New launches 2061-62 Bs : Japanese models target connoisseurs

Himalayan News Service

Kathmandu, June 9:

Regardless of the price, Japanese cars have always been the first choice of car lovers. Strong performance, superior quality, safety and technological innovations have kept Japanese cars ahead of their competitors. The economic slowdown in the country has not affected the domestic automobile market very much. More than a dozen new vehicles were launched and the Japanese automobile distributors came out with three new models — Sirion by Daihatsu, Cefiro from Nissan and Mazda3 of Mazda during BS 2061-62. Though the Japanese carmakers seem rather reluctant towards market and brand expansion in Nepal, the new models are eyeing to meet the changing taste of customers.

Daihatsu Sirion

Golchha Organisation, the authorised distributor of Daihatsu Motors, introduced the second

generation of its popular — Sirion multi-purpose compact car in February this year. This 1300 cc compact car is developed with parent company Toyota, which sells its own version in Japan. Despite being a compact car, Sirion gives you the kind of roominess that you need to truly relax, says Amit Sharma, sales executive at Golchha Organisation. Besides the ample luggage space that offers sufficient capacity in spite of its compact dimensions, the Sirion has plenty of space for passengers, too. It also has dual airbag, front seatbelt pre-tensioners and force-limiters and strong wheel arch flares that mask the taller-than-average build. A funky interior with a pod-like oval speedometer mounted on the steering column is yet another appealing feature in Sirion. It is considered the most fuel-efficient car in its class. All the features such as air condition, heater, stereo system, power window, power steering, central locking and additional accessories are factory-fitted. Sirion is the only car having Dynamic Variable Valve Timing (DVVT) for engine in this category. In DVVT, a computer optimises

the valve timing according to engine rpms and degree of accelerator pedal depressed. It results quick engine response and improved fuel efficiency.

Nissan Cefiro

Nissan unveiled its D-segment car Cefiro earlier this year in Nepal, targeting middle-age senior executives, expatriate and diplomats. “It’s a premium Sedan car that comes with two new fuel efficient 6-cylinder engines — Continuously Variable-valve Timing Control (CVTC) system and Electronic Throttle Chamber,” says R Kishore Singh, senior manager at Dugar Brother & Sons, authorised distributor of Nissan Motors in Nepal. Quiet but so smooth, Nissan Cefiro is available in three models — 350JM, 230JM and 200JK. However, 2300cc Nissan Cefiro is the only model that is available in Nepal at present. Power seat, automatic gear

system with high-quality audio and air conditioning systems take the automotive intelligence to a new stage in Cefiro. A ‘triple safety’ concept that every Nissan vehicle is embodied with ensures truly world-class safety. “The Japanese cars are expensive but they are also of superior quality and technology that ensures better performance and equipped with full safety measures. Low maintenance cost and fuel efficiency are praiseworthy,” says Singh.

Mazda 3

Within four months of its launch in Nepal, Mazda3 is now considered as a ‘hotcake’ in its category, says Prabin Kumar Jha, assistant manager at Padmshree Pvt Ltd, sole distributor of Mazda vehicles in Nepal. This D-segment car is available in two models — Mazda3 G-V and Mazda3 G-S, with an engine displacement of 1600cc. Appealing look, simple yet luxurious interior, full option along with superior quality are what Mazda cars carry for safe and fun-to-drive, said. Mazda uses digital innovation technology in which all processes from planning to production are totally computerised. The Mazda3 G-V is bit sophisticated and is equipped with accessories exterior temperature sensor, additional fog lamp and central AC system. The 1.6L-Z6V, four inline cylinder, 16 valve engine of Mazda3 produces a maximum power of 79KW@6000rpm and maximum torque of 146nm@ 4000rpm, which suits the road condition of Nepal.