Misplaced Pages

#637362

142-692: Like the smaller Ford Laser , the Telstar was based on a model produced by Mazda in Japan. It shared its platform with the Mazda Capella /626, the differences being confined to some styling, engine sizes, and specification. The first model was launched in Japan in 1982. The Australian launch occurred in 1983, replacing the Ford Cortina . Unlike the Cortina, the Telstar was usually only available as

284-888: A DOHC turbo model with full-time 4WD was offered as a companion car to the Mazda Familia GT-X, now producing 180 PS (132 kW; 178 hp) from an increased displacement of 1.8 litres. In Australia, this model was released in March 1990 as the KF series and updated in October 1991 with the KH facelift. Local production of the Laser in Australia ceased on 4 September 1994 when Ford closed its plant in Flemington , and imported

426-626: A sedan or five-door hatchback (known as the TX5). However, after 1988, a Telstar version of the 626 wagon was sold in Japan and New Zealand . In Taiwan , it was assembled using complete knock-down kits from 1983 via the local joint venture Ford Lio Ho in left-hand drive . It remained in production in Malaysia until early 2001. It was also sold in Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia , Cyprus and

568-493: A 2.2-litre 12-valve inline-four with 84 kW (113 hp). The flagship TX5 Turbo used a variation of the 2.2-litre engine, rated at 108 kW (145 hp) on premium fuel and gaining anti-lock brakes . Power output for the Turbo dropped to 100 kW (130 hp) when running on regular fuel. Telstar sedans in Australia were discontinued in October 1989 due to the expense of importing them from Japan, solved by switching to

710-511: A facelift of the KC series, the KE. There were a number of notable changes with the introduction of the KE. The "Meteor" name was dropped from the sedan and wagon body styles, meaning they were now badged as "Laser", like the hatchback variants. The TX3 was also now available with a turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive (AWD) as options. The TX3 Turbo with AWD is now very rare and highly sought after. The AWD

852-494: A five-speed manual transmission, and five-door hatchback or four-door saloon bodywork. Later, a non-emissions scrubbed Laser TX-3 three-door hatchback with the fuel injected B6 1.6-litre engine became available. This produced a claimed 104 PS (76 kW) at 6000 rpm. The production for general buyers was stopped in 1989, but the GL sedan with 1.3-litre E3 engine was continued to available for taxi fleet until 1997. In Taiwan,

994-560: A four-speed automatic. Later, the 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp) V6 was also installed in the sedan and became available coupled to a manual transmission in the TX-5. In 1997, the Telstar in Malaysia received a new grille insert and the automatic transmission eventually found its way into the 4-cylinder 16-valve 2.0-litre engine variant. Production ended in early 2001. However, unsold stock lasted until 2003. In Indonesia, this generation

1136-428: A horizontal stalk protruding from the side of the steering column, though on some vehicles it protrudes from the dashboard. The driver raises or lowers the outboard end of the stalk in accord with the clockwise or anticlockwise direction the steering wheel is about to be turned. In left-hand drive vehicles, the turn indicator stalk is usually located to the left of the steering wheel. In right-hand-drive vehicles, there

1278-568: A major change in design; looking very different from the previous KH model. The three-door hatchback was known as the Laser Lynx and the five-door as the Laser Liata. The new KJ Laser was introduced in 1994 with variants, facelifts (KL of December 1996 and KM of December 1997) and engine driveline improvements continuing up until the last of the KM series were released in 1999. The KJ Laser was

1420-559: A predecessor to the modern turn signal, and a mechanical brake signal. She did not patent these inventions, however, and received no credit or profit from them. Tail lights and brake lights were introduced around 1915, and by 1919, low-beam or dipped beam headlights were available. Sealed beam headlights were introduced in 1936 and standardized as the only acceptable type in the US in 1940. Self-cancelling turn signals were developed in 1940. By 1945, headlights and signal lights were integrated into

1562-437: A reference point for oncoming traffic where the widest part of the body was. These were sometimes used in tandem with fender lights during the same time period, when fenders were separate from the body and only covered the wheels. Direction indicator lights or turn signals, informally known as directional signals, directionals, blinkers, or indicators, are blinking lights mounted near the left and right front and rear corners of

SECTION 10

#1732783341638

1704-563: A result, the UK requirement for dim-dip was quashed. Nevertheless, dim-dip systems remain permitted, and while such systems are not presently as common as they once were, dim-dip functionality was fitted on many new cars well into the 1990s. In the United States, amber front and red rear side marker lights and retroreflectors are required. The law initially required lights or retroreflectors on vehicles manufactured after 1 January 1968. This

1846-399: A standard feature until several years after its introduction. Dynamos for automobile headlights were first fitted around 1908 and became commonplace in 1920s automobiles. Trafficators —signalling arms that flipped up, which later were lighted—were introduced in about 1900. Silent film star Florence Lawrence is credited with introducing an innovative version of the signalling arm in 1914,

1988-422: A steady rate of between 60 and 120 pulses per minute (1–2 Hz). International UN Regulations require that all turn signals flash in simultaneous phase; US regulations permit side marker lights wired for side turn signal functionality to flash in opposite-phase. An audio and/or visual tell-tale indicator is required, to advise the driver when the turn signals are activated and operating. This usually takes

2130-511: A thermal flasher. If the stalk switch is not moved beyond the fixed left/right position and allowed to flip back, the control module will only flash the lights three times. Electric turn signal lights date from as early as 1907. Possibly the first factory installation of illuminated turn signals was on the Talbot 105 (as well as the 75 and 95), which used them at the front as well as at the rear from 1932 until 1935. The modern flashing turn signal

2272-443: A turn indicator self-cancelling feature that returns the lever to the neutral (no signal) position as the steering wheel approaches the straight-ahead position after a turn has been made. Beginning in the late 1960s, using the direction-indicator lights to signal for a lane change was facilitated by the addition of a spring-loaded momentary signal-on position just shy of the left and right detents . The signal operates for however long

2414-629: A vehicle conspicuous and visible with respect to its presence, position, direction of travel, change in direction, or deceleration. Such lights may light steadily, blink, or flash, depending on their intended and regulated function. Most must be fitted in pairs—one left and one right—though some vehicles have multiple pairs (such as two left and two right stop lights) and/or redundant light sources (such as one left and one right stop light, each containing two bulbs). Front position lights (known as parking lights in North America and front sidelights in

2556-413: A vehicle, and sometimes on the sides or on the side mirrors of a vehicle (where they are called repeaters ). They are activated by the driver on one side of the vehicle at a time to advertise intent to turn or change lanes towards that side, or used simultaneously as a hazard warning signal to warn other drivers of a vehicle parked on the road (see below). For many years, turn signals' on-off operation

2698-497: Is a compact car , originally a subcompact car in the first three generations, which was sold by Ford in Asia, Oceania, and parts of South America and Africa. It has generally been available as a sedan or hatchback, although convertible, wagon and pick-up versions have also been available in different markets. The sedan, and briefly station wagon, versions were badged Ford Meteor in Australia between 1982 and 1987. The Ford Meteor name

