Wheelspin Magazine Issue 23 - Spring 2014 by Wheelspin

Issue 23 — Spring 2014

MILES AHEAD...

The Geneva Motor Show The Swiss adventure you just have to love

New MINI Mystery launch in Rome Where was the star of the event?

Theory Test Tips

Follow Ben’s top tips and you could save yourself time and money on a re-test

F1 – A New Sound of Music This season’s new regulations brought in the biggest change ever in F1

Issue 23 - Spring 2014

Issue 23 — Spring 2014

MILES AHEAD...

The Geneva Motor Show The Swiss adventure you just have to love

New MINI Mystery launch in Rome

Editor’s Note

Where was the star of the event?

Theory Test Tips

Follow Ben’s top tips and you could save yourself time and money on a re-test

F1 – A New Sound of Music

Fleur Balzan

This season’s new regulations brought in the biggest change ever in F1

Publishers b.Right new media Ltd. 19, Parish Street, St. Paul’s Bay, SPB 3362, Malta

Editor Fleur Balzan fbalzan@b.rightnewmedia.com

Contributors Pierre Vella Ben Glover Mark Attard

Graphic Design Chris Mahoney www.chrismahoney.eu chris@chrismahoney.eu

Hair Cut Coiffeur

Make Up

The sun is out, and it’s that time of year once again when we can enjoy the newest cars on local and foreign roads without suffering too much cold. Spring is beautiful and we have been enjoying a lot of driving. On this issue we look at the different cars driven by both Pierre and I, locally and abroad, thanks to a visit to Rome with MINI. The Wheelspin team again travelled to Geneva for the yearly Motor Show which we love and once again we are bringing a few of the cars seen at this fabulous motor show to our readers. Ben Glover gives hints of how to study for a driving test and also looks at his latest favourite car which may leave many surprised. Mark takes us through the history and evolution of limousines whilst Pierre also gives us a taste of what’s been happening in the F1 world up until now. So here it is again, the magazine for all car lovers. Enjoy it!

Shasha

Advertising & Sales Fleur Balzan (+356) 21 576 154 (+356) 99 805 763

Pre-Press & Printing Impressions Ltd., Marsa

No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form for any purpose without the prior written consent of the publisher. WHEELSPIN

WHEELSPIN • Issue 23

Spring 2014

In this issue Spring 2014

Features 6

The Geneva Motor Show

F1 – A New Sound of Music

New MINI Mystery launch in Rome

Be Seen In A Limousine

A Proper Estate

News

Theory Test Tips

The National Road Safety Strategy

Launches 14

WHEELSPIN

The latest cars to arrive in Malta

Test Drives 8

Cars Driven Lately: The Mercedes GLA, The Electric Renault Fluence ZE.

The Long Term Citroen C3

WHEELSPIN

Letters to the Editor: Dear Fleur and Pierre,

Hi Fleur,

Your TV programme is just great and the Magazine is so interesting. Maybe you could include a section on road safety rules and another on accessories for cars.

First of all I want to thank you and congratulate you for all the information and programs you give us on Net TV, I am one of those many viewers who have been watching your programs for many years. Lately I have been to the post office and asked for your magazine but they told me that they haven’t had it for some time now. Can you please tell me if we are still going to have it or is it going to be stopped, I thank you in advance and look forward to keep watching your programs. I like the timing of the program very much and all the information that Pierre is giving us too,

I thank you for keeping us entertained. Best regards Dunstan Edwards, Mqabba

Hi Fleur Loved your last magazine and the articles presented especially the article ‘Safer Driving’. It was all interesting reading as usual but this article was one to make us think about our driving and other issues related to our cars. Thanks for the advice and to all the team, keep up the good work. Joan, Msida

Fleur and Pierre, Wanted to write and tell you how much I liked the programs from Ginevra. They were not only informative but they also offered entertainment and the programs just finised too fast. Till the next show, keep those cars coming. You are the best for sure.

Thank you Joseph, Sliema

In reply to Joseph and other readers who are not sure from where to get the magazine, please note that the magazine is distributed for free through most petrol stations in Malta and Gozo. Please ask for it if you do not see it on the fuel distributors. Any missed copies may also be obtained from our offices. Just send us an email on wheelspin@b.rightnewmedia.com or fill in our subscribers form with this magazine. Photocopies also accepted. The Wheelspin Team

Simon, Ta’ Xbiex

Is there anything you’d like to see featured on our TV Programme and Magazine? Send us your comments and suggestions on wheelspin@b.rightnewmedia.com or Wheelspin, P.O. Box 24, St. Paul’s Bay.

Every letter chosen will receive a voucher to get their car cleaned at J Micallef Service Station or merchandise from different car brands.

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GENE A

FEATURE • Geneva Motor Show

fuel economy, cleanliness and with, according to the manufacturers, decent enough performance too. So really, in this day and age of restricted parking, horrendous traffic and too much congestion in general, these cars are truly the ideal. I can’t wait till I can try them out for myself when they arrive in the beginning of summer!

MOTOR SHOW… “You just have to love it!” BY FLE UR BALZA N

here is one appointment that happens every year which I am always looking forward to and which I wouldn’t dare miss. I am referring to the Geneva Motor Show that opens its doors in the first week of March and which we, the Wheelspin team, have been attending for too many years to remember the first time.

