AFAIK, local version got a gas engine. surplus ones, have the LD20 diesel engine on board. some prefer the N/A than the LD20 turbo. FC is just ok with the diesel variant, around 12-14 km/l. i happened to own one before.
Local version with the SR20DE a/t, malakas sa gas (expect to average 5-6km/L in city traffic). It's also a relative lemon from the feedback i've gotten from some parties (including someone who worked at NMPI).
I got to ride also the diesel Serena (converted) of an officemate and it ran well and he also reported an FC of more than 10km/L. Only thing with this is hit or miss ka with the conversion.
I don't really know whether mas okay local or imported,
of course if you get local, obviously hindi sha converted and everything but the local units
aren't the most reliable cars around plus the gas engine is quite thirsty doing only around 5
to 6km/l.
obviously, they are referring to the gas A/T version when they put the consumption as well as problem
with the tranny. The Manual Transmission is reliable and have better mileage at 8km/L city driving.
So far the rear shocks I have changed with KYB Gas after it went bad, the front stablink have also been replaced.