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EDITION 15/4 | AUG / SEP 2015
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OPEL Mokka
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NEW XC90
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VELOSTER Turbo
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GOLF SV
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NUWE Captur
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11
CRUISER 79 D/C V8
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AUDI A4
13
GRAND Vitara
PLUS News & New Models | Top 5 Range Runners | Sprint Reviews | Know your Tyres | New & Pre-owned Cars | Citroën DS Geskiedenis
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AUG / SEP 2015
NAMWHEELS
NamWheels Galimoto Media cc brings you the latest automotive news, reviews, launch reports, tips and lekker historiese stories in NamWheels. You're most likely to find a copy at Cymot and selected Spar outlets, as well as cool cafés and automotive shops while stocks last. All content of this publication is strictly copyrighted but swapsies and sharies are ok. It's free, you know. Unless otherwise stated, road tests are conducted in South Africa at sea level and all specifications were correct at the time of going to press. Great care is taken to publish correct information, yet NamWheels and Galimoto Media cannot be held liable for the results of incorrect data. If you're keen on buying a car featured here, please consult your nearest dealer for pricing and specs. One rev limiter was abused in the making of this publication. NamWheels promotes responsible, fun driving. Always buckle up, stop to rest when you're tired and puh-lease - don't drink and drive.
High mileage Isuzu bakkie
XC90 named Car of the Year
With over 720,000km on the odometer, Ryno Jonker's KB 250 is still as reliable as when he bought it eleven years ago. A good service is all it needs to remain safe and reliable, and to add value to his business, Jonker advised. The 1995 Isuzu was the talk of the town when he entered a competition run by Algoa FM, where listeners sent pictures of their odometer readings to find the highest mileage.
The Volvo XC90 has been named Car of the Year 2015 and Large SUV of the Year at this year's Auto Express New Car Awards. Volvo Cars' award-winning XC90 is already close to selling out its entire first year's planned production run of 50,000 cars. To date over 44,000 cars have been ordered. Steve Fowler, Editor-in-Chief of Auto Express, said: "We've been waiting a long time for the XC90, but it was well worth the wait - it's a sensational SUV. It not only sets new standards for Volvo, but for the car market in general..."
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News & New Models New Metal & More News Volvo XC90 NamWheels Top5 Opel Mokka Hyundai Veloster Turbo Volkswagen Golf SV Renault Captur Sprint Reviews Toyota Land Cruiser 79 D/C V8 Audi A4 - Petrol vs. Diesel Suzuki Grand Vitara Know your tyres Citroën DS
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Chery Tiggo does 12 passes
Eight Chery Tiggo SUVs successfully drove through 12 passes in Mpumalanga in eight hours. All cars got through unscathed even though much of the terrain was rocky and rutted. Seven of the passes were tarmac and five were gravel, with main traffic on some roads being huge logging trucks. The distance over the passes was 133km for the 12 passes combined.
650,000 VW EA111 engines Volkswagen's Engine Plant in Uitenhage recently achieved another milestone with the production of the 650,000th EA111 engine. Last year, the Engine Plant celebrated the production of its 2 millionth engine. The EA111 engines, 1.4-L and 1.6-L, are fitted in the Polo Vivo range (hatch and sedan). Polo Vivo has been the topselling passenger model in Southern Africa since its launch in 2010. To date, over 175,000 have been sold. Production of EA111 engines at Uitenhage started in 2010 – the same year the new Polo and Polo Vivo were launched in South Africa.
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Mercedes-Benz sets new records
Mercedes-Benz handed over 149,753 vehicles worldwide to customers in July (15.2% increase). New sales records were set both in the month of July and in the first seven months of the year (1,048,178 units, 14.7% up from last year's sales figures). This was due in particular to strong sales of the C-Class and the compact cars of the brand with the three-pointed star.
Searching for Africa's heart Kingsley Holgate, supreme Land Rover adventurer and philanthropist, will begin his next expedition into some of the most dangerous and unexplored regions of Africa – in search of its heart. Located in northern Congo bordering one of the largest impenetrable rainforests lies the true centre of the African continent – an area described by National Geographic as ‘the last place on earth.’ "We’ve crossed Mama Afrika from South to North, East to West and circumnavigated the outline... it’s only natural that our next challenge is her heart..." says Holgate, Africa’s Greybeard of adventure.
Ranger Odyssey's 2,000km
AUCTIONS • VALUATIONS • LOGISTICS
CLEARANCE SALE! All goods must go Less than cost price on specific units Wide variety: from Hatch, Sedan, Estate, SUV, D/C, 4x4 and more!
N$40 000
N$149 900
1987 Mercedes-Benz 300D A/C was N$55 000 now N$40 000
2010 Nissan X-Trail 2.5 CVT was N$175 000 now N$149 900
Twenty contestants and a convoy of 17 Ford Rangers have completed an arduous 12-day 2,000km off-road expedition through the rugged Damaraland and Kaokoland regions of northern Namibia during Ranger Odyssey 2015 which ended in Windhoek on 3 August. There were many highlights during the trip, including travelling through Desolation Valley, the infamous Khuwarib, dust holes, Crowther 4x4 Trail and camping at the base of the Brandberg. The convoy also traversed many of Namibia's main rivers including the Huab, Omaruru, Hoanib and Hoarisib River. Each day the contestants were scored by the instructors, Ford representatives and media crew on a wide variety of aspects, including 4x4 driving, camp etiquette, communication and leadership skills, special tasks, as well as their overall demeanour throughout the trip. Visit www.rangerodyssey.com for more info!
N$79 900
87-year-old Chevrolet
A Middelburg farmer and an original 1928 Chevrolet recently hit the road to participate in the 46th annual Milligan Vintage Trial. Barney Marais, a former General Motors (GM) dealer, is the vehicle's custodian as it forms part of the heritage of the Williams Hunt Group. Built at the Port Elizabeth plant over 87 years ago, the Chevrolet is still in its original condition.
Auas Motors does it in style Auas Motors recently invited customers and members of the press to stylish launches celebrating the arrival of "the three Germans", Opel's new ADAM compact luxury hatchback, Corsa five-door hatchback and the compact SUV, Mokka (see cover and page 6). A glitzy evening function held at Auas Motors' Windhoek headquarters saw the unveiling of the new Mokka with special guest Tim Hendon of GMSA introducing the many features of the new Opel models. A few days later, all the three Germans were lined up on Tony Rust race track for a hands-on and very exciting evaluation. Other vehicles from sister brands Chevrolet and Isuzu were also ready to be put through their paces while ace driving instructor Grant McCleery with his team also assisted drivers in the off-road arena where the tough Chevrolet Trailblazer showcased its impressive capabilities.
N$20 000 2001 Renault Scenic 1.6 was N$35 000 now N$20 000
Ooh look, a penny!
Spirit of Africa Trophy
2010 Fiat Linea 1.4 Emotion was N$99 900 now N$79 900
S.A. Office: +27 21 813 6655 info@galimoto.co.za
N$90 000
N$125 000
2008 VW Caddy 1.6 PV was N$100 000 now N$90 000
2008 Isuzu 14 Seater was N$139 900 now N$125 000
2 Otjitenda Street (off Platinum Street) Prosperita, Windhoek Tel: (061) 258 840 / 1 www.autoworldtradecentre.com Wessel: 081 242 9942 Eduan: 081 332 2792
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is taking the Spirit of Africa Trophy to an international stage, by inviting teams from Australia, Namibia and Botswana to compete against South African winners in the inaugural Spirit of Amarok international competition in Botswana from 13 to 17 September 2015. "We have taken a decision to go international with the Spirit of Africa Trophy to mark our six years of sponsorship, as well as eleven years of the competition by inviting teams from our neighbouring countries, Namibia and Botswana and our sport arch-rivals Australia," said Jaco Steenekamp, General Manager: Sales and Marketing for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. Each country will be represented by five teams, each comprising two people that will be showcasing their technical off-road driving skills in the toughest 4x4 challenge in Africa.
Hino armoured vehicles SBV, a leading cash solutions and services company, recently took delivery of the 207th Hino 815-based unit built by Ballistic Armour Technology in an initial order for these latest, third generation cash-in-transit vehicles. This is in line with its strategy of remaining focussed on developing a fleet of specialised vehicles that are reliable, convenient to operate and technologically advanced. SBV employs more than 4,500 people and currently operates a fleet of 1,000 vehicles of which almost 800 are armoured. The company is equally owned by Standard Bank, ABSA, FirstRand (FNB) and Nedbank and operates from a national footprint of 33 centres in all nine provinces in South Africa. It also operates in Namibia, Lesotho and Nigeria (a joint venture with XL Cash Management Services and named Integrated Cash Management Services).
AUG / SEP 2015
NAMWHEELS
NEW METAL & MORE NEWS
Blue pill or red pill? This is Audi's new A4.
HONDA's new HR-V has arrived result is a unique offering in this highly competitive segment. At the same time, the Honda HR-V retains all the coveted hallmarks of the Honda brand, including innovation, tactile quality, reassuring safety and an engaging motoring experience. The new Honda HR-V is available with a choice of two efficient petrol engines, both linked to a new-generation, Earth Dreams technology CVT (Constantly Variable Transmission). Regardless of engine, drive is to the front wheels.
AUDI previews the next A4 Safety is comprehensively addressed via an extensive array of passive and active safety systems. Passive measures include six airbags, head restraints, inertia reel seatbelts for all seats, and Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure. Pricing starts at N$299,900 (1.5 Comfort model) and is inclusive of a three-year / 100,000km warranty and a 4-year / 60,000km service plan, as well as a one-year AA roadside assistance package. Services are at 15 000km intervals.
The new-generation Audi A4 and Avant are an impressive synthesis of technology and aesthetics. All the technology in the brand’s bestselling family has been redeveloped so that it yet again defines the benchmark in the segment. During the development work, high priority was placed on the reduction of CO2 emissions and fuel consumption. Compared with the previous model, the car’s dimensions have grown but its weight decreased significantly – by up to 120kg.
The body of the new models is one of the lightest in its class thanks to an intelligent material mix and lightweight construction. The new Audi A4 offers an abundance of intelligent technologies like the Audi virtual cockpit, Matrix LED headlights, Audi smartphone interface, Bang & Olufsen Sound System, head-up display, driver assistance systems and Audi connect services. Details for Southern Africa will be announced closer to its local launch which is expected to be in 2016.
