Vol 1 Issue 10

September 2012 Issue 10 NRs. 100

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J U S T A RR I V ED

irst of all, here goes a huge eco-friendly hug to all of you out there for appreciating last month’s ‘Green Issue’ special of AutoLife. Well we sure didn’t manage to influence positive changes overnight, but it was really good to hear good things coming in from all quarters. It will definitely take some time for our auto industry to go green completely. But when it does at some point in the future, we hope to drive to a cleaner environment without actually compromising on the performance that our beloved fuel guzzlers offer today.

Well this issue is no green continuation, but most of us at the office were still left with the hangover from our past eco-friendly issue. In fact one tall guy at our office went ahead and bought himself a fantastic mountain bike to pamper his monstrous built. So we gave our motors a break this time too and pedal powered ourselves for another round of a cycling roadtrip. And we were also introduced to a completely eco-friendly cycling road trip package being planned by Epic Mountain Bikes.

Read more about this interesting bit on the inside. Of course, opinion regarding completely going green is still divided at our work place, as there will always be two sides to a coin. So we got back to our fuel guzzling ways and test drove the newly arrived Skoda Rapid and SYM Wolf. The Rapid is a simply clever proposition from Skoda that sit perfectly in-between its entire range and the SYM Wolf is here to change your impression of Chinese branded motorcycles. Then we caught up with two guys doing the ‘Continental Drift’ from London to Sydney on their KTM 690 Enduro R’s, during their brief stop here in Kathmandu. There are also many other stuffs to keep you interested, like our take on diesel technology, tribute to rally legend Colin McRae, automotive DIY precautions, interview of our AL Photo Shootout winner and evolution of Land Rover vehicles.

Since the 7th edition of NADA Auto Show is around the corner, we have also prepared the highlights from last year’s show and hope to see you all at the upcoming show supporting our auto industry.

So that’s pretty much it this time. By the way, our crossword game is back in this issue. Go get your brains running and win yourself a couple of movie tickets…

THE EDITORIAL TEAM

VOL 1 ISSUE 10 SEPTEMBER 2012 SOFTROCK MEDIA PVT LTD BALUWATAR, KATHMANDU, NEPAL TEL: 977-01-441546 REGD: 84553/068/069

Founder/Managing Editor Ajay Dhoj Thapa

Executive Director Shraddha Rajbhandari

Editorial & Photography

Ankit Shakya Ayush Dhaubanjar Niren Tuladhar Kushal Goyal Saurav Nepal Nitya Bharati

Business Development Ankit Shakya Yunus Joshi Piyush Neupane

CTP & Process

Creative Head Ajay Dhoj Thapa

ScanPrint Pulchowk Tel: 01-5010801

Designers

Distribution

Niren Tuladhar Sushil Dhungana

Kasthamandap Distributors Tel: 01-4247241

General Enquiries hello@autolife.com.np

Editorial Enquiries

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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 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.

CONTENTS

ISSUE 10 SEPTEMBER 2012

24 news and updates

REGULARS 48 AL tribute

58

34 52 AL evolution

sym wolf

80 88 complete buying guide

42 skoda rapid

42 skoda rapid

readers write

TESTS 58 sym wolf

52 ALevolution

AL cyclist roadtrip

78 DIY

CONTENTS

ISSUE 10 SEPTEMBER 2012

FEATURES 36

32 photo shoot-out

50 why not diesel?

NADA auto show

76 style check

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NADA auto show

66 continental drift

epic eco trip

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36

continental drift

68

pebble beach

INTERACTIVE 80

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AL cyclist roadtrip

readers’ submitted photos

70 crossword

72 movie review

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epic eco trip

Readers’ Submitted Photos

Get in touch > hello@autolife.com.np

<<Photo of the month What if the bike said yes? www.autolife.com.np 20

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news updates

FORD REVEALS ONE-OFF 850HP SHELBY >> As a tribute to the late, great Carroll Shelby, who passed away in May aged 89, Friends of Carroll Shelby has built a one-of-a-kind 2013 Shelby GT500 Cobra. And it’s got 850 horsepower courtesy of a Ford Racing supercharged V8. To squeeze that much power from the standard 662hp 2013 Shelby GT500, Friends of Carroll - a group of manufacturers and tuning parts suppliers- slapped on a Ford Racing 4.0-litre Whipple supercharger. To lay it down there’s a set of 13-inch-wide rear wheels with some colossal

345-section tyres. It also gets a wide body kit, and it’s finished in Cobra historical Guardsman Blue with a Wimbledon White stripe finish, just like the early Cobra roadsters built in the sixties.

The tribute car was unveiled

by Ford Motor Company board member Edsel Ford II, and Shelby American president, John Luft, at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion where Cobra’s the marquee of show for 2012. It’s quite a car considering that the standard GT500 isn’t actually lacking in power...

LAND ROVER TO SPONSOR BOXING

>> Kishor Gears Pvt Ltd, the authorized distributor of Land Rover vehicles for Nepal has signed a one-year sponsorship deal worth Rs 300,000 with Nepal Boxing Association (NBA).

NBA President Rajiv Shrestha and Kishor Gears representative Sanjeev Tuladhar signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) amidst a function in the capital on August 20, 2012. As per the deal, Land Rover will provide Rs 300,000 to NBA for a year and the latter will promote the vehicle brand during its events. The sponsorship amount will be invested in different

EV’s IN NEW ROAD

events that we´ll be conducted during this calendar year. NBA is hopeful of receiving more support from the sponsor in the future and will launch talent hunt programs to produce medal-winning boxers in the days to come.

>> The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) is planning to operate electric vehicles at the commercial hub of New Road and the Hanuman Dhoka Durbar Square, a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) world heritage site, in a bid to help preserve the site. The operation of electric vehicles is being planned in the area for its preservation. All other vehicles will be barred from the area if the plan is successful. The Kathmandu Metropolitan City will buy electric vehicles and operate

It’s really great to see our local automobile dealers helping other sectors in the country progress forward. We really look forward to the day when we will have boxers as tough and unbeatable as the Land Rover vehicles, competing in the international arena.

>> Laxmi Intercontinental, the sole authorised distributor of Hyundai in Nepal, is planning to introduce the Hyundai Veloster in Nepal. The Veloster is a compact threedoor car that has the style of a coupe and the functionality

of a hatchback. The Hyundai Veloster is equipped with a Gamma 1.6 DDI DOHC engine.

It can produce a maximum power of 140 bhp at 6,300 rpm and a peak torque of 167 nm at 4,850 rpm.

The car’s engine is mated

2013 HUSABERG ENDURO REVEALED the Husaberg FE 250 - the first 250cc four-stroke machine from Husaberg. The new 250 will cost an £7045 in the UK. The rest of the models in the range have been improved with lighter wheels and swingarm.

WP provides suspension both front and back, while the brakes are taken care of by Brembo.

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>> Nepal Elver Trading Pvt. Ltd is the sole distributor of ENOC Lubricants for Nepal. Since the last 5 years NET imports the highest quality lubricants of ENOC and distributes to the major cities of Nepal. Because of its best quality, in short period ENOC has been very desirable product for automotive and industrial sector and it is available in more than 70 Country in the world with similar quality in every country. ENOC lubricants meet the latest international specifications standard such as API and ACEA are approved against OEM specifications.

ENOC lubricants are a high grade internationally recognized brand. Established in 1993 as a wholly owned company of the Government of Dubai, Emirates National Oil Company (ENOC) aims to promote the interests of its shareholders through the development of further downstream and upstream activities in the oil and gas sector and beyond as well as encourage economic diversification of Dubai.

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THE NINJA GETS A FRESH UPDATE >>The little Ninja 250R has been around for some time now but with things getting a bit heated up with Honda and Hyosung around, Kawasaki has decided to raise the bar, by replacing the

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decade-old styling with something a bit more aggressive. The W-shaped headlight unit has been replaced by a dual headlight, and there’s a gill section on both sides for better airflow. A digital-analog instrument console completes the new look, with alloys wheels that ape the Ninja ZX-14R’s design. Kawasaki has

INTERNATIONAL

them in the area collecting minimum charges from the riders as the emission from petrol and diesel engines is causing irreversible damages to the valuable historical site. The concerned authorities are holding discussions on the program as it is still in the preliminary phase. The details including the number of vehicles and date for the implementation of the plan is being worked out.

This green initiative definitely gets a green signal from us and we hope it’s implemented very soon.

HYUNDAI VELOSTER TO BE LAUNCED

ENOC LUBRICANTS IN NEPAL >> Husaberg has announced the changes to their enduro range for 2013, which includes an entirely new model. The new model, which will be available from September, is

news updates

with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission system. The car has a top speed of 201 kmph and can go from 0 to 100 kmph in 9.7 seconds. The Veloster features McPherson strut type with coil spring front suspension and CTBA (Coupled Torsion Beam Axle) rear suspension. The front portion of the car is dominated by its LED headlights. Likewise, an aggressive front signature Hyundai grill and a bevelled hood with dual scoops gives Veloster a look making it stand tall among cars in its segment. The Veloster also uses the latest active and

not said much about the engine, except that it now gets updated

passive safety technologies to ensure the safety of the passengers. Its active safety features consist of vehicle stability management which provides shorter braking distance and secure handling on uneven road surfaces, electronic stability control, antilock braking system (ABS) embedded along with transaction control system (TCS), brake assist system and hill start assist control. The Veloster is expected to cost more than Rs 5 million when it is launched in Nepal on December 2012.

pistons, crankcases and a new exhaust. Add to that Kawasaki’s use of. No word out yet on power output but we expect it to be a marginal increas. We hope to see the new Kawasaki Ninja 250R on our roads soon.

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RANGE ROVER AND FREELANDER GETS FANCIER

>> It’s finally here: the fourth all-new Range Rover in 42 years. Your gaze will immediately be directed towards the new face together with new side gills on the doors, a black roof paint option and a more rounded, aerodynamic appearance. This fourth generation of Land Rover’s luxury off-road stalwart uses an all-aluminium body that’s 420kg lighter than its predecessor. The new V6 diesel can boast the same performance as the outgoing V8 diesel, because the car along with that new engine is lighter. There’s also

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a super-charged petrol V8 on offer.

The outgoing Range Rover’s interior design has been largely kept intact, except the new one gets a neater finish with more control handed over to a large central touch screen. The Range Rover is Britain’s response to luxury off-roading, and the fourth generation looks set to continue the Brit icon’s dominance.

Since Land Rover’s rammed even more luxury stuff into the new Range Rover, they have decided to drag the rest of the fleet up to a similar benchmark. Yes, even the Freelander 2 gets a facelift. Minor styling tweaks and the inevitable Xenon LED appendages join a fancy

new centre console with a seven-inch colour touch-screen audio interface, phone, and optional navi kit. Another fiveinch colour screen sits between the instrument dials and the docking station for the key gets replaced by a keyless go system so you can keep the keys in your pocket. A series of switches also replaces the off-road terrain knob thingy behind the gearstick, which frees up extra storage space. Two new trim levels join current S, GS, XS, and HSE line-up - Dynamic and HSE Lux. Engines are all existing stock, with the same line-up as before: a 2.2 litre turbo-diesel with 148 bhp or 187 bhp.

MARUTI INDIA LAUNCHES WAGON R PRO

>>In a bid to negate the slide in its petrol powered hatchback sales, Maruti India has launched a limited edition version of its Wagon R, dubbed the Wagon R Pro. This will be a value offering for buyers and will feature a number of extra accessories including a Maruti USB-enabled double-din stereo system with speakers, a rear spoiler, body graphics and seat covers, among other things. The Pro costs IC Rs 20,000 more than the standard variants of the hatch, but it’s justified, since the same accessories, when purchased separately at accessory dealers will cost you around IC Rs 30,000.

The top-end Wagon R VXi version with ABS costs IC Rs 4.38 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi).

Add another IC Rs 20,000 for the Pro version for all the bells and whistles.

The company is currently offering a discount on the car to the tune of IC Rs 30,000, which according to dealers will also be extended on the Pro versions. Sounds like a good deal!

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THE EVADE COMES TO INDIA

>>Turning combat vehicles into domesticated luxury SUVs has been a practice from the days of the Humvee.

Sadly there is no Hummer on sale today but a few niche manufacturers have filled that void. Conquest Vehicles, a Canadian armoured vehicle manufacturer is one of them. The Evade, though is an unarmored SUV, based on the on a Ford F550 super duty chassis. So you get this boxy design SUV that looks like it has been riveted into place by some shipbuilders.

All body panels are hand

THE NEW TOYOTA AURIS >> If you’re looking for a family hatchback badged from the Land of the Rising Sun your show star of the Paris Motor show has officially arrived. With a more angular design, the The Toyota Auris is longer, lower and lighter than the car it replaces. Its new pointyness means it’s also more efficient, with a lesser drag coefficient. Toyota hasn’t revealed mileage figures, but a range of petrol and diesels,

as well as a hybrid option will be available from launch

ROSSI RETURNS TO YAMAHA

>> Valentino Rossi will return to Yamaha in 2013 after leaving Ducati at the end of the current 2012 season. Ducati has announced that Rossi was leaving the team following a disappointing two-year spell at the Italian squad, where the Italian rider struggled to be competitive, managing just two

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podiums and no victories so far.

Rossi enjoyed a very successful time at Yamaha, which he joined from Honda at the start of the 2004 season. With the Japanese squad, the nine-time world champion took the titles in 2004, 2005, 2008 and 2009 and scored 46 victories before leaving for Ducati at the end of 2010. Rossi

crafted that including the vehicle’s steering wheel, proprietary hinges, running boards and even the key itself are machined out of solid stainless steel. On the inside you get military inspired design cues and leather wrapped seats that use the best hide to place your bottom. Other goodies include driver partition and a retractable flat screen TV. The Evade is being sold and distributed in India by Magnus Cars and cost a staggering Rs. 8.5 crore in Indian currencies.

early next year. Word is that Toyota wants to sell a third of

each. It’s already the second best-selling hybrid in Europe after Toyota’s own Prius. Inside there’s a brand new interior: more spacious and apparently more comfortable. There’s also the inclusion of Sky View, a panoramic sunroof which gives daydreamers and plane spotters the largest view of the sky in the segment. We’re unsure on power train details, but we’re told they are better.

Which is always a good thing!

will rejoin Yamaha alongside Spaniard Jorge Lorenzo, who was his team-mate at the team before he decided to leave for Ducati. The Italian rider has signed a two-year deal with Yamaha. We hope that with this change in team, we will be seeing more of the doctor standing in the podium. Otherwise it might just be retirement calling for the former world champion.

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BMW UNVEILS 2013 HP4 MAZDA 6 REFRESHED >> German motorcycle maker BMW Motorrad has officially unveiled their all-new 2013 HP4 motorcycle based on their award-winning S1000RR superbike. BMW claim that it is the lightest 4-cylinder super sports motorcycle in its segment. Equipped with Race ABS, lighter carbon parts, lighter battery, an all new titanium exhaust and forged wheels, the bike tips the scales at a mere 169 kg. BMW have kept the engine specs identical to their S1000RR motorcycle, delivering 194PS of power at 13,000rpm and 112Nm of torque at 9,750rpm. The new HP4 has been fitted with Dynamic Damping Control as standard - a world first for production motorcycles - an electronically adjustable suspension which automatically adjusts to the road surfaces and riding conditions. The 2013 HP4 has also been specked up with launch control; adapted wheelie detection and shift assistant are all part of the overall package.

