2018 Antiyita International Motor Show

Arriving at a new auto show is always somewhat exciting. With press day 1 coming to an end, here is a report on the day and what was exciting…and less exciting.

It began with me stepping almost into the Wentworth monter. And the Womble was a positive surprise. Totally free from unnecessary stuff to save weight, aluminium body and decent performance from its 175 hp four cylinder, it’s a real old school sports car for the remaining enthusiasts that is more interested in pure driving excitement than satnav and electric windows. What’s not to like? Maybe the somewhat cluttered rear end, but that’s a matter of taste.

The people at Farox was helpful and nice as always, and offered me to take a test drive in their new Aerio, which I did and which you read about earlier.

After coming back, the monter of IMP (Monolith) was the next place to visit. And I was right. The Jupiter really is a huge beast! And with V12 engines, it’s a SUV for the chosen few. Regular import to Sweden is probably nothing to dream about, but probably we’ll see a few grey market imports, for people that wants to be seen.

From a giant SUV to a sleek little coupé, the Taikan in the TSR monter seems more promising than it ever did in the preview pictures. Since I asked for a test drive, it is probably coming a test report soon.

Had some local specialities for lunch. Stomach did not approve.
After spending way too much time on a seat I wasn’t looking forward to use, it was time for a test drive of the Kasai Calibri, which you did read earlier.

In the Montes monter (clever, huh?) they showed what was said to be their first SUV. I’m sceptical, it looks almost like the IP Lifestyler that really is no SUV. Five engines will be available, from 3 to 5.9 liters, I was planning to ask for a test drive, but it appears that it was only for some specially invited journalists.
Getting to test drive a concept car is uncommon but some people from Conqueror was almost dragging me away from Montes and invited me for a test drive. I promise one soon!

Caliban is always a brand that is getting interest at motor shows. It was very crowded, but I managed to see their new predator after almost bumping into a drooling Gavin Anderson and having some small talk for a short while (not much time to spare for any of us during the press day). And it looks ace! And how does 600 hp, 0-100 in 3.3 seconds and 1.2G lateral acceleration sound? Yes, I could almost guess that, huh?

For some reason it was a bit more empty around the Zenshi monter, despite their awesome looking Seiryu sports car. 300 hp and promises that it will be very economical to run will always attract some customers.
Once again visiting the wrong seat before getting into the AL Autos monter. Once again promised a test drive of their insane RGS DTD, and I hope that I will be done with the food-induced problems before that test drive.
The Ceder Friala is looking even more promising than earlier, it seems to be a well thought out package that might be one of the better cars in its class. 3 or 4 cylinder turbo between 100 and 170 hp, 6-speed manual or 7-speed auto, a lightweight body that’s still strong and safe due to clever use of materials. Believe me. This one will be a strong seller.

And of course I did a visit in the IP monter. The Kingston Lifestyler was tested (report available) and when I was done with that I couldn’t help drooling over the BEAUTIFUL Mk1 Royalist, restored by their heritage center. Also the electric Freeway Star conversion was very interesting, showing that a classic actually can be geen more than paint-wise.

After a very calm afternoon it’s time to return to the hotel room, this is not the right time for wild parties or anything such, considering all the days that are left of the show.

All for now!
Mats Hansen

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Merciel @ Anikatia 2018


A year ago, we unveiled the Corsaire, the culmination of 105 years of Merciel. This year, we’re making a special version of the Corsaire, the Corsaire Rafale

Stripped down to the bare minimum, the Rafale is lighter than the standard model by 250kg weighing in at 1466kg while making 525hp from the 3.5L i6 Turbo, 55hp more than the original.

The suspension has also been heavily tweaked and modified to allow for better handling. Other changes include new specially designed Piero Firebrand Tyres further improving handling.

All these changes make for a more thrilling ride round a track, while still being comfortable to live with. Oh and an average of 32 US MPG is always nice.

Expect the car to reach stores in January of next year retailing for $71,400.

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A classic, Reborn. The Interval Concept is here.

The original Shromet Inerval was made famous for its innovation, and its bold strides to set itself apart from the sports coupes of the day, and thus, by looking to the past for inspiration, we were inspired to embrace the future by re-inventing the interval, this time with pure electric drive. With two rear mounted electric motors, the Interval concept produced 350Ft/lb of torque, and 300 Horsepower.
Both the body and chassis of the Interval concept are constructed entirely of aluminum, the Interval weighs under 1300kg. A predicted 0-60 time would be 4.5 Seconds. The Interval concept celebrates our electric achievements thus far, and our desire for more electric vehicles going forward, such as this.

The New 2019 Shromet Radiant E.


The Shromet Radiant E, with 190 Miles of range. Coming to dealerships internationally, the Radiant you know and love, with the electric power to save the planet. All from 28,550$

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@F.A it’s hashtags

2018 Turbina Alka



The new for 2018 Turbina Alka! Reviving a dead brand thanks to its partner Nervenkitzel Motor Company, this crazy 619 horsepower sedan/wagon can outrun sports cars double its price.

