Zorce Issue 16

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Contents Zorce16: Contents

October 2011–December 2011

Subaru S14 WRC Shakedown

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amaican-born Trinidadian John Powell, along with co-driver Michael March literally take a spin on the opening stages of Rally Sun & Stars in Barbados. This rainy rally was effectively a shakedown to evaluate the new S14 WRC’s performance and John’s ability to harness its potential. In this epic photograph by Gerrard Wilson, John demonstrates that even WRC cars can hydroplane given enough water. It seems that all the preparation was not in vain as John and Michael have recently taken the overall win at Rally Jamaica 2011! We ‘ll bring you more in Issue #17! Congrats, John!

Editor-in-Chief: Webmaster:

Narend Sooknarine Kavita S. Fonseca

Contributing Editors: Kevin Singh Nigel Ali Ryan Peyrau Gary Yeo Nebert Marin

Kendrick Sooknarine Duane Boodasingh

Engineering & Technical Editors: André Crichlow C. Christian Cozier André Edwards Calil Sooknarine Audio Editor: Shazad Rahaman International Editor: Victor Sooknarine Photographers & Video Crew: Ryan Ramsaran Dewayne Thomas Nicholas La Touche

Devi Nath Bruce Anton Joe Cool Gerrard Wilson Aaron Achan Lyden Thomas Roger Edwards-Barran Kendall “Dat Guy” Layne

Editorial Consultant: Sabrina Vailloo Business Consultant: Wayne Oudit Advertising Sales: Cheryl Bocas Printing & Binding: Eniath’s Printing Co. Ltd Produced by: Zorce Publications Ltd

Advertising & Features: Cheryl: (868) 678-3962 or 669-4589, frontdesk@zorce.com Chantelle: (868) 724-5400, chantelle.wilson@zorce.com Narend: narend@zorce.com

Distribution & Restocking: Periodicals Ltd. (T&T) Arvind Dattoo (North) Nigel Ali (South) Ancil Lynch (South) Vivek Maharaj (Central)

Tel: (868) 623-8752 Tel: (868) 772-9536 Tel: (868) 680-8136 Tel: (868) 395-0654 Tel: (868) 492-6359

Photos, Photo Prints, Posters: Devi: (868) 680-6747 • Bruce: (868) 367-1924 Gerrard: (868) 784-0171 • Lyden (868) 784-2364 Antony: (868) 737-4008

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Zorcerazzi News

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Test Drive

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MotorSport

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Z-Scene

Hyundai launches the new Accent and Elantra. Nissan does an allshowroom test drive day. We take a look at Part 2 of the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Enjoy the first drives of the new VW Jetta TSI, Audi A1 122, Ford Fiesta and VW Polo 1.4.

We meet “The Sheriff”, go to Tobago for ‘BagoDex and Rally Tobago, and experience BMW M Power.

We get totally covered in mud with the Trailblazers, twice.

Moto-Z We take a look at the latest motocross bikes from Kawasaki and Honda’s vehicle-to-vehicle communication system.

AudioZorce We revisit the Car Craft Show at Trinity College, Trincity.

Z-Games We review six popular driving video game titles to make shopping a cinch.

ZorceOlogy We take a look at SunTek tint and Meguiar’s Car Care, and Kevin gets all sentimental.

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Editor-in-Chief Narend Sooknarine says it is now officially time for some pastelles, sorrel and maybe we can try some ponche de crème. If the liming gets too hard, don’t forget to grab a Red Bull before you go home, have plenty water and drive like an old man. Don’t overdo it, there’s Carnival 2012 coming up and Rally Trinidad is in March!

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articularly for this issue, Zorce was produced faster than ever before– you could say we gave production a dose of Zorceness! Originally, there were three issues planned for 2011, so consider this extra one a present from all of us to all of you. Look out for Issue#17 in March 2012 and keep on Zorcing!

In this edition, Hyundai has launched its new corporate slogan “New Thinking. New Possibilities.” and has demonstrated such with the launch of two new cars– the new Accent and the new Elantra. The cars are beautifully styled, engaging to drive, laden with features and have excellent safety ratings. They capture some of the essence of basic sport and luxury coupled with the strongest points from the economy segment. Nissan also showed off their latest models, including the very exciting 370Z, a car we have been waiting to explore further.

We look at the full range of models in our article, along with the current prices for each one.

We also have our second look at the Frankfurt Motor show in Up to Speed dedicated to international concept and show cars of the wider automotive industry.

Some find this confusing and often ask

if these cars sell locally. The answer isn’t that simple since it depends on what manufacturers display at the various motor shows and send to our newsdesk. This varies from one-off creations to rolling technology showcases to concepts that are very close to production cars. Although sometimes they will not be applicable to our local market, we do consider it important to look at where the industry is going and imagine what may trickle down from each manufacturer.

Our Test Drive section is full of 1.4-litre stars beginning with the Jetta 1.4 TSI, the sporty and luxurious Audi A1, fun and frugal Fiesta and functionally smart, well-styled VW Polo, as well as extended versions of What If They Zorced It Up? vehicles. It seems the 1.4-litre engine is like the new 1.6. In our MotorSport section, we meet a seasoned rally veteran known as “The Sheriff”, then hop over to Tobago for rally and solodex action. We also bring you the best corporate motorsport event of the year– the BMW M Power Tour held right here in T&T! After this, we zoom through the latest MX offerings from Kawasaki and check out the Car Craft custom and audio show. Finally it’s a look at some video game gift ideas, tint, car care and Kevin’s regular ramblings. Hey, guess what? It’s time to turn the page.

Photo: Lyden Thomas • For purchase enquiries on the BMW M6, visit www.m6forsale.com

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The only high performance, race proven oil specifically designed for the unique requirements of the rotary engine. It is the only synthetic oil approved by Mazda for the use in their LeMans winning rotary race cars.

Distributed by Kansei Enterprises Ltd. Contact: 1 (868) 769-0692 Email: kansei7@hotmail.com 3 • Zorce

Zorcerazzi News

Hyundai Launches New Accent and Elantra!

Article and photos: Narend Sooknarine and Damian Luk Pat

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ollowing a sneak preview at the Tribe band launch, Neal and Massy Automotive Ltd officially unveiled the new Hyundai Accent and Elantra to the public. Local popular radio DJ Tweez hosted the evening and introduced special guests Jessie Kim of Hyundai Motor Company (HMC), Miami headquarters, and Korean Ambassador Designate Yong-Kyu Kwon. Both award-winning cars were recognised as segment leaders by the international media. The Accent, unsurprisingly, garnered lots of attention with its new 1.6 turbodiesel engine, and guests were simply fascinated by the Elantra’s fluidic lines.

What is evident is that the statement New Thinking. New Possibilities. means more to Hyundai than these two models. It signals an intuitive shift in Hyundai’s interpretation of enriching the mobile experience of the new modern-day driver. According to Hyundai Motor Company’s Dealer Enhancement Program

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Manager, Jesse Kim, Hyundai has been on a strong growth path worldwide, with a new factory being completed in Russia, and record sales in China and the Americas. Growth was confirmed at 18 per cent over 2010. This is a strong indicator that consumers have accepted the Hyundai brand. This success is further solidified by Motor Trend’s rating of the Hyundai Elantra as their number one compact sedan. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also gave the Elantra their Top Safety Pick award, a distinct characteristic of the car that we were able to attest to on our recent test drive in Zorce Issue #15.

Right here in T&T, Neal and Massy Automotive Ltd has seen sales increase more than fourfold since the introduction of the brand in 2003.

According to CEO David Jardim, the process of orienting business around the needs of the customer is a job that is never considered

finished but rather constantly evolving. While Neal and Massy staff throughout the company was being trained to offer superior service and genuine care, Hyundai was introducing its new philosophy worldwide.

This philosophy activated a desire to deliver real value. The new cars would combine artistic and elegant lines through a fluidic design language, with premium features and an enjoyable driving experience. The overall package results in a set of attributes that provides owners with lasting satisfaction at a price they can afford. In fact, it is rumoured that the Accent takes around TT$60 to fill the tank. Jardim went on to say, “You don’t need an article, a sign or banner to convince you… the evidence is in the cars in front of you. It is time to Redefine Your Expectations…” After the formalities at the launch, guests were invited to examine the cars in detail and enjoy some live entertainment and a range of tasty local foods,

“...New Thinking. New Possibilities. seems to be living up to the intended meaning as we found out on our test drives of both the Accent and the Elantra.”

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“...customers have accepted the Hyundai brand and this is further solidified by Motor Trend’s rating of the Hyundai Elantra as their number one compact sedan. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also gave the Elantra their Top Safety Pick award...”

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including gyros, bake and shark, and doubles, as well as an open cocktail bar.

Hyundai’s new mantra– New Thinking. New Possibilities. seems to be living up to the intended meaning as we found out on our test drives of both the Accent and the Elantra. The Accent is nicely equipped with three levels of trim and two engines. The Accent blue fuel efficiency cars are equipped with the 1.4-litre gasoline engines and can be ordered in GL or GLS trim with prices starting at TT$149K. Our favourite was the TT$179K Accent diesel, which features the 1.6-litre turbodiesel engine. This car was a joy to drive with more low-end torque than we have ever felt in an economy sedan and we think that the diesel version is actually

the quicker of the two. Initial shipments of the Accent came with 14” pothole-friendly wheels, making them ideal for on-the-go execs. We hear the next arrivals are going to be equipped with 15” or 16” wheels for sharper cornering and more overall grip, making it more attractive to the driving enthusiast.

The Elantra surprised us with its feature-packed interior, excellent cornering manners, good grip levels and amazing stability control system that activated the individual wheel brakes to stabilise the car during our emergency evasive maneuver tests. We tried it with the system turned on and off and the difference was remarkable, placing the Elantra high on our list of cars that feel safe for even inexperienced drivers. We hear that

there is a turbocharged version available in the US market. Hopefully, one day we will see such a car on our shores. The solid chassis seems to be up to the task of handling a few more horses and the excellent 6-speed transmission kept us entertained and accelerating.

The Elantra starts at $169K and is available with three trim levels– GLS Standard, Value Pack and Fully Loaded. The 1.6-litre gasoline is currently the only available engine option. You can become a fan of HyundaiTT by clicking ‘Like’ on their Facebook page, or email the marketing department via marketing@nmmotors.com.

Contact Neal and Massy Automotive Ltd to arrange your test drive today!

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Nissan Takes The Wraps Off The Newly Arrived 370Z!

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ports cars and in particular the famed Z cars have always been a long-time Nissan favourite with the introduction of the Nissan 240Z back in 1969, followed by the 260Z, 280Z and 280ZX. In Issue #3 of Zorce in 2003, the Nissan 350Z graced our covers. Although we only had a chance to putter around the car park, the new reinvented Z car simplified the 300Z/ZX formula replacing its advanced twinturbo engine with a larger, naturally aspirated 3.5-litre unit. This modernised version returned the Z to its affordable sports car roots that made the original two-seater 240Z so desirable, while the new R35 GTR continued to demonstrate Nissan’s technological prowess as the 300ZX and JDM Skyline GT-Rs did before. Now the 370Z is changing the game all over again.

The international automotive press often compares this car to the Porsche Boxter and entry level 911s. The tuner market has embraced it as a perfect candidate for drag racing, drifting, rally, autocross, stance and full audio customisation. The basic characteristics of the 370Z remains the same as the 350Z, with its engine given a front-midship configuration, which keeps the car ideally balanced in terms of weight distribution. The car also retains the

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trademark Z rear-wheel drive layout. The body has been made smaller with less overhangs, giving the 370 a stocky, burly appearance– more Bulldog than Dalmation, so to speak.

The front and rear tracks have been widened by 15mm and 55mm, respectively and the wheelbase has also been shortened by 100mm. These changes, along with a stiffer chassis, aim to give the 370Z even sharper handling than ever before.

As the name implies, the 370Z packs a 331hp, 3.7-litre, V6 engine (VQ37VHR) featuring Nissan’s Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) for improved low-end power and great high-end torque.

The 370Z comes with a 7-speed highperformance automatic for our market. Some markets also feature the 6-speed manual gearbox.

Both options employ Synchro Rev Control (SRC), which allows smoother up and downshifts by blipping the throttle to rev match much faster than even skilled drivers would be able to do using the traditional heel-and-toe method in a manual car. The automatic version uses a variation of SRC called Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) and is coupled with magnesium paddles for manualmode shifting. The automatic gearbox has been tuned with a high level of lockup to allow strong

engine braking and more direct power delivery to the rear wheels when accelerating. The 7-speed automatic version of the 370Z is actually slightly better in terms of average fuel economy, which is highly unusual but a welcome surprise.

The overall quality of the materials used in the interior is also higher than the outgoing 350Z model. The 370Z we saw in the showroom at Nissan’s recent test drive event was even fitted with the optional RAYS Engineering 19” wheels, which are a treat for any sports car enthusiast to look at. We expect nothing short of stellar performance from Nissan’s newest RWD sports car, and while there may be faster cars out there, the Z remains one of the purest sports car experiences available on the planet. The 370Z also features lots of storage spaces and a large rear hatch, making it more than just a weekend car, provided you don’t mind only seating two people.

The Nissan 370Z is now currently available at Neal and Massy Automotive Limited. At TT$700K it’s probably too expensive for most, but still a relative bargain compared to its Porsche counterparts and is currently more exclusive than other Japanese sports cars. Stay tuned for our test drive feature in the upcoming Zorce Issue #17.

Hyundai Santa Fe

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grip according to the amount of slip. This means that up to 50 per cent of torque is sent to the rear wheels to provide usable power distribution to all four wheels in order to regain traction.

Like the Tuscon (pronounced Too-son, not Tuckson), which was named after a city in Arizona, the Santa Fe (pronounced Santa Fay) also takes its name from a city in neighbouring New Mexico in the USA. Both cities feature Mexican influence and very hot climates, hinting at Hyundai’s ability to easily survive our standard hot weather right here in Trinidad, which is considered extreme by most automotive engineers.

The Santa Fe’s active and passive safety systems have also been updated with rollover sensors that can activate side and curtain airbags as well as standard 4-wheel disc brakes, ABS, EBD, ESP (electronic stability program) and traction control. Combined, these systems can vary individual wheel-braking and engine torque levels and distribution to maintain traction and heading, especially in corners and on slippery surfaces. This second generation Santa Fe has also benefitted from some suspension retuning to reduce body roll compared to the original SUV.

