Vol 2 issue 11

events: skoda test drive weekend | roadtrip: FORE world tourism day ride | gears: motorcross apparels

October 15, 2013 Vol 2 Issue 11 NRs. 100

LAUNCHPAD

2014 COMMENCAL BIKES DUCATI MONSTER 1100 EVO SUBARU XV CROSSTREK CROSSFIRE XZ250RR NISSAN SYLPHY TOYOTA RAV4

www.softrock.com.np

OVERLAND TOURERS

4WD TRANS-ASIA OVERLAND EXPEDITION LAND ROVER EXPERIENCE SILK TRAIL EXPEDITION

EVOLUTION

MITSUBISHI MOTORS

OWNERS’ REVIEW FORD ECOSPORT

AND, WE RIDE

UM RENEGADE COMMANDO COMMENCAL META HIP HOP 2

VW POLO GT TSI

SETTING THE PACE www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

AUTOLIFE October 2013 1

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AUTOLIFE October 2013

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Cockpit Design

Interior Design

Coming Soon

1.2L Gasoline Engine

Rear View

Engine Switch

Keyless Entry

Turning Radius

SAVING

Colors available in: Rear Spoiler

Yellow

Black Mica

Cool Silver

Eisen Gray

Medium Blue

Pop Green

Red Metallic

White Pearl

AUTHORIZED IMPORTER

M/s. LEON MOTORS PRIVATE LIMITED SHANTINAGAR, KATHMANDU, NEPAL TEL: 4622074/4622485/4621147 FAX: 4622888 www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal E-mail: leonmotors@wlink.com.np DIRECT CONTACT: 9851061313, 9841337024

SERVICE STATION

M/s. LEON AUTO WORKS SANTINAGAR, KATHMANDU, NEPAL TEL: 4621147 FAX: 4622888 E-mail: leonautoworks@wlink.com.np

OUR PRODUCT RANGE CAN BE VIEWED AT:

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AUTOLIFE October 2013

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AUTOLIFE October 2013 5

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AUTOLIFE October 2013

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INDEX INTRODUCES CUSTOMIZABLE

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STEEL TOWER (OLD UNITY TOWER) JAWALAKHEL 5000270/2020222

AUTOLIFE October 2013 7 https://www.facebook.com/INDEXFURNITURENEPAL

EDITORIAL SETTING THE PACE

VOL 2 ISSUE 11 OCTOBER 15, 2013 SOFTROCK MEDIA PVT LTD PANIPOKHARI, KATHMANDU, NEPAL TEL: 977-01-4428504 REGD: 84553/068/069

Founder/Managing Editor Ajay Dhoj Thapa

Executive Director Shraddha Rajbhandari

W

We are going to miss Dashain very much. Well, not exactly because there won’t be any more of that daily feasting on a variety of meat delicacies and regular gambling fun. Sure we will miss that as well. But don’t tell us that you didn’t notice the massive change in the road traffic in most parts of the country. Unlike in the normal days, getting around on a set of wheels during Dashain was a pure bliss. What used to be madness with all that rush and road rage was a surprisingly relaxed affair during the festivities. It was such a breeze to ride or drive around the valley and getting to one’s destination never seemed faster. Only if we could have such a road traffic set-up forever!

Anyways, not being the ones to let things slip by, we made the best use of this rare occasion. We had the sporty VW Polo GT TSI for our test drive on the last day leading to the Dashain festivities and with those practically empty roads, it was a blast shuttling this pocket rocket around the valley. The VW is a fine example of good things coming in small packages and it was truly amazing to experience such a power surge from a tiny 1.2 litre motor. The VW Polo definitely sets the new benchmark in its segment with the advanced technology and mechanisms. We also had the mean looking UM Renegade Commando and the hard-to-miss Commencal Meta Hip Hop 2 mountain bike on test and for more on the new vehicles that have arrived in town, don’t miss our Launch Pad section.

On the touring side, while our Friends Of Royal Enfield set out to promote motorcycle tourism on World Tourism Day with a group ride towards the Nepal-China border at Kodari, we briefly caught up with three different overland groups driving into Nepal with exotic SUVs like the Range Rover Evoque, Range Rover Hybrid prototype, Toyota FJ Cruiser, BMW X5, Lexus LX470, etc. Read more on their adventures inside along with the Owners Review of the Ford EcoSport, Evolution of Mitsubishi Motors and our experience at Skoda’s Test Drive Weekend. So that’s pretty much it for this issue and just exactly what the doctor would prescribe to shake off that festive hangover and take it easy. No overdose.

We hope this makes for a fun read and our best wishes for the upcoming Diwali festival to all. Have a blast, literally.

Sub-Editor

Ayush Dhaubanjar

Editorial & Photography Ankit Shakya Niren Tuladhar Saurav Nepal Yonten Yonjan

Business Developmvent Ankit Shakya Ayusha Shrestha Sameer Dhakal Manish Sakya Yonten Yonjan

CTP & Process ScanPrint Pulchowk Tel: 01-5010801

Creative Head Ajay Dhoj Thapa

Distribution

Kasthamandap Distributors Tel: 01-4247241

Designer

Niren Tuladhar

General Enquiries hello@autolife.com.np Editorial Enquiries editorial@autolife.com.np Ads and Marketing Enquiries marketing@autolife.com.np

Autolife is an automotive magazine (DAO Regd 213/067/068), published 12 times a year by Softrock Media. All rights reserved in respect of all articles, illustration, photographs, etc published in Autolife Magazine. The content of this publication may not be reproduced on whole or in any part in any electronics or print form, in any language, without the written consent of the publisher. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, who cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omission.

AUTOLIFE TEAM Autolife has a dedicated review team for all test drives and rides.

We research, study, plan and execute our tests and publish our real experience without any influences. We have our loyalty towards our readership and are not biased or inclined towards any specific brands or services. All advertisement insertions are a part of our marketing campaign, due to their relevance with the magazines content; and published only after authorization from clients or their respective media agencies.

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AUTOLIFE October 2013

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AUTOLIFE October 2013 9

V OL . 2 IS S U E 11

CONTENTS

OCTOBE R 15, 2013

36

SEVENTH HEAVEN

VOLKSWAGEN POLO GT TSI

FEATURES 22

66

COMMENCAL META HIP HOP 2

WORLD TOURISM DAY RIDE

44

HIP AND READY TO HOP

34

events Skoda Test Drive Weekend

test drive

Volkswagen Polo GT TSI

44

road trip

48

overland tourers

World Tourism Day Ride

4WD Trans-Asia Overland Expedition 2013

52

test ride

UM Renegade Commando

58

gears

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AUTOLIFE October 2013

Crossfire XZ250RR, Ducati Monster 1100 EVO, Nissan Sylphy, Subaru XV Crosstrek, Toyota Rav4, 2014 Commencal Bikes

36

10

launchpad

Motocross Apparels & Accessories

buying guide everything about bikes and cars in Nepal www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

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AUTOLIFE October 2013 11

V OL . 2 IS S U E 11

CONTENTS

OCTOBE R 15, 2013

52

EASY RIDER

UM RENEGADE COMMANDO

FEATURES

62

34

MITSUBISHI MOTORS

62

evolution

64

overland tourers

66

test ride

72

owners’ review

Mitsubishi Motors

Land Rover Experience

Commencal Meta Hip Hop 2

Ford Ecosport

INTERACTIVE 14 readers’ submitted photos

48

TRANS-ASIA OVERLAND EXPEDITION 12

AUTOLIFE October 2013

74

76

entertainment quiz play the quiz and win qfx tickets

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AUTOLIFE October 2013 13

AUTOLIFE

READERS’ PHOTOS

SEND YOUR PHOTOS AT hello@autolife.com.np

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AUTOLIFE October 2013

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AUTOLIFE October 2013 15

AUTOLIFE

NEWS: LOCAL

RIDERS DONATE FOR A CAUSE Ryderz of Bhaktapur (R.O.B), along with support from www.riderznepal.com, had organized a Blood Donation camp at Basantapur, Kathmandu on 21st of September, 2013.

A total of 82 people, mostly motorcycle riders, donated blood in the one day event. During the program, the importance of donating blood and its benefits were also highlighted.

Ryderz of Bhaktapur (R.O.B) is a group of active bikers’ community. Apart from promoting the various aspects of motorcycling, they have been regularly involved in cleanliness, animal welfare and other social work programs. The event was supported by riderznepal.com with technical assitance provided by Bhaktapur Red Cross Society and event managed executed by members of R.O.B.

HYUNDAI’S NEW TRAINING ACADEMY Laxmi Intercontinental has established the Hyundai Training Academy, which is the company’s first such dedicated training facility. This is the latest in a series of steps implemented by Laxmi Intercontinental to ensure their customers receive the very highest standards of service and to build on the company’s remarkable sales success. Located in Patan Industrial Area, Lalitpur the new facility will host Hyundai staffs from across the Nepal and offer training in disciplines such as Sales, Service, Marketing, Customer Relationship Management and Product Training. Specialist trainers from Hyundai Motor Company and in-house professionals will deliver comprehensive courses to the distributor and dealer staffs in order to enhance Hyundai’s customer service levels and the abilities of employees.

The facility was officially inaugurated by Honourable Mr.Danis Kang , 1st Secretary of RO Korea Embassy and participated by 25 technicians from Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Covering an area of 1600 sq.m, the well-equipped facility features classroom style lecture rooms, group discussion room, seminar hall, library, e-learning centre, practical area and mock-up showroom /service environment. The new academy will host 25 trainees per course, with potential to accommodate more than 400 delegates a year with an infrastructure of service to intake 10 vehicles in a day. The extensive training courses will be offered in both Nepali and English. The effectiveness of the program will be monitored regularly using customer satisfaction surveys in order to measure the academy’s success and ensure optimum performance from the training courses.

This training academy is first such in South Asia by any distributor in the region.

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AUTOLIFE

NEWS: INDIA

HERO MOTOCORP SHOWCASES 2014 LINE-UP Indian two-wheeler major Hero MotoCorp has launched 15 new models and variants based upon its existing line-up with aesthetic and technological upgrades. Hero’s Pleasure automatic scooter will now come with Hero’s Integrated Braking System, mobile charging point, lockable glove box, a light for the under seat storage compartment, combination ignition lock and an indicator for an open seat and side stand. Moving onto Hero’s commuter motorcycles, the two-wheeler specialist also launched the Splendor iSmart with refreshed styling and tech features like start-stop system, while the Splendor Pro, Super Splendor, HF Dawn, HF Deluxe, HF Deluxe Eco, Passion Pro, Glamour, Glamour FI has been given new graphics, instruments and side stand indicator warning lights. Their 150cc premium commuter segment Xtreme motorcycle now gets an electronic immobiliser which prevents the engine from starting in the event an incorrect key is inserted in the ignition. Coming to Hero’s larger bikes, the Karizma R and ZMR has received upgrades as well. These bikes now get twin headlights, a bulb winker, reworked body panels, a belly pan, a sportier handlebar, a redesigned seat, new exhaust end-canister and wider tyres. Hero further announced that it’ll showcase a newer range of bikes at the Indian Auto Expo in February 2014.

NEW HONDA CBR300R UNVEILED Honda’s CBR250R was specially developed for emerging world two-wheeler markets such as India. Honda is now taking this a step further, having just showcased their latest CBR300R at the 12th China International Motorcycle Trade Exhibition, Chongqing. The CBR300R will be produced at Honda’s Thailand production facility, from where this exciting new sportsbike will ship to various markets around the world. Unlike the CBR250R which borrows styling cues from the VFR family, the CBR300R shares design philosophy with the Fireblade series sportsbikes, which is a good thing. The CBR300R’s front nose with twin sharply styled headlights and other body panels along this bike clearly mirror that of the latest CBR1000RR. The CBR 300R is going to propelled by a 286 cc single cylinder engine and will be able to generate a max power of 30.4 bhp at 8500 rpm with a peak torque capability of 27 Nm at 7250 rpm. Expect the CBR300R to enter showrooms in India in 2014.

TOYOTA INNOVA REFRESHED Toyota has launched the refreshed Innova in the Indian market. The 2013 Innova gets only major cosmetic changes as under the hood is the same 2.5-litre D4D engine which makes 102 bhp of power and a 2.0-litre VVT petrol engine that makes out 130bhp. The engine is further configured to a 5-speed manual transmission. External changes include a revised front bumper with a large three horizontal slat chrome grille, new fog lamps and chrome additions above the rear number plate. The chrome is also incorporated on the extra set of reflectors. The top-end Z trim gets distinct body graphics, side mouldings, a rear spoiler and a muffler cutter. Similarly, it also gets wooden inserts in the gear lever and the dashboard. Toyota is offering twin airbags and ABS only on the top-end variant. There is also a new infotainment system which includes a roof-mounted screen on the top-end variant.

The new Innova will be offered in five trims, E, G, GX, VX and Z and it is priced between IRs. 12.4 Lakhs to IRs. 15 Lakhs.

TVS PEPS UP THE PHOENIX AND RTR 160 TVS Motor Company has added new colour variants on its Phoenix and Apache RTR 160 range of motorcycles. The TVS Phoenix will now come with a fully digital speedometer, a digital fuel gauge, low battery reminder, trip meter, service reminder, roto petal disc brakes, LED pilot lamp, all black engine, dual texture seats and new body graphics. It will be available in a dual tone Alpine white colour. Similarly, the Apache 160 gets five single tone colours including the new white colour. However, the powertrain is the same. The 125cc Phoenix makes 11bhp of power while the RTR 160 makes 15.5 bhp of power. Both the engines are mated to a 5-speed transmission. TVS has retained the same price for both the bikes in India. www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

AUTOLIFE October 2013 17

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NEWS: INTERNATIONAL

DUCATI 899 PANIGALE UNLEASHED Ducati finally unveiled the ‘Ducati Panigale 899’ at the 2014 Frankfurt Motor Show. The 899 Panigale is powered by a Superquadro four-stroke, 898cc, Desmodromic, liquid cooled L-twin engine which produces a power of 148 bhp at 10750rpm and a torque of 99 Nm at 9000rpm.

The engine is further mated to a 6-speed gearbox. It utilizes a wet clutch which is hydraulically actuated. The 899 retains the same design philosophy from the bigger Panigale including similar LED headlights, turn signal integrated rear-view mirrors, a quick shifter and three riding modes.

The chassis is the same aluminium monocoque frame, similar to the 1199 Panigale. Similarly, the electronic systems include the Ducati Quick Shifter (DQS), Ride-by-Wire (RbW), “triple-stage” ABS, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) and Engine Brake Control (EBC). However, Ducati has ditched their unique trademark single sided swingarm on this new motorcycle and fitted it with a conventional double sided swingarm.

