Sunday, May 17, 2009

Suzuki Ritz



The Ritz comes as Maruti Suzuki's eighth launch in the last four years - and the fourth major hatchback after the Zen Estilo, Swift and A-Star. Built around the Swift platform, the Ritz will also share plenty of components with the runaway success. What then would define the Ritz' positioning and uniqueness.To this effect, the Ritz has a taller body design. In fact, it's clone-with-a-different-name Splash was made to replace the Suzuki WagonR in the international market, just like the A-Star was the next generation international Alto. To this effect, class beating headroom to add a feeling of spaciousness and well-being to the cabin is the largest achievement of the Ritz.
With its overall length of 3.7 metres height of 1.6 metres and a width of 1.7 metres, the Ritz offers a comfortable roomy cabin with ample legroom for 5 adults. Despite its large frame, the Ritz has a tight turning radius of 4.7 meters.

Interiors

For a small car the Ritz has a lot of room, with headroom especially good. The rear seat is set higher than the front seats so all occupants get a good view out, and all seats are comfortable enough. It's a proper four-seater, and big enough for five at a squeeze. There's plenty of storage space including a flip-lid box on top of the dashboard, a fair glovebox and a tray ahead of the front passenger, but non-slip surfaces would make them more usable.

The boot looks small, especially front-to-rear, but there's a big compartment hidden under the false floor with the space saver spare wheel hidden in another layer below that. The rear seats fold down in one movement per side, the cushion cranking forward to make space for the descending backrest. The new flexible compact car combines the sportiness of Suzuki's successful model Swift with the technologies and immense know-how of the Japanese world market leader in the mini car segment.

Coloured surfaces for the dashboard create a youthful, casual look in the area of the passenger airbag and the upper part of the instrument cluster. Together with high-quality materials and a metallic-silver border on the centre console, they treat occupants to a pleasingly fresh ambience. The cockpit reflects a “less is more” approach, forming a stylish, functional space without superfluous flourishes or gimmicks. A large speedometer positioned centrally behind the steering wheel is easy to read and has all of the indicator lamps arranged around it.

A digital liquid crystal display (LCD) is positioned in the lower half of the speedometer and gives the driver additional information. In certain grades, a tachometer is separately mounted on the dashboard. The number of buttons is minimal, allowing for fewer distractions and thus raising safety. The shift lever is ergonomically shaped and is positioned relatively high in the centre console to minimise its distance from the steering wheel and permit extra storage space.



Engine Options

The Ritz has been launched with two engine options - one petrol and one diesel. The petrol one is the recently launched 1197cc, 4 Cylinders, K12M engine which generates 85 Bhp at 5500 rpm and maximum torque of 117 Nm at 4200 rpm.

The common-rail diesel is 1248cc engine which develops maximum power of 75 bhp, manufactured at Manesar in India. All these engines will be mated to a 5-speed gearbox.

To make the all-aluminium engine lighter and more fuel efficient, high grade plastic parts have been extensively used. The skirt area of the piston has been shortened to reduce weight, which helps in lowering friction and enhance fuel efficiency.

The gear lever is mounted high up and the driving seat is, like the steering wheel, adjustable for height. It controls an electric power steering system with about the right amount of weight but no true feel of the road. Its suspension is quite firm, in an effort to keep it agile despite the height, so it feels accurate enough in corners.

We've already seen how the new and ultra-low emissions K12M engine will make the Ritz India's first BS-IV ready passenger car. Engineers from the company have gone one step further and made design modifications to the engine to ensure E10 compatibility - meaning that the Ritz will be able to run on 10% ethanol-petrol blend - whenever the Government decides to implement the sale of such fuel.

With the growing involvement and dependence of vehicle mechanisms on electronics, it has become necessary to ensure that the electronics of the car do not malfunction when subject to disturbances emanating from communication towers, high voltage power transmission lines and communication devices. Although such Electro-Magnetic Compatibility (EMC) tests are mandatory in Europe, it yet has to be implemented in India. The Ritz however is the first Indian passenger car to have cleared these tests at VRDE's recently established EMC facility.

To ensure eco-friendliness, the Ritz does not use ecologically harmful substances like chromium, cadmium, mercury etc. This move will also make the Ritz completely safe to recycle for salvaging materials.

Providing safety for its consumers like in all of its other cars, the company will also be providing the i-CATS (intelligent Computerised Anti-theft System) on all the variants of the Ritz as well.

