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BI-MONTHLY MOTORING FOCUS

EDITION 15/5 | OCT / NOV 2015

AUDI's new Q7

FRANKFURT Motor Show

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CHEV Cruze

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AFRIKAANS CHEV vs TOYOTA

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AFRIKAANS LEXUS ES250

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A GALIMOTO MEDIA cc PRODUCT

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NISSAN Qashqai

DEUTSCH

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GOLF GTi

PLUS News & New Models | Top 5 Light Systems | Sprint Reviews | Knowledge: Tyres | New & Pre-owned Cars | Geskiedenis: ABS Remme

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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, selected supermarkets and fuel stations, as well as cool cafés and buzzing automotive shops; but only while stocks last. All content of this publication is strictly copyrighted but swapsies and sharies are ok. It's free, after all.

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're ready to buy a car featured here, please consult your nearest dealer for pricing and specs. No gears or diffs were harmed in the making of this publication.

NamWheels promotes fun, responsible driving. Always buckle up, look out for pedestrians and pretty-pretty please with a cherry on top - don't drink and drive!

One millionth Toyota Hilux

Mazda designs awarded

Mazda Motor Corporation announced that the company received three awards in the Automotive Brand Contest.

The company's global design team, CX-3 and Bike by KODO concept were honoured at the Städel Museum in Frankfurt on September 15.

Mazda's global design team received the Team of the Year award, which is presented for "innovative and consistent brand design."

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INDEX 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

News & New Models New Metal & More News Frankfurt Motor Show Top5 Light Systems Chevrolet Cruze Audi Q7 Trailblazer vs Fortuner Lexus ES250 Sprint Reviews Safety: Pedestrians Nissan Qashqai 1.2T Knowledge: Tyres Golf GTi 7 Geskiedenis: ABS-Remme

Galimoto Media uses Racelogic Technology for capturing acceleration data.

NEWS & NEW MODELS

The Toyota Hilux, a stalwart in the local LCV market, can now proudly attach its name to the word million. S.A. sales of the Hilux eclipsed the one million mark in July this year.

The one millionth unit, a new Single Cab 3.0 D-4D Legend 45 model, was purchased by Pretoria business owner and resident Shabier Aboobaker on 31 July 2015.

Mr. Aboobaker is a Toyota loyalist, having owned a wide variety of Toyotas in the past, which include a 1982 Corolla Sprinter, a 1986 Cressida 2.8i (of which he was one of the first owners in S.A.) as well as various Camry models, some of which are still in the family.

OCT / NOV 2015

NAMWHEELS

Many awards for Mercedes Mercedes-Benz builds the most beautiful cars, with the Stuttgart-based automotive manufacturer winning a total of three categories in the "autonis" readers' awards.

Readers of German motoring magazine "auto motor und sport" voted Mercedes-Benz the design brand of the year.

The GLE Coupé likewise took top spot in the "Large crosscountry vehicles" category, as did the Mercedes-AMG GT in the "Sports cars" segment.

Mercedes-Benz repeated the feat in the "Car Connectivity Award" with another three first places, presented jointly with the German computer magazine "CHIP".

Nissan bakkies are tops

Nissan is keeping the wheels of industry turning with the most cost effective single cab pickups on the market.

According to the 2015 Kinsey Report, Nissan South Africa’s locally manufactured workhorses, the one ton NP300 Hardbody and the half-ton NP200, are the best pickups to own. What is even more impressive, is that these pickups are also the most affordable to repair.

Advertise: 081 272 3535 info@namwheels.com

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Two Opels awarded The Opel brand received high recognition today in the 2015 Women's Car of the Year Awards for best car in the hatchback and multipurpose vehicle (MPV) categories.

The stylish Opel ADAM that was introduced locally in the beginning of 2015, emerged the winner in the hatchback category while the new Opel Mokka, launched a bit later, gained favour as preferred MPV. Winning the WOW awards is the second feather in Opel's cap this year, after the brand was named "Company to watch out for" in S.A. CAR Magazine's awards earlier this year.

New Ranger production

Personal delivery

The first customer-ready, new Ford Ranger came off the production line on Tuesday 15 September 2015 at Ford's assembly plant in Silverton, South Africa.

For these new vehicles, Ford has been verifying quality, processes and suppliers at its facility in South Africa as it prepares to ramp production of their new Ford Ranger, which is exported to 148 markets.

Ernie Trautmann, the Hino SA Vice President, who recently obtained his Code 14 truck licence, personally delivered a 6x4 Hino 700-Series 2848, the latest addition to the Transvaal Heavy Transport (THT) fleet. Trautmann now encourages colleagues to also obtain a heavy duty licence.

THT has a fleet of 65 bakkies, freight carriers and trucktractors as well as over 100 trailers. They bought their first Hino, a Super Dolphin, in 1986.

THT operates not only in South Africa, but also in Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia as well as Zimbabwe .

Bauer's Autowerkstatt 23 Joule Street, Southern Industrial Area, Windhoek

Founded by Christian Bauer in 2010, Bauer's Autowerkstatt offers repairs and services on all vehicle brands and is equiped with the latest diagnostic computers. After starting in Prosperita, the business moved to bigger premises at 23 Joule Street (opposite Taurus Maintenance) in Windhoek's Southern Industrial Area.

Celebrating 5 years of success!

Five stars for Volvo XC90 The all new Volvo XC90 has been awarded five stars and achieved top ratings in the 2015 Euro NCAP tests. The XC90 with standard City Safety technology stood out as the first car from any manufacturer to score full points in Euro NCAP Autonomous Emergency Braking Car to Car rear-end tests.

The XC90 also features advanced pedestrian protection that independent safety regulators have yet to include in their testing protocols, demonstrating how the carmaker continues to innovate in the field of car safety.

"This is further proof that with the Volvo XC90 we have developed one of the safest cars in the world... From an industry perspective Volvo remains the leader in car safety innovation and miles ahead of the competition with our standard safety offer," said Dr Peter Mertens, the Senior Vice President of Research and Development at Volvo Car Group.

Thank you to all our loyal customers, suppliers and partners!

We appreciate your support and hope to see you soon.

Bauer's Autowerkstatt services all makes of cars and specialises in Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

Contact us today for all your vehicle maintenance needs - please note that booking is essential!

Christian: +264 (0) 81 149 1919 Ingo: +264 (0)81 407 4420 Tel: +264 (0) 61 230 331

Email: christianbauer@iway.na 23 Joule Street, Southern Industrial Area, Windhoek

Armoured Range Rover The new Range Rover Sentinel is the first luxury armoured vehicle to be completely engineered by Land Rover’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO), hand built at its Oxford Road facility, providing the highest levels of protection an SUV can offer against a wide variety of attacks.