Its 2.2-litre R CRDi direct-injection turbodiesel engine puts out a healthy 197hp at a very accessible 3800rpm, while maximum torque is a whopping 326ft-lb from 1800-2500rpm, which should make for excellent initial acceleration.

Even with the Santa Fe’s snappy performance statistics, it promises to deliver around 32mpg for the combined city/highway average using the 6-speed automatic and full-time on-demand 4WD system. The system employs a Borg-Warner unit, which diverts power to the wheels with best

Inside, the Santa Fe is designed to seat seven, with foldable back- and middle-row seats to allow multiple configurations of seating and cargo space. Thanks to the proximity key system you can also get into the car and simply push the start button once the key is in your pocket or in the vehicle without the need to push the key into a slot. A sunroof is also available. Like its siblings, the Santa Fe clearly demonstrates the strides being made by the Hyundai brand in terms of build quality and visual appeal, and along with

ntroduced in 2001, the Santa Fe was actually Hyundai’s first SUV-type vehicle. With Hyundai’s new fluidic design theme the Santa Fe’s larger frame was well defined on this refreshed second-generation platform and paved the way for the other new models to show off the brand’s great new looks.

the traditional ideals of excellent feature sets and great value for money that ultimately provide customer satisfaction. The end result is a vehicle that is on par or better than many of its Japanese counterparts.

The new Santa Fe 2WD 2.2 diesel 5-seater starts at around TT$315K VAT inclusive, ranging up to TT$350K for the well-equipped 7-seater and TT$380K for the fully loaded 7-seater model. Stay tuned for a full driving feature in an upcoming edition of Zorce!

“The Santa Fe’s active and passive safety systems have also been updated with rollover sensors that can activate side and curtain airbags...”

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Nissan’s Shift Your Passion Test Drive Day

Article: Narend Sooknarine • Photos: Damian Luk Pat

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he rains came down but that did not stop prospective customers from visiting the showrooms at Neal and Massy Automotive Ltd. Nissan’s Shift your Passion Test Drive event promised to be a massive event with all three branches of Neal and Massy– Port of Spain, Morvant and San Fernando open for test driving a Nissan. There was a full complement of Nissan models to suit every budget, from the economy-class cars, all the way up to the new 370Z. Naturally, everyone wanted to take a closer

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look and get a few pictures, especially with the attractive Nissan promotional ladies who were all smiles.

The popular choices by most folks seemed to be the Nissan Navara pickup (TT$178K-$258K) and the crossover known as the Nissan QashQai (pronounced Kash-Kai, TT$$239K-$264K).

The wet conditions presented no challenge whatsoever for these two machines and patron after patron emerged smiling from ear to ear

with some making up their minds on the same day to turn their test drive experience into ownership. Also, there were other machines on hand for test driving.

The Nissan Tiida sedan (TT$144K) and hatchback (TT$153K) with its hypo-allergenic airconditioning filtration system impressed a few customers with its build quality and wide range of basic features. The very practical, spacious and economical Wingroad (TT$155K) showed

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off its new, more modern looks and improved amenities. The elegant and smooth-running Bluebird Sylphy (TT$183K-$250K) attracted more sophisticated buyers who were seeking legendary Nissan reliability in a nicer package, now available with 1.5- and 2.0-litre engines.

The X-Trail Classic (TT$235K) also attracted a fair number of test drivers, demonstrating that its practicality and boxy styling are still relevant and in demand, while the new, more modernlooking X-Trail (TT$342K) showed off with its larger 2.5-litre engine. The Nissan Frontier is

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also still available (TT$138K-$177K). The Nissan Teana also had its share of attention from those looking for larger, roomy sedans with three distinct engine choices– the 2.0-, V6 2.5- and V6 3.5-litre (TT$303K, $407K, $487K).

Representatives from First Citizens Bank, Scotiabank and Republic Bank offered free advice on loan financing, while Colfire was also on hand to answer questions about insurance.

There was also a face painting station for the kids and young at heart who were so inclined and hot tasty doubles, freshly made bake and

shark, Folgers Coffee and soft drinks were available for the day.

On display was the 3.5-litre V6 Nissan Murano premium SUV (TT$565K), the popular Nissan Pathfinder (TT$520K) and the brand new Nissan 370Z. The $700K thoroughbred twoseater sports car attracted loads of attention throughout the day and was packing a 3.7-litre, 331hp, V6 engine mated to a sport-tuned 7-speed auto with steering-mounted paddle shifters.

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Up to Speed: The 64th IAA International Motor Show @ Frankfurt,Part 2

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he Jaguar C-X16 is a concept two-seater sports car that explores future performance hybrid options. Its seductive looks indicate the next evolution of Jaguar’s bold design direction and the new sensual shape is defined by three distinctive ‘heartlines’: front wing crease, rear haunches and sweeping roofline. The car is very driver-focused; the cabin is trimmed in dramatic red leather and the composite seats are stiffened with a carbon-fibre central spine.

The desire to keep the top of the dashboard as unadorned as possible led to the creation of an Intelligent Venting System. Governed by complex algorithms built into the advanced climate control, this double vent– inspired by the intakes on the Typhoon fighter jet– deploys out of the dash to provide an intense blast of hot or cold air as needed to rapidly alter the cabin temperature and then discreetly retracts when the desired level is reached.

The car is powered by a prototype supercharged all-alloy 3.0-litre V6 producing 380PS (280kW) and 332ft-lb (450Nm) of torque with an impressive 126hp per litre. The gasoline engine

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is supplemented by a high-performance hybrid system that boosts output by 70kW (95hp) and 235Nm. The Jaguar C-X16 will reach a top speed of 186mph, while 0-62mph will take 4.4 seconds and 50-75mph acceleration takes just 2.1 seconds. On the electric system alone the car can travel up to 50mph and CO2 emissions are expected to be around 165g/km. To ensure the powerplant delivers not only the power but also the refinement that Jaguars are famous for, the V6 features a patented system of independently rotating balancer weights at the front and rear of the engine.

A steering wheel-mounted ‘Push to Pass’ button controls the hybrid boost function and the drivetrain features an 8-speed ZF gearbox with Quickshift changes and Intelligent Stop/Start for improved fuel economy. The system can shut down the engine in just 300 milliseconds after the car has come to rest and utilises a Twin Solenoid Starter (TSS) that is capable of restarting it in the time it takes the driver’s foot to travel from the brake to the accelerator. As in the most demanding motorsport environment,

Jaguar employs a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS). The battery pack is predominantly charged through a rear axle electro-hydraulic brake energy regeneration system. Both the battery pack and electric motor mounted in the C-X16 are liquid cooled preventing them losing performance as heat builds up during spirited use. To cool the battery, the advanced electronics draw chilled coolant from the climate control system, the compressor for which is electrical rather than engine-driven to reduce losses.

This new concept is regarded by many as a modern reinterpretation of the world-famous E-type. “This car has been designed from first principles. It is an evolution of the design ethos of past Jaguars and defines the agenda for a future of dramatic, innovative sports cars. Purity of line and intent is what Jaguar does best,” says Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar Cars.

Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar Cars adds, “The C-X16 is our compelling vision for a 21st century Jaguar sports car. It embodies the established Jaguar strengths of sensual design, animal-like agility and inspirational performance and combines these with attributes that set us on a course to create sustainable sports cars of the future.”

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eigning Formula 1 World Champion, Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel unveiled the Infiniti FX50 he helped design at the Frankfurt Auto Show. This special FX packs LED daytime running lights, a new apron, a roof spoiler, side skirts and carbon fibre bumpers, Moonlight White Pearl metallic paint and an F1-inspired steering wheel.

This special Vettel-badged Infiniti FX will be produced next year in limited numbers.

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he Ford Evos Concept showcases Ford’s first truly global design language and a new vision for customer-focused and intuitive technologies. Drawing from a detailed understanding of the driver’s preferences and driving habits, the Ford Evos Concept combines personal information with additional data from an internet-based cloud, such as the driver’s work schedule and local traffic or weather conditions.

This information provides a personalised and seamless experience as the driver transitions in and out of the car. Current technology requires

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he Land Rover DC100, a modern interpretation of the iconic Land Rover Defender with a production version planned for 2015. Gerry McGovern, Director of Design, Land Rover said: “Replacing the iconic Defender is one of the biggest challenges in the automotive design world; it is a car that inspires people worldwide. This isn’t a productionready concept but the beginning of a four-year journey to design a relevant Defender for the 21st century.”

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he Alfa 4C Concept vehicle’s weight is around 850kg with the engine delivering more than 200 bhp and a power-to-weight ratio less than 4kg per hp– traits worthy of a true supercar. The Alfa 4C Concept uses technology and materials derived from the 8C Competizione– carbon, aluminium, rear-wheel drive – and technology from Alfa Romeo models

vehicle chassis settings to be defined based upon the abilities and tastes of a cross-section of drivers and the topography of typical roads. The concept foresees tuning handling and performance to the road ahead and the specific individual behind the wheel. Ford ‘powersplit’ hybrid architecture allows the electric motor and petrol engine to work together or separately to maximise efficiency.

The advanced powertrain typically runs in all-electric mode before switching to chargesustaining hybrid mode for continued optimal fuel efficiency.

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ombining legendary Jeep capability and utility with head-turning ‘Street and Racing Technology’ performance, the SRT8 is powered by an all-new 6.4-litre HEMI® V-8 engine, producing 470bhp and 630Nm of torque, the most powerful, high-performance Jeep vehicle ever produced. The new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 accelerates from 0-62mph

currently on sale: the 1750 turbo petrol engine with direct injection, the ALFA TCT twin dry clutch transmission; and all the best of Alfa’s DNA technology, obviously including the Alfa DNA dynamic control selector. The Alfa 4C Concept was exhibited at the 64th International Motor Show in Frankfurt in a new and exclusive ‘fluid metal’ exterior colour.

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he final production version of the new XV remains true to the design concept first shown and warmly received at the Shanghai show in April. The new XV will be underpinned by Subaru’s trademark symmetrical Allwheel drive and advanced Subaru dynamic chassis control.

in 4.8s, 0-100-0mph in the mid-16s range, and has a top speed of over 155mph.

Although torsional stiffness was improved by 146 per cent, Jeep’s engineers have improved on-road handling even further, with a new SRT-tuned, active damping suspension that allows drivers to manually choose between five dynamic modes for specific driving conditions.

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he 508 RXH provides a modern and distinctive upmarket model from Peugeot, both in its dimensions and visual identity, as well as a diesel-electric hybrid powertrain and lavishly appointed trim.

A wider track, 18” wheels and raised attitude lets the 508 RXH have a stance inspired by its all-road capability. With a

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he HX1 can change its aerodynamic profile to suit its environment, driving conditions and the requirements of its occupants.

Due to its many ‘mobile’ aerodynamic parts that were designed with speed in mind, the HX1’s unusual ‘MPV’ architecture, very low for a length of 4.95m, results in an exceptional Cd of 0.28. Its four reverse-opening doors provide access to the interior of HX1 that offers an exceptional level of interior space, original ‘4+2’ configuration, and the driver with a driving position that can be adapted to suit driving conditions.

With a combined power output of 299bhp from the 2.2-litre HDi engine driving the front wheels and an electric motor integrated into the rear axle, its diesel-electric hybrid powertrain provides the functionality of HYbrid4 technology such as fourwheel drive and the ‘zero emissions’ mode with the increased capability to go 18.6mi in this mode, due to its ‘plug in’ function. The HX1 is therefore able to obtain an astonishingly low combined fuel consumption figure of 88.2mpg with impressive CO2 emissions of just 83g/km.

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he V12 Zagato boasts Aston Martin’s most dynamic bonded aluminium platform and the power of Aston’s 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 510hp (380kW/517PS), and 570Nm (420ft-lb) of torque. Launched in late May at the famous Villa D’Este Concours on Lake Como, Italy, the V12 Zagato was awarded

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iray is Korean for ‘future.’ The jet fighter-inspired body side is made of CFRP and carbon fibre. The 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels made of aluminium carbonfibre composite. Its two front-mounted 15-kW electric motors are powered by a 1.6kWh lithium-ion battery charged by regenerative braking. A 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine behind the cockpit combines with the electric motors via a dual-clutch transmission and can be switched from front-wheel to rear-wheel drive.

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combined output of 200hp from its 2.0 HDi FAP diesel engine and electric motor on the rear axle, the 508 RXH is able to provide a new driving experience with a choice of four HYbrid4 modes (Automatic, ‘Zero Emissions Vehicle’, Sport or 4WD) and exceptional fuel economy (70.6mpg in the Combined Drive Cycle), and CO2 of 109g/km.

the coveted Design Award for the concept and prototypes class.

Just a week later, the V12 Zagato made its racing debut at the 53rd ADAC ACAS H&R-Cup VLN race at the Nürburgring. The £330,000 V12 Zagato will go into strictly limited production of up to 150 cars in the summer of 2012.

itting atop an AWD chassis, the double-cab Colorado Rally Concept was designed with a rally raid category in mind. It is powered by a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine and sports two 5.5hp winches that have been incorporated into its front and rear bumpers. Other goodies include a master killswitch, an ‘air boost’ cabin air expeller for entering dust clouds and hydration packs behind each seat. The steering wheel also features integrated F1style LEDs that function as a quick display tachometer.

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he Chevrolet Malibu has been engineered to be on par with more expensive sedans in terms of ride and handling. GM engineers have tested, tuned and calibrated the Malibu on rural roads, highways, freeways and the company’s validation facilities around the world. Its solid body structure is as rigid as any in the global mid-size sedan market. This allows for precise tuning and dynamic vehicle control.

The Malibu will be offered with 4-cylinder gas or diesel engines of 2.0L and 2.4L displacements and power outputs of 164hp and 169hp, respectively.

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he previous VW Jetta 1.4 TSI was one of our favourites. With such a healthy dose of character it could easily have been called ‘Spunky Smurf’. In fact we called it the ultimate undercover hooligan’s machine, citing its feisty acceleration temperament, obvious practicality and understated looks. This car however, has brought more balance to the universe by taming the rabid takeoff behaviour and bringing some smarter, sleeker styling to the design table while maintaining VW’s trademark conservatism. So perhaps this car is more of an undercover lover in a well-fitted suit.

The Jetta is well mannered and when you floor the throttle, it seems that low rpm power delivery and the dual-clutch transmission behaviour has been heavily reworked to allow a smooth takeoff then a more linear surge of torque. The previous car had the potential to roast the tires in first gear when going uphill in the wet but this car will not.

