NamWheels Edition 15

FR EE

www.namwheels.com

NamWheels MONTHLY MOTORING FOCUS

JANUARY 2017 EDITION 15

INCLUDING

A GALIMOTO MEDIA cc PRODUCT

NamTrader FREE MONTHLY NAMIBIAN CAR CLASSIFIEDS

First for 2017 - our second

Digital Edition

Mike Horn featuring

on his #Pole2Pole expedition

NEWS, NEW MODELS

3

VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE

5

AUDI A3 FACELIFT

6

PLUS Dozens of New, Demo, Certified and Pre-Owned Vehicles in our brand-new

RENAULT MEGANE GT

12

NamTrader

PAJERO LEGEND II

14

LYING DIAL

15

Section on PAGES 7 - 10 or online at www.namtrader.com

Finalist

The All-New 2016

2017 models

at 2016 prices while stocks last

Windhoek Showroom c/o Lazarett & Patterson Street, Tel 061 249 341 Swakopmund Showroom c/o Edison & Nelson Mandela Street, Tel 064 40 6293 Keetmanshoop Showroom Ferro Street, Tel 063 22 5141 Ongwediva Showroom Unit 2, David Shikomba Business Park, Main Road, Tel 065 235 205

www.hyundainamibia.com www.facebook.com/HyundaiNamibia

2

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NamWheels Galimoto Media cc brings you the latest car news, reviews, launch reports, safety tips and motoring knowledge in NamWheels. You're most likely to find a copy at selected automotive shops, convenience shops as well as cool café s; but only while stocks last. In which case, simply visit www.namwheels.com! The content of this publication is strictly copyrighted but if you ask us nicely, we won’t mind.

Unless otherwise stated, road tests are conducted in South Africa at sea level and all specifications were correct at the time of going to press. Great care is taken to publish correct information, yet NamWheels and Galimoto Media cc cannot be held liable for the results of incorrect data.

If you’d like to buy one of the cars in this issue, please consult your nearest dealer for pricing and availability. No GoPro’s were harmed in the making of this publication. NamWheels promotes fun, responsible driving. Always buckle up, be kind to other road users and - really - please don't drink and drive!

ADVERTISE & CONTACT US Advertise: 081 272 3535 info@namwheels.com

S.A. Office: www.galimoto.co.za info@galimoto.co.za

Publisher: Galimoto Media cc Printing: If you ask nicely, yes Distribution: The Interwebs

Editor: Hanjo Stier Sub: Pat van der Berg Design: 825 Media

@ / GalimotoMedia

www.namwheels.com

JANUARY 2017

INDEX - EDITION 15 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16

Index & Imprint News Videos Review Launch Report Classifieds Classifieds Classifieds Classifieds Mike Horn Renault Megane GT Pajero SWB Legend II Knowledge / Tips The lying dial Classifieds

You are looking at it News & New Models Our Youtube Channel Volkswagen Caravelle Audi A3 NamTrader Classifieds NamTrader Classifieds NamTrader Classifieds NamTrader Classifieds Special Report Review Padtoets Never save on Tyres!

Commentary CarSearch.com.na

No need to click Click here Click here Click here Click here Click here Click here Click here Click here Click here Click here Click here Click here Click here Click here

Click here for our

RATE CARD Galimoto Media cc uses Racelogic Technology for capturing vehicle performance data.

PLEASE TAKE NOTE!

MISSED AN EDITION?

Clicking the links in this publication requires an internet connection! Be sure to keep an eye on your wifi or mobile data usage and / or download the publication for later reading.

We keep an online archive of every single NamWheels edition and just like the newspaper, they are free for you to read and share:

EDITOR’S NOTES

Dec‘14 / Jan‘15

Feb / Mar 2015

Apr / May 2015

Jun / Jul 2015

Aug / Sept 2015

Oct / Nov 2015

Dec‘15 / Jan‘16

Feb / Mar 2016

Henties, 061, Capies, Wlotzka or a plaas where did you go on holiday? It’s not that I’m nosy or anything, it just interests me where people spend their time off.

Apr / May 2016

Jun / Jul 2016

Aug / Sept 2016

Oct / Nov 2016

No, as the cliché d saying (correctly) says “the journey is more important than the destination. That certainly applies to our story on page 5 where I took the new VW Caravelle, filled it with family and pointed its nose into the countryside.

“Where did you go on As always, I welcome your and encourage you holiday?” feedback Sure, aeroplanes also have to share your holiday stories More importantly, I’m keen to learn how they got there; obviously giving preference to anything with wheels.

wheels but they don’t use them for most of their journeys and nobody tells tall tales of that epic road trip involving an Airbus.

with us at NamWheels.

Hanjo Stier Editor

info@namwheels.com • 081 272 3535 • www.namwheels.com November 2016

December 2016

3

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JANUARY 2017

NEWS & NEW MODELS

OPEL sets a new course for the future

KIA shows off its new Picanto

FORD has electric and autonomous plans

MERCEDES-AMG GT R sets new lap record

LAND ROVER website shows new Discovery

Opel is setting a new course to make production in Europe even more efficient.

The successor of the extremely successful Mokka X SUV will be made in Eisenach as of 2019.

The successors of the Corsa and the ADAM will be produced in Zaragoza as of 2019.

"The revised allocations will make production considerably more efficient," said Mr Philip R. Kienle, the Vice President of Manufacturing at Opel.

KIA Motors has released images of the third generation Picanto.

Created by KIA's design centres in Namyang and Frankfurt, it brings youthful and energetic character to the A-segment.

The new model conveys a more assertive stance through bolder body lines and subtly sculpted surfaces.

A 15 mm-longer wheelbase also pushes the wheels further out into each corner for a more confident appearance.

Ford detailed seven new global electrified vehicles it plans to introduce in the next five years, including hybrid versions of the F-150 pickup and Mustang in the U.S., a plug-in hybrid Transit Custom van in Europe and a fully electric global SUV. They also announced plans to invest $700 million to expand its Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Michigan into a factory that will build high-tech autonomous and electric vehicles.

Just ahead of the winter break in Europe due to weather, the new Mercedes-AMG GT R has set the fastest-ever lap time on the Nü rburgring Nordschleife in a test drive conducted by "sport auto".

In a time of 7:10.9 minutes, the new spearhead of the AMG range was faster through the "Green Hell" than any other road-going sports car tested by the motoring magazine.

South African customers can now visit www.landrover.co.za and use the Land Rover configurator to build their ultimate All-New Discovery – and order one – ahead of its local launch in July 2017.

Along with all this, the online brochure is available on the website for buyers to see the Land Rover-approved options and accessories, exterior colours and interior trims they will be able to obtain for the newest member of the Discovery family.

VW’s limited-edition GTi Clubsport S The exclusive Golf GTI Clubsport S has arrived in South Africa; with 228kW it is only available as a two-door with two-seats. The most powerful GTI holds the lap record for a front wheel drive production car on the Nü rburgring Nordschleife race track with the time of 07:49:21.

