2016 1.2 Dig-t N-connecta manual
Posted: Thu Oct 13, 2016 9:17 pm
Six month review. 2,800 miles.
The first brand new car that I have bought for 28 years so very apprehensive to say the least.
Very impressed so far, went for the N-Connecta because it was loaded with the tech that I desired. Only fault has been the upper windscreen camera which failed after 3 months, replaced under warranty. This camera enables the lane departure warning, high beam assist, traffic sign recognition and forward emergency breaking. All four of these safety features are of value and although initially dubious I am now a convert.
The sat nav has received criticism on the forum but I have found it accurate and helpful. The selected route can be reviewed before start and any modifications can be introduced by using waypoints. A google send to car app can also be used. Real-time traffic warnings are provided seamlessly via RDS FM radio broadcasts. DAB radio has been faultless and I have also made full use of the CD player. Not used any USB or AUX input yet but regularly charge up 2 mobiles from the two 12 volt outlets. The bluetooth also handles both our phones but when both our phones are in the car it connects to the last used mobile.
The dual zone climate control is effective and along with the steering wheel controls provides a level of comfort and control that we both enjoy, particularly on the longer journeys.
I find the ride quiet and smooth and the seats comfortable. I am struggling to find anything negative to say about the car.
The golden rule for the 1.2 engine is not to let the engine labour in any gear. The car will become unresponsive and drink petrol like a tramp on meths.
1. When driving around town only use 3 gears, when you reach 30 mph the combimeter will tell you to change to 4th. Ignore it.
2. In short, don't be afraid of keeping the revs up in any gear. The engine is an economical petrol engine and my real world figure is 44 mpg and I do a lot of short town journeys.
3. Don't let the engine labour, have I already said that?
I love the car and my only reservation is the cost of repairs and replacements in the long term.
The first brand new car that I have bought for 28 years so very apprehensive to say the least.
Very impressed so far, went for the N-Connecta because it was loaded with the tech that I desired. Only fault has been the upper windscreen camera which failed after 3 months, replaced under warranty. This camera enables the lane departure warning, high beam assist, traffic sign recognition and forward emergency breaking. All four of these safety features are of value and although initially dubious I am now a convert.
The sat nav has received criticism on the forum but I have found it accurate and helpful. The selected route can be reviewed before start and any modifications can be introduced by using waypoints. A google send to car app can also be used. Real-time traffic warnings are provided seamlessly via RDS FM radio broadcasts. DAB radio has been faultless and I have also made full use of the CD player. Not used any USB or AUX input yet but regularly charge up 2 mobiles from the two 12 volt outlets. The bluetooth also handles both our phones but when both our phones are in the car it connects to the last used mobile.
The dual zone climate control is effective and along with the steering wheel controls provides a level of comfort and control that we both enjoy, particularly on the longer journeys.
I find the ride quiet and smooth and the seats comfortable. I am struggling to find anything negative to say about the car.
The golden rule for the 1.2 engine is not to let the engine labour in any gear. The car will become unresponsive and drink petrol like a tramp on meths.
1. When driving around town only use 3 gears, when you reach 30 mph the combimeter will tell you to change to 4th. Ignore it.
2. In short, don't be afraid of keeping the revs up in any gear. The engine is an economical petrol engine and my real world figure is 44 mpg and I do a lot of short town journeys.
3. Don't let the engine labour, have I already said that?
I love the car and my only reservation is the cost of repairs and replacements in the long term.