The fifth-generation Renault Clio exudes sophistication in its design, functionality, and interior ambiance. The switch from Renault’s old 898cc three-cylinder turbo engine to the new 999cc three-cylinder turbo engine may seem like a technical change, but it has resulted in improved refinement, drivability, and efficiency.
While the overall performance is not outstanding, the mid-range petrol Clio with the new engine proved to be faster than some competitors in acceleration tests. It was slower than the 94bhp 1.0-litre Volkswagen Polo in a 0-60mph test but faster than the 89bhp Nissan Micra IG-T in a 30mph to 70mph test.
Subjectively, the Clio impresses in many ways. The engine is quiet and well-behaved during startup and idle. The accelerator pedal is well-calibrated and intuitive, allowing for smooth acceleration. The throttle response is notably improved compared to the old engine.
The Clio delivers a useful wave of torque between 2000rpm and 3500rpm, enabling effortless cruising at high speeds. Although it may not match the vigor and rev-happiness of Ford’s smallest Ecoboost triple at high engine speeds, the Clio has no problem performing when needed.
The five-speed manual gearbox is well-weighted and offers defined shifts, while the clutch pedal is easy to operate. The hybrid variant, despite its initially complex setup, provides improved fuel efficiency and simplifies driving in most situations.
The Clio truly shines at urban speeds, thanks to its excellent mid-range torque. It feels more lively than its 9.3-second 0-62mph time suggests. However, at higher speeds, the four-cylinder petrol engine tends to produce an unpleasant growl, particularly during hard acceleration.
The Clio’s driving dynamics may not fully live up to the Alpine branding on the range-topping model, but it handles well with accurate steering and nimble cornering abilities. Additionally, the Clio delivers an impressive ride quality, although some stiffness can be felt at lower speeds. Overall, it provides a comfortable driving experience.
BMW M owners and enthusiasts share a deep passion for the brand and its vehicles. They appreciate the combination of everyday usability and remarkable performance offered by BMW M cars. This community not only enjoys the powerful engines and luxurious interiors of these vehicles but also actively supports BMW M in various racing events. The admiration for BMW M is not limited by geographical boundaries, as fans worldwide recognize the engineering excellence and racing heritage associated with the brand. For these dedicated individuals, owning a BMW M is more than just having a car; it is a symbol of automotive perfection and a continuous celebration of the BMW M ethos.
In honor of the BMW brand and its iconic M-Division, duPont REGISTRY has put together a collection of essential gear for BMW enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for stylish apparel or collectibles to adorn your home or office, this curated list has something for every BMW fan. To explore all the luxury essentials featured in this duPont REGISTRY special feature, click on the link below.
When it comes to trucks in America, Ram is one of the top brands along with Chevy, Ford, GMC, and Toyota. However, Ram has been struggling to compete with its competitors in recent times. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind Ram’s declining sales and how they can regain dominance in the market.
The Ram 1500 Vs. America’s Most Loved Pick-Up – The Ford F-150
One of the main factors contributing to Ram’s decline in sales is its competition with the Ford F-150. Let’s compare the Ram 1500 and the Ford F-150:
Ram trucks used to be sold under the Dodge nameplate. In 2009, Dodge and Ram split up, with Ram taking over the truck department. This separation allowed Ram to focus on trucks specifically and led to improvements in their products. Over time, Ram trucks gained popularity in the market.
The Ram Offered A Unique Approach To Pickups
Ram’s success can be attributed to the unique approach they took with their trucks. While other brands focused on making trucks more luxurious, Ram targeted a different audience. They appealed to people who preferred functionality and mechanical features over excessive luxury. This approach resonated with buyers and helped Ram become the second-best-selling truck in America.
Ram also offered better pricing compared to its competitors, allowing customers to get more features for less money. This combination of better features and affordability made Ram trucks highly desirable.
Sadly, Ram’s Market Strategy Didn’t Stick For Long
While Ram initially found success with its unique approach, they made some mistakes along the way that impacted their sales. One of the key issues is the low payload capacity of the Ram 1500 and 2500 due to the use of a coil-sprung rear end. This design sacrifices payload and towing abilities without a suitable helper system like airbags.
