Category: Motoring

The Coolray is a package of exceptional safety, technology and power delivered in contemporary style. The design, comfort, and seamless driving experience point to Geely’s growth and extensive R&D over the last 10 years that has given it access to become one of the world’s leading automotive brands, reports TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO.

 

Geely is setting a new standard with its first compact Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV).

The auto giant made a bold statement with Coolray’s configurations and technology which will compete with global compact SUVs.

Designed by a young global team in Shanghai, the Coolray’s design is based on Geely’s latest “Accelerating through Time” aesthetics and is made to match the self-confident personalities of the young and fashionable.

The Coolray’s aesthetics draws inspiration from young urbanites, who are self-confident and dares to challenge themselves every day.

The interior design has been inspired by the enveloping cockpit of a jet plane, full of technology.

Mikano International, an exclusive partner of Geely Autos in Nigeria unveiled the hi-tech and powerful crossover SUV last Thursday at Geely Nigeria’s Flagship showroom in Lagos.

The SUV comes in two segments – Dynamic GS and Sport plus GF.

Geely Nigeria said it is committed to providing reliable, durable and high- quality vehicles with premium features as a standard option for Nigerians.

Backed by Mikano International’s superior positioning in Aftersales service and Reputation for quality products, Geely Nigeria customers will have peace of mind with Mikano protection shield – Warranty, Lowest cost of Maintenance, Guaranteed resale value and best value for money.

And with the Coolray, Geely said there will be no exception.

Globally recognised for its exceptional hi-tech and powerful features for comfort, safety and convenience, the Coolray is the crossover SUV that stands out in its category. Its sporty persona is accentuated by sleek full LED day running lamps, an expanding Cosmos grille and a rear double spoiler with the “S” logo with Carbon Fiber finish accentuating the eye-catching exterior. It stands with 196mm ‘best- in- class’ ground clearance for a smoother ride on rough and uneven roads, the perfect match for Nigerian roads.

The interior showcases an enveloping cockpit with a smooth blend of comfort and technology. Standard soft black leather dashboard, Ergonomic Sporty Seats with real stitching, 10.25-inch floating full HD touchscreen, Reverse camera and sensors, Digital AC, LED fog lamps, Remote Engine Starter, 17 inch Diamond Cut Alloy wheels and a Full Sports package (Turbo engine with 7 Speeds Automatic Dual clutch Transmission, Red- highlight Grille, Sporty front & rear bumpers, Carbon fiber finish lip spoiler and diffuser and side skirts and 4 functional chrome exhaust pipes).

At the launch event, it was revealed that the Coolray is powered by a best-in-class 1.5-liter turbocharged GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine that produces 177 hp and 255 Nm of torque which is almost double the power of all its class competitors in the Nigerian market. This low-fuel-consumption (6.1km per liter) engine is connected to a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. The engine, co- developed with Volvo (Geely Holdings have been the owners of Volvo Autos, since 2010) shares 90 per cent of Volvo power train suppliers and 10 per cent of Volvo approved suppliers adhering strictly to Volvo standards.

The Coolray has performed admirably in other markets, easily becoming a top-seller among the 5-seater subcompact crossover SUVs based on its design, performance and hi-tech offerings. With the launch in Nigeria, pricing for the Coolray was revealed to start from N13.5 million for the Dynamic GS (financing plans are available). There are five body colour options available: White, Silver, Blue, Orange and Red (with two  tone Combinations available).

From a remote engine starter to an electronic parking brake with auto hold, the Coolray comes with hi-tech features for ease and convenience. The most intriguing of these is the G-pilot system that includes the automatic parking assistant (with levels of up to L2 autonomous drive), sensors and cameras around the car, for an extra sense of awareness and safety, hill traction control, cruise control and blind spot detection.

The G-pilot system is complemented by the 10.25-inch colour Full HD floating touchscreen infotainment system with a smart ecosystem that provides a real-time view of the car in 3D, as well as an eagle- eye view of the cars surroundings. The panel is also enabled with seamless connectivity and an easy to use multifunctional digital control. This is supported by an exceptional soundstage, fully customisable sound system with true and pure surround sound.

The Coolray is the premier model built on Geely’s signature B- Segment Modular Architecture (BMA). The BMA is Geely’s global-leading architecture that allows for flexible and dynamic production, enabling different vehicular styles to be built on this singular architecture. With the BMA, the Coolray can accommodate the latest and most advanced 1.5 Turbo GDI.