>> Cast your gluttonous eye over this shiny new Mazda 6. Not bad looking, is it?

And there’s a lot to look at. The 6 has been gently repackaged. It’s the latest to feature Mazda’s cringely-named “Kodo - Soul of Motion” design language, and it’s clearly taken large dollops of inspiration from the Takeri concept. But despite the increased proportions, the 6 is down on mass. The 2.0-litre petrol saloon weighs 1,340kg, nearly 100kg lighter than its previous 1,435kg equivalent. Engines are all from the SkyActive stable, and will be 2.0 litre and 2.5 litre petrols. There’s also a pair of 2.0-litre diesels, pinched from the CX-5 crossover, which push out 148bhp and 173bhp. Both petrols and diesels will be mated to either a six-speed manual or SkyActive-Drive automatic transmission.

ARMSTRONG STRIPPED OF TITLES >> The US anti-doping agency banned Lance Armstrong for life and stripped him of the record seven Tour de France titles that helped him become an inspirational icon of cycling sports. USADA branded Armstrong a dope cheat a day after the 40-year-old Texan said he wouldn’t pursue a bid to clear himself of charges that he used performance enhancing drugs to win cycling’s most prestigious race from 1999 to 2005.

The agency laid out five rule violations for which Armstrong has been sanctioned, saying the cancer survivor who became a hero to millions took part in a systematic doping conspiracy with his then US Postal Service team.

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received a lifetime period of ineligibility and disqualification of all competitive results from August 1, 1998 through the present. Along with his celebrated haul of Tour titles Armstrong stands to lose the Olympic bronze medal he won in 2000 along with other race titles, prize money and other awards. Armstrong, the only

cyclist to win the Tour de France more than five times, had long vehemently denied doping accusations.

USADA maintains that Armstrong used banned substances — including the blood-booster EPO, steroids and blood transfusions — dating back to 1996, and said 10 of his former team-mates were ready to testify against him. Indeed, Armstrong has argued that at least some of the witnesses who have implicated him can’t be trusted as they are themselves admitted dope cheats. If the UCI confirms the move, it faces a potential headache of choosing new winners for the seven disputed tours, as a number of cyclists who finished behind the American have also been implicated in doping scandals. www.autolife.com.np

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news updates

BAJAJ PULSAR 200 NS UNVEILED

>> HH Bajaj, the sole authorised distributor of Bajaj two-wheelers in Nepal, has launched the smoking-hot new age Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS. The NS in the name of the motorcycle stands for “Naked Sports”. Bajaj has given a bit different look to Pulsar 200NS compared to other Pulsar bikes.

The new Pulsar features predator-like headlamps, broad fuel tank and high tail light. The body of the stylish machine has

been sculpted with careful attention to detail from the foot pegs to the grips on the handle bar and even in the backlit switches.

The new Pulsar gets a 4-valve SOHC triple-spark engine that is liquid cooled and mated to a six-speed gearbox. It features 6-speed gearbox that ensures great performance across the entire rpm band that provides the riders with real

sports bike experience. The newly introduced bike is the world´s first bike with triple spark engine technology.

Triple spark technology provides fast and optimal combustion, thereby increasing performance and efficiency.

It gives a maximum power of 23.5 bhp at the rate of 9500 rpm and maximum torque of 18.3 Nm at the rate of 8000 rpm. The Pulsar 200 NS comes with petal disc brakes front and rear, a steel rectangular section swing-arm, a pressed steel twin-spar frame and gas-filled Nitrox Mono suspension.

The Nitrox mono suspension provides greater stability and comfort for both the rider as well as the pillion on all road conditions. The Pulsar 200 NS which has a top speed of 136 kmph can go from 0-60 in 3.61 seconds and from 1-100 kmph in 9.83 seconds.

HH Bajaj has stated that the new motorcycle will initially bear a special introductory cost of Rs. 2,64,900 only.

The new Pulsar is available in four attractive colours - Safire blue, Tosca red, Cherry blue and Mustard yellow.

THE NEW VOLKSWAGEN GOLF

FIAT PANDA 4x4 COMING SOON >> At the upcoming Paris Motor, Fiat will be showcasing the new Panda 4x4.

The 4x4 Panda will have 15-inch alloy wheels, skirting and black trim with skid plates of the contrasting type at both in the front and back. For the Panda 4x4, Fiat has retained the 75PS multi-jet and 0.9-litre 85PS Twin Air Turbo engines.

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the Electronic Locking Differential applies the brake to each wheel individually. Fiat will also be launching the Panda line-up in two more variants – Trekking and Natural Power.

The two-wheel drive Trekking will combine the looks of the 4x4 version with Traction+ technology which improves the handling on slippery surface. A dual fuel (methane and petrol) Twin Air Turbo engine powers the Natural Power variant.

>> Volkswagen has unveiled the next-gen Golf in Germany ahead of its Paris Motor Show debut. The company claims that the new-gen Golf is 110kg lighter than the outgoing model, a feat achieved by use of high-strength tensile steel and the new MQB architecture. VW says that the new Golf is also longer by 56mm and is 28mm lower. Rear legroom has also improved by 15mm and the boot space has increased by 30 litres taking it to 380 litres overall. The Golf will come with a choice of new petrol and diesel engines with battery regeneration and stop/start system. Two TSI engines with power figures ranging from 85PS to 140PS and two diesel engines with 105PS and 150PS will be available. Further details about the new Golf will emerge at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. www.autolife.com.np

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AUTOLIFE PHOTO SHOOT-OUT CONTEST

too. I have personally ridden on that road with my Yamaha R15 and achieved speeds up to 138km/hr.

7. In your opinion, what is the worst thing about driving/ riding in Nepal and what is the best?

In my opinion, the worst thing is that we are not allowed to ride modified bikes in Nepal. I think proper professional modifications like in the western countries should be introduced in Nepal and made legal.

And the best part is that, we do not have much strict road rules like in other countries. So at least there is riding freedom.

few months back we had initiated a LIKES based photo competition through our official facebook page. The submitted photo simply had to signify ones passion for wheels and could be anything from a picture of the sender stunting, posing in front of their vehicle, riding or driving through some terrain, from some roadtrip, etc. The picture with the most number of LIKES at 7th August, 2012 midnight was declared the ultimate winner. And yes, the winner was indeed entitled to a couple of fantastic prizes. Among the nearly 100 enthusiastic participants, eighteen year old Aatish Bhatta stood as the ultimate winner with a massive 8050 LIKES collected on his photo submission. Along with a 1 year free subscription of AutoLife magazine and gift hampers worth Rs. 5000, the winner was also entitled to an exclusive feature interview in our magazine. So here is what our winner, who is currently a high school student, had to say about his AutoLife.

1. Cars or bikes? Why? Bikes. It’s where my passion is. It’s a far-fetched dream, but I wish to ride someday in Moto GP. I drive too. But the only reason I love cars is because they are safer than bikes.

8. If you were given complete control of the country, what changes would you bring about in the automotive scene of Nepal?

If I were to be given the opportunity, I would make the Traffic rules very strict and make sure that there are no loopholes in the system. I would also pave way for a proper, professional and legal bike modification approval facility. And I would build a racing track to encourage safer track racing rather than racing on the roads.

9. Your dream bike/car? No restrictions!

My dream bike is the Yamaha YZF R1. I like its attractive design like the under-seat exhaust and especially that zoom-zoom sound of a sports motorcycle. I would love to buy it whenever I can afford one.

far I can only pull off stunts like simple stoppies and wheelies. It’s fun to learn freestyle riding and gradually raise the skill level. I am also more of the city biker as I ride mostly to college and back home. But I wish I could be a motorcycle racer.

2. How did you first learn to ride/drive and which is the first car/bike you had a go on?

Though bike riding and racing is a passion and obsession for most of us bikers, we should never race in the road and ride safely.

10. Your message or word of advice to all the auto lovers and owners in the country.

Though bike riding and racing is a passion and obsession for most of us bikers, we should never race in the road and ride safely. We should ride as per our skill levels and not ride faster than one can handle for the sake of showing off in front of friends.

5. One wicked or crazy thing that you have done on wheels? Or your most memorable When i was in the 9th standard, my father taught me to ride on a TVS Apache 160, which was also my 1st ride. And driving, I learnt it moment on wheels? on a VW Polo.

3. What do you ride currently? Why did you choose it over other bikes in the range?

I currently ride a Yamaha R15 V2. I chose the bike because it’s an affordable good looking and practical small sports bike for Nepal. Also, Yamaha is my favourite brand when it comes to motorcycles.

4. Are you the tourer, stunter, garage junkie or city biker? Why? I am just an amateur to motorcycling stunting at the moment. So 32

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The crazy thing that that I have done on my bike is trying to once lean my bike like professional racers, around Shahid Gate. The road was empty then and I just spend some time trying to corner through the turns at faster speeds. That is so far one of the most memorable part of my riding life.

6. Where do you think is the best destination to drive/ride to in Nepal?

I think the arrow straight road in the far-west towards Bardiya National Park is one fine road to ride. It’s straight for quite a long distance and is well maintained www.autolife.com.np

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readers write

Hello, welcome to an amazing (my foot) By: Prasanna KC driving experience.

A

few months ago, every weekend, my wife would remind me that we needed to book a ticket for Don 2 since it was running to packed houses at the City Centre and tickets were scarce. Of course, I still haven’t gotten around to booking that ticket. I haven’t watched Double Dhamaal either.

Although I am told that both the movies were hits and earned a cartload of money. Not that I care. Nor have I anything against Bollywood. What worries me is that all this will inevitably result in Don 3. That means more of the aged and somewhat wrinkled Shah Rukh Khan romancing the

blatantly focusing on the dashboards that looks like a stage on the Black Eyed Peas’ latest tour.

Once upon a time, life used to be simple. Women loved chick flicks and men loved cars. Better still, movies with a message didn’t exist. We just had movies where everything blew up in the end and the hero still managed to drive away into the sunset with the heroine safely tucked in the front seat. Now, this is the role model movie-scenario my generation grew up with. Who are their successors today? Shahid Kapoor driving an overtly painted yellow Hummer in a movie whose name no one even remembers?

us, not a button that tells us the outside temperature or a woman with a thick American accent who asks us what songs we would like to hear on the audio player. Lady, we do not want to get in touch with our feelings…ever. This has me thinking about male bonding cars that have worked. If we’re going on drives back in college, it would be the cranky but trusted Toyota or Datsun.

Two guys on a road trip?

Honda CG. Nights under the stars at Bhaisepati? Citroen.

Ok, so that last one was French and not manly, but she was tough and we men like that.

If we were going on drives back in college, it would be the cranky but trusted Toyota or Datsun. Two guys on a road trip? Honda CG. Nights under the stars at Bhaisepati?

Citroen. Ok, so that last one was French and not manly, but she was tough and we men like that. latest heartthrob, preferably a size zero, in a car which is most likely to be the recent release in India. Oh dear!

The problem with these badly made sequels is that the trend implies that the directors, actors and producers are taking the audience for granted. Worse, it suggests creative bankruptcy.

A sequel becomes a nice watch when it takes the spirit of the original, not piggy back on its success and end up being a money making franchise. What’s even worse is that these sequels are made to moreover showcase the labels that sponsor their movie sets. And sell cars by 34

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Seriously, how many Shahid Kapoor movies can you name?

Which has me wondering: do they make cars for men anymore?

Just like there is a distinction between chick flicks and guy flicks, there’s a car with interiors swanky enough to host a dance party and there’s a car that’s fun to drive. Crazily enough, the first choice seems to be overwhelmingly winning over. How? No wonder then the car companies have had dismal sales’ figures soon after all the wives bought a piece each. What men want is cars that make us reach for the accelerator as soon as a square inch space opens up in front of

So you see, the only thing a dejected driver can do today on the long drive home when confronted with cars that resemble these chick flicks, is to close the windows to drown out the traffic noise and crank up TI’s ‘Dead and Gone’. For those of you who’re still confused, that’s what male bonding is all about!

Prasanna KC, is a banker by profession, a guest lecturer by hobby and a humour columnist at heart. He aspires to be a ‘successful’ farmer someday.

Prasanna KC blogs at prasannajournal.wordpress.com www.autolife.com.np

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INFO

ADA or Nepal Automobile Dealers Association is an umbrella organization which represents and unites all the automobile dealers, associations and professionals under a single roof within the republic of Nepal.

Established in 2032 B.S, the primary objective of this non-profit organization is to be an effective medium in promoting and safeguarding the interest of all the automobile dealers by implementing policies and working together with the concerned parties to contribute towards the socio-economic development of the country.

It works closely with all the concerned stake holders by implementing plans and policies that strengthens the national economy of a country. Similarly, it also addresses all the problems affecting the automobile sector and works towards creating a mutually beneficial environment for the development of this sector. It also interacts with various national and international organizations to assess the various trends developing in the automobile industry.

Since 1998, NADA has been organizing the one and only auto show in the country dubbed as the “NADA Auto Show”. This auto show takes place every 2 years.

Last year too, NADA had organized the expo. The 5-day event was a big success thanks to the 40000 plus auto enthusiasts from all over Nepal. The theme of last year’s show was “Road Safety” and maximum efforts were made to raise awareness about road safety and traffic discipline to the general public.

Several vehicle manufacturers from the Eurasia region were present at the expo.

Car companies like Maruti Suzuki, Tata, Kia, Ford, Hyundai, Chevrolet, Volkswagon, Mitsubishi, Mahindra,

Auto expo provides a golden opportunity to view all the vehicles under a single roof.

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2011 Highlights

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It works closely with all the concerned stake holders by implementing plans and policies that strengthens the national economy of a country.

Ssangyong, Perodua, Fiat and Great Wall Motors had showcased their products. Similarly, motorcycle companies Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Bajaj, Hyosung, Demak, Piaggio and Hartford also graced the expo with their latest offerings. Similarly, many auto components and lubricants companies also had their stalls up at the expo.The manufacturers also provided spotfinancing and insurance facilities to lure the general visitors. Around 200 units of four-wheelers and more than 100 units of motorcycles were sold during this 5-day expo.

However, the organisers should work on a couple of things in order to make the expo visitor-friendly. Unlike last year, a proper floor plan mentioning the locations and stall numbers should be provided at the help desk or in the main entrance gate.Similarly, the exhibition arena should be properly managed because last year the visitors faced problems due to the water-logged floors.

If the organisers work on these details and are able to attract more manufacturers than last year, then it will be an absolute delight for the automobile fraternity as well as the general public. Auto expo provides a golden opportunity to view all the vehicles under a single roof. This will help a prospective buyer to notice all the models and get an informative view. The manufacturers and the dealers will also get a chance to interact directly with the prospective buyers. It will also help in increasing sales and building a large customer network.Atlast, it is also the right platform for the automobile professionals to meet and share their experiences about the changes taking place in the automobile market. www.autolife.com.np

Hyosung displayed their entire range of bikes ranging from dirt bikes, street bikes to sport bikes.

The crowd puller was definitely the Hyosung GT series of bike in the 250cc and 650cc segment. The RT125D also put many visitors in awe with its unusual beefy tires on a dirt bike.

