NamWheels Edition 24 by GalimotoMedia

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NAMIBIAN MOTORING FOCUS

EDITION 24 | JUNE-JULY 2021

A GALIMOTO MEDIA PRODUCT

CX-30 New Mazda

NEWS

TIPS

REVIEWS

SAFETY

MOTORSPORT

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CLASSIFIEDS

INDEX

JUNE-JULY 2021

NamWheels ...is a motoring portal for petrolheads, by petrolheads, in our beautiful Land of the Brave, Namibia. We aim to bring you a fairly regular boost of all things automotive which should be exciting for viewers, beneficial to advertisers and something all Namibian car lovers can be proud of. Some boring copyright stuff and, like, a few regional issues may apply. Unless otherwise stated, tests are conducted in South Africa at or near sea level and all prices or specifications were presumed correct at the time of being published. We take great care during publishing, yet cannot be held liable for the results of incorrect data.

Publisher: Galimoto Media cc Distribution: The Interwebs Editor: Hanjo Stier Sub: Agent M Design: 825 Media Contributors: Franco Theron Nico Boshoff Karl-Heinz Eisenberg Advertise: 081 348 3348 info@namwheels.com www.namwheels.com

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News & New Models NamWheels top5 List Review: Mazda CX-30 Safety: Highway Etiquette Sprint Review: Suzuki Baleno Motorsport: Formula E in Cape Town Motorsport: Safari Rally summary Review: Land Rover Defender Flitsverslag: Renault Duster Videos on our YouTube channel

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PRICE LISTS AND FORM DESIGN

JUNE-JULY 2021

NEWS

NEWS AND FAW RE-COMMITS TO NAMIBIA

TOYOTA DREAM CAR CONTEST WINNERS

FAW Trucks is successfully serving markets across the continent from its hub in Coega, Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth , S.A. ) and recently, the commercial vehicle manufacturer has relaunched the brand in Namibia, aiming to reaffirm its unwavering commitment to customers. FAW Trucks found a reliable home at Africa Commercial Vehicles (ACV), a leader in the Namibian commercial vehicle market, since 2018. Apart from their 1,850m² facility on the B1 highway outside Windhoek, ACV also offers a service and parts facility in Walvis Bay and more than ten authorised FAW Trucks repairers across the country.

The winners of the 15th annual Toyota Dream Car Art Contest were announced at a virtual event hosted by Toyota South Africa Motors on Friday 9 July. Earlier in 2021, children up to the age of 15 years were invited to submit drawings of their imagined future mobility solutions. The competition had three age categories (under 8, 8 to 11 and 12-15 years) and the winners were as follows: • Zuhayr Syed Ebrahim Under 8 for his “Air mobile” • Ridhima Hingorani “Leaf car”, 8 to 11 years • Karabelo Musi “Toyota Dream Car” (12-15)

NEW MODELS NEW VW POLO GTI ON ITS WAY

HYUNDAI FRESHENS MITSUBISHI’S NEW UP ITS KONA 7-SEATER MPV

VW of South Africa recently announced that their new Polo GTI will be launched early in 2022. The new Polo range (including GTI) will be built at their manufacturing plant in Kariega (formerly Uitenhage) for the local and internal markets. The latest Polo GTI brings a new level of dynamics to the small compact segment with its output of 152 kW (207 PS), and sets new standards in terms of performance, technology and sportiness. Special features include LED headlights, red pinstriping and a check seat pattern.

A very attractive and new Hyundai Kona with a variety of upgrades, dynamic new looks and – for the first time – a sporty “N Line” trim, has arrived in South Africa; and hopefully Namibia! The fresh design offers a dynamic new appearance. An enhanced powertrain line-up provides sporty and eco-friendly options, while its upgraded convenience features make for an even more satisfying ownership experience. The safety suite has also been improved with some new active and passive safety features available.

