Evo X vs STi Video Reviews

Two Exciting New Honda Concepts To Be Unveiled At Tokyo Motor Show, 2007

•CR-Z hybrid sportscar concept breaks cover
•Funky ‘gel body’ fuel cell project revealed

Two striking new concept models will make their world premieres at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show later this month. The Honda CR-Z is a lightweight, two-seater sportscar equipped with Honda’s petrol-electric hybrid IMA powertrain. PUYO is a fuel cell vehicle designed to provide fun for both the driver and his or her surroundings.

Read more here.

Honda Stream From Kah Motors - A Good Buy?

If you are at all familiar with the Singapore car market, you will probably know that the MPV segment is a hot one, and demand is high. With increasingly new needs of space, seating capacity and in-car entertainment, it is not difficult to see why.

Now that the local authorized distributor "Kah Motors" is bringing in their own 1.8L model of the Stream, it sure does give the parallel importers some heated competition. But is it a good buy? Let's take a look at the specs. There are 2 models being offered by Kah Motors. Both are a 1.8 L model of the same car, only differentiated by the option of a sunroof. Both are rated at 103kw and 174Nm of torque. Detailed specs can be viewed here.

The standard model lists at SGD$80,000, with a top up of SGD$2000 for the sunroof.

Now this is where it gets interesting. The parallel import model, the 1.8 L RSZ model Stream, a top of the line model lists for exactly the same price at SGD$80,000. What you get on top of the standard Stream are features like paddle-shift, HID headlights, Aero kits, sport suspensions. To me that is worth at least SGD$3000 more.

It is easy to see that the RSZ is going to be a better buy, a better value for money, unless you are a really loyal client of Kah Motors. Servicing wise, you need not worry too much, there are plenty of good places to service your Stream.

2007 Toyota Camry Review

The Toyota Camry, a mid sized family sedan that needs no introduction. It is a bit like your favourite bike that you have owned for years. You know that there will be no surprises, and you know that it will work in getting you there. But there is something different for the 2007 models.

First off, look at the new styling. It has a much bolder face than before. Perhaps, it is an effort to stray away from the bland styling of the previous generation Camry. Whatever it is, I think it creates a more agressive stance, with the front nose design sloping downwards. It is very much in tune with the latest design trends. A hint of Audi and Alfa Romeo if your imagination is good.

The rear looks neat as well, inspired by design from the Lexus IS250, and it spots an integrated boot lid. Nothing revolutionary here, but it looks good as a whole package. Similar themes flow into the interior design. You get a roomy and well appointed interior, the usual storage compartments, a gated gear shift and even some"simulated wood trims". Nothing to shout about, but nothing to complain about.

The local models are available in 2.0L and 2.4L. The main difference with the 2.4L is that, you get 5 speed automatic instead of 4 speed, and 167bhp instead of 147bhp. Oh yes, you do get 224 Nm of torque instead of 190 Nm. Equipment wise, they are virtually identical. The car rides well over road bumps and on highways. However, this is no Lexus, so expect some road noise especially when crusing on highways.

Winding Road Magazine Review

Winding Road, a pretty appropriate name for a automobile related site. It hints performance, adventure and excitement. Well, except that "Winding Road" is not strictly speaking just a site about cars, it is an online magazine. It churns out monthly issues with bright and glossy pages of car reviews, news and info, just like a real magazine. The best thing is: you get a free 3 year subscription. Yes, we all like free things don't we?


Yes, it gives you an opportunity to enjoy the magazine, and you can unsubscribe at any time. But what does it offer? Let's start at looking at the website's main page. There is a tab entitled "Road Tests".



Under this section, you will find all road tests of automobiles listed alphabetically by manufacturer. Although it does not have every model as per manufacturer listed, it still is a good collection of reviews. I believe the list will grow steadily over time.



Under the "News" section, you get news and scoops on automobiles updated on a daily basis. I think this section is important to keep the content fresh and keeping the readers happy.Afterall, no one wants to wait one month between issues to catch up on automotive news.



Next there is a tab entitled "Spy Shots", but the funny thing is that, it is linked to the "News" page. I think they should really seperate the pages to differentiate between news and spy shots. It will get the readers confused here, and defeats the purpose of putting two different tabs to link to the same page. There are a couple of other sections such as "Hot Cars" and "Features". In my opinion, these extra sections are not unique enough to be placed there. It feels too much of a repitition.

