Tuesday, 1 August 2017

Difference Between The FSI and TSI ENGINES Explained

What’s the difference between FSI and TSI ?

20tsi-gen1


There have been some questions between the differences between the VW/Audi 2.0 liter FSI and TSI engines.  I will try and highlight the differences between them to help you understand the evolution of the TSI powerplant from the TSI.  I won’t be covering every difference, but I will try to go over the most significant differences.

Before we get too far into describing the differences I would like to clarify that TSI, FSI and TFSI have been used on varying models as marketing vernacular for VW/Audi.  Just looking at the engine cover is not always a sure fire way to identify one from the other.

What does FSI and TSI stand for?
FSI is short for “fuel stratified injection” or “fuel straight injection” and TSI is short for “turbo stratified injection”.  These are types of fuel injection systems that allow engines to run lean air-to-fuel ratios (better fuel economy) by creating a fuel rich “stratified charge” near the spark plug, but the side-effect is increased NOx (nitrogen oxide).  Catalytic converters can remove the extra NOx, but the high sulfur content in U.S. fuel contaminates and destroys them.  In Europe FSI engines use the lean burn for optimized power and economy, but the U.S. version uses the same air-to-fuel ratio as port-injected engines.

So, from this description we know that we are talking about a type of injection system, not an engine block.  You will see in the modern VW/Audi lineup that TSI, FSI and TFSI are used on a range of engines such as the 3.0, 4.0, and 4.2 liter engines.  What we are really looking at then when we are talking about the 2.0TSI and 2.0FSI are the differences between the EA113 engine code normally associated as the FSI, and the EA888 engine code normally associated as the TSI.

For the remainder of this article I am still going to refer to the differences between the FSI and TSI instead of the engine codes for the simple fact that it has become common practice to use them interchangeably for the EA113 and EA888 codes.

What is the same between FSI and TSI?
  • Displacement:   1984cc
  • Max Power:       200hp
  • Max Torque:      206 lb ft
  • Valves per Cylinder:        4
  • Bore:     82.5mm
  • Stroke: 92.8mm
  • Firing Order:       1-3-4-2

What changed from the FSI to the TSI?
  • Chain timing versus belt timing in the FSI
  • Compression Ratio: 9.6:1 down from 10.5:1
  • Engine Management: Bosch MED 17 from Bosch MED 9
  • Oxygen Sensors: Addition of one for a total of 3, from 2
  • Main bearing caps are now cross bolted to the block for additional strength.
  • Oil spray jets to piston undersides for improved cooling and lubrication.
  • More balanced cam shafts in the center of the block
  • Improved fueling system running the HPFP (high pressure fuel pump) off of a dedicated lobe on the exhaust cam.
  • Improved flowing cylinder head
  • Updated internals with less internal parasitic loss
  • Improved PCV system

From the list you can probably see that the TSI is a definite evolution from the FSI.  There is a common misconception that the EA113 FSI is the more “tuner friendly” because VW released it in the premium Golf R.  This was really the result of production and development timelines from VW, not strength and power limitations for the EA888 TSI.  As the EA888 TSI platform progresses you will be seeing some incredible power out of the latest evolution of VW/Audi’s small displacement turbo platform.

A List Of Most And Least Hijacked Cars In SA

vol-violence-fotolia.jpg
Whilst you can’t (with certainty) prevent car theft, there are several steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim - one of which is choosing a low risk vehicle.
As motorists in South Africa, hijacking and car theft are unfortunately a reality which are factored into our daily lives. We’re faced with decisions like whether or not to get insurance, install a tracker or park our car on the verge at our best friend’s braai.
According to crime statistics there were, on average, 40 hijackings per day during 2016, 50% of which occurred in Gauteng.
In February (2017) Ctrack, a global supplier of vehicle tracking, insurance telematics and fleet management solutions, released a report based on its hijacking and crime statistics. The report was compiled using data and analytics from January 2016 to December 2016 and listed, in order, which vehicle makes are targeted by criminals in South Africa. Suzuki is one of the least hijacked brands in South Africa and wasn’t mentioned at all on Ctrack’s list.
The top ten most hijacked passenger vehicle brands are (in order):
  1. VW
  2. Toyota
  3. Ford
  4. Citroen
  5. Kia
  6. Hyundai
  7. BMW
  8. Audi
  9. Renault
  10. Chevrolet
The following charts, showing the most hijacked cars in South Africa, are based on Ctrack’s report data:
C-Track-9 (1) (3).png