Combining the practicality of a multipurpose vehicle (MPV) with the rugged looks of a sports-utility vehicle (SUV), the all-new 7-seater Mitsubishi Xpander is set to take the competitive local market by storm. The interior of the new Xpander might be all MPV, but the exterior screams SUV, so it's well suited to everyday commuting, big family road trips and leisure activities. There are two models in the range, with a 1.5L engine and either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic ‘box.

FORD RANGER XLS NEARING 500 000KM LAND ROVER’S NEW AMBASSADORS Award-winning vocalist Lira and well-known presenter Elma Smit were announced as Land Rover South Africa ambassadors for the new Defender 90. Aside from her career as an iconic soul singer, Lira is also a Namibia Tourism ambassador who jumps at opportunities which require bravery. Elma Smit is synonymous with sports presenting on TV and radio both locally and abroad, and her passion for rugby at all levels aligns with the Land Rover and Defender brands. As part of the South African launch programme, Lira and Elma were invited to Jaguar Land Rover Experience in Lonehill, Johannesburg, to get to grips with their new vehicles in preparation for future adventures. You can watch the action here:

Durability, reliability and quality are three founding characteristics that would describe the Ford Ranger owned by Louis du Toit. Du Toit's experience is just one example of many Ford Ranger bakkies that have done high mileages for work and leisure purposes. Ford South Africa recently caught up with Du Toit in the Eastern Free State where he and his 2013 Ranger XLS 4x4 were living up to the Built Ford Tough promise. “I am the co-owner of a trading enterprise based in the Eastern Free State and my 2.2-litre Ford Ranger XLS currently has more than 455 000km on the clock with a full service history from the dealer in Bethlehem.” “We even had to order a new service book because it only goes up to 300 000km, and we're about halfway through the second one already,” he proudly confirms.

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Elma & Lira

Interview

Driving Memories that will last forever...

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JUST LAUNCHED!

The brand-new

MITSUBISHI XPANDER from N$

309 995 or N$ 3 999 p/m*

EXPAND YOUR LIFESTYLE WITH THE NEXT GENERATION 7-SEATER MPV 1.5L MIVEC DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder Engine

Tilt and Telescopic Adjustable Steering Column

77kW@6000rpm / 141Nm@4000rpm

Child Protection Rear Door Locks

Average fuel use of 6.9L/100km

Full Automatic Air-conditioning

RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) Body Construction

Multi-function Steering Wheel

ISOFIX Child Seat Anchors and Child Restraint

Multi-information Display

EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)

Three 12V Power Plugs

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

Front USB Port (Radio)

Side-impact Protection Bars

Rear Air Circulator

Pedestrian Protection

Electric Windows

BOOK YOUR TEST-DRIVE TODAY:

* Terms and Conditions apply. For pricing information and specifications please visit our dealership or website.

MITSUBISHI MOTORS NAMIBIA Windhoek Showroom: +264 61 431 5000 • Swakopmund Showroom: +264 64 40 6293 Karl-Heinz Eisenberg: +264 81 721 0697 • André van der Merwe: +264 81 316 9451

@ MitsubishiNamibia

TIPS & LISTS

JUNE-JULY 2021

the NamWheels

top5

Welcome to a regular NamWheels feature: our top 5 car-related list. Perhaps times are a bit tough, or maybe you would like to preserve your automotive pride and joy? Don’t dispair, we have a great list of tips which will help your car to live a (hopefully) long and happy life. Most of these items are rather broad and general suggestions but should apply to most automotive transport; even commercial or electric ones. Feel free to send us comments or feedback: info@namwheels.com

WAYS TO PRESERVE YOUR CAR SERVICE IT REGULARLY

The best way to keep your car in great condition, and to guarantee it lasts as long as possible, is to have it regularly serviced by an authorised dealer or knowledgable mechanic. Be sure to observe the service intervals and other

recommendations as set our by your vehicle’s manufacturer. If you are unsure, or own an older vehicle, check out our previous issue for handy hints on what to service; and when. Bonus tip: annual oil services save older cars.

