Volume 5 Issue 8 - Kia soul

LAUNCHPAD: KIA PICANTO 1.0 | INTERVIEW: RAVI CHAWLA, MD, GULF OIL LUBRICANTS

January 2017 Vol 5 Issue 8 NRs. 125

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W W W. AU TO L I F E . CO M . N P

KIA SOUL EV

FULLY CHARGED COVER STORY

WE TEST: YADEA EM-136 | WE RIDE: BENELLI TNT 135 INTERVIEW: SHINICHI KUROKAWA, DGM-ASIA SUBARU IN CONVERSATION WITH DEEPAK RAUNIYAR, YAMAHA NEPAL FEATURE: WHAT’S NEW AND WHAT TO EXPECT IN 2017 PRODUCT WATCH: BAJAJ DOMINAR 400 | SUZUKI IGNIS facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

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EDITORIAL THE ELECTRIC ISSUE

A

Automotive technology is improving in leaps and bounds, and nothing exemplifies the fact than the launch of the Faraday Future FF 91. Intelligent Electric vehicles are the future, and the newest competitor is the Faraday Future and it’s breathing right down Tesla’s neck. They revealed a 1000hp electric supercar concept and turned up the ante. Things are certainly heating up.

While it looks like electric cars are the future, Nepal also seems to be moving towards the trend. With offerings like the Mahindra E20 and Bijuli already in the running for the electric automobile championship, Kia have come in with their very own competitor, The Kia Soul EV. Donning the body of the earlier crossover of the same name, it is an electric vehicle that we were really keen on testing out. We took it for a spin in this issue, so make sure you take a look.

Also on feature in this issue of AutloLife is the new offering from Benelli, the TNT 135. A small motorcycle that is set to create big thrills. And carrying on the electric theme of the issue is the Yadea, an electric scooter with a killer retro chic appeal.

There’s plenty more to keep you occupied in this issue.

We’ll definitely be back with more in the upcoming issue. Until then.

Cheers!

AUTOLIFE TE AM

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VOL 5 ISSUE 8 JANUARY 2017 SR MEDIA GROUP PANIPOKHARI, KATHMANDU, NEPAL TEL: 977-01-4415122 REGD: 84553/068/069

FOUNDER/MANAGING EDITOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR EDITOR SUB-EDITOR EDITORIAL, PHOTOGRAPHY & WEB

Ajay Dhoj Thapa Shraddha Rajbhandari Ankit Shakya Saurav Nepal Shreya Sangroula Pritam Chhetri Bibhas Maharjan Suwal Nirveek PPJ Shah

CREATIVE HEAD EDITORIAL DESIGNER BUSINESS & PR MANAGER BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

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GENERAL ENQUIRIES hello@autolife.com.np

EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES editorial@autolife.com.np

ADS AND MARKETING ENQUIRIES marketing@autolife.com.np Autolife is an automotive magazine (DAO Regd 213/067/068), published 12 times a year by Softrock Media.

All rights reserved in respect of all articles, illustration, photographs, etc published in Autolife Magazine. The content of this publication may not be reproduced on whole or in any part in any electronics or print form, in any language, without the written consent of the publisher.

The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, who cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omission.

Autolife has a dedicated review team for all test drives and rides. We research, study, plan and execute our tests and publish our real experience without any influences.

We have our loyalty towards our readership and are not biased or inclined towards any specific brands or services.

All advertisement insertions are a part of our marketing campaign, due to their relevance with the magazines content; and published only after authorization from clients or their respective media agencies.

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V O L 5 I SS U E 8

CONTENTS

JA N U A R Y 2017

50 KIA SOUL EV

66 BENELLI TNT 135

FEATURES 26

Product Watch

50

Test Drive

38

THE LONE WANDERER

Suzuki Igins KIA Soul EV

A man who gave into his wanderlust

Ravi Chawla, MD- Gulf Lubricants India Ltd.

60 INTERVIEW

66

Test Drive Benelli TNT 135

26 SUZUKI IGNIS IS BACK IN A NEW AVATAR

48

IN CONVERSATION WTIH RAVI CHAWLA, MD- GULF LUBRICANTS INDIA LTD.

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V O L 5 I SS U E 8

CONTENTS

JA N U A R Y 2017

44 YADEA EM-136

FEATURES

28 SHINICHI KUROKAWA, DEPUTY GENERAL MANAGER, ASIA SALES AND MARKETING SECTION, SUBARU

44

Test Ride

36

Launchpad

64

Product Watch

32

Feature

80

DIY

Yadea EM136

KIA Picanto 1.0

Bajaj Dominar 400

What’s New and What to Expect in 2017 Simple Tips To Prevent Motorcycle Theft

36 KIA PICANTO 1.0 ROLLS IN

64 BAJAJ DOMINAR 400

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AUTOLIFE READERS’ PHOTOS

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AUTOLIFE LOCAL

MAHINDRA E20 SPORTZ NOW AVAILABLE Agni Energy Pvt. Ltd, the authorized distributor of Mahindra electric vehicles in Nepal, has launched the electric e2o Sportz in the Nepalese market at a starting price of Rs 26,00,000.

A sport variant of the e2o, it comes loaded with features like ABS, Dual Airbags, Fast Charging, Rear Window Wiper and a host

of connectivity features amongst others.

The e2oSportz also has an extended range of 127kms and additional storage area. The vehicle boasts of premium styling with leather seats, Blaupunkt infotainment system and steering mounted audio controls. With a top speed of 100km per hour, the e2oSportz stands as the high performance variant of the e2o.

Other innovative which makes e2oSportz a high performance vehicle include remote diagnostics through telematics, connectivity through smart phone app, regenerative braking, Hill Hold control for easy driving in hilly terrains and REVive for reserve charge amongst others.

IMS MOTORS EXCLUSIVE SHOWROOM AT NAXAL IMS Motors has inaugurated an exclusive showroom at Naxal (opposite to Nepal police Headquater) in Kathmandu, Nepal. His Excellency Ambassador Choe Young-Jin, Embassy of The Republic of Korea. along with Mr. Deepak Malhotra, Chairman of IMS Group and Mr.Dikesh Malhotra, President and CEO of IMS Group inaugurated the showroom.

The exclusive state-of-the art showroom is situated at the heart of the city with ample parking space and comprises of highly trained staffs and representatives to deliver excellent service to their valued customer. IMS Motors is expanding its wings with dealers expansion in all the major cities of Nepal. Adding to that the company is also in the verge of opening an exclusive SsangYong Service Center.

The SsangYong line-up in Nepal consists of three SUVs – XLV, Korando and Rexton, and one pickup- Actyon Sports.

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AUTOLIFE LOCAL

NEW TOYOTA SHOWROOM AT KUPONDOL United Traders Syndicate Pvt. Ltd, the sole authorised distributor of Toyota vehicles in Nepal, has inaugurated a new showroom inside Kathmandu valley. The new showroom which is located at Kupondol, Lalitpur was jointly inaugurated by Mr. Suraj Vaidya (President – VOITH) and Mrs. Ritu Singh Vaidya (Executive Director – VOITH) on December 23,2016.

The state-of-the-art new showroom will provide customers a complete experience of sales and service under a single roof. To mark the occasion, East Link Motors Pvt. Ltd (Authorised dealer for United Traders Syndicate Pvt. Ltd) is providing attractive offers and schemes for a limited time period.

HYUNDAI TRAFFIC SURVEILLANCE SUPPORT TO DISTRICT POLICE OFFICE, KASKI

Laxmi Intercontinental Pvt.Ltd, the sole authorized distributor of Hyundai motors in Nepal has handed over 25 units of Hyundai Traffic Surveillance Support Camera to District Police Office, Kaski, Nepal as a part of its CSR “Safe Move”.

Hyundai Motor Company organizes its CSR activities into six central theme of its campaign “Dream Move, Next Move, Easy Move, Green Move, Safe Move and Happy Move”. Each move reflects the company’s business philosophy in the contribution it makes in the society. Safe Move is one of the key pillars of Hyundai’s global CSR campaign on Traffic Safety Campaign. Under the aegis of “Safe Move”, Mr. Ganesh Bahadur Shrestha, Chairman of Laxmi Group handed over 25 units of Dash Cam to Mr. Kamal Singh Bam (DIG – District Police Office, Kaski, Nepal).

This is a dashboard camera which can continuously records the view through a vehicle’s windscreen. It can be attached to the interior windscreen or to the top of the dashboard. This may provide video evidence in the event of an accident. It helps to guard against traffic rules violation and insurance fraud, where they provide additional evidence.

Additionally, it will also help in studying the traffic management system.

Talking about the features, it can record video upto 24 fps with the resolution of 1280 x 720 pixel with sound and it supports the memory card up to 64 GB which can shoot video for 24 hours continuously. It comes with a builtin GPS which help to show the speed of the vehicle with real-time Map. It has a wide angle lens that can cover approximately 132 degrees view from the wind screen.

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AUTOLIFE LOCAL

HYUNDAI OPENS NEW 3S CENTER IN NEPALGUNJ Laxmi InterContinental Pvt. Ltd, the authorized distributor of Hyundai vehicles for Nepal, has inaugurated a new 3S facility at Nepalgunj with its dealer –Him Auto Distributor providing customers with a complete experience of sales, service and spare parts, all under one roof. The dealership has been established with an intention to meet the growing demand for Hyundai vehicles in and around Nepalgunj.

The 3S Center was jointly inaugurated

by Mr. Him Prasad Shrestha (Senior member of Shrestha Family) and Mr. Nirakar Shrestha (Executive Director for Laxmi InterContinental Pvt. Ltd.). Located at the strategic area

in Nepalgunj, the new international standard Hyundai 3S center’s showroom can display 4 to 5 cars and is equipped with full hi-tech workshop, staffed by professionally trained technicians and has air-conditioned and WIFI enabled customer lounge. The service facility has the capacity to handle about 300 vehicles in a month with highly sophisticated and modern equipment, dedicated express service bay, ample service parking area, making this facility truly world-class.

Along with this, the facility also has dedicated area and enough stock for Hyundai Genuine Spare Parts.

At Hyundai’s new dealership branch in Nepalgunj, customers can experience

a host of primary and value-added services of Hyundai motor’s entire range of passenger vehicles, through trained professionals. To ensure the best Hyundai Experience, the entire team at the new dealership in Nepalgunj has been trained under Hyundai Training Center in Nepal.

Laxmi InterContinental is not only focusing inside Kathmandu but also reaching out customers who are residing outside Kathmandu valley.

The company has established 13 dealers in major cities of Nepal like Pokhara, Narayanghat, Butwal, Dang, Biratnagar, Damak, Birtamod, Banepa, Dhanghadi, Bhairahawa, Itahari, Nepalgunj and Hetauda.

TATA TIAGO NOW AVAILABLE AT AN INTEREST RATE OF 5.49% Sipradi Trading Pvt. Ltd, the authorized distributor of TATA Motors in Nepal, has announced a special offering in the Tiago. In order to serve the need for hassle free and low rate financing, the company is offering Tiago at an interest rate of 5.49% without any service charge. Above the low interest rate, the company is also offering special cash discount and free accessories worth Rs. 25000.

The car will come with a warranty of 4 Years / 75,000 KMS (whichever is earlier) and is available in 3 variants – XE, XM, & XZ, TIAGO will come in six exciting colour options - Striker Blue, Berry Red, Sunburst Orange, Espresso Brown, Pearlescent White and Platinum Silver.

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AUTOLIFE INTERNATIONAL

THIS IS THE THIRD-GEN KIA PICANTO Kia Motors has released images of the allnew Picanto, the third-generation of one of Kia’s global best-selling cars.

Created by Kia’s design centres in Namyang, Korea and Frankfurt, Germany, the new Picanto brings youthful and energetic character to the A-segment. The new model – revealed in Kia’s sports-inspired ‘GT-Line’ specification – conveys a more assertive stance through bolder body lines and subtly sculpted surfaces. A 15 mmlonger wheelbase (2,385 mm to 2,400 mm) also pushes the wheels further out into each corner for a more confident appearance.

The Picanto’s colour palette is more vibrant

than ever, with a choice of 11 bright paint options designed to make the car stand out.

Inside, Picanto’s suite of high-tech comfort, convenience and safety features is underscored by a modern and refined new cabin design. At the heart of the cabin is a new ‘floating’ touchscreen infotainment system, making the latest in-car technology available to occupants.

The Picanto offers greater potential for customer personalisation, with buyers able to choose from a range of colours for trim and upholstery.

smarter packaging efficiency than ever before, with more cabin and cargo space than rivals in the segment. In spite of its extended wheelbase, the Picanto retains its characteristically compact dimensions.

With a shorter front overhang and longer rear overhang, the all-new model is the same length (3,595 mm) as the car it replaces.

Kia will reveal the all-new Picanto in public for the first time at the 2017 Geneva International Motor Show in March, and will go on sale at the end of the third quarter of 2017.

Buyers of the all-new Picanto will enjoy

TATA HEXA LAUNCHED IN THE INDIAN MARKET ; COMES FEATURE-LOADED Ever since its first showcase as a concept, the Tata Hexa has generated a great amount of curiosity and excitement from the customers. With the recent changes witnessed in the passenger vehicle segment in India, the timing was ripe for Tata Motors to make an impact in the UV category. With the Hexa, the company believes that it has taken a leap in bringing in the most advanced technologies and first-of-its-kind features, crafted with precision, representing the change that is underway at Tata Motors.

Based on a new versatile platform – the hexa is a complete vehicle package, with an exceptional combination of design, luxury, off-road and on-road capabilities, boasting modern and exciting architecture, plush interiors and next-generation connectivity and performance related features, enhancing the functionality of the vehicle.

