New MY11 Land Rover Freelander 2

Land Rover updates Freelander 2 for 2011

- New efficient diesel engine boosts torque without sacrificing fuel economy
- Improved transmissions with Stop/Start as standard on manual models
- Revised, more upmarket interior with new instrument dials
- Upgraded exterior, three new colour schemes and new alloy wheel options
Land Rover is upgrading the 2011 Freelander 2 with a new 2.2-litre turbo diesel
engine, sharper exterior looks and a smarter cabin.

Both quieter and more refined than its predecessor, the new 2.2-litre turbo diesel
engine is available with either 110kW as the TD4 model or 140kW as the SD4. In both
derivatives, the engine offers an impressive 420Nm of torque (20Nm more than the
outgoing models) yet sacrifices nothing in terms of fuel economy or CO2 emissions.
The TD4 is available with an updated manual transmission with Stop/Start as
standard, while the 140kW SD4 is available with the six-speed automatic only.
Exterior design changes including new front bumper and grille, new alloy wheels and
colour options, give the 2011 Freelander a fresh and distinctive look. Inside, a new
range of seat styles finishes and instrumentation set the 2011 Freelander aside from
previous models. Another small but significant change is to the Land Rover logo,
which changes colour for 2011 from gold on green to a more contemporary bright
silver on green.

New diesel 110kW TD4 and 140kW SD4 in detail
The successful 110kW direct injection turbo diesel has been upgraded in two forms,
110kW available on the TD4, and 140kW available on the SD4. Both produce 20Nm
more torque taking both versions to a substantial 420Nm for punchy, refined
performance.

Both versions have a new variable geometry turbocharger and are re-calibrated from
scratch to deliver the new levels of power. The use of an Intelligent Power
Management System (IPMS) provides ‘smart charging’ of the battery by recovering
kinetic energy when the vehicle is slowing wherever possible, rather than consuming
fuel by charging when the vehicle is accelerating.

Developed especially for this engine, the new variable geometry turbocharger is now
water-cooled enabling it to run at a higher temperature thus enabling lower levels of
emissions, power and torque. The engine has also been fitted with a new, more
powerful ECU to handle the increased emissions requirements. The engine is fitted
with a common rail system with fuel delivered by high-speed piezo injectors.
For the first time, the Freelander 2 diesel powertrains are compatible with 10 percent
biodiesel rather than five percent. The piston rings have been revised to reduce
friction. The main bearings have also been improved in line with the additional power
and torque and the engine sump has been fitted with a cover to reduce radiated noise
from the bottom of the engine.

The engine cover is made from materials which can be recycled at the end of the
vehicle's life. The front timing cover has been re-designed with extra ribbing to reduce
radiated noise. The package of NVH improvements is completed by the addition of an
‘injector sock’, a soft rubberised layer fitted on top of the engine and beneath the
engine cover to absorb injector noise. A new sensor located in the exhaust manifold
enables more accurate monitoring of internal turbocharger temperatures. Greater
accuracy given by the new sensor system allows the functionality of the turbocharger
to be further exploited to improve efficiency without compromising robustness.

These improvements make a substantial difference to refinement and economy and
the measures to reduce radiated noise combine to reduce engine noise levels by a
substantial 2db. The CO2 emissions of the 110kW Freelander 2.2 litre diesel manual
are now 174g/km and 185g/km (manufacturer's estimates) for both the 110kW TD4
and 140kW SD4 automatics. Correspondingly, fuel consumption of the 110kW
Freelander TD4 manual is 6.6L/100km.

Despite the reductions in consumption and emissions, there’s been no compromise in
performance. The 110kW Freelander TD4 manual and automatic, accelerate from rest
to 100kph in 11.7 and 11.2 seconds, matching their predecessor. The 140kW
Freelander SD4 automatic completes the same task in 9.5 seconds. The top speed of
the both manual and automatic Freelander TD4 also remains unchanged at,181kph
while the Freelander SD4 automatic can reach 190kph. Diesel models have also been
fitted with a fuel tank mis-fuelling device as standard to prevent drivers accidentally
filling up with petrol.

3.2-litre i6 petrol engine now meets EU 5 emissions regulations
The 3.2-litre straight six continues to head the Freelander 2 powertrain line-up for
2011. The engine has been re-calibrated to meet EU5 rather than EU4 emissions
regulations but the power remains unchanged at 171kW and 317Nm torque. The
straight six accelerates the Freelander 2 to 100kph in 8.9 seconds and on to a top
speed of 200kph.