It is available in a choice of 8 fresh colours:

1) Superior White
2) Silky Silver
3) Fire Brick Red
4) Bakers Chocolate
5) Racing Green
6) Blue Blaze
7) Midnight Black
8) Glistening Grey

The petrol version is priced at Rs3.9-4.8lakh (Ex-Delhi) and the Diesel version is priced at Rs4.65-4.99lakh (Ex-Delhi). The prices are introductory offer and may be revised later.

Friday, May 15, 2009

AUDI Q5- BMW X3's new 'Rival'

The new Audi Q5 combines the dynamism of a sports sedan with highly variable interior and versatile options for leisure-time and family use. Strong and efficient engines, quattro permanent all-wheel drive and agile running gear have been brought together to create a superior technology package for both on- and off-road driving. Highlights such as the innovative seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and the Audi drive select control system are proof of Audi’s Vorsprung durch Technik. The sportiest SUV in its class is dynamic, multifunctional and comfortable.

The dimensions alone indicate that this is a SUV of all-new proportions. Measuring 4.63 meters (15.19 feet) long and 1.88 meters (6.17 feet) wide, the Audi Q5 is just 1.65 met
ers (5.41 feet) high – making it sportier than any of its competitors. What’s more, this SUV sets another benchmark in its class with a low drag coefficient of 0.33. With its sporty elegance and artfully sculpted forms, the design of the Q5 is perfectly in tune with the character of Audi as a brand. The front end is dominated by expressive headlights on both sides of the large single-frame grille; on request, they can be outfitted with bi-xenon lamps and LED daytime running lights. Viewed from the side, the large wheels and rising edges are especially prominent features.

Crowned by a railing, the elegant slope of the roof underscores the slim, coupe-like styling. At the rear, the wraparound tailgate – made from aluminum just like the hood – clearly identifies this SUV as a relative of its older brother, the Audi Q7. The taillights are available in eye-catching LED technology as well. Audi offers three different options for the external trim of the Q5 – black (standard), contrasting color or full paint finish in the color of the car. Two body packages are available as well. The S line exterior package imparts a decidedly sporty look to the performance SUV, while the alternative off-road style package with underbody protection in the front and back and 19-inch wheels gives this SUV a robust flair.

At 2.81 meters (9.22 feet), the wheelbase is the longest in its segment – creating a roomy interior on board the Audi Q5. The vehicle comfortably accommodates five persons in ergonomically designed seats that can be flexibly arranged. The backrests for the rear seats are angle-adjustable and especially easy to fold down by activating the remo
te release lever in the luggage compartment. This compartment, offering access to a second storage area under the floor, then expands from 540 to 1,560 liters (19.07 to 55.09 cubic feet) in volume. Optional extras include a rail mounting kit for luggage, a net partition and a luggage compartment liner.

The Audi Q5 is a multi-talent for sport, leisure-time and family activities. As an option, Audi offers the ''rear bench seat plus'', which slides 100 millimeters (3.94 inches) lengthwise to provide a load-through facility. The front passenger’s seat can be outfitted
with a folding backrest for transportation of long objects such as surfboards. Numerous practical storage compartments, drink holders, bottle holders and onboard power outlets are supplied ex works. On request, Audi even offers a climatecontrolled drink holder to keep drinks hot or cold. The optional storage package features another clever detail as well – an attachment point in the passenger-side footwell to which various storage fixtures can be attached.

Top-of-the-line safety equipment is a matter of course for Audi cars. On the front seats, the belt force limiters and airbags work together in a new and especially intelligent manner. Much of the body of the Audi Q5 is made of high- and ultra-highstrength steel components assembled with maximum precision. They reduce weight while at the same time improving crash safety as well as rigidity and vibration patterns.


The Audi Q5 employs design elements typical of the brand in the interior, but adds its own unique variations – the driver-oriented cockpit is set higher, for example, in keeping with the upright sitting position. The ergonomics are exemplary, boasting the uncompromising craftsmanship one expects from Audi – a little treat for the senses in terms of look and feel. The clear-cut interior takes on even more charisma with fine materials such as aluminum, exclusive woods, chrome, leather and Alcantara as well as a large selection of optional design packages.

