Wheelspin Magazine Issue 30 - Winter 2016 by Wheelspin

Issue 30 — Winter 2016

MILES AHEAD...

It’s Complicated: The BMW X1

BMW taking steps to simplify the naming of their range of vehicles

The Peugeot 2008:

CROSSOVER, COMPACT SUV OR MPV?

Test driving this spacious family car

Would I Know What To Do?

How to react when encountering a traffic accident

Bizarre Car Crash Stories 10 of the most unusual and utterly bizarre car crash stories

WHEELSPIN • Issue 30 - Winter 2016 Issue 30 - Winter 2016

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

Editor Fleur Balzan fbalzan@b.rightnewmedia.com

The 30th issue of Wheelspin magazine is the first issue for 2016, an issue which we hope will produce plenty of reading for our readers. In fact it seems that we have enjoyed starting the year with various articles that are all very different from each other. At this time of year it is natural that we feature the many test drives of the vehicles that have recently made it to our shores. The whole team has been experiencing a number of cars so here they are on these pages from Pierre Vella, Kenneth Rizzo Naudi, and I.

Contributors Pierre Vella Ben Glover Mark Attard Kenneth Rizzo Naudi

I seem to have been exceptionally lucky driving different segment cars recently besides having the pleasure of being behind the wheel of our long term test drives. In fact, in this issue we sadly conclude our period with the Audi A1, however we gladly welcome the beginning of our time driving the Peugeot 2008.

Hair Cut Coiffeur

Make Up

Ben Glover tackles a very important topic, the possibility of being involved in an accident or being present to help those that have been involved in an accident. Would you stop if you came across one on our roads?

Shasha

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

Pre-Press & Printing

Mark Attard on the other hand tackles car crashes from a completely different perspective. He writes about car crashes with a difference. All the above and much more you can find on this edition of Wheelspin. Anything else you would like to read about on these pages? Write to us with your suggestions on wheelspin@b.rightnewmedia.com. In the meantime we hope you enjoy reading what we have for you this month!!

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. 2

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In this issue Winter 2016

Test Drives 4

A Breath of Fresh Air! Test driving the Renault Kadjar

Other Cars Driven Lately Five thrilling models to test-drive

It’s Complicated: The BMW X1 BMW among the first to simplify the naming of their range of vehicles

A1 and Only! Discovering something new everyday

The Peugeot 2008 Crossover, Compact SUV or MPV?

Features

Launches

Would I Know What To Do? How to react when encountering a traffic accident

10 Bizarre Car Crash Stories

Launches The new Porsche 911, the Audi A4 and the BMW X1

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Afresh breathair!of words and images by Pierre Vella

TEST DRIVE • A Breath Of Fresh Air by Pierre Vella weather. A new addition to the Renault family, a new model that has created a new niche within the brand! Renault have adopted a brand front image which seems to flow through all the models, with the Kadjar inheriting the look resulting in a rather aggressive look, identifying the all new Renault SUV. For an SUV, the design team at Renault came up with a rather unique design. Considering its size the car seems to flow all around but the Kadjar brings out a new adjective at every curve. Renault might have taken long to give a cousin to its oriental car but for sure it comes out well, looking definitely different from the rest. After having topped the sheets with the Captur, Renault seems to be continuing with their success story. Walking around the Kadjar one can sense a solid body feel, coming across rather bulging wheel arches with their plastic liners that seem to connect the front and the rear in a smooth flowing line. The front and rear lights seem to have something in common as they tend to have a continuation in design. Extremely modern an SUV that can easily be taken to town with a 4.45m length and 1.85m width, definitely not imposing on other vehicles. However a higher driving position and macho looks does identify the Kadjar amongst the crowd. It is an SUV that delivers a spacious passenger compartment as well as a generous luggage space offering 472 litres of space. This goes up to 1,478 litres when coverted to a ‘mini van’ with the rear seats folded. Its cockpit dashboard has everything in place. It has a central 7 inch touch screen which has taken the best of the Captur. It clearly and easily displays the Kadjar drive plans, with the traditional speedometer and rev counter also in digital mode.

Finally it just seems that the cold spell is here! The rain can be heard ticking on the windows with the wind howling away and thunder rumbles in the distance. It is long overdue as many thought that we would miss one season this year. A few days back and it was more a pre spring than January wintery weather. The great clear days urged me to venture out in the countryside in the company of the recent addition to the Renault family, the

KADJAR

a fitting SUV for this kind of

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Spending a joyful day, the Kadjar Dynamic S+ with Signature Bose system was the rich girl in town, the model in question is just sheer luxury. Getting in, the seating position gives a sense of adequate space in the car. All controls clearly illustrated and visible, yet never imposing. Rear view is good both from the external mirrors and the inside, subject that you are not carrying any high load which would obstruct central rear vision. However if you are reversing, a rear view camera goes into operation

coupled up with rear parking sensors. One may also opt for the Intelligent park assist. Well how about getting into some serious business and start up the 1.5DCI. First impression? Considering an outside temperature of 14degrees, the engine noise was minimal and even when the window was pulled down it was still quite acceptable. Just a reminder, I was driving the manual gearbox and not the automatic. Clutch relatively soft with gearshift quick direct and specific but somewhat smooth.

