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Quick Getaways
Race-cars and super-cars have plenty of power, and sometimes this can be a handful to manage when accelerating quickly away from a standstill. There is some special technology that new muscle cars now have which enables optimum power and traction for the best fast getaway. The better the launch control system, the faster the getaway. So how does a decent launch control system work?
Launch control is a clever piece of technology which acts electronically to balance the optimum ratio of power with enough traction so as to get the car moving forward from a standstill with minimal wheel spin. The quickest getaways come from the best systems that control the colossal levels of optimum power under hard acceleration with the amount of wheel spin. Wheel spin under hard acceleration suggests that the tyres are unable to grab at the road because of excessive torque reaching the driving wheels. Too much torque and power results in the tyres losing grip on the road, and there is a lack of forward motion at this point. Launch control systems, electronically, allow an input of an optimum amount of engine revs that will provide enormous but not too much power at the driving wheels. A rapid and defined engagement of the clutch also occurs so that a mistimed human clutch progression is nullified. Electronically managed wheel spin, at take-off, results in smoother, quicker acceleration.
One part of the launch control system includes the many sensors and computers that are constantly calculating the amount of torque available at the drive axles. If the computer recognises that there is too much power available at the axle which would make the wheel spin, then the power is electronically adjusted in minute timeframes – as small as milliseconds. Launch controls systems are quite complex as they even take into account things like tyre temperature, tyre pressure, road surface and engine temperature; all of which are variables that can affect the desired rapid fast getaway. Even when driving quickly, there are also traction control systems that use torque vectoring and individual wheel braking to spread the torque evenly between the driving wheels. Numerous supercars are now All-Wheel-Drive (AWD), so the torque vectoring occurs evenly between left-to-right wheels as well as front-to-rear wheels.
With ever increasing levels of power becoming available for race cars and supercars the need for better launch control in fast getaways, and torque vectoring when cornering, is all the more necessary, particularly when striving to get an edge over the competition. A successful launch will propel a supercar or race car to big high speeds in a matter of seconds, and once the launch has been completed the on-board computer switches the launch control system off, passing the control over to the traction management system and also back into the hands/decision of the driver.
You’ll also find that aspects like downforce are very important to gaining traction when accelerating fast from a standstill and at high speed. Supercars like the BMW M4 and Porsche 911 have active aerodynamics which changes the rate of downforce according to the speed, thus keeping the car hugging the road as much as possible for better traction and control.
The sheer pleasure of acceleration is even better experienced with important management control systems like Launch Control and Traction Control being employed. These sophisticated systems are also what push the buying prices of supercars upward – as you would expect.
The SUV 40 mpg Club
It’s a growing trend that more and more of us are choosing to buy a new SUV vehicle over a more conventional sedan or wagon. There is a lot of sense in buying these as they usually perform well in crash testing, have a higher ride height, often offer more room and practicality, and are comfortable. Having AWD is nice for the odd light off-road excursion, but how good are they on fuel though?
There is a load of new SUV vehicles available, but interestingly there are an increasing number of relatively fuel efficient SUVs coming onto the market. A true SUV is one that is described as being a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV). It’s a vehicle that is similar to a station wagon or estate car but comes, more often than not, equipped with four-wheel drive for both good on-road or off-road capability. Some of the best fuel efficiency is not always associated with diesel engines. Some hybrid vehicles and even petrol versions can be amazingly frugal, too.
Let’s see what are the most fuel efficient SUVs in the real world; SUVs that you can currently buy on the market and are able to obtain 7 litres/100 litres or 40 mpg. But bear in mind that it’s hard to relate a Mini Countryman or even a Fiat 500X with an SUV label, even though their manufacturers think that they fall into the mini SUV bracket. If a vehicle is going to be an SUV it really has to be able to perform the utility side of the deal, like being able to take plenty of luggage and occupants on or off-road or even be able to tow a trailer without looking stupidly overladen and out of puff. Realistically, to have a useful SUV you need one that has a strong chassis, good space and at least a modest bit of grunt under the bonnet. So with this in mind, you may not find the likes of a mini hatch on steroids seriously considered as part of this mix of possible fuel efficient SUVs.
Here are some of the top picks that I’ve managed to put together that, in the real world, are returning around 7 litres/100 km or better – that’s equivalent to 40 mpg on average.
Audi offer the Q3 with a punchy 2.0 TDI engine in either 140 or 150 kW output. Both of these models are very stylish and comfortable. Packed with features and handy off-road, the Q3 is definitely a real compact SUV and one that can frugally carry you about at better than 40 mpg.