The 1.5 Turbo GDI, validated by Geely and Volvo, goes above and beyond the industry standard –designed to last a minimum 15 years or 350,000 km trouble-free, by far higher than the industry standard of 10 years or 200,000 km. The Coolray uses a MacPherson independent suspension system up front and Torsion beam rear suspension that is responsive enough to minimise the shock of irregular and uneven roads.

At the heart of the Coolray is the turbo-charged 1.5-Litre engine producing energy that efficiently translates to an exceptional, adrenaline fuelled driving experience. The Coolray’s acceleration responds smoothly to pedal pressure at low and high speeds without any lag. In Sport mode, the revs come quicker and hold longer, transferring the full energy of the car to the wheels for a more fun drive.

Built to give a distinctive first impression, the Coolray’s design follows Geely’s latest “Accelerating through Time” aesthetics. The wing-shaped chiseled waistline complements the stylish ‘Wings of Time’ tail lamps and outlines the exceptional power inherent in the Coolray. An aggressive “expanding cosmos” grille, front bumper and diamond cut dual-colour turbine-inspired sports rims match the intensity and focus of this sporty machine.

A jet-inspired enveloping cockpit and D-shaped steering wheel with Aluminum paddle shifters add to the sporty feel inside the Coolray. The interior comprises of 70 per cent soft materials (for better sound and vibration isolation), complementing the cockpit design. Geely also installed an ergonomic electronic shift gear for a perfect and soft knuckle-wrap to nudge the Coolray into action. The 7-inch LCD instrument panel and the intricate ambient lighting add to the mood of the Coolray.

A combination of Leather, Chrome, and Aluminum brushed –finish surfaces with a beautiful colour palette exudes class, while the panoramic sunroof provides an exquisite view of the unfolding scenery above the car.

The Coolray earned a 5-star Crash test rating in the global NCAP federation. Its high-strength steel forms the base of the G-Safety system in addition to the high strength energy absorbing body which houses a comprehensive Passive and Active safety system that protects passenger and pedestrian. It comes with standard driver and passenger airbags, along with side and curtain airbags. ISOFIX and child safety locks, fuel cut-off, auto door unlock and collapsible telescoping steering column on impact (rather than the steering column being pushed into the car cabin on impact, it collapses into itself minimising injury, similarly, the engine simply falls to ground and not into the cabin), all contribute towards Geely’s special emphasis on safety in all their vehicles.

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

 

Coscharis Mobility has introduced a finance scheme at potential vehicle buyers and existing vehicle owners intending to replace them with new models.

The firm said the initiative was aimed at making ownership of brand-new automobiles easy with the peace of mind.

Unlike conventional vehicle finance usually midwifed  by banks, the firm said the new scheme is an arrangement with its parent company, Coscharis Motors Plc, requiring interested individual or group to make a down payment of 10-30 per cent of the cost of any vehicle of their choice available at the Coscharis and structure the balance over a period not later than 36 months.

Managing Director, Coscharis Mobility, Christian Chigbundu, said at a briefing in Lagos, said apart from numerous benefits such as comprehensive insurance, registration, training of drivers, after-sale service and reasonable interest, the entry and exit agreements had been flexibly designed to suit individuals’ situations.

He explained that the decision to come up with the new scheme was informed by the challenge of scarcity of funds facing both individuals and corporate entities to purchase some necessities and needs following the COVID-19 pandemic that had wreaked havoc and disrupted businesses globally.

“Such needs clearly include the purchase of automobiles which is the solution we are offering Nigerians today with our fantastic offer of pick any vehicle brand of your choice from any Coscharis Motors showrooms nationwide and leverage instalmental payments, courtesy of Coscharis Mobility,” he said.

According to him, interested people or groups are expected to select from a collection of Coscharis brand of vehicles such as Rolls-Royce, BMW, Mini, Jaguar Land Rover, Ford, Renault and Morris Garages.

Chigbundu said: “For the service we are launching today, the steps are simple: identify the vehicle of your choice in any of our Coscharis Motors showrooms nationwide; make an initial deposit ranging from 10 per cent to 30 per cent; the vehicle will become yours then; pay the balance over a period of time.

“Coscharis Mobility Limited as a leasing company and not a bank is showcasing this service with the following: fast-track transactions; flexibility in terms; customised service; customer service; and continuous support throughout the lease period.”

Coscharis Group General Manager, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Abiona Babarinde, said the partnership between the two companies within the Coscharis Group was to jointly delight their “common stakeholders with combo of exciting options from the brand of vehicles to pick from coupled with ease of paying for them; from the premium brands to the budget brands.You will agree with us that this offer remains an offering that offers you nothing but value for your money as our pay offline states”.

