Automobiles Review

Author: autoview

  • Maruti Suzuki revved up for the Alto 800 launch on October 16, 2012

    Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) is all geared up for the Alto 800 launch in the country’s entry-level passenger car market on October 16, 2012. The domestic car enthusiasts are in for a delight as the company has termed the upcoming car to be its next fuel efficient and economically priced crowd puller. Most industry experts believe that the new Alto 800 holds immense promise and will be the most apt product to fill in the shoes of iconic Maruti 800.

    The country’s largest passenger car maker is expected to introduce its new car with less than Rs. 3 lacs retail value. The aggressive Alto 800 price tag devised by MSIL will enable it to compete directly against the likes of Hyundai Eon and the top-most model of the Tata Nano. MSIL offers the current generation of Alto in the price bracket between Rs. 2.41 lacs and Rs. 3.4 lacs (in ex-showrooms of New Delhi). The company is aspiring to offset the stiff competition in entry-level car market, the ever increasing petrol prices and the high interest rates, which have been keeping the prospective buyers away from Maruti Suzuki showrooms during the last few months.

    The Alto 800 features are believed to be designed while keeping in mind the usual requirements of the domestic entry-level car buyers. The yet-to-be launched car will come laced with an Air Conditioning (AC) system, power steering and power windows. Coming to under the hood specifications, the new Alto 800 incorporates a 796 cc petrol engine that delivers a nominal power output around 47 bhp and a peak torque of 70 Nm. Further, MSIL has declared that its brand new product will churn out more power, superior fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions as compared to the current generation of entry-level Alto car.

    The upcoming Alto 800 is yet to see the day light in the domestic auto market and most concerned buyers are eager to get behind the wheels of the most awaited car of the year. Not a great deal of information is available at the moment regarding the Alto 800 reviews, but the company has announced that the car is more than capable for delivering a superb fuel economy. According to MSIL, the new Alto 800 can run 22.7 km on every litre and its CNG model gives an astounding mileage of 30 km per litre.

  • What makes the BMW 3 Series Saloon right for your business?

    When you start shopping around for contract hire deals to offer to your staff, there are several things you need to bear in mind, in addition to the cost of the package you choose. One option open to you is the BMW 3 Series Saloon, which ticks a number of boxes.

    If you’re not convinced of the merits of this model, maybe the following points will sway your decision.

    Image

    Although the main purpose of having a company car is to get from A to B, these vehicles can do more than just transport your employees between meetings. They can make a statement about your firm – good or bad – depending on the model you choose and the condition it’s in.

    Imagine what you would think if you saw someone arrive for a business meeting with you in a shabby, uncared for car. You may well form the opinion that this person – or their firm – does not take pride in their appearance, and therefore may not put the effort in for you.

    Put this in contrast to how you would view someone pulling up in a sleek, polished motor. It’s vital to present a professional image at all times. With that in mind, take a look at the BMW 3 Series Saloon – it really does look the part and, as it’s one of the most popular executive cars around, you can rest assured you won’t be the only person who thinks it makes a good impression.

    Cost effective

    While looking great is all well and good, most companies have their eyes firmly on their bottom line, especially with all the economic problems in the UK at present. However, the BMW 3 Series can deliver here too, with a range of BMW contract hire offers available at affordable prices – particularly if you are prepared to take out a slightly longer lease or don’t have high annual mileage.

    Business owners also need to factor in the cost of fuel, as it is common to pay employees mileage for any driving they do for work. It therefore makes sense to give them cars that are fuel efficient.

    Take the BMW 3 Series Saloon 320d EfficientDynamics model as an example – it boasts combined fuel consumption of 68.9 mpg and up to 80.7 mpg for extra-urban use. This vehicle features innovative technology designed to reduce CO2 emissions and fuel usage, such as an auto start-stop function and a brake energy regeneration system.

    Reliability and safety

    As company cars need to get employees from one place to another, you need to be confident that the vehicles you provide your workers with are safe and reliable. BMW has long been associated with high-quality engineering, so you can be confident the technology under the bonnet of a 3 Series Saloon won’t let you down.

  • Tata Safari Storme launch – A new variant in the old league

    Tata Motors, the manufacturer that has been known for its reliability and robust vehicles from several decades, has come up with a new version of its popular SUV – Tata Safari Storme. The first generation model in Safari series was launched more than a decade ago and since then it has been in huge demand.

