Vol 2 issue 9

events: amazing ecosport motor rally | kathmandu kora cycling challenge

August 15, 2013 Vol 2 Issue 9 NRs. 100

AL PROMOTES RS MOTO

TEST DRIVES

GUEST COLUMN THE SUV www.softrock.com.np EXPERIENCE | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

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ROAD TRIP NEPAL ON A RANGE ROVER EVOQUE

CYCLIST MEGAVALANCHE AND BACK!

TATA SAFARI STORME | FORD ECOSPORT | MAHINDRA QUANTO

ON FEATURE: 2013 NADA AUTOAugust SHOW15,PREVIEW AUTOLIFE 2013 1

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Cockpit Design

Interior Design

Coming Soon

1.2L Gasoline Engine

Rear View

C

M

Y

CM

Engine Switch

MY

CY

MY

K

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 August 15, 2013 5

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AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 7

www.fishtail-lodge.com Pokhara, Nepal

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AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 9

EDITORIAL THE SUV SPECIAL

VOL 2 ISSUE 9 AUGUST 15, 2013 SOFTROCK MEDIA PVT LTD PANIPOKHARI, KATHMANDU, NEPAL TEL: 977-01-4428504 REGD: 84553/068/069

Founder/Managing Editor Ajay Dhoj Thapa

Sub-Editor

Executive Director

Ayush Dhaubanjar

SUV’s makes perfect sense for our forsaken roads. They give you the sense of freedom and adventure that is usually associated with motorcycles. The thrill of navigating through a rough off road terrain is unparalleled and evokes a sense of achievement unlike any other. Much to our delight, this month rained an onslaught of new SUVs to make up for this ‘SUV Special’ issue.

We had a go on three new SUVs – Tata Safari Storme, Ford EcoSport and Mahindra Quanto. The Safari Storme is a vehicle that looks imposing, has the brawn to bully the traffic and will get you across the worst unimaginable terrains. But the other two vehicles are a bit different concept. Since most hardcore off-road vehicles are infamous for their heavy drinking habits, this led to the birth of crossover SUVs. The Ford EcoSport and Mahindra Quanto are thus the latest in this new segment of compact crossover SUVs. Both vehicles not only offer the feeling of driving an SUV, but promises to give you fuel economy like a hatchback. Go figure your choice of wheels!

Editorial & Photography Ankit Shakya Niren Tuladhar Saurav Nepal Yonten Yonjan

Now motorcycle modification and restoration is not a new concept in Nepal. But pulling off a classic motorcycle restoration with an international standard finishing and design is something that is rarely seen in Nepal. So shocked we were when we came across RS MOTO, an outfit run by one Raajib Sayami who restores vintage motorcycles with an enhanced retro styling that could hardly go wrong with any generation. Don’t believe us? Have a look inside.

And here’s a good news and for auto enthusiasts. The 2013 NADA Auto Show is going to be held next month at Bhrikuti Mandap from September 11 to 15. Bad news? Petrol prices have gone up by two rupees and diesel by one rupee. Damn!

AUTOLIFE TEAM

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AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013

Business Developmvent Ankit Shakya Ayusha Shrestha Rahul Shakya Manish Sakya

Interns: Julika Pradhan Aman Gautam

CTP & Process ScanPrint Pulchowk Tel: 01-5010801

Creative Head Ajay Dhoj Thapa

Distribution

Designer

Kasthamandap Distributors Tel: 01-4247241

Niren Tuladhar

Going with the flow, we caught up with Boris and Helena who drove through Nepal on a Range Rover Evoque. Inside, they share their first hand experience of driving through Nepal. Keeping in mind our theme for this issue, our guest writer, Girish Karkera (Editor of BBC TopGear India Magazine) too shares his experience and insight on SUVs. Since getting to Pokhara is never a boring idea, we made another road trip to the famous lake city. But for a change, this time around it was to participate in the EcoSport Amazing Motor Rally. Other event coverage this month includes the Kathmandu Kora Cycling Challenge, which definitely was the biggest cycling rally we have seen so far in the country. Talking about cycling, popular Nepalese adventure cyclist Mandil Pradhan too shares his experience of participating in the Megavalanche Race, one of the most dangerous mountain bike events in the world.

Shraddha Rajbhandari

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

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

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

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

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AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 11

V OL . 2 IS S U E 9

CONTENTS

AUGUST 15 2013

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TATA SAFARI STORME: BEAST REFINED FEATURES 18

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ALIVE AND KICKING

NEPAL ON A RANGE ROVER EVOQUE

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Local and International motoring updates

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launchpad

34

events

36

events

Cycling for Good Karma

40

test drive

46

road trip

Kia Rio, Mahindra Centuro 110

EcoSport Amazing Motor Rally

Tata Safari Storme

Driving through Nepal on a Range Rover Evoque

60

test drive

Ford EcoSport

66

promotes

88

buying guide

12

news

RS Moto

everything about bikes and cars in Nepal

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INDEX INTRODUCES CUSTOMIZABLE

OFFICE FURNITURE

FREE DELIVERY & INSTALLATION METROPARK BUILDING (1ST FLOOR) www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal LAZIMPAT 4415181/2220022

(EXCLUSIVE FURNITURE FROM THAILAND)

STEEL TOWER (OLD UNITY TOWER) JAWALAKHEL 5000270/2020222

https://www.facebook.com/INDEXFURNITURENEPAL AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 13

V OL . 2 IS S U E 9

CONTENTS

AUGUST 15 2013

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FORD ECOSPORT: URBAN SPORTSTAR FEATURES

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CYCLING FOR GOOD KARMA

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guest column

70

test drive

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cyclist

80

feature

The SUV Experience

Mahindra Quanto

Megavalanche and Back!

NADA Auto Show 2012

INTERACTIVE 16 readers’ submitted photos

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MAHINDRA QUANTO: COMPACT RUNNER 14

AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013

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gears and accessories

56

quiz

VR46 Merchandises

play the quiz and win qfx tickets

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AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 15

AUTOLIFE

READERS’ PHOTOS

SEND US YOUR PHOTOS TO hello@autolife.com.np

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AUTOLIFE

NEWS: LOCAL

CG AUTOMOBILES DONATES FOR A CAUSE Mega Motors (Maharajgunj), one of the dealership under CG | Automobiles, organized a CSR Initiative program at The Disabled Rehabilitation Centre in Gokarna on July 20, 2013. The program was organized on the occasion of their 2nd Anniversary. The Disabled Rehabilitation Centre Nepal was established in 2002 as a Non Profit and Non-Government Organization (NGO). Many of the founding members were people who had physical disabilities themselves. The Centre aims to provide healthcare, education and a caring family Home to children who have a physical disability or are extremely poor, and equip them with the necessary life skills to become self-reliant. Souvenirs with T- shirts, stationeries and lunch boxes were distributed to all the physically challenged and orphans by the Executive Director of Chaudhary Group, Mr. Karan Chaudhary. More than 55 children participated in the event.

HYUNDAI i10 CROSSES 5000+ SALES MARK Setting up a new benchmark, Hyundai i10 has crossed the 5000+ sales figure mark in Nepal in a span of 4 and half years. To celebrate this milestone, Laxmi InterContinental Pvt. Ltd, sole distributor of Hyundai Vehicles for Nepal, has launched an exclusive benefits offer to both existing i10 owners and new prospective buyers. 5 lucky couples from the existing i10 owners will get a Bangkok – Pattaya Trip and 100 i10 owners will get free service voucher worth Rs. 5000. To avail this benefit, existing i10 owners must register themselves through Facebook.com/HyundaiNepal or www.laxmihyundai. com or nearest Hyundai dealers. Whereas for new prospective i10 buyers, a special savings package of Rs.1,26,600/- is offered. The Hyundai i10 is very well received with all segments of consumers simply because of its style, mileage, performance, space, low maintenance and resale value.

The Hyundai i10 comes with the BSIV compliant 1.2 Kappa2 engine with VTVT capable of achieving a spectacular fuel mileage of 20.36kmpl and is best in class ARAI-certified fuel efficiency among petrol cars.

1000 UNITS OF VOLKSWAGEN SOLD Pooja International Nepal, the sole authorized importer of Volkswagen automobiles in Nepal, recently celebrated the sale of 1,000th Volkswagen vehicles in Nepal amidst a function. On the occasion, Henning Hansen, chargé d´affaires at the German Embassy in Kathmandu handed over the car key to 1,000th owner of Volkswagen car, Mr Jimmy Shrestha. According to the company, the highest-selling model is Polo which accounts for more than 60% of the total sales. Polo is also the current market leader in the hatchback segment. Polo is available in two trim levels and seven variants. Similarly, Vento, Touareg and Passat are the other best-sellers in their respective segment.

The company is also planning to launch a new variant of Polo and refresh the existing models at the NADA Auto Show next month.

YAMAHA SHOWROOM AT BHAKTAPUR MAW Enterprise Pvt. Ltd., the authorized sole distributor for Yamaha Motorcycles in Nepal, opened their new showroom ‘The Wheels Pvt. Ltd.’ at Sallaghari, Bhaktapur. As a part of their Yes! Yamaha campaign, the new authorized Yamaha Dealership will have their best 3S facility - Sales, Service and Spares, all under the same roof. The showroom was inaugurated by the Goodwill Ambassador for Yamaha Ray, Ms. Namrata Shrestha.

For the convenience of customers, an in-house tie up with finance companies and reputed exchange houses of Nepal has also been provided. An Instant Finance Desk will facilitate immediate finance with low interest rates under amicable terms. On the occasion of the new showroom inauguration, Mr. Suresh Kawan, Proprietor of The Wheels Pvt. Ltd. had organized a Yamaha Motorcycle Rally covering all the surrounding areas of Bhaktapur. The rally commenced from the Sallaghari Showroom & proceeded towards Jagati, Kamalbinayak, Durbar Square, Thimi, Koteshwor and concluded at the showroom. In addition to this, the company provided a free Service Coupon to all visitors at the opening ceremony and also gave away special discounts with Yamaha goodies to the first 20 Customers visiting the Showroom. A Yamaha Super Exchange program was also held during the first three days of the showroom opening.

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AUTOLIFE

NEWS: INDIA

BAJAJ DISCOVER 125T LAUNCHED Bajaj Auto has launched the Discover 125T in India. Powered by Bajaj’s patented 4-valve DTS-i engine, the new Discover variant is positioned just under the Discover ST. The Discover 125T has the same 124.6cc, four-stroke, single-cylinder, aircooled engine with a four valve head. The engine makes 12.5 bhp of power and a torque of 10.8 Nm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed, 1-down, and 4-up shifting gearbox. Similarly, a set of gas-charged shock absorbers at rear is also present. The bike also gets extra-long convenient seat, 10-spoke alloy wheels, sporty petal disc brake and contrasting two tone graphics. The new Discover platform comes with Nitrox Twin Shock suspension, an optional disc brake and a long seat. The Discover 125 T is available in four colours and in two variants. The base variant comes with drum brakes for both the wheels and is priced at IRs. 52,500 while the disc brake variant costs IRs. 55,500.

DATSUN BACK WITH THE GO Nissan has unveiled Datsun’s hatchback car ‘Go’ in India. ‘Go’ is Datsun’s first car for the 21st century which marks the return of the Datsun brand after 32 years. Nissan is resurrecting the Datsun brand after it had phased it out in 1986. The brand was sold in 190 countries. Datsun is the third brand for the Nissan Motor Company along with the company’s Nissan and Infiniti brands. The five-door, front-wheel drive stylish hatchback will come with a 1.2 liter engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission that offers optimal response time and agility in congested traffic. With comparatively compact body dimensions, this car is spacious inside thanks to a wide stance and large wheelbase (2450mm), and offers ample headroom and an expanded front seating configuration. The car will go on sale in early 2014 for under IRs. 4 lakhs. It will also be sold in Indonesia, Russia and South Africa.