The Sentinel is based on the standard wheelbase Range Rover Autobiography. It delivers the supreme comfort, command driving position and all-terrain capability of the Range Rover, while providing peace of mind thanks to some outstanding occupant protection and, outwardly, looking identical to the standard model.

The Range Rover Sentinel is fully (E.U.) Homologated, available in the UK, Europe, South America, Africa and the Middle East with VR8 level certification. Visit the nearest Land Rover dealership for pricing.

Alwyn and Melanie Jordaan

S.A. Car of the Year finalists The SAGMJ (South African Guild of Motoring Journalists) is proud to announce the finalist vehicle ranges for the 2016 WesBank / SAGMJ Car of the Year (COTY) competition. Hosted by WesBank, the competition’s headline sponsor, and the SAGMJ, the finalist reveal follows an original list of 45 eligible vehicle ranges and are as follows: • BMW i3 • CITROEN C4 CACTUS • FORD FUSION • HONDA HR-V • JAGUAR XE • KIA SORENTO • LAND ROVER DISCOVERY SPORT • MAZDA 2 HATCH • OPEL ADAM • OPEL CORSA • PEUGEOT 308 • VOLVO XC90

Spirit of Amarok Trophy Team South Africa was crowned as the overall winners of the inaugural International Spirit of Amarok Trophy in Botswana recently.

Teams from Australia, Botswana, Namibia and South Africa took part in the competition and each country was represented by five teams comprising of two people. The 20 teams used VW Amaroks to contest technical and speed challenges over five days. Team South Africa was followed by Team Namibia in the second place. Team Australia and Team Botswana finished third and fourth respectively.

The individual category of the competition was won by Alwyn and Melanie Jordaan of Namibia.

Alwyn and Melanie, who also won the Spirit of Africa Trophy last month, showed immense concentration and exceptional driving skills to win one of the toughest, international amateur 4x4 challenges in Africa.

OCT / NOV 2015

NAMWHEELS

NEW METAL & MORE NEWS

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You can already see one of these beauties in your driveway, right? Please confirm local availability, prices and specs with your nearest Namibian dealership(s)

Finally - the wheel's on the right side

We want. Badly!

2015 KB

Loopy Jag Jaguar’s first family sports car recently defied gravity by performing a recordbreaking 360 degree loop, a day ahead of its global motor show debut in Frankfurt.

The rather extraordinary feat showcased the powerful design of the lightweight FPACE and its ability to combine agility with sports car speed and performance.

The all-new Jaguar F-PACE, the world’s most practical sports car, was driven with daring precision by expert stunt driver Terry Grant.

The F-PACE sped through the specially built structure, using its sports car derived technology and world-class collection of safety features to complete the record loop and officially signal the opening of order books worldwide.

Months of planning went in to ensuring that both the vehicle and its driver could complete this never-beforedone challenge.

Precise physics, exact angles, speeds and dimensions were all considered by a team of experts including structural engineers, mathematicians and safety experts.

New Vito - good at moving people and stuff

MERC updates its Vito Offering tangible external strengths, maximum benefit and low costs, the new Mercedes-Benz Vito is a versatile and professional among mid-size vans.

Offering an exceptionally high payload, the purchase price and maintenance costs are exceptionally low.

From crafts and trades to retail, service providers and shuttle services - the new Vito is truly one vehicle for all.

The panel van is available with two different drive systems and up to 1,344kg of capacity - it has the highest payload in its class.

The "Mixto" combines the advantages of a panel van with those of a people mover, which we like to refer to as the Tourer.

The Tourer sees MercedesBenz opening an entirely new chapter in passenger transport. There are two different versions available: the versatile Vito Tourer PRO

and the premium Vito Tourer SELECT. By virtue of this complete model family, the Tourer can be tailored to accommodate all types of passenger transport.

The new Vito's bodywork exudes high quality and design is also critical when it comes to the Vito's shape, with a Cd value of just 0.32 reducing fuel consumption and improving performance.

The completely redesigned cockpit is exemplary in terms of its functionality and ergonomics.

Driver and passenger are comfortably seated and both benefit from more space than before.

When empty or carrying only a light load, front-wheel drive offers better traction.

The front-wheel drive is made for operations with maximum payload at low to medium gross vehicle weights. This is crucial for keeping the running costs as low as possible.

This way for driving fun

FNB customer event at Tony Rust First National Bank Namibia (FNB) recently invited some of its existing and potential customers, as well as a few members of the press, to an exciting driving event at Windhoek's Tony Rust race track.

A team of advanced driving instructors from MercedesBenz South Africa's AMG Driving Academy were at hand to teach the attendees safe, responsible driving while also highlighting the many amazing features and innovative technology of the various cars provided by M+Z Motors.

Sportage The all-new KIA Sportage made it global premiere at the IAA 2015, alongside the all-new Optima.

At the same time, KIA also displayed new powertrain technologies with an all-new 1-litre T-GDI (turbo gasoline direct injection) engine and the Korean brand's newlydeveloped seven-speed DCT (double-clutch automatic transmission).

The dealership(s) brought many vehicles from their brands which included Jeep, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi and Alfa-Romeo.

Highlights among these were the brand-new MercedesBenz C63 S AMG, the funky new Jeep Renegade and an Alfa-Romeo Quadrifoglio Verde.

Other automotive stars on the track were the MercedesBenz GL and E-Class, GLA compact SUV, new C-Class and CLA sedans, B-Class and A-Class, as well as Mitsubishi's ASX, Mirage and Outlander.

Pop Art Peugeot South Africa has just added a special, high-value Pop Art model to its newly re-energised 208 range.

The newcomer combines the 208’s refreshed aesthetic appeal, agility and economy – all at a value-added price point.

The Pop Art benefits from the recent updates to the entire 208 range and prices start at N$159,900.

Driving activities on the day included defensive and evasive manouvers, a drag race or two, hot laps with or behind an instructor, as well as some fast-paced, fun team events.

According to the organisers, this event was the first of its kind in Namibia and not only served as a treat for their loyal customers but also aimed to promote safer and more confident driving in the country.

Judging by the reactions of the many attendees, the event was most certainly a huge success.

New Prius The 4th generation Toyota Prius promises to redefine expectations from hybrids with ground-breaking style and new standards in fun-todrive dynamics.

Prius sales exceeded 3.5 million in July, across about 80 countries and regions.

The new Prius will go on sale in Japan at the end of 2015.

South African introduction is currently under study.

FORD builds RHD Mustang Customers around the world have made Ford Mustang the best-selling sports car on the globe during the first half of the year, according to global IHS Automotive data.

During the first six months of 2015, customers globally registered 76,124 vehicles a 56% increase compared to the same period last year.