DRIVE IT RESPONSIBLY

This may seem like a simple tip - or even one that makes no sense to you - but crashing or damaging your car is the fastest way to ruin it. Even if you drive a high performance vehicle, make sure that you don’t exceed the car’s (or your own)

limits by obeying traffic laws and keeping within the speed limits of the situation. Other damage you may cause include over-reving the engine, grinding gears or riding the clutch, as well as parking carelessly. It all adds up!

STORE IT SENSIBLY

Although it mostly applies to the car’s exterior, storing it correctly can prevent damage; especially if you’re not driving it for a while. Avoid parking under a tree for more than a few days, as tree sap or bird dirt can damage the paint.

If you intend using a car cover, get the best one you can and make sure it’s properly secured, as to also prevent damage to the car’s coating. Your best bet for storing a car is a cool, dry garage or secure area of a covered parking area.

WASH & PAMPER IT

It may seem trivial to some car owners, while others take great delight in the regular ritual of cleaning their automotive love. A clean car isn’t immediately worth more money than a filthy one as dealers wash and prepare

them before a sale anyway. However, if you neglect to clean your vehicle on a fairly regular basis, it may suffer with residual filth like burnt-in brake dust, damaged clear coat or stained interior. Warning: over-washing can also be harmful!

INSURE IT PROPERLY

How can insurance possibly damage a car, you may think. Well, it can certainly hurt the repair or replacement of a vehicle if the owner failed to insure it properly. Insurance companies tend to be annoyingly strict

when it comes to paying claims so it’s in your best interest to have the correct cover in place. Your best bet is to be as detailed as possible during the application process, to avoid being under- or over-insured. Also consider an insurance broker!

WHAT ELSE IS WORTH IT? If you have the cash to splash on it, we can also recommend a proper wash, full valet and/or detail for your pride and joy. This is especially rewarding for those of you who don’t have the time (or inclination) to clean a car to such an extent. Warning: try to avoid automatic / robotic car washes!

DISCLAIMER

We mean well by helping you with the preservation of your vehicle but this information is given without guarantees nor can we be held responsible for any unfortunate incidents arising from its use.

WHOSE

LANE

IS IT ANYWAY?

Ad Space When the two-lane road that you’re driving on merges into a single lane ahead, who has right of way? The short answer is: nobody! Some theories allege that the merging lane (usually the left one) has to give way but rules of the road dictate that traffic should merge in the widelyaccepted zipper format - one at a time from each lane.

In less dense (and faster) traffic conditions, a good dose of common sense or courtesy will be your best ally. By all means give way to faster vehicles, or speed up to pass slow ones, but never exceed the speed limit or come to a complete stop!

Should you find yourself the target of road rage or an angry driver, acknowledge This is especially important your mistake or proceed during very slow traffic flow, directly to the nearest police like morning or evening station if your life seems to be in danger. commutes.

FOR SALE

REVIEW

JUNE-JULY 2021

CX-30

Mazda Do you remember that kid in school who happily played by themselves? Maybe later you met someone who con idently danced to their own tune? Well, in my humble opinion, that's what Mazda is doing. The automotive world has become incredibly reactionary – trying to predict the next trend as quickly as possible. Be it electri ication, selfdriving, intelligent infotainment or, heaven forbid, all of the above, every manufacturer appears to be grabbing a spot on the gravy train of EV's and adaptive everything. Mazda? They seem to be sitting in a Zen garden to ind the next perfect proportion for their beautiful automobiles. And while other car makers are trying to out-do each other with the number of gears in their twin-clutch transmissions, Mazda simply grabbed an old torque convertor auto-box and focused on interior design. This new CX30 looks stunning, inside and out. Be it the multi-level light clusters or that sharp nose, its excellent cabin materials or the modern dash layout… there is a lot of beauty to be found in this new Japanese. Variable scroll turbochargers? Ehh, not so much.

Again, Mazda chose the trusted tech of a naturally-breathing engine.

