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Car review

Used Renault Twizy 2012-2021 evaluate

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A reasonably typical seatbelt, two pedals, two indicator stalks and a wholly regular steering wheel characterise a driving setting that may make the Renault Twizy really feel fairly acquainted.

This can be true have been it not for the central driving place and for the truth that – even with the non-obligatory scissor doorways of our check automobile lowered – the cockpit by no means feels remotely enclosed.

A excessive driving place makes for good all-round visibility. But most testers agreed that they felt as in the event that they have been driving on the Twizy moderately than driving in it. It’s an impression underlined by the air speeding into the cabin the place typical home windows would possibly in any other case be, and on a cold day at cruising speeds it makes you conscious about the shortage of any cabin heating.

The Twizy gives its driver as a lot room as any supermini. Its controls are simple to make use of and the digital speedometer, journey pc and battery meter are clear. 

The inside plastics are hardy sufficient and simple to wipe clear – necessary provided that there’s no solution to shield them from rain and street grime – however they do really feel low cost, reminding you extra of the cubbies and fittings on a mass-market bike than these of a up to date automobile. 

Ironically, a giant bike would possibly provide extra storage than the Twizy. The principal cubby – a 31-litre field behind the rear seat – is fiddly to open and difficult to entry and would barely accommodate a small purchasing bag.

Although it might be a a lot safer and extra energy-efficient technique of getting across the metropolis, the Twizy barely appears to supply any extra practicality than a giant scooter. 

On the gear entrance, the usual Twizy acquired disc brakes, an digital engine immobiliser, regenerative braking, day-time-running lights, and a driver’s airbag included, whereas Expression trim added a digital drive and speedo show, a lockable rear cupboard space and heated windscreen.

The range-topping Dynamique mannequin gained flooring mats, alloy wheels and a selection of 14 color collections, whereas these wanting to make use of their Twizy as a industrial automobile can achieve this with the Cargo mannequin, which eliminated the rear seat and changed it with further cupboard space.

Featured

Hyundai Creta N Line Titan Grey Matte Explained In 8 Images

The Creta N Line will get an up to date fascia, new alloy wheel, all-black inside theme, pink highlights inside and outside in addition to this new matte exterior choice

Hyundai Creta N Line Matte grey

Much to the joys of Hyundai Creta followers in India, the SUV’s sportier model is lastly right here – the Hyundai Creta N Line. It is available in two variants: N8 and N10. The Creta N Line is obtainable with the 160 PS 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine solely, however with each a 6-speed handbook and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT computerized). Among its varied exterior design revisions that have been already revealed forward of launch, Hyundai has launched a brand new Titan Grey Matte exterior as nicely. Here’s what the brand new N Line model of the Creta SUV seems like with this premium and sporty end.

Front

This is the top-spec N10 variant of the Creta N Line. In comparability to the common Creta, this one will get a very redesigned entrance grille with an N Line badge, and an up to date entrance bumper. Though the design of the LED DRLs stays the identical as earlier than. On the decrease aspect of the bumper, the pink inserts are additionally given. With the matte gray shade and gloss-black particulars, the Creta N Line seems fairly imply.

Also Check Out: New Tata Nexon EV Dark: Design Explained In 7 Images

Side

Though the Creta N Line options the identical general design because the common mannequin, a number of design components have been added to reinforce its sporty enchantment. The most vital change on the aspect is the inclusion of bigger 18-inch alloy wheels with ‘N’ branded centre caps, accompanied by pink brake callipers. Other enhancements comprise pink inserts on the aspect sill and a black therapy utilized to the higher a part of the window line. Additionally, the aspect fender sports activities an N Line badge to distinguish it from the common Creta. While the pink accents are a part of the Hyundai N Line visible id, that is the primary of the lineup with the matte end and the distinction provides to its sporty profile.

Rear

Here too, the mixture of matte gray with shiny pink accents and blacked out particulars actually provides to the sporty aesthetic of the Creta N Line. The roof spoiler has been prolonged as a part of the design tweaks together with the up to date rear bumper design. An N Line badge can also be current on the tailgate however nothing to indicate the variant stage (N8 or N10).

