tattoos

Friday, February 27, 2009

Longtermer #2: Volume 8: Honda Civic 2.0IVTEC


Longtermer #2: Volume 8: Honda Civic 2.0IVTEC FD2

This month is the 8th update of Longtermer #2, Honda Civic 2.0iVTEC FD2. Nothing much to update except it had been scratched/dented twice almost the same spot. See photo:


Year of manufactured: 2008 (Duh!)
Current Value: RM113,000
Purchase price: RM126,000 (less NCB)
Mileage when bought: 0008km

Mileage last month: 11525km.

Mileage NOW: 13033km
Average mileage per month: 1862km
Fuel consumption: 33L worth of petrol good for 400km (12.1km/L) mix driving of 70% city, 30% highway. Highest: 550km on 38.333L of petrol (full tank). 70:30 highway and City => 14.3km/L. An increase over last month. BUT: This figures only can be achieved under the hands of my 60 years old dad (120km/h averaged highway speed and "unknown speed" average city drive).

Interesting observation: 33L worth of petrol only good for 360km (10.9km/l) when I drove the car. Why? It's because of my "Heavy-footed" nature. BUT I tend to kickdown and woke up the i-VTEC a bit too often especially during traffic light start. Note: It's 70:30 city and highway driving. Maybe partially that is the reason.

Expenses:

1) None for this month

Here's an interesting observation. The spotlight is bright but "YELLOW". HID only for Low beam and "amber" for side lights.


Here's a parting shot before I sign off...

AN ORIGINAL JEFF LIM Production. That's all folks, thanks for reading...

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Malaysian Road tax structure

The following table illustrates the vehicle road tax structure for the Peninsular Malaysia for vehicles that runs on petrol AS AT 28 December 2007:

Engine Capacity (cc)
< 1,000 RM20
1001 - 1200 RM55
1201 - 1400 RM70
1401 - 1600 RM90
1601 - 1800 RM200.40 to RM280
1801 - 2000 RM280.50 to RM380
2001 - 2500 RM381 to RM880
2501 - 3000 RM882.50 to RM2130
3001 - 5000 RM2134.50 to RM11130


The following table illustrates the road tax structure for the Peninsular Malaysia for vehicles that runs on diesel as at 28 December 2007:

Engine Capacity (cc)
< 1,000 RM20
1001 - 1200 RM130
1201 - 1400 RM140
1401 - 1600 RM180
1601 - 1800 RM400.80 to RM560
1801 - 2000 RM561.10 to RM780
2001 - 2500 RM782.20 to RM1880
2501 - 3000 RM1886 to RM4880
3001 - 5000 RM4890.80 to RM26480

(Question: Can anyone answer, Is there any further reduction in Road tax prices for Diesel vehicles?)

That's all folks, thanks for having the time and patience to read this...

Of double and triple parkers...


The picture above shows irresponsible parent/s DOUBLE OR TRIPLE PARKED waiting to pick up their Kids from School. The School name is no other than "SRJK(C) Damansara". The location of the school alone is PHARKED UP. The TOWN PLANNER need a SHOT in HIS/HER HEAD for locating a School along a busy MAIN ROAD and right after a traffic light (Riana Green on the right). (adding salt to the wounds, the 2 lanes each side become 1 lane due to double parkers, WORSE, it merged into 1 lane right after the school).

Below, another shot of Double parkers.


Below, picture of "TRIPLE PARKERS".


ALSO, there's this 1-car-park-2-parking-lots, often occurs in "L-parking".

I'd like to raise up / suggest the following to curb this problems, especially rampant in 1) Taipan USJ, 2) Damansara Uptown, 3) SS2, PJ. 4) Subang Jaya near Taylor's college etc... HOW TO CURB these ISSUES?

0) Issue summons. This idea is OUT. Currently implemented by MBPJ and MPSJ. The offenders have the cheek to NOT TO PAY summons as their reason: NOT BY POLICE, pay not pay still can renew ROAD TAX. OR "TOO LAZY". Don't you know that MBPJ gave 50% discount to those paid within 2 weeks. Eg. RM30 for expired tickets => RM15.

1) Introduce "Wheel Clamping".
2) Tow their car/s away.
3) For 1-car-park-2-parking lots: Paste an A4 paper to the front windscreen. Use as much glue as possible. Or, Scratch their car if he/she's a REPEAT Offenders - ie. worked there, everyday can see their car double parked there. (NOT ADVISABLE, DO AT YOUR OWN RISK).

End of my ramblings... Thanks for reading this. A 100% ORIGINAL OTOREVIEW'S (JEFF LIM'S) piece of work.

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Longtermer 1: Update 8: Ford Telstar i4 Ghia

In this blog entry, I am updating my Ford Telstar i4 Ghia. This is the 8th update. I'd like to say that this is a respected car, I got a thumbs up from a Black Mercedes E-class driver (Latest model) just by parking beside his car and alighted from my car at the same time as his. He asked whether is my TELSTAR a V6, I said not a V6... Apparently he loved the "Evergreen" design...


Used this Telstar to sent my "small" Dog, Xiao Pai to "Pet Hospital" 10km away from my house. Glad my dog enjoyed the ride, In addition to looking at the window, it managed to stand in the middle facing the Air-cond vent.

Here's a useful feature, door courtesy light (picture below). Why is it useful?
Saved me many times from stepping on my Dog's time-bomb (POO).



Without further ado, let's proceed to Logbook:
LOGBOOK:

Year of manufactured: December 1998 (registered January 1999)
Purchase price: RM42,000 (Aug 2005)
Current value: RM16,000 (As at January 2009)
Depreciation per year (averaged): RM6,500
Mileage last month: 140500km.


