The Toyota Aygo

Published by in Car Servicing on February 22nd, 2012

The Toyota Aygo has been completely revamped for a better 2012. It not only looks better, but it is more fuel efficient too.

First look at the Brussels Motor Show

We got the first peak of the car at the Brussels Motor Show at the start of the year. When unveiled, many experts praised the vehicle as being a potentially great car for this year.

Cheaper prices

The range consists of prices that are now a cheaper or unchanged, which will come as great news.

No road tax

The emissions now drop below 100g/km. In essence this means there will be no painful yearly road tax. Driving through London will also be free with no London congestion charge. Fuel efficiency is at a very high level too, with the Toyota Aygo achieving more MPG.

The Toyota Aygo has always been easy going on the running costs. It has even won the award for International Engine of the Year thanks to it’s excellent economical benefits. If last years models were not enough, Toyota have modified the current 1.0 litre VVT-I model which stands to achieve emissions which are lower and more fuel efficiency.

 

Fire and Ice

There will be two new models introduced, the special edition Fire and Ice models. The Fire model will be for the sportier type of driver and the Ice model will be catered for driver who requires the driver who requires comfort.

Design

The car has adopted Toyota’s new generation of design. Some believe that the car’s design was based on the striking Toyota Yaris to some extent. At the lower section of the car, there is a wider front bumper with the car holding a more aggressive stance. The fog lights sit nicely alongside the large trapezoidal air vents. The Fire model will receive new daytime running headlights which will be positioned at the bottom area of the grille.

Although the car’s dimensions have been made larger thanks to it’s new styling features, the car is still very flexible in the city around those tight and difficult to manage spots. There is a more aerodynamic emphasis to the car which makes the car look sportier and also improves it’s performance.

Equipment

The new Toyota Aygo Fire variant will come with nicely designed 14 inch alloy wheels. The LED daytime running lights, rear privacy glass, front fog lights, leather steering wheel, a rev counter and a special gear knob trim.

The Toyota Aygo Ice will be made available with a Alacantara and leather trim inside the cabin for extra comfort, air conditioning, a unique entertainment system with four speakers which comes with a DAB radio as well as Bluetooth and USB connectivity ability.

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The Renault Megane RenaultSport 265

Published by in General Knowledge on February 21st, 2012

The Renault Megane Renaultsport 265 pricing details have been officially unveiled before its release in April.

This is a more powerful and improved model from that of last year. It is available to order from February 20th. The Megane Renaultsport 265 Cup will cost £24,825 and the 265 model will cost £26,025. There is a 15 BHP increase on the last version with an extra 20Nm of torque. This is made possible through Renaultsport Dynamic Management programme.

Improvement on acceleration

The Renaultsport 265 can now reach 0 – 60 MPH in six seconds which is an improvement from 6.1 seconds. The top speed has improved by 2 MPH, reaching 158 MPH.

The new Renaultsport’s engine maximum turbo pressure has been increased by 0.2 to 2.5 in total. The engines air intake system has also been modified as there will be extra pressure within the engine.

New technology

Renault’s latest addition to their line-up will contain plenty of new technology. The Renaultsport Dynamic Management programme as mentioned earlier will allow the driver to change through two different power settings.

The default mode is a more eco friendly setting which is 5 per cent better off in terms of fuel consumption. The other is the Sport mode that is able achieve 265 BHP, up from the 250 BHP from the previous setting. The exhaust is also more aggressive in terms of sound. Sport mode can be initiated through the ESC button.

Options

As options, the Renaultsport comes with a “Red Design Pack”. This option represents the limited edition 265 Trophy.

The recently developed Renault Visio System which was placed on the 2012 Scenic will be made available for an extra £300. This is a wonderful safety feature that may come into great use. It has a fatigue warning system for when the driver may depart a lane. If this was to occur, a clear audible and visual sound is made if lanes are crossed without any indication signals. The Visio system can be switched off whenever the driver desires. It also contains automatic high and low headlight beams.