One of the major entrants at the expo was Volkswagen. The unveiling of the Vento and Polo at the expo added more appeal to their already extravagant range. The Tiguan and its larger brother the Touareg didn’t fail to amaze visitors either. Surprisingly, the very car that put Volkswagen on the map was not displayed. The new Beetle was missed.

Bajaj definitely stood out with their amazing graffiti background. They displayed their range of motorbikes on sturdy revolving platforms as well as stationery ones. The new red and black paint scheme back then, gave the Bajaj Pulsar 220 a punchy facade as it smartly spun on the revolving stand.

Honda Motorcycles as always did not let us down with some of the finest bikes from the likes of the CB1000R, Hornet CB600F, CBR600RR to the XR Tornado lined up. But it was definitely the highly awaited CBR250R that was the centre of attention. Interestingly Honda also had a Safety Riding Simulator for visitors to try out.

It was hard not to find the Yamaha stall in the expo with music and announcements continuously blaring on their stereo and extravagant lightings gracing the stall. It was definitely the best stall in terms of design and attraction for bike manufacturers. With their unveilings of the YZF R6 and the XJ6 gracing the podium, the crowd was hooked to their stalls.

As far as the display arena was concerned, the biggest hit hands down, was Hyundai. Apart from their remarkable presentation, their complete range of automobiles on display was commendable as well. Hyundai certainly made its statement as it left no stones unturned to cater their visitors in every way possible.

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NADA 2011 Highlights Ford was also a force to be reckoned with at the exhibition. With the brand new Fiesta gracing one end and the Ranger robustly resting atop a stone barricaded platform on the other, visitors could not stop themselves from flocking over to Ford. The Fiesta Classic and Figo were also there.

Mitsubishi was there to remind everyone of their historical market presence in Nepal with their display of the three most stunning vehicles. Awesome would be an understatement for the ASX, Lancer and Pajero that was on display. Many people were also excited to feel the Pajero first hand, the big burly jeep also being the choice of our top politicians and businessmen.

TATA motors had displayed their muchacclaimed Nano and no doubt it was the most asked about machine in the show.

The all-new and fully loaded Manza was also much of a curious gaze for the visitors with its value for money offer. But for us the absolute charmer was the all-new Tata Aria. Right from the get-go, we loved everything about it.

Class and elegance, both have always been well epitomized by Skoda. MAW the sole distributer of Skoda auto had its latest products on the stalls â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the all rounder Yeti, elegant Laura and the luxury Superb. On a lighter note, the Yeti mascot accompanying the Skoda Yeti was a refreshing touch especially with kids taking photographs with it.

The other motorbike giant on display was Suzuki. They had the mean B-King 1300, GSX-R600, GSR600, GZ250 and DR200SE surrounding the amazing Burgman 400 Scooter which turned out to be the main attraction of the stall. Suzuki could have done better with the stall presentation for the enthusiastic visitors considering its awesome line up of bikes.

Amongst its usual line up, Maruti Suzuki had featured customized versions of A-Star, Ritz and Swift. However it was the modified Swift, set at a premium of Rs.95, 000 compared to the factory model, which stole the show at Suzuki.

The support staffs were always kept busy by the steady flow of visitors at the stall.

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Rapidly in-between In Nepal, Skoda is a brand very much associated with luxury. Cars like the Superb, Laura and Yeti have established Skoda as a brand to reckon with, especially among the higher class elites of the country. Only recently after the launch of its hatchback Fabia, Skoda had opened its door to the general middle class car buyers. But what about those who wanted something more than a Skoda hatchback but still could not afford their executive cars? Something that fits right in between! Now this is where this newly launched Skoda makes its rapid entry, promising to tick all the right boxes. So let me introduce you to not just one, but two variants of the Skoda Rapid.

nepal exclusive skoda rapid

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The Rapid acquires a nice dark and light beige coloured dash board rendering an airy and classy feel to the passengers automatic climate control is also present on the top-end Elegance model.

The upholstery on the Rapid Elegance is decent and light coloured material is used for the seats too. The driver’s seat is provided with height adjustment and a height adjusting centre armrest. The ergo-lever behind the front seat allows the rear passenger to move the front seat forward. The rear seats get a firm cushioning, a foldable center armrest and height adjustable headrests. Despite its compact size, the Skoda Rapid has enough headroom, legroom and shoulder room at the front and even for the rear passengers.

To cap it all, even the boot, which is accessed through a high-opening tailgate, is pretty huge. So huge that I could comfortably lie in the boot of one of the Rapid and take panning photo shots of the other Rapid on the move.

" The central grille is unmistakably Skoda, with the logo sitting just under the chrome band " INTERIORS At the current pricing, it would be wrong to expect a lush interior akin to Skoda’s other premium sedan offerings.

So enter inside the Rapid with lower expectations and the interiors will be satisfying. The Rapid acquires a nice dark and light beige coloured dashboard rendering an airy and classy feel to the passengers. The tilt and telescopic adjustable steering wheel is a four-spoke affair with a chrome insert on it. However there are no steering mounted audio controls. The sedan adorns instrument panel that has a green back light, with green needles and multi-function display in middle that gives information about travelling time, distance travelled, average speed, immediate consumption, average consumption, travel distance before refueling, service interval, outside temperature, clock, digital fuel meter and trip meters. A single MP3/CD radio unit with AUX socket, SD-MMC data card reader and 4 speakers comes on the top end Skoda Rapid Elegance. Under the music system is the climate control unit and an 44

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has been decently placed wide and low. The rest of the car is pretty much similar to the VW Vento, the car on which it is originally based.

The rear part of Skoda Rapid however incorporates new tail lamps accompanied with a C shaped glow on brake lamps. Tinted window frames, body coloured door handles, a roof antenna and body colour wing mirrors adorns the rest of the exterior styling. The highest variant Rapid sports 5-spoke 15-inch alloy wheels and makes the sideline look more amazing. But the base variants are devoid of alloys and manage with steel wheels that come with Comoros full wheel cover. In all, the exterior of Skoda Rapid is excellent in their own way, despite being similar to the Volkswagen Vento and Skoda Fabia. The best part about the Rapid is that when viewed from some angles, a less passionate car enthusiast could easily mistake it for its more elegant sibling, the Skoda Laura.

EXTERIORS The Skoda Rapid’s front styling is reminiscent of the Fabia. Well it’s not your fault, as it is basically a Fabia with an extended boot.

The stretched sweptback headlamps and massive fog lamps are also almost similar to those found on the Fabia. The central grille is unmistakably Skoda, with the logo sitting just under the chrome band. The front bumper with prominent and wide air dams

Despite its compact size, the Skoda Rapid has enough headroom, legroom and shoulder room at the front and even for the rear passengers. www.autolife.com.np

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"The front bumper with prominent and wide air dams has been decently placed wide and low" September 2012 45

PERFORMANCE The Skoda Rapid comes in both petrol as well as the diesel variants. But currently only the petrol variant has been introduced in Nepal.

The petrol variant of Skoda Rapid comes with a 1.6 litre MPI unit, which churns out 105 bhp of power and 153 Nm of torque. There is choice of an automatic 6-speed with Tiptronic manual gear changing option or a 5 speed manual standard gearbox. Well we had the chance to test drive both the manual and automatic. The manual is a little hesitant from low revs and demands to be revved hard to compensate for the initial pick up lag. On the go, however, it responds well and comes alive at higher revs. Pedaling this car aggressively makes it enjoyable. It is light to use and the gear throw is short and slick. But engine noise is on the higher side. Apart from the 5 speed manual gearbox, the 6 speed automatic gearbox is quite fun and have gear ratios nicely spaced out. You also have an exciting manual Tiptronic option if you want to be in command of the gear shifting. The adrenaline pumping is done more by the automatic petrol variant. The sport mode too is useful and holds on to gears longer, which is good for some engine braking. But as is the norm, fuel efficiency will be slightly lower than the manual version.

Skoda never compromises on comfort, reliability, technology and looks, and this time too they have delivered on all those. The Skoda Rapid is indeed a simply clever proposition that sits just right in between.

SPECIFICATIONS

ENGINE Type: MPI In-Line 4 DOHC 16-valve Displacement: 1598cc Fuel Type: Petrol Maximum Power: 105 Bhp @ 5250 rpm Maximum Torque: 153 Nm @ 3800 rpm Transmission: 5-Speed Manual or 6-Speed Automatic

The steering is light and there is good visibility to the side and front which makes it easy to maneuver around the city. Braking on the Skoda Rapid is precise and spot on, further aided by ABS and Brake Assist. Front MacPherson strut suspension with stabilizer bar and rear semi-independent type trailing arm shocker suspensions are used in the Skoda Rapid. Driving around Kathmandu we encountered everything from long twisty roads, straights and city traffic. The ride on Skoda Rapid is stiffer at low speeds over broken roads but the slightly stiffer suspension setup allows the driver to be more relaxed on the highway. The Skoda Rapid manages to take high-speed turns with reassuring confidence and did well on the twisting roads to Chobhar. So given the push, this car actually becomes fun to drive.

DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT Length: 4386 mm Width: 1699 mm Height: 1466 mm Wheelbase: 2552 mm Ground Clearance: 168mm Tyre Size: 175/70 R14 | 185/60 T15 Suspension Front: MacPherson Struts Suspension Rear: Compound Link Crank-Axle

Brakes Front: Discs Brakes Rear: Drums Dry Weight: 1150kg Fuel Tank: 55L PRICING AS PER VARIANTS Rapid Activ: 31,25,000/Rapid Ambition: 33,75,000/Rapid Elegance: 36,75,000/Rapid Ambition A/T: 37,95,000/Rapid Elegance A/T: 39,95,000/COLOR OPTIONS Candy White, Cappuccino Beige, Deep Black Pearl, Brilliant Silver, Flash Red OTHERS IN THE SEGMENT Chevrolet Optra, Fiat Linea, Ford Fiesta, Geely MK, Honda City, Kia Cerato, Maruti Suzuki SX4, Proton Persona, Tata Indigo Manza, Volkswagen Vento

VERDICT So the Skoda Rapid is not only a spacious and practical car, but also a fine vehicle to drive. And considering that value-for-money is a top priority for most, the Rapid is sure to tempt buyers. The Rapid is a family car from Skoda that sits right in between the Fabia and the Laura, and makes the perfect reasonable sedan for all occasions. It is a known fact that Skoda never compromises on comfort, reliability, technology and looks, and this time too they have delivered on all those. The Skoda Rapid is indeed a simply clever proposition that sits just right in betweenâ&#x20AC;Ś

" The best part about the Rapid is that when viewed from some angles, a less passionate car enthusiast could easily mistake it for its more elegant sibling, the Skoda Laura "

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al tribute

His campaign was stepped up in 1993 and although it proved to be a year of highs and lows, it did encompass his first-ever win in the World Rally Championship.

‘IF IN DOUBT, GO FLAT-OUT!’

His wildest dreams were, however, realised only in 1995 when he won the World Championship and became Britain’s first and the youngest ever World Rally Champion.

The following two years were character-building finishing second in the Championship in both seasons, despite winning more events than any of his rivals. A switch to the M-Sport run Ford World Rally Team took

-Colin McRae

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t some point or the other, most of us who grew up playing video games, did spend some of those countless hours trying to speed through tough rally stages in the Colin McRae Rally racing video game series. The game series was a critical as well as commercial success and is generally acknowledged as a pioneer of realistic rally sports racing games. But less known among the gamers is the World Rally Championship legend Colin Steele McRae. So first of all, Colin McRae isn’t just your video game character! Colin was in fact one of the greatest rally drivers that the world had ever seen.

His insane real life competition driving through the various rally stages around the world could actually easily put your video game antics to shame.

ate championships. The trials bike then became a fair swap for a car after he had his first debut on the Kames Stages in Scotland. McRae’s talents were obvious from the minute he stepped aboard a battered Talbot Sunbeam, hammering a tired old car through rally stages with indecent haste. He continued to flatten his learning curve, along with the odd panel here and there, in a Vauxhall Nova and variety of Sierra Cosworths. His first outright rally victory then came in 1988 on the Tweedies Rally, when he was co-driven by

long-time girlfriend and wife to be, Alison Hamilton. More WRC outings followed in 1989 and Colin was becoming a sensation.

Colin’s major breakthrough was eventually facilitated by Subaru’s chief, David Richards who took a huge gamble in signing him for Subaru. The British Rally Championship crown was quickly achieved in 1991 and he finally entered the WRC scene in 1992. The spotlight was unexpectedly on him in his first World Championship rally itself, when lead driver Ari Vatanen crashed on the opening test in Sweden.

Colin McRae may not statistically be the best rally driver in the world, but sometimes greatness can’t be calculated.

place for the1999 season. Colin immediately made an impact by astounding all the experts with the maiden victory for the Ford Focus WRC in the toughest event on the calendar - The Safari Rally in Kenya. He remained with Ford until the end of 2002, claiming his 25th World Championship rally victory in Kenya that same year to become the world’s most successful driver. The switch to Citroen came in 2003 and Colin claimed

Born on 5th August 1968, Colin’s fascination with cars began at the age of two. By the time he was seven, Colin was on motorbikes and within six years of competing in trials he was winning junior and intermedi48

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points in all but three events.

Success continued to follow Colin around, underlining his all-round aptitude behind the wheel of a competition car.

In 2005, Colin then returned to the WRC series for Skoda driving the Fabia. In Rally GB, Colin thrilled the thousands of home spectators who turned out to support their hero and recorded Skoda’s best result of the season finishing seventh overall. This partnership of Colin and Skoda rejuvenated the World Championship.

Racing or rallying, McRae’s desire to succeed was evident when the lure of two of the world’s most demanding motorsport events, the Dakar and Le Mans became too much to ignore. The legendary Dakar provided the sense of adventure Colin craved for.

Colin recorded two fastest times on the 2005 Dakar Rally on his Nissan Pickup 2005 and was leading the event by over six minutes, but he hit a hidden ledge and the Nissan catapulted end over end at high speed. But at Le Mans, sharing a Ferrari 550 Maranello with Rickard Rydell and Darren Turner, the trio achieved a podium finish.

Later away from competing, Colin turned his attention to producing the ultimate rally machine by utilizing his many years of experience testing and developing rally cars for the top WRC teams. Working with DJM Motorsport, Colin also produced the ‘Colin McRae R4’ which he debuted at the 2007

Goodwood Festival of Speed.

But plans to put the prototype into production were shelved after the tragic events of September 2007. In September 2007, a fatal helicopter accident claimed the lives of not only Colin but his son Johnny and two family friends as well.

This was indeed a huge shock the motorsport community.

Colin McRae may not statistically be the best rally driver in the world, but sometimes greatness can’t be calculated.

Colin McRae was indeed a man made to drive rally cars.

He had the most astonishing ability to fire his cars between the trees faster than anybody else in the world. It was that ability allied to gob-smacking speed and outrageous bravery which enabled the man known as ‘Supermac’ to win 25 of the 146 World Rally Championship rounds he started. McRae topped the WRC aged 27, in a sport where you’re reckoned to be at your best in your thirties.

Even today, his utter command and demolition of the opposition on various rally stages live in the minds of all who witnessed his sheer commitment and natural driving ability...

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WHY NOT DIESEL?