Alka RS - $36748


Shown in Rapid Red
Engine: Naturally aspirated 3.5 liter V8 with 328 hp and 240 ft-lb
Drivetrain: 7 speed DCT (auto+paddles), AWD
Interior: 5 premium quality seats, Nervenkitzel infotainment system
Performace: 0-60 in 5.8 seconds, top speed 155 mph (limited)
Economy: 25.3 mpg city, 43.2 mpg highway

Alka RS-T - $38658


Shown in Superb Blue with RS-T accents
Engine: Twin-turbocharged 3.5 liter V8 with 470 hp and 434 ft-lb
Drivetrain: 7 speed DCT (auto+paddles), AWD
Interior: 5 premium quality seats, Nervenkitzel infotainment system
Performance: 0-60 in 4 seconds, top speed 155 mph (limited)
Economy: 25.4 mpg city, 40.8 mpg highway

Alka RS-T Predvoj - $38658


Shown in Garde Black with RS-T accents
Engine: Twin-turbocharged 3.5 liter V8 with 470 hp and 434 ft-lb
Drivetrain: 7 speed DCT (auto+paddles), AWD
Interior: 5 premium quality seats, Nervenkitzel infotainment system
Performance: 0-60 in 4 seconds, top speed 155 mph (limited)
Economy: 25 mpg city, 39.6 mpg highway

Alka NK8 - $44960


Shown in Yeti White
Engine: Twin-turbocharged 4 liter V8 with 619 hp and 475 ft-lb
Drivetrain: 7 speed DCT (auto+paddles), AWD
Interior: 5 premium quality seats, Nervenkitzel infotainment system
Performance: 0-60 in 3.3 seconds, top speed 196 mph
Economy: 12.2 mpg city, 17.3 mpg highway

Alka NK8 Predvoj - $44960


Shown in Kodiak Aurora Metallic
Engine: Twin-turbocharged 4 liter V8 with 619 hp and 475 ft-lb
Drivetrain: 7 speed DCT (auto+paddles), AWD
Interior: 5 premium quality seats, Nervenkitzel infotainment system
Performance: 0-60 in 3.3 seconds, top speed 192 mph
Economy: 12.1 mpg city, 17.1 mpg highway

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Cant wait to hear your thoughts on it!

Just an fyi: full car name is the AL Autos Erucae (Trim: RGS DTD)

Holts Alaris

We’ll Start with Our Alaris Type HS Hk3. Yes Hk3 Ive made an error and said Hk2.
(Hk1 was In Kee engine). The Hk1 Was front wheel drive with 300+ Horsepower. The Hk2 Type HS was AWD with 347 Horsepower And a 0-60 time of 4.8 Seconds Using a DCT.
This Gen Type HS Only Has A Manual And a 365 Horsepower Engine.
As you see here… (Hk2 Model)
AlarisGEn2
This one only has 2 doors This year has 4. Ok lets get to the Hk3



This will put you back in the seat with Its Launch Control Holding at 4000rpms and sprinting you from 0 to 60 in 4.3 seconds. Test Drives Are open to those that want to review it. There are other trims of the alaris of course…
Alaris S (Base Model)

Lets Walk to our

Holts H8

Our Luxury Car Of the Brand. The previous H8 Did not sell many units, only being 292 last month hopefully this will change your mind. This Model has been redesigned from ground up and a new body, lots of them.

Wagon

Fastback

Coupe

Sedan


All these feature the same things but just diffrent body styles. Some are faster than the other. All trims use a 7.7L V12 That puts out 560HP and 519 lb-ft torque. Sprinting these in mid 4 seconds.
All of the L Trims Hav H-Nav That is 30% faster than last years H8. 16 Way seats and A Full LCD Instrument Cluster With a 11 Inch Infotainment, Soft closing Doors, Quiet Ride and more.

H8 Premium (Base)


If you do not want all of the tech and want something more simple, for examlpe, your buying your grandma a car and she do not want all of that… This would be perfect for her.

H8 ST (Sport-Turbo)


Powered by a 697HP 6.8L V8 Sprinting you from 0-60 in 3.7 Seconds

      Tomorrows Schedule
     - BQX-4
     - HX-1          
         (May Change)

H8 recieved Light update after i posted this*

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Everybody is invited to a test drive. Do you want to book for a test drive?

Montes T60 (restyling)


Four years ago, we’ve released the first-gen Montes T60. A premium sedan between the D and E segment.

And for that restyling, firstly, we adopted the new brand design language, plus changed engines and trims.

What’s new?


We changed the old-gen DiSi II engines, to the new SCHI Montes tech. Improving performance, fuel consumption, and emissions.

On the trims side, we added the MRP trim (not present on the pre-restyling trim), that features a high-revving screamer 5.7 NA V10, and a new starter trim, with a 2.0t 220hp engine.

About the transmissions, a 6-speed manual gearbox is available for all trims, and now, we changed the 6-speed MDC (Montes Dual Clutch), for a 7-speed one.

On the equipment side, new features (**optional *standard) are:

  • **LCD cluster.
  • **TouchSense :tm: multifunction buttons.
  • *Adaptive progressive suspension.
  • *Adaptative hydropneumatic suspension (on higher trims).
  • *RADAR and IR-controlled adaptative cruise control.
  • **Heated rear seats, with massage.

The beast: the T60 MRP


Powered by an MRP-developed 5.7 naturally aspirated V10, that transfers the power to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual gearbox, that’s a driver’s car!