The Hexa is introduced at a starting

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price of INR 12.08 lakhs for the Manual Transmission variant and INR 14.98 lakhs for the Automatic variant.

With an emphasis on design and drivability, the Hexa boasts aggressiveness, delivering absolute comfort, personifying Tata Motors passenger vehicle business unit’s newly defined ‘IMPACT design’ language. Powering the SUV is the same the 2.2-litre Varicor diesel engine from the Storme in two states of tune- 150PS/320Nm and 156PS/400Nm, depending upon the variants.

The Hexa also features a new first-insegment ‘SUPER DRIVE MODES’ system, to provide customers with a pleasurable, comfortable and dynamic driving experience. This ‘Super Drive Modes’ system allows the driver to seamlessly switch between four different driving modes – Auto, Comfort, Dynamic and

Rough Road, for enhanced ride comfort & stability over different terrains. The new system is a combination of the vehicles Engine performance, new-generation Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Torque on Demand (TOD) and the vehicles Instrument Cluster display and ambient lighting that can be activated through a well-placed rotary knob, on the center console.

Equipped with Tata Motors ‘CONNECTNEXT Infotainment system‘, the HEXA has an ergonomically placed 5″ touch screen exclusively designed

by Harman™, with 10 JBL™ branded speakers, featuring voice recognition and smart phone integration. The ConnectNext App suite includes, NAVIMAPS App, JukeCar App, Tata Smart Remote App and Tata Smart Manual App.

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AUTOLIFE LAUNCHPAD

KIA PICANTO 1.0 ROLLS IN

B E I N G O FFE R E D I N A 75% B U Y- BAC K VA LU E

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F

Five years since it made its debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, the KIA Picanto remains the best example of how an affordable car doesn’t have to make any compromises, thanks to its innovative combination of cutting edge and awardwining styling, a high quality interior and an inspiring driving experience.

The all-new Picanto blends modern and distinctive exterior styling with a fresh, trendy interior. Combining the very highest standards of engineering with European aesthetics in every aspect of its exterior, interior, fixtures and fittings, the all-new Picanto speaks to the needs and wants of its customers. Offering cuttingedge safety features and advanced powertrains, the all-new Picanto will delight its drivers and surprise the competition.

Kia has taken a courageous new step with the latest version of its smallest model. The character of the car has been transformed from ‘cute’ and ‘friendly’ into mature and handsome,

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designed to turn heads on the high street, thanks to its good looking proportions and dynamic design language. Picanto in its newest form exudes a bold self-confidence and maturity which is unique in the A-segment. Up front, the face of the Picanto expresses the same assertive vigour and refinement as its bigger brother, the Sportage, and shares with them the same signature ‘tiger nose’ grille.

Picanto’s new interior sets a new benchmark in its class. The sophisticated interior will offer buyers numerous ‘big car’ comfort and convenience features – many of them fitted for the first time on a car in this segment. It will set new class standards for material quality that introduces a ‘premium’ feel offering to this segment. On the safety front, both active and passive safety in the new Picanto has been raised to the next level.

For a limited time period, KIA Nepal is offering the 1.0 Picanto with a 75% buy back value after driving 5 years.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Type: 1.0L MPI Engine Displacement: 998cc Max Power: 68 bhp@ 6200 RPM Max Torque: 94 Nm@ 3500 RPM Boot space (litres): 200

CONTACT Continental Center Dhumbarahi, Kathmandu, Nepal.

Tel: 977 1 4650794 / 4379546 www.kia.com.np AUTOLIFE JANUARY 2017 25

AUTOLIFE PRODUCT WATCH

SUZUKI IGNIS

IS BACK IN A NEW AVATAR

S

The ‘Ignis’ nameplate has made a comeback in the Indian market Showcased at the 13th edition of Auto Expo, the Ignis is based on the iM-4 concept which initially made its debut at 2015 Geneva Motor Show followed by 2015 Tokyo Auto Show. The mini crossover is the third product after Baleno hatchback and S-Cross crossover from Maruti Suzuki India to make its way to the NEXA premium dealership network.

The sophisticated styling of the Ignis is realised with the exterior giving strong impression while combining simple elements such as lines and surfaces, and the interior expressing newness and high-quality image. Features for instance blacked out A and B pillars, neatly chromed front fascia, masculine styling, flared wheel arches, 10-spoke black alloy wheels and projector head lamps enhances its charisma.

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Under the hood, the new Ignis compact crossover will be offered with both petrol as well as diesel options. The petrol version will be powered by a 1.2-litre, inline four-cylinder, DOHC, four valves per head, K-Series engine while the diesel unit will be equipped with tried and tested 1.3-litre DDiS unit. The transmission duties will be carried out by a 5-speed manual and AMT transmission.

Dimensionally, the vehicles measures 3700mm in length, 1595mm in width and 1660mm in height along with wheelbase of 2435mm and ground clearance of 180mm. The Ignis is claimed to be claimed to be lighter, stiffer, safer, and better in fuel efficiency as it is built on Suzuki’s new generation platform that also underpins the Baleno premium hatchback.

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SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Type: VVT (Petrol) / DDiS (Diesel) Displacement (cc): 1197 / 1248 Max. Power Output: 82 bhp @ 6000 RPM / 74 bhp @ 4000 RPM Max. Torque: 113 Nm @ 4200 RPM / 190 Nm @ 2000 RPM Transmission: 5 MT/AMT Dimensions (L/W/H): 3700 mm/ 1690 mm / 1595 mm Wheelbase (mm): 2435 Ground clearance (mm): 180 Fuel Efficiency (km/l): 20.89 / 26.80 Suspension (Front/Rear): McPherson Strut/ Torsion Beam Brakes (Front/Rear): Disc/ Drum Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 35

DESIGN HERITAGE

In every aspect, the exterior of the new Ignis carries on the legacy of traditional Suzuki design elements, while modernizing them at the same time.

THE C-PILLAR SLITS (FRONT COUPE)

The C-pillar slits make the sporty impression of the model stand out. This is inherited from Fronte Coupe, the first Japanese mini sports car sold in Japan.

THE HEADLAMPS PLACED IN THE FRONT GRILLE (FIRST CERVO)

The headlamps placed in the front grille give the car a striking head-on appearance. This is inherited from firstgeneration Cervo, a mini sports car.

BLACK-OUT A/B PILLARS (SWIFT)

The black-out A/B pillars accentuate the exterior and also help tighten up the overall image. This is inherited from previous generation Swift, a car designed to be a world strategic model.

THE CLAMSHELL-SHAPED BONNET AND FENDER GARNISH (VITARA) The clamshell-shaped bonnet and fender garnish are now elements of Suzuki SUV design. This is inherited from the first-generation Vitara.

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AUTOLIFE INTERVIEW

OUR DNA IS WHAT MAKES

EVERY SUBARU A SUBARU

WORDS & PHOTOS : AL TEAM

S

Shinichi Kurokawa, Deputy General Manager, Asia Sales and Marketing Section, Asia Business Department, Subaru Overseas Sales and Marketing Division 2, who was recently in Nepal for a business trip explains the growth drivers for the company’s Nepal business, dealing with competitors, and the competitive advantages of owning a Subaru. Excerpts: HOW DO YOU SEE THE NEPALI AUTOMOBILE MARKET? DO YOU FIND ANYTHING EXCITING OR UNIQUE AS COMPARED WITH OTHER ASIAN MARKETS? Although the Nepali automobile market is not a huge market, it is poised for a gradual leap in the coming years. Regardless of the size of the market, we have a loyal customer base and we are satisfied with it.

WHAT, ACCORDING TO YOU, ARE THE SEGMENTS IN WHICH SUBARU NEEDS TO PENETRATE IN THE NEPALESE MARKET? We are not looking at other segments because we have limited models. We can’t import all models because Subaru is very strict on the quality of fuels and road conditions. Hence, we will cater to the same SUV segment but there will be product upgrades. The XV, which

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WE WILL BE LAUNCHING THE NEWGEN XV IN THE NEPALESE MARKET THIS YEAR facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

is very popular in the Nepalese market, will receive a new upgrade soon. It will be based on the new Impreza. We will be launching the new-gen XV in the Nepalese market this year. We are very confident that this new model will be a success.

WHAT IS YOUR ROADMAP FOR THE NEPALESE MARKET THIS YEAR? We are a niche market. Our intention is not expanding in volume but serving our customers better in terms of aftersales and customer satisfaction. We want our niche customers to love their Subarus and be happy with our services. We also want to make people aware about the technologies introduced

by Subaru and the uniqueness of the brand.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR JOURNEY IN THE NEPALESE MARKET? We have seen a positive and steady increase in the last 10 years. During this period, we have maintained a healthy customer base in spite of limited models. As we move together with Vijay Motors Pvt. Ltd in this journey, we hope our customer base

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will increase further over time.

WHAT MAKES SUBARU STAND OUT FROM THE COMPETITION? Our DNA is what makes every Subaru a Subaru. It’s our constant focus on performance, safety and protecting the retained value of your Subaru that makes Subaru distinct from any other car brand. We have long been highly regarded for our performance technologies. Similarly, we have also made safety an integral part of every vehicle.

LASTLY, WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF OWNING A SUBARU AS COMPARED WITH OTHER JAPANESE MANUFACTURERS? First and foremost, it’s important to know what makes a Subaru a Subaru and how the other brands stack up. The Subaru boxer engine provides a smooth ride with long lasting dependability. It provides the perfect combination of balance, power and efficiency as compared to our competitors. Secondly, Subaru’s are equipped with a broad range of safety features and systems. We have a thorough array of active and passive safety features to protect

you and your family. These are the reasons why Subaru owners are so loyal and passionate about their cars and why Subaru is the safest choice for you and your family.

IT’S OUR CONSTANT FOCUS ON PERFORMANCE, SAFETY AND PROTECTING THE RETAINED VALUE OF YOUR SUBARU THAT MAKES SUBARU DISTINCT FROM ANY OTHER CAR BRAND

AUTOLIFE JANUARY 2017 29

INCREDIBLE

OFFER

..............................

.............

.............

..............................

We will buy back at 75% value after driving 5 years*

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Please visit your nearest KIA Showroom: Gairidhara: 9851094630 / 9841839343 / 9841346060, Dhumbarahi: 9851092308 / 9851088970 / 9808184522 , Tinkune: 9851136273 / 9851143738, Narayanghat: 9851114726 , Butwal: 9857038949 / 9857059568, Birtamod: 9842713221 / 9842716688 Itahari: 9842912523, Pokhara: 9846031078 / 9846021961 facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

STARTING FROM

Rs 24.99 LAKH

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AUTOLIFE JANUARY 2017 31

* Condition Apply

ORIGINAL KOREAN CARS IMPORTED DIRECTLY FROM KOREA WITH IMMEDIATE DELIVERY OFFER VALID UNTIL 10TH FALGUN 2073

AUTOLIFE FEATURE

WHAT’S NEW AND WHAT TO EXPECT IN 2017 The Indian automobile industry is looking for an action-packed year ahead with plenty of launches scheduled across all segments. Although not all the automakers have spilled details on what they’re bringing next year, we thought we’d compile a list of some of the cars and motorcycles we’re looking forward to in the year ahead.

TATA HEXA

The Tata Hexa is now launched in India. The SUV is built on Tata’s new design philosophy, ‘Impact’, which was first used in Tiago hatchback and has been applauded for its refreshing appeal. The Hexa is loaded with the best-of-features, highlights of which include projector headlamps, 19-inch alloy wheels, LED taillamps, and a 10-speaker JBL audio system. It gets the 2.2-litre Varicor diesel engine with either 150PS/320Nm or 156PS/400Nm on tap. While the former tune is available with a 5-speed manual, the latter gets a 6-speed manual as well as a 6-speed automatic. On the safety front, it will get both active and passive safety features.

The Hexa also gets driving modes where you can choose between Comfort, Dynamic and Rough Road modes or just leave it in Auto for it to choose the optimum option.

SUZUKI IGNIS

Branded as “India’s First Premium Urban Compact vehicle for the Millennials” by Maruti Suzuki India Limited, the recently launched Ignis combines unconventional design, seamless smartphone experience with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, technological supremacy with AGS on petrol and diesel, advanced safety features as standard and personalization options, making it unique in the segment.

Powering the Ignis is the tried and tested 1.2 litre K-Series petrol engine which makes 82 bhp at 6000 rpm and 113 Nm of torque at 4200 rpm, and a 1.3 litre DDiS motor tuned to produce 74 bhp at 4000 rpm and max torque of 190 Nm at 2000 rpm. Transmission duties are taken care by a 5-speed manual or AMT transmission. The Ignis comes equipped with dual airbags, seatbelts with pre-tensioner force limiter (PTFL) and ABS with EBD as standard fitments. Ignis is compliant for pedestrian safety, side-impact, and offset crash regulations ahead of regulation timeline.

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TATA KITE 5

The upcoming Kite 5 is the Tiago’s twin compact sedan. This is the second offering from Tata in the competitive compact sedan segment as it already offers Zest. Resembling the hatchback, KITE 5 is expected to get identical exteriors (well almost) except for the additional boot. Power is expected to be delivered by a 1.2 litre, three cylinder, Revotron petrol engine developing 85PS along with 114Nm. Diesel variants will reportedly house a 1.0 litre, three cylinder, motor generating 70PS of power and 140Nm of torque.

CHEVROLET BEAT ACTIVE Though, there is no official confirmation about the launch timeline of the Beat Crossover, the Chevrolet Beat Activ might see a release sometime soon in the Indian market. Based on the new Chevrolet Beat hatchback, the Beat Activ crossover borrows some of its design elements and features from the hatchback sibling. The Activ will feature a crossover stance with black cladding all around the skirts of the car, new front and back bumpers and redesigned roof rails. The crossover is expected to come with an updated feature list with automatic climate control and Bluetoothenabled music system with audio streaming.

