Hyundai + "proper fuel diet" = healthy motoring lifestyle

There are so many weight management programs to choose from, each promising that you'll be able to get into shape within a given period of time. But we're not here to talk about some new diet strategy for the body; we're talking about a different kind of diet--the fuel management kind--that will benefit your car and your pocket. So this is one diet proposition you might want to strongly consider or face the consequences of bulging fuel expenses amid the fuel crisis.

Fuel Costs: On the Heavy Side

You've read the headlines. You've seen the numbers on the digital price boards of gas stations. Oil prices are skyrocketing at such an alarming rate, that they have registered record-breaking highs since the start of the year, even soaring outrageously to $130 to $140 per barrel. With the tremendous increase in world oil prices, local oil prices followed suit as well, bringing staple fuel choices like unleaded gasoline way up the charts at P55 to P60 per liter. Experts warn that this scenario may just be a dry run of things to come; sooner or later, they predict, we might have to deal with the possibility of $200 per barrel of oil and P65 per liter of fuel.

The lean, mean diesel machine

Yes, high fuel costs are here to stay--for how long is still a million-dollar question. But instead of agonizing over this looming adversity, why not try going on a diet from fuel expenses that burn really large holes on your pocket? We don't mean totally giving up driving; we mean wising up in terms of your choices of automobiles. Go for leaner choices, like cars that run on less costly fuel but let you cover miles without scrimping on power, even at just-right consumption. Simply put, go for diesel-powered automobiles, like Hyundai with CRDi VGT.

Could it be possible to have a diesel engine that incorporates the important qualities that make for a satisfying drive, like power, environmentally-sound operation, and most importantly, fuel-efficiency? Well, Hyundai answered that a long time ago, with a resounding yes, when it introduced the breakthrough CRDi, or Common Rail Direct Injection diesel engine technology. That answer remains unchanged today, with Hyundai's introduction of the CRDi with VGT.

VGT, or Variable Geometry Turbocharger, reinforces the best qualities delivered by the CRDi by optimizing air intake to yield better combustion for enhanced power delivery and engine efficiency.

By employing variable vanes to direct exhaust flow into the turbo-charger turbine, VGT maximizes the use of exhaust gas by contacting vanes at the right angle, thereby optimizing their position to suit a particular engine condition. At low rpm, the VGT's vane geometry is slightly closed to increase exhaust velocity, which imparts maximum energy in the turbine. This action causes the turbocharger to spin faster, forcing air into the combustion chamber to provide a quick spool up of power, thus, providing better acceleration even at low rpm. While at high speeds, the variable vanes of the VGT become fully open to regulate exhaust velocity, unleashing the engine's maximum power for demanding road conditions.

With the VGT, the CRDi makes full use of the fuel injected into the engine, resulting to optimal engine performance throughout the rp, range at lesser fuel consumption. And because CRDi VGT runs on diesel, a less costly alternative, you're rewarded with better mileage in your journeys. So you can save up more money to burn for more important purchases in these hard times.

Particulate emissions and toxic or NOX (nitrogen oxides) emissions are also reduced in a CRDi VGT operation due to better combustion of fuel supported by optimum air intake, making the car cleaner on the inside and safer for the environment outside. No wonder Hyundai defines VGT as Very Green Technology too!

Among Hyundai's vehicles equipped with the CRDi VGT technology are the Grand Starex 2.5-liter DOHC 16V, Santa Fe 2.2-liter in 2WD or 4WD versions, Getz 1.5-liter, Accent 1.5-liter, and Veracruz 3.0-liter. Another reliably fuel-efficient road companion is Hyundai's flagship SUV, the CRDi-equipped Tucson 2.0-liter, with Wastegate Turbo-charger technology. Each is definitive of Hyundai's brand of engineering integrity to power whatever lifestyle you lead.

Save up, shape up!

And speaking of lifestyle, here are more helpful tips on how to manage that "proper diet" in fuel consumption and keep your motoring life in great shape:

1) Anticipate stops to avoid sudden braking. Ease up on gas pedal when approaching the stop sign.

2) Avoid unnecessary high speeds during idling and in motion during shifting.

3) Ensure the vehicle is well maintained with regular servicing in accordance with manufacturer's specifications to keep your car's peak efficiency.

4) Ensure your air filters are clean. Dirty air filters restrict the flow of air into the engine and therefore impede your vehicle's performance and economy.

5) Use only genuine parts for your car, like Hyundai's. Genuine Hyundai Parts are specifically designed for each Hyundai vehicle to provide original quality for your car every time. Choose genuine for your peace of mind; not only will you be able to save in the long run, but you can feel secure knowing that your safety, as well as your loved-ones', will not be compromised.

6) Do not modify engine specification by yourself. Only allow authorized centers to check and adjust system.

7) Do not increase the size of Mag wheels against those specified by the manufacturer; this contributes to the weight factor. Also, wider wheels than the size of your stock tires create more rolling resistance and decrease fuel economy.

8) If you have two or more cars, select the most fuel efficient car for the intended purpose. Say for example, you're planning to go on a long trip. Would you go for a luxurious car loaded with all the comforts and conveniences but would entail relatively bigger fuel consumption, or would you rather go for a car that may not be as excessive in terms of luxury or convenience but is still able to deliver and at a more cost-efficient performance at that? Whichever you choose, just remember, in these trying times, a little sacrifice may help you save more in the long run.

9) Check the condition of your old vehicle versus the new one. It might be better to use the new vehicle since it is equipped with the latest technology, maximizing engine performance.

10) Last but not the least, get yourself a fuel-efficient car, if you don't own one yet.

High fuel costs weighing you down? Better avoid cars that go on a frequent fuel binge. Choose cars powered with fuel that's light on the budget and equipped with an engine that helps you save those extra pesos. Lighten up with Hyundai, powered with the latest equation in optimal performance and fuel efficiency--CRDi VGT.

Taken from The Philippine Star