Any of the BMW X1 Diesel powered models are truly remarkably frugal compact SUVs. Each of these in the real world can get well under 7 litres/100 km. The much larger X5 sDrive25d has loads of space and off-road ability – not to mention comfort and performance. This is returning 7.5 litres/100 km not far from the magical 40 mpg, so if you are wanting heaps of AWD/off-road potential and space, the BMW X5 sDrive25d should be on your radar. There is also the attractive and capable BMW X3 18d and X3 20d that are hitting way better than the 40 mpg mark in the real world.
Ford’s 2.0 TDCi engine is used in the very good Ford Kuga compact SUV. All the usual luxury features are available in this handy soft-off-roader. Nice dynamics and comfort levels make this a great alternative, practical SUV. Most FWD Kuga models with the 2.0 TDCi engine are easily bettering 7 litres/100 km in the real world.
Hyundai Tucson’s 1.7-litre CRDi is proving very efficient. This is a sharp looking, well-priced drive. The 2.0-litre CRDi AWD is not far off the 40 mpg mark, too. These AWD versions are good off-road, so be in and enjoy.
Superbly equipped for tough 4WD challenges, the all-conquering Jeep Cherokee is a roomy and comfortable 4WD, large SUV that is returning better than the 7 litres/100 km when equipped with the 2.0 CRD engine. This is as good as it gets for efficiency, comfort and tough off-roading. Jeep also has the new Renegade that is roomy, very capable off-road and provides exceptional fuel efficiency with the 1.6 Multijet turbo-diesel engine – built by Fiat. The Jeep Compass boasts a powerful 2.2-litre diesel engine that hits on or close to 40 mpg in the real world. This model has full time AWD, the strong chain cam 2.2-litre diesel engine, and decent handling and grip. One would suggest the Jeeps are well worth a look if you need to get out in the bush and bash occasionally.
I’m really pleased to find that the new Land Rover 2.0 litre TD4 engine has the goods in the real world to match 40 mpg. The engine is providing the classy looking Range Rover Evoque with 7 litres/100 km efficiency. Of course, you can head Outback with this one – such is the superior off-road capability of the Evoque. And, when you are way Outback in the Evoque, you’ll be doing the hard yards in premium comfort.
A winner as an efficient compact SUV in the real world is the Nissan’s Qashqai. To drive, the new Qashqai is one of the best crossovers. Running with punchy and very frugal 1.5 dCi and 1.6 dCi turbo-diesel engines that emit very little carbon, you are promised way better than 7.0 litres/100 km regularly. A comfortable interior, top features and a quiet ride is part of the Nissan Qashqai experience. Again, Nissan have the remarkably practical, roomy and comfortable Nissan X-Trail that tackles any off-road terrain fully laden. The X-Trail uses the 1.6 dCi turbo-diesel engine used in the Qashqai. These are highly recommended efficient SUV drives.
Subaru has the legendary Forester that is now even more efficient than ever with their new 2.0-litre diesel powering it. This is a capable soft-roader SUV. It is well equipped and spacious. You can pull a trailer and the vehicle cruises well at speed. Definitely, the Subaru Forester 2.0D is a real useful wagon that boasts a decent drive. Proving to be both very fuel efficient and reliable, the Forester 2.0D needs to be on your list of frugal SUV wagons to check out. The Lineartronic 2.0i Forester petrol version is not far off the magical 40 mpg mark either – just thought I’d throw that in there. If you need even more space, the very comfortable and capable Subaru Outback 2.0D is excellent on secondary roads and for light off-roading duties. The wagon is spacious and solidly built. Also, for something a little different and in the mould of the Nissan Qashqai but with more power, the 2.0D Subaru XV is vailable, too. Do check out any of these Subaru models with the smooth Lineartronic gearbox.
The new Toyota Rav4 2.0-litre and 2.2-litre turbo-diesels are very durable, comfortable and genuine medium-size SUVs. Get one with either of these engines and you have yourself a tough, off-roader with handy practicality and style. Both engines return better than 7.0 litres/100 km on a regular, real-world basis.