The 899 Panigale looks to replace the 848 range of superbikes and will be available in two colour options, Ducati Red and Ducati White for $14,995.

KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R LAUNCHED KTM have added a new beast to their definition of aggressiveness – The 1290 Super Duke R. This is definitely the most powerful bike to come out from the KTM stable. It’s also the most powerful naked production bike in the world.

The much-anticipated 1290 Super Duke R is powered by a 1301cc, V-twin, liquid-cooled engine that churns out 180 bhp of power and 144 NM of torque. It gets a 6-speed transmission with a slipper clutch. According to the company, it does 0-200kmph in just 7.2 seconds. There are four riding modes: Rain, Street, Sport and Plus and a trick ride-by-wire traction control system.

Rain mode allows for limited power delivery and traction control comes in early, street mode allows a bit of performance, sport mode allows for full power with a controlled drift feeling and plus mode switches off all assisting systems. There’s even a Supermoto ABS for drifters which can be switched off. Daytime running lights are standard. The body is built upon the chromemolybdenum steel tubular trellis frame and a single-sided swing arm chassis. Braking is done via Brembo disc brakes, with 320mm discs up front, mated to Brembo M50 monobloc calipers at the rear. At 189 kg, this beast looks certain to deliver outright performance.

BMW REVEAL THE R nineT At a special celebration event at the BMW Museum in Munich, BMW Motorrad unveiled the new R nineT classic roadster on stage. Created to mark and celebrate nine decades of BMW motorcycles, beginning with the R32 in 1923, BMW claim that the R nineT harks back to the true spirit of classic BMW motorcycles and café-racers. Naturally, the R nineT uses a boxer engine and this one is a 110 bhp, 1170cc twin designed to produce a lot of torque – 120 Nm at 6000 rpm – and it sits in a package that has been built to allow for maximum customization.

A large number of configuration options and aftermarket accessories, letting owners make their bike with factory parts, will be available. The chassis also features a removable pillion frame to further aid in the customization of the bike. The exhaust system runs down the left-hand side of the bike with the two silencers stacked on top of each other for the look of a “classic sporty roadster.” BMW designed the nineT to be rather minimalist, though with attention to detail.

BMW has not confirmed the price yet, but it is expected to cost somewhere around the £11,000 mark in the UK.

EBR 1190RX UNVEILED IN USA Erik Buell Racing (EBR), the new firm founded by American maverick Erik Buell in the wake of the closure of Buell by owners Harley-Davidson in 2009, has just unveiled their first all-new road machine – the 1190RX superbike. Set to go on sale in 2014 priced at around $19,000, the EBR 1190RX is effectively a road-going evolution of EBR’s earlier 1190RS racer. It also shares some components and themes common to earlier, Harley-era Buells, such as the signature, rim-mounted front disc brake, massive aluminium twin spar frame which doubles as the machine’s fuel tank and Rotax-built V-twin engine, as first developed for the old Buell 1125R and CR. According to EBR, the new RX’s engine, now displacing 1190cc, puts out a claimed 185bhp at 10600rpm along with 138 Nm of torque at 8200rpm.

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AUTOLIFE October 2013

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AUTOLIFE October 2013 19

AUTOLIFE

NEWS: MOTOSPORTS

2013 F1 CHAMPIONSHIP RANKINGS RANK DRIVER

TEAM

2013 MOTO GP CHAMPIONSHIP RANKINGS POINTS

1 Sebastian Vettel Red Bull Racing 297 2 Fernando Alonso Ferrari 207 3 Kimi Raikkonen Lotus 177 4 Lewis Hamilton Mercedes 161 5 Mark Webber Red Bull Racing 148 6 Nico Rosberg Mercedes 126 7 Felipe Massa Ferrari 90 8 Romain Grosjean Lotus 87 9 Jenson Button McLaren 60 10 Nico Hulkenberg Sauber 39

RANK RIDER

TEAM

POINTS

1 Marc Marquez Repsol Honda 298 2 Jorge Lorenzo Factory Yamaha Racing 280 3 Dani Pedrosa Repsol Honda 264 4 Valentino Rossi Factory Yamaha Racing 214 5 Cal Crutchlow Monster Yamaha Tech 3 179 6 Alvaro Bautista Go&Fun Honda Gresini 147 7 Stefan Bradl LCR Honda 135 8 Andrea Dovizioso Ducati 127 9 Nicky Hayden Ducati 111 10 Bradley Smith Monster Yamaha Tech 3 99

**All Top 10 ranking and points are as of 24th October, 2013

**All Top 10 ranking and points are as of 24th October, 2013

2014 F1 CALENDAR

2014 MOTO GP CALENDAR

The FIA has announced a 22-race calendar for the 2014 Formula 1 season. Among the circuits, Korea, New Jersey and Mexico has been listed as provisional. The new season will again start in Australia on March 16 and it will end in Brazil on November 30.

The 2014 season will be the longest season in Formula 1 history.

The dates are as follows:

FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme), the global governing body of motorcycle racing, has announced the 2014 Moto GP calendar. The campaign will start once again in Qatar on the March 23 and is set to end on November 9 in Valencia.

Argentina will be on the race schedule for the first time since 1999, whereas Brazil joins with a September slot. The total number of Grand Prix now increases from 18 to 19. The dates are as follows:

16 March: 30 March: 06 April: 20 April: 27 April: 11 May: 25 May: 01 June: 08 June: 22 June: 06 July: 20 July: 27 July: 24 August: 07 September: 21 September: 05 October: 12 October: 26 October: 09 November: 16 November: 30 November:

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Grand Prix of Australia Grand Prix of Malaysia Grand Prix of Bahrain Grand Prix of China Grand Prix of Korea Grand Prix of Spain Grand Prix of Monaco Grand Prix of America (New Jersey) Grand Prix of Canada Grand Prix of Austria Grand Prix of Great Britain Grand Prix of Germany (Hockenheim) Grand Prix of Hungary Grand Prix of Belgium Grand Prix of Italy Grand Prix of Singapore Grand Prix of Russia (Sochi) Grand Prix of Japan Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi Grand Prix of USA (Austin) Grand Prix of Mexico Grand Prix of Brazil

AUTOLIFE October 2013

23 March: 13 April: 27 April: 04 May: 18 May: 1 June: 15 June: 28 June: 13 July: 10 August: 17 August: 31 August: 14 September:

21 September: 28 September: 12 October: 19 October: 26 October: 09 November:

Qatar, Losail International Circuit Americas, Circuit of the Americas Argentina, Autódromo Termas de Rio Hondo Spain, Circuito de Jerez (Subject to contract) France, Le Mans Circuit Italy, Mugello Circuit Catalunya, Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya Netherlands, TT Assen Germany, Sachsenring Indianapolis GP, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Czech Republic, Automotodrom Brno Great Britain, Silverstone Circuit San Marino & Riviera di Rimini, Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli Aragón, MotorLand Aragón Brazil, Brasilia (Subject to homologation) Malaysia, Sepang International Circuit Japan, Twin Ring Motegi Australia, Phillip Island Valencia, Ricardo Tormo-Valencia www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

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AUTOLIFE

LAUNCHPAD

DUCATI MONSTER 1100 EVO Turbo Motors Trading, the sole authorised dealers of Ducati motorcycles in Nepal, has announced the availability of the latest in their iconic Monster line-up, the Monster 1100 EVO in the domestic market. It is one of the most capable motorcycles in Ducati’s line-up.

The 1078cc, L-Twin cylinder, 2 valve per cylinder, Desmodromic air cooled engine rewards you with a maximum power of 100 bhp at 7500 rpm and 103 Nm of torque at 6000 rpm. The engine is mated to a 6-speed transmission with straight cut gears and it has a wet clutch system that works like a racelike ‘slipper’ which reduces the destabilizing effect of the rear-end under aggressive down-shifting. On the chassis side, the main frame is the trademark tubular steel Trellis frame. The front suspension is a 43mm fully adjustable Marzocchi forks while the rear is a progressive with preload and rebound adjustable Sachs monoshock. The front gets the same triple-parabola headlight while the rear gets a LED light unit which is further enhanced by a special diffuser lens to deliver outstanding light clarity. At 188 kg, the bike rides on a pair of fabulous looking 10-spoke Pirelli Diablo Rosso II rubber tyres. The new exhaust system is a lightweight 2-1-2 system two aluminium mufflers equipped with two Lambda probes and an electronically controlled valve which results in excellent torque and engine power.

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AUTOLIFE October 2013

Instrumentation panel includes a digital unit which houses the Speedometer, rev counter, time, scheduled maintenance warning, oil temperature, trip fuel, lap time, warning light for low oil pressure, fuel level, fuel reserve, neutral, turn signals, ABS warning, over rev counter, DTC, immobilizer and Ducati Data Analyser (DDA) system which is available as an accessory from Ducati Performance. A stopwatch is also available which can be used to store the recorded time after a journey or track session.

The Monster 1100 Evo comes with a standard Ducati Safety Pack (DSP) and includes the famous Ducati Traction Control (DTC) which has been available for the first time on a monster. This system offers a choice of four profiles, each one programmed with a wheelspin tolerance matched to progressive riding levels of skill graded from one to four. The front and rear disc brakes are combined with the ABS system and come standard with the bike.

The Monster 1100 EVO will be available in Red with White Stripe or Diamond Black with Racing Grey Stripe, and will cost NRs.24, 00,000/- only.

CONTACT: TURBO MOTORS TRADING Ph. No: 01-4435720

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AUTOLIFE October 2013 23

AUTOLIFE

LAUNCHPAD

SUBARU

XV CROSSTREK

Vijay Motors Pvt. Ltd, the sole distributor of Subaru vehicles in Nepal, has launched the new Subaru XV Crosstrek in the market. This dynamic crossover vehicle perfectly blends luxurious urban living with an active and adventurous lifestyle.

The Subaru XV Crosstrek is powered by a 2.0-liter BOXER速 engine which makes 148 bhp of power at 6200 rpm and a peak torque of 145 Nm at 4200 rpm. The BOXER速 engine which is in a horizontal layout has pistons that move side to side, cancelling out vibrations so that it can run smoother and more efficiently while delivering maximum power. The engine is combined with a Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system which provides power to all wheels simultaneously for maximum traction.

During slippery conditions, it automatically sends power to the wheels with the best traction, helping the vehicle to stay on the road. The engine is mated to a fully-synchronized 5-speed manual transmission with incline start assist or an available second-generation Lineartronic速 Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

The exteriors include an integrated roof rail which gives cargo-carrying flexibility, 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, an available power tilt/ sliding-glass moon roof, striking front grille, hawk-eye auto on/off headlights, bold bumper, roof spoiler, windshield wiper de-icer, heated side mirrors side moldings and front fog lights integrated perfectly in the dynamic bodykit. The XV Crosstrek which is based on the Impreza platform provides an aggressive stance.

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AUTOLIFE October 2013

Likewise, the interiors offer a 6-speaker premium audio system with MP3 playback capability, Bluetooth audio streaming, and USB port/iPod control. It also provides cargo space with split-folding rear seats. The multifunction instrumentation cluster displays the current and average fuel economy, distance to empty, journey time, clock and ambient temperature, analog speedometer, tachometer, digital odometer. The 3-spoke steering wheel is leather-wrapped and contains controls for audio system, Bluetooth and cruise control.

Other amenities include Daytime Running Lights and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

On the safety side, the XV Crosstrek has the Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system, Antilock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Brake Override System (BOS) which helps prevent unintentional vehicle acceleration. The vehicle is further equipped with a total of seven airbags. Similarly, the ringshaped reinforcement frame which is made of high-tensile strength steel is designed to shield and protect in collision as it directly absorbs energy around the passenger compartment, rather than through it.

According to the company, it has an introductory price of NRs.91,00,000/-.

CONTACT: VIJAY MOTORS PVT. LTD Ph. No: 01-4414625 | 01-4425603 www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

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NISSAN

SYLPHY Dugar Brothers and Sons, the sole authorised distributor of Nissan cars in Nepal, has launched the Nissan Sylphy, a new premium sedan in the domestic market. The premium sedan is manufactured in Thailand using Japanese technology. Under the hood is a 1598cc petrol engine that makes 116 bhp of power at 5600 rpm and 154 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine comes with an Electronic Concentrated Control System (ECCS) 32 bit fuel-injection system.

The exterior provides a premium look with the chrome front grille perfectly conformed into the curvaceous front fender. The halogen headlamp which comes with manual levelizer also houses a LED Clearance Lamp. The rear part gets LED Rear Combination Lamps that can be clearly visible from a distance.

The exterior also gets LED side turning lamps, variable intermittent front wiper with speed sensors, body colour door mirrors and rear defogger with timer. The suspension is a MacPherson Strut with stabilizer at front while a torsion beam with stabilizer is at the rear. The car has a wheelbase of 2700mm and a 165mm ground clearance.

Among the features are Urethene wrapped

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multi-function power speed sensing steering wheel with MID control switch, central door lock, Power window with Driver antijam protection and auto-up down, driver and assist seat adjustment, meter with odd trip, fuel consumption, cruising range and average speed. The fuel tank capacity is of 52 litres while the boot space is a class leading 510 litres. The car not only boasts luxury features, but safety features like Dual SRS air bag, Anti-lock Braking System(ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), LED high mount stop lamp, Zone Body concept, Reinforcement Doors and Crumpling Zones.

The new sedan will be available in two colours, metallic silver and dark grey with the addition of four new colours later. The price for the Nissan Sylphy has been fixed at NRs. 59,50,000/- and the company will be providing a one year warranty.

CONTACT: DUGAR BROTHERS AND SONS Ph. No: 01-4362992 | 01-4350912

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TOYOTA

RAV4

United Traders Syndicate Pvt Ltd, the sole distributor of Toyota Vehicles in Nepal, has launched the fourth generation RAV4 in the domestic market. According to the company, the new RAV4 offers consistently enjoyable and stable driving and breaks new ground in refinement, practicality and technology.

The Toyota RAV4 is powered by a 2494cc, four cylinders, DOHC, 16-valve with dual VVT-i, petrol engine which makes 176 bhp of power at 6000 rpm and 172 Nm of torque at 4100 rpm. The ignition system is Electronic with Toyota Direct Injection (TDI). The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual/automatic transmission. The new crossover SUV is a 4WD with a wheelbase of 2660 mm and a ground clearance of 176mm.