The straight six is the best balanced of all engine configurations but its length usually
makes it difficult to package transversely. However, the Rear End Ancillary Drive
(READ) arrangement of the i6, with ancillaries like water pump, air conditioning
compressor and alternator mounted at the rear rather than the front, reduce the length
of the i6 to an incredible 600.5mm making it an easy fit in the Freelander 2’s engine
bay.

With an advanced, aluminium block, head and bedplate the i6 remains at the cutting
edge of petrol engine design. The i6 is equipped with twin overhead camshafts and
four valves per cylinder with cam profile switching (CPS) and variable valve timing

(VVT). The combination of the two mix high power with low end flexibility and
maximum efficiency.

The i6 also has a variable length inlet tract which adapts to optimise both high end
power and low end torque. These technologies combine to deliver 80 percent of
maximum torque across the entire useable rev range and 256Nm is available
between 1400rpm and 6400rpm. In common with the diesel engines, the i6 uses
Intelligent Power System Management (IPSM) for ‘smart charging’ of the battery.
The i6 engine was originally developed with Land Rover applications in mind and is
designed to resist dust, mud and water intrusion as well as operation at acute tilt
angles.

Stop/Start as standard on diesel manuals
The manual diesel model is equipped with Land Rover’s acclaimed Stop/Start, the first
such system ever to be fitted to an SUV. The system closely controls throttle closing,
ramps down fuelling and turns off the alternator to ensure the engine stops smoothly.
A detailed software strategy combined with the Freelander 2’s optimised engine
mounting system ensures an equally smooth re-start.

The Start/Stop system has been further enhanced for 2011 with a bi-directional crank
sensor and trigger wheel. This enables the system to establish the crankshaft position
more quickly, which in turn reduces the crank time from 900ms to less than 700ms, an
improvement of 22 percent. The ‘real world’ result experienced by the driver is
improved sound quality and a noticeably quicker response. The lowest temperature at
which the system can operate is now reduced from 4°C to 0°C.
Revised transmissions boost efficiency

A second generation Asin Warner AWF21 automatic transmission helps improve
efficiency and emissions with a number of improvements. The Torque converter lockup
works over a wider range improving comfort, fuel economy and driveability, while
optimisation of internal components reduces weight and inertia for faster shifting. The
gear train has been improved with low drag torque friction plates, taper roller bearings

and optimised components for greater efficiency. Transmission efficiency is also
improved by a switch to low viscosity automatic transmission fluid, while the new
control system is faster and has been reduced in weight.
The most significant change is the advanced neutral control logic which reduces drag
when the vehicle is stationary, the engine at idle and Drive selected. While not actually
selecting neutral, drive load is substantially reduced to save fuel and improve
refinement. The calibration of the transmission has been revised by Land Rover
engineers to reduce torque converter slip. It retains Land Rover’s Terrain Response
features, CommandShift® and adaptive shifting.

The many functions of Terrain Response are underpinned by the high levels of body
stiffness which provide the best foundation for excellent ride and handling
characteristics as well as off-road performance. A structural undertray on the front
sub-frame improves steering precision as well as protecting the underside of the
vehicle and four point engine mounting aids engine stability and improves refinement.
The Getrag M66 six-speed manual gearbox, specially developed for the Freelander 2,
is retained for the TD4. A robust, compact, four-shaft design, power is transmitted via
a self-adjusting cable-actuated clutch as before.

Design enhancements both inside and out

The exterior of the Freelander gets a new look for 2011 with a new front bumper
assembly incorporating new front fog lamp bezels. There’s a new front grille in two
finishes, Dark Finish for the 110kW TD4 and Bright Finish for the 140kW diesel and
petrol. The Halogen projector headlamps are new, as are the rear tail lamps, which
now have a clear inner lens and a black lens surround for greater definition. The
tailgate handle is now finished in body colour and the full width signature strip is
finished in Noble. Additional body coloured parts include door handles, headlamp
washer jets and door mirrors and on SD4 and i6 petrol models the lower side door
panels and rear bumper are fully painted as standard. Door mirrors now have a 10
percent larger glass area and to really set off the fresh styling there are also new 18”

and 19” alloy wheels. The choice of colours has changed for 2011 too, with the
addition of Kosrae Green, Baltic Blue and Fuji White.

