The AutoZone

Datsun GO Plus

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Wed, 16 Jul 2014 15:59:00 +0530

In February, the Datsun brand was born again when parent company Nissan launched the Go hatchback at a function in Delhi. It was the first car in the line-up as well as the first car in what the Japanese automaker called ‘locally designed cars for local markets’. At the 2013 Indonesia International Motor Show, Datsun unveiled the second car in the line-up; the Go+ MPV, designed to cater to MPV crazy Indonesia but also with the intention that it will be available in Datsun’s other markets too.

The Datsun Go+ looks like a stretched version of the Go hatchback and shares many of its design cues including the front fascia and the overall shape. It is 1.6 meters wide, 1.4-meters high and more importantly 3.95 (wheelbase of 2450mm) meters long qualifying it for the concessions available under the sub four-metre rule when it is launched in India. The rear end too is the same as the Go hatchback but looks proportionately larger due to this being a bigger vehicle.

In a bid to keep costs down and follow what is now an accepted practice among manufacturers to maintain economies of scale, the Datsun Go+ gets exactly the same interior features as the Go hatchback. Everything is exactly the same including the accessories like the mobile phone charging dock.

However, since this an MPV, we expect that on higher spec variants Datsun will offer features like AC vents for the second row and foldable third row seats to increase boot space and unlike the industry trend of captain seats in the second row on the highest spec variant, the Datsun Go+ will continue to have split bench design. From the looks of the pictures, the third row does not get openable windows and passengers will be sitting higher up so as to get breeze from the second row windows and front AC vents.

The engine and underpinnings are the same as the Go hatchback. It makes use of the 1.2-litre three- cylinder petrol engine that produces 67bhp and 104Nm of torque. However since this is the larger vehicle, we expect that Nissan may increase the power. Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox. In India, we expect that they will also offer the Go+ with the 1.5-litre diesel engine.

In Indonesia, the Go+ will be priced below 100million Rupiah (Rs 5.52 lakh). However in India, we expect that Datsun will price the Go+ in the range of Rs 5.7 lakh to Rs 7.5 lakh for the top-spec diesel-engined variant. It is expected that they will display the car at the 2014 Indian Auto Expo and launch it a few months after the Indonesia market gets it, the latter being scheduled for the first part of next year.

Expected Launch: September 2014

Expected Price: 5.70 - 7.50 lakhs

Mercedes Benz CLA 45 AMG

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Wed, 16 Jul 2014 15:28:00 +0530

Mercedes-Benz is on a roll to launch a slew of AMG spec machines in the Indian market and the latest entrant is expected to be the CLA45 AMG which will be the most low-priced AMG car in India but is expected to be one of the most exciting that will reach our shores. The car was unveiled for the New York Auto Show in March 2013 and has been on sale as a part of the CLA range in Europe and America since that time. It was unveiled for the Indian market at the 2014 Auto Expo.

Exterior

The Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is the hot version of the quite successful CLA sedan. It gets the same overall design as the standard car but now includes an AMG body kit. This comprises side skirts, sporty front bumper and a rear bumper that includes a diffuser with quad chrome-tipped exhausts integrated into it. The fascia is common to the MFA underpinned cars and so the CLA45 looks very similar in that regard to the A45 AMG and the GLA45 AMG. This defined by the flowing LED headlights and large Mercedes-Benz logo that stands out prominently in the middle./p>

The CLA shares a roofline with CLS-Class and it is no different with this car. It slopes forward and is accentuated by the V-shaped aerodynamic crease that run along the side and divides the profile into two clear sections. The tail lamps flow into the base of the boot while the wheels are AMG spec units found on almost all the AMG cars.

Interior

Inside, the CLA45 AMG shares much of its design with the standard CLA-Class interiors and this includes the overall layout of the cabin, dials and buttons. However apart from the usual Mercedes-Benz toys and luxuries gets the AMG specific seats, instrument cluster and red seatbelts.

While most of the interiors are spectacular by virtue of the AMG badging, the sloping roofline means that the rear seat occupants will be a little short on headroom and have to sit low down in an already low car.

Engine and gearbox

The CLA45 AMG is powered by a four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 360bhp and 460 Nm of torque. Power is transmitted to the wheels via a seven-speed automatic dual clutch gearbox. Given that so much power was being squeezed out of such a small engine, AMG has made the car four-wheel drive using the three-pointed star’s patented 4matic drivetrain. It does 0-100kmph in 4.6 seconds and will go on to hit a limited top speed of 250kmph.

Price and competition

The CLA45 AMG is expected to be priced in the range of Rs 50-55 lakh and competes in a rather niche segment with the Audi S4.

Expected Launch: 22 July 2014

Expected Price: 50 - 55 lakh

How does Electronic Stability Program works ?

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Mon, 14 Jul 2014 23:38:00 +0530

Skidding is one of the main causes of road crashes. International studies show that at least 40 percent of all fatal traffic crashes are caused by skidding. ESP® could prevent up to 80 percent of all skidding crashes. ESP® recognizes if skidding is imminent and intervenes very quickly. The driver stays in control of the vehicle and does not get into a skid provided that the physical limits are not exceeded.

ESP® is always active. A microcomputer monitors the signals from the ESP® sensors and checks 25 times a second, whether the driver’s steering input corresponds to the actual direction in which the vehicle is moving. If the vehicle moves in a different direction ESP® detects the critical situation and reacts immediately – independently of the driver. It uses the vehicle’s braking system to “steer” the vehicle back on track. With these selective braking interventions ESP® generates the desired counteracting force, so that the car reacts as the driver intends. ESP® not only initiates braking intervention, but can also intervene on the engine side to accelerate the driven wheels. So, within the limits of physics, the car is kept safely on the desired track.

ABS, TCS, and ESP® were all introduced first to the market by Bosch.

Example:

Technicalspecifications

Components of the Electronic Stability Program ESP ® from Bosch

ESP-Hydraulic unit with integrated Engine Control Unit (ECU)
Wheel speed sensors
Steering angle sensor
Yaw-rate and lateral-acceleration sensor
Communication with engine management ECU

Hydraulicunitwithattachedcontrolunit

The hydraulic unit executes the commands from the control unit and regulates, via solenoid valves, the pressure in the wheel brakes. The hydraulic modulator is the hydraulic connection between the master cylinder and the wheel cylinders. It is located in the engine compartment. The control unit takes over the electrical and electronic tasks as well as all control functions of the system.

Wheel-speedsensor

The control unit uses the signals from the wheel-speed sensors to compute the speed of the wheels. Two different operating principles are used: passive and active wheel-speed sensors (Inductive and Hall-effect sensors). Both measure the wheel speed in a contact-free way via magnetic fields. Nowadays active sensors are mostly employed. They can identify both the direction of rotation and the standstill of a wheel.

Steering-anglesensor

The task of the steering-angle sensor is to measure the position of the steering wheel by determining the steering angle. From the steering angle, the vehicle speed and the desired braking pressure or the position of the accelerator pedal, the driving intention of the driver is calculated (desired state).

Yaw-rateandlateral-accelerationsensor

A yaw-rate sensor registers all the movements of the vehicle around its vertical axis. In combination with the integrated lateral-acceleration sensor, the status of the vehicle (actual state) can be determined and compared with the driver’s intention.

Communicationwithenginemanagement

Via the data bus, the ESP control unit is able to communicate with the engine control unit. In this way, the engine torque can be reduced if the driver accelerates too much in certain driving situations. Similarly, it can compensate for excessive slip of the driven wheels provoked by the engine drag torque.

EuroNCAPtestwithandwithoutESP

ESP®value-addedfunctions

The fundamental task of ESP® is to prevent skidding. The possibilities offered by the ESP®, however, go beyond this. As ESP® can build up braking pressure independently of the brake-pedal position, a series of so-called value-added functions can be realized with ESP®. These provide additional driving safety and allow the driver to experience enhanced driving comfort and driving agility.