2840-672: Is frequently cosmetic. They are often available as optional extras or only on higher trim levels of many cars. Since as early as the 2020s, several car manufacturers have noticeably omitted the front fog lights from many of their latest models, as more recent high-tech lighting technologies such as DRLs and LEDs connected to automatic high-beam systems negate the use of fog lights. However, some manufacturers who still offer fog lights as standard equipment in certain model trims have diversified its use to function also as an automatic lighting delay for vehicles, to light up surroundings and roadside curbs after being parked. An SAE study has shown that in

2982-576: Is less consistency; it may be located to the left or to the right of the steering wheel. Regulations do not specify a mandatory location for the turn signal control, only that it be visible and operable by the driver, and—at least in North America—that it be labelled with a specific symbol if it is not located on the left side of the steering column. The international UN Regulations do not include analogous specifications. Virtually all vehicles (except many motorcycles and commercial semi-tractors) have

SECTION 20

#1732783341638

3124-416: Is optional under UN and US regulations, is served passively in the United States by mandatory side marker retroreflectors . Some countries permit or require vehicles to be equipped with daytime running lights (DRLs). Depending on the regulations of the country for which the vehicle is built, these may be functionally dedicated lights, or the function may be provided by the low beam or high beam headlights,

3266-571: Is specified for use whenever other vehicles are present ahead. UN ECE regulations for dipped beam headlights specify a beam with a sharp, asymmetric cut-off; the half of the beam closest to oncoming drivers is flat and low, while the half of the beam closest to the outside of the road slopes up and towards the near side of the roadway. This permits a functional compromise where it is possible to substantially prevent glare for oncoming drivers, while still allowing adequate illumination for drivers to see pedestrians, road signs, hazards, etc. on their side of

3408-520: Is still found in international UN Regulations, which do not distinguish between a vehicle's primary (mandatory) and auxiliary (optional) upper/driving beam lights. The "driving light" term has been supplanted in US regulations by the functionally descriptive term "auxiliary high-beam light". Many countries regulate the installation and use of driving lights. For example, in Russia, each vehicle may have no more than three pairs of driving lights (including

3550-408: Is to use a relaxation oscillator chip to generate square waves to the relay coil, causing the relay contacts to open and close. Modern cars now use a relaxation oscillator and solid-state relay built into the body control module to flash the lights, and use speakers to produce the distinctive clicking sound associated with turn signals, which was previously made by a relay or the leaf spring in

3692-618: The GF platform based Telstar in 1997. The AX series came to Australia in December 1992. Then followed the decision by Nissan to end Nissan Pintara manufacturing in Australia during 1992, whereby Ford's rebadged version, the Corsair was also discontinued. This left the Telstar as the Ford's sole offering in the mid-size segment of the market. This model was voted as Wheels magazine's Car of

3834-615: The GF platform , was released in 1997 but was again only available in Japan as Ford was now marketing the Mondeo in the Asian-Pacific region. It was only available as a sedan and wagon, with no liftback version available. The Telstar was dropped by Ford of Japan in 1999 as the company sought to differentiate itself from Mazda by concentrating on European and American Ford models. Telstars were briefly available with Mazda's four-wheel steering. Ford Laser The Ford Laser

3976-579: The Holden Camira . The Meteor's front styling and grille differed from the corresponding Laser. The Meteor styling was based on the Japanese market Mazda Familia (BD) sedan. Lighting changes included the replacement of the Laser's amber front turn signals with clear lenses, plus the fitment of larger, flush headlamps over the Laser's smaller lights that were "sunken" into an enclosure. The Meteor grille had more of an " eggcrate " pattern than

4118-639: The Mazda 323 (BF) facelift styling. A performance five-door hatchback TX3 Turbo was also available in Taiwan with a 130 PS (96 kW) 1.6-liter DOHC turbo engine. A version of the KC Laser, the Mercury Tracer , was marketed in the US and Canada, available as a hatchback and wagon only. The Tracer hatchback shared its bodyshell with its Laser counterpart, but the wagon was a distinct design based on

4260-453: The Nordic countries that receive fewer daylight hours during winter. "Driving light" is a term hailing from the early days of night time driving, when it was relatively rare to encounter an opposing vehicle. Only on occasions when opposing drivers passed each other would the low (dipped or "passing") beam be used. The high beam was therefore known as the "driving beam", and this terminology

4402-645: The Philippines . Ford introduced the AR series Telstar sedan and hatchback to the Japanese market in October 1982—a rebadged and lightly restyled version of the then new front-wheel drive , Mazda 626 (GC) —both manufactured at Mazda's Hōfu production line. The updated styling relative to the Mazda was performed by Ford Australia . This restyling effort made up part of the A$ 150 ;million Ford Australia spent on

Ford Telstar - Misplaced Pages Continue

4544-405: The side-view mirrors in 1998, starting with its facelifted E-Class (W210) . Since then, many automakers have been incorporating side turn signal devices into the mirror housings rather than mounting them on the vehicle's fenders . Some evidence suggests that mirror-mounted turn signals may be more effective than fender-mounted ones. Turn signals are required to blink on and off, or "flash", at

4686-420: The "L" but with satin chrome half-width centre caps (only covering the centre of the wheel), a digital clock on the top of the dashboard, cloth interior trim, grey body side mouldings, a rear windscreen wiper, grey tailgate and beaver panel garnishes and 50/50 split-fold rear seat. The stereo was an analogue-tuned AM/FM unit with a basic cassette player. Air conditioning was optional as a dealer-fit accessory. Power

4828-640: The "Sport" variant from the KB series. Unlike the Sport, the TX3 was only available as a three-door (the Taiwanese TX3 was available in a five-door version only). The "L" and "GL" models were no longer available as a three-door. A notable change was the introduction of engines capable of running on 91 RON unleaded petrol (this became mandatory in Australia from 1986). The E5 1.5-litre SOHC carburettored engine that

4970-566: The 1.1-litre (base and Ritz), 1.3-litre (GL), and 1.5-litre (Sport) engines, while the Laser sedan (base, L, Ghia) was available with the 1.1-, 1.3 and 1.5-litre engines respectively, with the Ghia having an automatic transmission option. The Laser was also sold in some countries in Latin America , including Argentina . This was identical to the KA version sold in Australia. In Mexico, however,

5112-499: The 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic and later specified in the 1968 United Nations Vienna Convention on Road Traffic . With some regional exceptions, lights facing rearward must emit red light, side-facing lights and all turn signals must emit amber light, and lights facing forward must emit white or selective yellow light. No other colours are permitted except on emergency vehicles. Vehicle lighting colour specifications can differ somewhat in countries that have not signed