While the new calibration may calm the 0-60 experience, it makes the car easier to live with and

drive, and with no penalty, since 0-60 is now at 8.3s, two-tenths faster.

Once the traction threshold has been safely managed, the power comes on strong all the way until the engine redline. Thanks to the DSG (direct shift gearbox) dual-clutch transmission with seven gear ratios (and now featuring dry clutches), the car is always ready to leap into action. While cruising, upshifts are now calibrated to engage at slightly lower shift points for an average of 36mpg in fuel economy.

Our test car was not fitted with paddle shifters although you can use the gear lever in tiptronic mode. The 1.4-litre supercharged and turbocharged engine still produces the same 158hp@5800rpm and 240Nm or 177ftlb@1500-4500 as before, which allows the Jetta to run all the way up to 221km/h. Of course the only thing that gives it away is the subtle TSI badging on the back.

At a Glance: 0-60(s): 8.3 HP: 158@5800rpm Ft-lb: 177@1500-4500rpm Km/h: 221 Mpg: 36 Price: TT$240K Verdict: Hooligan’s ride refined; still fun, but nicer.

Test Drive Article: Narend Sooknarine • Photos: Bruce Anton

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VW Jetta 1.4 TSI

Another interesting note under the hood was the easily accessible oil filter, which is placed on the topside of the engine, allowing easy service access and keeping it out of harm’s way.

We hear a special Jetta R edition may be in the works for the European market with a 3.6-litre VR6 engine, ‘R’ imprinted sport leather seats, Bi-Xenon headlights, quad exhaust pipes and the VW 4-motion 4WD system. That car promises an exciting 0-60mph ride in just 5.5 seconds, placing it squarely into sports car territory.

Cornering is excellent with good turn-in grip, minimal body roll and more predictable understeer as you approach the fairly high limits. Compared to the old car, this new model has increased stiffness and a lower centre of gravity because of some redistribution of weight throughout the vehicle. This also means that a few minor items have been remanufactured using cheaper but lighter materials, also resulting in lower overall weight. While some VW purists will nitpick that this all cheapens the car, we think that

we can accommodate the updates in the name of better fuel economy and increased agility. Our Euro-spec car still maintains a higher level of trim compared to the American versions and also features multilink rear suspension while both cars use a McPherson-type front suspension. We have always found the Jetta to be a practical blend of handling and good ride quality but the new car overall feels grippier and more eager to turn.

Braking is good as expected with four-wheel disc brakes, supplemented by ABS, EBD, traction and stability control programs.

The Jetta also enjoyed a lot of attention from students and adults alike. A few schoolboys enquired about the car while we were shooting pictures at a golf course near their school and we allowed them to take a few photos with their phones, capitalising on our positioning of the car along with the beautiful surroundings as seen in our lead shot. Perhaps they may take a greater interest in photography and cars, VWs in particular. We also noticed drivers in the

area slowing down to take a closer look while the golfers observed from afar as they strolled between holes. This is no doubt due to the Jetta’s edgier exterior styling, which takes a few cues from the new Passat. This brand new face won looks from all ages throughout our test drive.

The Jetta’s interior has a lot less chrome and our test car was fitted with carbon-fibre-esque trim, which in our opinion is a better match for the mostly black interior. The dashboard is still soft to the touch, conveying a high-quality feel. Our test car also came fitted with a powered tilting and sliding sunroof. The centre display console shows the settings of the dual-zone climate control system, optical sensor parking system, radio and audio system and incoming phone calls via Bluetooth pairing among other things. In fact, we found a neat way to turn your new Jetta into a rolling PA system– just pair your phone (as we did with a borrowed Apple iPhone 4), call your number and turn up the volume to start your broadcast “coming to you live from the VW

Jetta…” We were obviously enjoying our time with the Jetta since we would not normally delve into such non-performance related details. The stereo system was also quite good in terms of tonal range and quality for a factory-fitted system in this price range, prompting us to hand it to our audio editor for a more in-depth review, but more on that in a later issue.

It is very rare to have a car that has become lighter, larger and with a stiffer chassis. That is a certainly a testament to German engineering, especially since it results in crisper handling, stronger acceleration and potentially better fuel economy.

And you get all this in an all-new body that has proven its ability to turn heads. Subsequent to our drive, we saw one with a factory-style flair kit and rear lip spoiler, which neatly complements the original body and improves aerodynamics.

Naturally, progress comes at a price, albeit a moderate one as the new Jetta moves up slightly to around TT$240K on the road. Call Best Auto to arrange your test drive today!

“While the new calibration may calm the 0-60 experience, it makes the car a little easier to live with and drive, and with no penalty, since 0-60 is now at 8.3s, two-tenths faster.”

19 • Zorce

“It is very rare to have a car that has become lighter, larger and with a stiffer chassis. That is a certainly a testament to German engineering...”

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21 • Zorce

Audi A1 1.4 TFSI 122

At a Glance: 0-60(s): 8.9 HP: 122@5000rpm Ft-lb: 148@1500-4000rpm Km/h: 209 Mpg: 34 Price: TT$275K Verdict: Premium small car, quick and fun to drive

Article: Narend Sooknarine • Photos: Lyden Thomas

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he small car segment has been steadily growing because of a focal shift caused by the world economy’s recession. Audi has opted to change the tone of this by capitalising on a new opportunity in the form of the luxury small car. So now buyers who value style, class, performance and actually prefer smaller cars for city driving and parking, and better fuel economy can have their gâteau and eat it too. The A1 has been in the making for the last few years with the production car being launched at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. It competes with cars like the Alfa Romeo Mito and the MINI Cooper, which means it also needs to be sporty and have lots of character.

From the time we entered the A1, we recognised a few MINI-like things, including the oval-shaped rear-view mirror, similarities in the pop-up screen (MMI) interface design and liberal use of brushed aluminium rounding out the optional trim package. There were other details that were slightly more distinctive, yet just as cool. Our favourite thing was the air-con vents, which are inspired by jet fighter thrusters. Despite the fact that Audi’s logo is made up of four rings, the interior is not completely styled in as many ovals

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as possible like the MINI, and the majority of the interior is easily recognised as an Audi.

Our A1 even had LED interior lights and dual vanity mirrors. Bose Audio is also available and the standard single CD head unit can read MP3, WMA and AAC files. It also features two SDHC card slots and an auxiliary/iPod port. The dashboard and other surfaces are soft to the touch and build quality is good. There are other neat details like the S-Tronic logo on the gear shifter and the compartment under the foldaway front centre armrest. A simple walk around allows you to admire the distinctive roofline accent and beautifully detailed headlamps. You’ll also discover that when the hatch is raised there are actually auxiliary LED lights to let oncoming traffic know you’re there.

Once you get into the cabin the sport seats hug you a little tighter but are still very comfortable.

Starting up is as easy as having the key in your pocket or just in the car and pressing the large red start button. And don’t worry, it will tell you if the key is not in range or out of the car. We jumped in and headed out of the dealership

and instantly noticed the A1’s sport-oriented damping. As we moved along it was clear that the ride quality was also very compliant, much more so than even the MINI Cooper. The steering ratio felt quick, much like the one in the Ford Fiesta, which we liked, but the A1 was more refined with variable power assist and we had paddle shifters!

We at Zorce have come to love them just as much as a regular manual gearbox. In fact, with seven gears to play with we think the paddles and the Driver Information System display make it easier to keep track of which gear you are actually in, or you could just leave it in auto mode.

Soon we were out to the highway and the A1’s turbocharged 4-cylinder direct injection engine was able to shine. Power delivery is immediate, which is unusual for such a small unit, with 148ftlb of torque coming in at 1500-4000rpm. Peak power of 122hp is made at a fairly low 5000rpm.

Zero-to-sixty is estimated at 8.9s, which means that the A1 is almost as quick as the 1.4TSI 158hp Jetta we also drove in this issue. In fact, while it is not yet available for our market, the directinjection TFSI 1.4-litre engine is the most powerful unit made for the A1 owing to the clever use of

“We got a our fair share of attention driving the Audi A1, including a few curious looks from Range Rover Sport drivers”

both supercharging and turbocharging. In the top level A1, this mischievous little engine is tuned to a new level of feistiness with 185hp and 184ft-lb of torque, allowing it to reach 62mph in 6.9s, while top speed is 227km/h (141mph). While we can’t wait for that version to arrive, or for the upcoming S1, we can assure you that this 122hp car is very quick and will climb to 170km/h easily and go on to a top speed of around 209km/h given enough road. Average fuel economy is around 34mpg.

This brings us to our next area of evaluation– braking and handling. Here the A1 showed its true colours. While we were in the showroom, one of the bosses admitted that he just could not get enough of the A1 and that it was so much fun to drive that he took it out whenever it was available on weekends. We couldn’t help but agree. The A1 feels like the middle ground between the MINI Cooper and Cooper S in terms of performance but with a much smoother and softer ride. It is however no less tenacious or precise in the corners, tackling the around-the-

town hustling with ease and confidently striding on the highway through higher speed sweepers and lane changes.

The 4-wheel disc brakes are well matched and remained fade free throughout our entire drive. In concert with the stability control, they kept our car perfectly in line through a more challenging decreasing radius turn from 160km/h (100mph) to zero with car lengths to spare, despite the slightest tire noise throughout the stopping exercise. On the track, the softer setup may fall prey to some sportier cars but Audi offers their S-line suspension for those who don’t mind stiffer, racecar-like handling.

Our car was fitted with 16” wheels wrapped in 215/45R16 tires but a 17” wheel and tire package is also available. We like the 16” size though, considering the varied conditions of roads in our country. Our ‘60-wiggle’ accident avoidance test was completed with minimal drama along with our 60km/h-to-zero panic brake test, which also yielded good results. We can confidently say that

the A1 is a car that is ready for real-world driving.

In terms of safety there are dual front, side and head curtain airbags and an ISOFIX child seat mounting point. The car is fitted with ESP with electronic cross-axle lock and ABS as standard. We also had a light and rain sensor to automatically turn on the popular LED daytime running lights, Xenon Plus headlights and windshield wipers. During our panic stop test the indicator hazard lights flashed quickly to warn other drivers that we were coming to an abrupt stop. Other safety conveniences like the onetouch lane change signal were also useful.

We got our fair share of attention driving the Audi A1, including a few curious looks from Range Rover Sport drivers. Check out the Southern Sales Group of Companies’ Audi showroom for more information or to arrange your test drive. The A1 is an impressive blend of sport, practicality and fun in a small premium package. Prices start at TT$275K on the road.

23 • Zorce

What If They Zorced It Up?

At a Glance: 0-62mph (s): 3.7 HP: 503@2500-5300rpm Ft-lb: 487@unknown rpm Km/h: 250 (elec. limiter) Mpg: Really?

Price: Not for sale Verdict: Group B for the road; must be a crazy drive.

Source: Audi

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his year at the Wörthersee Tour 2011, a major meeting for Audi, Seat, Skoda and VW fans, Audi unleashed an all-out concept of the ultimate A1 called the A1 Clubsport quattro. This occasion allowed the Audi engineers to have fun without consideration for mass production or budget constraints and the result is an amazing one-off creation.

The heart of the Audi A1 Clubsport quattro is a classic Audi gasoline engine– a 5-cylinder unit displacing 2.5L with turbocharging and direct fuel injection. Compared with the version used in the Audi TT RS and RS 3 Sportback on which it is based, the output of the TFSI has been increased dramatically to 370kW (503hp) and 660Nm (486.79ft-lb) of torque. Maximum power

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is available between 2500 and 5300 rpm. As on the Audi A4 DTM, the tailpipe is located on the left flank, just in front of the rear wheel.

The A1 Clubsport quattro shines with its overall weight of just 1,390kg (3,064lb). The powerful engine catapults the car from 0-100 km/h (62.14mph) in 3.7s. From 0-200km/h (124.27mph) takes just 10.9s, while the car goes from 80120km/h (49.71-74.56mph) in fourth gear in just 2.4s. A 6-speed manual transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive, both taken from the TT RS and enhanced, deliver the power to all four wheels. Top speed is governed at 250km/h (155.34mph).

The Audi showcar rolls on 255/30 low-profile

tires mounted on 19” alloy wheels with a unique turbine design. Sitting behind the wheels are large, internally ventilated disc brakes. Up front, six-piston calipers grab perforated carbon fibreceramic discs. Large steel discs are mounted on the rear axle. The coilover suspension of the A1 Clubsport quattro features adjustable compression and rebound damping.

The body has a Glacier White matte paint finish, the roof arch in high-gloss black supports a roof made of carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP), and the four rings at the front of the car are solid aluminium. Large, split air intakes with carbon struts are integrated into the distinctively modified front skirt. The single-frame radiator grille sports a black honeycomb design, and

the headlights feature matted clasps with a red ‘wing’. Heat from the engine compartment is dissipated via two large air outlets in the hood.

The front fenders, the doors and the rear side panels have been widened by a total of 60mm (2.36”). They form horizontal ‘blister’ edges like those found on the Audi Ur-quattro. Air outlets are integrated into the rear ends of the fenders, and the newly designed trim strips on the sills are made of exposed CFRP. Sleek side mirrors are reminiscent of the Audi R8 high-performance sports car. The rear of the showcar is dominated by the roof spoiler, which features a double wing to provide for sufficient downforce. Darkly toned rear lights and a large, closed diffuser hone the rear view of the A1 Clubsport quattro.

Designed as a road vehicle for the racetrack, the

showcar has no rear seat. In its place are a large crossbar to further stiffen the body and storage for racing helmets. A weight-optimised starter battery used in racing is mounted in the rear below the two storage compartments. The strict high-performance concept left no room for an infotainment system, an MMI monitor or even a loudspeaker. The lightweight bucket seats are taken from the Audi R8 GT and feature a chassis made of carbon fibre-reinforced polymer. Red four-point belts secure the driver and passenger.

The interior of the showcar is a study in dark grey. Large areas are covered with exposed, matte-finished CFRP, including the walls in the rear section of the car, the tubes of the air vents and the ‘stern of the yacht’ in the lower section of the centre console. The CFRP material used on the open-spoked sport steering wheel is covered

with leather. Rocker switches on the centre console replace switches on the control stalk and in the door panels. Three additional instruments indicate the oil pressure, boost pressure and electrical system voltage.

The centre console and the seats are covered in fine leather upholstery with tone-ontone stitching. The selector lever is made of aluminium; the caps of the pedals and the surface of the footrest are made of stainless steel.