In the cabin, there are four new contemporary seat styles offering a greater range of
choice. A stylish cloth trim, covered with new Tofino or Resolve fabrics, Napoli
leather, a combination of Napoli leather and Alcantara, and Windsor leather for the
HSE premium luxury pack. These four new styles differentiate between trim levels.
There’s a choice of manual, 6/4-way electric adjustment and 8/6-way electric
adjustment for the Premium Luxury Pack seats. New colourways compliment the revised upholstery design with Ebony, Tan and Ivory

and there are matching door casings in Ebony PVC with Ivory stitching and Ebony
PVC with Tan contrast stitching. Four new fascia finishers come in either Element
Silver, Element Black, Dark Chestnut and Piano Black lacquered finish. This
lacquered black theme is also carried over onto the steering wheel switchpack.
At the high end of the option range, there’s a new Premium Luxury Pack option with
Windsor Leather upholstery in Ebony, Almond, Ivory or Tan colourways. The Pack
includes the luxurious 8/6 way electric seat plus premium carpet mats and covered
centre stowage. All 2011 Freelander 2s will benefit from a clear and contemporary
new instrument pack too.

The Freelander 2 provides the safest possible environment for occupants. The
Command Driving Position provides good visibility of all four corners of the vehicle and
narrow A-pillars ensure that forward visibility is not compromised. There are seven
airbags: two curtain, two front, two thorax and a driver’s knee bag as standard. The
transverse engine mounting not only frees up interior space but offers impressive
crash performance, helping the Freelander 2 achieve a 5 star Euro NCAP rating for
adult occupant protection.

As with all Land Rovers, the Freelander has been rigorously tested worldwide in the
UK, USA, Middle East, Australia and Russia in temperatures ranging from -40°C to
+50C° and up to 95 percent humidity. The Freelander is also tested at altitudes of up
to 4,000m.

The 11MY Freelander will go on sale in Australia in December. Pricing details will be
released closer to on sale date.

Sappi Awards

The Sappi International Printers of the Year Awards, the world’s most prestigious honours in recognition of excellence in print, were held this year at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney on May 13 and attracted over 1,600 elite entries.

The Sappi awards were established thirty years ago and are awarded every two years by an international panel of adjudicators who are selected in conjunction with globally recognised print federations to ensure complete impartiality and the broadest spectrum of technical expertise in print.

The Trivett issue of Body of Work won the Silver Medal for its region in 2010 (Gold to a Magazine in Asia). The region consists of Asia (including China, Singapore, India, Thailand, Japan, Philippines and Indonesia), Oceania, Central and South America.

According to Sappi, judging criteria for the awards are rigorous with judges examining entries for technical proficiency, overall impact, degree of difficulty involved in the printing process and the quality of the finishing. This year marks the fourth successive time that a Body of Work magazine has been entered in these coveted Awards and on each occasion has won either a gold or silver award making this title probably the most consistent award winner.

The Trivett edition of Body of Work, which most people agree is the best so far, features Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Aston Martin, Lotus and Porsche. It was designed and produced for Trivett by Armstrong Miller+McLaren and printed by Sydney Allen. Major features of this outstanding publication are the imaginative special effects by Allkotes and the beautiful sculptured embossing by Avon Graphics. It is the only magazine of its kind produced for an individual car distributor.

The extremely high standard of reproduction highlights the original photography of Bob and Michael Armstrong and Peter Lik. Every component works seamlessly together to create the perfect result from the creative styling and modelling of Swarna Taylor, Kazzie Mahina and Hannah Fraser to the intricate photo masking by Michael Armstrong.

Design is currently underway for a version of this magazine to be produced for the new Apple iPad. This ground breaking iPad publication will be fully interactive and contain HD videos. For more information about the Trivett Body of Work, and previous issues, see www.bodyofwork.com.au

New Skoda Superb Wagon

Following last year’s successful launch of the five-door Superb Sedan, Škoda premiered the long-awaited Superb Wagon at the IAA Motor Show in Frankfurt. The Czech carmaker is keen for this large car, delivering exceptional space and comfort, to re-define benchmarks in the segment.

The unique design with the typical Škoda “face”, the expressive rear section and the dynamic silhouette help the new Superb Wagon stand out clearly from market competitors.

The car commands respect not just because of its practical qualities, but also on account of its style and elegance. The generous wheelbase and the roof-line forming a gentle arc ensure that the car has well-balanced proportions which provide the perfect space for passengers and luggage alike.