Only 400 units have been built and 47 were allocated to South Africa. All units were pre sold by the Volkswagen dealer organisation turning the Golf GTI Clubsport S into an instant icon and collectors' item.

CLUBSPORT S prices go crazy...

No sooner had the expensive wheels of the limited-edition Volkswagen Golf GTi Clubsport S hit South African soil and the pre-owned adverts starting popping up; most of them from enterprising dealers and individuals who managed to secure one of these rare beast.

Most prices are hovering just below seven figures but one advert tops the list at 1.6 million Rand (see image above).

TOYOTA and Hilux make history in 2016 Toyota's Hilux made history by achieving sales leadership in South Africa for the 44th time in the past 47 years. Its 2016 retail total of 35,428 was 3,000 units ahead of its nearest competitor.

By recording 3,074 sales for the month of December, the iconic Hilux comfortably edged out its closest rival by 409 units.

4

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JANUARY 2017

NEW ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL

2016 O-100 TIMES VEHICLE

THIS

is what happens when 450Nm are held against their will.

was not supposed to happen but the driver kept going and the camera kept rolling. is just part of what we did in 2016.

For our full recap video, click here.

SOME 2016 ACCELERATION VIDEOS The best of a few runs on a quiet, level road. Results are in the description of each video.

BMW 340i

MERCEDES-BENZ E430 Avantgarde

THE NEW HYUNDAI H-1

VOLVO S60 T6 Polestar

RENAULT Megane GT EDC

VOLKSWAGEN Golf GTi Clubsport

JAGUAR XF R-Sport 25t

2017 MODELS AT 2016 PRICES

Windhoek Showroom c/o Lazarett & Patterson Street, Tel 061 249 341 Swakopmund Showroom c/o Edison & Nelson Mandela Street, Tel 064 40 6293 Keetmanshoop Showroom Ferro Street, Tel 063 22 5141 Ongwediva Showroom Tel 065 235 205

BEST TIME (seconds)

BMW 340i

4,89

Volvo S60 T6 Polestar

5,00

BMW 440i Coupé

5,01

BMW 740i

5,36

Honda Civic Type R

5,59

Volkswagen Gti Clubsport

5,69

Volvo XC90 T8

5,81

BMW 730d

5,96

Mercedes-Benz A250 Sport

6,42

Mercedes-Benz C300 Coupé

6,54

Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4M

6,86

Mercedes-Benz E430 (1998)

6,88

Renault Megane GT

6,95

Jaguar XF R-Sport 25t

6,97

Volvo V40 CC T4

7,27

Mini Clubman Cooper S (Auto)

7,36

Honda Civic 1.5T Sport

7,53

BMW 320d GT

7,56

Peugeot 308 GT

7,60

BMW X5 25d

7,63

Jeep Cherokee V6 Trailhawk

7,95

Mazda CX-3 2.0L

8,18

Audi A4 1.4TFSI Sport Stronic

8,18

Opel Adam S

8,19

Mercedes-Benz GLS 350d

8,23

Volkswagen Passat 1.8 Tsi

8,28

Range Rover Evoque SD4

8,31

Hyundai Tucson 1.6T DCT

8,40

Jaguar XE 20d

8,60

Opel Astra 1,4T Sport

8,96

Chevrolet Captiva 2,2D LT

9,46

Jaguar F-Pace 2.0d R-Sport

9,54

Renault Megane GT-Line

9,62

Ford Figo sedan 1,5 P/shift

10,02

Toyota RAV4 d

10,06

Opel Adam Rocks

10,13

Honda BR-V 1.5

10,18

Ford B-Max 1L 92kW

10,28

Honda HR-V 1.5 CVT

10,37

Ford Everest Limited

11,57

Hyundai H1 bus 2.5 VGTi Auto

11,71

Renault Captur Sunset 1.5 dCi

11,89

Volkswagen Caravelle 4M DSG

11,94

Mitsubishi Pajero Legend II

12,32

Volkswagen Caddy Tdi T/Line

12,92

Volkswagen Colour up!

13,75

Mahindra KUV100 K8 P

13,84

smart fortwo prime

14,24

WHILE STOCKS LAST

www.hyundainamibia.com www.facebook.com/HyundaiNamibia

Audi VW

ROAD TEST

5

@NAMWHEELS

JANUARY 2017

Caravelle

SPEC SHEET MAKE Volkswagen MODEL Caravelle 2.0 BiTDI Highline 4Motion ENGINE 2.0L i-4 Turbo-Diesel 132kW / 400Nm DRIVETRAIN 6-speed DSG, AWD ABS, EBA, DSC PERFORMANCE 0-100km/h: 11.94 (12.1*) 0-400m: 18.00 Max km/h: 188* CONSUMPTION 8.8L/100km avg.* TANK / RANGE 80L / 900km* BOOT SIZE 4,300L WARRANTY 3-year / 120,000km SERVICE PLAN 5-year / 60,000km TYRE SIZE 235/55R17 PRICE N$975,000 (approx.) *Manufacturer claims.

Caravelle blindly provided

by Volkswagen of S.A.

H Road trips are the best - and even better in the new Volkswagen Kombi / Caravelle...

Text Hanjo Stier Images Galimoto Media

CLICK HERE to watch the

Acceleration Video!

When “Volkswagen” and “Caravelle” popped up on my calendar I knew exactly what to do… organize an epic family road trip into the middle of nowhere.

The idea came to me a few weeks ago while passing Matjesfontein, a lonely little hamlet I've always wanted to explore.

At this point I should admit that I had little more to do with the organization than bringing the car – once informed, my travel-mad wife and Mum-in-law jumped at the chance of booking everything.

They also filled the VW Caravelle's seats with four generations of family – from the excited toddler Max to an equally thrilled great-granny Linda.

Last but not least, our route from Winelands to Karoo was mapped over the back roads via Wellington, Ceres and plenty of dirt. We only touched the tarmac upon arrival.

To finally describe our mode of transport, we all piled into a beautiful blue metallic 2016 Volkswagen T6 Caravelle Highline 2.0 BiTDI 132kW DSG 4Motion.

This came in quite handy on slightly soggy bits of the hinterland.

After successfully changing the Caravelle's colour, our driver was full of praise for the ride, space, comfort, technology, smoothness and its quality.

Said pilot is a veteran VW Kombi owner and his one critique fell on this MPV's price of about N975,000 – he would purchase a cheaper and simpler model.

Another concern was the absence of a rearview camera as objects under one meter (children, pets, bollards, etc.) are basically invisible.

R273 9

Those who can afford this luxury rectangle – I suspect VIP and hotel transport – will be spoilt by superb materials, LED lighting, satellite navigation and many media inputs.

They can also enjoy the swiveling middle (arm)chairs with collapsible table on rails, plenty of armrests and airbags, power side doors, blind spot monitor, fine leather and rather fluffy carpets.

