Yamaha YZF R15 V 3.0

Source: YAMAHA India

Yamaha has been changing the face of Indian sports-bikes for years. Giving a tough competition for every known street racer machines and coming out victorious in speed, design, style, power and whatever the youngsters wished were delivered. FZ series were rocking the market for some time and now the new R15 version 3 has arrived to create headaches for the rivals.

Yamaha YZF R15 V3 was launched at the beginning of this year and have stolen many of the youngster's hearts. Let’s see whether it can deliver the motorheads what they need.

Let’s see how well R15 has faired in the race so far.

Specifications

Engine Displ.:	155 cc
Power:	19.3 PS @ 10000 rpm
Mileage:	48.75 kmpl
Gear Box:	6-Speed
Fuel System:	Fuel Injection

Looks and Dynamics

Inspiration from R1 and R6 can be seen in the designs. Sleek design and colour which appears really good from any distance with a properly balanced body and dynamics as someone once said, ‘Perfectly balanced, as all things should be’.

Source: YAMAHA India

Dual LED lights at the front are awesome, and the tank has got chunkier than V2. Pavillion seat may be a point of debate as it is raised but, whether it is comfortable for everyone or not is questionable. The plastic tank is not bad though. It is a bit doubtful whether the LED headlight may be able to show the road properly at rainy nights.

Source: YAMAHA India

Source: YAMAHA India

Rake height has been increased, wheelbase got shorter by 20mm, seat height raised a bit. Tall people (6’ and above) may find it difficult to have a comfortable seating as back pain may slowly creep in. It’s not a touring bike but a bit off-roading is can be done by this beast.

Source: YAMAHA India

The bike comes with an epic MOTO GP Blue colour and Moviestar logo (Moto GP edition). ENEOS sticker can be seen and, more to these, graphics similar to YZR M1 is beautifully put in it. As the last sticker says, rev your heart, it is time to look at the performance and how this beast delivers.

Performance and Ergonomics

As said earlier, the seat is raised and the handles came down to give you a racing posture, whether you like it or not, that’s how you have to ride this beast. Those who are not familiar with this posture may feel a little uncomfortable as the weight may be on your hands. If you are below 5’6”, you may find it difficult to put your feet on the ground.

Now the most important question, is it a real sports bike?

Giving 0-50 km/h in 5 secs and 0-100 km/h in 10 secs, it’s amazing to ride. The newly added VVA(Variable Valve Actuation) tech gives better fuel efficiency(below 7000rpm). The analogue tachometer is gone, now the fully digitalised screen will show you pretty much everything (twin trip meter is fine).

Source: YAMAHA India

It moves forward without any hiccups and has a sleek 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch; which is really good to have. Switchgear from FZ feels a little out of place. R15  will keep you engaged wherever you go at whatever speed. An 11-litre capacity tank is definitely appropriate.

Wheelbase is 1325 which is shorter than R15 V2, for quicker steering I guess. Feedback has improver in V3 but, the absence of ABS makes a lot of difference in the competition. It has no option for ABS in this version which is a big downside.

Source: YAMAHA India

The engine has improved a lot and VVA tech played a part in here to increase the overall performance of this beast. One good news apart from this is that it doesn’t have the lag the older versions had.

Source: YAMAHA India

The bike sounds better on road and the mileage has increased even after the increase of 3 kg in weight. It is really good in stop-go traffic. One thing that is missing is the upside-down spoke which is found in international models.

Handlebars are lighter which gives you the confidence to push harder, though tyre may not be that good(MRF). Ride quality is a bit stiff on bad roads but is flawless in good ones. Brake setup is the same as in FZ25 and feedback level id good.

In one word we can say that changes are not extreme but, this bike has evolved.

Price: Rs. 1.27 lakhs (On road)

Final Verdict

Looks and design: 9/10

Specs & features: 7/10

Dynamics & performance:8/10

Safety & quality: 8/10

Some may prefer the V2 version for its seating comfort and colour and, some may pick the latest V3 for a new experience. Yamaha R15 V3 will sure turn heads while you go down the street.

Go ahead who loves speed, style and a bit more mileage and, those who are comfortable with the racing posture of Yamaha. We promise you that R15 will not be a disappoint while you rev on the track against the rivals.

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MAHINDRA MARAZZO

Source: Mahindra Marazzo

Headquartered in Mumbai, Mahindra and Mahindra Limited is one of the biggest car manufacturers in India. And without question, the top tractor manufacturer in the world.

Mahindra has been a constant challenger for its rivals Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors and Ashok Leyland. There no other company to create a stronghold in both passenger as well as heavy-duty vehicles like Mahindra.

The latest launch of Mahindra is the NewAdd caption Mahindra Marazzo, which means shark in  Basque.

The Marazzo advertisement says that it’s “Smooth as a shark. Silent as a shark”. Let’s see whether it is true or not.