Enjoy driving. :sunglasses:


Price list (starts from)

  • 2.0T 220: $34.215
  • 2.5T 240: $37.259
  • 3.0T 300: $44.998
  • 4.2T 400: $48.050
  • MRP: $66.360

We have test units available, for those interested.

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Press Days 1 & 2(ish)

Anikatia’s biggest automotive event of the year is in full swing, in what is turning out to be one of the most action-packed shows of 2018 so far. Time to take a peak into what’s been going down:


GBSC - not EVE you plonker, Gavin - revealed three plain looking concepts at this year’s show. What any of it means, I don’t know. I did consider messaging my school friend who took art at A Level to see if he could decipher it, but even then I think he’d be left perplexed. Their ‘BEAST’ concept “shows [them] the limits of [their] fear”…what?

TSR’s Taikan might well be a 2019 model, but it looks like it came fresh out of an early 2000s sci fi film. The company’s marketing team’s obsession with emojis is pretty off putting too. It’s decently priced though, well within the range of the current crop of lightweight MR sports cars. But one can’t help but feel that having no less than 7 trims on sale from the outset is overdoing it, compared to the far more straightforward lineups for rivals such as the Seiryu and RJM 13R.

Farox revealed their newest gen Aerio at last. You can read my full disection in the form of a test drive below.

Kasai revealed two cars at this year’s show, the first being the Calibri Hybrid - which you can see a full review of below - and a new variant of their Shindai compact. Powered by a V6 and sporting smiley but handsome looks, it’s pretty undeniable that it’s a hot hatch of some point. A test drive might be in the works if I can find time in my diary.

When IP said ‘A 90s legend is reborn’, I was rather hoping the styling would be reborn too. The idea is a brilliant one, on paper at least: powerful straight six heart, all wheel drive and a manual gearbox. More than that, it’s an estate, which as we all know, means it is just better. So why the hell does the styling look so outdated?

Montes’ X90 is a plain and uninspired SUV with what seems to be a decent range of engines (which hopefully won’t require bloody 98 RON to run) and hydropneumatic suspension…
…what? I mean it’s a nice touch that it’s active and all, but that to me just screams “horrendous repair bill 5 years down the line”. The offer of a 570hp V12 on the top end Exclusive trim is a nice touch, but at $98k, you’d surely be expecting a bit more excitment and boldness from the design.

Wentworth’s positively retro Womble might sound - and look - like a bit of a joke, but something tells me there’s more than meets the eye. The little known sports car maker’s newest car offers good performance but overdoes it with the chrome, and the rear lights look very confused and uncohesive, but there is an odd charm to its quirkiness. At the same time though, those front indicators still make it look like it has food stuck on the edge of its mouth.

Zenshi’s updated 2019MY Seiryu is handsome as ever, and has now taken some cues from it’s Zenshi GT stablemate. Minor updates to the interior have also been carried out, as well as a retuning of its Cavallera-designed 2.0l i4. Considering how much I enojyed reviewing it last year, one hopes they haven’t tried to fix something that isn’t broken.

Conqueror’s presspack reads “The XCL, or “Crossover Coupe Luxury”. No. No. No.

Ceder’s Mk6 Friala looks like it’s got a real grump on, but it sure is efficient. The company is really pushing its OpenSky engine range, with average efficiencies around the 60 MPG (UK) mark, which certainly is impressive. If you can get past the slightly off styling, it has the potential to be one of the most affordable compact hatchbacks on the market today.

Wales’ finest, Caliban, have launched their new 600hp Predator. The crisply styled supercar continues the marque that we last saw in the late 80s and early 90s, only this time it offers 0-60 times in the 3.3 second region. Plus, they seem keen to make a return to the GTE in 2019. That’s great and all, but who’s gonna be the one to tell them that the SuperSeason has already started?

Monolith’s appropriatley-named current gen Jupiter utility vehicle has has a mid-life update, though don’t worry, they haven’t dropped the V12 diesel engine line up - including that megalithic 8.0l unit. The styling refresh is decent, though that gold colour on the Pro-G model being displayed…I’m not so sure.

Merciel have been playing around their Corsaire sports coupe, shaving off 250kg and whacking 55 more horses from the engine. The result? The Rafale. If it goes anything like its name suggests, it’ll be a success in my mind.

Albertuni’s Leopardo has a blank expression and a vagueness in its lines that seem to almost show a boredom in what it is. And it’s a good question; a 900+ hp, £150k super coupe that can’t even do 0-60 in less than 4 seconds and a four speed manual transmission. I’m not making that up, and that’s after reading it back two times over. What the hell were they thinking?

Hurrah! Shromet’s Interval is back at last. Modern looks and a classy body certainly hint at a bright future for whatever this concept becomes eventually. Most signification however is that it is all-electric, with two motors at the rear. That shouldn’t certainly make it quite the rocket off the line. And speaking of electric cars, the company’s compact hatchback, the Radiant, has been given the electric treatment too with a new E variant.

Turbina’s Alka is a real mixed back with its styling. The headlights are nice, but each trim seems to have a different grille design, more hideous than the last. The NK8 trim is the only one that really works, though considering it can’t even manage 20 mpg Highyway, it’s going to have a tough time beating those sports cars it claims to be able to outrun when it comes to running costs.