Back to our journey and with the scenery whizzing by, most occupants were happy chappies. Rumours even speak of snoring from the back.

Some road trippers noticed a slight hardness from the optional 18-inch wheels fitted here so it is probably wise to stick with the standard 17 inchers if you dislike tarmac travel.

For the record, the little hamlet with its oldworld charm, relaxed atmosphere and some colourful characters did not disappoint.

Nor was our filthy Caravelle alone outside the big white hotel; among the 4x4's and some rather noisy motor-bicycles was an older (previous generation) Kombi tourist shuttle – a fine testament to the travel-worthiness of these Volkswagens.

For your peace of mind, Volkswagen includes a generous 3-year/120,000km warranty and a 5-year/60,000km service plan with the sale of each new Caravelle.

Claimed average Diesel use is 8.8L/100km from the 80L fuel tank; our overall trip average for the mini-getaway confirmed this.

Once all relatives had been evicted from the big boxy Volkswagen, I even did a 0-100km/h test.

It managed a best time of 11.94 seconds.

That's all good and well but has very little to do with the Kombi's core purpose - its ability to swallow an entire family and head out into the countryside.

Like its predecessors, this new model got plenty of thumbs up and its interior was drenched with happy chatting, photos, laughs, snoozing, padkos and adventure.

Perfect Kombi memories.

SUPERCAR TRACK DRIVING DAYS JANUARY - MARCH 2017 IN THREE LOCATIONS Our exclusive supercar driving experiences are returning to Durban’s Dezzi Raceway, Pretoria's Zwartkops Raceway and Cape Town's Killarney Raceway.

Buy now at reduced prices - for a limited time only!

Take this unique opportunity to book your seat behind the wheel of one or more supercars at the following venues:

ILABLE A VA P ERF FOR ECT THO SE

AN

In plain English that means you're reading about the latest VW Kombi (T6, 6th generation) in luxurious Highline specification with the most powerful turbo-Diesel engine (180hp or 400Nm), a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and all-wheel-drive with rear diff lock.

3 LA FROM PS JUST

S

I'm not joking, that's its official title. Try saying that five times after you've had one too many gee and tee's at the Laird's Arms…

However; big mirrors and a small turning radius take the fear out of city parking where, thanks to beepers all around, I had no major problems slotting into a Cape Town city centre parking bay.

A

Purpose. I've uttered this before but it's one of my fascinations with modern vehicles – do they fulfil the role they were made for?

INST ANT LAST

-MIN GIFT UTE S

DEZZI (DURBAN) January 2017 ZWARTKOPS (PRETORIA) February 2017 KILLARNEY (CAPE TOWN) February - March 2017 Also available: High-speed passenger hot laps in Ariel Atoms!

Spectators welcome. Family-friendly venues!

Contact us for the full list of supercars and for further details:

+27 (0)21 813 6060 DRIVING | BOATING | FLYING | GOURMET | ADVENTURE | LIFESTYLE | GOLF | ADRENALINE | DIVING | FALCONRY | WATERSPORTS

www.giftexperiencesouthafrica.co.za

6

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Audi

JANUARY 2017

A3

LAUNCH REPORT

Audi

WHAT’S NEW?

• Advanced infotainment platform • Audi Connect with nav (optional) • Audi Virtual Cockpit (optional) • Redesigned air vents • New steering wheel design • Frameless rear-view mirror

• More safety kit, some optional • New and refreshed engines

• Standard Xenon headlights • Two optional LED headlights

• New 3D-look front bumper • Wider grill with bigger frame • Five new paint options

Audi's A3 needs no introduction - but all the new updates do...

Do you know that saying about not messing with a winning recipe? Right, now picture the scene at Audi's headquarters when they were tasked with updating the third generation of the accomplished A3.

premium A-segment hatchback contender to boost an ailing Africa / Middle East market.

On the bright side, the A3 enjoys a fair whack of its local market segment share through its four body types I imagine a boardroom full – 3-door Hatchback, 5-door of long vacant stares, fly Sportback, the Sedan and a counting, much doodling Cabrio. and awkward silences.

The drop-top A3 doesn't How DO you improve on a account for many sales but car which is so good that Audi nurtures its niche even the dealers don't want appeal, although declining sales of the 3-door may see it updated? that hatchback disappear Well, Audi decided to do with gen four. what they do best – file away even further and base For now, all the derivatives their perfectionist efforts benefit from rather tasteful on three pillars: cosmetic updates and subtle tweaks; enhancements, increased also to catch up with their efficiency and a dash of refreshed competition. new technology.

The visual enhancements Already crowned world car include a wider framed grill of the year 2014, these mild with 3D elements in the updates should help Audi's redesigned front bumper.

Text Hanjo Stier Images Audi South Africa

This sits at the pointy end the range; a trend that also Some may consider that a of the sculpted bonnet and continues inside new A3. desperate move but I can divides a pair of snazzy guarantee you that my wife new headlights.

Never mind the bulletproof will buy any car that has a feel and build of each cabin, frameless rear-view mirror.

Xenon lighting is standard there is also an operating No jokes, she will. across the range, LED's and platform update - which full “Matrix” LED's with 64- builds the base for Audi's Besides a host of new shade active lighting are latest gadgets. driver aids (like pedestrian optional. detection, adaptive cruise These (optional) extras control and a rear crossThis also means that the include the marvellous traffic assist), A3 also gets a front fog lights were *gasp* Virtual Cockpit, a highly revamped engine line-up. deleted. What will young adaptive and informative men on the highway use to digital instrument cluster. A new 1-litre turbo-petrol attract attention now?

3-cylinder (worth 85kW) This pairs up with Audi's replaces the 1.2 four-pot Perhaps they'll take solace Connect system and many (81kW) while a 1.4 turboin the five new paint colour navigation / infotainment petrol 4-cylinder manages options, a diffuser on the options to give you that to stem 110kW onto the rear bumper or horizontal luxurious, cutting-edge feel flywheel. tail lights. These feature in your new A3 premium dynamic indicators when hatchback.

That engine also features LED or Matrix headlights cylinder de-activation tech are specified.

At the height of their which can shut down two anxious nit-picking, those cylinders to save you fuel The arrival of all that new dudes at Audi HQ decided under light loads. technology in this range is to give the A3 restyled air a clear indication of how vents, new steering wheel The 2-litre motor makes up Audi is allowing flagship and a frameless interior to 140kW and uses AVL technology to trickle down rear-view mirror.

(Audi Valve Lift), a new

technology that actively exemplary but I’d caution adjusts the air/fuel mixture against the hard ride of Sdepending on engine load. Line / sport pack goodies.

With all that tech whirring away, claimed average fuel use lies at 4.5L/100km for the 1-litre, same for a 1.4 and just 5.5 for the 2-litre.