There is a new rear parking camera available for the cost of £360. This will greatly assist in helping drivers manoeuvre their vehicle when parking.

The luxurious and stylish interior will be something to behold. There will be carbon grey interior which will be available with red stitching along with red seatbelts.

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How to change oil – Part 2

Published by in General Knowledge on February 20th, 2012

Step 4 – Filter assembly

The next step is to find the filter assembly. There is no standardised location for this part and it may prove difficult to locate. Check the front, back and side of the engine. Once you found it remove it. This isn’t an easy task however, you have to get a firm grip and start spinning the element slowly. A specialised wrench will do the trick if you can’t do this with your hands. The filter will contain oil so beware that you don’t let it drip.

The rubber gasket ring must also be removed with the oil filter as keeping it on will mean that the new oil filter cannot be properly inserted onto the car.

The gasket upon your new oil filter must be lubricated. Once the new oil filter is properly installed, lightly spread some of your new oil onto the new gasket ring.

Pouring a little bit of oil into the filter just before installing it makes for good practice as your engine is more prepared.

Step 5 – Replace the drain plug

The drain plug which is located on the oil pan will need to be replaced. A new gasket or washer will also be needed to replace. The threads shouldn’t be crossed.

Step 6 – Fit the new filter

The new lubricated filter will now need to be screwed on. The threads should not be crossed. Paper cartridge filters will contain an o-ring. Certain filters will have up to four o-rings. They all need to be replaced to avoid leaks. Tightening guidelines should be provided. Tighten until there is a connection with the gasket and follow the guidelines from there. There should be instructions provided.  They will usually say either 2/3’s or ¼ of a turn from when filter touches the gasket. A filter wrench is highly recommended for this specific procedure.

Step 7 – Replacing the oil

The new oil should be poured into the appropriate opening hole. Various cars will need different amounts so ensure you check guidelines.  Checking against the dipstick does not always guarantee the most accurate readings.

After close the hole with the cap and close the bonnet after checking for tools and other pieces

Once you finish, start your engine ensuring the oil light switches off. Look under the car to check for dripping oil. The drain plug and the filter must be tight otherwise there will be a leak.

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How to change your oil – Part 1

Published by in Car Servicing on February 17th, 2012

Oil changes are the standard part of our services and are one of the most important procedures for any car.

Today we explain how to do this for you. Before we continue we must mention that changing your own oil can be dangerous and that it should be done with lot of care.

Why change your engine oil?

Clean engine oil keeps your car running to its optimum level. As you drive along and increase your mileage, oil gets blocked naturally and is filled with unwanted elements.

It is recommended that you change your oil at least once per year with every car service. However some drivers may need to do that sooner depending on their type of car and the way in which they drive.

Step 1

Ensure that you have the correct oil for your car and the correct oil filter. Beware that some cars require a special type of oil that may come at a cost. All equipment and tools should be prepared before hand and be within reaching distance.

Before draining out the old oil, you may want to open the hood of the car and open the oil filler cap on the top of the engine. This will help the oil drain easier because air can flow in as the crankcase drains.

Step 2 – Find the drain plug

The drain plug is located at the bottom of the oil pan normally towards the back of the engine. Ensure there is some sort of material to catch and soak up the oil as it drips down. Unwanted segments may leak onto your driveway or onto the road.

Step 3 – Take apart the drain plug

Ensure that the correctly sized tool is used to carry out this procedure. The drain plug must be loosened anti clockwise. You may need an extra bit of control depending on where the drain plug sits. If so, ensure that you have the correct type of tool such as an adding an extension to your ratchet. Remove the drain plug gasket and replace it too unless the washer is in good enough condition to be reused.

(If the drain falls into the oil, locate it with a magnetic type of expandable rod)

If your vehicle has a special type of filter element rather than the typical spinning type, this requires you to open the oil cap and remove the filter element.

(To be continued ….check  next entry)

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Will there be an eyesight test for all drivers?