Vroom Vroom! 110kW of get-out-of-my-way
OPEL releases sporty Corsa A resurgent Opel continues a new product offensive which began locally with the ADAM, Corsa and Mokka. The next addition to the new Germans is a derivative of the new Opel Corsa, a 5 door 110kW hatchback aimed at the enthusiastic driver. The Corsa Sport slots in just above the three-cylinder 1.0Litre turbo-charged Cosmo model and rounds off a Corsa line-up of five models; namely the 1.0T Cosmo, 1.0T ecoFLEX Enjoy, 1.0T Essentia and 1.4 six-speed Automatic. The new model is a dynamic and versatile hatch equipped
LEXUS RC
The new V-Class - bunch of kids not included
MERCEDES-BENZ V-Class DONG! Die klokkie lui vir Toyota se Fortuner.
TOYOTA se nuwe Fortuner wys sy gesig Die splinternuwe Toyota Fortuner maak sy lank verwagte wêreldbuiging. Die nuwe Fortuner spreek van praktiese eienskappe soos ’n moderne nuwe stilering, bykomende weelde-toerusting en ’n verfynde rit terwyl sy kenmerkende krag en opregte veelterrein-vermoë behoue bly. Die Fortuner se herkoms is interessant: die sportnutsweergawe van die Hilux het sy eerste lewenslig in 1998 met die bekendstelling van die Hilux Sport Rider wat in Thailand gebou is, aanskou. Die voertuig is aanvanklik net in sekere suidoos-Asiese lande bemark.
Hierdie Toyota model het sy wêreldbuiging in 2005 gemaak (hy is in 110 lande verkoop en in elf lande vervaardig) en het begin om hom van sy Hilux-stalmaat te onderskei. Die nuweling is "Fortuner" gedoop en regoor die wêreld vir sy indrukwekkende gehalte, duursaamheid, betroubaarheid en veldryvermoë geprys. Die Fortuner-naam herroep ’n beeld van ’n sterk dog aktiewe voertuig wat dit moontlik maak om grense maklik oor te steek en mense regoor die wêreld te beïndruk. Die hergebore Fortuner ssal heel gepas van 16 Julie 2015
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*One of these would look good in front of your house, wouldn't it? Please confirm local availability, prices and specs with your nearest Namibian dealership(s)
HR-V = Hi-rider Revolutionary Vehicle
An all-new urban crossover joins the Honda product lineup this month. Previewed at this year's Geneva Motor Show, the new Honda HR-V's arrival in local showrooms coincides with its European debut, and promises to shake up the crossover segment. While most contenders in this segment reflect a scaleddown SUV approach, the new HR-V combines the sleek aesthetics of a coupéinspired design with the rugged attitude of a sports utility vehicle, and the space and versatility of a MPV. The
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af in Thailand te koop wees, en die eerste volwaardige nuwemodel-verandering maak sy Suid-Afrikaanse buiging in 2016. Volgens Calvyn Hamman, Senior Vise-President van Verkope en Bemarking vir Toyota Suid-Afrika Motors, was die ontwerp-opdrag eenvoudig: “Ontwerp ’n Fortuner wat op die gebied van styl en voorkoms mede-dingend sal wees en wat getrou aan sy ware sportnutskenmerke en opregte vierwielverrigting sal bly". Die nuwe Toyota Fortuner sal plaaslik in die tweede kwartaal van 2016 bekend gestel word.
Mercedes-Benz is redefining the Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) segment with the new V-Class. As the youngest and largest member of the passenger car family from Mercedes-Benz, the V-Class sets new benchmarks in this segment with its design and host of innovations. The new V-Class combines room for up to eight people and exemplary functionality with classy appeal, comfort, efficient driving enjoyment and safety. This MercedesBenz is the perfect vehicle for those who appreciate space but do not want to sacrifice style and comfort. Whether travelling with the whole family, heading out for a mountain bike holiday with friends or driving prominent guests to a red carpet event the new V-Class provides optimum flexibility when it comes to use of the luxurious interior.
With three equipment lines: Standard, BlueTEC and BlueTEC AVANTGARDE, an Exterior Sports package and an Interior Design package available for each line, and a host of optional extras, the VClass can be tailored to suit any requirement or taste. It is just as attractive to families as it is to people who need space and versatility for leisure activities. In addition, it's ideally suited as a luxury VIP or hotel shuttle. "With the V-Class, under the Mercedes-Benz Vans stable, we offer a MPV with versatility, comfort and style, all in one eye-catching p a c k a g e . T h e va r i a b l e interior and unmatched driving experience ensure that its advanced levels of safety and efficiency are enjoyed by our customers," says Nicolette Lambrechts, Vice-President: MercedesBenz Vans.
Wat maak die Lexus RC uniek? Midde die gebruik van gedeelde onderstelle is dit ’n vars verandering – die motor is van die begin af as dinamiese koepee ontwerp, en nie as 'n tweedeurweergawe van ’n bestaande sedan nie. Die gevolg is ’n doelgeboude onderstel wat stewig en sterk genoeg is om sy sportiewe dog soepel vering te huisves.
VW Scirocco The Scirocco range has been given power upgrades with the introduction of two new engines. The entry engine, 1.4 TSI (118kW) has been replaced with the 2.0 TSI 132kW engine. Meanwhile, the 2.0 TSI 155kW is now fitted with the new Golf GTI 2.0 TSI engine that delivers 162kW. The latter also gets the exclusive GTS interior and exterior trim.
with a 1.4L turbo-charged ecoTEC engine boasting 110kW at 5,000rpm and 220Nm torque at 3,000rpm. The 1.4 Turbo weighs just 118kg and features a cast iron block and aluminium cylinder head. "Opel's engineers have done an outstanding job with Corsa Sport. It's an exciting vehicle which looks good without being over the top and of course the driving dynamics exhibit the key characteristics we've come to expect of all our new Germans," said Christopher Cradock, Brand Manager at Opel.
KIA Sedona First introduced in 1998 as the KIA Carnival, KIA’s large MPV offering – now known as the Grand Sedona in South Africa – has been completely reinvented for its third iteration and is set to take customers to a place where superior design and smart features combine with a deep understanding of practical needs. It's available with seven or 11 seats.
488 Spider Ferrari just launched the 488 Spider, its most powerful ever mid-rear-engined V8 car to feature the patented retractable hard top along with the highest level of technological innovation and cutting-edge design. The 3,902cc turbo-charged V8 produces 492kW and 760Nm. 0-100km/h takes 3 seconds flat and top speed is 325km/h.
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NAMWHEELS
AUG / SEP 2015
LAUNCH REPORT
Volvo
Shopping
*Please check all prices with your nearest dealer
around for an efficient SUV or 7-Seater? Volvo just made your choice very easy.
Volvo is known for building safe, reliable family cars and their big seven-seater XC90 SUV has always typified this. While the outgoing model was still a great car, a wave of fresh design and new technology is sweeping through the Swedish manufacturer with this brandnew XC90 at the pointy end. This new model, introduced internationally last year, gets to South African and Namibian showrooms on 1 August and brings with it a host of firsts. Firstly, it points towards Volvo’s future design language with new signature “Thor’s Hammer” headlights and a more confident radiator grill with prominent Iron Mark logo. Another first is the use of four-cylinder turbo-charged petrol or diesel “Drive-E” engines, making XC90’s a cleaner and more powerful seven-seater SUV. This range is also the first to be based on Volvo’s S.P.A. (Scalable Product Architecture) platform which will also host future models. The next innovation is IntelliSafe, a system which automatically brakes for unseen intersection traffic and also detects if the car has left the road; at which point it goes into full passenger protection mode. This is on top of City Safety Auto Brake with vehicle, pedestrian and cyclist detection. As part of Volvo’s Vision 2020 – that nobody should die or be seriously injured in a Volvo by that year – XC90’s also offer lane keeping assistance, driver alert systems, whiplash protection, cross traffic alert, rear crash lessening, road sign detection, pre-tensioners in all seats, blind spot assist and active roll stability control. Should a vehicle roll-over be imminent, inflatable curtain airbags will shield all three rows momentarily. High-tech convenience features include autonomous Queue Assist (for creeping forward in slow traffic), Park Assist Pilot (which will park the car for you) or the 360° camera which give you a bird’s eye view of the vehicle. Inside the new XC90, the novelties just keep coming. SENSUS is what the Swedes call their new user interface which looks and reacts like a mediumsized tablet.
Depending on the selected model, a sound experience module by audio gurus Dirac Research allows you to set intensity and surround levels of your source.
All this can be connected to the 19speaker Bowers&Wilkins sound system (optional on some models) driven by a 12-channel 1,400W Class D amplifier. These top-drawer British loudspeakers use (visible) Kevlar mid-range cones, a central tweeter on the dashboard and a chassis-mounted, air-ventilated subwoofer. Another first.
You can also fiddle with the focus point (driver, all, rear), tone levels and pre-set acoustic sceneries including Gothenburg Concert Hall, stage or studio.
Volvo most certainly achieved its brief of “Relaxed Confidence” from a ride and comfort point of view. Optional air suspension and five drive modes allow you to exploit the
Set vertically in the center of the dashboard, it not only unclutters the surrounding areas but also adds many new features.
new S.P.A. platform’s capabilities, while a diagonal compound leaf spring at the back reduces clutter and improves interior space. After a few drives at the local launch, I can certainly vouch for the new XC90’s exceptional ride, handling, space, power, efficiency and comfort but my favourite was the exquisite interior. The quality and fit of all elements are superb, wood looks like wood, metal feels like metal and the instruments are fully digital.
Text Hanjo Stier Images Volvo Cars South Africa
As with every Volvo, the seats are extremely comfortable and there are tasty details hidden around the cabin. XC90’s can be had with diamond-pattern knobs, three interior colours and various trim items, 11 exterior colours, 19 to 21-inch wheels, Xenon or LED headlights and an Orrefors glass gear selector in the T8.
makes its local debut next year. All XC90’s feature an intelligent AllWheel-Drive system; except the front-wheel-drive D4 models.
Typing of which, Volvo currently offers the D5 (from N$860,000) and T6 (from N$875,000) with D4 and T5 arriving later this year. The Twin Engine, 300kW, petrol-electric T8
Forgive me if I’m about to sound like a sales person but if you’re in the market for a big SUV with seven seats, you’d be completely mad to ignore the new Volvo XC90.
