Saturday, December 31, 2011

2012

Dear Readers,

Kkeith would like to wish all readers to carseneinvestigation, a happy, cheerful, and prosperous 2012!

Posting will resume next week.

Cheers~
Posted by at No comments:

Sunday, December 25, 2011

Range Rover Evoque


An award winning car worldwide, the Range Rover Evoque definitely ‘evoques’ ones senses to the fullest.
·             Design & Engineering:
From the front, the Evoque bears a 21st Century face, with the right use of grills and styling. All Range Rovers always manage to bear a face fit both for action and prestige. The availability of abstract colours such as lime green, help to increase the passion for adventure built into the Evoque. From the side, large rims fill up the still cavernous wheel arches, adding for extra flare. The Evoque comes as either a 3 or 5-door vehicle, though both variants retain the same, unique composure. From the rear, the use of aluminum and plastics help to add for that rugged look. In addition to the sporty outlook provided by the SUV, twin chrome pipes jut out at just the right area. Visually, the car is a delectable treat, with a low and wide stance and gorgeous swooping style. In short, the Evoque is a traffic stopper, in the best possible way yet.    
·            Interior
There is one reason why many choose the premium British brand. Movie stars, high-flyers, and large corporate companies buy Range Rovers for one reason—classic interior quality. Now acquired by the TATA group along with Jaguar, both brands sport outstanding interiors. For instance, the mid-level Jaguar XF has won outstanding awards for its high-quality and exquisite interior. Step into the Evoque, and be greeted with a vast amount of leather, all carefully treated and crafted to perfection. The door itself feels plush and well padded, along with the seats, carpets and steering wheel. In addition, the entire front dash is stiched in leather, and available in multiple colours of choice. A rotary gear, present in all (new) Jaguar models, finds itself in the new Evoque as well. Such ‘bling blings’ in the cabin help to keep the driver and the passenger well entertained, especially with interior goodies such as a panoramic roof, 8-inch high-definition-screen, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and a navigation system. Don’t forget to tick the 17-speaker, Meridian sound system, for a refined journey with premium quality sound. At the rear, passengers are also pampered, as they manage to relax in the comfort of premium leather, air-conditioning, as they enjoy the scenery around them. Surprisingly, interior space is relatively vast. A respectable 550-liters of space is available at disposable, with 1,350-liters as the rear seats fold down. What can I say? Simple: with a policy of using only the best, one can be sure to bet on the superb quality and refinement of the new Range Rover Evoque.   
·            Ride & Handlings
The test car featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, providing 240bhp and a top speed of 217km/h. Despite much criticism of the Evoque’s ‘off-roading’ capabilities, the Rangie tackles all sorts off climates, road-surfaces, and situations to the best of its abilities, surpassing expectations for such a quirky vehicle. Superb build quality from the Evoque results in a hushed ride, with the help of an intelligent suspension setup as well. The Evoque is surprisingly nippy and quick, considering its size and four-wheel-drive drive train. In short, the Evoque surpasses in being the everyday vehicle, yet managing to tackle any situation thrown at it—atta boy.
·            Verdict
Great capabilities, fantastic interior, and funky looks. Good to know that other abstract options such as the Evoque are available in the market.

o    Pictures from:
o    http://chrisescars.com/wp-content/gallery/range-rover-evoque-5-door/range-rover-evoque-5-door-24.jpg
http://www.otospace.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Range-Rover-Evoque-08.
Posted by at 2 comments:

Friday, December 16, 2011

BMW 1-Series


Launched first in 2004, the first generation 1-Series was…well, odd. Proportion sizes were off, interior build quality way down south of the usual BMW expectations. With such feedback, the boffins at BMW decided to come up with something new.
·             Design & Engineering:
BMW has introduced two trim lines into the chain—being the Sport and Urban lines. On the 1-Series, the two differ on the outside via the different alloy wheel designs, radiator grill colour, and so on. The 118i as tested, came with the Sport trim option. From the front, the new 1-Series sports a fierce outlook, due to the use of subtle chrome, colour differentiation from the grill to the body colour, along with a widened out bonnet, thus providing the vehicle with a lower stance. From the side, it seems as if the entire vehicle has been pushed back by the wind, due to the sculpting of sheet metal, along with the aerodynamics of the vehicle. BMW has now integrated built-in mirror indicators, making for a sleeker and classier vehicle. Obviously, being the sport version of the entry-level vehicle, the new 1-Series wears a ‘Sport’ badge on both sides of the vehicle. I for one, don’t appreciate or should I say, cannot appreciate the rear styling of the vehicle. It looks cute and cuddly—not how a Sport trim vehicle should. The rear tailgate feels as if someone has kicked its arse in. Nevertheless, the use of LED’s seems to brighten things up. On the whole, the new 1-Series is more modernized, and ready to take on the action, per say the cuddly rear.
·            Interior
Love it. Live it. Like it. In relation to the first generation 1-Series, the new 2012 model features a more luxurious interior, on par with say, the current 5-Series. Take the driver’s seat for example. The drivers seat now features memory functions, electric adjustments, and contrasting leather stitching (for example, if you have a Milan red exterior, your interior stitching would be completed in the same shade of Milan red). The steering wheel seems as if it has been plucked out from the new X3, only that it too comes with contrasting colour stitching. Oodles of buttons dominate the wheel, making it ever so convenient for 21st century drivers to be connected anywhere, and anytime. In essence, the cabin’s looks are pretty much inspired and derived from the bigger BMW models. As expected from BMW’s, everything is relatively driver oriented, with easy to read dials (also in contrasting colour outlines) and a high-resolution screen. Sitting on the top of the center console, is BMW’s latest i-Drive system, which clearly displays about everything a driver would need to know. In addition, a revised i-Drive control system makes everything easy and functional. If specified, the new 1-Series can be featured with Internet access, etc etc. Being the top of the range model, the new 118i features USB/Aux-In capabilities, as well as Park Distance Control, a superb BMW built in audio system, cruise control, Xenon headlamps, and more, all as standard features. BMW’s E-Gear also makes its debut in the new 1-Series, making driving ever so relaxing. At the rear, rear passengers will have little to complain about, due to larger dimensions (as compared to the first generation 1-Series), and therefore increased head, and legroom. Just to pamper passengers to a larger extent, the new 1-Series features a rear air-conditioning system, with manual temperature control. Rear seats can split all the way down, allowing for increased stowage space. In short, the new 1-Series flexes its muscles down to the floor, in order for passengers to be as comfortable and as pampered as possible.   
·            Ride & Handling
Perhaps the largest change in the new 1-Series lies underneath the bonnet. Both the 116i and 118i, feature engine’s derived from BMW’s sub acquisition, MINI. Therefore, a 1.6-liter, twin scroll turbocharger boosts the vehicle quickly, with the addition of BMW’s signature VALVETRONIC system. The 116i simply uses a detuned turbo motor, therefore being the cheaper of the two. The new 118i will reach the 0-100km/h mark in a well-paced 7.5 seconds, where the detuned 116i will achieve it in a slightly slower 9.1 seconds. As the new engines are mated to an 8-speed gearbox, shift quality is near faultless, although neither the 118i nor the 116i feature sport shift paddles. Being a rear-wheel drive vehicle, the 1-Series proves for a fun drive, with sharp handling, and a well-balanced drive, due to a near 50-50-weight distribution. The new 1-Series demonstrates its capabilities, as well as its passion to invigorate drivers and passengers alike.  
·            Verdict
Fantastic interior, with oodles of attention to detail. Smartest move yet BMW—to introduce twin turbos into their entry-level vehicles, proving to be a lure-worthy vehicle, apart from the styling.

o    Pictures from:
http://theautostyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/New-BMW-1-Series-hatchback-interior.jpg
Posted by at 1 comment:

Friday, December 9, 2011

Audi A6, 3.0 TFSI Quattro


The A6 disappointed many when the announcement of the previous ‘new model’ was in fact the same model, par the addition of LED lights, and new rims. The 2012 A6 promises a whole lot more, covering up the past.
·             Design & Engineering:
In essence, the new A6 is simply a slightly less matured face of Audi’s success—the new A8. From the front, the new A6 sports a slightly more avantgarde look, with the adequate and proper use of chrome. Redesigned bi-xenon headlamps plaster the face of the vehicle, with Audi’s refined, abstract LED daytime running lights. One point though—the new A6 feels somewhat flat from the front… From the side, the vehicle does seem a tad bit small, despite the nearly-5-meter length. The same curving/sloping rear windshield seems to be taken from Audi’s more prestigious models, being the A7 and A8—definitely not a bad thing at all. From the rear, this is where critics believe that ‘you either love it or you hate it’. Surprisingly, this new Audi’s bum doesn’t appeal to my senses, despite the use of LED’s, and fierce air-styled curves. Nevertheless, I must give in to the use of twin chrome exhausts, adding for a sexy stance.  
·            Interior
If the interior doesn’t alleviate ones senses, step into the cabin. Let’s face it—Audi makes one of the world’s best, mass produced interiors. It is here where the A6 surpasses competition from Mercedes (E-Class), BMW (5-Series), Jaguar (XF), and even Lexus (GS300, keep in mind that a new model should make its debut soon). Stepping into the driver’s seat, everything, from the door handle to the tiniest of buttons on the MMI system, feels expensive and exquisite, due to the use of high-end materials from Audi’s magicians. Being the top of the range (for now) A6, the supercharged A6 takes in Audi’s S-Line trim, therefore featuring an S-Line steering wheel, for improved grip. A wraparound dash featured in the A7 makes its debut in the new A6 as well. As the two share the same dashboard, the A6 also features a generously sized and retractable screen for the infotainment system in the middle of the dash, connected to a MMI touch pad and navigation system cluttered by the gear lever. What I adore about Audi is the amount of specification they allow. For instance, in the new A6, A7, and A8, dashboard and door card inlays can be specified to be clad in materials ranging from classic brushed aluminum and multi-coloured leathers, to individually veneered woods of one’s choice. Tasteful, innovative, and captivating—three details which Audi manipulates to captivate its buyers. At the rear, space is not much of a problem, due to the large wheelbase, given the vehicle’s dimensions. Being the premium model, 4-zone climate control comes as standard, therefore allowing rear occupants to be as toasty or as frozen as they want. Once again, Bose speakers or space age Bang & Olufsen speakers. Other goodies such as a heads up display, air suspension, night vision assistance, and other optional extras, come at a cost—adding up to a relatively considerable amount. Hence, be aware of options one chooses when purchasing an Audi.  
·            Ride & Handling
Audi claims that vis-à-vis version of the A6; the new A6 should be about 80kg lighter than its predecessor. A lighter car has many more benefits, such as improved handling, performance, and fuel consumption. The 3.0-liter supercharged heartbeat under the bonnet is essentially the same V6 featured in Audi’s S4 and S5 models, though tuned down from 333BHP to 300BHP in the A6. Nevertheless, the executive saloon is still speedy and quirky be it in a straight line or around corners. Compared to rivals such as Mercedes’ E350 and BMW’s 535i saloons, the A6 speeds past them, reaching 0-100km/h in a stunning 5.5 seconds. In addition, the V6 emits a snarly growl, racing heartbeats and palpitations to a second degree. Mated to a seven-speed S-Tronic transmission, the A6 shifts well and sportily—a match make in heaven. With Quattro all wheel drive, the A6 is consistent in all conditions. If one chooses the optional air suspension, a supple drive is ensured due to the adaptability of the chassis and suspension. Take into consideration that Mercedes uses air suspension as a standard feature, only in their top of the range, S-Class.  
·            Verdict
Dynamic and well-sorted drive, love or hate looks, superb interior. Expensive options make one think again. Nevertheless, who could resist a supercharged V6?

