Motoring April 2014 by The Malta Independent

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The Malta Independent on Sunday • 27 April 2014

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José Mourinho takes delivery of F-Type R Coupé as Jaguar launches R Performance Network eries production of the new Jaguar F-TYPE Coupé is now underway at the company’s Castle Bromwich manufacturing facility. New Jaguar UK ambassador and sporting icon José Mourinho has now taken delivery of the first F-TYPE R Coupé to be specified for a UK customer, which was presented by two Jaguar manufacturing employees at a private event in London.José Mourinho takes delivery of F-Type R Coupé as Jaguar launches R Performance Network New Jaguar F-TYPE Coupé begins series production at Jaguar’s manufacturing facility in Castle Bromwich, Birmingham Two Jaguar manufacturing employees present José Mourinho with first UK customer-specification F-TYPE R Coupé Jaguar launches a network of 20 specialist R Performance Centres at selected UK Jaguar dealers Series production of the new Jaguar FTYPE Coupé is now underway at the company’s Castle Bromwich manufacturing facility. New Jaguar UK ambassador and sporting icon José Mourinho has now taken delivery of the first F-TYPE R Coupé to be specified for a UK customer, which was presented by two Jaguar manufacturing employees at a private event in London. José Mourinho’s new F-TYPE R Coupé was personalised according to the exacting tastes of football’s master tactician. Specification highlights of Mourinho’s FTYPE R Coupé include Stratus Grey Metallic exterior paint, 20-inch Gyrodyne Black and Diamond Turned Wheels with Red brake calipers, Panoramic Glass Roof and a 12-speaker Meridian Surround Sound System.

Speaking at the handover event, José Mourinho said: “I am very proud to now own the new F-TYPE R Coupé. It was an honour to receive this spectacular sports car from the gentlemen responsible for building it and I would like to thank the Jaguar team at Castle Bromwich for producing such a wonderful car.” Two members of the Castle Bromwich manufacturing team, Gary Johnson and Steven Gaut, were invited to present the car to José Mourinho. Steven Gaut was given the opportunity in recognition of his exemplary contribution at Castle Bromwich, and his tireless support of local charities for whom he has raised over £60,000 in recent years. He was joined in presenting the car by Plant Quality Manager Gary Johnson. Steven Gaut said: “It was exciting to deliver a vehicle that I have personally had a hand in producing to Mr. Mourinho. We take immense pride in building Jaguar cars at Castle Bromwich, and this has been a special reward for producing some of the most beautiful and capable cars in the world.”

Jaguar launches network of R Performance Centres across the UK The new F-TYPE R Coupé is the ultimate expression of Jaguar sports car DNA, and joins a Jaguar product line-up which now features R or R-S-branded products across every nameplate in the Jaguar model range.* To mark the first deliveries to customers of the new F-TYPE R Coupé, Jaguar has launched a network of 20 specialist R Performance Centres at selected dealerships across the UK.** Jaguar dealerships throughout England, Scotland and Wales now offer customers

specialist product knowledge and aftersales care, dedicated to Jaguar cars wearing the famous ‘R’ badge. Jaguar customers will be able to drive the cars on test routes designed by professional drivers, giving them the opportunity comprehensively experience the dynamic attributes of the exciting Jaguar ‘R’ model range. Every new Jaguar R Performance Centre will soon be equipped with iPads loaded with applications that offer users access to technical information, performance data and interactive media covering every ‘R’ model in the Jaguar range. Jaguar dealers in the UK are also able to offer expert guidance to the recentlylaunched R-Sport trim option, which is available across the XF range. The R-Sport package of design and performance enhancements is now available to order with a highly efficient version of Jaguar’s

2.2-litre turbodiesel engine, which produces just 129 g/km CO2. Jaguar UK Marketing Director Ken Forbes said: “The Jaguar R brand is iconic, having shot to fame when XJR-9 won the Le Mans 24 hours race in 1988. Now we have a full range of visually dramatic, dynamically rewarding performance cars and a specialist network of retailers to bring customers closer to these products. “As well as offering outstanding support to buyers and owners, later this year we’ll be introducing a selection of circuit-based driving activities for Jaguar ‘R’ product customers, meaning they will be able to explore the limits of their car and driving skills in a safe and exhilarating environment.” Details of the new network of Jaguar R Performance Centres are available to view here: http://www.jaguar.co.uk/experiencejaguar/r-performance-centres.html.