Is that a copout or timeous error? I'll reserve my judgement on that one because, as mentioned in previous Mazda reviews, I ind the combination of striking design, modern gadgets but old (and fairly bullet-proof) drive-trains a very wholesome one. It may not appeal to speed freaks, although I hasten to add that this car will rev very nicely when asked to. Yes, even at Khomas altitudes. Thanks to a displacement of around two litres, there's also a fair amount of torque (213Nm) for the six-speed automatic gearbox to work with. There may not be as much midrange punch as with turbo-fed rivals, but the power delivery of its 121kW is smoother and more linear. Fuel consumption? Pretty much the same as a smaller turbo mill. Of course that depends on your driving style, but Mazda claims average petrol consumption of 6.6L/100km from the 51L tank. Our best 0-100km/h acceleration run took 11.09 seconds while the 400m mark passed in 17.83 seconds at 129.97km/h. The brakes are equally impressive with a sole emergency stopping test absolved in 3.29 seconds and 44.15m.

Text: Hanjo Stier Images: Franco Theron & Nico Boshoﬀ

Next in line to receive my approval were the comfortable cloth seats in a welcoming beige pattern, as well as the fairly pliant but responsive suspension. Sporty handling meets a comfortable ride in the new CX30.

As with most modern vehicles, the infotainment system is crammed full of communication, audio and info goodies which require a bit of practise to ind; or operate. Most controls were easy to igure out and I took great delight in this Mazda's half-digital gauge cluster with a very comprehensive trip computer. More praise can be heaped onto the quality of the sound system, the wonderfully ine chrome details of some switchgear, the driver's seat and steering wheel adjustments, as well as general noise insulation. For those seeking the luxury of leather furniture (or additional toys) there are two more posh models above this 2.0 Active test car. Speaking of which, prices start at around 470,000 and include a three-year warranty and service plan; without any mileage limitations. If that's not enticing enough, I guarantee that the new CX-30's looks, quality and ride will impress you. There's only one way to ind out though… at your nearest Mazda dealer.

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SAFETY

JUNE-JULY 2021

You may call it a highway, others call it a motorway or multi-lane national road, perhaps even “daai bliksemse Okahandja pad!” In the interest of Namibia’s road safety, we at NamWheels would like to remind (or teach) everyone how you should behave while driving on a highway:

• KEEP LEFT, PASS RIGHT

The whole point of a multi-lane road is that traffic can easily move at different speeds. However, it can’t do that if Tant Miemie in her Fortuner is hogging the right lane at 104km/h... hou links, tannie!

HIGHWAY ETIQUETTE

• OBEY THE SPEED LIMITS

Yes, speed limits, as in multiple. Most dual-lane motorways, like our beloved “Bypass” have different speed limits as they pass through certain areas. Be sure to observe and obey these, as well as the minimum speed limit of any highway (usually 60km/h).

• DO YOU BELONG HERE?

Unfortunately, not everyone is welcome on a multi-lane road. That includes pedestrians, livestock or pets, bicycles, small scooters or other non-motorised transport.

• GENERAL COMMON SENSE

You should always employ good common sense, not just on a highway. These tips will ensure that your journey should be safe:

• MORE TIPS

Keep a constant look around your vehicle, front, sides and behind so you may ancticipate any dangerous situations. A safe following distance is always advised, as is switching your lights on. Be friendly and kind when interacting with other traffic. Make sure that your vehicle is roadworthy and safe to drive at high/highway speeds.

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SPRINT REVIEW

JUNE-JULY 2021

FULL SPEC SHEET Engine: Transmission:

5-speed Manual

Drive Train:

FWD

Max. Power:

68kW

Max. Torque:

130Nm

Avg consumption: 0-100km/h: Top Speed: List Price:

Suzuki

1.4L i-4 petrol

Baleno

5.1L/100km (claimed) 10.9 seconds (claimed) 175km/h (claimed) R259,900

Text: Hanjo Stier Image: Suzuki Auto South Africa

Be honest now, did you know about Suzuki's practical Baleno before it spawned a twin? You should know: I feel a bit sorry for the Suzuki Baleno for two reasons.