"Initial global response to the Mustang has been strong, and we are only in second gear," said Stephen Odell, executive vice president, Global Marketing, Sales and Service. "We're accelerating production and global reach with these right-hand-drive models now coming out of the plant."

Production of Ford's righthand-drive Mustang model is officially underway at Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Flat Rock, Mich., continuing the

car's first-ever global launch.

This is the first year Mustang is available to customers in more than 100 markets around the world - including those where motorists drive on the left side of the road.

The addition of a right-handdrive Mustang to Ford's global vehicle line-up allows export to more than 25 of those markets around the globe, including to the UK, South Africa and Japan, as well as Cyprus, Malta and some Caribbean islands.

Another right-hand-drive market eagerly awaiting units is Australia, where nearly 3,000 orders already have been received. Four hundred orders have also been received from New Zealand. The right-handdrive Mustang will be launched in South Africa later this year.

A foremost bakkie specialist - Isuzu - has broadened the appeal of the iconic KB by adding three very carefullyconfigured derivatives to the range, bringing the tally of models to 18.

Newcomers include a twopedal 4x4 flagship model with features like the classleading infotainment system and keyless entry as well as start/stop.

Most significant mechanical upgrade is the uprated 2.5litre DTEQ turbodiesel for Fleetside and LE models.

With representation in 100 countries, Isuzu's bakkie is a force to be reckoned with thanks to the exclusive focus on commercial vehicles and processes for continually analysing and implementing feedback from the global marketplace.

Each Isuzu KB is purposebuilt for a clearly defined role and tested to cope with its particular application.

The KB nomenclature is unique to Southern Africa and has been in use since 1981 - the Chevrolet LUV moniker was used for the first-generation, introduced in 1972.

Project 2&4 'Honda Project 2&4 powered by RC213V', the winning entry from Honda's 'Global Design Project', made its global debut at the 66th Frankfurt Motor Show.

Embodying the concept of 'creative craftsmanship', this Project 2&4 celebrates Honda's position as the world's leading engine manufacturer, providing engines to 28 million people per year across two- and fourwheeled automotive, power equipment, as well as marine and aerospace applications.

Using the RC213V competition motorcycle engine, modified to run on public roads, Honda Project 2&4 provides the freedom of a motorcycle and the manoeuvrability of a car.

Its exceptional power unit, developed for the world-class MotoGP motorcycle racing series, is a 999cc V-4 fourstroke unit and conforms to Honda's 'The Power of Dreams' philosophy which inspires innovation and originality.

Peak power output is over 215PS at a dizzy 13,000rpm, while peak torque of 118Nm is delivered at a similarly high 10,500rpm. Transmission is provided by a six-speed DCT gearbox.

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OCT / NOV 2015

NAMWHEELS

INTERNATIONAL REPORT

Frankfurt Motor Show Our man

Bugatti Vision Gran Tourismo

Richard Wiley sacrifices the wellbeing of his feet to bring you this report of the I.A.A. 2015 JAGUAR

PORSCHE

Text and Images Richard Wiley

MERCEDES-BENZ

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet

Jaguar F-Pace

One of the important vehicles on show came from Great Britain in the shape of the Jaguar F-Pace which, for a while, competed for the limelight with JLR’s Jaguar CX75 Concept, as well as a Range Rover Sport SVR and Defender, all of which will co-star in the upcoming James Bond movie, “SPECTRE”, also showcased at a special event.

The F-Pace is Jaguar’s muchanticipated entry into the evergrowing SUV segment, and along with the new XE and XF saloons, carries the torch for the brand in its quest to increase volumes by attracting a broader audience

than hitherto.

Head of design, Ian Callum, said that it was difficult for a firm like Jaguar, for so long known for making slinky sports saloons, to embark on a whole new design direction but the proof of the pudding is in the viewing.

On this score, the new Jaguar FPace has successfully integrated established Jaguar design cues into an admittedly sporty SUV form, albeit one that hides a host of technological advances.

Be prepared for a long wait as the first F-Pace models will only arrive on the UK market in April, 2016.

Porsche Mission E

Over at Porsche, the vast stand simply bristled with models, demonstrating just how far the Stuttgart company has come in the last decade in particular.

The Le Mans-winning 919 race car was there complete with all the grime accumulated during 24 hours of racing and stood in

close proximity to the muscular 911 GT3 RS which simply has to be the ultimate track car that’s also perfectly usable in everyday driving conditions.

The new 911 range, powered by bi-turbo motors, was there in force too but the star of the stand was the jaw-dropping Porsche

Mission E, a concept four-door saloon featuring electric power and no less than 582 BHP and a 0-200km/h sprint time of just nine seconds!

Just as astonishing is the 500km range with 85 percent recharge available in just 15 minutes via the 800-volt port.

AUDI

VOLKSWAGEN

Mercedes occupied their usual gargantuan area known as the "Festhalle" where Boris Becker and Pete Sampras slugged it out in a season-ending tournament more than two decades ago.

The luxurious new S-Class Cabriolet earned most camera clicks but less obvious, albeit of more relevance, was the facelifted A-Class range. For a big car, the cabrio version of the SClass works well and the interior is simply sumptuous but despite my advancing years, my favourite Mercedes of the moment is the C63 AMG. Coming down to earth just a tad, Mercedes also unveiled the

new GLC Coupe and the C-Class Coupe, the frontal styling of which is closely related to the saloon version while the rear mimics that of the S-Class Coupe.

Engine options include a 1.6 litre turbo but whichever motor tickles your fancy, Mercedes is claiming an overall reduction in fuel consumption of 27%!

Looking towards the future, Merc also presented their Concept Intelligent Automobile with petrol-electric hybrid power, but more importantly, this vehicle showcases active aerodynamic developments to yield a Cd of just 0.19.

GENERAL MOTORS

Golf GTE Sport

You’d expect the VW stand on home territory to occupy lots of real estate and you wouldn’t be wrong. Most obvious was the simply sensational-looking Golf GTE Sport but of far more commercial relevance, the allnew Tiguan SUV looks ever-soclassy with its sharper styling

details and significantly larger dimensions.

Numerous derivatives of the up! supermini were on display, the nicest of which to my eyes is the Cross up!, as well as the new Golf GTI-based Clubsport and the World Rally Championshipwinning Polo.

EXOTICS

Audi’s huge hall was beautifully presented with truly stunning “active“ wall graphics but down on the floor, their new A4, including the turbocharged 354 HP S4, formed the backbone of Audi’s huge range and while it looks similar to the old model, it’s a design formula that works

well, especially inside where the tweaks, and the instrument display in particular, keep the A4 at the front of the pack.