Environment friendly vehicles are now a must for all manufacturers and this can be seen not only through the new cleaner engines being introduced on cars of every segment but also on the electric cars that every brand is looking to introduce in the market. During this event, the whole team works their butt off for 11 to 12 hours a day but for some reason, we still end up with a huge smile on our faces at the end of the day. Not to mention the fact that we are still discussing our work after these long hours and probably even dreaming of the event in the too few hours sleep we manage to grab.

This year was no different to the previous years except that, when in the past, it was just the high segment, sporty, some out of our reach vehicles to catch our attention, this year the smaller, cleaner vehicles were also a magnet.

Oh well, we all have to do our sacrifices for the job! And what a beautiful sacrifice is offered each year at the Geneva Motor Show.

1 3

WHEELSPIN

Kia is also making a lot of progress in the electric vehicle segment and in Geneva they unveiled the new Kia Soul EV5 which will be the first electric vehicle to be sold worldwide. One important aspect of the Soul EV is that, again according to what the

Another car that caught our eye and which is slightly different to any other vehicle is the Citroen Cactus8. Well different in some way, with a concept which may appeal to many, less car friendly drivers! This compact crossover offers similar features to other such vehicles however it features rubber patches on all doors and other areas thus making it less likely to scratch in areas that

10 unfortunately are the first to dent. I know a few people to whom I’d recommend this car to! Other cars to catch our attention were the new MINI Cooper S9 and

4 7

the cars that most caught our eyes in Geneva were these cute numbers that are no longer aimed mainly at first time buyers. I am referring to the new Renault Twingo1, the new Peugeot 1082, the new Citroen C13 and the new Toyota Aygo4 offered also with a canvas roof. Colourful, young, eye catching, fun to drive numbers that still offer the newest technologies and comforts that are found in their bigger siblings! These vehicles are also competitive when it comes to

It is clear that most brands are working to offer a very large enticing package even on their smaller vehicles. So much so, that some of

change everyone’s perception about electric cars not being attractive. The Zoe certainly is an eye catcher!

by Fleur Balzan

Probably one of the strongest brands in this segment (and they are really working hard on this) is Renault. The brand has already introduced various electric vehicles in the market and the Geneva Motor Show was another display of the constant new models being launched by them. The Twizy was very dominant on the stand as well as the newest Renault Zoe which is the electric vehicle that may

manufacturers are saying, the car can give up to 200km of driving range on a fully charged battery. Over 25% more than most other electric vehicles are said to offer. This characteristic is sure to influence positively ones choice of electric car.

Clubman Concept10, the Lamborghini Huracan11, the McLaren 650S Spider12, the Land Rover Discovery13 and for those Subaru lovers, the new WRX STI14. That’s to mention just a few! These cars are all hypnotizing in

Cleanliness remains an important issue but thankfully all car enthusiasts can still feast on other larger, stronger, luxurious and higher performance vehicles with a clear conscience! We couldn’t help but admire the beauty of vehicles such as the Mercedes S Class6, the newest Audi TT7 and Audi S1 and the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. These luxury cars, though performance orientated, are still way

their own way. Beautiful, stunning, cute and different from each other yet all with one thing in common! They make one want to go out on a long, wide road to check out the spirit of the drive.

cleaner than their predecessors and also offer good fuel economy so it’s no sin if one can afford to own. WHEELSPIN

CARSDRIVENLATELY Electro mobility was somewhat of a bad dream a few years back with electric powered cars being somewhat a thing from outer space. Well early this year, a ten week span driving the Renault Fluence ZE did change my concept regarding electric cars.

It was last September in Frankfurt when we first set our eyes on the Mercedes Benz GLA, definitely different from the rest. After the revamp of the all new A Class, Mercedes Benz seem to have ventured out with some unique models. This restlessness is contagious, states the German manufacturers and I could not agree more. The last three cars I have been road testing were all SUV’s. Everyone knows that I do not have all this passion for such cars but somehow they keep coming and I always enjoy it and the Mercedes GLA was a super treat. change. Plans are in hand to further the Fluence ZE production with the possibility of a new production plant in South Korea. One argues the price of such models, though one has to view this on a long term basis. My weekly

electricity consumption when using this car was around €4, (not utilizing photovoltaic cells), compared to my €15 - €20 diesel fuel bill. Then there’s the reduction in servicing since electric cars only need a battery calibration but there are no engine consumables to be replaced. The only things to be replaced are the brake pads plus all that entails in the braking system. Performance wise there is no hiding my enthusiasm! Instant torque from standstill, good solid drive and most interesting is the engine recovery system which will increase the distance span to battery power. This is definitely another plus as energy is being generated for free through your driving skills which when driving EV cars needs to be radically changed. Definitely the future is bright with electric powered cars!

WHEELSPIN

MERCEDES GLA: GOOD LOOKS AU TOMOTI V E It is now finally Spring, a great time to be in Malta! Temperatures are pleasant, the days become longer and most of all it is a time when one can enjoy our countryside. This period is an excellent time to venture out for a car test drive because for sure with such great surroundings things can only get better.