    The auto maker showcased its upcoming model in January 2012 at the New Delhi Auto Expo and since then the Tata Safari Storme launch has become a much anticipated event for Indian car enthusiasts. As per company officials, the new model will be launched on October 17, which will help it strengthen its position in the SUV segment of the Indian auto industry.

    The unrivalled power, strong body and ultra-modern features are together expected to make the vehicle an incommensurable model in its class. Boasting of some great features, the new Safari Strome will stand apart from its peers and is expected to become the most sought after SUV in the country. Tata Safari Storme features refined interiors, which provide an elegant look to its cabin. Equipped with enhanced quality of attributes, the vehicle is expected to mark new standards of comfort and luxury.

    Though the car has been popular in its older version as well, to compete in the current SUV segment a whole makeover was requisite. The new model’s exterior seems somewhere inspired by the Land Rover Evoque. It boasts of scintillating features, such as new headlamps, robust honeycomb front grille and chrome plated twin exhaust vents. A power bulge on the bonnet of the vehicle adds to its overall appearance.

    Tata Motors has revealed everything about the features and launch of the vehicle but no information has been provided regarding the Tata Safari Storme price. In spite of that, the industry experts are estimating the price to lie somewhere around Rs. 9 lacs. On analysing the competition and the price, it seems like the vehicle is going to mark a sales lead and will provide a tough competition to other cars in the segment, such as Mahindra Scorpio. Moreover, the latest buzz of the automobile industry, Mahindra XUV500, is also going to be loggerheads with the new Tata Safari Storme.

    By considering the Tata Safari Storme reviews, it is expected that the vehicle will take a strong hold in the segment and will be a favourite among those who love off-roading and adventure trails. The SUV will infuse a new confidence in the brand’s value and will be effective in augmenting the overall sales of the manufacturer.

  • Tata Motors to entice Indian SUV enthusiasts with the Tata Safari Storme launch on October 17, 2012

    Tata Motor’s, the country’s largest automobile maker, is working towards the media build up of a new Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) dedicated at the domestic market. The Indian car enthusiast will witness the 2012 Tata Safari Storme launch on October 17, 2012 and the upcoming SUV is believed to become the company’s new flagship model in the segment. The Indian Utility Vehicle (UV) maker wrapped off covers from the new Safari Storme at the New Delhi Auto Expo held in January 2012, which became an instant hit among the media and prospective buyers alike.

    The yet to be launched Tata Safari Storme features some coming of age interior and exterior attributes and appears completely different from the current generation of the same vehicle. At the 2012 New Delhi Auto Expo, Safari Storme flaunted its Land Rover Evoque inspired exterior design and received instant admiration from the critiques. The upcoming Safari Storme will come trimmed with some stunning features like futuristic new headlamps, huge honeycomb front grille, chrome plated twin exhaust vents and a macho power bulge on its bonnet. The new vehicle from the stables of Tata Motors underlines the company’s enhanced focus on designing along with delivering a top-quality product to the domestic SUV aficionados.

    Tata Motors’ Safari SUV has been in the Indian market for many years now and needed a huge makeover. The Safari brand has always been quoted as a pricey offering in the domestic market, which steered the Indian buyers towards the lesser priced options like Mahindra Scorpio. The upcoming Tata Safari Storme Price is anticipated to fall around the Rs. 10 lacs price tag, which could be called a little aggressive considering the brand’s history. The thoughtful pricing could enable the yet-to-be launched SUV to get involved in a direct tussle against the current Indian favourite, Mahindra XUV500.

    At present, not much information is available regarding the Tata Safari Storme reviews in the market. However, considering the Tata Aria inspired chassis and suspension system of the Safari Storme, it can be said with confidence that the new Tata SUV will conquer any demanding terrain without breaking into sweat. Accordingly, most of the Indian buyers will be closely following the proceedings related to the upcoming Tata Safari Storme.

  • Mahindra geared up for its SsangYong Rexton launch on October 17, 2012 on Indian turf

    SsangYong Motor Company, the South Korean subdivision of the Indian automotive firm Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) Limited, is all set for the 2012 SsangYong Rexton launch in the country on October 17, 2012. The latest product coming from the stables of Mahindra and SsangYong is a premium Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) and the domestic market will witness a phased launch, starting from Mumbai and later in New Delhi and Bangalore among other Indian cities.