One of Audi's more practical concepts on display was the Q6 e-tron SUV. Slated for release in 2018, the 4WD Q6 will provide a range of 500km via

three electric motors, a large lithium-ion battery pack and active aerodynamics. For now, the all-new Q7 carries the flag for the Ingolstadt company and a fine looker it is too.

Audi also announced that all future models will be offered with plug-in tech.

Every Beemer under the sun was there to be ogled over along with examples of the company’s motorcycles but in the real world, it was the new X1 and SClass rivalling new 7-Series that stole the limelight.

The outgoing X1 model did not set the cash tills on fire so it’s no surprise that the newcomer is much bigger in all directions and

that its architecture is now more SUV than station wagon.

Likewise, the new 7 is also much more gadget-laden than before.

For the record, the X1 range now includes a 189 BHP petrol motor which joins three familiar diesel options. Some while after the planned October launch, a front wheel drive 1.6 triple will swell the range.

the fact that GM boss Mary Barra was present in person.

Indeed, she announced an ambitious European offensive starting next year which will see the introduction of an electric vehicle and a totally new SUV due around 2019. Also in the pipeline is a range of new engines designed to smother punitive C02 tax penalties.

HYUNDAI

BMW

Bentley Bentayga

This show is so big, a full report would consume every page of this edition of NamWheels so I have reluctantly curbed my enthusiasm and verbosity by commenting primarily on the more mainstream machinery.

Nonetheless, for the benefit of the well-heeled I’ll record the presence of the new Bentley Bentayga - the SUV that’s fit for a

Audi S4

GM’s German manufacturing base is just a short drive down the road from the show so it was wholly appropriate that the new and handsome Opel Astra, including Sports Tourer derivative, should have been unveiled at this event.

The importance of this model to the bottom-line fortunes of General Motors is illustrated by

Queen, the Rolls- Royce Dawn, the Ferrari 488 Spider and the Bugatti Vision Gran Tourismo to name just some.

Suffice to say, Frankfurt 2015 was truly mind-boggling and provided a platform for many exciting new model launches and previews of technology that may not be too far away. In a word, it was wunderbar!

BMW wasn’t to be outdone by its home-based competition and although the company, as usual, also occupied a complete hall situated at the extremity of the huge showgrounds, that didn’t stop the hordes of eager pen pushers from thronging the display which included BMW's two stablemates Mini and RollsRoyce.

NISSAN Nissan showed 'Gripz', believed to be the precursor of a sportsorientated SUV as well as the all-new Navara bakkie while group partner Renault chose to launch its new Megane which is larger and more imposing than the current model.

FORD Elsewhere, Ford launched the potent new 345HP Focus RS which will crack 100 in well under 5 seconds and also showed the Euro-spec Edge, the latest Ranger and its new GT, a derivative of which will be racing at Le Mans next year.

TOYOTA Japanese rivals Toyota were relatively quiet but showcased the all-new, fourth-generation Prius as well as their C-HR concept which is a hybrid crossover likely to reappear as a production model at Geneva in 2016.

Hyundai Gran Tourismo Concept

Hyundai is one manufacturer that has made big strides in recent times, especially in terms of SUVs and hatchbacks, but the time has now come to endow the brand with a more sporty disposition which is one good reason why the Korean brand has involved itself in the World Rally Championship.

The new Santa Fe looks good but the performance image, encapsulated in Hyundai's “N” descriptor, is captured rather nicely in the incredible Gran Tourismo Concept but more realistically in the i20WRC Concept which shows just where the N division will be heading.

ALFA-ROMEO Alfa-Romeo is a brand that was once very strong in southern Africa but which has fallen off the radar in recent years.

The decline in global sales will hopefully be reversed by the new Giulia which has been

receiving good press and is clearly intended to re-establish Alfa as a premium drivers’ car.

If looks are indicative, the marketing people should have an easier path to tread as the Giulia certainly looks the part.

OCT / NOV 2015

NAMWHEELS

the NamWheels

top5

Welcome to one of NamWheels' more regular features - our list of top 5 car-related items.

This time we focus on one of thee most important features a new car can offer - its headlights. Available with multiple electronic assistants and very cool names, these systems are adapted to fit into a car's design and offer the driver maximum light in any given situation. LED (light emitting diodes) are the current forerunners but we are still fond of a good Xenon setup. And what does the future hold? The next step in automotive lighting will apparently be laser headlights. Beam us up!

Feel free to send us comments or feedback: info@namwheels.com

5 LIGHT SYSTEMS PAGE 5

Adaptive LED BMW X5

Witchcraft. The word that sprang to mind when we first encountered this unbelievable LED headlight system in a new BMW X5. The spread and intensity of light is superb but it's the system's other features which astonish.

Like most others listed here, it moves around bends, auto-dips or cuts boxes into your light pattern for other traffic, tracking them as you pass. What's truly astounding is that it finds, warns of and illuminates people and animals.

Matrix LED Audi A8

First available on the new A8 flagship, Audi's Matrix headlight system is an all-LED affair which does the usual bendy stuff while also promising perfect lighting in all weather and road conditions.

Actively filling dark spots, the Matrix can also find pedestrians and warn the driver by flashing a beam at said person; effectively giving them disco trousers. Just as cool are the swooping LED indicators - front and rear.

Intelligent Lights Mercedes-Benz

The Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Light system is available in Xenon or LED applications depending on model and range. The full LED or MultiBeam LED system offers many of the excellent features mentioned above.

The traffic cut-out feature works like a charm on the C-Class, yet we found that on other models it wasn't as fast as those of its rival brands. Mercedes only offers pedestrian or animal tracking via its infra-red Night Vision.

Dual Xenon Volvo S60

Volvo's S60 may still rely on Xenon for main lights but makes incredibly good use of the technology available today. Make sure you tick the box for Dual Xenon to get the best of what Volvo can offer you.

Not only does this include active cornering headlights (up to 30km/h) but the automatic high-beam assist which can track up to ten cars or pedestrians and avoids dazzling them by cutting the light and tracking them.

LED Spotlights Mitsubishi Pajero Legend LWB

What the hell is a Mitsubishi Pajero doing on this list? Well, it just made this compilation thanks to the special edition "Legend" being fitted with LED spotlights - you know, the ones you can buy at most safari places.

Ye olde Pajero's headlights were nothing to write here about but when we activated the LED spots, every clichĂŠ came to mind. Melt the garage wall paint, fry goggas before they reach you, etc., etc. They're phenomenal!

STANDARD STUFF Can't afford one of these cars with their dazzling systems?

Don't dispair, you're not the only one.

Regular halogen headlights are often good (especially small city cars with their big lenses) and there are aftermarket bulbs available to increase range and brightness. Stay away from blue or purple, white still works best.

