Motoring March 2014 by The Malta Independent

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The Malta Independent on Sunday • 30 March 2014

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Toyota i-Road hits the streets in first public trials oyota has launched the first public trials of its ultra-compact i-Road electric three-wheeled “personal mobility vehicle” to find out how it shapes up in the cut-and-thrust of real-world urban driving. Consumer testing in Tokyo has started to run from the 24th of March through to early June, with 10 of the single-seater vehicles taking to the city streets. The 20 people involved in the programme range from industry experts through to members of the general public, so that Toyota can gain a wide range of feedback on what i-Road is like to drive, how easy it is to use around town, how it affects people’s decisions about what journeys to make and driver satisfaction. The vehicles are based on the concept versions shown at last year’s Tokyo motor show, but with adjustments to improve visibility, ease of use and maneuverability. Its compact, slim shape and 300kg kerb weight make i-Road as nimble to handle in traffic as a scooter, but with car-like stability thanks to its two-at-the-front-one-at-therear wheel configuration and a clever, Toyota engineered leaning attitude when cornering. More research into i-Road’s potential as a valuable addition to community-based transport networks is under way in Toyota City, where it has recently been introduced into the experimental Ha:mo low carbon

urban transport project. It is also coming to Europe this year with two-seater models set to take part in a vehicle sharing programme that will operate in the French city of Grenoble over the next four years. For more information on Toyota and its products visit the Toyota showroom situated in MdinaRoad, Zebbug, log on the Toyota Malta Facebook page or call on 2269 4000

Debono Commercials will be organizing a visit to the CeMAT Intralogistics fair and issuing free tickets to potential customers organising a visit to the fair and issuing free tickets to potential customers. With over 1,100 exhibiting companies and more than 53,000 international trade visitors, CeMAT is the perfect global platform for discovering new material handling solutions and reinforcing relationships. For Toyota this is an excellent opportunity to discuss and provide answers to the constantly evolving material handling challenges. With a comprehensive offer of warehouse and counterbalanced forklifts, services and solutions, Toyota Material Handling keeps

oyota Material Handling Europe (TMHE), a global pioneer in material handling equipment, shall be taking part in CeMAT 2014 in Hanover, Germany – the leading trade fair for intralogistics. TMHE will be occupying the ideally placed pavilion 32, where throughout the fair’s duration, from the 19 to the 23 May, TMHE will be using an area of about 1,000 square metres of interior floor space, as well as a large covered section located outside the building. Debono Commercials local representatives for Toyota Material Handling Europe will be

up the promise of delivering reliability and exceptional efficiency to customers’ operations. The CeMAT 2014 theme will be 'Smart – Integrated – Efficient'. In an exhibition covering about 160,000 square metres, the exhibitors will be presenting their products in five technology sectors: Move & Lift, Store & Load, Pick & Pack, Logistics IT, and Manage & Service. Toyota Material Handling Europe will be one of the three largest exhibitors at the 2014 trade fair. For further information kindly call us on 2269 4000 or email info@debonocommercials.com

Latest Mazda 3 unveiled during a driving challenge Members of the press put through their paces during the launch of the Mazda 3 he exciting new Mazda 3 was unveiled during a press event last Saturday. The event took place in the car park opposite the GasanZammit showroom in Mriehel where members of the press were treated to a breakfast affair and then challenged to test their

driving skills and knowledge with a series of tests and trials organized by the comic duo DanUSan. Brand manager for Mazda Manfred Galea welcomed all those attending and introduced this dynamic latest offering from Mazda, “Once again Mazda has delivered a worthy successor to its small-car charmer, this time with even better fuel economy and an equally engaging driving

experience” he said before introducing the driving challenge organized by Sander and Daniel. Together these two popular comedians put the attending press through their paces testing their parking skills, their ability to recognize car parts and even how long it took them to change a puncture. The feather in their cap was managing to fit well-known motoring journalist Tonio Darmanin into the boot of the car highlighting how spacious it is given Tonio’s height. The Mazda3 is one of Mazda’s core products, with more than two million units of the first generation produced. The design of the new model has a bolder and more dynamic stance; agile and confidence-inspiring, this model enhances the sense of

oneness between the driver and car. It also has high environmental and safety performance levels, exemplifying Mazda’s Sustainable Zoom-Zoom long-term vision to

provide cars that are eco-friendly and safe while still being fun to drive. For a test drive and further details please call at the GasanZammit showroom.

