James Coleman
Second Hand & Gold Blog
Buying A BMW 1 Series - A Guide8/18/2022 Introduced more than a decade ago as BMW’s rival to the market-dominating Audi A3, the BMW 1 Series for sale is one of the most attractive compact cars on the market today. It replaced the 3 Series Compact as the German carmaker’s smallest and least expensive model providing a lower point of entry into the BMW range as the larger 3 Series gradually moved more up-market.
The 1 Series is the only vehicle in its class offering rear-wheel drive, advanced aluminium multilink suspension and a 50:50 weight balance. It also rates extremely well for handling, fuel efficiency, style, practicality and reliability - everything you would want in a fun family car. Launched in 2004, the first generation 1 Series was only available in the 5-door hatchback (E87) variant with the 3-door hatchback (E81), 2-door coupé (E82) and 2-door convertible (E88) not added to the range until 2007. In 2011, the second generation of the model was released with a midlife tune-up in 2015 and further revisions in 2017. Related: Find your perfect used BMW X1 here. BMW 1 Series First Generation (2004-2011) As the successor to the 3 Series Compact, the newly created 1 Series shared most of its components with the 3 Series including axle configuration and suspension. Designed to challenge the Volkswagen Golf, Volvo C30 and Mercedes-Benz B-Class as well as the Audi A3, the 1 Series was based on an entirely new E87 automobile platform. When it was first released, the design of the 1 Series was controversially received, especially the bonnet which was far longer than its contemporaries. However, there were no doubts about how well the car drove providing plenty of fun for everyday motoring. First Generation Trim Levels The first generation 1 Series models were initially available in three trim levels: ES, SE and Sport. The most basic ES trimmed models included 16” alloy wheels and manual air conditioning as standard. Upgrading to SE made for a more comfortable drive, adding automatic dual-zone climate control, rear parking sensors, front fog lights, heated wing mirrors and washer jets, plus a sport multi-function steering wheel. The top-of-the-range Sport trim offered sport seats as well as a lower, stiffened suspension for an enhanced driving experience. In 2006, BMW replaced the Sport trim with the ever-desirable M Sport trim level, which cost over R54,000 above the entry-level ES trim from the new. M Sport models included 17” alloy wheels, interior and exterior trim additions, M aerodynamic body styling, M Sport multi-function leather steering wheel, stiffer M Sport suspension, as well as sports seats. The Sport trim level was then reintroduced to the 1 Series in 2008 with models featuring 'standard' suspension with the addition of sports seats, a multi-function sports steering wheel and fog lights, above the basic ES trim level. First Generation Engines From the start, the BMW 1 Series model range was offered with a range of economical petrol and diesel engines: there were 1.6-litre 116i and 2.0-litre 118i and 120i petrol models, and 118d and 120d versions of a 2.0-litre diesel engine. For those after a truly hot hatchback, the unassuming BMW 130i was offered a year later, in both 3-door and 5-door variants and came packed with a potent 3.0-litre naturally-aspirated engine, producing 197 kW behind its trademark BMW kidney grilles. 2007 Facelift Three years after its launch, the 1 Series received several improvements. The 5-door hatchback underwent a facelift including revised headlights, redesigned front and rear bumpers and a restyled interior. The hydraulic power steering was also replaced by electric power steering. Under the bonnet, new engines for petrol and diesel models brought improvements in fuel economy with EfficientDynamics technology. Most notably a twin-turbocharged 2.0-litre 123d variant was introduced, while cars with a manual gearbox received a stop-start system to reduce CO2 emissions. New Models Launched In May 2007, the 3-door hatchback 1 Series was launched which was then joined in November by the 1 Series coupé model, closely followed by the 1 Series convertible. Unlike the 3 Series convertible, this version used a soft-top instead of a folding hardtop making it lighter and preserving more space in the boot. The new body styles saw the top-of-the-range 130i hatchback trumped in terms of performance (excluding the limited production 1M Coupe) by the new BMW 135i (available as a coupé or convertible) – producing 225 kW from a new twin-turbo 3.0-litre power unit. Originally posted on https://www.motorcityplymouth.co.uk/blog/
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As we near the end of the year and the festive season many South Africans will be on the roads, making their way to December holiday destinations. We’ve put together a list of things to check before you head off. Firstly, make sure you are in a reliable car. If you don’t have one, find a reliable used car here.