With increasingly high gas prices and an overall movement towards green, fuel efficient vehicles, fuel economy has become more important. In fact, for many, price, looks and size are now completely trumped by fuel economy. In Nepal, diesel car sales have been gradually rising as people have gradually begun to realize the importance in fuel economy in these times of forever rising oil prices. Just recently, automobile companies in Nepal like Tata have been stepping up their efforts to offer diesel counterparts along with popular gasoline models. Let us drive through the example of their Tata Indica and Vista. Indica L Refresh (Diesel) starts from an attractive valued price of Rs 1,445,000 , where as for Vista, the petrol version Tata Safire GZX 90 PS costs Rs. 23,95,000 and the diesel version Tata Vista Q-Jet ZX 75PS costs Rs.26,95,000. So considering that diesel engines typically give up to 30% better fuel economy than comparable petrol units and is nearly Rs.30 cheaper than petrol, the diesel Vista should definitely be a reasonable approach in the longer run and the Indica is already a winner being the most valued diesel car available.

In places around Europe, Australia and India diesel cars have already overtaken petrol models for some manufacturers and they could do the same here in future.

iesel passenger cars have not been as popular in Nepal as they have in other countries around the world. While diesel engines for heavy duty work trucks and buses are widely popular, diesel passenger cars have not enjoyed the same fate. There is of course a reason to that. Historically, diesel cars were known for being smelly, hard to start in cold weather and environmentally unfriendly. Even in the late 1980s, diesel powered cars were heavy, slow to accelerate and gave cumbersome feelings to drive. Diesel engines used to be noisy, smelly and somewhat agricultural. Also diesel fuel used to contain higher concentrations of sulphur that contributed to high levels of smog and pollution, and gave diesel cars a bad rap over the decades.

They’ve also become sporty.

Diesel engines offer a higher torque over their petrol counterparts and you get better performance by buring much lesser fuel.

But hello, we are no longer in the 1980s and tapping our foot to the tunes of Elvis or The Beatles playing on the radio. Times have changed and with technological innovations, most of those issues with Diesel cars have been solved.

Low sulphur diesel, or LSD is being replaced with a much cleaner-burning ultra low sulphur diesel (ULSD) and uses 97% less sulphur than LSD. Innovations in clean diesel cars have also eliminated much of the problems from the early days of diesel passenger cars. Though they are still noticeably louder than gasoline engines, improvements have been made to quiet the engines with special emissions filters and exhaust aftertreatment systems devised to reduce pollution. Emissions for diesel vehicles today are cleaner and more efficient than in the past decades. With the advent of new technologies such as common rail direct injection, EGR systems and exhaust treatment systems, diesel today offer great performance with excellent mileage.

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lesser fuel. They’ve also become sporty.

Audi and Peugeot have used dieselpowered prototypes to win notable Le Mans Races.

But obviously there are some trade-offs. Diesel engines emit more noxious gases and CO2 per litre of fuel used than petrol-powered cars. However, because diesels use less fuel, they can emit less CO2 over time. And the noise they produce isn’t exactly fruity and the operation is still coarse and jerky.

Cost is another big factor in the diesel versus petrol debate. A diesel engine needs to be stronger than petrol to withstand the higher compression ratio and turbo pressure which a petrol engine wouldn’t run. So it is built with more metal for extra sturdiness. The heavier engine then needs stronger mounts and heavier-duty suspension. The clutch and gearbox are often up rated to cope with the added torque and there’s usually more sound-deadening material. All of this adds to the price of building the car, the expense of which is then handed down to the consumer. But the fact that diesel engines offer better mileage over

gasoline engines should still justify the higher price.

Most car buyers also point out that diesel powered cars demands more maintenance over sustained usage. Well that is true for age old diesel cars, but so far there is not much proof of it in the diesel engines of today. There is little to suggest that a diesel car will ask for any excessive maintenance as compared to its petrol counterpart. Diesel engines may demand a little more money on maintenance as they are heavier with more complicated higher compression ratios. But even this maintenance cost cannot be such a big factor to alter the overall economics of owning a diesel car in a big way. Of course the quality of diesel is a big question mark and that might lead to unfavourable experiences.

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If you want to cut down on trips to the pump, and still drive a fun, powerful, good looking car, your best bet might just be in a diesel powered vehicle.

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If you want to cut down on trips to the pump, and still drive a fun, powerful, good looking car, your best bet might just be in a diesel powered vehicle. Diesel is part of the future power train strategy and you will likely see more models with a diesel option in the future. In short order, diesel has gone from dirty, smelly truck fuel to powering the winners of the prestigious Le Mans 24 Hours race for the past five years. The diesel engines are now cleaner, more powerful and refined, and with diesel cheaper than petrol at the pumps, it definitely makes sense to get one.

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LAND ROVER

THE UNSTOPPABLES

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words: saurav nepal | compiled by: ayush dhaubanjar

ver imagine a muddy trail with four wheels in the equation and the first thing that your heart wishes for is undoubtedly an indestructible Land Rover. Or ever seen a Range Rover pass by on the streets and wished so bad that you too had one? Yes it happens to most of us! But achieving this iconic status and goodwill didn’t really come easy as it took the Land Rover Company decades of dedication and hard work in climbing up the road.

Land Rover is the second oldest fourwheel drive car brand in the world and although the brand originated from its original 1947 model with the Rover Company, Land Rover as a company really existed only since 1978. Rover group was under the umbrella of British Leyland Motor Corporation (BL) and when BL was nationalised, Land Rover Limited was then created as a separate entity. Since then, Land Rover has been in the hands of quite a lot of different owners. In 1994, German Automaker BMW acquired the Rover group. Then in 2000, BMW sold the Land Rover Limited Company to American manufacturer Ford Motor Company. Furthermore, Ford sold Land rover to Tata Motors in 2008

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it took the land rover company decades of dedication and hard work in climbing up the road. and have been part of Tata’s Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) group ever since.

Its headquarters is in Gaydon, United Kingdom with the main production facility in Halewood and world-wide assembling facilities in India, Spain, Brazil and Turkey. For the near future, plans are being made to shift the main production facility to China so as to cut costs and expand the sales volume.

Maurice Wilks who designed the original Land Rover in 1947, wanted to recreate the power and durability

of the American World War II Jeep. So the first Land Rover prototype was built using an American Willys Jeep.

Production began in Solihull (home of the Land Rover for 60 years) in the summer of 1948. The first model was powered by a 1595cc petrol engine that drove a four-wheel drive transmission with low ratio gearing to increase off-road capability - a benchmark of every Land Rover in years to come. It was also called the “Farmer’s Friend” because their main target was the agricultural market back then.

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they are designed with brilliant simplicity for extraordinary ability and unrivalled strength and durability.

Today from militaries to competitions, Land rovers have enjoyed success on every front. The British Army, United States Army and many other military forces in the world use the Land Rover Defenders for its wide practicability, safety and durability. Land Rovers have also dominated the famous G4 Challenge and Camel Trophy which was also branded as “the Olympics of 4x4”. This famous trophy and challenges saw everything from the Range Rover, Defender, Discovery to the Freelander tackle the challenging terrains. Land rover’s triumph didn’t just stop there. They are still popular among geo-explorers, humanitarians and conservation organizations all over the world. Land Rovers have been capable of uncountable expeditions around the globe. They also conduct a variety of events from the 4x4 Land Rover Survival Day, Defender trophy, Hardcore Recce Expeditions, Valentine Weekend to the Ladies Weekend every year.

future. The company invests heavily in e_Terrain Technologies, sustainable manufacturing and CO2 offsetting. The LRX concept, debuted in Detroit 2008, previewed the company’s vision of the future. And now Land Rover has also extended its brand into bicycles, pushchairs, coffee, merchandising, etc.

They design All Purpose Bicycles model with leading link front suspension with adjustable damping and stroke. However, pushchairs are discontinued now. Land Rover Coffee Company was established in 2005, and since then, Land Rover has its name associated with coffee.

Land Rover has developed into a huge marquee with an exclusive range of four-wheel-drive models which includes the indestructible Defender, rugged Discovery, compact Freelander, sporty Range Rover and the extremely stylish Evoque. Its name has become synonymous with off-roadroad driving just as WaiWai is to us, for instant noodles. They are designed with brilliant simplicity for extraordinary ability and unrivalled strength and durability. In fact, it is estimated that two-thirds Land Rover’s vehicles since its inception are Land Rovers introduced many innovative and genuine technologies which are first to debut in off-road vehicles. incredibly still at work – many of them in some of the most extreme conditions and inhospitable places on earth. And From Active Cornering Enhancement (ACE) system, today Land Rovers aren’t just the go-anywhere mechanical Hill Assist System, Self-Levelling Suspension to the workhorses that they used to be, but in addition, the most award-winning Terrain Response System, Land Rovers’ commitment towards safety and innovation is unceasing. desirable vehicles on earth as well. The idea of a luxury offroader would have been laughable before, but not anymore!

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1966

2008

2005

2004

Land Rover Series III gets launched. It gets an all-synchromesh gearbox, powerful brakes, long wheelbase and a completely revised interior and exterior treatment.

Similarly, the British Trans-Americas Expedition also takes place in two Range Rovers and is dubbed to be one of the greatest car journeys.

1971

This year marks the birth of the luxurious Range Rover which is set to become the important spine of the Land Rover brand in the future. The two-door Range Rover gets a 3.5 –litre V8 petrol engine with a top speed of 160 km/h and a permanent 4-wheel drive.

Land Rover reaches a historic milestone of its 500000th vehicle rolling out from the plant.

Ford sells Land Rover to Tata Motors on March 26th.Both Land Rover and Jaguar cars are sold to the Indian company Tata Motors for approximately $2.3-billion.In the same year, Land Rover celebrates its 60th anniversary and launches the SVX- a special limited edition of the Defender.

The Range Rover Sport is launched. It gets a Jaguar adopted 4.2 litre supercharged V8 petrol engine instead of the BMW’s V8.The interior is designed for a cockpit feel with a high-centre console and a well placed instrument panel. Similarly, the 500000th Freelander also rolls out.

The third generation Discovery is launched.

The new discovery or LR3 gets 4.4 litre V8 petrol, a 2.7 litre V6 diesel and a 4.0 litre V6 petrol engine. It also gets the all new ‘Integrated Body Frame’ architecture and the ‘Terrain Response System’.

The 4 Door version of the popular Range Rover is Launched.

Range Rover production reaches 100000.

Land Rover introduces an automatic gearbox option in the Range Rover.

Similarly, the Land Rover ‘County’ Station Wagon is also launched in the same year.

Land Rover Discovery is launched during the Frankfurt Motor Show. The Discovery gets a 200 TDi direct-injection diesel engine and also a 3.5-litre V8 petrol engine is provided as optional.

The long-wheelbase Range Rover LSE gets air suspension and electronic traction control – first in the world in an off-road vehicle.

Land Rover launches the Freelander. The Freelander is launched during the Frankfurt Motor Show and is offered in a 5-door and a 3-door body styles. It also gets the innovative Hill Descent Control (HDC) system.

Land Rover production crosses 3 million and Range rover production reaches 500000.

Similarly, the 3rd generation Range Rover is also introduced. The new Range Rover is powered by a 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo-diesel or a 4.4-litre V8 petrol BMW engines.

1980

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Maurice Wilks, Rover’s technical director and his brother Spencer Wilks created a prototype using a second world war American Jeep chassis and axle components.

The first Land Rover gets officially launched on 30 April 1948 at the Amsterdam Motor Show. It became successful. Rover then starts exporting the Land rover to nearly 70 countries worldwide from next year.

The Land Rover Discovery turns 20 and in celebration, Land Rover launches the 4th generation Discovery which is also known as LR4.It gets a 3.0 litre V6 turbocharged and intercooled diesel and a 5.0 litre V8 petrol engine mated to an 8-speed gearbox.

The Range Rover Evoque is launched. It includes a 2.2 litre Diesel and a 2.0 litre petrol engine coupled with a 6-speed gearbox in many automatic and manual variants. The Range Rover Evoque becomes an instant hit worldwide.

The all new 4th generation Range Rover is unveiled and is scheduled to debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show.

2010

2011

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1948

The Land rover Series II is launched.

Ten years after the first Land Rover was launched, the Series II is launched at the same Amsterdam Motor Show. The new model comes with an all new 2.25 Litre petrol engine.

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autolife

test ride

Words: ankit shakya

photography: ayush dhaubanjar

“ The front façade of the machine makes it clear why it’s called the Wolf “

verything we use is made in China; from the keys to your keyboard right down to the underwear you are wearing. Yet we seem to hesitate the moment we learn that anything with wheels comes from the land of dragons. Naturally, since its origins were rooted in Taiwan , SYM has its work cut out for them. And this is discernible from the difficulty that other Chinese brands have faced in the Nepali automobile market. A steep price range does not make SYM’s task any easier. It is a task in its own to cajole the majority of the Nepali riders from the stereotype about the vehicles that come from our short squinty brothers to the North.

SYM Wolf sb-250

Not your average round of the mill canine, the Wolf SB250Ni from SYM is making rounds to become the apex predator in town. Although a major player in the worldwide scooter and small bike market,

SYM is the newest kid in K-town and has its sight set on igniting the Nepali two-wheeler market on fire. And what better way to go about it than pulling out their biggest gun from their arsenal, SYM’s first foray into the naked biking segment.

Styling and Console One can’t help but notice the resemblance of the Honda CB1000 RR in the SYM Wolf. That’s not a bad thing at all.

“The max horse power of Wolf SB250Ni reaches to 18.4kw and is great for bolting through the Kathmandu traffic “

Nevertheless, the naked ruggedness is pleasant to the eyes. The front façade of the machine makes it clear why it’s called the Wolf. In fact, the overall bulky appearance of the Wolf gives it an aggressive appearance. handling and comfort. 110/70-17 tyres in the front and 140/70-17 tyres in the rear keep you grounded at all times. The 4 piston Radial-Mounted Caliper wave disc 288mm in the front with 4 way adjustable brake lever can fulfill the demands of different riders. However, the rear wave disc 222mm in the rear seemed to be a sheep in wolf’s clothing as they seemed to promise a little less than they performed. Nevertheless, braking was amply good for the 250cc engine and it felt stable throughout all occasions.

The instrumentation is not too complicated yet a well-thought-out area of this bike. The blue back-lit LCD dash has functions normally only seen on bigger bikes, such as an oil change reminder, clock and fuel gauge. Revs are shown on a big analogue tachometer, while speed is shown as a large digital read out. The LCD dash also has a gear position indicator.

Riding Pretty large, sleek and well cut, this machine looks like it was built for speed.

It partly lives up to its looks, but only after it touches the 4500rpm mark.

With a 250cc engine 4V liquid engine one definitely expects a better initial pick up. But the oomph it produces at the mid 4000s more than makes up for the initial lag. The max horse power of Wolf SB250Ni reaches to 18.4kw and is great for bolting through the Kathmandu traffic.

Although the 250cc machine portrays a big bike feel, it is in fact quiet tame.

At 173kg dry weight, the Wolf 250 is light and maneuverable yet, thanks to a relatively low seat height contributing to a low centre of gravity, it feels very solid on the road. The aggressive look of the bike seems misleading once you roll out onto the roads. It was not an angry difficult to control rabid wolf, but in fact a calm and reserved beast that was pretty rider friendly. Although flicking it through traffic was a breeze, you always get the big bike feel while ripping through tarmac.