The XC90 has always been a great 7-seater SUV, this new version adds buckets of innovative features while pushing the boundaries of technology and efficiency.
AUG / SEP 2015
NAMWHEELS
the NamWheels Welcome to one of NamWheels' regular features - our list of top 5 car-related items.
top5
So you live in Tsumeb but work in Okahandja? Don't fear, we've made a list of cars that can go the furthest on one filling of the tank. You know, when the fuel attendant does that whole click-click filled to the nozzle trick. Of course we need to remind you that these figures are based on claimed consumption and tank figures, your results may vary and depend entirely on driving style, load and prevailing conditions. If you're a high miler though, this list is a good start. Feel free to send us comments or feedback: info@namwheels.com
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RANGE RUNNERS
Volvo S60 D4 1,630km
A well-deserved first place which everyone at NamWheels can confirm. We clocked up almost 1,000km with a Volvo S60 D4 press car and it was far from dry. To avoid the S60's small boot, go for the excellent V60 Estate.
BMW 520d 1,555km
Although we haven't tested this engine in this body (yet), the smaller 320d already showed us how far it can go on one tank filling - see column on the right. If you need more power, also consider the 530d.
Volvo V40 D3 1,550km
The D2 entry-level we tested easily passed 1,000km but has a smaller tank than a D3. It's also a bit pap. Go for this D3 to remedy all that but whichever V40 you choose will be good to drive and easy on the eye, too.
Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dCi Acenta 1,545km
Good news. The Nissan Qashqai may have the world's most misspelled car name but it's actually great to drive. The little 1.5 turbodiesel sukkels at low revs or with load but will be very frugal on a steady cruise.
Mercedes-Benz E250 CDI 1,535km
The three-pointed star isn't far behind its Bavarian rival in terms of tech and spec. The more powerful E350 CDI just tops 1,100km. Need more space? We also got 1,000km plus out of the CLS250 CDI and ML250 BlueTEC.
SMALLER STUFF Can't afford one of these cars with their big tanks? Don't you dispair, neither can we. Smaller vehicles which should all be able to crack 1,000km: Audi A1 TDi CitroĂŤn C3 eHDI Ford Fiesta 1.6 TDCi Toyota Yaris / Auris HSD Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion Volkswagen Golf TDi Volkswagen Polo / Sedan TDi
DISCLAIMER
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ALSO CONSIDER Audi A3 1.6 TDi Audi A4 2.0 TDi Audi A5 / A6 2.0 TDi Audi A8 3.0 TDi BMW 320d BMW 420d BMW 530d BMW 640d BMW 730d CitroĂŤn DS3 e-HDi Ford Tourneo 2.2 TDCi Jaguar XJ 3.0 V6 D Mercedes-Benz A220 CDI Mercedes-Benz B200 CDI Mercedes-Benz CLS250 CDI Mercedes-Benz ML250 BlueTEC Mercedes-Benz S350 CDI Peugeot 308 2.0 HDi Peugeot 508 2.0 HDi Porsche Cayenne eHybrid Porsche Panamera TD V6 Range Rover TDV6 Range Rover SDV8 Toyota Corolla 1.4 D-4D Volkswagen CC 2.0 TDi Volkswagen Jetta 1.6 TDi Volkswagen Passat TDi VW Polo BlueMotion VW Touareg 3.0 TDi Volvo V40 D2 Volvo S60 / V60 D5
1,410km 1,400km 1,320km 1,390km 1,295km 1,210km 1,370km 1,270km 1,425km 1,295km 1,230km 1,260km 1,270km 1,215km 1,310km 1,430km 1,300km 1,225km 1,500km 1,220km 1,230km 1,400km 1,205km 1,220km 1,345km 1,220km 1,250km 1,320km 1,350km 1,440km 1,405km
These results are based on manufacturer figures of claimed average consumption (and tank size) and may vary with driving style, load, road and environmental conditions.
2013 Toyota Bus 2.7 10-seater, 95 000km
N$285 000
2013 Ford Figo 1.4 H/B 35 000km
N$115 000
2012 Volkswagen Golf 6 N$210 000 1.6 TDi BlueMotion, 96 000km
2011 Toyota Hilux 3.0 N$285 000 D4D D/Cab, 156 000km
2011 Suzuki Jimny 1.3 73 000km
N$145 000
2010 Mercedes-Benz N$220 000 C180 Avantgarde A/T, 111 000km
2010 Polo 1.4 H/B N$120 000 Comfortline, 119 000km
2012 Kia Picanto 1.0 H/B N$75 000 83 000km
2012 Hyundai Elantra 1.8 GLS, 87 000km
N$160 000
2011 Kia Sportage AWD N$250 000 96 000km
2011 VW Polo 1.6 H/B 95 000km
2013 Toyota Etios 1.5 H/B, 54 000km
N$135 000
N$115 000
c/o John Meinert & Mandume Ndemofayo Tel (061) 249 690
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Audi
ROAD TEST
AUG / SEP 2015
NAMWHEELS
Mokka
Opel
Die derde van die Duitse drietal is hier - Opel se nuwe Mokka!
In Europa is hy nie meer nuut nie, en was al aan die einde van 2012 te koop waar hy goeie sukses gehad het met verkope van meer as 240,000 eenhede in 2014. Volgens Opel plaas hulle die Mokka tussen die B en die C-segment en is hy dus in kompetisie met heelwat ander fabrikate. Mokka is die derde model van Opel in Suid-Afrika van "die drie Duitsers” na die onlangse bekendstelling van die nuwe Corsa en Adam. Waar daar heelwat keuses in Europa te koop is, kry SuidAfrika net die turbo petrol-
enjin met voorwielaandrywing maar wel twee keuses van afwerking, naamlik Enjoy en die meer luukse Cosmo. Met albei hierdie opsies kan die keuse tussen handrat of outomaties gemaak word. Van buite lyk die Opel Mokka modern en kompak met die tipiese voorkoms van ‘n SNV. Voor is daar dagry ligte en misligte voor en agter. Binne is die afwerking baie goed en gee ‘n gevoel van kwaliteit met voldoende ruimte vir vier groot rugby voorryspelers.
en Enjoy het klimaatbeheer, elektriese vensters, spoedbeheer asook verhitte en opvoubare kant-spieëls. Verder het altwee ook Radio / CD met Bluetooth, USB, MP3 / AUX met ses luidsprekers en afstands-beheer vanaf die stuurwiel. Die meer luukse Cosmo is toegerus met ‘n tru-kamera, outomaties verstelbare truspieël, outomatiese ruitveërs en leer-oorgetrekte sitplekke.
Die bagasiebak is ‘n ruim 356L wat verder vergroot kan word na 785L met opslaan van die agterste sitplekke.
Mokka word aangedryf deur Opel se beproefde 1,4L turbo petrolenjin wat ook in ander Opels soos die Astra diens doen. Die enjin ontwikkel 103kW (4,900 tot 6,000rpm) en 200Nm wringkrag vanaf 1,850 tot 4,900rpm.
Die Mokka is toegerus met talle luukshede; beide Cosmo
Die voertuig word aangedryf met die voorwiele deur ‘n ses-
spoed handratkas of ‘n sesspoed outomatiese ratkas. Die Mokka is nie afgeskeep as dit by veiligheid kom met geen verskil tussen Enjoy en Cosmo nie. Albei is toegerus met ses lugsakke en ABS en stabiliteitsbeheer (ESP). Die rit is stewig en - teen normale snelhede - voel die Mokka veilig en in beheer. Daar is wel padgeraas op growwe teer, maar slegte dele soos slaggate en grondpaaie word met gemak handteer.
Daar is heelwat soortgelyke modelle soos die Opel Mokka deesdae op die mark. Dit is ‘n mark wat groei en baie kopers van B- of Csegment sedans of luikrug motors, wat meer spasie het en meer veelsydig is, kan die Mokka oorweeg. Direkte mededingers is b.v. beide Nissan se SNV, die Juke en Qashqai. Pryse van die vier keuses vir die Mokka is:
Enjoy het 215/60 R17 bande terwyl die duurder Cosmo 215/55 R18 bande gebruik.
Enjoy (handrat) - N$292,000
Opel gee gekombineerderde (stad en langpad) gemiddelde brandstofverbruik aan as 6L/100km vir die handrat weergawe en 6,6L/100km vir die outomatiese modelle.
Cosmo (h/rat) - N$328,500
tuis is in die stad of op die langpad - sien ons voorblad! My keuse sal val op die Enjoy met outomatiese ratte omdat dit soveel meer gemaklik is om te bestuur in ‘n stedelike omgewing met die baie verkeer en die baie stoppe. Al is dit die intreemodel is dit beslis nie afgeskeep wat sy luukshede en veiligheid betref nie. Die waarborg en diensplan wat saam met elke Mokka verkoop word is 5 jaar of 120,000km en ‘n diensplan van 5 jaar of 90,000km.
Enjoy (outo.) - N$300,000 Verder is daar ‘n anti-roes waarborg van 5 jaar sonder die beperking van kilometres.
Cosmo (outo.) - N$337,000 Die Mokka is ‘n lekker, luukse veelsydige voertuig wat ewe
Diensintervalle vir Opel se Mokka is elke 15,000km of elke 12 maande.
*Please check all prices with your Namibian dealership(s)
Mokka is Opel se eerste subkompakte SNV (sportnutsvoertuig) en is sedert einde Maart 2015 in die vertoonkamers.
Text Johan Mouton Images General Motors South Africa
AUG / SEP 2015 LAUNCH REPORT
NAMWHEELS
Hyundai
PAGE 7
7
Turbo
Veloster
Hyundai se nuwe Veloster Turbo is 'n Ster met Snelheid!