Mileage now: 141277km

Fuel consumption improved... The 1st 3 quarter the fuel gauge still went down very fast. Remaining ¼ it moves S-L-O-W-L-Y. Last month I topped 280km +/- (ie. 6.3km/l) when the “low fuel” light 1st appear. Now, full tank of 44.444L good for 340km (ie. 7.8km/l or 24 cents/km). 1/2 highway, 1/2 city. If HEAVY FOOTED and 80% city driving, still good for 310km => 7.2km/l or 26 cents/km.

How? By cleaning the Fuel injector, especially the Throttle body. Last cleaned 2006.
As a result, my 0-100km/h improved from 12 seconds to 11.2 seconds.


After the fuel injector cleaning, the Telstar became more responsive (better acceleration), quieter and smoother.

Expenses (this month)
1) Spark plugs, Tuning and Alignment + Camber.

ALSO Changed lower arm bush assembly, rubber mounting, ALL Front bushings (original FORD parts). => RM430 poorer (See Photo below), inclusive of Fuel Injector cleaning.

I am happy as all my Telstar's problems have been sorted out.

Before I go: here’s a parting shot:

Engine photo. After fitting the "HOTSHOTS" spark plugs cable.

AN ORIGINAL JEFF LIM PRODUCTION (My original work).

Article: Hard lessons prepare Proton for downturn

23 Feb 2009: SOURCE: Theedgedaily.com
http://www.theedgedaily.com/cms/content.jsp?id=com.tms.cms.
article.Article_a64dd61a-cb73c03a-1a8402c0-77130195

Corporate: Hard lessons prepare Proton for downturn
by Siow Chen Ming


As car sales declined towards the end of last year, Proton Holdings Bhd's results for the last quarter of 2008 (3QFY2009 ending March 31) are likely to look bad when they are released at the end of this month.

Still, it would be wrong to predict that the national carmaker would end up in the same dire state as the big Japanese or US car manufacturers, which have reported heavy losses and are downsizing their operations globally.

The situation is not as bad for Proton, sources close to the company say.
"Proton was in a much worse situation a few years ago. At the time, its models were obsolete and could barely sell, and the company had barely enough cash to develop new models," says a source.

Now, despite the poor external environment, Proton is deemed to be on a stronger footing as a car company, having bitten the bullet and spent the necessary capital expenditure (capex) on important projects over the last few years.

For instance, the national carmaker has invested in two core models — the Saga and the Persona. These models were launched over the last two years and have been selling well. The company has also wrapped up the development of its MPV, another mass-market model to be launched in April. The MPV cost Proton slightly over RM450 million in terms of R&D and tooling.

Learning some hard lessons from those years, Proton has streamlined its operations and supply chain and become more focused on its strategy, which is geared towards smart partnerships rather than going it alone.

With these smart partnerships, the capex requirement for the company is expected to be less demanding and more flexible, depending on the economic situation and the affordability of its models.

For instance, although the national carmaker allocates about RM500 million a year to product development and R&D, the spending could be managed more flexibly, depending on the company's cash flow position and the needs or priorities at the time concerned, a source says. Proton had about RM1.2 billion net cash as at Sept 30, 2008.

The most important thing is that management has become more practical. Rather than developing the Waja replacement model from scratch, Proton signed up with Mitsubishi Motors Corp of Japan to "rebadge" the Mitsubishi Lancer as Waja, which will be launched next year.

"Instead of spending RM500 million on R&D alone, Proton is expected to spend only about RM300 million, including re-engineering the Lancer and investing in the production line," says a source.

He adds that Proton is looking to price the 1.8-litre Waja-Lancer from less than RM75,000 to RM80,000. This will throw a strong challenge to the likes of Toyota Vios or Honda City, which are selling for more than RM75,000 despite their smaller engine capacity of 1.5 litres.

"At that kind of pricing, the Waja-Lancer will be a hit, as people know that it is based on the coveted Lancer," says the source.

Whether or not the car market gets worse next year, the Waja-Lancer will be an important product for Proton in 2010. Since it is a rebadged model, the development cost is low and the margin better. Furthermore, demand in the medium-high sedan segment is relatively stable.

With the Waja-Lancer, the new MPV and the existing Saga and Persona, Proton will have four strong models — with most of the investment cost already accounted for (except for the Waja-Lancer) — with which to sail through the current difficult period.

Proton aims to produce 3,500 to 4,000 MPVs a month. As it is the group's first MPV, management expects it to generate more sales for the group by taking market share from its competitors rather than cannibalising the sales of existing Proton models.
The Malaysian car market is expected to fall about 20% this year, according to Synovate Motoresearch, but observers believe the impact could be less on Proton as buyers may choose to down-trade or seek better value in their purchases.

But even if sales do go down, says a source, Proton has no plans to downsize its operations or lay off any of its 10,730 employees, barring ongoing cost-cutting measures.

"The production staff are now working on a single shift. Should orders for the MPV spike, like they did for the Saga last year, Proton could double the shift on the MPV production line. If sales are slow, the company will resort to cutting production by, say, one day every two weeks and so on," says an official.

Going by its arrangement for the Waja-Lancer, the difference between being a national carmaker and a car assembler might blur for Proton in the near future.
Says an observer, "If you understand the Perodua business model, then you can see Proton becoming a little bit like Perodua. Although Perodua is called the second national car project, it is essentially rebadging or re-engineering Daihatsu or Toyota models."