Why you shouldn't: If outright performance is your thing, best look elsewhere.

Firstly, it bumbles along in a declining hatchback vehicle segment and secondly, it's now bopping in the wake of Toyota rebadging it as one of their own.

Although I was slightly impressed by its mid-range torque at high altitude, the Baleno is nowhere near as punchy as its (often more expensive) rivals.

The Starlet's relatively superior sales success is concrete proof of local buying trends…

For overtaking attempts, I highly recommend using all of the willing engine's 6,300rpm.

More information: The Baleno is a medium-sized hatchback with gutsy 1.4L naturally-aspirated engine, 5-speed manual or 4-speed auto gearbox, as well as a choice of two trim levels.

Why you should: Being a modern Suzuki, this R260,000 vehicle represents excellent bang-foryour-buck when compared to others of its ilk. Keyless entry & start, fancy climate control, reverse camera, all modern connectivity solutions, leather-clad steering wheel, 16-inch alloy wheels and cruise control are just some of the highlights.

I test-drove the higher-spec GLX manual model for a quick tour around Namibia's capital city. What else? What immediately impressed me were the car's rounded and stylish design, spacious and modern-looking cabin, plus a comfortable set of chairs. This is complemented by a fairly soft ride, super-light steering response and easy-to-operate gears 'n pedals. Read: the Baleno is a breeze to drive.

The manufacturer claims average fuel use of 5.1L/100km from the 37L tank and I suspect that's highly plausible; or even pessimistic. Included in the price are a 3year/100,000km warranty and a 4-year/60,000km service plan. And the inal bene it: our Namibian dealership staﬀ is super-friendly!

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MOTORSPORT

JUNE-JULY 2021

Formula E coming to Cape Town On the 8th of July it was finally announced that the FIA Formula E championship will probably pay a visit to the southern tip of Africa in 2022.

It may only be provisional at this point, but SouthernAfricans certainly have much to be excited about. This exciting announcement follows a few successful motorsport years for our neighbour South Africa, having hosted spectacular FIA World Rallycross Championships, the iconic Nine Hours of Kyalami, as well as the announcement that the World Endurance Championship would be hosted at the Midrand-based circuit. Both the FIA World Rallycross Championship finales as well as the two 9-hour races at Kyalami have shown that South-Africans are hungry to see the return of global motorsport and while Formula E might not be as loud as the aforementioned categories, it will surely bring much adrenaline with it. The 2022 season will kick off in late January with Diriyah (Saudi Arabia) as the host, after which the championship heads for Mexico City, whereafter it enters the first of its three new cities on the calendar. This being Cape Town, the event will take place on 26 February 2022. The championship will then visit nine other global cities to finish the 16-round championship. Judging by the previous and current championships, action will be plenty and the championship should provide intense and close rivalries. It will mark the first time an FIA single seater event has been run in South Africa since 1993. More news and an insight into the FIA Formula E championship will follow shortly.

Text: Franco Theron Image: Supplied

14 MAY

28 JAN

29 JAN

12 FEB

26 FEB

19 MAR

09 APR

30 APR

SAUDI ARABIA

MEXICO

SOUTH AFRICA

TBC

ITALY

MONACO GERMANY

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04 JUN

02 JUL

16 JUL

17 JUL

30 JUL

31 JUL

03 AUG

04 AUG

TBC

CANADA

USA

SOUTH KOREA

MOTORSPORT

JUNE-JULY 2021

Toyota wins epic Safari challenge Text: Franco Theron Images: Red Bull Content Pool