5254-575: The 1949 and/or 1968 Conventions; examples include turn signals and side marker lights in North America, as described in those lights' sections later in this article. Forward illumination is provided by high- ("main", "full", "driving") and low- ("dip", "dipped", "passing") beam headlights , which may be augmented by auxiliary fog lights, driving lights, or cornering lights. Low beam (also called dipped beam, passing beam, or meeting beam) headlights provide adequate forward and lateral illumination without dazzling other road users with excessive glare. This beam

5396-692: The Australian market, the range was now imported from Japan to make room for the Capri convertible on the Broadmeadows line. The switch from local assembly was made possible by the accumulation of import credits obtained from the export of the Capri to the United States. The base GL sedan and hatchback carried over the AS's 2.0-litre inline-four engine producing 68 kW (91 hp), while Ghia models featured

5538-702: The Corsair proved less popular than the Telstar had been, losing sales dramatically during 1991. In New Zealand, by contrast, the range remained unchanged, although it was later complemented by the Sierra , this time imported from Belgium in small volumes as premium models, rather than assembled locally. Neither the Corsair nor the Pintara were sold in New Zealand, but a similar model, the Nissan Bluebird ,

5680-756: The European Ford Escort in New Zealand during 1997 but was discontinued locally at the end of the year, the Escort hatchback and sedan replacing it for just 16 months between January 1998 and May 1999 when the new KN Laser was introduced. For 1995 in Taiwan , Ford Lio Ho Motor assembled the Laser sedan branded as the Ford Liata ; the Lynx three-door version was rebranded as the Ford Aztec . However,

5822-468: The Ford-badged cars. Other interior changes included those made to the stalk-mounted switchgear, and a new digital clock in the centre of the dashboard benefitting from a glare-prevention hood. The clock was previously located awkwardly ahead of the gear lever. Suspension changes for the AS series included uprated rear springs and reduction in rear anti-roll bar diameter. Improvements were also made to

Ford Telstar - Misplaced Pages Continue

5964-520: The GE-based Telstar was available in a range of sedan models with all four cylinder and V6 engine options and a TX5 hatchback range featuring only the V6 engines. The GV platform Telstar wagon also continued alongside the sedan and hatchback. All variants were available in a large variety of trim levels, with many offering high levels of equipment in comparison to other markets. All were replaced by

6106-486: The GL sedan and hatch. The Redline featured the TX3's alloy wheels, two-tone paint and red inserts in the body-side mouldings and bumpers, air conditioning, and a tachometer. The Livewire featured yellow inserts in the body side mouldings and bumpers, a body coloured grille, air conditioning, and a tachometer. Both models had 5-speed manual transmission (as opposed to the standard 4-speed) as standard, with 3-speed automatic transmission as an option. KE model range; The Laser

6248-404: The KC. In mid-1989, in preparation for a new Australian Design Rules (ADRs) to come into effect in 1990, all models were fitted with a high-mount rear stop lamp as standard. When the redesigned KF Laser was introduced in March 1990, the wagon continued in a sole GL specification, with minor upgrades until September 1994, when Australian production of the Laser ceased. The "L" is quite rare, as it

6390-520: The Laser as new vehicles at once at its dealerships—the new KJ Laser, the previous-generation KH Laser as a five-door hatchback, and the older-shape KE Laser station wagon. These were assembled at the VANZ factory in Wiri , Auckland until 1997 when Ford NZ discontinued local assembly. The second update KM Laser was not sold in New Zealand. The KL Laser, now replaced in Australia, continued to be sold alongside

6532-739: The Laser hatchback, rather than the sedan, as was the case with the Meteor wagon. US versions of the Tracer were built in Mexico at Ford's Hermosillo Stamping and Assembly plant, whereas for the Canadian market, Ford opted to import the Mercury Tracer from Taiwan 's Ford Lio Ho Motor instead. In Bermuda , however, the KE Laser was sold locally in right hand drive badged as a Ford. The Laser

6674-675: The Liata five-door version was not available in Taiwan, although the Mazda 323 was sold as a rebadged version of the Laser sedan only. In Latin America, this generation of Laser was assembled in Colombia and Venezuela , alongside its Mazda 323 counterpart, known as the Mazda Allegro. Engine Specifications: Fifth generation "BJ" series models were renamed "Laser Lidea" in Japan in December 1998, with popularity falling even further than

6816-564: The Mazda 323. Introduced in April 1982, Ford Meteor was the name given to the sedan version of the Laser. Designated as the GA series, the Meteor featured conventional three-box styling with a 60/40 folding rear seat to increase luggage capacity that was already considered "very large for the class". Compared to the Laser, the front seats could be moved back a little further at the expense of rear seat passengers. To further improve practicality,

6958-536: The Meteor had a difficult undertaking replacing the Cortina, which offered engine displacements from 2.0 litres for the inline-four, up to a 4.1-litre inline-six, plus a station wagon option. However, the Meteor's pitch as the Cortina replacement was merely a temporary measure prior to the introduction of the Telstar mid-sized sedan and hatchback in May 1983. In Australia, the Meteor directly competed against

7100-536: The Meteor's spare wheel could be relocated from the floor to an upright position to increase boot depth from 410 to 585 millimetres (16.1 to 23.0 in). The additional length of 195 millimetres (7.7 in) over the Laser hatchback was used by Ford Australia to justify the Meteor as replacement to the TF Cortina . In Australia, the Meteor was only available with the 1.5-litre engine and five-speed manual transmission or optional three-speed automatic. Consequently,

7242-702: The Mk2 Escort. In New Zealand, the Laser was sold as both a hatchback and sedan, the Meteor name not being used in that market, and was later joined by the Mazda 323 at the renamed Vehicle Assemblers of New Zealand (VANZ) plant in Wiri , Auckland in a joint venture between Ford New Zealand and Mazda. 323s initially had been assembled at the Motor Industries International plant in Otahuhu, subsequently taken over by Mazda New Zealand. New Zealand-built Ford Laser hatchbacks were available with

SECTION 50

#1732783341638

7384-616: The TX5 Ghia's adjustable suspension. In terms of braking, Ghias were now fitted with four-wheel disc brakes ; Telstar GL and TX5 retained front discs and rear drums . Ventilated front disc brakes and semi-metallic pads were now fitted across the range to provide, in conjunction with the brake cooling ducts in the front valance, increased brake cooling capacity and reduced brake fade and squeal. In 1985, Ford sold 20,982 Telstars in Australia—the eighth best selling nameplate. In March 1986,

7526-477: The TX5 Turbo flagship launched in Australia, with an 87 kW (117 hp) and 200 N⋅m (150 lb⋅ft) engine tied to a five-speed manual. Standard equipment over the Ghia trim included two-tone paint, alloy wheels, rear spoiler , three-spoke steering wheel , air conditioning, power steering, and Pioneer sound system. Also in 1986, all Telstars were updated to run on unleaded petrol. In New Zealand ,