Holt’s ever-changing styling continues to evolve with the release of the H8, or at least this month’s version of it. The teaser shots may have looked nice but the finished product has a weird case of ‘looking like a Montes’ going on about, and much like the Spanish company’s current cars, it also looks very flat and lifeless. They’re desperate for sales, it seems, as they resort to language such as “hopefully this will change your mind”. Even with the offer of a 7.7l V12 or a 6.8l V8, it doesn’t get away from the fact that it looks so damn dull.


I’ve also been able to get some test drives in for good measure. Click to read my full thoughts.

2018 Ferrain Mistrain - "Driving this car is the equivalent of hosting your wedding reception at a KFC

Review: 2018 Ferrain Mistrain

Driving this car is the equivalent of hosting your wedding reception at a KFC

2019 Farox Aerio - "Boredom in the name of comfort"

Review: 2019 Farox Aerio

”Boredom in the name of comfort”

2019 Kasai Calibiri Hybrid 1.8 S - "Proof that we’re just around the corner from the ideal hybrid”

Review: 2019 Kasai Calibiri Hybrid 1.8 S

”Proof that we’re just around the corner from the ideal hybrid”


That’s all for now. The team at Trafikjournalen are hitting the town tonight - if that’s even a phrase over here in this far corner of Asia - and told me that they’d teach me some Swedish drinking songs. Well how could I even consider saying no?!

- Gavin Anderson

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On Montes, we have taken into account the complaints received for the use of RON 98 gasoline, on the firsts SCHI engines, and we have taken it into account, both for those models (a recall to the workshop for a readjustment via software), and for the new produced models, that are already adapted for 95.

Yes. :slight_smile: Just PM me and I’ll give it a shot.

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Ceder Antiyita International Motor Show 2018 Stand Part II.


Ceder Mirri MKIV 2018MY Facelift

The launch of this generation Mirri was in 2016 and it’s aim was to in a sense rebirth the original and still maintain the personality whilst using modern technology. The size of the MKIV is no larger than the 1993 version but a larger cabin and roomier feel is present.

The styling has been updated to feel modern and draw hints to the old model such as the wide-eyed front fascia and three vents in the bonnet. Restyling has not happen solely on the outside, the inside now has an updated infotainment system and is now available with a higher customisability of vent colouring and various other trim options.

Our engine range consists of one, the OpenSky inline 3 replacing the 1.2 inline 4 from the previous generation and giving superior fuel economy and far superior performance. The new engine has been altered and improved from last year so it now produces 98hp and achieves 71.4 MPG [UK] helped due to its low weight [987 KG].


OpenSky Engines Inline 3 & 4.

The OpenSky engine series started in 2015 with the introduction of the MKIV Averau and at the moment consists of Inline 3 and 4 turbo variants. Each engine is made completely of AlSi and use a 4 valves per cylinder DOHC valvetrain.

All versions use a combination of VVT on the intake and use the V-AIL system which aids in both power delivery and response and fuel economy. The engines are all direct injected and use 3-way catalytic converters to minimize emissions.

Plans for a larger inline 4 variant are set in place and are expected to be seen and some point later in the year, as well as a performance based variant based on the 1.7 in the near future.

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The 2018 TSR XCross


This is the TSR XCross, a cross-over. It’s big and it’s massive. More details below…


TSR XCross Standard shown in British Green

As you can see, the XCross doesn’t look anything like a Japanese crossover. In fact, it’s actually design by the European division of TSR. At the front, we have sharp angles at places like the headlights and more while keeping it classy. For the engine, you can have 2 engines, a 2 litre inline 4 (for Standard, Premium, Premium AWD and XSport I4) or a 3.7 litre V6 (for Luxor, Signature and XSport V6) with both being turbocharged as standard. But if you want the most economical version, you can have the standard which uses the 2 litre inline 4. It will do 28.5 mpg (US).

Moving on to the interior. The first thing you see is the Piano Black trim that comes as standard across all XCross models. You can also have the option for the wood trim of your choice through the TSR exclusive customer program ®. The seats, made of premium-quality leather and the infotainment system, it’s touch screen baby! The screen is as big as your Ipad Pro, 12.9 inches. And also, the engine is mounted transversely, which maximizes interior space. Comfort will be guaranteed.

As for safety equipments, TSR Electronic Aids package 3 (contains ESC, ABS and TC) is standard across all models. So as the TSR Ride Experience Selection, active cooling flaps and bypassing exhaust valve that comes standard. ThE XCross also has the A4WPTS (Advanced 4 Wheel Power Transfer System) AWD system (Premium comes optional and beyond that are standard) which gives you confident at bad weathers. This car also gained 5 stars from the IIHS Crash Testing and the Euro NCAP. So that means, you safety will be guaranteed.


Price List

A: Trim
B: Model year
C: Engine displacement
D: Horsepower (in HP)
E: Torque (in lb-ft)
F: Fuel Consumption (in mpg (US))
G: MSRP
H: Drive Type
2018-06-12

(*) = AWD OPTIONAL


Enjoy more pictures:


If you want to have a test-drive, simply PM us for more info

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I almost forgot to include the most important thing for a new car: Prices.