Although Proton's management may prefer not to call the Waja replacement a rebadging of the Lancer, the fact is that the national carmaker is going into the "car assembly" business in a big way, through a collaboration with Mitsubishi.

The deal is not much different from those of other local automotive assemblers and franchise holders, such as UMW Holdings Bhd (for Toyota models) and Tan Chong Motor Holdings Bhd (Nissan).

The only difference is that Proton will try to add more value to a rebadged model by modifying the body panel design and tuning the suspension and driving dynamics of the car using its Lotus expertise.

Rather than developing the entire vehicle in-house, the assembly or rebadging of certain medium-high segment models for the home market — where the margin is better — will free up resources for Proton to focus on developing models for its core medium and lower segments.

At the end of the day, whether Proton can survive as a standalone car manufacturer becomes an irrelevant question. If it can still develop new models with a budget of about RM500 million, recover the investment, generate cash flow and, at the same time, make a profit from rebadging or assembling vehicles, then its business should be viable. To thrive would be the more difficult part.

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Wheel Cylinder Servicing

I spent the weekend servicing the wheel cylinders on my Peugeot 206. The rumbling noise from the rear drum brakes have become very annoying and I just had to take it apart to fix the problem.


If there is rumbling noises from the rear drum brakes, it could be because the brake pads are dragging on the drums, caused by a jammed wheel cylinder. The wheel cylinder is jammed because of rust caused by leaking brake fluid.

The Haynes Service Manual says that the wheel cylinder is not user serviceable, but I just didn't believe it. So I decided to try to service it myself.


Before opening anything, screw down the master cylinder reservoir cap onto a plastic sheet to obtain an airtight seal. This helps to minimise fluid loss when you open the wheel cylinder.


Remove the hydraulic pipe and cap the end to prevent fluid loss and dust getting in.


Remove the rubber boots. Slowly push out the pistons, making sure not to get any remaining fluid in the cylinder from splashing onto the bodywork. Remember that brake fluid can dissolve paint and corrode metal. Scrape off any rust and debris.


Use a rag to clean the insides of the cylinder. Make sure not to block the fluid inlet port and bleeder outlet port.


Check the pistons for wear and tear. If the rubber boots and cups are damaged, then buy a new wheel cylinder. If they are still good, clean them with WD-40 or similar cleaner. Don't use water, because brake fluid absorbs water and will make the pistons rust.



Lubricate the pistons with grease. Lubricate the cylinder too.

Once all is cleaned, reassemble everything, remove the plastic sheet from the master cylinder reservoir cap, bleed the brakes and adjust the parking brake.

After the servicing, the rumbling noise from the rear drum brakes are gone. But now there's a soft rumble coming from the from disc brakes. I suspect the front cylinders need servicing too. Well, that will be a job for another weekend.

Want to fix the Peugeot 206 yourself?
Get this book.
I have one!


Saturday, February 14, 2009

Happy Valentine day...

Another year, it's valentine’s day again, how I celebrate my Valentine day?

11am to 4pm: Working in Show house, NEW 2 1/2 storey terrace in Bandar Metro Puchong (I'm a Real Estate agent by profession).

4pm to 5pm: Eating McD in Tesco Puchong with my colleague (a girl... Ahem!)

5.30pm to 7pm: At Home
7.15pm to 8.15pm: Good Friend's baby full moon open house. Nice buffet from
CAFE 1920.

8.30pm to 11pm: "Bachelors Valentine day gathering..."

11.30pm - 12am: Sitting here in front of the computer TYPING THIS BLOG ENTRY...


Without further ado, here's a parting shot: A poem to "celebrate" it…

Valentine’s day ALONE...

I stand outside on this chilly night
Dreading the dawn of tomorrow
For with the morning will come my downfall
A romantic day only filled with boredom…

Wanting someone to be with
On this year’s Valentine’s Day
Someone to hold me and sing me a song
As we dance the night away

Someone to kiss me gently
Underneath the star filled sky
Her beautiful lips, so soft and pink
She’d be an all rounded girl

Yet I know that I’ll be spending Valentine’s alone
Maybe next year things will change
But for now my finger is crossed
For the right girl to celebrate with...

When next valentine cometh…

Saturday, February 7, 2009

FULL REVIEW: Jaguar X-Type 2.5 V6

In this review, I'm covering Jaguar X-type 2.5 V6, in Malaysia, there's also a 2.1 V6 but I felt it's a bit underpowered. Hence I didn't include in this review.

NEW CAR PRICE: RM290,000 for 2.1 V6 FWD. RM338,000 (2.5SE V6 AWD)

The used car value for the X-type 2.5 are as follows (as at January 2009:

Year: 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
RM: 95k 110k 140k 160k 180k 220k 260k



FULL REVIEW: Jaguar X-type 2.5 V6


As usual I don't have a proper Jaguar X-type to test and brag about. All is not lost, I dished out a Review from GoAUto Australia and 4 owner's review about their X-type.

Model release dates: September 2001 - February 2005

Overview


DESPITE discarding some traditional values such as rear-wheel drive and a palatial interior fit-out, Jaguar's new little kitten makes its impression felt with a beautiful and unmistakable appearance, comfortable confines and great dynamics. Yet there is room for improvement. In 2.5 Sport form tested here, lacklustre engine performance and a lack of standard equipment also creep into the mix, making the entry level X-Type a reasonable first attempt rather than what we hoped would be an outstanding entrant in the competitive small-medium prestige sedan segment.