Standard exterior features include projectorbeam headlights, daytime running Lights, colour-keyed rear spoiler with LED centre high-mount stop light, black power outside mirrors with folding feature, rear window defogger with timer, automatic limited-slip differential (Auto LSD), acoustic noisereducing front windshield and privacy glass on rear side, quarter and lift gate windows and high solar energy-absorbing (HSEA) glass.

Similarly, standard interior features include air conditioning with micro dust and pollen filter, backup camera with guidelines, eco/ sport modes, day/night rear-view mirror, cruise control, one-touch 3-blink turn signal indicator, power windows with driver

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auto down, soft-touch interior accents, electric power steering (EPS), tilt/telescopic urethane steering wheel with audio, multiinformation display and Bluetooth handsfree telephone controls. The audio system is Display Audio – includes 6.1-inch touchscreen with integrated back-up camera display, AM/FM CD player with MP3/ WMA playback capability, six speakers in six locations, auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod connectivity and control, vehicle information with customizable settings, hands-free phone capability, phone book access and music streaming via Bluetooth wireless technology.

Safety features is packed with the Star Safety System which includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Smart Stop Technology (SST). Other features include driver and front passenger Full Advanced Airbag System, front- and second-row Roll-sensing side Curtain Airbags (RSCA), driver and front passenger Whiplash-Injury Lessening (WIL) seats, side impact door beams, Engine Immobilizer, child-protector rear door locks and Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) among many others.

CONTACT: UNITED TRADERS SYNDICATE Ph. No: 01-4478301 | 01-4478003 www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

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TOYOTA

HILUX

Renowned throughout the world for its outstanding quality, durability and reliability, the Toyota Hilux has been a dominant presence in the global pick-up market for almost 46 years, with sales totalling around 15 million units. United Traders Syndicate Pvt. Ltd, the sole distributor of Toyota Vehicles in Nepal, has now launched the latest 7th generation of the Toyota Hilux in Nepal With ruggedness that perfectly matches its appetite for adventure, the new Hilux features a unique combination of sleek lines and curves that truly puts it in a class of its own. It’s a more comfortable interior inside as well, with superior fit and finish along with ample space to store all your need for an adventure of a lifetime.

There is a 2-DIN audio unit equipped with a Tuner, CD-Player, MP3, AUX-Jack, USB, Bluetooth & 6 speakers and the steering has been incorporated with control switches for Audio and MultiInformation Display (MID) functions.

The new Hilux features the best possible balance between a tough muscular image and passenger car-like stylishness. This 3.0 litre Hilux is powered by the D-4D Common Rail Intercooler Variable Nozzle Turbo (VNT), 16-Valve DOHC diesel engine. Your cravings for pure, raw power can now be satisfied with a maximum power of 160 bhp @ 3400 rpm and maximum torque 343Nm @ 1400 - 3200 rpm. Now with Toyota Automatic Disconnecting Differential & Part-time 4WD, you can also easily switch between 2WD and 4WD on the fly.

The Hilux is built to handle anything your location throws at it and it can go the distance with less wear and tear meaning less maintenance in the long run, delivering you great value for money.

CONTACT: UNITED TRADERS SYNDICATE Ph. No: 01-4478301 | 01-4478003 www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

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The Crossfire XZ250RR is an Australian motorcycle based on 4 years worth of research on the motocross track with the aim to not only simply build a top-end motocross bike but to challenge the best in the industry as well. If you are wondering what ‘RR’ stands for, it is ‘Race Replica’.

The single cylinder, water cooled, four stroke engine is a genuine motor producing an acclaimed 30 bhp. The most impressive aspect of the XZ250RR is the Dell’Orto Carbeurator, which is imported from Italy, and improves the power distribution. It is one of the most powerful 250 cc Asian bikes of its spec. Having an incredible chassis and adding the power to match the aggressive looks and flawless suspension was the receipt for the Crossfire XZ250RR. The frame is light, yet very rigid and a perfect chassis. This frame was computer modeled where every angle and detail was accounted for. This gave the bike ergonomics that would rival even the likes of Yamaha and Honda. The suspension is fully adjustable and serviceable and can be set up for each rider. Another compliment to the frame is the Aluminiummagnesium alloy rims. The 7116 alloy with addition of magnesium makes these rims extremely tough and is the alloy of choice for most racers worldwide. The acceleration is crisp thanks to a ¼ turn joker style throttle to allow full throttle opening at a ¼ of the normal throttle action. It will give you the confidence when the power is needed and control and when it’s wanted.

According to the company, the durability of the ZX250RR is superior to most similar spec bike that they have tested with nothing snapping or breaking even after several crashes on test. It’s a model that claims to be as good as its more expensive Japanese brothers being the perfect balance of performance in a value package. This machine will be something you will want to stock with pride.

CONTACT BIKERSNEPAL PVT. LTD Ph. No: 014441896 | 9801024639 | 9801049233

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LAUNCHPAD

THE LATEST COMMENCAL BIKES IN TOWN

Finally the gloomy clouds seem to have bid us adieu and the sun is now shining bright; which means, the cycling season is back! And with the Dashain fat accumulation becoming an issue, it couldn’t come at a better time. So Epic Mountain Bikes launched the new 2014 range of Commencal bikes with a bang at Moksh in Jhamsikhel and it was a sight to see. Here is a look at the new entrants from Commencal in the Nepali market.

EL CAMINO Its reliable, comfortable, pleasant and efficient. Without seeking to be the next XC Olympic Champion, your bike does not have to waive certain criteria. Made of Aluminum 6061, this series follows its objectives to the latter: 60mm stem, 720mm handlebar to adopt a natural position, 68° head angle for a 650b, disc brakes and a 120mm fork on a shorter top tube not to fear any obstacles. With a setup like this, the El Camino 1, 2 and 3 is based on Enduro.

META HIP-HOP A new riding era starts with these bikes!

Directly inspired by the META SX, the Hip Hop is the last offspring of the META brood. Hyperactive, it listens as soon as you get on it and shines when you push it. Its mixed suspensions setup makes it want to go jump around.

With it, jumps, gaps, berms, everything is just an excuse to put it sideways and refine your riding style. It loves rhythm sections. It goes everywhere and tries everything.

META AM The AM bike brings the solution to all your needs: grip, output, speed. Far from marketing buzz and closer to the riders’ needs and riding in the mountains, the META AM is adapted to 650b wheels.

Nervousness preserved, enhanced grip and it still loves pedaling. But, it would rather aim down the tracks. A comparatively affordable All-Mountain bike, it does not skimp on the strength or performance.

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EL CAMINO GIRLY

META HT Formerly known as the Ramones, the META HT (Hard Tail) may be seen as the ginger stepchild at first glance but it is fully assimilated to the META brood.

Say goodbye to XC and its performance obsession! Only keep the hardtail setup, add fun and pleasure. Its Enduro position, with 650b wheels and 140mm travel fork are a big part of it. It feels good to climb with and you will have a blast heading down.

META SX Nicolas QUERE’s crush, to try some sick lines, the META SX is not compared to a mini-DH for nothing! It easily makes you comfortable thanks to its 160mm travel and its aggressive geometry. Strong supporter of 26” wheels, it loves gnarly outing and endless single tracks. It will put a smile on your face for hours.

And for full disclosure, it also loves impromptu bike-park sessions too. The only downside is to get totally addicted to this bike.

RAMONES 20” We all remember our first bike which we rode nearly everywhere - in a parking lot, in the streets, around the yard or into the fields. To sum it up, kids’ bikes have to be resistant and able to take them in all their adventures. The RAMONES 20” range has 2 models. One full rigid, aims for simplicity and lightness. The other, has all the weapons to start jumping, slide and have fun like the pros in the videos.

If your kid might just be simply seeking to enjoy the ride, he could have a blast in this. www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

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CONTACT: Epic Mountain Bike | Jhamsikhel | Ph. No. 5555021 | www.epicmountainbike.com

And you thought mountain biking was just for men. Custom built for female riders, the El Camino Girly is all up for creating gender equality amongst mountain bike riders.

AUTOLIFE

EVENTS

skoda test drive weekend MAW ENTERPRISES PVT. LTD, THE AUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTOR OF SKODA VEHICLES IN NEPAL, HAD INVITED PROSPECTIVE CUSTOMERS TO TEST DRIVE THEIR CARS AT THE GOKARNA FOREST GULF RESORT & SPA. OF COURSE, THERE WAS MORE TO IT THAN JUST THE TEST DRIVE SESSIONS.

Well, how does a normal test drive session work out for you? You find your way to the nearest automobile showroom of your choice, discuss business with the sweet talking salesmen and finally get to take the car out for a spin. But again, how does it fare for you? You will probably find yourself driving at a snail's pace in the weekday city traffic, shifting up to just the second or third gear and end up signing that cheque with the least idea on the actual performance of the car.

So the guys at the Skoda dealership here in Nepal had a different plan. On 28th September, 2013 they gave their regular test drive sessions a bit of a twist. Staying true to the brands luxury oriented values, this test drive session was organized in and around the premises of the serene Gokarna Forest Gulf Resort & Spa located in the outskirts of Kathmandu. And what better day to organize it than on a Saturday, when most of us have all the time in the world!

With their well versed and enthusiastic sales team standing guard at the venue, Skoda had their entire line-up with the executive class Superb, versatile Yeti, compact Fabia and the

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SKODA HAD THEIR ENTIRE LINE-UP WITH THE EXECUTIVE CLASS SUPERB, VERSATILE YETI, COMPACT FABIA AND THE SEDAN-ONA-BUDGET RAPID LINED UP FOR THEIR CUSTOMERS. sedan-on-a-budget Rapid lined up for their customers. Only the Laura was missed here, as the company is making preparations to replace it with the brand new Octavia.

The test drive route was well sorted with the potential Skoda customers having the privilege of testing the vehicle of their choice, starting from the winding downhill roads inside the resort, across the smooth country roads around the area, over broken down tracks and ending with the uphill drive back to the starting point. And the session didn't end right there! Skoda had put up a fantastic BBQ and buffet lunch with free flow of drinks for their invited customers and their families who joined the session.

The participants were also entitled with free access to the swimming pool at the resort.

The invitees consisted of Skoda’s prospective customers who had expressed interest in their cars at the recently concluded NADA Auto Show. Skoda had invited around 100 prospective customers and they not only made sure that their clients had a deserving test-drive of the Skoda cars, but also insured that it was a well-spent weekend for the attendees.

Seriously, how many company invites you over the weekend to test drive their vehicle on a deserving stretch of road, and rather than rushing you to sign that cheque, gives you the freedom to deeply analyze your purchase decision sitting down to a fantastic lunch holding on to your drinks or soaking yourself by the poolside? Beat that!

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TEST DRIVE

SEVENTH HEAVEN

VW POLO GT TSI

WORDS: AYUSH DHAUBANJAR

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W What is happiness? Well, this is an odd thought to ponder upon when you are waiting at the red light on a VW Polo GT TSI in one of the best stretch of roads in the valley. Soon enough the lights changed to green and with the road ahead visibly empty, I floored the throttle. The GT instantly hurled itself down the road, and within seconds, I was on the wrong side of the law with the speedometer indicating way past the set speed limit on the Arniko Highway. By the time I slow downed for the intersection after an impressive 140 kmph run, the rest of the traffic was already a speck of blur in the rear view mirror. I couldn’t help but massively grin when I realized that I still had two more gears to go on that smooth 7-Speed DSG gearbox. So here’s an early verdict. The Polo GT TSI is the fastest and one of the most advanced hatchbacks in the country! And fast it is, with a company claimed top speed of 190 kmph.

As I enter back into the city, I shift the twin-clutch gearbox back to the fully automatic Drive mode. This gearbox offers three driving modes to choose from – Drive, Sport and www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

THE POLO GT TSI IS THE FASTEST AND ONE OF THE MOST ADVANCED HATCHBACKS IN THE COUNTRY! AND FAST IT IS, WITH A COMPANY CLAIMED TOP SPEED OF 190 KMPH.

Manual. While the automatic Drive mode aims at achieving better fuel economy with early gear shifts, the Sport mode is a bit more enthusiastic and will hold on to a higher rpm giving away quicker acceleration. On both modes, the GT has quick power delivery available on the go and there is hardly any turbo lag felt in moving ahead. The Drive mode makes city driving an effortless task and there’s the Sport mode to shift to if you want to simply rocket past traffic. However, the gem in this gearbox is the Manual mode for the adrenaline deprived. Slot the selector into Manual mode in places like the Arniko Highway and you will have nothing but a huge smile plastered across your face. My only disappointment was not finding a paddle-shifter which would have added more to the fun factor. Otherwise, the dual-clutch gearbox offers instant upshifts or downshifts without any delay. Surprisingly, though it’s a tiny 1.2-litre engine, it still manages to provide a thrilling acoustic engine note inside the cabin when you rev it hard.

Inside, the Polo GT TSI gets all the bells and whistles that VW AUTOLIFE October 2013 37

can offer on this segment. There is a neat two-tone dashboard layout with just enough chrome accents to spruce things up and the quality of the materials used feels top notch. The seats now get sportier black and grey fabrics with contrast stitching, climate control system from the Vento, and a new 2-DIN audio system that incorporates USB, Aux-in, SD card reader and Bluetooth connectivity. Space and comfort is good both at the front and back, except for a slightly limited legroom at the rear.

But if the GT were to pass by, there is hardly any distinct change in the styling to easily differentiate it from your regular Polo, except for those temporary sporty decals. The Polo GT has that same

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THERE IS A NEAT TWO-TONE DASHBOARD LAYOUT WITH JUST ENOUGH CHROME ACCENTS TO SPRUCE THINGS UP AND THE QUALITY OF THE MATERIALS USED FEELS TOP NOTCH.

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sedate design with very few character lines and not many eye-catching elements. It looks identical to the standard Polo with just a hint of slightly more aggressiveness. Not that your regular Polo isn’t a good looking car, but a sportier facade on the GT would have helped cast a finer first impression. The headlight design is relatively new with black accents around and there is matte black surrounds for the fog-lamps. The other changes to the car include a new ten-spoke layout for the alloy wheels and a more pronounced rear spoiler. The only most noticeable addition is the ‘GT’ badge on the chrome front grille, C-pillars and the boot-lid.

It is under the hood where the significance of this GT badge all around the car lies. At the heart of this Polo GT is VW’s remarkable

IT IS UNDER THE HOOD WHERE THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THIS GT BADGE ALL AROUND THE CAR LIES. www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

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1.2-litre TSI petrol motor that combines direct injection with turbocharging and results in a power output similar to the bigger 1.6 litre engine. The Polo GT TSI packs 103 Bhp of power and 175 Nm of max torque, and all this power is sent to the front wheels via the 7-speed DSG transmission.

