The Nation Newspaper

Category: Motoring

  • Unveiling Nigeria-assembled Hyundai Grand

    Unveiling Nigeria-assembled Hyundai Grand

    Powered by a dual CVVT Kappa 1.25litre all-aluminum engine that emits quiet and smooth operation, the Hyundai Grand, assembled in Nigeria will delight drivers looking for exceptionally low weight cars that maximise fuel consumption, writes TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO

    he Hyundai Grand has proved a point that a comfortable and spacious car does not have to be cumbersome. And that exactly was Hyundai Motors’ conviction when it went to the drawing board to design this exceptionally cultured B-segment budget car that has become the toast of most automobile freaks worldwide.

    Manufactured only in petrol variant for the Nigerian market, the Grand, assembled in Nigeria, offers light weight and robust five-speed manual transmission that enhances smooth and accurate gearshift for optimum performance.

    The feature-packed Hyundai Grand responds to every expectation with alluring cabin colour, textures and shape that lend it a sport appeal that could easily make any large car envious.

    From whatever angle one views the car, it is evident that Grand was crafted to meet  the utmost need of the customer.

    Grand is a whole new level of art innovation which ordinarily gives the car an unimaginable feel.

    It shows a sharp styling with a whole new level of innovation that attests  to brilliantly crafted exterior that  leaves an everlasting impression on all those who catch a glimpse of it.

    The newly designed clear headlight clusters for instance, not only look good, they improve driver’s night vision and on-road visibility with extra safety.

    Hyundai Grand is also equipped with chrome-coated radiator grille positioned to perfection to project strong presence.

    The outside mirror repeaters are aerodynamically sculpted while the outside mirror is ornamented with LED repeaters for enhanced looks and safety.

    Inside the car, the front and rear seating ergonomically designed bucket type front seats gives the car a premium feel with spacious and cushioned rear seats and adjustable headrests assure ample support and comfortable seating.

    This is in addition to the liberal boot space to accommodate weekend luggage with bench folding function that provides an extra flat load space.

    Powered by a dual CVVT Kappa 1.25litre all-aluminum engine that emits quiet and smooth operation, the Grand will delight drivers looking for exceptionally low weight cars that maximise fuel consumption.

    Hyundai Motors Nigeria, Sales and Marketing Head Mr Jatin Nadkarni expressed delight as he took delivery of the first set of Hyundai Grand cars assembled at the Hyundai Motors Nigeria plant in Lagos.

    Nadkarni said: “The world is changing every day, so we decided to also change the way people communicate with each other by introducing the Hyundai Grand – a car that lets you share a new language with the world.”

    The Grand’s aerodynamic designed bumper reduces forward air flow resistance and the rear spoiler effect enhances fuel economy and driving stability.

    The Grand may be compact in look; its makers did not compromise on safety. The structural safety of the Grand which utilises anti corrosive steel, ring structure application to enhance the rigidity and body robustness while its Anti-lock brake system (ABS) prevents skidding and retains the car’s steer ability on slippery surfaces. This mechanism also enables stable braking and restricts wheel lock-up during panic braking

  • Dana opens expanded showroom

    KIA Motors has opened a newly renovated and expanded showroom in the Victoria Island area of  Lagos.

    This is to further create exceptional service delivery to customers.

    Kia Head Marketing Kayode Adejumo said the company has invested in a modern showroom to meet the lineup of its brands and ensure efficient after sales and service. “The showroom is geared towards turning the experience of KIA customers into an adorable and memorable moment that rewards their enthusiasm and taste for quality and regalia designs,” he said.

    The new structure will feature display of the model range of KIA automobiles in Nigeria.

    Tailored along the exceptional service delivery of KIA Motors, the Victoria Island showroom will help cater to the needs of KIA fleet owners as they will always find keeping the fleet in top condition and get more value from KIA.

  • Kogi inaugurates city bus service

    The Kogi State government has inaugurated a new metropolitan transport scheme tagged: Lokoja City Bus Service (LCBS) to boost transportation within the capital city – Lokoja.

    Residents of Lokoja would enjoy at least 50 per cent subsidy on fares within the metropolis.

    Governor Idris Wada during the inauguration of the scheme, described it as a landmark as it marks the beginning of the restructuring of the road and water transportation sectors in the state.

    Wada said LCBS is the first phase of the Kogi transport scheme that will eventually include an ultra-modern mega park, intra and interstate transport services, free school bus services, water transport terminals and the Lokoja ferry service.

