Driving the Honda Jazz in Poor Visibility Conditions

Many cars including the Honda Jazz are equipped with driving lights and/or fog lamps for poor visibility conditions. However, these lights can be misused easily, and many people are unaware of how they should be used correctly. This can result in the creation of hazardous situation on the road that could lead to accidents and financial penalties in the form of fines. Let’s take a closer look at the rules and regulations surrounding the use of these kinds of lighting options.

Understanding Fog Lamps

A fog lamp is also sometimes known as a fog light, and it’s located under the line of your headlamp cluster. When turned on it will emit a narrow beam of light that is designed to shine under surface mist and illuminate the road. This is especially handy in adverse weather conditions, such as snow, fog, dust storms and heavy rainfall. There are also rear fog lamps that are only used to make your car more visible to cars following behind in these conditions.

Fog lamps are extremely bright and when used in normal driving conditions that can easily dazzle other drivers on the road. This is especially true if they are not correctly aligned and this is why it’s illegal to use them in clear driving conditions. Fog lamps usually have a dedicated indicator on the dashboard so pleading ignorance to a police officer will not offer any kind of credible defense.

Understanding Driving Lights

A driving light is designed to illuminate out to a longer distance than your regular headlights. They are often called high beams, and they are useful on country roads to spot wildlife and other hazards that may be further away. This will give the driver extra warning, and in sparsely populated areas they may be left on. However, driving lights can blind oncoming traffic so they must be dimmed when an approaching vehicle is spotted. This is common road courtesy in most country areas, and it’s also a legal requirement. Australian Road Rule 218 clearly states that drivers cannot use high beam headlights within 200m of a vehicle that is oncoming or travelling in the same direction.

If they are looking for a Honda Jazz for sale, Perth based drivers should get in touch with us here at Prestige Honda. We have a large selection of both preowned and new cars available including the latest Honda Jazz models. We invite you to book a no obligation test drive with us online, and you can try out the Jazz first hand. If you need to finance your purchase, our rates are competitive, and the repayments will be tailored to suit your circumstances. Our sales team staff is standing by to advise you on the latest Honda Jazz for sale price, and they will be happy to answer any remaining questions that you may have.

A Brief 2018 Honda Civic Type R Review

Honda Civic Type R car sales are driven by the desire to own a true turbocharged pocket rocket. For this reason, any incoming models are subject to intense speculation and examination. The latest 2018 Civic Type R is no different, and we thought it would be helpful to take a brief look at this hot Honda.

At a Glance

The outgoing Type R was quite a handful at the track, and it was hoped that a newer model would be easier to live with. The new Type R is still a high revving frenetic driving experience, but it seems slightly more refined to driver compared to the outgoing model. The gear shifting and clutch operation, in particular, are smooth and satisfying to use. As one would expect the handling, braking and steering are top notch and the ride comfort is comfortable. A little more torque at the low end would have been welcome, and the styling will not be suitable for everyone.

The Type R Styling

The Type R has always had a style of its own that would never have broad conservative appeal. However, this isn’t what the Type R is designed to do; it should be in your face and to a certain extent have a jarring aesthetic appeal. Straight away you will notice the chiselled surfaces, a massive wing at the rear, bulging wheel arches and the triple exhaust pipe. The design is deliberately daring and in no way comparable to the more reserved stylings of its competition. The wing and body sculpting creates genuine downforce, and the Type R looks like it’s going fast even when parked.

Inside the Cabin

Continuing from the exterior, it should come as no surprise that the interior isn’t for the shy or retiring types. The cabin is covered in angry red across the sports seats, steering wheel, and display graphics. Red anodised strips of trim, red stitching and even red seat belts! The looks suit the character of the Type R perfectly, and hot hatch fans will feel right at home.

Under the Bonnet

Here will find the 2.0 litre transversely mounted four cylinder turbocharged engine. This engine generates 228 kW of power a quantum leap over the outgoing Type R’s 148kW output. The torque maxes out at 400 Nm which is again a massive increase over the outgoing models 193 Nm maximum.