Published by in General Knowledge on February 16th, 2012

Driving with poor eyesight is as bad as when you drive when intoxicated.  Many experts have called and have been making pleas with the Government to set compulsory eyesight tests.

This is due to four million UK motorists not meeting the legal eyesight requirement apparently. Some believe that the number could indeed be a lot higher.

Poor measure of testing

If you remember taking your driving test, you will remember that you had to read your test car’s number plate from a distance of 65 meters. If you require glasses or contact lenses then you will need to read the plate whilst wearing them. This is considered a poor way of testing a drivers eyesight, with a minimum number of people failing per year.

Legal Requirement

As a legal requirement, that level of eyesight is needed. As drivers get older and time goes on, eyesight naturally deteriorates. The average age of drivers is also increasing, another reason as to why there are more and more calls for eyesight tests.

Dr Young

Dr Young, a very well respected leading driver specialist said that results of a recent study were highly conclusive. He said that the eyesight test does not test your eyes when actually driving. Many agree that he does have a point. He was quoted to have said that “We also need regular, compulsory eyesight checks for all drivers to identify those with poor vision. Too many are driving with no margin for error – what if a child runs out in front?”

At the moment once you pass your test and get your driving license, you eyesight is not questioned again. Who knows exactly how many drivers do not meet the current legal requirement. It is quite a dangerous and scary thought.  A decision is expected to made by the Government later this year.

The RAC

The RAC found that most people would indeed pay for an eyesight test when surveying 991 adults. Professor Stepehen Glaister, the director of the RAC Foundation said  “Introducing an eye test to coincide with the 10-year driving licence renewal period would be a medically robust and practical way to ensure vision is up to scratch. His organisation wants a consultation room eye test for drivers. “The plate test gives only a very basic indication, but a full exam looks at all aspects of sight and its effect on driving,”

The Government is said to be currently under great consideration as to whether actually introduce the laws here in the UK.

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The Subaru XV prices and specification confirmed

Published by in Car Servicing on February 15th, 2012

Prices for the Subaru XV have been confirmed by the Japanese company. The all wheel drive crossover comes with two specific Subaru technologies which include Symmetrical All Wheel Drive and a Boxer engine.

The car has been very competitively priced in what is an overall very tough type of market.

Engine choices

There will be a 1.6 litre engine which offers 114 BHP and a 2.0 litre engine which offers 150 BHP, both of which will be petrol. A 2.0 litre diesel engine will also be offered which will be able to achieve 147 BHP.

Diesel the most popular

Subaru believe that it is the 2.0 litre diesel variant that will prove to be the most successful in terms of sales. The reason? Because of its tremendous fuel economy. The car is able to emit just 50.4 MPG and emit 146g of C02. Acceleration wise the car actually isn’t that slow. It takes just 9.3 seconds to hit 0 – 60 MPH, which is not a bad statistic. From those reasons alone it is not hard to see why the diesel could be XV’s best seller.

Gearbox

Five or six speed manual gearboxes are made available upon all models. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is only available upon petrol models. Every engine is Euro V complaint as is needed with every new model being produced for the UK market.

Start stop

Petrol versions will come with the economical of Start Stop. This will help improve fuel efficiency by turning off the car when it is at a standstill and then turning it back on when the XV needs to move on again.

Level of equipment

Subaru’s S trim includes an anti lock braking system, Subaru Vehicle Dynamics control, traction control as well as front, side, curtain and knee airbags. There are heated front seats, daytime LED running lights, 17 inch alloy wheels and automatic air conditioning.

If that doesn’t sound good enough than the SE trim might. This adds sophisticated features such as cruise control, a rear view camera, Bluetooth connectivity ability and USB and iPod adapters.

At the top end of the scale, with the SE Lux Premium, there is a sunroof, push button start, leather seats, keyless entry system and an integrated satellite navigation system.