A range of these value-added functions are already available on the market today. Others will follow to meet the growing demand for safety and comfort. Depending on the vehicle manufacturer and the vehicle type, the ESP® value-added functions are available either as optional or as standard features to the already fitted ESP.

HillHoldControl

Hill starts are not always easy, particularly when the vehicle is heavily loaded. The driver has to operate brake, accelerator and clutch pedals very fast in order to prevent the vehicle from accidentally rolling backwards. The ESP® Hill Hold Control facilitates a hill start by keeping the brakes applied for about two more seconds after the driver has already released the brake pedal. The driver has enough time for changing from brake to accelerator pedal without using the handbrake. The vehicle drives off comfortably and without rolling backwards.

HydraulicBrakeAssist

In critical driving situations, drivers often brake too hesitantly. The Hydraulic Brake Assist identifies an imminent emergency braking situation by monitoring the pressure on the brake pedal as well as the pressure gradient. If the driver does not brake strongly enough, the Hydraulic Brake Assist increases the brake force to a maximum. The stopping distance is then reduced.

LoadAdaptiveControl

The volume and position of a commercial vehicle’s load can vary considerably from trip to trip. The load has an important impact on the braking, the traction, the cornering ability and the roll-over tendency. The ESP® Load Adaptive Control identifies changes in the vehicle mass and center of gravity along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle and adapts the interventions of the safety systems ABS, TCS and ESP® to the vehicle load. In this way, Load Adaptive Control optimizes braking effectiveness, traction and stability. In addition, it reduces the risk of roll over via the improved utilization of Roll Over Mitigation and minimizes brake-pad wear by optimizing the distribution of braking forces.

RollOverMitigation

The loading and the higher center of gravity of light commercial vehicles make them reach a critical lateral acceleration faster than passenger cars. The risk of roll over is thus considerably higher. The Roll Over Mitigation function constantly monitors the vehicle behavior with the help of the ESP® sensors and intervenes when the vehicle threatens to roll over. Roll Over Mitigation brakes individual wheels and reduces the driving torque to prevent roll over and to stabilize the vehicle.

TirePressureMonitoringSystem

A loss of tire pressure leads to a deviant rotation speed of the wheel concerned. By comparing the wheel speeds a potential tire deflation is detected. This value-added function permits tire pressure monitoring without the use of pressure sensors in the tires

TrailerSwayMitigationTrailers sway easily. A minor steering error, a gust of wind or a bump on the road surface can cause a critical increase in the swaying movement. The counter steering and the acceleration of the towing vehicle make the critical situation even worse. With the help of the ESP® sensors, Trailer Sway Mitigation identifies these swaying movements of the trailer and intervenes by braking individual wheels of the towing vehicle. The vehicle and trailer are slowed down to an uncritical speed and stabilized.

What is Automated Manual Transmission ?

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Tue, 1 Jul 2014 00:13:00 +0530

In a conventional manual gearbox, a set of cables or a link usually operates the gearbox in a two-step process. If the gearbox is cable operated like for example in a Tata Nano, two cables do the process of selection and engagement of the gears. The selection cable is actuated when one moves the gearshift lever from left to right or vice versa. The engagement cable is actuated when one actually shifts into one of the gates to engage a gear. Similarly, a link operated gearbox, like the single-link shifter mechanism found in the old Maruti 800 works on a similar principle. In the case of the 800, the link rotates for the selection process and moves longitudinally to the centreline of the car to engage a gear. Simplifying the shifter process, an Automatic Manual Transmission, or AMT essentially negates these mechanical linkages by replacing them with electromechanical individual devices that work off the engine management and transmission management control units.

The electronically controlled clutch actuator uses an electric motor to operate the clutch instead of a conventional pedal and cable operated setup. In the clutch actuator, the rotary movement of the electric motor is transferred via a set of gears to a linear movement that is needed to engage and disengage the clutch via the pressure plate. The clutch is operated via a release lever and bearing which then helps to engage or disengage the gears in the transmission. ZF Sachs, the pioneers of the AMT gearbox claim that this setup not only simulates clutch-less driving for the driver, but also increases the life of the clutch components while cutting down on emissions and increases fuel economy.

In an AMT, the electromechanical or sometimes hydraulically operated actuators take over the clutch and shift action, but do not take away driving pleasure. This is predominantly due to the fact that the driver can still choose to manually engage a particular gear through either a shifter lever or a steering mounted paddle shifter. With their optimised shift points, AMTs also help reduce torque interruption to a minimum between shifts. As an array of sensors register and convey all key information through a transmission control module, the system can automatically adjust shift points and control the clutch according to driver based input. The AMT’s ECU can also intervene to improve safety by automatically interrupting drive flow to counter the risk of skidding if the vehicle loses traction.

Apart from giving the driver the pleasure of driving an automatic car, the AMT system was essentially developed to automate manual transmissions in vehicles that cannot have a conventional automatic transmission. The AMT can also help in cars where a conventional automatic transmission or a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is difficult to install due to cost, weight or installation space constraints. Apart from the Marui Suzuki Celerio that uses a Magneti Marelli, the Tata Nano facelift will soon sport a similar ZF developed AMT.

Diesel Variable Geometry Turbo

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 18:45:00 +0530

An alternative to the fixed geometry turbine is the variable geometry turbine. The benefits of variable geometry turbines over wastegated turbines include [Xin 2011]:

no throttling loss of the wastegate valve;
higher air–fuel ratio and higher peak torque at low engine speeds;
improved vehicle accelerations without the need to resort to turbines with high pumping loss at high engine speeds;
potential for lower engine ΔP (the difference between exhaust manifold and intake manifold pressures);
control over engine ΔP that can be used to drive EGR flow in diesel engines with High Pressure Loop (HPL) EGR systems;
a better ability to cover a wider region of low BSFC in the engine speed–load domain;
ability to provide engine braking;
ability to raise exhaust temperature for aftertreatment system management.

The idea of using a variable geometry turbine in a turbocharger dates back at least to the 1950s [Egli 1958]. Since that time, a number of different designs have appeared. Two of the more common ones are the pivoting vane and moving wall types, Figure 1 [Foulkes 1995][Merrion 1994]. Others include the variable area type, variable flow type and the sliding ring designs. These designs will be discussed in more detail in the following sections.

Figure 1. Pivoting Vane (left) and Moving Wall (right) Variable Geometry Turbochargers

1. Turbine housing; 2. Variable angle vanes; 3. Adjusting ring

There are a number of different acronyms that are commonly used when referring to turbochargers with variable geometry turbines. In most cases these are or have been trademarks that a particular manufacturer has used with reference to their product. In more common usage, a particular acronym can be used in a more general sense and not necessarily be a reference to a particular manufacturer’s product. Some of these acronyms include:

VGT—Variable Geometry Turbocharger (Cummins/Holset),
VNT—Variable Nozzle Turbine (Honeywell/Garrett),
VTG—Variable Turbine Geometry (BorgWarner and ABB)
VG—Variable Geometry turbocharger (MHI)
VGS—Variable Geometry System turbocharger (IHI)
VTA—Variable Turbine Area (MAN Diesel & Turbo)

In many designs, a variable geometry turbine does not include a bypass so the turbine must be capable of handling all of the exhaust flow from the engine while avoiding overboost and overspeeding the turbocharger. For a given engine power rating, this would imply a larger turbine swallowing capacity than that required by a wastegated fixed geometry turbine and comparable with that used for a fixed geometry turbocharger with no bypass.

The fundamental difference between a fixed geometry turbine and a variable geometry turbine is illustrated in Figure 2 [Schmitt 2008]. Compared to a fixed geometry turbine, the variable geometry turbine allows significant flexibility over the pressure ratio/flow relationship across the turbine and by extension, the engine ΔP. This flexibility can be used for improving low speed torque characteristics, reducing turbocharger lag and in diesel engines, driving EGR flow.