The Malta Independent on Sunday • 30 March 2014

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Mercedes-Benz GLA on test – enrich your driving M Text & photos by John Peel

ercedes-Benz is rigorously continuing with its bold design initiatives and the new GLA makes a dynamic statement in the strongly growing segment of the compact SUV. The powerful-distinctive design exudes style from the aggressive front end right up to its high rear end. The design of the new GLA impressively demonstrates just what the S in SUV stands for. Sportiness – from every perspective. It is not often that one gets to spend a whole afternoon in harmony with a special machine, free to drive aimlessly solely to enjoy the experience. The GLA is a special machine, not simply by being a Mercedes-Benz but especially because it breaks away from design we usually associate with Mercedes into the SUV sector. In keeping with the principles of economic efficiency and synergies that pervades the motor industry these days, the new GLA is built on the same platform as the current A-Class, CLA and B-Class. The new AClass and CLA are radically different to what’s gone before, with modern, stylish looks both externally and internally. This GLA follows suit and aims at taking a slice of the competitive compact premium SUV market, a rapidly growing segment that’s predicted to treble in size over the next decade. In the flesh the GLA is far more car-like in comparison to most SUV’s. It tries to look muscular with high-rise wheel arches, underbody protection panels front and rear and contrasting dark grey cladding, yet appears smaller in stature to most of its rivals. While it might not be as rugged-looking as some might wish, being similar to the A-Class is a plus as the GLA’s relatively lower centre of gravity benefits the handling

immensely. It’s powered by a 2.2litre four-cylinder diesel engine that produces a satisfactory 136bhp and 300Nm of torque. Its power is fed to the front wheels, making it the first frontwheel-drive SUV to wear the three-pointed star. As with the chassis, the GLA’s interior follows a familiar architecture that we’ve already experienced in the A-Class and CLA. It’s modern and functional with a clear layout of the main controls. The driving position is central, with the steering wheel, seat and pedals are in line with each other. Particularly pleasing is the large driver’s instrument cluster that comes to life in dim light and an infotainment display screen in the centre of the dashboard that on first glance looks like a tablet placed in a prepared position. Rear-seat occupants are afforded plenty of headroom, and the boot can accommodate 421 litres of luggage; this can be expanded to 836 litres with the rear seats folded. Driving along the Coast Road and uphill toward Cirkewwa via Mellieha the GLA 200 CDI proved competent, with more than sufficient power to pull itself smoothly up the steep gradients. It offers a refined drive with plush levels of comfort for all occupants. I was pleasantly surprised with the super smooth automatic gearbox that provided seamless gear changes courtesy of its double-clutch system. There is absolutely no auto lag and drive is taken up as fast if not faster than a manual gearbox, simply top class. The electromechanical power steering is also worth a mention with an accurate feel that inspires confidence. Even at high speeds sound insulation is superb and the cabin remains peaceful, although roundabouts and junction seemed to be turning up pretty quick as the car gives the impression that it travels at a much lower speed due to its superb all round smoothness.

The driving experience is the GLA’s strong point, along with its sporty looks that are sure to attract the younger buyer, as long as they can afford it. If you wish to tackle some mild off-road terrain these models have a higher clearance I don’t envisage

anyone in reality straying further from a dusty lane or packed soil, at least I wouldn’t fearing the odd scratch here and there. The Mercedes-Benz GLA250 is now available and should make for a classy all-around vehicle: commuter, errand runner, and

weekend road-tripper, for couples, parents with one child, and the young at heart. Think of the Mercedes-Benz GLA as a more comfortable, luxurious, and practical alternative to a family hatch with mascular SUV looks.