Another problem is the lack of powerful engines in the Ram trucks compared to competitors like Chevy and Ford. The heavy-duty drivetrains needed to support more powerful engines would further compromise the already limited payload capacity.
Lastly, Ram’s trucks are outdated and priced higher than competitors. This combination of outdated features and high prices has contributed to the decline in sales.
Despite the decline, Ram still has a strong reputation in the truck market, which presents an opportunity for them to bounce back. To regain dominance, Ram must address the issues mentioned above. They should introduce new models with improved payload capacity and updated features.
While the coil-sprung rear end can remain, the addition of load-bearing helper systems like airbags or hydraulic dampers will enhance the suspension and improve payload and towing capabilities. Interior updates and more advanced infotainment systems are also necessary to compete with the luxurious offerings from competitors.
Additionally, Ram should consider tapping into the compact and mid-size truck segments, which are growing in popularity. Offering options in these segments will attract customers looking for more affordable and manageable trucks. Rumors of a mid-size Ram Dakota revival and the introduction of the Rampage compact pickup in Brazil indicate that Ram is already heading in the right direction.
Receiving your license as a teen is an unparalleled sensation. Brimming with a way of newfound freedom, the need to drive one thing thrilling is simple. However, harsh actuality units in, reminding you of the constraints of a restricted price range, and also you understand that the automobiles you have all the time dreamed of proudly owning are far out of your attain.
But that does not imply it’s important to be caught with a Toyota Corolla or another boring automotive; there are nonetheless some thrilling and enjoyable automobiles from numerous producers that you may purchase whereas staying inside your price range. BMW is an automaker that has had a wealthy historical past of manufacturing thrilling automobiles, and a few can nonetheless be purchased immediately for an affordable value.
The E39 is indisputably hailed as the pinnacle of the BMW 5 Series, a legendary masterpiece that instructions unwavering admiration. The visionary behind its charming design is none apart from the esteemed Chris Bangle, a design virtuoso who’s answerable for designing quite a few iconic BMW fashions. It options clear strains, a well-proportioned physique, and a particular “angel eye” headlight design that grew to become a signature ingredient of BMW’s styling language.
The 530i was provided with a 3.0-liter straight-six engine that produced 231 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, which allowed the automotive to succeed in a prime velocity of 155 mph. With its sturdiness, timeless design, distinctive driving dynamics, and low value of round $5000–$6000, the E39 stays a superb selection for brand new drivers.
9BMW 3 Series E30 316i
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Front left shot of a white BMW E30 316i
The E30 is the second technology of the three collection, and it was an icon. Its fame can principally be traced to its M3 model, which was created for homologation functions to take part in Group A rally racing. The E30 options an array of physique sorts, together with sedans, coupes, convertibles, and touring wagons, so there’s one thing for everybody to take pleasure in behind considered one of these classics.
Spanning a proud twelve years from 1983 to 1994, the E30 marks considered one of BMW’s longest mannequin runs of any three collection, reflecting its immense recognition throughout its time on the automotive scene. The 316i variant of the E30 comes commonplace with a 1.6-liter straight-4 that produces 98 horsepower and might attain a prime velocity of 128 mph. The E30 316i might be purchased and skilled immediately for round $3000–$5000.
8BMW 1 Series 135i
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Front and aspect shot of a gray BMW 1 Series 135i parked in a parking zone.
The BMW 1 Series is most of the time thought-about a automotive for individuals who cannot afford a 3 Series, and though that assertion shouldn’t be utterly unfaithful, the 2011 One Series nonetheless holds its personal within the used market due to its decently sized engine and glorious dealing with. Plus, its extra compact measurement makes it a terrific automotive for learners.