Check Your Fluids Check your car's oil, coolant and brake fluid levels to ensure they’re all sufficiently filled. Check Your Lights You can’t be sure what weather conditions you’ll be driving under so you want to ensure all of your lights are working. Additionally, older brake lights can sometimes blow from switching on and off during braking. Check Your Wipers Make sure your windscreen wipers are effectively clearing the water from the windscreen. How Are Your Wheels And Tyres? If your tyre tread depth isn't good enough your car will lose traction and braking times will be extended, so it's advisable that you check your tyre tread before a road trip. Check the surface of your tyres for any damage, inflexion or bubbles. Tyre pressure should also be checked, regularly. Brake Pad Wear Another consideration is brake pad wear. The composite inner pad needs to be of at least a 5mm thickness. Check that your handbrake is functioning efficiently. Leaks Check for any leaks from the various components and hoses in your vehicle. Any leaks should be looked at by a technician. Drive Belts Inspect your drive belt for cracks, your drive belt needs to be working efficiently in order to avoid total engine shutdown. Your battery won’t charge and the engine could overheat, as the drive belt controls the water pump. Check Your Spare Wheel Ensure that your spare tyre, jack and spanner are all present in the vehicle as well as working. Check the spare wheels' inflation and pressure before heading off. Steering There are certain tests that can be done on the steering, such as whether or not the steering pulls in any direction which indicates a wheel alignment problem. Check Your Brakes And Clutch Evaluate how the vehicle's brakes are functioning. It's essential that the vehicle can be controlled while braking. A car has many different parts that need to be functioning to the best of their abilities to ensure car safety before a road trip. This list is a good standard check to ensure December road safety. Looking for a newer, bigger or better car for sale in Gauteng to up the ante with your family trips? Group1 Cars is the place to shop - online or at your nearest showroom. . . . Tips from https://ultimateusedcars.wordpress.com/2022/08/19/10-car-safety-checks-to-perform-before-a-road-trip/ Kia ups its game with new Rio11/14/2018 The Kia Rio for sale has been a phenomenal success for the South Korean brand within the local automotive market, although this was not always the case.
The first generation model graced South African shores at the turn of the century, and was a rather forgetful but dependable econobox. The second generation was better. But, in 2011, South Africans were introduced to the third generation Rio, an all-new product with a design language that appealed to the masses. Some 37 237 local unit sales later, the third generation has been replaced by the fourth iteration, which I drove in Johannesburg recently. Grown-up looks The latest Rio certainly demonstrates the newfound maturity of the Kia brand first seen in the latest Sportage. We now have a car with a more grown-up, upmarket exterior design. While not the most radical of departures from its predecessor, I feel that consumers will still get the idea that this is most certainly a new model. Up front, we see an evolution of Kias signature Tiger Nose grille, which is now slightly shorter and thinner. There are also new headlamps and U-shaped daytime running lights. The side profile is typically hatchback and at a glance, could be something more premium, more German, which is a good thing. At the rear, there are new LED taillights that benefit from an arrow motif, while keen observers will note that the rear overhang is a bit shorter than before. Overall, the Rio continues to display the brands successful interpretation of modern motoring design with aplomb. Interior updates For those accustomed to Rio interiors of old, the new model is not likely to surprise, particularly in the entry-level models. The basic ergonomic layout is commendable, with all of the controls and their placement being easy and logical when put into practical use. Kia also claims that there are new, improved materials used throughout the cabin, but expect the odd hard plastic surface to linger. The big change to the interior though has to be the inclusion, or option should I say, of a touchscreen infotainment system. There are three options within the range the more basic models get a 3.8-inch mono-TFT screen with Bluetooth, USB and Aux compatibility. Moving up the range, we have a five-inch colour touchscreen unit with the same features as the mono-TFT, while flagship models receive the brands new seven-inch touchscreen setup complete with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and voice control. The top-line system really improves the look of the cabin and modernises the facia, a useful option worth ticking. Driving Rio In terms of the powertrain department, Kia has decided to stick with the more tried and trusted variants, with the much anticipated 1.0-litre turbo mill still under consideration for South Africa. Instead, we get mildly revised versions of the 1.2 and 1.4-litre naturally aspirated petrol motors. The entry-level unit produces 62kW/120Nm through a five-speed manual gearbox, and the 