Though the specifications and technical details are still under the wrap, the crossover is likely to carry the Beat’s 1.2-litre SMARTECH petrol and a 1.0-litre SMARTECH diesel powertrain.

HONDA WR-V:

The Honda WR-V is a crossover-hatchback based on the Jazz, and will come to the Indian market this year. With the WR-V’s unique front and rear styling, and rugged exterior bits, Honda aims to take its crossover-hatchback game ahead. Under the hood, the WR-V for India will get the same engine and gearbox options as the standard car. These include the 90hp 1.2-litre, i-VTEC petrol engine, borrowed from the Brio, and the 100hp 1.5-litre Earth Dreams i-DTEC diesel engine like on the City and the Mobilio. Transmission options include a five-speed manual and a CVT gearbox for the petrol motor; the diesel unit is mated to a six-speed manual.

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RENAULT KAPTUR

The Renault Kaptur is the next generation compact SUV from the Renault stable. The initial Renault Kaptur images indicate it as the upgraded version of the Renault Captur compact SUV that is on sale in the European market. The Kaptur does take design cues from the similarly sized Captur but has been developed for the emerging markets like South America and Asia. Renault Kaptur is expected to retain the 5-speed manual transmission in the petrol version and the 6-speed manual transmission system in the diesel version.

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SUZUKI SWIFT

The all-new 2017 Suzuki Swift, Suzuki’s global flagship compact car with innovative styling and high driving performance, has been introduced in the Japanese market. The model for overseas markets including India will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2017. The Swift is Suzuki’s flagship compact car sold more than 5.3 million units worldwide since its launch in 2004* as a world strategic model.

The exterior features distinctive and sporty styling, and both superb driving performance and low-fuel consumption

achieved through an excellent handling inherited and further enhanced from its predecessor, the SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) mild hybrid system, a fuel efficient 1.2-litre DUALJET engine with high thermal efficiency, and light and rigid new-generation platform “HEARTECT”. The RS variant will be powered by 1.0L Boosterjet directinjection turbo engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Inside, the new 2017 Swift features all-new dashboard, touchscreen infotainment system, twin-pod instrument cluster, multi-function three spoke flat-bottomed steering

wheel and new upholstery. It will also come equipped with a host of comfort and convenience feature likes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth AUX and USB connectivity and Adaptive Cruise Control, etc.

Fulfilling safety equipment and driving support functions through such equipment, the 2017 Swift has been largely evolved in all aspects. Apart from various active and passive safety features, the new-gen Swift also gets an optional “Safety Package” which includes the Dual Sensor Brake Support (DSBS) collision-mitigating system.

TATA NEXON

Tata Nexon will soon join the popular 4-m sub-compact SUV bandwagon. The production version of the Nexon will retained most of the styling cues from its prototype which was showcased at last year’s Indian Auto Expo. Based on Tata Motor’s new “IMPACT Design” philosophy, the Tata Nexon will be positioned below the Safari Storme. Featuring unique styling, the compact SUV has been conceptualised and designed

by Tata Motors’ three design studios (Pune, UK and Italy). In fact, Land Rover has also helped Tata in the development of this compact SUV. The car will carry a futuristic and stylish design and will come blessed with several comfort and convenience features. High end safety features are also going to be a highlight of this SUV. It would be available in both petrol and diesel versions. The car would be powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol Revotron petrol engine that has the ability to emit 110 bhp of power and 1170Nm of peak torque. Diesel version of the car is also expected with 1.3-litre Quadrajet engine sourced from Fiat. The engine is likely to be matched with a five speed transmission.

NEW HONDA CITY:

New Honda City 2017 has finally gone on sale in Thailand. For 2017, the saloon receives multiple cosmetic upgrades along with a new Cosmic Blue shade. Design and styling of the new Honda City in-lines with Honda’s new‘Exciting H Design’ Philosophy. Major design changes have made on the fascia of the car. The sedan gets a new and bolder grille, wider airdam, revised LED headlamps with LED DRLs, re-designed bumper with 3-part intake and new fog lamp enclosures. There is a prominent chrome strip that runs across the grille and runs over the headlamps.

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The Thailand-spec new Honda City gets an all-black interior with gun metal trim on the dashboard, bright silver accents and gloss black garnish on the centre console. What further enhance its comfort and convenience level are a 6.8-inch touchscreen audio system, LED cabin lights, tilt and telescopic steering adjustment, 60:40 split folding rear seats, speedsensing auto door lock, cruise control and a new reverse parking camera.

The saloon will continue to come with the same – a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder i-DTEC diesel and a 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engines.

Transmission options, too, will remain unchanged – i.e. 5-speed manual and CVT.

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BMW G310R AND G310 GS:

Ending all speculations, the German motorcycle giant has officially confirmed that the new entry-level G series models will be making their way to India in 2017.BMW Motorrad has said that the new G 310 R will be launched in India in Spring 2017 (March-May period) while the G 310 GS adventure tourer will arrive in the second half of 2017.

Both these models will draw power from the 313cc water-cooled, single-cylinder Euro4 compliant engine which is tuned to produce 34bhp of power at 9500rpm and 28Nm of torque at 7500rpm, while paired to a 6-speed gearbox.

TVS AKULA 310

Previewed as a concept at the 2016 Delhi Auto Expo, the TVS Akula is now on its final stage of testing. If reports are to be believed, the Akula could be launched in India

by March 2017.

The Akula has been designed with inputs from the company’s factory race drivers under the umbrella of TVS Motor Company and BMW Motorrad association.

The company says that the TVS Akula 310 concept racer is a tribute to TVS Racing’s 33 years of dominant race heritage. While most of the styling cues will be retained, the company could instead use light-weight aluminium to cut down on the pricing.

REPRESENTATIONAL IMAGE

The new TVS Akula 310 will be powered by an all new 313cc engine and this will be shared with the upcoming BMW G310 R. Power will be transmitted to the rear wheels via a 6-speed gearbox.

BENELLI TRK 502:

Expected to be one of the more affordable adventure tourers, the Benelli TRK 502 first made its debut at the 2015 EICMA Motorcycle Show. The Benelli TRK 502 comes with an in-line twin-cylinder, 4-stroke, 4-valves per cylinder, 499.6cc engine that belts out 47.6 HP of power and 45 Nm of torque. The engine comes with a wet sump and it has a 4-litre oil capacity. Fuel is electronically injected through 3 throttle bodies and the exhaust system comes with a catalytic converter and oxygen sensor. The 502 comes with a wet clutch and the engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.

The bike comes with a steel tube frame. The front suspension has a 50 mm upside-down fork and the stroke is 150 mm. The rear suspension comes with a swingarm and a centre shock absorber and it has a stroke of 144 mm. The Benelli TRK 502 comes with ABS and has 320 mm and 260 mm discs at the front and rear respectively.

Benelli offers 17-inch wheels on the TRK 502 but one can also opt for 19-inch wheels which are optional.

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YAMAHA FZ250

Yamaha India is reportedly working on a new performance motorcycle which will be launched this month. Though, the bikemaker hasn’t yet revealed the name and details of the bike, we expect the bike to be the FZ250. As per reports, the underpinnings of the new Yamaha FZ250 will be shared with the Fazer 250 that is currently sold in the Brazilian market. The motor is also shared and the 249cc, oil-cooled, single-cylinder, fuel-injected mill delivers 20.7PS of max power and 20.4Nm of peak torque. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a 5-speed gearbox. Suspension duties will be handled by telescopic forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear.

REPRESENTATIONAL IMAGE

2017 KTM 390 AND 200 DUKE:

The new KTM 390 Duke gets new styling and bodywork inspired by the KTM 1290 Super Duke R with some new features added as well. It sports a new split all-LED headlight with daytime running lights, full-digital colour TFT display and revised front fender.

The fuel tank design is new too, with new tank extensions and gets a capacity upgrade at 13.4 litres.

Additionally, the new KTM 390 Duke gets a ride-by-wire system, standard dual-channel Bosch ABS system and an upgraded front disc. The rear subframe is new as well, sporting a redesigned tail section and a side-mounted exhaust.

Like the new 390 Duke, the new 200 Duke will share most of its styling cues from the larger sibling. However, it misses out on the split headlamps, TFT display instrument cluster and Ride by Wire throttle system.

It is powered by a 199.5cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, DOHC engine that produces 26hp of power which is slightly better than the current 200 Duke. The mill is mated to a 6-speed transmission.

BENELLI BN302R:

The Benelli BN 302R is based on the TNT 300, essentially a full-faired version of the 300cc naked and gets a new, updated and lighter chassis as well. In terms of looks, the front is radically different from the TNT 300, getting a full fairing and the split headlamp, although the rear is quite similar to its naked sibling.

The 300cc, liquid-cooled, parallel twin engine makes 35bhp of power at 12,000rpm and 27Nm of torque at 9,000rpm. Transmission is taken care of by a six-speed gearbox and the bike comes with a USD fork at the front and a rear monoshock.

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AUTOLIFE TEST RIDE

YADEA EM-136 STYLISH YET ECOFRIENDLY WORDS & PHOTOS : AL TEAM

Are you one of those people who feel that Electric scooters are not stylish enough? If so, meet the Yadea EM-136 - a stylish scooter developed

by Yadea, the largest manufacturer of EV’s (electric vehicles) in China.

For those style-conscious buyers who advocate environmental activism, but still want a scooter to scoot around on, the EM136 can be Yadea’s answer.

Let’s see how this electric scoot stacks up.

N

W O R D S

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A N D

P H O T O S

:

A L

T E A M

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THE DESIGN IS A REFRESHING CHANGE WHEN COMPARED TO OTHER AVAILABLE ELECTRIC SCOOTERS IN THE MARKET

STYLING

The Yadea YD- EM136 immediately grabs your attention with its retro-chic design. It is quite the looker on the street with its eye-catching styling. The front apron of the EM136 is truly stylish with a big oval shaped headlamp embellished in a chrome setup.

The turn indicators are put together on the top sides of the front apron. The speedometer cluster which is mounted on the handlebar provides the scooter a chic appearance while providing you the basics in an easy to view at-a-glance pod that also integrates well into the design of the scooter. The round mirrors are integrated well in the handlebar. Switchgear quality is good and what looks like a thumb starter actually doubles up as a reverse gear button…incase you want to go backwards.

The side profile is a curvaceous

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affair with a ‘3D’ emblem of the ‘Yadea’ along mounted on both the sides. The curvy side profile flows all the way back to the Y-shaped tail lights giving the rear profile an aestheticallypleasing appeal. The EM 136 does match other scooters in terms of fit and finish.

MOTOR AND PERFORMANCE

A 1200W 60V20Ah lead-acid battery pack accounts for most of the EM136’s 115kg weight. It takes around 5-6 hours to charge normally at home in an input voltage of 100V-250V. Range is around 50 km, depending on how hard you ride. Top speed is rated at 45km/h.

No one will call the EM136 “powerful” or “quick”, but the scooter does accelerate swiftly.

In no time you forget you’re riding an electric scooter.

Twist the throttle towards you (conventional operation) and the bike goes forward. However, the power delivery is short-lived with a constant urge to switch between the three riding gears.

Also, prepare yourself for a jerky ride experience especially when accelerating from a halt.

This constant jerk is strangely redundant.

just about anyone to ride.

Underneath the wide seat is an under-seat storage than can accommodate a few things and a USB plug-in to charge your phone.

Suspension duties are carried out by spring loaded hydraulic one at both ends. The front disc brake and rear drum brake could have been more powerful.

The EM136 won’t go fast like other scooters. Even if you miss out on the fun provided by conventional scooters, you’ll still admire the scooter for its agility especially when nipping in and out of traffic.

However, on a steep climb, don’t expect too much from the motor.

Owning an electric scooter may be a good way to save some dough since it’s also capable of all kinds of two-wheel motorized tasks.

It’s definitely an eco-friendly statement to make, not just cheap transportation. Potential buyers looking to make a style statement with an electric scooter now have an added option without ripping a hole through their wallet but questions about performance and long-term reliability abound.

RIDE & ERGONOMICS

The EM136 is similar to most conventional petrol scooters in control and riding with the exception of a slightly heavier weight. However, it’s easy to ride and handles superbly. The low seat height makes the scooter easy for

VERDICT

SPECIFICATIONS

OWNING AN ELECTRIC SCOOTER MAY BE A GOOD WAY TO SAVE SOME DOUGH SINCE IT’S ALSO CAPABLE OF ALL KINDS OF TWOWHEEL MOTORIZED TASKS. facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

Battery Concept: Lead-Acid Battery Capacity: 60V20Ah Charging time: 5-6 Hour Motor Rated: 1200w Input Voltage: 100V-250V Max.Speed: 45 km/h Distance Range: 50 km Weight: 115kg Climbing Capacity: >13 degrees Dimensions (L/W/H): 1700 mm/430mm/1040 mm Brake: Front-Disc/Rear-Drum PRICE:

CONTACT

Tunchhe Trans Himalayan Trading Concern Putalisadak, Kathmandu 01-4263300, 4220004

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AUTOLIFE INTERVIEW

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IN AN EMERGING MARKET LIKE NEPAL, THERE ARE TONS OF OPPORTUNITIES TO GROW RAVI CHAWLA, MD- GULF LUBRICANTS INDIA LTD. WORDS & PHOTOS : AL TEAM

Ravi Chawla, the managing director of Gulf Oil Lubricants India Ltd, was recently in Nepal, along with former Manchester United footballer Quinton Fortune, for the launch of three synthetic lubricants co-branded with Manchester United. In an interview with Autolife Nepal, he revealed how the company is accelerating its sales push in the Nepali market and benefits of partnership with Manchester United. Excerpts:

HOW IMPORTANT IS THE NEPALI MARKET FOR GULF LUBRICANTS GLOBALLY? Gulf Lubricants has been present in the Nepali market for over 30 years now. Though the market may not be high in terms of volume, there are tons of opportunities to grow.