The Malta Independent on Sunday • 30 March 2014

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The Rabat to Rabat Vintage Motors Festival 2014 Albert Pisani Secretary – Federazzjoni Maltija Vetturi Antiki he Federazzjoni Maltija Vetturi Antiki successfully organised the 6th edition of the Rabat to Rabat Vintage Motors Festival 2014. The event endeavours to promote both the use and display of the finest examples of what Maltese and Gozitan enthusiasts have to offer by way of historic vehicles. This is achieved by dividing the event into two distinct but complementary activities: a Regularity Run, held over two days in Malta and Gozo, and no less than three rotating static displays held in Gozo for the viewing public to enjoy. Numbering 34 vehicles in total, the oldest being a 1923 original and unrestored Triumph SD with Gloria sidecar, left Rabat on the first leg of the 65 mile Regularity

Run taking in Dingli, Lunzjata Santa Katerina and Chadwick Lakes, before finally proceeding to a well deserved half hour break and refreshment, outside the Mdina Glass factory in Ta’ Qali. From here they proceeded to finish at Mellieha, via Zebbug, Attard, Mosta, Bidnija, San Martin, Mizieb, and Manikata, with most then proceeding to Gozo directly, for a well deserved rest. On Sunday it was Gozo’s turn to host the event. The Regularity participants all mustered in Ghajnsielem centre for the ten o’clock start of the second leg, whilst their static show counterparts, close to 100 in number, were making their way to the three pre-established locations, namely Victoria, Nadur and Xaghra to set up the three shows. In Gozo, the Regularity Run followed a counter clockwise scenic route, taking in most of the

island’s north east coast as well as Qala, Nadur and Ramla, then proceeding to Marsalforn for a half hour break. Concurrently the three static shows where doing their planned location rotation, giving the viewing public a fresh display every two hours. The glorious sunshine on the day made the restart of the regularity run from Marsalforn that much harder, but participants in convertibles soon had their soft tops down to enjoy the added bonus of such glorious weather. There was still 15 miles of route to follow before getting to the finish in Rabat, so crews had to keep their wits about them not to get caught out at the various controls awaiting them on the route. Still following a counter clockwise route the vehicles proceeded to the south west coast to finish in Rabat at 1pm, passing through Qbajjar, Zebbug,

Ghasri, Kercem, Xlendi and Munxar. The subsequent one and a half hours was a frantic time for the organizers, having to calculate all the participants’ timings and translate them into penalties, thus enabling them to select the various class and overall winners. The prize giving ceremony was held in Nadur and was presided over by the Hon. Minister for Gozo Dr. Anton Refalo who amongst other things thanked the FMVA for bringing the event over to Gozo thus aiding in the Island’s tourism. He then went on to present the various participation, class and overall awards. In the Motorcycle Class, first second and third awards went to Julian Xuereb, Paul Bonello and Joe Anastasi, the latter also managed to scoop up the Oldest Vehicle to Finish award with his 1928 Triumph NSD which never missed a beat on the whole event. The four wheeled counterpart

winners were Tony Vassallo, Ivan Sammut and Mario Scicluna and the overall award went to Julian Xuereb, who riding his 1941 BSA M20 with sidecar only managed to drop 33 penalty points during the whole event. The Federazzjoni Maltija Vetturi Antiki would like to sincerely thank all participants and heartfelt thanks are due to all who contributed to make this event such a resounding success. Special thanks go out to the organisers and the marshals’ team, without whom the regularity run would not have taken place. The FMVA is also indebited to the Ministry for Gozo and all the team at that end for their cooperation and support throughout as well as the Local Councils of Xaghra, Nadur, Ghajnsielem and Rabat (Malta and Gozo), together with the sponsors Ocean & Sky and Mdina Glass.

Ford Motor Company recognized among world’s most ethical companies or the fifth consecutive year, Ford Motor Company has been recognized as one of the world’s most ethical companies by Ethisphere Institute, a leading think tank dedicated to the advancement of best practices in business ethics, social responsibility, anticorruption and sustainability. Ford is among 144 companies selected from

thousands around the world. It is the only automaker to receive the honor for 2014, and one of just a few companies to earn the recognition five times. Ford was selected for its corporate responsibility efforts, governance and business practices

About Ford Motor Company Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based

in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 181,000 employees and 65 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information about Ford and its products worldwide please visit www.corporate.ford.com