7668-542: The TX5 and TX5 Ghia hatchbacks. For the local market, assembly occurred at Ford's Broadmeadows plant using complete knock-down (CKD) kits. To free up plant capacity for the Ford Falcon (XF) , production of the Telstar TX5 switched to Japan, with dealerships receiving the first shipments in February 1985. At launch, features unique to the AR series TX5 Ghia included an electric drivers' seat with adjustable side bolsters and electronic dashboard with LED tachometer and digital speedometer . Fluorescent vertical bars record

7810-399: The Telstar Radisich after the New Zealand racing driver Paul Radisich was also sold locally. This was released in two runs of 100 cars each, firstly in 1994 (based on the AX GLEi) and again in 1996 (based closely on the AY Eurosport). Notable features of the model are 16-inch ROH Astron alloy wheels, the 'aero' body kit (similar to the TX5 XRi) and Radisich insignia decals. Local assembly of

7952-443: The Telstar and Laser at VANZ. It was launched in July, 1983. The first generation Telstar was available in New Zealand in both sedan and TX5 hatchback forms, using Mazda 1.6- and 2.0-litre four cylinder engines. However, the absence of a station wagon version, in a market where there was strong demand for such vehicles, prompted Ford New Zealand to introduce a locally assembled Sierra wagon in 1984. The original generation Telstar

8094-428: The Telstar ceased along with all other Ford and Mazda models in 1997 when the VANZ Auckland plant closed. It was replaced in all forms by the Belgian-built Mondeo range. The Telstar was always a popular seller for Ford New Zealand. In South Africa, the Telstar replaced the Sierra in 1993, being assembled by Samcor alongside the Mazda 626. As in New Zealand, a Telstar Contour and Telstar Mystique were offered. In 1998,

8236-405: The Telstar received 1.8- or 2.0-litre petrol fours with power from 82 to 140 PS (60 to 103 kW) or a 2-litre Comprex diesel with 82 PS (60 kW). In June 1989, a twin-cam 1.8-liter engine with 115 PS (85 kW) was added, while the 2-liter DOHC engine received a 10-horsepower increase and now required higher-octane gasoline. After the sedans and liftbacks had been discontinued,

8378-412: The Telstar was replaced by the Mondeo, which was later fully imported. In Malaysia, the third generation Telstar arrived in August 1992. It was initially available as a four-cylinder 2.0-litre sedan or as a better-equipped hatchback (designated "TX-5") which came with a V6 engine, also of 2.0-litre displacement. The four-cylinder model was paired with a five-speed manual transmission, while the V6 received

8520-437: The Telstar, including setting up local production facilities. A drag coefficient of C d =0.36 was achieved for the AR hatchback. The Telstar filled the gap in Ford Australia's product line-up left by the TF Cortina in 1981. The Ford Meteor sedan had been positioned as a stop-gap replacement, despite occupying the segment below . The AR Telstar was introduced to Australia in May 1983, with GL, S and Ghia sedans, plus

8662-437: The Telstar, like the Laser, was assembled locally from 1983 (replacing the highly successful Cortina range) at Ford's original Seaview plant near Lower Hutt and later at the Ford/Mazda joint venture plant in Wiri , Auckland , called Vehicle Assemblers of New Zealand (VANZ). The mechanically identical European specification Mazda 626 and Mazda 323 were initially assembled separately by Motor Holdings in Otahuhu but later joined

SECTION 60

#1732783341638

8804-415: The Tonic and Tracer, a rebadged version of the locally manufactured BF series Mazda 323 hatchback, which was sold until 2003. There was also a coupe utility version with facelifted Mazda 323 BF styling, sold as Ford Bantam and Mazda Rustler. The third generation BG series of 1989 to 1994 went on to be the most popular Laser sold in Japan, with the new "coupé" (liftback) version an instant success. Again,

8946-403: The UK) provide nighttime standing-vehicle conspicuity. They are designed to use little electricity so they can be left on when parked for prolonged periods of time. Despite the UK term, these are not the same as the side marker lights described below. The front position lights on any vehicle must emit white light, with the exception of motorcycles, which may have amber front position lights. In

9088-474: The US, Canada, Mexico, Iceland, Japan, New Zealand, and Australia (only if combined with a side marker), South Korea, North Korea, Vietnam, China, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and much of the Middle East, they may emit amber light on any vehicle. The "city light" terminology for front position lights derives from the practice, formerly adhered to in cities like Moscow, London and Paris, of driving at night in urban areas using these low- intensity lights rather than

9230-405: The US, daytime running lights may emit either amber or white light, and may produce up to 7,000 candela. This has provoked a large number of complaints about glare . UK regulations briefly required vehicles first used on or after 1 April 1987 to be equipped with a "dim-dip" device or special low-intensity running lights, except such vehicles as complying fully with UN Regulation 48 regarding

9372-555: The United States, more people inappropriately use their fog lights in dry weather than use them properly in poor weather. Because of this, use of the fog lights when visibility is not seriously reduced is often prohibited in most jurisdictions; for example, in Australia, "The driver of a vehicle must not use any fog light fitted to the vehicle unless the driver is driving in fog, mist or under other atmospheric conditions that restrict visibility. " The respective purposes of front fog lights and driving lights are often confused, due in part to

9514-470: The Year for 1983. A facelifted model (the AS) arrived to Australia in September 1985. This comprised minor restyling to the front and rear, a comprehensively updated interior, improved suspension, revised trim and more features. Front turn signals were relocated from the headlamps to the bumper, with side repeaters added to the wrap-around sections of the front bumper. Taillamps for the sedan were restyled, and all models received new hubcaps or alloys . GL

9656-505: The Year for 1992. Trim levels were GLX, Ghia and Ghia 4WS. Four-wheel steering was offered in the top-of-the-range Telstar TX5. A facelifted AY model appeared in August 1994. The Telstar was replaced in Australia by the Mondeo in 1995. New Zealand, like Australia received the AX Telstar in 1992, followed by the AY in late 1994. NZ versions were offered in GLi, GLEi, Ghia sedan and TX5i, TX5 XRi hatchback forms, using 1.8 & 2.0-litre four cylinder and 2.5-litre V6 engines. The wagon version of

9798-425: The base TX5 offered a more basic hand brake console integrating an ashtray for rear passengers. Ghia models featured an armrest console with acrylic "smoked glass" lid to provide extra storage. Compared to the AR series, console storage space for Ghia models was increased, as was glove compartment capacity across all trims. The seats were also revised—the work of Ford Australia—and a modification that only applied to

9940-404: The basis of later Escort models sold in North America from 1990 for the 1991 model year, which is not to be confused with the model of the same name sold in Europe. The Escort name was retained for the new model due to both strong brand equity on the Escort name as well as Chrysler already using the Laser name for the Plymouth Laser . The Escort wagon seen in North America during this generation

10082-410: The bimetallic strip cooled down, it would pull the leaf spring back over centre in the other direction, closing the contacts and again sending power to the lights and heating element. The cycle would repeat until the power to the thermal flasher was switched off by the stalk switch. Thermal flashers gradually gave way to electromechanical relays ; one of many control strategies with relay-type flashers