Red loops replace the handles on the doors, the glove box and the covers of the storage compartments.

This factory project car keeps the sporty spirit of fun, fast hatchback cars alive! We are looking forward to seeing just how much of this concept makes it into the upcoming Audi S1.

25 • Zorce

At a Glance: 0-60(s): 11.8 HP: 95@ rpm Ft-lb: 94@ rpm Km/h: 175 Mpg: 36 Price: TT$145K Verdict: Spicy in corners, great deal on parts.

Ford Fiesta 1.4 Sedan Article: Narend Sooknarine • Photos: Zorce Vader

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hen we first decided to give this car a drive, the name Ford Fiesta did not conjure up any ideas of performance. In fact we were expecting to arrive at McEnearney Motors and burst a piñata around the car then dance with a few mariachis. We also arrived closer to lunch at the showroom and contemplated sampling a taco or two on our drive. Alas, this was not the case but we did learn of a new parts and service package from Ford that was just as tasty!

In the showroom, it was apparent that the Fiesta had grown from the early generation cars we remember seeing in foreign magazines. Simply search Fiesta WRC and a host of racing version Fiesta videos pop up, including a few made famous thanks to gymkhana driver Ken Block.

While our road car test was a simple 1.4-litre automatic car, we couldn’t help but wonder if there was even a remote connection to the world of racing. The car we would be driving is Ford’s sixth-generation Fiesta, first introduced in 2008.

What was obvious is that this little machine had Zorce • 26

the makings of a very good road car. For starters, the trunk was cavernous. Four smaller carry onstyle luggage bags could probably fit, along with a set of golf clubs. The rear seats boast full threepoint seat belts for all three seating positions instead of the usual middle lap belt. Isofix locking points are also integrated for using a child seat.

In all, there are no fewer than seven airbags– the usual complement of front, side, curtain and a new driver’s knee airbag. ABS with EBD is also standard.

Inside there is a host of simple but effective compartments and small item nets, as well as an inner plastic clip at the base of the windshield on the driver’s side to hold paper passes for parking etc. Ergonomics are well integrated and despite the lavish use of plastics throughout the car the styling is modern and with manages not to feel absurdly cheap. Exterior styling is also attractive particularly from the front and side views. The back view has not grown on us and is just as peculiar as on the Fiesta’s more expensive Mazda 2 cousin and generally makes the car seem

quite small on the road. We can’t wait to see the hatchback version and, yes, there is a Ford Fiesta ST as well, although it is not currently available.

Thanks to the centre-mounted multi-function digital display, that low-end image begins to disappear, especially when you read the song currently playing on the radio with the advent of digital FM broadcasting. One lady customer remarked “Fiesta! Fiesta! Fiesta! This car is like a rolling eye-magnet– everyone wants to take a look.

I love the way it drives and all the great features, especially the radio display that shows you what song you are listening to. My husband thinks it is more like a luxury car and was quite impressed!”

The sound system has loads of spunk, giving you booming sounds at medium volume levels but there is considerable distortion when you try to turn it up too high.

As we set out to our planned route, we made a stop at the gas station and discovered another unique detail. The gas tank filler cap is integrated into the gas tank cover so there is no separate

cap. The opening for the nozzle however is designed to remain closed, until the gas nozzle is inserted. The 1.4-litre engine and four-speed automatic transmission seem to have been calibrated to allow a smooth takeoff, even going uphill, sacrificing some low-end grunt to reduce harshness when accelerating. Using the tiptronic shifter mode did make a slight difference in urgency and sharpness. The Duratec engine is rated at 95hp and 94ft-lb of torque. Zero to sixty miles per hour is estimated at 11.8 seconds and top speed is around 175km/h or 109mph.

Average fuel economy is estimated at 36mpg.

Longer highway corners were easily dispatched but the real surprises came in the tighter curves where the Fiesta really surprised us. When pushed the Fiesta begins with minimal understeer, approaches neutral and then transitions to very slight oversteer. We can only imagine how much fun it might be to push this car in the wet. How was this achieved? We know that Ford has been

putting a lot of work into its front suspension design, particularly with the RevoKnuckle component in the Ford Focus ST. The steering also has a very quick ratio requiring minimal turning of the wheel to achieve directional changes. In fact, we were so befuddled that we pulled over and decided to check the number of turns to lock and arrived at 2.6 turns lock-to-lock. This is about the same as a Pontiac Solstice, which is actually a bonafide sports car. This also means quicker three-point turns.

This was also evident in our ‘60-wiggle’ test where the accident avoidance simulation induced oversteer, thanks to our typically large steering inputs. We did note however that with smaller inputs, the car could in fact complete the test safely. We would advise being careful however, with panic lane changes in the wet, especially at high speeds. This is a car that rewards precision, finesse and smooth driving inputs. The very same handling characteristics are responsible for the

Fiesta’s eager handling, which makes driving it so addictive that you just want to throw it into any challenging corner you can find.

The last and most attractive argument for owning this car is Ford’s Premium Care Package, which has been integrated into the car’s price and covers all parts and service for five years or 100,000km, except for tires. All regular maintenance items like brakes, hoses, belts, lines, mounts, wipers, and shock absorbers are covered.

When we walked into the showroom, we really expected this car to be more of a siesta but as it turns out it, the folks at Ford chose the right name. Prices start at TT$164K on the road but there is currently a special on the Fiesta, including the Care Package for TT$155K on the road. So if this sounds like your kind of deal, head down to McEnearney Motors where a purchase will qualify you for a Premier Card lifetime membership, which can give you up to 33 per cent off from the ANSA McAl Group and affiliated companies.

27 • Zorce

What If They Zorced It Up? At a Glance: 0-62(s): 6.9 HP: 180 Ft-lb: 177 Km/h: 220+ Mpg: NA Price: TBA Verdict: You’ve got our curiosity Ford, now build it!

Source: Ford

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he Fiesta ST Concept combines eyecatching, muscular and sporty styling with a dynamic sports chassis and a highperformance powertrain capable of delivering impressive fuel economy with low CO2 emissions.

“The Fiesta has a rich history of high-performance models so a new ST performance model is a logical next step in our performance vehicle strategy for our global small cars,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. Inspired by the Fiesta RS WRC and Fiesta Rallycross, the Fiesta ST concept gives us a glimpse of what is technically possible with the road-going car.

Like the Fiesta RS WRC, Fiesta ST Concept uses a 1.6-litre Ford EcoBoost petrol engine combining turbocharging, Twin-independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) and direct injection to deliver a target power output of 180PS with 240Nm (177ft-lb) of torque, enough to propel the concept vehicle from 0-100km/h in less than 7 seconds. A top speed exceeding 220km/h is possible. The 4-cylinder engine is connected to a 6-speed manual transmission allowing the Fiesta ST Concept is also able to deliver target CO2 emissions of lower than 140g/km.

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A lowered stance, widened wheel arches filled with 17” alloy wheels and full ST bodykit mirror the styling of the Ford Fiesta WRC competition car. At the rear a dramatic diffuser envelops a twin exit exhaust. The large, distinctive trapezoidal grille echoes the new Focus ST and incorporates a honeycomb mesh design. An all-new exterior paint colour in Europe– Molten Orange, as featured in the North American Ford SVT F-150 Raptor pickup– reinforces the invigorating, racing spirit of the Fiesta ST Concept. This theme is continued inside the high-contrast sports interior, which includes Recaro sport seats for the driver and front passenger.

Tuned suspension geometry ensures dynamic and competent handling that can flatter less experienced drivers while rewarding those seeking to push the limits of the Fiesta ST’s sports performance. “With the Focus ST we promised to deliver uncompromised sports performance and styling to a truly global audience for the first time, without sacrificing Ford’s key values of Smart, Safe, Quality and Green. With the Fiesta ST Concept we are demonstrating that our Global Performance Plan has legs,” said Jost Capito, Ford’s director of Global Performance Vehicles.

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op of the ladder is the new-for-2011 Fiesta RS World Rally Car, with which Ford’s official team competes in the tough FIA World Rally Championship. This four-wheel drive challenger is driven in the WRC by Mikko Hirvonen and Jari-Matti Latvala and was developed by M-Sport, the Blue Oval’s long-term British-based partner, with support from Ford of Europe. The Fiesta RS WRC is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged direct injection engine, based on the same advanced EcoBoost technology that powers Ford’s latest production cars. Acknowledged as one the toughest forms of motorsport for production-based cars, the WRC challenges competitors to do battle for world honour in such diverse and demanding conditions as the barren, frozen countryside of Sweden and sweltering temperatures and boulder-strewn roads of Greece.

One rung down from the Fiesta RS WRC in Ford’s rallying hierarchy is the Fiesta Regional Rally Car. This shares the same Ford global performance DNA as its high-flying sibling, but is fitted with a different engine restrictor and aerodynamic modifications to meet technical regulations for series such as the FIA European Rally Championship. The car is built to comply with FIA

regional rally regulations and its versatility allows it to compete both in national championships, in its RRC guise, and also in the world championship in WRC guise. A kit of parts is available to enable conversion from RRC to WRC specification in just six hours.

Situated at the middle of Ford’s rally ladder is the Fiesta S2000, from which the Fiesta RS WRC was originally developed. After winning the famous Monte Carlo Rally on its debut in 2010, the S2000 has become a front-runner in the FIA S-WRC, a support series to the WRC. Occupying the fourth rung is the Fiesta R2 rally car, which forms the basis of the FIA WRC Academy, the sport’s new Ford-supported training programme for young drivers within the world championship. The 1.6-litre R2 rally car also forms the competition vehicle for the Fiesta Sporting Trophy, a series of national one-make championships held in eight countries worldwide.

At the base of Ford’s ladder of opportunity is the Fiesta MS1, designed to offer an entry-level rally car for novice drivers and based on the standard 1.6-litre Fiesta Zetec S road car. It offers competitors the option to upgrade step by step from an MS1 to an R2 car as resources allow.

Ford of Europe motorsport chief Gerard Quinn said the Fiesta road car offered a perfect base from which to construct the ladder. “The core attributes of the production Ford Fiesta provide so much of what is required from a successful rally car,” he said. “Its strength is an obvious benefit in such a demanding discipline, both mechanically and in the high-level of safety that is provided to the occupants.

Its short wheelbase guarantees agility in all five rally car variants and Fiesta’s popularity can be seen on rally stages across the globe. This season the Fiesta RS WRC has established itself at the highest level of the sport, adding to the success of the S2000 and R2 models. I’m confident the recently launched RRC and MS1 versions will become equally successful,” added Quinn.

All five Fiesta rally models have been developed at M-Sport, which has partnered Ford in the WRC since 1997. Managing director Malcolm Wilson is a former British champion with Ford and spent several years as the company’s chief test driver to develop new rally cars. “As a youngster, with hopes of becoming a professional rally driver, it was exactly this type of ladder of opportunity that encouraged me to drive Ford cars in the early days of my career,” he said. “I made the progression from grass roots to being a world championship driver with Ford and with a structured path now in place, there has never

been a better opportunity for rising stars to reach the top level of the sport with Ford,” added Wilson.

The Ford Fiesta has also made its mark in rallycross during the 2011 motorsport season.

The Fiesta claimed a podium clean sweep in the prestigious X Games Rallycross event in the United States. X Games also marked the final round of the US-based Global Rallycross Championship and Tanner Foust clinched the overall title, as well as the individual disciplines in SuperRally and Rallycross.

Marcus Grönholm, who led Ford to back-toback manufacturers’ titles in the FIA World Rally Championship in 2006 and 2007, finished second in GRC to Foust. Grönholm was also at the wheel of a Fiesta. Foust held third in this season’s FIA European Rallycross Championship after seven of the ten rounds, having won in Portugal and Sweden.

A specially adapted Ford Fiesta was the star of the latest version of Ken Block’s smash hit Gymkhana series of video films. The four-wheel drive Fiesta H.F.H.V., a unique car built by Block’s Monster World Rally Team, generates 600bhp and races from 0-60 in just 1.9s.

29 • Zorce

VW Polo 1.4

At a Glance: 0-60mph (s): 11.9 HP: 85@5000rpm Ft-lb: 97@3800rpm Km/h: 177 Mpg: 41 Price: TT$170K Verdict: The A1 of the entry-level market

Article: Narend Sooknarine • Photos: Lyden Thomas

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he VW Polo and similar cars are often referred to as ‘superminis’. The idea is that they improve on Sir Alec Issigonis’ original design of the ’59 Mini, at least in the eyes of the respective manufacturer. Small cars have come a long way since then and the Polo model has already been in existence for over 30 years.

This all-new fifth-generation model was first shown in 2009 at the Geneva Motor Show. Like the new Jetta featured in this issue, the new Polo is actually lighter than the previous generation car, despite being slightly wider and longer. We also think it’s intelligently styled and it manages to upstage many more expensive cars with its simplicity, engaging headlamps and taillights and attractive lines. The details are in all the right places. A few premium features have now been added to the feature list including the 7-speed DSG, three-spoke steering wheel, centre multi-function touch screen, an air-conditioned glovebox and an MP3 player port.

The dashboard surface is made with the same soft-touch plastic used in higher-end VW models,

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while other surfaces that are less likely to be touched, like the inner door skins use cheaper, lighter hard plastic. There is noticeably less chrome and other interior trimmings, which make the centre multifunction touch screen and the DSG control lever seem like icons of bling amid the sea of dark grey. Any car enthusiast will be happy that the basics have been well covered and a few great features have been preserved, including Bluetooth phone connectivity and an SD card reader for playing your favourite audio files. The seats are also nicely styled and quite comfortable and there are dual vanity mirrors up front along with reading and interior lights.

Our test car came fitted with the naturally aspirated 1.4-litre 16V engine making 85hp@5000rpm and 97ft-lb@3800rpm. On paper this seemed like a recipe for complete blandness, like getting ready to eat dried oats. Miraculously though, this is not the case. Like the Fiat Punto we drove a few issues back, the VW Polo made up for the lack of power with its entertaining gearbox and good handling manners.

Of course we want more power but the Polo climbed eagerly up to 150km/h and by our estimation should be good for at least 180km/h on longer highway runs. Zero to sixty miles per hour takes a leisurely 12 seconds. There is also a 1.2-litre turbocharged TSI version that puts out 105hp, and diesel versions making 75hp and 90hp that are not currently available in our market. Having had a taste of TSI power with the Jetta, the engine we would like to see in this car is the 1.4 twin-charged 158hp unit. VW has actually done us one better and made a GTI version with 185hp and the DSG that you can read about in the next few pages. That being said we still enjoyed our drive of the new 1.4-litre Polo.