Toyota, who is renowned for its World Rally Championship Safari Rally victories, won the 2021 edition yet again. Simultaneously, Sebastien Ogier/ Julien Ingrassia also took their fourth victory of the season as their biggest title rivals retired. Takamoto Katsuta / Dan Barritt also claimed their first ever podium with Toyota Gazoo Racing, whilst rally favorite, Thierry Neuville / Martin Wydaeghe again found themselves with bad luck, having to retire from the lead. While the 2021 edition might have been shorter than the traditional 100km marathons, it proved to be as (if not more) entertaining. After a 19-year hiatus, the Safari Rally once again welcomed the return of the WRC to the African continent and while it was only 318km in total length, it took spectators and internet streamers alike through a rollercoaster of emotions. Onkar Rai, a previous Safari winner and local was quick to name the 2021 edition as one of his biggest challenges to date. Kenya, which is positioned right on the equator, once again surprised the drivers with not only spectacular sceneries, but also changing and difficult weather patterns, wildlife on stages, as well as ever-changing road surfaces. In contrast to other WRC rounds, the Safari Rally saw competitors racing at 180km/h, whilst having to crawl over rocky sections at 20km/h less than a kilometre away. Ogier was quickest during the shakedown as well as the head-to-head stage on Thursday; and although Toyota claimed a 1-2-3 with Elfyn Evans and Kalli Rovanperä , the 7-

time WRC champion and current leader was quick to mention that it would be the smartest and most cautious driver who would take victory, rather than the outright fastest.

to be a fairly “boring” day up until the last stage. With Sordo, Evans and the two M-Sport Ford's already through the test, a heavy thunderstorm broke out. Whilst Ogier was caught up in this, the Frenchman received less of the worst.

Ironically, Ogier only retook the rally lead, with one stage to go on Sunday. This, after Neuville looked very strong in the lead, all weekend long. The Belgian not only took the rally lead early on Friday, but fought off a very hard chasing Rovanperä to keep the lead with six stages to go until a damper on his Hyundai broke on Sunday's opening stage.

Running just after him on the road, Tä nak had to stop mid stage to demystify his windscreen, losing two minutes and his position to Ogier in the process. Katsuta also lost time, but it was Neuville, who lost 34 seconds in the process.

The first stage on Friday proved to be a game changer as it not only sent Evans and Sordo into retirement, but also caught Ogier off guard, meaning that he had to race the third stage somewhat slower in order to keep the suspension intact. Rovanperä , with a rich family history at the Safari Rally, quickly clawed his way into second, and fought hard against Neuville to take the rally lead briefly on stage 5. Whilst Neuville fought back on the next stage, the irritable feshfesh sands sent Rovanperä into retirement on stage 7. Bothe Neuville and Ogier would be in the perfect position on Saturday, although the latter had a 2-minute deficit to claw back on Neuville, Tä nak and Katsuta in front of him. With Sordo and Evans restarting under Super Rally regulations, the duo had to open the roads, feeding back information to their leading teammates ahead of their stage starts. This meant that most of the Saturday stages saw a fairly procedural running order with minimal mistakes. It was set

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Yet, with a commanding lead, Neuville looked set to turn around his torrid season thus far, but a rear broken damper on his Hyundai would decide otherwise. The Belgian was ruled into retirement, unable to even compete for Power Stage points. This meant that the young Japanese driver, Katsuta now took the rally lead with only 4.6 seconds in hand over Ogier. The latter though, had much more experience and a better tyre choice for the day. Katsuta held his own and fought back Ogier as hard as he could, but with one stage remaining, Ogier took the rally lead. On the final PowerStage, no one could hold back the chasing Tä nak, who took the maximum 5-points for recording the fastest stage time. Starting 8.6 seconds adrift, Katsuta, however, lost even more time to Ogier as the Frenchman took his forth 2021 victory by a mere 22 seconds. The 2021 Kenyan Safari Rally was by no means a boring affair and delivered precisely what rally fans around the world wanted. The Safari Rally is certainly back in full force.

REVIEW

Land-Rover Text: Hanjo Stier Images: Nico Boshoﬀ

JUNE-JULY 2021

Like the Evoque and Disco III before it, the new Land Rover Defender wasn't just one of the most hotly anticipated models by this British brand, it set almost our entire automotive world alight with expectation. Come to think of it, the original Discovery and Range Rover also did that…

Honestly, I was ready to pounce on the car's heft and unwieldy dimensions but in the few days that I commanded this tank, it never gave me any major manoeuvring worries. I hasten to add that you’ll have to employ a fair chunk of common sense… this beast won't it into every bay or multi-storey exit.