The new Superb Wagon is 4,838mm long, 1,817mm wide, and 1,462mm high. Including the roof rails, delivered as standard and available either anodized or black, the car’s height rises to 1,510mm. The outstanding loading capacity is bigger than anything seen yet in the segment: the luggage compartment holds 633 litres, expanding to a cavernous 1,865 litres when the rear seats are folded down. The width of the tailgate is large enough to accommodate bulky items. The low loading sill, a mere 600mm above the ground, makes handling baggage easy.

The wealth of interior equipment and fittings in Superb Wagon match its predecessor. And numerous smart details have been added.

The entire Superb Wagon range comes standard with the innovative Park Assist parallel parking system which includes front parking sensors. It also is the first time it has been possible to option a Škoda vehicle with the KESSY keyless locking and start system. A transmitter in the body of the key communicates with the control unit in the car and unlocks the doors when the handles are touched. The car can also be locked without using a key or remote control central locking by touching a button on the external handle. The engine can be started and turned off with a button located on the right-hand side of the steering wheel column. To start the engine, the driver first has to press the brake pedal.

Another interesting feature of the new Superb Wagon is the optional electrically-operated tailgate. This is delivered with an automatic retractable luggage compartment cover. When the tailgate is opened, the cover automatically rolls back to the middle position so that there is more room to handle the luggage. Another clever option in the luggage compartment is the extendable boot floor, which can extend over the rear bumper when the tailgate is open to make moving larger items around much easier. Aluminium strips and hooks in the luggage compartment offer the perfect luggage restraint system, reliably preventing baggage from sliding around when the vehicle is in motion.

The concept of luggage compartment lighting integrated into the tailgate is another innovation. It illuminates not only the boot, but the whole area around the car’s rear section. Another lamp, this time removable, is located on the left side of the luggage compartment. It is battery-powered and when removed from its holder (which doubles up as a charger) it can be used as an economical LED flashlight in the dark. A magnet is built into the lamp so it can simply be placed on the car bod– a useful touch, for example, when fixing a puncture.

During the day, the optional electrically-operated, two-piece panoramic sunroof creates a light, airy atmosphere. If the sunshine becomes too dazzling, a protective blind can be drawn across the glass roof. The glass itself blocks heat, letting in only 10%. Another new feature is the roof-mounted shark fin aerial which elegantly rounds off the roof-line.

Various audio and navigation systems are available to cater to discerning customers’ different needs and wishes. The vehicle’s data network integrates to a radio with CD/MP3 player and offers a wide range of user-friendly support functions. Satellite navigation (standard in Elegance) is the touchscreen ‘Columbus’ system with voice control and integrated 30GB hard disk - 20GB for Audio and 10GB for navigation - enabling the driver to operate all functions intuitively. Other audio technology includes a high-quality sound system with powerful speakers, an Aux-In socket, a 6-disc CD changer and an optional MDI (Media Device Interface) in the front armrest to connect external storage media.

The new Superb Wagon, like the Superb Sedan, comes standard with hill hold control, while the Superb Wagon Elegance 4x4 comes fitted with the fourth-generation Haldex multi-disc clutch all-wheel drive system, which provides a variable torque split to achieve the best possible traction and excellent stability on any surface.

The Superb Wagon’s range of engines is the same as that for the Superb Sedan. There is a choice of two petrol and one diesel engines, all with direct fuel injection and low consumption and emissions.

The 125 TDI diesel engine generates power of 125kW and is offered with the six-gear direct shift gearbox (DSG). The maximum torque is 350Nm at 1,750 to 2,500rpm. A diesel particulate filter is fitted as standard.

The successful direct fuel injection campaign is also continuing with the petrol engines. The 118TSI, offers power of 118kW and maximum torque of 250Nm at 1,500-4,500 rpm.

The Superb Wagon’s top petrol engine is the 191FSI, with power of 191kW and maximum torque of 350Nm at 2,500 to 5,000rpm. The 191FSI engine is matched with an automatic six-gear DSG and all-wheel drive. The control unit of the fourth-generation Haldex clutch facilitates variable torque split, guaranteeing safe and reliable driving on any surface.

In many respects, the chassis of the new Superb Wagon is based on the chassis of the Superb Sedan. However, some modifications have been made to the Wagon’s chassis configuration to accommodate the higher payload and higher gross weight. The rear axle housing is attached to the body with anti-vibration dampers. This detachment prevents tyre noise and subtle vibrations from being transmitted to the body, where they would cause unwanted noise in the interior.
As in the Superb, the MacPherson-type front axle with triangular control arms is mounted in aluminium casing. This enhances the kinematics and reduces the axle weight. In the chassis suspension design, the emphasis was on creating a balanced relationship between agility and comfort.