All new A3's are built in Ingolstadt and available in manual or auto; except the TDi and S3, which are Stronic (auto) only.

Diesel lovers may opt for the 105kW 2.0 TDi while petrol destroyers can order the new S3.

For extreme speed freaks, the new RS3 is expected to arrive next year in Sedan (second quarter 2017) or Sportback (fourth quarter) Finally given the all-clear guise. Its 294kW turbo fivefor our prevailing weather, pot will be good for 0-100 its outputs hike 18kW to in just 4.1 seconds!

228 and 20Nm to 400.

Like most recent VWAG We drove almost every products, the 2016 Audi A3 derivative on the recent range didn't really need launch and while the S3 much updating but has stuck to my mind like its been successfully tinkered Quattro performance to the with in terms of looks, road, the 1.4 TFSi offers a mechanicals and toys. golden medium to the smooth and perky 1-litre.

The winning recipe retains its core flavours but has I'd call its power adequate, received a tasteful injection the fuel consumption was of spices.

Choose to stand out and SAVE N$18 000 From only N$149 995

The new Bolt Hatch and Sedan.

Enjoy outstanding design, performance, connectivity, comfort and safety!

Service Plan - 2 years or 30 000km Factory Warranty 5 years or 100 000km Windhoek Showroom: Ongwediva Showroom: 174 Mandume Ndemufayo Ave, David Shikomba, Southern Industrial Area Main Rd, Ongwediva Tel: +264 61 431 5000 Tel: +264 65 235205

• Harman™ Infotainment system* • Bluetooth & iPod connectivity

Keetmanshoop Showroom: Swakopmund Showroom: Ferro Str, Southern c/o Nelson Mandela Ave & Edison, Industrial Area Southern Industrial Area Tel: +264 63 225414 Tel: +264 64 406293

* model-dependent

Gobabis Showroom: Roesener Street, Erf 1286 Tel: +264 62 564 421 081 470 8200

• Projector Headlamps • 15" Alloy Wheels • LED Turn Indicators

Make it your choice

• Revotron 1.2 Turbo • Multi Drive Modes • ABS Brakes

Terms and conditions apply. E&OE

7

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JANUARY 2017

INDONGO TOYOTA 65 Rehobother Road / Macadam Street, Auspannplatz, Windhoek.

Tel: 061 237 130, http://indongotoyota.automark.com.na Schalk van Greunen 081 128 7950 Dap Izaaks 081 446 5876

N$ 169 000

2014 Toyota Corolla Quest 74 000km

N$ 329 900

2011 Toyota Fortuner 4.0 V6 4x4 89 000km

N$ 445 000

2015 Toyota Hilux Legend 45 D/C 61 000km

N$ 409 900

N$ 159 900

N$ 119 900

2013 Toyota Etios 1.5 Hb XS 47 800km

2014 Toyota Corolla Quest 1.6

N$ 299 900

2011 Toyota Fortuner 4x4 (Auto) 170 000km

N$ 459 900

2010 Toyota Prado 4.0 V6 VX 150 000km

N$ 249 900

N$ 420 000

2014 Toyota Hilux Dakar D/C 71 000km

N$ 460 000

2011 Toyota Prado TX Diesel 3L 106 000km

N$ 119 900

+bull bar, tow bar, A/C, CD player, central locking 2x 2016 Toyota Quantum 16-seater 2 500km

N$ 239 900

2012 Ford Ranger 3.2 4x4 136 000km

N$ 469 900

2013 Land Rover 2.0 Si4 Evoque 33 000km

N$ 199 900

2013 Volvo V40 2L 60 000km

2013 Toyota Rav4 2.0 A/T 53 500km

N$ 299 900

2013 Hyundai H1 Bus 2.4 A/T Diesel 115 000km

N$ 799 900

2013 Lexus LX570 130 000km (Service Plan)

N$ 155 900

2015 VW Polo 1.4 Hb Vivo 38 900km

2012 Toyota Yaris 1.3 Hb Plus 67 500km

N$ 239 900

2013 Hyundai ix35 2.0 82 000km

N$ 109 900

2007 Mitsubishi Triton 3.5 V6 189 000km

N$ 139 900

2015 VW Polo Vivo 1.4 Hb 38 000km

8

@NAMWHEELS

JANUARY 2017

For more information on our range of New & Pre-Owned vehicles please visit:

M+Z MOTORS mzmotors.metjeziegler.com

Phone (061) 371 000 2015 Mercedes-Benz A220 CDi A/T Urban Line, 26 000km N$440,000

Phone (061) 371 000 2016 Mercedes-Benz C200 A/T 7 000km N$505,000

Phone (061) 371 000

Phone (061) 371 000

2014 Mercedes-Benz A250 Sport A/T, 14 500km N$420,000

2016 Mercedes-Benz A250 Sport AMG Line, 9 000km N$545,000

Phone (061) 371 000 2016 Mercedes-Benz C220d A/T Avantgarde, 11 500km N$590,000

Phone (061) 371 000 2014 Mercedes-Benz C250 Bluetec AMG Line, 15 500km N$550,000

Phone (061) 371 000 2015 Mercedes-Benz B220 CDI A/T, 15 500km N$399,900

Phone (061) 371 000 2015 Mercedes-Benz C250 Estate A/T Bluetec, 13 500km N$575,000

Phone (061) 371 000 2016 Mercedes-Benz C200 A/T Avantgarde, 11 000km N$499,000

Phone (061) 371 000 2014 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG 24 100km N$755,000

Phone (061) 371 000

Phone (061) 371 000

Phone (061) 371 000

Phone (061) 371 000

Phone (061) 371 000

2015 Mercedes-Benz E250 A/T Avantgarde, 11 000km N$625,000

2015 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S 30 500km N$1,389,900

2016 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S 6 500km N$1,629,900

2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA200 A/T AMG Line, 23 000km N$570,000

2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA220 CDi 4 Matic, 21 000km N$540,000

Phone (061) 371 000 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC220d 4MATIC, 24 000km N$595,000

Phone (061) 371 000 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML350 4MATIC, 78 000km N$599,900

Phone (061) 371 000 2015 M-Benz GLC220d AMG Line 9G-Tr 4Matic, 2 500km N$860,000

Phone (061) 371 000 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML500 BE 77 500km N$775,000

Phone (061) 371 000 2016 M-Benz GLC300 Off-Road 9G-Tr 4Matic, 17 000km N$820,000

Phone (061) 371 000

Phone (061) 371 000

Phone (061) 371 000

2013 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG 46 000km N$1,199,900

2014 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG 63 500km N$1,399,000

Phone (061) 371 000

Phone (061) 371 000

Phone (061) 371 000

2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK350 BE 33 500km N$470,000

2012 Alfa Romeo 159 Distinctive 3.2 V6 Q-Tr, 78 500km N$210,000

Phone (061) 371 000

Phone (061) 371 000 2015 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 2.5 DiD A/T 4x4, 18 000km N$460,000