o    Pictures from:


Posted by at 1 comment:

Saturday, December 3, 2011

Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet


Once a prominent stubby convertible featured in multiple movies by the coasts, the original Golf Cabriolet died out in 2002—replaced by VW’s, such as the Beetle and the Eos. Now with a heap of plastic surgery and a new wardrobe designer, the Golf Cabriolet makes its comeback.
·             Design & Engineering:
Indeed, the cabriolet bears the usual Golf styling cues, though there are significant differences. Take this for a start. The Golf Cabriolet is shorter than the hatchback, with its cute and stubby rear end the result of the reduced length. From the front, the variant bears the same face as its older brother, bar the detailing with the light use of chrome. From the side, the cabriolet has an oddly feminine, sexy look, due to the two graceful doors, extended for that slinky feel. Standard rims come with the vehicle, remaining that slightly immature look. Nevertheless, with the top down, the cabriolet transports one back into the day, with the use of a classic, black soft top, easing snugly over the vehicle. Keep in mind though, that the classic ‘basket handle’ feature is absent from the 2011 Golf Cabriolet. From the rear, nothing much changes, apart from revised LED rear lights.
·            Interior
Following in the footsteps of its brother, the Golf Cabriolet sticks to two key words: practical, and versatile. Stepping into the cabriolet, the only main change is the deletion of a rear middle seat, due to the stringent cabriolet tradition. Therefore, four can fit relatively comfortably in the cabin, be it top down or up. Unlike many other cabriolets, the Golf retains decent leg space, allowing one to stay comfortable throughout his/her journey. Stepping into the interior, one is presented with… the exact same interior as the standard Golf, which includes a good quality, German build for the masses. Nevertheless, two things will catch one’s eye—the use of faux carbon fiber trim, along with an additional gizmo. This particular lever is taken directly from the Golf’s relative, the Eos. Made out of stainless steel, this lever which operates the soft-top in 9-seconds, and up to speeds of 30km/h, feels incredibly solid to the touch, opening up to summer fun. Personally, I feel as if brushed aluminum, Audi style would connect perfectly with the cabriolet, compared to faux carbon fiber. With boot space, the charm about the soft-top is that boot space is unaffected with the soft-top folded neatly into the rear compartment.  This provides for a note-worthy 250 liters of boot capacity, considering the vehicle’s petit size.   
·            Ride & Handling
If nothing seems to win one over, the drive of the new Golf Cabriolet very well should. Packaged with Volkswagen’s latest twin-charged 1.4-liter TSI engine, which produces 160BHP, and 240Nm of torque. Due to the additional weight (despite the shorter length compared to the standard hatch variant) from strengthening the roofless Golf, the cabriolet is by no means a rocket. That being said, it does a respectable job of getting one round town, and even an occasional drive by the coast. The front-wheel drive vehicle handles corners well, due to its short and sweet dimensions. Ride quality is improved, due to a well-made suspension set up. Really, a lovely vehicle to drive, top up or down. In essence, the new Golf Cabriolet defines the quality of a good quality, German built car for the masses. Truly, Das Auto.
·            Verdict
A well-sorted car, with true versatility all around. With tradition and heritage built into the Golf Cabriolet, a certain classic aura is emitted through 21st century styles. In essence, the new Golf Cabriolet defines the meanings of a good quality, German built car for the masses. Truly, Das Auto.

o    Pictures from:
http://automotivesnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Volkswagen-Golf-Cabriolet-interior-view-520x345.jpg
Posted by at 1 comment:
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)