me you must use the car every couple of days - seems strange (what happens when you go on holiday or away for a few days) are you going to have a flat battery problem every time you return. Or is it probably that they have stood around for 4/5 weeks without proper running time over this time?

this raises a concern - with me about to purchase one

cheers

Hi There/.

I've been thinking about changing my current car (vios) for sometime and the Ecosport seems to fit my needs - city driving - occasional holiday out of town.

Today I had a test drive with my local Ford dealer in a titanium model, I was very impressed with it overall (after driving my current vios) around for nearly 5 years, refreshing to drive compared to my current car. There seemed enough power and very quick on acceleration compared to my vios. (I know it not a race car) but for normal running around with a family it's ok.

I was thinking about buying a TREND MODEL but after todays test drive, I am going to order a Titanium model for sure - but with Trend model wheels on it.

They are offering me the normal freebies etc, free insurance, film, paint protection coupons, carpet mats and many more little things.

They promise me 1 month delivery and the color I want? - lets see what happens - this is my only concern - noting the current drop in new car sales.

(subject to my current car being sold next week) - I have a buyer - paid deposit, already - - I will order an Ecosport with my dealer next week?

Hopefully things will work out

cheers

Hi There/.

Check with your insurance company first - (1st class) offer this,

Thaivivat Insurance PCL - give me free as part of my 1st class insurance, covering brakedown, etc.

cheers

Hi All/.

went to my local Ford Dealer (Phetkasem road) this week and looked at EcoSport and like it!

I want to wait until the Ecoboost version comes later though I think --- a better variant. (hopefully Thailand will get later in an update).

But what really put me off was the salesman/team attitude! no trade in, we only sell you a new one (no part ex-change)? they would not help me trade/sell my current car off (Toyota) at all. (I accept a lower price) trading for different make. Do they want sales or not?

Is this a standard Ford attitude you have come across - with other Ford Dealers?

WOULD LOVE TO HEAR ABOUT Other Ford Dealaships and experience with buying a new car with them or are there trade-ins with other dealerships

Thank you - for any advise you can give.

_{I went to Chaeng Watthana immigration today to do my yearly Extn on my non "o" visa at counter L, lady passed all my documents ok, then had to see the section leader (for final checking). She referred to this document - NOTIFICATION FORM FOR HOUSE-MASTER, OWNER OR THE POSSESSOR OF THE RESIDENCE WHERE ALIEN HAS STAYED” and also the “NAME OF ALIENS IN RESIDENCE”, along with all other required documents.}

_{She told me i was ok for this years application "but must supply this documents/forms" for my next years extn - next time! so looks likes this is a change? also referred to you can apply 45 days prior to date? i went today with 30 days prior to my finishing date in my passport.}

_cheers

Ok/. thanks interesting answers so far/.

Let's take another situation!

I am the one making the U-Turn (waiting) and slowly creeping out into the oncoming traffic - then a driver flashes his lights at me?

I keep pulling out and he hits me/ who is at fault? him/me (because he warned me not to pull out) by flashing his lights at me?

there are endless situations like this/.

Think it's time to upgrade car for a Tank! maybe!

thanks in advance

cheers