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EDITION 22 FEB 2018
A GALIMOTO MEDIA cc PRODUCT
Civic Type R sedan Launched & driven on the race track
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9
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News &
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V90 CC T6
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NamWheels Galimoto Media cc brings you the latest car news, reviews, launch reports, safety tips and motoring knowledge in NamWheels. You're most likely to find a copy at selected automotive shops, convenience shops as well as cool café s; but only while stocks last. In which case, simply visit www.namwheels.com! The content of this publication is strictly copyrighted but if you ask us nicely, we won’t mind. Unless otherwise stated, road tests are conducted in South Africa at sea level and all specifications were correct at the time of being published. Great care is taken to publish correct information, yet NamWheels and Galimoto Media cc cannot be held liable for the results of incorrect data. If you’d like to buy one of the cars in this issue, please consult your nearest dealer for pricing and availability. Some tyres may have been slightly harmed during the making of this publication. NamWheels promotes fun, responsible driving. Always buckle up, be a considerate road user and please don't drink and drive!
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EDITOR’S NOTES
FEBRUARY 2018
INDEX - EDITION 21 Page 2
Index & Stuff
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News
News & New Models
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Videos
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Public Announcement DO NOT DRINK & DRIVE
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Launch Report
6th generation VW Polo
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Page 7
Sprint Review
Volvo V90 CC T6 AWD
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Page 8
Long-term Test
Isuzu KB250 D/C X Rider
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Page 9
Launch Report
Honda Civic Type R
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Page 10
History
Peugeot & Lüderitz
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Page 11
Special Report
Car of the Year 2017
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Page 12
Launch Report
Hyundai Grand i10
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Page 13
Review
Mercedes S500 Cabrio
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Every petrol-head has a dream machine, or perhaps even a list of desirable cars.
So great was my adoration of the car that I clearly dressed up for the occasion and made someone take photographic proof of our encounter...
Back in the late nineties, my infatuation with classic Mercs had picked “What’s up some serious pace and so my list was obviously topped by the on YOUR famous 1950's 300SL Gullwing dream car coupé .
list? Let’s
Many years have passed since that day and while I still adore the Gullwing (did you know that there’s one example registered in Windhoek?) my dream car list has grown and changed.
The photo above was taken in hear it!” (believe it or not) the old VW Museum in Wolfsburg, some What’s on YOUR list? time in the late nineties. I recall that they had TWO Gullwings on display; the other Hanjo Stier one was red. Editor
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@NAMWHEELS
FEBRUARY 2018
NEWS & NEW MODELS
VOLKSWAGEN GROUP S.A. ends 2017 well Since the introduction of the Polo and Polo Vivo in 2010, Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) has been passenger market leader every year. The Volkswagen Group ended the year with 80,308 sales and a total market share of 21.8%, with the Volkswagen brand achieving 18.9% share in a run out year of its volume models.
To top the successful year, the Volkswagen brand on its own is the market leader for 2017. Audi improved its year on year share by 1.2% despite very tough trading conditions in the premium market and delivered a passenger market share of 2.9% placing the brand in third place in the premium market with a total share of 18.7%.
SUZUKI wins again
NISSAN’s new Qashqai
TOYOTA starts on a high
The Japanese car maker was chosen as South Africa’s Brand of the Year in the 2017/18 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards – powered by WesBank, making it the first brand in the history of the awards to retain this award and the only brand to win the award more than once. “Unlike the other awards on the night, the Brand of the Year Award is chosen purely on questionnaire feedback from owners and fellow South Africans, which is a sure sign that our hard work done on our service levels, vehicle line-up and pricing is welcomed by the market,” says Mr. Yukio Sato, managing director at Suzuki Auto South Africa.
The Nissan Qashqai, Europe’s best-selling urban crossover, is now available in South Africa with premium enhancements to establish it as the perfect partner to conquer the city. As a pioneer of the crossover segment, Nissan has a deep understanding of customers’ needs and has been leading the pack when it comes to creating vehicles that cater for different sectors of the market. Since its launch in 2007, 3.3million units have been sold globally. The changes to the upgraded model are based on client / industry feedback and are designed to establish new levels of luxury in the midsized crossover segment.
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has kicked off the retail year with an admirable total of 11,893 units sold in January. This accounts for a remarkable 25.9% market share of 45,888 total units sold in South Africa in January. Toyota is, once again, grateful to its loyal customers that the brand has managed to top both the Passenger (7,597) and Light Commercial Vehicle (4,116) segment charts for the second consecutive month. According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa) the January 2018 sales pale in comparison to the same month last year when 50,386 were recorded.