The Malta Independent on Sunday • 30 March 2014

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The new Peugeot 308 awarded several prizes ith the new PEUGEOT 308, the stylists and engineers have created a hatchback that is audacious, intuitive and modern, with a pure and classy design. The new EMP2 (Efficient Modular Platform 2) modular platform gives it compactness (length 4.25 m) and reduced weight (140 kg less), ensuring a new driving experience and particularly low CO2 emissions (from 82 g/km and 3.1 l/100 km from spring 2014). With a streamlined interior and innovative instrument and control panel the PEUGEOT i-Cockpit- bestows new driving sensations. Illustrating the brand’s move up-market, the high level of quality, the result of a particularly demanding specification for the vehicle, places the new PEUGEOT 308 among the best. Built in France at the Sochaux plant, launched in September, PEUGEOT’s latest is now available throughout continental Europe. The sales deployment of the model will continue this year, first in the United Kingdom and Ireland, several Mediterranean, African and South American markets, then later in the various Asian and Australasian markets. Presented first at the Frankfurt Motor Show and launched at the end of September in France and Germany, the new PEUGEOT 308 saloon has just been awarded the maximum score of 5 stars in the Euro NCAP tests. With individual scores of 5 stars in all 4 categories (adult protection, child protection, pedestrian protection and safety assist), the new PEUGEOT 308 confirms its high levels of safety.

months). After a static examination and thorough testing of the entries, the PEUGEOT 308 won the title of Slovakia's Car of the Year 2014. The jury particularly praised the PEUGEOT 308's innovation, its exemplary dynamic behaviour, optimized aerodynamics and sleek interior. PEUGEOT Slovakia is the only make in the history of this vote to have won three titles, with the 607 and the 307 having been successful previously.

Argus 2014 Trophies in France: First Prize in the Compact and Family Cars Category

Elected 2014 Car of the Year in Croatia After the PEUGEOT 208’s election as Car of the Year in Croatia in 2013, it was the new PEUGEOT 308’s turn to win the “HR Auto 2014” title and the Golden Steering Wheel award.For the 20th running of the competition, the most prestigious in Croatia, the jury, comprising journalists from the largest national dailies and the most important specialist car magazines, awarded first prize to the new PEUGEOT 308.

the 37 new models on sale in Switzerland during the last twelve months, based on a wide range of criteria. At the end of a static inspection and full tests of the candidates on a closed circuit, the new Peugeot 308 carried off the 2014 title, ahead of the BMW i3 and the Tesla Model S on the podium. The jury particularly applauded the efficiency procured for the new PEUGEOT 308 through its reduced weight and optimised aerodynamics, as well as its benchmark dynamic performance.

Voted 2014 “Car of the year” in Switzerland

Voted 2014 Car of the Year in Slovakia

A month and a half after its launch in the Swiss market, the new PEUGEOT 308 has already been distinguished with the 2014 “Swiss Car of the Year” title. The jury, made up of 14 journalists, specialists and racing drivers, had to judge

The members of the jury made up of 16 journalists from the most important Slovak media met in December for the 14th holding of this vote. They named the winner of the title from seven finalists (new models marketed in Slovakia over the last twelve

At the twentieth holding of the Argus Trophies for 2014, which took place on 4th December at the Arab World Institute, the jury from the magazine L’Argus, comprising vehicle valuation experts, journalists and market study specialists awarded first prize to the PEUGEOT 308 in the Compact and Family Cars category. L’Argus Trophies are awarded every year to new models on the market in recognition of vehicles offering the best value for money in terms of features and running costs.

The New PEUGEOT 308, a Contender for the European “Car of the Year 2014” Title From the thirty cars in the competition, the new PEUGEOT 308 was chosen with six other finalists. The jury, made up of 58 members from 22 European countries will make the final choice next February after a deciding round, which will take place on the CERAM test tracks north of Paris. The 2014 Car of the Year will be revealed on 3rd March at the Geneva Motor Show.