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Reaching the 100kmph mark was child’s play for the 250cc engine. But, its high end power is not worth boasting. Getting to the 125kmph mark was pretty easy on the Arniko Highway, but pushing past the digits in the speedometer were struggling to go past that mark. Vibrations were pretty noticeable at high revs, but it seemed to add on to the street bike feel.

The rear suspension could also definitely use some adjustment for a smoother ride. The upright riding position and slim chassis means the Wolf fits a wide range of riders and with the footrests and handlebars set to a mid position it provides a nice compromise between

The blue back-lit LCD dash has functions normally only seen on bigger bikes, such as an oil change reminder, clock and fuel gauge. “ Although flicking it through traffic was a breeze, you always get the big bike feel while ripping through tarmac “

Pretty large, sleek and well cut, this machine looks like it was built for speed.

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The Verdict All in all, the naked SYM Wolf is a real fun bike to ride. The 250cc engine dishes out a healthy 18.4kw making maneuvering through the urban city a lot of fun. Out of the city, the open roads call out for the Wolf to howl through the roads. Working through the six-speed gearbox to keep the revs up around the optimal operating pace of 5-7000rpm is a joy and adds to the bigger bike feel.

Although the bike is suitable for both urban riding as well as the highway, the steep pricing definitely causes a hitch to potential customers. Also, since the Chinese automobile market has to work extra hard to gain the trust of the Nepalese market, the pricing may work against them.

SPECIFICATIONS

ENGINE Type: 4-strokes, single cylinder Displacement: 249.4 cc Cooling System: liquid Fuel System: E.F.I. Transmission: 6-speed gear change Emission: euro 3 Front Suspension: Telescopic fork Rear Suspension: Unit swing arm

Working through the six-speed gearbox to keep the revs up around the optimal operating pace of 5-7000rpm is a joy and adds to the bigger bike feel.

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Front Brake: Disc 288mm Rear Brake: Disc 222mm Front Tire: 110/70-17 Rear Tire: 140/70-17 Head Light (High/Low): 12V 60/55W L x W x H (mm): 2005x790x1150 Wheelbase (mm): 1320 mm Dry Weight (kg): 173kg Fuel Capacity (liter): 14 PRICE: NRs 5,99,900 /September 2012

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coverage

Epic does not even come close to describing this journey that these two have embarked upon.

Continental his is a story about two friends, one a fire fighter, the other a police man. Both of them loved riding their motorbikes. One day, the police man decided to invite his friend for a ride to his house. The fireman heartily agreed and they were off. Seems like a run-of-the-mill trip, which is until you realize they live 25000miles apart.

Epic does not even come close to describing this journey that these two have embarked upon. British fire fighter Darren Higginson, 47, and Australian policeman, David ‘Dave’ Darcy, 51, aim to achieve the incredible London to Sydney ‘Continental Drift’ ride in just three months. As the story goes, Darren watched riding videos made by David on YouTube three years ago. Darren, who at that stage had only ever ridden road bikes, was inspired by the stunning scenery and spirit of adventure of Dave’s 66

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Australian films and so made contact with the amateur filmmaker. Within a few months and an invitation to go out riding with David, Darren was on a plane to Australia.

With two KTM 690 Enduro Rs supplied by the Hemel Hempstead-based KTM dealer, these two have embarked on a journey that will clock in more than 20,000kms from London to Sydney. It will

be a journey that Dave will be recording on film so he can compile it into one awesome documentary when tthey come to the end of the trip. Although most of their trip is self funded, the ride will be raising money in aid of cancer charities in their respective countries: Darren for Cancer Research and Dave for the Australian Cancer Research Foundation.

Their choice of route will be kicking off from UK, to France Germany, Austria Czech, Slovakia, Poland, Ukraine and Russia before crossing into Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, China, Nepal, Thailand, Indonesia and East Timor, all before heading to the finish line in Sydney, Australia. It was a pleasure to be able to catch up with them while they caught their breath here in Nepal.

Rabi dai, from Sacred Summits, was kind enough to invite AutoLife to the Handle Bar (brain child of Rabi Thapa) in their little rendezvous with the travelling duo. We have said it before and we’ll say it again, motorcycle riders are great fun to hang out with. It wasn’t long before everyone started sharing their riding expewww.autolife.com.np

riences with each other. Turns out, due to some bad fuel they got somewhere, Dave’s engine was creating some problems. But luckily for them, Kathmandu had recently introduced a KTM service centre. They had to ship in a brand new engine to make sure the Enduro would be up and running again and the KTM service centre was more than willing to be of assistance.

As the food and drinks kept coming, Dave and Darren shared with us their experience of the trip. It was amazing to hear about the ups and downs they had encountered on their trips and all the amazing people that they encountered.

It was especially touching to watch their emotions as they told us about how they were welcomed into a home of a commoner who probably was having a tough time making ends meet and offered food and shelter when they were pretty much stranded in Kazakhstan.

Although they would love to keep their wheels on the ground at all times, it simply wasn’t possible. And since getting to Burma did not seem possible, they have to fly to Thailand where they will be off on their ride again. It was a pleasure getting to know them and about their travel. And the fact that they are doing it for a good cause

makes it that much better. It also seems that 10 weeks away from home has really made the pair homesick. We wish them all the luck and god speed.

You can follow Dave and Darren on Facebook under ‘Continental Drift’ and follow them on YouTube as well.

With the glitches on their motorbikes, it was looking like the duo would be a little behind schedule. However, the KTM service centre was in top form and once the engine arrived into the country, they were on it like ants on a sugar cube. And before you could say “Kraftfahrzeuge Trunkenpolz Mattighofen” Dave’s Enduro was rearing to go. www.autolife.com.np

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feature event

Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance Once each year, on the third Sunday in August, the most prized collector cars in the world roll onto Pebble Beach. Tire meets turf and transformation occurs. First conducted in 1950, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is the world’s premier celebration of automotive history and has grown into the top-ranking collector car show of the world. The Concours is not a contest of speed, but of excellence. Only the most beautiful and rare automobiles are invited to appear on the famed Pebble Beach each year. Automobiles and motorcycles are then judged for their historical accuracy, technical merit and style. Increasingly, innovative concepts and new cars also debut at Pebble Beach. The 2012 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance was held on the 19th of August on the 18th fairway of Pebble Beach Golf Links in Pebble Beach, California.

This year’s annual affair included a series of events, such as the Pebble Beach Tour d’Elegance, Pebble Beach Retro Auto, Pebble Beach Motoring Classic and the Pebble Beach Auction. Cars and owners competed for trophies across 20 standard and seven special categories. While a 1928 Mercedes-Benz 608S Saoutchik Torpedo rolled away with the Best of Show honour, there were plenty of vehicles at hand worth a second look. Here are some of the exotic exhibits that set the stage on fire...

Classic Cars

Only the most beautiful and rare automobiles are invited to appear on the famed Pebble Beach each year.

1931 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 GranSport Aprile

Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse

1933 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 GranSport Figoni

Hennessey Venom GT

New Cars

1948 Norman Timbs Emil Diedt Roadster 1910 Brooke Swan Car

1928 Mercedes-Benz 680S Saoutchik Torpedo

1930 Packard 740 Custom Eight Roadster 68

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Jaguar XJ AWD 3.0

Aston Martin Vanquish

Bentley EXP 9F Concept

BMW Zagato Roadster www.autolife.com.np

1951 Ferrari 212 Export Touring Berlinetta

1961 Aston Martin DB4 www.autolife.com.np

Lamborghini Sesto Elemento

Lexus LF-LC September 2012

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Powered by

CROSSWORDS

win QFX cinemas tickets www.qfxcinemas.com

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HINTS: All ANSWERS TO THIS CROSSWORD CAN BE FOUND IN THIS ISSUE ITSELF. CHEATING IS HIGHLY ENCOURAGED! ACROSS 2. The luxury SUV brand now owned by TATA. 5. The epic ride on KTM’s from London to Australia featured in this issue.

8. Popular short form for ‘Do-It-Yourself’.

10. The Veloster is going to be introduced to Nepal by this car marquee.

12. Nepal Automobile Dealers Association acronym.

13. First name of the cyclist who was recently stripped off his Tour De France titles.

14. The lead actor in the Death Race (2008) movie.

DOWN

1. Brand new Skoda that ‘Just Arrived’ in town.

3. The WRC Champion featured in this month’s AL Tribute feature.

4. Kraftfahrzeuge Trunkenpolz Mattighofen?

6. SYM, the latest two-wheeler brand in Nepal hails from this country.

7. Director of The Fast and The Furious (2001).

9. The cheaper fuel in Nepal. Petrol or Diesel?

11. Valentino Rossi’s new team for Moto GP 2013.

Terms & Conditions 1) All crossword responses should reach Autolife Magazine by 30th September 2012.

2) Three lucky winners shall be selected through a random drawing system. Winners will be notified by email.

3) Each winner will receive 2 Gold tickets to QFX Cinemas. Tickets are valid for use at QFX Jai Nepal and QFX Kumari for Weekday (Monday Thursday) shows only.

4) The tickets cannot be exchanged for cash, credit or any other items and cannot be transferred to other persons.

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LAST ISSUE’S WINNER Rajani Shrestha Nathan Chitrakar Abhisekh Rajbhandari 3 winners will receive 2 tickets each from QFX Cinemas www.autolife.com.np

autolife

movie review

The Fast and the Furious

Your typical American street racing scene unfolds in this fastpaced automotive thriller from director Rob Cohen. Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel) drives the streets of L. A. as if he owns them and runs an underground racing gang. He spends his days putting wrench-time into high performance racing cars. Nights, Dom pilots his own earth-bound rocket, pocketing in bundles of cash with whoever has the nerves to race him. Paul Walker stars as Brian O’Conner, a youthful FBI agent investigating a series of hijackings by going undercover with a street gang led by charismatic Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel). Caught up in Toretto’s world of gang conflict that is resolved in late-night car races, Spindler starts to sympathize with his chief suspect and falls in love with Toretto’s younger sister Mia (Jordana Brewster).

In the meantime, Spindler initially suspects the wrong gang of complicity in the crimes he’s probing, while Toretto remains involved in a forbidden romance, à la Romeo and Juliet, with his girlfriend Letty (Michelle Rodriguez).The races are street theater, tribal gathering and battlefield, fuelled by adrenaline, sexual tension and raw, out-of-control speed. Throngs pack otherwise desolate streets to cheer and to jeer and to belong.

This movie has by far the best car racing scenes ever filmed, as well as the best cars. They are gorgeous machines, and these guys certainly can drive them. The acting is pretty decent too; as usual Vin Diesel gives a brilliant performance, as Dominic Toretto. It has already earned a massive following, and after you watch it you will be filled with such a massive adrenaline rush, that you and all your buddies will be left with the feeling that you must go out and race. With 4 successful franchises now on the roll, Fast and Furious has earned itself a place in one of the most popular auto movie series.

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Death Race

The Transporter star Jason Statham takes the wheel in director Paul W.S. Anderson’s remake of the Roger Corman classic about a hyper-violent cross-country race that breaks all of the traditional rules of the road. The time is the not-so-distant future, and as America’s prisons begin overflowing with violent criminals, the powers that be devise a grisly game that will free up space in the cells and entertain the masses at the same time. Jensen Ames (Statham) is a three-time speedway champion with a dark past. A survival expert and ex-con whose sordid history comes back to haunt him when he is framed for a murder he didn’t commit, Ames is forced to choose between donning the metallic mask of a mythical racer known as Frankenstein or languishing away on Terminal Island -- America’s most notorious penitentiary. Over the course of the next three days, this unlikely champion will get behind the wheel of a nightmare machine outfitted with machine guns, grenade launchers, and flamethrowers in a desperate attempt to outrun some of the most violent criminals ever imprisoned. Should Ames be the first to cross the checkered flag, he will win his freedom; should he come in second, however, death would be preferable to a grim future in a cramped concrete cell. Co-stars include Joan Allen, Ian McShane, Natalie Martinez, and Tyrese Gibson, who takes over the role of Machine Gun Joe, made famous by Sylvester Stallone in the original. Extended over three increasingly frantic, vividly murderous rounds, the Death Race itself is a tour de force of no-nonsense neo-grindhouse. Anchored by the ever-dependable Mr. Statham and his gruff, buff stoicism, the movie is legitimately greasy, authentically nasty, with a good old-fashioned sense of laying waste to everything in sight. No fancy talk here, just solid, monosyllabic obscenities; no flights of digital fancy, just souped-up monster cars flipping end over end in a napalm blaze and crashing in a crunch of flaming metal ouch.

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PLAYLIST

PLAYLIST OF THE MONTH

1. Life Is a Highway – Rascal Flatts 2. I Get Around – The Beach Boys 3. Born to Be Wild – Steppenwolf 4. On the Road Again – Willie Nelson 5. I’ve Been Everywhere – Johnny Cash 6. Highway to Hell – AC/DC 7. Free Bird – Lynyrd Skynyrd 8. Baba O’Riley – The Who 9. Go Your Own Way – Fleetwood Mac 10. Roam – The B-52’s 11. Take the Long Way Home – Supertramp 12. Born to Run – Bruce Springsteen 13. I Can’t Drive 55 – Sammy Hagar 14. Everyday Is a Winding Road – Sheryl Crow 15. Start Me Up – The Rolling Stones

What one prefers to listen while driving or riding is completely a personal choice. However from the library of millions of songs there is always that few that fits the mood perfectly and that too in a universal way. Let us explain: You see we motor heads who love our metal and the thrill it brings while on road are all like minded in these things. It’s a connection that’s shared through out the world. So if a long bearded tattooed biker in Nevada enjoys some Jonny cash while riding on a long turn less highway, chances are the same tune will hit the same cords for a young Nepalese biker during his twist and turn maneuvers in the local roadways. So hoping for this logic to be real, we have yet again prepared a combination on tunes in this month’s playlist. Only when it’s tried and test we will know the existence of this so-called “theory of universalism”.

So why wait, get this playlist burned in some CD or sync it in with your mp3 player and experience it in your next quick drive/ride.

Do you have a better playlist in mind?? Want to recommend us songs for the next playlist??

Go for it, send it to us right away @ hello@autolife.com.np

autolife

feature fashion

Style Check The Rider AVAILABLE AT

CITY CENTER SHOP NO - S-32 PHONE: 01-4011678 Cool casual shirts for your everyday merry around town. Will work well for casual brunches and hanging out with your buddies.

Designed to let you feel as cool as you look, this textile jacket gives you ample protection from the forces of nature, elbow protection and back protection. A must have for regular riders.

The snapback hat will fit just right on your noggin, while the mesh back panels let your head breathe a bit, and the print up front is about as crazy and awesome as you could ask for on a cap.

These gloves provide good knuckle protection and strategically reinforced areas to protect the riders hands at all times.

We are not trying to promote any violence or anything, but this wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be too bad an ally in a bar fight.

If you are a cruiser fanatic at heart, stomp around town in these leather boots and make your presence felt.

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diy

Headlight Bulbs, Battery, Spark Plugs and gradually move up to changing oils, drive belts and chains. When you’re getting started, try to avoid repairs that involve getting yourself into an uncomfortable position, which can make a repair vastly more difficult.