Regardless of the Nepali market size, our association with Nepal Lube Oil Limited has been more than fruitful.

We are ver y happy to say that Nepal Lube Oil Ltd. has progressed and reached a top position in this market.

WHAT IS YOUR MARKET SHARE IN THE LUBRICANT SEGMENT IN THE NEPALESE MARKET? Our market share is growing well as we are present across the entire segment. We are very close to about 11-12% share. This is another achievement of Nepal Lube Oil Ltd. If you look at the Nepalese market, there is a positive trend in terms of automobile ownership. The infrastructures are also coming up.

Hence, we believe, both of these will contribute to the growth of overall economy and lubricant demand.

DO YOU CATER TO THE MOTORCYCLE SEGMENT AS WELL? Yes, we are addressing the motorcycle segment too. For this segment, we have a complete range in terms of mineral based and semi synthetic.

WHICH SPECIFIC SEGMENT GIVES THE MAXIMUM VOLUME IN TERMS OF SALES? Like most countries, diesel engine oil provides us the highest volume.

Besides, we are also looking to build a commendable share in tractors and motorcycles.

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WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS STRATEGY FOR THE PASSENGER AND COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SEGMENT IN NEPAL? In Nepal, the strategy is obviously to distribute the product in retail channel and make the product available across the retail channel which we are doing very effectively. Similarly, we are also distributing our products to OEM dealership. In addition, we have OEM tieups in the commercial vehicle segment.

THIS PARTNERSHIP WILL ENABLE US TO ENGAGE WITH MANCHESTER UNITED’S WORLDWIDE FAMILY OF FANS

Furthermore, we have also focused our strategies in the rural areas.

For passenger vehicle segment, we have Gulf branded garages.

NEPAL OFFERS A TOUGH TERRAIN WITH VARYING TEMPERATURE AS COMPARED WITH OTHER COUNTRIES. DOES THAT MEAN THAT THE OIL FOR NEPAL IS DIFFERENT? No, the oil for Nepal is not different.

Since we are a global brand, our products are designed to meet the temperature of the whole world.

Since the operating conditions differ among various terrains, we do have tailored products for some markets.

For example- the commercial oil for heavy-duty trucks in Asia and Europe is different. In Asia, the viscosity is slightly thicker but in Europe the viscosity will be thinner. To conclude, our products are able to adapt to temperatures that go into the negatives as well as higher temperatures.

HOW DO GULF PRODUCTS DIFFER FROM THE COMPETITION? We use superior base oil and additives that make the quality of our products automatically better. In terms of customized products for OEMs, we are able to give special formulation which provides special features. For example - if a particular OEM’s engine requires a superior quality oil to clean itself then the detergency and other things are increased in the additive technology. In emerging markets like Nepal where there are lots of changes in terms of emissions and standards, we already have the products available.

LASTLY, HOW DO YOU SEE THE ASSOCIATION WITH MANCHESTER UNITED? Gulf as a brand has been associated with motorsports sponsorships since the 1940s. For instance, we were associated with brands like McLaren, Porsche, Audi and Aston martin through Gulf Racing. Similarly, we are also associated with some of the top manufacturers like BMW Milwaukee and Aprilia in superbike racing.

Now speaking about this new tie-up, we are associated with Manchester United as a global lubricant oil and fuel retail partner. This partnership will enable us to engage with Manchester United’s worldwide family of fans, including its 325 million followers in Asia, which Gulf sees as a major area of focus, having a strong presence in rapidly developing-countries like India, China, the Middle East, Indonesia and Nepal.

Our brand value of ‘Quality, Endurance and Passion’ echoes with the brand value of Manchester United. Through this partnership, we will also further our commitment to reach the fans of Manchester United in Nepal.

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AUTOLIFE TEST DRIVE

KIA SOUL EV

FULLY CHARGED WORDS & PHOTOS : AL TEAM

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Perception and its effects on the human mind have a peculiar relationship. Take for instance the Kia Soul.

The unorthodox and offbeat styling of the Kia Soul was distinctive in the crossover segment. In what we saw as a bold move, it stepped away from the conventional designs sported by most other crossovers and brought in a fresh perspective into the segment. However, it was a design so fresh it teetered on the verge of being ahead of its time or, as some might argue, in a totally different time dimension altogether. And we agree, it might have been a little too out of the box to be considered instant eye candy.

Not because it was an eye sore, but more because of its unique styling that made it an acquired taste.

EXTERIOR

The Kia Soul EV retains a lot of design elements from the regular Kia Soul, so much so that it might be difficult for many to differentiate them from each other if it weren’t for the closed out grille and eco-electric badge. The Kia Soul EV maintains the individualistic personality that the designers integrated into the Soul.

IT WAS A DESIGN SO FRESH IT TEETERED ON THE VERGE OF BEING AHEAD OF ITS TIME

Replacing the small chrome lined grille is a solid plate that opens up and reveals an electric input port, which is flanked by blue accented projector beam headlights. They also get auto light control that turns the headlights on or off as required to further support the case of energy conservation.

Because there is no engine, the front end also loses the mesh grille in the bottom bumper aiding the aerodynabics. The power-folding side mirrors with integrated LED turn signal indicators are very

Now, rip out the fossil fuel churning engine and replace it with an electric motor , slap an ‘Eco Electric’ badge on it and all the quirkiness falls into place. The boxy design with dropped rooflines, straight back end and futuristic grille mix well to make a concoction that fits into the futuristic electric vehicle persona. And to many petrol heads reluctant to jump onto the eco-friendly bandwagon, it serves as decent motivation; enough to tempt us into getting behind the wheels and taking it for a spin. facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

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THERE IS PLENTY OF LEGROOM AND HEADROOM FOR BOTH FRONT AND REAR PASSENGERS.

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cohesively integrated into the boxy design of the Soul.

It has a dropped roofline which gives the Soul the smallest hint of a JEEP-ish appearance. The Soul has a straight back look with a number of design features integrated into it. Brake lights and indicators are large and placed on either edges of the rear between which is a singular rear privacy glass pane.

INTERIOR

Most electric vehicles we’ve tested haven’t really scored high marks when it comes to space and comfort. To be honest, ingress and egress for the larger than average person can be a bit of an ordeal to perform in the cramped cabins.

In contrast, the Kia Soul EV has plenty of space and storage; enough to seat 4 facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

grown passengers. There is plenty of legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers.

Once inside, you will notice that it has a light gray interior, much of which is made from recycled materials. Kia have taken environmental consciousness very seriously and, therefore, nineteen parts of its total interior mass are composed of bio-based materials.

It also gets distinctive and futuristic instrumentation. The left dial features a charge/discharge meter along with a “fuel” gauge that indicates the battery’s state of charge. In the middle of the display is the all-important distance to empty. The right dial shows the speedometer and how much energy is being consumed.

Kia has accommodated the 27 kWh lithium-ion batteries, which adds 282 kilograms to the kerb weight of the regular Soul, in the middle of the car underneath the floor so that it does not eat up the space.

PERFORMANCE

With the fossil fuel powered mill chucked out, an electric motor with single speed transmission takes its place. The electric motor puts out 109 horsepower and 210 lb.-ft. of torque, which propels the EV to 100km/h in 11.4 second. And because it is an electric motor, you reach peak torque the instance the wheels turn, which means the EV bolts off the line.

And once it gets rolling, the performance doesn’t stray too far off from its fuelpowered counterpart.

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There are four driving modes: Drive and Brake that can both be used with the eco setting on. Turning on the brake and eco mode on maximizes the driving range and transforms the Soul EV into a one-pedal drive. Brake ramps up the regenerative braking, which allows the driver to control vehicle speed using the accelerator pedal alone. Handling is crisp and responsive and the suspension does a good job of soaking up road irregularities and controlling unwanted body motion. Also, every time you decelerate or go downhill, the regenerative braking system recovers kinetic energy that would otherwise be lost and that energy goes straight to recharging the battery.

VERDICT

Electric vehicles could very well be the next step towards the future of automobiles, but we’ve never really been too keen about it. Don’t get us wrong, moving around with a conscience sans of the guilt of contributing to global warming is an enticing prospect; however, the mess of squeezing into an embarrassingly tiny car that struggles to keep pace with a peppy scooter on the road only to appear

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environmentally conscious is equally uninviting.

Kia managed to turn that on its head with their Soul EV. They haven’t gone out of their way to announce to the world that they’ve come up with a futuristic, otherworldly contraption that begs for attention. The Soul EV, apart from a few tweaks and changes, retains the appearance of the fuel powered Soul. And because it was already a quirky, futuristic design, the appearance finally fit the persona of its electric soul. This meant that we didn’t have to look like pretentious, attention seeking tree huggers but could still do our part for the environment.

CHARGING DOCK

In addition, we didn’t have to feel like we were driving something less than par. Eco friendly, good looking, and able to hold its own on the road.

We never thought we would be saying something like this about an electric vehicle, but this one is off the charts. It actually has the competence to go head to head with fuel powered alternatives as an option for potential buyers. Good going Kia.

ECO FRIENDLY, GOOD LOOKING, AND ABLE TO HOLD ITS OWN ON THE ROAD.

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SPECIFICATIONS Electric Motor – Max Power Output: 109 bhp Max Torque: 285 Nm Battery Type: Lithium-ion polymer Battery Capacity: 27 kWh Performance – Power: 120 bhp Max. Speed – 145 kph Drive range per charge (km): 212 Dimensions (L/W/H): 4140 mm/ 1800 mm / 1593 mm Wheelbase (mm): 2570 PRICE: Rs 56,00,000 – Rs 58,00,000

CONTACT: Continental Associates Pvt.Ltd Dhumbarahi, Kathmandu Tel: 01- 4650794 / 44015653 facebook.com/KIAMotorsNepal facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

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AUTOLIFE FEATURE

THE RELIABLE ALTERNATIVES THE PLAN B YOU MIGHT WANT TO CONSIDER

ELECTRIC SKATEBOARDS For Nepal, skateboards are generally a new thing. They are synonymous to the young crowd who hang by the Durbar Squares pulling off tricks on the temple steps. However, what most don’t realize is that it’s a really convenient mode of transportation. Yes, there is learning curve to it and there are various types of boards one can skate on, but if you can get used to it, you’re golden. Now, add a electric motor to it, you’re platinum. May we also add, it’s the most portable ride you can get.

BOOSTED BOARDS DUAL+ V2

Boosted is a pioneer when it comes to electric skateboards, so they do know a thing or two about cruising efficiency. With their new generation line out, it surely is better than the last. The standard battery is capable of getting you 6-7 miles on a full charge, and is user swappable. The battery charges up to 85% within 30 minutes. The board is made up of bamboo and fiberglass for durability and shock absorption. Wheels are larger than last time, they’re 80mm and the engine that powers them is 2000W. To put that into perspective, an elite Tour de France rider puts in 500W of energy to push up mountains. ($1,499)

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It’s only stating the obvious that the world is not as it used to be.

Only 31% of the total land surface is covered by forests, and out of that rainforests just cover 3% of the total land. Out of that too, about 100 acres are being cut down by the minute. To any sane person, this is an alarming fact because about 20% of the oxygen, that thing we breathe in to literally exist, are produced by rainforests. No rainforests equals no life. These forests are being cleared out for the resources, mainly petroleum. Now, in today’s world, petroleum is liquid gold. Economies are based around oil and one big reason is because modern life is depended on machines. Petroleum is consumed from day to night, and though we may use it to get from point A to point B, it’s burning a hole into our pockets as well as the ozone layer.

Preserving the environment is important. The ozone layer is depleting and the greenhouse effect is rising, and slowly, we all are dying.

If things were to go as they are now, it won’t be long before the radiations from the sun breaches in and kills us all from skin cancer; or the polar caps will melt causing a global flood and we’ll all be fish food. If you have hydrophobia and don’t want cancer, you should make steps towards healthier alternatives; and what better option other than electricity.

Electric vehicles have been around for awhile now, since 1827 when a Slovak-Hungarian priest named Anyos Jedlik created the first crude yet viable electric motor which he used to power a tiny car. Now, we won’t bore you with the history, but what you need to know that electric vehicles do a lot of good. For one, they don’t release any pollution, which is the main concern. Apart from that, they produce lesser noise, engines are able to achieve 90% of energy conversion efficiency, and if one were to drive from Los Angeles to New York with an electric car, it would just cost $56 while it would cost $336 on gasoline; we’ll let you convert the currency and see the difference. So if you have been convinced that electric vehicles are for you, here are a few suggestions that may further stretch your intrigue. facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

I used to drive a Kia Pride before the Punto Pure. I chose the Punto Pure because of its Italian roots.

The design is different as compared to other cars. It has an attractive look and it is quite noticeable on the street.

The cabin-room is also sufficient. It is spacious and above average as compared to other Indian cars at similar price range.

Mr. Sunil Thapa

HYDROPOWER DESIGNER INSIGHT ENGINEERING CONSULT PVT. LTD

The suspension system soaks up the bumps pretty well. The Punto Pure has sufficient ground clearance to tackle our roads. I have not yet taken the Punto Pure for long drives but I have taken the car to quite a few off-road sections. I found the performance and suspension to be decent.

Everything aside, I am a little disappointed with the service-centre professional. They seem to have unnoticed some issues with my car.

I hope they will look into this matter more seriously next time. To conclude, I would definitely recommend the Punto Pure to anyone looking to buy a new hatchback.