The car took to the road rapidly. With 110bHp the car accelerates well considering that this is an SUV. The Kadjar does gauge our roads rather badly as the vehicle absorbs well the numerous discrepancies one comes across. On good roads the car was very stable even at relatively fast speed, no wind noise was noticeable. Finding some open roads I did push. The car went round corners well, no body roll, however I did find the steering a bit soft. This is just a matter of taste however. The brakes came out well, short pedal travel and stiff. Back to cruise mode and the fuel consumption seem to stop. Incredible engines with a CO2 emission factor ranging from 99g/km to 102g/km retaining road license relatively low. On the road the car is a gem to drive! It accelerates well and I was completely surprised considering the negligible mileage up Gnejna hill. The car accelerated impressively smoothly and no high revs. From the driver’s seat, visibility is very good. I soon realised that this must have been my longest local test drive, stopping at Mgarr village at my favourite bakery to buy Mgarr special krustini and enjoying the taste and admiring the Kadjar with a wonderful Maltese countryside as a backdrop. It was time to head back but not before trying out the BOSE on board entertainment system. I am not so keen on music but this was the ultimate, crisp and clear music bringing an astonishing sound dimension in the car. Queen’s ‘It’s a kind of magic’ definitely identifies the Kadjar. For sure it will be a car that I will opt for a second test drive with. Why? Because it is different! WHEELSPIN

It’s complicated: The BMW X1 TEST DRIVE By Kenneth Rizzo Naudi

e’ve been living in an automotive age where manufacturers are busy spawning new versions, variants, segments, etc. out of every model range they have. Gone are the days where you simply had to choose between a super-mini, or a mid-size hatchback, or a mid-size saloon/wagon, or a large saloon/ wagon, or an off-roader, or an MPV family transporter, or a sports car in coupe` or cabrio form. It was quite straightforward back then and recalling it reminded me of the very first edition of Wheelspin TV back in 2001, the edition of which was neatly segmented in that fashion. Then, it was easy and logical that way but nowadays we’ve gotten to an era where we have blurred it all up. There are different models for every centimetre difference in size: lengthwise, width-wise, and height-wise; and add to those permutations, the options of open or closed roofs, 2 or 4 wheel drive, petrol/diesel/hybrid/ electric; etc. etc. If we had to apply a facebook relationship status to today’s car industry choice status, it’ll undoubtedly be: “It’s Complicated”! So in an effort to simplify this complication, some manufacturers 6

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are in the process of reshuffling (to simplify hopefully) their nomenclature strategy and topping this list are the 3 German archrivals who have spawned model after version after variant while filling in every imaginable gap in their line-ups: Mercedes, Audi, and BMW. This brings me neatly to today’s car test brand: BMW. They have filled nearly every number from 1 to 9 in their ‘series’ range (what, they missed 9-series? - it will come one day, Google it!). They added the ‘Touring’ for their wagon variants, the letter ‘X’ for the SUV/4WD variants, then invented a ‘GT’ variant of a few models with a weirdly-raised rear roofline, and the ‘i’ for the electric range, and as standalone’s there then are the ‘Z’ roadster/ coupe`s. Today however we’ll focus on the ‘X’ range. Starting with the introduction of the X5: a steroidal version of the 5-series that was a highway-crunching 4WD soft-roader SUV. It was a new concept back then, showing that a 4WD SUV need not be slow and only off-road mannered, i.e. extra bouncy for a highway! It was also well executed and so undoubtedly, it was a

HIT! The oldest of X5’s are marvellous to drive even by today’s standards! BMW were so chuffed with this that they then tried the same with their super successful 3-series, but for whatever reason the first version of the X3 didn’t really tick all the right boxes like the X5 had. Same seems to have happened to the 1-Series’ X1 in its first guise. The recipe of ‘raising’ the standard series model with a few tweaks, left some flaws here and there so next time round for the new X3 and now the new X1, BMW changed strategy completely. The new X1 is not a steroidal 1-Series, but, and cleverly so, it is an X5 washed at 90°C to shrink down to 1-Series size! Preceding this was the 70°C wash that resulted in the new X3! Pure genius! For this reason the X1 is a much more grown-up car than one may think. Its exterior proportions are now spot-on-perfect to show the SUV macho-effect and yet remain compact enough as is nowadays more than ever, ideal for our shrinking island. Coupling this lighter weight with impressive torque figures from