LAND ROVER restores Original for its 70th birthday Land Rover will mark its 70th anniversary with a series of events in 2018, beginning with the restoration of the vehicle that started it all – one of three pre-production Land Rovers shown at the 1948 Amsterdam Motor Show. It gave the world its first glimpse of the shape that would become instantly recognisable as a Land Rover. For years the whereabouts of this launch Land Rover was a mystery. The demonstration vehicle from the Amsterdam
show was last on the road in the 1960s, after which it spent 20 years in a Welsh field before being bought as a restoration project; it then lay languishing unfinished in a garden. Following its surprise discovery just a few miles outside of Solihull, UK – where the car was first built – the experts at Jaguar Land Rover Classic spent quite a few months researching in company archives to unravel its ownership history and confirm its provenance.
Love restored Landies? Turn the page for a cool video!
FORD shows off new Ranger Raptor The Ford Ranger Raptor was recently revealed at an event in Thailand. The ultimate Ranger is purposefully designed, built and tested as the only factorybuilt performance truck across Asia Pacific. Designed by Ford Performance, the Ranger Raptor strengthens Ford’s commitment to deliver “Built Ford Tough” pickups.
“We are so excited and proud to unleash this vehicle to the public, driving it really makes you feel like a hero,” said Jamal Hameedi, chief engineer, Ford Performance. The Ranger Raptor features distinctive design cues that are functionally driven. At the time of publishing, Namibian prices or availability were unknown.
TICK YOUR BUCKET LIST Amazing Experiences | Unforgettable Memories. Available instantly | 24 hours | 7 days a week.
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FEBRUARY 2018
NEW ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL
THIS
is an ex-Mariental farm Landy which has been restored
THIS is a farm outside Wellington where we shot a short video of the car
THIS
is where you should click to have a look at this cool video
LATEST VIDEOS Full-throttle runs to 100km/h with high-accuracy data in the video description, digital instrument demonstrations, roof mechanism operation and many more!
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Audi
LAUNCH REPORT
Volkswagen
@NAMWHEELS
FEBRUARY 2018
Polo gen 6
Same B name, different car. We take a good look at the brand-new Volkswagen Polo.
Volkswagen has been the top passenger car seller for the past seven years in South-Africa, with the manufacturer topping sales lists every month with the Polo and Polo Vivo models. In 2017 alone, it sold 22,916 units in South Africa. Every 1.57 seconds, the Uitenhage Plant produces a Polo as someone’s new family member. In January 2018 we were invited to the new Polo 6th Generation launch in PortElizabeth to see just what the company has done in order to improve their product. The number one question remains: Will the new Polo be another market leader?
Polo Six is available in one Trendline, two Comfortline and two Highline models. A Beats special edition Polo will also be launched and features a 300watt sound system. Each of these are powered by a 999cc engine, with the GTi version boasting a 2 litre engine (to be introduced around the second quarter of 2018).
automatic DSG (7 speed). With the same basic features as the Trendline, the Comfortline will include more speakers, leather multi-function steering wheel, driver alert system and front & rear electric windows.
The Highline also comes as an automatic or manual model, but is higher spec’d than the Comfortline. This will include Following the MQB (Modular app connect, voice control, transverse matrix) design, the sport seats, cruise control and longer chasis also improves the white LED ambient lighting. ride quality, gives it a sportier appearance and more grip on *Comfortline and Highline can the road. This is due to both the be upgraded with the R-line front and rear axle having been pack, which includes 17-inch moved to the edges, with the alloy wheels, sporty bumpers, a height of the car being lowered diffuser with chrome trims and a roof spoiler. by 8mm.
Text Franco Theron Images Galimoto Media
The sound is somewhat more prominent in the Beats version, with road- and wind noise standing out a bit more, yet it is not overwhelming.
We will have to wait for the 2.0L GTi for this kind of rapid speed.
The longer wheelbase not only helps with more leg room for all four people in the car, but also During the past year, we had improves boot space. the opportunity to test many 1L engines, with the Up! proving Another positive remark is the softest. The new Polo, with that handling has improved a similar engine, is even softer. from the (already excellent) previous model. With a lower Reaching 120km/h proves no centre of gravity, the car sits challenge for the motor, with well in long and fast bends. five gears providing enough torque to comfortably push the In terms of pricing, I have to car forward without the revs point out that inflation plays a necessarily reaching more than big role in the South African 2 500 rpm. The DSG gearbox and local car markets. However, shines with very smooth and the manufacturer managed to efficient gear changes on the create a very well balanced car (in all regards) and more longer road. product for your money.