    ”The desire to restructure the transportation sector is borne out of my administration’s commitment to provide safe, comfortable and affordable means of transport for the entire citizenry and residents of the state,” he said

    The buses are designated to ply only the major roads in Lokoja metropolis, which include; Ganaja Village through Ganaja Junction to Army Barracks route, Ganaja Village through Ganaja Junction to Felele route and Army Barracks through Ganaja Junction to Felele route.

    Wada announced that his administration has pegged the fare for the transport service at N50 only per drop as against N150 previously charged on the routes.

    He promised that  the scheme would soon be extended to other parts of  Lokoja and the state.

    The governor also assured the transport unions that palliative measures would  be introduced to alleviate any inconveniences they will suffer.

  • Hyundai Genesis changes luxury segment

    Hyundai Genesis changes luxury segment

    Hyundai has taken a conservative approach with the new Genesis that offers what exactly auto lovers are looking for in an executive sedan – bold grille treatment. It has some neat detailing around the lights, a sharp crease running down the side and a sleeker rear end, reports TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO

    The Koreans are making frantic entry into the luxury car segment where premium carmakers like Cadillac, Lexus, BMW, Mercedes Benz and Audi have for some time now enjoyed unrestricted access.

    But the coming of Hyundai Genesis into the fold could change the trend and somewhat reposition the Korean Hyundai automaker as the new kid-on-the-block.

    The refinement is impressive; even when one really pushes the V6 engine, it makes a good noise and the gearshifts are superbly slick to ensure better handling.

    Powered by either a 3.8litre 311Hp V6 GDI engine or 5.0litre 420Hp V8 engine both mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Genesis produces ample power to satisfy most drivers and it idles smoothly and offers immediate throttle response.

    International automotive experts report that the Hyundai Genesis offers a comfortable ride over rugged roads with sharp steering and well-controlled handling in turns.

    Its striking design and inspired craftsmanship with innovative safety technology have to some extent given the Genesis an edge over rivals. This is in addition to the spacious, comfortable seats for all passengers and a stylish interior that features premium materials and excellent fit and finish.

    A United States-based media, USNews acknowledged Hyundai Genesis in one of its recently released analysis of 2015 luxury cars, where it ranked the inventiveness of the redesigned Hyundai Genesis Number three out of 14 luxury large cars.

    It also described as inviting the well-crafted cabin and powerful engines of the fully redesigned Genesis which offers luxury amenities at a lower price than most rivals.

    “This ranking is based on our analysis of published reviews and test drives of reliability and safety data of the Hyundai Genesis” USNews explained.

    Auto writers report that the Genesis’ audio, phone and navigation settings are easy to access, with buttons and a control knob that operate similarly to Audi’s MMI infotainment system.

    Patrons in Nigeria, according to Hyundai Nigeria Motors, custodian of the brand, said patrons can get the Genesis on order with optional features such as a rear-view camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an eight-inch touch-screen navigation system, Bluetooth, Hyundai’s Blue Link telematics system, proximity key, push-button start, satellite radio, HD Radio and a USB port.

    These optional features, the dealership added, include Lane departure warning, blind spot detection, automatic emergency braking, an HD 9.2-inch LDC screen navigation system; a panoramic sunroof with a head-up display, a power rear sunshade and two Lexicon sound systems are available.

    But the Genesis combines space with newfound swagger. The trunk is enormous and smartly finished, and it hides a full-size spare tyre. A Smart Trunk feature pops the lid when you stand behind the locked car for roughly three seconds with the keyfob in your pocket, without requiring an under-bumper foot waggle as with Fords.

    One reason to buy the priciest Genesis trim line is the superb head-up display that is only on the Genesis Ultra. It indicates cars in your blind spot (also current speed, posted speed limit, lane departure warning, forward collision, warning, and adaptive cruise control).

    Automatic emergency braking can halt the Hyundai when it recognises an impending collision or unsafe closing speed.

    The cabin is conservative, comfortable and ergonomically impressive, including navigation, infotainment systems and apps that are easier to use than anything from the Germans.

    Mounts for the transmission and subframes are up to twice as stiff as before, helping to suppress noise, vibration and harshness.

    The front shock towers are aluminum. Hyundai claims the wheels tilt 23 percent less during high-speed cornering, improving steering feel and control.

    These changes produce a far more quiet, better-riding and sharper-handling sedan such that the suspension doesn’t have to mask the chassis’ weakness with supersoft tuning that oozes over every ripple and bump. Instead, the car feels professional and confident even with standard 18-inch wheels or 19-inch wheels.