TEST DRIVE • BMW X1 XDrive 20d xLine

the 2.0 diesel 4-pot unit (400nm!) that pulls effortlessly, assures more than necessary punch the second you squeeze the right pedal, yet offering very competitive Co2 levels to not sting on the environment outside and that inside your pocket. Full time 4WD that is governed automatically by the car ensures that grip is always found where available, whether while being in the middle of a corner, or down an extremely steep slope aided by the X1’s hill decent control; as we had to find out thanks to Google Maps going temporarily bonkers while we were trying to find the geolocation of our camera man. At that point I really thanked God I’m in an X1 and not a simple 1-Series, its few off-road genes really made all the difference there! It doesn’t offer a terrain-selection control or the facility to adjust ride height, but then again in the X1’s segment not even 4WD specialists like Land Rover or Jeep would feature such tech as standard unless we’re dealing with an extreme off-road variant which the X1 is not meant to be. So in my opinion, better this way as it would be a little overkill to the detriment of price within this segment-size. It did however present a dynamic damper control that was married to the BMW Driver Experience Control: Sport/Comfort/EcoPro; with hard or soft settings for the first two options respectively. On the open road the new X1 feels light and nicely taught. Don’t expect the sharp change in direction a lower car would respond with, but coupled with a smooth ride and average profiled wheels it gave the right combination of uneven-road-comfort

when in Comfort mode, and on-roadmanners that the X5 is so famously perfect for when in Sport mode! Our X1 was not only equipped with the xLine set of niceties but also with a broad panoramic electric roof and an 8-speed Steptronic dual clutch transmission which I would frankly recommend for this kind of car. It’s smooth, intuitive, effortless and its absence would result in a decrease of comfort governed by a clutch pedal and manual shifter – it’s not the kind of car you are meant to enjoy changing gears, doubleclutching, and heel & toeing in; so once in an SUV this turns from fun to work, might as well leave these chores in the hands of the nowadays reliable automated gizmos. That of course leaves you with a relatively free left foot, for which there’s a foot-rest; and, in a RHD car, a free left arm for which weirdly enough despite the xLine package did not have a front armrest. It was perhaps the only blemish in the car but one that can easily be speced in the options list, so make sure you do. The only other thing that was, not bad, but below the perfection of the rest, were the sliding panels that reveal the ashtray etc. They just lacked the smoothness perfection of everything else that moves within the X1: from the slick iDrive controller, to the electrictrick rear seat collapsing mechanism at push from buttons conveniently located in the rear boot. Speaking of which is very generous even with the lower level mostly occupied by the spare wheel – which was nice to see instead of measly pump kits and rock-

by Kenneth Rizzo Naudi

hard run-flat tyres. The seats were supportive enough and nicely clad in luscious perforated mocha coloured leather that married nicely with the walnut interior highlights and the elegant metallic grey exterior. The electronic bells and whistles available in the X1 are boundless. From the iDrive infotainment system with GPS and telephony, to the safety watchdogs such as forward collision warning. The dashboard is exquisitely laid out with a raked stance enhancing sportiness and yet remaining simple enough to aid ergonomics while onthe-go. Leg room at the rear was also surprisingly fine too. While RWD cars tend to suffer in this department due to the larger transmission tunnels to accommodate the drive shaft, a higher car like the X1 helps to mitigate this issue because the higher ground clearance frees more space for the mechanicals, which in turn leaves more space for your passengers’ limbs. In a nutshell the X1 has now become one of the perfect cars to choose because it isn’t anymore trying to do all but accomplishing little. It now looks the part with sophistication and like the X5 did from the beginning, it focuses on its strengths primarily yet with added SUV-like features. This coupled with the extra maturity brought upon by having shrunk the X5 rather than heightened the 1-Series renders it an ideal city-4WD-SUV companion with which to share daily both young and family life alike.

WHEELSPIN

TEST DRIVE • Other Cars Driven Lately by Fleur Balzan

Lexus NX Hybrid Wowwwwwww! That’s the first word that slipped out of my mouth the minute I saw this vehicle and I didn’t yet know it was a Hybrid. The Lexus NX is stunning, striking and spectacular! These are a few of the adjectives that describe this car and, believe me I could find many, many more! This car is beautiful with striking muscular lines which give it a very unique image. The Lexus NX is an SUV which is not only beautiful and luxurious, but also a clean car. The model driven was the 300h F Sport with beautiful red leather interior and several features which make this car exceptional, not to mention a

LEXUS N X H Y B R I D

M E R C E D E S G L C

M I N I C L U B M A N

T OYO TA AV ENSIS

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A large screen on the dashboard shows the car drive info as well as serves as a screen for the cameras on board. Besides the audio, Bluetooth and car information, this screen also indicates the regenerating energy flowing from the combustion engine and the 2 electric motors on board. It also indicates the choice of drive whether in full EV mode or in Sport mode. The car responds perfectly in either mode and never feels too heavy for the engine and motors it offers. It is comfortable on the road with very little to practically no body roll even when cornering at high speeds.

The silent driving whilst on the electric motors is impressive as is the acceleration on whichever choice of drive chosen and the shift in gears on this automatic dual clutch gearbox is very smooth. How can one enjoy a drive whilst at the same time being so kind to the environment? With the Lexus NX 300h F Sport, this is possible! Spacious, comfortable, luxurious, safe and fun are all words that describe the Lexus NX driven. Oh, and let me not forget to mention clean! What more can one ask for?

P E U G E OT 2 0 8

As one may see on this issue, my colleagues and I have been having a wonderful time driving the different vehicles that have arrived on our shores recently. These cars were many and all with a different excitement to them. None the less we have enjoyed each and every one of them and we hope to bring the thrill of the drive straight to these pages.

car that gives a feeling of extreme comfort and security.