RENAULT FLUENCE ZE : T H E BEG I N N I N G O F A NEW ERA.

The Renault Fluence ZE is still the only electric car of its size within the electro mobility segment. The car has been extended by a further 14 cms to accommodate the battery pack which, unlike other electric powered car, is situated behind the rear seat and partial part of the luggage boot. Luggage space has been relatively reduced due to the size of the battery unit. However this has proven to be much easier to maintain should the batteries need to be replaced. Renault claims that at a Renault service garage, 7 minutes will be the time required for a battery

TEST DRIVES • Cars Driven Lately by Pierre Vella

Lately I am being joined for test drives by colleague Fleur Balzan and

are the multiple curves that the car has but most interesting is how light and colour play around on these curves. The front is really striking and aggressive when viewed from the side with a sudden drop from the bonnet downwards, a harsh drop peaked at the central front with three pointed star.

I am finding it quite a good challenge as together we have the chance to drive and explore further the test car in question. The GLA stood silent awaiting its departure. The first things that catch your attention

Turning a glance from the side to the front, the car shows its aggressive front with radiator vents stooping down already proposing a definition of speed. Every time you look at the car, one manages to find

something new, from the detailed sculptures beneath the stretched front main lights to the side panels which also give a sensation of motion. Nothing has been left to chance! The rear of the car is just as interesting with a dual rectangular exhaust system. Here sculptures follow the front of the car with at least six different wedges from the rear top spoiler flowing down to the lines along the exhaust outlets. The model in question was the 2143cc CDI, with either the six speed manual or 7GDCT, kitted in AMG. I soon hit my head on the A pillar on entering the car. I guess a child did the previous test drive. Soon had my seat in place, adjusted all three mirrors, switched to automatic and drove off. I cruised all the way to my undisclosed destination as we had to do some filming. The Wheelspin crew drove off to such a fantastic place which I had never visited and this was in Malta. The car is extremely comfortable, blends well with the driver. The road conditions we drove through never reflected inside the cabin, sporting large wheels the car had a massive WHEELSPIN

TEST DRIVES • Cars Driven Lately by Pierre Vella

Gone are the days that Mercedes was a luxury big wide car. Now the brand has become a family car, sporty and yet still with the DNA of a Mercedes. Classified as an SUV, with its spacious interior and relatively high ride, never did I feel intimidated that this car was competitive. Visibility all around is good even though the rear is somewhat slantingly low. This can be superseded as a rear view camera was available for reversing. Once we finished our filming and the chance to admire the car in such wonderful surroundings, it was time to take the car through its proper pace.

grip yet the steering was just the right pressure and very directional. During our drive we had the chance to explore the interior which, as is customary, is Mercedes standard.

The GLA tested was a two wheel drive however a four wheel drive is also available. Luckily the area we chose was practically deserted and it was time to see what the car could do outside its cruising speed. The car was fitted with an automatic stick attached to the steering wheel, no central joystick was available. ‘Neutral’ and ‘Park’ were on the same level with a switch that activated park mode. Yes, ideal for the pleasure ride but switch on manual and the available paddle shift becomes a clutchless gear shift. The paddle

TEST DRIVES • The Long Term Citroen C3

shift revolves with the steering wheel making gear shifting safer but yes you guessed, switch to sport mode and you have a never ending sense of excitement. The sound changes and the speed plus traction becomes a dream. I wondered if I was driving an SUV, the car was just incredible and fun to drive! I even tried out the car on a tight corner with gravel being dropped by the side of the road. Being a two wheel drive I expected the car to oversteer but the car remained on track. To be honest though being an SUV I did not venture off the roads. We at Wheelspin have this philosophy that we enjoy the cars that we are asked to test drive yet take care of them as if these were our own. Reason being that the cars in question have to be sold. The great spring day in company of the GLA was coming to an end. It was a fantastic and enjoyable day with all the crew from Wheelspin and with a great car that left us talking about it long after we left the car back at Autosales in Lija.

THE LONG

TERM We are coming to the end of our long term test drive with the Citroen C3 and we must say that after just over 5 months, this car has really grown on us! For those that have been following our long term test drives, you may have understood by now that we are looking at these smaller vehicle to prove how smaller, more compact vehicles can actually offer a huge package. This is defintely the case with the Citroen C3. The car available to us is simple. It is small yet striking with a Zenith windscreen which makes it even more attractive. This windscreen continues to just above the front passengers head. Not actually a panoramic roof but close to! Although this feature is excellent for the warm winter days and beautiful on rainy days (at least I love it in such weather), in much warmer weather it tends to really warm the car inside. This is however not a problem as one can easily slide the roof inside to slide it back at ones convenience. The particular car available is not exactly swimming in extras. It has front electric windows, an audio system including a bluetooth system, usb connection, a good enough AC system which we are really beginning to appreciate in this warm weather and an onboard computer also visible through the audio system. Irrelevent of this however, one realises that the extras available are those that are mostly used and that make our life on the road so much easier. Take the bluetooth system for instance. This is so simple to use. Connect your phone once and you are connected every time you get into the car and turn the key. Also, if one is already talking on the phone before getting into the car, the phone switches to bluetooth the second one switches the engine therefore