The Malta Independent on Sunday • 27 April 2014

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Running on LPG fuel: we test a converted Hyundai i20 S Text & photos by John Peel

The Hyundai i20 test vehicle

The LPG fuel tank in lieu of spare wheel

Ssangyong receives high recognition for quality he Rexton W ranked the second best offroad SUV in a road test conducted by Auto Bild Allrad, a SUV focused German magazine affiliated with leading German auto magazine Auto Bild. In Ireland, Ssangyong’s Korando Commercial (a van version derived from the Korando) was named Continental Irish

Commercial SUV of the Year 2014 by the Irish Motoring Writers' Association (IMWA), and meanwhile Ssangyong’s sales in Europe has highly increased by more than 70% from a year earlier. Lee Yoo-il, CEO of Ssangyong Motor, commented, “We keep seeing a sales uptrend in the domestic and export markets based on the main models’ great quality”.

urely we have all heard of cars running on ‘gas’, actually Liquefied Petroleum Gas or LPG for short, referred to as ‘autogas’ when used as vehicle fuel. We have also probably noticed the odd fork lifter here and there with a household gas cylinder strapped at the rear. What most of us have not thought about though is can I convert my vehicle and what are the cost and future savings involved. Another issue held dear to car enthusiasts is will it harm the engine or will performance deteriorate. What, exactly, is LPG? LPG is a liquefied mixture of hydrocarbon gases that burns relatively cleanly and with no exhaust remnants, emitting 10-12% less CO2 and 53% less nitrogen oxides than petrol. It also costs roughly half the cost of unleaded petrol whilst fuel economy is similar, therefore saving in total 40-50% from your current fuel expenditure. After being invited by Waldorf Auto Service Centre to test drive a fairly new Hyundai i20 that was recently converted I concluded the afternoon convinced that LPG will save money, help the environment, actually benefit the engine’s life expectancy, and noticed no drop in performance. Waldorf Auto Service Centre has established an exclusive representation agreement with Italian LPG specialist brand IMEGA, one of the most respected producers of LPG kits in the market. With its 6000 sq m production plant in Arezzo and a full-dedicated research and development centre and training facilities, IMEGA is led by a management that enjoys over 30 years of experience in this sector. The IMEGA brand is therefore acknowledged as Italy’s leading

LPG injectors and harness

LPG kit producer. An LPG conversion requires a secondary fuel system added to your car with its own seperate and independent fuel tank which is usually fitted in the spare wheel’s cavity in the car’s boot or underneath the vehicle, depending on the model. The tank is filled with LPG gas via a hose and a dedicated filling point, just like normal petrol and diesel vehicles. The LPG kit, a sequential phased injection system developed by IMEGA will therefore consist of a small fuel switch which is installed in the car’s dashboard or centre console, to indicate when the car is running on LPG and the level of gas in the tank, and a pressure and map sensor. The quality of IMEGA’s components and the innovative

LPG switch and gauge

Oil container and feeder for valve protection

electronic management, allow a significant reduction in consumption while maintaining excellent LPG performance. I was pleased to have been given the chance to confirm this personally. Performance is hardly effected when the system is switched over to LPG. I say hardly because I noticed no drop in power however hard I pushed the vehicle but after conducting further inquiries I learned that there is in fact a slight drop of around 2% in bhp – hardly noticeable. IMEGA’s system is a technologically advanced and state of the art product, compliant with the strict Euro 4 and Euro 5 anti-pollution directives whilst the simple, intuitive calibration procedure and few electric connections, make installation a relatively fast and straightforward procedure. Driving the car was no different than any other. Apart from the small 2 x 2cm square changeover switch / LPG gauge nothing changes inside. After the conversion the car can be driven normally on unleaded fuel or LPG at the touch of this button. One still has to fill both tanks and start a cold engine on unleaded switching over to LPG on the fly without any slowing down or loss in power. If LPG runs out the

system will immediately switch over to the unleaded fuel automatically and your LPG gauge will flash red (empty). What are the pros of converting one’s car at the Waldorf Auto Service Centre? WASC does the conversion at a standard rate of €1200 whatever the model. Prices elsewhere are similar but customers here enjoy a more professional service by specifically trained technicians, and whilst some promise to do the service in 24 hours, WASC does not believe in hasty jobs yet

the car is still returned within 48 hours. An LPG conversion will not affect the warranty of the car and the performance of the vehicle will remain practically untouched. LPG kits are shipped upon order, directly by IMEGA in Italy and therefore, real quality is safeguarded and guaranteed at all times. The current Government subsidy of €200 applies on all LPG installations. I concluded that according to my yearly average outlay in

petrol costs I would be breaking even in just under two years should I take the plunge and ‘convert’. After that period I would be saving close to 50% of all fuel costs and should I decide to sell that particular car I am pretty sure that apart from holding a better value over identical cars in a similar condition without the LPG kit the car would definitely sell quicker. The only drawback I could foresee is the loss of the space allocated for the spare wheel, yet if I look back I can only recall needing that spare wheel once in the past eight years and most new cars on the market are being sold without them anyway!