BLUE LIGHT BRIGADE

We highly recommend a set of Xenon or LED spot lights but caution against multi-lens setups, unless you want to attract the blue light brigade. Check with the authorities about legality!

Cars

Used cars you can trust.

2014 Polo Cross 1.6

2015 Polo 1.2 TSi Trendline

N$ 220 000

N$ 215 000

2014 Tiguan 2.0 TDi 4Motion

N$ 470 000

2014 Polo Vivo Sedan 1.4 Trendline

N$ 430 000

N$ 139 900

Other Used

2015 Tiguan 2.0 TDi DSG 4Motion

2014 Golf 7 1.4 TSi

N$ 279 900

2014 Polo Sedan 1.4 Comfortline

N$ 185 000

Other Used

2014 Polo 1.4 Comfortline

N$ 185 000

Other Used

2012 BMW 118i

N$ 229 900

2009 Mazda 3 1.6 Sport

N$ 120 000

2013 Hilux D-4D D/C 4x4 A/T

N$ 390 000

2012 Fiat 500 Cabriolet

N$ 129 900

2010 Mazda XC-70 2.3 D

N$ 255 000

2009 Toyota Hilux 4L D/C

N$ 230 000

2010 Ford Focus 1.8

N$ 149 900

2013 M-Benz C180 BE

N$ 299 900

2014 Toyota Quantum 10 seater N$ 289 900

2013 Ford Kuga 1.6 Trend

N$ 289 900

2012 Nissan Qashqai

N$ 220 000

2014 Toyota 86

N$ 289 900

2012 Ford Ranger

N$ 339 900

2014 Navara 2.5 LE D/C 4x4

N$ 420 000

2011 Volvo S60 D5 A/T

N$ 259 900

AUTOHAUS WINDHOEK Cnr of Mandume Ndemufayo & Edison Street. www.vw.com.na - T's & C's apply Krystle: 061 414 253 | Louw: 061 414 258 | Lesley: 061 414 255 | Eddie: 061 414 256 | Werner: 061 414 251 | Cevin: 061 277 748

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OCT / NOV 2015

NAMWHEELS

LAUNCH REPORT

Updated Chevy

Cruze

H Rejuvinated and given new tech, the fresh Cruze is a serious contender

Tumbling sales and consumer confidence of the tumbling kind coincided with the launch of their affordable new world beater – a passenger car for markets around the globe – the Chevrolet Cruze.

Launched here around 2009, the Cruze has been sold over three million times in 180 countries which equates to a new one driving out of a showroom every hour.

Cruze also managed to clinch the number two spot on the Chevy top seller chart, just behind their hugely popular Silverado SUV (unfortunately not sold through dealers in Namibia or South Africa).

With 4.7 million Chevrolets sold in 2014 and almost half of those units moved outside the United States, sensible cars like the Cruze have become a rather vital part of the golden bowtie’s arsenal.

To maintain and increase the car’s popularity, Chevrolet has just freshened up both the Cruze hatchback and sedan.

Most notable are the exterior changes like a different front grill, smaller bowtie logo, new fog lights and daytime running lights in styled pods, new 16inch alloy wheels (17 inchers available as an option) and the sedan’s restyled rear end with light clusters reminiscent of other Chevrolet products like the Malibu.

Cruze's cabin remains largely unchained but the biggest news is standard fitment of the MyLink infotainment and

communication system with 7-inch touch-screen monitor in all but one model.

The poverty-spec 1.6 sedan also lacks other niceties and is probably aimed at the fleet and rental markets.

All other Cruzes spoil their new owners with chrome and leather trim, cruise control, an adjustable multi-function steering wheel, trip computer, USB, Bluetooth, fancy trim, rear park assist, six airbags, ABS brakes with EBD and BAS, stability and traction control, alarm, as well as immobilizer and remote central locking.

To further spruce up your new Cruze, Chevrolet will also sell you an optional package with climate control, park assist, leather and sunroof.

Chevrolet sends every Cruze into the big wide world with a

full size spare wheel, a fiveyear / 120,000km warranty with roadside assistance and a three-year / 60,000km service plan with 15,000km or one year service intervals.

This engine will also help the Cruze to sprint from zero to 100km/h in 12.8 seconds.

Keep your foot in the carpet and the naughty needle should get close to 190km/h.

Both hatch and sedan versions are available with your choice of two engines. First is a trusty, naturally-aspirated, 1.6-litre petrol four-cylinder worth 86kW and up to 155Nm, while any torque junkies and speed freaks should go for the turbocharged petrol 1.4-litre fourcylinder (developing 103kW or up to 200Nm).

Topping all that is the turbocharged 1.4L, which claims to use an average of 5.8L/100km (6.8 for the auto), reaching 100km/h in 9.3 seconds (10.4 for auto) and a top whack of 195km/h. The automatic can even reach 204km/h.

All 1.6 models use a five-speed manual gearbox, the 1.4T uses a six-speed manual gearbox while the 1.4T Sedan can also be ordered with a six-speed automatic shifter.

Chevrolet claims that average petrol consumption for the 1.6L unit is 6.7L/100km.

I only drove 1.4T derivatives on the recent launch and while the crunchy manual is fun to operate, the new six-shooter automatic box of cogs isn’t as boring as one would expect.

Reasonably quick and smooth in its actions, the auto Cruze doesn’t offer shift paddles but the nicely-stacked ratios can be selected via the gear lever’s tip function.

The next pleasant surprise I got was from the ride and handling department; Cruze striking the obligatory balance between grip and comfortable damping – perhaps leaning more towards the latter.

All this is underlined by low road and wind noise levels, spongy seat cushions, a light steering feel and overriding suppleness to all the major driving controls. The Cruze feels refined.

Combined with its discreet looks and quality interior, the updated Cruze can almost knock on the door of this segment’s king – Volkswagen.

With Chevrolet Cruze prices between N$230,350 (base 1.6 sedan) and N$272,900 (1.4T Auto), anything below the more expensive Golf or Jetta has a serious contender on their hands.

*Please check all prices with your Namibian dealership(s)

As one of the largest vehicle manufacturers in the world, Chevrolet took a bit of strain after the recent recession; yet this old American giant was blessed with perfect timing.

Text Hanjo Stier Images General Motors South Africa

OCT / NOV 2015

NAMWHEELS

PAGE 7

7

Q7

LAUNCH REPORT

Audi

Less mass, more appeal - in the new Audi flagship SUV

As you might imagine, Ingolstadt had American tastes in mind when they introduced the 7 in 2006 but my observations tell me that the Brits took to the big carrier in their droves despite having some of the tightest roads on the planet.