Apart from the outright performance, the TSI technology claims to be highly efficient as well. As far as the handling dynamics go, push it hard through the corners and the Polo GT will stick with you most of the time. The steering is precise, there’s decent body control and good grip from the tyres. And with the enthusiastic engine, you get a car that is fun to drive down your favourite mountain road.

Even the suspension has been well setup

with a mix of comfort and sporty settings for our kind of roads. But at higher speeds, the steering wheel tends to feel on the lighter side. However on the safety side, the Polo GT gets an Electronic Stability Program, Hill-Hold Assist, Anti-Lock Braking System, Rear Parking Sensors and Driver and Passenger Airbags.

sense of the relatively higher price tag and grasp what I am trying to conclude here.

Thus, the Polo GT TSI, with its mindblowing performance, is one of the finest options if you are looking out for a fast, fun and sporty vehicle in Nepal. This is where the search ends if you looking for an entertaining hatchback.

So the Polo GT TSI you see here is Volkswagen’s worthy replacement to the Polo 1.6, with the former being more exciting and faster. But with the sort of segment leading kit and technology that this car packs, the Polo GT TSI isn’t a regular cheap hatchback to own at NRs.37.45 Lakhs. This a car you need to first drive it around to make better

And regarding my search for happiness, well there are various ways to look at it. But if you are on a set of wheels and pushing your vehicle to the maximum, it definitely is in finding that you still have some more gear left to slot in. So with the 7-speed DSG gearbox on this Polo GT TSI, you should probably never feel short of one!

THERE’S DECENT BODY CONTROL AND WITH THE ENTHUSIASTIC ENGINE, YOU GET A CAR THAT IS FUN TO DRIVE DOWN YOUR FAVOURITE MOUNTAIN ROAD.

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SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Type: 4 Cylinders DOHC, TSI Displacement: 1197cc Fuel Type: Petrol Maximum Power: 103 Bhp @ 5000 rpm Maximum Torque: 175 Nm @ 1500 4100 rpm Transmission: 7-Speed DSG Automatic

DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT Length: 3970 mm Width: 1682 mm Height: 1453 mm Wheelbase: 2456 mm Ground Clearance: 168mm Tyre Size: 185/60 R15 Suspension Front: McPherson Strut Suspension Rear: Semi Independent Trailing Arm Brakes Front: Ventilated Discs Brakes Rear: Drums Curb Weight: 1140 kg Fuel Tank: 45L PRICE: NRs. 37,45,000/COLOURS: Deep Black, Candy White, Flash Red ALTERNATIVE CHOICES: Fiat Punto, Ford Figo, Hyundai i20, KIA Picanto, Skoda Fabia, Suzuki Swift, Tata Vista D90 CONTACT: Pooja International Nepal Pvt. Ltd Ph. No: 4478301 | 4478003 facebook.com/VolkswagenNepal

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AUTOLIFE

ROAD TRIP

WORLD TOURISM DAY RIDE Riders from FORE (Friends of Royal Enfield) motorcycling club thunder down the Arniko Highway towards the Nepal-China border at Kodari to promote motorcycle tourism in Nepal WORDS AND PHOTOS: SHERAP SHERPA Today, Royal Enfield is a cult brand highly synonymous with the culture of motorcycle touring. It’s also one of the most preferred choices for tourists, both domestic and international, who want to experience Nepal by road. Similarly, over the years, motorcycle tourism has been evolving as a fast growing concept in the segment of adventure tourism options in Nepal. So there really couldn’t be a better time than the World Tourism Day to give it some more boost and promotion, thundering down the road on Royal Enfield motorcycles!

Now, FORE (Friends of Royal Enfield) is definitely no new outfit when it comes to promoting motorcycle tourism in Nepal.

FORE is a motorcycling club of Royal Enfield bike owners who are dedicated in promoting motorcycle tourism between Nepal, Tibet and India. FORE was born out of a group of like-minded friends riding the timeless classic Royal Enfield. The club conceptualized back in 2011 on Nepal Tourism Year when a group of Royal Enfield Riders set out to promote Nepal as a motorcycle adventure destination with their ‘Wild West Ride’. This 9-day ride towards the Far Western region of Nepal had the members rumbling down the highway with print Medias and a television crew joining the bandwagon. With support from the Nepal Tourism Board, Kailali Chamber

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of Commerce and Kanchanpur Chamber of Commerce, the ride was a great success with numerous stories and made up for four episodes of a program on TTV as well. Ever since then, there has been no looking back for FORE. Come 2012, the Royal Enfielders at FORE went on another similar campaign named ‘Exotic East Ride’ to promote Eastern Nepal. Over the years, FORE has also managed to set a classic example of biking brotherhood by joining hands with motorcycle clubs from other regions such as Royal Eastern Enfielders in Dharan,

Chitwan Enfielders in Narayanghat and Royal Enfield Himalayan Thumpers in Kalimpong, India.

So on 26th September 2013, thirteen members from FORE including expat riders from Belgium, Spain and USA, with TTV on board, rode towards the Nepal-Tibet border at Kodari to promote motorcycle tourism again and lend support to the World Tourism Day campaign led by the Hotel Association of Tatopani (HAT). The Hotel Association of Tatopani is a newly

FORE IS A MOTORCYCLING CLUB OF ROYAL ENFIELD BIKE OWNERS WHO ARE DEDICATED IN PROMOTING MOTORCYCLE TOURISM BETWEEN NEPAL, TIBET AND INDIA.

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WITH ALL THESE REFRESHING ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE WITHIN JUST THREE HOURS AWAY FROM THE HUSTLE-BUSTLE OF KATHMANDU, YOU REALLY DON’T NEED TO SCRATCH YOUR HEAD TO THINK ABOUT WHERE TO GO FOR THE WEEKEND. formed association to monitor the quality and standard of hotel facilities offered at Tatopani. The border at Kodari is located about 120km north-east of Kathmandu on the world famous Friendship bridge.

Though Kodari is currently the busiest trading port between Nepal and China, it also serves as an entry/exit point for tourists visiting Tibet and the holy Mount Kailash.

Thousands of tourists and pilgrims cross this border from Nepal to fulfil their dreams of visiting the forbidden city of Lhasa and the world’s most sacred mountain Mt. Kailash. This stretch of Arniko Highway is also a perfect weekend getaway destination with plenty of adventure activities. Driving or riding down this highway is a great and enjoyable experience with most of the scenic mountain roads carved alongside the serene Sun Kosi and raging Bhote Kosi River. There are many good hotels and resorts such as the The Last Resort, The Borderlands Resort, Sukute Beach Resort and Sun Kosi Beach Resort where you can enjoy a wide range of adventure activities from bungee jumping, canyoning, rafting to fishing or simply enjoy delicious fresh fish and chilled beer swimming by the riverside.

There’s also the famous natural hot water springs at Tatopani to soak and relax your tired muscles for a mere Rs.10 and Rs.20 for foreign guests. And for the shopaholic, you can easily shop for cheap Chinese goods near the border. With all these refreshing activities available within just three hours away from the hustle-bustle of Kathmandu,

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you really don’t need to scratch your head to think about where to go for the weekend.

Of course, this World Tourism Day ride wouldn’t have been possible without the support of Red Bull (Gorkha Brewery) and Siddhartha Bank with their crucial contributions. With 13 Royal Enfield’s riding in tandem, we rode from Kathmandu to Tatopani on the first day. Along the way, we only stopped by at Dolalghat for lunch by a roadside eatery and were hosted to a refreshing afternoon snack break at the Borderlands Resort by Mr. Megh Ale. On arrival at Tatopani, we were received by the hospitable representatives from the Hotel Association of Tatopani (HAT) who ensured a wonderful time during our stay in the area. Mr. Kami Sherpa, Chairman of HAT, was visibly excited to host us and expressed his delight on this initiative by FORE.

The next day, after refreshing ourselves at the hot water springs in Tatopani, we moved towards the Friendship Bridge at the border where a host of activities in welcoming the tourists were planned by HAT and the local Ama Samuha (Mother’s Group). We proudly joined them in welcoming the tourists arriving from the other end and participated in the inaugural ceremony of HAT. With the necessary promotions done, we then rode back to the newly opened Sun Kosi Beach Resort for the night. With the opening day celebrations, comfortable accommodation and tasty dinner to boot, it was a night well spent at the resort. We then returned back home on the third day after indulging in some rafting activities around the Resort.

Likewise, even associates of FORE conducted similar rides around their regions on the same day. Royal Eastern Enfielders rode to the eastern border town of

Kakadvitta, Chitwan Enfielders rode to the southern border town of Sunauli and Royal Enfield Himalayan Thumpers rode to the nearby areas around Kalimpong. All were hell bent on promoting one single cause – MOTORCYCLE TOURISM.

THIS WORLD TOURISM DAY RIDE WOULDN’T HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE WITHOUT THE SUPPORT OF RED BULL (GORKHA BREWERY) AND SIDDHARTHA BANK WITH THEIR CRUCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS.

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OVERLAND TOURERS

4WD TRANS-ASIA OVERLAND EXPEDITION 2013 A range of exciting SUV’s pass through Nepal as part of their 9 country overland tour of Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, China, Nepal, India, Bhutan and Myanmar

Imagine

Imagine an exotic convoy with premium SUVs from the likes of Lexus, Toyota, BMW, Land Rover and Subaru navigating through the dusty hustle-bustle of Kathmandu traffic and cruising past our mountain roads. Sadly, this is an unlikely happening and rather the kind of stuff that is limited to every Nepalese SUV enthusiast’s wet dreams. However, we were lucky enough to witness and catch up with such an entourage who had driven all the way from Malaysia. The 8th 4WD Trans-Asia Overland Expedition passed through Nepal for the first time ever after having driven across nearly 7000kms of roads as a part of their 52-days expedition from Malaysia. Their convoy had three of Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and Toyota Land Cruiser V8 each, two of Toyota Hilux, Lexus LX 470 and Subaru Forester each, and a Toyota Fortuner, Toyota FJ Cruiser, Lexus RX 350, BMW X5, Range Rover Sport and Land Rover Freelander.

This overland expedition was jointly structured by the Malaysia Persatuan Hopo Negeri Johor (Pemuda) and the Singapore Bhutan Foundation in association with China Press, Kobewell Group of Companies and the 4WD Club Johor Malaysia. This 52-day expedition from September 8 to October 29 was planned so as to take the group of 65 people across nine countries on 18 vehicles. From Singapore, they had travelled through Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, China, and Tibet and entered into Nepal. They will be returning back home via India, Bhutan, Myanmar and Thailand. The group was also accompanied by Zhenwei Ng, a reporter from China Press (a leading Malaysian Chinese language daily newspaper), who is publishing their trip-report everyday back home.

This expedition themed ‘Journey to the West’ is a very special

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and rare opportunity for the team because a convoy entering Bhutan is almost impossible, with a six month application period that is subject to approval. This is also the first ever expedition from Singapore to Bhutan. Apart from the travelling and sight-seeing, the main purpose behind this trip is also to promote social education and philanthropy through charity donations to underprivileged schools.

They made healthy donations to orphan schools in Laos, China, Bhutan and Nepal.

Their drive around Nepal was managed by Mountain Zone Travels, a local tour operator.

In the meantime, we caught up with Mr. Lam Jye Haur, team co-ordinator of the expedition, for a quick tête-à-tête regarding the tour. Below are the excerpts: AL: So how would you sum up your drive through Nepal?

Mr. Lam: Since this was our first time through Nepal by roads, we definitely enjoyed a lot. Nepal is such a vibrant and colourful country full of exceptional cultural and natural scenic values. The experience was amazing. The highlight of our drive through Nepal was visiting Pokhara and Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha.

AL: So far, what has been the best thing about this drive?

Mr. Lam: Well, it’s sure a wonderful experience to be able to drive through various countries with different cultures and landscapes. Every country has its own charm and there has been plenty of memorable experiences during the drive.

But particularly, the tough drive towards the Everest Base Camp region in Tibet was the best thing about this expedition. The route provided some exhilarating views of the mountain and the landscape, along with a challenging drive experience.

were though minor enough to be fixed easily.

AL: So will we see more of these kinds of overland drives coming over to Nepal in the future?

Mr. Lam: Definitely yes! This is our first time driving outside China. Our last seven expedition was only limited to China because previously it was difficult to travel South Asia from Eastern Asia due to the lack of a defined road-route. But after the Myanmar route of the Asian Highway Network (AHN) came into operation, it has made travelling a lot easier. This will now help to bridge the Asian corridor with the Middle-East and Europe as well. So we will definitely travel more through this route because Nepal is the gateway for the Middle East and Europe.

AL: Did you have to face any major hurdles during this expedition?

Mr. Lam: There were only a few problems encountered during this journey. Firstly, many roads in China had been damaged due to the recent earthquake and floods and a main connecting bridge to Tibet was also severely damaged. The damaged bridge could have jeopardized the whole trip, but hopefully it was repaired on time. Secondly, some team-members encountered Acute Mountain Sickness at the Mt. Everest Base Camp in Tingri, Tibet. But luckily, we had come fully-prepared to encounter these situations with a medical support team in the crew. Thirdly, some of our vehicles faced bearing and suspension issues which www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

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AUTOLIFE

TEST RIDE

UM RENEGADE COMMANDO

Easy Rider Words: Saurav Nepal

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Fashion fades, season changes, life fluctuates, but there’s one thing that never vanishes - the fetish for cruiser motorcycles. Obviously, one of the main reasons of this timeless desire is due to the cult set by the legendary Harley motorcycles and iconic movies like Easy Rider.

Very few breed of motorcycles can promise that regal aura and sense of freedom which is experienced in riding a cruiser motorcycle across the highway. So to add to the fleet of the limited cruisers available in our market, here’s a new bad-ass in town. Import USA, the sole authorized distributors of UM Global Motorcycles in Nepal, has launched the ‘Renegade Commando’ in the Nepalese market. The company, UM Global Motorcycles, is a North-American motorcycle company with 16 products in its portfolio and a global market presence.