On-the-road performance is far from sluggish and responsiveness is quite good with the DSG’s more efficient power transfer. Naturally, some people may expect a slightly smoother initial take up, as is the case with a standard automatic and the fact that the DSG is closer to a manual gearbox will take some reacquainting. The Polo can be driven in fully automatic, sport and

manual shifting tiptronic modes but we did miss the Jetta’s steering-mounted paddles for more convenient shifting action. This new DSG unit is rated for up to 184ft-lb, uses dry clutches and doesn’t require any cooling, which allows it to carry 75 per cent less oil, making it significantly lighter and more compact.

The chassis feels more solid as is typical of most European cars and if you have only driven Japanese cars before, then this is something that needs to be experienced by driving. There is also a decent amount of ground clearance for bumpy roads. Turn in is crisp and the car handles smoothly with excellent grip. In sport mode the DSG changes down to the optimum gear when braking and entering a corner, leaving you free to clip the apex and exit in the right gear without having to wait for the gearbox to shift. The steering is not bad either.

While not a very sport-focused car like the GTI or as zealous to turn as the nutty (but also smooth) Ford Fiesta, the Polo’s handling is still entertaining, leaving you fascinated and eager to keep on driving. It feels a lot smoother than you would expect from a car in this segment and we think it may even have a certain calming effect at average

speeds with the DSG in standard automatic mode.

New parents will also appreciate the ISOFIX anchor points for child seats, folding rear seats, triple rear headrests, and three-point seatbelts. The rear hatch has a dual floor storage area and more cargo room than the Suzuki Swift before the rear seats are folded and the Polo comes with a full-size spare tire. It has been awarded a five-star EuroNCAP award. Safety equipment includes four airbags, ABS and ESP. Although the Polo only carries front disc brakes and rear drums, braking was excellent and the Polo passed our ‘60-wiggle’ accident avoidance test easily.

At TT$170K on the road, the Polo is roughly TT$100K less than the premium segment Audi A1. It provides a smartly styled, solidly built, technology-laden alternative to other cars like the Yaris, Fit, Rio, Swift, Accent, Bravo and Fiesta in the $140K-$180K price range. None of those offer a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox and the Polo feels more like a premium vehicle. There is one more thing in the Polo’s favour– average fuel economy with the DSG is estimated at an amazing 41mpg!

Check out Best Auto’s showrooms to arrange a demo drive today.

31 • Zorce

What If They Zorced It Up?

At a Glance: 0-62mph (s): 6.9 HP: 180@6200 Ft-lb: 184@2000 Km/h: 220+ Mpg: NA Price: TBA Verdict: If only it were available for our market... Sigh...

Source: Volkswagen

T

he new Polo GTI promises to be the fastest, most focused and most refined performance Polo ever produced. The original performance variant of the Polo was unveiled in 1986 in the form of the G40 Coupé– a car that mixed a fast-revving, 113hp, supercharged engine with a low kerb weight and sharpened responses.

7-speed, twin-clutch DSG gearbox that channels drive through the front axle. In addition, the Polo GTI is fitted with the XDS differential, an electronic cross-axle traction control system for improved traction and handling. The XDS system is a functional extension of the electronic limited slip differential (EDL), which is a part of the standard ESP system.

Fast-forward 24 years and the new Polo GTI bears similarities with the G40. At its heart is a 1.4-litre TSI engine that uses a supercharger from idle through to 3000 rpm at which point the turbocharger cuts in to provide boost. The result is an output of 180hp@6200rpm and 184ft-lb of torque from 2000rpm, which combined with a 1,184kg kerb weight, allows the Polo GTI to accelerate from rest to 62mph in 6.9 seconds before reaching a top speed of 142mph. To sharpen responses, the Polo GTI has new springs and dampers, which results in a 15mm lower ride height than the conventional Polo.

Like its Golf GTI sibling, the Polo GTI features significant aesthetic changes. A new front bumper featuring a deep air dam is joined by a honeycomb grille element with horizontal red strips and a simple GTI badge. New headlight units complete with the option of LED running lights lend the Polo GTI an imposing new look.

Further back, a subtle sill extension wraps around the lower edge of the body while at the back a new rear bumper features a small diffuser and a pair of chrome-tipped exhausts. The Polo badge is replaced by a simple ‘GTI’ version. Finally, a set of 17” wheels, identical to those fitted to the Golf GTI, are fitted along with a set of red brake calipers.

Despite a keen focus on performance, the new Polo GTI is capable of delivering 39mpg on the combined cycle, while emitting just 139g/km of CO2. The TSI engine is linked to a compact

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The changes continue inside the Polo GTI with revised dials, a new, flat-bottomed GTI steering

wheel complete with small gearshift paddles and contrasting red stitching, aluminium pedals and new, heavily bolstered front sports seats finished in tartan trim. Subtle gloss black trim covers the centre console while the headlining is now finished in black.

V

olkswagen looks back on a small yet impressive rally tradition. Productionbased vehicles from Wolfsburg celebrated rally racing successes in the mid-1980s. The most important one: in 1986 the Swede Kenneth Eriksson and his German co-driver Peter Diekmann in the Volkswagen Golf GTI 16V claimed the world champion’s title in the newly incepted Group A. In addition, Volkswagen vigorously promoted young rally talent through the Golf Rally Cup. Today’s WRC vehicles are still based on the philosophy of the Group A introduced back then, which enables rally sport to be conducted with vehicles based on production models.

The World Rally Championship offers the most diverse technological challenge in worldwide car racing to the manufacturers involved. Various types of surfaces have to be considered to design

a WRC vehicle that is ready for gravel, scree (landslide debris), tarmac, ice, snow and mud. The calendar this season features 13 WRC rounds on four different continents. Hence a world rally car has to function in extremely different climatic conditions, from the blazing heat of South America to the icy ride in Scandinavia.

With WRC moving to smaller 1600 engines, VW has wasted no time in developing one of the hottest versions of the Polo ever made– the Polo R WRC, which was unveiled at the Sardinian round of the World Rally Championship (WRC) in May. Based on the latest edition of the Polo, this is the car that will compete in the WRC from 2013. In line with the new World Rally Championship regulations, the Polo R WRC is fitted with a 4-cylinder 1.6-litre TSI engine with direct injection and turbocharging. Power output will be approximately 300hp, transferred through all four wheels, with a maximum torque figure of 258ft-lb. According to the WRC regulations, the minimum dry weight is 1,200kg. The rally car was produced, developed and will be run

by Volkswagen Motorsport, based in Hanover during the 2013 rally season.

Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Volkswagen Board of Management for Technology, and the two-time World Rally Champion and Dakar winner Carlos Sainz (Spain) completed the first test kilometres in the vineyards of Veldenz near Trier (the location

that usually hosts the ADAC Rallye Deutschland) without any problems. On the first test day both Hackenberg and Sainz, along with co-driver Timo Gottschalk (Rheinsberg, Germany) at their side, drove some 100km on the 2.8-km tarmac circuit.

The initial functional test, followed by tuning and set-up work on the engine and the suspension was indeed successful. “I immensely enjoy being involved in the development and testing of the new Polo R WRC– and having the privilege of driving the first kilometres is naturally a great honour,” says Carlos Sainz. “The car is still in an early stage but already feels very good. For the whole team, whether engineers, mechanics or drivers, it’s very important to get to know the first real car as early as possible and to test and continue to develop it.”

happy to be part of this from the outset.” And co-driver Julien Ingrassia stresses with selfconfidence, “We’re looking forward to a team with a fighting spirit and the determination to win.

Anything’s possible!”

Since then, Sébastien Ogier has been signed as the first official Volkswagen driver for the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC). The 27-yearold Frenchman and his co-driver Julien Ingrassia, 31, are joining the Volkswagen Motorsport squad effective immediately. Ogier, who finished the 2011 WRC in third place, will be instrumental in helping to shape the development of the Polo R WRC for Volkswagen’s 2013 entry in the World Rally Championship.

“Volkswagen is the number one in Europe and will soon be number one in the world,” said an exuberant Sébastien Ogier on his arrival in Hanover. “I’m sure that they’re going to compete with the goal of clinching the WRC title, and I’m

33 • Zorce

MotorSport

Roger ‘The Sheriff’Skeete “Well before I could see over the wheel, I could drive... I think I was about nine years old.

My father gave me my first driving lesson in an old land rover.”

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Article: Aurora Herrera • Photos: Devi Nath, Lyden Thomas, Gerrard Wilson, Duane Boodasingh, Narend Sooknarine, Christian Cozier, James Harris

“I

went into a rally with a friend of mine as a co-driver in a Cooper S and that convinced me that I would never co-drive again.

It wasn’t the car or the company that drove my decision. It was what I was missing sitting in the left-hand seat. So I bought a car and in the very next event I was driving.” These are the words of Roger ‘The Sheriff’ Skeete, Bajan crowd favourite and top rally driver in Barbados. In this year’s event, driving the oneworld Group/Michelin/ Simpson Motors/Da Costa Mannings Auto Centre/Virgin Atlantic Subaru Impreza WRC S12, Skeete enjoyed his twelfth win in the event’s 22-year history.

Skeete’s father ran a car dealership, so there was a multiplicity of cars at his disposal to cultivate his mammoth interest, passion and ambition for the sport. “Well before I could see over the wheel, I could drive,” he says. “I think I was about 9 years old. My father gave me my first driving lesson in an old land rover.”

Moreover, Skeete grew up on a sugar plantation.

The cane fields of the sugar plantation provided ample room for practice, as well as a wide range of vehicles to learn from. The self-taught driver spent hours learning on tractors, trucks, cars,

jeeps and “anything else with four wheels.”

“Spending so many hours out there, I became familiar with what they could do. Driving like that allows you see each vehicle’s limits and it’s something that you take with you. There is no replacement for seat time and experience pays dividends. The more you drive, the more you will develop as a driver,” he says.

Skeete also credits the generally blasé television experience of the 60s and 70s for his interest in rallying. “It was also a matter of watching TV,” he relates. “In those days there wasn’t much in the manner of broadcasting, so I was always watching rallies. By the time I was 17 or 18 I was convinced that I had to do this.” Even though Skeete’s father had been the first to encourage him to be good driver, his parents were not happy with the idea of him rallying. They “diligently” tried to dissuade him. However, this had the opposite effect, only further strengthening his resolve to be involved.

Upon returning from university in 1979, he immediately bought a car and got into rallying.

Another contributing factor to Skeete’s brilliant track record is the growth of the rally industry in Barbados. Rallying was becoming a prominent, sport attracting major sponsors and competition

was encouraged. Drivers now had multiple chances to flex their respective throttles and improve altogether with the industry. As Skeete’s competitive experience grew, so did his success.

Skeete’s first car, a Lancer, ran as a stock car for four years. In those times, there were no roll cages, “just lap and shoulder seat belts”. In 1987 ‘The Sheriff’ sold that Lancer and bought a Peugeot 205 GTI, 1600cc naturally aspirated. “ It was a fabulous car; if not the most fun car I’ve ever driven, close to it. It was beautifully balanced, not more than 150hp but it really went.”

The car, not weighing more than 800kg, won many events. In 1998 Skeete was able to buy his first Escort, which did a lot of campaigning. After an accident in 2004, which “demolished the car completely”, he spent a year back in the 306 until he purchased another Escort, his first WRC class car. He kept that for a year and then bought a Subaru S9, another WRC class car with a 6-speed sequential gearbox and active differentials, with controls for front and centre diffs, and for onand off-throttle braking.

“It was very complicated in its set up and not as user-friendly as the current-day systems are, but

35 • Zorce

“The team is an incredibly important aspect of the rally...Nothing can happen without it.” still very effective,” he explains. “In 2007 I bought the S9 and that was a quantum leap again. It was a 2004 model and it was very active, with front, centre and rear diffs having a lot of adjustments, and that was a big improvement.”

The Sheriff’s experience with cars informed his approach of getting the best performance out of his machine– another contributing factor to his success. “A very important consideration of driving a car is that you make settings and change them according to what you want to achieve. You can change, very easily, the reaction of the car based on what you give it,” he says.

However, Skeete maintains that in winning a rally, while modifying a car can get you so far, the only way to keep the edge is to drive in competition as frequently as possible.

“Fortunately for us here, we get the opportunity to compete in a multitude of different types of events, not necessarily rallies but we get the opportunity to drive the car and that keeps the edge when

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you’re going to compete,” he says.

“Waiting around is just not going to do it. You need to sharpen your skills so you can drive better.

There are very small ways to modify a WRC car but even with someone putting over 2,000 hours into developing their car, it won’t make a difference.

Learning how to use the car and learning what it can do is the single greatest thing that you can do to achieve a good result because to extract anything like 100 per cent from a WRC car requires a lot of experience and ability and you only get those things by lots of seat time. Messing with the set up of the car or how its built doesn’t make any sense to me, especially when you consider the amount of time, money and effort put in by the people who’ve built it.”

Another winning quality that comes from racking up hours of seat time is the ability to stay calm and concentrate and not allow peripheral events to influence your thinking, Skeete advises. “Very often I can drive a car in a

stage and not see people,” Skeete says. “I focus on the roadway and look down the road and gather information. That is the only way to be successful and to be safe; to anticipate what is likely to happen. When you can do that and exclude the peripheral things that affect you, you will be able to drive well.”

A good team has also allowed ‘The Sheriff’ to grow into a legend. “The team is an incredibly important aspect of the rally,” he explains.

“Nothing can happen without it.” Brett Judd heads up the team as crew chief and does all of the organising and delegates the work to the mechanics. British engineer Brian Eel works closely with Judd to ensure that the car is in order, that nothing is overlooked and that all problems are dealt with. Judd is also responsible for arranging suitable rally racewear and gear, refreshments and the other comforts that are required to sustain Skeete during the event.

Skeete has almost a dozen members on his

“Learning how to use the car and what it can do is the single greatest thing that you can do to achieve a good result...” team, in the pit and on the road. “If we need to change a tire somewhere on the road, our team can do it in at least four minutes, all four tires in the middle of nowhere.” “Our team consists of a very well-oiled and well organised group of people,” Skeete says. “If the team is there to support the driver and make sure that he has everything he needs, he can focus solely on driving and that can make the difference between having a successful race or not.”