He noted that the collaboration would be “a watershed within the auto sector in Nigeria going by the strong pedigree the two entities have as industry leaders in auto sales, aftersales and logistics amongst others. Coscharis Motors’ impressive portfolio as the exclusive representative of globally respected iconic auto brands in Nigeria.

“Coscharis Mobility has the exclusive franchise representing the renowned respected brand when it comes to logistic business globally, which is sixth in Nigeria.”

Babarinde added that Coscharis had invested so much in quality parts, right tools and technicians to handle all its vehicles, stressing that the company’s after-sale service was robust and meant to stay with its customers through the period of using the vehicles.

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

 

All-new Changan Hunter pick-up built by Changan Auto and Groupe PSA, the second-largest car manufacturer in Europe, has been unveiled in Nigeria.

Also launched are two trims of eye-catching Changan Mini-buses targeted at meeting the needs of commercial transporters as well as small and medium Enterprises (SMEs) and logistic concerns.

A Chinese truck with strong European DNA, the Hunter midsize pickup and its minibus siblings premiered in Lagos last Saturday on the Victoria Island.

Stallion Motors’Head of Sale and Marketing, Vijay Singh, said the launch was aimed at serving the  business community and government sectors with vehicles that combine quality, ruggedness with affordability.

“Available for sale in Nigeria are two trims of Mini-buses, namely Star 9 and 5, each named according to seating capacity.

“Positioned as a leader for both business passengers and urban logistics, the star 5 and Star 9 mini-buses are new generation of highly efficient commercial vehicles, powered by C10 1000cc engine tuned up to withstand the daily rigours of commercial transportation.

“Both mini-bus versions come with Electric power steering, power windows and Central locking system,” he said.

The Hunter displays uncommon characteristics, especially stunning design, intelligent safety features and ruggedness, making it the right truck for the Nigerian roads.

Engineered to scale through the PSA-Changan”CA-TVS” dual system verification, the 2021 Hunter did not only meet the strictest European standard, its total galvanised process guarantees 10 years anti-corrosion, Singh said.

It also with an exciting feature known as forest air purification system, which means, no matter how harsh the road environment outside the van, Hunter will maintain fresh air, thereby providing drivers and passengers with a comfortable and healthy experience.

It features 2.4-litre turbo patrol engine with manual and automatic transmission equipped,  led lamps, premium leather seats, Reverse camera, cruise control, push-button start, rear AC vent, 10“ display with touch screen, Bedliner with 226mm ground clearance.

Crafted with amazing features of unmatched quality, Changan Hunter pickup is 5330mm long, 1930mm wide and 1835 mm tall.

In the process of designing the pickup, the skilled and creative Changan design team fashioned muscular interior and exterior curves to convey surging power, which explains why the truck exudes uncommon character and charm.

The hunter is equipped for safety and comfort. Installed on its cargo area is a rear view camera and a rear parking sensor.

On board, the driver is faced with easily accessible control buttons and functions, rearview camera monitor, automatic climate control, along with very comfortable seats and seat belts for safety.

The Hunter Pickup is powered by 2.4-litre turbocharged Petrol engine (Bosch Turbo Intercooler Injection), which is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, made by Getrag (now Magna PT), the world’s largest supplier of transmission systems based in Germany).

With an 80-litre capacity fuel tank, the Hunter supports 1000km supper driving mileage. To ensure the best overall performance, the chassis tuning of Changan Hunter is done by the Changan Detroit R&D Centre and the Global R&D Centre.

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

 

Honda Motor Company has unveiled the 10th generation Accord, the midsise sedan VTEC turbo engine which debuts first-ever turbo-charged engine with series of pocket-friendly and enticingly valuable tech adds-on.

Introduced into the local market by Honda Automobile Western Africa Limited, a subsidiary Honda Motor Company in Nigeria, the vehicle comes with new auto features and techs, featuring advanced new powerplant – turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with new 1.5-liter, 16-valve DOHC direct-injected turbo, dual Variable Timing Control (dual VTC) and VTEC that produces a peak of 180 horsepower 5,500 rpm and a torque of 233Nm@1600-5000rpm.

Elegant and modern exterior detailing compliments the Accord’s new, more dynamic design. The bold and upright front fascia is highlighted by Honda’s signature chrome wing front grille positioned above a large main air intake and flanked by available LED headlights and LED fog lights. The chiselled hood features a distinctive and aggressive raised centre, and the deeply sculpted body sides enhance the visual length and strength of the lower body.

Honda Automobile Western Africa Limited, Head of Sales, Marketing and Logistics, Remi Adams, said the latest Accord model was “all-new from the ground up and is built on a new platform with a lower, wider stance, a lighter and more rigid unibody structure hinged on a lighter and more sophisticated chassis; advanced new power unit with Accord’s first-ever turbocharged engine.”