STYLING: The Renegade Commando is a motorcycle, inspired by vintage American cruisers and assembled in China with inputs from the company based in the USA. With its retro looks inspired from vintage American cruisers, the Renegade is a motorcycle that tugs at your heart in the first glance itself. It is a mean looking motorcycle, www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

AUTOLIFE October 2013 53

especially with that matt-black colour theme. There’s a low saddle height, a wide handlebar, front set foot-pegs, removable pillion seats, dual-extended blunt cut mufflers and a circular macho headlight with retro indicators. It has a long wheelbase of 1325 mm and an ergonomic geometry that will perfectly suit most Nepalese physiques. The low-stance rear has been neatly done with a stubby brake light, indicators and a meaty looking fat tire. The beefy tank which holds 17.4 litres of fuel completes the styling façade to give it that Harley Fat Boy like appearance. Another notable mention is the integrated USB-charging port in the motorcycle.

But the overall fit and finish of the motorcycle does leave some room for further refinement.

So the Renegade Commando is full of attitude, but is it as bad-ass as it looks?

PERFORMANCE: At its heart lies a single cylinder, 223cc, counter-balanced, air-cooled engine. The ignition can be done either through electric or a kick. Open the throttle and the engine comes to life.

The riding position is very comfortable and relaxing as you sit laid back with arms wide open on the handlebars. UM has also offered the Renegade with ‘blind-spot visibility’ integrated mirrors which further aid in the rider’s vision towards the rear. But the good first impressions set by the styling begin to change once you get moving. The motor makes 18 bhp @ 8000 rpm and the torque is low at 15.5 nm @ 5500 rpm. There is really no quick take-off and it is only after you cruise past the mid-range rpm you begin to feel the right flow of power. As you speed up further towards the ton mark, some vibrations also start creeping in. Even the gear shifts are not exactly what you would call butter smooth and there is way too much gap between the lever and the foot peg which makes shifting up and down the stiff 5-speed gearbox almost a herculean task.

Navigating the motorcycle through the city is easy though, and the Renegade Commando’s handling on bumpy roads is surprisingly good with the hydraulic suspension and the relatively

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WITH ITS RETRO LOOKS INSPIRED FROM VINTAGE AMERICAN CRUISERS, THE RENEGADE IS A MOTORCYCLE THAT TUGS AT YOUR HEART IN THE FIRST GLANCE ITSELF.

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high ground clearance of 175mm. Stability while cornering is also decent with the beefy tyres. But braking could have been better with the addition of a disc brake at the rear as well. Overall, though you sit back relaxed and comfortable feeling invincible on the Renegade, the motor fails to leave up to the bad-ass impression set by its styling.

VERDICT: The Renegade Commando for sure is the best looking entry-level cruiser you can find in the market at the moment. It’s not really hard to sit laid back in the Renegade Commando and imagine yourself as Peter Fonda or Dennis Hopper from the iconic movie ‘Easy Rider’. If looks could kill, the Renegade might as well be a serial killer. But it’s a bit like those love at first sight relationships, where your impressions begin to change once you start getting to know each other better. The Renegade flaunts a macho attitude with its appealing styling, but fails to equally appeal on the performance side. So, this is a motorcycle you might buy only if you are looking for more of the show and are willing to settle with less of the go. But again, if the Renegade’s long term reliability is your other concern, it should be the least of your worries as Import USA is offering 3 year or 12,000km warranty on the engine.

THE RENEGADE COMMANDO FOR SURE IS THE BEST LOOKING ENTRYLEVEL CRUISER YOU CAN FIND IN THE MARKET AT THE MOMENT.

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owner’s review Prabesh Tamang Government Official “I bought the UM Renegade Commando mainly due to its macho presence and after confirming UM Global to be a reputed North American company having a prominent market share in the SouthAmerican market. In fact, I happened to be the first buyer of the Renegade Commando in Nepal. The styling is spot-on and the performance is decent. However, I feel that it lacks a bigger engine capacity. Though I bought the motorcycle only recently, I can assure about the motorcycle being comfortable and maintenance-free in the long run. Overall, I am satisfied with the motorcycle and service of Import USA, the authorized dealers for Nepal. They have offered a 3 year engine guarantee, one-year warranty on the battery and 50 free servicing. Besides these, they have also provided me free accessories, apparel and a helmet.”

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SPECIFICATIONS:

ENGINE Engine Type: 4-Stroke, Counter Balanced Cylinder Layout: Single-cylinder Cooling System: Air Cooled Displacement: 223cc Bore & Stroke: 62 mm x 57.5mm Compression Ratio: 9.0:1 Maximum Power: 18 bhp @ 8000 rpm Maximum Torque: 15.5 nm @ 5500 rpm Starting Method: Electric / Kick Fuel System: Carburetor Transmission: 5 Speed Final Drive: Chain FEATURES Wheelbase: 1325 mm Seat Height: 800mm Ground Clearance: 175mm Front Suspension: Hydraulic Telescopic Rear Suspension: Hydraulic With Spring Front Tire: 110/ 90-16 Rear Tire: 130/ 90-15 Front Brake: Disc Rear Brake: Drum Dry Weight: 127 kg Fuel Tank: 17.4 Liters PRICE: NRs. 3,25,000/COLOR OPTIONS: Matte Green, Matte Black and Silver ALTERNATIVE CHOICES: Bajaj Avenger CONTACT: Import USA Ph. No: 4004664 www.importusanp.com

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AUTOLIFE

GEARS

MOTOCROSS APPARELS AND ACCESSORIES

FINGER LEVERS RS. 5500 ONWARDS

HAVE YOU BEEN LOOKING FOR GENUINE MOTOCROSS APPARELS OR ACCESSORIES IN NPEAL? THIS IS WHERE THE SEARCH ENDS.

AVAILABLE AT: BOOTS

RS. 15000 ONWARDS

PH. NO. : 9841094371 01-4441896 bikersnepal.com.np

GLOVES

RS. 3000 ONWARDS

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HANDGUARDS

RS. 10000 ONWARDS

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HEADLIGHTS

JERSEYS

RS. 12000 ONWARDS

RS. 6500 ONWARDS

AVAILABLE AT: GOGGLES

RS. 4500 ONWARDS PH. NO. : 9841094371 01-4441896 bikersnepal.com.np

HELMETS

RS. 18000 ONWARDS

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HANDLEBARS RS. 13000 ONWARDS

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Foot Spa

Academy Services - Basic course - Advance course Types of Trainings : - Individual training - Group training

01-4413482, 9851157043

Mandala Spa & Academy

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Inside The last Resort, Bhotekoshi, 01-4700525

Himalayan Healers Spa (sister company of mandala spa) Inside Grand hotel, soalteemode, Ktm. 01-4282482, ext. 5090, 9851157043

Inside Paradise cafĂŠ Inside Mt. Kailash resort Pokhara, 061-465703, 9856030089 Lakeside Pokhara, 9856030089

Inside Thamel Eco Resort Thamel, ktm, 01-4263810

Mandala spa Tej Bhawan Lazimpat 01-4413482, 9851157043

Cafe Cheeno, Patan Dhoka 9851133463

Hot Stone Therapy

Ayurvedic Therapy Swedish Massage Reflexology Varieties o f Wrap Foot spa Pedicure

Natural Sauna

Hot stone Therapy Deep Tissue Massage Nepali Massage Varieties of Scrub Varieties of Facial Manicure

Our services

AUTOLIFE

EVOLUTION

WE DIG INTO THE EVOLUTION OF THE MITSUBISHI BRAND WHICH HAS BEEN HIGHLY INSTRUMENTAL IN ESTABLISHING A LOYAL FAN FOLLOWING FOR JAPANESE BRAND VEHICLES WORLDWIDE

T

he Mitsubishi brand hardly needs an introduction to us Nepalese people. The credit here without doubt goes to the formidable and robust Pajero range which has been one of the most favourite go anywhere SUVs in Nepal with its popular off roader reputation for well over three decades. Mitsubishi has a rich history dating back to the year 1870 when Yataro Iwasaki, the founder, first established his own shipping company.

This later went on to become a pillar of operations for Mitsubishi, as Yataro's family expanded the business rapidly.

In 1917, Mitsubishi Shipyard forayed into the automobile sector with the production of Japan’s first series-production automobile Mitsubishi Model A. The Model A was one of the pioneers of Japanese mass-production passenger cars. Over the next two decades, the company got involved in exploring new areas of transportation from developing Japan’s first Diesel engine for use in motor vehicles in 1931

WORDS: SAURAV NEPAL

to its first large-sized world famous Fuso commercial vehicles the following year.

Then in 1946, Mitsubishi’s innovation led to the development of a bus which could run on either petrol or alternative fuels to counter the acute fuel shortage which was so prevalent after the post-World War era. In 1947, the company even developed an electric bus.

Then, finally in 1970, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) came into inception as a stand-alone operation. This led to the start of a whole new era, with MMC going on to become a brand globally synonymous with topnotch engineering quality and advanced technology.

From introducing Japan’s first fastback car to developing the world’s ‘Silent Shaft’ technology, Mitsubishi list of innovations includes Japan’s first turbocharged diesel passenger vehicles, the ‘Dynamic Four’ 4WD system and the world’s first Traction Control System. It was expertise like these that influenced the enthusiasts’ preference towards Japanese vehicles over American and European counterparts.

Similarly, the ‘Plug-in Hybrid Electric Drivetrain System’ developed

by Mitsubishi was also a game changer in green technology.

since its humble beginnings as a shipping company. This Japan-based multinational company’s name and expertise now extends across a huge range of businesses from electrical equipments, shipbuilding, heavy industries, and aircrafts to even satellites. Today, Mitsubishi Motors is a global manufacturer building a range of commercial and passenger vehicles designed & developed in Japan, and sold in over 160 world markets.

With 6 main automobiles manufacturing hubs located in five different countries and 12 plants co-owned in partnership with others, Mitsubishi is now a brand that has been chosen and driven by over 11 million people around the world.

Mitsubishi has come a long way

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THE MOST IMPORTANT DECADES IN MITSUBISHI’S EVOLUTION 1960s: AN ERA OF COMPACT CARS

1980s: THE PAJERO IS INTRODUCED

With Japan’s economic boom in the 50’s and 60’s, Mitsubishi advanced its automobile activities with the assembly and sales of the Henry J passenger car.

Then, in 1960, the Mitsubishi 500 was launched. It was their first ever mass market compact four-wheel passenger car. The ‘Mitsubishi 500’ even won the first ever win in its class for the brand at the 1962 Macau Grand Prix. This was followed by the launch of Minica, a two-stroke four-seater micro-compact and during that same year, the Colt 600, a large and comfortable family car was launched. The popular Debonair was also launched during the same era.

In 1981, Mitsubishi Motor Sales America Inc. was established and the legendary Pajero was unleashed the following year. The Pajero went on to become the global best-seller, winning 4x4 of the year awards in Britain, France, Spain, West Germany and Australia.

The Pajero took part in the Paris-Dakar rally in 1983 for the first time and in its third attempt in 1985 it won the top title in the stock production class, finished first and second in the marathon racing class and received the ‘Best Team’ award. The Starion was also launched in the year 1982 and this high performance, fuel-efficient, performance-oriented car took them to the next level.

1970s: ARRIVAL OF THE LANCER

2000s: THE NEW MILLENNIUM

In 1970, MMC started a basic joint venture with Chrysler. This expansion gave birth to the iconic Lancer in 1973.

This development sped up the brand value for Mitsubishi with the Lancer enjoying international rallying success on East Africa and South Australia rallies. As a part of the company’s global expansion plans, Mitsubishi established its European office in the Netherlands during 1977 and three years later the company achieved a milestone with their vehicle production exceeding the one million mark. Other popular launches included Mirage, Delicia and the Forte/ L200 pick-up.

In 2000, Daimler Chrysler purchased a 37% stake in MMC. But in 2004, the alliance was dissolved and MMC was bought back by the Mitsubishi Family. In the following year, the Mitsubishi Motors Revitalization Plan and development of new-generation electric vehicles was announced. The year 2007 also saw Mitsubishi Pajero achieve its 7th consecutive win and 12th overall victory at the Dakar Rally, making the off-roader the most successful model in Dakar Rally history. A new corporate tagline of “Drive@ earth” was announced the next year. Popular vehicle launches included the all new Pajero, Lancer Evolution X, Galant Fortis, i-Miev, Eclipse sports car and the Pajero Sports.

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1990s: AN ERA OF TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES

The 1990’s saw incredible advancements from Mitsubishi in vehicle technologies.

MMC introduced the world’s first Traction Control System in 1990 and a Super Select 4WD and Multi-Mode ABS in 1991, followed by INVECS 4-wheel multi-link suspension in 1992.

The GTO was also launched in 1990, which was an all-wheel drive sports car.

Similarly, the commercial production of the Libero electric car began in 1994 whilst 1996 saw the development of the Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine and a research and development company is established in the United States. Then in 1999, Mitsubishi also set a world record when their electric vehicle (EV) completed 2000 km in 24 hours. Domination at racing events too continued as the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution clinched victory in WRC Rallies from 1996 to 1999 and the Mitsubishi Pajero brought home titles from the Dakar Rally race in 1992, 1993, 1997 and 1998.

2010s: THE FUTURE AND BEYOND

The futuristic ‘ASX’ crossover was launched in the year 2010. In 2011, the pure electric i-MiEV car was launched simultaneously in Europe and North America. The “i-MiEV Evolution”, an all-electric race car, went on to take 2nd place at the 2012 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in the United States. Similarly, the all-new Outlander SUV was also launched and other popular launches include the Triton pick-up, all-new Mirage and Outlander PHEV.

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AUTOLIFE

OVERLAND TOURERS

TWO OVERLAND GROUPS FROM LAND ROVER ENTER TOGETHER INTO NEPAL VIA CHINA AND PARADE THROUGH THE COUNTRY WITH AN EXOTIC CONVOY INCLUDING THE RANGE ROVER EVOQUE, RANGE ROVER HYBRID AND DISCOVERY. PHOTOS: Land Rover UK and Land Rover Germany Ever since the debut of its first model in 1948, Land Rover has been about overcoming boundaries, broadening horizons and exploring the unknown for the last 65 years. Similarly, Land Rover vehicles are a popular lot in Nepal, with the brand being the ultimate choice for most affluent personalities residing in the country. But apart from the luxury values, it is a rare sight in the country to witness most Land Rover vehicles being put to use like they were built

to. Thus, the month of October was quite a revelation when a convoy of 18 Land Rover vehicles comprising of the Range Rover Evoque, Range Rover Hybrid and Discovery paraded through Nepal after having been across nearly 15000kms of varying terrains from Europe to Asia. These tough vehicles looked unlike any of the spick and span Land Rover vehicles in the country. The jeeps were heavily stickered, accumulated with dust and grime from as far as England and Germany

and all looked adventure ready with roof racks packed with the essential spares. This convoy of eighteen Land Rover vehicles was part of the two overland groups from Land Rover who had travelled through the famous Silk Route and entered into Nepal via China. The Silk Road stretches from Europe to Central Asia towards China, Nepal and India. Back in the days, many goods, including of course silk, were transported from east to west and back via this route.