HYUNDAI UNVEILS NEW-GEN i10 Hyundai has unveiled the 2014 i10 ahead of its official debut at the 2013 Frankfurt motor show next month. The new i10 will be called the Grand i10 in India. Although it remains compact, the new i10 is longer, wider and lower than the current one. The new-gen i10 provides best-in-class legroom and cargo capacity. The new i10 is built on a totally different platform and it will not replace the current model. The car follows Hyundai’s fluidic design language. No details have been released, but one can expect features like automatic climate control, heated leather steering wheel, refined ride qualities and a quiet cabin, and cruise control with a speed limiter. The new-gen i10 will be launched with two engine options – a 1.2-liter Kappa2 petrol (as seen on the Hyundai i20) and a 1.1-liter U2 diesel engine. This is a 3-cylinder version of the 1.4 CRDi used on the i20. The new i10 will make its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month while the sub-continent i10 will be unveiled in India next month.

YAMAHA FZ-S & FAZER GETS NEW PAINT JOB Yamaha India has launched a limited edition version of its FZ-S and Fazer motorcycles ahead of the festive season. Both the ‘special-edition’ bikes will get a battle green paint job and new body graphics. This time the heat shield is also included in the new colour scheme. Mechanically, both the Fazer and FZ series remain unchanged. They will feature the same 14bhp 153cc aircooled engine. The special edition of the FZ-S and Fazer has been priced at IRs. 74,385 and IRs. 79,485 respectively.

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AUTOLIFE

NEWS: INTERNATIONAL

NEPALI WINS THE MEGAVALANCHE: MEGAKIDS 2013 For the first time in the history of the Megavalanche, young riders aged between 9-14 years old were introduced to the Megavalanche Kids 2013, a downsized mass start downhill marathon in the qualification course of the Megavalanche. Surprisingly, Christopher Keeling, a youngster from Nepal managed to race to victory.

Born to a Nepalese mother and English father, 13 year old Christopher Keeling had made a good impression on Commencal Rider Pierre-Edouard Ferry as well while the latter was here in Kathmandu, Nepal helping Epic Mountain Bike with pumptrack building and DH clinics. At home, he had participated in the National Cross Country Championships and other downhill races. So his French holidays led him to Alpe D’Huez to participate in the first Megavalanche Kids 2013. With his Commencal Ramones Cromo, he took part in the Kids race in the Minimes category and surprised his opponents by leaving them behind. He hopes to get back next year and dreams of becoming a professional rider.

LAMBORGHINI GALLARDO SQUADRA CORSE REVEALED Lamborghini has unveiled the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Squadra Corse, which according to the company is the fastest ever version of the Lamborghini Gallardo. It is based on the Gallardo Super Trofeo – the race car used in Lamborghini’s racing series. The ‘Squadra Corse’ takes its name from Lamborghini’s recently created racing division. The Squadra Corse is based on the Gallardo LP570-4 and uses a 562 bhp, 5.2 liter naturally aspirated V10 engine. The engine sends its power through a four-wheel-drive system and e-gear single clutch paddle shift transmission. It can hit 0-100 kph in 3.4 seconds and 0-200 kmh in just 10.4 seconds. The top speed is nearly at 321 kmh.

The car uses extensive carbon fibre and other weight-saving elements. The interior sees a massive use of alcantara on the dashboard and carbon fibre items. The exterior features an aggressive front bumper and front lip spoiler, gloss-black rear diffuser, gloss-black 19-inch forged wheels and red brake calipers on a carbon-ceramic braking system.

NEW SSANGYONG KORANDO C SsangYong Motor, part of the Mahindra Group, has unveiled the new Korando C in South Korea. The Korando C has received a major face-lift including a newly designed interior and body. The New Koranado C now features projector headlamps with LED lights, body colour grille with chrome moulding, new side panels and 18-inch wheels.

The driver seat features forced ventilation with two-level fan speed. Additional features available are a black box, front and rear skid plates, side steps, a washer fluid heater, a 7-inch touch screen infotainment system and smart key system. The rear too has redesigned to make it look different than before. It now gets a C-Shaped guide light and the embossed ‘Kornando C’ tag.

The engine is tuned for better overall fuel efficiency. The Korando C uses a 2.0-litre diesel engine with either 151 bhp or 178 bhp of power, both of which are mated to a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission with an option of AWD. The New Korando C comes in three trim levels.

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AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 23

ADVERTORIAL

CG | MOTO CORP: SERVICE AT ITS CORE C G | Moto Corp, the automobile division of Chaudhary Group is the pioneer in the Nepalese automobile industry for the past 30 years. CG | Moto Corp is the sole distributor of Suzuki Motors Corporation (Japan) and Maruti Suzuki India Limited (India).

Suzuki brands of power-packed new generation cars include Maruti 800, Alto 800, Alto K10, Omni, Gypsy, Estilo, Wagon R, Eeco, A-Star, Ritz, Swift, SX4, DZire, Ertiga, Kizashi and Grand Vitara. The products range from economy to city cars to mid-range and to semi utility vehicles.

CG | Moto Corp has 22 Sales Outlets in 17 cities and boasts of 15 State of the art After sales Service Centers spread across Nepal. CG | Moto Corp is driven by customer-centric approach with excellence as a key management mantra.

CG | Moto Corp boasts of the widest reach in the country through its retail outlets, dealers and sub-dealers networks. CG | Moto Corp employs the best human resource and provides prompt after sales services in terms of easy accessibility to spares and excellent maintenance facilities in its numerous service centers.

AFTER SALES SERVICE: We are committed:

1) To provide service available on both appointment and non appointment basis.

2) To provide appropriate trained Suzuki Certified Technicians and well trained service advisor who are knowledgeable and will take a time necessary to listen to the customer and ask able pertinent question to ensure clear communication.

3) To ensure that all authorized services for the customer’s vehicles will be dealt with utmost care and shall be quality tested before timely delivery of the vehicle.

4) To check for any updates recommended by Suzuki and perform these free of charge.

5) To provide professional recommendation if we identify any parts that require replacing, about whether they should

be replace immediately, or at which point in future they should be rechecked.

6) To ensure that genuine SUZUKI spare parts will be used, which all carry warranty.

7) To provide SMS services to confirm when your car is ready.

8) To maintain relationship with customers to remind them of recommended maintenance needs and other available services.

SPECIAL FEATURES: • Temperature maintained and dust free paint booth for smooth and clear coating of your car paint.

ADVERTORIAL are here. Just call 9721404040, and help will quickly be on the way. We are here to help you seven days a week, 24 hours a day - we are always there for you. o Breakdown assistance, recovery service, our services are as varied as the emergencies from which nobody is immune. Whatever problem you have with your vehicle, we shall look after everything you need, right through to the mobile emergency service.

SERVICES:

• Well maintained dust free engine room to provide proper environment to repair your car engines.

• Clear, comfortable, convenient and well maintained customer waiting area.

• Express delivery for customers who are in a hurry.

• Provide off road services (Mobile Service - 9721404040).

GENERAL CHECK-UP: General check-up is performed every single time your vehicle visit our service centre. These are the services that we provide as general check-up, which ensures that your car is in excellent condition.

1. Air Conditioning System Service 2. Body and Paintwork Service 3. Car Care Service 4. Express Service 5. Suzuki Genuine Parts and Accessories 6. Oil Service 7. 24X7 Emergency Service 8. Vehicle Safety Check EXPRESS SERVICE - Service While You Wait!

LOCATION

Express Service Job 1. Routine Oil Service 2. Battery Check & Replacement 3. Wiper Blade Replacement 4. Brakes Replacement 5. Shock Absorbers Replacement 6. Exhaust Pipe Replacement 7. Tyre Change 8. Tyre Rotation 9. An Express Visual Check a. Interior Inspection b. Under body Inspection c. External Body Inspection d. Under Bonnet Inspection 10. Half Body Wash The Express Service concentrates on quickly completed routine operations that takes no more than 90 minutes at competitive prices.

• To save customer waiting time • To gain customer loyalty • To make more service flow • By introducing affordable introductory price at the beginning

SUZUKI ASSISTANT (24 X 7) Even with the most stringent quality measures, complex machines like cars can sometimes malfunction. Just call our 24X7 SUZUKI Assistant during an emergency and help will be on its way to you.

• Help around the • Dhobighat (Suzuki Authorised Service clock from our free Center) emergency hotline: Requirements • 1 Dedicated Bay o On the road in • Dedicated Handtools your SUZUKI and • Dedicated Technical Staff suddenly you have

a breakdown or an TIME accident? Do not • Under 90 minutes worry. That's why we

I. Towing to the nearest authorized SUZUKI service facility II. Battery jump start III. Lock-out service IV. Technical advice V. Home start assistance EXTENDED SERVICE HOURS To enhance convenience to our valuable SUZUKI owners.

Weekday hours 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM Weekend hours 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM • Early bird service • No long waiting • 7 days service • Best for early commuters Your Car Is In Good Hands!

WARRANTY 3 Years / 50,000 kms Warranty 3 Years free servicing

ADVERTORIAL

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ADVERTORIAL

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AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 27

AUTOLIFE

LAUNCHPAD

KIA RIO

C

Continental Associates, the sole authorised distributor of KIA vehicles in Nepal has rolled out the all-new Kia Rio in the Nepalese market. The car is available in a premium hatchback and sedan option. According to the company, the new Rio comes in three variants, each available in hatchback and sedan models.

Both the cars are equipped with KIA’s new generation GAMMA 1.4 MPI petrol engine.

The 1.4 litre Gamma Engine makes 105 bhp of power at 6,300 rpm and 135 NM of torque at 4,200 rpm. The engine is mated to either a six-speed manual transmission system or four-speed automatic transmission system.

According to the company, the Gamma engine has MPI (Multi-Point Fuel Injection) technology and has been built with light weight die-cast aluminium which maximizes fuel efficiency and reduces carbon dioxide emission.

The new Rio has no resemblance to its predecessor, and boasts a sporty and elegant look. The new Rio gets completely redesigned exteriors. The front fascia has new headlamps with four bulb MFR type projection lamps, KIA’s signature ‘Tiger Nose’ front grille, projection type fog lamps, electric folding mirrors and sunroof (available in the automatic variant only) blended perfectly in the aerodynamic body. Likewise, the low roofline and shorter overhang provide a sleek visual profile to the car.

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The interior provides an European feel with some features like leather upholstery, aesthetic seats, air conditioning, Bluetooth with USB, AUX and iPod connectivity, surround sound system and a couple of other premium additions. The steering wheel is a Motor Driven Power Steering (MPDS) which is speed sensitive and makes handling light. Similarly, other interesting additions to the car include aero blade wipers, solar control glass, rain sensor; a 15L glove box cooling and an auto defog system.

The new Kia Rio has been rated five stars in terms of safety features by the Euro NCAP. The EXII and above variants of the car are equipped with driver and passenger airbags, ABS (Anti-Lock Braking system), EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution) and other electronic aids.

On the safety side, 6 airbags are included (driver, passenger, side and curtain), along with safety windows and a provision of child-locking system as well.

According to the company, the vehicle will be available in nine different colours—white solid, bright silver metal, fresh beige pearl, beg signal red pearl, Wendy brown pearl metallic, electronic blue pearl metallic, formal deep blue pearl metallic, platinum graphite pearl metallic and aurora black pearl colour options.

Continental Associates has priced the vehicles in the range of Rs 3.24 million to Rs 3.99 million. The company also provides a 100,000-km or three-year warranty.

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AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 29

AUTOLIFE

LAUNCHPAD

MAHINDRA CENTURO 110

S

SG Global Pvt. Ltd, the sole authorised distributor for Mahindra two-wheelers in Nepal, has launched the Centuro, a premium 110cc motorcycle.

The Mahindra Centuro 110 is powered by a 106.7 cc, four stroke, single cylinder air-cooled MCi-5 (Micro Chip ignited) engine as its sibling, the Pantero. The engine produces a maximum power of 8.5 bhp at 8500 rpm and a maximum torque of 8.5 Nm at 5500 rpm.

It has a four speed gearbox with all gears upshift pattern. According to the company, the new engine delivers an ARAI certified fuelefficiency of 85.4kmpl.