Hyundai Creta N Line Exhaust

Additionally, it boasts dual-tip exhausts, which additionally present a sportier word in comparison with the common model of the Creta. 

Cabin and Features

Hyundai Creta N line interior

The Creta N Line options an all-black dashboard theme with all-black seat upholstery. It additionally boasts a brand new 3-spoke N Line-specific steering wheel, together with steel pedals. Additionally, pink highlights are additionally given on the dashboard, giving it a sportier look in comparison with the common Creta.

Hyundai has outfitted the Creta N Line with options like twin 10.25-inch screens (one for the infotainment and the opposite for the driving force), an 8-speaker Bose sound system, dual-zone AC, ventilated entrance seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a twin digital camera dashcam. Safety is taken care of by six airbags, a 360-degree digital camera, digital stability management (ESC), and full suite of superior driver help methods (ADAS).

Creta N Line Performance

The Hyundai Creta N Line makes use of the identical 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine (160 PS / 253 Nm) from the common Creta. However along with the 7-speed twin clutch computerized transmission (DCT), the Creta N Line additionally comes with the choice of a 6-speed handbook transmission. 

Prices and Rivals

The Hyundai Creta N Line is priced between Rs 16.82 lakh and Rs 20.30 lakh (introductory, ex-showroom pan India). Other top-end compact SUVs with a matte end are the Kia Seltos X-Line, GT Edge variants of the Volkswagen Taigun, and Style Matte variant of the Skoda Kushaq.

Read More on : Creta N Line on road price

Featured

Watch: Here’s How You Can Access The Spare Wheel Of The New Tata Safari

Tata has stowed the brand new Safari’s spare wheel in an old-school location

Tata Safari Facelift Side

When the Tata Safari was first launched within the Indian automotive market in 1998, it featured a rear tailgate-mounted spare wheel, which was simply accessible. This design remained unchanged till Tata launched the Safari Storme in 2012, and the spare wheel was relocated to the underside of the car, beneath the boot. This design resolution is current within the facelifted Tata Safari as effectively, and our CarDekho presenter has demonstrated the best way to entry its spare wheel (trace: you don’t want to slip below the automotive for it).

A post shared by CarDekho India (@cardekhoindia)

As demonstrated, the spare wheel remains to be accessed from the boot space. You begin by opening the flap positioned on the precise aspect of the boot loading lip, utilizing a flat and slim object. Once the flap is opened, retrieve the wrench supplied within the car’s toolkit to loosen the bolt contained in the flap. As you loosen the bolt, the spare wheel, connected to a cable, will come down from the underbody and onto the floor. You can unhook the cable from the wheel to free it from the mechanism and use it to interchange the broken or punctured wheel.

More About Tata Safari Facelift

Tata Safari Facelift Interior

With the latest replace, the Tata Safari now comes with a brand new look inside and outside, and a number of recent options. Tata has geared up it with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a ten.25-inch digital driver’s show, dual-zone AC, 6-way powered driver’s seat with reminiscence perform, a 4-way powered co-driver’s seat, entrance and rear ventilated seats (6-seater model), gesture-enabled powered tailgate, and a panoramic sunroof.

In phrases of security, Tata’s flagship SUV will get as much as seven airbags (6 as commonplace), digital stability management, a 360-degree digicam with blind view monitor, a tyre strain monitoring system (TPMS), and superior driver help methods (ADAS).

Also Check Out: Mahindra Scorpio N Z8 Select Variant Launched, Priced From Rs 16.99 Lakh

Diesel-only Offering

The Tata Safari comes with the identical 2-litre diesel engine (170 PS / 350 Nm) because the Harrier, paired with both a 6-speed handbook transmission or a 6-speed computerized transmission. However, there’s a turbo-petrol engine anticipated to be supplied within the subsequent yr or two.