WHEELSPIN

CITROEN C3 by Fleur Balzan

one does not need to finish that important conversation just because one needs to drive. The system works the other way too. If you are talking through bluetooth and have reached your destination, you can either switch off the engine whilst leaving the key in the ignition and continue the conversation in the car or get out of the car and continue with your conversation on the handheld. You may say this is somthing simple, yet systems change from car to car and we have actually seen the convenience of this when compared to other systems in other vehicles. The engine is also quite responsive. Acceleration is very good with decent torque therefore never once did we feel that the engine would not deliver when required to do so. The drive is something we look at closely and the Citroen C3 did not disappoint. The body is light yet rigid in high speeds so never once did we feel unstable even going round corners at certain speeds. The steering is precise and the turning ratio excellent thus making parking a piece of cake.

Yet what is most impressive in this vehicle is the fuel consumption in general. With the Citroen C3 1.4 litre diesel one actually forgets the last time one has put fuel in the car. It is SO economical! According to the reading the car is giving, we are still at the 4.9 litres for every 100 km however when one calculates this according to the litres bought and the distances travelled, the fuel efficiency is closer to the 4.5 litres per 100km and this for urban use 90% of the time. It is the perfect run around car! Spacious enough for 5 adults, a decent boot and yet small enough for parking anywhere and offering the convenience in its features for a hectic lifestyle. The time has come to give back my Citroen C3, but what’s mentioned above, its comfort, drive, economy and the general look of it are some of the reasons why I may just decide to keep it!

WHEELSPIN

TEST DRIVES • The New MINI

discovering what the new MINI was all about!

t was in mid March, sometime after our return from the Geneva Motor Show that we were invited to attend the media launch of the New MINI that was being held in Rome. These occasions are always a pleasure to attend. What’s better than getting to drive a vehicle way before its official launch in one’s own country?

chef Moreno Cedroni. His aim was to cook a special meal for us to give us some ideas of what new colours and features to expect in the new MINI. I lost track to the amount of plates we were presented with that night but each dish was accompanied by a particular tune sung by the band present to further identify the changes in the car.

Finally we got to the presentation of the new MINI, this beautiful, British icon (one could easily forget we were in Rome and not in Britain) which although has had so many changes done to it, still looks like the original MINI.

Upon our arrival in Rome it was clear that this was going to be a different launch, a somewhat mysterious one since the star of the event was missing. Where was the new Mini? What did it look like? And when were we going to finally get to drive it? On the same day of our arrival all the media present were invited to a special dinner and we were driven there in Mini Countryman vehicles. We arrived at our destination and once again the new MINI was not to be seen. The atmosphere was mysterious and we were informed that this was going to be the start of a ‘secret mission’! Could we identify the changes in the new MINI through the clues we were about to be given?

The next morning was going to be an early one but once again where were the cars? Instead of driving ourselves we were collected by a special bus with on it written ‘destination unknown’. Curiosity was now getting the better of me!

The clues came in the form of a fabulous dinner prepared by popular

About an hour into our departure, we arrived at our destination. This

WHEELSPIN

was the location where we had to start our test drive, old barracks with a lot of history and with beautiful views overlooking the city of Rome. Stunning to say the least! We were directed inside and there, the barracks were converted into a press conference area with, again, the new vehicle still being kept under wraps!

With the end of the press conference we were led to tunnels within the barracks where there, in practically all the new colours, stood a number of MINI’s ready to be driven out. I was given a key with ‘Agent on Duty 15’ written on it and there I was ready to start my job as an agent,

One thing about driving a vehicle away from the island is that one gets to experience different roads in one day. Whether narrow and winding country roads, busy urban roads and highways. We tried all these roads with the MINI driving in medium or high speeds and one thing remains clear, the MINI’s go kart identity has not been lost. On the contrary, it has been improved. Having driven the previous models of MINI since the car moved under the BMW Group wings in 2001, one must say that the MINI is known for this fun drive just as much, if not more, than it is known for its attractive, eye catching looks. Such fun taking the car around the tight bends while still feeling the steady grip to the ground! The car is responsive and the suspension improved. It is most definitely lighter and yet its rigidity is evident. Acceleration is excellent, with an improvement of 2.6 seconds on its predecessor and it has better fuel consumption and with CO2 emissions between 92 to 95g/km making the balance between consumption, cleanliness and performance truly remarkable.

whilst Performance Control is also available on the Cooper S. There is a choice of drive modes to choose from, from MID, SPORT and GREEN with each choice of drive effecting the acceleration and the steering. 3 engine variants are being introduced at launch all with twin power turbo technology. These are the 3 cylinder 136bhp in the MINI Cooper, the 4 cylinder 192bhp in the MINI Cooper S and the 3 cylinder diesel 116bhp in the MINI Cooper D. When it comes to appearance the MINI has changed, yet remarkably still being loyal to the original MINI image. The car has grown by 98mm in length, 44mm in width and 7mm in height with the wheelbase being increased by 28mm. This increase in size positively improves the shoulder and leg space and the general space within the vehicle itself, something which is definitely felt when driving this car for longer hours. The boot has also been increased by 51 litres definitely a plus when compared to the previous model.