    The soon-to-be launched SsangYong Rexton features will be of top draw quality as the powerful SUV is already marketed in many global automobile markets. The current version is the third generation of the company’s family of Rexton SUVs, of which first and second models were a big hit worldwide. The Indian model of Rexton is believed to be fully capable towards delivering superior on-road and off-road power-torque performance, besides winning many admirers due to its modern and sharp exterior attributes. The SsangYong Rexton will come assimilated with a 2.7 litre diesel motor under its hood, that could churn out a peak power around 165 Nm and an impressive torque of 340 Nm. Further, the company has stated that the new SUV will offer better fuel efficiency, strong performance and world class comfort features.

    The upcoming SsangYong Rexton price is anticipated to fall around Rs. 20 lacs, which will put the SUV in a direct tussle against the likes of Ford Endeavour, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, Toyota Fortuner and Hyundai Santa Fe in the Indian passenger car market. The pricing of Rexton will make it the most expensive offering from M&M and the new product will become the company’s flagship product in the premium SUV segment of the country. M&M, the country’s largest Utility Vehicle (UV) maker, took over SsangYong Motor Company in March 2011, with a 70 per cent controlling stake.

    The 2012 SsangYong Rexton reviews have sparked a debate in the media and the rumour-mill is abuzz with the SUV’s modest pricing against its world class features. The Rexton looks like a massive beast, besides ticking all the boxes in safety and security aspects. Currently, the Indian scene is dominated by the Toyota Fortuner and Mahindra-SsangYong will have to devise an exceptional strategy if it is aspiring to counter the competition in the market with the upcoming SUV. The launch of the SsangYong Rexton falls just before the Indian festival season and the company will be looking to record decent sales till November 2012 Diwali period.

  • Mahindra ready for SsangYong Rexton launch on October 17, 2012 in Mumbai

    SsangYong Motor Company, a subsidiary of the Indian UV maker Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) Limited, has revealed intentions for the SsangYong Rexton launch in the country’s auto market on October 17, 2012. Rexton, a premium Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), is the Korean auto maker’s maiden offering in the domestic car market and will be initially launched in Mumbai. Further, it has come up that Mahindra-SsangYong alliance will introduce the Rexton in a phase wise launch in other Indian cities, including other metros like Bangalore and New Delhi.

    The upcoming SsangYong Rexton features are anticipated to be of world class standards and the premium SUV that will enable the car to march its superiority on the Indian turf. The SsangYong Rexton will be pitched directly against the likes of the current segment contenders like Toyota Fortuner, Ford Endeavour, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and Hyundai Santa Fe, upon its launch in the country. The new Rexton is expected to hold a massive 2.7 litre diesel powerplant under its bonnet, which churns out a peak power-torque delivery of 165 Nm and 340 Nm, respectively. The interior and exterior attributes of the upcoming 2012 SsangYong Rexton are believed to be of top draw as well.

    M&M, the country’s leading Utility Vehicle (UV) maker, acquired a 70 per cent controlling stake in SsangYong Motor Company in March 2011 and since then, a lot of rumours regarding the Rexton SUV prevailed in the Indian market. The upcoming SsangYong Rexton price in the Indian market will prove instrumental in governing its future in the country and industry experts believe that the new SUV could fetch a retail value around Rs. 20 lacs. The car is expected to come trimmed with all the world class features of a premium SUV and will only enhance the M&M’s Indian portfolio.

    The yet-to-be launched 2012 SsangYong Rexton reviews from the international markets have been mostly positive, besides the car looks both tough and powerful in all safety and security respects. Currently, the Indian SUV buyers have plenty of options available and the arrival of the Rexton beast will definitely add a different dimension to the market. It will be interesting to note how the SsangYong product fares in the country, as most of the domestic buyers will find the Korean brand relatively new as compared to the well positioned industry heavyweights. However, Mahindra’s marketing could work wonders for the upcoming Rexton as the company is currently the most sought after UV maker in the country.

  • Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 launch; a real treat for buyers in this festive

    Maruti Suzuki India Limited, the country’s largest car maker, is all set for the Alto 800 launch in the Indian auto industry on October 16, 2012. In order to reduce the running cost of the model, the auto maker will be offering a CNG option in its 2012 Alto 800. It is speculated that the CNG model will cover a distance of around 30 kmpl, which is an exciting proposition for Indian buyers. Reportedly, Alto 800 price will be economical as it will be placed somewhere around Rs. 2 to 3 lacs, which will enable it to compete against the likes of Hyundai Eon and Tata Nano.

    Maruti Suzuki Alto 800 features an impressive fuel economy; around 22 kmpl, which is almost 15 per cent higher than the current generation model. As per industry experts, this advancement will surely pull the masses as a large number of buyers in India are price sensitive and looks every aspect of the new model in terms of fuel efficiency. Besides, the upcoming Alto 800 will feature contemporary design in its exteriors and will boast of fresh interiors, which will surely enable the car to stand out from its rivals. An improved gear shift and ample leg room at the rear are some of the other advancements that are expected within the new generation model.

    The model is expected to sparkle in Indian showrooms with six variants – three in petrol and three in diesel; the introduction of diesel version is not reported as of now. The price of the petrol model is anticipated to stand between Rs.2 lacs and Rs. 2.75 lacs, whereas the price of CNG model will be placed around Rs. 2.75 lacs to 3 lacs. Alto 800 reviews states that the car maker is looking ahead to offset the unfavourable market conditions, such as increased interest rates and fuel prices, which have together affected the demand for small cars in the Indian auto industry.

    Maruti Suzuki Alto was initially introduced in 2001 and since then the auto maker has delivered over 20 lac units of the same in domestic market. Considering the exports figures, the company has shipped around 2.5 lac units of the model till now.

    Based on the manufacturing platform of existing model, the car maker and its suppliers have spent over Rs. 450 crore in the development process of the upcoming Alto 800. With the launch of Alto 800, Maruti Suzuki will introduce its most economical model in the Indian auto industry.

  • The Future of Fun-Cars, Oddly Shaped Coupes?

    The fun-cars have gone a long way. The swinging 60s created a demand for highly impractical yet beautiful cars. It was mainly Europe that latched onto the new fashion and the car acquired a whole-new purpose. Manufacturers like Fiat, MG and many others started concentrating on small cool two-seaters and coupes and the party lasted till the early 1970s when the fuel crisis put a new emphasis on the industry and the cars had to become practical (and boring) once again.

    The times have changed, so has the technology. You no longer have to build a fuel-inefficient car for it to be fun to drive. As the modern car designers become braver and braver, we see a positive tendency in the automotive market with the concept of fun-cars resurrected. Small and quirky cars are the new craze – they seem to be getting a lot of love right now from everyone, both customers and motoring journalists.

    The new generation of fun-cars is very distinctive. They are mostly small 3-door hatchbacks that may appear oddly-shaped to some, but very stylish to others. They are fun to drive because sporty features are often incorporated. They usually have a bold sporty look, excellent aerodynamics, sporty color and sporty wheels. Even with their small size, fun-cars can be roomy enough to fit in four adults comfortably.

    To create fun in driving, they are often fitted with small but nippy 1.4 litre to 1.6 litre petrol engines depending on the model and variant. They are available in both 5 or 6-speed manual transmission or automatic transmission. There are many brands playing in the newly-born category but several vehicles stand out: the Hyundai Veloster, Nissan Juke, Alfa Romeo Mito, VW Beetle and the Mini One.

    A car to watch is the Hyundai Veloster. It has aggressive contour lines and an excellent interior. Beneath the bonnet is a 138 horsepower, 1.6 litre GDI Double Overhead Cam 4-cylinder engine equipped with the latest Dual Continuous Variable Valve Timing (D-VVTi) technology. It is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed dual clutch transmission. Performance on the road is stellar; you can even get 40 miles to a gallon. When driving, it gives out a smooth, power-efficient force when you accelerate. Thanks to the ever increasing quality and low prices, Hyundai is one of the first choices for people looking for car finance.