2018 Jupiter 570: $66,625
2018 Jupiter 525D: $61,665

Mark-up for Pro-G package: $4,000

If interest exists, we’ll lend a 525D to motoring journalists.

Jupiter - 525D.car (52.5 KB)

THE FIVE TEST DRIVES FROM DAY 2

KASAI SHINDAI V6 AWD

When standing outside the shiny white Shindai, it’s something of a disappointment. I don’t know if it was the colour that made it, or that just press photos are great at showing products from their better side, but the classy looks that I saw on the black car on the press photo is somewhat gone. I wouldn’t go so far that I’d call the Shindai “ugly”. But there is some lack of harmony. The smiling front end is looking a bit clownish, and very asian, while the middle section could be taken from some premium german hatchback. In the back, the styling of the taillamps instead reminds me a bit of the 60s and 70s IP-Kingston Celestia. On the other hand, that’s not a bad thing but one I wish IP themselves would have done on the new Lifestyler instead of those all red, blocky mid 00s Passat-looking things… For some reason, some jerk had broken off the mirrors from the test car during the night, which didn’t really make it any more fresh looking.

When stepping inside, it is a bit of a mixed bag too. This is a small and sporty car. However, the emphasis in the interior have been more towards comfort than sport. That’s OK, not every hot hatch buyer wants to feel like Stig Blomqvist when driving to work, but the strange decision there was to make the car a four seater. I would have understood that decision with a heavily contoured back seat in a sportier interior, or in a big luxurious limousine that’s chaffeur driven. But now, in the otherwise nice interior, the middle of the rear seat is just a hard hump with no seatbelt or headrest. Sure, families may not be the primary buyers of a car like this, but I really can’t understand the decision to not make it a 5-seater. But other than that, the interior has a nice fit and finish, great choice of materials, the seating comfort is good and there is a decent infotainment system.

Then, when searching for the clutch pedal…OOPS, there was none. Another sign that this is not aimed at the most sporty crowd, but a hot hatch for people craving comfort, is the automatic transmission. On the other hand, it might not be really fun frying the clutch and training the left leg in heavy city traffic, the 355 hp and 375 Nm V6 would require some beefy stuff there.

A 3 litre V6 and AWD in a car like this makes one think of something like a modern version of the early 90s Golf VR6 syncro. But the weight distribution is at least quite good this time, with only 55% up front, but 1870 kg is on the heavy side for a small car like this. Of course, AWD drivetrain and a V6 is showing its less respectable side there.

The turbo V6 itself is enjoyable. On idle, you question yourself all the time, “is the engine running”. It’s only whispering like a soft breeze, better than many straight sixes. When pressing the pedal, you first feel it take off quietly, then a raspy growl comes at 1200 RPM. It’s torquey at the bottom but really comes alive at 3000 RPM, revs all the way to 8500 and sounds like a modern day formula 1 at the higher revs. I might be a straight six guy, but man, a V6 this nice is something that’s not seen every day.

It’s a bit tempting to compare it with the IP Lifestyler I tested yesterday. Sure, completely different animals, but with an engine that’s 50 hp stronger and almost 200 kg less weight, the performance is fairly identical. 0-100 time is a bit slower, top speed a little bit faster at 250 km/h. However, that’s because of the electrical limiter in the Shindai that cuts off at 250, the IP is not limited but can’t reach 250 in standard form. Rumours says that around 270 could be possible in the Shindai, the question is only where you can drive that fast. The AWD is biased towards the front and the handling is quite neutral, and it can take corners quite well. Though there is no LSD, which makes an AWD car a little less useable on rough surfaces that one might think. Spinning on one wheel will not take you anywhere. Brakes are good, the first stop, but they did show a tendency to fade a bit. The suspension tuning is a nice compromise between handling and comfort in my opinion, a bit firm but that’s how it should be in a car like this. ESC and launch control are standard.

Speaking about ESC, we can’t skip the safety part, and there Kasai is promising that it will pass Euro-NCAP and IIHS testing with flying colours. And I believe them there. Not only does the car feel solid and is supposed to have a rugged safety cage, the list of safety equipment is complete with nothing left to ask for. Also, the weight would more or less toast other small cars if they were the competition in a crash, maybe that’s not the right way to build safety, but egoistically speaking it’s true.

So how do we sum up this car? Maybe like the heavyweight champion that doesn’t win over all its competition with a knockout. Especially not at a quite high price at $28432. But if you for some reason need a plush hot hatch with a driveline that is impressive, doesn’t have more than 3 kids/friends/wives/husbands/whatever to put in the car, can stand that it is a tank hidden in a small cars body, and is willing to pay the price?

Then I can recommend the Shindai V6 AWD without a single doubt.

But it is really not as impressive as the Calibri I tested yesterday.

CONQUEROR XCL CONCEPT
First, I have to say that I am biased. I really don’t get the new trend of huge fastback crossovers. For me, it feels like the worst of many worlds, and is like a modern equivalent to some tasteless yank putting dubs rims on an early 50s Chevy Fleetline. Sure, there is AWD…and why? Puddles of water is probably the harshest terrain most of them will see.