    The advantages of a rear-drive car include superior weight balance, and the Genesis delivers with 52 percent of its mass up front, 48 percent in the rear.

    Hyundai had also claimed first in one technology: because high interior carbon dioxide levels can make occupants drowsy, a CO2 sensor pumps in fresh ambient air when carbon dioxide levels exceed 2000 parts per million.

    And the Genesis Smart Trunk also opens within three seconds so long as the key is in one’s pocket and within three feet, and stand there for three seconds. It pops it open.

    Ironically, the Genesis isn’t a sport sedan in the manner of the Cadillac CTS or Audi A6 even though many drivers may perceive it as exactly that. Hyundai had called on Lotus Engineering, the British Zen masters of handling, to help develop and validate the handling dynamics.

     

  • Mercedes Benz C-Class: refined, dynamic

    Mercedes Benz C-Class: refined, dynamic

    The authorised general distributor of Mercedes Benz in Nigeria, Weststar Associates Ltd and its dealerships have delivered a classy and luxurious range of Mercedes Benz vehicles – the new Mercedes Benz C-Class, reports TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO

    The Mercedes Benz C-Class is arguably the highest volume selling model in the world, and this new, fifth-generation model is far more than just another posh compact saloon. It is set to be the most efficient, refined and dynamic model in its class. This global bestseller is well-equipped, and now has a dramatic new look, which includes a classier interior and an impressive exterior, a 100kg weight reduction and a more efficient engine line-up that includes a model with sub-100g/km CO2 emissions for the first time in the fiercely contested compact premium saloon segment.

    The new C-Class, which has an even sleeker look than the previous model, features pulled back LED headlights, prominent styling lines along the body and a sloping roofline. Aerodynamics has played a major part in shaping the sleek exterior design, too. Oversized full LED headlights dominate the aggressive new front end.

    It possesses sports 17-inch alloy wheels, a touchpad-controlled centrally mounted seven-inch colour display, two-zone air conditioning and a media interface.

    There is plenty of standard equipment which includes rain-sensing wipers, Attention Assist, Speed-tronic cruise control, heated windscreen wiper washers, and a tyre-pressure monitoring system. A whole host of technologies derived from the S-Class is also being offered on the C-Class. These include a level of autonomous driving at low speeds and in traffic jams, along with drowsiness detection, steering assistance, and numerous parking assistance systems.

    The Agility Select system is also included, allowing the driver to choose from five driving modes – Comfort, Eco, Sport, Sport+ and Individual.

    The interior represents a huge step forward for the Mercedes C-Class, making it by far the most luxurious yet. The brand has taken its opportunity to introduce the kind of state-of-the-art technology and luxurious finish that established the S-Class as such a dominant class leader.

    The crystal-clear digital TFT screens (one between the dials and a tablet-style display on the centre console) feature pin-sharp colour graphics, and the clickable touchpad control is the kind of new technology that will soon be the industry standard.

    All models come with a seven-inch colour screen that is controlled using a rotary dial and touchpad positioned between the front seats. Drivers can scroll through the on-screen menus using just the touchpad, swiping left and right to cycle through functions, and pinching to zoom in on maps

    In the back, the slightly longer wheelbase of the new C-Class means legroom is generous. Also the swept back windows and light fabric increase the sense of space, while the smart switches and vents are carried over to the rear seats. The boot is also bigger than before, matching the BMW 3 Series with a capacity of 480 litres.

    The key to the new chassis is its light weight, and this theme continues throughout the car – 50 per cent of the body is now made from aluminium, so even though the new C-Class is 95mm longer and 40mm wider than before, it is up to 100kg lighter.

    The new C-Class has an impressive arsenal of technology, one of which is a new touchpad – which is available in all models of the new C-Class. It is also the first compact executive car available with a sophisticated air suspension that was borrowed from the S-Class, and will offer three types of springs. All cars have steel Comfort springs as standard.

    The new C-Class sits on the new modular rear-drive chassis architecture (MRA) that will underpin every large Mercedes for the next five years. This has the capacity for hybrid and electric power, four-wheel drive and a wide range of different vehicle shapes and sizes all built into its structural DNA. The chassis has also been tuned to offer a sportier and more agile drive without compromising ride comfort.