The next section of "Videos" however warrants attention. One cannot deny that video is a powerful media, and watching videos of automobiles is entertaining for car enthusiasts. However, they should be categorized by manufacturer and not only by month. My only gripe is that, the videos are too scarce. They should bump up the video content to keep it interesting.

It is quite evident that the main attraction of "Winding Road" is its monthly publication of online magazine. You not only can read and print the current issues, but catch up on past issues that you may have missed out. All in all, it is worth taking a look.

2009 Nissan Skyline GT-R (R36) at Inside Line

The 2009 Nissan Skyline GT-R is a legend before it even enters production.Born from a long line of Skyline GT-Rs dating back to 1969, this latest version — "R36" to the hard-core — promises to pack more turbocharged power, more all-wheel-drive technology and more sheer speed than any Japanese car ever to come to America. For six years...

read more digg story

High speed drift crash - Fuji Speedway

It sure reminds you that drifting is a dangerous sport.:)

The V6 powered Toyota Blade hits the Japanese show rooms!

The Toyota Blade, luxury version of the Auris, saw a new element added to its lineup yesterday with the long awaited V6 version! Under the bonnet sits a 3.5 liter DOHC VVT-i V6 engine producing 280HP @ 6200rpm and 35.1kg-m @ 4700 rpm.

read more digg story

The new Mazda 6 (Atenza) is ready for Frankfurt!

The Mazda 6 is one of the major elements in the "Zoom Zoom" manufacturer's renewal and it will be back, hungry as ever, for the 2007 International Auto Salon in Frankfurt, Germany!

So far we haven't been given any details on the specifications of this vehicle other than it should be eco-friendly...but with those 2 pics you'll be able to decide whether or not you like the new style of Mazda. The style in itself is not a big surprise as it appears similar to what some concept-cars, such as the Ryuga, presented a couple months ago.

More news and pictures soon, from Frankfurt (Sep. 13th-23rd).

HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation will showcase the world premiere of the all-new Mazda6 (known as the all-new Mazda Atenza in Japan) at the 62nd annual Frankfurt Motor Show to be held from Tuesday, September 11 through Sunday, September 23, 2007.

The Frankfurt Motor Show press days are September 11 and 12, and the public days are September 15-23.

Mazda will hold its press conference on Tuesday, September 11, at 13:45 (local time).

All-new Mazda6 (European specification)

The all-new Mazda6 arrives as a full redesign of Mazda’s first model to embody the Zoom-Zoom product philosophy, offering a thrilling drive to all those who still remember the love of motion first experienced as a child. Following the all-new Mazda2, the new Mazda6 is the second Mazda new generation product to evolve to the next stage, further deepening the emotional connection between man and machine - Mazda calls it “Kizuna”.

Inheriting Mazda’s tradition of responsive handling and performance that has become recognized around the world and evolving the original model’s distinctive design and exceptional functionality, the all-new Mazda6 takes a step forward in quality and offers strengthened environmental and safety performance. The result is an exciting and delightful experience that only the all-new Mazda6 can deliver.

Read more HERE

Mercedes C-Class Review

The brand new 2008 Mercedes Benz C-Class is one of the most anticipated new cars in the small cars luxury segment. In local showrooms, it is in the midst of being launched.

I hear some people commented that it looks like a shrunk down S-Class. I certainly can agree with that, with some similar styling cues. It looks well composed, sporty and meaner than a BMW 3-Series. The C-Class has moved a little more upmarket.

What is similar too according to Mercedes Benz is that buyers can expect the same level of quality as found in their flagship S-Class series, which is a good thing. This means that, the quality do not get a toned down effect with even the basic models of C-Class. 3 key elements of major improvement with this latest incarnation in the C-Class lineup are bigger interior space, quieter cabin with better sound proofing, and a much more rigid chassis. It is reported to have high strength steel which makes up 70% of the body structure.

The marketing slogan they use for the C-Class is "Agility Control". Simply put, this car is better behaved over rough patches and bumps, giving you a smoother ride, much like the S-Class. This includes the selective damping system which automatically adjusts the suspension set-up in accordance with the condition of the road – giving you a consistently high level of driving enjoyment. As an option, you can specify the ADVANCED AGILITY* package with special sports mode which allows you to choose a particularly sporty suspension response or a distinctly comfortable one at the touch of a button.