1.4-litre 74kW/135Nm with transmissions consisting of a six-speed manual or four-speed automatic. I drove the top-of-the range 1.4-litre manual TEC derivative at launch up at altitude. I have to say that the car does feel rather underpowered most of the time, add a hill into the equation and the problem is compounded. That said though, it wasn't frustratingly slow with the lack of power being made-up somewhat by very little road noise and a good level of interior comfort, two traits buyers in this segment want, along with low costs and fuss-free motoring, which the Rio delivers. Verdict While Kia hasn't really re-invented the wheel, so to speak, with the new Rio, it didn't really have to. The updated looks, improved quality, added interior technology and the fact that the new model is similarly priced to the older version, will likely ensure that this generation Rio is as successful as its predecessor. Warranty and service All Rio models come with a four-year/60 000km service plan as well as a five-year/unlimited mileage warranty. Find your perfect Kia Rio here or visit a Group 1 Used Cars dealership now! Article source: https://tenacioususedcars.tumblr.com/post/180099233974/kia-ups-its-game-with-new-rio-the-kia-rio-for-sale Facelifted BMW 1 Series Revealed10/29/2018 In much the same vein as the facelifted 2 Series, BMW gave its 1 Series hatchback a mild revision in 2017. Herewith the details for the facelifted BMW 1 Series.The BMW 1 Series was updated with minor exterior and interior enhancements. What changed? The facelifted 1 Series didn't change much on the outside, but most of the improvements are to be found on the inside. In the case of the 1 Series, the changes are even less pronounced than that of the 2 Series and the updated model benefits from 5 new wheel designs and 2 new exterior colours including Seaside Blue and Sunset Orange. There will also be 3 special editions on offer including the Edition Sport Line Shadow, Edition M Sport Shadow and the M140i Edition Shadow. These special edition models are differentiated with black headlight surrounds, a black frame for the grille and tinted front and rear light housings. On the inside, the 1 Series benefits from a newly designed instrument panel, updated trim elements and a new leather upholstery variant. The latest iDrive operating system is fitted along with an 8.8-inch touchscreen display, which is offered in conjunction with the optional Navigation Professional system. Wireless charging and a WiFi hotspot is also fitted and can connect up to 10 devices if need be. The air vents and glove compartment also feature a new design and the front cup holders now have a sliding cover. Engine choices The M140i headlines the 1 Series range with 250 kW and 500 Nm of torque on offer from its 3.0-litre, 6-cylinder turbocharged engine.
The local engine range is expected to remain the same with variants including the 118i, 120i, 125i, 120d and the M140i. The 118i is powered by a turbocharged 3-cylinder, 1.5-litre engine with 100 kW and 220 Nm of torque while 120i offers 135 kW and 290 Nm of torque from its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine. The thrifty 125i with its turbocharged 2.0-litre engine offers 165 kW and 310 Nm of torque and the 120d develops 140 kW and 400 Nm of torque from its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine. The range-topping M140i is fitted with a 6-cylinder, 3.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 250 kW and 500 Nm of torque. The next-generation 1 Series is already in development, as revealed by recent spy shots, and the biggest change will be the switch from the current rear-wheel drive layout to a front-wheel drive configuration, which should increase cabin space considerably, particularly for rear passengers. The new 1 Series is expected to hit the market in 2019. As for the facelifted 1 Series, it was launched in Europe in July 2017 and reached South Africa later that year. Naturally, you can now find a used BMW 1 Series for sale, at Group 1 Used Cars, at a more affordable price - for all the same great BMW 1 Series features and specifications. Article source: https://pre-ownedsmarts.postach.io Ford Ranger: Where it's been - Part 110/29/2018 Looking back at the history of Ford's small pickup truck in the US before its 2019 revival. At the 2017 Detroit Auto Show Ford revealed that it would bring the Ranger pickup back to the US in 2019, but revealed little else at the time. We would have to wait until this year's Detroit show to physically see the North American-bound model and learn about one of the drivetrains it'll be equipped with when it hits dealers early next year. When Ford finally does reenters the midsize pickup market, it will have a formidable group of competitors to deal with including the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Nissan Frontier, Toyota Tacoma and Honda Ridgeline. The previous-generation Ranger vanished from showrooms in the US following the 2011 model year. However, the nameplate continued on uninterrupted in other markets around the world. Not shockingly the foreign market model provided Ford a solid foundation to develop the truck that will return here. With a bit of a wait still before sales of the 2019 Ranger begin, let's take a jog down memory lane for a look at the history of the Ford F-150's little brother here in the United States. After that, we'll review everything we know so far about the brand-new truck. 1983-1992 First-generation Ranger: Tagging in for the Courier