Phone (061) 371 000 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML250 BlueTEC, 60 000km N$590,000

2013 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG 88 500km N$1,190,000

2014 Mercedes-Benz SLK250 AMG Line, 10 500km N$540,000

2014 Mitsubshi Pajero 3.2 DiD 4x4 A/T, 48 000km N$480,000

Phone (061) 371 000 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLS350 BlueTEC, 7 500km N$1,375,000

Phone (061) 371 000 2012 Fiat Punto 1.4 M/T Easy 48 000km N$95,900

Phone (061) 371 000 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee 3.0 CRD, 40 500km N$600,000

Phone (061) 371 000

Phone (061) 371 000

Phone (061) 371 000

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee 3.6 V6 Overland, 71 000km N$410,000

2009 Mercedes-Benz E300 Avantgarde, 91 000km N$300,000

2015 Mitsubishi Mirage 1.2 GLS 11 500km N$95,500

9

@NAMWHEELS

JANUARY 2017

LOW-MILEAGE DEMO

EXCELLENT VALUE

255 682 / 222 648 / 254 241 2016 Datsun 1.2 GO Lux 6 800km N$115 500

Phone 255 682 or 222 648 or 254 241

Phone 255 682 or 222 648 or 254 241

2016 Nissan X-Trail 2.0 XE 3 000km N$310 000

2014 Nissan NP300 2.5 4x2 S/C 70 000km N$169 000

BUDGET MOTORING

GREAT FAMILY CAR 255 682 / 222 648 / 254 241 2016 Datsun 1.2 GO Lux 12 500km N$110 500

Phone 255 682 or 222 648 or 254 241

255 682 / 222 648 / 254 241 2015 Nissan Almera 1.5 Acenta M/T, 36 000km N$140 000

2016 Datsun 1.2 GO Lux 4 000km N$115 500

Phone 255 682 or 222 648 or 254 241 2012 Nissan Navara 2.5 TDi XE K/Cab, 145 000km N$201,000

CAPABLE WORKHORSE

LOTS OF VALUE

255 682 / 222 648 / 254 241 2016 Nissan Qashqai 1.2T Acenta Tech, 5 000km N$320,850

Phone 255 682 or 222 648 or 254 241

Phone 255 682 or 222 648 or 254 241 2012 Nissan Micra 1.2 Acenta 42 000km N$95 000

255 682 / 222 648 / 254 241 2015 Toyota Corolla Quest 1.6 77 000km N$165,000

2016 Nissan NP300 2.0 4x2 S/C 25 300km N$205 000

255 682 / 222 648 / 254 241 2015 Ford Ranger 2.2 XLS 4x4 88 200km N$339,000

255 682 / 222 648 / 254 241 2016 Nissan NP200 1.6 with A/C 6 000km N$167,000

255 682 / 222 648 / 254 241 2012 Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dCi Acenta, 90 800km N$175,000

255 682 / 222 648 / 254 241 2012 Toyota Yaris 1.3 XS H/batch 66 000km N$130,000

10

@NAMWHEELS

JANUARY 2017

Danric Auto

www.bmw-danric auto.co.za

DANRIC AUTO

Phone (061) 295 8122 2014 BMW 120i Convertible 74 858km N$ 310 000

Phone (061) 295 8122 2012 BMW 320d Sedan 56 464km N$ 278 000

Phone (061) 295 8122 2014 BMW 435i Coupe 35 600km N$ 570 000

Phone (061) 295 8122 2011 BMW X6M 102 000km N$ 495 000

Phone (061) 295 8122 2014 Mercedes Benz E400 12 314km N$ 685 000

Sheer Driving Pleasure

Cnr Bismarck Street & David Hosea Meroro Road, Windhoek, Namibia, Tel. 061 295 8122, www.bmw-danricauto.co.za

Phone (061) 295 8122 2015 BMW 320d Sedan 14 902km N$ 390 000

Phone (061) 295 8122 2012 BMW 320d Sedan 77 107km N$ 270 000

Phone (061) 295 8122 2012 BMW 650i Convertible 74 184km N$ 690 000

Phone (061) 295 8122 2008 BMW M3 101 326km N$ 595 000

Phone (061) 295 8122 2009 Range Rover Sport V8 112 000km N$ 359 000

Phone (061) 295 8122 2012 BMW 120d Hatch Back 93 676km N$ 250 000

Phone (061) 295 8122 2011 BMW Z4 23i Roadster 68 147km N$ 285 000

Phone (061) 295 8122 2010 BMW X6M 89 500km N$ 580 000

Phone (061) 295 8122 2016 Land Rover Discovery Sport HSE 7 670km N$ 770 000

Phone (061) 295 8122 2015 Volkswagen Golf 7 GTi TSi 69 794km N$ 395 000

@NAMWHEELS

JANUARY 2017

11

Audi

SPECIAL REPORT

ON A MISSION

H Mike Horn visited Namibia on his Pole2Pole expedition - we caught up with him before he left for Antarctica...

Most people fit into some sort of mold; a neatly-defined spectrum of their main characteristics. Fast forward beyond the artists, accountants or analysts and you eventually stumble upon a very unique group called “explorers”.

Visit the

MIKE HORN website

Mike Horn is an explorer. Although he may not look like the exploring type (think Kingsley Holgate) it only takes a brief encounter or chat with the man to confirm his wanderlust credentials.

It’s mid-morning and we’re in a fancy hotel at Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, guests of Mercedes-Benz South Africa.

The brand (internationally) sponsors Mike with two Mercedes Gelä ndewagen (G-Wagons) when his feet are not busy climbing a huge mountain or trekking across a glacier.

Using the Waterfront as a preparation point for the next leg of his Pole2Pole adventure, Mike also brought his stateof-the-art Dahu sailing yacht “Pangaea” to Cape Town. While the team was in town, they used the opportunity to help out at socio-environmental projects around the peninsula.

It’s easy to see why Mercedes-Benz has aligned itself with the man; he may not be in his comfort zone around cameras and conference rooms but gives a mean speech and simply radiates enthusiasm when chatting about his expeditions.

Pole2Pole is the latest and greatest one, an elongated journey from the South to the North Pole with many noteworthy stops in between. Starting in Monaco, the first stop was Namibia where Mike crossed the desert in various G-wagons with journalists in tow. He then walked across most of Botswana because, you know, explorers do that.

Mike and his crew left Cape Town late in 2016 and landed on Antarctica on 12 December - the Pole should be reached soon! Follow his progress by using any of the links to the right...

FOLLOW #POLE2POLE

FACTS

& EXPEDITIONS CLICK HERE TO WATCH

HIS NAMIBIAN IMPRESSIONS

MEDIA GALLERY

Text Hanjo Stier Images Mercedes-Benz South Africa

12 ROAD TEST

@NAMWHEELS

Renault Megane

JANUARY 2017 SPEC SHEET

GT

MAKE Renault MODEL Megane GT EDC ENGINE 1.6L i-4 Turbo-Petrol 151kW 280Nm DRIVETRAIN 7-speed Auto, FWD ABS, EBD, ESP PERFORMANCE 0-100km/h: 6.95 sec. (7.1) 0-400m: 15 sec.