And what I really dislike the most is the looks of them. Proportions is not even a thing anymore, I have yet to see one that is looking good. This concept car that is a glimpse of what Conqueror might give us in the future is no exception. I hope that it will be toned down in the future production models, because the headlights look like they have been painted on with a giant magic marker, the grille will probably give skiffle players from the 60s nostalgic vibes, and if you have ever wondered what the designer of the Monster energy logo is doing today, I can reveal a secret. He is designing taillights for Conqueror now. The sides are better, they are only bland.

Under the bonnet there is an impressive 380 hp V12 with cylinder shut off for fuel economy. It manages to do it well for its size and power, in a car weighing 2.3 tonnes, but I still wonder if a V12 is something that will be accurate for the future? Expect fuel economy regulations to become stricter and stricter. 0-100 in 6.1 seconds and a top speed of 288 km/h (if you get nostalgic now, I can guarantee that you have owned an 80s car with digital speedometer) is of course good figures for a car like this, but what else would be expected with that powertrain. Neither the handling or the brakes are up to the task however.

Offroad capability is said to be good for a crossover, this is no offroader after all, but we never had the opportunity to test that. If it was comfortable? Very. Like riding on a cloud.

But is this a realistic vision of the future? No, its something of a mix between the Lamborghini LM002 and a crossover of today. And it feels like a dinosaur already.

One good advice to Conqueror, keep this car as a concept. Don’t make the streets crowded with these beasts. Please!

Because it is both tasteless and expensive so it sure would find buyers…

AL AUTOS ERUCAE RGS DTD
Well, the Erucae, what to say, the first impression left me speechless. This is the stuff that dreams are made of. After my shoes got wet from drooling over this gorgeous pearlescent orange little beast, I decided to have a seat. And man, it was like the racing seats was hugging me. Everything just screamed “take me for a spin” and who am I to say against that?

I pressed the start button and the 30 valve inline six woke up. Sure, the idle reminds me of a Massey-Ferguson 35, but just a slight tap on the throttle told me that this ain’t grandpas old Fergie that I learned to drive on as soon as I could reach the pedals, but a completely different beast. The throttle response is impressive, and it might feel a bit weak on the bottom, but who wants to drive this car like an old lady on her way to church anyway? It needs revving, and when revved it will thank you big time. At 7900 RPM it puts out its maximum power. 512 hp! Sure, when reading some other car rags, that is what every kid has in his riced out Keika Hop, but now you are reading a serious magazine so this time it is the truth.

It does not, however, break the 300 barrier. But it breaks the 100 barrier after 2.9 seconds and if you haven’t tried it out for real, that’s a feeling that is hard to imagine. To put the power down to the ground, there is AWD and an electrical locker. With sticky 245/265 rubber front/rear, it is really like being kicked by a horse to take off, and I really would like to see what this one could do on semi slicks. Cornering at 1.23 G and braking from 100 in 31.3 metres are also figures you will never see or feel in the average family sedan.

What strikes me the most, however, is that comfort is not compromised. To be completely honest, I would probably rather take this on a long drive than the IP Lifestyler I tested earlier. There is also a great infotainment system with built in GPS, but in this car I would almost love to get lost so I could take it for an even longer drive.

So where is the problem? Fuel consumtion? Nah, it’s about what a regular bread and butter sedan got in the 80s. Practicality? You bet, but who wants it in a car like this anyway?

Price?
$68380.

Just as insane as the car. And one of the reasons that I have a very hard time to park the test car when the ride is over. I don’t know when I will get the chance to enjoy something this much again.

HOLTS ALARIS GEN2 TYPE-HS

I don’t know if the hot hatch, the car you HAD to have in your model program in the 80s is making a comeback, but there is a bunch of them on the show. Another one I had the opportunity to test was the Holts Alaris type-HS. This one have a very different powerplant compared to the Kasai I tested earlier, a large 2.5 litre inline four, with 371 hp and something that best could be described as HOLY TURBO LAG, BATMAN! It feels unrefined though, it is quite lame under 3500 RPM and noisy is a nice way to describe the sound.
Combined with a manual transmission, it is even more clear that this is almost the opposite of the Kasai. A car for the active driver, not the passive one. And its performance is almost scary. 0-100 in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 276 km/h. No wonder it needs an electric LSD and AWD to get the power down to the ground. It’s heavily biased towards the rear, and an untrained driver should take it easy. When finally losing grip, this one comes out tail first, and when that happens, it goes FAST! Cornering at 1.09 G is of course a good figure but it also means that when hell breaks loose, it is pure hell!

And with the thoughts going to the for 2018 low lacking safety equipment, I suggest everyone that is not an extremely skilled driver to leave the ESC engaged. No curtain airbag will be there to help you when you wrap this little beast around a telephone pole! Maybe it is a good thing that telephone poles is quickly becoming a thing of the past. We just wish that low safety ratings could go the same way too.

Brakes are good with a 34.9 metre distance to stop from 100. However, when driven hard some fade is noticeable. And hard is the way this car should be driven. In traffic jams in the city there is much better places to be in. But sports seats are giving great support for your back, the infotainment system is good, so as long as you’re standing still it can be comfortable, but in stop and go traffic…nah! And on rough roads, the stiff suspension setting becomes very noticeable. But that’s a thing in all cars of this type.