Price Range & Rivals

The Tata Safari is at present priced between Rs 16.19 lakh and Rs 27.34 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). It takes on the three-row variants of the Mahindra XUV700, in addition to the MG Hector Plus and Hyundai Alcazar.

Read More on : Safari diesel

Cars

These Tires Have Retractable Snow Chains You Don’t Have To Put On

“During normal driving, the shape memory alloy located inside the wheel is compressed into the shape of the letter ‘L’ and does not contact the road surface,” Hyundai says. “When the driver activates the function, an electric current is applied, causing the shape memory alloy to revert to its original profile: the material forms a ‘J’ shape, pushing the module out of the tire to make contact with the surface, improving grip, stability, and safety on snowy roads.”

One added function prevents any alloy spokes from breaking ranks and protruding earlier than their time (resulting from a worn-out tire). If the floor of the tire is worn out, the driving force is signaled to switch it so the automobile would not begin grinding like a Flintstones automotive with a foul tire. Hyundai says the expertise is patent-pending in each South Korea and the U.S., and plans to think about mass improvement after additional testing. While prompt tire chains will probably be a welcome reduction, clearly, it is solely a matter of time earlier than a button causes the tires to shoot out fireplace and soften the ice, or simply hover above it.

Motorsport

The Rock Crawling Porsche 911’s Suspension Was Originally Developed For the 919 Le Mans Car

In December, Le Mans legend Romain Dumas was on the wheel of the extremely modified Porsche 911 Carrera 4S that broke the altitude record for wheeled automobiles. But Dumas isn’t the one connection this record-setting 911 has to the legendary 24-hour enduro. Its trick suspension was initially meant for Le Mans.

While a lot of this Carrera’s drivetrain is unmodified, its suspension has been completely redone, geared up with a system Porsche calls the Warp Connector. Originally created for the Le Mans-winning 919 Hybrid, it was shelved early on in that automobile’s growth and unused till this venture.

It’s not like the suspension system in some other Porsche.

How It Works

Instead of letting every nook function independently, the Warp Connector suspension goes in the wrong way, interconnecting all 4 corners for optimum traction. The entrance axle and rear axle are every related transversely to their very own centrally mounted springs and dampers. For the entrance axle, that spring and damper setup is positioned beneath the hood, simply in entrance of the windshield cowl. For the rear axle, the spring and damper might be discovered on the rear of the cabin, the place you’d usually discover the parcel shelf. 

Porsche 911 Rock Crawler Warp Connector Suspension Diagram

Above, a 3D diagram of the Warp Connector suspension supplied by Porsche.

The “connector” within the Warp Connector is the ultimate piece of the puzzle. It’s a stable bar that connects every axle longitudinally by way of a sequence of pivot factors. The bar creates a form of twist rigidity between the entrance and rear, so if one axle articulates a sure manner, the bar enacts a power onto the opposite axle, coaxing it to articulate in the wrong way. 

This means any upward power going right into a wheel — say, one tire driving over a giant rock — is translated into downwards power to the opposite three wheels. The reverse wheel receives its downward power by way of the centralized spring and damper, whereas the alternative axle receives its downward forces by way of the Warp Connector bar. The system’s interconnected nature means all 4 corners are performing on one another always, pushing one another to remain related to the floor under. The result’s a 911 that may preserve its stability over massive rocks, dips, and undulations. Here’s an indication of the system in motion:

Engineers have been hesitant to assemble a full-size prototype with such a drastically completely different suspension setup. So they constructed a scale mannequin first. 

“[The suspension’s] inventor came with the idea to build an RC model car with exactly the same system,” says Sven Schaarschmidt, chassis engineer for the record-setting automobile. “It looked a bit different than in the real car, but the working principle was exactly the same thing. We were able to play with the car on a desk, moving the wheels and looking at all the connections. It gave us an idea if it could really work in a big car.”

One query stays: If the Warp Connector works so nicely on this 911, why was it dropped from the 919 venture? 