LAND ROVER SILK TRAIL 2013

One group was part of Land Rover’s Silk Trail 2013 Expedition, which was primarily executed to test their prototype Range Rover Hybrid, the world’s first premium diesel SUV hybrid. Three Range Rover Hybrid prototypes with three Discoverys as support vehicles had set off on 22nd August, 2013 and traversed on a 16000kms ‘Silk Trail 2013’ expedition from Solihull, UK to Mumbai, India. The expedition crossed 13 countries tackling some of the world’s most challenging roads, passes and trails, including part of the ancient 6400kms Silk Road which connected Asia with the Mediterranean. The Silk Trail expedition was divided into 10 stages and visited France, Belgium, Germany, Poland, Ukraine, Russia, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, China, Nepal and India. Pioneering a mountainous route across military controlled areas of north-west China at dizzying altitudes, never previously completed by a vehicle from outside the country, the Silk Trail 2013 expedition team were also among the first westerners ever to cross into the high Tibetan mountains via this route.

The performance of the Range Rover Hybrids was very much less affected, even by the thin air, with its parallel 3.0-litre SDV6 diesel engine and 47bhp electric motor. Auto makers rarely have a chance to test their vehicles at such extreme altitudes, and this event is the latest testament in Land Rover’s proud history of going ‘above and beyond’ the normal by putting these prototype vehicles to extreme testing prior to their launch. This demanding journey is the final validation test for the Range Rover Hybrid prototypes before the model is signed-off for production. The Range Rover Hybrids were being driven by teams of Land Rover development engineers and specially invited media from 10 countries in Europe and other nations along the route.

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LAND ROVER EXPERIENCE TOUR

The other group was part of the Land Rover Experience Tour from Germany. The Land Rover Experience 2013 team travelled 15000kms through eleven countries along the legendary Silk Route with their exciting convoy consisting of eight Range Rover Evoques and four Discoverys. This unique 3-stage adventure had twelve participants who were selected from more than 20000 qualified applicants. With the roads in Nepal narrow and winding through the lush mountains, the drivers were always on high alert and maintained a steady speed with the permanent oncoming traffic of buses, trucks, cars and motorcycles adding to their woes.

It was an adventurous drive for the team through the mountain roads of Nepal and they experienced many wonderful moments in the company of friendly locals and wonderful nature. But unfortunately, one of their vehicles had a bitter share of the Nepal experience. A Range Rover Evoque was hit from the back by a truck. Luckily, only the tailgate was crumpled and the team could move on with the adventure towards India.

A Land Rover Expedition is the ultimate adventure. The company has always been offering off-road and outdoor enthusiasts the chance for an unforgettable adventure with exciting insights into other countries, cultures and stunning natural beauty. Each of these incredible self-drive journeys promises to be a trip that will live with you forever.

You not only get to go off the beaten track, but see some of the world’s most spectacular scenery from behind the wheel, delight in fine accommodation and share experiences that only Land Rover can provide. Realize your dream with Land Rover adventure!

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AUTOLIFE

TEST RIDE

HIP AND READY TO HOP Words: Ankit Shakya | Photos: Niren Tuladhar

COMMENCAL META HIP HOP 2

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The hip hop culture has been around for decades, and in its course has created numerous enemies and gathered a lot of loyal fans as well. But it cannot be denied that it has been a source of great fun and exhilaration for many. Similarly, the new Commencal Meta Hip Hop 2 is one that is certain to get on the good side of riders at least. With the fresh new batch of flamboyantly colored Commencal 2014 bikes rolling into Kathmandu, the cyclists in the city must already be giddy with excitement. Directly inspired by the META SX, the Hip Hop 2 is the latest prodigal son of the Meta Enduro family.

STYLING AND FEATURES The Commencal Meta Hip Hop 2 is all about bringing the party to the trails, and the zappy vibrant neon green on its does little to hide its intentions. Hip Hop’s brightly colored exterior demands attention and it does the job pretty well. In fact, you could probably spot it blazing through the trails from the top of a hill. Although Commencal bikes are not known for their light weight, the 6066 aluminium alloy formed light version frame is super strong and has a 5 year warranty. Furthermore, its internal cable routing has given it a cleaner look. The frame is made up of high quality aluminium 6066 which is built for strength and durability. The head tubes open at a 66° angle for aggressive riding without the fear of instability with the tall suspension. Rainy monsoons won’t be much of a drag because of the custom made rubber seals that avoid mud and water from getting in the frame where the internal cable routing starts.

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which can take a considerable amount of abuse. So aggressive trail riding should not really be an issue. If you are looking for those long epic rides, it should conform happily there as well; but it may not be the best cross country bike. This bike was made for Enduro riding; the 34mm forks are perfect for it. The CTD (Climb, Trail Descend) system adapts to your compression depending on the slope you are traveling on by controlling the seat post, fork and shocks on the fly. The head tubes have also been tapered in order to shave off weight and optimize resistance and rigidity.

The ALPHA stem, forged in Aluminium 2014 alloy that offers the best mechanical characteristic without giving up on reliability and rigidity, weighs 150g and measures in at 50mm for an aggressive and comfortable Enduro position.

PERFORMANCE Being one of the first people in Nepal to get my hands on the 2014 Hip Hop 2, I made sure that I made the best out of it. The 780mm ALPHA handlebar has the optimum length to make you want to tear through a little dirt and that was exactly what I did heading into Khokana, a scenic area only a few minutes away from the urban jungle. Full suspensions are always a welcome change from the hard tail I ride, and the Hip Hop 2 was an absolute delight right off the bat. With the roads still under construction, there were a few patches that would suffice as a makeshift off road terrain, and the Hip Hop ripped through it as smoothly as a hot knife through butter. So obviously, the Hip Hop 2 made easy work of the pitched roads. The uphill climb of Bhainsepati was not much of a problem, which is a perceived issue with full suspension bikes.

Riding past the brick roads of the village into a rocky descent, the Commencal held its ground very well. The mix suspension of 140 mm and 120mm travel lets you jump around in rough terrains and thus makes the need for a 160mm travel redundant. The Hip Hop practically begs you to jump gaps and berms, so needless to say the uneven terrains were made a joke of. A low centre of gravity gives the bike maximum stability around corners, drops and blasting down downhill stretches. The brakes don’t bite too hard but they bring you to a halt promptly, and the tires do not let you down either.

THE COMMENCAL META HIP HOP 2 IS ALL ABOUT BRINGING THE PARTY TO THE TRAILS, AND THE ZAPPY VIBRANT NEON GREEN ON ITS DOES LITTLE TO HIDE ITS INTENTIONS. 68

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RIDING PAST THE BRICK ROADS OF THE VILLAGE INTO A ROCKY DESCENT, THE COMMENCAL HELD ITS GROUND VERY WELL.

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VERDICT Commencal bikes have always put a smile across riders’ faces with their fun, energetic and exhilarating ride quality. The geometry is always spot on and the quality, strength and durability are also always very good, and this latest offspring of the META brood definitely does not disappoint. However, it is far away from being that economic bike.

When you can’t sum up enough cash to buy a mountain bike even after selling two commuter motorcycles, you know you’re talking big bucks.

Sure you can’t really put a price on good old riding fun, but if you had to, this one will set you back by NRs. 4, 31,000/-. So for those of you who are avid riders, cash strapped and take riding through single tracks in unknown destinations seriously, this will tickle your fancy.

CONTACT: Epic Mountain Bike Jhamsikhel Ph. No. 5555021 www.epicmountainbike.com

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SPECIFICATIONS Model Year 2014 Riding Type Trail Sizes S, M, L, XL Frame Material Aluminium 6066 Triple Butted Rear Shock 120 mm FOX Float CTD Evolution Fork 140 mm FOX 32 26” Float Evolution O/C Headset Neco Semi Integrated, Tapered ZS44/56,

1.5 Lower Washer, Sealed Bearings Handlebar Alpha, Alloy 7075 DB, 0.75” Rise, 780mm, Ø31.8mm Stem Alpha FR, Alloy 2014 Forged, 50mm, 0° Rise, Ø31.8mm Grips Commencal 2014 Lock On, Outside Ø30mm, Soft Compound Brakes Formula C1, 180mm/180mm Shifters SRAM X5 2x10 Speed Front Derailleur SRAM X5 2-Speed, High Direct Mount Rear Derailleur SRAM X5 10-Speed ISCG Tabs ISCG 05 Chainguide MRP 2x, Steel Version Cranks SRAM S1000 Chainrings 24/38 Tooth Bottom Bracket SRAM Pressfit 92mm, Sealed Bearings Chain Yaban SH10C, with Quick Link Connector Cassette SRAM PG1030, 11-36 Tooth Rims Jalco 26, 32 Hole, Double Wall, 26.5mm Pin Joint Disc Version Hubs Joytech, 32 Hole, Sealed Bearings, Steel Body Spokes Stainless Steel 1.8mm Black - Brass 12mm Black Tires Maxxis High Roller EXO 26”x2.4” Front

Maxxis Ardent 2.25” Rear Saddle Commencal Meta By Velo, CrMo Rails Seat Post Commencal Alloy No Offset, One Piece Design, 350mm Seat Post Diameter 31.6mm Seat Post Clamp Standard Hub Dimensions 142mm x 12mm Bottle Cage Mounts No Colors Neon Green Matte Finish Warranty 5-Years Weight 13.7 kg

Price Rs. 4, 31, 000

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AUTOLIFE October 2013 71

AUTOLIFE

OWNER’S REVIEW

FORD ECOSPORT OWNERSHIP REVIEW The Ford EcoSport not only sets a new benchmark in its segment, but with its modern appeal, it also stands as a strong alternative for similarly priced cars in other segments. It's a stunning urban

compact SUV with an exciting value-for-money proposition and Ford clearly has a winner here. So we talk to some of the owners of this revolutionary vehicle on their ownership review of the vehicle

DR. SAGUN JOSHI EYE SURGEON (RETINA AND CATARACT SPECIALIST) TU TEACHING HOSPITAL “The Ford EcoSport is classy, sporty and compact which makes it a perfect SUV for the roads of Kathmandu. Now since this was exactly everything that my wife wanted, it was meant as a gift for her. But now I have been enjoying driving it around. I have the Ford EcoSport - Ambiente Petrol variant. The exterior is very eye-catching and this was the very reason I immediately wanted it the day I saw it in the internet. The interior is only fairly good on the Ambient variant and needs a little more touch up, both externally and internally to give it that classy look. The vehicle power is satisfactory and it’s the right compact SUV for our roads. It’s quite comfortable driving over the pot holes of Kathmandu and there is hardly any rattling noise. I have been driving myself more frequently now as the EcoSport is very easy to navigate through the terrible roads and chaotic traffic of Kathmandu. I haven’t been out on the highways yet, but really looking forward to a long drive, maybe when my wife is up for it as well. I have to say that Ford’s aftersales services are really commendable as I haven’t had a better experience with any other company. So this is the best compact SUV to own at this price point, without any regrets.”

PRAVARAN MAHAT COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST “The EcoSport arrived just in time as I was scouting the market for an upgrade from my Ford Figo. It catered to exactly what I was looking for and offered some more. I went through some of the international reviews of the car and after satisfying myself with a test drive, I bought the Ford EcoSport - EcoBoost Titanium variant. The design is very futuristic with a unique interior and exterior design that seems way ahead of its competitors. The build is sturdy and provides an all-around secure feeling. Though I have yet to have an extensive experience with the EcoSport, it has been an effortless experience cruising this compact car around the city. The steering is light and responsive and the gear shifts are effortless. The ride is very comfortable thanks to the well sound-proofed interiors, powerful AC with climate control system and well packaged Microsoft SYNC multimedia system. The high seating position provides a commanding view of the road ahead and the broken roads around the valley don’t deter my path anymore. As far as my experience is concerned, I can tell that Ford has ensured a true value-for-money product to their customers.I haven’t been through my first servicing yet, but I have been assured that the maintenance is relatively cheaper compared to its competitors in the market. Also my past experience with Ford’s aftersales service has always been pleasant”

NISCHAL DIWAKAR STUDENT “I own the Ford EcoSport - Titanium Petrol variant. The Ford EcoSport looks impressive, is loaded with features and is an excellent value for money purchase. It’s exterior design and quality is impressive. There is very little to not like in the overall design of this car. Similarly, even the interiors have been well laid out with a futuristic touch. The multimedia stereo is amazing and the efficient climate control system deserves a special mention. However, the build quality of the interior in some of the plastic parts is questionable. The EcoSport is very easy to drive and it handles really well on most kind of roads. I have been driving the car around quite a lot and have been on the EcoSport to Chitwan and back quite often. The driving experience has always been pleasurable and it does offer a bit of sporty driving when you need to get moving fast. But with the air conditioning unit on, the loss in power especially when going uphill is quite noticeable. Anyways, its compact structure makes it the perfect vehicle to drive through the crazy traffic of Kathmandu and the SUV like feel makes highway driving a breeze. I just love it and would definitely recommend it to others!”

72

AUTOLIFE October 2013

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AUTOLIFE October 2013 73

AUTOLIFE

ENTERTAINMENT

RUSH is a biographical action film directed by Ron Howard and written by Peter Morgan about the 1976 Formula One season and the rivalry between racing drivers James Hunt and Niki Lauda. James Hunt and Niki Lauda are two highly skilled race car drivers who first develop a fierce rivalry in 1970 at a Formula Three race at the Crystal Palace circuit in England, when both their cars spin out and Hunt eventually wins the race. Hunt is a brash young Briton with a tendency to vomit before every race, while the Austrian Lauda is a cool, calculating technical genius who relies on precision. Set against the sexy, glamorous golden age of Formula 1 racing in the 1970s, the film revolves around the true story of a great sporting rivalry between the handsome English playboy James Hunt, and his methodical, brilliant opponent, Austrian driver Niki Lauda. The story follows their distinctly different personal styles on and off the track, their loves and the astonishing 1976 season in which both drivers were willing to risk everything to become world champion in a sport with no margin for error; if you make a mistake, you die.

Rush is a finely crafted sports drama with exhilarating race sequences and strong performances from Chris Hemsworth (Hunt) and Daniel Bruhl (Lauda).