Maar wat is eintlik in ‘n naam? William Shakespeare het die vraag al gevra toe Engels nog in sy kinder-skoene was! Wat ek graag wil aflei is dat die “velo” gedeelte van die naam met spoed te doen het, so iets soos die Engelse “velo-city”. Die toets vir enigiets, van kaas tot wyn, is nie die naam wat op die bottel of die verpakking staan nie maar hoe dit proe. Dieselfde geld al hoe meer vir motors; die vorm van die logo op die sierrooster is nie ‘n waarborg dat hy noodwendig goed of nie so goed is nie, dit is die motor se verrigting wat tel, veral by ‘n sportiewe motor soos die Veloster. Die Veloster is nou al ‘n jaar of drie by ons op die mark, die
motor wat van die een kant af lyk soos ‘n egte gran turismo toermotor en van die sypaadjiekant af soos ‘n vinnige, plat sportsedan. Die Veloster is in hierdie opsig uniek; soos sy koper: Iemand anders as die ander in die buurt. Die glanspunte van hierdie nuwe Hyundai is sy 1,6-liter turbo-petrolenjin, die keuse van twee ratkaste, verbeterde binne-afwerking en dinge soos die dubbele uitlaatpype en die versnelling van 0-100km/h in 7,3 wat die koppe sal laat draai – en ook swaai.
Die nuwe eenheid ontwikkel 150kW teen 6,000rpm en stel 265Nm beskikbaar tussen ‘n baie rustige 1,750 en 4,500rpm. Dit beteken goeie krag; en lae geraasvlakke. Of is dit hoe ‘n mens nie ‘n sportiewe motor bestuur nie? Ongeag die bestuurstyl is die Veloster Turbo wakker en doen wat van ‘n sportmotor verwag word. Die ratkas is natuurlik dié plek waar dinge gebeur as ‘n mens haastig raak. Die handratkas beskik oor ses gange en die outomatiese een oor sewe.
Hierdie syfers is beslis tekens van die ontwikkeling wat in die ratkasbedryf plaasgevind het. Soveel so dat die brandstofverbruik van die outo-model ook laer is as dié van die handrat. Hoekom dan nog handratmodelle koop terwyl daar in Amerika feitlik geen handratmodelle op die mark is nie? Die antwoord is seker maar die mag van die gewoonte, veral by sulke verrigtingmodelle waar die bestuurder wil voel dat hy alleen besluit wat die beste rat is om in te wees!
Sit goeie hantering, suspensie en stuurstelsel by en die resep is ‘n wenner. Vra maar vir die joernaliste wat hom met die onlangse bekendstelling om die draaie in Bolandse passe gelooi het.
Die verskil in verrigting tussen die handrat en outomatiese weergawes is onkonvensioneel: die handrat haal ‘n maksimum snelheid van 224km/h, die outo 225km/h.
As ‘n ouer persoon wat nou self ‘n outomatiese ratkas verkies vir die daaglikse stilstaan in spitsverkeer, het selfs ek die handrat-weergawe verkies vir juis daardie gevoel.
Die kenmerk van die GDI turboenjin is sy kraglewering wat hom laat uitstyg bó die van sy voorganger wat 103kW en 167Nm beskikbaar gestel het.
By versnelling met die outomodel is hy ‘n fraksie van ‘n sekonde vinniger om in 7,3 sekondes van 0-100km/h te versnel.
Mens weet nog steeds beter as die rekenaar wat hierdie soort van dinge beheer as die draaie met entoesiasme geneem word.
Die groot pluspunt in Hyundai se Veloster Turbo-ervaring was dat ek weer soos ‘n twinigjarige gevoel het! Ander dinge wat tot die sportiewe gevoel bydra is die uitstekende suspensie waar die bandgrootte (18 duim), die fermheid van die mikvere voor en wringstaafsuspensie agter almal in harmonie saamwerk.
Nadele?
Die elektries-beheerde kragstuur is akkuraat en het presies die regte gevoel om nie dood of oorywering te wees nie - die pad word op die regte manier “gevoel”.
Mooi dinge?
Ons het nie die sitplekke agter getoets nie en op die oog-af lyk die Veloster Turbo nie na ‘n vyfpersoon voertuig nie. Daar is wel ‘n noodwiel maar dit is 15” en van die dun tipe om plek in die bagasiebak te spaar.
Veloster Turbo het ‘n 5-jaar of 150,000km waarborg en sluit ‘n 5-jaar / 90,000km diensplan in. Pryse?
Wat van die res? Al die elektroniese veiligheidseienskappe en hulp-middels is daar, die leser ken die rympie al by hiedie tyd: ABS, EBD en BA. Laasgenoemde beteken dat maksimum remkrag in ‘n noodgeval beskikbaar sal wees; nog ‘n nuttige hulpmiddel is wegtrekhulp teen ‘n opdraand. Dit is veral handig as iemand moet uitpasseer vir ‘n bestuurlisensie.
Die handrat Veloster 1,6 GDI Elite gaan jou N$383,000 uit die sak jaag (ons keuse) en die DCT outo N$402,000. Naskrif: Het so pas gehoor van Hyundai tydrenmotors wat die tweede en derde plekke in die wêreldreeks in Italië verwerf het. Hulle deel dieselfde enjin met hierdie Veloster, net heelwat “warmer”!
Early Spring Deals!
No Deposit | Prime Less 1% | 60 months Windhoek Showroom c/o Lazarett & Patterson Street, Windhoek. Tel 061 249 341 Swakopmund Showroom c/o Edison & Nelson Mandela Street, Swakopmund. Tel 064 40 6293 Keetmanshoop Showroom Ferro Street, Keetmanshoop. Tel 063 22 5141 Ongwediva Showroom Tel 065 235 205
Terms & conditions apply.
www.hyundainamibia.com www.facebook.com/HyundaiNamibia
*Please check all prices with your Namibian dealership(s)
Dit lyk partykeer of name vir motors begin opraak. Neem maar die naam wat Hyundai gekies het vir sy sportkoepee met die nuwe, 150kW turboenjin, die Veloster.
Text Dr Hans Heese Images Hyundai South Africa
8
PAGE 8
Volkswagen
LAUNCH REPORT
Golf SV
Bigger
*Please check all prices with your Namibian dealership(s)
certainly means better in the case of the new, supersized Golf
Although we are blessed with a multitude of cars – some may even argue abundance – there are some models which we don’t get here. Next to any left-hand-drive examples, quite a few sub-species don’t always make it to our local shores. One such car was the Volkswagen Golf Plus.
Volkswagen demonstrated the cargo room versatility to us by placing the removable parcel shelf in a pre-moulded slot under the boot floor. The rear seat backs can fold in a 40-20-40 arrangement for all shapes and kinds of loads with the full cargo area turning Golf SV into any estate car’s nightmare.
I’ve used the word “was” for two reasons; firstly, VW South Africa has finally decided to bring in the third edition and secondly, the bigger Golf is now called a Golf SV (short for Sports Van). You've just read the simplest explanation of what this car is – a larger version of the Golf.
Under the boot floor you’ll also find a full-size alloy spare wheel which can be removed to make room for a VW bicycle rack. Clever. Very clever. Half my friends are obsessed with mountain bicycles and the other half won’t touch a car if it doesn’t have a full spaarwiel.
If you’re comically inclined, imagine a Wile E Coyote setup where a shot of compressed air goes up a regular Golf’s tailpipe. Poof, job done. I could end this text now, throw in a reference to the Jumbo Golf (MkII) and meep-meep down the sunset-drenched road but there’s way more that I need to tell you. Based on the multi-vehicle MQB platform, SV has a superior wheel base among its many larger dimensions but doesn’t share a single body panel with its namesake. The only similarities are badges, wheels, some interior trim, switches and buttons. Most of which you’ll also find on other VW’s. The grand plan is, of course, added space and better functionality as well as improved visibility on the already superbly capable Golf's basis. All the other desirable VW characteristics like build quality, safety and ease of use have not only been retained but improved on. Golf SV also has a higher driving position. Its looks are highly commendable as every SV casts a few hints to its parent but has an own identity with chiselled good looks, modern light clusters, crisp detailing and prominent shoulder line. It sure doesn’t look like a Golf that’s been at the bottom of a lake too long. Panel gaps and paint quality are on the usual excellent standards due to SV being built next to other Volksie brethren at the mother ship in Wolfsburg. As for its cabin, any untrained eyes may immediately mistake it with that of a Golf but the keen observer will notice how everything has been puffed-up. Grown a bit.
Text Hanjo Stier Images Volkswagen of South Africa
Visit vw.co.za and join facebook.com/vwsa
The New Golf SV. Life Sized.
Other notable goodies are front seat drawers and a 1.5L bottle holder in each door. Standard equipment depends on the model bought but all Golf SV’s have decent base specifications which include numerous driver aids, seven airbags, comfort and infotainment items, as well as multi-collision brake assistance. Cheaper models ship without some colour coding and shiny trim, seat adjustments and other goodies but provide good value with SV pricing roughly N$15,000 above the equivalent Golf. A 3-year / 120,000km warranty and 5-year / 90,000km service plan are included. I drove only TFSi models on the launch but sampled both gearboxes in various conditions; they are outstanding. The Golf SV’s road manners are exemplary for family transport – comfortable, quiet and predictable. As can be expected, it drives like a slightly taller Golf and with its keen pricing the two nearest and newest German rivals can’t match this car spec-to-spec at VW’s sticker prices.
Boasting larger proportions and a spaciously reimagined interior, the New Golf SV is as versatile on the inside as its exterior suggests. Enhanced head- and legroom translates into heightened comfort, while flexible 60/40 foldable rear seats with tilt, slide and reclining function ensure added functionality. Legendary Golf build quality and an exquisite design make for an exterior that is entirely reimagined, yet unmistakably iconic. Add to that intelligent storage solutions, class-leading safety features and a 500L luggage capacity that expands to 1520 litres, and the New Golf SV is built for living life to the full.
Throughout my interaction with the car I was reminded of my cousin, a Volkswagen fan who carts her kids around in a Touran. That little van will get sufficient distance from Golf SV with seven seats for all new models; which makes this Golf SV the perfect next car for cuzzie and her brood.
New Golf SV.
That brings me back to my initial point. The Golf SV should’ve arrived here much sooner. 1.2 TSI
Dials, screens, knobs, handles, materials are all familiar but you’ll notice that the dashboard is deeper to accommodate the SV’s bigger windscreen. The next two evident improvements are rear leg room (with seats that can slide 18cm) and the slightly more cavernous boot which can swallow a class-leading 500L.