The Car


IT MIGHT be smaller than any Jaguar we've seen before, but the X-Type cannot be mistaken for anything other than a member of the Cat family. Heavy cat-claw sculpting runs down the bonnet to the sleek grille and beady clear-lens elliptical quad headlamps with multi-faceted reflector forms. (Xenon headlights are available as an option.) Sport models are distinguished from SE models by larger 17-inch wheels, a subtle rear spoiler on the bootlid and black window surrounds. Twin tailpipes provide a purposeful sign-off at the rear.

The Car - Seat Plan


X-TYPE seats five people, each with a head restraint and three-point seatbelt. Front occupants are provided with (dual-stage) frontal, side and head airbag protection, and benefit from an occupant sensing system; rear passengers are supplied with head airbag protection only. The front seatbelts use pretensioners and belt force limiters. Various storage facilities are provided, extending to novel locations such as just underneath the front doorhandle. A range of storage accessories, such as a centre armrest on Sport and 2.5 SE models (standard on the 3.0 SE), is also available. There are no front cupholders.

The Car - Seats

ALL Sport models have eight-way electrically adjustable front bucket seats upholstered in a cloth/leather combination. Electric adjustment on the 2.5-litre SE model is limited to height rise and fall, though SE models have full leather trim. All models throughout the range have 10-way electrically adjustable seats with lumbar support and heat treatment available as an option. Other seat alternatives for Sport customers include full (perforated) leather trim in ivory trim. The steering wheel is wrapped in perforated leather trim on Sport models.

The Car - Dash


THE X-Type dash features a long, sweeping hood made from soft plastic and a sea of wood veneer, the latter grey-stained bird's eye maple in Sport models and traditional bird's eye maple in SE. Woodgrain is also used on the gearknob, around the gearshift and on the centre console, while SE models have an additional piece of veneer in each door. The instrument cluster is a simple affair, with all gauges using chrome rings, a "British Racing" green background and white graphics that turn green at night. The speedometer winds around to 260km/h (actual top speed is 225km/h on the 2.5-litre manual) and the tachometer rises to a 6500rpm redline.

The Car - Controls

MOST controls within the X-Type cabin are presented in familiar locations and configurations. The driving position is aided with (manual) steering wheel reach and height adjustment and (electric) seat height adjustment. The right-hand side of the dash contains controls for the (automatic) headlamps and beam adjustment (three positions), instrument lighting and trip functions, including conversion from kilometres to miles - for cost-reducing more than nostalgic reasons, we suspect. Electric mirror and window switchgear is located on the driver's door and all windows have an automatic down/up and anti-trap function. Steering column stalks include left-hand indicators and variable intermittent wipers. A rain-sensing front windscreen wiper is used in the cabin, too. The fuel filler is opened via an internal fuel release while boot access is gained via a button on the bootlid or the remote keypad. Cruise control, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, auto-dipping rearview mirror and a trip computer (which displays journey data and security and engine diagnostics) are not fitted standard to Sport models, however all are available as an option.

The Car - Wheels/tyres

SPORT models use a more handling-focussed wheel and tyre combination than SE: 7.0J x 17-inch wheels compared to 6.5J x 16 on SE and 225/45 R17 tyres versus 205/55 R16s. Alloy wheels are standard across the range, however Sport models use an "X-Sport" design with five twin-spokes and SE uses either a "X-10" (2.5-litre model) or "X-5" (3.0-litre) pattern. All models are fitted with a temporary spare. The jack and basic tools are provided in the spare wheel well, located underneath the boot floor.

The Car - Luggage

THE fact that Jaguar's small sedan has the biggest boot in Jaguar history says more about all models before it, particularly the S-Type, rather than the X-Type itself. The cargo floor depth is 1070mm and maximum width is 1130, shrinking to a minimum of 1060mm between the wheel arches. Volume is 452 litres. A 70/30 split-fold rear seat and/or a skiport are available as an option. Boot access is made via the remote keypad or a button on the bootlid. Space-saving gas struts are used on the lid and a large aperture helps with loading. The boot is fully lined, has tie-down hooks, an elastic band to hold a small item in the right-hand trim and a storage compartment on the opposite side for storing the optional compact disc units for sat-nav and the stereo.

The Car - Stand out features


THE purists might deplore the use of four-wheel drive over rear-wheel drive and "niggling" aspects such as a transversely mounted engine. But the X-Type remains true to the Jaguar promise of stunning looks and an involving drive. The 2.5-litre engine takes the edge off performance and, inexplicably, cruise control, steering controls and a trip computer are optional on the Sport model. A thoroughfare from boot to cabin also requires a further outlay.

The Car - Climate control

A SINGLE-ZONE automatic climate control air-conditioning system with a pollen and odour filter is fitted standard across the X-Type range. A thin LCD display along the centre console shows the in-cabin temperature as well as outside ambient temperature. Large buttons for fan speed, (timed or latched) air recirculation, automatic control and front and rear demist are provided around the large (optional) LCD screen positioned directly above this small screen. This larger screen also has push-button controls for temperature adjustment, should the driver or front passenger choose to use it in this manner. The optional voice activation system can also be used to control the climate.

The Car - Sound system

SPORT models have an AM/FM radio/cassette and single-slot in-dash compact disc system fitted standard. Four twin-cone speakers are used. Adjustment is made via the head unit on the dash and push-button controls on the (optional) large LCD screen - SE customers get the additional benefit of steering wheel-mounted controls fitted standard; Sport customers can gain these as an option. Speaking of which, a boot-mounted six-disc CD auto-changer, fitted standard to the 3.0-litre SE model, is also available as an option. Other audio alternatives include a premium 180-watt, 10-speaker system. The optional voice activation also includes control for primary audio functions.