CONTACT Life Automobile Garidihara,Kathmandu PHONE: 01-4004644, 014004645

SPECIFICATION Engine Type: 1.2L Displacement: 1172 cc Max. Power: 68 PS @ 6000 RPM Max. Torque: 96 NM @ 2500 RPM Transmission: 5 Speed Manual Fuel Tank Capacity: 45 litres facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

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ALTERNATIVE ALTERNATIVE The Boosted Board Dual+ V2’s price might be as steep as the inclines it can scale, so a good option is the Acton Blink Board, which is just $399. Yes, the price is still high but look at the competition. Most electric boards cost no less than a grand. The board itself is not a longboard, it a traditional size, so more portability. On a full charge, it’ll get you 6.1 miles at a top speed of 15.5 mph and it takes 2 hours to get a full charge (which might be the only draw back).

ELECTRIC BICYCLES Bicycles are already a convenient means of travelling in Nepal. It’s probably the best when the fuel prices hike up or like those post-earthquake embargo/ apocalyps times. Whatever it may be, bikes are great for the pocket and environment. When you put an electric motor into the works, what you get is the best of both world. If you know how to ride a motorcycle and ride one often, e-bikes should be a refreshing breeze.

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ALTERNATIVE ALTERNATIVE If you coughed at the price of the Bomber, you’re not alone. Now, it is justifiable for it to cost that much because it’s a performance machine. However, most of us just want something to get us from A to B and the road between those points don’t always have a mountain to scale. Karmic Koben S seems like the next best thing. Usually, the typical e-bike is bulky, heavy and has a huge battery in the middle of the frame (like the Bomber) that seem to generate a lot of stares rather than power. Koben on the other hand has a traditional frame, with a slim battery. As the inventor of it puts it, “It’s a bike, but a better bike and it’s better because it has the battery.”

The battery is, get this, recyclable. Even Tesla doesn’t have that. The motor puts out 350W, which is seven times more than an average person does on a bike, and goes up to 30mph.

It’s an investment of $2,799, a lot more affordable than any e-bike in market actually.

STEALTH BOMBER B-52

In the world of e-bikes, Stealth is the Ducati (don’t quote us on that). B-52’s not only their, but a benchmark for most e-bikes out there because the performance is just top notch. If satan was a bike, he’d be this bike because it’s a beast with an electric heart that puts out 5.2kW. The batteries are replaceable, takes just 2 hours to charge and takes you up to 80km. Add “per hour” at the end of that distance because that’s how fast this animal can go.

We can’t come up with more adjectives other than “powerful” and “premium” for the suspension, brakes, or the whole bike for that matter, because it’s that good. If you’re concerned about the capabilities of it, it can do burnouts. ($10,800)

ELECTRIC SCOOTERS The Nepalese market adores scooters. They are easy to ride, making it ideal for almost everyone. In all respects, they’re pretty much the best option for city commutes. However, the factor that brings these convenient two-wheelers is due to the fuel and it’s dynamic price. Fortunately, the good people who put their minds together for the betterment of the world have come up with a solution, electric scooters.

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ALTERNATIVE ALTERNATIVE When you saw the price, two things must have run through your mind. One, “why don’t they just say 3000?”; and two, “is it worth it?” It is. But the more important question is, are you ready to pay the amount or not? It surely would not be the first thing most of us would buy if we had three thousand dollars. So the next best thing is the Gigabyke Groove. Now, we don’t know what to call it actually, because it has pedals but looks like a scooter. Whatever it is, it is a marvel.

It’s a city commuter that travels at 20 miles per hour and on a single full charge of it’s 14Ah battery you can get 35 miles. It is not a speedster in any regards but it gets you from A to B and is essentially the focus of this $1,400 scooter/bike/moped/beauty.

MAHINDRA GENZE 2.0

We want to call this the “commuter’s scooter” just because of that rear compartment. Mahindra has been around for a long time and their products have been of exceptional quality and the GenZe 2.0 is one of them. The scooter is powered by a 1.6kWh lithium ion battery which can be charged in any 110v outlet and takes 3.5 hours to get a full charge. The battery offers a range of 30 miles and the machine reaches a speed of 30 miles per hour. The highlight of the scooter probably is the 7 inch touch screen control center; it tracks your speed, range, battery percentage, and enables the rider to customize the ride experience; easy, economy, and sport. But really, the main point is the zero emission. ($2,999)

ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLES Like scooters, motorbikes are the go-to for us Nepalese. They’re easy to maneuver, can fit in almost all gallies, and riding it alone has that sense of individuality that can only be derived from the sensation of wind on the face. Motorcycles are great. And what makes it better is the option to dodge the woes of petrol just like one would dodge the traffic. Electric motorcycles seem to have a stigma around them for being underpowered, or just being concept projects. However, they are much more in the contemporary times and we see them as the answer to minimizing pollution since we Nepalese are very fond of them.

KTM FREERIDE E-XC

It’s almost as if KTM is synonymous to the cool dudes in Nepal, and for good reasons. For one, they make powerful and dependable machines; and two, they look pretty darn epic.

The E-XC is an electric dirt bike that gets the job done. The motor delivers 16 kW of power and is water cooled. The battery is a swappable 360 lithium ion which is enough to go on for an hour of rough riding and can be fully charged in 80 minutes.

To track everything, the display is as simple as can be, nothing fancy; just the speed, battery status and the three power modes. Just the things you need. Being a dirt bike, it just weighs 110kg so you can literally fly with this. Just watch the demo videos of this machines and you should be able to get the idea of what it’s capable of. (€ 11.295)

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Owner’s Review I had been eying the Skoda Rapid for quite some time. I am normally acquainted with celebrities and Skoda rapid has quite a reputation among some of them. I chose it because my friend Indira Joshi recommended it to me, I knew she had a Skoda Rapid and I liked it very much. Also, I find it very luxurious. The Skoda is a European brand and whoever owns it always has nice things to say about it. Since it was my first car, I did a lot of research before getting the Rapid.

The sedan is very comfortable. Both the interior and exterior aspect is appealing. Yes, it is a bit expensive but the best aspect of the sedan is what makes the Rapid worthy of the cost. Apart from the sedan, I really like the service of Skoda.

I recently went to Pokhara, with my family. I was really impressed with the performance. The Rapid is an excellent performer excelling in both cruising and comfort parameters.

Shubash Pradhan

Chairman- Celebrity Management

Till date I haven’t taken any after sales service because the car is still very new and it hasn’t run that long. But I think the after sales service is up to mark as well after judging from the service I got at the showroom.

I have recommended the Rapid to many of my friends as well. The Rapid represents class and luxury and it is the best option to choose from the current pool of sedans available in the Nepalese market.

Skoda Rapid SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Type: TDI in-line, 16V DOHC, turbocharged engine Displacement: 1498cc Max. Power: 104BHP @ 4400RPM Max. Torque: 250NM @ 1500RPM Transmission: 5-speed manual Tank Capacity: 55 litres CONTACT: ŠKODA M.A.W., Thapathali, Ktm Dial: 01-4216835 Fax: 01-4266105 Email: skoda@mawnepal.com

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ALTERNATIVE ALTERNATIVE A dirt bike may not be for everyone, mostly for those who just want to get around town or just don’t have the interest to take on jungle trails. The Zero DS ZF6.5 motorbike is a more traditional looking for about the same price range, $10,995. As the manufactures say, it’s made to be agile in dirt and quick on the street. It is so quiet that it can pass as a stealth machine, if you can even hear it pass, eh? The battery takes 4.7 hours to fully charge, which might be a bummer to some, but that will take you up to 74 miles in the city. The top speed is 146 km/hr which comes from a 25 kW pushing motor.

ELECTRIC CARS Now-a-days, specially in Nepal, owning a car is a sign of social status and prosperity. However, when the supply of fuel and its price have a negative inverse relationship, the luxury becomes a pain in the exhaust pipe. Then again, this is the 21st century and it’s a good time to be alive. If you have wondered why you ever studied algebra because you never use it, engineers use it to manufacture magnificent electric cars that are sustainable. Now you wish you had paid attention in class, don’t you?

TESLA MODEL X

An SUV and electric? Are we sure? Yes! It’s Tesla. We feel that a small paragraph does not do enough justice for this electric beauty because the features flow out of the brim.

Let us just try for this once. Starting with the door, it opens when you just approach it and push it. The back doors open like falcon wings and since the engine and batteries are underneath the SUV, the conventional engine compartment is a storage booth, and the usual back booth is obviously there, just a lot more capacious. The 100 kWh battery powers the vehicle for 289 miles and can take it from zero to hero (60 mph) in just 2.9 seconds. The infotainment system is like an iPad on steroids and can do anything apart from play videos, for safety reasons. If you look at the pictures of the interiors, you can almost smell the fresh and sweet leather because it’s that good looking. The windshield extends all the way up to the driver’s zenith for a panoramic view that’s capable to make any scene a painting.

And the autopilot is way smarter than any of us, it’s embarrassing to even talk about it. ($80,000)

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ALTERNATIVE ALTERNATIVE

The Tesla may not be for everyone because of the price. Besides, the 80k is just for the base model. For those who are looking to get a cheaper one, say more than half the price, may want to consider the Kia Soul EV. It starts at $26,200 and at that price, you surely won’t get the Tesla like features, but the features it has will surely impress you. It is spacious, stylish, has 93 miles range, voice-command navigation and parking assist are just the tip of the iceberg. Honestly, Kia did not really anticipate high demands on this car. People love it and there’s little reason why you will not be one of them.

If you want more details on this, just check out our in-depth review of the car in this very issue. You’re welcome.

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AUTOLIFE PRODUCT WATCH

HELLO

DOMINAR a

The most awaited sports cruiser from Bajaj, the Dominar 400, has been launched in the Indian market at a stunning price tag of INR 1.36 lakh for the standard variant and INR 1.5 lakh for the ABS variant. The Dominar 400 is Bajaj’s newest flagship product, and the first under a sub brand of high-performance motorcycles.

The Bajaj Dominar 400 is a cruiser-sport motorcycle targeted at the ones who seek power with touring comfort and derives its name from Spanish, where it means “to excel or exceed in power”. The model started life as the Pulsar Cruiser Sport 400 (CS 400) at the 2014 Indian Auto Expo and it was only this year that the company decided to establish an all-new brand for its premium offering.

One glance at the Dominar is all it takes to be struck by its dominant demeanour. The distinctive design principles of the Dominar 400 are visible from the aggressive naked face to the large contoured tank and the rear infinity lights. The Dominar 400 also gets first-in-segment, mosaic shaped, full LED headlamp with vertical Auto Headlamp On (AHO) bars that meets European

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standards, making the bike visible from a distance of ~1.5 km. Another interesting feature of the Dominar 400 is the reverse LCD split speedometer that divides the display into primary and secondary consoles, reducing the clutter in the cockpit.

The Dominar 400, the most powerful Bajaj ever, gets a 373cc liquid cooled, fuel injected engine which is capable of producing 35 bhp at 8000 rpm and 35 Nm of torque at 6500 rpm. According to Bajaj, the advanced liquid-cooling and air flow design provides faster cooling and consistent performance. Transmission duties are taken care of by a six speed transmission. The motorcycle can sprint from 0-100 kmph in 8.23 seconds and achieve a top speed of 148 kmph.

Based on a beam type perimeter frame, the Bajaj Dominar measures 2156 mm in length, 813 mm in width and 1112 mm in height. The bike has a wheelbase of 1453 mm while ground clearance stands at 157mm. A low-slung saddle and an industry best 43mm telescopic front forks with unique dual spring mono suspension makes way for the Dominar.

Added to that is its low centre of gravity giving the rider unmatched handling and superior control at every corner.

Braking duties are taken care by 320 mm discs at the front and a 230 mm disc brake at the rear. It is also equipped with a twin-channel ABS brake system. The 320mm front disc brake is the largest in its class. The bike receives 17 inch alloy wheels with 110/70 section tyres up-front and 150/60 section tyres at the rear. The specially designed, low-profile radial tyres add to the experience by offering better feedback and stability while cornering.

THE DOMINAR 400, THE MOST POWERFUL BAJAJ EVER, GETS A 373CC LIQUID COOLED ENGINE

Expect the bike to be launched in the Nepali market by early 2017.

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AUTOLIFE TEST RIDE

SIZE Isn’t Everything

Benelli TNT 135 WORDS & PHOTOS : AL TEAM

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T

They say the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree, and that made us hopeful of the new Benelli in town. We absolutely fell in love with the TNT 300 when we test rode it back in 2016. It was quiet possibly the alpha male in its segment; the composed stature of the TNT 300 along with the incredible exhaust note quickly made it a frontrunner in the competition.

Now, right as we set out into the year 2017, we have on our hands another offering from the Italian motorcycle manufacturers. This time however, right off the bat, we could tell that Benelli weren’t looking for composure and maturity; far from it. They have thrown caution to the wind and brought in a hooligan with the Benelli TNT 135.

Acknowledging the slowly simmering popularity of smaller bikes, Benelli have launched their offering with the hopes of possibly nudging the trend of the segment to its boiling point. So let’s get right to it and see what this little firecracker has to offer.

STYLING AND FEATURES

Benelli have taken their aggressive styling cues from their bigger bikes and compressed it into the small stature of the 135, and gone further to give it a little extra oomph.

What it lacks in size, the Benelli TNT 135 makes up for in style and spunk. Like its larger siblings in the Benelli lineup, it gets lightweight steel tube frames. Built around it is a sculpted body with bold cuts and edges that weren’t designed to shy away from attention. Its naked styling underscores its youthful vibes.