Max km/h: 230* CONSUMPTION 6L/100km avg.* TANK / RANGE 50L / 830km* BOOT SIZE 384 - 434L WARRANTY 5 years / 100,000km SERVICE PLAN 5 years / 90,000km TYRE SIZE 225/40 R18 PRICE N$455,000 (approx.) *Manufacturer claims.

Megane wisely provided

by Renault South Africa

H Renault gave us a new Megan GT to drive - we gave it a his ‘n hers review...

Text & Images Galimoto Media

CLICK HERE to watch the

Acceleration Video!

Renault recently introduced their spiffy new Megane range and, not long after the local launch, brought us a deep blue metallic Megane GT Sport. With two testers doing most of the driving, we thought of drawing straws for the review but rather decided to combine our impressions in a neat his and hers review.

Looks and Design Her: I love the new new look. Many of you will recall that old boxy shaped Megane with the weird boot line. This one looks way more chic and, well, French… with flair and street cred. It’s a very desirable looking car and I absolutely love the LED daytime running lights like funky eyebrows and the swirling pattern design of the mags. C’est magnifique!

Him: Sjoe, this is a good-looking hatchback. The French seem to have a national design identity as this reminded me of the (also handsome and blue) Peugeot 308 GT we tested recently. The very clean lines, good proportions, cool details and funky light clusters on either end make this car stand out.

The boot takes up to 434 liters and the and turbo read-outs. This car’s onrear seat backs fold over but don’t board technology feels super-modern make a completely flat surface. and exciting although the learning curve is quite steep. I don’t like the As with its contemporaries, comfort finish of the “ipad” surround, nor the levels keep sinking due to big wheels usual Renault cruise and audio and sporty seats. On the upside, the remote controls. front bucket seats offer superb support and two-stage heating. Most Engine and Gearbox furniture is covered in Alcantara with blue stitching. Blue trim items Her: After initial disappointment on confirm that this colour is only the gearbox shifts, I got used to it – available for GT-Line cars. its paddle shifts are great fun, the 1.6L engine revs like a dream and, Toys and Features provided you’re not in a hurry when the car and gearbox is cold, shifts are Her: Ooh I LOVED the four control - passable. Would still prefer this in a Renault added a 4-wheel steering manual though. function (but not a 4-wheel drive).

What this effectively means is that Him: Right now, this is the most the Megane turns on a ticky. And is powerful “new Megane” as the RS loads of fun for throwing around Cupsport 275R Trophy Bull whatever corners. You’ll enjoy it the most on a hasn’t arrived yet. The 1.6 turboleft turn in the city or around a petrol engine kicks out 151kW or round-about…. It was like fooling 280Nm but is only available with a around on a go-kart and definitely seven-speed double-clutch automatic felt more like Mini than Megane! gearbox.

Thumbs up for fun for this one!

After initial baffling moments in trying a few features on the Multisense system, I’ll admit I found it relatively intuitive… I still haven’t found the volume knob though so you’ll be stuck making use of the Comfort and Space hidden controls behind the steering Her: Initial thoughts as I wriggled wheel for volume and skipping into the snug sporty look bucket tracks. seats was that comfort was on the poor side, but a week later I got used Another point worth mentioning is to it… although climbing out every that the Bluetooth had a delay in time still presented a problem. Word starting when answering calls, so of advice to the ladies… you cannot expect a moment or two of confused wear a short skirt and clamber out ‘Allo, ‘allo before you can hold a conversation. gracefully from this hatch.

Him: Sjoe, take two! Headline act is Renault’s MULTI-SENSE system with an ipad-like vertical touch-screen that offers everything your heart desires. From customizable ambient Suspension was as hard as expected lighting, vehicle settings, multiple media inputs, apps, navigation with but fantastic for handling! live traffic and a Lindt chocolate Him: Both are on par for today’s dispenser. OK, that last one’s a fib. premium hatchbacks. By that I mean four adults and a bit of luggage will The main dial in the instrument be fine, Mom and Dad with three kids cluster offers four distinct layouts, some of which even include power will be a push.

You also get eee-normous shift paddles behind the steering wheel.

Like other early DCT attempts from rival manufacturers, this one’s quite sluggish at low speeds. I have to halffloor the accelerator to reverse out of my driveway! Once on the move, shifts are quite smooth and pleasingly quick. At full power, it’s not quite DSG fast but still offers a high degree of control and fun.

Renault claims 230km/h top speed.

Hard cornering grip is on the dizzy levels of modern automobiles but the Megane’s party trick “4-Control” (four-wheel-steering) is actually most noticeable while pottering around town…

Price and Value

Her: I’m with him on value. Great car but I think it’s too pricey. However, if you’re looking for something with Power and Handling decent street cred, more space than Her: I found power delivery more you’d expect, fun handling and than adequate and, as I already packed with features, I’d say go for it! mentioned, the 4-control was my favourite feature… Possibly because Him: At N$452,900 the Megane GT I spent most of my time racing up is in the ballpark for medium-spicy and down town to meetings and hatchbacks... and it offers all that errands and frankly, anything that amazing new technology. However – improves on that commute gets my the previously-mentioned Peugeot 308 GT is 50 grand less with almost vote! identical power and similar claimed Him: Very impressive, our best 0-100 consumption (around 6L/100km) time was 6.95 seconds and the but with a bigger boot and fuel tank. quarter mile fell in 15 seconds. And it’s manual…

To advertise in NamWheels or NamTrader, contact

info@namwheels.com or 081 272 3535

Boot space is typically generous and from my view the back seats look ok for legroom, although I admittedly didn’t give them a go.

a product of Slow vehicles, keep left

PADTOETS

13

@NAMWHEELS

JANUARY 2017

II

Mitsubishi Pajero Legend

CLICK HERE to watch the

Acceleration Video!

Buite in die oprit, net so deur hoek van die kamervenster staan Mitsubishi se nuutste 4x4. Die #pajerotough hutsteken sowel as menigde ander plakkers regoor die toets voertuig, wend beslis nie ‘n poging aan om Mitsubishi se 12 Dakar tydren oorwinnings weg te steek nie.

Meer opvallend is die feit dat 9 hiervan tussen 1997-2007 plaasgevind het met 7 agtereenvolgend, net voor die Dakar tydren vanaf die Afrika kontinent geskuif het na Suid-Amerika.