Source: Mahindra Marazzo

Looks and Design

Mahindra Marazzo, the car design inspired by the shark. You can absolutely see that in the looks; like the front grill which reflects the shark face, then the body lines on the side. And finally, the taillight inspired by the tail of the real shark. The most epic thing you will see is the shark fin antenna on the top.

But unlike Mahindra previous design which looked aggressive, Marrazzo looks way calmer. By looking at it you can say its an MPV. The size of the car is a bit small compared to the Innova but, bit bigger than the Ertiga. The wheelbase is longer than the Innova giving it lots of space inside. It's also good inside, the front dashboard is well designed with quality even the sound system is well equipped.

The seats are supportive and comfortable, with enough space for legs; even for tall people. The spacious feel is so because the wheelbase is so long that wherever you sit, you will get enough space to move your legs. The new air distribution system has been patented by Mahindra which not just looks cool but distributes air really well with an option for dispersing the air BY getting it directly on you along with FATC(Full Automatic Temperature Control).

The new structure is even stronger and tougher, which makes it safe but, it has just 2 airbags in the front; for this big car it could have been made better.

Source: Mahindra Marazzo

Specifications

ENGINE	D15 1.5 Litre
MAX. POWER (HP@RPM)	90.2 kW (121 Hp)@3500RPM
MAX. TORQUE (NM@RPM)	300Nm @ 1750-2500RPM
TRANSMISSION TYPE	6 Speed Manual
DRIVETRAIN	Front Wheel Drive
SUSPENSION	Front: Double Wishbone Rear: Twist Beam

Source: Mahindra Marazzo

Performance

Let's talk about performance, it has got 120 bhp engine which powers the front wheels. It would sound good enough for an MPV but, for a heavy car, it's a bit less, so not much in terms of power.

Oh, wait, one thing I want to stress about this MPV is that, it is a front wheel drive. Yes, it’s an FWD vehicle which gives you better traction on road and stability. It can’t be compared to Innova which is a rear wheel drive giving a different kinda performance.

Marazzo gives a steady comfort ride as the front wheel drive gives better efficiency and looks better for people who love economic cars. It is easy to ride and don’t expect high speed or quick pick up as it is not made for that. Marazzo is quite silent and smooth on roads irrespective of the condition.

Off-roading is fine but, not push too much on high terrains and don’t do dirt races.

But even with the height and weight it has got, it provides good stability to drive around and the ride quality is really good; thanks to the new suspension.

The best part is the suspension; changing gears is like a treat, so smooth and ‘slick’. It has been given aerodynamic body design trying to reduce the drag. It is the right choice for big Indian families to go together on long trips and, enjoy the comfort of a fully equipped MPV.

Every seat provides good leg space, comfort and a delighted feel throughout the journey. Indeed it is smooth as a shark and silent as a shark.

Price:11,67,584-16,82,430 (INR on road price delhi)

Source: Mahindra Marazzo

Final verdict:

Looks and design:8 /10

Specs & features: 8/10

Dynamics & performance:7 /10

Safety & quality: 7/10

Great for long drives with family and friends, both in and out of the city. Not for those who want power/speed but, who wants handling and ride quality, go for it.

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HONDA cb hornet 160R Review

Source: Honda India

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. (HMSI) is the world’s top two-wheeler company. After splitting with Hero Motocorp, now, it is the second largest two-wheeler company in India.

Honda started its operations in India from 2001 and, in 17 years since then, Honda has now become India’s 2nd largest two-wheeler company with over 36 million delighted customers. By statistics, every 5 seconds a new Honda two wheeler is sold out.

The CB Series is a large-scale line of Honda two-wheelers. Most of the CB models are road-going motorcycles for commuting and cruising. All CB series motorcycles have inline engines.

Let’s talk about the CB Hornet 160R. It was launched in 2015 to replace the CB Trigger, again which was launched after the inefficiency of Dazzler to perform in the market.

It was designed and powered to compete the rivals Yamaha FZ and Suzuki Gixxer.

Specification

Engine

Type	Air Cooled, 4 Stroke, SI BS-IV Engine
Displacement	162.71cc
Max Net Power	11.1 kW (14.9 bhp) @ 8500 rpm
Max Net Torque	14.5 Nm @ 6500 rpm
Bore	57.30 mm
Stroke	63.09 mm
Compression Ratio	10:01

Source: Honda India

Looks

Hornet is for the street racers and daily commuters who love good design and muscular shapes in their bikes. The ‘R’ in 160R suggests it as a racer bike; but folks, it is a good commuter bike too. It comes in 5 different colors; mars orange, sports red, striking green (my fav), dazzling yellow metallic and athletic blue metallic.

The highlight in the designs is the tail light, with the ‘X’ symbol on the tail; anyone would want to look again at this epic styling. With muscular tanks reminding you of Hero Hunk, chunky rear tires, tall pillion seat, new automatic LED lights, and stylish exhaust; it’s a dazzling sight to see.

Source: Honda India

Performance

The new Honda CB Hornet 160R comes with the same powertrain as the Honda Unicorn 160cc bike- Type Air cooled, 4-stroke and SI engine.