The Car - Sat Nav

SATELLITE navigation is optional across the X-Type range. Like the audio and climate systems, the sat-nav uses fingertip control via a 178mm (7-inch) "widescreen" colour LCD display. The system uses DVD technology, which according to Jaguar enables eight times the amount of information to be stored onto a single disc compared to conventional CD-ROM based systems. A combination of screen and voice guidance is provided, the latter selectable in nine languages. In addition to the usual destination guidance, the system can provide information and markings of points of interest such as service stations, hotels, car parks, shopping centres, restaurants and hospitals.

The Car - Security


ALL X-TYPE models are fitted with remote central locking (with keypad panic alarm), deadlocking, two-stage unlock, global closing of all electric windows and (if fitted) sunroof, engine immobiliser and a perimeter-sensing (door, bonnet and boot) alarm. Automatic driveaway locking is also included, where all doors are locked when the speed reaches 10km/h. All windows have an automatic up and down function. The interior and headlamp lighting is linked with the remote keypad and the front vanity mirrors are illuminated. The audio system is security coded and the odometer is claimed to be tamper-resistant. The glove compartment can be locked.

Handsome looks, sure-footed handling, good refinement, generous boot space
Lacklustre engine performance, lack of standard equipment, instrument reflections

Our Opinion

By TERRY MARTIN 19/12/2001

THE reincarnation of Jaguar shows just how far purveyors of fine motorcars will stoop to improve their bottom line.

To the horror of the traditional constituents, certainties such as a palatial interior, rear-drive chassis and prodigious admission fee have disappeared and showrooms are no longer the exclusive domain of the elite.

Indeed, X marks the spot where even members of the petite bourgeoisie are being courted. Shopkeepers, clerks, all manner of people from the lower orders of the middle class are now invited to consider the latest offering from the blue-blooded British brand.

And before long, even the great unwashed will be allowed in for high tea when a front-drive example of this new small sedan is brought forward with a 2.0-litre engine and a starting price of around $50,000.

For now, though, the all-wheel drive X-Type 2.5 V6 Sport priced from a shade over $68,000 is the lowest point Jaguar has reached.


It looks like a member of the club, with its "XJ" grille and cat-claw bonnet sculpting reminiscent of that other volume-seeking sedan in the range, the S-Type.

But whether the X-branded car does in fact live up to expectations as a true Jag is a question worth exploring. It is the first Jaguar car not to be rear-wheel drive, it's based on a Ford (Mondeo) platform and it skimps on standard equipment.

Yet it is handsome and distinctive to view, elegant and comfortable within and entertaining to drive.

As a Sport, this one differentiates itself from the plusher SE grade with its use of 7.0 x 17-inch wheels (as opposed to 6.5 x 16s), a subtle rear spoiler, sports bucket seats (albeit with a rich dose of cloth trim), handling-biased suspension tuning and a grey stain of bird's eye maple for the metre or so of bark across the dash.

Electric conveniences extend to the front seats, the entertainment unit has room for a single CD, an alarm is fitted standard and a strong showing on the safety front is made with the inclusion of anti-lock brakes, adaptive dual front airbags, front side airbags and curtain airbags which extend along the front and rear windows.

We are astonished, however, that items such as cruise control, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, a trip computer, ski-port and split-fold rear seat are relegated to the options basket.

There is no footrest for the driver. No front cupholders. Just the one zone is provided with the climate control system. Our test car had a temporary spare tyre. And despite all the fuss made over storage facilities, there is nowhere convenient on the centre console to store a mobile phone or a pen. (An integrated phone can be obtained for around $2000, just so long as Sir or Madam purchases a centre armrest as well!)

Further handicaps for the driver present themselves via terrible reflections on both the instrument panel and the thin green strip provided for temperature and clock readings.

For the additional dosh, the 2.5 SE gets the cruise, tiller controls, trip computer and that centre armrest, plus full leather trim, more chrome details inside and out and an equally lengthy options list. Furthermore, electric pew adjustment is downgraded at this $70,000-plus level to include just height rise and fall - and then only for the driver.

In essence, the interior feels solid, tight, refined and rather sentimental with the wood veneer, trip information in miles (if desired) and gauges backed in British racing green. The "galloping" indicators seem oddly appropriate in this context, too.


Good comfort and support from the Sport seats is evident, as is a beneficial driving position - aided with steering wheel height and reach adjustment - for average-sized adults. Long-legged individuals could do with more seat travel.

The (optional) touch-screen panel on our test car controlling aspects of the audio, climate and sat-navigation is easy enough to use after a breaking-in period, though it is mounted too low for ideal operation and pushes significant switches such as radio on/off and fan speed off to the far left-hand side.

Sound from the stereo is also no better than average, a description which equally applies to the amount of rear seat room in all directions.

Packaging priorities seem to have headed south into the boot - the biggest of its kind in Jaguar history we are told, which says more about the insufficient space in the S-Type than the roominess of this little kitten. As it stands, the X boot size is on a par with the excellent A4, it is fully lined, has a wide aperture, non-obtrusive boot-lid struts and useful luggage tie-down hooks.

Of the two Ford Duratec engines available, the smaller bore 2.5-litre version goes to work at this level. A 24-valve, quad cam V6 with variable valve timing, the engine produces 145kW at 6800rpm and 244Nm at 3000rpm - figures that do not augur well when a 1595kg kerb weight (in auto form as tested here) is factored in.

Though it is a smooth operator, the engine lacks pulling power from the mid-range down into the bottom end and as a result makes the task of shifting car and occupants more difficult than need be.