Figure 2. Comparison of Fixed Geometry (BorgWarner KP39) and Variable Geometry (BorgWarner BV40) Mass Flow vs. Pressure Ratio

The peak efficiency of a variable geometry turbine occurs at about 60% nozzle opening. It is usually comparable to or a few percent lower than that for a fixed geometry turbine. However, efficiency drops off rather quickly as nozzle opening is reduced or increased from a mid-vane opening position, Figure 3 [Dinescu 2010].

Skoda Yeti Facelift

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 18:16:00 +0530

Skoda took the wraps off the Yeti facelift at the 2014 Auto Expo in February. It was earlier unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show and currently is on sale in a few international markets. The Indian car market might get this urban SUV in the second half of this year.

Exterior

The new Yeti gets a similar treatment as the new Superb. The front fascia features a new grille, rectangular-shaped headlight with optional bi-xenons and LED DRLs at the front. At the back we can see a revised tailgate and C-shaped tail lamps with optional LEDs. There are many other changes like tweaked bumpers, rear panels and new side protective mouldings. The vehicle also gets reworked 16-inch alloy wheels.

Interior

There are not many changes inside, but the revisions to the cabin include new fabric upholstery, decorative trim pieces and a new dashboard. The company has equipped the car with a three-spoke steering wheel similar to the one on the Superb. The other features include a new tyre pressure monitoring system, electrically adjustable driver seat and cruise control along with keyless entry and start.

Engine and Gearbox

Mechanically, the car remains the same with the choice of two diesel engines. This means both the 2.0-litre oil-burner versions have been carried over. The 108bhp mill comes mated to a five-speed manual gearbox and delivers power to the front wheels. On the other hand, the 138bhp motor is mated to a six-speed manual transmission and is available as a four-wheel-drive variant.

Competition and Price

Skoda Yeti falls into the niche segment of cars in India and the carmaker might price the revamped Yeti in the range of Rs 16 lakh to Rs 19 lakh for the Indian car market.

How does Turbocharger Works ?

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 11:29:00 +0530

Picture of a IHI VF39 turbocharger from the turbine exhaust side. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

An engine is designed to burn a fuel-air mixture to produce mechanical energy. The mechanical energy then moves pistons up and down to create the rotary motion that turns the wheels of a vehicle. The more mechanical energy, the more power the engine can produce.

A significant difference between a turbocharged diesel engine and a traditional naturally aspirated gasoline engine is that the air entering a diesel engine is compressed before the fuel is injected. This is where the turbocharger is critical to the power output and efficiency of the diesel engine. It is the job of the turbocharger to compress more air flowing into the engine’s cylinder. When air is compressed the oxygen molecules are packed closer together. This increase in air means that more fuel can be added for the same size naturally aspirated engine. This generates increased mechanical power and overall efficiency improvement of the combustion process. Therefore, the engine size can be reduced for a turbocharged engine leading to better packaging, weight saving benefits and overall improved fuel economy.

Although turbocharging is a relatively simple concept, the turbocharger is critical to the operation of the diesel engine and therefore requires a highly engineered component. Our extensive experience in turbocharging technology and knowledge of engines combines for world-class design and manufacture of Holset Turbochargers, renowned for their durability, high standard of safety, and reliable performance that engines demand.

How does a turbocharger work?
A turbocharger is made up of two main sections: the turbine and the compressor. The turbine consists of the(1) turbine wheel and the (2) turbine housing. It is the job of the turbine housing to guide the (3) exhaust gas into the turbine wheel. The energy from the exhaust gas turns the turbine wheel, and the gas then exits the turbine housing through an (4) exhaust outlet area.

(1)  The turbine wheel (2)  The turbine housing
(3)  Exhaust gas
(4)  Exhaust outlet area(5)  The compressor wheel (6)  The compressor housing(7)  Forged steel shaft (8)  Compressed air

The compressor also consists of two parts: the (5) compressor wheel and the (6) compressor housing. The compressor’s mode of action is opposite that of the turbine. The compressor wheel is attached to the turbine by a (7) forged steel shaft, and as the turbine turns the compressor wheel, the high-velocity spinning draws in air and compresses it. The compressor housing then converts the high-velocity, low-pressure air stream into a high-pressure, low-velocity air stream through a process called diffusion. The (8) compressed air is pushed into the engine, allowing the engine to burn more fuel to produce more power.

Comparison of Spark Ignition (SI) and Compression Ignition (CI) Engines

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Sun, 29 Jun 2014 12:37:00 +0530

The most prominent difference between Spark Ignition (SI) and Compression Ignition (CI) engines is the type of fuel used in each. In SI engines petrol or gasoline is used as fuel, hence these engines are also called petrol engines. In CI engines diesel is used as fuel, hence they are also called diesel engines.

Here are some other major differences between the SI and CI engines:

1) Type of cycle used: In the case of SI engines, the Otto cycle is used. In this cycle, addition of heat or fuel combustion occurs at a constant volume. The basis of working of CI engines is the Diesel cycle. In this cycle the addition of heat or fuel combustion occurs at a constant pressure.

2) Introduction of fuel in the engine: In the case of SI engines, during the piston's suction stroke, a mixture of air and fuel is injected from cylinder head portion of the cylinder. The air-fuel mixture is injected via the carburetor that controls the quantity and the quality of the injected mixture. In the case of CI engines, fuel is injected into the combustion chamber towards the end of the compression stroke. The fuel starts burning instantly due to the high pressure. To inject diesel in SI engines, a fuel pump and injector are required. In CI engines, the quantity of fuel to be injected is controlled but the quantity of air to be injected is not controlled.

3) Ignition of fuel: By nature petrol is a highly volatile liquid, but its self-ignition temperature is high. Hence for the combustion of this fuel a spark is necessary to initiate its burning process. To generate this spark in SI engines, the spark plug is placed in the cylinder head of the engine. The voltage is provided to the spark plug either from the battery or from the magneto. With diesel, the self-ignition temperature is comparatively lower. When diesel fuel is compressed to high pressures, its temperature also increases beyond the self-ignition temperature of the fuel. Hence in the case of CI engines, the ignition of fuel occurs due to compression of the air-fuel mixture and there is no need for spark plugs.

4) Compression ratio for the fuel: In the case of SI engines, the compression ratio of the fuel is in the range of 6 to 10 depending on the size of the engine and the power to be produced. In CI engines, the compression ratio for air is 16 to 20. The high compression ratio of air creates high temperatures, which ensures the diesel fuel can self-ignite.

5) Weight of the engines: In CI engines the compression ratio is higher, which produces high pressures inside the engine. Hence CI engines are heavier than SI engines.

6) Speed achieved by the engine: Petrol or SI engines are lightweight, and the fuel is homogeneously burned, hence achieving very high speeds. CI engines are heavier and the fuel is burned heterogeneously, hence producing lower speeds.

7) Thermal efficiency of the engine: In the case of CI engines the value of compression ratio is higher; hence these engines have the potential to achieve higher thermal efficiency. In the case of SI engines the lower compression ratio reduces their potential to achieve higher thermal efficiency.

what is an MPFI engine ?

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Sun, 29 Jun 2014 12:24:00 +0530

You must have seen cars with specifications which mention words like MPFI and CRDI or CRDE. To an automotive engineer or enthusiast, it means something, but for a common man, it may not make much sense.

MPFI means – Multi-point Fuel-Injection (also called fuel-injection system)

The term MPFI is used to specify a technology used in Gasoline/petrol Engines. For Diesel Engines, there is a similar technology called CRDI. We will discuss CRDI in a separate article to avoid confusion.

MPFI System is a system which uses a small computer (yes, a small computer without keyboard or mouse, its more like a microchip) to control the Car’s Engine. A Petrol car’s engine usually has three or more cylinders or fuel burning zones. So in case of an MPFI engine, there is one fuel –injector installed near each cylinder, that is why they call it Multi-point (more than one points) Fuel Injection.