The Centuro is stylish and provides an

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upmarket feel. The instrumentation panel houses an analogue tachometer, digital speedometer, odometer, trip meter, clock, service-indicator and an economy-mode indicator. This new motorcycle comes loaded with a host of features, previously unavailable in this over-packed commuter segment. The bike has central locking with anti-theft flip key digital speedometer, distance to empty indicator on the digital speedometer, follow me home feature on the headlamps, anti-theft alarm and find me lamps (indicators flashes when remote key is pressed). There’s even a flip-to-open 96 bit encrypted key which makes it impossible to start the Centuro using a duplicate key. This key also enables riders to locate their motorcycle in the dark if they want to locate it.

The motorcycle also gets new headlamp fairing, a 12.7 litre fuel tank, twin tubes under the fuel tank and new body panels including tinted visor, black coloured engine and muffler. The twin down tube frame chassis has telescopic fork front suspension and adjustable shocks at the rear with old-fashioned tubular swing arm. However, the Centuro comes equipped with only drum brakes of 130mm at both the ends. The company has claimed a best in class ground clearance of 173mm and a wheelbase of 1265mm. It also comes with a maintenance free battery.

The bike is currently available at a price of NRs 157,900 for a limited period and a warranty of two years or 30,000 km.

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AUTOLIFE

GUEST COLUMN

SUV THE

EXPERIENCE OUR GUEST COLUMN CONTRIBUTOR BBC TOPGEAR INDIA MAGAZINE EDITOR GIRISH KARKERA GIVES US SOME INSIGHT ON HIS VIEWS AND EXPERIENCE ON SUVS.

Girish Karkera, Editor BBC TopGear India Magazine

www.topgear.com/india | twitter.com/karkeragirish AL: What is your take on the SUV segment? Do you personally prefer SUV’s over other segments?

GK: Personally, I am a small sedan guy.

I like that classic car shape that most Indians my age have grown up on. Of course, there is no reason not to like SUVs. While they started life as utilitarian vehicles for the farm, these vehicles have now grown to uber luxury cars that give limos a run for their money. Lots of onroad comfort, equipment plus capability make them a good all-rounder to have especially if you live in a place with unpredictable roads or if you yourself are an unpredictable guy who fancies going on roads less travelled.

AL: With the rising fuel costs and concerns for global warming, the SUV market is now mostly dominated by more efficient crossover SUVs? So do you think that this means the gradual extinction of true blue purpose built off roaders?

GK: More than that, I think it is the basic needs of new age SUV owners that have led to crossovers dominating the segment. As these vehicles have become more capable with technology and in turn, expensive, most efficient off-roaders are within the reach of only those who can afford them.

And all may not necessarily use these cars

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for off-roading. That in turn meant that there was not point building pure offroaders for people who may mostly use it for the road. But like is the case with big bikes, I think pure off-roaders will survive even if in smaller numbers for those who really use it that way. So eventually, not all car makers will have off-roaders, but maybe only a few niche ones.

AL: In terms of sales, which do you think is the ideal SUV for manufacturers in this subcontinent? A crossover SUV or a full bred hardcore off roader?

GK: In terms of sales, without doubt it will be the crossover SUVs because they bring together on-road refinement and partial off-road capability that you may need when there is that pressing need to get off the road.

AL: Your most memorable on the edge experience with an SUV so far?

GK: Has to be Morocco when I drove through a river, in the new Range Rover.

I thought we had to drive alongside the river but we actually drove upstream.

The Range Rover is one of the rare SUV’s that is ultra comfortable and super capable off-road. I had water levels rising up to the bonnet. In fact, at one point I could even roll down the window and put my hand out to touch the water.

When we emerged out of the river and drove higher up in the mountains and looked down, I couldn’t believe I actually did that.

AL: Which SUV do you think could take the Indian market by a storm if now manufactured in India and priced competitively?

GK: Small SUVs are the rage now here because everyone wants an SUV for less.

But I think we are all waiting for SUVs like the Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, the soon-to-be-launched Terrano (which is Nissan’s version of the Duster) and the next Mercedes GLK. AL: If you were to ever find yourself in the middle of nowhere in the worst of terrains, which SUV would be your ultimate choice to get out of the mess?

GK: There are many to choose, but most likely a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado.

AL: That one off-road drive you would like to experience in the future.

GK: Possibly, a Rover Mission to Mars!

AL: Your wild imagination/fantasy of an extreme off-roader.

GK: Something as capable as a Defender, that looks like a G-Wagon and as reliable as a Land Cruiser www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

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AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 33

AUTOLIFE

EVENTS

ECOSPORT AMAZING

MOTOR RALLY

A COMPETITIVE TREASURE HUNT RALLY THAT INVOLVED DRIVING FROM KATHMANDU TO POKHARA IN THE HUNT FOR HIDDEN TREASURES WORDS: AYUSH DHAUBANJAR | PHOTOS: PARTY NEPAL

Party Nepal is a popular event management company, mainly credited with elevating the partying scene in Nepal. But not being the kind of person enthusiastic about parties, I had never been to a Party Nepal event before. So when the folks at Party Nepal Outdoors came up with this fresh idea of a treasure hunt motor rally, there was no way I was going to miss this one. Organised to encourage domestic tourism in general and Pokhara as a destination in particular, the 2013 EcoSport Amazing Motor Rally was a competitive treasure hunt rally that involved driving from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The winners were determined by the points collected from the tasks and treasures accomplished.

Highly excited, my friend Sohyal Karki and me reported at the Ford Service Centre in Swayambu by the specified time of 7am in the morning of 13th July, 2013. After grabbing some breakfast, the event got going around 9 am. We were briefed regarding the event and the activities before we set off on the hunt.

There was going to be no strict time limit and we had to mainly focus on getting our tasks completed. So we grabbed our treasure maps, hints and set off. Divisional Operations Manager – Sales (North), Ford India, Mr. Gautam Tandon and Director of GO Ford, Mr. Akash Golchha flagged off the vehicles

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participating in the EcoSport Amazing Motor Rally.

assumed that we had enough time-window to reach the lunch pit stop.

The first clue involved getting two pictures We had already given up hope on solving clicked at the Swayambhunath Stupa the Rubik’s cube and set out for the and pretty much everybody got this task other treasure hunt tasks after the repair completed easily. We were given a Rubik’s was done. But coming across the hidden Cube as well and had to submit it solved at treasure along the mentioned spots in the the first check point in Thankot. Solving map seemed impossible as we actually had the cube was a challenging task and this was no idea what we had to specifically look out bound to provide a competitive edge in the for. Without wasting further time, we set game. But we were getting nowhere near. As out to meet the organizers at the first checkwe headed towards the next task that involved point in Thankot where we had to submit getting another photo clicked in Kalanki, our completed tasks and accumulate points. we suddenly encountered a puncture in one But surprisingly the checkpoint was already of the tyres of our car. To add to our woes taken off from the location which meant and due to our pre-check ignorance, the spare tire too turned out to be low on air pressure. The bad luck didn’t seem to end there as most puncture repair shops were closed on Saturday and we got hold of a taxi to get it repaired at a shop near Ratna Park which we knew stayed open all week. But the good aspect was that there was no time limit imposed THE COIN HUNT TASK on the tasks and we www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

Priyanka Kari and Nilu Doma Sherpa won the second prize and were awarded Zip Flyer Packages for two. Mr and Mrs. Pramod Jaiswal won the third prize and had to settle with Spa Packages and Coffee Coupons from Kaffeine. The winners were handed over the prize by the Director of GO Ford, Mr. Akash Golchha.

PARTICIPANTS SEARCHING FOR TREASURE LOCATIONS that we not only missed submitting our collected tasks but also had no clue about the treasure hunt spots and tasks till the next check point at the Riverside Resort in Kurintar.

Though we were already feeling a bit down for not being able to go head-to-head in the hunt, we decided to continue hoping that the next tasks could give us some competitive edge. Clueless we sped towards the Riverside Resort and quickly grabbed the much needed lunch. After endless discussions, we finally managed to convince the organizers to grant us the points for our completed tasks which we missed before the first check point. But the damage had been done as we had missed almost half of the other tasks. However, we did feel that a proper orientation of the activities and tasks could have made the whole event much more effective and exciting.

The next set of tasks at the resort included building pyramids from plastic cups, finding a way out of a printed maze and marking valid words in a jumbled up crossword puzzle. We made the best of these and stripped down to our swimming costumes for another round of tasks at the poolside.

Beating the heat in the cool swimming pool at the resort was a huge relief and the water focused tasks bought back the fun that you’d expect from such an event. There was a coin search task and the walking water race was enjoyed by all. But since the evening was closing in the treasure hunt tasks were skipped for the next section of the drive and the competition was limited to a final two photo tasks. We had to photograph the popular mushroom like hill near Kotre and the welcome hoarding boards near Pokhara.

Most of the participants got the clue and www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

the photographs. We regrouped at the entrance to Pokhara and the rally ended at the fantastic Waterfront Resort in Pokhara with our motorcade of 15 vehicles lead by the Ford EcoSport garnering attention all along the way through the lake city. A gala dinner with the prize ceremony was in order at the venue before we called it a night.

Pokhara is the kind of place that easily makes you forget all your qualms and with an amazing resort like the Waterfront to boot you can’t help but just feel relaxed at the end of the day.

Dawa Sherpa and Sahana Vajracharya were the first prize winners. They won Thai Airways Ticket for two to Bangkok.

In spite of our set of misfortunes in the start of the rally due to personal negligence, the prospect of participating in this first of its kind event was definitely exciting. But few improvements in the execution such as better pre-orientation to participants, planning and co-ordination would have taken the experience to a whole new level. However, we hope that this first one serves as more of a learning point and results in a more polished and planned sequel in the future. We look forward to the next edition and hope it will be truly amazing!

TIRE CHANGING TASK

WINNERS OF THE ECOSPORT AMAZING MOTOR RALLY AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 35

AUTOLIFE

EVENTS

CYCLING FOR GOOD KARMA 700+ RIDERS PARTICIPATE IN THE KATHMANDU KORA CYCLING CHALLENGE 2013 AND CYCLE AROUND THE VALLEY FOR A NOBLE CAUSE INFO: SOCIALTOURS PHOTOS: SAVE THE CHILDREN

T

The Kathmandu KORA Cycling Challenge 2013 is now over. But boy, did it garner a lot of attention! With around 700 bikers taking on the challenge, it was definitely the biggest cycling ride we had witnessed in the country. This event clearly showed how we can use a popular sport like cycling as a means to raise awareness and funds for social inequalities in Nepal. The objective of the ride was to bring together cyclists to take on the 50 km challenge, with most of the riders seeking sponsors on their own and raising Rs.100 per km. All donated money this year is going towards building an eco-designed birthing facility in Sharmali, Baitadi.

By 7am in the morning of 20th of July 2013, the meeting point at Patan Durbar Square was crowded with riders raring to go after a power breakfast of an egg and a banana. After the official event T-Shirts and lunch coupon distribution were done, the organizers began briefing the participants with the basic instructions for the ride. The ride was then flagged off by Mr. Lalit Dhami, Health Officer in Charge of Sharmali village in Baitadi. The organizers were thoughtful enough to bombard the registered riders with e-mail notifications before the ride, which contained the Kora Challenge Map, volunteer contact numbers, rules and safety regulations. The race was led by a pack of leader riders, with another pack guiding in the middle and a handful of sweepers who made sure none of the riders were left behind. This year’s event was truly a mix of people from all walks of life and nationality, young to old enthusiastic riders alike. The Kora ended at Mangal Bazaar in Patan and some of the riders continued with the celebrations at the post-event jamming session organized for the riders. The event was planned very well with support from plenty of enthusiastic volunteers who provided support in every way possible.

This successful event has proven that when individuals come together for a genuine cause nothing is impossible. The organizing partner Socialtours are now expecting the total fund from the event to exceed NRs.1.5 million, including the collections at the VDC of Sharmali, Baitadi and by Save the Children. Interestingly, one rider Mr. Udayan Mishra solely managed to raise collections in excess of Nrs.

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THIS EVENT CLEARLY SHOWED HOW WE CAN USE A POPULAR SPORT LIKE CYCLING AS A MEANS TO RAISE AWARENESS AND FUNDS FOR SOCIAL INEQUALITIES IN NEPAL. 1,20,000/- and lead the individual fund raising leader board. Though the Kathmandu Kora Challenge has passed, it's still not too late to pledge. Donations can still be dropped off at the Socialtours office in Tri Devi Marg, Thamel or you can also use their Karma Foundation bank account, and deposit cash, cheque or transfer money. When you do it, just let them know at: kora@karmafoundation.net. Go ahead, earn some karma for yourself by donating to this noble Kora.