The five-speed automatic transmission does not cope with the weight at all that well, either, swapping ratios far too often whenever the terrain throws up a hill or two and often diving down two gears at a time to go in search of more torque. On other occasions, it is reluctant to drop a cog.

Some of these problems can be overcome with manual gear selection, however the Jaguar J-gate is not an appealing instrument to use and finding third gear requires a deft touch - or, so it seems at times, a degree of luck. The gate was also reluctant on our test car to slot neatly into park, often preventing key extraction from the ignition.

We were also not surprised to find that fuel consumption was on the high side, remaining above 13L/100km in urban driving and averaging 13.6L/100km across our wider-ranging test loop.

Where this particular car impresses most is in its sure-footed handling. In particular, the Traction-4 permanent four-wheel drive system - that beast which accounts for a full 80kg - delivers a superb amount of grip without impeding the overall driving experience.

With the torque split 40/60 per cent front to rear and weight distribution the reverse at 60/40, the chassis feels nicely balanced and the handling characteristics close to neutral. Some understeer can be found if one goes searching for it, however the high levels of adhesion keep the front end in check. If anything, the X-Type feels like a rear-driver - which is just what the chassis engineers would have been instructed to ensure.


Also impressive is the supple ride, delivered despite the stiffer suspension set-up of the Sport and excellent degree of refinement across the board. Coarse-chip bluestone was the one bugbear for the Continentals on our test car. The brakes also showed some signs of fatigue after a vigorous workout.

For its part, the quicker-ratio Sport steering is accurate and extremely well weighted, though it is afflicted with vibration and kickback during chopped-up corners.

For all the entertainment offered when a winding bit of road presents itself, a competent chassis, snug cockpit and elegant exterior just are not enough to endear us to this bottom-rung Cat.

Those with a greater need for performance and equipment will join us at the 3.0-litre SE level, where our expectations of wholeness and grandeur were closer to being met.


Mechanical - Engine


A 3.0-LITRE and smaller-bore 2.5-litre V6 are available with the X-Type, each of which is a version of the Ford Duratec engine seen on entry level S-Types and other vehicles throughout the Blue Oval Empire. These are relatively lightweight 24-valve, double overhead cam powerplants featuring continuously variable intake valve timing. On both engines, more than 90 per cent of peak torque is available between 2500rpm and 6000rpm. Both also meet the Californian Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) standard. The 2.5-litre produces 145kW at 6800rpm and 244Nm at 3000rpm, while the 3.0-litre engine produces 172kW and 284Nm at the same engine speeds. Claimed acceleration from 0-100km/h is 8.3 seconds for the 2.5 manual and 7.5 seconds for the 3.0 automatic. Official fuel consumption data shows the 2.5-litre manual consumes an average 8.55L/100km over the city/highway cycle while the 3.0 auto consumes 9.45L/100km on the same test.


Mechanical - Plan views


CAN this truly be a Jaguar? Transverse engine layout, V6, four-wheel drive. Jaguar purists must shudder over their Cognacs just contemplating the prospect. But necessity is the mother of invention in this case. The X-Type is based on the same platform as the much more mundane Ford Mondeo, which is a front-driver. Faced with that option, Jaguar elected to connect drive to the rear as well, and set the car up to feel like a rear-drive. However, they haven't resisted the fwd temptation for long, announcing an X-Type two-litre front-driver late in 2001. Shock, horror!

Mechanical - Suspension

THE X-Type suspension system is a variation of the one Ford has used on the current generation Mondeo (not sold here) comprising twin-tube MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link configuration at the rear. The front suspension uses a fabricated steel cross-member and L-shaped lower control arm incorporating a "hydrabush" for increased dynamic performance and refinement. At the rear, the multi-link torsion control link system is the first of its kind used on a Jaguar. Sport models have unique spring, damper and anti-rollbar settings for tauter and more responsive handling.

Mechanical - Electronic system

IN ADDITION to the reassuring grip provided with the all-wheel drive system, the X-Type offers dynamic stability control (DSC) as an option on both Sport and SE models. Like other systems of this type, Jaguar's DSC uses the brakes and/or engine power to keep things under control when the electronic brain detects the car is about to reach the point of no return. At the core of the X-Type's sophisticated multi-media system is an optical data network - a wide-band "ring" of optical fibres which provide fast and high quality data transfer.

Mechanical - Transmission


THE standard transmission comes fitted with an electronic five-speed automatic transmission with "normal" and "sport" driving modes (and a wooden gear lever). An SE with a manual gearbox can be ordered from the factory for an additional cost. The X-Type also features Jaguar's exclusive Traction-4 full-time all-wheel drive system, which comprises a viscous-coupled centre differential that splits torque 40/60 per cent front to rear in normal driving conditions. If slip is detected, torque will be transferred via the viscous coupling to the front or rear wheels to provide optimum traction and stability.


Mechanical - Brakes

X-TYPE uses disc brakes all-round, ventilated and using single-piston callipers at the front. The front discs measure 300mm in diameter and 24mm in thickness while the rear discs are 280mm x 19mm. A four-channel anti-lock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution is fitted standard.

Mechanical - Steering


X-TYPE uses a ZF-made speed-sensitive variable-ratio power-assisted rack and pinion steering system. The turning circle is 10.84m and 2.6 turns of the steering wheel are required from lock to lock. In Sport trim, the steering rack ratio is quickened off-centre. The steering column is manually adjustable for reach and height. Audio and telephone controls are fitted standard to SE models.