Volvo XC60 models with the D3 and D4 engines are solid SUVs with premium safety, luxury and comfort. All XC60s are very capable off-road and can pull a decent load on a trailer. And with around 7.0 litres/100 km in the real world, the Volvo XC60 is a highly desirable, luxurious SUV drive. Again, the Volvo XC70 is a smart-looking high-riding AWD wagon with a decent level of off-road ability. It is comfortable, safe and practical, and again is available with engines that put it in the frugal SUV bracket bettering 40 mpg with Volvo’s D3, D4 and 2.4D engines. The hybrid Volvo XC90 T8 is the super luxurious SUV that everyone will want. Truly a magnificent and award winning vehicle, the very powerful, incredibly refined and quiet drive boasts a premium high quality cabin with room for seven. Even with standard features, the XC90 T8 is lavish. This is a big, roomy, luxurious, safe and efficient real-world efficient SUV.
The new Honda CR-V models with 1.6 and 2.2 litre iDTEC diesel engines are highly efficient in the real-world. Expect great build quality, comfort, luxury and punchy performance. The other beauty of the new CR-V is that they are reliable and relatively well priced. The diesel engines are impressively refined and quiet. This is another highly recommended SUV that’s efficiently returning well above the 40 mpg mark. Even the 2WD 2.0 iVTEC petrol version is very close to meeting 40 mpg – just to let you know.
Kia has the Sportage compact SUV that, when fitted with the 1.7 CRDi or similar, and in 2WD form slips into the 7.0 litre/100 km on average. These are a nice vehicle to drive, are stylish and have good quality features all round.
Mercedes Benz has nice looking SUV vehicles, and there are a few of them which can happily return 40 mpg in everyday use. The new GLC220d and GLC250d with their automatic gearboxes have excellent refinement and a very composed ride on any surface. You have superb luxury that is of the highest quality. It has the goods to tackle some tougher off-road work, and it seats four in amazing comfort.
Mitsubishi has a really nice SUV that is stylish, very modern and economical. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle and is the first SUV of its kind anywhere in the world. With its all-electric i-Miev technology, space and the legendary off-road ability of the Pajero, the Outlander is a fantastic vehicle that easily betters the 40 mpg mark. The Outlander is a comfortable and solid real SUV type vehicle with five-star safety. The 2.2 turbo-diesel engine that is also fitted in the Outlander comes very close to meeting 7 litres/100 km, as well. Also, the Mitsubishi ASX SUV is a compact SUV with a solid build quality, impressive fuel economy, plenty of room for five plus luggage. It also boasts a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating and is decent value for money. There is a 1.6-litre petrol, 1.6-litre Diesel and 1.8-litre Diesel that all meet the fuel economy mark we’re after. Check the Mitsubishi SUVs out!
Suzuki has the ever-ready Vitara. The new Vitara is smaller, lighter, more refined, more economical and better to drive than its predecessor. It also boasts a five-star Euro NCAP rating. Both the 1.6-litre petrol and 1.6-litre diesel variants meet the magical 7 litres/100 km in everyday driving. The sharp styling looks great, while the vehicle’s off-road ability is excellent.
Mazda has their fabulous CX-5 models that come with a 2.0-litre petrol or a 2.2-litre diesel engine, both of which will get you 40 mpg and better on real-world drives. Dynamic styling and loaded with features, these are very nice to drive. The larger Mazda CX-7 SUV looks amazing and handles extremely well for a 4×4. Off-road excursions are a breeze for this big comfy model. It’s the 2.2-litre diesel that meets, or gets very close, to the 40 mpg target we’re all after for economic SUV travel.
Looking into Peugeot’s showroom reveals that the 2008 is a handy SUV that, with Grip Control, can get over some pretty slippery surfaces – perfect for heading off to the snow. Its upmarket styling is striking and unique – both inside and out. Peugeot’s frugal engine range (diesel and petrol) and low running costs gives this model the big tick for economic SUV transport. There’s also decent space for adults in the back, and excellent luxury features.
All diesel engines that power the modern and capable Renault Koleos SUV hit the magical 40 mpg mark. The cam chain diesels are smooth and the ride very comfortable. The elegant styling looks nice, too.
Volkswagen has their stylish Tiguan SUV that is comfortable to ride in. The 2.0-litre TDI Diesel engine is particularly economical when linked to the Tiguan drivetrain. This is a decent SUV with a smooth diesel automatic option, and AWD versions are capable off-road. Volkswagen’s Passat Alltrack wagon is classy and remarkably capable off the beaten track, and it’s also blessed with the 2.0-litre TDI engine for frugal performance.