In plain words, to burn petrol in an Engine to produce power, Petrol has to be mixed with some air, ignited in a cylinder (also called combustion chamber), which produces energy and runs the engine. I will not talk of further internal details because it will make this article for Engineers and not common people.

Before MPFI system was discovered, there was a technology called “Carburetor”. Carburetor was one chamber where petrol and air was mixed in a fixed ratio and then sent to cylinders to burn it to produce power. This system is purely a mechanical machine with little or no intelligence. It was not very efficient in burning petrol, it will burn more petrol than needed at times and will produce more pollution. But with the advancement of technology this was about to change.

MPFI emerged an Intelligent way to do what the Carburetor does. In MPFI system, each cylinder has one injector (which makes it multi-point). Each of these Injectors are controlled by one central car computer. This computer is a small micro-processor, which keeps telling each Injector about how much petrol and at what time it needs to inject near the cylinder so that only the required amount of petrol goes into the cylinder at the right moment.

So the working of MPFI is similar to Carburetor, but in an improved way, because now each cylinder is treated independently unlike Carburetor. But one major Key difference is that MPFI is an intelligent system and Carburetor is not. MPFI systems are controlled by a computer which does lots of calculations before deciding what amount of petrol will go into what cylinder at a particular point in time. It makes that decision based on the inputs it reads.

For the Inputs, the microprocessor (or car’s computer) reads a number of sensors. Through these sensors, the microprocessor knows the temperature of the Engine, the Speed of the Engine, it knows the load on the Engine, it knows how hard you have pressed the accelerator, it knows whether the Engine is idling at a traffic signal or it is actually running the car, it knows the air-pressure near the cylinders, it knows the amount of oxygen coming out of the exhaust pipe.

Based on all these inputs from the sensors, the computer in the MPFI system decides what amount of fuel to inject. Thus it makes it fuel efficient as it knows what amount of petrol should go in. To make things more interesting, the system also learns from the drivers driving habits. Modern car’s computers have memory, which will remember your driving style and will behave in a way so that you get the desired power output from engine based on your driving style. For example, if you have a habit of speedy pick-up, car’s computer will remember that and will give you more power at low engine speeds by putting extra petrol, so that you get a good pick-up. It will typically judge this by the amount of pressure you put on accelerator.

So the cars of today are really intelligent, well not as intelligent as drivers but fairly intelligent to keep pollution under control and saving the fuel.

What is CRDI Engine ?

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Sun, 29 Jun 2014 11:44:00 +0530

Fuel rail, injectors and fuel pressure regulator from a Honda 4 cylinder engine (D15A3). (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

What is the difference between 4 stroke and 2 stroke engines ?

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Sun, 29 Jun 2014 11:31:00 +0530

This image was selected as a picture of the week on the Czech Wikipedia for th week, 2008. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Internal combustion Engines are classified in two categories: 2 Stroke and 4 stroke Engine. Many of us have confusion regarding the difference between 2 Stroke and 4 Stroke Engine. Below given table shows some of the key differences between two of them.

Sr.No	2 Stroke	4 Stroke
1.	The thermodynamic cycle is completed in two strokes of the piston or in one revolution of the crankshaft. Thus one power stroke is obtained in each revolution of the crankshaft.	The thermodynamic cycle is completed in four strokes of the piston or in two revolutions of the crankshaft. Thus, one power stroke is obtained in every two revolutions of the crankshaft.
2.	Because of the above, turning moment is more uniform and hence a lighter flywheel can be used.	Because of the above, turning moment is not so uniform and hence a heavier flywheel is needed.
3.	Because of one power stroke for every revolution, power produced for same size of engine is twice, or for the same power the engine is lighter and more compact.	Again, because of one power stroke for two revolutions, power produced for same size of engine Is less, or for the same power the engine is heavier and bulkier.
4.	Because of one power stroke in one revolution greater cooling and lubrication requirements. Higher rate of wear and tear.	Because of one power stroke in two revolutions lesser cooling and lubrication requirements. Lower rate of wear and tear.
5.	Two-stroke engines have no valves but only ports (some two-stroke engines are fitted with conventional exhaust, valve or reed valve).	Four-stroke engines have valves and valve actuating mechanisms for opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valves.
6.	Because of light weight and simplicity due to the absence of valve actuating mechanism, initial cost of the engine is less.	Because of comparatively higher weight and complicated valve mechanism, the initial cost of the engine is more.
7.	Volumetric efficiency is low due to lesser time for induction.	Volumetric efficiency is more due to more time for induction.
8.	Thermal efficiency is lower; part load efficiency is poor.	Thermal efficiency is higher: part load efficiency is better.
9.	Used where low cost, compactness and light weight are important, viz., in mopeds, scooters, motorcycles, hand sprayers etc.	Used where efficiency is important, viz., in cars, buses, trucks, tractors, industrial engines, Aeroplanes, power generation etc.

How Four Stroke Engine Works ?

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Sun, 29 Jun 2014 11:16:00 +0530

Four-stroke cycle (or Otto cycle) 1. Intake 2. Compression 3. Power 4. Exhaust (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

A four-stroke cycle engine is an internal combustion engine that utilizes four distinct piston strokes (intake, compression, power, and exhaust) to complete one operating cycle. The piston make two complete passes in the cylinder to complete one operating cycle. An operating cycle requires two revolutions (720°) of the crankshaft. The four-stroke cycle engine is the most common type of small engine. A four-stroke cycle engine completes five Strokes in one operating cycle, including intake, compression, ignition, power, and exhaust Strokes.

Intake Stroke

The intake event is when the air-fuel mixture is introduced to fill the combustion chamber. The intake event occurs when the piston moves from TDC to BDC and the intake valve is open. The movement of the piston toward BDC creates a low pressure in the cylinder. Ambient atmospheric pressure forces the air-fuel mixture through the open intake valve into the cylinder to fill the low pressure area created by the piston movement. The cylinder continues to fill slightly past BDC as the air-fuel mixture continues to flow by its own inertia while the piston begins to change direction. The intake valve remains open a few degrees of crankshaft rotation after BDC. Depending on engine design. The intake valve then closes and the air-fuel mixture is sealed inside the cylinder.

Compression Stroke

The compression stroke is when the trapped air-fuel mixture is compressed inside the cylinder. The combustion chamber is sealed to form the charge. The charge is the volume of compressed air-fuel mixture trapped inside the combustion chamber ready for ignition. Compressing the air-fuel mixture allows more energy to be released when the charge is ignited. Intake and exhaust valves must be closed to ensure that the cylinder is sealed to provide compression. Compression is the process of reducing or squeezing a charge from a large volume to a smaller volume in the combustion chamber. The flywheel helps to maintain the momentum necessary to compress the charge.

When the piston of an engine compresses the charge, an increase in compressive force supplied by work being done by the piston causes heat to be generated. The compression and heating of the air-fuel vapor in the charge results in an increase in charge temperature and an increase in fuel vaporization. The increase in charge temperature occurs uniformly throughout the combustion chamber to produce faster combustion (fuel oxidation) after ignition.

The increase in fuel vaporization occurs as small droplets of fuel become vaporized more completely from the heat generated. The increased droplet surface area exposed to the ignition flame allows more complete burning of the charge in the combustion chamber. Only gasoline vapor ignites. An increase in droplet surface area allows gasoline to release more vapor rather than remaining a liquid.

The more the charge vapor molecules are compressed, the more energy obtained from the combustion process. The energy needed to compress the charge is substantially less than the gain in force produced during the combustion process. For example, in a typical small engine, energy required to compress the charge is only one-fourth the amount of energy produced during combustion.

The compression ratio of an engine is a comparison of the volume of the combustion chamber with the piston at BDC to the volume of the combustion chamber with the piston at TDC. This area, combined with the design and style of combustion chamber, determines the compression ratio. Gasoline engines commonly have a compression ratio ranging from 6:1 - 10:1. The higher the compression ratio, the more fuel-efficient the engine. A higher compression ratio normally provides a substantial gain in combustion pressure or force on the piston. However, higher compression ratios increase operator effort required to start the engine. Some small engines feature a system to relieve pressure during the compression stroke to reduce operator effort required when starting the engine.