The Audi Q5 comes standard with an electromechanical parking brake, an intelligent chip key, a climate control system and a display screen in the instrument cluster depicting, among other things, the recommended ideal gear for efficient driving in the given situation. A large, central monitor is part of the standard equipment as well. When an onboard navigation system is added, many of the controls are shifted to the MMI panel on the center console. This is the next generation of the best operating system on the market – with even more intuitive graphics and control via the large rotary pushbutton.

The Audi Q5 is rolling off the production line in three engine variants – one gasoline engine and two TDI units. All of the engines are direct-injection models with a turbocharger – characterized by outstanding performance, hefty propulsive power and cultivated running while at the same time offering impressive fuel efficiency. The 2.0 TFSI has been entirely redesigned. The four-cylinder engine unites three high-tech features – turbocharging, gasoline direct-injection technology and the innovative Audi valvelift system for variable control of valve lift. The high torque of 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) is available at 1,500 rpm and remains consta
nt up to 4,200 rpm, with performance peaking at 155 kW (211 hp). The Audi Q5 2.0 TFSI sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 222 km/h (137.94 mph). On average, the vehicle consumes just 8.5 liters of fuel per 100 km (27.67 mpg).

Drawing on four cylinders and two liters of displacement as well, the 2.0 TDI is superbly refined thanks to a new common-rail fuel injection system; like the gasoline engine, it
has two balancing shafts. With 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) (between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm), this diesel engine delivers strong propulsive power at an outstanding 125 kW (170 hp). Average consumption of just 6.7 liters per 100 km (35.11 mpg) is proof of Audi’s successful efficiency strategy. The two-liter TDI catapults the Audi Q5 from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 9.5 seconds, peaking at a top speed of 204 km/h (126.76 mph).

The most powerful engine in the line-up is the 3.0 TDI. This V6 diesel engine delivers a gratifying 176 kW (240 hp), with 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) of torque available between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. With outstanding power flow and cultivated sound, it takes the Audi Q5 from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 6.5 seconds, accelerating to a top speed of 225 km/h (139.81 mph). On average, the three-liter engine consumes 7.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (30.55 mpg).

The 2.0 TDI transfers its power to a six-speed manual transmission. Audi has built innovative technology into both the 3.0 TDI and 2.0 TFSI – the S tronic, a new twinclutch transmission with seven speeds. This high-tech component can execute gearshifts in just
a fraction of a second while offering exceptional comfort and high efficiency. Drivers can let the seven-speed S tronic shift automatically or select gears manually, when desired with rocker switches on the steering wheel. Just like in the new Audi A4, pronounced the best midsized sedan by the trade press, the position of the component units in the drivetrain has been altered in the Audi Q5 – the differential is located in front of the clutch, directly behind the engine. This solution, which made it possible to move the front axle much further forward, creates a long wheelbase and optimum distribution of axle load. It is precisely these features from which the Audi Q5 derives its unique strengths – good directional stability, high comfort and impressive dynamics.

The pioneer of all-wheel drive, Audi builds the Audi Q5 standard with quattro permanent all-wheel drive – the only logical solution for a dynamic SUV. In normal running conditions, the transfer case distributes the power to the front and rear axle in a 40:60 ratio for a rear-focused style that enhances driving pleasure. When needed, the quattro driveline can deliver up to 65 percent of the power to the front axle and a maximum of 85 percent to the rear axle.

The running gear in the Audi Q5 further emphasizes its sporty nature. The five-link front axle and trapezoidal-link rear axle are made primarily from aluminum, the steering box below directs the steering impulse directly to the wheels. Large brakes ensure high retar
dation. The vehicle comes standard with 17-inch lightweight forged wheels in size 235/65. Audi offers even larger wheels of up to 20 inches in diameter on request.

The new performance SUV from Audi is rolling off the production line with a generous range of standard equipment including an audio system with eight speakers. A highly contemporary modular system of components is available for multimedia options – the highest upgrade level features a Bluetooth telephone, a DVD drive, a TV tuner, an intelligent speech control system, an iPod interface and a top-of-the-line sound system from the Danish specialists Bang & Olufsen. The excellent navigation system boasts a high-resolution monitor for new, three-dimensional representation of maps. The hard disk from which the system reads can also save music files in MP3 format.

Thursday, May 14, 2009

TVS Apache RTR180


TVS Motors has come up with a more powerful variant of Apache. The bike retains the basic lines of the current RTR & comes with all the high tech features: digital speedometer with top speed, 0-60 timer, trips, and other extra functionality plus stunning looks.