Mercedes GLC Ohhh, do I love my job when I get to drive cars like this Mercedes GLC!

did we notice the weather with a car of this level.

The GLC is an SUV that competes with the likes of the BMW X3 and the Audi Q5 but does this little, or big number, feel so much more luxurious than the GLK it replaces. Built on the same platform of the C Class, this SUV reflects a lot of this vehicle especially when it comes to the interior. We got to drive the Mercedes GLC on a cold but sunny late January day but little

The model driven was the 2.2 litre diesel with a 9 speed automatic gearbox with dual clutch transmission and was it thrilling to drive! The security features it offers are exceptional. From the collision prevention assist, the attention assist, the adaptive brake, to the lane departure warning and the occupant protection assist, all features that WHEELSPIN

TEST DRIVE • Other Cars Driven Lately by Fleur Balzan

make life so much easier for the driver. The car not only feels safe and

stable but it is also a car that one can rely on to help the driver at all times.

Besides the excellent drive package, the car offers a beautiful luxurious interior which at the same time feels fresh and modern. The piano finish on the centre console, the large screen on the dashboard, the matt aluminium finish of the doors and the leather seats are all stunning features and features which spell out class. The kind of class which Mercedes is unique for!

Toyota Avensis The Toyota Avensis has recently received a facelift and it was driven soon after it arrived on our shores. This executive saloon vehicle has had very little changes to the exterior and the main changes were made to its suspension and technology systems. The model driven was the Business Edition with touches of chrome around the windows on the exterior and aluminium touches on the interior giving it a more modern appearance.

MINI Clubman After having seen the launch of the new MINI Clubman at the Frankfurt Motor Show last October, it was a pleasure to have the opportunity to drive this cutie on our roads during the month of January. The New Clubman is easily identifiable as a MINI however it is different to the previous Clubman, the ‘estate’ model of the MINI brand. The rear single door which had previously been particular to the Clubman has been replaced with 2 normal doors, a welcome change for right hand drive drivers. This 2nd generation MINI Clubman is obviously bigger than the MINI hatchback having a longer wheelbase resulting in more interior space and comfort. The interior is utterly

The dashboard features an 8 inch touch screen which incorporated the Bluetooth and Audio systems as well as a navigation system and serves as the screen for the reversing camera on board. The interior is attractive and elegant with lumber support seats in a black leather and suede with white stitching.

sweet and attractive with a choice of features that may be personalised to ones satisfaction. These features are made of high quality material which makes the car a high segment vehicle yet at the same time give the car a youngish, modern touch as do the twin tone colour choices for the exterior. The round screen of about 8.8 inch diameter on the centre of the dashboard lights up beautifully and besides the car information, audio and telephone system it offers a navigation system too. The model driven is the 2 litre diesel Cooper D with an 8 speed automatic dual clutch transmission with a choice of drive modes between Sport, Mid and Economy. The drive

was a fun drive even though with the longer wheelbase the go cart feel is slightly less apparent than on the hatchback model. Yet the handling was very good, the steering precise and the car delivers great acceleration whatever mode one chooses to drive in.

A fun car which is cute yet practical and with a ‘young at heart’ feel to it!

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Other changes made to the vehicle are the various security systems such as lane departure warning, sign recognition and such features that are a constant help to the driver at all times.

which is very stylish and typically French.

synonymous with the Peugeot 208 and which is very easy to get used to, However, the major changes to this vehicle were mainly in the new engines introduced, engines which are cleaner and more economical. An improvement on what was already a very good product.

A luxury, elegant saloon which is spacious and comfortable and above all a car which offers a secure ride at all times.

Peugeot 208

The suspension is different to the hatchback and slightly softer offering a great ride for all passengers on board. With 193 bhp and reaching from 0 to 100 km in 7.2 seconds the fun factor remains present on this estate MINI.

The model driven is the 2 litre D4D with 143bhp with CO2 emissions being a 119g/km making it cleaner and more efficient than the car it replaces. The changes in the suspension are extremely positive offering extreme comfort on all roads. The acceleration is responsive and the car reaches 100km from standstill in just 9.2 seconds. The handling is very good and the car is stable even on sharp corners at higher speed.

The latest version of the new Peugeot 208 was one of the latest cars driven on our roads. This City car from the Peugeot brand has recently had a face lift which was mainly more visible on the face of the vehicle. With longer headlights and a small grille circled with chrome, the car has a fresh, youngish look to it, a look

The interior is attractive with touches of piano finish and with a large touch screen featuring the car info and audio system including Bluetooth. The steering wheel is smaller than usual, something

The version driven was the 3 door hatchback which is very sporty and sweet. The engine driven was the 1.6 blue HDI which produces 100bhp and with CO emissions being as low as 87g/km. It is also being said that the car is so economical that it does 100km for just 3.4 litres of fuel. With a 5 speed manual gearbox which is very smooth, the ride is a comfortable one for all on board even though the car has a sporty image. A car which is young and stylish! A car with typical Peugeot looks! WHEELSPIN

Launches The New Porsche 911 Continental Cars Ltd hosted a great event to launch the new Porsche 911 during an evening held at the Magazine Vaults at the Valletta Waterfront. Media and guests attended the event during which many different Porsches, some dating some years back, were on show. Following a short speech by Chev. Maurice Mizzi, the new Porsche 911 was unveiled leaving all those present staring at its beauty and dynamic image. The Porsche 911 may be viewed at the Porsche, Continental Cars showroom in Testaferrata Street, Gzira.