Ignition Event

The ignition (combustion) event occurs when the charge is ignited and rapidly oxidized through a chemical reaction to release heat energy. Combustion is the rapid, oxidizing chemical reaction in which a fuel chemically combines with oxygen in the atmosphere and releases energy in the form of heat.

Proper combustion involves a short but finite time to spread a flame throughout the combustion chamber. The spark at the spark plug initiates combustion at approximately 20° of crankshaft rotation before TDC (BTDC). The atmospheric oxygen and fuel vapor are consumed by a progressing flame front. A flame front is the boundary wall that separates the charge from the combustion by-products. The flame front progresses across the combustion chamber until the entire charge has burned.

Power Stroke

The power stroke is an engine operation Stroke in which hot expanding gases force the piston head away from the cylinder head. Piston force and subsequent motion are transferred through the connecting rod to apply torque to the crankshaft. The torque applied initiates crankshaft rotation. The amount of torque produced is determined by the pressure on the piston, the size of the piston, and the throw of the engine. During the power Stroke, both valves are closed.

Exhaust Stroke

The exhaust stroke occurs whenspent gases are expelled from the combustion chamber and released to the atmosphere. The exhaust stroke is the final stroke and occurs when the exhaust valve is open and the intake valve is closed. Piston movement evacuates exhaust gases to the atmosphere.

As the piston reaches BDC during the power stroke combustion is complete and the cylinder is filled with exhaust gases. The exhaust valve opens, and inertia of the flywheel and other moving parts push the piston back to TDC, forcing the exhaust gases out through the open exhaust valve. At the end of the exhaust stroke, the piston is at TDC and one operating cycle has been completed.

Mercedes Benz GLA

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Sat, 28 Jun 2014 19:39:00 +0530

It’s raining crossovers all over the world and no one wants to be left behind, even the big German manufacturers who have traditionally built large V8 engined Autobahn cruisers have decided to jump ship and create smaller cars. Among them is Mercedes-Benz who has unveiled their GLA crossover.

The GLA concept car was first unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show in April and features many modern design cues that we can expect to see on future Mercedes-Benz cars. The production version that was unveiled last month is of a less extreme form of the concept car but retains many of the design cues.

Rather than consider it a smaller version of any of the German automaker’s SUVs, we should look at it as a beefed up version of the A-Class hatchback. This is evident in the headlights, the C-pillar, the front fenders and the overall interiors all look like it has been adopted from the pages of the A-Class design book.

The first variant on offer from the GLA range will be powered a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged engine that makes 210PS power and 350Nm torque. Power transmission will be carried out by a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox and will drive and will drive all four wheels thanks to the company’s 4Matic system. For the Indian market we also expect the 2.2-litre oil burner that powers the A and the B-Class. It will make use of the same seven-speed dual clutch but will power the front wheels in a bid to keep the cost of the car down.

There is also expected to be an AMG spec version that will be powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged mill that has been tuned to produce somewhere in the region of 337PS and 450Nm of torque. This engine too will be mated to the seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission. It will get an AMG spec body kit, different alloy wheels and obviously some of the insane tuning that has made AMG famous over the last three decades.

When launched in the middle of 2014, the GLA is expected to be priced in the range Rs 27-Rs 30 lakh for the top spec diesel engined version. It will compete with the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and the Volvo V40 Cross Country.

Expected Launch: September 2014

Expected Price: 27 - 30 lakhs

FORD FIESTA FACELIFT

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Sat, 28 Jun 2014 11:11:00 +0530

Launched last week, the refreshed Fiesta has an ARAI claimed 25.01 km/l, thus clinching the fifth spot in this list.

Compared to the pre-facelifted model's 23.05 km/l, the refreshed Fiesta, thanks to an engine remap and a more aerodynamic styling, is able to achieve more to the liter of diesel

Standard feature on the Ambiente trim include:

Guide-me-home headlamps
Driver seat height adjustment
Split-folding rear seats
Remote locking
Electrically adjustable ORVMs
ABS+EBD
Driver airbag

The Trend variant gets the following over the Ambiente:

Body coloured outside door handles
Fog lamps
Leather wrapped steering
Auto climate control
Full wheel covers
Footwell lamps
Cruise control
Multimedia system with CD/USB/AUX compatibility connected to 6-speakers
Dual front airbags

The top-of-the-line Titanium variant will get the following over the Trend:

Alloy wheels
Automatic headlamps and wipers
Electrically folding ORVMs
Keyless entry and go
Rear parking sensors
Digital trip computer with real-time fuel-efficiency indicator
Ford’s ‘Sync’ system with Emergency Assist feature

Ford will be cautious with the new Fiesta, it had a very bad outing when it was launched in 2011 even though it was a good car. Let’s wait and watch as to how the car will be priced this time around.

What do you think? let us know in the comments section below.

Information Courtesy: AutocarIndia.com

Updated on 22nd March 2014

Ford has started promoting the 2014 Ford Fiesta on its website and it’s social media pages, indicating that the company is getting ready to launch the car in India very soon. The car was showcased at the 2014 Indian Auto Expo (report below) and is basically a facelift with minimal, if not zero mechanical changes.

The biggest change will be to the exterior design, added features like SYNC with AppLink multimedia system, a Start/Stop system, Automatic wipers and headlights, more storage solutions etc. The Fiesta is expected to be powered by the same 1.5-litre petrol and diesel motors on offer on the current model. We hope Ford India adds the brilliant 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine to the lineup too.

It will be interesting to see how Ford handles the sales of the Fiesta, it has received much flak from customers who have had to wait a long time to get their units of the Ford EcoSport. We hope Ford sets things straight before they launch the car in India. It is one of the best driving cars out there with unique features, the lack of rear seating space and the high price tag has stopped it from becoming a big hit and we hope that the new car is marketed better. What do you think? Let us know in the comments section below.

Updated on 7th Febraury 2014

2014 Ford Fiesta New Model Features And Specifications

The new Fiesta gets new design compared to the previous model and looks more bolt and stylish with a larger grille, new sculpted design at front, new fog lamps, new alloy wheels. In profile, it looks similar to the previous model, but front and rear get new treatment making it look more attractive than the previous model.

The wheel arches are more pronounced, the body lines are more visible and are noticeable, the Kinetic design language is clearly visible on grille, sleek headlamps, tail-lamps etc. The boot space is fairly large and can fit at least 3 large bags. The interiors are very similar to what we see on the previous model and the EcoSport. The same dual tone black silver touches are used with new fiesta too. Additionally it gets some new features like App Link technology from Ford-Microsoft Sync system which allows voice command access to apps on the smartphones which are paired with the car.

The detailed specifications have not been revealed by Ford at this stage, it will be revealed closer to the price announcement of the car which is expected to happen around mid of 2014. We expect that Ford may not make any major changes to the engine and transmission system other than minor improvements in performance and fuel economy of the car. The drive train also is expected to remain the same. The previous model of Fiesta comes with a 1.5 Litre petrol Ti-VCT and a 1.5 Litre Diesel DuraTorq engine. The petrol engine produces around 104 BHP of peak power while the diesel produces about 90 BHP and both of them are mated with a 5-speed manual transmission. The petrol model also comes with a 6 speed dual clutch automatic transmission which we have tested earlier and found it to be really peppy and high on performance as well as fuel economy.

Some of the weak points of the old model, which includes not-so-spacious rear seats seems to have been addressed here with new improved interior packaging. We will be able to share more details when we drive this car, which should happen soon. Do keep an eye on out test drive reviews section to check out the same.

The All New ACCURA ILX 2015

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Fri, 27 Jun 2014 20:29:00 +0530

Accura ILX is a compact sedan which fits perfectly for entry level luxury sedan from Honda's luxury car maker Accura. ILX's design is based on Honda civic. It comes in two variants 2.0 L 150 hp and 2.4 L 201 hp engine. the former comes with 5 speed automatic whereas later comes with 6 speed manual transmission.