As huidige Pajero eienaar kan die stereotipe sterk bevestig word. Om enige Pajero eienaar te probeer oorreed om eerder ‘n ander vervaardiger te ondersteun is soos om vir ‘n 5 jarige te oorreed dat die tandemuis nie meer fondse het om sy besigheidsmodel vol te hou nie. Mitsubishi het ‘n manier om ‘n sentiment te vorm, al is dit binne etlike maande, en met hierdie spesifieke model is daai gevoel van hernuwe nostalgie sterk.

Hierdie Pajero, wat in die oprit staan en konstant die lus vir avontuur skep, is die 4de generasie drie-deur Pajero. Dit heet die “Legend 2” en met ‘n rede. Mitsubishi het bevestig dat hierdie die laaste 3.2 liter turbodiesel sal wees. Vanaf 2018 sal die Pajero voortbestaan met ‘n kleiner hart, 2.4 en 2.5 liter om meer presies te wees.

Moontlik mag hierdie ‘n meer effektiewe skuif wees, siende dat Mitsibushi tans sukkel om by die toelaatbare skadelike uitlaatgas vrystellings te bly. Hierdie kan duidelik raakgesien word sodra ‘n brandstof verbruik van 12 liter/100km binne die dorp en tien liter per 100km algeheel jou in die gesig staar. Hierdie is oor die algemeen sowat 2-3 liter meer as die huidige kompetisie in hierdie klas.

Uit ‘n tegnologiese oogpunt bied die Pajero se ‘streelpaneel’ en informasie paneel nie die kwaliteit van die kompetisie nie en is die bloutand, us ben aux vir ‘n foon of ipad, moeilik om te hanteer met die sisteem.

Beide die 3- en 5 deur kom met ‘n Bosal trekstang, sowel as ‘n “Pajero” bosbreker.

Die enjin van hierdie Pajero SWB (kort-as weergawe) ontwikkel 140kW en 441Nm, laasgenoemde teen 2,000opm, ‘n goeie aanduiding dat hierdie voertuig nie sal sukkel op rowwe terrein nie. Dit is ook natuurlik ‘n opgradering van die 121kW en 373Nm in die 2010 model. Die kort-as is ook 235mm korter met ‘n totale lengte van 4,4 meter.

Binne die voertuig is beide voorste sitplekke, elektronies verstelbaar met verhitting. ‘n Kombinasie van plastiek, leer en hout sal verwelkom jou. Beide voorste vensters is elektronies verstelbaar, maar ongelukkig sal die agterste passasiers hul vensters met die hand moet oopklep. ‘n Pluspunt is die panoramiese sondak, wat kan oop en toe skuif.

Algehele Indruk Met ‘n prys van R725,000, 3 jaar/100 000km waarborg is hierdie ‘n redelike bedrag om te betaal. Soos reeds genoem is hierdie ‘n baie kompeterende mark. Alhoewel die 5 gang ratkas die rewolusies gerieflik onder 2,500 opm hou, lê die gekombineerde brandstof verbruik steeds by 10L/100km. Hierdie, gepaard met die tegnologiese funksionaliteit binne die voertuig, maak dit moeilik om nie na ‘n tweede opsie te kyk nie.

Die realiteit is egter dat Mitsubishi se Pajero uitmuntend is op regtig rowwe terein en hierdie is natuurlik waar Mitsubishi sy ware kleure wys. Die korter-as weergawe bied ook minder beperkinge en sal beslis ‘n gesin van 4 gelukkig hou op enige terein. Dit bied uitstekende veiligheid met ABS, Elektroniese remverspreiding, aktiewe stabiliteitsbeheer en 6 lugsakke.

‘n Kort-as weergawe bied natuurlik ‘n harder vering, ‘n gegewe by meeste vervaardigers, maar met ‘n kort draai sirkel en vier bestuursfunksies (agterwiel aangedrewe, 4 wiel, 4 wiel met geslote ewenaar en dan natuurlik laestrek) is hierdie voertuig ‘n fees Mitsubishi bied ook R40,000 se ekstras vir sodra die topografie drasties en oneweredig hierdie model, ‘n volledige Garmin navigasie mag verander. sisteem geın ̈ tegreerd met ‘n video kamera, wat die gebruiker teen die ruit kan vasklep. En dan bedoel ons nie mamma-taxis wat op Tracks4Africa bied ook natuurlik kaarte vir die sypaadjies voor die skool klim nie! (Daar daardie bospaaie op hierdie nű viCam. Uit ‘n is goedkoper alternatiewe vir die beton- en praktiese oogpunt is elk van hierdie funksies teer oerwoudpendelaars). egter ‘n tydsame en ongerieflike proses.

Dit sal inderdaad moeilik wees om enige Genoeg vir eers oor hierdie klein goedjies.

Pajero eienaar te oortuig om die produk van ‘n ander vervaardiger te oorweeg. Die Pajero Die Legend 2 kom natuurlik uit met ‘n soliede Legend II het nogsteeds daardie unieke beskermingsplaat vir die enjin en ratkas, bosveld en 4x4 DNA. sonder enige addisionele kostes.

MAKE Mitsubishi MODEL Pajero SWB (3-door) 3.2 DiD GLS Legend II ENGINE 3.2L i-4 Turbo-Diesel 140kW 441Nm DRIVETRAIN 5-speed Auto, 4x4 ABS, EBD, ESP PERFORMANCE 0-100km/h: 12 sec.

Max km/h: 180* CONSUMPTION 10.1L/100km avg.* TANK / RANGE 69L / 680km* BOOT SIZE 1,120L WARRANTY 3 years / 100,000km SERVICE PLAN 5 years / 100,000km TYRE SIZE 265/65 R17 PRICE R725,000 (Jan. 2017) *Manufacturer claims.

Pajero kindly provided by Mitsubishi Motors S.A.

H Nostalgie en avontuurlustigheid - dit is die Mitsubishi Pajero Legend II

SPEC SHEET

Text Franco Theron Images Galimoto Media

14

@NAMWHEELS

JANUARY 2017

KNOWLEDGE: TYRES

Never save on

TYRES! AFFORDABILITY

Buying tyres can be so boring - and expensive! However, we at NamWheels can’t stress enough that you should great care while buying a new set of shoes for your car.

What can you afford?

As the only contact patches your car has with the road, cheap tyres can be extremely dangerous to you, your passengers and other road users!

Because of their vital importance, do not save or cut corners when it comes to tyres. If you can’t afford the correct set, consider taking out credit with the reseller or your bank. Maybe a kind relative?

Do your homework Follow the recommendations for your car / make and don’t deviate from the given size, load and speed ratings.

In some instances you may deviate from the recommended size by a few degrees but we urge you to confirm this with a tyre expert.

And finally, shop around a bit! You might be able to find the tyres at a different branch, town and/or from a different tyre manufacturer.

BAD IDEAS WHEN BUYING TYRES IRREGULAR WEAR

CANVAS OR BELT SHOWING

INCORRECT SIZE

PLUGS OR BAD REPAIRS

CRACKING & AGE

Can cause unpredictable handling or tracking

When canvas or belt shows the tyre is very unsafe

Can cause unpredictable handling or sudden failure

Could rupture or cause major failure at any time

Hardness from age could also cause sudden failure

READERS’ RIDES FIND MORE READERS’ RIDES IN OUR NEXT EDITION!!