    Hyundai Veloster

    The Alfa Romeo Mito is another cool little vehicle worth a look. It is a small car fitted with a patented Multiair 78 horsepower, 1.4 litre entry level petrol engine. Available in Italian racing colors (red, yellow and green), the Mito is quick and fast even with the entry level engine. However, if you want it to be a little quicker off the mark, you can get the 1.6 litre Distinctive S/S 3-door model. Driving and handling is good but the passenger leg room may not be comfortable for taller passengers.

    Alfa Romeo MiTo TwinAir

    Now, the VW Beetle of course is a legend. The design is classic and iconic, not to mention that it is equipped with the latest safety features. Although the VW is basically a 2-door car, it is included in the fun-car category because it is really fun to drive. The turbo-charged engine can accelerate fast enough but the fuel economy is not that good compared with the Alfa Romeo Mito. Now with the new model recently launched, the previous generation has slightly depreciated. At Creditplus car finance specialists we notice an increased demand for the previous model Beetle. We are sure you will agree when we say that this is probably one of the most fun cars you can purchase on today’s market; especially if you opt for the original Beetle.

    2012 Volkswagen Beetle

    Out of all the options, the Nissan Juke stands out as a very original and quirky car. It’s the styling that makes it so desirable. What is it really? A coupe or a 4×4? In fact, it’s classified as a crossover, which means it’s a hybrid of a utility vehicle and a sporty coupe. Although the engine size of 1.6 litres don’t suggest it’s particularly quick, the small Nissan is a very dynamic car. The 1.6 Dig-T version is the one to go for if you’re looking for good times behind the wheel.

    Nissan Juke

    Lastly, we have the Mini One – its predecessor experienced the previous reign of the fun-cars. It is a 3-door hatchback with entry level variants as well as a sport variant. The entry level version look almost as good as the sporty One. The difference is in the engine configuration. The entry level comes in a smaller engine while the sports variant comes in 1.6 Liter 4-cylinder DOHC engine. All in all the car looks great and drives very well – that’s why it remains one of the favourite.

    Mini One

    These were the most popular models, however, other manufacturers like Fiat, Citroen and Renault are quickly catching up.

  • The 2013 Toyota Land Cruiser improves the brake-control system

    2013 Toyota Land Cruiser The top-class 2013 Toyota Land Cruiser excels the expectations as promises to be luxurious and unleash its off-road capability.

    It comes standard with the 5.7-liter Double Overhead Cam (DOHC) 32-valve V8 engine under the hood and produces 381 hp and 401 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2013 Land Cruiser has a six-speed automatic transmission and sends power to the 4-wheel drive system.

    The items that used to be optional in the previous Land Cruisers are now standard. It concerns exterior and interior parts as well.

    When it comes to safety, the Land Cruiser gives plenty to appreciate. It is equipped with 10 airbags and also includes driver and front passenger knee airbags. The front seats include active headrests that help reduce the severity of whiplash injuries.

    The multi-terrain SUV, Toyota Land Cruiser is going to provide as safe and convenient drive as possible. Though it comes with the standard STAR Safety System, the 2013 Land Cruiser will have the all new 5-speed CRAWL Control featuring an Off-Road Turn Assist. The CRAWL Control balances speed and outlet as well. Along with the CRAWL Control, the other brake systems include anti-lock brake system (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), brake assist (BA), active traction control (A-TRAC), and finally, VSC (with a cut-off switch).

    2013 Toyota Land Cruiser
    2013 Toyota Land Cruiser
    2013 Toyota Land Cruiser

    In block, the brake system helps to adjust to an off-road surface and keep controlling the vehicle. EBD equals braking forces between the front and rear wheels, and the BA serves as an auxiliary in emergency braking. A-TRAC maintains traction and distributes the drive force while accelerating. VSC supplies directional control while cornering and operates engine torque and individual wheel-braking influence in case of tire slippage.

    The Smart Stop Technology (SST) is the most prominent 2013 Land Cruiser’s feature concerning safety. It is capable to completely stop the vehicle at the speed over 5 mph and apply brakes firmly for a half second or longer.

    The 2013 Land Cruiser’s benefit number one is its brake assist, so that safety is guaranteed always and everywhere, be it a slippery winter highway or an off-road.