Safety


A COMPREHENSIVE range of safety equipment is included across the X-Type range. On the airbag front, the front occupants are protected by dual-stage frontal airbags, side airbags and curtain airbags. A curtain airbag is also provided for rear occupants. The front seatbelts use a pyrotechnic belt latch tensioner and belt force limiter, and the seatbelt sash is adjustable for height. All seatbelts in the rear are of the three-point variety and all positions have a head restraint. Anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution are fitted standard and, for further reassurance over and above the strong dynamic performance (including permanent four-wheel drive), stability control is optional across the range.

Data /SPECIFICATIONS Jaguar X-type 2.5 V6 4WD (X-type 2.1 V6 in bracket)

* Major service intervals: 16,000km

ENGINE:

* 2.495-litres 24-valve quad cam V6, ALL wheel drive
* (2099cc, 24v, quad cam V6, Front wheel drive)
* Power: 145kW @ 6800rpm (117kw @ 6800rpm)
* Torque: 244Nm at 3000rpm (200Nm @ 4100rpm)
* Compression ratio: 10.3:1 (10.75:1)
* Bore/stroke: 81.6mm/79.5mm (81.6 x 66.8mm)

TRANSMISSION:

* 5-speed automatic, with Traction-4 full-time all-wheel drive system, which comprises a viscous-coupled centre differential that splits torque 40/60 per cent front to rear in normal driving conditions. If slip is detected, torque will be transferred via the viscous coupling to the front or rear wheels to provide optimum traction and stability. (For 2.1 V6, Front wheel drive)


SUSPENSION:

* Front: MacPherson struts Rear: multi-link configuration

STEERING:

* Power-assisted variable-ratio speed-sensitive rack and pinion
* Turning circle: 10.84 metres
* Turns lock to lock: 2.6

BRAKES:

Front Ventilated discs, Rear solid discs, servo assisted, Dual circuits, ABS+EBD, Brake assist, Electronic Stability Control

DIMENSIONS:

* Length: 4672mm
* Width: 1789mm
* Height: 1392mm
* Wheelbase: 2710mm
* Track front: 1522mm
* Track rear: 1537mm
* Kerb weight: 1555kg

FUEL CONSUMPTION: 9.45L/100km

PERFORMANCE:
Top speed: 227km/h (205km/h)
0-100km/h: 8.3 secs (10.8 secs)

STANDARD EQUIPMENT:

* Full-time all-wheel drive
* Five-speed Automatic gearbox
* Sport suspension
* 17-inch alloy wheels
* Cloth/leather trim
* Sport leather steering wheel
* Grey stained birds eye maple wood veneer
* Single CD stereo
* Automatic climate control air-conditioning
* Electric windows and mirrors
* Electric front seats
* Dual front and side airbags
* Curtain airbag
* ABS brakes with EBD
* Front foglights
* Alarm

End of Specification and report from GoAuto Australia:


Here's a parting shot...

Without Further ado, let's proceed to owner's review (source: www.carsurvey.org):

Owner 1: 2005 Jaguar X-Type SE review from UK and Ireland

What things have gone wrong with the car?

The Jaguar X-type, the BMW 3-Series, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the Audi A4. These 4 cars comprise the category, and each one of the cars has its own charm. A lot of the reviewers criticise the X-type in comparison with the other 3 cars in terms of price and performance. However, I think they're being a bit unfair when they're comparing against those models for one reason. They're often comparing the X-Type AWD (all wheel drive) with 2-wheel drive versions of the other cars. The thing is, if you compare the Jaguar X-Type with the BMW 3-Series, lets say the Jaguar X-Type 2.5 and the BMW 325xi, the Beemer is much more expensive here; the same with the Mercedes AWD and the Audi Quattro.

For that reason, I think the X-Type is the best value of them all in terms of what you get for your money, plus it's the most luxurious.

Owner 2: 2003 Jaguar X-Type review from North America


"It's a good automobile with a couple of annoying quirks.."

What things have gone wrong with the car?

The car "eats" headlamp bulbs at an alarming rate! We are in double digits by now... probably a dozen bulbs since new. " You replace one side then the other side goes"! Can anyone shed some light on this problem? ( no pun intended ).

General comments?

Good handling, Great brakes! The car has been relatively trouble free ( except for the annoying headlamp bulbs at $15.00 a copy + installation).
Gas tank is too small resulting in too short a range between fill-ups.

Front seat backrest sadly lacks lumbar support resulting in uncomfortable seating for both 55 year old wife as well as me (70).

The car has met most of the expectations we had at purchase time. We plan on driving it until it reaches 250,000 kms ( 150,000 miles ). It is 70% highway use.

Owner 3: 2003 Jaguar X-Type 2.1 SE review from Singapore

"Buy it! Go for the 2.5 or 3 if you want more power. Else for city driving, 2.1 is sufficient"

What things have gone wrong with the car?
None.

General comments?

Cabin at the back is just right for my family although back seat can be more comfortable with deeper bucket seat. Space at the back is just nice for 3 average-sized adults. Anything more, it be cramp.

Space in the front cabin is good although I would have preferred something to rest my left foot whilst driving.

Driver does not control the central locking for the passengers. I'm unable to lock/unlock the doors with a push of a button like the new Camry. This is frustrating especially when the Camry which I have owned for a couple of years has this simple function, but useful function.

I am still puzzled why Jaguar manufactured the engine bonnet lever at the left front side when the car is right-hand drive especially when this car is imported from the UK and cars are right-hand drive.??? This poses a slight inconvenience to the driver.

Engine so far so good.