Share your photos on our Facebook page: “NamWheels”

@NAMWHEELS

JANUARY 2017

COMMENT

15

THE LYING DIAL

H Someone or something in your new car is lying to you...

There’s a modern deception I desperately need to make you aware of, a blatant liar who’s slipped right under every new car owner’s nose without them even noticing. Perhaps some of you have noticed and I’m not the only one proposing this conspiracy theory to a row of blank stares…

The main reason I wisened up to the wicked ways of this deceiver is because I love, own and drive classic cars. Ranging in age from 45 to just under 20 years, the lack of new-age gadgets and luxury are made up for by charming simplicity, graceful pace, patina and good-old honesty.

Glossing over age-induced niggle, the subject of my rant is the instrumentation of new cars and in particular, their coolant gauges. You know the one, a little needle which tells you the car’s “water temperature” or “heat” and usually has an icon of a little thermometer floating in liquid.

Text Anonymous Image Various sources

In some older cars, the scale would even show degrees Celcius (or Fahrenheit, overseas) and here’s the crux: that little needle was alive! It moved, depending on prevailing conditions and driving style it would climb the scale in either direction to show exactly how hot and bothered your car’s engine was.

Slow and heavy traffic in summer with the air-con on full blast?

Yeah, that’s when it would lean towards the red marking of its domain and only drop back down when one or more of those variables were removed.

I’ve also seen freezing days in winter where the H20 temp never reached “normal”.

Right, if you’ve been in an old(er) automobile, I’m sure you’ll agree with all of this. What you should also recognise as the truth is that the coolant system in every single new (modern) car is either a

remarkable instrument of superb modern driver from the alien perfection or the dial – that cool technology under their car’s new coolant gauge – is a liar with hood. its pants on fire.

The less they know, the better.

Every modern car, without fail, The less they worry, the less has a temperature gauge that they’ll tinker or annoy the dealer. steadily climbs to its normal status and doesn’t move a micron Much like those stupid little blue for the remainder of your journey. and red warning lights which Even if that journey starts in the have replaced the coolant dial in Arctic Circle and ends by towing a some cars (cough, Honda) I have caravan up the side of a volcano. a sneaking suspicion that modern Nothing, no movement. water temp needles will only go into the red once it’s too late.

D’you see where I’m going with this? They’re lying to us, the little And all car makers are crossing anti-freeze junkies. Even on a mild their fingers that it never will… day with little to no traffic, an old car will always show some sort of My Dad will back this up because variance in its water temp as the one of his new cars overheated thermostat moves, fans kick in, and he only saw the needle move driving speed varies or the load / at the last second; when it was too road changes. late. It didn’t climb gradually, it merely jumped into the red just A modern car will do no such before the engine cut out. thing and I think I’ve figured out why. It’s to lull us into a false sense The cause of this dilemma? A of security and further numb the loose radiator hose.

OPENS ADVENTURES

In all fairness, the rapid loss of coolant fluid would have resulted in a fairly quick rise in t e m p e ra t u r e a n d e ve n my seasoned motorist father may not have spotted it in time. But that brings me neatly to the final point of my rant – we’re being desensitised by all these nanny systems.

When I drive an old banger, I keep a very keen eye on the dials. It’s part of the whole experience, that wobbly speedo, the pessimistic fuel read-out and of course, the lively coolant gauge. It’s what I love about classic cars, not only do they feel animated, they’re honest too.

Am I wrong?

If you can prove otherwise, i.e. that modern coolant gauges move beyond the "normal" state, please send me your story, photos, proof, etc. I would love to hear from you!

Email info@namwheels.com

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2009 Toyota Hilux 4.0 V6 Raider 4x4 A/T N$ 249 900 - 081 129 7200

2008 Toyota Hilux 3.0 D-4D Raider 4x4 N$ 199 900 - Phone 081 242 9942

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2013 VW Polo Vivo 1.4 Trendline Tip 5dr N$ 129 900 - 081 242 9942

2015 Toyota Landcruiser 79 4.0P D/C N$ 520 000 - 081 127 4434

2014 VW Tiguan 2.0 TSi Sprt-styl 4Mot DSG N$ 360 000 - 081 128 5760

2010 Toyota Avanza 1.5 SX N$ 99 900 - Call 081 242 9942

2014 VW T5 2.0 Bitdi 132kW LWB P/U D/C N$ 274 900 - 061 255 590

2016 Audi A1 1.4 Tfsi SE S-tronic 3dr N$ 320 000 - Call 081 128 5760

2015 VW Golf 7 R 2.0 TSi DSG N$ 529 900 Call 064 410 5406

2012 Chevrolet Utility 1.4 A/C N$ 89 900 - Contact 081 242 9942

2012 VW Jetta 1.4 TSi Comfortline N$ 149 900 - Call 081 242 9942

2017 Toyota Aygo 1.0 X- Play (5dr) N$ 155 900 - Call 064 410 5406

NE W

2010 Toyota Fortuner 3.0 D-4D R/b 4x4 N$ 269 900 - Call 081 127 2089

2016 Toyota Hilux 3.0 D-4D Legend 45 R/b D/C N$ 399 900 - 061 255 590

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2011 Volkswagen Polo Vivo 5-dr 1.4 Trendline N$ 94 900 - 081 242 9942

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2000 Mercedes-Benz E240 Elegance A/T N$ 99 000 - Contact 081 129 7200

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2013 Toyota Fortuner 3.0 D-4D 4x4 A/T N$ 369 900 - 081 127 2089

2014 VW Amarok 2.0tsi Trendline 118kw N$ 259 900 - 081 128 5760

1987 Volkswagen Microbus 2.1 N$ 39 900 Phone 081 242 9942

2016 Toyota Fortuner 2.8 GD-6 R/b A/T N$ 508 900 - Call 064 410 5406

2013 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG N$ 1 300 000 - 081 128 5760

2010 Daihatsu Terios 4x4 7-Seater N$ 119 900 - Call 081 129 7200

2011 Toyota Hilux 2.5 D-4D SRX 4x4 N$ 199 900 - 081 242 9942

2002 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 Di-D 5dr A/T N$ 99 900 - 081 127 2089

2016 VW Amarok 2.0 Bitdi Highline 132kw 4Mot N$ 520 000 - 081 128 5760

2013 Lexus LX 570 N$ 829 900 - Call 081 127 2089

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2015 Audi Q3 2.0 Tfsi Quattro 155kW Stronic N$ 450 000 - 081 128 5760

2016 Toyota Corolla 1.4D Prestige N$ 285 900 - Call 081 127 2089

2016 Nissan Hardbody NP300 2.0i N$ 159 900 - Call 081 129 7200

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