10224-405: The body side mouldings and bumpers, red tailgate garnish and orange beaver panel garnish. Air conditioning and power windows were optional. The stereo was a digitally tuned AM/FM unit, which featured a cassette player with Dolby enhanced sound. The 1.6-litre engine was fitted as standard, with EFI optional (standard on wagon), with either 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic transmission (EFI automatic

10366-507: The body styling. Halogen headlights were developed in Europe in 1960. High-intensity discharge (HID) headlights were produced starting in 1991. In 1993, the first LED tail lights were installed on mass-production automobiles, with LED headlights subsequently being introduced in the 2000s as more powerful LEDs became available. The colour of light emitted by vehicle lights is largely standardized by established conventions, first codified in

10508-482: The contemporary Mazda Familia BFMR). AWD models for sedan and wagon/van were also available for sale. This added up to an extremely convoluted Japanese product line, which was later streamlined in 1987 with a mid-life model refresh (KE series in other markets). This refresh dropped E-series engines in favour of all-new B-series equivalents, poorer-selling variants were discontinued, and minor changes were made to exterior styling and interior trim. The commercial van model

10650-526: The earlier E engines. These were later in turn replaced by Mazda's B3 1.3-litre and F6 1.6-litre engines. South African models of the Laser and Meteor also gained the 2.0-litre FE SOHC 8-valve and FE-DOHC EFi 16-valve engine from 1991 to 1993, the later was available for the flagship 20i RS. The KC/KE Laser and Meteor remained in production in South Africa until 1995, when the Escort was reintroduced. However, Ford introduced an entry-level model called

10792-519: The engine was running and the driver switched on the position lights (called sidelights in the UK). Dim-dip was intended to provide a nighttime "town beam" with intensity between that of contemporary parking lights commonly used in city traffic after dark, and dipped beams; the former were considered insufficiently intense to provide improved conspicuity in conditions requiring it, while the latter were considered too glaring for safe use in built-up areas. The UK

10934-684: The first Mondeos were offered abroad, Ford New Zealand offered the four cylinder AY sedan in two trim levels: Telstar Contour and Telstar Mystique (named after the respective US Ford and Mercury versions of the Mondeo) as a replacement for the GLi and GLEi respectively. Also in the AY lineup was a Telstar Eurosport V6 sedan (replacing the V6 GLEi) and upgraded TX5i and TX5 XRi hatchback models. A limited edition V6 sedan with tuned suspension and unique trim, known as

11076-561: The first Laser manufactured wholly in Japan, following Ford Australia's decision to close their Flemington plant. However, the KJ was disappointing in sales numbers mainly because of the smaller Festiva and other cheaper South Korean cars from Hyundai, Kia and Daewoo to which many conservative buyers flocked. With the introduction of the KJ Laser in 1994, Ford New Zealand found itself in a unique position, offering three different generations of

11218-554: The first-generation Laser had a front end similar to the North American Mazda GLC . In addition, it was sold in right hand drive markets in the Caribbean such as Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago , where it was locally assembled. Assembly of the Laser also occurred in Malaysia and Indonesia (in right hand drive ) and in left hand drive for markets like Taiwan and the Philippines . In Taiwan, it

11360-440: The form of one green light on the dashboard on cars from the 1950s or older, or two green indicator lights on cars from the 1960s to the present, and a rhythmic ticking sound generated electromechanically or electronically by the flasher. It is also required that the vehicle operator be alerted by much faster- or slower-than-normal flashing in the event a turn signal light fails. Turn signals are, in almost every case, activated by

11502-403: The front and rear, except rear side markers may be red if they are grouped, combined, or reciprocally incorporated with another rear lighting function that is required to be red. Australian Design Rule 45/01 provides for two different kinds of side marker light: a type for trucks and other large vehicles producing amber light to the front and red to the rear with no requirement to emit light to

11644-810: The front doors and swung out to a horizontal position. They were fragile and could be easily broken off, and also had a tendency to stick in the closed or open position. They could be fitted with a fixed or flashing light. After turn signals were introduced regulations were brought in requiring them and laying out specifications that had to be met. Ultimately standards governed minimum and maximum permissible intensity levels, minimum horizontal and vertical angles of visibility, and minimum illuminated surface area, to ensure that they are visible at all relevant angles, do not dazzle those who view them, and are suitably conspicuous in all conditions ranging from full darkness to full direct sunlight. In most countries, cars must be equipped with side-mounted turn signal repeaters to make

11786-423: The front passenger seat, full-size interior door trims, vanity mirror in passenger sun visor, ticket holder in driver's sun visor, felt interior headlining and sunvisors, rear headrests, additional warning lights in the instrument cluster, central locking with illuminated driver's door lock barrel, remote exterior mirrors, front door map pockets, front seatback pockets, additional reading lamps, chrome insert strips in

11928-559: The front turn signals, or the front fog lights. Passenger cars and small delivery vans first type approved to UN Regulation 48 on or after 7 February 2011, and large vehicles (trucks and buses) type approved since August 2012, must be equipped with DRLs. Functional piggybacking, such as using the headlights, front turn signals, or fog lights as DRLs, is not permitted; the EU Directive requires functionally specific daytime running lights compliant with UN Regulation 87 and mounted to

12070-413: The fuel level and engine temperature. Air conditioning was optional on all models, as was power steering on all except GL, S, and TX5 manuals. The S model added a height adjustable driver's seat and featured different upholstery over the GL. The AR series offered four- and five-speed manuals and three-speed automatic transmissions. The four-speed was standard on Telstar GL, with the five-speed standard on

12212-501: The installation of lighting equipment. A dim-dip device operates the dipped beam headlights at between 10% and 20% of normal low-beam intensity. Running lights permitted as an alternative to dim-dip were required to emit at least 200 candela straight ahead, and no more than 800 candela in any direction. In practice, most vehicles were equipped with the dim-dip option rather than dedicated running lights. The dim-dip systems were not intended for daytime use as DRLs . Rather, they operated if

12354-507: The jurisdiction and the DRL implementation. Likewise, according to jurisdictional regulations, DRLs mounted within a certain distance of turn signals are permitted or required to extinguish or dim down to parking light intensity individually when the adjacent turn signal is operating. UN Regulation 87 stipulates that DRLs must emit white light with an intensity of at least 400 candela on axis and no more than 1200 candela in any direction. In

12496-528: The locally assembled Ford Corsair —a rebadged and facelifted Nissan Pintara (U12) . Under the Button plan , Ford and Nissan were to share models. The two were instead sold side-by-side in the Ford range until the third generation Telstar was introduced in 1992. Between 1990 and 1992, the Telstar (AV series) was only available as the Japanese-built, high-performance TX5 hatchback in Australia. However,

12638-487: The misconception that fog lights are always selective yellow, while any auxiliary light that makes white light is a driving light. Automakers and aftermarket parts and accessories suppliers frequently refer interchangeably to "fog lights" and "driving lights" (or "fog/driving lights"). On some models, cornering lights provide steady-intensity white light for lateral illumination in the direction of an intended turn or lane change. They are generally actuated in conjunction with