AUG / SEP 2015
NAMWHEELS
1.4 TSI
Trendline
1.4 TSI
2.0 TDI
2.0 TDI
Comfortline
6-speed Manual
6-speed Manual
7-speed DSG
5-speed Manual
7-speed DSG
81kW
92kW
92kW
81kW
81kW
Prices in N$ (excl. VAT)
Autohaus Windhoek 4 Edison Street, Windhoek, Tel. 061 414200 www.vw.com.na
256,579 284,813 298,770 301,131 313,468 O&M CAPE TOWN 81674/E
AUG / SEP 2015
Audi
ROAD TEST
NAMWHEELS
Renault
PAGE 9
9
Captur
'n Fransman om in die Kaap mee te toer!
Die mark vir kleinerige motors met ‘n voorkoms wat lyk of hulle nog die goeie ou grondpaaie van die vorige eeu kan en wil baasraak, is een van die gewilde dele van die motormark wat net groei en groei en groei. Boonop kom dit voor of motorvervaardigers nou selfs binne hulle eie vertoonlokale ‘n geveg van variante en prysklasse van motors wat hulle logo dra, voer. Renault is een van die vervaardigers wat 'n binnegeveg aan die gang het. Die Renault Captur is basies ‘n Clio wat in hoogte gegroei het om hom méér as net nog ‘n dorps- en teerpadmotor te wees sodat ‘n vakansie op ‘n afgeleë plaas naby Warmbad in Namibië binne die vermoë van die Captur kan wees. Dit is die goeie nuus gedeelte as ons (ouer lesers) terug dink aan die dae
wat ons met heelwat ouer motors paaie met middelmannetjies te doen gekry het en jy gedurig die krap- en skraapgeluide onder die bak in spanning afgewag het. Die Captur se grondvryhoogde is 5cm hoër as die van die gewone Clio en bring dit op 17cm te staan. Maar as jy baie gaan grondpad ry is die twee ander Renaults, die baie suksesvolle Sandero Stepway en die Duster, eintlik dië wat jy gaan kies; hulle grondvryhoogtes is 19cm en 21cm onderskeidelik. En dan is daar nog van die Nissan nefies ook wat die keuse nog moeiliker gaan maak! So wat is die Renault Captur dan eintlik? En wie gaan hom koop? Ons kan wegtrek met die Franse stilering en "flair". Voorkoms is belangrik en eerste indrukke tel; die Captur lyne en moderne voorkoms, en veral vir verdere indruk die 17” allooiwiele, is goed en blywend. Vrouens se menings gaan beslis die deurslag gee as hierdie gesinsmotor gekoop gaan word. Alles wat daar
moet wees, is daar. Dit sluit ‘n navigasiestelsel in asook al die musiekmoontlikhede wat deesdae standaard-toerusting in gesinsmotors is.
Onder die enjinkap is daar ‘n vier silinder 1,197cc petrol turbo-enjin wat 88kW teen 4,900opm onwikkel en ‘n baie deugsame 190Nm teen 2,000opm beskikbaar stel.
Die meeste jongmense dra deesdae hulle musiek saam op ‘n geheuestafie en sal die musiek uitsorteer voordat die veiligheidsgordel aangesit word.
Dit stel hom in staat om van 0100km/h binne 10,9 sekondes te versnel en die naald te laat draai by 192km/h. Vinnig genoeg om in ‘n noodtoestand die hospitaal betyds te haal.
Die Captur se binne-afwerking is tipies Europees, dit wil sê effens aan die donker kant omdat swart in die Noordelike Halfrond ‘n effek van (vermeende) kwaliteit of deftigheid gee; die amper somber voorkoms soos by Europese begrafnisse. Maar by die chic binnekant is die Franse ook prakties; die bekleedsel kan afgehaal en gewas word as daar vrag gedra word in plaas van mense. Of as daar koffie (of iets sterker) gemors word. Goeie punt hierdie. Ons toetsmodel was die vlagskip Dynamique met ‘n outomatiese dubbelkoppeling ratkas wat die krag na die voorwiele toe oordra.
Deesdae is geld maar aan die skaars kant en is die brandstofverbruik van 'n baie laë 5,4L/100km, soos deur die vervaardiger vir die gekombineerde siklus van stad en oopppad-ry, ‘n groot bonus. Tipies vanaf die dae wat Renault se klein Clio sy debuut hier gemaak het, is veilig-heidseienskappe die Reanult se groot pluspunt met lugsakke en sykussings ( lugsakke) langs die kante, standaardtoerusting. So ook al die moderne, elektroniese hulpmiddels soos ABS, EBD, EBA en ESC.
Veral laasgenoemde is baie belangrik vir diegene wat nie presies weet wat dit beteken nie: Die stelsel neem beheer oor as daar te vinnig in ‘n draai gery word, of as daar los gruis op die padoppervlakte is, en stuur die motor in die regte rigting deur remaksies wat milisekondes duur; vinniger as wat die bestuurder self kan uitvoer. Die Captur Dynamique met ‘n outomatiese ratkas kos N$288,035 en sluit ‘n diensplan van 3-jaar / 45,000km in asook ‘n waarborg van 5-jaar / 150,000km. Dienste moet elke 15,000km uitgevoer word. As die prys 'n bietjie aan die stywe kant is, is daar die handratmodel wat met ‘n 898cc 3-silinder turbo petrolenjin toegerus is en vir N$228,028 verkoop. Nadeel: minder krag en stadiger van die merk af. Voordeel: nog meer suinig met brandstof!
N$228 000 Vir diegene wat met altwee voete inspring, is die nuwe Renault Captur die perfekte manier om jou gees vrye voete te gee. Met die indrukwekkende F1 geïnspireerde turbo motor tegnologie om jou verder te neem en die Aanboord Navigasie sisteem, wat standaard in alle modelle is, sal hierdie alle terrein motor jou verder as alle grense neem. Daar is lewe daar buite... Kom pak dit aan! *NEDC Gekombineerde Brandstof Verbruik Siklus | Handelspryse in ooreenstemming met 5 Mei 2015 pryslys | Sluit "op-die-pad" kostes uit | Termes en voorwaardes van toepassing | Kenmerke is model-spesifiek en kan van mekaar verskil. Insluitend van 'n 5-jaar/150 000km Waarborg & 'n 3-jaar/45 000km Diensplan.
Renault Windhoek Tel: (061) 431 5000
Renault Swakopmund Tel: (064) 40 6293
Renault Keetmanshoop Tel: (063) 22 5414
*Please check all prices with your Namibian dealership(s)
Dit voel of daar elke week ten minste één nuwe motor en model op die mark vrygestel word. Een van die jongste modelle is die Renault Captur wat nou al half ou-nuus is.
Text Dr Hans Heese Images Galimoto Media
10
PAGE 10
AUG / SEP 2015
NAMWHEELS
Volvo
SPRINT REVIEW
Kia SOUL 1.6 DSL Smart
You need to know: Now in its second generation, the Kia Soul is a strange-looking box of a vehicle which is actually quite versatile and good to drive. With LED’s here, more space there and fresh drive trains, gen two retains the proportions of its ancestor (2009-2014) while upping specification levels.
Some more facts: Choose between 1.6 and 2L petrol or 1.6L Turbo-diesel in 6-speed manual or auto. We tested the top-of-the-range Diesel Auto, finished in lovely red for people called Pat who own a black and white cat.
Soul pricing ranges from N$261,000 to N$ 366,000 with a 5-year/150k warranty This new version scored four and 4-year/90k service plan. stars in the more stringent Euro NCAP crash test and Standard specifications and provides ABS brakes, six toys include air-con, remote airbags and active headrests central locking, auto lights, in all models. More expensive rear view camera, Bluetooth, and more powerful Souls get radio with USB/mp3/Aux electronic brake assistance, sound system, six speakers, vehicle stability control and three steering modes, trip computer, power windows hill-start assistance.
and power mirrors. Bigger models get better trim, snazzier lights, cruise control and extra storage solutions. Where we went: The local mini-grocer, a friend’s house and a raucous wedding deep in the countryside. Our press car provided ample room for four overdressed adults, it rode comfortably and had decent grip levels. The new turbo-Diesel is extremely eager, used an average of 7.7L/100km while the sixspeed auto is unbelievably smooth. You should watch out for: The Soul’s HID headlights are great, the halogen main/high
beams not so much. The big front door speakers oscillate through various colours or thump along to your music’s beat, although our test car suffered from terrible radio reception. Also, the driver’s footwell has an exposed steering rod. Why you’ll want one: Individuality and looks – everyone in our office fell in love with the Soul’s ease of use and characterful looks, never mind this top model’s punchy Diesel and smooth auto’box. There are plenty of suitably weird colours to choose from and don’t shy away from the cheaper petrol models.
Audi
SPRINT REVIEW
A6 1.8 TFSi
What you need to know: The Audi A6 is a medium luxury sedan which, while hugely popular overseas, joins its brethren from Mercedes and BMW in the local friend zone. Everyone respects them but buys their smaller brothers (A4, C-Class, 3-Series) while lusting after the big A8, SClass or Seven Series. Audi South Africa just gave its A6 range a refresher course and added this new 1.8 TFSi, a more affordable (N$630,000) model which should entice a few A4 customers to upgrade. At this point in time, they have even given this model a legup by removing everything except the S6 from their price lists. Some more facts: This fourth generation A6 was launched in 2011 and whereas most models feature the company’s venerable Quattro all-wheeldrive system, this entry-level specimen features only frontwheel-drive. Armed with intelligent stability control and electronic trickery, I had trouble telling the difference.
Visually, the recent update didn’t mess with the A6’s chiselled shoulder line and oh-so understated looks.
Thanks to this modern trend, and possibly because of space issues, the 1.8 TFSi only has a Marie Biscuit spare wheel.
New Bi-Xenon headlights and LED tail lamps spruce things up a bit while the interior is a solid and classy affair. Choose from 11 sober colours, nine wheel options, five interior colours and four trim options.
The car has decent base specs including safety and comfort features but Audi asks extra for any sportier bits, climate control, ambient lighting and audiophile speakers; amongst others.
What we did: Driving – quite a bit of it. I can’t quite recall where exactly the A6 took us but I can certainly vouch for the fact that every occupant arrived at their destination relaxed and happy.
Why you’ll want one: For starters, exclusivity! When last did you see an Audi A6? Secondly, like most entrylevel VWAG products, this A6 makes the most financial sense (in its range) and is good to drive. Not great, not exciting, just good. That also means quiet, nimble and efficient.