Financial support also allows Skeete to maintain his current status in motorsport. His ability to win consistently earned him loyal and generous sponsors. In fact, his nickname ‘The Sheriff’

was influenced by the five-pointed star logo of sponsor Texaco, with whom he has had a relationship for over 20 years. This support enables him to focus on rallying, increase his seat time and continue to achieve success.

Today, Skeete’s sponsors include oneworld Group, Michelin, Simpson Motors, Da Costa Mannings Auto Centre and Virgin Atlantic. “Our sponsors have certainly been affected by the economic climate and it has reduced their ability to help,” Skeete explains. “It’s not the easiest thing but we have been very lucky to have as many as we do for support.”

Roger Skeete has had all of the right ingredients in his life to become extraordinary. Most noteworthy is his sheer love of the sport, something that he is passing on. His son, Dane, is involved in rallying as well. At his first rally this year, the 19-year-old placed fourteenth with a Peugeot 206. He is also a multiple karting champion. “He beat a lot of very seasoned campaigners,” a proud Skeete boasts.

With such an accomplished father and a rich rallying culture to draw from, it seems that the young Dane Skeete is well poised within this new generation to also become a Bajan icon.

37 • Zorce

THA Rally Tobago 2011

Article: Jackie Alexis, TTRC • Photos: Gerrard Wilson

O

nce again, the skilful John Powell/ Nicholas Telfer team took the coveted first place honours in his 4WD group, 2-N class and was Overall Winner as well of the THA Rally Tobago in a time of 14m 50.31s, in his Shell Helix-sponsored Mitsubishi Evo X. Cristian Bourne/Rikard Absjornsen in their Crism/ Castrol/Peak Performance/DHL/Mileage Mack/ Tint Specialist-sponsored Mitsubishi Evo VII also did very well, winning the 4WD group, 3-A class and placing third overall with 15m 11.12s.

The 2WD group featured Donald Gopaul/Michael Dinnoo in their Castrol-sponsored Toyota Starlet winning their 2-3 class in 16m 22.75s, and Shelford Robinson/Rajesh Jairam took the trophy in 2-4 class in 17m 7.75s with their B13.

For another year running, Rally Tobago was a resounding success, all made possible through the kind corporate sponsors and committed

Zorce • 38

officials and marshals, supporting media and well-wishers, and supplementary services.

entertained themselves into the wee hours of the morning.

The inclement weather by no means dampened the event but it did delay the start on Saturday, forcing the TTRC to begin at 12 noon instead of the customary 9 am start whilst repair works had to be carried out to ensure a passable and safe racecourse with the full co-operation and quick response of Jusamco’s Tobago Division.

Spectator turnout and the contingent of competitors was larger than last year’s and booked in excess of 80 rooms at Grafton Beach Resort, which was not able to accommodate this volume and as such, rally fans, drivers and families spilled into Le Grand Courlan Spa Resort.

On Friday, due to non-arrival of the police to escort the parade into Scarborough, the Rally Club had no choice but to cancel the motorcade and scrutineering took place instead at the Le Grand Courlan parking facility.

On Thursday 7 July, Tobago Rally Festival began with a welcome party at Tobago’s famous Shakers Sports Bar, which was well attended by a nice mixture of Tobagonians and Trinis, who with the help of music and a few beverages

Saturday morning, the delayed start offered some challenges to the drivers. However, the muddy conditions provided much entertainment to the spectators– they thoroughly enjoyed the sideways mud antics of the drivers, who had skilfully made their way through the slippery conditions. The peek of sunshine too assisted in drying out the racing surfaces and as the day wore on, the rally cars became much faster. The afternoon was capped with an entertaining display by the 4x4 TrailBlazers and their Suzuki Jimny off-road vehicles, adding another flavour to the Tobago Rally festival.

RALLY TOBAGO 2011 OFFICIAL RESULTS 4WD Group, 2-N Class 1st John Powell/Nicholas Telfer 2nd Stuart Johnson/Lee Quesnel 3rd David Coelho/James T. Harris

Evo X Impreza Evo IX

14m 50.31s 14m 54.49s 15m 37.95s

4WD Group, 3-A Class 1st Cristian Bourne/Rikard Absjornsen 2nd Ainsley Lochan/Robert Dumas 3rd Latiff Khan/Kurt De Freitas

Evo VIII Evo IX Evo VII

15m 11.12s 15m 18.13s 16m 17.27s

2WD Group, 2-3 Class 1st Donald Gopaul/Michael Dinnoo 2nd Ryan Peyrau/Simon Rodriguez 3rd Bobby Marshall/Anand Awai

Starlet Turbo Swift Sport Mirage Turbo

16m 22.75s 16m 25.74s 16m 57.53s

2WD Group, 2-4 Class 1st Shelford Robinson/Rajesh Jairam 2nd Ansel Ali/Ken Mohammed 3rd Reyaz Mohammed/Sayyad Siddiq

Sentra SR20DET 17m 7.75s 323 Turbo 17m 19.66s Mirage Turbo 18m 24.03s

Best Team Shell Helix - John Powell/Nicholas Telfer and Ryan Peyrau/Simon Rodriguez Overall Winners 1st John Powell/Nicholas Telfer Evo X 2nd Stuart Johnson/Lee Quesnel Impreza STi 3rd Cristian Bourne/Rikard Absjornsen Evo VIII

14m 50.31s 14m 54.49s 15m 11.12s

39 • Zorce

A

worldwide initiative from BMW, the M Power tour recently visited Trinidad and Tobago en route to Peru. The three-day event was hosted by Richmond Motors, a part of the ANSA McAl Group, new dealers for the BMW brand at the National Stadium in Port of Spain.

Each day VIP guests were given the opportunity to experience M Power in three different forms, namely the M3, X6 M and X5 M. On arrival, the BMW track girls escorted guests to receive their special VIP passes after a quick registration process; guests were then given a Zorce • 40

short orientation. Here, they were introduced formally to BMW M, short for motorsport division, which is actually a separate company from BMW AG. BMW M’s main purpose is to create the highest performance production models from the existing lineup. Through BMW Individual, BMW M can also customise any BMW to suit customers’ tastes with a plethora of paint, interior, trim and wheel options. Special options like champagne chillers are also available and BMW Individual is capable of creating new options on request.

After this was explained, the presenter, Gonzalo Gonzalez, Sales Manager for the region went on

to show all of iconic BMW M models, including the original E30 BMW M3 all the way up to the new 1M Sport.

Next on the itinerary was Donnie Isley, BMW M test driver and driving instructor to introduce the BMW Performance Driving School in North Carolina and brief guests on what they would experience from BMW M Power at the event.

The BMW Performance Driving School teaches car control, high-performance driving, teenspecific safety-focused courses and even offers motorcycle training. They also cater for corporate

ant w u o y e r e h w yes “Keep your eur hands will follow... to go and yoking in a straight line...

Do your bra is not an on/off The throttle it gradually switch; applyhe corner...” as you exit t

ajan , Nicholas Bh den Thomas d Wilson, Ly ar rr Ge , th vi Na e • Photos: De nd Sooknarin Article: Nare

BMW M Power Tour T&T team-building programmes for up to 300 people with amenities including internet access, a full menu café, multiple conference rooms and gift shop. He then spoke about driving– how to enter and exit a corner, how the throttle should be used and summed up the entire discussion of how to drive through under or oversteer. He very simply and concisely instructed participants, “Keep your eyes where you want to go and your hands will follow... Do your braking in a straight line... The throttle is not an on/off switch; apply it gradually as you exit the corner...” he said. After this the group moved outside to the vehicles where Donnie

demonstrated the proper seating and driving positions and how to set the rear view mirrors.

Radios were then handed out and it was time to get behind the wheel.

Further instructions were given via radio and naturally we jumped into the first car, the V8powered M3. Donnie drove the standard BMW 320i in front of us to set the pace, which was unexpectedly quick to say the least. It was pretty amazing to see how fast the standard car was able to go around the custom course, which was set up around the Stadium building itself in a

similar manner to the Rally Trinidad configuration.

The M3 was immediately impressive with its massive torque delivery, ultra-precise steering, phenomenal brakes, lightening-fast gearshifts and huge grip levels for a RWD car. By the second lap we were being warned on the radio, “Don’t push the instructor…” After one practice lap and two medium-pace laps it was time to pull in and switch drivers.

The process was repeated and then it was time to switch vehicles. Next we went to the X6 M with its brutal peak torque delivery from as little as 41 • Zorce

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1500rpm and sports car-like handling manners.

We also felt the active differentials sending power to the outer wheels to allow even more grip at the limits. One round later and we were in the X5 M which felt a little more like an SUV but in a bizarre way, just as capable as the other vehicles, at least on our short stadium course. In this way every guest was allowed to drive and experience each M vehicle at pace but Donnie Isley did confess that a proper racetrack would be the ideal location to demonstrate the true capabilities of the BMW M vehicles. Despite the space constraints, each VIP guest emerged from their drive amazed at the performance potential they had just explored.

After everyone had driven we were in for one last treat. It was time for hot laps! The other vehicles

were removed from the course, leaving the M3 on the starting line. With one to two passengers, Donnie turned the traction and stability aids off and gave us a ride of a lifetime! His talent was very apparent given the lack of a manual gearbox and traditional e-brake or hydraulic handbrake– two typical editing tools of drifters anywhere on the planet. Even Kerry Phillip of the DWO was amazed at Donnie’s inertia drifting techniques and the M3’s devastating performance! Donnie effortlessly used weight transfer via braking to rotate the car and break traction at the rear while initiating a controllable powerslide that he managed through throttle modulation, left-foot braking and steering inputs. All this he did while having a conversation and at one point eating a banana.

Even a few seasoned Solodexers remarked that their Evolution Lancers never felt like the M3.

By this time everyone had worked up an appetite and it was time for lunch and the next round of guests to enter the orientation session. For those who felt like sticking around, there was a chance to talk to Donnie and Gonzalo and the experienced BMW sales reps, take a few rounds of Gran Turismo at the gaming booth, check out the latest high performance tires from Quick Service and pose for a few pictures with the BMW track girls.

While the experience ended there for most, we were able to return on the following two days.

We had a hot lap in the wet on day two and a shortened hot lap in the wet with an extra 360° drifting roundabout added on day three since the rains flooded some parts of the stadium course.

What a way to experience BMW M Power!

43 • Zorce

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‘BagoDex 2011

Article: Narend Sooknarine • Photos: Zorce Vader

E

very year, for the last three years running there has been a Solodex score to settle between the islands of Trinidad and Tobago. The Trinis, being naturally cocky, usually think that they have the competition in the bag– after all, there is a full season of Solodex each year plus, practice events at ARC so they have more seat time. It is a fairly established fact that drivers who are regulars of winding roads like those in Princes Town or Maracas Valley, for example, seem to have an easier time on the course, once they manage to grasp it. This quiet phenomenon has allowed Tobagonian competitors to refine their natural ability thanks to the roads they drive on every day. They are in a sense like the Bajans, except that the roads in

Barbados are far more slippery.

The day was bright at the Dwight Yorke Stadium and some competitors had already visited one of the best service stations on the island– Federal Auto in Carnbee for an oil change and lastminute alignment check. Federal themselves were fielding two of their own cars– an RX-8 and an Evo III, among a number of sponsored vehicles. By the time the course was laid out and diagrams distributed, it was time to shake off the night of partying and get down to the business of dexterity, which would start with the very sensible and sobering walking of the course. This year the classes being run would include: Open, EP-R, EP, SS, ES-P, ES and HS, quite a widespread

field that would range from economy cars like Tiidas all the way up to prepared Evolutions and Imprezas. In the meantime, Sham was warming up the pot to start the curry duck, the smell of which would soon fill the air, along with dhal and rice and fried chicken and chips for sale.

Soon the formalities of the driver’s registration, briefing and vehicle inspection were over and it was time to rock and roll. As usual the first timers generally struggled with the course but some of the seasoned competitors also got confused.

This made things take a little longer for the first run group, which was a concern as the clouds began to darken. The crew from KVTV even made their way over from Trinidad to compete

45 • Zorce

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with a bone stock, automatic Lancer to try their luck for the first time. As the second run group emerged, the crowd seemed to favour Skene Howie, last year’s champion with his Impreza STi, sponsored by Federal Auto Care and the rivalry was on between Skene and Ryan Ramsaran in his yellow Evo VII. Interestingly enough, the fastest time of the day also alternated between them and the turbocharged new model Suzuki Swift of Devi and Genevieve Nath. By now the rains had come and there was little hope for record times as photographers scampered for cover and marshals opened their umbrellas.

Luckily conditions were not bad enough to stop competition but rather made it very interesting for the slower cars and powersliding 4WDs for the second half of the day.

When the water and dust had settled and the tire smoke cleared there emerged seven class winners: Open Ryan Ramsaran (Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VII, 50.06s), EP-R Skene Howie (Subaru Impreza STi, 50.21s), EP Devi Nath (Suzuki Swift 1.5 turbo, 50.70s), SS Anthony Farah (Honda Civic, 52.46s), ES-P Roland Jaggernath (Suzuki Swift GTi, 54.89s), ES Anthony Abraham (Suzuki Swift Sport auto, 53.90s) and in HS, Maurissa Ramsamooj (Subaru

Impreza TS auto, 59.66s). These would be the competitors to proceed to the final round with the driver shootout in a B-14 Sentra fitted with new tires. There was however one other consideration: ’BagoDex has always allowed the Tobagonians a fair chance by promoting the top Tobago driver from each of the two run groups. Skene Howie was already in thanks to his blistering times but Randell Thomas got the bligh driving a Nissan Tiida.

So, the driver shootout numbered eight out of a maximum nine possible positions. And then it was time to see who would perform the best in the Sentra. This situation meant that the drivers who won in the faster classes would be essentially driving in slow motion, allowing them more mental room to make corrections, while the drivers from the slower classes would enjoy things at their usual pace in a type of car they would be familiar with. The rules were simple. Vishnu Charran would co-drive and ensure that no handbrakes were used and that the car was not manually shifted, but simply left in drive. Drivers picked numbers out of a bag and proceeded to drive in random order.

Then the times came in: Anthony Farah 58.788;

Roland Jaggernath 60.589; Ryan Ramsaran 58.431; Anthony Abraham 63.246; Maurissa Ramsamooj 61.773 DNF; Devi Nath 58.633; Randell Thomas 57.810; and Skene Howie 60.137, inclusive of one cone penalty. In a bizarre twist of fate, Ryan Ramsaran, who posted the fastest time of the day, fumbled on the brakes; Anthony Farah didn’t drive at his neatest; past champion Devi Nath also had a braking adventure, while Skene hit a cone and Maurissa missed a gate, leaving the underdog and last-minute entry Randell Thomas to show off his skills honed in his mom’s Tiida! The crowd went absolutely wild as Randell gave up his earlier handbrake turns and focused on shifting the Sentra’s weight and using the inertia to turn and keep momentum going. And once again, the ’BagoDex challenge trophy would remain in Tobago!