12780-442: The new 2.0-litre engine offered 110 hp (82 kW). There were three models on offer; the 1.8 sedan, 2.0 Ghia sedan, and 2.0 Ghia TX5. In Indonesia, this generation was marketed as the "Ford Telstar Grand" (four-door sedan) and "Ford Telstar Thunder" (five-door liftback). The only engine was the carburetted, 12-valve, 2.0-liter four as per Malaysia; claimed power was 109 PS (80 kW) at 5,300 rpm while maximum torque

12922-528: The new KJ model from Japan; In New Zealand, the KH Laser continued in production at Ford's assembly plant in Wiri , Auckland , until the end of 1996 when the factory closed. The extended production model in New Zealand was sold only in five-door hatchback form as either the Laser Encore or Laser Esprit , as a cheaper alternative to the newer KJ Laser imported from Japan. The Encore was the cheaper of

13064-484: The original lights), and in Paraguay, auxiliary driving lights must be off and covered with opaque material when the vehicle is operated in urban areas. Front fog lights provide a wide, bar-shaped beam of light with a sharp cutoff at the top, and are generally aimed and mounted low. They may produce white or selective yellow light, and were designed for use at low speed to increase the illumination directed towards

13206-462: The plain black slats of the Laser. Suspension was fully independent with coil springs . Trim levels in Australia comprised the entry-level GL and upmarket Ghia, both available with an optional "S" pack that added full instrumentation and upgraded tyres. Steel wheels with bright metal trim rings differentiated the GL from the Ghia with its alloy wheels and deep side protection mouldings. The mid-term facelifted model of May 1983, coded GB, brought

13348-693: The previous generation Telstar continued in local production along with the previous generation sedan offered as an entry-level model called the Telstar Orion. Both models retained the earlier 2.0-litre SOHC four-cylinder engine. All Telstar models were assembled alongside a similar lineup of Mazda 626 models (except for the Ford-only Orion) at the Ford-Mazda joint venture Vehicle Assemblers of New Zealand (VANZ) plant in Wiri, South Auckland. When

13490-412: The previous model. Japanese production ceased at the end of 2002, to be replaced by the imported Ford Focus , which was already sold there since 2000. Turn signals A motor vehicle has lighting and signaling devices mounted to or integrated into its front, rear, sides, and, in some cases, top. Various devices have the dual function of illuminating the road ahead for the driver, and making

13632-501: The range closer together, though Meteors continued as a separate and slightly more premium line. January 1985 saw the advent of the BF series Laser in Japan. This was the Laser's first major redesign. For the first time a diesel version was offered in Japan, as well as a factory two-door cabriolet with 1.5-litre turbo engine, a 1.6-litre DOHC 16-valve Sport version, and a potent 140 PS DOHC turbo model with full-time 4WD drivetrain (identical to

13774-839: The rear, while the front was redesigned in a more modern style, aligning it with Ford's corporate look of the era. In Japan this is referred to as the "BE" Laser, which was identical to the Australian KB series. The BE model code relates to the BD model code used for the corresponding Familia/323. The first Lasers went on sale in Japan in late 1982. Fuel-injection and a 115 PS turbocharged model were added in July 1983; these variants were never offered for sale outside Japan. Aside from being built in Australia and Japan, Lasers were also assembled in New Zealand at Ford's Wiri plant in Auckland, replacing

13916-502: The remaining models, and the automatic optional on all models. There was only one engine on offer—a 70 kW (94 hp) and 158 N⋅m (117 lb⋅ft), 2.0-litre with carburettor . After initially importing engines, Ford commenced manufacture at its Norlane, Geelong facility in late 1983, taking the place of the former V8 powerplant at the facility. Local changes for the Australian model included front seat modifications which improved headroom, and suspension tuning. The suspension

14058-626: The remaining station wagon lineup wa continuously updated and adjusted, with a 4WD diesel model added in August 1992 and the offroad-inspired Telstar Canoa Wagon arriving in November 1994 to capitalize on Japan's so-called "RV Boom". The Canoa corresponds to the similar Capella Wagon FX. Following the introduction of the GE platform Mazda 626, Ford introduced its Telstar version to Japan in October 1991 at Japanese Ford dealerships called Autorama . In Japan

14200-542: The reverse was the case, although pooling resources with Mazda allowed Ford to maintain a foothold in the region. This was also the case in South America, South Africa, and the Caribbean, where the Laser was also sold, in many cases being locally assembled. The KA Laser (Australian model code), built under license from Mazda, was introduced in March 1981, replacing the rear-wheel-drive Escort in Australia. The range

14342-491: The road is also flat, but higher than the half closest to oncoming vehicles. This results in substantially increased glare for oncoming drivers and also poorer illumination of the near side of the roadway in comparison to headlights conforming to UN ECE regulations. High beam (also called main beam, driving beam, or full beam) headlights provide an intense, centre-weighted distribution of light with no particular glare control. Therefore, they are only suitable for use when alone on

14484-451: The road surface and verges in conditions of poor visibility due to fog , dust or snow . They are sometimes used in place of dipped-beam headlights, reducing glare from fog or falling snow, although the legality of using front fog lights without low-beam headlights varies by jurisdiction. In most countries, weather conditions rarely necessitate the use of front fog lights and there is no legal requirement for them, so their primary purpose

14626-589: The road, as the glare they produce will dazzle other drivers. UN ECE Regulations permit higher-intensity high-beam headlights than allowed under U.S. and Canadian FMVSS / CMVSS standards. Auxiliary high beam lights may be fitted to provide high-intensity light to enable the driver to see at longer range than the vehicle's high beam headlights. Such lights are most notably fitted on rally cars, and are occasionally fitted to production vehicles derived from or imitating such cars. They are common in countries with large stretches of unlit roads, or in regions such as

14768-460: The road. The United States and Canada use proprietary FMVSS / CMVSS standards instead of UN ECE regulations. These standards contain regulations for dipped beam headlights that also specify a beam with a sharp, asymmetric cut-off; the half of the beam closest to oncoming drivers is also flat and low, but not as low as prescribed in UN ECE regulations. The half of the beam closest to the outside of

14910-406: The second generation Laser was assembled by Ford Lio Ho Motor . Unique for this market, it was offered with slightly different exterior styling. The pre-facelift hatchback (only available as five-door) was offered with different headlights (similar styling to KA Laser ) and the facelift model received KE TX3 headlights. Second facelift occurred for sedan and wagon, with massive makeover borrowed from

15052-414: The side (intended for showing the overall length of long vehicles from in front and behind a combination) and the U.S. type amber front/red rear lights for passenger cars. Side marker lights can be seen as the successor to "cowl lights" used on vehicles during the 1920s to 1930s, which were a pair of small lights installed at the top edges of the cowl between the hood and the windshield, and would serve as