“...a very well balanced car and more product for your money.”
Months of speculation and “taster” images drew much attention from the general public, another fact we soon realised as numerous people took pictures of the cars on our roadtrip from Port Elizabeth to The architecture and design is This package will be available Grahamstown and Colchester. sharp and more aerodynamic. in the second quarter of 2018. Another striking feature is the Seeing the car for the first time ‘tornado’ line along the flanks. The Beats is a special edition differed from the “papparazi” Both the head- and tail-lights Polo. It has different trim inside shots we analysed before The looks more striking with LED and also houses a 300 Watt new Polo is 10cm longer and a technology inside. subwoofer. This was done in bit higher, but still smaller than collaboration with the U.S. a Golf (2,548mm wheelbase Although being the bottom of company Beats (by Dr. Dre). and 4,053mm length). the range, Trendline has a 1.0L 70kW engine and standard We drove Beats and Highline Yet we all know that VW’s use features like automatic post- models across a 280km long their space efficiently. From the collision braking, LED daytime stretch of scenic, but not 100% outside it may not look that big, running lights, front electric well-maintained road, testing but it is very spacious on the windows, colour infotainment the longer chassis, their better inside. system, Bluetooth, USB and power outputs and improved front & rear curtain airbags. fuel efficiency. In fact, it has around 350 liters of boot space, 70 liters more Featuring the same 70kW TSi The 3-cylinder engine’s noise than the previous generation engines as the Trendline, the reminded me of the 1980’s and only 30 liters shy of the 7.5 Comfortline has two models. Group B MG rally car and has a Golf. One manual (5 speed) and one pleasant roar above 4,000rpm.
With such a strong new car and the launch of their highly- anticipated Polo Vivo just around the corner, the Polo range might well increase its Sprinting from 0 to 100km/h in dominance in the passenger the 70kW models (Trendline market and might even rival the and Comfortine) will not be the Golf range. most exciting exercise as they should do so in a claimed 10.8 S.A. Prices: seconds. We also know that Volkswagen products might TSi 70kW Trendline even be faster in our own R235 900 TSi 70kW Comfortline Galimoto tests. R264 700 The 85kW (Highline) engines TSi 70kW Comfortline DSG will do this a bit quicker. The R280 700 selling points of these 1.0L TSi 85kW Highline engines are the torque and the R286 700 amount of power that drive the TSi 85kW Highline R302 200 car at higher speeds.
The 1L Polo’s were not built for wheel-spinning action, but much rather comfort and good fuel efficiency (claimed 4.5L per 100km).
*All Polos will be sold with a 3year / 45 000km service plan, 3year / 120 000km warranty and a 12 year anti-corrosion warranty.
SPRINT REVIEW
7
@NAMWHEELS
FEBRUARY 2018
V90
Volvo
Cross Country T6 AWD
One B new car, lots of information in short snippets.
You need to know: Volvo isn't exactly well represented in Namibia (or South Africa, for that matter) but that doesn't stop us from adoring them. That's right, every member of NamWheels is a huge fan and, given the opportunity, will gush about the Swedish modernity and great road manners. The 90-Series is their biggest range and is made up of the XC90 (SUV), S90 (sedan) and V90 (estate). Overseas you also get a C90 coupé while the V90 is only brought to African soil as this raised and beefed-up “Cross Country” model you're currently looking at. More facts: Every V90 CC has intelligent all-wheel-drive, eight automatic gears and a 2L turbo-charged engine. You may choose between two diesels, two petrols and two trim levels.