by Fleur Balzan

The interior has also been dramatically improved with changes in the seats and more prominent, changes to the location of the speedometer which is now behind the steering wheel. The stop/start button is located in the central console whilst the screen in the middle of the dashboard features any kind of digital controls imaginable, including bluetooth, navigation, entertainment, network connection and an on board computer besides other functions. One thing minor but which I found extremely comfortable are the electric window buttons which are now on the doors instead of on the central console as in the previous models. I may be wrong but I feel this is the better place for window buttons on any car I drive! The front features a new face with newly introduced headlamps, daytime running lights and grille whilst the rear lights have also been changed. There are 5 new colours too, amongst them the Blazing Red, the Deep Blue and Volcanic Orange plus one can order a contrasting coloured roof and side mirrors at no extra cost. We could go on forever mentioning the different changes introduced in the New MINI yet these are about 3000 new components in the car so this is somewhat impossible. What we can tell you for sure is that the new MINI, although bigger and more comfortable and maybe even more attractive is still the Original MINI at heart. Not a bad thing at all!!

The technology introduced improves further the thrill of the drive! DSC, DTC and EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control) come as standard on all models,

WHEELSPIN

Launches

NEWS • Launches

The Mazda 3 Gasan Zammit Ltd has introduced the new Mazda 3 during a Driving Challenge hosted by comics Daniel and Sander at the showroom in Mriehel. After a short speech by Manfred Galea, the group present were then invited to a driving challenge in the field next to the showroom in which Daniel and Sander put them to the test, challenging their driving abilities and their tyre changing abilities on the Mazda 3.

The Mercedes GLA Kind’s Autosales Ltd have just presented their newest vehicle during a presentation held at the Mercedes Showroom in Lija.

The 2nd generation Mazda 3 is bolder and more dynamic, agile and inspires confidence. It may be viewed at the GasanZammit Showroom in Mriehel.

Mercedes are working on presenting new models that will attract a wider clientele and the newest car from Mercedes is just the car to do so. The Mercedes GLA is a smaller SUV, a compact SUV which is neither too high and neither too low. A perfect crossover that is attractive, sporty and fun to drive yet still with all the luxuries expected from Mercedes Benz. Read the full test drives on other pages of this magazine.

The New Nissan Qashqai Nissan Motor Sales Ltd has unveiled the new generation Nissan Qashqai during a well attended party held recently at Villa Arrigo in San Pawl tat-Targa. The success of the first Qashqai since it was introduced in 2007 has been tremendous and this 2nd generation isn’t expected to be any different. Longer, slightly lower and wider than the original model, the new Qashqai is packed with innovative technology, reducing fuel consumption and with CO2 emissions from only 99g/km.

The New Mini The New Mini has just arrived in Malta and Muscat Motors held the presentation of this vehicle during an evening, young party held at the new servicing department of their garage. The New Mini is immediately recognisable as the Icon we know it to be though many are the changes introduced to make this car appealing to people of different ages.

Muscular yet elegantly sporty the new Nissan Qashqai is quite a package to look out for!

We also attended the launch of this vehicle in Rome and our driving experience there may be read on this same magazine. The new Mini may be viewed at the BMW Showroom in Rue d’Argens, Gzira.

The Kia Carens The new Kia Carens has finally made it to our shores and Cars International Ltd has unveiled this latest Kia vehicle during an afternoon event held at the Kia Showroom in Qormi. The Kia Carens is a compact MPV which comes with a choice of 5 or 7 seats, an option which will make it a popular choice with those who occasionally need the additional 2 seats. With attractive side lines and high quality interior, this car will appeal to the active family and also to others that desire an appealing vehicle with a modern design and the versatility as is the Kia Carens.

WHEELSPIN

FEATURE • A Proper Estate I have owned ‘coups’ and two or three door cars ever since I passed my test: VW Beetle, Vauxhall Astra 888 and convertible, Ford Escorts yet now they are a thing of the past. It is all thanks to my new love of the estate car. When I attend the Mdina Grand Prix I always bump into a chap who has had his Escort estate since 1968 and it is immaculate. It was not one for being used just on a Sunday either; it was the work horse for his painting and decorating business from which he’s now retired.

A R E P O PR ATE EST

Glover by Ben

The estate (or station wagon in old money) has long been a love or hate car, especially in Malta. Some say they are too big for the islands and with parking at a

rs r yea d! Fo e g n a ch r have have my ca n o s r o han the do ore t m n bee year never m the o r f e fond You se had a three. s y a lw ave a ce my dot I h pe sin u o c e Y. f th un 120 s t love o a D a ree ought and th dad b k c a b s fast a run With it el like e f ’t n it did tor. It doors ily mo m a f l mil look of the quality y t r o p s it was had a nically a h c e re is to it (m t). The n e r e diff und totally ing aro iv r d e n even o today. Malta

by Ben Glover

patrols was the BMW 5-series. They not only could hold the copious amount of safety equipment (almost totalling half a tonne) yet with a 3 litre turbo diesel power train was going to make easy meat of the tarmac. They have since favoured the Skoda Octavia estate that can hold even more in the back. Why do you think the armed response units of London have these in their fleet? For the same reason space and speed! Previously they used the infamous Volvo T5 that gained cult status on the UK’s roads. And it doesn’t stop there. The ambulance service in the UK favour the Ford Mondeo, the Skoda Octavia VRS and the Volvo V70 estate to haul their medical gear with them as a ‘rapid response vehicle’. It can attend a call out within 8 minutes and help save many lives being that much smaller than a conventional ambulance. We in Malta have a love for the SUV and there is nothing wrong with that. I love the Nissan Qashqai and dearly adore its cousin the Dacia Duster. The Range Rover

premium not the best vehicle of choice for Malta. I say those people are wrong.