Up front it gets beefy 44mm upside down forks and an adjustable 50mm lateral single shock in the rear. It is fitted with fat, sticky 12-inch wheels that are stopped by 220mm 2 piston caliper drinks in the front and a 190mm single piston caliper in the rear.

The 7.2lt fuel tank, more than enough to fulfill your commuting needs, gets a similar mold to the TNT 25 and the rear tapers into a pointed taillight. But what really takes the cake here is the dual exhaust pipes that sit laterally under the rear seat that adds onto the ruffian persona of the Benelli TNT 135.

RIDE AND HANDLING

Powering the small frame of the Benelli TNT 135 is a single cylinder 4 stroke air-cooled 135cc engine.

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out 12.6 BHP and 10 Nm of torque; enough to get you zipping through the urban jungle.

It’s far from a speed king, but it does have the ability to hold its own on the tarmac. It is preppy and fun to ride but you won’t be hitting the triple digits with it anytime soon. Having said that, you have to keep in mind that the TNT 135 wasn’t built for speed, it was built for excitement and a little bit of hooliganism when required; and it does a great job of that. It rides on grippy 12-inch 120/70 front and 130/70 rear tyres that comfortably allow the rider to slalom through traffic. And although it might not have the biggest and most powerful engine, its exhaust note would leave onlookers none the wiser. The TNT carries the façade forward with its massive discs on the front and back, both of which could have been better.

We wouldn’t recommend taking it out to the highways though; it is still a little tardy for that. But if you are intent on taking it there it is definitely a better bet than most commuter scooters in the market.

Despite its dwarfed frame Benelli have perfected the ergonomics and you won’t find it difficult to find your bearings. The supple suspension easily mitigates minor road undulations but it is far from an off roader.

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VERDICT

There are chances people might dismiss the Benelli TNT 135 for a scooter pretending to be a motorcycle, that is not the case. It might not be a proper motorcycle, but it packs a lot of thrill and is a great segue to the real deal. For beginners looking to enter the beautiful world of motorcycling, the Benelli TNT 135 is as good as it gets.

It looks just as good as its largerdisplacement cousins, and it consistently put a smile across our faces. It all boils down to the fact that it is a tremendously fun machine to ride, and will probably be the best option for new riders. You don’t have to worry about perfecting the shifts or nailing the apex; just let the throttle rip, shift and repeat.

And for the ones already adept with motorcycles, it is a fun motorcycle to ride that replaces the seriousness with fun and exuberance. A totally light hearted machine that will rejuvenate you to the core.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Type: Single cylinder, 4 stroke, air cooled 4 valves, single overhead camshaft (SOHC), double spark Displacement (cc): 134.7 Maximum Power: 13 BHP @ 9000 RPM Maximum Torque: 10.8 Nm @ 7000 RPM Supply System: Electronic fuel injection with throttle body d.28 Transmission: -speed Chassis/ Frame: Trestle in steel tubes Suspension Front: Upsidedown forks d.41mm Suspension Rear: Rear swing arm with lateral shock absorber with spring pre-load adjustment Overall Dimensions (L/W/H): 1750/755/1025 mm Saddle height: 780 mm Brakes (Front/Rear): Steel disk ø220 mm with 2 pistons caliper/Single disc ø190 mm with single piston caliper Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 7.2 litres PRICE:2.5 Lakhs CONTACT Benelli Nepal Narayanchaur, Naxal, Kathmandu 01-4411439 facebook.com/Benelli.NP facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

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AUTOLIFE INTERVIEW

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IN CONVERSATION WITH

DEEPAK RAUNIYAR YAMAHA NEPAL Yamaha Nepal is looking for a bigger slice of the Nepalese scooter market. Deepak Rauniyar , AGMSales and Business Development,Yamaha Nepal, talks about the roadmap to Autolife Nepal.

WORDS & PHOTOS : AL TEAM

DO YOU FEEL THAT YAMAHA NEPAL HAS AN EXCITING PORTFOLIO OF PRODUCTS THAT ADDRESSES EVERY SEGMENT OF THE MARKET? Yes, we do because we have a portfolio that addresses segment of the market.

We have four segments for bikes suited to customers from every age group and every financial status. Also, we have a scooter segment which is targeted towards the teenagers.

HOW DOES THE SCOOTER MARKET IN NEPAL STACK UP? WHAT IS YAMAHA NEPAL’S SHARE IN THE SCOOTER MARKET? The scooter market in Nepal is booming right now.

The demand and growth for scooters is phenomenal. It is because the mentality of people has changed compared to the past. Today, you can find customers from both sexes owning a scooter because it is very comfortable and easy to ride.

Besides, scooters also provide a sense of independent to women. They don’t have to ask anyone to drop them off or pick them up in any situation.

26% in the future.

THE FASCINO SCOOTER DID VERY WELL FOR YAMAHA NEPAL. HOWEVER, SALES OF RAY, RAY Z AND ALPHA HAVE NOT BEEN THAT SATISFACTORY. DOES THIS BOTHER YOU? Yes, Fascino is doing very good in the market and it is also performing better than other Yamaha scooters. When

IN TERMS OF PERFORMANCE OR THE BUILD QUALITY? SIMILARLY, DO YOU FEEL YOUR BLUE CORE TECHNOLOGY HAS DELIVERED BIG TIME? Obviously, when we talk about quality we not only indicate sales but also the service processes which resonate with our brand name and utmost customer satisfaction. For example, we store the spare parts of a model even if that model is not performing well in the market.

This shows how serious we are when it comes to maintaining our quality. Also, we have our own finance agency, which helps our customers to get suitable auto loan.

CURRENTLY, WE HAVE 22% OF SHARE IN THE SCOOTER MARKET BUT OUR TARGET IS TO REACH 26% IN THE FUTURE.

Currently, we have 22% of share in the scooter market but our target is to reach

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our other series were launched, they also picked up the pace and reached a certain level of sales from which we are satisfied with.

Referring to the second question, all our scooters possess different characteristics; hence, the target group is different. We have planned a series of marketing and advertising promotions to cater to all these segments.

Yes, we do feel that our blue core technology has delivered because it has increased the power, mileage and the performance capability of our products and plus it is an environment friendly technology which makes things better for the nature as well.

WHEN YOU TALK ABOUT WORLD CLASS, DOES IT MEAN WORLD CLASS

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AUTOLIFE PRE EVENT

FORE NEPAL RIDERS MEET BARDIA 2017

F

Few motorcycle monikers have a cult following as epic as that of the Royal Enfield, more specifically in the Indian subcontinent. And FORE have exemplified and underscored the statement since its inception in 2011.

FORE Nepal (Friend of Royal Enfield) is a united motorcycling club that brings together Royal Enfield riders in Nepal and abroad to promote twowheel adventure tourism in Nepal and to support social causes.

Till date, FORE Nepal has recognized 20+ Royal Enfield motorcycling clubs in Nepal. More recently, in the aftermath of the Nepal earthquake in 2015, FORE Nepal came together to provide immediate relief to help the people of Dubachaur, Sindhupalchowk to cope with the immediate crisis.

The initiative later evolved into a post-earthquake reconstruction and rehabilitation project “7.6 Life to Dubachaur and Beyond” which aims to construct a permanent health post in the village of Dubachaur.

With a considerable amount of success demonstrated through the tremendous Poker Runs they’ve conducted over the years, FORE are preparing to bring forth an even louder noise.

On 10-12 February 2017, FORE (Friends of Royal Enfield) Nepal is organizing NRM (Nepal Riders Meet) in Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge, Bardia National Park. NRM is the first motorcycling event of its kind that is expected to draw close to 500 participants from motorbike clubs in Nepal and abroad. NRM is set to be an annual event that will be hosted by different Royal Enfield Clubs in Nepal under the umbrella of FORE Nepal.

The idea is to draw in Enfield riders who share the joy of riding to an annual event that promotes motorcycle culture and lifestyle, and supports local tourism.

BYOT Zone!

NPR. 8,500/- Per Person INR. 5,500/- Per Person (Only if you are paying in Indian Currency) BRING YOUR OWN CAMPING ESSENTIALS. NOTE : You should bring your own and other necessary items along with you.

COMFORT Zone!

On additional charges, we have few rooms available at the resort.

Below are the details and price: STANDARD ROOM NPR. 24,000 INR. 15,000 Only if you are paying in Indian Currency 6 Rooms Available - Twin Sharing Basis Includes 13% VAT and 10% Service Charge

INR. 20,000 Only if you are paying in Indian Currency 10 Rooms Available - Twin Sharing Basis Includes 13% VAT and 10% Service Charge Payment Method For Nepal Everest Bank Ltd. Acc. No. : 01400105200831 Acc. Name : Friends of Royal Enfield Nepal (FORE NEPAL) Acc. Branch : Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Nepal For India State Bank of India (SBI) Acc. Holder : Abhinash Shrestha Acc. No. : 30936984974 IFSC No. : SBIN0000232 CIF No. : 85649148165 Phone : +917001739851, +917384056318 Punjab National Bank Ltd. Indo Nepal Remit (EBL) Everest Bank Ltd. Acc. No. : 01400105200831 Acc. Name : Friends of Royal Enfield Nepal (FORE NEPAL) Acc. Branch : Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Nepal For Inquiries • Sunil Manandhar (Diamond) Cell: +977 9841301501 • Rabi Thapa Cell: +977 9851027204 • Pramod Shrestha (Goofy) Cell: +977 9841251636 • Chhedup Bomzan Cell: +977 9818122366 • Sherap Sherpa Cell: +977 9851054001

SIGNATURE ROOM NPR. 32,000

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AUTOLIFE JANUARY 2017 73 35 January 2017

AUTOLIFE WORLD TOURER

THE LONE WANDERER

I WAS BLESSED WITH PRETTY WEIRD ONES. THEIR PARENTING WAS ONE OF A KIND. FOR ME, THEY HAD SET TWO RULES: ONE, WHENEVER I GOT A ZERO IN MY EXAMS, I GOT WHATEVER I WANTED.

A MAN WHO GAVE INTO HIS WANDERLUST

‘

Most of us follow the eat-worksleep-repeat cycle of life and a majority of us hate it. We just want to break off from our shackles and be free. But we can’t because we have to make the deadline, else we’ll go hungry for the month.

Some don’t really have to live from paycheck to paycheck but they still have to work, confirm to the models of society and make the next generation fall into the same line.

But there are certain individuals who took the initiative to deviate from the standard norm and give into their primal desire to be somewhere they’ve never been before. We caught up with Mr. Rohith Subramanian, a biker/traveler/philosopher/ subject-of-envy, who has an extraordinary story.

By the end of the interview, we hated our lives because we wished to be him.

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the house if I got more than 40% on my exams. He told me if 40 was the passing marks, why are you writing more? If you pass, it is the best.

FOR REAL? Very.

WHAT GOT YOU STARTED? The passion for riding has always been in me. I started pretty young; my mother bought me a tricycle when I was a little child, I loved riding it. The love for riding has stuck around with me though it has evolved from the tricycle phase. Whenever I went out to ride, people noticed me and talked to me about it and I loved all the attention I would get.

WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS SAY? My parents were also a huge inspiration on me. Now, it may sound like any other biography, but I was blessed with pretty weird ones.

Their parenting was one of a kind. For me, they had set two rules: One, whenever I got a zero in my exams, I got whatever I wanted. For instance, my first bike was a result of zero in my exams.

They always told me that failure makes a man greater than success does. So, whenever I failed in a subject, my mom used to take me out to dinner. I know, my family is pretty weird. And two, my father didn’t allow me inside facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

HOW DID IT INFLUENCE YOU? This whole parenting idea made sense when was working on my startup at Bangalore. I was starting a crowdfunding platform. I was at Starbucks, a place I would usually go to do my work. I would even get free food there because I was that regular.

Anyways, I saw 50 people around me all doing stuff on their phones or laptops, and I got a thought that would go on to bug me. So, I went over to them and gave them a scenario and asked them if they could relate to it.

The story goes like this: a boy or a girl goes to school, then college, gets a job, married, has kids, the kids go to school and repeat. To my suspicion, not even a single person said that their life was different in a major way nor someone who didn’t follow this life routine.

After that I just went home, locked myself in the bathroom and stared at the man in the mirror. I was worried, worried that my life was turning out the same way. I just didn’t want to

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be another story in the book. I wanted my life to be the book filled with stories and experiences like no one else. And couldn’t wait any longer. I had to start something on my own which I wanted to do and be happy about.

SO YOU JUST WALKED OUT? Yeah. For me traveling has always been one of the things that genuinely made me happy. To be able to marry it with my passion for riding, I mean, what else would I ever need after that? I love the thrill of riding, the wind on my face and the adrenaline of the rush just hits the spot. That is what defines me as a person.

And I really do hate planning. I just go with the flow. I don’t schedule the number of days. Sure, I have a basic idea of what I want to do beforehand but it doesn’t have to be in that order. If I want to stay a little longer, I simply just stay a little longer.

HOW FAR HAVE YOU REACHED INTO YOUR JOURNEY? I decided to ride through 46 countries, which also happens to be Valentino Rossi’s number, a man I really look up to. I first wanted to ride around India because I grew up here and traveling is the least I can do to show my pride. For that, I decided to set some basic rules. 1) never stay at a hotel but stay at a random person’s house and if that is not possible then make do with petrol pumps, railways stations, bus stations and police station’s holding cell (yes, I have) and 2) just have one meal per day, which is dinner. When you abide these rules, you cut down on all your expenses, it just takes the load off you and you really get to experience so much more than you would in a hotel.

I then covered south East Asia. Now it’s Nepal and I’m going to Bhutan and then I am covering Europe and then other continents for the next two years.

NOTHING IS SURE EXCEPT DEATH. WE ARE NOT HERE FOR A LONG TIME, SO IT’S ALL UP TO YOU TO MAKE THAT SHORT TIME A GOOD TIME.