If they are looking for a Honda Civic Type R, Perth based petrolheads should get in touch with us here at Prestige Honda. We have an unrivalled selection of both new and used cars available including the Honda Civic Type R. We would like you to book a test drive with us online, and you can try out the thrilling Type R for yourself. If you need to finance your new purchase, you will discover that our rates are very competitive and your repayments will be tailored to meet your needs. Our sales team is standing by to advise you on our latest offers, and they will be happy to address any remaining queries that you may have.

Which is Best a Hard or Soft Top Mazda MX 5?

For years, a visit to your local Mazda dealership allowed you to admire the MX5. However, if you had the $45k to spend, you would have been limited to a soft top only. Today, the RF variant is available, providing a hard top option, so which is the better choice?

The Aesthetics

From the front, these two Mazda MX5 models look almost identical. Both have sharp headlights with the signature Mazda 45 degree daytime running lights. However, when you look at the rear or side, the RF starts to stand apart. The “flying buttress” wing lends itself to a targa style roof and allows the RF’s rear profile to appear dramatically changed. Additionally, the extended supporting structure for the roof does add a unique character that is not available on the standard soft top. Unfortunately, the additional lines do create a smaller feel compared to the soft top.

Drivetrain Options

Both models are available with four cylinder, naturally aspirated 2.0 litre engine paired with a six speed manual transmission. This delivers 118 kW power and 200 Nm torque. While the standard MX5 is also available with a 1.5 litre unit, this option is not offered with the RF. This is likely due to the fact that the hard top adds 45 kilograms to the overall vehicle weight.

Inside the Cabin

Inside there is very little difference, once you exclude any trim grade variations. The RF model does feature different seats that are a little more generous and provide excellent support. Of course, there is still a small boot that is only 127 litres, but you’re not likely to want to do more than a weekly shop in your MX5. Both models feature the Mazda infotainment system and basic switchgear, but there is a roof switch to operate the hard top. This is positioned behind the gear stick, suggesting that the roof should only be moved when your car is stopped.

The hard top does take approximately 15 seconds, which is impressive but far slower than the 3 or 4 seconds it takes to operate the soft top.

On the Road

The RF does feel a little firmer over the bumps, but this is only a slight difference. Both models are suited to twisty, tight roads, but the RF does provide a better cabin ambiance when the roof is shut compared to the soft top. However, it is hard to pick a clear winner between these two variants. Both MX5s provide an excellent drive experience, so it is merely down to the personal preference of whether you prefer a soft top or hard top.

If you would like to find out more about the Mazda MX 5, you should call in and see us. We have an impressive stock of new and used Mazda models at our Mazda dealership. The Melville Mazda staff is also on hand to answer any queries about the Mazda MX 5, price deals and current offers.

Is it Time to Visit Honda Dealers: Perth Drivers Guide to Upgrading a Car

Many drivers find the prospect of visiting car dealers to be a little daunting. Even if you bought a brand new model, at some point, you would need to think about upgrading. So, when should you consider an upgrade and what should you consider before you commit to a new vehicle?

Your Circumstances Have Changed

Changing your vehicle can often be dictated by a change in your circumstances. If you have a new job or a new addition to your family, your existing car may not meet your new requirements. If you are expecting a new baby, your small hatchback may no longer be big enough to accommodate the new child car seat and all the other accessories you need to carry on even the shortest journeys. On the other hand, if your children have grown up and flown the nest, you may no longer need that massive people mover and may want to upgrade to a new, smaller vehicle. If your circumstances have recently changed and you find yourself struggling with your current vehicle, it could be time to visit your local Honda dealership.

Increasing Repair Issues

Although Honda models have an excellent reputation, even these vehicles have not been engineered to last forever. While you may have taken care to have your Honda regularly serviced, it will reach a point when more and more repair issues start to develop. This is the point when you need to assess whether it is time for an upgrade. Many drivers like to upgrade their vehicles every three years, so that their vehicle is continually supported by a manufacturer’s warranty. So, before you car starts to have serious issues, it may be worth thinking about an upgrade.