As of now, there’s a new Q7 entering the fray but it’s a very different beast to its progenitor, so much so you may not recognise it on the road thanks to the adoption of much more tightly drawn lines. And then there’s increased use of lightweight construction materials and a small reduction in length and width which collectively result in a Q7 that’s up to 325kg lighter!

Appearance, as we are all regularly reminded of, is in the eye of the beholder and while the new Q7 can look a little bland in photos, to my eye it scores a lot more points in the flesh, especially with its three dimensional grille and prominent horizontal crease lines.

Sure, it may look a bit more station wagon than SUV in profile, but does

it really matter how it’s perceived when it has loads of interior space – that means up to seven people can be accommodated – and a new level of dynamism that had every journo on the launch babbling about the motor and suspension in particular.

That motor is a re-worked 3.0 V6 turbo D that truly can be mistaken for a petrol engine when it comes to aural disturbances. It idles with only the faintest knocking sound and out on the road, it’s as smooth as silk.

At higher revs on full throttle, it can very easily be mistaken for a petrol motor as the faint hum it emits is archetypical 6-cylinder, sounding like a hushed Mercedes or Beemer straight six of yesteryear.

With an unladen mass of 1995kg to deal with, the hefty torque output of 600Nm, all of which makes itself available from a mere 1,500rpm, ensures the Q7 delivers effortless thrust, enough in fact to despatch the 0-100 run in 6.3 seconds. It’s the incremental acceleration that’s more impressive though which means that gaining speed after being baulked is ever so easy.

Not that it’s relevant these days, listed top speed is 234km/h. What matters is that when 140 clicks is showing on the virtual speedo, the

rev counter hasn’t quite reached 2,000rpm. That tells you nearly all you need to know about relaxed motoring but in this application, you can add exceptional isolation of wind noise and very good deflection of road roar given that (optional) 20 inch wheels adorned the test unit.

Refinement levels are good enough to rival the best luxury saloons.

A combined fuel consumption of 5.7l/100km is listed but expect a figure of around 8.0 to be the norm.

The newly-developed 8-speed tiptronic auto delivers drive to all four wheels via Audi’s famed quattro system, now employing a central diff in place of the previous transfer case. Power is normally distributed 40F:60R but in the event of a loss of grip, up to 70% can go to the front and 85% to the rear.

Shift quality of the auto box is excellent, being fast and for the most part, butter smooth. There’s none of that awful wind-up effect that afflicts some torque converter transmissions and happily for those who enjoy a measure of personal choice over which cogs are selected, paddle shifters are in-situ.

Wheel selective torque control seamlessly applies the brakes to either inside wheel if a reduction in

load is detected, aiding and abetting the handling precision. Audis over the years have copped some flak for the leaden feel of the power steering system. In this case, it’s electromechanical and for my tastes, it works just fine with a nice fluid feel from lock to lock.

and there’s a need to remain aware of the fact that this is a big vehicle with a relatively high build, but as long as you allow for the fact that the Q7 makes no pretence at being an R8, you’ll soon realise that ground can be covered very quickly, even when corners are involved.

Thanks to the use of Audi drive select, the responses of the car can be altered through a prod on the central screen, so if it’s a comfort day or a dynamic day or a day when you want more clearance to avoid the middle-mannetjies (at least in this air suspended model), the Q7 will oblige. And out on the smooth roads at speed, the system lowers the body to reduce drag.

As we’ve grown to expect of Audi, the fit and finish of the bodywork is exceptional and the same applies to the interior.

Adaptive air suspension is an option and my goodness, does it provide a superb ride in concert with the Q7's new 5-link front / rear suspension design.

MMI navigation with MMI touch is standard along with a DVD drive, two card readers, a flash memory, Audi sound system and music interface with two USB ports together with a Bluetooth interface and smartphone voice control. An 8.3-inch retractable high resolution monitor, mounted on the dash, relays all the details in combination with the aforementioned main TFT display.

The launch route incorporated a lot of dirt, much of it corrugated and notable for undulating surfaces, but all of it was dispatched with disdain.

Indeed, corrugations in particular are magically neutralised and the rebound control on dips and crests is exceptional.

On some loose surfaces, a touch of understeer can be briefly induced

Here, a beautifully-executed mix of leather, alcantara and satin metal surfaces greets occupants along with Audi’s ultra-mod new 12.3 TFT virtual info display first seen on the latest TT.

Optional, sophisticated sound systems from either Bose or B&O offer 3D sound and if that’s not enough, Audi offers a tablet for rear

For once heart and mind agree.

Own a new Audi A4 at prime minus 5%

Get the intelligently advanced Audi A4 SE including Xenon headlights at an interest rate of 5% and a residual value of 30% for a limited time only, and experience the true brilliance of Vorsprung. The Audi A4 with even more technical finesse, even more comfort and even more powerful engines. And even more intelligence. All engine variants of the A4 models are equipped with the startstop system as standard. You see, a lot has changed, but one thing remained - the Audi A4 is unmistakeably Audi. Unmistakeably a personality.

Audi Centre Windhoek 60-62 Tal Street, Windhoek. Tel 061 277 700

seat entertainment, including a link to the sat-nav system, the internet and the vehicle’s comprehensive functions and media systems.

In addition, there’s a host of options on offer, not least four-wheel steer, but please don’t harbour notions that the Q7 is short on standard equipment. That’s far from the case, especially as far as driver assistance systems are concerned.

The array includes attention assist, hold assist, adjustable speed limiter, rear parking system and Audi presense basic plus pre-sense city.

In conclusion, the shedding of any surplus mass and the introduction of heavily revised mechanicals and suspension creates a more dynamic Q7 which simultaneously delivers wonderful comfort and refinement.

Some observers would say that its styling is less distinctive and more mainstream Audi, but for me, the simplicity of line is just fine because it ensures that the Q7 now looks like the cruiserweight which it is.

Namibian price, inclusive of a fiveyear 100,000km Audi Freeway Plan, is N$930,000.

From early 2016, a 2.0 T FSI model will join the range.

*Please check all prices with your Namibian dealership(s)

Shedding lard has become quite a fashionable occupation and not just in the gym - as the frenzied efforts of many car makers prove. If ever there’s been a lardy SUV roaming our roads, it’s the outgoing Audi Q7.

Text Richard Wiley Images Various sources

PAGE 8

OCT / NOV 2015

NAMWHEELS

VS

Trailblazer

Audi Fortuner

COMPARISON

Chevrolet Trailblazer 2.8 LTZ teen Toyota Fortuner 3.0 D4D; of is dit omgekeerd?

Vergelykende toetse is een van die tendense wat die afgelope dekade of wat al hoe meer gewild raak by motorjoernaliste. Tot dusver het ek my weerhou van sulke direkte vergelykings omdat elke voertuig en voertuigtipe op sy eie meriete beoordeel moet word.