    The C200, which is currently available at Weststar and any of its dealerships, has 181bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. However, more engine types will be available in Nigeria by the middle of next year. The gearboxes available with this engine are a six-speed manual or the optional seven-speed automatic transmission. The auto gearbox increases CO2 emissions from 103g/km to 109g/km.

    Although the new C-200 comes with a high level of equipment as standard, there are a host of optional packs available. One of such is the optional Airmatic air springs. It gives a choice of five driving modes, plus a self-levelling feature – which is another first from the Class

    To feel instantly sportier from behind the wheel, the seats can be lowered 20mm further than before, and have been reshaped for better lateral support. Plus, a new electronic

    Power-steering system aims to improve high-speed stability and increase driver feedback. Due to a stiffer body-shell, there will be no complaints about noise or vibration in this new version of the C-Class.

    All engines in the C-class range are Euro 3 emissions compliant and come standard with the ECO Stop-start function.

  • Winner emerges in Ranger Odyssey competition

    Winner emerges in Ranger Odyssey competition

    Of the five finalists that drove through a swampy terrain at the Awoyaya-Lekki Coscharis head office, Lagos, a computer graduate from Madonna University, Okija, Anambra State, Okezuo Chinonso has emerged the winner of the Ford Ranger Odyssey competition.

    The event, organised by Coscharis Motors, would see the winner hoisting Nigeria’s flag at a larger Ranger Odyssey scheduled for Kaokoland in Northern Kunene region of Namibia later this year.

    The five finalists, according to Abiona Babarinde, were selected through an online application and elimination process.

    Speaking shortly before the competition began, Coscharis Group Managing Director Mr Josiah Samuel, said the campaign had increased awareness and established Ford in the 4×4 leisure market and showed the Ford Ranger’s off-road capability.

    “Building on the huge success of the 2013 Odyssey, this year’s event will yet again be a unique and exciting African 4×4 challenge that seeks to conquer some of Africa’s toughest terrains.

    According to Samuel, the Ranger Odyssey is not a race nor is it a rally but an extremely tough adventurous expedition.

    The expedition, he said, would include elements of competition where participating teams could test their 4×4 driving and mechanical skills, endurance, courage, stamina, perseverance and resilience against the worst that nature could offer.

    He said: “Odyssey is a brand that will appeal to the authentic, adventurous, outgoing, free-spirited, as well as the hard-working, the professional and the bold and adaptable.

    The main emphasis of Odyssey will focus more toward testing human endurance and adaptability combined with the fierce ruggedness that comes with the Ford Ranger brand.

    “The conditions in the Kaokoland are harsh and will present the ultimate test to both the tough-build Ford Ranger and the patience and endurance of each contestant. The roughly 2500km route encompasses some of Namibia’s most spectacular and arduous terrains, including the notorious Van Zyl’s Pass and the famous Purros Loop renowned for its desert elephants.”

  • Jaguar partners UK singer on new XE

    Jaguar partners UK singer on new XE

    Jaguar has launched FEEL XE, a platform created to harness the spirit of British creativity and innovation using an inspiring collective of figures from the worlds of music, film and design.

    Jaguar will be collaborating with artistes and personalities including Emeli Sandé, Stella McCartney and Idris Elba to create experiences that express the ‘Exhilaration’ that is at the heart of the XE, the brand’s new mid-sized premium sports saloon.

    The XE is a sports saloon that has been designed, engineered and manufactured in the United Kingdom. With class-leading design and innovation, Jaguar is delivering game-changing driving experience and performance, qualities that FEEL XE will express through creative interpretations of the feeling of Exhilaration.

    Multi-platinum, British singer songwriter Emeli Sandé will create the first FEEL XE project. Emeli and Jaguar are looking to the public for inspiration as Emeli begins to write a FEEL XE song about the feeling of Exhilaration to support the reveal of the Jaguar XE. In order to secure inspiration, Emeli and Jaguar will ask the public “What makes you feel Exhilarated?”

    Using #FEELXE, the public can share words, pictures, sounds and films with Emeli through social media that express what makes them feel Exhilarated. As Exhilaration can mean many different things to many different people, Emeli and Jaguar are expecting a diverse range of submissions.

    In reference to her involvement in the project, Emeli said: “I’m excited about working with Jaguar on the FEEL XE campaign and with an incredible British brand. The new XE is innovative in its design and I can’t wait to start collaborating with the world, looking at what defines Exhilaration for them, and premiering the track in London at what is going to be an incredible event!”