So yeah… “Hot hatch” it is, but a completely different take on it compared to the Kasai. And $36122 for a car this size will definitely put most buyers off. This is pure, raw power that is something for an enthusiast as pure and raw to unleash. If you’re not into that category, you probably rather will be looking for other alternatives in this class.

But it sure is a little monster and I am happy that cars like this still can exist in a world of blandness.

TSR TAIKAN GTX

The more expensive cars you look at, the more important is the first impression. And it sure could have been better than this. You get the feeling that you’re looking at a kit car. Because, come on? Sealed beam headlights when the competition are using LED or at least HID? Different lights looking like they were trailer lights bought from the local gas station scattered everywhere. Unfortunately, that kinda ruins the appearance of the otherwise sleek and beautiful body. But when knocking on the bodyshell, it is not fibreglass, it is aluminium. And when looking for the VW Beetle engine in the rear, you find nothing but a 7 speed dual clutch gearbox and a pushrod suspension. So yes, this is serious bussiness, despite its outer appearance.

Entering the cockpit, there is no doubt that it is a sportscar either. You won’t find a dashboard made of MDF with gauges from some dusty corner in a speedshop and switches from a 1983 Minerva scattered everywhere. Instead, everything is modern and very well thought out, and when starting the engine, there is not a 1.2 litre flat four but a 2 litre turbo V6 that comes alive. On top of it there is 4 valve cylinder heads, in the bottom there is parts that is said to be very over engineered. The final result does put out 352 hp and 359 Nm. With those figures so close to each other, it’s easy to guess that it has a quite narrow power band. And it has. At around 5000 RPM the torque curve drops steeply, under 4000 RPM on the other hand it is a bit tame. But of course, the 7 speed gearbox makes up for that quite well, and a 0-100 time of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 278 km/h IS fast. And 1.15 G cornering and a distance of 31.5 m to stop from 100 is excellent. AWD with an electric LSD makes it take off like a rocket, glued to the asfalt on sticky sports compound tyres.

Despite the mid engine and a heavy bias towards the rear on the AWD system (28/72), the car is quite neutral and when losing grip it will understeer rather than oversteer. It’s easier to drive for an unskilled driver than one may think when looking at it on paper. And the ride might be a bit harsh but you can still stand the comfort. They haven’t skipped out on safety equipment to save weight. The price of $35590 is not dirt cheap but you get a great amount of sports car for your money. This is, in fact, a sports car that is very suited for everyday use. If it weren’t for two things. 9 cm of ground clearance is a sign that it should be kept on smooth and paved roads. And the fuel economy? 17 litres per 100 km? Give me a break! Selling such a car in 2018 will not be easy.

If you are a rookie looking for a track toy, having another car in the garage already and is willing to spend the money, then this might be the car you are looking for. If it weren’t for the for todays standard horrible fuel economy, this would have been a real bargain of a sports car and one of the best allrounders in its class. But with gas prices of today, even sports car buyers are turning away from the gas guzzlers, especially if it is a car that’s going to be daily driven.

Mats Hansen

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The 2019 Bonham Orwell

Bonham Orwell 2.0 Balmoral in Tour de France Blue

Revised for 2019, the Bonham Orwell has moved the game on in terms of desirability in its class.
The brand new face, with full LED headlights and tail lights, give it a distinctive look, with family cues relating it directly to the top of the range Kashmir sedan, but with its own unique personality, as shown on the intricate DRL detailing.

Down the sides, the body sculpting continues with the carefully styled chrome add-ons and blacked out pillars, creating the impression of a floating roof, which can be specced in body colour, white or black.

At the rear, the car continues with the LED theme and also continues the distinctive Bonham look.

All in all, this is the first crossover you could actually want to buy.

Bonham Orwell 2.0 Balmoral in Tour de France Blue

However, it’s not all show and no go. Underneath, the Orwell is a very credible car, joining the best of Baltazar engineering together with Bonham luxury and exclusivity, The car is based on the cutting edge C/D Platform from Baltazar, with all-round fully independent suspension, a modern DCT gearbox and the new 2.0 engine range.

Said engine is available in 3 states of tune, with 202, 262 and 310 hp. The lowest power model can be had with either a 6-speed manual or DCT, with FWD only. Mid spec models are automatic only, with the option of FWD and AWD, where as top of the range models are AWD and DCT only.

Sales begin in September in China, Anikatia and East Asia. First deliveries for Europe and the USA will begin in October.

Pricing and detailed performance numbers soon on Bonham’s website.

Bonham Orwell 2.0 Balmoral in British Racing Green

Bonham Orwell 2.0 Balmoral in British Racing Green
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Original song for an Original crossover debut.

The 2019 Shromet Parvus is here.

Embrace your inner desire for discovery in the new 2019 Shromet Parvus. With a striking new exterior design to turn heads, and an equally stunning interior, trimmed with Nappa leather seats and both heated and cooled seats as options. Explore the world in sublime comfort and stay connected with Shromet Harmony 2 Infotainment, Standard on all models.

The all-new 2019 Shromet Parvus is for the go-getters, the adventure seekers, the family that’s always in motion and anyone else who finds meaning in the everyday drive. Because no matter where you’re headed, this midsize SUV has the technology, safety and capability to take you there.