Our test car was the T6 petrol Why you'll want one: Because Inscription (high-spec) worth the Japanese or German SUV's 235kW and 400Nm. are becoming a-dime-a-dozen and you need something with Where we went: Everywhere. some estate practicality, SUV Just a few moments behind the capability, space ship features wheel of this big estate on stilts and sports car performance. made us look for excuses to We measured 0-100km/h in keep driving. We loved the 6.31 seconds at sea level while comfy seats (climatised at the reversing the process took just front), incredible LED active 2.79 seconds and 36.03 meters. headlights, excellent ride and handling, as well as the V90's Each V90 Cross Country is sold phenomenal Bowers & Wilkins with a five-year or 100,000km sound system. warranty and maintenance plan. Watch out for: Besides the price of almost a million bucks Engine: 2L i-4 turbo-petrol (gulp!), this car was absolutely Drive: 8-speed Auto, AWD crammed full of gadgets. Most Max. Power: 225kW of them are controlled from the Max. Torque: 400Nm ipad-like central screen and Avg cons.: 10.5L per 100km can be intimidating at first. (claimed 7.7) Highlights? Auto-park feature, 0-100km/h: 6.31 at heads-up display, fully digital sea level (claimed 6.3) instruments and ag, you know, Top Speed: Claimed 230km/h autonomous driving. List Price: From N$950 000
Text Hanjo Stier Images Galimoto Media
CLICK HERE FOR MORE PHOTOS OF THIS VOLVO V90
WATCH A SHORT VIDEO OF THE V90
V90 Cross Country Dimensions
8
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Audi
LONG-TERM TEST
FEBRUARY 2018
KB
Isuzu
250 D-Teq Double Cab 4x2 X Rider
CLICK HERE TO START THIS BAKKIE
Gifted B to us over the Festive Season, we took a good look at this red-nosed bakkie.
Text Hanjo Stier Images Galimoto Media
Golden geese, gift horses and hands that feed – surely you are familiar with these? That's as diplomatic as I can be about our latest long-term test vehicle, a bright red Isuzu KB250 X-Rider double cab bakkie which most of us at NamWheels drove over the festive season 2017 / 2018.
To put it another way, imagine standing around the braai fire when conversation inevitably turns from rugby to bakkies. If you drive a Hilux or Ranger, you're OK. Mention an Amarok or anything else to get mercilessly teased. Tell them you drive an Isuzu KB and everyone quietly assumes you're a farmer.
To immediately put a knife to the golden bird's neck, I've never been a fan of double cabs for one reason: they’re the unholy union of two vehicles. A reasonably comfy “springs-and-dampers” front (usually weighed down by a diesel lump) with a rock-hard oxwagon leaf-sprung rear; and the whole lot jiggles and rattles on an antiquated ladder frame. Sure, there are exceptions, but the Isuzu KB is not one of them. It jiggles and rattles A LOT; even on roads which I previously thought were silky smooth. Drive over a speed bump and the heavy front gobbles up the impact with a
minor jiggle until the concrete Its 320Nm are pleasant and quite If you enjoy driving a bakkie in rear axle hits and sends a seismic easy to use through a five-speed town, pretending to be a farmer shock through the entire cabin. manual gearbox but don't expect but never leaving the tarmac, this any major fireworks – our best 0- car is for you. Also, we can't be And I wasn't the only one who 100km/h time was a GPS-verified friends. A few farm roads were no problem for our KB but when I took a look at the dentures of this 13.61 seconds. tried to clear a sizable ditch, free pony. Due to its jiggly and shockingly stiff ride, some of my Overtaking at high speeds can be either rear wheel would spin up a passengers reported mild car- challenging, getting up steep hills huge dust cloud. sickness and some discomfort. equally so, but at least our redThe KB has excellent rear cabin nosed car had decent shove from That condemns this Isuzu as a space, but you sit ON the seats about 1,250rpm onwards and poser in my books. Luckily you rather than IN them. alleged average Diesel use of can opt for a 4x4 version which is 10.8km/L from the big 75L tank. about 42,000 bucks more than We also took turns at trying to That's about 9.2L/100km and this N$400,000 4x2. And at this point I think it's fair that I stop pair our mobile phones to the Isuzu claims 7.7. criticizing the gift horse. Although basic sound system. Despite a “Bluetooth” logo and phone icons “X Rider” double cabs come with a it’s comparatively basic, those (on the steering wheel), none of few extra goodies – most notably prices aren't bad! us could make a connection to the a branded roll bar and side steps, red Isuzu. And in case you think as well as X Rider logos on the My next positive mark is that its we didn't try hard enough, our front headrests. Standard stuff simplicity and leisurely pace multiple attempts included those includes two airbags, ABS brakes, create a sense of hardiness and of a tech-savvy millennial. stability control, air-con, power longevity. In my mind, an Isuzu is steering, power windows and a kanniedood workhorse. Its teeth I have to sink more teeth into the mirrors, cool alloys, a clever load may be slightly crooked but it generous hand because the next bed cover, tow bar, remote central feels tough and industrious; and mediocrity we agreed on was the locking and Isuzu's rendition of the amount of clapped-out KB’s on our roads underlines that. 2.5L 100kW turbo-diesel engine. leather.