I LOVE THE THRILL OF RIDING, THE WIND ON MY FACE AND THE ADRENALINE OF THE RUSH JUST HITS THE SPOT. THAT IS WHAT DEFINES ME AS A PERSON. HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR SPARE TIME IN A PLACE YOU ARE IN? Every state I went to, I took up a job to experience what it was like. I took up professions such as farmer, mechanic, ice-cream seller and such.

I wanted to feel what it was like to be in someone’s shoes.

ANY WORDS OF WISDOM? It is very easy to make decisions for me. If I want to do something, I just do it (Nike has nothing on me). I don’t take too much with me, because I if you own too much, the things start owning you. And life is not all about materialistic things. Nothing is sure except death. We are not here for a long time, so it’s all up to you to make that short time a good time.

Follow his journey at: facebook.com/misfitmagellan

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AUTOLIFE JANUARY 2017

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AUTOLIFE AUTO SHOW

THE BEST OF

DETROIT AUTO SHOW Detroit is where future mobility innovations meet the pavement. With the largest concentration of the world’s top automotive and technology executives, designers, engineers and thought leaders, the North American International Auto Show serves as the global stage for companies to debut brand defining vehicles and industry-shaping announcements. NAIAS is unmatched in the industry in presenting six unique shows in one, including: The Gallery, an ultra-luxury automotive event, AutoMobili-D, an inside look at future mobility platforms, Press Preview, Industry Preview, Charity Preview and all concluding with a nine-day Public Show. We bring you all the highlights from Motor City, including all-new cars and concept vehicles.

NISSAN-VMOTION 2.0 CONCEPT

2017 NISSAN ROGUE SPORT

2017 KARMA REVERO

2018 GMC TERRAIN

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AUTOLIFE JANUARY 2017

AUDI Q8 CONCEPT

2017 DODGE CHALLENGER GT

AUDI SQ5

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2018 MERCEDES AMG GT-C-EDITION

KIA STRINGER

2018-TOYOTA-CAMRY-HYBRID

2018-LEXUS-LS

2018-FORD-F-150

2018-HONDA-ODYSSEY 2018-VOLKSWAGEN-TIGUAN

INFINITI-QX50-CONCEPT 2018-CHEVROLET-TRAVERSE

2018 GMC TERRAIN

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2018-KIA-STINGER-GT

AUTOLIFE JANUARY 2017 79

AUTOLIFE DIY

DIY

SIMPLE TIPS TO PREVENT MOTORCYCLE THEFT COMPILED BY AUTOLIFE NEPAL

Having your bike stolen is most likely one of the devastating thing that can happen. Just because no one has ever stolen your motorcycle before, that doesn’t mean that it won’t happen anytime. All kinds of motorcycles can get stolen from all sorts of places. We have heard of bikes being stolen despite being carefully locked up and covered as well brand new bikes wearing locks and stashed away in seemingly safe places. With a huge number of bikes being stolen every year , we believe this short DIY will help you secure your motorcycle better.

WW The engine needs the Ignition coil to make the spark plug to work and make possible the engine to run. All we will do is to create a way to disable the Ignition coil and, by consequence, disable the engine.

STEP 1: MATERIALS & TOOLS

You will need tools (the tools that come with the motorcycle can do the service well),1~2 meters of double wire, a Small Interrupter (black or other darker color if possible), a cutting tool, electric tape.

Most motorcycles come with basic tools that can be very helpful in an emergency situation. These tools can handle this job, but if you have better tools to work, use them. The wires will be connected to the interrupter and to the Ignition coil of the motorcycle. The cutting tool is necessary to cut the wires and the electric tape to isolate them.

STEP 2: LOCATE THE IGNITION COIL

The ignition coil is a part of the engine that generates electric pulses to the spark plugs. The Spark Plugs are the parts located on the engine cylinder head. They receive the electric pulse and make a little spark, and this spark makes the ignition of the engine.

In most cases, the ignition coil is located under the fuel tank. If don’t, just follow the spark plug’s wire, it starts on the ignition coil. If you have doubts about the location of the ignition coil, please head the Service Manual of your motorcycle. So, we need to remove the fuel tank and all parts that depends it. Normally you just need to remove the seat and if your motorcycle have a body kit, the body kit too.

Now you have a full view of the motorcycle engine. If it is 1 cylinder, you have only one Spark Plug... 2 Cylinder, 2 Spark Plugs, and so on... If you still have doubts about the Ignition Coil location, just follow the wire from the Spark Plug... it will end on the Ignition Coil.

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AUTOLIFE JANUARY 2017

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NEPAL’S BIGGEST AUTOMOBILE COMMUNITY

WWW.AUTOLIFE.COM.NP

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AUTOLIFE JANUARY 2017 81

STEP 3: THE IGNITION COIL

The ignition coil is the part responsible to receive the energy from the battery or the engine movement, and converts it into a high voltage electric pulse before sending this pulse to the Spark Plug.

This pulse is controlled by another device, normally the CDI, but in some cases, the ECU. This control is done by a low-voltage wire that transfers a very small pulse to the Ignition coil.

If you cut this little wire, the ignition coil will not generate the pulses to the spark plug. This is what we want. We will put the interrupter in the wire, to close and open this circuit.

STEP 4: PLACE THE INTERRUPTER

Now this is the most important step. You need to find some place on your motorcycle to hide the interrupter. This place can be any place you imagine; under the fuel tank, under the air box filter, in back of the headlight, hide in the bodykit. You must decide it carefully, because it is all the security of this system: the secret. If anyone can find this interrupter, anyone is able to start the engine, and it is very bad.

Once you decided the place, use double-faced glue tape to fix temporarily the interrupter in the place you want, and try to use the wires to reach from this place to the Ignition coil’s place.

STEP 5: SOLDERING THE WIRE

Now you need to solder the wire on the interrupter and on the ignition coil. The wire (double wire), must be soldered to the interrupter. Now, cut the little wire of the ignition coil (make sure you have space to do a soldering in each piece of wire of the ignition coil), and solder one wire to the one wire from the ignition coil, and do the same to the other wire.

STEP 6: TESTING

Now the electrical installation is completed. Turn the interrupter to the ON position and try to start the motorcycle. If the motorcycle starts, the installation is correct. Now turn the interrupter OFF. The motorcycle engine must stop and you will can’t start if again until turn ON the interrupter again. This is the behavior we want.

If the motorcycle doesn’t start, try to change the position of the interrupter (maybe ON is OFF and OFF is ON). If it still doesn’t starts, double-check the installation and all soldering points. If you can’t determine the problem, simply remove everything and solder the wire you just cut or look for someone more technically capable to help you out.

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AUTOLIFE JANUARY 2017

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NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated December 2016 Disclaimer: All prices are subject to change without prior notice. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Model

DAIHATSU Terios

Displacement

Price

Hansraj Hulaschand & Co Pvt. Ltd, Maitighar Tel: 4239641 | 4231985 1495 cc

Model

Go

1198 cc

Go+ (T)

1198 cc

24,99,000

Redi-Go

799 cc

13,99,000 to 18,49,000

Punto Punto Evo Avventura Punto Abarth Avventura Abarth

1368 cc (Petrol) 1248 cc (Desel) 1172 cc 1172 cc 1368 cc (Petrol) 1248 cc (Diesel) 1368 cc 1368 cc

Eco-Sport

1499 cc

30,95,000 to

Fiesta

All New Figo

22,40,000

Focus Ranger Figo Aspire

29,95,000 to

HONDA Jazz BR-V

37,50,000

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AUTOLIFE JANUARY 2017

37,75,000 to

Cr-V RVSI

1997 cc

1,07,75,000

Mobilio

1497 cc

36,50,000 to 41,25,000

31,90,000 to

3198cc 1499 cc

35,99,000 to

1196 cc,

42,50,000

Laxmi Intercontinental P.L Thapathali Tel: 4101556 | 4101557

Elantra

1591 cc

59,96,000

Eon

814 cc

16,56,000 to

Grand I10

1197 cc

I10

1086 cc

22,96,000

Santa Fe

2199 cc

1,22,96,000 to

Tucson

1998 cc

Veloster

1591 cc

75,96,000

New Verna

1591 cc

40,96,000

Xcent

1197 cc

27,56,000 to 38,96,000

Elite i20

1197 cc

30,96,000 to 34,96,000

26,56,000 to

81,96,000 to 1,02,96,000

42,75,000

12,900,000

i20 Active Creta

21,99,000to 31,99,000

1197 cc (Petrol) 1396 cc (Diesel) 1396 cc (Diesel) 1591cc (Petrol) 1582 cc (Diesel)

36,96,000 to 41,96,000 41,56,000 to 61,56,000

25,99,000 to 32,99,000

1596 cc

62,00,000

2198 cc 3198cc

58,90,000 to

1196 cc (Petrol)

25,90,000 to

68,90,000

KIA Picanto

Continental Associates Pvt Ltd,Dhumbarahi, Kathmandu Tel: 01-4650794 | 44015653 30,50,000 to 1248 cc 998CC

35,95,000 22,95,000 TO 25,95,000

Rio (Hatchback & Sedan)

1396 cc

37, 95,000 to

Sorento

2199 cc

34,90,000 29,90,000 to 36,90,000

Syakar Trading Company P. L Dhobighat Tel: 5549741 | 4225490 |4253522 29,50,000 to 1199 cc 40,75,000 1497 cc

1497 cc

1,28,96,000

40,95,000

11,200,000 to

1495 cc (Diesel)

City

34,56,000

31,80,000

2198cc

1196cc 1496 cc Petrol 1496 cc Diesel

26,25,000 to 32,75,000

18,96,000

33,95,000

48,90,000 Ford Endeavour

1198 cc

HYUNDAI

Go Automobiles Pvt. Ltd, Thapathali, KTM Tel: 4244254 | 4257001

FORD

Brio

31,70,000 to

53,00,000

Life Automobiles Pvt. Ltd. Gairidhara Tel: 4004644 | 4004645 Linea

1198 cc

18,41,000 to 22,99,000

FIAT

Amaze

34,50,000

Pioneer Motorcorp Pvt Ltd, Thapathali, Kathmandu Tel: 6203567

DATSUN

Price

Syakar Trading Company P. L Dhobighat Tel: 5549741 | 4225490 |4253522

HONDA

54,00,000 to 59,00,000

Displacement

48,00,000 1,25,00,000

39,99,000 to 53,00,000

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Updated December 2016

Model

Displacement

Price

Continental Associates Pvt Ltd,Dhumbarahi, Kathmandu Tel: 01-4650794 | 44015653

KIA

Model

MITSUBISHI

Displacement

Price

Leon Motors Pvt. Ltd, Shantinagar Tel: 4622074 | 4622485

Soul

1600 cc

55,95,000 to 59,95,000

Asx

1998 cc

Sportage

1998 cc

76,95,000 to

Outlander

2360 cc

1,14,00,000

Pajero

3200 cc

14,400,000 to

Pajero 3 Door

3200cc

95,75,000 to 99,50,000

89,95,000 Carnival

2092cc

63,00,000 to 65,00,000

Kia Soul EV

Electric Motor

56,00,000 to 58,00,000

MAHINDRA Bolero

Agni Incorporated Pvt. Ltd, Uttar Dhoka Tel: 4414626 | 4414628 2523 cc

1,62,50,000

MG MOTORS

29,50,000 to

MG3

35,00,000 Bolero Camper

2523 cc

19,25,000 to

MG6

23,90,000 Bolero Maxi Truck

2523 cc

16,95,000 2523 cc

17,95,000

Scorpio

2523 cc

38,60,000 to

1493 cc

Scorpio Pick-Up

2609 cc 2489 cc

37,85,000

XUV500

2179 cc

52,50, 000 to

Xylo

2489 cc

March

1198 cc

28,50,000

Navara NP300

2488 cc

67,00,000 to 79,00,000

Sunny

1498 cc

37,50,000

X-trail

1997cc

90,00,000 to 95,00,000

M.A.W Enterprises Thapathali Tel: 4216835 | 4268788

SKODA

72,95,000 35,35,000 to

RAPID

1598 cc

OCTAVIA

1968 cc

76,44,00O

YETI

1968 CC

72,95,000 to 79,95,000

CZECH RAPID

1598 CC

53,45,000 to 56,45,000

34,95,000 to 49,95,000

43,20,000

1493cc (Diesel)

57,50,000 to

31,45,000 to

Thar

TUV300

1796 cc

33,15,000 to

36,65,000

1198cc (Petrol) 1198cc (Diesel)

36,50,000 to 38,50,000

Dugar Automobiles Pvt. Ltd, Balaju Tel: 4362992 | 4350912

NISSAN

37,55,000

KUV100

1498 cc

61,75,000

59,95,000 Quanto

SLR Techno & Trade Pvt. Ltd. New Baneshwor, Kathmandu, Tel: 01-4783841

16,25,000 to

Genio

11,850,000

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

Disclaimer: All prices are subject to change without prior notice. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

26,95,000 – 31,95,000 31,45,000 – 36,45,000 36,95,000 – 45,95,000

Padma Shree Pvt. Ltd, Gyaneshwor Tel: 4435688 | 4435631

MAZDA

Vijay Motors Pvt. Ltd, Naxal, KTM Tel: 4414625 | 4425603

SUBARU Forester

1995 cc

93,00,000 to 10,780,000

Cx-5

1998 cc

92,50,000 to 1,05,00,000

Mazda 3

1600 cc

67,50,000

Bt-50

2499 cc

55,00,000

Mazda 6

2000 cc

81,00,000

Mazda 2

1498 cc

48,00,000

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XV Crosstrek

1991 cc

92,00,000 to 10,100,000

AUTOLIFE JANUARY 2017 85

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated December 2016 Disclaimer: All prices are subject to change without prior notice. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Model