Images Source : Business Tech
C-Track-8 (1).png
The top ten most hijacked sport / utility vehicle brands are (in order):
  1. Toyota
  2. Land Rover
  3. Nissan
  4. Mahindra
  5. VW
  6. Jeep
  7. Porsche
  8. Renault
  9. Ford
  10. Daihatsu
Whilst you can’t (with certainty) prevent crime, there are several steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim.
Keep these things in mind to avoid becoming a hijack victim:
  1. Park in a secure area, with good lighting and preferably a guard on duty.
  2. Have your keys ready, but out of sight, and only unlock your car when you’re close to it. Many Suzukis come with keyless entry which saves you from scrabbling around in your handbag in the dark.
  3. Keep your valuables out of sight, preferably in the boot.
  4. Drive with your windows closed and doors locked.
  5. Stay vigilant. Be aware of your surroundings and watch your mirrors for any suspicious vehicles or pedestrians. Avoid distractions, like checking your phone at the robot, as this leaves you vulnerable.
  6. Don’t remain stationary if you don’t need to. Slow down when approaching a red robot at night, so it’s green by the time you reach the intersection.
  7. Keep a safe following distance (approximately one car length) and when stopped at a robot, allow yourself space to maneuver in case you need to make a quick getaway.
  8. If you feel like you’re being followed, drive straight to your nearest police station or a busy, well lit public area.
  9. Change your route regularly to avoid criminals being able to identify your routine.
  10. Let people know in advance what time you’ll be arriving so that someone can open and close the gate for you.
  11. Keep your own driveway well lit and cut back any overgrown shrubs which could obstruct vision of your surroundings.
During an interview with Fourways Review,  Jean Berdou (Chairperson of the Douglasdale Police Forum) gave advice to motorists who find themselves in a hijack situation.
The following steps could help save your life in a hijack situation:
  1. Remain calm and non-confrontational.
  2. Be compliant and do as the hijackers say.
  3. Hand over your car keys without hesitation.
  4. Appeal to their humanity and ask them to let you go.
  5. Although it’s difficult, try to absorb as much detail as possible (e.g. the age, facial features and physical build of the hijackers).
  6. Get as far away from the hijackers as possible before calling for help.
  7. Report the incident to your local police station and vehicle tracking company.
  8. Seek trauma counselling to help you recover from the ordeal.
Purchasing a high risk vehicle can increase your chances of becoming a hijack victim. We recommend you keep the following tips in mind to help you stay safe on the road.

Article Source :

Tuesday, 2 May 2017

Japanese Nissan Cube Vs Honda Fit : A Comparison


Nissan Cube vs Honda Fit: Choose your family car


Although a subcompact hatchback and a compact wagon aren’t typically competitor, both Nissan Cube vs Honda Fit regularly stays in the same list of consideration. Both are very similar as having almost the same body length, good space for passengers and cargo; and last but not important, a high score in crash tests. For someone who’re looking for an affordable vehicle in the city, then it’s going to be hard to choose between these two. Therefore, today Cars From Japan will give you more clues to choose your city car between  Nissan Cube vs Honda Fit.

Nissan Cube Over View

Nissan Cube public in 1998, and initially sold only in Japan. Later, Cube got it into North American and European markets since 2009 but in 2014 yet again exclusive only in Japan. Nissan Cube has been recognized as Top Safety Pick by IIHS; 2010 Automobile Design of the Year Award; and (sounds funny to me), AAA Top vehicle picks for dog owners. Third Generation of Nissan Cube is from 2008-1014.

Honda Fit Over View

Since its first introduced in 2001, despite it hardly good looking shape; Honda Fit always stays on top of its rangefor smart space design, yet fun to drive, excellent visibility and fuel fuel-efficient. Over the years, Honda Fit won many awards such as Japan best car of the year; MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Awards 2007—Best of the Year; 2012 Best Cars for Families Awards – No. 1 in Affordable Small Cars; and so on… Honda Fit is also known as Honda Jazz and currently in it’s Third Generation since 2013.

Nissan Cube vs Honda Fit Comparison

Performance and Fuel Consumption

For some tests, Fits has better acceleration but Cube is finer in highway driving range. In most of the driving test on city, highway and combined road, Honda Fit proved it is more eco-friendly by using less gas than Nissan.