According to Adams, “The direct-injected 1.5-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine has a lightweight, low-pressure die-cast aluminium alloy cylinder head with exhaust manifold cast directly into the cylinder head, eliminating the need for a separate exhaust manifold.

“A low-friction, silent-chain drives dual overhead cams and four valves per cylinder. The cam drive is maintenance-free throughout the life of the engine. To help further reduce weight, new thin-wall hollow camshafts are used and to benefit fuel efficiency, emissions and power, the turbo engine utilises sodium-filled exhaust valves.”

He noted that the new Accord would enjoy added benefits in service so as to ensure adequate and timely servicing of the superb engine to get maximum efficiency.

“For the first time, Accord will become the first Honda model in our Nigeria line-up to enjoy six-year free service for periodic maintenance parts up to 90,000km, whichever comes first. The benefits come as a complete package as it includes the cost of parts and labour. Furthermore, the Accord will also enjoy a five-year manufacturer warranty as opposed to the standard three-year warranty that any competitors can offer on brand new automobiles,” he said.

This gesture, he said, was to ensure that good service culture is maintained and sustained so that users can totally enjoy the full performance of the Accord.

 

Hyundai’s N division is thought to be mulling over a high-performance version of the electric Ioniq 5. The new car, which would likely be called the Ioniq 5 N, would represent a significant shift for the brand’s ‘N’ line-up as the first electric model to get the sporty nameplate.

The ‘N’ badged Ioniq 5 would follow the brand’s current trio of performance models, which consists of the i30 N hatch and fastback models, the i20 N and the new Kona N SUV. The image previews what the Ioniq 5 N could look like. It would likely borrow styling cues from its N stablemates, with a sportier design including a two-tone paint finish, larger alloy wheels, a functional rear spoiler and red contrasting detailing dotted around the bodywork.

If the Ioniq 5 N makes it to production, it will face rivals including the Volkswagen ID.4 GTX, Kia EV6 GT, Mustang Mach-E GT and forthcoming Skoda Enyaq iV vRS.

The potential expansion of Hyundai’s performance models to include pure-electric models was talked about by Hyundai’s vice-president for product and strategy, Thomas Schemera, who said: “We never stop thinking about expanding our product portfolio. Strategically, we are moving full speed ahead with eco-friendly offerings. We have a crystal clear plan. One thing is for sure: eco-friendly vehicles are on our priority list, at the top.”

When pushed on whether the firm’s N division would be undertaking development of the Ioniq range, which uses Hyundai’s e-GMP modular electric platform, Schemera stated: “Everybody knows that Hyundai’s electric architecture has a lot of potential and shows a lot of flexibility. So this is an interesting question. I guess if you have a look at our strategy of the future, to offer more eco-friendly vehicles and moving ahead with our battery-electric concept and our fuel cell-electric concept, it seems to be realistic.”

Hyundai’s board member for technical development, Albert Biermann, hinted at the firm’s intentions to produce an electric performance model, asking: “Could you imagine we’re not working on it already?”

Biermann also hinted that the North American-only Elantra could be brought to the European market as an N Division model if there were enough demand from buyers.

“We are developing an Elantra N. It participated already in the launch event of the Elantra in the United States. At this point it’s not planned for Europe. But if you can create enough demand I would not rule out that it could be reconsidered. It could be an interesting next N vehicle for Europe and other markets,” Biermann said.

By Tajudeen Adebanjo with agency addition

 

Mazda engineered the 2021 CX-30 to provide an enriching driving experience that empowers the driver to act as one with the vehicle.

This philosophy extends beyond driving dynamics to the Crossover Utility Vehicle’s (CUV’s) bold styling, luxurious interior environment and exquisite attention to detail.

The secret behind the CX-30’s success is the application of Japanese mastery in craftsmanship. The philosophy of mastery through continuous improvement touches every aspect of the CX-30 experience and elevates the premium status of this CUV.

The Mazda CX-30 demonstrates how Japanese design principles and dedication to improvement connects the driver and CUV. At the same time, the CX-30’s balanced handling and available turbocharged engine with i-Activ AWD® all-wheel-drive system provide the tools necessary for a confidence-inspiring and empowering driving experience.

 

Kodo design philosophy

Kodo is Mazda’s Japanese design philosophy. You find it in every detail – from the CX-30’s sleek profile to the arcing body lines that bend light as it reflects off the flanks – and the result is an evocative CUV with a design that is both daring and timeless. You’ll even find it in the little details such as the intricate grille and the lower door trim that draws the eye upward, accentuating the CX-30’s taller ride height and increased versatility.