Maar toe die Trailblazer op die hakke van die Fortuner volg met die ruilslag van die toetsvoertuie, kon dit nie anders as om tog maar te kyk na die voordele en nadele van die twee teenstanders nie!

Beide voertuie was volle 4x4 weergawes met turbo-diesel enjins wat met outomatiese ratkaste toegerus is.

Van kleinsdag af was ek ‘n Ford aanhanger, daarna ‘n Borgward en uiteindelik ‘n Peugeot entoesias.

Later het die entoesiasme vir 'n besondere soort fabrikaat geleidelik afgeneem en het plek gemaak vir dinge soos bekostigbaarheid en betroubaarheid. Net so belangrik is 'n nuwe model se brandstofekonomie.

En hoe ouer ‘n mens word is dit veral hierdie laaste dinge wat saakmaak.

Een van die voorregte van motorjoernaliste is dat hulle gereeld motors van feitlik al die vervaardigers ontvang om vir ‘n week of wat mee te ry om ‘n beter indruk van die voertuig onder normale omstandighede te verkry – en daaroor te skryf.

En hoe verder die afstand wat met ‘n voertuig afgelê word, hoe meer objektief kan daar oor hom geskryf word.

Oor die jare het ons die kans gehad om die Toyota-sage te volg; eers was dit die basiese Venture-bussie, daarna die opgekikkerde en heelwat beter Condor en uiteindelik hierdie nou-al-legendariese Fortuner.

Met laasgenoemde het ons al heelwat avontuurlike ritte onderneem, al was dit ook met die dubbelkajuit Hilux bakkie weergawe waarmee ons Angola plat gery het kort voordat die oorlogskade aan die paaie deur die Chinese herstel is.

Vir jare lank was die Toyota Fortuner die ongekroonde koning in sy klas. Daar het egter so stil-stil opposisie ingesluip oor die jare, met die Amerikaanse GM en Ford handelsname; die strikdas teenoor die blou ovaal wapen.

Maar hierdie manne kom nie meer uit die VSA nie maar wel uit Korea. Al die Chevrolet voertuie wat op die uiters mededingende Duitse mark verkoop word, stam uit Korea.

Oor die Fortuner het ons oor die jare al heelwat geskryf, gewoonlik met hoë lof vir die voertuig wat die reputasie het dat niks verkeerd gaan nie en dat dwarsdeur Afrika vir hom onderdele onder amper elke bos uitgekrap kan word.

Boonop het die Fortuner ook onlangs ‘n verjongingskuur ondergaan wat hom nou uiterlik aantrekliker maak maar met die behoud van die beproefde enjin, ratkas en aandrywing wat voorsiening maak vir ‘n laestrek-ratkas.

Volgende jaar kom die heel nuwe ontwerpte Fortuner op die mark en ons sal kyk hoe dinge dan gaan verloop.

Maar terug na die Chevrolet Trailblazer.

Die legende wat rondloop en nie wil gaan lê nie is dat die eerste Toyota Land Cruiser ‘n 1948 Chev bakkie was met ‘n meer vierkantige ontwerp.

Of dit waar is of nie, is ‘n oop vraag.

Maar ‘n goie ou vriend van my het beweer dat die Toyota enjin eintlik ‘n “stove-bolt” Chev enjin was en dat selfs die 48 bakkie se wieldoppe op die Toyota se wiele gepas het.

Wat ek wél van daai eerste drie-spoed Land Cruisers kan onthou is dat die ratkas presies dieselfde geluide gemaak het as die ou Chev bakkie, veral in tweede rat.

Is dit toevallig? Waarskynlik.

Die Chevrolet Trailblazer was ‘n aangename verrassing; my eerste kennismaking met ‘n Chevrolet wat ‘n ernstige bedreiging vir die gewilde Fortuner is.

Op die oog af lyk is hy sag op die oog maar kyk onder die moderne lyne en van onder af en die saak is reg; hy kán grondpad ry en met sy

N$565 000

N$399 900

N$385 000

N$349 900

N$349 900

N$329 900

N$299 900

N$269 900

2008 Land Cruiser V8 165 000km

2012 Fortuner 4.0 V6 4x4 (Auto) 85 000km

2015 Hilux 2.5D D/C 500km

2011 Hilux 4.0 V6 4x4 (Auto) 98 200km

2012 Toyota Fortuner D-4D, 99 500km 2011 Toyota Fortuner 4.0 4x4, 84 000km 2015 Toyota Corolla 1.6 CVT, 2 000km 2014 Toyota Auris 1.6 Xs, 11 000km 2012 Toyota Hilux 3.0D S/C, 188 000km

INDONGO TOYOTA

N$369 900 N$329 900 N$279 900 N$235 900 N$234 900

2013 Hilux 3.0 D-4D D/C 96 000km

2013 Toyota 86 16 000km

Text Dr Hans Heese Images Various sources

laestrekratte kan die moeilike bergpaaie maar gery word sonder die vrees dat die neus of onderkant gaan stamp of sleep.

Die onderstel is immers dié van die Isuzu KB-reeks. En natuurlik is die outomatiese ratkas die ideale aandrywing veral vir dié wat nog nooit van ‘n gebaande weg afgedwaal het nie.

Maar dieselfde geld natuurlik vir die Fortuner.

Wat rygemak betref is daar geen groot verskil tussen die twee nie en het albei al die moontlike geriewe wat daar in ‘n luukse 4x4 nutsvoertuig gesoek word.

Natuurlik het hulle ook al die elektroniese veiligheidstegnologie wat deesdae die norm is. Noem dit maar op en dit is daar.

Wat egter op die betrokke Trailblazer beïndruk het was die uitstekende brandstofverbruik wat behaal is, dit onder werklike grond en gruispad toestande waar die permanente 4x4 stelsel ook gekoppel was.

Op meganiese gebied is daar min te onderskei tussen die Chevrolet en die Toyota.

Eersgenoemde het ‘n 2.8 liter dieselenjin wat 144kW teen 3,600rpm ontwikkel en wat 500Nm beskikbaar stel teen 2,000rpm.

Die Fortuner se enjin is effens groter met 3 liter wat 120kW teen 3,400rpm ontwikkel en tot 343Nm teen 1,400rpm vrystel.

Op die oog af lyk dit nou of die Chev hier die regte perd, of trek-os, is met sy groter kraglewering en moontlik laer brandstofverbruik.