The suspension copes well with uneven road surfaces; body roll in bends is largely suppressed by the wide track and careful configuration of each part of the chassis. As in the Superb Sedan, the driving dynamics are enhanced by electromechanical steering. The car’s pleasantly high-ratio steering gear and track-holding ability do not distort the feel of the road and traction conditions.

To sample the the Superb or any of the Skoda range, visit the newest Sydney Skoda dealer in Blacktown.

New Volkswagen Transporter, Caravelle and Multivan

• New common rail TDI engines significantly reduce consumption, emissions and costs
• The new front section follows the stylistically sharpened Volkswagen design
• DNA New infotainment and assistance systems optimise comfort and safety
• New ESP generation incorporates hill start as standard

The extensively perfected new edition of the Transporter, Caravelle and Multivan is on the starting grid right now. Referred to as T5 within the company, the range is even more frugal, clean and cultivated in the latest generation, and offers greater active driving enjoyment than ever before. Once again, the Volkswagen Transporter bestsellers from the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand are adopting the position of technological leadership in their particular segments.

Updated design

Optically, the three basic versions are now following the new Volkswagen design DNA. The front section of the series bears witness to this even more obvious statement of virtues. Clear, horizontal lines make the series look even better in terms of quality and make a timeless impression.

New, extremely frugal generation of TDI engines

The driveline technology has taken a quantum leap. Background: all turbodiesels (TDI) have been replaced by a completely new generation of Euro 5 engines with the latest common rail injection. In total, there are three new 2.0 l TDI four-cylinder engines with output values of 75 kW, 103 kW and 132 kW. Across the board, they offer significantly greater dynamic torque characteristics and improved acoustics.

The new high-end TDI develops a remarkable maximum torque of 400 Newton metres. Thanks to a newly developed pump, the power-assisted steering works more efficiently. This is because unlike the so-called constant pump of conventional design, the new energy-saving pump delivers hydraulic fluid according to demand, so the quantity delivered is always optimal for aiding steering. And this reduces the power consumption of the steering pump and, consequently, fuel consumption.

High-tech campaign

The new generation of this popular van offers numerous further technological highlights. Take the gearbox, for example: instead of the previous option of an automatic gearbox, the Volkswagen Transporter will now be available with the option of a significantly more efficient dual clutch gearbox (DSG). Take the traction distribution, for example: on request, it is possible to order a new, electronically controlled four-wheel drive system (4MOTION with a fourth generation Haldex clutch) that achieves a further improvement in active safety and makes sure that the Transporter derivatives can keep going off road when necessary. The most powerful 4MOTION version (TDI with 132 kW) will also be available with DSG for the first time.

On the move with uncompromising safety

Furthermore, the safety features have been perfected further by having the latest generation ESP fitted as standard (including hill start), a new hazard flash function for the brake lights (emergency braking warning display), optional assistance systems such as Side Assist (warning of vehicles in the blind spot).

Also, a completely newly developed Servotronic system ensures significantly improved steering precision and is a standard feature of the Multivan Highline.

Comfort at the highest standard in the class

What is more, the interior now awaits with new, higher quality instruments and steering wheels, a new generation of radio navigation system, fresh fabrics and seats with an even better ergonomic balance.

Honda Accord Euro review

In what's becoming a very competitive segment, the Honda Accord Euro stands out from the crowd as one of the trend setters. The stylish design gives a European flavour to a premium Japanese made car.

It has an efficient 2.4l 4cylinder engine that delivers outstanding fuel economy as well as ample power.

(Honda Accord Euro Luxury pictured)

Driving the Honda Euro is not unlike a luxury European sedan such as a new or used Mercedes Benz or BMW. The quality and refinement is up there with the best in the field. The smooth automatic gearbox is quiet and responsive in its operation. It can also be manually shifted via paddles behind the steering wheel. This gives the Euro a true sporting flavour.

Speaking of sporting, flick the gearshift from "D" to "S", manual shifting of the gearbox is enabled allowing for some spirieeted driving through some twisty roads especially with the Luxury's lower profile wheel and tyre package. The brakes are more than able in reducing speed at a fairly rapid rate. This is also where the paddle shifters are a great advantage allowing the driver to have the engine at the right rpm to take full advantage of the power. With a redline at 7000rpm the Honda engine truely lives up to its reputation!

Where the paddle shifters are also handy is assisting the driver in slowing the car down by downshifting. Full auto mode is simply activated when the driver selects "D".