You can choose between five different petrol engines for the new C-Class. The entry-level version comes in the guise of two 4-cylinder models with supercharger: The drive in the C 180 KOMPRESSOR and the more powerful C 200 KOMPRESSOR is provided by a 4-cylinder supercharged engine.

Thanks to a new engine management system and a modified piston profile, output and torque have been increased. For instance, the C 180 KOMPRESSOR delivers 156 hp and maximum torque of 230 Nm. The C 200 KOMPRESSOR produces a magnificent 184 hp and 250 Nm. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 9.9 and 8.8 seconds, with a top speed of 220 and 230 km/h respectively.

You can have the C-Class in either 5-speed or 7-speed automatic transmissions. Both are smooth to use, and have a manual overide mode should you choose to engage in more sporty driving. In the 7-speed transmission, seven forward gears constantly provide optimum engine speed and deliver virtually imperceptible gear changes.

When changing down, the 7G-TRONIC – unlike other automatic transmissions – delivers extra-fast mid-range sprints by skipping individual gears. By simply nudging the selector lever, you can also shift gear manually.

At least for the moment, it looks like Mercedes has got a winning ace on their hands. Compared to its immediate rival - the BMW 3 series, the C-Class seems to be the leader to beat.

Review of Mazda CX-7

There comes a time when people have to sacrifice their dreams of driving a sporty 2 door coupe for a more realistic 4 door wagon of sorts. This usually happens when you get married and have kids. :)

Out the window goes their dreams of spirited driving, and the feeling of driving a freedom machine. Meet the Mazda CX-7.







When I first saw this car in the showrooms, the first thing which I noticed is the size of this car. It appeared to be bigger than the likes of Honda's CRV and Toyota's Rav 4, and it is. It is more into the territory of Lexus' RX300. The next thing I noticed is the styling. It is not a boxed up 4WD car following the footsteps of Land Rovers, far from that. This car is sleek.





From the steeply shaped 66 degree windshield to the rounded accents flowing throughout the car, you get a hint of sportiness of what this car is all
about. In fact, some call it an RX-8 in a 4WD body. Pretty bold claim isn't it?

I didn't begin to see that it has such credentials until I looked at the specs. MZR DISI Turbo inline, 4 cylinder, 16-valve DOHC, 238PS / 5000, 350Nm / 2500, 0-100km/h in 8.6 secs.





Quite something for a 2.2 litre SUV isn't it?

The car is no where near harsh either. The drive is silky smooth through its 6-speed Activematic transmission. Class leading? sure is. Obviously different class from Rav 4's 4 speed and CRV's "class leading" 5 speed transmission. Cornering is confident, and very poised indeed, with less body roll than you would expect from a 4WD. You get top specs with this car too, vented brakes all round, Auto headlamps, Side mirror with turn indicators, Electric sunroof, 9-speaker BOSE premium sound system, ABS, DSC, TCS . .. the list goes on. Talking about having it fully decked out. You sure have it with this car.



The attention to detail and the quality of finish is superb in this car as well. For one thing, it has proper front seats. You can actually sit in them, rather than on them. I find it a joke in many Japanese cars that they have lumber support on them but you can't actually sit in them, and they seem to be made for really skinny people, maybe more to the size of severely starved P.OWs. :)

The rear leg room is comfortable as well, no need for any leg crushings here. Long trips for average sized adults should be comfortable back in the rear.

This would be the perfect car for those looking for something different from the mainstream lots of 4WDs and SUVs out there. You want a more upmarket 4WD, perhaps a step up from your usual Rav 4s and CRVs, and you want more grunt and power, and you want your car to corner like a car and not a boat, this might be the perfect choice for you.

Mugen Civic Type-RR, the official photos

Even though the rumour quickly turned into real information and got spread all over the internet, we decided to patiently wait for the official answer and photos from Mugen to confirm that...yes, the Honda Civic Type RR will soon be available in Japan for an impressive 4.777.500 JPY! Little reminder: the second "R" stands for more HP(225-240) and torque (21.9-22.2kg/m), a 30kg weight reduction, a lowered body (-15mm) and many other things that probably wouldn't mean much without a proper test drive...and...as if this new version wasn't enough of a good news to the performance enthusiasts, I have the pleasure to tell you that I 'll have the chance to get my hands on one of those babies in September! Read more here.