Increasing Running Costs

As mentioned above, no vehicle will last forever, and even if your current vehicle is mechanically sound, it is not likely to be as efficient as it once was. Older vehicles tend to use more fuel and burn more oil, which can lead to increasing running costs. Although you can offset this with regular servicing, you may find that newer models offer even greater efficiency. Car design is continually developing, with manufacturers striving to offer greater and greater efficiency. You may find that newer models offer fuel efficiency that was never possible on your ten year old car, even if it was an innovative model when it first rolled out of the factory. While you will need to consider the initial purchase cost, you may be surprised at what you can save in running costs with a new, more efficient model.

If you would like to know more about what’s on offer at Honda dealers, Perth WA drivers should call in and see us. We have a massive choice of new and quality pre-owned Honda models. The Prestige Honda team is also on hand to answer any questions, discuss finance options or arrange your test drive.

Tips to Parallel Park Your Honda Civic Sedan

The new Honda Civic sedan is an impressive vehicle with a myriad of safety features and equipment. This makes it a great city car, but what about if you need to parallel park in a tight urban street? While the current Honda Civic sedan for sale is not the largest vehicle around, it can still be a challenge to park if you lack confidence. So, here are some tips to perfect your parallel parking.

The Parallel Parking Basics:

Parallel parking is well known to intimidate drivers. The main reasons for this are never having properly shown, poor spatial awareness or a lack of knowledge about the size of your vehicle. Parallel parking requires you to coordinate reversing your vehicle into a space along the kerb, often between two parked cars. This type of parking is often found in metro areas and is normally on the left hand side of inner city roads.

Successful parallel parking means that you should be within 40 centimetres of the kerb. This may seem simple, but it can be intimidating, particularly as pedestrians may be wandering near the car or traffic starts to build up. Fortunately, there are some tips to help you parallel park your Honda Civic sedan like a pro.

Let Other Drivers Know:

The first step to successfully parallel parking your Honda Civic sedan, Perth drivers should know is to alert other drivers. You should stop alongside the vehicle ahead of your intended parking space and put on your indicator. This will warn the other drivers that you are about to attempt a parallel park. Most drivers will appreciate this can be challenging and give you a little more space.

Get the Swing Right:

The basic technique for parallel parking hinges on swinging your car into position. For this, you need to know where your car needs to be to properly execute the maneuver. Swing the steering wheel into full lock in the direction you want to move. Don’t try to move or creep backward while you’re doing this. You can then start to slowly reverse with full lock.

Know Your Reference Points:

Many drivers struggle with parallel parking as they don’t know when they should start adjusting their steering. This is a matter of knowing your reference points. When you are checking your mirrors, you should stay on full lock until you can see the front left corner of a vehicle behind you, or your front wheels are opposite the back wheels of the car in front. This will enable you to stop and straighten up in the space.

Bring in the Nose:

Once you are reversing slowly into the space, you need to get the nose of your vehicle into the space. When your outside tyre is behind the outside tyre of the car in front, stop and swing full lock in the opposite direction.

Straighten Up:

Finally, many drivers are so relieved to get into the space; they forget to straighten up. This can make it more difficult to get back out of the space and could cause problems for other drivers. So, once your Civic sedan is straight in the space, straighten up the steering wheel and check you’re in the middle of the spot.

If you are looking to buy a Honda Civic sedan, Perth drivers should visit us. We have a wide selection of vehicles including the new Honda Civic sedan. We aim to make it easy to buy Honda Civic models. Our sales team can answer any Honda Civic sedan review questions or arrange your test drive.

A Brief Overview of the 2017 Nissan X-Trail ST

The 2017 Nissan X-Trail ST is a common sense entry point into the range. This car offers the maximum level of practicality for the least amount of money in the lineup. We now have this mid life update, that upgrades the cabin design and adds other touches. Let’s take a closer look at what’s on offer and help you to make an informed choice.

At a Glance:

For those drivers totally unfamiliar with the Nissan X-Trail ST, it’s a roomy five seater available as either a 2WD or an AWD. The price starts at $30,490 plus on roads, and it has a five star ANCAP safety rating. The engine puts out 126kW of power and has a combined fuel economy of 7.9L/100km. This update has added AEB, some nice cabin upgrades, and improved functionality. On the downside, we still have the older infotainment system and servicing intervals every 10,000km.