The Look

In my point of view, I have to say Nissan Cube have a trendy – stylish looking. If you want something stunning and catch the attention of everyone around, Cube is surely your call. Otherwise, for someone who favors a decent look, immerse into the crowd, Fit will serve best.
Nissan Cube vs Honda Fit

Passenger Comfort

In this field, Cube is highly more focus on passengers experience. Cube’s front row head room and leg room are larger, which means more comfort and relax for drivers to enjoy their ride. Cube’s second-row seat as well gives more space to guests or family members on board. There is no discuss Nissan Cube wins the passenger comfort challenge in Nissan Cube vs. Honda Fit fight.

Cargo Space

In the normal state, Fit trunk space provides about 1.5 to 1.7 times more than Nissan. Nevertheless, when you fold of the rare seat rows, Cube reveals it’s hidden spaces and is slightly more spacious than Fit. So it actually depends on your needs whether you want a bit less comfort but both people and stuff; or lots of space for either people or stuff.

Nissan Cube vs Honda Fit Final Words

I would say, Honda Fit is a secure choice for all ages. Seats for 5 people, enough cargo space and a normal look. On the contrary, Nissan Cube focus more on young ages with a fascinating look, fun to stay in for both driver and passengers.

Tuesday, 18 April 2017

JAPANESE TOYOTA RAV4 Vs NISSAN X-TRAIL : A COMPARISON


Toyota RAV4 VS Nissan X-Trail: Which is better?


Compact Sports Utility Vehicles are always very popular among the mass. Here, I am going to compare Toyota RAV4 vs Nissan X-Trail on many standards. Both the cars are famous for their value of the money features and excellent grip on the road. So,  Let us see, what the real facts about both are.

Toyota RAV4 vs Nissan X-Trail

Toyota RAV4 VS Nissan X Features
Main FeaturesToyota RAV4Nissan X-Trail
Passenger accommodation55
Power Windowsyesyes
Air Bagsyesyes
Top Speed114mph112mph
lock4 WD4 WD
Pick up8.3 second9 seconds
MPG31/2531.7
Launch19942000
 If you are looking for an economical mid-size SUV that perfectly serves as a family cargo, Toyota RAV4 and Nissan X-Trail both are in the race with equal points. However, as we include the features comparison, the battle of Toyota RAV4 vs Nissan X-Trail is definitely interesting. Let us start the countdown.

Interior

Toyota RAV4 Interior
Toyota RAV4: The SUV is not exactly fit for five people as the fifth passenger can face small legroom. However, the interior of the car has a number of features like power window, keyless entry, enough storage space etc. The carcass of the SUV is just like any other modern car. Power locks, foldable rear seats, shift lever, etc. add the extra charm. The SUV is entirely dedicated to the small family where the cargo area includes a cup holder, shopping bag hooks, tie down hooks and door panel pockets. The foldable rear seat adds extra space to the cargo area, which is quite versatile. Map-lights, digital clocks, seat’s height adjustment etc. appends additional features to make it comfortable on the road.
Nissan-X-Trail-Interior
Nissan X-Trail: The SUV is perfect for five adults. The car is spacious but the feel of softness is missing somewhere. However, the peculiar instrument panels, extra glove box, easily accessible control, low mounted AC vents are other features, which are impressive. The chassis of the car is strong and includes all the safety features like dual front airbags, electronic brake-force distribution or anti-lock braking system.
Toyota RAV4 vs Nissan X- Trails round 1 goes to Nissan for sure.

Exterior

Toyota RAV4 Exterior
Toyota RAV4: The car is available in three-door as well as five-door versions. It shows the entire curve beautifully along with the high window, funky wheels, and less aggressive AWD vehicle. The rear door is hinged on the right. So, It may be problematic for the right-hand drivers. The car comes with 16” steel wheels, fog light and 70 series all seasons tires. The optional lockable center and short, front and rear overhangs add some extra oomph.
Nissan X-Trail Exterior
Nissan X-Trail:  Are you looking for a boxier SUV? Here is your perfect car. The monstrous X-Trail is a crossover SUV. It has a large rear hatch, optional roof rack, light towing capacity and heavy looks. Although, X-trail is not economical compared to the RAV4, but on the road it is amazing. The car is fitted with 65 series all-season tires, large power sunroof, and alloy wheels.
Toyota RAV4 vs Nissan X-trial round 2 goes to Toyota undisputedly.