LPG filler nozzle uncovered

LPG filler nozzle (closed)

The Malta Independent on Sunday • 27 April 2014

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Renault Captur: the urban crossover that will change The new MINI: more everyday lives innovations, more

aptur is Renault ‘s first urban crossover: it stands out from the crowd by delivering the best of three different worlds: • The expressive styling and driving position of an SUV, • The cabin space and modular interior of an MPV, • The agility and driving experience Renault Captur’s smooth, fluid, balanced forms express an assertive yet unostentatious personality. Its robust, status-enhancing look takes its inspiration from theCaptur concept car, from which Renault has carried over both the spirit which guided its design, as well its evocative name. The lines of Renault’s new crossover are perceived as unpretentious, yet the forward position of its steeply-raked windscreen emphasises its dynamic stance. The combination of its compact volumes, raised ground clearance,

large-diameter wheels and sill guards will enable it to take every aspect of everyday motoring in its stride. Renault Captur will be easy to customise and notably comes with an original two-tone colour scheme which produces an attractive contrast between the roof and pillars and the rest of the body work. Despite its compact footprint (length: 4m12), Renault Captur exudes a real sense of interior space which is underpinned by the forward position of its windscreen and its generous interior dimensions. Its exclusive, colourful cabin is warm and relaxing, and this first impression is reinforced by a selection of interior customisation solutions founded on a choice of colours and motifs for the different trim features. For further enquiries about any of the Renault Range of vehicles please contact Kind’s, Mosta Road Lija, on tel 21433601/2 www.renault.com

space, more driving fun he latest generation of the MINI is once again a pioneer of individual style, premium quality and high-end technology. The evolutionary refinement of its design, entirely new engines and innovative driver assistance systems make the new MINI more athletic, efficient, expressive and progressive than ever before. The car's characteristic go-kart feeling is now enhanced with optimised ride comfort, adjustable dampers being offered as an optional extra for the first time. More interior space, optimised functionality and detailed refinements in terms of material and finish likewise reflect the maturity of the latest generation. All four seats of the new MINI tangibly increase freedom of movement and the luggage compartment has been expanded by 30 per cent. A new display and

operating concept, innovative driver assistance systems and the latest MINI Connected features also allow even more intensive interaction between driver and MINI. And the new MINI is the first automobile in its class to be fitted with LED headlamps and a HeadUp Display. There will be a choice of the models One, OneD, MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S at the market launch. Both can be fitted with either the standard 6-speed manual transmission or the optional 6-speed automatic transmission according to preference. The new MINI is one thing above all: a car with even more MINI about it. The new-generation model has made significant advances in every area when it comes to driving fun, quality and individuality. The new MINI Hatchback has just been last week at the newly

refurbished Aftersales Area of Muscats Motors. Muscats Motors together with BMW Malta organised a fantastic launch where they unveiled the latest MINI model and introduced Gianni as MINI’s official Brand Ambassador in Malta to all their MINI friends. As part of this Brand Ambassador programme Gianni received a MINI Countryman designed with KISS stickers to compliment his passion for the band. The event was in cooperation with General Soft Drinks for Coca-cola and Stella Artois, Logic International, Monster Energy and Chase. To book a test drive and experience this new innovation or for further information please visit our website http://www.mini.com.mt or, contact the MINI sales team at Muscats Motors, the official MINI dealership in Malta, on 23264505 / email esaliba@mml.mizzi.com.mt / dsissons@mml.mizzi.com.mt

Opel deals you can’t dare to miss! ars International haveamazing offers in store for buyers eyeing the good German quality of Opel cars. For the month of April, discounted prices are offered on Opel Corsa, Astra and Astra GTC in stock. The Opel Corsa not only starts at an affordable €11,700, buyers will also benefit of double the scrap value on certain models. The Opel Corsa is popular for its dynamic design, versatility and driving excitement. Better referred to as the fun car, the Opel Corsa adds an extra dimension to leisure in everyday life. On the other hand, the Opel Astra, starting at €15,200 and offering double the scrap value on certain models, has all the star

qualities of an Opel car: great looks, an athletic body and amazing performance. Filled with groundbreaking technological innovations and featuring Opel’s award-winning new design language, the Astra takes the compact class to a new dimension. What makes Astra special is that it drives as dynamically as it looks. It connects the driver to the road through great steering and a superb suspension. It boasts responsive and efficient engines and the result is an exhilarating driving experience. The Astra GTC, starting at €19,990, and offering €1,000 worth of accessories on certain models, has the ultimate interpretation of a sporty 3-door hatchback for everyday use. The

Opel Astra GTC combines urban chic with a desirably sporting interior and real driving satisfaction. Cutting edge engine and suspension technology deliver a performance that really moves driver and passenger, while indepth safety adds extra confidence to every journey. Great looking, compact and surprisingly practical, the Opel Astra GTC is the grownup sports coupe. Pop over to the Opel showroom at Cars International in Mdina Road, Qormi, to see what models are in stock or book a test drive by sending an email to opelsales@cil.com.mt or by calling 2269 2122. To learn more about Opel models visit opel.com.mt or the Facebook page Opel Malta. The offers mentioned are only valid until end of April.