The next round of the Kathmandu Kora Cycling Challenge will take place on 19th of July 2014 and is set to get bigger with the addition of a 100 KM+ trail for international professional MTB riders. So mark your calendars and ride again for another fantastic cause!

BANK DETAILS FOR DONATION: KARMA FOUNDATION Account # 01904098670017 Himalayan Bank, Tridevi Marg, Thamel SWIFT: HIMANPKA DAVID WRIGHT COUNTRY DIRECTOR SAVE THE CHILDREN

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AUTOLIFE

TEST DRIVE

TATA SAFARI STORME

BEAST REFINED THEY SAY THERE IS ALWAYS CALM BEFORE THE STORM. BUT WHAT ABOUT GETTING THROUGH THE HAVOC AFTER A STORM? WE EXPERIMENT WITH NEW TATA SAFARI STORME TO SEE IF IT’S THE ONE THAT CAN GET YOU ACROSS. WORDS & PHOTOS: AL REVIEW TEAM

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E

ver since its introduction back in 1998 as India’s first 4x4 SUV, the Tata Safari has managed to garner a cult following. From the road to its appearance in numerous Bollywood flicks, the Safari has had an enviable image not just in India and elsewhere, but in Nepal as well. But in the fourteen years of its existence, the Safari had only undergone a few facelifts and updates.

Finally here is a major overhaul with the arrival of the Tata Safari Storme.

EXTERIORS A quick glance at the new Safari Storme and you’d be forgiven for thinking its same old model because the exterior dimensions are almost similar. But a closer look would reveal that the car has undergone some significant changes to make it look fresh. The most obvious changes are at the front. The front gets a large chrome strip atop the slim and wide grille that blends into the sharp looking projector headlights. The bonnet is flatter and the edges sharper. The side profile www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

carries the old Safari styling, but looks more mature and evolved with the new roof rails and spoiler. Another change to the exterior is the elimination of the tailgate mounted spare wheel. The spare wheel has now been moved under the floor and the result is a cleaner rear profile with the chrome bar in the middle, a new set of tail-lights and dual chrome-tipped sporty exhausts. However if you are more of the old school SUV opinion and seek the traditional tailgate mounted spare wheel, Tata Motors has it sorted with an aftermarket offering to mount the spare wheel on the tailgate.

Overall, the Safari Storme doesn’t look all new with the facelift updates. However, there’s no getting away from the fact that the Tata Safari Storme retains that burly and majestic road presence of an SUV.

INTERIORS Inside, there’s very little that has been carried over from the older Safari. The

centre panel is all new, while the steering wheel comes from the Aria. The instrument console however still does not have a multi information display and the only extras you get is two trip-meters, digital clock, external temperature display and a low fuel indicator that glows on when the tank has 10 litres of fuel remaining. Aluminium dashboard inserts on the LX variant and faux wooden inserts in the VX variant give a rich feel to the interiors. Fit and finish of the interiors has improved and the quality of plastic and leather used is quite good. But the front fascia does look a bit incomplete with the minimalist straight forward design. The placement of the fuel lid switch on the power window switches is also a bit weird as most owners will end up accidentally opening the fuel lid when accessing the power window switches. The audio system is another simple affair with a USB, Aux-In and Bluetooth compatible single din system. While the Storme’s interiors are an improvement on the Safari, they could have been better as in the Tata Aria.

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THE STORME IS A BIT LETHARGIC OFF THE LINE, BUT ONCE THE TACHOMETER QUICKLY CLIMBS PAST THE 1800RPM MARK, THE TURBO KICKS IN AND THE VEHICLE STORMS AHEAD WITH A FAIR AMOUNT OF ENTHUSIASM. 42

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Space has always been the Safari’s forte and the Storme is no exception.

There is a generous amount of space in the cabin. There are proper spacious seats for five with an additional two jump seats at the rear.

The large glass areas add to the roominess of the cabin. The last row of seats can be folded to make room for a lavishly sized boot.

PERFORMANCE Once in the driver’s seat, the first thing that you notice is the high seating position. With the lack of seat height adjust option in the lower LX variant we test drove, getting used to the high seating position does take some time. However, visibility is perfect with a commanding view of the road ahead. The Safari Storme uses an updated version of the Dicor motor, which Tata now calls VariCOR, because of the use of a variable geometry turbocharger. This 2.2-litre common-rail motor delivers 138 bhp of power and 320 nm of torque, which is same as the old Safari, but has been tweaked to offer quicker response.

The Storme is a bit lethargic off the line, but once the tachometer quickly climbs past the 1800rpm mark, the turbo kicks in and the vehicle storms ahead with a fair amount of enthusiasm. Performance is good with the mid range packing in a lot of punch and cruising is quite effortless. The clutch is reasonably light and the gearbox has been improved with shorter throws. The turning radius has been substantially reduced as well and it’s much easier to navigate U-turns and tight spots on the Storme which is now based on a completely new platform of the Aria. Out on the highways, the Storme gets going around fast, but there is a fair bit of body roll when charging through the corners. The brakes work just fine, thanks to the disc brakes all around assisted with ABS and EBD on all variants. Overall, the ride is very refined and comfortable.

Unfortunately, the higher 4x4 VX variant was still in transit at the time of our review. So we didn’t have the opportunity to genuinely fear www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 43

THE 200 MM OF GROUND CLEARANCE WAS MORE THAN SUFFICIENT TO GET OFF-ROAD WITHOUT KISSING ITS UNDERBELLY AND THE STORME RODE OVER BUMPS AND BROKEN ROADS WITHOUT BREAKING A SWEAT.

nothing and challenge everything with the lower variant 4x2 Safari Storme handed over to us. But in spite of the limitation, we didn’t skip the fun and took it easy. Even with just the 4x2 mode at our disposal, we took it for a little off road stint. The 200 mm of ground clearance was more than sufficient to go off-road without kissing its underbelly and the Storme rode over bumps and broken roads without breaking a sweat. The suspensions flattened out even the largest of potholes. The top-end 4x4 VX model should definitely impress off-road enthusiasts, as the Storme retains the old Safari’s comprehensive four-wheel-drive system that includes a low range and a limited-slip differential. The system is now easily engaged by using a central console-mounted 4WD dial and features Electronic Shift-On-Fly technology, enabling engagement of the 4x4 or 4X2 mode on the move.

It’s behind the wheel that you realise just how much of an improvement the new Storme is over the previous Safari. It feels better built, more refined and rides really well.

VERDICT Things have certainly got better with the Safari Storme and comes across as a quantum leap ahead of the previous Safari. Sure it’s a bit low on features and may not be right there with more notorious offroaders, but is a capable driver on and off the road that will easily keep on to their tail. On top of that, compared to the competition, it’s available at a price to beat. From a practical point of view, it’s pretty obvious that most buyers aren’t going to venture off the road with their prized possession and ever going to need the 4WD drive. So the lower 4x2 LX variant is a great bargain at Nrs. 37,85,000 only. But if you are the kind whose behavioural code of conduct matches with the Storme’s “Fear Nothing Challenge Everything” tagline, the 4x4 VX model is there to get you across most unimaginable terrains.

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SPECIFICATIONS Engine Type: 16 Valve DOHC VTT VariCOR Displacement: 2179cc Fuel Type: Diesel Maximum Power: 138 Bhp @ 4000 rpm Maximum Torque: 320 Nm @ 1700-2700 rpm Transmission: 6 Speed Manual Drive Type: RWD / 4WD DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT Length: 4655 mm Width: 1965 mm Height: 1922 mm Wheelbase: 2650 mm Ground Clearance: 200mm Tyre Size: 235/70 R16 Suspension Front: Independent Double Wishbone Type with Coil Springs

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Suspension Rear: 5-Link Suspension with Coil Springs Brakes Front: Ventilated Discs Brakes Rear: Ventilated Discs Curb Weight: 2555kg (LX) | 2650kg (VX) Fuel Tank: 55L PRICE RANGE: Safari Storme LX: NRs. 37,85,000/Safari Storme VX: 51,85,000/ALTERNATIVE CHOICES: Hyundai Tucson, KIA Sportage, Mahindra XUV 500, Mitsubishi ASX, Skoda Yeti, SsangYong Korando, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Volkswagen Tiguan CONTACT: Sipradi Trading Pvt. Ltd Teku, Kathmandu, Nepal Ph No: 4250610 | 4250612 www.sipradi.com.np

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AUTOLIFE

ROAD TRIP

DRIVING t hrough

NEPAL on a

RANGE ROVER

EVOQUE

BORIS AND HELENA DRIVE FROM EUROPE TO ASIA ON A RANGE ROVER EVOQUE AND SHARE THEIR EURASIA 2013 EXPERIENCE THROUGH NEPAL WORDS AND PHOTOS: BORIS HAGENEY & HELENA GRBA

EURASIA 2013

This adventure is basically about seeing some 30 countries on 2 continents, getting to know the people, their cultures and habits. For us snobbish, spoilt and decadent Westerners it is also a very healthy chance to get down, get real, disconnect from our current lives. Combining the many places to visit in Europe and Asia had made it clear quickly that we would need a car to see them all, and ultimately the idea of this overland drive was born. So here we are on the road, driving on a Range Rover Evoque.

We made it into Nepal from India through the border at Bhairawa on 12th July, 2013.

As soon as we entered the country we felt

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something had changed. The litter all over the place had disappeared, nobody unnecessarily rang the horn of his car, most drivers looked around before moving and it felt more relaxed, peaceful and calm over here. We enjoyed the hour’s drive over the fields towards Lumbini with the peasants working on their land, buffaloes bathing in water and family riding on bikes. How laid back, no rush, no fighting on the street, no chaos and suicide attempts in front of our car! We reached Lumbini in the last hours of sunshine and ended the day with a visit to the garden complex around the birthplace of Buddha. We still didn’t totally believe the peace on the road, but the Nepalese do seem to drive normally in a civilised way.

After the stopover in Lumbini, the next day we entered the Siddhartha highway for our drive towards Pokhara via Tansen. As we started our ascent into the hills, we were amazed by the countryside. The mere sight of hills and mountains was so refreshing and the temperature dropped as we climbed up slowly.

The road was good, with occasional landslides or potholes. We admired the hills in lush jungle vegetation, the rocks covered with light green fern and the waterfalls. We drove silently soaking up the impressions. We also turned off the air conditioning and opened the windows for the first time in weeks! It felt great. The road winded up the hills, passing many small villages as we reached Tansen, a sleepy mountain town where we stopped to buy some food and fruits. The houses of the

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“AS IT STARTED TO GET DARK, THE ROAD NARROWED, THE TRUCKS STARTED SLOWING DOWN, AND THE CARS AND MOTORBIKES CONVERTED THE WHOLE THING INTO A MOUNTAIN RACE” old part of town reminded us of the mountain villages in Switzerland and Spain with their low ceilings, plenty of wooden elements, white and inclined walls. The woodwork had a distinctive style and ornament though.

At around lunchtime we reached Pokhara, the lake city. Unfortunately the sky was full of clouds, and we couldn’t see any mountains.

It stayed like that throughout the day. We came to Nepal to admire the Himalayas, the highest mountains in the world, and couldn’t see any so far! So after lunch we fuelled up and continued towards Kathmandu. The roads changed and lead through a much larger, broader valley than the one in the morning.

But just after a couple of kilometres the road was closed. A small car had hit a concrete pole at the side of the road and it had fallen on the car. After almost half an hour the road was free again and we drove on for several hours admiring the jungle on the lush mountains around us. As it started to get dark, the road narrowed, the trucks started slowing down, and the cars and motorbikes converted the whole thing into a mountain race. The darker it got, the more aggressive the race. Until at some point everybody stopped in the middle of a mountain slope beyond Naubise, in pitch black night. We turned off the engine, opened the hood to cool the car, and waited outside trying to understand what had happened. Within minutes kids selling water and food came walking through the waiting cars. Then at some point, everybody got into their cars again and drove on, as if nothing had happened.

At around 8:30pm we reached Kathmandu.

