Ligier SJ 50: step of quads
We have had the opportunity to test the new Ligier quadricycle, belonging to the Planet Drive. The new SJ 50 represents the third generation of quadricycles French manufacturer: design more attractive, improving its dynamics and greater safety on board feelings are the keys to this step forward in the segment known as ‘car without a license’.
Jarama hosted the presentation of the new range of quadricycles Planet Drive, including its last great novelty, Ligier SJ 50. There we have seen firsthand the step as, in virtually every way, the new French quadricycle. Further, We could compare it to previous generation models. A successful operation by the mark so we could see the great differences SJ 50 over previous versions.
The new Ligier SJ 50 wins design, now more modern and with more personality, and we even can recorrdar -saving the distances- the Mini or Citroen DS3. Inside, same invoice: greater visual quality materials and a chic image. The Seats are comfortable, upholstery fabric bicolor, a subject that is distributed in the same way by the rest of the carrier.
He dashboard is simple, without many frills and with the right equipment, with the typical controls multimedia equipment and air conditioning (Optional 999 euros), plus a digital instrument behind the wheel. Below, we find the shifter, which has three positions: neutral, reverse and normal gait. The change is for these quadricycles Automatic continuously variable CVT.
Ligier, one of the three brands that include the company of French origin Drive Planet -together with Dué and Microcar-, consider the SJ 50 as the starting point of its third generation of quadricycles. Recall that these, the quadricycle type approved by law in Spain since 1999 can be conducted from 15 years simply moped license, the AM license. A really interesting alternative to scooters, especially for the younger audience.
On going
We get behind the wheel of the Ligier SJ 50 circuit in a makeshift cones in which we can make a small slalom, different types of corners and heavy braking. We started and we continue to find a slight tug to accelerate from standstill, typical quadricycles, although compared to previous generations It has been improved in this respect. This plays an important role new system Easy Park, designed to reduce these ‘jerks’ and facilitate parking maneuvers.
The dynamic sensations are good, its small size (3.148 meters long) and low weight (350 kg) help, it moves with the ease of a typical urban vehicle, without any complication and with a rotation angle really generous (8.80 meters, the smallest face of competition). We arrived at the braking and surprise their ability to arrest, even though the brake feel is not entirely pleasant.
The new Ligier has given SJ 50 exceptional jump in terms of its precedents, thanks to its new chassis monobloc aluminum with structural reinforcements. It notes that has become more mime-tuning. In addition, as we recognize those responsible for Ligier in Spain, he has worked in reduce vibration and noise, typical quadricycles, despite being quite obvious, yes it has been improved.
These vibrations are caused quadricycle we are talking about a vehicle powered by twin engines. In the case of Ligier SJ 50, we tested its latest news about the new diesel engine DCI Revolution, standard on one version Club rooms, with electronically controlled direct injection480 cc, 5 hp power and 2.6 mkg of torque, this last section leader in the segment. The Progress ACT version of the quad bike, with indirect injection engine pump, although it has the same power, torque is 1.7 mkg declared.
This new engine features a Diesel DCI Revolution content consumption, this being one of its added values against older cars: 2.5 liters 100 kilometers, with a level of CO2 emissions 65 g / km.
But, Will will rise in the security section? Not forget that quadricycles, not being considered as such vehicles, They are not required to pass the EuroNCAP impact tests. Tests conducted by independent companies left in question the strength of quadricycles. To improve this aspect, the Ligier SJ 50 has in its favor Side protection bars in the doors, which they have been reinforced, in addition to the monocoque frame we mentioned earlier.
Other features:
– New Easy Park System, which facilitates parking maneuvers.
– Three versions: Club, Elegance and RC.
– Safety and equipment: side impact protection in doors, four brake disks monobloc chassis airbag (optional for 199 euros), power windows, 15-inch tires in tire 155/60, onboard computer, height adjustable steering wheel, etc.
– Prices: one of the major disadvantages of quadricycles, its high price (you can buy a scooter for just 1,500 euros or, as above, a basic Smart for 10,044 euros). SJ Ligier range of 50 starts at 11,490 euros, corresponding to JS 50 Club, and goes up to 12,990 euros SJ 50 RC.