Los Santos, San Andreas - A sprawling metropolis and a city of contrasts, from the golden sands of Vespucci Beach and palatial homes of Rockford Hills, to the crime-ridden, graffiticovered suburbs of Davis and Rancho. But for the three main characters in this latest iteration of Grand Theft Auto, Los Santos is hell. The city which was once the envy of the Western world, is now struggling to stay relevant in an era of economic uncertainty. So amidst the chaos, three very different criminals chart their own chances of survival and success: Franklin is a former street gangster now looking for real opportunities and fat stacks of cash, Michael is a professional ex-con whose retirement is significantly less rosy than he hoped it would be and Trevor is a violent maniac driven by the chance of a cheap high and the next big score.

Throughout GTA 5 you can now swap between the trios, each of whom brings their own breed of psychosis to one of the most exciting games of this generation. Each character has their own separate set of personal stats - things like stamina, driving, flying, shooting, lung capacity, and strength - which increase as you play. This means that even when you're not on a mission, you're still making progress. Hiking to the top of Mt. Chiliad, playing a few games of tennis, or going for a joyride in a supercar isn't just fun now, but also actively improves your character.

One of the biggest improvements over previous games is mission design. Missions now range from traditional car chases and shootouts to elaborate James Bond-style stunts, and a few surreal moments. It's insanely detailed too. Gangs loiter on street corners, sports cars glint in the sun, tourists snap pictures with their phones, people walk their dogs and bikers cruise on the desert highways. The world feels alive, the script is funny, the music is superb, missions are fun and, most of all, there is a whole new range of exciting vehicles you can now steal and drive around recklessly!

74

AUTOLIFE October 2013

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Man of Steel

Releasing on: June, 2013 boss Genre : Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Sci-Fic

Genre : Comedy, Drama, Action Director : Zack Snyder Release Date : 23 Oct 2013 Cast : Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Russell Length : 2 Hrs 25 Min Crowe : Anthony D’Souza Director Synopsis: A child sentMithun to Earth from a Cast : Akshay Kumar, Chakraborty, Aditi Rao Hydari, dying planet Johny Lever is adopted by a couple in rural

Kansas. Posing as a journalist, he uses his extraordinary powers protect his new Boss is the remake of to Malyalam film Pokkiri Raja. home from an insidious evil.

Monsters University Releasing on: July 2013

gravity 3d Genre : Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy Director : Dan Scanlon Genre : Drama, Science Fiction, Thriller Cast :Date Nathan John Goodman, Steve Buscemi Release : 25Fillion, Oct 2013 Synopsis : Mike Wazowski and James P. Sullivan are an Length : 1 Hrs 28 Min inseparable pair, Cuaron but that wasn’t always the case. From the Director : Alfonso moment these two mismatched monstersBasher met they couldn’t Cast : Sandra Bullock, George Clooney, Savage

stand each other. “Monsters University” unlocks the door to

how Mike attempt and Sulley differences and became Astronauts toovercame return totheir earth after debris crashes into shuttle, leaving them drifting alone in space. thetheir bestspace of friends.

After Earth Releasing on: June, 2013 Genre : Action | Adventure | Sci-Fi Director : M. Night Shyamalan Cast : Jaden Smith, Will Smith, Sophie Okonedo Synopsis: One thousand years after cataclysmic events forced humanity’s escape from Earth, Nova Prime has become mankind’s new home. Legendary General Cypher Raige returns from an extended Genre : Biographical, Drama, Action tour of duty to his estranged family, ready to be a father to his 13-yearRelease Date : 25 Oct 2013 old son, Kitai. When an asteroid storm damages Cypher and Kitai’s Length : 2 Hrs 3 Min craft, they crash-land on a now unfamiliar and dangerous Earth. As his Director : Ron Howard father: Daniel lies dying in the cockpit, Kitai must trek across Cast Bruhl, Chris Hemsworth, Olivia Wilde the hostile terrain to recover their rescue beacon. His whole life, Kitai has wanted nothing than to be soldier like his1970s father.

Today, he gets his chance.

Amore re-creation of athe merciless rivalry between Formula

rush 2013

One rivals James Hunt and Niki Lauda.

World War Z Releasing on: June, 2013

the counsellor

Genre : Action, Drama, Horror, Sci-Fic, Thriller Director : Marc Forster Genre Crime, Thriller, Cast: Brad: Pitt, James BadgeDrama Dale, Mireille Enos Release Date : Nations 25 Oct 2013 Synopsis : United employee Gerry Lane traverses the Length : 1 Hrs 51 Min world in a race against time to stop the Zombie pandemic that is Cast armies : Brad Pitt, Cameron Diaz, Cruz toppling and governments, andPenelope threatening to decimate humanity itself.

A lawyer finds himself in over his head when he gets involved in drug trafficking.

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AUTOLIFE October 2013 75

AUTOLIFE

QUIZ

WIN QFX cinemas tickets POWERED BY

www.qfxcinemas.com

1 WHICH MOUNTAIN BIKE MANUFACTURER RECENTLY LAUNCHED THEIR 2014 RANGE OF BIKES AT MOKSH IN JHAMSIKHEL? A. HERCULES B. ATLAS C. HERO D. COMMENCAL 2 NAME THE ONLY CAR WE HAVE TEST DRIVEN IN THIS ISSUE. A. FERRARI 458 ITALIA B. ROLLS ROYCE GHOST C. VW POLO GT TSI D. PEUGEOT RCZ 3 THE MOTOCROSS APPARELS AND ACCESSORIES FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE ARE AVAILABLE IN NEPAL THROUGH WHICH COMPANY? A. RIDERZNEPAL.COM B. PAPPU AUTO PARTS C. BHIMSEN MOTORCYCLE TRADERS D. BIKERSNEPAL PVT. LTD 4 THE ROADTRIP FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE WAS UNDERTAKEN BY WHICH NEPALESE MOTORCYCLE CLUB ON WORLD TOURISM DAY? A. FRIENDS OF COMRADE PRACHANDA B. ENEMIES OF ROYAL ENFIELD C. FRIENDS OF ROYAL ENFIELD D. DESTROYERS OF ROYAL ENFIELD 5 THE EXOTIC VEHICLES OF WHICH MANUFACTURER HAD TWO OVERLAND GROUPS ENTERINGINTONEPALVIACHINAALLTHEWAYFROMGERMANYANDUKRESPECTIVELY?

A. LEXUS B. LAND ROVER C. LAMBORGHINI D. ASHOK LEYLAND 3 WINNERS will receive 2 TICKETS each from QFX CINEMAS SEND US YOUR ANSWERS AT hello@autolife.com.np HINT: ALL ANSWERS TO THIS QUIZ CAN BE EASILY FOUND SPREAD ACROSS THIS ISSUE ITSELF. EVEN GOOGLE WILL NOT FIND YOU SOME OF THE ANSWERS! SO UNLESS YOU HAVE RAJNIKANTH’S PERSONAL NUMBER OR YOU CLAIM YOURSELF AS CHUCK NORRIS, THERE’S NO ANY OTHER OPTION THAN TO MAKE SURE YOU READ THROUGH THE MAGAZINE BEFORE ATTEMPTING THIS QUIZ. BEST OF LUCK.

LAST MONTH’S WINNER BASANTA BHATTA BIJAYA LAXMI CHAUDHARY PRAKASH MUNIKAR 76

AUTOLIFE October 2013

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AUTOLIFE October 2013 77

TECHNICAL

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)

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated October 2013

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY Bama Motors Pvt. Ltd, Thapathali, KTM Tel: 4226655 | 4223022

CHERY Models A1 1.3L

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

QQ3 Full Option

17,90,000

Tiggo 2.0 A/T

36,75,000 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 Models Optra Magnum

32,00,000 1991 5M 119 314 190 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Aveo

28,80,000 1399 5M 92 127 165 Y N Y N Y Y Y N N

Beat 1.2

21,50,000 to 23,25,000

1199

5M

80

108

150

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Spark 1.0

18,60,000 to 19,90,000

995

5M

63

90

145

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Captiva 2.0 Automatic LTZ

75,00,000 1991 5A 148 320 175 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Aveo UVA1.2 LS

21,70,000 to 24,70,000

1150

5M

75

110

160

Y

Y

Y

N

-

N

Y

N

N

Tavera

29,50,000 to 40,70,000

2499

5M

78

186

125

N

N

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

N

N

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

DAIHATSU Models Terios

48,99,000 to 55,00,000

1495

5M

103

140

NA

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

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

FIAT 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 Everest

75,00,000 to 2953 5A 153 380 165 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 80,00,000

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

Fiesta Classic (Petrol)

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

Figo Petrol

New Ranger

78

AUTOLIFE October 2013

18,99,000 to 24,50,000

1399

5M

68

160

150

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

51,00,000 62,00,000

2499

5M

81

266

NA

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

EcoSport 1.5 Petrol

29,99,000 to 41,90,000

1499 5M 107 140 NA Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y N

Kuga 2.5

75,00,000 to 2521 5M 107 250 NA Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y N 79,00,000

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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)

TECHNICAL

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY Saakha and Universal Automobiles, Kupondole Tel: 5011500

GEELY Models LC Panda LC Cross 1.3

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

1342 5M 85 110 165 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N Himchuli Auto International, Kupundole Tel: 5521730

GREAT WALL Models Florid 1.5L Elite

16,00,000 1497 5M 103 138 160 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

Wingle 5 2.5TCI SLX

30,95,000 2499 5M 107 300 140 Y N Y N Y Y Y N N

Hover SLX

N/A

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

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

Price (NRs)

Updated October 2013

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 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 2.0L

99,00,000 1997 6M 167 218 180 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Jazz Select

32,25,000 1198 5M 89 110 175 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N Y

Brio VMT

26,70,000 1198 5M 88 109 N/A Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

1799

5M

130

172

205

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Laxmi Intercontinental, Thapathali Tel: 4101556 | 4101557

HYUNDAI Models Verna 1.4

32,96,000 1396 5M 107 135 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N Y

Accent GL

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

i10 Magna 1.2

21,56,000 1197 5M 66 99 140 N N Y N N N Y N N

i20 Magna O

26,56,000 1197 6A 90 220 160 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N Y

Santa Fe GLs Low Trim

99,96,000

Santro GL+

18,56,000 1086 5M 62 96 NA N N N N Y N Y N N

Sonata GL

65,96,000 1998 6M 165 198 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Tucson GL Petrol

69,96,000 1998 6M 177 382 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Elantra GLS

56,96,000 1591 6M 130 157 NA Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N

Eon Dlite+

15,76,000 814 5M 56 NA NA Y N Y N N N Y N N

www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

2199

6M

194

420

210

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

AUTOLIFE October 2013 79

JONWAY

TECHNICAL

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY

TECHNICAL

Choice Motors, Lazimpat EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY Tel: 4441080 | 4441081

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)

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated October 2013

Models UFO

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 Models Cerato 1.6L

42,49,000 1591 5M 123 156 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Picanto 1.2 EX

25,49,000

Rio 1.4L

29,49,000 1399 5M 94 125 NA Y N Y N Y Y N N N

Sorento 2.2L Diesel

97,49,000 2199 6M 197 421 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Soul 1.6L

43,49,000 1591 5M 124 156 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Sportage 2.0 L Diesel

58,49,000 - 76,49,000

1086

1998

5M

6M

64

177

97

392

NA

NA

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

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

MAHINDRA Models

Bolero LX MDi 4WD

27,95,000

2523

5M

63

180

NA

N

N

N

N

Y

N

N

N

N

Scorpio VLX 4WD

51,50,000

2179

5M

120

290

150

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

XYLO

32,65,000 to 40,15,000

2498

5M

112

240

135

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Thar

21,20,000 to 29,60,000

2498

5M

112

235

140

N

N

N

N

N

N

N

N

N

Quanto

29,50,000 to 35,90,000

1493

5M

100

NA

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

N

N

240

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

MAZDA Models BT-50

47,50,000 2499 5M 140 330 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N

Mazda 3 Full Opt

66,50,000

1598

5M

103

145

NA

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Mazda 2 Full Opt

46,00,000

1498

5M

102

135

NA

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Mazda 6 Full Opt

76,50,000

2489

6M

170

226

NA

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

CX-7

82,00,000 to 2488 5M 161 218 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 85,00,000 Leon Motors Pvt. Ltd, Shantinagar Tel: 4622074 | 4622485

MITSUBISHI Models ASX 4WD GLX

79,00,000 1998 6CVT 150 197 190 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Lancer EX GLX

66,00,000 1998 6CVT 150 197 200 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 Outlander

80

AUTOLIFE October 2013

84,00,000

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

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Pajero Sport GLX

1,30,00,000

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Price (NRs)

TECHNICAL Pajero GLS 3.0 V6

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY

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

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

45,90,000 2488 6M 175 403 170 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

New Sunny 1.5

37,50,000

NA

5M

110

148

NA

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Tiida Sedan M

NA

1598

5M

110

153

170

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

X-Trail

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

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

Cubic Capacity (CC)

Updated October 2013

88,00,000 1995 6A 150 320 185 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Nemlink Int’l Traders Pvt. Ltd, Panipokhari Tel: 4006528 | 4410323

PERODUA Models MYVI SX

27,00,000 1298 5M 86 116 NA N N Y N Y N Y N N

Viva 850

19,45,000

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

PROTON Models Models 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

1597

5M

125

150

NA

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

N

N

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

SKODA

Models

Superb

81,90,000 to 83,90,000

1968

6A

140

320

206

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Fabia

23,95,000 to 28,95,000

1200

5M

75

110

NA

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

N

N

Laura 1.8

61,49,000 to 65,49,000

1798

7A

118

250

225

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Yeti 2.0

70,90,000 to 72,90,000

1968

6M

140

320

210

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Rapid

31,25,000 to 1598 5M 105 153 NA Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y N 40,95,000 Constant Business Group Pvt. Ltd, Naxal Tel: 2297455

SSANGYONG Models Korando Active

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

Rexton

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

Actyon Sports

34,75,000 1998 5M 140 310 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N Y Vijay Motors Pvt. Ltd, Naxal, KTM Tel: 4414158

SUBARU Models Forester

90,00,000 2498 5M 230 320 NA Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N 95,00,000 (A/T)

www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

AUTOLIFE October 2013 81

TECHNICAL

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)

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated October 2013

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY Arun Intercontinental Traders, Jhamsikhel Tel: 5547165 | 5547166

SUZUKI

Models Ertiga Lxi

31,00,000 1373 5M 94 130 170 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

Alto K10 Vxi

16,99,000

A-Star Zxi

21,49,000 1000 5M 67 90 160 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