This proves that Land Rover may seem stubborn in their development but every couple of decades, they release a complete novelty. In my opinion, this new Defender certainly continues that tradition. One of the main reasons for this is the vehicle's bold, boxy, otherworldly design. Typical Land Rover.

Another disclaimer I have to make is that our chic-looking test vehicle was itted with one of the biggest and most brawny power unit of the range: a straight-six turbo-petrol assaulting its 8-speed automatic gearbox with up to 294kW (400hp) or 550Nm. 0-100 is claimed in 6.1 seconds and our best attempt yielded exactly 6.97.

The front lights immediately captured my attention with their incomplete circles, those lanks are a symphony of minimalist design, while the brutish grill and bumper aren't as aggressive close-up. D'you know what is a bit overwhelming in real life? The new Defender's size. This is a beeeg car. If you haven't experienced one upclose yet, you'll see what I mean. I thought that this new Landy would be the size of a Fortuner; maybe a Prado? But our beautiful metallic green press demonstrator felt more like a 200series Land Cruiser; inside and out. The Defender's dimensions con irm this: 5,018mm length, 1,967mm height and about 2m width. With such generous measurements, the car feels absolutely massive inside. Like, truly enormous. Obviously the pilot of such a battle cruiser could get stressed quite quickly but the Rover counters that with very light controls, a highly responsive drive-train and more parking assistants than a mall on Saturday morning.

sense of ergonomic low in the cockpit. The gauge cluster was fully digital on our test car and is mirrored by a similarly crisp infotainment screen. The Jaguar / Land Rover command centre has been further enhanced with modern features and a tad more responsive than in other JLR products. I also liked its reasonable size; other manufacturers favour inches over quality. Most buttons, switches and menus demand a lot of exploration as there are a lot of diﬀerent (as well as customisable) options in this vehicle.

Reversing the process took exactly 3.56 seconds and 46.31m, a testament to the car's substantial weight. Those de icits also appear in its average fuel use which Land Rover alleges to be 9.9L/100km. And although we saw 12+ a lot, the level of performance is jolly exciting for a luxury 4x4.

Seat comfort is good, maybe on the hard side, but there's an obvious abundance of head-, shoulder-, kneeand toe-room for most passengers. The ones in the very far (third) row will ind that their pews are for occasional use only, although the space comes with most modern accoutrements like cup holders and charging points.

Please note that I typed 4x4 and not SUV because this Landy has a very intelligent (and adaptive) off-roading system which pairs up with multiple locking diffs, a low-range transfer case and competent air suspension setup to offer the ultimate in modern, clever bundu bashing.

Boot space is also impressive at 857L and this is where you'll ind my favourite Defender features. Tick the right boxes and you could drive away with an on-board vacuum cleaner, itted storage system, mini shower facilities and/or air compressor (for de- or re-in lating tyres and such like).

I challenged it with some steep forest tracks, wet grass banks and BMX dirt jumps but this beast just ploughed onwards. Its tyres will probably be the biggest stumbling block of serious oﬀroading intentions and I hope that every new owner at least gets a dealer to show them what this amazing machine is capable of.

And don't think that those toys will impress anyone because – trust me on this – the car itself will do that. Every passer-by wanted to see more of this new Defender and most of them came away highly impressed. I was one of them until one thing came into focus…

As for the interior, its design is as unique as the outside. OK , a few elements hark back to “other” vehicles, but I noticed a wonderful

Add all of my experiences together and you have the makings of the ultimate modern 4x4. But my mother dearest grew up with Land Rovers on the farm and immediately proclaimed “I think I'd like to buy one! How much is it?” When I told her that this one was a cool 1.6 million, she replied “I think I don't want to buy one…” I agree, Mutti.