The Nissan X-Trail:

Although, this car may not be as glamorous as the Hyundai Tucson or the Mazda CX-5 it has plenty of admirers. The Nissan X-Trail is very popular amongst Australian buyers that want a well priced and practical family car that won’t let them down. It then comes as no surprise that the X-Trail is actually Nissan's best seller, pipping the Navara ute to the finish line. The ST is the entry level model that plays to the affordability angle of the range nicely. The cost to benefit ratio is very appealing, and you really get a lot of car for the money. Speaking of which, the cost for this particular model, an X-Trail ST with automatic transmission is $30,490 plus on roads. This puts the X-Trail up against cars, such as the CX-5 Maxx, the Mitsubishi Outlander, and the Toyota RAV4 GX. As an added bonus, an additional row of seats can be added for $1,500 for more passenger space.

The Mid Life Update:

The big news here is the addition of Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) and some nice changes in the cabin. The cabin still feels cavernous and even with all five seat in use, the cargo space is 565 litres. This is 20% more space than the popular Mazda CX-5, and there is, even more, space located in an under floor Divide N Hide compartment. Some of the standard features, include cruise control, AEB, push button start, plenty of airbags, LED daytime running lights, Bluetooth connectivity, 17” alloy wheels and a reversing camera.

If they are searching for a Nissan X-Trail for sale. Perth based drivers should speak to us here at Duncan Nissan. We have a large selection of both used and new cars available, including the new Nissan X-Trail for sale. We would like you to join us for a no obligation test drive, and you can try out the Nissan driving difference for yourself. If you need financing, our rates are very competitive, and the repayments will be tailored to suit your circumstances. Our sales team is standing by to offer advice and to answer any additional questions that you may have.

3 Motoring Mistakes that Cost You Money

Nissan finance is a great way to fund the purchase of your next car, but there are other mistakes that can cost you money. From avoid essential maintenance and being disorganised, cutting corners can cost you money. Even if you buy the most economical car that has the best fuel economy, and you have the best financing, it’s still possible to get things wrong. Here are three common motoring mistakes that are costing you money.

1. Streaming Music and Maps:

If your car comes with a Satellite Navigation system, you’re fine for mapping to your destination. However, if you’re streaming Google maps as an alternative, you will eat into the data plan for your phone in short order. This is especially true on longer trips, where the extended usage costs even more. This is also true if you’re streaming content, such as podcasts, videos, and music, for yourself and your passengers. This can be addressed by using a little pre planning for your road trip. A Satellite Navigation device can help, the offline option for Google Maps is useful, and you could load up a device with the media for your journey to save on data costs.

2. Making Too Many Right Turns:

Back in 2004, UPS carried out an experiment with their delivery routes and instituted a policy for their drivers to avoid left turns. This followed a study that showed that routes with many left hand turns might look shorter on paper but actually consumed more fuel. This occurred, because of traffic lights and junctions where fuel usage was raised, and there was a greater chance of an accident occurring. In Australia, this would be the equivalent of turning right across traffic, and this should be kept in mind when you plan a route for a trip.

3. Aggressive Driving:

Driving aggressively, engaging sports mode and screaming around corners can be fun, but it isn’t great for your wallet. The most obvious aspect here is the increased fuel use that occurs when you go to heavy on the accelerator. However, there are other things to consider; heavy accelerating usually leads to heavy braking. This can cause excessive wear and tear for your brake pads, causing them to need replacing earlier than necessary. Driving fast also wears down the tread on your tyres faster and puts additional strain on your suspension. The cost of correcting these problems can be prohibitive and is easily avoided by driving more conservatively.

If they are looking for Nissan finance, Perth residents should contact us here at Duncan Nissan. We have a large selection of new and used cars for sale, and we can help you to fund your purchase. Nissan financial services, offer terms that are very competitive and the repayments are tailored to suit your lifestyle. Our sales team can offer further advice, and they will be happy to answer any other questions that you may have.