The Malta Independent on Sunday • 27 April 2014

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Hyundai Motor partners European initiative to fuel hydrogen-powered mobility • Partnership reinforces commitment to delivering sustainable future mobility • Funding secured for delivery of ix35 Fuel Cell vehicles in six European cities • HyFIVE project will support viability and uptake of fuel cell vehicles yundai Motor aims to deliver 75 units of its pioneering hydrogen-powered ix35 Fuel Cell as part of the largest ever panEuropean fuel-cell passenger car project. The Hydrogen For Innovative Vehicles (HyFIVE)

project, funded by the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking, will see deliveries made in Bolzano, Copenhagen, Innsbruck, London, Munich and Stuttgart. President of Hyundai Motor Europe, Byung Kwon Rhim attended today’s launch of the new initiative at London’s City

Hall, and set out the company’s commitment to developing and delivering mobility solutions that are innovative and sustainable. Hyundai Motor is the world’s first car manufacturer to assembly-line build hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles. As part of the project, the existing pan-European refuelling infrastructure will be expanded significantly, providing greater choice and convenience to early adopters of fuel cell electric vehicle technology. President Rhim, on the launch of the project in London, commented: “Hyundai Motor has been a world leader in the development of hydrogen fuelcell technology since 1998, and

this latest partnership will help to further raise awareness of hydrogen power as a long-term transport solution. By delivering more vehicles for use on Europe’s roads, we will work with the other project partners to advance the awareness, understanding, viability and uptake of vehicles such as ix35 Fuel Cell.” The multi-million Euro HyFIVE project is being managed by the Greater London Authority. Partners include vehicle manufacturers BMW, Daimler, Honda and Toyota, and industrial gas companies Air Products, Copenhagen Hydrogen Network, ITM Power, Linde and OMV. Other signatories include

energy consultancies and the European Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking. In total, the project aims to deliver 110 fuel-cell vehicles from the five manufacturers, including 75 from Hyundai Motor. Hyundai Motor has already supplied examples of the ix35 Fuel Cell to customers in Denmark, France, Germany, Sweden and the UK. The ix35 Fuel Cell emits only water from its tailpipe and is fitted with a 100 kW (136 ps) electric motor, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of 160 km/h. A pair of hydrogen tanks, located between the vehicle’s rear wheels, enable the vehicle to travel up to 594 km on a single fuelling.

Pollution worries? Toyota Hybrid range offers a comprehensive solution s of late both the UK and France woke up to government pollution alerts. The elderly and those with respiratory diseases were advised to stay indoors while pollution levels hit new highs across parts of both countries. Studies show that a significant contributor to NO2 emissions in Europe is diesel engine powered vehicles. Toyota has pioneered a technology to assist in answering to this particular issue. Emissions from Toyota hybrid vehicles (Auris, Yaris and Prius) – which cobine a conventional petrol engine to an electric motor – contain no particulates, very low levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx), including nitrogen dioxide, and emit lower levels of CO2 than equivalent powered diesel engine rivals. Extolling the many benefits of hybrids, Michael Debono Ltd’s Marketing Manager Jonathan Cremona, said “Diesel-engine vehicles are a major source of

harmful pollution – despite using catalytic converters and filters, which are expensive to buy and

service. With a petrol full hybrid, particulate emissions are entirely eliminated and NOx levels are

on average a tenth of the diesel limit set by the forthcoming Euro 6 legislation.”

Toyota wants to highlight its hybrid’s ability to run entirely on electric at low speeds and cleaner exhaust emissions. Cremona continues:”Malta like all other European countries needs to improve its air quality. Our message is that you don’t need to be radical; instead you can quit harming the environment for good by choosing petrol hybrid over diesel. The right choice is a vehicle that minimises damage to lives, health and the environment. Thankfully, in the case of petrol hybrids, that choice also makes complete economic sense and is available today as now Toyota is the only car maker who is able to offer hybrid vehicles in different car segments, these being the popular Yaris, Auris and Prius models.” For more information on Toyota Hybrid vehicles and the Toyota line-up visit the Toyota showroom situated in Mdina Road Zebbug log on the Toyota Malta Facebook page or call on 2269 4000.