Engines options include Shromet's 1.5L Direct Injected 3 Cylinder turbo, with up to 220 Horsepower, as well as a 2.0L 4 Cylinder Direct Injected Turbo, with up to 270 horsepower. The 2 Liter 6 Cylinder Will also be optional exclusive to the All-Sport Parvus model. Transmissions include either a 6 Speed automatic, as well as an 8 speed ZF automatic. Visit your local Shromet Dealer for exclusive offers on the 2019 Parvus. MSRP: 24,300$
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Thanks for the review Mr.Computah! Awesome constructive criticism and pointers. I will be taking a look into those points you mentioned :slight_smile:

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PRESS DAY 2

As I said, I took it easy yesterday night, but I am not as sure that every one did (I’m looking at YOU, mr. Garcia!), and fresh for a new day (i’m not as sure that he is that either), I started by having a look in the TURBINA monter. The brand is said to be revived now, but I’ll believe it when I see the cars rolling on the road. They showed some interesting fast wagons and sedans in the Alka series though. But why those cluttered front ends?

To be honest, I was more interested in SHROMETS monter and quickly left for that one. The rebirth of the Interval, let go that it is a concept car, was of course interesting for all automotive enthusiasts. Being all electric, it shows that being green doesn’t have to mean being boring. But for buyers that want to buy an electric Shromet today, Radiant E is the weapon of choice. The Parvus is an interesting looking SUV, that actually seems to have some ground clearance, and probably is cabable outside the main roads too. 3, 4 or 6 cylinder engines will be available, with turbos at least on the two smaller alternatives, 6 or 8 speed automatic are the transmission choices.

Another SUV that seems to be worthy its name is BONHAMS entry, the Orwell, so that was the next company that got a visit from me. It seems to have a fair amount of ground clearance combined with large diameter tyres. Design wise it is up to date, and from the technical specifications it seems to be on par with its competitors, it has, as we have understood it, a 2 litre engine in three variants with between 202 and 310 hp, 6 speed manual or DCT transmission, and either FWD (not on the 310 hp model) or AWD (not on the 202 hp model).

I then saw an opportunity to speak to the MONTES people and asked them why Anderson and Garcia had gotten an invitation to test their cars while I didn’t. It appears like we misunderstood each other yesterday, and I got the opportunity to test drive two of their cars, which I’ll write more about tomorrow.

When I came back, HOLTS had revealed yet another model. There is a joke about the H8 that it will already have recieved all its facelifts before reaching the market. And the final design? Well, maybe not bad, but for some reason, it makes me think of the previous generation Ford Mondeo with the front end of the current one. But sure, you won’t get a V12 in a Mondeo, and not even half of the comfort equipment that the H8 has. So maybe that’s the car for people that wants luxury but doesn’t like being seen? It will probably blend in among the crowd of Mondeos on the highway.

Time for some lunch, and maybe I did a smart move by finding the local Mc Donalds. Exactly as boring as in Sweden, and exactly as safe too, I have to be in shape for tonight I guess, because it appears that I promised Anderson and Garcia that tonight will be the night when hell breaks loose. :stuck_out_tongue:

After lunch break there was no time to spare. I revisited TSRs monter, and it seems like their “Station wagon” was something more SUV-like. Or crossover, if you ask TSR. We asked for a test drive in the XCross, so maybe tomorrow?

In the taxi to the Arlanda airport before leaving Sweden for the show, we stood still at a stop light. Behind a rusty and shabby 80s Saab 900i. That’s not the most common sight anymore. And… It had the silly little 5-SPEED badge on the rear. Yes, it was hot stuff back then. But nowadays it should be a basic requirement to have AT LEAST 5 gears. But unlike the rusty 30 year old Saab, the $159000 ALBERTUNI Leopardo doesn’t have more than 4 gears. I can’t really say that it is easy to take such a company seriously. And the design looks like a chain collision involving at least a Camaro, a Mustang and a Porsche 959, maybe nice cars but not welded together to one. Nah, I have a hard time believing in the future of this company.

More interesting was the Corsaire Rafale shown by MERCIEL. A classy little sports car as it seems, 525 hp inline six, 250 kg weight reduction and special tuned suspension sounds like a concept that can’t go wrong.

CEDER was the last monter that recieved my visit this day, they are updating their Mirri microcar with a new Inline 3 that is said to give impressive mileage. It also have undergone revisions on both the inside and outside. Interesting!

And now, it’s time to do some automotive journalist…things…together with Anderson and Garcia.


OMITTED FROM THE TRAFIKJOURNALEN WEB:

Some hours later:

“HEEEEEEEEEEELAN GÅÅÅÅÅÅÅÅÅÅÅÅÅÅÅÅÅÅR!”

Even more hours later, when the lession in swedish drinking songs didn’t turn out as planned:

“Mr…Gachia…I tell you one…he… thing…you can’t schay…that…IP isn’t…the geatescht automo…bile”

Yet some hours later…

“You know…gavi-hin…if it…waschnt…for my…wi…hife…i’d aschk you…where to…schore…i heard you know…such…thingsch…everywheere in the…wohhorld…”

As time goes by…

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

And too many hours later
ZZzz… mpfh… “TEN O CLOCK AM?!? I DON’T HAVE THE TIME FOR THIS!”

(Beating world record in running from a hotel room to the first taxi available)

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