2. CALCULATE THE DIRE CONSEQUENCES Try to avoid repairs or service work where the consequences and chances of a mishap are greater. Remember, a busted engine does not guarantee any satisfaction. For example, don’t try to replace your brake master cylinder or fuel line on your first repair. With a failed brake you could end up crashing into something or more worse could end up being self-immolated from a fuel leakage catching fire.

3. HAVE ALL TOOLS READY Before you start ripping your car apart; make sure that you have all the required set of tools ready. Nothing beats the frustration of opening something up after much hard effort and realizing that you do not have the tools to proceed further. For example, a special tool is necessary to remove the oil filter, and another for the spark plugs. So take a look first and find out what you’ll need.

But usually, inspite of gathering all the tools you still won’t have something you’ll need. So start your repair early as you can head to the parts store for that special wrench.

4. DO YOUR HOMEWORK FIRST Always do some homework before you plunge into a repair. It will save you the headache later. Usually a manufacturer’s service manual for your vehicle has all the steps properly lined out. But it’s very important to read it properly first. For example, you might take just a quick look at the service manual and decide to go for the task as there are only five steps involved. But when you start working and reading on the go, STEP 3 might then be to remove the engine! So, read and research well.

5. SEE ONE BEFORE DOING ONE Be it just merely changing a blown fuse or changing the engine oil, nothing else beats the satisfaction that you get out of a successful do-it-yourself repair on your beloved car or bike. But there are certain things that one needs to keep in mind before being the smarty pants and leading your own DIY repair operation.

Just a couple of wrenches and the willingness to get your hands dirty is not what it takes to complete a DIY repair successfully. Not only is it essential to be skilled at what you do, you need to use your, commonsense as well. Well unless you actually fix cars and bikes for a living, here are a couple of things that you need to keep in mind before heading out on your own automotive DIY project.

1. BEGIN SIMPLE Always start your DIY project with the easiest repairs first. Don’t dive straight into rebuilding your engine.

As you work your way up from the basic repairs you’ll gain confidence, learn how to use tools, and begin to understand how everything fits together on your car or bike. You could begin from replacing the Air Filter, 78

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Seeing is believing. The best way to learn is to first see an expert working on the job. If you undertake a repair you’ve never even seen done before, it’s reasonably likely that you’ll either screw it up or do it the hard way. So first see one, do one and then maybe teach some later.

6. IF YOU SCREW UP, ASK FOR HELP! Shit happens! You fix your broken brake hose, top up the fluids and later in the day again find leaked brake oil on your garage. Then don’t be shy about calling your regular mechanic. Tell him you screwed up your repair and need help. If he’s a nice guy, he’ll definitely take pity on you and help out. Also if you then take your car to your mechanic, don’t try to cover it up. Confess. It makes the repair job easier. Everyone makes mistakes, strips bolts, and blows parts up.

It happens. It may take a few years, but eventually, you’ll even laugh about it.

7. SAFELY DISPOSE After you’re done with your repair, it’s possible you’ll be left with used coolant, motor oil, brake fluid, or other toxic materials. You’ll need to dispose of it safely and that does not mean dumping it on your neighbour’s yard. If you ask nicely, your mechanic should likely accept your waste for a proper burial.

8. REMEMBER THE THREE GOALS Your first and most important goal is to walk away from your car at the end of the day with all your fingers and eyebrows intact. Your second goal is to not blow anything or anyone else up. Lastly, your third goal is to fix and not break something that was not broken. www.autolife.com.np

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al cyclist

roadtrip

Exploring Unchartered Territories words & photography: ankit shakya

Turns

out, the last cycling road trip ignited quiet a passion in me. Since past evidence shows that the likeliness of my ‘passion’ crumbling to pieces is as sure as death and taxes, I went and bought myself a pre-owned mountain bike just a week after the road trip. Now, I am the proud owner of a Commencal Premier. Needless to say, I was more than excited to try out what this baby was capable of, and Epic Mountain Bike was willing to comply.

So I gathered two of my friends (obviously in a slightly worse physical condition than moi), and ventured off to what we expected to be a ‘short’ road trip.

Dinesh and Abhishek from Epic accompanied me, my dark friend Sachin and my darker friend Sushan on our trip which was supposed to be to Kirtipur. Oblivious to the fact that we would be a sore bunch

the next morning, we pedalled onwards.

Sachin and Sushan were provided with two well maintained mountain bikes while I was astride my very own Commencal Premier.

Since it was only going to be a trip to Kirtipur and back, we decided on taking only a few litres of water. Even after continuous persistence from my friends to take a few Snicker bars along, I found it in the best interest of my wallet to skip it.

Luckily for us, the day started out pretty pleasant. Judging by the preceding days of the trip, a sunny sky seemed highly unlikely. Happy that the weather gods were acting so kindly towards us, we made our ways through shortcut alleys of Jhamsikhel to Dhobighat. In all of the eight years that I lived around this area, I had never once been through those tight alleys. I guess you live and you learn.

When we did reach the bridge, our feisty young guide bid adieu and went back home, and for good reasons too.

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a breeze. It was a completely different story on the bike. My legs were beginning to ache and the ascent seemed to be much longer than it actually was. I, for one, gladly welcomed yet another road construction block where we had to roll our bikes on foot. Back on the bike, it wasn’t long before we entered yet another alley in Kirtipur. I never quite realised that Kirtipur was such an uphill ascent as I did that day. Stone paved roads bordered by old Newari style homes as well as newly constructed ones led us deep into the heart of Kirtipur. It was clear that the city had a rich cultural history that they held on to and respected till date.

However, one of the alley roads was closed due to maintenance, so we had to make a detour. Even Dinesh, who had been through those gullies lots of times, lost his bearings.

Fortunately, we ran into a local cycling enthusiast who guided us through the maze of gullies. He seemed to be pedalling much faster than us and we had a task keeping up with him. It may not seem like too big of a deal, but considering the fact that our ‘local cycling enthusiast’ was barely 10years old and ripping it up in a Chinese children’s bike, it was slightly embarrassing for us. Nevertheless, we finally made it to Ring-Road and across making our way to a suspension bridge that would lead us to Chobhar.

When we did reach the bridge, our

I never quite realised that Kirtipur was such an uphill ascent as I did that day.

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feisty young guide bid adieu and went back home, and for good reasons too.

What lay in front of us was what seemed to be a bridge suspended over 40 feet from a sludge fest of a river. On foot, it would not have seemed as intimidating as it did, but as a novice rider, I began to notice how raggedy the bridge actually looked.

By our calculations, since Kirtipur and Chobhar were not too far away, there must be a road other than the pitched one people usually take. And theoretically,

I could not detect any apprehension on the faces of the rest of the group, so I mustered up my courage and pedalled on. It was a relief getting on the other side of the bridge, and before long I had forgotten all about the treacherous bridge.

The ride seemed to be pretty easy up to this point, but things were soon going to change. A short ride from the bridge towards Kirtipur, we encountered our first struggle. I had been through these very same roads several times before on a motorbike and it had always been www.autolife.com.np

Although we were not very certain of the directions, we finally reached the well-known temple of Kirtipur, Bag Bhairab. We were not granted permission to take our bikes into the temple, so we paid our respects from the gates and rested outside on the patio and refreshed ourselves. According to our schedule, we had reached our trip’s final destination and were supposed to make our way back to Epic. But it was barely noon! The trip just did not feel complete. Thus, after getting the approval of everyone present, we decided to extend the trip and find a road less travelled to Chobhar.

www.autolife.com.np

the path from point A to B should be shorter if we went across to it instead of taking a whole arc (i.e. assuming the path points A and B make a semicircle, where Kirtipur is denoted by A and Chobhar was denoted by B). It turned out that geometry was not one of our strongest points, or maybe it was geography that let us down. Whatever the case, things did not turn out as easy as we had expected.

Yet again we set out through stone paved gullies, which were now mostly descents. One unknown alley led to another and soon we ended up at a dead-end with nothing but farmland till the horizon. The super geniuses that we were, we decided to ride the tiny track in the paddy field, certain that it would somehow lead up to Chobhar. We even asked a few locals if that muddy path led to Chobhar, and they said it did, which was not entirely false. However, no one warned us that the ‘path’ we were treading would soon turn to mud and sludge a few meters ahead. The earlier rains in the week had loosened up all the mud and turned it into sludge. Sludge that our bikes could tackle. Not the ones to turn back, we decided to carry our bikes a little further, almost certain that the path would improve ahead. It did not improve.

September 2012

83

Luck was not on our side and we had to carry our cycles all the way up the farm terraces. A couple of ‘nice ladies’ kindly pointed out how smart it was of us to come cycling through a paddy field in monsoon. By the time we crossed all of the fields, we were exhausted, our water supply was running low and had two apples to share amongst the 4 of us. On the bright side, looking at the luscious green fields below us, that we had just passed through, felt great. After a brief respite, we set off again, on our search to the path to Chobhar. It was great to finally get to ride our bikes instead of carrying them. We even got to freshen up and refill our water bottles from a stone tap on the

A couple of ‘nice ladies’ kindly pointed out how smart it was of us to come cycling through a paddy field in monsoon.

84

September 2012

way. The cold water definitely reenergised us, but the rumble of our empty stomachs were becoming harder and harder to ignore. This was especially difficult with Sachin throwing profanities at me for not having brought the Snickers along. Not the smartest of moves in my part I agree.

Our legs were once again in agony as we had to make an uphill climb through rough hilly walking paths. Some segments were so disastrous that we had no option but to carry our bikes. After a few more ups and downs we finally reached the Chobhar Gorge. I couldn’t have retraced our tracks if my life depended on it. All of us were practically famished, so we went to a small shop there and ordered almost 10 shel rotis and a plate of chana each.

And a mountain dew. We had our fill and

Although the path to Chobhar was extremely long, it was a beautiful ride. The mud path provided ample traction without too many loose rocks to worry about.

Our legs were especially thankful to the downhill nature of the ride. One segment of the road was particularly awesome to ride on. It was a smooth winding downhill road without any bumps or obstacles.

Zooming down the path was so much fun that all of us decided that it was worth riding uphill once again, just for the thrill of it.

pedalled up Chobhar where we had a few more rest stops.

Just as everything was going well and easy, the weather took a turn for the worse. Dark clouds overthrew the sun and soon large pellets of rain were showering upon us. Luckily there was a cafe nearby called ‘Missed Call Cafe’. We took refuge and sipped on cups of tea as we waited for the rain to stop. Finally, we reached Epic at around 5pm, a full four hours later than

scheduled. Rupesh dai, Epic Mountain Bike’s manager, was pretty surprised that we had taken so long. But he was glad that we were all back in one piece.

Overall it was a day to be remembered. We made new friends, had a great experience, learned that a Snicker bar is essential, but most of all, I realised that the road less travelled may be difficult, but it may turn out to be much better than you anticipated.

It turns out, in the world of mountain biking, what goes down, must come up. www.autolife.com.np

www.autolife.com.np

September 2012

85

autolife

al cyclist

feature

and resource depriving petroleum fuel that powers our transportation mediums.

First off, there is a small glitch in the plan in the beginning of the tour. Although they would love to someday bring in customers through a vegetable oil powered airplane, the current way of life does not provide a suitable substitute for air travel. Thus fuel will be consumed. But, as to compensate for the use of fuels, they have decided to perform activities that may help the well being

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about saving the environment.

(Green Issue Aftermath)

of the environment. For instance, they will be conducting activities to spread awareness about the importance of protecting the environment in rural schools and even donate bicycles to such areas.

From the airport though, there will barely be any use of fuel to power the trip.

Transportation will either be done through rickshaw or a vegetable oil powered vehicle. Once you arrive to the hotel (which will also be as eco-friendly as possible)

inevitable for motor vehicles to increase in numbers there.

That will consequently lead to an increase in pollution.

What Epic has done is begun

with nature than a car or bus.

Also, the riders get to enjoy the ride while doing their part to protect the environment.

The

brain child of Birendra Thapa and Rupesh Man Shrestha, 2004 saw the entrance of one of the most successful mountain biking companies in the country till date, Epic Mountain Bikes. Providing not only the locals but foreign visitors as well with an opportunity to explore our beautiful country on a different medium, Epic Mountain Bikes came up with its sister organization: Epic Rides Nepal in 2011.

Since its inception, Epic Rides Nepal has been successfully organizing quality mountain bike tour services to the great destinations such as Nepal, Lhasa (Tibet), Sikkim (India), Ladakh and many more. In Nepal alone, it covers all the areas including the 86

September 2012

ultimate Annapurna Circuit ride and also offers the Lhasa to Kathmandu ride (on Friendship Highway).

But thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not it. They are constantly exploring new destinations that are yet to be exploited in this beautiful country of ours. In fact, soon they are going to introduce new routes to unchartered territories like Lupra Valley and a route named Marpha Brandy. And the best part is, they do it all with the intention of remaining environmentally friendly.

Sadly, however, a matter as serious as the well being of the environment is wrongly used as a marketing gimmick by many companies. It is high time that the well being of the environment is given some proper attention, especially by Kathmandu, as it is considered as one of the most polluted cities in the world. Epic Rides Nepal, however, understands the gravity of the issue and has taken steps forward. Merging with a UK based group called Eco-Overlanders who came to

Another benefit of opening a shop in Jomsom is that the costs of transporting bicycles there for enthusiasts will be drastically reduced (upto 40% decrease). The main issue apart from cost is the uncertainty. Due to various reasons, there is no definite guarantee that the bikes will arrive in Jomsom as and when required.

Nepal 3 years prior to opening of the company, it is doing its part to remain as eco-friendly as possible. Eco-Overlanderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entrance into the country from Pakistan on a vehicle powered by used vegetable oils certainly showed that they meant business.

As Epic Rides Nepal also vigorously promoted the well being of the environment, it only made sense for them to merge to work together. So, in association with EcoOverlanders, Epic Rides Nepal They are has taken the initiative constantly of conducting tours for exploring foreign visitors in the new most environmentally destinations that are beneficial way yet to be possible. And exploited they plan to do in this beautiful this by using the country of least amount of ours. pollution generating www.autolife.com.np

most of the trip will be made on foot or bicycle.

These tours will be starting off properly from 2013 with 7 groups already booked to be coming in.

Soon, for the first time in Nepal, Epic Mountain Bikes will be opening a shop in Jomsom. Since roads have been built in Jomsom, it is www.autolife.com.np

to counter the negative effects of the vehicles right from the start, by giving people the option of bicycling.

This is especially targeted for foreigners who come to visit the beautiful place. By traveling on bikes, visitors will be able to explore alternate routes and enjoy the beauty of the nature as cycling is much more efficient in bringing its rider in cohesion

All in all, Epic Rides Nepal and Epic Mountain Bikes are doing their part for the environment. In fact, they promote cycling every week by promoting trips in Kathmandu every Saturday completely free of charge to anyone who is interested, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or any diversity.

The main motif is to promote cycling as it is just another step forward in the long fight to save the environment.