The Ranger's North American story began during the 1983 model year when Ford introduced the new small pickup truck to replace the Mazda-built Courier. At launch, the Ranger was offered with four engine options that included a base 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 73 horsepower, 2.3-liter four with 79 horsepower and a 2.8-liter V6 pumping out 115 horsepower. A naturally aspirated 2.2-liter diesel built by Mazda was also available making 59 horsepower and 90 pound-feet of torque, which was replaced in 1985 by a Mitsubishi 2.3-liter turbocharged diesel with 86 horsepower and 134 pound-feet of twist. Sadly, Ford would drop the diesel engine option following 1986. The first-generation Ranger would undergo a major facelift for 1989 with frame improvements and styling revisions for both the exterior and interior. On the outside, flush headlights, new grille, hood and front fenders spruced things up, while the cabin enjoyed a new dashboard. A 2.3-liter four with 100 horses and 133 pound-feet of torque served as the base power option connected to either a five-speed manual or available four-speed automatic. Stay tuned to this blog for Part 2 of this blog-series. If you’re looking for a used Ford Ranger for sale or want more information on the Ford Ranger specifications - visit your nearest Group 1 Used Cars dealership and speak to on of their great consultants. Article source: https://usedcarchat.blogspot.com/2018/10/ford-ranger-where-its-been-part-1.html October 29th, 201810/29/2018 3 Reasons Why Toyota Fortuner is #CarsAwards FinalistWhat makes the Toyota Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 4x4 Automatic a formidable contender in the Adventure SUV category of the 2017/18 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank? We investigate… The used Toyota Fortuner for sale is one of the South Africa’s favourite vehicles. The new model continues its predecessor’s winning recipe of ruggedness and versatility, but adds a generous helping of sophistication, style, refinement and technology to the mix. Can the Fortuner go all the way to win this category? 1. Powerful and refined This flagship Fortuner is powered the marque’s brand new 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine that develops 130 kW and 450 Nm of torque in this (6-speed automatic) application. It’s a very refined unit that doesn’t mind revving hard, and delivers its strong power in a sustained and fuss-free manner. Toyota claims a rather conservative consumption figure of 8.5 L/100 km for this model. We say “conservative” because the Fortuner’s real-world economy is quite impressive, and not as far removed from the quoted figure as some other rivals. You should be able to achieve a range of around 900 km on a 80 L tank of diesel. 2. Practically spacious The Fortuner is versatile and the seating can be altered depending on your requirements. Toyota claims that second- and third-row occupants have more space in the new model, and in reality this seems to indeed be the case. The second-row seating features a 60/40 split and features a slide function as well as reclining backrests. Third-row seating is split in half 50/50 and features a recline function. Both of the rows can be stowed with just one touch.
3. Comfortable and capable The Fortuner is well-sorted in terms of comfort and Toyota’s focus on refinement has certainly paid off. The bodyshell appears to be well insulated against road, tyre and other noises, so the cabin is a very quiet place. The ride, too, has improved markedly, though it retains some of the trademark stiffness of its predecessor, which arguably, contributes to the edge it has in off-road conditions. The first-generation Fortuner offered legendary off-road ability, and its successor leads from the front again. It offers excellent ground clearance and approach/departure angles, as well as a rear differential lock. Coupled with the responsive automatic transmission and good torque characteristics, the Fortuner hardly breaks a sweat, even in comparatively tricky off-road situations. Get your hands on a quality used Toyota Fortuner at Group 1 Used Cars today! Article source: https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/3-reasons-why-toyota-fortuner-is-carsawards-finalist/44368/ Used Ford Ranger buying guide: 2011-20169/25/2018 The Ford Ranger Double Cab pickup truck combines SUV practicality with a large load bed and a car-like interior. There's strong demand for well-equipped pickup trucks, and the Used Ford Ranger for sale is one of the front-runners in the class. The third-generation model is similar in philosophy to rivals such as the Mitsubishi L200, Nissan Navara and Volkswagen Amarok, as it offers rugged SUV-style looks and capability with a modern cabin that's loaded with kit. As the Ford Ranger is classed as a commercial vehicle, it falls outside conventional company-car tax rules, so business users can get a lot more car for their money. But once they're on the used market, these upmarket pickups make for an interesting alternative to a conventional SUV. Ford Ranger history