The ILX features classic sedan proportions - an elongated hood with a short rear deck. An upward sweeping character line stretches from the front fender to muscular haunch. 17' aluminum alloy wheels are standard on all models and complete the sporting look.

The concept version of both the gasoline and hybrid models was unveiled at the 2012 North American International Auto Show. The production versions were presented in the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. Mass production commenced on April 23 at Honda's assembly facility in Greensburg, Indiana and U.S. sales began on May 22. The ILX introduces a new design that Acura calls "aero-fused dynamics".

The EPA fuel economy rating of the hybrid version is 39 mpg_-US (6.0 L/100 km; 47 mpg_-imp) for city and 38 mpg_-US (6.2 L/100 km; 46 mpg_-imp) on highway driving.

Major options are grouped into Premium and Technology packages and include leather upholstery, 17" alloy wheels, navigation system, premium audio system with SiriusXM satellite radio, and high intensity discharge headlamps. Both option packages include a multi-view rear camera with regular, wide-angle, and top-down modes.The ILX's body in white uses 59% high strength steel ranging from 440-980 MPa yield strength grades, aluminum is used for the hood and front bumper beam.^[7] Compared to the Civic the ILX uses Acura's "Amplitude Reactive" dampers and a larger more rigid steering shaft for improved handling and ride quality characteristics.

For the 2014 model year the ILX came standard with 17-inch wheels, leather interior, heated front seats, an 8-way power driver's seat, tri-angle backup camera and audio subwoofer with Active Noise Cancellation, however price was increased by $1000.

The ILX Luxury sedan comes with luxury interiors. It features a 8 way adjustable leather seat , a highly comfortable steering wheel to control the lots of control buttons provided and a incredible 10 speakers surround sound audio system which gives a joy of music better than a theater. Rear view camera eases the parking and reverse driving operations.

Models And Pricing

2015 ILX 5-Speed Automatic	$27,050
2015 ILX 5-Speed Automatic with Premium Package	$29,350
2015 ILX 5-Speed Automatic with Technology Package	$31,750
2015 ILX 6-Speed Manual with Premium Package	$29,350

RENAULT DUSTER FACELIFT

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Fri, 27 Jun 2014 13:07:00 +0530

Renault Duster has won heart of Indian SUV lovers , prime factor being price at which it was offered created a all new segment for low cost SUVs. We all love the Renault Duster facelift for various reasons most which seem to be along the lines of it being a small vehicle made to look much bigger than its size. Developed and designed by Renault’s Romanian subsidiary, Dacia, its arrival heralded a new chapter in the pages of Renault India’s history as it set the charts on fire every month since its launch in July 2012. However, despite the good combinations that it offered, the Duster was no match for the Ford EcoSport which was launched earlier this year and ultimately started dropping off in terms of numbers. With so much to lose, it is now likely that Renault will bring the facelifted version to India sooner than expected. It was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show and features a host of cosmetic changes and a new petrol engine option.

Exterior

The facelifted Renault Duster gets a redone fascia in the form of a new grille, revised headlamp design as well as a new design for the air intake in front. It also gets new front and rear scuff plates, revised tail lamp assembly and 16-inch wheels. However, the overall design of the crossover has not been tampered with as it still retains its squat stance and model-defining flared wheel arches. The rear too remains the same as the current vehicle but now the exhaust pipe has been integrated into the rear diffuser assembly. However, one noticeable change to the Duster is the modified roof rails to increase the amount of support it can provide. For further personalisation, Renault may also offer the adventure exterior design pack which includes a bulbar, satin chrome strips and door sill guard protectors.

Interior and features

The Renault Duster facelift carries over most of the interiors from the current vehicle but what’s new is the instrument cluster, seat upholstery options and power window switches. The European spec car also gets a fire extinguisher, security system and snow chains. India would be getting only the fire extinguisher. The rear seats are likely to remain unchanged as will the boot area. Renault currently offers a navigation pack with the Duster and we expect that this will become a standard feature on the RXZ diesel variant.

Variants and engine line-up

The Renault Duster is currently offered in seven diesel and two petrol variants. We expect that once the Media-NAV system is integrated into the car as a standard feature, Renault will do away with the RxZ and RxL optional variants.

The engine line-up stays the same as before; a 1.5-litre diesel and a 1.6-litre petrol. The diesel is available in two configurations 84bhp+200Nm and 110bhp+240Nm, while the petrol engine produces 102bhp and 145Nm of torque. The 84bhp diesel and the petrol engine have been mated to a five-speed manual while the 110bhp diesel has been mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.

However, Renault’s new weapon is the 1.2-litre TCe petrol engine that produces 123.3bhp and 204Nm of torque. Power is transmitted to the front wheels or all four wheels via a six-speed manual and in the case of the latter a four-wheel-drive system. It is their answer to Ford’s Ecoboost engine and will most certainly be launched here in the front-wheel-drive guise.

When do we get it and what will it cost?

It is likely that Renault will showcase the facelifted Duster at the 2014 Auto Expo and will launch it a few months later. The price is expected to be Rs 20,000 more than the equivalent current variants of the present vehicle.

The facelifted Renault Duster, when launched here, will compete with the Ford EcoSport, Nissan Terrano and the Mahindra XUV500 W4 variant.

BMW i5

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Fri, 27 Jun 2014 12:39:00 +0530

In 2017, BMW will launch their third electric-vehicle nurtured by the BMW i sub-brand. The long-time rumored BMW i5 is already way into development as somewhat confirmed in a previous article by Jacob Harb, the Head of EV Operations in US.

“You can probably take an educated guess at the next thought process, something a little bigger, maybe a little more range, relative to the i3. We’ve got everything trademarked and we’re exploring the best, next iteration. It is coming. It’s in development now.”

The i5 will bring about much-needed economies of scale to help reduce the cost of batteries and electric modules, as well as the carbon-fiber components needed to trim weight to acceptable levels. It will be sold in the most important global markets, at a price competitive with the entry-level versions of the Tesla Model S, which the i5 will aim to trump in telematics and assistance systems, as well as general fit and finish.

The new midsize BMW i5 will cater to a slightly different demographic than the i3. It will be an eco-friendly electric family vehicle with plenty of space for five passengers, equipped with regular front-hinged rear doors to facilitate easy ingress and egress for the rear passengers.

Power will come from BMW's permanent-magnet AC synchronous electric motor, likely to be rated at 170 horsepower, which will power the rear axle through a single-speed transmission. The i5 will be offered with an optional range-extender, possibly a 1.5-liter three-cylinder from BMW's new, modular engine family. The aforementioned lithium-ion battery pack would be positioned in the center of the vehicle.

BMW engineers think that by adding just 100mm of extra legroom and another 150mm of rear overhang, they can create a spacious family EV hardly longer than a MINI Countryman.

Creating the i5 is potentially a much cheaper and simpler operation than stretching a conventional steel monocoque car, as the i3 uses a separate chassis. Lengthening it is mostly a matter of extending the chassis’s longitudinal aluminum extrusions. Also extending the pillarless passenger cell is mainly a case of stretching the roof and floor sections. Only the rear door structure would have to be completely re-engineered, although the hinge and clamp systems would be unchanged.

The battery technology will also be improved, a larger lithium ion battery pack than in the i3 which could lead to a driving range close to 200 miles.

Car and Driver says that the BMW i5 will be sold in the most important global markets, at a price competitive with the entry-level versions of the Tesla Model S, which the i5 will aim to trump in telematics and assistance systems, as well as general fit and finish.

Tesla Design Chief: “BMW i3 is like an IKEA piece of furniture”

Power will come from BMW’s permanent-magnet AC synchronous electric motor, likely to be rated at 170 horsepower, which will power the rear axle through a single-speed transmission.