The Malta Independent on Sunday • 30 March 2014

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Hyundai Motor announces Iker Casillas and Ricardo Kaká as Brand Ambassadors for 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil yundai Motor Company, the official partner of the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), today announced that it has selected Spaniard Iker Casillas and Brazilian Ricardo Kaká as its worldwide Brand Ambassadors for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil ™. “We are very excited to announce these legendary football stars as our World Cup Ambassadors,” said Mr. Tak Uk Im, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Hyundai Motor Company. “Through Casillas and Kaká, we hope to share the passion and excitement of the tournament with every corner of the world, while once again showcasing Hyundai Motor’s commitment to the world’s most popular sport.” Casillas, currently goalkeeper with Real Madrid C.F., has participated three times in the FIFA World CupTM and is considered one of football’s greatest keepers. Likewise, Kaká, a midfielder with A.C. Milan, has also played in the FIFA World CupTM three times and was awarded the ‘FIFA World Player

of the Year’ and the ‘Ballon d'Or’ in 2007. The Brand Ambassadors will play a central role in building relationships between Hyundai Motor and football fans, through a broad range of marketing activities this year. Activities will include television and print advertisements, digital marketing programs and on-site events. Hyundai Motor’s partnership with FIFA began in 1999 and is currently set to run until 2022. Hyundai Motor has successfully supported major events such as the FIFA World Cup™ in KoreaJapan (2002), Germany (2006) and South Africa (2010), as well as other competitions such as the FIFA Confederations Cup. The successful sponsorship of international football has contributed greatly to Hyundai Motor’s strong and continuouslyimproving brand awareness and image. Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas Fernández, 32, joined his club in 1999. He was in Spain’s National Team at Euro 2000 and for Spain’s World Cup participations between 2002 and 2010. He was awarded as ‘Best Goalkeeper’ at the 2009 LFP Award, received the ‘Adidas

Golden Glove’ Award at 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa and is ranked 2nd in IFFHS ‘World’s Best Goalkeepers of the 21st Century’ in 2012. Brazilian Ricardo Kaká, 31,

currently plays for A.C. Milan and has been part of Brazil’s National Team from the 2002 to the 2010 FIFA World Cups. In 2004 and 2007 he was awarded Lega Serie A ‘Player of the Year’, in 2007 he

received the ‘UEFA Best Player in Europe Award’, ‘FIFA World Player of the Year’ and ‘Ballon d'Or’. In 2009 he was awarded the ‘Adidas Golden Ball’ at the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup.

10,000th PEUGEOT 208 GTi ess than a year after launch, the 10,000th PEUGEOT 208 GTi, has just been built at Poissy. While this year PEUGEOT is celebrating 30 years of the 205 GTi, this 10,000th example of the 208 GTi confirms the success of this reinterpretation of the legend.. First unveiled at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, the PEUGEOT 208 GTi crowns the 208 range alongside the PEUGEOT 208 XY. PEUGEOT’s chic sporty car in the B segment is produced only at the Poissy plant for all markets. With 76% of component parts made in France, the PEUGEOT 208 GTi was certified “Origine France Garantie” in October 2013. Launched at the end of March 2013, the PEUGEOT 208 GTi has exceeded its annual objective

after just 8 months on sale, quickly attracting customers in Europe, mainly in France, Germany and the UK; good sales have also been

achieved in Japan, Argentina and Mexico. Representing 3 % of the mix of 208 sales worldwide in 2013, the PEUGEOT 208 GTi is the sporty

embodiment of PEUGEOT’s move up-market in the premium B segment and it is on the second step of the sporty B segment podium in Europe. PEUGEOT has made its mark in the history of motorsport and this DNA can be found in the genes of the PEUGEOT 208 GTi. Coupled to a close-ratio 6speed

gearbox, its 1.6 THP 200hp / 275 Nm engine makes the most of its chassis. The PEUGEOT 208 GTi offers pick-up and acceleration of the highest order with in particular a 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62mph) time of less than 7 seconds and has achieved the feat of CO2 emissions of just 139g/km. A sporty player, chic and technological, it is the contemporary interpretation of the GTi legend. It proudly sports the GTi logo, with bright chrome highlighted in red and chrome lower window strips ending in a signature paying tribute to the illustrious 205 GTi. The 208 GTi also pays tribute to its predecessor through its success. In 2014, there will be other news to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the 205 GTi in the best possible way.