CARS and the ’BagoDex crew would like to thank their sponsors for this year’s event: Federal Auto Care Specialists, Subway, Samsung, Trinituner. com, Zorce Racing Magazine, Abraham Distributors Ltd, Autosport Racing Association, Jimmy’s Holiday Resort, Tobago Services Ltd and all the fans for coming out to watch. Stay tuned for next year’s ’BagoDex when the battle of the twin islands starts all over again.

47 • Zorce

‘BagoDex 2011 Official Run Results CLASS

#

DRIVER

CAR MODEL

CAR COLOUR

TIMES

Open

171 507 904

Ryan Ramsaran Marc Mohammed (Tobago) Troy Small (Tobago)

Evo Mitsubishi Evo II Mitsubishi Evo VIII

Yellow Grey White

52.270+1 > 52.021 > 54.225

> 50.059 52.182+dnf 55.421+1

54.341 55.892

52.38 54.367

50.059 52.021 54.225

EPR

500 508 41

Skene Howie (Tobago) Junior Mohammed Ajmal Mustapha (Tobago)

Subaru STI Subaru WRX Subaru STI

Blue Silver Red

51.345+dnf > 53.286 76.232+dnf

> 50.205 54.894+1 53.814+dnf

53.311 55.780+dnf 60.423

52.651+dnf 57.865 > 55.819

50.205 53.286 55.819

EP

37 901 506

Devi Nath Bushan Tackoor Dexter Sandy (Tobago)

Suzuki Swift Subaru Impreza TS WRX Subaru STI

Black Black Blue

> 50.701 63.259 58.092

50.882 > 53.933 57.407+dnf

55.828+1 60.643 57.796

55.500+1 56.816 > 57.496+1

50.701 53.933 57.496

ES

200 801 12 511 965 513 514 502

Anthony Abraham Vishnu Charran Kevin Singh Randell Thomas (Tobago) Sheldon Peter Ken Mohammed (Tobago) Khadine Mohammed (Tobago) Garth James (Tobago)

Suzuki Swift Sport 1.6 auto Nissan B14 MINI Cooper Nissan Tiida Mazda 323 Sedan Suzuki Swift Auto Suzuki Swift Auto Mitsubishi Lancer

Black Dark Grey Silver Red Beige Black Black Red

54.218 56.126 60.009+1 > 56.408 61.768 62.697 63.319+dnf 55.845+dnf

> 53.899 > 55.227+1 > 55.813 58.401+1 > 57.786 > 58.521 57.785+dnf 55.647+dnf

55.288 57.45 62.105+1 61.445 59.137 59.410+dnf > 59.651 63.037

54.488 56.632 59.293 60.643 59.471 59.007 64.961+2 > 61.617

53.899 55.227 55.813 56.408 57.786 58.521 59.651 61.617

SS

888 510 357 505 515 503 512

Anthony Farah Arif Shah Genevieve Singh Nath Kevern Jack (Tobago) Dennet Phillips (Tobago) Richard Mohammed (Tobago) Avidt Mohammed

Honda Civic Subaru Legacy Suzuki Swift Mitsubishi Lancer Nissan Wingroad 1800 Mazda RX-8 Honda Accord

White Silver Black White Silver Grey White

52.708 53.147 54.883 55.978 56.564 58.108 59.422

> 52.464 > 52.624 54.503 > 55.380 > 56.291 > 56.388 > 56.457

56.598 56.934+dnf > 53.610 63.552 63.348 60.605 65.563

56.749 56.409 59.36 63.244 62.987 58.403 62.166

52.464 52.624 53.61 55.38 56.291 56.388 56.457

ESP

906 911 509 516

Roland Jaggernauth David Jaggernauth Darron Grant (Tobago) Kaymeon George (Tobago)

Mitsubishi Lancer Suzuki Swift GTI Nissan B14 Nissan B13

Black Red Brown Grey

54.893+1 54.431+dnf 55.626 55.785+dnf

> 54.502+1 > 54.626 > 54.816 > 56.451

58.161 56.48 56.565

57.835 57.364 64.383+1

54.502 54.626 54.816 56.451

HS

172 501 521 504

Maurissa Ramsamooj Eric Mc Lean Ricardo Maximin (Tobago) Bobby Maharaj

Subaru Impreza Mitsubishi CK2 Mitsubishi Lancer Mitsubishi Lancer

Black Red Black Red

60.675 70.577+dnf > 66.981+ 69.033+dnf

> 59.657 62.891 47.127+dnf 70.315+dnf

59.963 62.264 60.794+dnf > 68.926

60.208 > 61.996 62.221+dnf 53.257+dnf

59.657 61.996 66.981 68.926

Zorce • 48

TOTAL

49 • Zorce

Zorce • 50

Z-Scene Total/Trailblazers Annual All-Terrain 4x4 Challenge “And everywhere that Mary went, the van was sure to go…”

T

he day began in earnest with a 7 a.m. call time at the Caroni Bird Sanctuary. Suzuki Jimnys, Toyota Hiluxes, Mazda BT-50s, Ford Rangers, Land Rovers, Range Rovers and even a chop-top, door-netted Nissan Patrol were gearing up for a taste of the Total Trailblazers 4x4 Annual All Terrain Challenge event. Last year there was so much rain that the King of the Hill had to be cancelled but this year things seemed to be off to a great sunny start.

For our media crew the day’s events would be particularly interesting, thanks to our Total lubricants-sponsored Polaris off-road, rollcaged, tractor-tyred, four-seater dune buggy

with racing seats and a cooler strapped to the back. One game of rock, paper, scissors later and Duane of Trinituner.com was selected as the driver, while we took turns literally hanging off and maximising photos of mid-splash marshals motoring through the mud. Try saying that five times fast. Our guide in the very able Suzuki Jimny up front said that the first stage was an easy drive, nothing more than what the club considers a grade one or two. Still one of the 4x4s with huge tires managed to get fully sideways, albeit in the same spot spinning them.

He ended up across the road and then corrected the situation by reversing and reorienting the vehicle. So much for grades one and two.

The next major section for competitors, besides finding an issue of Zorce along with a Monster-

branded er… population control “packet” and other treasure hunt items, was the King of the Hill mandatory challenge. This was divided into two courses– novice and expert, with a few competitors swapping expected positions. It was highly entertaining to see many drivers reach the very edge, some even with two wheels atop the steep expert summit, only to slide back down again with wheels so full of mud that retries proved futile.

But yet again there were some who persisted or even took another try and managed to succeed. One or two novices on regular road tires genuinely got stuck, but thankfully there was a recovery tractor on standby, along with the marshals’ hardy little Suzuki Jimnys. It was precisely at this point when we fully understood

Article: Narend Sooknarine • Photos: Zorce Vader, Gerrard Wilson

51 • Zorce

Zorce • 52

that the Meguiar’s wash bay back at the start was not put there for style and branding. These boys and girls were out to get down and dirty.

But the majority of the action was yet to come.

Back at the Caroni Savannah Road highway exit, two massive mud pits, one novice and one expert, which took mud to the bonnet level, along with a slushy hill and a tight series of curves meant that any vehicle not dressed in murky brown would soon have a healthy coat.

This venue proved to be quite the spectator spot as many highway travellers stopped in to see what all the fuss was all about. Highlights included drag racing champion Sheldon Bissessar with rally champion Ainsley Lochan at the wheel getting positively stuck in the expert pit and needing a Jimny to pull out the Jimny that was pulling them out of the pit– yes three vehicles in tandem– real mud madness! After being pulled out and over the hill, they decided to engage in a bit of tug-o-

war with the marshal’s recovery vehicle. Also worth mentioning is the V8-powered Patrol that conquered both the King of the Hill and the mud pit at an unusually moderate pace. A few entries found out what it was like to have a mud flood and what it felt like to get pulled out backwards.

All in all, it was a day of total fun and after a visit to the Meguiar’s wash bay, it was time to start the prize giving ceremony.

53 • Zorce

Zorce • 54

Moto-Z

New 2012 Kawasaki KX250F and KX450F

Article and Photos: Kawasaki

F

irmly established as worldwide MX icons, the new versions of the venerated Kawasaki KX250F and KX450F look set to take off-road innovation further still while adding new levels of refinement to many of their existing race-winning features.

Sure to impress with the first ever use of dual injectors on a production motocross machine, the 2012 season KX250F has been created to deliver what riders most often ask for: holeshot dominance, sublime handling– especially at speed in a straight line– and composed, plush suspension.

The headline grabbing feature on the quarterlitre bike is sure to be the dual injector set up with the downstream injector used to ensure

smooth, instant response, while the upstream injector is tasked with providing power. As rpm and throttle position increase, the emphasis switches from the downstream injector to the upstream unit and, depending on whether in a low or high gear, the transition between the two is either progressive or almost instantaneous.

Coupled with the new injector innovation, the 2012 KX250F is also the only machine of its type in the world to utilise Showa’s Separate Function front Fork (SFF) separating damping and shock absorption duties to offer both smooth operating action and firm damping performance.

New too is a progressive throttle link and upgrades to the Uni-Trak rear suspension, while the factory-style bridge bottom piston remains as a key performance feature.

The new KX450F is no less focused and will command MX1 attention with the first ever use of launch control on a mass production machine.

It harnesses an engine map that reduces the chance of rear-wheel spin when starting in lowgrip conditions.

Innovation on the KX450F is not simply confined to this holeshot grabbing feature. The open class bike now features three switchable maps for standard, hard and soft conditions, which can all be modified or rewritten via the now famous KX Fi calibration kit. New too is a four-position adjustable handlebar and two options for foot rest position making the biggest KX one of the most ergonomic in the paddock.

Honda Vehicle-to-Vehicle Communication System

H

onda has debuted a revolutionary new ‘Vehicle-to-Vehicle Communication’ system, which, it is anticipated, could reduce road casualties of both motorcyclists and car drivers. This work has resulted in the ‘Vehicle-to-Vehicle Communication’ system, which utilises wireless LAN technology to link vehicles within a defined radio range and establish an ad-hoc network. Each car or motorcycle can also send information to vehicles farther afield. The system continuously monitors the position, speed, distance and direction of surrounding road users, even in conditions of darkness and very poor visibility.

Data on the location of cars and bikes, information on accidents, obstructions or congestion is centralised and then sent to drivers and motorcyclists to warn them of traffic conditions ahead or possible dangers. Motorcycle riders can view information on a display, and receive safety warnings through

Article and Photos: Honda

advanced interfaces such as an in-helmet audio system. Regular vehicle drivers can view information and receive warnings, for example, on their navigation system display.

The development of inter-vehicle communication is part of Honda’s ongoing approach to safety for powered two-wheelers. It follows a number of Honda’s previous safety initiatives over the last 60 years, including the use and development of advanced braking systems, the first ever motorcycle airbag system on Honda’s flagship GL1800 Gold Wing, through to the latest developments in advanced braking with the specifically-for-sports-bikes designed Combined ABS, available as an option on the 2009 CBR1000RR Fireblade and CBR600RR. Honda’s Motorcycle Rider Trainer and Rider Simulator are further innovations, both of which are used for hazard perception training.

Motorcycle safety requires special

consideration, due to the particular nature of motorcycle accidents. Both the causes and the consequences of these are different to those of accidents involving only cars. The majority of motorcycle accidents are caused by the simple failure of other motorists to detect the presence of a motorcycle on the road until it is too late, or to correctly assess its distance and speed.

55 • Zorce

AudioZorce

Car Craft @ Trinity College

Article and Photos: Zorce Vader

C

ar Craft’s Car Show and Sound Off showcased the latest custom rides and audio champions in T&T at a new location– Trinity College in Trincity. At the centre of attention was the Car Craft Civic with its motorised doors, bonnet and trunk and remote everything.

The venue proved to be picturesque and the show was very well attended.

Euros like a Hamann-kitted BMW X6, a 5-series, Audi A4 and a VW Jetta TSI rolled in showing off their stance and wet-look paint jobs. Show cars, performance cars, like the HyperFas Skyline, bikes and a few muscle cars were also on display. RaceTrac Wheels and affiliates Gibo Wheels ensured

Zorce • 56

that there was a full stock of massive chrome and fat-lipped sport rims on display. Bosch showed off their maintenance-free batteries and Seecharan’s Auto had a wide range of automotive products.

Customising and performance crews like Barely Legal, DropShop/Signal, TintBoyz, 12 Volts, Street Concepts and Chop Shop, just to name but a few, were also in attendance. Godzilla Motorsports even brought along their full-race 2JZ Drag Tercel, while the Monster girls were on hand for photo ops. On the sound side of things, the crowd-pleaser audio bangout competition format made for a most interesting evening.

57 • Zorce

Zorce • 58

59 • Zorce

Z-Games

Top 6 Driving Games For Your Shopping List

Article: James Vailloo

Xbox 360 urn 10 Studios has churned out yet another great sequel in the Forza series, with more modes, cars, tracks and features. Players can create car clubs and share cars within that club or with friends online.

Forza 4 now supports up to 16 players online and offline, even in a new feature called multiclass, which allows different tier cars to race each other in their separate category amongst others all on the same track. Cars and tracks look better than ever, pushing what the Xbox 360 is capable of with lots of lens flare and car reflections so shiny you can almost see yourself in them! Each vehicle is a joy to drive and the handling feels real compared to other competitors, the AI could be better but still puts up a good challenge. Forza 4 caters to all skill levels making it easy to jump right in if you’re not familiar with the series. Forza 4 gets a well deserved 4.

T

Xbox 360/PS3/PC A’s Slightly Mad Studios offers up part two of its take on a hardcore racing simulation. While it’s not a legendary great like Forza or Grand Turismo, it’s worth looking into. Shift 2 has lots of cars and tracks to choose from and many customisation features.

Gameplay presentation is annoying with too many tutorials and excessively long loading but is forgiven with the attention to detail when it comes to graphics and sound. Sunsets look beautiful and blinding when racing; skid marks look real; and the roar of engines and the bursting and crackling of exhaust gases all make for a gripping and realistic racing experience.