The third-generation Ford Ranger was launched in 2011, but it was radically different from the car it replaced. The second-generation was a commercial vehicle first and foremost, and it was only towards the end of its production run that Ford looked seriously at producing family-friendly versions. For the Mk3, Ford designed it from the outset with family transport in mind. While the commercial versions are available in Regular, Super Cab and Double Cab body styles, it's the last one that provides the most practicality and therefore is the one being sold as a private vehicle. There are two engine choices in the Ranger, a 2.2-litre TDCi diesel and a larger 3.2-litre TDCi. Both have four cylinders and are offered with six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes. From launch, the Ranger was offered in XL, XLT, Limited and Wildtrak (above) trims, all with varying amounts of standard kit. The top-spec Wildtrak featured kit such as leather seats, rear parking sensors and a camera, sat-nav and heated seats – although it only came with the larger 3.2-litre diesel. The Ranger was updated at the start of 2016 with a corporate face similar in design to the new Ford Edge, while Ford's latest infotainment system was added to the cabin. Which is the best Ford Ranger model for me? Unless you're going to be carrying huge payloads or towing big trailers, the 2.2-litre TDCi diesel will have all the pulling power you'll need. In comparison, the 3.2-litre TDCi is thirsty, although there's no arguing with its added torque for larger loads. The 2.2-litre TDCi has 158bhp, while the 3.2-litre TDCi has a substantial 197bhp. If you have a trailer, the 2.2-litre TDCi has a towing capacity of 1.8 tonnes, while the 3.2-litre TDCi can haul a massive 3.5 tonnes. The regular and extended Super Cab versions of the Ranger are designed for commercial use, while the four-door Double Cab is the most versatile version that's geared towards family use. The basic XL and XLT are sparsely equipped, with only a basic DAB radio and air-conditioning. In comparison, the Limited has extra chrome trim, climate control, larger wheels and rear parking sensors. The Wildtrak is very well equipped, with leather, a rear-view camera and bigger alloy wheels. Running costs, maintenance & parts The 3.2-litre TDCi has the power to impress. The 2.2-litre TDCi has claimed economy of 39.8mpg, or 35.3mpg for the automatic version. Both models feature a large 80-litre fuel tank, though, so even the 3.2-litre automatic has a range of over 300 kilometers. The Ranger's first scheduled service is after 12 months or 120,000 kilometers while the major service is after two years or 25,000 kilometers. Post-facelift cars only require an inspection after 12 months, and servicing occurs after 24 months or 120,000 kilometers. The brake fluid should be replaced every two years, and the air-conditioning should be recharged at the same time. The coolant should be replaced after eight years, and the auxiliary drive belts need replacing after eight years or 100,000 kilometers. What to look out for The Ford Ranger has a rugged feel about it, and it's likely that some owners may not have looked after their cars as well as if it was a conventional car. What's more, the Double Cab measures nearly five and a half metres long, so it's not the most maneuverable car on sale. Scrapes to the bodywork are only of minor concern, but can be an early sign of abuse that may need investigating further. The permanent four-wheel-drive system has a 4WD lock and low-range gears, and while the transmission isn't the most sophisticated, it's worth checking that the transmission changes modes smoothly. If a Ranger has been used for towing, it may have added extra strain to the transmission, but with a 3.5-tonne maximum load for the 3.2-litre TDCi, you'll have to be going some to cause the car problems. Ford offered a range of tonneau covers and truck tops to convert the pickup bed into a boot and give the Ranger added versatility. If you're looking at a car with a bed cover – a useful extra to have – then check that the cover has been installed correctly, as poor fitment can cause damage to the load bed. A protective plastic load liner is also a welcome addition to keep the pickup bed free from scrapes and dings. Alternatives Upmarket pickups are in strong demand, and there are a number of worthy rivals for the Ford Ranger Mk3. The Mitsubishi L200 and Nissan Navara are on a par with the Ford, with similar towing ability and payloads, while standard kit on top-spec versions is generous, too. If you want towing power, the Navara was available with a V6 diesel for a brief period, and this can match the 3.2-litre TDCi Ranger for performance. Verdict
The Ranger Limited and Wildtrak models offer a lot of car for the money, and there's nothing like driving a pickup to give you a sense of purpose and the feeling of rugged outdoor lifestyle. You'll also become popular with friends and family in need of a practical workhorse when they need to transport extra-large items, whether it's in the pickup bed or using the tow bar. Find a quality pre-owned Ford Ranger for sale at your nearest Group 1 Used Cars dealership here. Article source: https://www.carbuyer.co.uk/tips-and-advice/154725/used-ford-ranger-buying-guide-2011-2016-mk3 |