Evoque is just stunning yet they all have one problem: they don’t fit in my garage. There is the ‘micro’ option in the Mini Traveller, the Skoda Fabia and even the BMW 1-series. All great cars but not sure they can fit a double bed in the back.

I recently purchased an old Opel Omega CDX estate (or C a r a v a n in some countries). It comes with a 2.5 straight six engine from BMW, is almost 15 years old and so I am told was ‘top of the range’ for its time. My wife hates the car and wishes I pretty much lived in it. Well, as I found out you pretty much can! And here is my point why estate cars are so good.

So there we have it, my new love - the estate car. Practicality, plenty of room and it fits in my garage. I had no idea what I have been missing, or am I getting too old???

Locally a friend of mine had a difficult breakup and couldn’t afford to hire a van to move home. A string of us formed a convoy and lined up outside to help him on to his new life. And who could fit the most amount of stuff in? Me. Me with the oldest car on the street. Ridiculed for my choice of motor yet the chosen one for transportation. And the benefits don’t stop there. My wife asked me to ‘move the junk from the garage and while I am at it her old Queen size bed and mattress’. No problem. I soon wiped the smile off her face when I placed the seats down and got EVERY single piece of bed in there plus the mattress. Oh, and I even managed to get rid of next door’s bed too. As an experiment I laid out a single mattress in the back and with my long tall frame comfortably laid inside my ‘camper van’. Handy to know if the wife ever kicks me out! Police forces around the world love them too. In my time with the UK police the car of choice for the motorway

WHEELSPIN

FEATURE • Theory Test Tips

THEORY TEST TIPS

5) PICK ONE SUBJECT AT A TIME.

6) USE THE TIME WISELY.

Too much information with numbers and words mixed can sometimes make the head hurt! Pick just the one subject and study that one at a time. For example road signs: Spend a dedicated amount of time (about 60 minutes) testing yourself on road signs. When confident move on to the next subject

You will have plenty of time to do the test so make the most of it! Do not rush. This will lead to giving the wrong answer and you will kick yourself after. At the end of the test, go through EVERY question again making sure you are happy. Many candidates who have done this in the past have passed after re-reading the questions… including me!

7) BE POSITIVE! Close your eyes and picture yourself with that pass certificate in your hands ready to show your friends on Facebook! With positive thinking and attitude you will pass.

aking your theory driving test does take a lot of planning and revision. It is not a case of just turning up, answering the multiple choice questions and hoping for the best. With only 46% passing first time you will need to plan! Follow these top tips and not only will you pass first time but you could save yourself money on a re-test.

GOOD L UCK!

1) TEST YOURSELF.

3) DO SOME BASIC MAINTENANCE.

Transport Malta offer the list of questions to study through their website: http://www.transport.gov.mt/landtransport/driving/obtaining-your-driving-licence

Not only will the questions be about the road but how to maintain your car. Get familiar with the basics, identify where the oil and water go. Get familiar with tyre pressures and what can happen if you do not have the correct pressure in them. These questions often catch out candidates!

Although they do show the answers your brain will be trained to take the information better if you test yourself. Get a friend or member of the family to read out the questions so any ones you get wrong you can study.

by Ben Glover

4) CATCH OUT QUESTIONS. 2) GET THE APP! > The Maltese Theory Test mirrors that of the UK. There are plenty of free apps from UK motoring schools (BSM, the AA) that have a ‘mock test’ section giving you the chance to see what you are doing right or wrong. OK, some of the questions may not be relevant (we don’t have motorways, trams or level crossings) yet the others will be handy. 18

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> >

Many candidates get caught out with the following: You are involved in a traffic collision - what documents will the police ask you to produce? Your car has unbalanced wheels - what can this cause? When can you drive or park in a cycle lane or lane marked with a solid white line?

Ask your friends who recently passed what they failed on. Nine times out of ten they will be questions they didn’t expect or gave the answer without thinking. Get familiar with stopping distances too - they always catch people out and a mark is a mark! WHEELSPIN

F1 • A New Sound of Music by Pierre Vella regulations state that only five combustion engines can be utilized hence the teams are working below and clear of breakage point. However the stunning race in Bahrain, with the Mercedes duo racing out each other, was a clear illustration of what presently the Brackley based team have achieved. A clear three second advantage on the rest of the competition! Will this decrease over the season or will it be a drive in the park for the Mercedes AMF Petronas F1 team? WORDS PIERRE VELLA IMAGES STEVE ETHERINGTHON

ell the first chapter of this year’s F1 season has just been concluded with four GPs already in the bag. A season that knocked open one controversy after another, the most glamorous being that the Australia F1 organizers were logging a complaint against the FOM that the cars were not loud enough. Here I cannot judge what this year’s cars sound like as TV viewing does tend to dampen down the sound. However I do recall in my 20 odd years attending F1 GP that ear plugs are given out for free to hinder ear damage. I can endorse all this because I am proud to say that my hearing did decrease due to my F1 noise enjoyment over the years. Well now it’s off with the plugs. But let’s get serious and recall what is happening on track.