SSANGYONG XLV

Displacement

Price

IMS Motors Naxal (opposite to Police Headquarter) Tel: 01-4412055, 9802002750 1597cc

Displacement

Safari Storme

2179 cc

Indigo

1396 cc

Price 46,25,000 to 61,25,000

56,75,000 to

26,95,000

64,75,000 Korando

1998cc

79,75,000 to 94,75,000

Actyon Sports Pick up

1998cc

59,75,000

Rexton

2696cc

10,275,000 to 10,975,000

United Traders Syndicate, Sinamangal Tel: 4478301-5, 4478003

TOYOTA Corolla

1598 cc

66,00,000 to 74,00,000

Etios Sedan

1496 cc

36,45,000

Etios Cross

1496 cc Petrol

41,45,000

1364 cc Diesel

44,45,000

Etios Liva

1197 cc

34,60,000

Fortuner

2982 cc

1,16,00,000

Hilux

2755 cc

78,50,000

Land Cruiser

4461 cc

3,05,00,000

Land Cruiser Prado

2982 cc

1,75,00,000 -

Rav4

2494 cc

Hiace

2494 cc

Innova Crysta

2393cc 2755cc

CG|Motocorp, Jhamsikhel Tel: 5547165 | 5547166

SUZUKI

14,99,000 to

Alto 800

796 cc

Alto K10

998 cc

19,99,000

Celerio

998 cc

22,99,000 to

Eeco

1196 cc

Omni

796 cc

17,49,000

25,99,000 19,19,000 to 19,29,000 9,99,000 to 13,99,000 Swift

1197 cc

27,99,000 to 30,99,000

Swift Dzire

1197 cc

Ciaz

1373 cc

New Wagon R VXi

998 cc

Baleno

1197cc

29,99,000 to

S-Cross Vitara Brezza

34,49,000 to

21,99,000

38,99,000 to

1248cc

35,99,000 to

61,99,000

Sipradi Trading Pvt Ltd, Teku Tel: 4250610 | 4250612 Indica

1396 cc

23,95,000

Safari 2.2L LX

2179 cc

44,25,000

1193 cc (Petrol) 1248 cc (Diesel)

24,95,000 to

Tata Bolt

Tata Tiago

Sumo Gold

1199cc

2956 cc

33,25,000

1193 cc

31,25,000 to

98,10,000

Pooja International Pvt. Ltd, Panipokhari Tel: 4006605 | 4006606

Cross Polo

1598 cc

35,45,000

Jetta

1968 cc

64,45,000

Passat A/T Loaded

1798 cc

86,45,000

Polo

1198 cc

26,45,000 to

Tiguan

1390 cc

Touareg

2967 cc

1,55,45,000

Vento

1598 cc

32,95,000 to

Ameo

1198cc

39,45,000 72,45,000 to 93,45,000

44,45,000 31,95,000 to

Advanced Automobiles Pvt. Ltd, 9851229996 , 9801027012, Thapathali, Kathmandu

RENAULT Kwid

799cc

16,89,990 to 21,12,790

Duster

1598cc

35,33,990 to 56,01,990

25,95,000 to 40,75,000

AUTOLIFE JANUARY 2017

VOLKSWAGEN

74,00,000 to

35,45,000 22,55,000 to 28,55,000

35,15,000 Zest

59,00,000 61,00,000

28,69,000 to

1248cc 1598cc

99,00,000 1,21,00,000

39,49,000

44,39,000

TATA

2,28,00,000

32,99,000

36,69,000

86

Model

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Updated December 2016

Model

ACE MOTORCYCLE Ace British Classic Ace British Scrambler

Displacement

Price

Classic Wheels Export Import Pani Pokhari, Kathmandu Tel: 9801024639

397cc 397cc

Model

45,00,000 to

1299 Panigale

1285 cc

959 Panigale

955 cc

35,00,000

Diavel

1198.4 cc

41,00,000 to

Hypermotard

937 cc

28,50,000 to 35,50,000

53,00,000

6,10,000

JNJ International Pvt. Ltd Sano Gaucharan, Tel: 01-4446271

APRILIA

Price

Turbo Motors Pvt Ltd Naxal,Tel: 4435720

DUCATI

5,60,000

Displacement

48,00,000

STX 150

149 cc

2,79,000

Hyperstrada

937 cc

30,50,000

ETX 150

149 cc

3,50,O00

Monster 1200

1198.4 cc

32,50,000 to

Dorsoduro 750

749.9cc

24,00,000

Monster 696

696 cc

20,00,000

Shiver Sports 750

749.9cc

20,00,000

Monster 796

803 cc

22,00,000

RSV4 RF

999.6 cc

38.00,000

Monster 821

821 cc

29,00,000

RS4 125

124.8 cc

7,60,000

Multistrada

1198.4 cc

40,00,000 to

RSV4 RR

999.6cc

35.00.000

Scrambler Sixty2

399 cc

16,50,000

Scrambler

803cc

19,50,000 to 23,50,000

Panigale R

1198cc

70,00,000

Xdiavel

1262 cc

44,00,000 to 50,00,000

42,00,000

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Disclaimer: All prices are subject to change without prior notice. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

46,50,000

Hansraj Hulaschand & Co. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4267759 | 4261200

BAJAJ Discover 150

144.8 cc

1,92,9001,99,900

Discover 100 M

94.38 cc

1,56,900

Discover 125

124.6 cc

1,68,9001,86,900

Platina 100 E/S

99.27 cc

1,43,900

Pulsar 150 DTSI

149.01 cc

2,29,900

Pulsar 180 DTSI

178.6 cc

2,39,900

Pulsar 200 NS

199.5 cc

2,81,900

Pulsar 220F

220 cc

2,74,900

Pulsar RS200

199.5cc

3,99,900

AS 200

199.5cc

2,86,900

AS150

149.5cc

2,51,900

Avenger 150 Street

150cc

2,49,900

Avenger 220 Street

220cc

2,84,900

Avenger 220 Cruise

220cc

2,94,900

Bajaj V

149.5cc

2,04,900

CROSSFIRE XZ250RR

Classic Wheels Export Import Pvt. Ltd. Pani Pokhari, Kathmandu Tel: 980-1024639 250 cc

Nepal General Marketing Pvt Ltd Jyoti Bhawan, Kantipath Tel: 4225377

HERO ACHIEVER

149 cc

1,92,000

GLAMOUR

124.7 cc

1,75,000 to

HF DELUXE

97.2 cc

1,45,000

Hunk

149.2 cc

2,11,000 to

Karizma R

223 cc

2,60,500

Karizma Zmr

223 cc

3,21,500

Passion Pro Tr

97 cc

1,68,000

Pleasure

102 cc

1,57,000

Splendor Ismart

97 cc

1,57,500

Dash

111 cc

1,67,500 to 1,71,500

Splendor Pro

97.2 cc

1,56,500

Splendor Pro Classic

97.2 cc

1,57,500

Super Splendor

124.7 cc

1,59,500

X-Treme

149.2 cc

2,19,500 to

1,80,000

2,16,500

5,95,000

2,30,000

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AUTOLIFE JANUARY 2017 87

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated December 2016 Disclaimer: All prices are subject to change without prior notice. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Model

Displacement

Price

Syakar Trading Company Pvt. Ltd, Kantipath, Tel: 4253522 | 4163501 | 4256199

HONDA

Price

Hansraj Hulaschand & Co. Ltd Naxal, Tel: 4415462

KTM

109 cc

1,59,900

200 DUKE

200 cc

4,41,900

AVIATOR

109 cc

1,83,900

390 DUKE

373.2 cc

6,06,900

CB SHINE

124.7 cc

1,88,100 to

RC 200

199 cc

5,26,900

RC 390

373 cc

6,81,900

1,96,900 CB TRIGGER

149 cc

2,29,900

CB TWISTER

109 cc

1,84,900

CB UNICORN

149.1 cc

2,24,900

CBF STUNNER

124.7 cc

1,95,900

249 cc

5,29,900 to 5,99,900 (AVS)

CRF 250L

250 cc

9,90,000

DREAM YUGA

109cc

1,64,900

DIO

109cc

1,75,900

CB Hornet 160R

162.71cc

2,65,900

XR125L

124.7cc

3,90,000

CB Unicorn 160

163cc

2,45,900

Activa-i

110 cc

1,59,900

Activa 125

125 cc

1,93,900

CB Shine SP

125 cc

2,12,900

CB 500F

500 cc

13,99,000

CRF 250M

250 cc

9,90,000

MSX

125 cc

5,99,900

XR 150L

150 cc

4,80,000

Navi

109.19cc

1,54,900

CBR 650

648.72

19,99,000

KTM International Trading Pvt. Ltd. Naxal, Kathmandu 01-4411439

BENELLI

88

Displacement

ACTIVA

CBR 250R

88

Model

TNT25

249cc

4,50,000

TNT300

300cc

6,80,000

TNT600i

600cc

15,50,000

Zenzero 150

150cc

2,65,000

TNT 135

134.7cc

2,50,000

AUTOLIFE JANUARY 2017

AUTOLIFE September 2013

MAHINDRA

SG Global Pvt. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4231057 | 4231058 1,51,900 to

CENTURO

107 cc

DURO DZ

124.6 cc

1,45,900

FLYTE

124 cc

1,48,900

GUSTO

109 cc

1,69,900

PANTERO

106 cc

1,48,900 to

RODEO RZ

124.6 cc

1,61,900

RODEO UZO 125

124 cc

1,72,900

Mojo

295cc

5.80,000

1,57,900

1,51,900

MV AGUSTA

Gearventure Bike Nepal Pvt Ltd, Bhatbhateni Tel: 4435790 | 4435990

BRUTALE 1090

1078 cc

32,50,000

BRUTALE 675

675 cc

25,45,000

BRUTALE 800

798 cc

27,50,000

F3 675

675 cc

29,50,000

RIVALE 800

798 cc

29,50,000

F3

798 cc

31,50,000

F4

998 cc

38,00,000

ROYAL ENFIELD

Dugar Brothers & Sons Pvt. Ltd Balaju, Tel: 4362992

Classic 350

346 cc

4,49,000

Classic 500

499 cc

5,41,000

Classic Battle Green

499 cc

5,61,000

Classic Chrome

499 cc

5,81,000

Himalayan

411cc

5,61,000

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Updated December 2016

Model

Displacement

Price

Classic Desert Storm

499 cc

5,61,000

Continental Gt

535 cc

7,21,000

Electra

346 cc

4,32,000

Thunderbird 500

499 cc

7,21,000

Thunderbird 350

346 cc

5,77,000

Model

ACCESS 125

124 cc

1,89,900

GIXXER

154.9 cc

2,46,900

GS 150R

149.5 cc

2,21,900

HAYATE

113 cc

1,69,900

LET’S

112 cc

1,75,900

SLINGSHOT

124 cc

1,84,900

SWISH

124 cc

1,79,900

Suzuki Gixxer SF

154.9 cc

2,76,900 to

Gixxer Dual Tone

154.9 cc

SCOMADI

124.6 cc

2,80,000

TL125 Chrome

124.6 cc

3,50,000

Jagdamba Motors Pvt. Ltd. Teku, Tel: 4237057

TVS RTR 160

160 cc

2,35,900

JUPITER

109 cc

1,72,900

PHOENIX 125

125 cc

1,83,900

STAR CITY 110

109.7 cc

1,62,900

SCOOTY ZEST

110 cc

1,64,900

WEGO REFRESH

110 cc

1,73,900 to 1,75,900

RTR 180

180 cc

2,45,900

STAR SOPRT

100 cc

1,56,900

VICTOR

109.7 cc

1,67,900

XL 100

99.7 cc

1,12,900

RTR 200 4V

197,75CC

2,83,900

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198.9 cc

Hypersport

199 cc

Renegade Commando

223 cc

3,75,000

Renegade Duty

124 cc

2,40,000

Renegade Sport

137.8 cc

2,50,000 to

Nitrox LS

124.1cc

1,85,000

Power Max

124.6 cc

1,85,000

Renegrade Sport

180cc

2,85,000

3,66,999 to 3,85,999

D-Lifestyles Pani Pokhari, Kathmandu 01-4423131/132

VESPA

2,51,900 to 2,59,900

TL125 General

3,70,000 to

Dsr 200

3,99,000

2,89,900

Avasha International Narayan Gopal Chowk, Kathmandu Mob:9801067999

Price

Import USA Pvt. Ltd. Gairidhara, Tel: 4004664

UM

VG Suzuki Tripureshwor, Tel: 4233281

SUZUKI

Displacement

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Disclaimer: All prices are subject to change without prior notice. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Vespa VXL

125cc

2,70, 946 to 2,99,946

Vespa SXL

125cc

2,85,946

SXL 150

150cc

3,05,946 to 3,10,946

VXL 150

150cc

2,95,946

Morang Auto Works Teku, Tel: 4261160 | 4268252

YAMAHA FZ FI V2.0

149 cc

2,59,900

FZ-16 FI V2

149 cc

2,49,900

FZ-S FI V2 SE

149 cc

2,64,900

RAY Z-R

113 cc

1,83,900 to 1,91,000

SZ-RR

149 cc

2,09,900

YZF R15 V1.5

150 cc

3,45,900

Fascino

113 cc

1,89,900

Saluto

125cc

1,83,900

Hansraj Hulaschand & Co. Ltd Naxal, Tel: 4415462

KAWASAKI NINJA 300R

296 cc

9,99,900

NINJA 650R

649 cc

13,49,900

FIND. COMPARE. BUY. SELL. ANY VEHICLE IN NEPAL.

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