Although I'd never buy one, I recommend the X Rider to people who want a proper double cab to do actual work. Presumably these good folk own an old Nokia, still read the physical newspapers, prefer space to pace and value economy over beauty. Isuzu's recent commitment to southern Africa (by buying the former GM plant) means that KB will stay on our roads... for forays off the tar, I recommend the 4x4 version though. Each X Rider is sold with a 5-year / 120,000km warranty as well as a 5-year / 90,000km service plan.
Do you drive an old Isuzu bakkie? We want to hear from you and your battered, bruised, broken but kanniedood Isuzu bakkie! Visit our Facebook page (/namwheels) or send us an email to info@namwheels.com with all the details of your old pick-up. You can also tag us (@namwheels) on Instagram. Send or tag as many photos as you like and don’t be shy with all the heroic tales of that old Isuzu which just keeps going...
Audi
LAUNCH REPORT
Honda
9
@NAMWHEELS
FEBRUARY 2018
Civic Type R
CLICK HERE TO GO FOR A LAP
IN THE TYPE R
Three B exhaust pipes and more power than you can handle? Meet the new Type R!
Honda recently invited us to the all-new 6th generation Honda Civic Type-R launch for flying laps on Dezzi Raceway in KZN. The aim was not to drool over the beautiful seaside, but to put the Type R to the test. The 180km from the airport to the raceway provided us with opportunities to test the new Type-R’s improved comfort mode for normal roads. At the track, Race and +R modes are more suitable.
Text Franco Theron Images Galimoto Media
Fitted with 20-inch Berlina black alloy wheels and striking red Brembo front pads, Type-R looks intimidating.
More family friendly? Yes, the previous Type-R was not the stereotypical, “let's take the grandparents to church” type of car and neither is this Round the back, the massive new model. However, the car tail wing and three exhaust tips was improved significantly for make you realise that this car is “family use”. ready for action. A wider and longer chassis LED-daytime running lights, means more legroom at the new and larger air intakes and back. Along with the more aerodynamic roof shark fins comfortable suspension, the add to the striking looks of the seats are also a significant Honda. It will definitely not be improvement, holding you tight for high-speed corners, missed in the car park. yet comfortable enough to sit in them for a few hours. Performance The new turbocharged fourcylinder petrol engine kicks out Legroom has been improved, up to 228kW (@6500rpm) and with 414 litres in luggage space 400Nm (@2500 – 4500 rpm). available.
The car itself has been made longer (165mm), wider and lower (36mm). Together with aerodynamic improvements, the Type-R not only looks like a “Batmobile” sibling, but also travels much faster than the previous generation model. True to Honda's character, it unleashes most of its demons In fact, it beat its Nurburgring at high revolutions. time by seven seconds to take the new track record for front- A fact that we learned well later wheel drive cars. on.
It is still a race car?? Don't get us wrong. Yes, the new Type-R is more “familyfriendly”, but it is also more a racer than it has ever been before.
Honda has made it clear that this car will be for a very niche market, yet we also concluded that this car will probably sell better than its predecessors. It is the type of car that you would want to spend money on. Switch modes over to +R and the Civic Type-R unleashes its power. Don't be mistaken by the relatively quiet engine note. This sedan is one proper car around the track. The Dezzi Raceway, with its elevated short- and long turns, tested the grip levels of the car well.
Downshift accurately into the shorter corners and the power is immediate and responsive, pushing you firmly into the bucket seat as the car slings forward. The Type-R will not be the best for straight-line dragstrips, yet will outperform even the best all-wheel-drive hot hatchbacks around a twisty track. This is what the car is built for. Honda has manufactured one of the ultimate racers, but the car has more comfort on the road and offers its occupants a more practical interior design.
Reaching 100km/h (claimed 5.8 seconds) is not the concern with this car as it is built for bends and turns.
The Honda Type-R will be sold with a competitive package of a 5-year/200 000km warranty / 5-year/90 000km service plan and a 3-year AA roadside It's lower, longer and wider assistance plan. chassis proved itself in the long turns, not allowing under- or All for a reasonable R627 900. oversteer at any point.
Type R lineage EK9
1997-2000 EP3
2001-2005 FD2 / FN2
2006-2011 FK2
2015-2017 FK8
Images: Netcarshow.com
2017-
10
@NAMWHEELS
FEBRUARY 2018
PAM BRINK
PEUGEOT EN LÜDERITZ
H Pam Brink, Peugeot en Lü deritz...