Audi A4 Just a week following the launch of the Porsche, Continenetal Cars hosted another launch, this time at the Audi showroom where the new Audi A4 was unveiled. Once again Chev. Maurice Mizzi hosted the event which saw the media and Audi owners enjoy the first view of this beautiful, executive sedan with exceptional features. The new Audi A4 may be viewed at the Audi Showroom in Testaferrata Street, Gzira.

LIMITED EDITION PEUGEOT IN MALTA:

Peugeot 208 GTi 30th Anniversary 30 years after the Peugeot GTI was created, this legend of a vehicle is back in the 208 GTI 30th Anniversary edition, a car which was first unveiled to the public in the 2014 Paris Motor Show.

With a 1.6 litre THP petrol engine developing 208 bhp, 300nm of torque and a six speed manual gearbox this car has exceptional traction, particular suspension with a sporty thrill to it.

The 208 GTI 30th Anniversary is a limited edition vehicle and, with only a limited number produced, one has actually made it to Malta. The Wheelspin team got to ride in it and to film it for the TV programme.

With 2 tone exterior colours in red and matt black, this limited edition 208 is truly striking and a fine remembrance to the 205 GTI which was such an icon in the 80s.

BMW X1 The new BMW X1 was recently launched by BMW (Malta) Ltd and Muscats Motors Ltd during an event held for the media in December. The 2nd Generation BMW X1 is different to the original BMW X1. With a longer wheelbase and a larger interior the X1 has a new front wheel drive layout and is now more in line with the brand’s larger SUV’s. The car may be viewed at Muscats Motors Ltd BMW Showroom in Rue D’Argens, Gzira.

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If I saw this…

FEATURE• Would I Know What To Do? by Ben Glover

WOULD I KNOW WHAT TO DO?

YOUR SAFETY – FIRST ON THE SCENE Don’t panic. Anyone who works in the emergency services will tell you that your own personal safety is PARAMOUNT. If it looks unsafe don’t get involved. Having an extra casualty at the scene is not what you or those trying to give assistance need. However if you are first on the scene park up, switch off your engine, switch on your hazard lights and once you have checked that you’re not in any danger make sure that you identify any fluids, glass, sharp metal or naked flames coming from or near the vehicle. Identify whether you are on a busy road or blind bend. Get extra help from ANYONE around you.

CALL 112

? c i n a p I d l u o WWould I stop orould c w o H ? y b e v i dI prossibly be of ? p l e h aAtnyleast call 112c.k. e h c I d l u o w Hthoewcondition of ? s e i t l a u s a c e th

On calling 112 give a detailed description of the location you are at, what has been involved (numbers of vehicles), how many casualties you have found and a brief description of any injuries (are they breathing, making a noise, moving etc). Often human cries are horrific but are not a bad thing as it identifies the casualty as conscious. If there is more than one person involved go to the quiet ones first.

ASSESSMENT

BY BEN GLOVER

We may have been unlucky enough to be in one. We most certainly may have seen one, especially driving around our island’s roads. I am talking about a road traffic accident. Daily on our Facebook timelines we are seeing bumps and scrapes as well as some very nasty incidents involving cars that have been involved in collisions. Having been involved in the ambulance service here and abroad I am often attending to these cases. As a campaigner for road safety I have always been passionate about the subject the moment I stepped onto our blessed land. From the children who should be wearing seatbelts to controlling your car in a safe and courteous manner, I have tried to do my best and been privileged to help via this very publication. Recently though I cannot help but feel there has been an increase in incidents. But if you were to encounter one, would you stop? For anyone that has been involved in a vehicle accident it is a horrible feeling. It feels like an ‘outer body experience’ with a metallic crashing sound that is not felt with anything else. It often feels like it is lasting a lifetime yet only lasts seconds. Often it is very distressing for not just the occupants but those first on the scene. But it need not be! Remember these steps >>>

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As with any casualty, reassure them you are there to help. Often a voice is a good remedy of hope that help is on its way. NEVER move them. Often neck and spinal injuries can be made worse by a patient being moved. If there is a complaint of a neck injury then do your best to hold the head upright and looking ahead until a collar can be found to support. Placing your hands with open fingers around the jaw will be a great help. This is an easy role for anyone who is passing by. Walking wounded should be made to sit down in a safe place and children kept away. Never offer cover from the elements in your own car. Although this may seem a good idea I have often seen the roof coming off other people’s cars as the casualty has complained of neck or back pain resulting in an instant cabriolet, without any doors, courtesy of the fire service.