Performance on the Road

Toyota RAV4
Toyota RAV4: The driving is smooth in urban areas, but as soon as the SUV goes off road, the problem starts. The small 1.8l to 2.0l engine makes the car not so perfect on the highways. The 127 HP is definitely not, what one looks in an SUV. Here, the noisy Powertrain spoils the meaning of fun driving for sure. Apart, the SUV is fuel-efficient when one drives it at a moderate speed. The car is great for a smooth drive with the family as it is easy to handle. At turns, the car starts to shine. It can execute a three-point turn, which makes it fun to drive on busy and packed roads. The vehicle is reliable when one gets comfortable with the wheels.
Nissan X-Trail
Nissan X-Trail: Opposite to the RAV4, X-Trail is not for the urban runabout. Its tall features give great views and its strong chassis makes it easy to drive off the roadAlthough it does not come under sports car segment, but the interior, versatility, and space can challenge any sports car easily. It is entirely a powerful car with four-cylinder engines. Even the small gas capacity (2.0 l) delivers 40HP, which is amazing. X-Trail GT (turbocharged version) of Nissan delivers 280hp with the same gas capacity. The four-speed automatic transmission, manual transmission or five-speed transmission, either 2WD drive or 4WD drive is the real example of a versatile car.
Now, because of the less aerodynamic body, the car is not flexible on the road. However, on the bad road condition, one can change FWD to AWD mode of driving for a swift flow. Furthermore, the driving on LOCK-MODE is not safe, especially in 4WD mode. Still, the X-Trail steering and suspension are well tuned. The car is easy to control and a bliss for a long drive on tough roads.
Toyota RAV4 vs Nissan X-Trail round 3 goes to Nissan again for its off-road control quality.

The Ultimate Winner: Toyota RAV4 vs Nissan X-Trail

No doubt, Nissan X-Trail is a better choice than a Toyota RAV4 if one is looking for a sturdy car, with a powerful performance in the end. Still, choosing a car is one’s own personal choice. If one check Toyota RAV4 vs Nissan X-Trail, On the urban road, Toyota RAV4 performs better while off-road, it cannot even chase Nissan X-Trail. Whichever car you choose, look for safety, smooth drive and your requirement first and then only decide.

Tuesday, 11 April 2017

JAPANESE TOYOTA PRIUS Vs TOYOTA ARIUS : A COMPARISON


Brief Comparison between Toyota Prius vs Toyota Arius
 



Toyota Prius

It is a full hybrid car with an electric mid-size hatchback. Formerly it was a sedan. The Prius which was developed and manufactured by Toyota is among the cleanest vehicles sold in the United States. It also got ranked as the most efficient gasoline-powered car in 2016. First launched for sale in Japan but later Toyota Prius ruled the global market after being launched worldwide in 2000.
prius vs auris
It was sold over 90 international markets. Toyota later expanded the Prius family and added more automobiles to its line. It globally accumulated the sale of 5.7 million in 2016

Toyota Auris

The Toyota Auris has been derived from the Toyota Corolla. It is a compact hatchback. The first generation was started with Corolla and the second one had compact five-door hatchback and station wagon. More luxurious Auris was named Toyota Blade in Japan.
prius vs auris

What do we get on comparing functions of Toyota Prius and Toyota Auris?

The Prius has got a spacious boot along with a nicely built floor; the floor obscures a “secret compartment” under it. The Auris on the other side offers you a compromised boot because the battery takes up whole space.
On comparing Prius VS Auris, We see that Prius offers a huge advantage for anyone serious about the economy. It has MPG tracking through which you can track mpg per-journey. You can also check your previous graphs and such information can be real helpful at times. This is missing in Auris.
The HUD: It’s another merit of Prius. It turns out to be genuinely helpful when maintaining speed or engine mode, to keep an eye on the pathway. But in Arius, you’ll need to look down at the analog meter. This can be irritating.
You get a bonus point in for your driving position too. The wheels are adjustable; while the Auris always seems to be a little high, which compensate you to bump the seat up.
Prius offers you better Bluetooth connectivity and voice control, then what you get in Auris. It also has good sound quality of the audio system.
While Auris has small rear view screen, the Prius offers a larger one. It has a large screen for Reverse cam which makes it easier to see what’s going on than the tiny display.

What do we get on comparing the style of Toyota Prius and Toyota Auris?

Toyota Auris has a much-styled interior with dark leather seats, dark gray materials which provide a warm and comfortable ambiance. Prius, on the other hand, has cheap gray plastic material.
Auris has electric folding mirrors which can be very helpful at times, especially when you have compromising space in your garage or parking lot. Prius is missing this one.
The USB compatibility is amazing in Auris. Just plug in your cable and you’re all set to play whatever you want. Prius surprisingly has got no USB; they have Bluetooth option for music.
Auris gives you brilliant DRLs and auto headlights.
The Steering wheels being sporty are more comfortable than that of what Toyota Prius has.