Text Dr Hans Heese Images Various sources
As jong student in die sestigerjare het my paaie met die legendariese dominee Pam Brink gekruis.
Tot op daardie stadium het Pam Brink net Chevs en Fords besit. Hy self was maar half onseker of hulle die regte keuse gemaak het omdat Peugeot nog nie in Pam Brink was van 1950 tot Namibië bekend was nie. Ná ses ongeveer 1954 'n predikant op maande en 10,000 myl het hy Lü deritz voordat hy 'n beroep besluit dit was 'n goeie koop. in Arusha, Tanganjika, aan die ander kant van die kontinent Hy meld in sy brief dat hy deur aangeneem het. Maar dit was die woestyn met sy stof, sand en nog op Lü deritz wat die jong weggespoelde paaie gery het en predikant, by wyse van spreke, net lof vir sy motor met die tot “bekering” gekom het. Dit registrasienommer L 83 het. was toe hy Peugeot ontdek het! Wat hom veral verbaas het was Jare gelede het ek op 'n volblad- dat hy nooit oorverhit het nie advertensie vir Peugeot in 'n ou ten spyte van die slegte sand- Cape Times afgekom. Dit was 'n en duinepad na Sendelingsongevraagde getuigskrif vir die fontein en dat die wind dikwels 203 wat die dominee aan die van agter af gewaai het en daar agente waar hy die motor nie 'n natuurlike deurvloei van gekoop het, Atkinsons Motors lug na die verkoeler was nie. in Kaapstad, gestuur het. Boonop het hy 32mpg behaal; Sy kerkraad het die nuwe 203 amper dubbeld van wat sy Chev in September 1952 as 'n “huis- kon doen. Die gemeente wat die besoekmotor” daar gekoop om onderhoudskoste betaal het, sy gemeente te bedien, wat ook het dus dubbeld en dwars Sendelingsdrif ingesluit het. voordeel uit die Peugeot gekry.
Verder het hy uitgewei oor die soliede bakwerk wat geen krake getoon het of snaakse geluide gemaak het nie, iets wat hy nie van sy Chev kon sê nie. Die opvatting dat die 203 “te lig” vir die slegte grondpaaie sou wees, is ongegrond.
Benewens die stasiewa was daar ook 'n ligte bakkie. Met die groeiende Brink gesin was die 203 stasiewa die aangewese voertuig vir die paar duisend kilometers Kaap (en Karoo) toe waar Kersfees deurgebring is.
Mettertyd het die Brinks se 203 Die brief aan Atkinsons is op 23 stasiewaens begin plek maak Maart 1953 in die pastorie op vir 403 stasiewaens. Lü deritz geskryf en versend. In die proses van rondry op As Peugeot-bekeerde is hy met bospaaie om gemeentelede op sy gesin na Arusha waar die te soek het Pam Brink handig Peugeots besonder gewild was. geraak met gereedskap en Die gewildheid was grootliks as noodsaaklike herstelwerk – gevolg van die sukses wat die ook Peugeots kan op snaakse 203's vanaf die begin van die plekke 'n kwaal ontwikkel. (Ds Oos-Afrika Safari tydren in Brink het lidmate in die Ooste 1953 behaal het. Boonop het van die Kongo ook gehad). die roete wat in die tydren gevolg is, die straat reg voor die Boonop was sy salaris van pastorie op Arusha ingesluit. minder as £100 per maand nie genoeg om sy Peugeots by die Die Brinks kon die Safari van agente te laat diens nie en moes hulle voorstoep af volg! Anders hy hierdie werk self begin as in Suid-Afrika, was daar doen. Sy reputasie vir die variante van die 203 sedan in regmaak van Peugeots het wyd Tanganjika beskikbaar. en syd bekend geraak en
lidmate het ook met hulle motors by die pastorie-garage hulle opwagting gemaak om nuwe lewe in hulle rygoed te blaas. Miskien is die volgende storie apokrief; maar ek glo dis waar: As die Peugeot-agentskap op Arusha nie 'n steeks Peugeot aan die gang kon kry nie het hulle hom eenvoudig pastorie toe gesleep om daar onder die predikant se hande deur te loop waar hy weer rybaar gemaak is! Natuurlik moes die dominee se voorliefde vir Peugeots 'n invloed op sy gemeentelede in Oos-Afrika gehad het. In 'n brief wat ek onder onder oë gehad het, skryf 'n lidmaat aan Pam Brink dat haar man hulle plaas vir £25 000 verkoop het en “al wat hy met die geld gedoen het was om 'n Peugeot vir £750 te koop”. Dit sê alles!