It was dark and we didn’t see much with the air filled with dust and smog. We somehow found our way to the Dwarika’s Hotel and www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

that revealed to be a gem. The buildings and courtyards were mostly old Nepalese construction, beautifully restored, a mix of bricks and dark wood. Plants, flowers and water was everywhere, from the pool to the fountains to little decorative basins. We opted for a quick dinner in the Japanese restaurant and had our first sushi on this journey. We then called it a night and decided to discover more of this place tomorrow.

After several days of early bird mornings, today we took it easy. Reading and blogging at breakfast, we planned what to see in Kathmandu today. There were plenty of sights in and around the city, and many UNESCO listed places. So we set out to find out the real face of the city. At noon we left for the Boudhanath stupa, a huge temple in the northern side of town. The road through the city was not too interesting, with heavy

traffic and plenty of fumes from the exhausts of all kinds of vehicles. The stupa, the biggest in the world, was in contrast very beautiful.

The sky was getting dark with heavy rain clouds, giving the eyes of the stupa an impressive look, framed by many lines of colourful flags blowing in the wind. People walked around the temple, rolling the prayer rolls and the air was filled with the smell of incense. We walked around too, admiring the stupa and the old houses of the square.

As we left, the first rain drops started to fall. By the time we were back on the road, it rained heavily as we drove through the intense Kathmandu traffic again.

Our next stop was the Swayambunath or the monkey temple. We put on our rain ponchos as we left the car and started climbing up the steep steps to the temple. These steps are one of those cases where a religion really wants

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to test the faith of the people! By the time we reached the last trees, we saw only one monkey. That must have been probably put there to justify the name of the place.

Given the heat and little rain, we took off the ponchos at the ticket booth. We were wetter from sweating then we probably would have gotten from the rain. At the booth I paid the 400 rupees fee with a 1000 rupees bill, and got a 100 rupees bill back.

It is incredible how these tricks are applied on tourists in all parts of the world. The guy didn’t even excuse himself after he gave me the missing 500 rupees bill. Anyway, the panorama of Kathmandu from the temple terraces was amazing.

Having read about a place famous for its momos, the local variety of dumplings, we got hungry and drove into Thamel, the downtown district popular with travellers.

We made it through the narrow roads and even found a parking place. Then we took a walk through the streets, with tourist shops left and right selling clothes, souvenirs, tours, fabrics. We passed a communist protest march without trouble.

Thamel is still quite hippie, it smells of incense and the atmosphere seemed quite retro to us. We found the Yangling Tibetan Restaurant finally on the first floor of an anonymous building overlooking Freak Street, and ordered momos of course, steamed and fried ones. Delicious!! As we ate, we realised we had finally found ourselves back to our discovery mode, walking through towns, enjoying eateries and talking to people. Since we had entered India, we hadn’t done this anymore.

After buying some souvenirs for us and friends we walked back to the car and tried to find our way out of Thamel. As we

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kept looking for directions and followed city traffic, suddenly we found ourselves in the middle of Basantapur Durbar Square. For once traffic congestion was a good thing, since we had time to admire the many impressive buildings, temples, statues. This place was a sudden overdose of impressions. We parked the car, got the camera and walked back to check out the place more in detail. This part of town is still mainly medieval built, and over crowded with people. Still amazed we got back into the car. We had time for another sight, and decided to escape the crazy traffic and go to see Bhaktapur, a town just outside Kathmandu and with a UNESCO listed another Durbar Square. We underestimated traffic, and got lost on the way too. We arrived in darkness, parked the car at the foot of the old town and walked up the hill. Unfortunately there was very little light and we could admire only few of the beautiful medieval buildings. But this place was a jewel!

“AS WE KEPT LOOKING FOR DIRECTIONS AND FOLLOWED CITY TRAFFIC, SUDDENLY WE FOUND OURSELVES IN THE MIDDLE OF BASANTAPUR DURBAR SQUARE”

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“AS THE ROAD CLIMBED INTO THE JUNGLE COVERED MOUNTAINS, CURVE BY CURVE WE LOST THE PRESSURE AND STARTED RELAXING, ENJOYING THIS BEAUTIFUL MOUNTAIN HIGHWAY” Exhausted from the day, we drove back to the hotel, and indulged in an excursion through fine Nepalese cuisine at the Dwarika’s signature restaurant. The nine course meal offered us an insight into the richness of the local specialities. We found the use of spices more moderate then in India, and in some cases we liked the Nepalese taste better, sometimes the Indian. This made us debate the dishes and closed this day full of impressions in a very tasteful way.

Since we didn’t manage to see the Himalayas in Nepal so far, we decided to resort to extreme measures to verify if this country really had the highest mountains in the world. So we took the mountain flight to check out the world on top of the clouds hanging low over the Kathmandu valley. After several delays for the flight, the boarding finally started.

The wait was totally worth it as we flew past the mountains and enjoyed the cockpit views of the mighty Mt. Everest standing before us.

What a sight! But when we landed back in

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Kathmandu, we were already running late.

Still amazed by the flight, we hurriedly set out of Kathmandu for our return journey.

We left the main highway to Pokhara, from which we had come, to take the Tribhuvan Highway through the mountains to the border with India. We were pretty much alone on this road. Although we were in a hurry to reach the border early, as the road climbed into the jungle covered mountains, curve by curve we lost the pressure and started relaxing, enjoying this beautiful mountain highway. We passed several small villages, saw the kids come back fromv school, peasants at work on the fields, and climbed up to 2488m altitude shortly after the village of Daman.

Hungry, we stopped for lunch at a village where we had seen an eatery as we drove by.

And indeed, at what revealed to be a bus stop, a metal pot full of momos waited for us at the entrance. We had some, then a noodle soup, and then more momos since they were sooooo tasty, with their spicy sauce!

After passing through Hetauda, we arrived hours late at the Nepal-India border in Birgunj, due to the delays in the mountain flight, heavy traffic in Kathmandu, and a more complicated road through the mountains than expected. We had almost no Nepalese cash left and, with the bleak possibility of finding a gas station in Nepal that accepted credit cards, we reached the border on a pretty much empty fuel tank.

No sooner were we across, the traffic flow increased, the driving style faded into Indian-aggressive and chaotic, the use of the horns increased, dust and litter appeared… We could feel India reaching out for us again.

WE ARE STILL ON THE ROAD. FOLLOW US ON: www.eurasia2013.com

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AUTOLIFE

QUIZ

WIN QFX

cinemas tickets POWERED BY

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1 NAME THE VINTAGE BIKE RESTORATION OUTFIT FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE? A. RS MOTO B. ROLAND SANDS DESIGN C. ORANGE COUNTRY CHOPPERS D. RAJPUTANA CUSTOM MOTORCYCLES 2 BORIS AND HELENA FROM EURASIA 2013 DROVE THROUGH NEPAL FROM EUROPE IN WHICH FOUR WHEELER? A. BUGATTI VEYRON B. RANGE ROVER EVOQUE C. FERRARI LAFERRARI D. MERCEDES G63 AMG 6X6 3 THE HIGHLIGHTS OF WHICH AUTO SHOW THAT IS GOING TO BE HELD IN NEPAL IN SEPTEMBER 2013 HAS BEEN PUBLISHED IN THIS ISSUE? A. EICMA B. INTERMOT C. NADA AUTO SHOW D. FRANKFURT MOTOR SHOW 4 WHICH SUV IS ON THE COVER OF THIS MONTH’S AUTOLIFE? A. TATA SAFARI LIGHTNING B. TATA SAFARI THUNDER C. DESERT SAFARI STORME D. TATA SAFARI STORME 5 WHICH CYCLING EVENT FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE HAD HUNDREDS OF CYCLISTS RIDING AROUND A CIRCUIT FOR A CHARITABLE CAUSE? A. KATHMANDU KORA CYCLING CHALLENGE B. KATHMANDU CHARITY RIDE C. KATHMANDU BORA CYCLING CHALLENGE D. NEPAL DONATION RIDE 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.

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Call us at: 4428504 facebook.com/AutoLifeNepal 58 AUTOLIFE AUTOLIFE 58

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AUTOLIFE

TEST DRIVE

URBAN SPORTSTAR WE TEST DRIVE THE HIGHEST VARIANT OF THE 1.0L ECOBOOST POWERED FORD ECOSPORT AND FIND OUT ON HOW IT NOT ONLY MAINTAINS A STRONG STANCE IN ITS SEGMENT BUT EASILY TOWERS ACROSS OTHER SIMILARLY PRICED SEGMENTS AS WELL. WORDS: AYUSH DHAUBANJAR | PHOTOS: AL REVIEW TEAM

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verybody loves a winner. Don’t we all? Of course, most of our politicians are an exception to this statement as every other winner usually turns out to be the same old incumbent corrupt loser. Now let’s not drift away into the dirty facade of politics and rather stick to the much more exciting world of motoring. With soaring fuel prices and global warming, efficiency is now the way to go in the automobile industry. But fuel efficiency is usually the last thing on your mind when you have a SUV on the top of your list. However, Ford’s all new compact crossover SUV EcoSport begs to differ and is here to change this trend. So are we actually looking at a winner in this one of the most anticipated vehicle of 2013?

EXTERIORS Ford has given the car an edgy look with their kinetic design language and maintained most of the aspects as first seen in their concept vehicle unveiled at the 2012 Indian Auto Expo.

The EcoSport looks great all around especially with the huge mouthed muscle car like Ford grille up front and the smooth flowing car like aerodynamic silhouette towards the rear.

Special attention to details in the design can be seen as in the chrome housing around the fog lights, wrap around rear window, stylish alloy wheels, bumper integrated reverse lights and the tailgate handle hidden in the tail-light.

The roof rails along with the tail gate mounted spare wheel and the high clearance complete the SUV facade.

Overall, there is possibly very little to not like in the exterior styling of the Ford EcoSport.

INTERIORS With the smart keyless entry system in the top Titanium+ variant that we test drove, getting into the EcoSport is a quick affair.

The doors automatically unlock at just a press of the small black button in the door handle without having to take the remote out of your pockets. Inside, the cabin is as good as the exterior and the dashboard design will easily hit the right chord with consumers with its stylish and futuristic layout. Talking about features, the highest variant comes loaded with pretty much everything that you’d seek in a premium vehicle. Ford’s

FORD ECOSPORT

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OVERALL, THERE IS POSSIBLY VERY LITTLE TO NOT LIKE IN THE EXTERIOR STYLING OF THE FORD ECOSPORT

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REGARDLESS OF WHERE YOUR ADVENTURES TAKE YOU, THE FORD ECOSPORT IS MORE THAN EQUIPPED TO ENSURE THAT YOUR SAFETY IS NEVER COMPROMISED.

award winning Microsoft SYNC technology, an integrated in-vehicle communications and entertainment system, seamlessly connects your Bluetooth and USB devices so you can make and receive calls, play your favourite songs, or have your text messages read out to you.

Just say the voice commands and the SYNC does the rest. Controls and knobs are ergonomically placed while seats are soft enough for comfort and firm enough for longer journeys. The quality of material is good and fit and finish is definitely the best in segment.

As far as cabin space goes, there’s enough legroom and headroom for most, but the passengers sit very closely to each other due to the narrow cabin space inside. The Ford EcoSport has 20 practical storage spaces, including a laptop compartment below the front passenger seat and a cooled glove box that can store up to six beverage cans. Boot space though at just 346 litres, can be extended to 705 litres with the 60:40 rear seats folded down.

SAFETY Regardless of where your adventures take you, the Ford EcoSport is more than equipped to ensure that your safety is never compromised.

With Reverse Park Assist, Antilock Brake System, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, front passenger and side curtain Airbags, the EcoSport offers complete protection. About half of the urban SUV’s body structure is made up of high-strength steel and ultrahigh-strength steel, such as boron steel, making the Ford EcoSport’s frame strong and yet lightweight too. Advanced safety technologies such as Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Hill Launch Assist are also available, but in the automatic transmission variant only.

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The SYNC system also incorporates an intelligent Emergency Assistance program that automatically connects your paired phone to an allotted emergency number during a crash and sends over a voice message and GPS co-ordinates to a fixed emergency operator number (108). GO Ford is currently working with Telephone operators to activate this service in Nepal.