The expectations were varied and definitely of a mixed nature. The new regulations brought in the biggest change ever since the new era of F1 started off in 1950. It was a massive change of new technologies with the powerplants (engine and 2 hybrid units) having to merge together coupled up with a turbo on top of everything. Massive technological innovations had to work together in a compressed and high temperature environment. Limitations on fuel supply were the main issue. Would the cars survive race distance? Definitely orders (instructions) will be radioed to slow down and maximize on fuel consumption, so are we heading towards economy racing? The wait was now over and in Melbourne the lights went out and all cars raced towards the first corner. Well almost because F1’s most unlucky driver of the pack, Felipe Massa, now driving for Williams, was heading towards one of the first 2014 non finishers at the first corner, courtesy of Kamui Kobayshi in the Caterham who claimed he lost his brakes. I guess he lost his braking point! Top drivers Hamilton and Vettel were the first retirements but definitively the Mercedes of Nico Rosberg was on another planet with a consistent drive and a performance that clearly indicated that the German manufacturers had done their homework well. The rest of the pact was being led by an impressive Daniel Riccardo

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in the Red Bull. Incredible Daniel, a driver who definitely will be giving a run for his winnings to four times world champion Sebastian Vettel. An Australian on the podium at his maiden race with the senior Red Bull F1 team was a good antidote to the diminishing Australian crowds. Unfortunately three hours later all had vanished with Riccardo being stripped of his second place to the sadness and anger of his native supporters. Whatever the outcome of the team’s appeal, it was still a bitter disappointment! The FIA knew that there was a problem with the fuel flow meter. Fingers were pointed at Red Bull as they were aware of the fault yet continued to race. Coming from the rear of the ranks, Red Bull were desperately seeking track time. This due to their falling back on testing because of engine problems that had been encountered during the initial testing sessions. Yet over these four away races, Red Bull seems to have recovered a large part of its disadvantage.

Many are the teams that need to shape up. Ferrari might be reliable but definitely lacking in speed. Lotus seems to be nowhere near last year’s performance. Force India seems to have started off well but will further developments retain this initial advantage? Sauber also seems to be nowhere, hampered by the underpowered Ferrari power plant. The rest, well they are racing, but in a different category. The European season kicks off in Barcelona mid May with the teams having a three week gap to re engage their pursuit to reduce the gap to the front runners. Will this happen? Well for sure the Grand Prix of Spain at the Mont Melo circuit will definitely give a clearer picture. And I hope to be there celebrating my 18th consecutive Spanish GP participation.

Mixed feelings for the McLaren team who managed to have both drivers on the podium with an astonishing Kevin Magnusson who seems to have settled well in the team and is delivering some stunning races. Consequently they had a double retirement due to clutch problems. Reliability might be an issue, or thought to be, but it seems that the teams are playing quite safe on being reliable. This year’s engine WHEELSPIN

FEATURE • Have To Be Seen In A Limousine

by Mark Attard

with the driver is possible either by opening the window in the partition or by using an intercom system. There are also two alternative versions of the style. The LimousineLandaulet has a removable or folding roof section over the rear passenger seat. The Limousine De-Ville has a solid roof over the rear passengers but a removable or folding roof section over the driver’s seat. Why has the Limousine been traditionally associated with status symbol and luxury commutation? It’s basically because it has been an extension of a large car. A longer frame and wheelbase allow the rear passenger compartment to contain the usual forward-facing passenger seat but with a substantial amount of extra foot room – more than is actually needed. Two “jump seats” are usually mounted, facing rearward behind the driver. These seats fold up when not in use. In this way, up to five persons can be carried in the aft compartment in comfort. Two additional persons can also be usually carried in the driver’s compartment but this has become unpopular

BE SEEN IN A

because it somehow decreases the lavishness of the ride.

LIMOUSINE

Recently limousine builders have taken the limousine industry to extreme levels of luxury and extravagance by introducing models which would have a seating capacity of up to 24 people. Also, some of them include laser lights and hi-fi sound equipment to make for a mobile disco trip or a noisy entrance to a red carpet event!

KAZ, an Italian-Japanese joint project also produced a total electric limousine. Keio Advanced Zero-Emissions vehicle, that’s what KAZ stands for. It took 5 years to build and costs around €3 million but the result is more than impressive: it has 6 electric engines powering the limousines six wheels, each producing 74 horse-power That means this baby goes from 0 to 100km/h in just 7 seconds, reaches a quarter mile in 15 seconds and has a top speed of 193.3 km/h. Is there space for another Limo? Just one more! When it comes to the longest limousine, it is more than 30 meters long and has 26 tires, room for a lot of passengers, a heated Jacuzzi, sun deck, swimming pool, a few beds and… a helipad!

by Mark Attard

hile defining what constitutes a “luxury drive” is quite subjective, the ‘Limo’, short for Limousine, would instantly convey an ultra comfort ride. Inside is a highly sumptuous car. Interior full of puffy leather seats and polished wood grain-look coach accessories, accented by unique stretch design, all of this while having a drink from the in-house bar and watching sky news on the on board flat screen!