The 1 Series was available in a variety of body styles, i.e as a 5- or 3-door hatchback, a 2-door coupe, and a 2-door convertible, with the best-looking one being the coupe (135i). The 135i got here with a 3.0-liter inline-6 turbocharged engine that produces 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Overall, with a value of $6000 to $8000, the 135 might be quite a lot of enjoyable for brand new drivers in search of one thing with a bit extra pleasure.
Front and aspect shot of a Blue BMW 3 Series E46 sedan parked
The E46 is the fourth generation of the 3 Series, and it’s a classic. When it was launched, it quickly grew to become considered one of BMW’s best-selling fashions due to its glorious mix of efficiency, consolation, and elegance. It additionally got here geared up with new tech for the time, reminiscent of xenon headlights, rain-sensing wipers, automated local weather management, and BMW’s new iDrive system. Its motorsport victories solely added to its enchantment, gaining a number of victories on the American Le Mans Series and the European Touring Car Championship.
The 316i got here commonplace with an inline-4 engine with three displacement choices, a 1.6-liter, a 1.8-liter, and a 1.9-liter, with essentially the most highly effective one surprisingly, being the 1.6-liter, which produces 115 horsepower and 111 pound-feet of torque. The automotive had a prime velocity of 124 mph and a 0–60 time of 10 seconds. A used mannequin in good situation might be purchased immediately for a low value of wherever between $2000 to $5000, making it an reasonably priced and enjoyable compact automotive for learners.
6BMW 5 Series E34 518i
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Front and aspect shot of a black BMW 5 Series E34
The BMW 5 Series E34 is particular as a result of it marks many firsts for the collection. The E34 was the primary 5 Series to supply all-wheel drive; it was additionally the primary to characteristic a V-8 engine. The automotive additionally noticed the introduction of security options reminiscent of stability management (ASC) and traction management (ASC+T), making it safer than ever earlier than.
It was designed underneath the steerage of chief designer Claus Luthe, who based mostly a lot of the design on the 7 Series E32. While designing the E34, quite a lot of consideration was paid to the aerodynamics, and because of this, the 518i had a superb drag coefficient of 0.30. The 518i featured a 1.8-liter inline-four engine that produced 113 horsepower and had a prime velocity of 118 mph. A very good-condition used mannequin might be purchased immediately for $13,000 to $15,000.
5BMW Z3 2.0i
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Front and aspect shot of a BMW Z3 parked indoor
The Z3, BMW’s first modern mass-market two-seater Roadster, was particularly designed to compete with price range sports activities automobiles just like the Miata and S2000. To preserve the Z3’s value at a minimal and successfully compete, BMW based mostly it on the E36 3 Series platform, enabling the utilization of elements from related automobiles in BMW’s lineup.
However, this strategy had an opposed impact on construct high quality, leading to inferior craftsmanship in comparison with even its inexpensive opponents. Despite this setback, the Z3 proved to be remarkably dependable in the long term, with most points restricted to defective oxygen sensors, a fragile plastic water pump, and failing rear shock mounts.
In addition to its reliable efficiency, the Z3 garnered consideration with its iconic retro styling, additional amplified by its look within the James Bond film GoldenEye. This mixture of fashion and on-screen fame contributed to the Z3’s enduring enchantment, permitting it to carry its worth impressively nicely within the resale market and might be purchased for a value of $7000 to $10,000. Engine choices for the Z3 ranged from a 1.8-liter inline-4 to a 3.2-liter inline-6, with the two.0i variant that includes a 2.0-liter inline-six that generated 148 horsepower.
Front and aspect shot of a black BMW 3 Series F30 parked
The BMW 3 Series (2013) F30 316i stands out as an impressively well-rounded and extremely sought-after entry-level luxurious compact government automotive. Featuring BMW’s iconic kidney grille and distinctive headlights, the F30 showcases a modern physique design that exudes magnificence with a touch of athleticism. Safety is paramount within the 316i, geared up with all of the anticipated trendy 3 Series security options, together with a number of airbags, stability management, traction management, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), and superior driver-assistance techniques.