The interior quality is that of a more expensive car with the soft padded dash and door trim that oozes class. The Euro Luxury takes this a step further with quality leather trim, along with an electric sunroof and full compliment of airbags.

When driving at night the xenon headlights give a wide angle view of the road ahead enabling you to see as if it were daylight! Parking is also very easy with front and rear sensors that with a digital display telling you which part of the car is closest to an object.

Having a large boot with a good accessable shape, gives the owner the space to use the flat floor with plenty of hight available. 60/40 split fold seats increase the versatiliy even further when required.

Prices of these Honda cars are very competitive compared with Mazda 6 or Subaru Liberty thus giving all the more reason to book a test drive at a Honda dealer!

Peugeot RCZ Coupe

The Peugeot RCZ Coupe concept wowed audiences at its European Motorshow reveals and the transition from concept to reality is dropdead gorgeous..

With its swooping lines this motorcar has the ability to look like it is moving fast while standing still. This of course, is not the aim for Peugeot. It is designed to look as radical as the concept while still containing Peugeot design DNA.
Some interest design features are evident such as the so called "double bubble" rear window and the prominent roofline rails.
It is something we cannot wait to see when it arrives at Sydney Peugeot Dealers.

So what does it drive like?
Well without having any time behind the wheel of this great looking car, it is hard to say. What is certain is that the drivetrain technology will be amongst the best in the world.

There will be petrol and diesel engine options that will sit under its aluminium bonnet.
A new 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine has been developed for the RCZ. It will produce maximum power of 147kW at 5800 rpm and maximum torque of 255Nm at 1700 rpm. It will also have an overboost feature where the engine will produce 275Nm.
What this will result in is 80 to 120 kph in 6.5 seconds in fifth gear, and 0 to 100 kph in 7.6 seconds. Fuel consumption does not exceed 7.1 litres/100 km in the combined cycle.

This 4-cylinder engine is very hi-tech and there is a world first: a Twin-Scroll turbocharger for performance and instant response at very low engine speeds, direct petrol injection, and variable valve lift coupled with variable valve timing on the intake and exhaust camshafts (VTi technology), for reduced fuel consumption.

The other engine choice is Peugeot’s HDi (Turbo Diesel)FAP technology via a 2.0-litre engine developing maximum power of 120kW at 3750 rpm and generous maximum torque of 340Nm at 2000 rpm.

Braking is also powerful and durable to handle the performance. It is assured by ventilated discs with a diameter of 302 mm and a thickness of 26 mm. The 147 kW model receives discs of 340x30mm.

All models are equipped with rear brake discs with a diameter of 290x12 mm.

The interior contains two contoured bucket seats, a sports-themed dash and a jewel-look analog clock create a high quality feel.

The boot offers a capacity of 384 litres with additional storage spaces under the floor – this can be increased by folding the rear seat backs down, giving a maximum boot capacity of 760 litres.

There are also two seats in the rear. Fully sculpted and perfectly usable, especially since the design of the roof with its double bubble offers headroom to Ooccupants of the rear seats.

Car Servicing

When buying a new car one thing that rarely is thought of is the ongoing maintenance of the chosen vehicle. That is understandable of course as the purchase of a new car is a rare occurrence! Most people don't ever buy new at all. Instead buying a used cars every time the need arises.

The fortunate thing is that most new vehicles these days have service schedules that are further apart. Some cars, like any BMW, have variable service intervals depending on driving habits. This results in less reasons to book a service. While this is advantageous, the risk is your engine may be working hard with dirty engine oil swishing around. This may not be an issue if the driver only has the car for two or three years. It may become an issue in the long run.

The ideal situation is that every few months or 5000km the oil should be checked. In saying this, we are not only inspecting the cleanliness of the oil. The engine oil level is also critical. While under the bonnet, check the coolant level in the (usually a green liquid).

For those who are intent on owning the car for over 3 years, which is at a stage where most manufacturer warranty usually ends, ensuring that the vehicle is well maintained during the early years is important.
A suggestion is to go to your service department negotiate a price to change your car’s engine oil and filter, while checking other vital fluids, in between the recommended services. For instance if your vehicle has a manufacturer recommended interval of 15000km/12mths between services, it would be wise to change the oil and filter at 7500km or at least every 6 months.

In doing this you will ensure the longevity of the cars vital components, and less risk of costly repairs when the vehicle is out of new car warranty.
Adding to that, in usual cases it will be of benefit when you want a trade in valuation.

So the name of the game is to look after your car to ensure trouble free motoring!