Want to cruise in Melbourne?

If you reside in Melbourne - Australia, and love the idea of meeting new people who are also "sick" in cars, this might be the perfect antidote for you. You will enjoy crusing with others, track days, dyno days, and opportunity to show off your ride.

When I first joined them some years ago, it was a unique experience. We used to meet up in a shopping mall carpark, and proceeded for "interesting" cruises. It is always very well organised, and the crowd is fantastic.

Their site seems to be rather quiet nowadays.







My car back in Melbourne.


A 480hp R34 :)






Visit their site for more info here.

Review of Cool n Lite Auto Tint

One of the things to get done when shopping for a new car is to consider putting on an auto tint. I am sure many will agree that not only does it drive away those harmful rays and heat, it does make your new car look a whole lot "cooler".


Of course, if you want to go into the specifics of the benefits, it can make your car interior up to 60% cooler, many of the better tints can block 99% of harmful rays, it can help reduce glare, protect your new car's interior, and the list goes on.


Today, this review is on "Cool N Lite" auto tint. A good tint company should not operate from the back of a run down garage, and provide minimal service. Cool N Lite seems to understand this, and it offers buyers a unique shopping experience.


From the first time you walk into their installation facility, you get the feeling of professionalism shining at every corner. There is a demo corner where you can test the heat effect on different grades of films, which is great before buying.
















The staff there know their stuff, and is always ready to settle any concerns which you may have, which is great. Afterall, you wouldn't want to deal with people who don't know what they are doing. Preselling skills there is top notch.


But wait, look at the setting of this place...








A waiting area with a bird's eye view of your car while they work? Wow!




















A waiting area that looks like a pub?



Yes! You can relax there, have a drink on the house, read some magazines, surf the net, watch a movie . . .












. . . or maybe a game or two of pool!










So the setting of this place makes the customer feel like a king....what about the finish of the product?


I am glad to say that, workmapship is fast and excellent. There were 3 guys working on my car when I had my car done up there, and they finished the whole job in an hour! I am very fussy and picky when it comes to my car, and try as I did, I could not find any faults. It was perfect. All this comes with a 7 year warranty. Beautiful.


If you are looking for a good company with top quality tint, you should check them out.

http://www.coolnlite.com/

2008 Impreza S-GT (WRX)

The all new Impreza WRX, some of us can't wait to see it, most of us hate the design, calling it less than pleasant names, only trailing the Evolution X in the design stakes, but how does it drive?

Check out the review: http://www.nihoncar.com/en/review-472-X.html

Buying/Selling Cars in Singapore

As the heading suggests, if you are interested in buying or selling cars in Singapore, you can't miss this site: http://www.sgcarmart.com/new_cars/index.php

Prices, finance calculators, model info...it's all there. Great info.

How to break in a new engine . . .

Advice from the "Moto Man"

What's The Best Way To Break-In A New Engine ??

The Short Answer: Run it Hard !

Why ?? Nowadays, the piston ring seal is really what the break in process is all about. Contrary to popular belief, piston rings don't seal the combustion pressure by spring tension. Ring tension is necessary only to "scrape" the oil to prevent it from entering the combustion chamber.If you think about it, the ring exerts maybe 5-10 lbs of spring tension against the cylinder wall ... How can such a small amount of spring tension seal against thousands of PSI (Pounds Per Square Inch) of combustion pressure ?? Of course it can't.

Read more at: http://mototuneusa.com/break_in_secrets.htm

3M Customized Floor Mats

If you are anything into car accessories, you will be interested in 3M customized floor mats. Cut to size, includes front, back, and boot. They have a good choice of colours as well. Check them out: http://carmats4sale.blogspot.com/

Hybrid Toyota Supra Wins Tokachi 24-Hour race

Toyota Team SARD's specially-prepared Supra HV-R hybrid GT racer has won the Tokachi 24-hour endurance race in Japan. The converted Super GT-spec racing car did so convincingly, too. As the only GT-class car in the field, the Denso SARD Supra HV-R maintained a steady lead of several laps throughout the course of the race, and in the later hours, it essentially dialed things up a notch and ran away from the rest of the field. More at http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/16/hybrid-toyota-supra-wins-tokachi-24-hrs/