Just like the i3, an REx (Range Extender) model will be offered as well.

The BMW i5 could be launched in 2016 as a 2017 model. It will cost around $50,000.

AUDI TT Concept

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Thu, 26 Jun 2014 16:21:00 +0530

Audi promised us that its Allroad Shooting Brake concept from Detroit foretold the next-generationAudi TT. It didn't lie. Ahead of the Geneva Motor Show, Audi has released several design sketches of the 2015 TT, and aside from losing the two-box design and taller Allroad ride height, the concept looks to be a dead ringer for the production car.

Audi

If you love the roofline of the first-generation TT, then you'll love the latest car's rounded roof, although the rest of the design has evolved towards a boxier, more aggressive look. The sketches also show a new take on Audi's signature LED headlights that are mirrored in the taillights. There are still a couple more weeks before we'll see the third-generation TT, but we're already dreaming about how this car will look in RS guise.

AUDI A3

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Wed, 25 Jun 2014 22:43:00 +0530

The A3 sedan is Audi’s answer to Mercedes-Benz CLA and the BMW 1 Series sedan. The sedan was unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show and made its Indian debut at the 2014 Auto Expo. It will slot in below the A4 as one of the entry-level models for the German marque. It has been spotted testing in India on multiple occasions in both the 1.8-litre TFSI petrol and 2.0-litre TDI diesel variants.

Exterior

At 4.46 metres, the A3 sedan is shorter than the A4 by full 0.3 metres. It has MQB underpinning like most other new models under the VW umbrella. The overall appearance is typical Audi and most design elements are similar to that of the A4 sedan and this includes lights, lines on the side and the stance of the car. Audi says that the new model is a cross between coupe and three-box design. Internationally the car is mainly sold as a hatchback but this model is not expected to be launched in the Indian market.

Interior

This sedan is smaller than the A4, so the space will also be relatively less. Its overall design is very close to the A4 but there are small elemental changes like the shape of the AC vents, pop-up digital display and the trim options.

The front seat space won’t be much of an issue, however, the rear is likely to be on the smaller end of the segment standard. The boot space, at 425 litres, will be sufficient for most occasions and is comparable to most of its rivals. The features list is expected to include Audi MMI and all the safety bits including ABS-EBS, ESP and airbags.

Engine and gearbox

The A3 sedan will be available in both petrol and diesel guise in India – the petrol version will be the 1.8-litre TFSI unit developing 177bhp and 250Nm, the oil burner is the 2.0-litre TDI mill with an output of 141bhp and 320Nm. Both the engines will power the front wheels via a seven-speed DSG gearbox.

Price and competition

The Audi A3 sedan is expected to be launched in August 2014. It is expected to be launched as a CKD directly and will compete with the BMW 1 Series and the Mercedes-Benz A-Class.

TATA BOLT

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Wed, 25 Jun 2014 22:37:00 +0530

The Tata Bolt is the Pune based automaker’s new hatchback for the Indian market. Based on their X1 platform which underpins the Indica Vista hatchback, the Bolt features an all too familiar silhouette but is a whole new animal in terms of features and overall design philosophy. It will also be offered with the Indian automaker’s new 1.2-litre 140bhp Revtron mill as well as the all too familiar 1.3-litre Quadrajet diesel engine.

This next-generation global car from Tata Motors showcases the new DNA of the company and boasts of newness in terms of design (DesigNext), drivablilty (DriveNext) and connectivity (ConnectNext). The company says that the name Bolt itself signifies speed and represents, according to the company, a winner’s attitude. It comes with several segment first features and employs a new design language for the interiors as well as the exteriors.

At the front it gets an aggressive fascia, new grille and sleek shaped headlights that stretch from the middle of the bonnet to the grille. On the sides the window lines swoop down in curve towards the rear hatch which now seems to be devoid of the Christmas tree lamps. However, what rear does get are rounded edges and certain styling cues from slightly more premium cars.

In terms of engines, Tata will offer this hatchback with the 1.2-litre Revtron engine which is petrol powered and produces 84bhp/140Nm. The diesel engine on the other hand is the 1.3-litre Quadrajet diesel. Transmission options include the five-speed manual as well as an AMT which is a first for Tata especially in this segment.

We expect that Tata will price the Bolt in the range of 4.6 lakh Rupees to 6.6 lakh Rupees and it will have four petrol and three diesel variants. It will compete with the Grand i10, Maruti Suzuki Swift, Chevrolet Sail and VW Polo.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
ITEMS	PETROL	DIESEL

DIMENSIONS
Overall Length (mm)	3995	3995
Overall Width (mm)	1695	1695
Overall Height (mm)	1570	1570
Wheelbase (mm)	2470	2470
Front Track (mm)	1450	1450
Rear Track (mm)	1440	1440
Fuel Tank (ltr)	44	44
Kerb Weight (Kg)	1106	1106

ENGINE
Engine Type	Revotron 1.2T	1.3L Quadrajet
Displacement (CC)	1200	1300
Maximum Power (ps/rpm)	84 @ 5000	89 @ 4000
Maximum Torque (nm/rpm)	140 @ 1750	200 @ 1750

TRANSMISSION
Type	5 - Speed MT	5 - Speed MT

SUSPENSION
Front	Dual Path Independent McPherson strut with Antiroll Bar	Dual Path Independent McPherson strut with Antiroll Bar
Rear	Semi Independent Twist beam with coil spring	Semi Independent Twist beam with coil spring

BRAKES
Front	Disc	Disc
Rear	Drum	Drum

TYRE
Tyre Size	R16	R16

Expected Launch: October 2014

Expected Price: 4.20 - 6.60 lakhs

Nissan Sunny Facelift

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Wed, 25 Jun 2014 22:17:00 +0530

Nissan launched the Sunny sedan for the Indian market in 2011 and it has been selling in the same form since then. As a part of the normal product life cycle it unveiled a facelifted version for the Indian market at the 2014 Auto Expo and this is expected to go on sale a few months from now. It has got cosmetic changes both inside and outside with the former being almost similar to the ones found on the facelifted Nissan Micra that was launched last year. The facelifted Sunny has already gone on sale in the Thai and Chinese market and is even offered with a Nismo body kit and tuning options.

Exterior

The front of the facelifted car gets a revised design for the grille as well as the headlights. Much more of an evolutionary design, the grille now gets added bling around the edges. The headlights have been revised and now feature a more angular tear drop design as compared to the current car’s rounded shape. The fog lamp housing while remaining the same shape also gets an added dose of chrome as is the case with the base of the air intake. The side profile remains the same as before while the base of the rear end has been raised and covered with a plastic lip in a bid to give the car a sportier appearance.

Interior

The interiors have been updated to match those of the Nissan Micra that was launched last year. These changes include gloss black plastic for the dashboard, touch screen infotainment for the top- spec versions and on a more minor note different fonts for the info graphics . The lower- spec variants will continue with the beige interiors but across all versions, Nissan is expected to introduce a revised design for the steering which has already been shown with the Thai and Chinese models. The interior space is still massive but we hope Nissan will be able to revise the amount of under thigh support offered with the rear seats. The recirculating fan at the rear is an India only option and we expect that it continue in the facelifted model.

Engine and gearbox

The Nissan Sunny in India is currently and will continue to be powered by two sets of engines- a 1.5-litre petrol engine and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. The former produces 98bhp and 134Nm of torque while the oil burner produces 85bhp and 200Nm of torque. Both engines are offered with a five-speed manual while the petrol can also be had with a CVT gearbox.

Price and competition

We expect that Nissan will price the facelifted Sunny in the range of Rs 6.28 lakh to Rs 10 lakh. It competes with the Renault Scala, Honda City, Hyundai Verna, Skoda Rapid, VW Vento and the Ford Fiesta which is due for a facelift soon.