  • The Honda CR-Z

    2010 Honda CR-ZLaunched in 2010 Honda’s CR-Z was widely considered a ground-breaking sporting hybrid from one of the world’s leading car manufacturers. “Hybrid” and “sporting” are problematic concepts when put together: in nature a hybrid car is usually heavy due to the presence of two separate motors and a hefty battery pack. Sports cars, on the other hand, need to be light in order to be fast, and their need for speed often compromises on the ecological economy required in a hybrid. Honda’s CR-Z however, married the two in a successful vehicle.

    Weighing 132lb the honda crz’s electric motor, measuring just two inches across, fits snugly between the car’s engine and its six-speed manual transmission. Beneath the floor of the boot is concealed its nick-metal hydride battery and power electronics provided by Panasonic. The electric motor adds a bit of oomph to the wheels when the driver accelerates rapidly, and can even act as a generator during overrun or when the car brakes. The results? The sporty coupe goes from 0 to 62 in 9.9 seconds, hits a top speed of 124mph and delivers 56.6mpg in its Combined cycle.

    Since its launch two years ago the CR-Z has been a big success for Honda and a major step in their journey towards total fuel economy. Although it was met with steep competition at the time from the likes of Renault’s Megane Coupe 1.5 dCi 86 and the BMW 118d Couple the CR-Z continued to attract drivers and now it looks set for an overhaul as Honda have recently revealed tantalising images suggesting an update to their hybrid success story.

    Exactly what this reissue will entail is not yet clear, but Honda have been known to continually improve on their most popular vehicles by responding to the feedback and criticisms of their customers.

  • Sourcing Good Value Car Insurance

    The internet is full of jokes about women’s inability to drive. It is an actual fact however that statistically, women are the more cautious on the road and are the ones less likely to cause an accident. This is where The Axa womens car insurance in Northern Ireland comes into place.

    They offer a special type of insurace that’s specially for women. All of the policies involved are essentially fully beneficial, offering full coverage. One can go for a third-party or a fully comprehensive type of insurance – both of which grant a range of female car insurance producs  that are designed to suit any need. If we take a closer look at the fully comprehensive one, we get 75 per cent no claims discount, use of a replacement car for up to seven days while yours is repaired and 31 days of European cover. With the comprehensice package, your car is isnured against damage casued by an accident, fire or theft. Damge to other people or other people’s propery is also covered.

    The end product however, is absolutely flexible. There are a number of options which can fit any need. At a (low) price, one can opt for the folowing.

    24 hour Breakdown assistance (that includes calling out for punctures)

    Personal belongings cover up to £250

    Personal accident cover for you or any named drivers.

    What’s more, these optional extras are in no way connected to your no claims discount status.

    Most importantly however, the people behind AXA Northern Ireland are out there for you, ready to provide maxium support in the event of an accident. It simply is the humane thing to do.

  • Finding a Used Car the Proper Way

    So you have a bit of money saved up and now the time has come to get yourself a car. You are in for a ride of your life even before you get in your car. Few things are more stressful looking for a car. Luckily though, there are places in the internet where your browsing pains can be relieved.

    Head over there and start looking for your future car. Used car deals have a lot more benefits behind them than one might think. Why go for a brand new Kia Cee’d which is a great car overall, but a bit cold on the inside (figuratively speaking). For the same amount of you can get one of those BMW E60s you have always dreamed of. A quick search through exchangeandmart.co.uk’s engine and we found a perfect specimen from 2008 in an absolutely decent nick (50,000 miles in the clock). The price – £16,500.

    How about a Porsche 911 Carrera 4 S Convertible – 10 years of age, 63,000 miles of passionate driving and roughly the same price. You are of the classic types? No problem – a 1991 Porsche Carrera 2 – 100, 000 miles of history, no difference in the price.

    These are just shots in the dark really. Dive into the world of second hand cars, and you’ll find your own gem. Here are some tips from us when snooping around

    Always look for the service history – keeping everything in check is essential for the car’s longevity

    Check to see if the engine has been thoroughly cleaned – if so, pass to the next one. A thorough cleaning is usually an attempt to cover up an oily leak.

    Check the upholstery, steering wheel, pedals and gear lever for waring – a car that has suspiciously few miles on the clock, might be clocked.

    Make sure to view the car on a well light day, no rain, no fog – this may sound a bit daft, but noticing rust, bumps, cracks and scratches can be done most effectively during a bright day.