Prices

Prices will start at £21,295 for the entry level 1.6 petrol 114 BHP variant. It will cost £23,995 for the 150 BHP versions with the top level version costing £29,995.

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The Renault Twingo’s details released

Published by in Car News on February 14th, 2012

The prices and details of the new Renault Twingo have been released by the French company. In our article today we take a look at how great the car can be on the UK automotive market.

New design

The car will now come with a brand new style to represent a change and a whole new generation. The front of the car is has been redesigned, looking more stylish and allows it to standout on the road.

The Renault Twingo will come with a new set of fog lights neatly placed within the car’s front bumper. The rear of the car has a new set of tail lights with the rear bumper appearing to have more shape to it. There will be up to 8 new alloy wheel designs for customers to choose from. A fabric powered sunroof will be made available on the options list this year too.

The car will be made available in Fuchsia or Bermuda Blue as an addition to the current selection of 7 colours. There are also 5 extra roof decals to choose from.

Clearly Renault are taking on a new sort of identity.

Equipment

The Renault Twingo will come with a number of features inside in the cabin. This includes climate control, a brand new audio system which will have Bluetooth connectivity ability in order to stream music (available in March) along with cruise control which comes with a speed limiter.

The newly introduced satellite navigation system can be accessed through a smart phone. A brand new Renault is very useful and intelligent in the way that it analyses how the vehicle is being driven and how to improve efficiency.

Practical

The car is highly practical, containing seats that fold individually with a total luggage space of 959 litres.  That will prove to be a major selling point.

Performance and economy

The car does have a 1.2 litre engine 75 BHP engine which the single current choice at present. The Renault Twingo is more for the economical type of driver rather than ones who desire speed. It is able to achieve a great fuel economy of 55.4 MPG and emit just 119g/km of Carbon dioxide. The car tax is just £30 after the first year which is free.

The Renault Twingo will be available for £10,350 with a 1.2 16V 75 engine. Will the car be as popular considering it’s £1,355 price hike?

 
 

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The new Mazda MX3

Published by in Car Servicing on February 13th, 2012

Mazda will release a brand new MX3 this year with it being highly improved from the current version.  It is expected to provide a better battle to rival the Volkswagen Golf. Is it up to the task? We take a look in our article today.

Small exterior chances

The changes are not obvious appearance wise. The design of the car is pretty much the same. The designers clearly thought that the look of the car was indeed one of it’s main appealing points. Only a few minor changes were made including a different style of front grille. The light reflectors have been re-positioned on the car allowing the vehicle to have a wider appearance. Should Mazda have done more with the overall design?

Small interior changes

Not much has changed inside either. The dials have been updated slightly. There is also now a gearshift indicator. This helps a great deal in terms achieving better fuel economy. Again the question must be asked should Mazda have done more with the interior?

Engine changes

The 2.2 litre turbo diesel choice will be quite a satisfying one for many. It is able to produce around 182 BHP and is the quickest and most powerful in the whole line-up and therefore the most expensive. It reaches 0 – 62 MPH in 8.2 seconds. The engine also offers a very smooth drive.

Economy on the 2.2D

The economy of the engine has been improved too by an estimated 3.5 % with the Mazda now achieving 52.3 MPG. The car also emits 144g/km of C02 emissions which is down by 5g/km from the current model.

Other variants

The 148 BHP version is likely to be the more popular diesel, with being toned down in power and offering quite a satisfying drive. The 1.6 litre diesel returns an outstanding 65.7 MPG giving the most economical ride of all. There also modifications to the 2.0 petrol with it also being more fuel efficient and achieving 42 MPG.

The drive

The car’s drive has been improved. The steering is now electro hydraulic powered making it more responsive and better weighted. The suspension remains firm allowing to ride awkward road surfaces a lot better.

The Mazda MX-3 offers great value for money for it’s models but isn’t up to scratch with the Volkswagen Golf. The cheaper price may prove to be worth the sacrifices made however.