EECO STD 7Seater

17,59,000

Grand Vitara MT

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

Ritz VXI

22,35,000 1200 5M 75 190 NA N Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Swift Vxi

24,49,000 1200 5M 75 190 160 N Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Dzire Zxi

28,99,000 1200 5M 75 190 160 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

SX4 Zxi

33,19,000 1586 5M 102 145 175 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

1000

1200

1000

5M

5M

5M

67

73

64

90

101

84

145

NA

NA

N

N

Y

N

N

Y

N

N

Y

N

N

Y

N

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Y

N

N

New Wagon R Vxi

19,55,000

N

Zen Estilo Vxi

18,95,010 1000 5M 64 84 150 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N Sipradi Trading Pvt Ltd, Teku Tel: 4250610 | 4250612

TATA Models Aria Prestige AWD

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

Indica Refresh

15,45,000 to 17,95,000

1405

5M

64

100

145

N

N

N

N

N

N

N

N

N

Indica Vista Q-JET

26,55,000 to 27,95,000

1248

5M

75

190

160

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Indigo CS

21,45,000 to 24,75,000

1405

5M

69

135

165

N

N

N

N

N

N

Y

N

N

Manza Q-JET

29,95,000 to 33,25,000

1248

5M

90

200

NA

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Nano

8,58,000 to 11,88,000

624

4M

35

48

105

N

N

N

N

N

N

Y

N

N

Safari Dicor

34,85,000 to 39,95,000

2179

5M

138

320

NA

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Sumo Grande

30,55,000 to 34,85,000

2179

5M

120

250

140

N

N

N

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Sumo Gold

25,85,000 to 29,85,000

2956

5M

70

223

175

N

N

N

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Vista D90 ZX

26,95,000

1248

5M

90

200

165

Y Y Y N Y N Y Y N

Safari Storme LX VX

37,85,000 51,85,000

2179 6M 138 320 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N United Traders Syndicate, Sinamangal Tel: 4478301-5, 4478003

TOYOTA Models Avanza

40,80,000

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

Corolla

72,50,000

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

Fortuner

96,00,000

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

Land Cruiser Prado 16,500,000 2982 5M 129 343 170 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Dual AC

THE WORLD’S

NO. 1

82

MULTIPURPOSE LUBRICANT AUTOLIFE October 2013

AUTOLAND PVT. LTD. 199 TEKU ROAD, KATHMANDU TEL: 4261433, 4212617 FAX: 4262069 EMAIL: INFO@AUTOLAND.COM.NP www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Price (NRs)

TECHNICAL

Updated October 2013

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY

Yaris Sedan

54,50,000

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

Etios

34,45,000

1496 5M 90 132 NA Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

Rav 4 Auto

97,80,000

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

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

VOLKSWAGEN Models Passat CC

75,50,000 to 87,00,000

1798

6A

158

250

223

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Golf

48,00,000

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

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

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

Cubic Capacity (CC)

Updated April 2012

Passat A/T Loaded 87,00,000 1798 6A 158 250 220 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Polo

22,95,000 to 33,95,000

1198

5M

103

153

185

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Tiguan TDI

69,75,000 to 86,00,000

1964

6A

138

320

NA

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Touareg 3.0D A/T (Full Option)

1,35,00,000 2967 8A 241 550 220 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Vento 1.6

31,95,000 to 42,95,000

1598

5M

103

153

185

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

N

Mileage (KMPL)

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Dry Weight (KG)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

Height (MM)

Length (MM)

Top Speed (KMPH)

Gears

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Cubic Capacity (CC)

Models

SYM

Shrestha Company Pvt. Ltd, Teku, Tel: 4251202 MAGIC 110 RR

1,59,900 110

N/A 7.2/6000 4 80 1890 N/A 1205 N/A 102 3.5 N/A

ORBIT II

1,84,900 125

N/A 8.33/6500 CVT 91 1905 N/A 1325 N/A 109 5.2 N/A

JET4

2,09,900 125

N/A 8.6/7000 CVT 85 1900 N/A 1330 N/A 113 5.2 N/A

5,99,900

N/A

WOLF SB250Ni

250

23.1/6000

6

KTM DUKE

2005

N/A

1320

150

173

14

N/A

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

3,89,900 199.5 25/1000 19.2/800 6 135 N/A 810 1350 165 126

ANNA LIFAN

140

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

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

Price (NRS)

Updated October 2013

COOL BOY

DUE

11

35

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

APOLLO

4 70

Universal Super Impex Jyatha Tole, Tel: 4227337 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

THE WORLD’S

NO. 1

MULTIPURPOSE LUBRICANT www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

AUTOLAND PVT. LTD. 199 TEKU ROAD, KATHMANDU TEL: 4261433, 4212617 FAX: 4262069 EMAIL: INFO@AUTOLAND.COM.NP

AUTOLIFE October 2013 83

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Mileage (KMPL)

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)

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated October 2013

140

14

35

Hansraj Hulaschand & Co. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4220094 | 4261200 Models AVENGER 220

2,46,900

DISCOVER 100 DTS-SI

1,44,900 94.38 7.5/7500 7.85/5000 5 90 N/A 800 1305 165 108 8

DISCOVER 125 DTS-SI

1,63,900 (DISK) 124.6 11/8000 10.8/5500 5 N/A N/A 800 1305 165

110

8

DISCOVER 150

1,72,900

144.8

13/7500

12.75/5500

5

110

N/A

800

1305

115

8

65

PLATINA 100

1,22,900

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

2,09,900

149.01

15.06/9000

12.5/6500

5

115

N/A

785

1320

160

120

15

55

PULSAR 180 DTSI

2,26,900

178.60

17/8500

14/6000

5

120

N/A

785

1345

165

130

15

50

PULSAR 220F

2,49,900

220

21/8500

19/7000

5

135

N/A

795

1350

165

140

15

45

PULSAR 200 NS

2,64,900

200

23.2/9500

18.3/8000

5

135

2100

805

1363

167

145

12

40

219.89 19/8400 17.5/7000 5

120 N/A 710 1475

DAELIM

169

165

80 N/A

AKU Nepal Enterprises Kalimati, Tel: 4288339 | 4286018 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

Agni Incorporated Pvt. Ltd Uttar Dhoka, Tel: 4420964 Models COUGAR 250

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

DMX-R

DUCATI

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

18,90,000

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

15

N/A

848 EVO

27,00,000

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

35,00,000

1198.4

150 / 9250

118 / 7500

6

N/A

N/A

850

1530

N/A

192

20

N/A

SPORTSCLASSIC GT1000

N/A

992

92 / 8000

90 / 6000

6

N/A

N/A

810

1425

N/A

185

15

N/A

GLOBAL

GLOBAL

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

Models

84

AUTOLIFE October 2013

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.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

Dry Weight (KG)

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Mileage (KMPL)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

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

HARTFORD

Height (MM)

5

Length (MM)

12.5/7500

Gears

13.5/8500

Torque (NM)

149

Power (BHP)

2,99,000

Cubic Capacity (CC)

VR 150H

Price (NRS)

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

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

Models

HERO

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

CBZ X-TREME 2,11,000 (DDS) 149.2 14.2/8500 12.8/6500 5 110 N/A 800 1325 145 135 15 60.25

HF DELUXE DRK

97.2

7.2/8000

7.5/5000

4

95

N/A

790

1230

165

100

10.5

72

GLAMOUR 1,85,000(DSS FI)

1.24,500

124.8

9/7000

10.35/4000

4

95

N/A

775

1265

150

115

15

72

HUNK 2,05,000(DDS)

149.2

14.2/8500

12.8/6500

5

110

N/A

795

1325

145

135

12.5

50

1355

150

135

15

45

1350

160

145

15

48

KARIZMA DSS

2,42,500

223

16.5/7000

18.3/6000

5

125

N/A

KARIZMA ZMR

3,01,500

223

17.5/7000

18.3/6000

5

130

N/A

795 795

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Top Speed (KMPH)

Updated October 2013

PLEASURE 1,41,000 102 7/7000 7.8/5000 AUTO 80 N/A 750 1240 125 95 5.5 50

SPLENDOR NXG

1,44,500

97.2

SPLENDOR PLUS

1,41,000

97.2 7.4/8000 7.2/5000 4

85 N/A 775 1230 160

110 10.5

60

SPLENDOR PRO

1,46,000

97.2

90

SUPER SPLENDOR

1,57,000

124.7 9.13/7000 10.35/4000 4

7.7/7500

7.6/7500

7.6/6000

8.04/4500

4

4

100

N/A

N/A

100 N/A

HONDA

785

1230

160

100

10

77

775

1230

160

100

11

60

775

1235

150

110

12

75

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

ACTIVA

1,54,900

110

8/7500

8.8/5500

AUTO

90

N/A

765

1238

145

100

5.3

55

AVIATOR 1,64,900 110 8/8000 8.82/5500 AUTO 85 N/A 790 1256 145 95 6 52

CB SHINE 1,74,900(DRS)

125

10.3/7500

10.9/5500

4

100

N/A

790

1265

175

110

11

80

CB TWISTER

1,70,900(DSS)

110

9/8000

9/6500

4

95

N/A

800

1262

180

100

8

70

CB UNICORN

2,09,900 (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

1,89,900 (NEW)

125

11/8000

11/6500

5

100

N/A

790

1271

173

120

10

60

NEW DIO

1,60,900

110

7/7000

80

N/A

762

1235

145

100

6

50

CBR 250R

5,24,900

250

25.3/8500

23 7000

6

155

N/A

780

1370

145

150

13

35

CBR 600

NA

600

118/13500

66/11250

6

240

N/A

820

1369

135

156

18

20

CB 600F HORNET

NA

600

102/12000

63.510500

6

210

N/A

800

1435

135

19

20

CB 1000R

CBR1000RR

183

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

26,00,000

NXR150 BROS 5,25,000

CRF 250L

www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

7.8/5500 AUTO

7,75,000

1000 175/12000 112/8500 6

N/A N/A 820

1410 N/A

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

249.6 22.8/8500 23.8/7000 6

N/A N/A 875 1445 255

200

17.7

15

120

12

N/A

144

7.7

N/A

AUTOLIFE October 2013 85

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Mileage (KMPL)

160

17

N/A

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

17

N/A

11,10,900

647

72/9000

61/7250

6

200

N/A

830

1435

165

200

17

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

GV250

6,49,900

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

14

N/A

GV650P

13,50,000

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

14

N/A

17

35

Power (BHP)

HYOSUNG

Height (MM)

155

Length (MM)

Dry Weight (KG)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

Top Speed (KMPH)

N/A

Gears

17

Torque (NM)

160

Cubic Capacity (CC)

175

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

Price (NRS)

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated October 2013

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

Models

GT250N

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

150 N/A 830 1435

KAWASAKI

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

Models

NINJA 250R

NINJA 650R

7,49,900

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

160

13,50,000 649 72/8500 64/7000 6 N/A 2110 805 1410 130 211 16 N/A

MAHINDRA 2 WHEELERS

SG Global Pvt. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4231057 | 4231058

Models

DURO RODEO

1,45,900

124.6

8/7500

9/5500

AUTO

85

N/A

770

1290

155

100

6

45

1,61,900 124.6 8/7000 9/5500 AUTO 85 N/A 760 1245 155 106 4.5 45

PIAGGIO

PIAGGIO

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 PRO

4,67,000

125

15

20

6

120 N/A 870 1395 N/A 115

ROYAL ENFIELD

6.5 N/A

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

Models

SACHS

CLASSIC 350

4,31,000

346

20/5250

28/4000

5

N/A

N/A

800

1370

140

170

13.5

N/A

CLASSIC CHROME CLASSIC 500 DESERT STORM

5,55,000 5,15,000 5,35,000

499

27/5250

41.3/4000

5

130

N/A

800

1370

140

170

13.5

N/A

ELECTRA TWIN SPARK

4,15,000

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

Saakha & Company Pvt. Ltd. Kupondole, Tel: 5011500 Models MADASS 125

1,85,000

125

8/8400

9/5400

4

N/A

N/A

SUZUKI

835

1235

130

100

5.1

N/A

6

N/A

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

86

AUTOLIFE October 2013

1,59,888

124

8.5/7000

9.8/5000

AUTO

N/A

N/A

780

1250

160

110

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AUTOLIFE October 2013 87

Power (BHP)

Torque (NM)

Gears

Top Speed (KMPH)

Length (MM)

Height (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Dry Weight (KG)

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Mileage (KMPL)

Cubic Capacity (CC)

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

Price (NRS)

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated October 2013

10/8000

10/7500

AUTO

90

N/A

745

1255

120

110

7.8

N/A

Models

AN 125HK

N/A

124

GN125H

1,67,888 124 12/8000 10/7500 5 110 N/A 735 1280 175 107 10.3 35

GS150R

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

SLINGSHOT

1,65,888 (DISK)

124

8.5/8500

10/6000

5

100

N/A

790

1265

160

115

12

60

B-KING

25,00,000

1340

181/9500

146/7200

6

240

N/A

805

1525

120

235

16.5

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

GZ250

6,25,000

249

20/8000

18.7/7000

5

N/A

N/A

680

1450

125

140

13

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

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

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

2,11,900

160

15.2/8500

13.1/6000

5

120

N/A

790

1300

180

120

16

50

APACHE RTR 180

2,26,900

180

17/8500

15.5/6500

5

125

N/A

790

1326

180

120

16

45

SCOOTY PEP+

1,29,900

90

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

1,43,900

110

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

1,56,900

110

8/7500

85

N/A

770

1275

150

100

5

40

8/5500

AUTO

YAMAHA

Morang Auto Works Teku, Tel: 4261160 | 4268252 Models

ENTICER DLX

88

AUTOLIFE October 2013

1,81,900

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

2,16,900

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

12

45

SS 125

1,73,900

123

11/7500

10.4/6500

5

110

N/A

795

1295

155

110

13

70

SZ-R 1,88,900 (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

1,42,900

106

7.5/7500

7.8/6000

4

100

N/A

795

1290

173

115

13

65

YBR 125 DX

1,60,900

123

10.8/7500

10.4/6500

4

105

N/A

795

1300

180

115

13.5

60

YZF R15 V2

3,22,900

149.8

17/8500

15/7500

6

135

N/A

790

1290

160

120

12

42

YZF-R6

20,47,900

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

N/A

785

1440

140

190

17.3

20

60/6100

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AUTOLIFE October 2013 89

90

AUTOLIFE October 2013

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AUTOLIFE October 2013 91

92

AUTOLIFE October 2013

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