Our test car’s optional Matrix LED headlights were praised almost as often as the (also optional) MMI Touch system. You should watch out for: As is customary with sleek and fast machines these days, you can choose between low profile, ultra-low profile and painted-on profile tyres. Unless the roads you travel have mirror-smooth finishes, avoid the last two options in favour of better ride quality.
0-100km/h took 7.76 seconds and 400m fell in just 15.95 seconds but I much preferred the 1.8-litre’s beefy low- and mid-range torque coupled to seven smooth gears. Be gentle with it and it’ll even get close to its maker’s claim of 5.7L/100km. For a car this size, that deserves two big thumbs up from me.
*Keen on these? Please confirm these prices with your nearest Namibian dealership(s)
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AUG / SEP 2015
Audi
ROAD TEST
NAMWHEELS
PAGE 11
11
Land Cruiser Toyota
79-Series Double-Cab VX V8
Land Cruisers have quite a few uses - we put one to a rather strange test...
Text Hanjo Stier Images Galimoto Media
The more cars I review, the more obsessed I become with their purpose. What were they built for? Are they any good at it? This inevitably leads to a few more questions. Who buys such a car? And are they using it as intended? This, as I’ve explained before, makes me appreciate cars like the Toyota Land Cruiser 79. One look at this bulky beast leaves not a shred of doubt in the observer’s mind that this is a rather robust and utilitarian farm implement. Just a kilometre or so of driving confirms all these qualities as the (half-) leaf-sprung ride is jittery, the steering is ridiculous and the cabin has a scent of permanence about it. So, you most certainly don’t want to peddle this big tank between Jo’burg and Pretoria... and that’s precisely what I did. In my defence, I did request another vehicle for this little
sortie around Gauteng but was more than happy when this monster arrived instead. “At least no-one will cut me off in traffic” I thought, and boy was I right. Built like a brick you-knowwhat with a soft-ish but bulky front end and square metal bent into the shape of a load bed at the back, don’t people just get out of your way? Chunky 16-inch rubber on sturdy rims and 235mm of ground clearance ensure that you tower above and probably scare most city commuters. The frightened look on people's faces may also be one of sheer puzzlement. Why on earth would someone bring a 5.22m long, 1.95m high, 1.87m wide and 2.2 ton heavy beast into civilisation? In all probability, these cars and their noisy tyres would only buzz over tarmac if the farm / lodge ran low on supplies.
As much as I would’ve wanted to try that, time and work didn't allow me to take the big Cruiser to its natural habitat – the veld. I can just picture it lugging a few sheep around, trekking up a steep mountain (33° approach angle), wading through a river (700mm & snorkel) towing a huge trailer (max 3,500kg) or ploughing a field. Yup, sadly I did none of those fun things. Instead, this Land Cruiser 79 Double-Cab VX V8 was mostly used as support for supercar events. As you can see from the photo(s) above, even the owners of thoroughbred automobiles were so impressed by it that they happily lined up a photo-shoot for our "thorn among the roses". Besides the refreshing contrast of such a simple tool, I suspect that its beefy engine had a lot to do with the compliments and flirts which were being dished out in the general direction of this double cab.
4,461cc of raw DOHC V8 turbodiesel muscle provide you with 151kW (205hp) or 430Nm. That may not sound like very much but that last figure, the torque / twisting power of this motor, is on full song from an unbelievably low 1,200rpm. And believe you me, it’s true. I often coasted around corners in third or fourth gear, then simply squeezed the throttle at an indicated 800 or 900rpm. No major fuss, no shudders, no untoward noises. The big, lazy engine just starts accelerating with a relaxed kick around 1,400rpm. You can change up at 2,000rpm and it will keep pulling like a train but if you somehow feel the need to, the diesel lump will do around 4,000rpm with a howling V8 undertone. Should you find yourself in a spot of bother off-road, a lowrange transfer box and two
PS 3 LA ST JU M FRO
9 R239
differential locks will try their utmost to get you unstuck. Apologies again that I never tried it but I can report that this silver double-cab 'Cruiser worked jolly hard for a living, carrying plenty of supercarrelated cargo, fuel, spares and up to five people without even breaking a sweat. Other things I can tell you are that, despite not being blessed with the most stable ride, it happily cruises at 120km/h and picks up speed with the slightest of provocations. We should also caution against tight parking maneuvers as rear visibility is atrocious thanks to a small rear window and a big spare tyre right behind it. The instrument cluster has extra dials like battery voltage and oil pressure, something any farmer will appreciate. They may also enjoy the electrically adjustable aerial, “idle up” button, double-layer central
cubby box, two-stage folding rear seat/bench, simple airconditioning and even remote central locking. I’m not too sure if they’ll warm to the clever new touch-screen Bluetooth DVD navigation unit although I must stress that it is quite intuitive. There’s even a stern lady inside who tells you off when you’re speeding! Way more important are the 130L tank and claimed average consumption of 11.5L/100km, but it requires 50ppm Diesel. Right. Price time. A brand-new Toyota Land Cruiser 79-Series Double-Cab V8 VX costs exactly N$639,360 and comes with 3year/100,000km warranty. That may sound expensive but I think it’s worth every cent considering its size, capabilities and sensed indestructability. Even if you don’t use it for its intended purpose.
MAKE Toyota MODEL Land Cruiser D/C VX V8 ENGINE 4.5L V8 Turbo-Diesel 151kW 430Nm DRIVETRAIN 5-speed Manual, 4x4 ABS PERFORMANCE 0-100km/h: unknown 0-400m: unknown Max km/h: 160* CONSUMPTION 11.5L/100km avg.* TANK / RANGE 130L / 1,130km* BOOT SIZE Massive WARRANTY 3 years / 100,000km SERVICE PLAN unknown TYRE SIZE 265/70 R16 SPARE WHEEL 265/70 R16 PRICE N$639,360 (Aug. 2015) *Manufacturer claims. Vehicle kindly provided by Toyota South Africa
SUPERCAR DRIVING DAYS JAN' - FEB' 2016 IN DURBAN, PRETORIA OR CAPE TOWN Our exclusive supercar driving experiences are back, either at Dezzi Raceway in Durban, Pretoria's Zwartkops Raceway or at Cape Town's Killarney Raceway! Drive the car of your dreams from as little as R2399! Space is limited so we urge you to book this unique opportunity to drive one or more of these cars on the following dates: DEZZI (DURBAN) ZWARTKOPS (PRETORIA) KILLARNEY (CAPE TOWN)
9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24 January 2016 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20 February 2016 26, 27 February 2016
Also available: High-speed passenger hot laps in an Ariel Atom! Spectators welcome. *Guest Vehicles include BMW i8 and McLaren MP4-12C. Contact us today for more information:
+27 (0)21 813 6060 DRIVING | BOATING | FLYING | GOURMET | ADVENTURE | LIFESTYLE | SPA | ACCOMMODATION
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*Please note that this vehicle had different specifications - check these and prices with your nearest dealer.
SPEC SHEET
12
PAGE 12
COMPARISON
Audi
AUG / SEP 2015
NAMWHEELS
A4
H NamWheels and the amazing Audi A4 help you to answer a very important question...
I’ve always been petrol fan as diesels were nothing more than agricultural dinosaurs in my eyes; meant for trucks, busses, tractors, trains or ships. It wasn’t until a few years ago that their sudden upswing in refinement made me change my attitude. Time for a quick lesson: internal combustion engines use a highly explosive mixture of fuel and air to create controlled explosions, which drive a combination of pistons, valves, rods and gears to provide your car’s motion. Petrols and diesels both follow this concept but have some crucial differences.
Diesels have higher pressure (compression) so they don’t have spark plugs because the coarse liquid spontaneously combusts. The upside of this is superior twisting power (torque) while the downside is a lack of speed – the high pressure won’t allow it to rev as high as a petrol motor.
Why did I put y’all through this little lecture? Simple – we just tested two similar cars whose only difference was the fuel they require. A few weeks ago I drove an Audi A4 3.0 TDi (turbo-diesel) and recently I piloted an A4 3.0 TFSi (supercharged petrol).
In recent years, both applications benefitted from computerised engine management, direct and high-pressure injection, plus the rediscovered forced induction provided by superchargers or turbochargers. The latter has become a prerequisite for a modern diesel as the two make quite a cute couple.
Last-named has a 3-litre petrol V6 which is force-fed by a twinintercooled supercharger across its entire rev range to produce up to 200kW (272hp) or 400Nm. Its power delivery with torque vectoring is incredible (which surprised many a driver on the B1) with the only disadvantage being a slightly muted exhaust note.
Driven by exhaust gasses and prone to lagging, modern turbos are brilliantly complimented by a diesel’s low-speed clout. Petrol motors also take well to turbos; or the instant response of the perpetual supercharger to suit its love of higher revolutions.
Amazingly, the 3.0 TDi (turbodiesel V6, 180kW / 500Nm) we drove made quite a pleasing engine noise; and both cars use the 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox to viciously launch off the line, shift gears instantaneously or cruise at such low revolutions
that one passenger questioned the merits of the rev-counter. Although we couldn’t source both cars simultaneously, their looks and specs are basically identical. The chief differences will be your colour choice and the amount of ticks you make on the options list. As always, we highly recommend the big MMI infotainment system. Being of a quattro (four-wheeldrive) disposition, these cars require you to adapt to their lowspeed steering shuffle and fall in love with their incredible highspeed road holding. Ride comfort is commendable if slightly firm, steering feedback is good and the cabins are superbly built as both felt absolutely rock-solid. The diesel carries extra weight due its cast-iron engine block (to resist the higher pressures) and I felt it produced a little more under-steer before the Quattro
and computers stepped in. They both have huge boots, excellent brakes and a start/stop system but let’s not avoid the major issue any further: consumption. The petrol A4 has unbelievably good torque but uses more revs and thus more fuel to get going, resulting in our daily average of about 10L/100km (claimed 8.4) as opposed to the diesel’s eight (claimed 5.7). Both cars are limited to 250km/h and the petrol TFSi gets to 100km/h half a second faster (5.4). The TDi’s superior torque output trumps the TFSi’s pulling power in daily traffic, especially at low to medium revs. I desperately wanted to award our petrol car the prize for drivability but I simply can’t. They’re very close but I think the TDi takes the win. Power delivery is remarkably similar, the diesel sounds more gruff, is more fuel efficient and
For once heart and mind agree. Own a new Audi A4 at prime minus 5%
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even N$2,000 cheaper than the N$617,000 TFSi. Warranties (1year/unlimited-km) and service plans (5-year/100,000km) are also identical which is why *gulp* I would go for the diesel. I even wanted to declare the 3.0 TFSi as pointless but you need to consider two things. Firstly, 50ppm Diesel may not be readily available in the remote areas of our country and secondly, some people (like my better half) simply prefer the smooth and quiet petrol because they don't do the massive mileage that suits the more economical diesel. For those craving A4 style and refinement at a lower price, the 2-litre TDi or TFSi models range from N$433,000 to N$483,000 and are certainly worth a look! On top of that, Audi has an even more affordable A4 (the 1.8 TFSi starting at N$423,000) with an automatic or a more involving, manual gearbox.