 

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The new Nissan Juke limited edition

Published by in Car Servicing on February 10th, 2012

As if the Nissan Juke wasn’t already special enough, the new Shiro model is set to be released.  It will be a limited edition model with a number of different interior and exterior design differences. Prices start from £17,695. The Shiro replaces the previous Kuro limited edition and there is only the top level Tekna trim available.

Interior features

The leather steering wheel and seat edgings add a further appeal to the car. The gear shift surroundings will also have leather upon it. The seats will receive a double layer of fabric in white which has been described as quite an attractive feature by many reviews. There are also illuminated chrome plated door sills which really complement the whole overall interior design. The Nissan Juke branded doormats help the car to look slightly more unique.

Exterior features

On the outside, there are 17 inch alloy wheels which are uniquely coloured dark grey. They are nicely detailed with gloss black and satin silver too, making the car really stand out. There is also a new body colour available called the Nightshade which is a type of aubergine shade. The standard colour black will be typically available.

Engine options

Engine options available include a 1.5 litre diesel which is able to achieve 108 BHP, a 1.6 litre petrol that is able to achieve 115 BHP and an awesome 1.6 litre petrol turbocharged direct injection feature which is able to develop 187 BHP.

Gearbox options included

Every petrol model will get a five speed manual gearbox. The diesel versions will get a more economical six speed gearbox. As the Nissan Juke is in essence a four wheel drive car, there is an option for a CVT automatic gearbox too.

Safety elements

Safety is not forgotten about either. There are six airbags throughout the vehicle. ABS, ESP, Brake Assist as well as a rear view camera is all installed. Climate control and navigation are useful features which come as standard too.

Will this be enough to attract customers? Will the Shiro prove to be a success? Many didn’t think that Nissan Juke would be so popular in the UK market but it has suddenly has a great following.

If you like the sound of the Nissan Shiro, it is indeed available to order now and will be delivered to you on March the 1st according to Nissan.

 

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The Nissan 370z slightly modified for 2012

Published by in Car News on February 8th, 2012

The Nissan 370z has a great reputation for being a wholly beautiful and sporty car. This year Nissan have made the car slightly more appealing whilst keeping all of it’s fundamental strengths.

Changes

Before it’s preview at the 2012 Chicago Motor Show, Nissan have included LED running lights along with a modified rear end of the car. There are some new 18 inch alloy wheels and 19 inch alloy wheels with the Sport package will be made available to choose from too. Added to the rear fascia will be a red reflector which replaces the black centre cover. There are also two new attractive exterior colours to choose from which include Magma Red and Midnight Blue. Red coloured brake callipers will come with the Sport editions of the car. The sport version will also receive Euro tuned shock absorbers. The fuel gauage will have a splendid new design with a darker finish.

Al Castignetti – Moving forward

Al Castignetti, the Vice President and General Manager of the Nissan Division in North America has released a statement saying that the changes are little but significant. He said “Since the original 1970 ZÒ was first introduced our goal has always been to keep the design moving forward. The changes for 2013, though subtle, go a long way in enhancing its dynamic appearance inside and out”

Nissan 370Z NISMO

The Nissan 370Z NISMO will come in a gun metallic dark finish along with 19 inch alloy wheels. There will also be a BoseÒ Premium Audio Package with two subwoofers and two extra speakers, the brake fluid will be a performance type of fluid. The brake hoses will resemble that of the Nissan GTR. There be will none of the Euro tuned shock absorbers, no new front and rear reflector  and no Midnight Blue exterior colour option.

Performance wise no difference

Performance and engine wise, there are no new options for the 2013 370Z. The 2013 370Z Coupe and the 370Z Coupe Touring will come with a 3.7 litre DOHC V6 engine capable of producing 332 BHP, as is the case with the 2012 models. Both will come with a choice of either a 6 speed manual transmission or a 7 speed automatic transmission.

The new revised version is expected to go on sale next year in June. It’s a magnificent car which has steadily become one of the world’s most desired sports cars.

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