If I’ve missed any other models that should be in the 40 mpg or 7 litres/100 km club, let us know. Hope this helps, too…
Seeing Round Corners
Ever wanted to know what’s around the corner? Thanks to today’s new car technology, the driver can gain insight into what might be approaching at that terrible intersection or hard-to-get-out-of driveway. There is no doubt that the intersection can be a dangerous place when driving. Until recently, the only sure way a driver could check what was coming beyond the intersection was to poke the nose of the car beyond any visual obstacle just enough for them to lean forward and crane the neck to get a better view of any oncoming traffic – hardly safe. Heaven help the oncoming cyclist!
Ford has a new safety system that could change that. Mounted in the front grille of the car is a Front Split View Camera and reveals in real-time a 180 degree view from the left to the right of the front end of the car. It’s easy to use, and at the push of a button the driver has the 180 degree panoramic picture displayed on the car’s touch screen display in the middle of the dash. To keep the view crisp, the camera even has a lens washer that turns on whenever the wipers are switched on. Ford hopes to have the majority of its models equipped with this round-the-corner camera technology by 2020.
An excellent new safety feature, don’t you think?
Real Life Bond Cars?
One of the neat features that you can expect in any good James Bond movie is a great set of wheels. It just wouldn’t be James Bond without the Bond car. In fact, it wouldn’t be Ian Fleming without the car, given that Ian Fleming also wrote Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
However, cars tricked out with tons of neat features aren’t just from the movies. We don’t yet have cars that can get invisibility cloaks or ejector seats but it is possible to get cars that might look normal on the top but are otherwise underneath. Cars that are just a bit… well, I’m afraid that “badass” is about the only word, little as I like it (and even though the quality of being badass is nothing to do with substandard bottoms or donkeys).
Armoured cars or “personal protection vehicles” are more common than you might think. Plenty of Hollywood superstars have them – they say that Kanye West has one that has electrified door handles to zap overly invasive paparazzi. However, in the Middle East and Venezeula, you’ve got a combination of a bunch of super-rich folk and an unscrupulous underclass plus volatile politics and you’ve got a situation where kidnapping for ransom is likely. And it’s not just something that happens in dodgy countries – it happens in the USA as well. Heck, it could happen here some time. For the oil sheiks and similar, a personal protection vehicle is a good investment. It’s a good investment to the point that there’s even a company based in Texas (where else?) that specialises in customising vehicles so they have what it takes.
However, many of these badass personal protection vehicles aren’t the cool Aston Martins and Lotuses (Loti?) that you’d see James Bond drive. Apparently, the cars that get done up most often are Toyota Land Cruisers and Lexus LX 570s. In the case of the Lankies, it’s probably because they’ve got the off-roading capacity to go gnarly places in their day-to-day lives as well as taking evasive manoeuvres if needed.
The Texas Armouring Corporation (check them out at http://www.texasarmoring.com/) takes its job seriously. Their job involves keeping the cars in question nice and luxurious while being as tough as nails – now, that sounds Bondish enough for me. They also have to keep the handling of the car top-notch, although a bit of handling and performance will be sacrificed, as all that armour will add a bit of weight. The job usually involves a total strip-down before the Kevlar, ballistic grade steel and other cool materials get added in. Then comes the bulletproof glass, the run-flat tyres, the improved suspension and braking (to deal with the extra weight) and other extras before the interior is re-installed. Some of the badass Bond-type gadgets that can be added include the electric-shock doorhandles, road tack dispensers, smokescreens and night vision.
The end result is a vehicle that might look like a regular luxury sedan but can withstand fire from an AK-47. Here’s one of Texas Armouring Corporation’s videos showing a Mercedes-Benz being shot up in a promo video:
Of course, given the unfortunate frequency of terrorist attacks, one vehicle company now makes production vehicles that can withstand AK-47 fire. BMW has come up with the BMW X5 Security that comes straight from the factory floor with one of three spec levels of armouring. It looks like a regular X5 with BMW’s X-drive and all the other luxury features but it’s also got armouring, bullet proof glass, fireproofing and emergency fresh air.
The BMW X5 Security isn’t available for regular sale in Australia yet, although there are a few knocking around in the hands of the Federal Police. Some of BMW’s other luxury armoured vehicles (based on the 7-series) were bought by the government for the top brass during the G20 conference. The rest of us oiks have to stick with the ordinary – if you can call it that – X5 and 7-series. However, us ordinary oiks probably don’t have to worry about kidnapping threats, so that’s OK.
Safe and happy driving, even without armour,
Megan
Level 2, 9 Help Street