Engine

The Apache RTR 180. It is powered by a 177.4cc engine which generates 17 Bhp of maximum power with 15.5 Nm of maximum torque.

The new 177.4cc mill is a bored out variation of the 160cc mill, and has a longer stroke too. The new engine still remains an oversquare unit, but not so much so as the 160.

Power is up by 1.3 Bhp to 17 Bhp and the new engine produces 2.4 more units of twisting force at 15.5Nm. The peak power is produced at 8500 rpm, similar to RTR 160, though the peak torque is now produced at 6500 revs.

Looks

The TVS Apache 180 adorns a new graphic scheme to distinguish itself from its smaller siblings, with RTR emblazoned boldly on the tank scoops.

The front forks and the gas reservoirs for the rear shocks are now painted in a new golden shade and the clip-ons have a new RTR 180 emblem at the centre.

Stylish alloys, unique grab rails, classy silencer, larger & sharp lined fuel tank, all these elements combine perfectly to give Apache RTR 180 a sporty eye-catching looks.

Apart from the New White tachometer the rest of the instrument cluster is same like the RTR 160FI with Digital blue backlit Speedometer.

The rear is also same with LED tail lamps, re-styled silencer and stylish new rear fender & number plate.

The new RTR180 wheelbase is longer than the 160 by a god 40 mm which makes it quite more stable around the corners n straights.The bike will be now having TVS srichakra tubeless tyres in the front as well as rear. the rear tyre profile has been changed to 110-80 X 17" which gives it more means looks and grip as well.

The expected price of new TVS Apache is around Rs. 72,000-74,000 and would be able to achieve maximum speed of 125kmph-130kmph.

Friday, May 1, 2009

SMALLEST PETROL ENGINE


SCIENTISTS have built the smallest petrol engine, tiny enough to power a WATCH. The mini-motor, which runs for two years on a single squirt of lighter fuel, is set to revolutionize world technology. It produces 700 times more energy than a conventional battery despite being less than a centimeter long not even half an inch. It could be used to operate laptops and mobile phones for months doing away with the need for recharging. Experts believe it could be phasing out batteries in such items within just six years. The engine, minute enough to be balanced on a fingertip, has been produced by engineers at the University of Birmingham. Dr Kyle Jiang, lead investigator from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, said: “We are looking at an industrial revolution happening in peoples’ pockets. “The breakthrough is an enormous step forward. “Devices which need re- charging or new batteries are a problem but in six years will be a thing of the past.” Other applications for the engine could include medical and military uses, such as running heart pacemakers or mini reconnaissance robots. At present, charging an ordinary battery to deliver one unit of energy involves putting 2,000 units into it. The little engine, because energy is produced locally, is far more effective. One of the main problems faced by engineers who have tried to produce micro motors in the past has been the levels of heat produced. The engines got so hot they burned themselves out and could not be re-used. The Birmingham team overcame this by using heat-resistant materials such as ceramic and silicon carbide. Professor Graham Davies, head of the university’s engineering school, said: “We’ve brought together all the engineering disciplines, materials, chemical engineering, civil engineering, and mechanical engineering. “What better place to have the second industrial revolution in nano-technology than where the first took place, in the heart of the West Midlands.”

BMW X6- Sports Activity Coupe


The all-new vehicle redefines the very notion of a coupe—with five doors and four sculpted seats, a higher ride and loads of cargo space. It defies coupe conventions in one jaw dropping look, combining coupe agility and SAV versatility, taking the coupe to a higher level.
As the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe, the BMW X6 will be available in two engine variants: the xDrive50i (4.4 V8 engine, 400 hp, 450lb.-ft torque) and the xDrive35i (3.0 inline six-cylinder engine, 300 hp, 300 lb.-ft torque), both with Twin Turbo and direct injection. The BMW X6 offers unique features and performance ability in a combination unmatched by any other vehicle. The new BMW X6’s design combines the sporting elegance of a large BMW Coupe with the powerful presence of a BMW X model. The BMW X6 is a sporty, agile addition to the BMW X family. The side view shows the elegant proportions of a BMW Coupé. The roofline flows down to the rear end cutoff in a gentle curve. The overhang stretches the silhouette, while two “character lines” underscore the dynamic wedge shape. When seen from the front and rear, all the typical BMW X characteristics are in evidence: the horizontal lines and prominent wheel arches emphasise the power, breadth and presence of the BMW X6.