Driving physics have been improved and can be eased into once some tweaking in the options menu is done. Single-player campaign is lengthy and challenging, which is good since most NFS games don’t last long or hold that much interest. However, multiplayer only works online and split screen is missing across all platforms, which is unforgiveable in a racing game, especially for consoles!

E

Zorce • 60

Xbox 360/PS3/Wii U/PC et primed for fun in the mud with Codemasters in Dirt 3, racing all over the world from Kenya to Monaco to Los Angeles to Finland. Dirt 3’s tight and responsive controls deliver non-stop fun and thrills at every turn and apex. Sliding from gravel to tarmac to snow with dozens of well modelled old-school and modern rally cars, trucks and buggies feels significantly different.

Every surface, puddle of water or mud has a consequence when you’re travelling at triple figures on narrow roads through dense forests.

This game never gets boring with the many modes at hand, especially online multiplayer.

The graphics are a visual treat no matter which platform you play on; with sun shafts, sunsets, snow flurries, Dirt 3 looks beautiful. Getting mud splattered all over your windshield never looked so good. The game also has a notably good selection of music for fans of punk rock, dubstep and trip hop. If you love off-road racing, definitely pick this up!

G

Xbox 360/PS3/Wii/3DS/PC lectronic Arts’ veteran game developer Black Box presents yet another NFS game in the decade-spanning franchise. In The Run you play Jack, who finds himself in a life and death situation and the only way out is to enter into a dangerous race that stretches across North America and win the prize money. The story is fairly boring but the actual racing is much better!

The environments of the game are enormous and the graphics are scenic and beautifully rendered, but overdone with unrealistic lens flares and reflections; sound design is nothing spectacular.

The game has a decent car selection and varied real-life locations with a number of race types that keep you interested enough for an enjoyable experience. The lack of offline multiplayer/splitscreen doesn’t offer much replay value other than online multiplayer, which is entertaining as you get to unlock new cars, icons and backgrounds to customise your online profile. Need for Speed: The Run has some limitations and flaws that may be overlooked and be seen just as what it was meant to be– an action-packed arcade racer.

E

Xbox 360/PS3/VITA/3DS/PC f you’re still reeling from the fact that the Formula 1 2011 season has come to a close, don’t despair, Codemasters has got you covered with one of its biggest selling titles.

With a massive fan base for the world’s second biggest sport, and not to mention, the most expensive, a lot is expected from Formula 1 2011 and Codemasters delivers. F1 2011 is a strategic racing simulation. It has a steep learning curve and most people who would be interested in this game have some knowledge about the world of Formula 1, from its glitz and glamour to rules and regulations and all the cutting-edge technology that comes with it. F1 is all about precision and speed, so a force feedback steering wheel for the major platforms is recommended to truly enjoy and master F1’s complex driving physics. The graphic quality and sound, has been improved over last year’s 2010 game. This has been most noticeable in the game’s frame rate and the attention to detail in the cars and tracks. Consoles feature split-screen racing and online multiplayer allows up to 16 players with AI competitors to fill in the rest of the grid, so competition is always fierce and never gets boring when you’re done with the single-player campaign.

I

Nintendo 3DS intendo brings you the one of the best Mario Karts to date, albeit missing mission mode, if you’re familiar with the franchise. Mario Kart 7 is a fun-packed game for both children and adults, the only drawback being that it’s exclusively on the Nintendo 3DS. Fear not– the 3DS has its pluses with its bright and colourful graphics and quirky sounds that could only be heard in the world of Mario. The ‘other’ MK7 is the perfect travel title to keep your kids occupied while waiting in transit, on an airplane or in a queue to be frisked. Mario Kart features superb track design and rewards you for how you employ tactics and the way you drive to not only beat the competition, but finish! Hang gliding and kart customisation are a welcome addition to the series, and lots of unlockables make single-player fun and engaging, even if you don’t have a buddy with MK7 on 3DS. Overall, Nintendo has put out a Mario-based kart game in a long list of sequels with lasting appeal for all ages.

N

*Star rating out of five based on game mechanics, fun factor, graphics and sound, features and replay value.

61 • Zorce

ZorceOlogy

SunTek Window Films: Choose Quality

Article: Rae Singh • Photos: Chevrolet, Ford, Mansory, Subaru

T

he subject of tinted vehicle windows has always had an element of controversy surrounding it. While the authorities continue to assure us of the need to see the occupants of vehicles, we as drivers have to deal with the relentless tropical sun and the associated risk of skin cancer, as well as damage to our dashboards and general upholstery.

These days this may include a diverse range of materials like alcantara, wood and carbon fibre inlays, hard and soft touch plastics, leatherette and genuine leather.

The challenge has always been the choice of a window film (tint) that cuts down the exposure to harmful ultra-violet rays, while being transparent enough to appease the subjective eyes of law enforcement officials. With this challenge in mind, we decided to have a look at the SunTek range from Commonwealth Laminating & Coating, Inc. (CLC) distributed in T&T by Advanced Performance Concepts Ltd. CLC has revolutionised the manufacturing and marketing of solar control window films with its portfolio of SunTek products. Over the years, they have built the most technologically advanced window film manufacturing facility in the world.

Zorce • 62

This cutting-edge facility is the cornerstone of their commitment to innovation, advanced engineering, and the window film industry.

In addition to their line of automotive films, CLC also supplies architectural, safety and security window film products. All SunTek window films are exclusively manufactured in the United States at their world-class facility in Martinsville, Virginia.

CLC has earned a reputation throughout the world as being an industry leader, as well as a premier provider of innovative energy solutions.

The company is well known and respected for the production of professional-grade window films, industrial coatings, adhesives, and laminates. SunTek Window Films have been installed across the globe in a variety of applications to lower energy costs, increase comfort, offer privacy and increase safety. Many of these products have earned certification by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC).

SunTek offers a series of lifetime window films within their automotive range. These include Ultra-Vision, CXP, Carbon, Infinity OP and High Performance. These are all 1.5mm (thickness)

films that offer 99% UV rejection, at even the lightest tint levels. All of SunTek’s automotive films are designed for easy installation (including heat shrinkability), adhesion and dry time.

SunTek can boast of the films’ exceptional optical clarity, which are also all offered with a competitive manufacturer’s warranty.

SunTek films are available in several colours and shades to match factory tints and enhance the look of any vehicle. In our opinion it is more sensible in the long run to ignore the cheap inferior products that fade, lose opacity and peel long before you expect them to and spend a little more on SunTek and on their higher-end films, which stay fresh guaranteed for the life of your vehicle. If you are serious about your car’s appearance then there is simply no question. But even if you are not, consider the safety benefits of superior long-term visibility and UV protection and ultimately, the resale value of your vehicle.

The Advance Performance Concepts team is always prepared to help with product selection, installation methods and technical questions for end consumers and window film installers alike. See their ad in this magazine for more information or call 387-0646/0647.

Meguiar’s Demo Day

Article and Photos: Zorce Vader

M

eguiar’s was established in the garage of founder Frank Meguiar, Jr. in 1901 as a producer of polishes for wood, mainly for furniture and household applications.

The arrival of the first horseless carriages turned Frank Meguiar’s attention to the automobile.

Made out of wood, they were initially coated with the same finishes that were applied to furniture.

It was an easy transition that set the course for the company’s preeminence in the car wax business today.

When Frank Meguiar, Jr. passed away in 1950, his three sons took the company to the next level.

Maurice, the oldest, was the sales manager. Next came Malcolm, who shared his dad’s love for formulating and created most of the products that the company offered, some of which are still marketed today, including Meguiar’s Cleaner Wax. The youngest of the three brothers, Kenneth, was in charge of production.

In the early years, Meguiar’s Mirror Glaze polishes and waxes intended for professional use were primarily used by car manufacturers, car dealers, body shops and detailers. As car shows became prevalent in the 60s, those attending began to recognise that the use of Meguiar’s polishes was the key to creating brilliant, high-gloss finishes.

The family formally introduced its Meguiar’s brand of consumer automotive products in 1973, headed by President of Meguiar’s Inc. Barry Meguiar, the son of Malcolm Meguiar. Today, Barry Meguiar currently hosts Car Crazy radio and Car Crazy television on SPEED TV, providing listeners and viewers from around the world with an insider’s look at icons of the collector car hobby. Celebrating its 110th anniversary in 2011, Meguiar’s Inc. has become one of the world’s leading surface care product companies, providing highly specialised products for almost every conceivable type of surface.

Meguiar’s representative Andrew Scruton-Wilson recently visited a few of the premier customising shops right here in Trinidad and Tobago. We tagged along for his visits to the Barely Legal Crew in La Romain, famous for their helicopter pickup trucks where Andrew demonstrated a number of products, including the Ultimate line, and various refinishing techniques using manual and machine cleaning methods. We even got our cloudy headlights buffed out on Project SiR hatch.

Next, we headed for the hills of Arima to visit the CarCraft Crew and take a closer look at Roger Perriera’s heavily customised Civic. The effectiveness of each product demonstrated was easy to appreciate, instantly improving each car’s finish. Andrew was very impressed with the level of talent in Trinidad and Tobago and even fell in love with an ultra-clean (for a custom car) JDM Altezza that paid a visit from the Sangre Grandebased Chop Shop Crew.

63 • Zorce

The passage of time...

T

he passage of time is a helluva thing.

When I bought my first car back in 1998, my mechanic’s kids were, well, kids. The realisation that they are now young adults of driving age and beyond, hit me like a sack of bricks a few weeks ago, when one of them reminded me, “I’m not a little girl anymore!”

Nonetheless, my protective instincts towards them remain the same, and probably always will.

I don’t think it’s the same as the way my mom still sees me as her baby (or so I tell myself ). It’s just surprising how perceptions sometimes remain unchanged despite the passage of time, and in this instance, well over a decade.

The same occurs with cars, as I also realised a few weeks ago. I had recently done the mandatory oil and filter change on my wife’s car, but also had the power steering system overhauled. About a week later, I hopped into the car to move it out of the driveway, and noticed the stereo was off.

I asked my wife how come she turned it off, and her reply struck me with the same sack of bricks.

I sometimes feel she adds a few bricks to the sack every time, but only the pending MRI scan will prove conclusive. Anyway, it seems she was driving all week with the stereo off, so she would hear any strange noises that may indicate the power steering problem might be reoccuring.

This seemed strange to me, as the car was, after all, fairly new. I had to remind myself that the Corolla is nearly ten years old. In my mind it’s still a new car when compared to my car, and the pile of parts and pieces that I have failed to convince anyone else is my other car.

So, the question remains, how do you know when time has caught you off guard and your car is older than you might genuinely believe?

At what point should you start referring to it as a classic, or maybe start thinking about trading it in on a younger model (of car)?

Well, the first indication I have concluded, is that you really are now driving with the radio off. This is the norm for me when I drive my older cars, but then I bought them when they were already old. Aside from the joys of hearing the snarl of an engine that can only be reproduced by a pair of side draught carburettors and an unrestricted exhaust, keeping the radio at bay allows you

Zorce • 64

Article: Kevin Singh • Photos: K. Sooknarine, Zorce Vader, Karen Pinheiro

to pick up on any weird noise, sound or rattle that may trigger the need to make sure your cell phone has sufficient credit to call the tow truck. Good luck hoping that the cell phone also has a full charge if your cigarette lighter socket delivers power in the same reliable way that the rest of the car does. The term ‘power’ here is also being used loosely, but explaining that may require a whole other column.

Another surefire way to tell that your supermodel is slowly turning into ‘Old Betsy’ is the need to ‘save’ components. A regular habit I have developed, for instance, is the need to ‘save’ my wiper motor. In my mind, every wipe is one less in reserve, or to put it another way, one wipe closer to a motor rebuild. To stave off the inevitable as long as possible, I tend to flick the wipers on only when the Rain-X fails to allow raindrops to be blown off the windscreen.

Unfortunately, it seems you need to be doing at least 80km/h for the wind to be strong enough to blow that water away, so it may be easier to just stay at home when it rains and preserve that wiper motor (and the car, for that matter) a little bit longer.

Have you ever found yourself in the mall parking lot talking to a random stranger about maintenance tips for your car, only because he has the same model? This never happened when your car was new, unless of course you were already deep into performance modifications.

For the rest of you, this is another sign that you may be another unsuspecting driver of an older car. If your car is wearing a Rover badge, then this was the case from day one.

Denial is another definite indication that your car is aging faster than you are prepared to admit.

Have you been resisting the urge to take your car down to the inspection station and have one of those ghastly inspection stickers slapped onto the windscreen? A surprising number of new car owners don’t even realise they need to get this done when the five-year milestone has passed!

A greater number even refuse to have it done!

Better to sell your car now before (God forbid) you have to put a second one on!

The thing about time and the newer car is that

modern cars, for the most part, tend to age very gracefully. In the old days, your fenders had already rusted before your last car payment was due (even if you paid cash). Similarly, those nifty leatherette seats began splitting unless you had the foresight to cover them in clear plastic, which always turned yellow and began cracking under our tropical sun. Nowadays, rust on a five-year-old car is almost unheard of. Fabric upholstery may begin to sag, even get very dirty and stained, but these fancy new materials and stitching seldom let go and reveal all that superbly supportive foam underneath. It is easy to think these cars will remain new forever. Parts seldom fail, components seldom wear out, and with just a little bit of care, paint seems to remain shiny forever.

When I was growing up, MGBs were already considered old cars, even though many were not a good 15 years old yet. They all needed or already had bodywork done, engine rebuilds, and a host of other mechanical gremlins to be addressed. However, for the die-hard enthusiasts among us, these cars provided opportunities to hone our mechanical skills and even give a sense of accomplishment, should we ever get those things running properly again.

The automotive landscape of today is far different. There is scarcely any restoration work to be done on ‘new’ classics anymore. While this is largely a good thing, I can’t help but wonder what the next generation of restorers will do.

Will the enthusiasts of tomorrow be hunting down rumours of a pristine Nissan B15 hidden in someone’s garage, or perhaps form clubs dedicated to restoring Honda Civic door hinges to horizontal articulation? Maybe form a support group dedicated to helping owners find hardto-get neon lights for the door handles and mirrors on Toyota Hilux/Vigo pickups? Perhaps they will search further back in time to find cars to challenge their skills with the spanner and welding torch, as well as the internet. Who knows? Maybe this new generation of reliable new cars will provide a landscape where the kids of today will see cars only as throwaway items, always looking to the future for the next great thing. Time will tell. Hopefully its passage will hold a few surprises in store.

3 • Zorce

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