PERFORMANCE The main highlight of the EcoSport is its new “2012 International Engine of the Year” EcoBoost engine. The Ford EcoSport is also available with another 1.5-litre petrol engine and a 1.5-litre diesel fuel-efficient engine.

Anyways, the top-end Titanium variant of the Ford EcoSport we drove featured the revolutionary 1 litre three-cylinder turbocharged EcoBoost petrol engine. Wait, don’t be let down by the small displacement.

Though using 20% less fuel than a traditional 1.6 litre petrol engine, this turbocharged engine is actually capable of delivering power like a 1.6 litre motor, with 123 bhp of power and 170 nm of torque.

Thumb the starter button and the refined three cylinder motor starts spinning immediately. In spite of the engine being

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turbocharged, there is hardly any noticeable turbo lag in the lower RPM’s. The EcoSport feels very easy to drive in the everyday urban setting thanks to the smooth electric powerassisted steering coupled with the SUV like towering view and compact dimensions. The light clutch and the short throw gearbox is another joy. Use that slick shifting 5-speed manual gearbox correctly and you will be rewarded with a satisfying forward thrust.

The EcoSport’s suspensions has been set up on the stiffer side and thus inspires the driver to speed up around the highway corners with minimum body roll. The cabin is extremely quiet at high speeds, thanks to meticulous efforts to reduce noise, vibration and harshness. Add to this the spot on braking system and very effective climate control system, and the occupants easily feel safe and comfortable in the Ford EcoSport.

Though it does well to absorb our kind of bumpy sections on the road, the ride quality does take a beating over rough and broken roads. But should you ever have to venture off the road, the front-wheel drive EcoSport is capable enough with 200mm of ground clearance, an approach angle of 25 degrees, departure angle of 35 degrees and 550mm of standing water wading capacity. The only thing missing here is a 4×4 drivetrain

like in the Brazilian version. Sure most of would hardly go on to truly exploit its 4WD capabilities, but would it have been great to at least have it offered as an option for those who could make use of it?

The EcoSport boasts of class-leading fuel efficiency with the revolutionary 1.0L EcoBoost claiming to deliver 18.9 kmpl, 1.5L TDCi at 22.7 kmpl and the 1.5L Ti-VCT at 15.8 kmpl.

VERDICT You are literally spoilt for choices with the EcoSport offered in 10 variants across 4 trims, 3 engine options and 7 colours. So we are pretty sure that the EcoSport will not only set a new benchmark in its segment, but with its massive appeal will stand as a strong alternative for similarly priced cars in other segment as well. It’s a stunning urban compact SUV with an exciting value-formoney proposition and Ford clearly has a winner here.

So the concern now isn’t really whether the Ford EcoSport will sell or not! With waiting periods extending as long as nine months in India itself, the question now is how long will prospective customers in Nepal have to wait?

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SPECIFICATIONS Engine Type: TDCi EcoBoost Petrol Ti-VCT Displacement: 1498cc (Diesel) 999cc (EcoBoost) 1499cc (Petrol) Fuel Type: Diesel | Petrol Maximum Power: 89 Bhp @ 3750 rpm (Diesel) 123 Bhp @ 6000 rpm (EcoBoost) 110 Bhp @ 6300 rpm (Petrol) Maximum Torque: 204 Nm @ 2000-2750 rpm (Diesel) 170 Nm @ 1400-4500 rpm (EcoBoost) 140 Nm @ 4400 rpm (Petrol) Transmission: 5 Speed Manual | 6 Speed PowerShift Automatic Drive Type: FWD DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT Length: 3999 mm Width: 1765 mm

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Height: 1708 mm Wheelbase: 2520 mm Ground Clearance: 200 mm Tyre Size: 195/65 R15 | 205/60 R16 Suspension Front: Independent MacPherson Strut Suspension Rear: Semi-Independent Twist Beam Brakes Front: Ventilated Discs Brakes Rear: Drums Curb Weight: 1290kg (Diesel) 1259kg (EcoBoost) 1268 kg (Petrol) Fuel Tank: 52 L COLORS: Mars Red, Chill, Moondust Silver, Kinetic Blue, Sea Grey, Panther Black, Diamond White PRICE RANGE: Ford EcoSport Ambiente (Diesel) : NRs.34,50,000/Ford EcoSport Trend (Diesel) : NRs.36,90,000/-

Ford EcoSport Titanium (Diesel) : NRs.40,90,000/Ford EcoSport Titanium+ (Diesel) : NRs.42,90,000/Ford EcoSport Titanium (EcoBoost) : NRs.37,90,000/Ford EcoSport Titanium+ (EcoBoost): NRs.39,90,000/Ford EcoSport Ambiente (Petrol) : NRs.28,50,000/Ford EcoSport Trend (Petrol) : NRs.30,90,000/Ford EcoSport Titanium (Petrol) : NRs.35,90,000/Ford EcoSport Titanium AT (Petrol): NRs.39,90,000/ALTERNATIVE CHOICES: Daihatsu Terios, Geely LC Cross, Kia Soul, Mahindra Quanto, Premier Rio CONTACT: GO Automobiles Pvt. Ltd Thapathali, Kathmandu, Nepal Ph No: 4244254 | 4257001 www.ford.com.np

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PROMOTES

ALIVE and KICKING RAAJIB SAYAMI RESTORES VINTAGE MOTORCYCLES WITH AN ENHANCED RETRO STYLING THAT COULD HARDLY GO WRONG WITH ANY GENERATION PHOTOS: SARA HOLCOMBE | SARAHOLCOMBE.COM

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Remember the time when your Dad first put you on the tank of his motorcycle and you revelled to the sublime thrill of having the wind hit your face. Sure you can now ride about on your own in your modern motorcycle for that regular dose of adrenaline.

But what about that vintage motorcycle Dad first took you around in? If you are fortunate, it must still be lying in your backyard like a fallen hero and gathering rust. So how about getting it out and running?

They say, “The machine you sit on tells the world where you exactly stand.” Just one look at the vintage rides that have been restored

by RS MOTO, an outfit led by the 29 year old Raajib Sayami, and you immediately realize how one could easily stand apart straddling on to their custom re-built motorcycles. A musician and photographer by profession, we had a little chat with this motorcycle enthusiast for more on RS MOTO.

bring it to me. We’ll discuss what’s in your head, your vision for the bike and then the rest is all on me. I’ll give you my ideas and we’ll reach somewhere in the middle. This is how beautiful bikes are born.

AL: Do you work on the motorcycles all alone?

RS: I design them and I work with specialists for help to build the bikes from scratch. I do a little bit of everything. But to build the bike, different kinds of tools are required and I can’t afford to have them all. So I work with various people to build my dreams into reality.

AL: How did this interest to restore classic motorcycles begin?

RS: It was an obvious evolution. I only know that I’ve loved motorcycles and riding them since my childhood. We have a great history of classic motorcycles in Nepal.

But due to the lack of spare parts and the difficulty of finding a capable mechanic with sound expertise, most of these vintage rides remain in a sorry state of affairs. Basically, I was never fascinated by any bikes of my era that you find in the local market. So I started hunting down the bikes I admired while growing up. Sadly these days, most of those classic bikes have become junk

AL: Where is your garage located?

RS: Basically, at the moment, I don’t own a garage.

AL: So let’s say, I have a vintage motorcycle that I want to restore. Now what is the process to get a job done through you?

RS: So you have a bike. Great! If I think I can work on that particular bike you just have to

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bikes. It’s taking off for half a day without a plan, just to ride. In time, I hope to have a space that encourages this kind of community.

PEOPLE DON’T WANT OLD AND DEAD MOTORCYCLES. BUT I’M GIVING THEM LIFE, BRINGING BACK THEIR OWN RETRO STYLE.

in backyards as people don’t want old and dead motorcycles. But I’m giving them life, bringing back their own retro style with a different dimension and giving Nepal an exclusive look at the custom motorcycle world. So here I am, still looking for them because that’s what fascinates me.

AL: How many motorcycles have you restored and which work of yours do you consider the best restoration experience in terms of the output achieved?

RS: So far I have already restored 4 bikes – a 1974 Honda CB100, a 1968 Honda CL77 305cc, and two 1982 Honda CG 125cc.

I am currently working on 3 more bikes.

But I still haven’t found what I’m looking for. It always feels like I’m one day closer to something that will really make me feel good and happy.

AL: Are all types of vintage motorcycles restorable?

RS: As far as I can say, if there are people around the world restoring it, I can do it too.

It’s just a matter of time and where there’s a will, there’s a way.

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AL: Roughly, how long does it usually take to restore a vintage motorcycle from scratch?

RS: It depends upon which bike you’re working on, how much you want to invest and how much you want it customized. Some bikes take a month or two and some take years.

AL: What else have you been planning for further progress of RS MOTO? What is your ultimate goal with RS MOTO? RS: I want to have my own space which is well stocked with everything that I need to work on my bikes, so that I don’t have to run around and depend on everyone to get work done. I’m learning and slowly I’ll have everything at my shop so that I can build bikes on my own and in my own space. I want to create a culture and community around bikes. It’s more than just riding a bike. It’s drinking coffee and talking for hours about

AL: One good reason why any rider should own a classic motorcycle rather than a brand new modern machine.

RS: I don’t have any good reason. Old machines are not junk if you know how to take care of them. They need patience and most of them are far more superior in so many ways compared to the machines you see all over the streets of Kathmandu. KTM streets are getting over-flooded with vehicles.

But my machines will stand out against the crowd. They’re one of a kind. I work with the owners to design something they visualize in their head and something I would also be happy to call my own.

AL: Can you provide us any sort of contact for our readers to reach over you?

RS: Basically, this is my passion. It’s still a hobby now and I have yet to think of this as a business in my life. As of now, I’m

only building bikes for family and friends.

Updates on our progress can be viewed in RS MOTO’s official Facebook page ( facebook. com/rsmotoKTM) and if you have any questions about our process you can reach us at: rsmotokathmandu@gmail.com.

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TEST DRIVE

MAHINDRA QUANTO

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COMPACT RUNNER

MAHINDRA TRIES TO GET THE BALL ROLLING IN A COMPLETELY NEW SEGMENT WITH THE QUANTO. BUT ARE THEY ROLLING IT IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION? WORDS: YONTEN YONJAN | PHOTOS: AL REVIEW TEAM

The segment of compact crossover SUV’s is the latest trend among automobile manufacturers and consumers alike. They not only offer the versatility of an SUV, but make life easier as well with its compact dimensions for an urban set up and fuel efficient nature. Mahindra is not a new company to the world of SUV’s and the Quanto here is their first take on this fast evolving segment. So how does the Mahindra Quanto fare?

EXTERIORS Being based on the Xylo, the front of the vehicle looks almost identical with just minor changes to the grille. From the side though, it oddly stands tall and the 15 inch wheels seem slightly small. Where the Quanto looks totally different is from the back. Mahindra has done justice by mounting a spare wheel to give it the feel of an off roader, but the abrupt cut off of the rear end does not really blend well with the overall design. Bigger wheels and lowered body height could have made the Quanto look more aggressive and sportier.

Looks are subjective, but the Quanto is a simple looking vehicle and could have been made more attractive with a few modifications.

INTERIORS The spacious enough to swallow a hatchback statement by Mahindra totally makes sense when you step inside the large and roomy cabin.

Though the driver’s seat height adjuster was a bit tricky to use, options like the large foldable armrest makes seating super comfy and the middle row too gets lots of space. Small touches like flip up tray tables in the front seatbacks try to add to the feeling of luxury. In spite of

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SPECIFICATIONS

the smaller dimensions outside, the Quanto is surprisingly equipped with a 2+3+2 seating configuration. But the third row with its narrow spacing is more suitable for storing luggage and other travel items. With the third row of seats folded up, the Quanto offers about 300 liters of boot space.

The dashboard is another straight lift from the Xylo. The instrument cluster has clear and easy to read dials. The main console consists of a speedometer, engine temperature gauge, engine run time and a fuel gauge. There is another secondary multi info Digital Drive Assist System (DDAS) display, which shows information like date & time, inside/outside temperature, instant mileage and others while on the move. The top-spec Quanto C8 we drove featured power windows, manual air conditioning unit, 2 din audio system with MP3 and aux connectivity, reverse-parking sensor, tilt adjustable steering, rear window demister and three mobile charging points. Cabin quality though does not feel premium enough and there are a few rough edges.