September 2012

87

TECHNICAL

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY Himchuli Auto International, Kupundole Tel: 5521730

GREAT WALL

Bama Motors Pvt. Ltd, Thapathali, KTM Tel: 4226655 | 4223022

Models

Models A1 1.3L

17,99,000 1297 5M 82 114 155 N Y N N Y N Y N N

QQ3 Full Option

15,45,000

Tiggo 2.0 A/T

34,00,000 1971 A 123 168 160 Y Y Y N Y N Y N Y

812

5M

67

90

130

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Vijay Motors Pvt. Ltd, Naxal, KTM Tel: 4414158

chevrolet

Florid 1.5L VVT

19,95,000 1497 5M 103 138 160 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

Wingle 5 2.5TCI SLX

27,50,000 2499 5M 107 300 140 Y N Y N Y Y Y N N

Hover SLX

36,90,000 2400 5M 135 200 N/A Y Y Y N Y N Y N Y

Syakar Trading Company Pvt. Ltd, Kantipath Tel: 5549741 | 4225490 |4253522

HONDA

Models

Models

Optra 1.6 LT

32,50,000 1991 5M 119 314 190 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Aveo 1.4 LT W/O ABS

28,80,000

Beat 1.2 LT

23,50,000 1199 5M 80 108 150 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

Spark 1.0 LT

19,50,000

Captiva 2.0 Automatic LTZ

65,00,000 1991 5A 148 320 175 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Aveo UVA1.2 LT

24,70,000

Cruze 2.0 LTZ VCDI

61,90,000 1991 5A 148 327 200 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Tavera LT L8 8 SEATER

38,20,000

1399

995

1150

2499

5M

5M

5M

5M

92

63

75

78

127

90

110

186

165

145

160

125

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

N

N

Y

Y

-

Y

Y

N

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

N

N

N

N

N

N

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

Daihatsu

Accord 2.4 MT

78,50,000 2354 5M 180 222 225 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

City SMT

38,50,000 1497 5M 118 146 175 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

Civic 1.8 SMT

58,00,000

CR-V RVI

76,00,000 1997 6M 167 218 180 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Jazz Select

32,50,000 1198 5M 89 110 175 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N Y

Brio VMT

26,69,000 1198 5M 88 109 N/A Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

1799

5M

130

172

205

Y

Y

HUMMER H3

53,00,000 1495 5M 103 140 NA Y N Y N Y N Y N N

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Saakha and Universal Automobiles, Tinkune

NA

3699 5M 242 328 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N Y Laxmi Intercontinental, Thapathali Tel: 4101556 | 4101557

HYUNDAI Models

BATAS Brothers Pvt. Ltd, Gairidhara Tel: 4004644 | 4004645

fIAT

Y

Models

Models Terios Super DLX

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

TECHNICAL

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY

Chery

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Cubic Capacity (CC)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRs)

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Cubic Capacity (CC)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRs)

Updated August 2012

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated August 2012

Accent GL

29,96,000 1399 5M 94 124 170 N N N N Y N Y N N

i10 Magna

19,96,000 1086 5M 66 99 140 N N Y N N N Y N N

i20 Sportz

25,96,000 1197 6A 90 220 160 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N Y

Santa Fe GL Diesel

70,96,000

Santro GL+

17,96,000 1086 5M 62 96 NA N N N N Y N Y N N

Models Linea 2012 Model (Diesel)

35,89,000 to 40,79,999

1368

5M

90

115

168

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Punto 2012 Model (Petrol)

23,71,999 25,89,999

1172

5M

67

96

175

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

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

FORD Models

2199

6M

194

420

210

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Everest

69,99,000 to 2953 5A 153 380 165 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 75,00,000

All New Fiesta (Petrol)

34,00,000 to 1499 5M 107 140 NA Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y N 38,99,000

Sonata GL

51,96,000 1998 6M 165 198 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Fiesta Classic (Petrol)

24,50,000 to 1596 5M 99 146 175 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N 29,90,000

Tucson GL

53,96,000 1998 6M 177 382 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

18,49,000 to 22,99,000

1399

5M

68

160

150

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Elantra GLS

46,96,000 1591 6M 130 157 NA Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N

39,99,000

2499

5M

81

266

NA

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Eon Era+

16,26,000 814 5M 56 NA NA Y N Y N N N Y N N

Figo Petrol

Ranger Diesel All New Fiesta (AT) Petrol

38,99,000 to 41,50,000

Geely

1499 5M 107 140 NA Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y N Saakha and Universal Automobiles, Kupondole Tel: 5011500

Models MK1.6

19,75,000 1587 5M 105 137 165 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N

LC Panda

16,75,000 1342 5M 85 110 NA Y Y Y N Y N N N N

LC Cross 1.3

88

September 2012

NA

Pradeep Jain, M: 9849632938 Kuleshwor, Kathmandu,Tel: 01-4279496

1342 5M 85 110 165 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

www.autolife.com.np

www.autolife.com.np

September 2012

89

TECHNICAL

Choice Motors, Lazimpat Tel: 4441080 | 4441081

Models 28,25,000 1584 5M 100 135 150 Y Y Y N Y N Y N Y Continental Associates Pvt. Ltd, Tinkune Tel: 2054003 | 2054004

KIA

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY

Wagon R Vxi

19,21,000 1061 5M 64 84 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N

Zen Estilo Vxi

18,95,010

998 5M 64 84 150 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

800 Std

10,67,850

796 4M 37 59 NA N N N N Y N N N N Padma Shree Pvt. Ltd, Gyaneshwor Tel: 4435688 | 4435631

Mazda

Models

Climate Control

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Cubic Capacity (CC)

TECHNICAL

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY

JONWAY UFO

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRs)

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Cubic Capacity (CC)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRs)

Updated August 2012

Models

Cerato 1.6L

38,50,000 1591 5M 123 156 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Picanto 1.2 EX

22,50,000

Rio Notchback

26,50,000 1399 5M 94 125 NA Y N Y N Y Y N N N

M a z d a 2 V G r a d e 46,00,000 1498 5M 102 135 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N

Sorento 2.2L Diesel

72,50,000 2199 6M 197 421 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Mazda 6 V+

78,00,000 2489 6M 170 226 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Soul 1.6L

39,00,000 1591 5M 124 156 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

CX-7

82,00,000 2488 5M 161 218 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Sportage 2.0 EX Diesel M/T

58,50,000 1998 6M 177 392 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

1086

5M

64

97

NA

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

N

N

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

MAHINDRA

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated August 2012

B T - 5 0 H i g h g r a d e 51,75,000 2499 5M 140 330 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Mazda 3 SGrade

N/A

1598 5M 103 145 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

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

MITSUBISHI Models

Models

ASX 4WD GLX

79,00,000 1998 6CVT 150 197 190 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 66,00,000 1998 6CVT 150 197 200 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Bolero LX MDi 4WD

27,95,000

2523

5M

63

180

NA

N

N

N

N

Y

N

N

N

N

Lancer EX GLX

Scorpio VLX 4WD

51,50,000

2179

5M

120

290

150

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

L200 Sportero 4WD 48,00,000 2477 NA 135 NA 175 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Double Cab

XYLO E8

40,15,000

2498 5M 112 240 135 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Thar

29,60,000

2498 5M 112 235 140 N N N N N N N N N

L300 Minibus L

38,00,000

2477 5M 75 150 120 N Y NA NA NA NA NA NA NA

Outlander

84,00,000

2360 6CVT 170 226 190 NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA

Pajero GLS 3.0 V6

1,30,00,000

2972 5M 185 267 175 Y NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA

CG Automobiles, Jhamsikhel Tel: 5547165 | 5547166

MARUTI SUZUKI

Pajero Sport GLX

Models Alto Lxi

14,09,505

796 5M 46 62 140 N N N Y Y N N N N

Alto K10 Vxi

16,89,350

796

A-Star Zxi

21,18,750

998 5M 67 90 160 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

Eeco STD 7Seater

17,19,010

Grand Vitara MT

70,00,000 1995 5M 164 225 175 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Ritz VXI

22,28,360 1248 5M 75 190 NA N Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Swift VDi

25,97,870 1248 5M 75 190 160 N Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Swift Dzire ZDi

30,49,870 1248 5M 75 190 160 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

SX4 Zxi

33,19,940 1586 5M 102 145 175 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

1196

5M

5M

67

73

90

101

145

NA

N

N

N

N

N

N

N

N

N

N

Y

Y

Y

N

N

N

N

85,00,000 2477 5M 175 400 N/A Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Dugar Automobiles Pvt. Ltd, Balaju Tel: 4362992 | 4350912

NISSAN Models Navara LE

NA

2488 6M 175 403 170 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Sunny 1.6EX

NA

1597 5M 110 148 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Tiida Sedan M

NA

1598

X-Trail LE

NA

1995 6A 150 320 185 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

N 5M

110

153

170

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Nemlink Int’l Traders Pvt. Ltd, Panipokhari Tel: 4006528 | 4410323

PERODUA Models MYVI SX

24,95,000 1298 5M 86 116 NA N N Y N Y N Y N N

Viva 850

17,95,000

847 5M 53 76 NA Y N N N Y N Y N N Constant Business Group Pvt. Ltd, Naxal Tel: 2297455

PROTON Models

Kuleshwor, Global Bank Building Kathmandu, Nepal Phone September 2012 90 : 00977-1-4289051

www.autolife.com.np

Savvy

20,75,000 1149 5M 74 NA NA N N Y N N N Y N N

Persona 1.6

30,75,000 1597 5M 110 148 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Gen 2 - 1.6

30,50,000

www.autolife.com.np

1597

5M

125

150

NA

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

September 2012

N

N

91

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY Yaris Hatchback

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

TECHNICAL

Skoda M.A.W, Thapathali Tel: 4216835 | 4268788

SKODA

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Cubic Capacity (CC)

Price (NRs)

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Cubic Capacity (CC)

Price (NRs)

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

TECHNICAL

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Updated August 2012

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY

NA

1298 5M 86 120 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N

54,50,000

1298 5M 86 120 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Models Superb 2.0 TDi

71,90,000 1968 6A 140 320 206 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Fabia Elegance

26,95,000

1200 5M 75 110 NA Y Y Y N Y N N N N

Yaris Sedan

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

VOLKSWAGEN Models

Laura 1.8 TSI

53,49,000 1798 7A 118 250 225 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Yeti 2.0 TDi

59,90,000 1968 6M 140 320 210 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N Constant Business Group Pvt. Ltd, Naxal Tel: 2297455

SSANGYONG

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Remote Locking

Updated April 2012

Updated August 2012

Passat CC

82,50,000 1798 6A 158 250 223 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Golf

44,50,000

Passat A/T

66,25,000 1798 6A 158 250 220 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

28,45,000

1595 5M 103 148 120 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N

Models Korando Active AWD

50,75,000 1998 5M 175 360 180 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Polo 1.6 Highline

Rexton

59,75,000 2696 5M 160 340 180 Y Y Y N Y Y Y N Y

Tiguan TDI Diesel A/T 81,25,000 1964 6A 138 320 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y (Full Option)

Actyon Sports

34,75,000 1998 5M 140 310 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N Y

Touareg 3.0D A/T (Full Option)

Vijay Motors Pvt. Ltd, Naxal, KTM Tel: 4414158

Subaru

Vento 1.6 Highline

1598 5M 103 153 185 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

1,22,00,000 2967 8A 241 550 220 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

36,95,000

1598 5M 103 153 185 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N

Models 90,00,000 2498 5M 230 320 NA Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N

Models

Sipradi Trading Pvt Ltd, Teku Tel: 4250610 | 4250612

Zotye Nomad II 1.5L 24,75,000

Models Aria Prestige

53,85,000 2179 5M 138 320 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Indica V2 Xeta GLS

15,95,000 1193 5M 64 100 145 N N N N N N N N N

Indica Vista Quadrajet ZX

26,95,000 1248 5M 75 190 160 Y Y Y N Y N Y Y N

Indigo CS LX TDI

23,95,000

1396

Indigo Manza Quadrajet Elan

31,45,000

1248 5M 90 200 NA Y Y Y N Y N Y Y N

Nano LX

11,88,000

624 4M 35 48 105 N N N N N N Y N N

Safari Dicor VX 4WD

46,95,000

2179

5M

138

320

NA

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Magic 110 rr

1,59,900

110

N/A

7.2/6000 4

Sumo Grande MK II

34,85,000

2179

5M

120

250

140

N

N

N

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

orbit II

1,79,900

125

N/A

8.33/6500 CVT 91 1905 1238

1325

Sumo Gold

28,90,000

2956 5M 70 223 175 N N N N Y N Y N N

jet4

1,99,900

125

N/A

8.6/7000

CVT

85

1900

1040

Xenon XT 4WD

30,30,000

2183 5M 138 320 160 N N N N Y N Y N N

5,99,900

250

N/A

23.1/6000

6

140

2005

1050

N

Avanza

39,95,000

1298 5M 90 120 150 Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Corolla

76,70,000

1598 5M 104 145 170 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Fortuner

89,90,000

2928 5M 160 343 170 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Land Cruiser Prado 1,54,60,000 2982 5M 129 343 170 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Dual AC Land Cruiser GX

21,906,000 4461 5M 214 430 190 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Rav 4 Auto

97,95,000

September 2012

2362 5M/4A 167 224 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

www.autolife.com.np

102

3.5

N/A

N/A

109

5.2

N/A

1330

N/A

113

5.2

70

1320

150

173

14

70

11

35

Models

SYM

Shrestha Company Pvt. Ltd, Teku, Tel: 4251202

wolf sb250ni

ktm duke

Models

Fuel Tank (Litre)

N

Dry Weight (KG)

Y

Wheelbase (MM)

N

Height (MM)

N

Length (MM)

N

Top Speed (KMPH)

N

Gears

N

Torque (NM)

N

Power (BHP)

165

Cubic Capacity (CC)

135

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRS)

69

Updated August 2012

Hansraj Hulaschand & Co. Ltd Naxal, Tel: 4415462 200 DUKE

3,70,000 199.5 25/1000 19.2/800 6 135 N/A 810 1350 165 126

Anna Lifan

80 1890 1090 1205 n/A

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

5M

United Traders Syndicate, Sinamangal Tel: 4478301-5

TOYOTA

92

1500 5M 105 135 145 N Y N N N N Y N N

Mileage (kmpl)

TATA

Constant Business Group Pvt. Ltd, Naxal Tel: 2297455

ZOTYE

Ground Clearance (MM)

Forester

COOL BOY

DUE

apollo

Annapurna Lifan Company Pvt. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4241521 1,55,900 149.4 13.5/8500 8.5/7500 5 95 N/A 830 1680 250 120 10.5 50 99,900

97 5.5/7500 6.6/5000 4 N/A N/A 750 1208 140 95

4 70

Universal Super Impex Jyatha Tole, Tel: 4227337 Models Orion RX 250T

3,16,000 249.4 17.5/7500 18/5500 5 105 N/A 930 1420 280 118 8 35

Orion RX 250M

3,16,000 249.4 17.5/7500 18/5500 5 105 N/A 880 1420 280 118 8 35

www.autolife.com.np

September 2012

93

DAELIM

5

103

N/A

860

1375

280

115

12

45

VR 200H

3,49,000

197

19/7500

15/6000

5

105

N/A

860

1375

290

130

12

30

Height (MM)

12.5/7500

Length (MM)

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

Top Speed (KMPH)

13.5/8500

Gears

149

Torque (NM)

2,99,000

Power (BHP)

VR 150H

International Motor Pvt. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4265336 | 4265337

Models

Models Avenger

Cubic Capacity (CC)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Hartford

Hansraj Hulaschand & Co. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4220094 | 4261200

Price (NRS)

Mileage (kmpl)

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Dry Weight (KG)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