15194-431: The turn indication visible laterally (i.e. to the sides of the vehicle) rather than just to the front and rear of the vehicle. These are permitted, but not required in the United States and Canada. As an alternative in both the United States and Canada, the front amber side marker lights may be wired to flash with the turn signals, but this is not mandatory. Mercedes-Benz introduced side turn signal repeaters integrated into

15336-612: The turn signals, and they may be wired to also illuminate when the vehicle is shifted into reverse gear. Some modern vehicles activate the cornering light on one or the other side when the steering wheel input reaches a predetermined angle in that direction, regardless of whether a turn signal has been activated. American technical standards contain provisions for front cornering lights as well as rear cornering lights. Cornering lights have traditionally been prohibited under international UN Regulations, though provisions have recently been made to allow them as long as they are only operable when

15478-422: The turn signals; nevertheless, they are not required to flash at all. Side markers are permitted but not required on cars and light passenger vehicles outside the United States and Canada. If installed, they are required to be brighter and visible through a larger horizontal angle than US side markers, may flash only in synchronous phase with the turn signals (but are not required to flash), and they must be amber at

15620-505: The two, available only with a five-speed manual transmission, while the Esprit was slightly higher specification and was available with both the five-speed and also a four-speed automatic. Both featured red pinstriping around the body and many received dealer-fit accessories such as alloy wheels to boost appeal. This generation of Laser was also sold in Cyprus and Malta . This generation was

15762-641: The vehicle in accord with UN Regulation 48. Prior to the DRL mandate, countries requiring daytime lights permitted low beam headlights to provide that function. National regulations in Canada, Sweden, Norway, Slovenia, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark require hardwired automatic DRL systems of varying specification. DRLs are permitted in many countries where they are not required, but prohibited in other countries not requiring them. Front, side, and rear position lights are permitted, required, or forbidden to illuminate in combination with daytime running lights, depending on

15904-436: The vehicle is travelling at less than 40 kilometres per hour (about 25 mph). Police cars, emergency vehicles, and vehicles competing in road rallies are sometimes equipped with an auxiliary spotlight, sometimes called an "alley light", in a swivel-mounted housing attached to one or both A-pillars , aimed by a handle protruding through the pillar into the vehicle. Conspicuity devices are lights and reflectors that make

16046-478: The vehicle visible to others, with indications to them of turning, slowing or stopping, etc., with lights also indicating the size of some large vehicles. Many emergency vehicles have distinctive lighting equipment to warn drivers of their presence. Early road vehicles used fuelled lamps before the availability of electric lighting. The first Ford Model T used carbide lamps for headlights and oil lamps for tail lights. It did not have all-electric lighting as

16188-508: The vehicle's headlights. In Germany, the StVZO (Road Traffic Licensing Regulations) calls for a different function provided by these lights: with the vehicle's ignition switched off, the operator may activate a low-intensity white light at the front and red light at the rear on either the left or right side. This function is used when parking in narrow unlit streets to provide parked-vehicle conspicuity to approaching drivers. This function, which

16330-437: The world. This was most notably evident during the 1980s with multiple turbocharged variants, unique bodyshells such as the cabriolet, and full-time 4WD models all available years before their debuts in other markets (and in some cases, never making it offshore at all). Along with the Japanese produced Ford Telstar and Ford Festiva , the Laser was sold at special Autorama dealerships. In Australia and New Zealand, where Ford

16472-520: Was 165 N⋅m (122 lb⋅ft) at 3,300 rpm. A five-speed manual transmission was standard, with a four-speed automatic an available option on the Telstar Grand. In Japan, this generation was sold from May 1987 until October 1991; the station wagon, however, was introduced in September 1990 (two years after its Capella Cargo sister) and continued to be built until October 1997. In Japan,

16614-416: Was 4-speed). The TX3 was the Laser flagship. It came standard with 14-inch satin-chrome alloy wheels, sports cloth interior trim, red insert strips in the body side mouldings and bumpers, black tailgate and beaver panel garnishes, semi-bucket seats with adjustable seat height, back and lumbar support, auto fade interior lamps, and all other Ghia appointings. EFI and A/C was standard, and automatic transmission

16756-405: Was activated by a thermal flasher unit which used a heating element , leaf spring , and a bimetallic strip . When activated by the stalk switch on the steering column , the signal lights and heating element turned on. The heat caused the bimetallic strip to bend such that it threw the leaf spring over centre, opening the circuit and breaking power to the heating element and the signal lights. When

16898-538: Was also sold in Thailand , Malaysia , Singapore , Hong Kong , Taiwan , Sri Lanka , and other markets. Trim and specifications vary somewhat between the countries. In Indonesia , this Laser was assembled at Mazda's plant in Bekasi together with its Mazda 323 twin. It was available in GL and Ghia trims from late 1985 with the 1.3-litre E3 engine (68 PS (50 kW)) or 1.5-litre E5 engine (75 PS (55 kW)),

17040-476: Was also used in South Africa. The Ford Laser was a restyled version of the Familia/323 models produced by Mazda in Japan from 1980 onwards. Ford had acquired a 25% stake in Mazda in 1979. Platform and assembly-line sharing with the locally produced Mazda Familia in Japan allowed the Laser in that market to be offered with a plethora of engine, paint and trim configurations not available anywhere else in

17182-481: Was amended to require lights and retroreflectors on vehicles manufactured after 1 January 1970. These side-facing devices make the vehicle's presence, position and direction of travel clearly visible from oblique angles. The lights are wired to illuminate whenever the vehicles' parking lights and tail lights are on, including when the headlights are being used. Front amber side markers in the United States may be wired to flash in synchronous phase or opposite-phase with

17324-534: Was assembled using complete knock-down kits from 1981 via the local joint venture Ford Lio Ho . The Laser was also introduced in Zimbabwe in 1981, the first Ford model to be sold in the country for fourteen years, after the imposition of sanctions on the then Rhodesia after its Unilateral Declaration of Independence . It was assembled at the state-owned Willowvale Motor Industries plant, in Harare , alongside

17466-401: Was available as a hatchback, in both three- and five-door varieties, as well as a four-door sedan badged Ford Meteor. Originally sold only with the 1.3-litre engine, the smaller 1.1-litre engine was never available in Australia. Later, 1.5-litre versions were added, eventually even a turbocharged version. In January 1983, the Laser underwent a facelift to become the KB. Light changes were made to

17608-399: Was available until 1994, sold together with next generation Laser. For Australia, the range was known as the KC Laser and GC Meteor, launched in October 1985. All body styles were carried over, with the addition of a station wagon (badged as "Meteor", like the sedan) from 1986. A new "TX3" variant, which was at the top of the "Laser" models in specification level and designated "KC2", replaced

17750-424: Was fully independent , with a coil/strut system fitted, incorporating anti-dive and negative offset geometry to aid stability in slippery conditions and under heavy braking. Anti-roll bars were fitted front and rear. The TX5 suspension also featured electronic variable shock absorbers —adjustable via a dashboard buttons for normal, automatic or sport. Along with the 626, the Telstar was Wheels magazine's Car of