THE CASUALTY IS NOT BREATHING If the casualty is out of the vehicle, on the floor and not breathing then step in with the basic First Aid. Remember the term ABC: Airway, Breathing, Circulation. AIRWAY – Are there any obstructions in the mouth (false teeth, chewing gum, sweets)? BREATHING – Are they breathing? Feel for any breaths against your face or check the chest for up and down movements. CIRCULATION – is there a pulse?

If none of the above then perform CPR. Start chest compressions (count 30) to the tempo of ‘Staying Alive – The Bee Gees’. Then tilt the head back using your fingers on the chin and give TWO breaths. Check for a pulse or if the casualty is breathing on their own. If not start another round of CPR until help arrives. By doing this you are providing the brain with oxygen and helping keep the blood flowing, the essential elements needed to, well, stay alive.

WOUND CARE With any open wounds get them covered, and if there is a constant bleed, get it stopped. The earlier the better! Often if blood is spurting from a wound it can be managed by secluding the main artery from which it comes either through your own hand pressure or something that can be used to tie around. No-one is expecting you to be a paramedic or doctor simply packing an open wound with clean material can help stem the flow (t-shirts, ties, other items of clothing).

OTHER POINTERS Avoid giving anything to drink or eat and try to establish if casualties are on any form of medication or have any allergies. This will help the emergency services when they arrive. Carrying a simple basic First Aid kit in your car can undoubtedly save a life and I only wish, like in many other EU countries, it was law here and in the UK. In France for instance you could be fined for not having one along with a warning triangle, spare bulb kit and other safety kit. There are some great apps and content online to help you with the basic techniques.

+++ We are very lucky on the island to have such a good medical response team, including 100’s of volunteers who are trained to do this kind of job. I personally have been eternally grateful to the Malta Red Cross as if it wasn’t for them my medical career would not exist. At the end of the day it is very easy for me to give you a tiny bit of information to help save a life, something I wish could be mandatory through the education in our schools. But please, don’t ever walk or drive away thinking you would be helpless, you most certainly could save someone’s life or indeed lives.

NOW, WOULD YOU STOP?

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TEST DRIVE â&#x20AC;˘ A1 And Only!

by Fleur Balzan

comes to its technology. The most apparent to most is obviously the technology that increases on comfort and convenience. The bluetooth system is amazing, with voice command that allows you to choose between the directory, calls dialled, received or missed. The same voice command allows you to choose from radio to media to car info without so much as taking your eyes off the road. Just press a button on the steering wheel and tell the car what you want to do! Obviously the technology is not lacking through other systems that affect the drive and security. This is what those that enjoy a car not only for its body but mainly for its soul want to know more about. The Audi assistance systems give a feeling of security whatever road one is driving on. The Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) including ABS, EBD, ASR and EDI give the vehicle optimal handling even on wet roads

A1 and only! by Fleur Balzan

ur long term test drives are always very thrilling. There is nothing like having a car for a few months and discovering more about it every day.

The Audi A1 Sportback is truly an exceptional vehicle in this sense. The smallest vehicle from this German brand has surprised us in more ways than one. One may think that a small car is somewhat restricting when it comes to features and technology but this kind of thinking is definitely so wrong and the Audi A1 has proved otherwise. Over the four months we have had the car, there was always something new to discover especially when it

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and the grip on the road is felt at all times, even at high speeds and when swerving. The drive put a smile on my face on more than one occasion, smiles that are coming back even as I write! The car is solid on the road as well when at a standstill. Simply closing the door shows the solidity of the Audi A1! One great opportunity we had over the months was to try the car out in Sicily on roads that are so much more appropriate to test a car like this. Even at high speeds the car was always in the control of the driver. The torque is mind blowing and the

acceleration always there when you need it. The suspension is sporty yet at the same time quite comfortable making the car one that offers a great thrill while driving whilst at the same time allowing for the comfort that may be required for family driving. Just to remind you that the car we had on test is the 1.6 litre TDI 7

speed S tronic and has it come to change my mind when it comes to automatics! This dual clutch gearbox is extemely smooth with the gearchange not being felt at all. Moreover the car is dynamic yet at the same time so fuel efficient. Over the months, with plenty of traffic being met, we have managed a 5.6 litre per 100 km average, yet there were drives that we even managed just over the 3 litre mark per 100km which is amazing. One just seems to forget when one filled up!

on me. It is attractive to look at with lines that are specific yet striking. Sporty, young yet at the same time executive which went perfect with my combined lifestyle of business, the art of music and sport. It caught the eye of many wherever I went and whether in runners or in heals, the car was the perfect accessory completing any attire! I must admit, it is the first time I have looked at a car like this but then again I cannot but admit this car felt appropriate in any crowd and no matter the occasion. It is time to hand the car back and the only thing I can think of is how the months went by too fast and how I wish I could keep it for longer. Without a doubt Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d continue to discover more about this beauty and what it offers. One thing is for sure, the Audi A1 is full of surprises and positive ones too. I would recommend to anyone that wants luxury in a small package. Luxury with youthful flair, sums up the Audi A1 perfectly!