Dry Weight (KG)

Bajaj

Height (MM)

Length (MM)

Top Speed (KMPH)

Gears

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Cubic Capacity (CC)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRS)

Updated August 2012

2,43,900

219.89 19/8400 17.5/7000 5

120 N/A 710 1475

169

140

14

35

Discover 100 DTS-Si

1,42,900 94.38 7.5/7500 7.85/5000 5 90 N/A 800 1305 165 108 8

Discover 125 DTS-Si

1,60,900 (Disk) 124.6 11/8000 10.8/5500 5 N/A N/A 800 1305 165

110

8

Discover 150 DTS-Si

1,69,900

144.8

13/7500

12.75/5500

5

110

N/A

800

1305

115

8

65

Platina 100

1,19,900

99.27

8/7500

8/5500

4

90

N/A

805

1275

160

100

13

75

Platina 1,38,900 125 DTS-Si

124.58

9.5/7000

11/5000

4

100

N/A

785

1275

160

100

13

65

BOXER 150

1,39,900

144.8

12/7500

12/5000

4

100

N/A

803

1285

N/A

122

11

60

Pulsar 150 DTSi

2,06,900

149.01

15.06/9000

12.5/6500

5

115

N/A

785

1320

160

120

15

55

Pulsar 180 DTSi

2,23,900

178.60

17/8500

14/6000

5

120

N/A

785

1345

165

130

15

50

Pulsar 220F DTS-I

2,47,900

220

21/8500

19/7000

5

135

N/A

795

1350

165

140

15

45

Pulsar 220S DTS-I

2,34,900

220

21/8500

19/7000

5

135

N/A

795

1350

165

140

15

45

165

80 N/A

Hero

Syakar Company Ltd Kantipath, Tel: 4225377 Models

CBZ X-TREME 2,03,900 (DD) 149.2 14.2/8500 12.8/6500 5 110 N/A 800 1325 145 135 15 60.25

CD Deluxe

97.2

7.2/8000

7.5/5000

4

95

N/A

790

1230

165

100

10.5

72

Glamour 1,70,900(DSS FI)

124.8

9/7000

10.35/4000

4

95

N/A

775

1265

150

115

15

72

Hunk 2,01,900(DD)

149.2

14.2/8500

12.8/6500

5

110

N/A

795

1325

145

135

12.5

50

2,36,900

223

16.5/7000

18.3/6000

5

125

N/A

1355

150

135

15

45

2,91,900

223

17.5/7000

18.3/6000

5

130

N/A

1350

160

145

15

48

1.24,900 (Self)

Karizma R

Karizma ZMR

AKU Nepal Enterprises Kalimati, Tel: 4288339 | 4286018

795 795

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated August 2012

Pleasure 1,38,900 102 7/7000 7.8/5000 Auto 80 N/A 750 1240 125 95 5.5 50

Splendor NXG

1,42,900

97.2

Splendor +

1,38,900

97.2 7.4/8000 7.2/5000 4

85 N/A 775 1230 160

110 10.5

60

Splendor Pro

1,42,900

97.2

90

Super Splendor

1,54,900

124.7 9.13/7000 10.35/4000 4

7.7/7500

7.6/6000

4

100

N/A

785

1230

160

100

10

77

Models Roadwin 150R

2,88,500

150 15/10600 12.5/8400 5

5,00,000

249 23/9000 19/8000 5 140 N/A 780 1380 150 160

Roadwin R250 FI

Demak

120 N/A 780 1380

150

135

15

N/A

15 N/A

Models 3,95,000

249 19/7500 N/A 5 N/A N/A 760 1480 140 140 14 40

2,38,000

150 13/8500 10/7500 5 N/A N/A 840 1380 270 120 8.5 50 Turbo Motors Trading Naxal,Tel: 4435720

Models Hypermotard 796

18,50,000

803 81/8000 74/6250 6 200 N/A 825 1455 N/A 155 12.5 N/A

Monster 696

16,80,000

696 80/9000 69/7750 6 N/A N/A 770 1450 N/A 160

15

N/A

Monster 796

18,50,000

803 87/8250 79/6250 6 220 N/A 800 1450 N/A 167

15

N/A

848 EVO

N/A

849.4 140/10500 98/9750 6 N/A N/A 830 1430 N/A

168

15.5 N/A

1198

N/A

1198.4 170/9750 131/8000 6 N/A N/A 820 1430 N/A

171

15.5 N/A

Multistrada 1200 S

N/A

SportsClassic GT1000

N/A

1198.4

992

150 / 9250

92 / 8000

118 / 7500

90 / 6000

6

6

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

100 N/A

775

1230

160

100

11

60

775

1235

150

110

12

75

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

850

810

1530

1425

N/A

N/A

192

185

20

15

1,54,900

110

8/7500

8.8/5500

Auto

90

N/A

765

1238

145

100

5.3

55

Aviator 1,59,900 110 8/8000 8.82/5500 Auto 85 N/A 790 1256 145 95 6 52 125

10.3/7500

10.9/5500

4

100

N/A

790

1265

175

110

11

80

CB Twister

1,66,900(DSS)

110

9/8000

9/6500

4

95

N/A

800

1262

180

100

8

70

CB Unicorn

2,05,900 (DSS)

110

13.2/8000

12.8/5500

5

115

N/A

790

1340

180

135

13

60

CB Unicorn

Dazzler

2,12,900

150

14/8500

12.8/6500

5

120

N/A

780

1328

162

125

12

55

CBF Stunner

1,82,900

125

11/8000

11/6500

5

100

N/A

790

1271

173

120

10

60

NEW Dio

1,55,900

110

7/7000

80

N/A

762

1235

145

100

6

50

CBR 250RA

5,14,900

250

25.3/8500

23 7000

6

155

N/A

780

1370

145

150

13

35

CBR 600

20,50,000

600

118/13500

66/11250

6

240

N/A

820

1369

135

156

18

20

CB 600F Hornet

16,99,900

600

102/12000

63.510500

6

210

N/A

800

1435

135

19

20

7.8/5500 Auto

N/A 183

N/A

Jai Shambu Automotives Pvt. Ltd Ravi Bhawan, Tel: 4289933 | 4277049

Models

G-100

1,21,000

97

7.2/8000

6.5/6000

4

N/A

N/A

N/A

1280

150

100

10

N/A

UFO 150

1,56,500

149.6

8.5/7500

9.2/6000

Auto

80

N/A

N/A

1275

135

100

5

N/A

Xpression+

1,48,994

124

10.5/8500

8.4/7500

5

N/A

N/A

N/A

1280

140

100

15

N/A

www.autolife.com.np

Activa

CB Shine 1,74,900(DCA)

GLOBAL

GLOBAL

September 2012

4

Models

Cougar 250

DUCATI

94

8.04/4500

Honda

Agni Incorporated Pvt. Ltd Uttar Dhoka, Tel: 4420964

DMX-R

7.6/7500

CB 1000R

CBR1000RR

22,00,000 1000 125/10000 100/8000 6 240 N/A 825 1445 130 213 17 15

26,00,000

1000 175/12000 112/8500 6

N/A N/A 820

1410 N/A

200

17.7

15

NXR150 BROS

5,25,000

150 14/8000 13.6/6000 5 N/A N/A 830 1353 245

120

12

N/A

XR250

6,25,000

250 23.3/7500 23.7/6000 6

135 11.5

N/A

www.autolife.com.np

140 N/A 880 1427 281

September 2012

95

Updated August 2012

6,20,900

249

GT250R

7,05,900

249 26.35/9000 21/6750 5

GT650N

10,65,900

GT650R

26.5/9000

21/6750

5

150

N/A

830

1435

Gears

Top Speed (KMPH)

Length (MM)

Height (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Dry Weight (KG)

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Mileage (kmpl)

Cubic Capacity (CC)

Torque (NM)

Models GT250N

10/8000

10/7500

Auto

90

N/A

745

1255

120

110

7.8

N/a

Models

Batas Motors Pvt. Ltd Naxal, Tel: 4004626 | 4004627

Price (NRS)

Mileage (kmpl)

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Dry Weight (KG)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Power (BHP)

Hyosung

Height (MM)

Length (MM)

Top Speed (KMPH)

Gears

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Cubic Capacity (CC)

Price (NRS)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

AN 125HK

n/a

124

n/a

124 12/8000 10/7500 5 110 N/A 735 1280 175 107 10.3 35

175

160

17

N/A

GN125H

155

160

17

N/A

GS150R

647 72/9000 61/7250 6 190 N/A 790 1435 185 200

17

N/A

slingshot

1,65,888 (disk)

124

8.5/8500

10/6000

5

100

N/A

790

1265

160

115

12

60

11,10,900

647

72/9000

61/7250

6

200

N/A

830

1435

165

200

17

N/A

B-King

25,00,000

1340

181/9500

146/7200

6

240

N/A

805

1525

120

235

16.5

N/A

RT 125D

4,68,900

124.5

13.5/10000

11/8000

5

N/A

N/A

790

1350

230

135

7

N/A

Burgman 400

16,50,000 400 34/7300 36.3/5800 Auto 150 N/A 710 1585 125 210 13.5 N/A

GV250

6,49,900

249 27/10500 22/7500 5 N/A N/A 710 1508 150 167

14

N/A

GZ250

6,25,000

249

20/8000

18.7/7000

5

N/A

N/A

680

1450

125

140

13

N/A

GV650P

13,50,000

249 80/9000 67/7250 5 N/A N/A 705 1700 160 220

14

N/A

DR200SE

6,00,000

199

15/8500

17.7/7000

5

N/A

N/A

810

1405

260

115

13

40

Hayabusa

N/A

1340

197/9800

154/10200

6

296

N/A

805

1480

120

220

21

15

150 N/A 830 1435

Kawasaki

Hansraj Hulaschand & Co. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4220094 | 4261200

Models

Ninja 250R

7,49,900

249 32/11000 22/8200 6 160 N/A 790 1400 135

Mahindra 2 Wheelers

160

17

35

SG Global Pvt. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4251202

Models

Duro Rodeo

N/A

124.6

N/A

124.6 8/7000 9/5500 Auto 85 N/A 760 1245 155 106 4.5 45

PIAGGIO

8/7500

9/5500

Auto

85

N/A

PIAGGIO

770

1290

155

100

6

45

Anna Automobile Pvt. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4229855

Models

BYQ125

1,48,000

126.3

9.7/8500

8.6/7000

4

N/A

N/A

N/A

1295

180

115

14

45

Citypard 150

1,55,000

149

11.7/8000

11/6000

5

N/A

N/A

870

1400

150

115

14

45

1,49,000

90

6.5

50

iShine 100

96.21

N/A 6.81/6000 Auto N/A N/A N/A 1340 130

Rieju

Tunche Trans Himalayan Trading Concern Bhrikuti Mandap, Tel: 4268169 Models Marathon 185

3,88,000

125

15

20

6

115

Marathon 185 Pro

4,67,000

125

15

20

6

120 N/A 870 1395 n/a 115

6.5 N/a

Marathon 450

11,00,000

449

N/A

N/A

5

N/A N/A 900 1485 N/A

8.5

4,70,000 230 N/A

N/A

870

1395

N/A

115

6.5

N/a

2,07,888 149.5 13.8/8500 13.4/6000 6 110 N/A 790 1340 160 135 15.5 60

GSR600 16,00,000 (ABS)

599

93/12000

65/9600

6

215

N/A

785

1440

130

185

16.5

20

GSX650F

16,50,000

656

85/10500

62/8900

6

240

N/A

770

1470

125

220

19

20

GSX-R600

22,00,000

599

125/13500

68/11500

6

265

N/A

810

1400

130

180

17

15

TVS

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated August 2012

AIT Pvt. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4253661 | 4261330 Models Apache RTR 160

2,05,886

159.7

15.2/8500

13.1/6000

5

120

N/A

790

1300

180

120

16

50

Apache RTR 180

2,18,881

177.4

17/8500

15.5/6500

5

125

N/A

790

1326

180

120

16

45

Scooty Pep+

1,26,390

87.8

5/6500

5.8/4000 Auto

75

N/A

740

1230

135

90

5

55

Scooty Streak

1,34,922

87.8

5/6500

5.8/4000

Auto

80

N/A

740

1230

135

90

4.7

55

Star City 110

1,41,928

109.7

8.2/7500

8.1/5000

4

90

N/A

790

1240

165

95

16

67

Jive

1,52,889

109.7

8.4/7500

8.3/5500 Auto

95

N/A

780

1260

165

95

15

65

Wego

1,53,906

109.7

8/7500

85

N/A

770

1275

150

100

5

40

8/5500

Auto

Yamaha

Morang Auto Works Teku, Tel: 4261160 | 4268252 Models

Tango 250

115

N/A

N/A 5 N/A N/A 840 N/A N/A 100 5.5 N/A

Royal Enfield

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

Enticer DLX

1,78,900

123.7

11/8000

10.4/6500

4 n/a

N/A

710

1375

140

105

13.5

N/a

Fazer

2,21,900

153

14/7500

14/6000

5

115

N/A

790

1335

160

130

13.5

45

FZ-16

1,99,900

153

14/7500

14/6000

5

115

N/A

790

1335

160

125

12

45

FZ-S

2,15,900

153 14/7500 14/6000 5 115 N/A 790 1335 160 125

12

45

SS 125

1,72,900

123

11/7500

10.4/6500

5

110

N/A

795

1295

155

110

13

70

SZ-R 1,86,900 (disk)

153

12/7500

12.8/4500

5

105

N/A

802

1320

165

120

14

50

SZ-X

1,74,900

153

12/7500

12.8/4500

5

105

N/A

802

1320

165

120

14

50

YBR 110

1,41,900

106

7.5/7500

7.8/6000

4

100

N/A

795

1290

173

115

13

65

YBR 125 DX

1,58,900

123

10.8/7500

10.4/6500

4

105

N/A

795

1300

180

115

13.5

60

YZF R15 V2

3,19,900

149.8

17/8500

15/7500

6

135

N/A

790

1290

160

120

12

42

YZF-R6

20,46,900

599

122/14500 65.7/10500

6 n/a

N/A

850

1375

130

175

17

17

XJ6

15,17,900

600

78/10000

6

N/A

785

1440

140

190

17.3

20

Models Classic 350

4,11,000

346

20/5250

28/4000

5

N/A

N/A

800

1370

140

170

13.5

N/a

CLASSIC CHROME Classic 500 desert storm

5,35,000 4,95,000 5,15,000

499

27/5250

41.3/4000

5

130

N/A

800

1370

140

170

13.5

N/a

Electra Twin Spark

3,95,000

346

20/5250

28/4000

5

115

N/A

800

1370

140

170

13.5

N/a

3,35,000

346

18/5000

32/3000

4

100

N/A

760

1370

140

150

14.5

35

4,11,000

346

20/5250

28/4000

5

115

N/A

770

1370

140

170

15.5

35

STD350 UCE

Thunderbird Twin Spark

Suzuki

Ganesh Enterprises Kamalpokhari, Tel: 4422818 | 4423444 Models Access 125

96

September 2012

1,59,888

124

8.5/7000

9.8/5000

Auto n/a

N/A

780

1250

160

110

6

www.autolife.com.np

N/a

www.autolife.com.np

60/6100

N/A

September 2012

97

100

September 2012

www.autolife.com.np