The BMW X6 comes as standard with BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology with electronic control for variable distribution of drive power between the front and rear axles, consistently adjusted to driving conditions at all times and in all situations.

Featured for the first time as standard in the BMW X6, Dynamic Performance Control likewise ensures variable distribution of drive forces between the two rear wheels. Dynamic Performance Control incorporates an advanced computer control and an innovative rear differential incorporating two planetary gear sets and two clutch packs that enables the system to multiply torque on an individual rear wheel.

The result is that Dynamic Performance Control can help steer the vehicle by directing torque to either of the rear wheels. Unique the world over, this cutting-edge technology is effective whether the driver is accelerating or decelerating and significantly enhances steering precision and, as a result, the agility of the vehicle at any speed.

In fast corners with abrupt steering maneuvers or with the driver suddenly releasing the gas pedal, Dynamic Performance Control serves to improve the stability of the entire vehicle, thus allowing the driver to safely enter and enjoy new dimensions of driving dynamics. Finally, on slippery or uneven surfaces, Dynamic Performance Control provides the further advantage of even safer and more stable traction.With the adaptive control ,the BMW X6 accepts no compromises. With optional Adaptive Drive, it offers you only the best of both worlds. When cornering, the system compensates body roll for faster cornering, greater poise and balance, and more comfort for everyone on board.

The new V8 engine with Twin Turbo technology and direct gasoline injection, is likewise making its world debut in the BMW X6. Displacing 4.4 liters, this eight-cylinder with maximum engine output of 400 hp and peak torque of 450 lb-ft available over an unusually large range of engine speed from 1,800–4,500 rpm, is the most powerful engine ever seen in a BMW X Model.

The new eight-cylinder is indeed truly impressive not only through its outstanding thrust and pulling force, but also through its compact dimensions. For this is the first eight cylinder gasoline engine in the world to feature its turbocharger in the V-section between the two rows of cylinders.

Hence, the BMW Sports Activity Coupe is an absolutely exceptional vehicle also beyond the direct range of BMW X Model competitors, ensuring unparalleled performance in all situations, regardless of road and surface conditions.

Monday, April 27, 2009

Skoda YETI


Skoda's junior 4x4, the Yeti, is going to make production,. The Czech car-maker will develop the new small 4x4, due on sale in mid-2009, using a mix of VW group architecture and componentry, so that when it comes to market, like so many of Skoda's models, it'll be a unique prospect for UK car buyers.

Speculators have suggested that VW's Golf-based Tiguan 4x4 would make a fine basis for the small offroader, but instead Skoda will borrow some key modules like the VW’s four-wheel drive system, and mix them with other hardware sourced from elsewhere in the VAG Group.

The Skoda Yeti will therefore be a smaller 4x4 than the market is used to. The 4.2 metres long, production version has five doors. Characteristic Skoda ribbed grille and stylish headlamps confidently demonstrate Yeti’s relationship with the Škoda family. Robust and solid look on 17-inch wheels, whilst its fresh styling and high seating position enable the Yeti to exude lightness rather than looking bulky.The carefully balanced running gear and agile handling, combined with turbocharged and frugal engines, makes the Yeti fun and dynamic to drive. Two petrol and three diesel engines are on offer. The entry engine is a front-wheel drive, petrol engine with four cylinders and 1.2 litre capacity, which delivers an impressive 105bhp (77kW).

The Yeti is available with the following engines:
* Petrol:
1.2 TSI with 105bhp (77kW) – front-wheel drive
1.8l TSI with 160bhp (118kW) - 4x4
* Diesel:

2.0l TDI CR with 110bhp (81kW) – front-wheel drive and 4x4
2.0l TDI CR with 140bhp (103kW) - 4x4
2.0l TDI CR with 170bhp (125kW) - 4x4

The Yeti is very well equipped for load lugging, too. The luggage compartment volume is highly flexible; up to 1,760 litres is available by removing the rear seats. A luggage cover and net as well as lashing rings are available to secure any load.

The 4x4 variants are characterised by outstanding off-road ability and excellent traction, coupled with low emission values and fuel consumption.

Yeti brings a fresh attitude, combining the strengths of a 4x4 with hatchback practicality.






Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Suzuki Cervo




Maruthi's answer to the Nano??
The battle for the small car is getting hotter. Soon after the Tatas stunned the world with a Rs 1 lakh car, Nano, Hyundai stated its intention to come out with a car that could cost less than Rs 2 lakh and hit the road by 2011. And now, auto biggie Maruti-Suzuki too is ready with Its small car. The little car could hit the road, they say, as early as the end of this year or early 2009. The Suzuki car will come closest to rival Nano. It will sport a Suzuki 660cc engine - as against Nano's 623cc - and wear a tag of around Rs 1.5 lakh on road (that is, excluding insurance) - a little higher than Nano, which is expected to be Rs 1.25 lakh on road. The car might be called 'Suzuki Cervo'. Have a look at some pictures of the Japanese Suzuki Cervo ... Looks Cool..

Saturday, April 11, 2009

2009 Vorsteiner V-RT Porsche 997 Turbo



The exterior aerodynamic package consists of 3 primary packages. Up front is a new replacement front fascia that features larger carbon fiber air intakes for the radiators and elimination of the fog lights like the factory 997 GT2. A removable dry carbon fiber front lower spoiler adds additional down force to the front end while protecting the front bumper from any steep inclines or road hazards. The principal challenge of this front bumper was maximize weight savings . This was achieved by eliminating the fog lights, and replacing the factory plastic air ducts and hardware with carbon fiber ducting as a molded single component of the front bumper .

The V-RT rear bumper is also designed to offer the 997 Turbo with a wider stance with enlarged side intercooler extraction vents that house a replacement dry carbon fiber shroud that is approximately 35% larger for improved airflow through the intercoolers. The rear bumper also features a new molded carbon fiber rear diffuser with integrated twin aero fins that encompass the quad sport exhaust tips.

The V-RT rear end is completed with a carbon composite rear deck lid/engine cover with twin ram air scoops that feed air into the engine bay and air intake for maximum airflow and cooling. Additionally a carbon fiber wing blade enhances the final appearance while increasing down force to the rear of the vehicle at high speeds.

The V-306 twin 7 spoke 3-piece forged wheels shown are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires. The wheels feature a race-inspired center mesh design in 20x8.5J and 20x12J that are also available in 19 inch configurations with many personalized finish options.

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

New Honda Activa




Honda Activa was the first scooter launched by Honda in India. It has been designed as a family two-wheeler and features higher load carrying capacity. Now, Honda India has come up with all new Activa with major styling changes all around.

Honda new Activa gets a redesigned front and rear section. The front is dominated by curvy and aerodynamic styling with redesigned headlamps. Clear lens turn indicators dominates the rear. Honda has used impact resistant ABS plastic panels to reduce the overall weight of the two-wheeler.

Following changes/additions have been made in new activa:

  • Redesigned headlamps with integrated clear lens indicators.
  • All new clear lens tail lamp with integrated clear lens indicators.
  • Impact resistant ABS plastic panels.
  • New 109cc 4 Stroke 8 Bhp engine.
  • Redesigned front and rear section.
  • New CBS System which applies front braking force whenever the rear brake is operated.

Engine & Technology

New activa is powered by 109cc 4-stroke engine pumping out 8 Bhp at 7500 rpm with maximum torque of 9Nm at 5500 rpm. The fuel tank capacity of new activa has been reduced to 5.3 litres because of the bigger engine.

It has superb build quality and is ultra reliable. It comes with tuffup technology; the tyres have double layered tubes with fluid in between. This seals the air leakage in case of a puncture to ensure that the rider enjoys a puncture-less ride.

New activa also gets combined braking system. Honda CBS is a safety system on motorcycles that balances the engagement of both front and rear brakes. CBS applies front braking force whenever the rear brake is operated.

It comes with an auto and kick start mechanism, automatic gear transmission with maximum speed of 80 kmph. It comes with multi-reflector head lamp and a convenient lift-up independent engine cover, this makes routine maintenance fast and hassle free. Neatly hidden between the seat is space that can comfortably hold a helmet or any other thing you wish to put away.

While the ground clearance remains the same at 145mm while the length and breadth has been limited to 1761mm and 710mm from 1765mm and 715mm. However this full body male scooter has grown taller 17mm and subquently the saddle height now stoods at 765mm versus the earlier 760mm.