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FLITSVERSLAG

JUNIE-JULIE 2021 Teks: Franco Theron Fotos: Renault S.A. & Nico Boshoﬀ

Renault

Duster

1.5 dCi Dynamique 4WD

Die veelsydige en bekostigbare Renault Duster is weereens in ons oprit, maar na vele toetse met die einste model oor die vorige paar jare (dit sluit selfs 'n toer na die suide in) vra ons onsself die vraag af: “Wat maak hierdie Duster juis anders?” Net mooi twee jaar gelede is ons gestuur na die bekendstelling van die nuwe Duster 4WD model; gereed om die blink gepoledoerde media voertuie vol stof en modder te smeer. Die wel deurdenkde bekenstellings roete het ons oor die teeren stof / modder agterpaaie van NoordJohannesburg geneem, waarna ons die dag afgesluit het met 'n sirkel 4x4 roete. Nes in 2019, beë indruk die Duster my steeds en is dit goed te verstaande, waarom die Franse vervaardiger so baie van hierdie modelle verkoop. Met 'n 1.5, 4-silinder turbo-diesel, wat 80kW / 260Nm verskaf, massa's stoorspasie, en funksies soos 'n informasie sisteem met navigasie en 'n trurat kamera, Bluetooth en slimfoon konnektiwiteit en spoed beheer insluit; is die Duster 'n wenresep vir enige stedelike inwoner wat graag oor naweke saam met die gesin na die 'platter'land wil verskuif. ABS (met EBD en EBA), stabiliteits beheer en twee voorste lugsakke word ook ingesluit.

Verder het die 4-wiel model 210mm grondvlakhoogte, wat, gepaard met 4trek funksionaliteit, 'n invals-hoek van 30 grade- en 'n vertrek-hoek van 34 grade kan aandurf.

wat bitter vining klim. Indien jy jou skoonouers sou probeer verstom met jou bestuurs-vernuf, is dit bes om weg te trek in tweede rat (wel nie teen steil opdraendes nie).

Wat ons geweldig by die bekendstelling (en met elke indivuduele toets daarna) verstom het, was die uitmuntende brandstof-verbruik wat baie naby en selfs onder die 6-liter per 100km merk wentel. Vir 'n skrale prys van R327 900 is die Duster 1.5 Dynamique 4WD 'n voorwaardelike treﬀer en vining om al die boksies af te merk as die logiese en bekostigbare familie motor.

Ek kan nie help om te dink dat hierdie rat verhouding waarskynlik goed sal wees vir die grondpad nie. Teen steiltes en in los sand word maksimum traksie juis benodig. Maar die aard van die 'wakker' eerste rat sal dus die voorwiele (in 2-wiel trek) of al vier wiele maklik laat tol en dus die minste traksie moontlik bied.

Gemiddelde verbruik:

Maar, soos vele kere voorheen, is daar wel 'n nadeel hieraan verbonde. Met die Duster se 4-wiel trek model, wat net in 'n 6-spoed handrat weergawe verkoop word, moet ons bieg dat 'n outomatiese weergawe die verkose model sou wees.

Terselfdetyd sal dit nie die allerdaagse natuur van Duster eienaars wees om wilde 4x4 roetes aan te pak nie, maar om dit eerder as 'n normale stads-voertuig en naweeklikse langpad -masjien te gebruik.

Lys Prys:

Dit gebeur nie baie dat ons hierdie sal sê nie, maar die Duster se eerste- en tweede ratte is geweldig kort, met die enjin-revolusies

Die huidige Duster voldoen reeds aan beide hierdie aspekte en is 'n fees op die langpad met minimale windgeraas en goeie pad gemak.

MEER INLIGTING Enjin:

1.5L i-4 turbo-diesel

Ratkas:

6-spoed handrat

Aandrywing: Maksimum krag: Maksimum wringkrag:

0-100km/h: Top Snelheid:

4WD 80kW 260Nm 5.2L/100km (beweer) 12.5 sekondes (beweer) 168km/h (beweer) R361,900

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