“The problem was that [the 919 engineers] had a number of other issues to solve with the car,” Schaarschmidt informed Motor1. “To make it easier to analyze all the issues, They wanted to simplify the car and remove the system. Then the car was working so well that they saw no reason to bring it back.”

Porsche 911 Altitude Edith record off roader 56105
Porsche 911 Altitude Edith record off roader 56108

Porsche received’t say whether or not it plans to do extra with the Warp Connector idea, although contemplating simply how a lot area it takes up within the record-setting 911, viable manufacturing functions are seemingly few and much between. Still, it’s a formidable little bit of engineering that’s value highlighting. It helped obtain a world document, in spite of everything.

If we needed to guess, the Warp Connector’s reappearance would seemingly are available a motorsport software, seeing as that’s the place it originated, anyway. Race automobiles don’t want to fret about occupying a bit of further cabin or cupboard space, making it an interesting selection for competitors use. But that’s simply hypothesis on our finish.

Cars

How Often Do You Actually Need To Change Your Car’s Differential Oil?

FWD — entrance engine, entrance wheel (FFs) — vehicles typically have the differential and the transmission in the identical housing, known as a transaxle. So, the identical transmission fluid lubricates each units of gears. You should seek the advice of your automobile’s person handbook to find out how often you need to change this transmission fluid. Using Honda for instance, specialists there’ll let you know to vary transmission fluid each 50,000 miles to maintain it in pristine situation, however this quantity varies relying in your automobile’s make and when you’ve got an automated or handbook transmission. The identical applies to all vehicles which have engines with the identical place because the drivetrain (MRs, RRs, and FFs).

As for RWD vehicles with the engines in entrance (FR), you principally needn’t fear about altering the differential fluid usually. Car manuals usually do not even point out differential fluid (after fast appears to be like on the Ford Mustang’s and BMW i7’s proprietor manuals). This differential fluid is supposed to be a “lifetime fluid,” that means you need to be coated so long as you may have the automobile with none want to vary it. But should you use your RWD (SUV, truck, or automobile) for towing, offroading, or as a efficiency automobile, seek the advice of your mechanic to examine differential oil earlier as a result of it is seeing extra stress than it was designed for.

Motorsport

Lamborghini’s New Active Toe And Camber Tech Is A Big Step For Performance Cars

Lamborghini is presently testing the subsequent evolution in car dynamics, the Active Wheel Hub. The new know-how will give software program much more management over the car, actively adjusting the wheels’ toe and camber settings on the fly.

The new system provides automobiles as much as 2.5 levels of optimistic or 5.5 levels of unfavourable camber. The toe can alter as much as 6.6 levels in or out, adjusting as much as 60 levels a second.

Lamborghini controls the system with 48-volt electrical motors that it’s going to improve to reap the benefits of the 400-volt methods from plug-in hybrids and battery-electric automobiles. A big hub meeting homes the rotating flanges that management the camber and toe changes. The system, which Lamborghini designed for the rear wheels, connects to the half-shafts from the transmission and the wheel hubs.

The firm’s testing discovered that the system could make its automobiles 2.5 seconds faster round Nardo, 2.2 seconds faster at Imola, and about 5 seconds sooner on the Nordschleife. Lamborghini additionally says the system will present as much as 25 % extra cornering drive.

The know-how remains to be within the growth stage however has but to cross the fine-tuning a part of testing. However, it might see its first utility in Lamborghini automobiles in 12 to 18 months, based on Quattroruote.it. It may even pop up on the upcoming Huracan successor that launches late next year, serving to to enhance the supercar’s total dealing with.

Rouven Mohr, Lamborghini’s Chief Technical Officer, informed Car and Driver that the hurdle to the know-how isn’t the {hardware}. The problem will likely be getting the hub to work in live performance with the opposite software program methods, like stability management and lively aerodynamics, that the corporate will work to resolve within the coming months.

News

Top 10 best lightweights and track day specials 2023

When you want to have fun behind the wheel, minimizing the mass is key. Whether you’re looking for straight-line speed or nimble cornering, a lighter car is better. It’s basic physics – the less weight to move when accelerating, braking, and turning, the quicker and more responsive the car will be.