Expected Launch: 3 July 2014

Expected Price: 6.28 - 10 lakhs

Maruti Suzuki Ciaz Concept

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Fri, 20 Jun 2014 14:03:00 +0530

Maruti Suzuki will discontinue the SX4 sedan next year – it will be replaced by a new executive car which is currently under testing with the code name YL1. Although the Indian auto major has been tightlipped about the upcoming model, a fair bit of information is available on the web, courtesy leaks and spy images.

The YL1 will be based on the Ertiga platform, which in turn borrows from the Swift hatchback. This means Maruti will have the option of component sharing to cut cost and bring in economies of scale. We expect the YL1 interiors to be similar to that of the Ertiga with the all-beige treatment. The drop trims and other inserts will be premium as this will slot it in the segment above the Ertiga. The SX4 has always been a spacious car and the same will be the case with the YL1. The cabin will be ergonomic and designed to comfortably seat three adults on the rear bench.
The features on the new car will include a factory-fitted music system with Bluetooth and multimedia functions. The AC with climate control will feature on the mid and top-end variants along with rear vents. Steering mounted audio control, cooled glove box, door pockets at the back are few other features that will be available with the new car. Maruti might also offer a premium package with leather seats as an optional extra. The safety features in the new car will include ABS-EBD and two airbags as standard for the top end variants.

The petrol version of the YL1 will be powered by the 1.4-litre K-Series engine from the Ertiga producing 93bhp and 130Nm of torque. The base variants will be available with a five-speed manual transmission, whereas the top-end will also get the option of AT. The diesel on the other hand will continue to use the 1.3-litre turbocharged multi jet mill developing 90bhp and 200NM of torque. Depending upon the response to the new car, Maruti will make plans to introduce a CNG variant, since it is already available with the 1.4 litre Ertiga petrol.
Maruti is expected to continue using the same nomenclature for the new sedan, the petrol variants should be – LXi, VXi and ZXi, while the diesel variants will mostly be named – LDi, VDi and ZDi. The YL1 is still a codename and the company will rebrand the product before launch. There is a possibility that the new car will also be badged as the SX4. However, Maruti will opt for a different name, if the current model is not discontinued.

Expected Launch: September 2014

Expected Price: 7.25 - 10.50 lakhs

JEEP WRANGLER

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Thu, 19 Jun 2014 10:54:00 +0530

The all new 2013 Jeep Wrangler comes with rugged and standard heart throbbing looks for SUV lovers from the manufacturer. You’ll also get comfort and convenience features including: new leather-trimmed heated front seats illuminated cup holders, lighting in the foot well and a new auto-dimming rearview mirror with integrated LED map lights. Every Wrangler also comes with illuminated footwells and illuminated center-console cup holders that add to its warm interior.
Perfect for helping to pull less capable vehicles out of ditches, these heavy-duty, forged steel dual front and single rear frame-mounted tow hooks come standard.

The Jeep Wrangler will be priced in the range of Rs 25 to Rs 32 lakh and will compete with vehicles like the Hyundai Sante Fe, Nissan X-Trail, Audi Q3 as well as the BMW X1.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
ITEMS	Petrol

ENGINE
Configuration	V6
Engine	3.6 Litres
Valvetrain Type	Variable Valve Timing
Maximum Power (bhp/rpm)	285 @ 6400
Maximum Torque (nm/rpm)	352 @ 4800

TRANSMISSION
Type	6 - Speed MT

TATA ZEST

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Wed, 18 Jun 2014 12:45:00 +0530

Tata Zest is a compact sedan under sub 4 meter category , which will directly compete with Hyundai Xcent , Maruti Suzuki Swift dzire and Mahindra Verito vibe. Zest is a CS version of Tata bolt hatchback. It has same looks as of hatchback just with enlarged boot space , interior , engine and rest being the same .

he Tata Zest follows the same principle in terms with the Bolt hatchback in terms of design and overall appearance. The side profile remains the same up to the C-Pillar but thanks to the boot has a different appearance. At the back the lights have a similar design to that of the hatchback with a stubby boot lid.
Inside the interiors are exactly the same as the hatchback including the overall layout, features and upholstery. The list includes Harman touchscreen music system, gauges behind the steering wheel and white upholstery for the top spec variants and beige for the others in the range.

talking about engines, Tata will offer this compact sedan with the 1.2-litre Revtron engine which is petrol powered and produces 84bhp/140Nm. The diesel engine on the other hand is the 1.3-litre Quadrajet diesel. Transmission options include the five-speed manual as well as an AMT which is a first for Tata especially in this segment.

expected price for Tata zest will be in the range of 5.5 lakh Rupees to 7.6 lakh Rupees and it will have four petrol and three diesel variants. It will compete with the Grand i10 based Xcent sedan, Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Chevrolet Sail sedan, Honda Amaze and VW Vento.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
ITEMS	PETROL	DIESEL

DIMENSIONS
Overall Length (mm)	3995	3995
Overall Width (mm)	1695	1695
Overall Height (mm)	1570	1570
Wheelbase (mm)	2470	2470
Front Track (mm)	1450	1450
Rear Track (mm)	1440	1440
Fuel Tank (ltr)	44	44
Kerb Weight (Kg)	1106	1106

ENGINE
Engine Type	Revotron 1.2T	1.3L Quadrajet
Displacement (CC)	1200	1300
Maximum Power (ps/rpm)	84 @ 5000	89 @ 4000
Maximum Torque (nm/rpm)	140 @ 1750	200 @ 1750

TRANSMISSION
Type	5 - Speed MT	5 - Speed MT

SUSPENSION
Front	Dual Path Independent McPherson strut with Antiroll Bar	Dual Path Independent McPherson strut with Antiroll Bar
Rear	Semi Independent Twist beam with coil spring	Semi Independent Twist beam with coil spring

BRAKES
Front	Disc	Disc
Rear	Drum	Drum

TYRE
Tyre Size	R16	R16

Honda Mobilio

singhjay2901@gmail.com (Jay Singh) — Tue, 17 Jun 2014 18:18:00 +0530

Expected Launch: July 2014

Expected Price: 6.50 - 9 lakhs

The Brio platform is one of Honda’s major developments for the Asian markets. The platform currently underpins the Brio hatchback and the Amaze sedan, while a third model is expected to be launched in India this July. This all-new car is called the Honda Mobilio and is a seven-seater MVP that will take on the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga.
The Honda Mobilio MPV (codenamed 2NH) is 4.4-metres long (wheelbase of 2.6-metres) and has a ground clearance of 185mm. It may appear like a stretched out version of the Brio but much like Amaze, it looks like it has been designed from the ground up to be an MPV. The Mobilio is a budget MUV, and so it shares a lot of components with the other Honda cars that would help it achieve a very competitive pricing. Despite this budget tag, the Mobilio looks and feels premium car with a trendy design and the Honda badge at the front.
The interiors of the new car are similar to that of the other Honda cars with beige being the predominant colour. The front two rows will certainly be spacious with a foldable third-row that can either accommodate children or make way for extra luggage.
The music system will be similar to that of the City sedan and it will have to be seen whether the touch screen AC panel will be fitted on the higher trims. The safety features will be up to the mark – ABS-EBD will be standard on all except the base variant and, at least the top two variants will get front airbags.
The Mobilio will be powered by the new 1.5-litre turbocharged Earth Dreams diesel engine churning out 100bhp and 205Nm – the same unit that powers the Amaze and City. The petrol variants will get the 1.5-litre i-VTEC unit putting out 117bhp and 145Nm of torque.
The Honda Mobilio has reached production stage and the MVP is expected to reach the showrooms by July end. Honda will target the Ertiga with the new car, so expect a starting price of around Rs 6.25 lakh for the petrol base variant, the top-end diesel on the other hand should carry a price tag of around Rs 9 lakh. We have seen the Mobilio at the 2014 Auto Expo and are pretty impressed with the overall product. Once launched, the Mobilio will also compete with the Chevrolet Enjoy and Mahindra Quanto.

Expected Launch: July 2014

Expected Price: 6.50 - 9 lakhs

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