When it comes to looks, the AUDI A1 Sportback has just grown WHEELSPIN

LONG TERM TEST DRIVE:

The Peugeot 2008

Crossover, Compact SUV or MPV?

By Fleur Balzan

e say goodbye to one car as we welcome another, this time we welcome the Peugeot 2008. Call it a crossover, a compact SUV or an MPV, this car is a spacious family car which we have already started to appreciate after just a few days of driving it. The model on test is the 1.6 litre diesel producing 100bhp and with a 5 speed manual gearbox. It is the Allure version meaning that it has added perks such as chrome around the windows, tinted rear windows, chrome panels at the bottom of the doors, chrome exterior mirror covers, chrome roof rails and front and rear skid plates. All these features give the car a sporty yet elegant image, a very stylish image also thanks to the side lines which become more muscular towards the rear. Stylish and classy as the French are known to deliver! The interior is also very stylish with a touchscreen on the centre of the dashboard featuring the Bluetooth system, audio system and the car information system giving the efficiency figures and other info about the drive etc. The ambient lighting within the vehicle is also spectacular at all times, even more so at night. With barely 100km on the clock, we are enjoying the drive which is very stable with great handling. The car has a slightly weighted steering wheel giving the driver great confidence on the road and the suspension offers a comfortable ride for all on board. Look out for more about this vehicle on our TV programme as well as on the next issue of our magazine. 18

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WHEELSPIN • Issue 30 - Winter 2016

BIZARRE CAR CRASH STORIES by Mark Attard

THE MAN WHO WANTED TO RENEW HIS LICENSE, BUT CRASHED INTO THE LICENSING OFFICE In 2010, a man who wanted to renew his driver’s license crashed into the Department of Licensing office in, Washington USA. The crash happened at around 1:00 p.m. Authorities say the driver was arriving at the DOL to renew his license. While pulling into a parking spot his foot slipped off the brake and onto the gas. That’s when the driver jumped the curb and went about 3/4 of the way through the building.

THE MAN WHO CRASHED INTO A RESTAURANT, THEN ORDERED A PIZZA

In January 2013, it was reported that an elderly man got his foot stuck on the accelerator of his car and drove into a Valentino’s pizza restaurant in Lincoln, USA. While other concerned citizens called 911, the man placed an order for a pizza from inside his car! The man’s car, a Honda Fit, was the perfect size to fit right through the door of the restaurant. “He seemed very calm and collected. I was amazed,” said a bystander. The driver was taken to the hospital as a precaution, but he didn’t appear to be hurt or in shock about what had happened. 20

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THE CAR CRASH THAT ACTUALLY SAVED THE TRUCKER’S LIFE Car crashes can be tragic, but in this case it was precisely what saved a man’s life. In 2011, Richard M. Paylor, a 55-year-old trucker from Pennsylvania, told city police that he was driving the rig west at about 9 AM when he started to choke on a piece of apple and blacked out. The next thing he knew, his truck had smashed through the concrete barrier near Lancaster Avenue. Investigators confirmed that the apple was dislodged when Paylor smacked his chest against the steering wheel, and the Police recovered a chunk of apple from the dashboard. “This accident saved his life,” said Lt. Madison Winchester. Paylor was treated and quickly released from the hospital.

THE WOMAN WHO STOLE A TRUCK AND CRASHED INTO THE POLICE STATION In 2012, 27-year-old Amanda Jeffries stole a white pickup truck and, after confirming the theft with the owner, police pursued Jeffries for about four minutes. The chase ended when Jeffries crashed right into the administration offices of the downtown San Angelo police headquarters!

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FEATURE • 10 Bizarre Car Crash Stories

by Mark Attard

In 2007, it was reported how a car crash in West Yarmouth, Massachusetts led police to the discovery of a filthy car filled to the brim with trash and rubbish. According to police, there was so much trash inside 53-year-old Ann Biglan’s Ford Focus that it completely filled the inside from the floor to the ceiling, front and back.

In 2012, 66-year-old Mary Hasselberger was behind the wheel during car accidents occurring at two separate businesses in two days. “Maybe she’s getting her brake and accelerator confused,” said Sgt. Lou Cammiso, although it doesn’t make much sense, considering that the suspect was driving two different vehicles.

The copious amounts of trash apparently caused the crash. Biglan told police that several old coffee cups and pieces of trash fell onto the gas and brake pedals, which caused her to lose control while backing out of a parking space near the West Yarmouth Post Office.

The first accident occurred on a Thursday afternoon, when police in Chicago, say the woman ploughed her Ford Taurus through a wooden fence separating a Dunkin’ Donuts parking lot from a private residence. The vehicle barrelled into the yard until it hit a tree and a bench.