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VERSATILITY
SPECIAL REPORT
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Here they are, the NamWheels Cars of the Year 2017!
CHICKEN DINNER!
Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
VERSATILITY
POWER
FEATURES Like last year, we asked you to vote for your favourites through our new website and social media pages but, unlike last year, y’all must’ve been so drunk that you couldn’t be bothered. Well, except for the two peeps who commented “how much this” and “black”, thus further concreting our belief that everyone was completely plastered this holiday season. So. These are the cars WE think are deserving of a mention (and a spot of attention) listed with the pros and cons for each 2017 newcomer. Better still, because this is a DIGITAL newspaper, you may click on any of the cars to read our review online, most probably on our shiny new website and, as always, completely free of charge!
COMFORT PRICE
Suzuki Ignis
VERSATILITY FEATURES SPACE Hyundai Creta FEATURES
PRICE
SPACE COMFORT Volvo S90 VERSATILITY
LOOKS
FEATURES If you’re lucky, there may even be lots of unique photos and the odd video (or performance data) included with the article.
LAST YEAR’S WINNER
LOOKS Toyota CHR VERSATILITY
PRICE
FEATURES LOOKS Range Rover Velar VERSATILITY The Toyota Hilux Oh, beeeg surprise, the most popular vehicle in southern Africa won our Car of the Year title with 26% of all votes. Unfortunately, these competitions are not popularity (or sales number) contest otherwise the Hilux would win every year. Every. Single. Year.
PRICE
POWER
Volkswagen Amarok V6 COMFORT
PRICE
POWER
VERSATILITY
Audi A5 Coupé TALK TO US Go on, don’t be shy! We want to hear what your thoughts are on these cars or anything else related to Car of the Year competitions? Find us on social media by searching for “NamWheels” or drop us a line at info@namwheels.com
COMFORT
PRICE
LOOKS
VERSATILITY
BMW 4-Series Cabrio POWER
PRICE
SPACE
COMFORT
Mercedes-AMG E43 POWER
PRICE COMFORT
Ford Fiesta ST200
CAR OF THE YEAR 2017
11
@NAMWHEELS
FEBRUARY 2018
12
Audi
LAUNCH REPORT
@NAMWHEELS
FEBRUARY 2018
Grand i10
Hyundai
New B specifications and a new engine give this great little hatchback even better value.
Text Hanjo Stier Images Hyundai Automotive S.A.
The Hyundai Grand i10 has always been eclipsed by some of its newer competitors. A new model with a 1L 3-cylinder petrol one of my first recommendations in the engine (48kW / 94Nm) has reported for compact hatchback class. Hyundai surely knew that and after a mild that duty. face-lift, they've now given the Grand i10 Its price, specs and ease of use make for a more attention. It's worth noting that the The familiar 1.25L four-cylinder petrol great combination, although I felt that the smaller i10 has been discontinued and motor (64kW / 128Nm) is still available last one I tested (a year ago) was getting this Grand' needs to plug that gap. and, together with two trim levels and a manual or automatic gearbox, they make up the new range of six Grand i10 models: 1.0 Motion (M) R149,900 1.0 Motion (A) R169,900 1.0 Fluid (M) R169,900 1.25 Fluid (M) R189,900 1.25 Fluid (A) R206,900 1.25 Glide (M) R202,900 Please check Namibian prices and availability with your nearest Hyundai dealership. Stanley Anderson, sales and operations director of Hyundai Automotive South Africa, aptly described the broad target market of their accomplished car by stating that this is the perfect first OR last car. So; young folk with a fresh license will take equal delight in this affordable Korean as retirees and seniors. The updated specifications for the entire range include an extra airbag (totaling two), a multi-function steering wheel and Bluetooth connectivity. Standard kit on all Grand i10's includes ABS brakes, power steering, air-conditioning, front power windows and a basic trip computer. The posher Fluid and Glide models offer alloy wheels, remote central locking, rear power windows, heated power mirrors, chromed grill, as well as a 2year/30,000km service plan and quite a large touchy-feely infotainment system. Navigation software is a very affordable R2,500 extra.