It's powerful multi-reflector headlamp brightens up badly lit roads to make night driving a safe and pleasurable experience. It is much better in terms of reliability and overall quality as compared to other gearless scooters like Suzuki Access, Bajaj Kristal and Kinetic SYM Flyte.

Variants, Shades & Price

New Activa is available in 2 variants:

  • Activa Standard
  • Activa Deluxe

The New activa is available in following six shades:

  • Grey metallic
  • Candy lucid red
  • Mettalic Black
  • Force silver metallic
  • Wild purple metallic
  • Pearl sunbeam white

Sunday, April 5, 2009

TATA XENON XT


The Xenon XT has been designed to take on all types of terrain without any hesitation. It is as competent on grovel, slush and snow as it is on paved roads.
Its higher ground clearance, high approach, ramp over, departure angles and the extra grip of the 4WD means you need not stop when the road ends. No matter what the terrain, the Xenon XT is one Cross Terrain pick up that just doesn’t compromise on drivability even while off-roading.
A 4×4 shift-on-fly transmits 140 PS & 320 Nm torque to all wheels so the Xenon XT can take on any surface. The shift on fly 4-wheel drive option, ample ground clearance and ladder frame rugged build ensures that. The Limited slip differencial mechanism enables the axle to provide traction where it’s most needed so you never get stuck. This is one off-roader that can tame the roughest of terrains and be as much at ease on the city roads.
The New Xenon XT also has a higher ground clearance of 200 mm, an Approach angle of 24 degree, Ramp Break over Angle of 15 degree and the Departure angle of 21 degree. It also has a water wading depth of 300 mm. All of these ensure that the Xenon is as agile off the road as it is on it.

The Xenon XT boasts of a versatile dock at the vear which can be put to multiple uses. It can also be covered with a soft or hard lid or even a canopy. So whether you wish to carry flowers or photographic equipment Xenon XT is the perfect choice.

The new Xenon XT is fitted with the new generation 2.2 L Dicor (Direct injection common rail) engine that is operated by a 32-bit electronic control unit and incorporates state-of-the- art technology. While lowering emission and fuel consumption by a few notches, the new engine delivers an incredible peak power of 140 PS and a maximum torque of 320 Nm.The new 2.2 L Dicor engine is equipped with a specially designed turbocharger using Variable Turbine Technology (VTT). This not only boosts power and torque but also lowers fuel consumption and emission under all operating conditions.The new engine is equipped with 16 valves (4 valves per cylinder) operated by double overhead camshafts, which help in generating higher power and torque while lowering fuel consumption.
Specifications EX 4×2 EX 4×4
ENGINE 2.2 L 16 Valve DOHC VTT DiCOR (Variable Turbine Technology) (32 Bit Fully Electronically Controlled) (Direct Injection Common Rail) 2.2 L 16 Valve DOHC VTT DiCOR (Variable Turbine Technology) (32 Bit Fully Electronically Controlled) (Direct Injection Common Rail)
Capacity (cc) 2179 2179
Max. Output (PS) at rpm 140 @ 4000 140 @ 4000
Max. Torque (Nm) at rpm 320 @ 1700-2700 320 @ 1700-2700
GEARBOX G-76-,5/4.1 - Synchromesh with Overdrive G-76-,5/4.1 - Synchromesh with Overdrive

SUSPENSION

Front Independent Double wishbone Independent Double wishbone
Rear Parabolic Leaf Springs Parabolic Leaf Springs
STEERING Power steering Power steering
BRAKES Vacuum Assisted Independent Hydraulic Vacuum Assisted Independent Hydraulic
Front Ventilated disc brake, Twin Pot Caliper Ventilated disc brake, Twin Pot Caliper
Rear Drum brake, Auto Adjusting Type Drum brake, Auto Adjusting Type

DIMENSIONS (mm)

Overall Length X Width X Height (mm) 5125 X 1860 X 1833 5126 X 1860 X 1833
Load Body inside Length X Width X Height (mm) 1518 X 1414 X 405 1519 X 1414 X 405
Wheel Base ( mm) 3150 3150
Ground Clearance (mm) 200 200
Turning circle Radius (m) 6 6
GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT (Kgs) 2500 2550
Kerb Weight (Kgs) 1900 1990
Load Body Load Carrying Capacity (Kgs) 260 220
FUEL TANK CAPACITY (Ltrs.) 65 65
SEATING CAPACITY 5 5
EMISSION STANDARD BS III BS III
DRIVE 4X2 4X4