Performance is above average. Noise level in the cabin is minimal except when car is accelarating to 3000 to 3500 rpm. At this speed, the car emits a purring noise as it pushes the car forward. It's not very nice sounding compared to the Camry.
This car definitely turns heads. I was just doing a complete waxing Autoglym waxing job yesterday afternoon and lo and behold, many came to view the car out of curiosity. The expressions on their faces says it all - envy!

Jaguar, both past and present, connotes an almost regal reputation. People view Jaguar more than the round-the-mill Mercedes, BMW, Audi and Saab.

Owner 4: 2002 Jaguar X-Type review from Australia and New Zealand
"Brilliant to drive and eats the BMWs and Mercedes Benz models"

What things have gone wrong with the car?
No faults.

General comments?

The X-Type was a pleasure to drive for several thousand kilometres touring Victoria over Christmas with my family.

It was quite, comfortable, but perhaps more lumber support for front passengers.
The Global Positioning Navigation System (GPS) touch screen is light years or several generations beter than the new nav. system in the 4.4 litre BMW four wheel drives.

It is perfect for a tourist and I felt helpless when my six year old son turned off the voice commands and I was just left with the excellent map on a screen.
The steering is excellent, given that it is a three litre engine it has oudles of power and leaps forward ever so silently - just like a cat. On country running I averaged 9 litres per 100 kilometres, over 31 miles per gallon and about 10 to 11 litres or 26 to 26 miles per gallon in town.

It is fantastic to park in small spaces and the parking sensors are just wonderful.
The ride and feel of the car was wonderful.

It is one of the few cars in the world where one can comfortably double or triple the recommended cornering speed and still not feel like a racing driver!
I was also very impressed with the large boot that took four large suitcases and a large bag, laptop computer, briefcase and lots of coats.

Even with this load plus a family of four, acceleration was effortless, especially when overtaking.

It was also fun to be pampered with such luxury, unlike the BMW and Mercedes.

That's all folks, thanks for having the patience to read this LONG REVIEW.

REFERENCES:

1) GOAUTO Australia website
http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/story2/
8341450DE3C3982ECA256B4E007C8F37

2) www.carsurvey.org (for the owner's review)

3) Auto International Buyer's guide 2003, Malaysian car Magazine. Page 72, for some of its specifications

4) Ms. J S S Lim's dad's Jaguar X-type 2.5i (as seen in the 1st 2 post on top). Will ask her permission for test drive soon. Watch this space for further review.

Sunday, February 1, 2009

LONGTERMERS #2, Volume 7: Honda Civic 2.0iVTEC

LONGTERMERS #2, Volume 7: Honda Civic 2.0iVTEC


For the month of January, the Civic made 1 trip to Klang, 2 rounds to KLIA and 2 rounds to LCCT, in addition to daily trips to work and back (by dad).

I tried the Paddle Shift on my trip to Klang. The "ROLLING START" at toll booth from 0-100 and beyond => Surprisingly FAST. That night (10pm), at the toll booth, there's slight G-force as I used the paddle shift from "2" to "3" to "4" and finally "5". Within a short distance (less than 15 seconds), the digital speedometer shows: 138km/h. I backed off and reduced the speed to 110km/h (speed limit) (cause there's 4 people on board including me). Tried the cruise control as well (set at 120km/h) nothing special.

Sent the Civic to Sumber Edaran Auto, Petaling Jaya for 10,000km "free" service.


Again, mineral oil's used. This makes me wonder, should I bring my own engine oil for them to change?

In this instance, "free service" it is NOT... I gotta pay RM58 for "recommended" Alignment and balancing, extra RM7 for "Removing nail in front left tyre" and FINALLY RM11 for Car wash and vacuum. Grand total: RM76.

Wonder what's with Honda Malaysia's 5,000km service interval? You know what? Did my research, Honda UK's Civic service interval (1.6 iVTEC Hatchback) is 12500 MILES NOT Kilometres, which is actually 20,000km. Also, Honda Australia's service interval's 10,000km.

My Civic seriously needs some soundproofing especially on the "Roof", Doors AND Floorpan. It's because during heavy rain, there's this sound "tok...tok...tok...tok..." (sounds like raining on zinc roof). Also, when driving past freshly tarred roads: kruck..kruck..kruck (non-stop) (when driving past the road)!!! Also, RRROOOOAAAARRRR... (Non stop) when driving at certain Highways. As for the doors, it's "HOLLOW".

I don't want to soundproof the bonnet and engine firewall because I want to hear the sound of I-VTEC (especially 4000rpm onwards).

Did some survey, guess I have to Buy the Soundproofing material and DIY myself as a trip to 3 accessories shops => $$$ installation costs (Especially KKLAU in Petaling Jaya, Dynamat costs RM1xxx for Roof, Door and Floorpan including installation. Will check with Honda Civic FD club members in Malaysia, is there any?


Here's some pictures:


Without further ado, let's proceed to the Logbook.

Year of manufactured: 2008 (Duh!)
Current Value: RM113,000
Purchase price: RM128,000
Mileage when bought: 0008km

Mileage last month: 9063km.
Mileage NOW: 11525km
Average mileage per month: 1921km
Fuel consumption: 33L worth of petrol good for 400km (12.1km/L) mix driving of 70% city, 30% highway. Highest: 520km on 38.333L of petrol (full tank) => 13.6km/L. An increase over last month.

Expenses:
1) 10,000km "free" service. But need to spent RM58 for Alignment and Balancing, Car wash (RM11). => RM69. Also RM7 extra to remove the "nail in front left tyre". Grand total: RM76.

Here's a parting shot of the Civic:

 

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