The top model (Glide) boasts black and red leather trim, red dashboard bits, LED daytime running lights and rear park assist. Glancing over these specs and the prices, we recommend the entry-level for its value or the Fluid manual as the best power / equipment compromise. Unfortunately, the 1.0 models were not available for testing at the Grand i10's recent launch in Cape Town but Hyundai made up for this by offering everyone a go in the top-spec Glide. The 1.25-liter engine is surprisingly lively (at sea level) while this car's high specification level and red detailing got loads of thumbs up. Handling, braking and highway manners are on par for the segment while four adults and a bit of luggage didn't faze the little Hyundai too much. The Hyundai Grand i10's steering and pedals are light and easy to operate, while the fairly basic instruments and simple cabin materials got some cool neighbours with the big screen and funky red leather. Sure, the cheaper models will not have this and I shall reserve my judgement on their road manners until I've tested a one-litre at altitude. What I can tell you – backed up by Hyundai's research – is that every Grand i10 model either falls in the ballpark spec/price range or offers better value than its chief rivals. Should you need more encouragement, there's the manufacturer's impressive 7year/200,000km warranty, a choice of eight distinctive colours and the fact that you'll find four main dealers and about 20 service centers around Namibia.
FEBRUARY 2018
Audi
ROAD TEST
Mercedes-Benz
@NAMWHEELS
13
S500 Cabriolet
Three B exhaust pipes and more power than you can handle? Meet the new Type R!
I detest anything that misses its point or purpose. Like a screwdriver being used as a chisel, creative minds studying tax law or that gigantic 4x4 on the school run. My latest test car, this pearly white convertible Mercedes S-Class, had me wondering at first – what the hell is the point of it?
Two gigantic monitors display everything you want, all buttons feel durable, the stitching and surfaces are top notch and a l m o s t e ve r y t h i n g i s p o we re d o r automatic. Yes, this car can even drive itself for brief moments of sheer driver terror but therein lies my other luxury convertible criteria – how does it drive? The exhaust burble on starting its 335kW 4.7-litre turbo-petrol V8 seemed promising but the car never got any louder… yes, even in Sport mode.
So they took the world's most loved executive sedan and first made a coupé version; of which I approve. Besides being an avid two-door fanatic, I also love that model's illustrious predecessors. These stretch back over many decades and include all sorts of letters which Mercedes Said mode can toughen up the gearbox or fancied at the time… SE-b, SLC, SEC, CL, etc. suspension but this S500 Cabrio never howled or roared as nicely as the S500 Right, here comes the important bit. Not Coupé I tested a few years ago, even when since the SE-b or triple-one series Benzes of manually pawing through most of its nine the 60's has there been a proper cabriolet gears. Yes, you read correctly. Nine. And the derivative of the S-Class. This lineage final one does 90km/h at around 900rpm… proved to be the saving grace of my press car's purpose because it's descended from Sure, you can blast past 100km/h in about those beautiful W111 Cabrios. five seconds but it will only do so after some hesitation from the lazy gearbox and While thoroughly investigating this sparkly turbos. Even then, any forward shove (up to white car with striking dark blue fabric roof 700Nm) is of the most polished variety. and porcelain leather interior, someone Hell, the air suspension even leans into noted that the vast depreciation of these corners (like a bike) for extra ride comfort. cars means bargain prices (and nightmare maintenance) in a few years. All that may The S500 Cabrio won't roar, bite or shock carry a degree of truth but we agreed that because it's too polite and only wants to this could also become a future classic. cosset you and up to three passengers in sheer softness. Which it does perfectly. The correct recipe, granted by its ancestors, Other luxurious convertible traits include is in place. Top-of-the-line luxury and the roof operation up to 60km/h, two wind best technology that Mercedes has to offer deflectors and multiple front seat heaters. at this point in time, married to a striking shape with tasteful details. You'll find the All this came together beautiful on a chilly name “designo" stuck to seats and spec lists Monday night when I cruised home with because it's Merc's special-order division. the blue top down and the (sumptuous Burmester) system up. This is the pinnacle A glance over Merc's price lists reveals five of Mercedes luxury, very near the top of other convertibles – the C-Class, E-Class, elegant convertible travel and this is most AMG GT, SL and SLC, of which the last two certainly not pointless. It is extravagantly feature folding metal roofs. All others have perfect. an electric folding fabric roof but it appears that Mercedes put extra effort and silence This S500 is the only convertible Mercedesinto the ones for its topless S-Classes. Benz S-Class model available at around N$2.4 million with a two-year unlimited It's the one thing they didn't skimp on – mileage warranty and six years or quality. You can feel, see, touch and smell it 100,000km worth of maintenance plan included in the price. inside the opulent cabin of this car.
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Text Hanjo Stier Images Galimoto Media
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