    Emeli’s FEEL XE track will be performed for the first time at a secret location alongside the Thames as part of a spectacular, audio-visual event. The conclusion of this performance will mark the global reveal of Jaguar’s new XE mid-sized premium sports saloon, part of a series of dramatic Jaguar XE stunts and events across the capital.

    Emmy nominated British actor Idris Elba will create a FEEL XE project with his production company Green Door Pictures. It will be inspired by his passion for cars and innovation, an interest that he first explored in the recent BBC2 ‘King of Speed’ series.

    Jaguar Land Rover Public Relations Director Fiona Pargeter, said: “XE is a very special car and we wanted to ensure it had a very special launch. We are very excited to be working with such amazing global talent to create interesting and engaging experiences that we can share around the world. Emeli is an incredible artist and one who embodies the creativity and elegance that is at the heart of the Jaguar brand and the new XE.”

  • Mobile phone and driving (III)

    It is time for the legislature to promulgate Laws against the use of mobile phones while driving.

    It is time for the judicial courts to expedite action in the prosecution of people arrested for using mobile phones while driving.

    Irreparable lives and valuable properties are being lost daily on the roads due to the use of mobile phones while driving.  Both hand-held and hand-free telephone conversations are dangerous to driving, because they all affect attention, emotions, actions and reactions.

    It is time to act and everyone must be involved in this crusade which we must win for the safety of lives and properties in Nigeria.

  • KIA reduces Cerato price

    KIA Motors is offering customers a reduced price for the all new KIA Cerato.  The new Cerato now starts from N2, 970, 000 with free car registration, free insurance cover, three free all expense paid services and free gift to go home with.

    KIA brings to the fore the new Cerato offer following the 2014 World Cup KIA Rio offer. The Cerato offer is to reassure the customers that their interest is always edged at the core values of the company. To ensure that all lovers of the all new Kia Cerato benefits from this price slash, the offer is valid while stock lasts.

    The all new KIA Cerato is built with technical excellence and exceptional style that comes together in an affordable passenger car. Redefining the very best in automobile design, the new Cerato’s bold, coupe-like proportions and eye-catching lines and curves exude brisk acceleration and effortless fluidity of motion. The distinctive sportiness combines cutting-edge technology and advanced on-road performance to awaken the senses while opening up auto lovers’ world to new horizons.

    The all new Cerato offers two robust yet quiet petrol engines – a Gamma 1.6 MPI or the more powerful Nu 2.0 MPI unit. Each features Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) and electronic fuel injection, while their lightweight aluminum construction ensures superb fuel economy; gear shifting is smooth and precise owing to the meticulously engineered manual and automatic transmissions.

    The Cerato gives a driving experience that stirs emotions. Underpinning the new Cerato’s agile and responsive driving characteristics is a foundation of stability and strength that ensures a smooth and stable ride. The Cerato is the perfect blend of practicality and panache.

    Building the new Cerato, KIA Motors Corporation’s uncompromised safety for peace of mind is evident in the combination of a range of passive and active safety features that gives drivers and passengers a reassuring sense of security.

    The ultimate in-car entertainment of the new Cerato is loaded with the latest in-vehicle entertainment technologies that allow drivers to enjoy favourite tunes and electronic gadgets. Technology, functionality and upscale finishing touches all come together in the new Cerato to deliver unsurpassed driving pleasure. Every interior feature can be operated with fingertip, intuitive control, while storage spaces are designed with maximum convenience in mind.

  • PAN donates to terrorists’ victims

    PAN donates to terrorists’ victims

    PAN Nigeria Limited, an indigenous leading auto manufacturer in Nigeria, has donated N125 million to the victims of terrorism.

    The donation, according the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Ibrahim Boyi, was in response to the call made by President GoodLuck Jonathan on all corporate bodies to support the “Terrorism Victims Support Fund (VSF)” initiative launched last week at a dinner in Presidential Villa.

    In a letter addressed to the Secretary of the Government of the Federation, Senator Ayim Pius Anyim,  Boyi said the company will provide N25 million worth of cars to the Secretariat of the Terrorism Victims Support Fund, headed by Gen. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (rtd) to ease their logistics need.

    PAN Nigeria Limited will, in addition, provide free tuition, valued at N100 million to 100 qualified family members of the victims that will be nominated by the VSF Foundation for technical acquisition programme in Automotive Repair and maintenance training aimed at re-settlement of the victims toward a sustainable means of livelihood.

    He believed the token donation by PAN Nigeria will go a long way towards achieving the goals of the VSF in providing succour to the victims of terrorism.