Notably, the 316i is famend for its excellent gasoline effectivity, boasting a mixed gasoline financial system of roughly 30–35 miles per gallon. This mixed with a comparatively low value of $13,000 to $16,000 makes it an excellent selection for budget-conscious each day commuters and new drivers searching for a cost-effective possibility. Under the hood, it’s powered by a 1.6-liter TwinPower Turbo inline-four engine, delivering a succesful 134 horsepower. Buyers have the choice to decide on between a 6-speed guide or 8-speed automated transmission, catering to particular person preferences.
3BMW 3 Series E90 316i
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Front and aspect shot of a black BMW 3 Series E90 parked
The 3 Series E90 holds a prominent position within BMW’s renowned 3 Series lineup. Embodying BMW’s up to date design language, the E90 showcases modern strains, an aerodynamic form, and trendy adaptive headlights, reflecting its superior and complicated enchantment. While barely bigger and extra muscular than its predecessor, it stays inside the compact government automotive section, hanging a steadiness between snug seating for passengers and maneuverability in congested site visitors and tight parking areas.
The E90 locations a robust emphasis on gasoline effectivity, incorporating BMW’s EfficientDynamics know-how. This revolutionary strategy consists of options reminiscent of regenerative braking and an automated begin/cease perform, contributing to its spectacular mixed gasoline financial system of roughly 30–35 mpg.
These enhancements make sure that the E90 delivers an environmentally acutely aware and economical driving expertise with out compromising on efficiency or luxurious. Under the hood, the 316i comes with a 1.6-liter inline-four engine that produces 112 horsepower and propels the automotive as much as 130 mph. Good fuel mileage, glorious security options, and a low value of $10,000 to $15,000 make the E90 a stable advice for brand new drivers.
2BMW 7 Series E38 728i
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Front and aspect shot of a BMW 7 Series E38 parked in a parking zone
The BMW 7 Series E38 728i is undeniably a big automobile that will pose challenges for novice drivers by way of maneuverability. However, as soon as that hurdle is overcome, it presents an distinctive alternative to personal a extremely luxurious automotive at an extremely reasonably priced value vary of roughly $8k–$10k for a well-maintained instance. Similar to its predecessor, the E34, the E38 options quite a lot of firsts, not just for BMW however for the automotive market normally. It was the primary automotive to be out there with curtain airbags, the primary European automotive to supply satellite tv for pc navigation, and the primary BMW to supply an in-built tv.
During its manufacturing years, the E38 gained substantial recognition and garnered constructive evaluations. It was acclaimed for its opulent inside, delivering a luxurious and cozy journey, and showcasing superior technological options. The car’s notable role in the James Bond film ‘Tomorrow Never Dies’ additional added to its recognition. Under the hood, the 728i variant was geared up with a 2.8-liter inline-six engine, producing 193 horsepower. This energy allowed the automotive to succeed in an electronically restricted prime velocity of 149 mph. New drivers should purchase this luxurious powerhouse for an extremely low value of $5000 to $9000.
Front and aspect shot of a black BMW 5 Series F10 parked
The sixth technology 5 Series went via a whole redesign over the past technology fashions. Unlike the fifth technology, the F10 went for a much less extravagant look and showcased a extra conservative but engaging look, one which reveals a stronger resemblance to different BMW sedans. Safety is one other space the place the F10 shines, with a laundry checklist of security options reminiscent of a lane-departure warning system, a blind-spot monitor, a pre-collision system that may warn the motive force and cease the automotive in case a collision is imminent, and an evening imaginative and prescient system that may detect and alert the motive force to hazards outdoors the headlight vary.
All sixth technology 5 Series additionally come commonplace with stability and traction management, antilock disc brakes, front-seat aspect airbags, and aspect curtain airbags. This F10 acquired a prime security rating of “good” from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in each frontal-offset and side-impact crash exams.The 520i got here geared up with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine that properly balanced energy and gasoline effectivity. The engine produced a decent 184 horsepower and obtained a mixed gasoline financial system of round 30–35 mpg. Good situation fashions can nonetheless be purchased immediately for an reasonably priced value of $16,000-$17,000.
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