SAFETY Mahindra has fortified the Quanto with many safety features. The top variant includes SRS airbags, Anti-Lock Braking System coupled with EBD, speed sensing automatic

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Engine Type: mCR100 Common Rail Displacement: 1493cc Fuel Type: Diesel Maximum Power: 100 Bhp @ 3750 rpm Maximum Torque: 240 Nm @ 1600-2800 rpm Transmission: 5 Speed Manual Drive Type: RWD

BUT POWER DELIVERY IS LINEAR AFTER THAT AND THE MID-RANGE POWER OF QUANTO IS QUITE DECENT AND PERFECT FOR URBAN COMMUTING. Door Locking, Clutch Lock System (to prevent accidental starts), Intellipark reverse assist system, engine immobilizer and Body over frame chassis construction which makes the ride quieter with more road noise insulation and easy reparability.

PERFORMANCE Under the bonnet is a 3-cylinder 1.5 litre common rail motor with a twin stage turbocharger. This engine churns out a maximum output of 100bhp @ 3750 rpm and a torque of 240Nm @ 16002800rpm coupled with a five speed manual transmission on a rear wheel drive.

At idle, it almost feels like a smooth four

DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT Length: 3985 mm Width: 1850 mm Height: 1880 mm Wheelbase: 2760 mm Ground Clearance: 180 mm Tyre Size: 205/65 R15 Suspension Front: Independent Double Wishbone Coil Springs Suspension Rear: Five Bar Link Coil Springs Brakes Front: Discs Brakes Rear: Drums Curb Weight: 1640 kg Fuel Tank: 55L COLORS: Fiery Black, Java Brown, Mist Silver, Toreador Red, Rocky Beige, Diamond White PRICE RANGE: Quanto C2: Nrs.29,50,000/Quanto C4: Nrs.31,75,000/Quanto C8: Nrs.35,90,000/ALTERNATIVE CHOICES: Daihatsu Terios, Ford EcoSport, Kia Soul, Premier Rio CONTACT: Evolution Automobile Pvt. Ltd Babarmahal, Kathmandu, Nepal Ph No: 4227068 | 4261622

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cylinder with the refined diesel engine. The initial pick up is a disappointment though as it needs some pushing around till the 1500rpm mark for the twinstage turbochargers to kick in. This can be especially felt when trying to climb up an uphill stretch of road as you find yourself shifting gears frequently and revving the engine. Also there are minor rattling noises of the engine when the motor is revved up. But power delivery is linear after that and the mid-range power of the Quanto is quite decent and perfect for urban commuting.

The power steering is light in making maneuvering inside the traffic carnage of Kathmandu convenient but it will need more commitment when cornering in highways. The Quanto is not really a great handler when in the highways and turns are best taken slowly. The tall stance with the soft suspension makes fast drives bouncy with lots of vertical movement and

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body roll. Nevertheless, the suspension must be appreciated for its ability to easily soak in bumpy roads. Equipped with discs at the front and drums at the rear, braking is good enough.

Fuel efficiency figures are a claimed 17.21 kmpl according to ARAI.

VERDICT Mahindra raised the bar for themselves in the crossover SUV scene with the introduction of their stylish and feature packed XUV500. But sadly, the Quanto does not quite match up to these expectations. And with the almost similarly priced Ford EcoSport now setting the benchmark in this segment, the Quanto looks outdated and leaves a lot to be desired.

Though you can’t simply ignore the massive cabin space and refined motor, the Quanto’s simple plain looks and limited features are sure to split opinions. Maybe Mahindra should now look over to the XUV500 for inspiration rather than the Xylo and get the ball possibly rolling in their favor.

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

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HAMRO BAZAR

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CYCLIST

ne of the most dangerous mountain bike events in the world, the legendary Megavalanche is a race that takes place in the French resort of Alpe d’Huez.

Very appropriately named, it is a mass start downhill race and is over 25 km long with nearly 3,000 m of vertical descent. Starting at 3300m on a high alpine glacier in the French resort of Alpe D’Huez, upwards of two thousand riders battle it out, shoulder to shoulder, over snow, technical single-track and an arm burning descent. Riders from many different riding backgrounds line up on equal terms, some hoping to use their athletic power and endurance and others their technical downhill skills.

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The Megavalanche is a race with a fearsome reputation to those who haven’t done it, and to those who have done it too.

Although it ranks high on every mountain biker’s bucket list, very few make it there and qualify for the main event. This year,

amongst the sea of mostly European qualifiers, Mandil Pradhan, the man behind Himalayan Rides, participated in this prestigious event, thus becoming the first Nepali ever to do so.

AL: How long had you been planning to participate in the Megavalanche race?

MP: I had been planning to spend a summer mountain biking in various locations around Europe since about a year ago. But the participation in the Megavalanche was only finalized in February. I was working on my summer calendar and happened to be in a nearby town in France the week before the Mega. I thought about it for a few more days, and decided to get in touch with the organizers. A couple of emails later my entry was confirmed.

AL: So how was your Megavalanche experience?

MP: I had spoken to a few people who had raced the Mega before and also watched plenty of videos. So I had a fair idea of what to

expect. However, it was only when I showed up at the Alp D’Huez a week before the race and completed my first practice run that I came to realize the actual scale of gnarl of this event. The race course was probably the most technical trail I have ever ridden. It was slick, fast, steep and very very long. And when you combine this with the glacier, frozen ice and a mass start of 400 riders, it was the perfect recipe for disaster. The videos don’t do it full justice, neither do the stories. It was just an out-of-the-world insane experience that makes most mountain bike races feel like a stroll in the park.

I managed a good clean run to finish 36th out of 400 riders in my qualifier heat, and thus qualified. But the focus on race day was simply on survival. I was feeling pretty confident, but when you’re standing on top of a 3,000 meter high glacier, with 400 other riders, with the sounds of the Alarma soundtrack playing on loud speakers on full volume and 2 helicopters flying over your head, you are bound to lose your sanity no

mandil pradhan‘s crazy ride :

MEGAVALANCHE AND BACK! POPULAR ADVENTURE CYCLIST MANDIL PRADHAN BECOMES THE FIRST NEPALESE RIDER TO COMPETE AT THE MEGAVALANCHE 2013 RACE IN FRANCE

Photos: Friedrich Simon Kugi | Ydwer Van Der Heide | Agencies

THE MAYHEM AT THE MEGAVALANCHE MASS START 78

AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013

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matter who you are. The whole experience was epic and I feel privileged to have ridden with some of the world’s best riders.

AL: Do you now plan to venture more into competitive cycling?

MP: To be honest, it’s pretty late in my life for me to pursue a competitive career. On top of that, being in Nepal, there is a lot more practicality in running tours than being a professional racer. I wouldn’t mind participating in a couple of races every year, but it would be for personal challenges and the fun of it rather than to make a career in competitive racing.

AL: You did some more riding at Europe.

Tell us about it.

MP: On the week before the Megavalanche, I competed in the Enduro World Series at Les Deuz Alpes. Although not as widely known as the Mega, the EWS is a lot more prestigious and is considered to be the world championship for Enduro mountain biking. Almost all the top riders in the world were racing at the event and it was a very special experience. In preparation

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for the two big events, I had done a week of riding in the Scottish Highlands and North Wales in the United Kingdom, and a week in the Alps bordering France and Switzerland. After the Mega, I went over to the Italian Alps for a few days before spending a week in Slovenia in Eastern Europe.

IT WAS SLICK, FAST, STEEP AND VERY VERY LONG. AND WHEN YOU COMBINE THIS WITH THE GLACIER, FROZEN ICE AND A MASS START OF 400 RIDERS, IT WAS THE PERFECT RECIPE FOR DISASTER. AL: From your overall cycling experience around Europe, how different is it from what you have been doing here in Nepal?

MP: Riding in so many different places in Europe was an awesome experience, and very different to what I’m used to at home.

Most of the trails I rode in Europe were purpose built riding trails that were very fast and flowy, whereas back home I ride mostly

natural trails that are steeper and more technical. Access to the trails in Europe was a lot easier due to the set up of cable cars and chair lifts so that you could make the most out of each day, whereas in Nepal, it is more difficult yet a more rewarding experience. Also, the experience of riding with hundreds of other riders on the same mountain was fantastic, and something I wasn’t used to.

AL: How much of a possibility do you see in Nepal playing host to such globally popular cycling competitions in the future?

MP: There are huge potentials for Nepal to host world class events such as the Enduro World Series and Megavalanche. I had the privilege of meeting a lot of people at the events I participated in, including race organizers, sponsors and professional riders, and there is definitely a lot of interest in Nepal right now. It will be a logistical challenge and will require support from the administration, but the Himalayas could potentially be the most perfect arena for the world’s biggest mountain biking events.

AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 79

AUTOLIFE

FEATURE

N

THE 8TH EDITION OF THE NADA AUTO SHOW SHOULD BE A GREAT DAY OUT FOR THE FAMILY, AS PROMISED.

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

September to the 15th of the same month.

This year the exhibition will move ahead with its exclusively new conceptual slogan ‘Day out for the family’. The exhibition will be so designed that it offers a comfortable and fun filled day out experience for a family, group and individual visitors.

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

In order to make the exhibition more informative, service friendly and consumer oriented there will be stalls of banks, after sales services, insurance, auto magazines and newspapers. In around 100 stalls and blocks, the participating national and international brands will be from Nepal, India, China, Korea, Japan, America, Germany and Czech Republic. Different participatory and interactive programs such as Talk Show, Quiz, Traffic information, Live Corner etc. will be carried out throughout the exhibition.

Since 1998, NADA has been organizing the one and only running auto show in the country dubbed as the “NADA Auto Show”. The biennial event was converted to a yearly happening since last year and auto-enthusiasts have not complained about the increased regularity. This year they are organizing the 8th edition of their premier event “NADA Auto Show” which is scheduled to take place from the 11th of

80

AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013

Last year, car companies like Maruti Suzuki, Tata, Kia, Ford, Hyundai, Chevrolet, Volkswagon, Mitsubishi, Mahindra, Ssangyong, Perodua, Fiat and Great Wall Motors had showcased their products.

Similarly, motorcycle companies Honda,

Suzuki, Yamaha, Bajaj, Hyosung, Demak, Piaggio and Hartford also graced the expo with their latest offerings. Many auto components and lubricants companies also had their stalls up at the expo. The manufacturers also provided spot-financing and insurance facilities to lure the general visitors. Around 200 units of four-wheelers and more than 100 units of motorcycles were sold during this 5-day expo.

This year the exhibition will have a fun zone for children, food stall, well managed parking and mobile restroom for the comfort of the visitors.

24-hours security guards will be deployed within the exhibition premises. The exhibition will be insured to safely come across any unseen/ accidental disorder during the exhibition.

The exhibition is believed to incite the festive mood among the visitors and potential customers by bringing in almost all the available brands in Nepal under a single roof.

The exhibition will be of an international class and is expected that around 50000 guests and auto enthusiasts from all over Nepal will visit NADA Auto Show 2013.

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NADA 2012 HIGHLIGHTS

Bajaj featured their Pulsar 200NS and Discover 125 Sports Tourer (ST) and got the crowd’s attention with their innovative stage.

Maruti Suzuki occupied their usual position at the vantage location in the entrance with their freshly unveiled Ertiga and the new Dzire.

CG Automobiles had also introduced CG Moto Corp Inc, as a new wing to their company that will deal with customizations of Maruti Suzuki vehicles only.

Chevrolet paraded their then new arrival: the new Captiva. And it was good!

Fiat broke through with their Punto.

Ford went all out with their new Ranger, Focus, Kuga, Figo and Fiesta.

Honda Motorcycles brought out their big guns: the Hornet CB600F, CB1000R, CBR1000RR.

Honda Cars had the City, Brio and Insight on display.

The GT250N, GT250R, RT 125D and GV650P filled up the open Hyosung arena.

Ranging from the evergreen Santro, i10, i20, Eon, Accent, Sonata, Elantra to the robust Tucson and Santa Fe, Hyundai sure did not miss out on anything.