Of course, shedding weight often means sacrificing some creature comforts and family-friendly practicality, but it also offers unparalleled handling, tactile engagement, and performance that surpasses what power outputs might suggest.

The simplicity and single-minded approach of these cars is appealing. Their commitment to eliminating unnecessary extras in pursuit of pure driving pleasure provides a refreshing contrast to the growing complexity of crossovers, SUVs, and battery-heavy EVs.

To make this list, contenders must weigh under 1000kg and prioritize engagement and entertainment. Infotainment systems, leather trim, and climate control aren’t considered, and even basic weather protection isn’t a prerequisite.

Here are our top picks for exciting, back-to-basics cars with minimal weight.

For those unfamiliar with it, the fourth-generation Atom looks similar to the first – a blend of a children’s climbing frame and a single-seat racer. Despite the familiar aesthetics and commitment to providing a pure driving experience, this fourth-generation road racer is the most advanced and thrilling yet.

Handcrafted at Ariel’s base in Somerset, the tubular-framed Atom received updated chassis, suspension, interior, and engine upon its 2018 launch. The engine, a turbocharged 316bhp unit from the Civic Type-R, packs a punch in the Atom, weighing in at just under 600kg. Ariel claims a 0-60mph of 2.8 seconds, but it feels even quicker thanks to the motor’s sounds and the exposure to the elements without a windshield (don’t forget your helmet).

But it’s the Atom’s ability to tackle corners that’s truly exhilarating. The lack of inertia allows it to maneuver corners effortlessly, communicating the road conditions clearly. The mid-engined balance and razor-sharp throttle offer both options and entertainment. It’s an immersive experience that leaves you exhilarated and satisfied after every drive.

Car review

Mercedes-AMG GT

Even though it shares some of its chassis components with the SL, the GT has its own specific camber settings, wheel offsets, and spring and damper rates. These adjustments make it feel more focused and engaging than the soft-top.

While the new GT may not be as intense or challenging to drive as the old model, it provides greater confidence and control.

One of the improvements is the steering, which offers better feedback and a more reliable feel due to the new electromechanical system. The weight distribution favors the front, but the rear-wheel steering helps to rotate the rear, enhancing agility.

Thanks to the variable elements of the 4Matic+ system, the GT offers significant grip, improved traction, and better stability from corner entry to exit.

The new suspension, with its active damping and anti-roll system, provides more effective shock absorption and consistent body control, allowing for confident pushing towards the apex. Moreover, it handles mid-corner bumps much better than the old GT.

Overall, the new coupe is more pleasant in various road conditions and driving modes. The shift to a four-seat layout has given it a grand-tourer character in terms of packaging, but it has not compromised its appeal to drivers.

The ride has also become more refined, showing greater compliance and the ability to handle both small, high-frequency bumps and larger ones in its more sporting modes.

In addition, the notorious sensitivity of the old GT on rough surfaces is significantly improved when combined with the optional suspension, making the new car quieter and less taxing to drive over longer distances.

Motorsport

“`html Richard Hammond Drives The Rimac Nevera, Six Years After The Fiery Crash

Never again? That was not on Richard Hammond’s mind when he saw the opportunity to jump behind the wheel of Rimac’s latest and greatest electric supercar. Despite being involved in a life-threatening accident in June 2017 with the infamous Concept One, The Hamster got back on the horse. Actually, 1,877 horses. In a new video for Drivetribe – which he co-founded with Jeremy Clarkson and James May – gets behind the wheel of Croatia’s fastest car ever.

The Nevera in question is #10 out of a total of 150 cars and sitting in the passenger seat is Rimac’s chief engineer and test driver. Given what happened the last time Hammond drove a Rimac, it’s an understandable precautionary measure to make sure The Grand Tour co-host isn’t involved in another nasty accident. Predictably, it looks as though the English journalist was a bit hesitant to drive off, but he eventually built up the courage to get going.


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