Actually the first automobile limousine, was built in the beginning of the 20th century and was designed so the driver sat outside under a covered compartment. The word limousine comes from the French region Limousin, because this covered compartment physically resembled the raised hood of the cloak worn by the shepherds there. A coach builder company named Armbruster in Arkansas built the first “stretch limousine” around 1928. These cars primarily attracted famous 22

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“big band” leaders, such as Glenn Miller and Duke Ellington, to make a statement travelling in them with their bands and equipment. These early stretch limousines were often called “big band buses”. As these cars gained popularity and were becoming more luxurious the Society of Automobile Engineers issued official definitions for variants of this type of vehicle, where a Berline was defined as “a limousine having the driver’s seat entirely enclosed”, while a Brougham was

defined as “a limousine with no roof over the driver’s seat” and both should include “a closed car seating three to five inside, with a separate driver’s seat compartment” In fact all limousine body styles have a partition separating the driver from the rear passenger compartment. This partition usually contains a sliding (often soundproof) glass window so that conversations between passengers in the rear compartment may be kept private from the chauffeur. Communication WHEELSPIN

SPOT INFO & NEWS

FEATURE • The National Road Safety Strategy 2014-2024

Peugeot RCZ You’ll get used to turning heads wherever you go in this stunning Peugeot RCZ coupe. With its now trademark ‘double bubble’ roof, a high quality sports interior and a choice of powerful engines, this car performs on every level, and is undoubtedly the most desirable car in our Lion Range. This Lion of a Coupe also includes a spacious boot and rear bench seat to allow more flexibility. It’s also filled with equipment to ensure you get the best driving experience possible.

LAUNCHED:

The National Road Safety Strategy

New Peugeot RCZ ranges from €31,600

PSA Peugeot Citroen aims at awakening the senses! PSA Peugeot Citroen is looking at new ways to stay ahead of customer expectations, this time by looking at how to jolt our senses when in these cars. It aims at taking a multi sensory approach which includes the synchronising of many vehicle functions aimed at awakening the senses. Through the ambient lighting in the roof, the dashboard door panels and seats they aim to awaken ‘Sight’. Fragrance sent through a diffuser

in the central air vents will awaken ‘Smell’. A special playlist and sound treatment in the cabin and upper seatbacks are aimed at awakening ‘Hearing’ whilst the sense of ‘Touch’ will be awakened through the power adjusted seats, heating with air flows in the upper seatbacks and 3 message zones in the seatback, cushion and calf rest. These will be available on board Peugeot, Citroen and DS vehicles as from 2016.

The Seat IBIZA turns 30! It was on the 27th April 1984 that the first SEAT Ibiza emerged from Zona Franca in Barcelona. The Paris Motor show of the same year was chosen for the world premiere of this vehicle which has grown to be the pillar of this Spanish brand. Now 30 years after, the SEAT Ibiza remains the most charismatic vehicle in the brands history.

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Dynamic, ambitious and ground breaking, it is the brands most selling vehicle with sales close to 5 million units. Strengthened by the image of the Mediterranean island from which it gets its name, its launch in 1984 was a turning point in the automotive landscape.

On the occasion of its 30th anniversary, in June the Ibiza will be given a special version. Bring on the celebrations!

The Ministry for Transport and Infrastructure and Transport Malta has launched a National Road Safety Strategy for the years 2014 to 2024.

transport in this period resulted in more people using their own means of transport instead of the public transport system.

The Strategy was presented at a seminar held recently in which the Minister for Transport and Infrastructure. Hon. Mr. Joe Mizzi pointed out that although Malta had a very low record of road fatalities per capita, when compared to other countries, the government is doing its utmost to improve our roads and increase awareness to further decrease the accident figures in Malta.

Other data revealed that many of the road accidents were by younger drivers and that accidents increased over the weekend which also indicates that drink or drug driving may also have been the cause. And which were those localities to have more accidents? Well the top three locations were B’Kara, Qormi and Marsa also the most populated areas in Malta.

Although Malta already has some tight regulations which have helped in keeping the figures low, such as the use of seat belts, the introduction of specific speed limits and speed cameras and the illegal use of mobile phones while driving, to mention but a few things, there is still so much more that can be done to increase the safety on different roads.

The public and different entities have been asked to consult with the department on this Strategy through the Transport Malta Web site link http://www.transport.gov.mt/news/ public-consultation-road-safetystrategy. The full report may also be downloaded from the site.

During the seminar, addressed also by TM Chairman and CEO James Piscopo and Architect Audrey Testaferrata De Noto, the data collected over the years was shared with those present. Amongst the information shown on this data, were details of the number of accidents that occurred over the last years, accidents which seemed to increase since 2011 after the introduction of the Arriva public transport. This information indicates that the negativity surrounding the public WHEELSPIN

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