*Please check all prices with your Namibian dealership(s)
Are we alone in the universe? Who shot JR? Can a man do the dishes without complaining? What’s the meaning of life? These may be important questions but they pale in comparison to the following: should you buy a diesel or petrol car?
Text Hanjo Stier Images Audi South Africa
AUG / SEP 2015
ROAD TEST
NAMWHEELS
PAGE 13
13
Grand Vitara Suzuki
Dune Edition
What strange taal is this? Visit www.galimoto.co.za to read this review in English
Geländewagen werden immer weicher - ist der Suzuki Grand Vitara das perfekte Gegenmittel?
Gute Bodenfreiheit (200mm), selbsttragende Federung, 29 Grad Ansatz-winkel, 27 Grad Abfahr-winkel und ein starker Leiterrahmen ließen diesen Wagen spielerisch über unser kleines Testgelände wandern. Wir schauten uns auch kurz die Konkurenz an (kleine Mutti-Geländewagen) und fanden ein paar Vorderrad-angetriebene, 2-Liter Rivalen.
Es meldete sich auch ein billigerer, 1.5-Liter 4x4, zwei unbekannte Turbodiesel 4x4 und ein paar 2L Vorderrad-Automatik Gegner.
Pedalen und Steuerrad sind beide leicht zu bedienen aber der Antrieb und die Federung sprechen von richtiger Geländetauglichkeit.
Natürlich kommt es beim Kauf höchst selten auf ein paar Dollar oder Cent an, daher sollte man auch Vorführwagen, reduzierte Preise, Händler, Ruf und Geschmack beachten. Wenn Sie aber einen einfachen, mittelgroßen Geländewagen suchen, hat dieser Suzuki die Konkurenz am Schlafittchen.
Dieses ist das falsche Auto für den Parkplatz vor'm Café Cool im abendlichen Stadtleben aber ist genau das richtige, wenn Sie vor Sonnenaufgang ein paar Taschen packen, die schlafenden Kinder auf die Rückbank tragen und in Richtung Sossuvlei, Etoshapfanne oder Skelettküste fahren.
Und wie fährt sich der Suzuki Grand Vitara? Sollten Sie sich einen weichen, protzigen Straßenfeger wünschen, wird der Suzuki Sie innerhalb des ersten Kilometers enttäuschen und warscheinlich verscheuchen.
Während sich dieses tolle Familienabenteuer in Ihrem Kopfkino abspielt, melde ich kurz ein paar Eckdaten. Laut Hersteller schafft der 2.4-Liter Grand Vitara 100km/h in 11,7 Sekunden und semmelt mit bis zu 180km/h
Suzuki's Grand Vitara sieht aus wie ein mittelgroßer Geländewagen weil er ein mittelgroßer Geländewagen IST, und nicht eine hilflose Attrappe. Nach nur wenigen Kilometern hinter’m Steuer waren wir überzeugt, daß er sich auch wie ein 4x4 fährt, und nicht wie irgendein Zweitonner Sportwagen.
Also, der Grand Vitara füllt eine nützliche Lücke im Markt für erschwingliche, einfache Geländewagen. Kein Schnick-schnack, keine intelligente Federung und keine hauchdünne, sau-teure Bereifung. Das Benehmen auf der Teerstraße ist etwas altmodisch, weil er eben gut im Gelände ist. Dieses Auto liefert genau was man erwartet und macht keine falschen Versprechungen. Es ist ehrlich; und wir brauchen mehr davon.
N$184 101
Antrieb in allen Grand Vitaras verschafft ein 2.4-Liter Reihen-vierzylinder Benziner, seine 122kW bei 6,000U/min oder bis zu 225Nm (ab 4,000U/min) werden durch ein Fünfgang-schaltgetriebe oder einen Viergang-automaten geboten.
incl. VAT
FROM
CIAZ 1.4 GL MT
Retail price includes 3yr / 60 000km service plan
FROM
SWIFT 1.2 GA MT
N$135 580
Retail price includes 3yr / 60 000 km service plan
ERTIGA 1.4 GA MT
N$165 338
Retail price includes 4yr / 60 000 km service plan
Take the one both your soul and your budget like.
SWIFT DZIRE 1.2 GA MT
FROM
SPLASH 1.2 GA MT
Alle Vitaras bieten, unter anderem, Klimaanlage, fernbediente Zentralverriegelung, Servo-lenkung, elektrisch betätigte Außenspiegel und Fensterheber, drei 12-Volt Steckdosen, 60/40 faltbare Hinterbank, Trip-Computer, sieben Lautsprecher und ein Premium Hi Fi / Radio mit CD / mp3 und Knöpfen auf dem lederbezogenen, verstellbaren Steuerrad.
N$271 258
Retail price includes 3yr / 90 000km service plan
Suzuki Windhoek
Suzuki Swakopmund
c/o Mandume Ndemufayo & Lazarett Street, Windhoek Tel: +264 61 401 866
6 Moses Garoeb Street, Swakopmund Tel: +264 64 406 438
FROM
N$112 882
Retail price includes 2yr / 30 000 km service plan *GL only
JIMNY 1.3 MT
incl. VAT
FROM
CELERIO 1.0 GA MT
N$230 404
Retail price includes 4yr / 60 000 km service plan
info@suzukiauto.com.na www.SuzukiAuto.com.na @SuzukiWindhoek SuzukiAutoNamibia
incl. VAT
FROM
N$130 535
incl. VAT
FROM
SX4 1.6 GL 5MT
Retail price includes 2yr / 30 000 km service plan
Als Sicherheitsausrüstung gibt es ABS Bremsen mit Not-kraftverteilung und Brems-assistent, ein drittes Bremslicht, sechs Airbags, Seitenaufprallschutz und ISOFIX Schnallen.
N$334 811
Retail price includes 6yr / 90 000 km service plan
incl. VAT
Retail price includes 2yr / 30 000 km service plan
incl. VAT
FROM
GRAND VITARA 2.4 DUNE MT
N$136 588
Diese unterscheidet sich durch Nebelleuchten, automatische HID Scheinwerfer, größere Räder und Alu-Felgen, schickem Ersatzreifendeckel, schlüssellosem Zugang und Zündung, Schiebedach, besseren Türgriffen, Tempomat, CD Wechsler, Leder, ESP und Anfahrhilfe oder Bergabfahrassistant im Automatik-Modell.
SuzukiWindhoek SuzukiAutoNamibia
SuzukiWindhoek SuzukiAutoNamibia
incl. VAT
ALL NEW
SEVEN
SEATER
FROM
Haben Sie grade etwas bemerkt? Keine Turbolader, Hochdruck-einspritzung oder Doppel- Kupplungsgetriebe. Somit ist der ulkige GV leicht zu betreuen und versteckt keine teuren Reparaturen. Der 3,2-Liter V6 Motor wurde in Rente geschickt und es gibt nur eine andere Ausführung: “Summit”.
über den Asphalt - besser nicht auf Schotterstraßen! Durchschnittlich soll er 212g CO2 pro km ausstoßen und 8,9L/100km Bleifrei trinken. Der Wendekreis ist 5,5m und sein Kraftstofftank faßt maximal 66L.
incl. VAT
Plötzlich wurde es sehr ruhig. Mit seinen simplen Proportionen und eckigem Design könnte der Grand Vitara vielleicht die perfekte Antwort sein... Diese “Dune Edition” verzichtet auf Spielzeug wie Festplattenspeicher, Navi, 20-Zoll Felgen, Glas-schiebedach und beheizte Ledersitze.
Jeder Grand Vitara hat ein permanentes Vierradantrieb-system mit drei Stufen – normal, Differenzialsperre (diff lock) und Geländegängen. Geschaltet zwischen diesen Stufen wird per Drehknopf und dann geht’s ab in die Landschaft.
incl. VAT
Neulich im Büro diskutierten wir mal wieder Zweck und Anwendung von Fahrzeugen. Dabei gerieten vor allem moderne, möchtegern-Geländewagen ins Kreuzfeuer; nutzlose Kinderwagen, die sich kaum ins Gelände trauen (sollten). Mitten in unserer Diskussion fuhr Suzuki’s Grand Vitara vor.
Text Hanjo Stier Images Suzuki Auto South Africa
14
PAGE 14
AUG / SEP 2015
NAMWHEELS
Know your
TYRES
KNOWLEDGE: TYRES
TYRE SIDEWALLS EXPLAINED:
Nominal width of tyre, i.e. how wide the tread area or or road contact patch is in millimetres (here: 225mm)
Aspect ratio, i.e. the ratio between the nominal width and the sidewall height as a percentage (here: 40%)
225/40 R 18 92Y R indicates radial construction
Max. Speed Rating, i.e. permissable speed, here 300km/h
Diameter of tyre's inner rim in inches (also the rim size, here: 18 inches)
Load capacity code, in this case max. 630kg 62 265 63 272 64 280 65 290 66 300 67 307 68 315 69 325 70 335
71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79
345 355 365 375 387 400 412 425 437
80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88
450 462 475 487 500 515 530 545 560
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97
580 600 615 630 650 670 690 710 730
98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106
750 775 800 825 850 875 900 925 950
107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115
975 1000 1030 1060 1090 1120 1150 1180 1125
116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124
1250 1285 1320 1360 1400 1450 1500 1550 1600
N P Q R S T U H V Z W Y
140 150 160 170 180 190 200 210 240 240+ 270 300
Visit vw.co.za/mastercars
Cars
Used cars you can trust.