KIA Motors showcased its might at the expo with its entire range from the Picanto, Rio, Soul to the Sportage elegantly parked up parallel to each other.

KTM Motorcycles had occupied a small corner at the expo but made sure they grabbed maximum attention with a stock Duke 200 and another customized version of the same.

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AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 81

Dugar Brothers and Sons unveiled their allnew Sunny sedan in the expo along with the formidable Nissan X-Trail and the executive sedan Nissan Teana.

Royal Enfield motorcycles proudly stood out besides the Nissan booth and reminded everyone of their timeless historical market presence.

Skoda Auto justified its position as a premium Czech brand with the all rounder Yeti, elegant Laura, luxurious Superb and multiple colour variants of the Fabia and Rapid on display.

Subaru Forester marked its sole presence at the Subaru stall.

Suzuki’s stall had their commercial as well as premium products on display.

SYM had on display the aggressive Wolf SB250 Ni, the spunky scooters Jet 4 and Orbit II and the city rider cub Magic.

TATA had a well designed all-white booth with the popular Nano displayed on a separate ‘Nano Studio’ in a physically customized form.

CG Automobiles, the authorized distributor of TVS motorbikes had their products displayed inside an elevated stage like platform.

The Vento and Polo added further appeal to Volkswagen’s extravagant range.

The Yamaha stall was well designed and the new FZ and the R15 graced the stall along with the YZF R6 and the XJ6.

The latest variant of the Tiguan and its larger brother Touareg was the crowd puller at the Volkswagen booth.

As promised, the Tata Manza stood a class apart.

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AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013

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LED Display Screen

Exchange Rate Screens

Automatic Swing Gates Sliding Gates Automation

Automatic Sliding Door

Road Barrier Automation

Automation System.

LED Technology.

Electric Bike.

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

MECH Engineering & Trading Pvt. Ltd.

37/35 Kamalachhi, Ason, Kathmandu Tel: 01-4240781, 9841058489 E-mail: mech.nepal@gmail.com, automation.newtech@gmail.com

AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 83

AUTOLIFE

GEARS & ACCESSORIES

VR46

MERCHANDISES

Valentino Rossi is one of the most popular Moto GP riders that there has ever been. Valentino Rossi is also loved by most for his colorful character and the same can be seen in his wide variety of VR46 merchandise range. In Rossi's trademark yellow with vibrant Rossi logos and designs, the VR46 Valentino Rossi merchandise range includes riding gears, T-shirts, caps, hoodies, accessories, etc.

Have a look at some of these cool ones.

46 Fleece, $68.00

46 Monster Polo, $57.00

46 Monster Trucker Cap, $35.00

46 Neck Tube, $14.40

46 Wallet, $18.40

2013 Dual Beanie, $29.00

Blue 46 Bandana, $7.20

AGV Pista GP Soleluna 2013 Limited Edition Helmet, $999.99

2013 Dual T-Shirt, $39.00

84

AVAILABLE AT: www.vr46.it | www.revzilla.com

AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013

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I Love VR T-Shirt, $31.20

iPhone 5 - The Doctor Cover, $26.40

Monster VR46 T-Shirt, $41.00

Dainese VR46 Leather Jacket, $699

The Doctor Flip Flops, $15.20

VR46 MTB, $1,985.00

Woman 46 Flowers Fleece, $84.00

Doctor’s Motorbike T-Shirt, $41.00

Dainese VR46 Sport Gloves, $127.45

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

AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 85

AUTOLIFE

BOOK REVIEWS

Ten consecutive thousand-mile days on two wheels in a mental race against imponderable odds and a ceaselessly ticking clock. That's the legendary Iron Butt Rally for you. Against the Wind is a riveting book, written by sixthplace 1995 finisher Ron Ayres, telling the story of what many call the most grueling test of human endurance in all of motorcycling.

With guts and shear will power, riders must overcome (or succumb to) fatigue and danger, calling upon human reserves buried deep within. Ayres reveals the innermost thoughts of a successful contestant and lets us share the anticipation, the thrill, the fatigue, the heartbreak, the euphoria, and ultimately the controversy of completing this merciless trial.

More than the mere mechanics of making it through the eleven-day ordeal, Ayres describes the elegant strategy necessary to be a contender. You'll discover what motivates the riders, how the rally is scored, what takes place each day, how the routes are planned, and what it's like to ride to the very limit of endurance, and then ride some more. It's an incredible journey most of us would rather enjoy from our easy chair, and now we can with this first-rate book.

Juan Manuel Fangio’s name is indelibly inscribed in the record books and many consider him to be the greatest driver in history. It was 46 years before his record of five World Championships was beaten. But even now he is still remembered for an exceptional Formula 1 career which contained some of the greatest displays of skill and daring ever seen. Few though know of his almost superhuman exploits in epic South American road races that made competition at the pinnacle of motor sport seem like child’s play. Gerald Donaldson chronicles not only those arduous early competitions but also his long journey from humble origins in remote Argentina to the lofty heights of international celebrity.

Tomato Rodriguez hops on her motorcycle and embarks on the ultimate sea-toshining-sea all-girl adventure - a story that combines all the best parts of Alice in Wonderland and Easy Rider as Tomato crosses the country in search of the meaning of life, love, and the perfect post office. By the time Tomato rolls into San Francisco, she has visited post offices galore, tried using a mantra to give herself a lobotomy, decided to sleep with men, decided not to sleep with men, prayed for a bisexual role model, and figured out that that she is whatever she makes up that day. Flaming Iguanas is a hilarious and unique first novel that combines text, line drawings, rubber stamp art, and a serious dose of attitude.

adrenaline filled rides reads Gifted with a rare blend of superior ability and unshakeable nerves, Michael Schumacher is an outstanding Formula One driver of our generation. Over the past 15 seasons he has won an unprecedented seven world drivers’ championships and in the process has captured the imagination of fans all over the world. For all his success, Schumacher is also a controversial figure, feared for his ruthless tactics and despised for using extreme methods in pursuit of success. From his first Grand Prix with Jordan to his Benetton world championships and his attempt to win back Ferrari’s crown, this is a thorough and engaging look at Schumacher’s entire racing career. The story behind Schumacher’s record five consecutive world titles is uncovered, and his impact on the racing world as a whole following his retirement is examined.

Frank, honest, and adroit, this is an in-depth look at the life and career of a champion.

86

AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013

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Man of Steel

Releasing on: June, 2013 Madras Cafe Genre : Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Sci-Fic Director : Zack Snyder Cast : Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Russell Cast : John Abhraham, Nargis Fakhri, Ayushmann Khurrana Crowe Synopsis:An A child sent to Earth from Synopsis: Indian Intelligence agentajourneys into a war torn coastal island dying planet is adopted by a couple rural a deeper conspiracy by a faceless to break a resolute rebel group, only toindiscover Kansas.

Posing as a journalist, he uses enemy united to seize a common nemesis his - India. extraordinary powers to protect his new home from an insidious evil.

Director: Shoojit Sircar

Monsters University Releasing on: July 2013

planes 3d Genre : Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy Director Director: Klay Hall : Dan Scanlon

Cast : Nathan Fillion, John Goodman, Steve Buscemi

Synopsis Mike Wazowski and James P. Sullivan are an Cast : Val Kilmer, Teri:Hatcher, Brad Garrett, Julia Louis Dreyfus

inseparable pair, but that wasn’t always the case. From the

moment these two mismatched monsters met they couldn’t Synopsis: Dusty is a cropdusting plane who dreams of competing in a famous aerial race. The problem?

He is“Monsters hopelessly University” afraid of heights.

Withthe thedoor support stand each other. unlocks to of his mentorhow Skipper host ofovercame new friends, sets offand to make his Mikeand andaSulley theirDusty differences became dreams comethe true. best of friends.

After Earth Releasing on: June, 2013 Genre : Action | Adventure | Sci-Fi Percy Sea of Monsters DirectorJackson: : 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 Cast : Logan Lerman, Alexandra Daddario, Jeff Goldblum home. Legendary General Cypher Raige returns from an extended tour of duty his estranged ready to haven, be a father to of hisPoseidon 13-year-and his Synopsis : Intoorder to restorefamily, their dying safe the son old son, Kitai.

When an asteroid storm damages Cypher and Kitai’s friends head into the Sea of Monsters to find the mythical Golden Fleece. craft, they crash-land on a now unfamiliar and dangerous Earth. As his father lies dying in the cockpit, Kitai must trek across the hostile terrain to recover their rescue beacon. His whole life, Kitai has wanted nothing more than to be a soldier like his father. Today, he gets his chance.

Director: Thor Freudenthal

World War Z Satyagraha

Releasing on: June, 2013

Director: Prakash Jha

Genre : Action, Drama, Horror, Sci-Fic, Thriller

Cast :Director Kareena :Kapoor, Arjun Rampal, Amitabh Bachchan, Ajay Devgan Marc Forster

Cast: Brad Pitt, James Badge Dale, Mireille Enos

Synopsis: The :film dealsNations with the movement of Lane the middle-class Synopsis United employee Gerry traverses theto renegotiate democracy. the story a man is a firm believer of Gandhian world in a raceIt’s against timeofto stop who the Zombie pandemic that is principles, an ambitious entrepreneur who represents the modern toppling armies and governments, and threatening to decimateIndia shining philosophy, a social activist who aims to be a politician, a fearless humanity itself. political journalist and a wily politician who uses every means to break the system. softrock.com.np | fb.me/TNM.Magazine www.softrock.com.np | fb.me/AutolifeNepal

August 2013 61 AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 87

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 August 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

29,75,000 to 32,00,000

1991

5M

119

314

190

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Aveo

24,99,000 to 29,90,000

1399

5M

92

127

165

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Beat 1.2

20,80,000 to 25,25,000

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 LT

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

88

18,99,000 to 23,99,000

1399

5M

68

160

150

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

43,50,000 52,00,000

2499

5M

81

266

NA

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

All New Fiesta (AT) Petrol

38,99,000 to 41,50,000

Kuga 2.5

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

AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013

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

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

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 August 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

80,96,000

Santro GL+

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

Sonata GL

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

Tucson GL Petrol

57,96,000 1998 6M 177 382 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Elantra GLS

49,96,000 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 August 15, 2013 89

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 August 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 Picanto 1.2 EX I

24,99,000

1086

5M

64

97

NA

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Rio N/B 1.4L LX

32,99,000

1399

5M

94

125

NA

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Y

N

N

N

Sorento 2.2L MT Diesel

84,99,000 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

62,49,000 - 73,99,000

1998

6M

177

392

NA

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

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

XUV500

53,00,000 to 29,60,000

2179

6M

140

330

NA

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

N

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 52,00,000 2477 NA 135 NA 175 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Double Cab Outlander

90

AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013

85,00,000

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

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

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

Cubic Capacity (CC)

TECHNICAL Pajero GLS 3.2 V6

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY

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

90,00,000 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.

Price (NRs)

Updated August 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

71,90,000 to 73,90,000

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

53,49,000 to 56,49,000

1798

7A

118

250

225

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Yeti 2.0

61,90,000 to 63,90,000

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)

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AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 91

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 August 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

25,95,000 to 26,95,000

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

25,45,000 to 29,25,000

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 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 Rav 4 Auto

97,80,000

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

THE WORLD’S

NO. 1

92

MULTIPURPOSE LUBRICANT AUTOLIFE August 15, 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

Yaris Sedan

54,50,000

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

Updated August 2013

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY

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

Constant Business Group Pvt. Ltd, Naxal Tel: 2297455

ZOTYE Models Zotye Nomad II 1.5L 24,75,000

1500 5M 105 135 145 N Y N N N 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 August 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 August 15, 2013 93

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 August 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

94

AUTOLIFE August 15, 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 August 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 August 15, 2013 95

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 August 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

96

AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013

1,59,888

124

8.5/7000

9.8/5000

AUTO

N/A

N/A

780

1250

160

110

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

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)

Price (NRS)

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

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

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

Cubic Capacity (CC)

Updated August 2013

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

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

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60/6100

AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 97

98

AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013

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

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

AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013 99

100

AUTOLIFE August 15, 2013

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