THE WOMAN WHOSE CAR WAS SO TRASHY THAT IT CAUSED AN ACCIDENT

THE CAR CRASH THAT CRUSHED THE WORLD’S LONGEST FINGERNAILS

Lee Redmond of Salt Lake City, Utah was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records for having the longest fingernails in the world — 28 feet (8.5 meters) long — as she hadn’t cut them since 1979. She kept the record until 2009, when she escaped a four car pileup but lost her nails. She was hospitalized with serious, but not life-threatening, injuries after being ejected from the seat of an SUV in which she was a passenger. “[Her nails] were damaged beyond repair,” reported the BBC, quoting Guinness World Records, who also said that Redmond’s nails were “a fundamental part of her life and unique character.” The 68-year-old won’t grow her nails out again, saying it took 30 years the first time and she may not live for another 30.

THE MAN WHO TRIED TO STOP HIS CAR LIKE THE FLINTSTONES BUT COULDN’T Can you stop your car with your feet like The Flintstones? It seems you can’t. In 2011, the Police Department from Roseville arrested a 24-year-old man who tried to use his feet to brake his moving car and failed, hitting four cars along the way. The Fred Flintstone wannabe, a roofer from Warren, was driving on a suspended license and was cited for Reckless Driving in the incident, in which police said he was completely sober but “overly tired.”

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WHEELSPIN • Issue 30 - Winter 2016

THE LADY WHO CRASHED INTO TWO BUSINESSES IN TWO DAYS WITH TWO CARS

The next afternoon, the woman was driving a rented Buick Lacrosse when she allegedly crashed through the wall of an Eye Care Centre located just three doors down from the site of the first accident. Repairs were estimated at €50,000.

THE TEEN WHO STOLE A CAR, SAW HIS MOM IN THE OTHER LANE AND CRASHED

In 2012, a 13-year-old New Jersey boy stole a car, but when he saw his mother driving in the opposite lane he became so distracted that he crashed into a tree. He was treated for a broken nose and a hip injury at an area hospital. Geez.. moms can be SO embarrassing!

10:

THE 2-YEAR-OLD WHO DROVE A TRUCK INTO A HOUSE

In June 2013, Kathleen and George Williams from Grayson, GA came back home to find that someone drove a red pickup truck into their house, and it turned out that it was a 2-year-old. A neighbour across the street admitted to police that he was unloading the pickup with his toddler in the cab, and the boy managed to put the truck in gear. The vehicle then “rolled down at a fairly slow speed across the street.” The crash broke gas and water lines, two windows, and left a large hole in the outside wall, but the Williams say they aren’t angry with their neighbour because it was only an accident.

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SPOT INFO

PEUGEOT wins the 2016 DAKAR

The new Audi A4

26 years after its previous success on the epic event, PEUGEOT has won the Dakar Rally for the 5th time in its history, with the two-wheel drive PEUGEOT 2008 DKR. PEUGEOT has won the Dakar on just its second participation in the South American event. The PEUGEOT 2008 DKRs claimed nine stage wins out of a possible 12, including seven remarkable One-Twos and two OneTwo-Threes.

The new-generation Audi A4 is a fascinating synthesis of technology and aesthetics. All the technology in the brand’s bestselling family has been redeveloped so that it yet again defines the benchmark in the segment.

The expert jury panel for the consumer magazine “What Car?” designated the midsize sedan as the best car in its class. The Audi A4 was also the overall winner among all candidates in 19 categories.

The Audi A4 has taken home the most prestigious automotive prize in the United Kingdom for this year.

Visit Continental Cars Ltd. In Ta’ Xbiex for a test drive or contact AUDI Showroom on 23476 340/360.

A total of three PEUGEOT 2008 DKRs reached the finish ramp. This victory is the latest chapter in a compelling story of motorsport success for PEUGEOT, which includes four Dakar wins in Africa between 1987 and 1990, as well as success in various other events that include the Le Mans 24 Hours, Pikes Peak and the World Rally Championship. www.facebook.com/peugeotmalta

Sicily – Just the place to do two things at the same time Well, not quite – more like two extraordinary things at the same time. Can you think of a place where you can be skiing in the morning and enjoying a boat ride in the afternoon? Skiing in the morning and lunching at a fish restaurant perched on the sea edge? Happily skiing away while milady is equally happily shopping away with a choice? A weekend with a group of good friends but all wanting to do something different, baroque architecture for one, an up but up market lunch for another , a stroll on the beach to soak up the winter sun, a good dose of shopping, skiing with the youngsters - people are difficult - no questions asked, everyone doing his own thing? Try Mount Etna this winter, 24

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and it’s all there waiting for you. Stay at one of the dreamy villages on the slopes of the great volcano – all within

striking distance and only 90 minutes or so away from the Catamaran.

Volkswagen Golf wins “Best Cars” Compact Class Award The Golf has won the prize for the ‘Compact Class’ category for the fourth year running now, thus making this popular model the winner of a total of 30 awards in the 40-year history of the “Best Cars” vote.

distinctive and timeless product and design language from the first to the seventh generation.

Visit Continental Cars Ltd. In Ta’ Xbiex or contact the VW Showroom on 2347 6315.

The success story of the Golf is singular and began 41 years ago. With more than 30 million cars built in seven different generations, the Golf has been setting the standard for decades in the compact class and still retains its leading role today when it comes to using the latest vehicle technologies. Another ground-breaking achievement by the Golf is its exterior and interior design, which has been characterised by a WHEELSPIN