Polo Cross 1.6, 2014
N$235 000
Golf 7 1.2 TSI, 2015
N$295 000
Polo 1.4 C/Line, 2014
N$185 000
80-Point Technical Inspection Professional Vehicle Reconditioning Vehicle History Integrity Check Full Service History Mileage Certified
Polo Cross 1.6, 2014
N$235 000
Amarok BiTDI 4x4, 2014 N$485 000
Amarok BiTDI 4x4, 2013 N$465 000
2-Year / Unlimited Kilometre Warranty* 24-Hour Roadside Assistance 7-Day Exchange Balance of Volkswagen Automotion Plan Vehicle Customisation
Scirocco 2.0 TFSi, 2013
N$320 000
Audi Used 2014 Audi A6 2.0 TDI 2012 Audi A4 3.0 TDI Q 2013 Audi A4 2.0 TDI 2011 Audi S4 3.0 TSI Q 2009 Audi Q5 3.2 Q 2009 Audi A4 2.0T Avant 2014 Audi Allroad 2.0 TDI Q 2013 Audi A4 2.0 TDI SE 2014 Audi Q5 2.0 TDI M/T 2014 Audi A4 2.0T 132kW
Audi Used N$599 900 N$380 000 N$399 900 N$389 900 N$349 900 N$199 900 N$499 900 N$399 900 N$510 000 N$399 900
2011 Audi A4 1.8T 2012 Audi RS3 2014 Audi A5 3.0 TDI
Other Used N$210 000 N$499 000 N$580 000
Other Used 2006 M-Benz E200 2010 Hyundai H1 2.5D (A) 2009 Mazda 3 1.6 Sport
N$130 000 N$260 000 N$126 000
2012 Ford Ranger 3.2 D/C (A) 2010 Mazda CX7 2.3 D 2011 Toyota Fortuner 4L 4x4 (A) 2010 Ford Focus ST 2010 Lexus IS250 SE 2010 M/Benz C180K 2002 Land Cruiser VX100 4.2 2009 Mitsubishi Triton 3.5 D/C 2008 Land Cruiser S/C 4.2 4x4
N$359 900 N$255 000 N$320 000 N$199 900 N$259 900 N$239 900 N$199 900 N$189 900 N$299 900
All prices shown are recommended retail prices, which are not binding on the Dealers or Volkswagen of South Africa (Pty) Ltd. The recommended retail price excludes Dealer delivery and related charges. * The 2 year/unlimited mileage MasterCars Warranty is optional and does not form part of the vehicle price. Please contact your Volkswagen Dealer or visit www.vw.co.za for full details as well as terms and conditions relating to the MasterCars Brand Promise.
Autohaus Windhoek Cnr of Mandume Ndemufayo & Edison Street. www.vw.com.na Krystle: 061 414 253 | Louw: 061 414 258 | Lesley: 061 414 255 | Eddie: 061 414 256 | Werner: 061 414 251
AUG / SEP 2015
15
PAGE 15
NAMWHEELS
DS
GESKIEDENIS
Citroën
Sestig jaar van Citroën se DS - Dr Hans Heese skryf oor die Franse "Goddess"
Citroën is ‘n ander soort motor en dit is nou sestig jaar sedert die “anderste”, baie vaartbelynde haai-op-wiele die aandag wêreldwyd getrek het, en nog steeds fassineer. Almal ken die “outydse” Citroëns, meestal swart, met die lang neus, groot kopligte op die modderskerms en voorwielaandrywing wat vanaf 1935 tot 1955 op ons paaie vir hulleself naam gemaak het as die motor wat nie kon omval nie. Op Killarney (en ook die ander ouer renbane in die Kaap) was daar in die vyftigerjare ook ‘n baie netjiese tuisgemaakte Citroën renmotor waar die enjin agter gemonteer is en waarvan daar foto’s in Britse motor-tydskrifte verskyn het. Maar die pad tussen Citroën en Suider Afrika kom al heelwat langer. In die vroeg dertigerjare het ‘n Fransman met ‘n paar Citroëns met rusperbandaandrywing Afrika met mening gepak op ‘n trans-Afrika safari sommer regdeur die Sahara na die Kaap se kant toe. Die Huisgenoot het sy lesers gereeld op hoogte gehou van die vordering van hierdie gevaartes.
Dit was die Citroën Traction Avant (voorwielaandrywing) van 1935 wat die tweede belangrike ontwikkeling was. Die sukses van die DKW, met sy voorwielaandrywing, het moontlik bygedra tot die ontwikkeling van die nuwe Fransman. Almal se oë het amper uitgeval toe die eerste foto’s en beskrywing van die DS ons lesers hier aan die Suidpunt in 1955 bereik. Ek was ‘n knapie van elf en onthou nog hoe my pa, wat glad nie ‘n kar-mens was nie, my nadergetrek het om die foto en artikel in Die Burger se Saterdag bylae; die Byvoegsel, te wys. As my pa opgewonde geraak het oor ‘n motor, dan was dit ‘n groot gebeurtenis! Veral nadat die vorige model basies onveranderd reeds twintig jaar op die mark was. Op Uniondale het ons in afsondering van die motorwêreld geleef en het die boere Fords en Chev’s gery. Dit was eers ‘n jaar of vyf later wat ek die eerste een in lewende lywe in die Baai gesien het. Intussen het CAR Magazine in sy heel eerste uitgawe in Februarie 1957 ‘n hele blad afgestaan om die voortreflikhede van die DS uit te wy; ‘n verslag wat ons almal met groot belangstelling gelees het.
Die ou vooroorlogse Citroën het egter nie sommer van die toneel verdwyn nie, in die April uitgawe van CAR was die pryse vir beide die ou vorm en die nuwe DS modelle as £1,099 en £1,217 aangetoon. Vir ‘n prysvergelyking; die Mercedes-Benz 180 Diesel het presies dieselfde as die DS gekos. Citroën was vol vertroue dat hulle motor nie net ongewoon mooi was nie maar dat die unieke hidroliese / lugvering opgewasse was vir taai Europese tydrenne en het groot sukes met taai tydrenne soos die LuikSophia-Luik tydren behaal. Dit was egter die befaamde ren- en tydrenjaer Gendebien wat suksesvol met 'n DS aan die destydse Algiers-Kaapstad deelgeneem het en op die laaste van hierdie trans-Afrika rit kort agter Mercedes-Benz geeindig het en sy foto onder Tafelberg kon laat neem. Die DS, met kragremme, kragstuur en half outomatiese ratkas, was effens aan die duur kant en nie te lank daarna nie het die goedkoper ID model op die mark gekom. Hierdie motor is ook in Slough aan die rand van Londen gebou en plaaslike verrigtingondernemings soos Connaught het die Citroën DS en ID modelle in ware GT-formaat transformeer.
Text Dr Hans Heese Images Various sources
In Oos-Afrika het Citroëns ook goed gevaar in die Safari-tydren. Met die aankoms van die Citroën SM, die tweedeur met die Maserati-enjin, was die berugte diktator Idi Amin van voorneme om aan die Safari-tydren deel te neem met een van sy jong seuns as navigator. Dit het gelukkig net by voornemens gebly. Met verloop van tyd het die DS en ID meer vaartbelyn geraak maar die belangrikste eienskap was steeds die olie/lugdruk vering wat hom uniek gemaak het; dit was ook die enigste motor wat op drie wiele kon loop – wanneer een van die agterwiele afgehaal is en die suspensie op “hoog” gestel was!
En dan was daar nog die unieke DSbakkie wat ‘n Strandse eienaar van ‘n Citroën werkswinkel jare gelede gebou het; ‘n ware meesterstuk. Stories oor hierdie klassieke Citroëns is volop; hoe hulle op jeeppaaie in die Sederberge net die hefboom getrek het om bo alles uit te troon en dan harde 4x4's destyds in die skande gesteek het. So ook my niggie Dinkie se man wat jare gelede geglo het dat die Hemel ‘n plek is waar jy Citroëns met V8-enjins gaan kry! Ongelukkig het harde ekonomiese feite die maatskappy onverhoeds gevang en is alle nuwe Citroëns amperse klone van Peugeot – van wie hulle nou deel is.
Die British Motor Corporation het die Citroën se veringstelsel probeer na-aap maar met die eerste motors waarmee hulle aan die Safari-tydren deelgeneem het, was ‘n totale ramp. Dit lyk of die Franse die enigstes was wat die regte resep geken het.
Wat in die slag gebly het, is die unieke veringstelsel maar daar is meer voordele as nadele, Peugeot was nog al die jare ondernemend en bekend vir hulle suksesse in tydrenne en taaiheid in tydrenne.
Behalwe die DS en ID sedans het daar ook ‘n paar Safari-stasiewaens hul opwagting hier gemaak en is waarskynlik van die mees-gesogte modelle onder die eienaars van die roemryke Franse motors.
Die koms van die DS3 getuig van die lang tradisie agter Citroën (en ook Peugeot). Geen wonder dat die nuwe knaap uiterlik nogal sterk herinner aan ‘n Citroën SM uit die vroeg sewentigs!
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2006 Toyota Fortuner 4.0 V6 A/T 4x4 123 000km N$ 190 000
2009 Toyota Hilux 3.0 D-4d Raider 4x4 S/C, 173 000km N$ 245 900
1999 Land Rover Defender 90 2.5 Td5 200 000km N$ 145 000
2013 Volkswagen Polo Vivo 1.4 Trendline 5dr, 48 000km N$ 120 000
1999 Toyota Corolla 180i GLE 103 000km N$ 99 900
2014 Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 Dune A/T, 46 800km N$ 246 900
2011 Jeep Wrangler 3.8 Unlimited Sahara A/T, 97 000km N$ 234 995
2012 Daihatsu Terios 4x4 7-Seater 149 000km N$ 145 000
2009 Audi A4 (B8) 1.8T Ambition Multitronic, 70 000km N$ 189 990
2012 Chevrolet Captiva 2.4 LT A/T 29 000km N$ 240000
2012 BMW 320d (F30) Modern Line A/T, 43 000km N$ 310 000
2013 Volkswagen Polo 1.6 Trendline 57 100km N$ 169 900
2013 Suzuki Swift 1.4 SE 27 200km N$ 130 500
2014 Peugeot 208 1.2 VTi Access 5dr, 18 000km N$ 149 990
2009 Audi A4 Avant (B8) 2.0 TFSi (155kw) Amb, 82 500km N$ 150 000
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