Well, today we are excited about the new CB Hornet 160R launched in 2018. It is not suitable to say Hornet has started to give a tough competition to FZ and Gixxer now, in fact, the attack on mid-range sports bikes started off in 2015 itself. It is now even more powerful, elegant and muscular than any of its rivals.

Fuel efficiency is good and, it exceptionally depends on the rider. The company claims the fuel efficiency around 55-59 kmpl, but, in the actual scenario you can get up 45-50 kmpl. Being a city commuter bike, the traffic also affects these statistics.

Gear changing is smooth as in every Honda bikes, sitting position of the rider is very comfy, but the pillion rider is a bit sporty; of not suitable for your old mother to sit. Well, your father, brother, and friends can sit there comfortably, and your girlfriend too; if any ;)

For those who don’t have enough experience with two-wheelers, may feel a bit hard in corners while going slow. The massive fuel tank looks good but a bit scary to new bees. The 145kg bike may be tough for them. For those are familiar with Hero Hunk, Pulsar 200NS etc. will have none of these problems.

Power from the engine can be felt a bit later after revving up, but, the power is massive and strong. The engine is fine-tuned and powerful version of CB Unicorn. All the Unicorn lovers, this will be the new favourite for you guy if you try it once.

You can go up to the top speed of 130-150 km/h but, I suggest don’t go beyond 80; not that it is not capable of maintaining the balance and composure, but, are you in control of the bike in 80 km/h plus speed (except on straight highways).

Price:95,503 - 1,04,000 (INR on road price)

Source: Honda India

Final verdict:

Looks and design: 8/10

Specs & features: 7/10

Dynamics & performance: 7/10

Safety & quality: 9/10

A great bike for those who are looking for the style with a bit power some comfort and great mileage in a bike should go for it. Best suited for city driving, but it will do even if you want to take her for long distance travelling.

Even though it has an ‘R’ it doesn’t mean it is a serious racing bike its just 160 cc bike, though it has enough power but not enough to be called a sports bike.

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Volvo XC90 Review

Source: Volvo India

Volvo Cars, the Swedish luxury vehicle manufacturer is known for making one of the safest cars available in the market and, xc90 is no exception.

It has been 90 years and, they have never disappointed their customers in the area of quality and safety. In fact, these two factors are the USP of Volvo vehicles. Headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, it concentrates on production, distribution, and sale of vehicles. It is giving a tough competition to its European as well as other rivals from around the globe.

Source: Volvo India

Specifications:

Engine Description	Four-cylinder Supercharged and turbocharged petrol engine
Drivetrain	All wheel drive
Number of Cylinders	4
Engine Displacement	1969 cc
Max Engine Power (kW)	223 kW
Horsepower	303 hp
Rev at max engine power	6000 rpm
Torque	400 Nm
Rev at max engine torque	2200 - 4800 rpm
Fuel type	Electric/ Petrol

Source: Volvo India

Looks and Performance

Unlike before xc90 doesn't look boring, in contrast, she looks beautiful and elegant from any angle you admire her. She has got the pretty headlight especially the R design model. The R Design model has got wheel arch extensions and bigger 20-inch wheels which makes her look sportier from every angle and, it is the simplicity of the Swedish work and nothing else.

It's not just the exterior that is alike, but the same feeling has been carried forward inside the XC90. It has got sporty supportive seats in front with digital instrument cluster and iPad style digital touch operated infotainment system. This infotainment system is really good and easy to use, you can access navigation to control the car’s behaviour and economy.

In the middle it has got good enough space for 3 adults, even with the good height they have enough headroom and seats are comfortable, not that much for the person in middle.

While in the back you can create the leg room by moving the middle seats but, headroom is an issue for tall people.

The sound quality is really good, crisp and clear. Proper attention has been given to the design to have proper storage space of good size. It has also got parking assist with autopilot and 360-degree camera view. Even the storage at back is good even with all seats up.

Source: Volvo India

As it is a Volvo, safety is something they never compromise about. And they still are going strong on this. XC90 has been well tested in the Volvo self-created crash test exams and has done well. It's not just the body structure, it's not just safety against accidents with other objects it has even got safety covered for the pedestrians.

Talking about performance, Volvo is not much into performance, especially in an SUV. Still, she has got enough power to pull and suspension and,  is firm to keep the body stable enough while going around the corners. The only issue I could find was; because of firm suspension it is stiffer to ride, it's not that noticeable but with 20-inch sports wheel you might notice it(maybe). She is decent enough for off-roading.

Price: 7,741,000 to  9,665,000 (INR ex showroom price)

Source: Volvo India

Final verdict:

Looks and design:9 /10

Specs & features: 8/10

Dynamics & performance:7 /10

Safety & quality: 9/10

It's especially for those who like simplicity, elegance, and luxury with a bit of power. Not for those who are looking for serious off-roading and very high performance from this SUV.

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