17892-491: Was fully imported from Japan, while all other models in the Laser range were manufactured locally in the Sydney suburb of Flemington . The KE is easy to distinguish from the earlier KC, by different grilles, headlights, tail lights, body-side mouldings, bonnet, front guards, and on some models, wheels. The dashboard and instrument cluster received new graphics, and the interior was available in slightly different colour shades to

18034-501: Was introduced in South Africa in 1986, as a hatchback, with the sedan version being sold as the Meteor. Replacing the Ford Escort , it was produced alongside the Mazda 323 by Samcor . Originally the Laser and Meteor were available with Mazda E-series 1.3-litre carb and 1.5-litre carb engines and also a high compression 1.6-litre B6 EFi engine for the 1600i Sport model. From 1989, Ford's CVH engines (1.4 and 1.6) were used, replacing

18176-533: Was known as the BHA series in Japan. All sporting models were discontinued with the release of this model in the wake of poor sales and financial returns as Mazda scaled back operations and sought to rearrange market focus. Only the sedan and three-door hatchback were sold in Japan, the hatch being based on the Mazda Familia Neo. The Japanese built KJ Laser in Australia went on sale in October 1994 represented

18318-457: Was not available. The TX3 also had a unique front fascia with quad headlights and the parker lamps incorporated into the indicator lenses (L/GL/Ghia had the parkers inside the main headlight unit) and two-tone paint. Halfway through KE production, Ford introduced two limited edition versions, called "Redline", and "Livewire". The Redline was based on the GL hatch, while the Livewire was based on

18460-441: Was not available. The only engine on offer was the 1.3-litre engine, with four-speed manual transmission (no automatic was available). The "L" wagon had the same level of trim, except the 1.3-litre engine was replaced with the 1.6-litre unit, but still with four-speed transmission (automatic was not available on either the hatchback or wagon). The "GL" was the most popular model. It featured the same silver-painted 13" steel wheels as

18602-448: Was now fitted with a left-hand side wing mirror , with Ghia models gaining electric mirror operation. The AS update also benefited from tinted side and rear glass for the GL sedan. Analogue instrumentation was now standard across the range, dispensing with the digital setup used previously by the TX5 Ghia. The new centre console housed audio equipment, a storage tray, gear lever and, on Ghia models, power window switches. Telstar GL and

18744-468: Was offered in the local market. In Malaysia, the Telstar continued to be assembled by Amim Holdings after a brief hiatus, reaching the market in March 1988. It was offered as a 1.8-litre five-speed manual Ghia sedan or 2.0-litre automatic TX5 hatchback. In early 1990, a facelifted model was shown, with a new, smaller grille, modified taillights and a new 12-valve engine replacing the previous 2.0-litre. The 1.8-litre continued with 90 hp (67 kW) while

18886-707: Was offered with the 2-liter inline-four or the 2.5-liter V6, and was sold as the Telstar Brilliant (four-door sedan) and the Telstar Challenge (five-door liftback). Between 1994 and 1997, a model known as the Telstar II was produced alongside the Mazda Capella on the CG platform . Both the Telstar II and this generation of the Capella were only sold on the Japanese market. The last Telstar, based on

19028-426: Was optional on GL, and standard on Ghia in the KB series was replaced with the new B6 1.6-litre I4 SOHC. For the first time, electronic fuel injection was available as an option on Ghia models, and was standard on TX3 models. Buyers who ordered automatic transmission with this engine received an electronically controlled four-speed unit, which was quite advanced for a small car in 1985. The B3 I4 SOHC 1.3-litre engine

19170-633: Was patented in 1938, and shortly after, most major automobile manufacturers offered this optional feature before it became mandatory in 1967. As of 2013 , most countries require turn signals on all new vehicles that are driven on public roadways. Alternative systems of hand signals were used earlier and remain common for bicycles. Hand signals are also sometimes used when regular vehicle lights are malfunctioning or for older vehicles without turn signals. Some cars from about 1900 to through 1966 used retractable semaphores called trafficators rather than flashing lights. They were commonly mounted high up behind

19312-449: Was primarily aimed at the budget or fleet buyer and available as a five-door hatchback and station wagon. It had silver-painted 13-inch steel wheels, with no centre caps, a large analogue clock in the instrument cluster, no passenger-side rear-view mirror , vinyl interior trim, no body side mouldings, no rear windscreen wiper, and the folding rear seat was only one-piece. The stereo was also AM-only and had no cassette player. Air conditioning

19454-510: Was provided by a 1.6-litre engine, with 4-speed manual transmission (5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic was optional). Sedan and wagon came standard with five-speed transmission. The Ghia was the luxury model. It had black 14-inch steel wheels with full-size plastic wheel covers, power steering, body-coloured rear-view mirrors and bumpers, velour interior trim, tachometer, centre console with Ghia emblem, lockable glovebox, driver's seat with lumbar support and height adjust, storage drawer underneath

19596-587: Was replaced in Australia in October 1987 with a refreshed version, called the AT series. Ford rebadged and lightly restyled the Mazda 626 (GD) for the AT series sedan and TX5 hatchback. A station wagon was also available, built on the GD-based GV platform , which was unique to Japan and New Zealand. The facelifted AV model was released in Australia in January 1990, distinguished by a new grille, trim and wheels. In

19738-412: Was seen as a local brand, the locally assembled Laser outsold its Mazda twin, the 323, especially in Australia, where the 323 was imported. According to research carried out by Ford Australia in 1984, a third of Laser buyers were unaware that the Ford model was based on the Mazda 323. However, in neighbouring Asian markets, such as Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Hong Kong, as well as Japan itself,

19880-449: Was standard on the "L" (hatchback only, the wagon had a 1.6-litre engine). The 1.6-litre engine was standard on GL, Ghia and TX3, though some early GL models were equipped with a 1.5-litre SOHC carburettored. The KC/KE Laser wagon was also assembled in New Zealand, alongside its Mazda 323 equivalent, until Ford closed their VANZ assembly plant at Wiri , Auckland in 1996. KC / GC model range (Australia): In October 1987, Ford introduced

20022-594: Was the only country to require such dim-dip systems, though vehicles so equipped were sold in other Commonwealth countries with left-hand traffic . In 1988, the European Commission successfully prosecuted the UK government in the European Court of Justice , arguing that the UK requirement for dim-dip was illegal under EC directives prohibiting member states from enacting vehicle lighting requirements not contained in pan-European EC directives. As

20164-489: Was unique to that continent and was not part of the Laser ranges elsewhere. In Indonesia , this generation was assembled locally ( CKD ) and sold from 1990 to 1996. Available in two body styles and four trim levels, 1.3 L sedan "Ghia" and "Sonic", 1.6 L sedan "Gala" and 5-door liftback "Champ" with 1.8 L DOHC BP engine. The older 1.3 L sedan "GL" from previous generation was also sold for taxi fleet use until 1997. Engine specifications (Australia): The fourth generation Laser

#637362