The CX-30 looks purposeful even when it is motionless.

With bold and elegant lines, the essence of Kodo flows through every Mazda CX-30, though the CX-30 2.5 Turbo’s unique additions give this sportier model a distinct character. Black-painted aluminum alloy wheels, mirror caps and grille paint the picture of this even more impressive CX-30.

These visually arresting details both distinguish the CX-30 Turbo’s premium position in the CUV’s lineup and convey the performance potential of the powerful turbocharged engine.Whether you choose the standard model or the distinctive 2.5 Turbo, you’re getting an artistic vision that enriches your life.

 

Interior design

A tenet of Japanese culture is the concept of Ma, or empty space. For life to grow, for creativity to spark, and for people to progress, Ma is a necessity. It is silence and simplicity, a pause to observe, evaluate, contemplate and thoughtfully make decisions about what comes next.

Mazda designed the CX-30’s interior with the philosophy of Ma to create a sense of harmony in the cabin to allow the driver to focus on the road ahead. The CUV’s cabin is driver-centric, yet it remains open and inviting with an evident sense of spaciousness. Mazda design themes are apparent throughout, reflecting minimalism and symmetry with the overarching goal of reducing driver distraction.

Complementary tones and textures give the CX-30 an upscale look and premium feel, but without the extraneous detailing that can afflict some luxury-branded CUVs. A striking white leather option is available, drawing sharp contrast against the black interior, rich dark brown dashboard and door panel trim.

For traditional refinement, there’s black leather and leatherette upholstery. No matter your choice, the tasteful mix of high-quality materials will bring satisfaction to every moment driver is behind the wheel.

Step into the CX-30, an effortless task thanks to the elevated CUV ride height, and one will find a control and display layout optimised for the driver. Everything is organised in perfect symmetry around the driver’s position to provide a sensation of complete control and to cultivate driver confidence and satisfaction.

The CX-30’s instrumentation is a model of clarity, with an available head-up display that conveys useful information while allowing the driver to keep eyes on the road. It shows numerous useful details including the posted speed limit, current vehicle speed, warnings from its i-Activsense® safety systems and even navigation directions (when equipped).

Mazda’s approach to infotainment technology also reduces distraction and narrows the driver’s focus on the task at hand, making it easy to always feel in control of the vehicle. Rather than offer a touchscreen display, the Mazda ConnectTM Infotainment System1 in the CX-30 uses intuitive physical controls on the center console and steering wheel, supported by voice recognition technology.

Mazda’s philosophy of Ma in the CX-30’s interior design is immediately evident. It is driver-optimised, with all controls within easy reach and all instruments visible at a glance. This CUV instills a feeling of tranquility and openness that drivers will appreciate every time they get behind the wheel.

 

Takumi craftsmanship

From the overall design to the tiniest details, getting all aspects of the look and feel right is  important to creating a satisfying, premium experience.

To that end, Mazda relies on its Takumi masters to ensure that the CX-30 delivers on the promise of quality down to the finest detail.

In Japanese, Takumi translates to “master craftsman,” and it can take decades to earn the distinguished recognition. This Japanese artisanal tradition is rooted in dedication to bringing beauty to life, a passionate attention to detail and understanding that the smallest elements can have a profound effect on the whole of a design. With the Mazda CX-30, Takumi craftsmanship guides everything from the quality of the materials to the shapes of the controls to the reflection of light on surfaces inside the cabin.

Also on display are the CX-30 2.5 Turbo’s available soft and supple leather, the intricate stitching on the optional heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel, the simplicity of the frameless automatic-dimming rear-view mirror, and the exclusive chrome detailing on the engine start button and glove compartment release. Mazda even masterfully integrates the air vents into a dashboard design element that contributes to every CX-30’s sense of width and openness. To match the mastery evident in the cabin’s design, Mazda also worked in partnership with Bose to deliver an available premium sound system that serves as the perfect aural accompaniment to any drive.

With a Takumi level of craftsmanship, the 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo’s interior is designed and arranged to convey quality to the occupants – mind, body and soul.

When it comes to the empowering 2021 Mazda CX-30 and new CX-30 2.5 Turbo, the automaker leaves no stone unturned. Through steadfast application of Japanese design, spatial relationship and craftsmanship principles, this CUV delivers a premium experience to exceed its owners’ expectations.

Mazda’s Kodo design philosophy is behind every delightful stylistic detail while Ma and Takumi result in an impeccably thought-out and crafted cabin. The Mazda CX-30 embodies Japanese mastery and is an intriguing small premium CUV that will stand the test of time.