Maar vir die manne wat in die berge weet hoe om wat te doen, is die 343Nm wat teen slegs 1,400rpm beskikbaar is miskien méér belangrik as die 500Nm teen 2,000rpm. ‘n Praktiese vergelyking op ‘n taai toetsbaan, en onder gekontroleerde toestande, sal uitsluitsel kan gee. Tussen die Chev en Toyota aanhangers sal daar om die kookskerm, tussen die Tafels en Castles deur, nooit konsensus kan wees nie.

Op die ou einde gaan die lojaliteit aan die logo, of die prys, bepaal watter van die twee in die dubbelgarage gaan staan.

Maar wat kos die voertuie waarmee ons gery het?

Die Trailblazer verkoop teen N$569,000; die Fortuner teen N$543,000. Die diensplanne vir altwee is 5 jaar of 90,000 km en loop dus hier amper kop-aan-kop.

Wat sal ‘n mens dan oorreed om die duurder Chev te koop?

My persoonlike mening is dat die Toyota die opvousitplekke heel agter, wat onder andere uitsig na agter erg belemmer, lankal moes vervang het met dié soort soos by die Chev wat heeltemal in die vloer wegsak as dit nie in gebruik is nie.

Hier wen die Trailblazer op voorkoms en ekstra pakplek wat by die Toyota Fortuner verlore is.

En as daar 'n trans-Afrika reis aangepak word?

Die leser sal maar met albei moet gaan ry en vergelyk!

2012 Fortuner 3.0 D-4D 4x4 (Auto) 117 000km

2011 Hilux Xtra-cab 3.0 120 000km

2014 Toyota Corolla 1.3 Esteem, 43 000km 2013 Toyota Corolla 1.6 Prof., 35 000km 2014 Toyota Etios 1.5 Sedan, 36 500km 2011 Toyota Yaris 1.3 Zen, 35 000km 2013 Toyota Etios Sedan, 39 000km

N$229 900

2013 Hilux 2.5 SRX R/B 96 000km N$289 900 N$159 900 N$129 900 N$125 000 N$119 900

N$229 900

2014 Corolla 1.4 D-4D 25 000km

N$149 900

2012 Toyota Yaris 1.3 45 000km

2013 Hyundai H1 2.4, 94 000km 2010 Ford Fiesta 1.6, 94 000km 2012 Hyundai Accent 1.6, 35 000km 2013 Hyundai i10, 36 000km 2011 JMC dropside bakkie 2.8D, 117 000km

N$289 900 N$144 900 N$139 900 N$95 000 N$89 900

Schalk van Greunen 081 128 7950 Dap Izaaks 081 446 5876

65 Rehobother Road / Macadam Street, Auspannplatz, Windhoek. Tel: 061 237 130, http://indongotoyota.automark.com.na TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY

N$129 900

2014 Etios Sedan 1.5 29 000km

*Please check all prices with your Namibian dealership(s)

8

OCT / NOV 2015

PAGE 9

9

ES250

Meer is regtig meer!

Lexus het ’n goeie motor geneem en dit’n fantastiese motor gemaak…

’n Baie dapper stelling, maar danksy verbeterings neem die ES, wat reeds die samevatting vir luuksheid is, neem weelde tot die volgende vlak.

Nuutgevormde verchroomde reghoekige stertpype van die ES 250 bied aansienlike flair aan die voertuig se reeds sportiewe houding.

Die nuwe ES, wat met ’n meer sportiewe voorkoms, sterker stilering, verfynde afwerking en verbeterde dinamika kan pronk, is werklik ’n pakket wat aan die ‘meer is meer’-etiket voldoen.

Die indrukwekkende nuwe vorm word aangevul deur twee nuwe sewentiensduimwiele met rigtingspeke wat spesiaal vir die ES ontwikkel is.

Mnr. Glenn Crompton, VisePresident van Bemarking by Lexus S.A., sê die ES het ’n benydenswaardige reputasie vir ruimte, bestuursgerief, waarde vir geld en suiwer gemak verwerf.

“Die ontwerpers het suksesvol daarop voortgebou deur die jongste weergawe selfs nog meer elegant te maak en dit van ’n meer sportiewe, varser houding te voorsien.

"Ons is vol vertroue dat die nuwe Lexus ES die leier in sy klas sal bly terwyl hy aansienlik meer aandag sal geniet. Die feit dat die motor teen ’n selfs nog aantrekliker prys beskikbaar is, is bloot ’n bonus.”

Die hersiene en verfrisde vooraansig van die nuwe ES behels Lexus se kenmerkende uurglas-sierrooster wat in ’n helder satynchroom-omhulsel geraam is, sowel as twee nuutontwerpte kopligte wat nou ook ligdiode-projektortegnologie gebruik.

Ikoniese “L”-vormige pylpuntdagligryligte (DRL) strek verby die kopligsamestelle en bied ’n meer kenmerkende voorkoms wat dit met ander Lexus-modelle verbind.

Die slanke vorm strek voort tot in die grasieuse daklyn van die voertuig wat moeiteloos na agter vloei - waar ’n meer moderne stertligontwerp die nuwe “L”-vormige tema in ’n oombliklik herkenbare glans voortsit.

Die agterkant pronk ook met ’n herontwerpte, verchroomde nommerplaathulsel wat baie sigbaar tot in die helder dele van die stertligte invloei om die voertuig se nuutgevonde gespierheid te kommunikeer.

Nuwe rompkleure is by die pallet gevoeg: Sonic Quartz (wit), swart en diepblou, wat elk aangebring is deur middel van Lexus se vernuwende en hipermoderne verftegnologie wat ontwerp is dat die verf se helder-bolaag ligte skade vanself kan herstel.

Elk van die altesaam agt kleure is versigtig gekies om die ES se dinamiese oppervlak te beklemtoon en word deur ’n nuwe veelfase-verfproses wat Lexus-modelle 'n diep, juweelagtige glans gee, aangebring.

Lexus het min gelyke wanneer dit by montering en afwerking kom. Sy vloeiende voorpaneeluitleg, instinktiewe ergonomie en net die fynste materiale en baie omvattende standaardtoerusting laat die nuwe ES van suiwer gehalte met elke aanraking spreek.

Beslag-opkikkerings aan die deure se binnekantste en ook die middelkonsole voeg die binneruim se weelde-gevoel en -ontwerp saam.

Die nuwe volkeur-dunfilmtransistorskerm (TFT) van 4.2” gee alle belangrike voertuiginligting sowel as inligting oor die multimediaklankstelsel voor en in die middel.

Die ES deel nou ook baie eienskappe met die Lexus GS, soos die groot syferhorlosie, agtergrondbeligting en die Nano-e-klimaatbeheerstelsel.

Standaard-geriefskernmerke sluit in ’n glasdak, afstand beheerde sleutellose toegang, elektries beheerde sitplekke met ingeboude verwarmers (met geheurwerking vir die bestuurdersitplek), ’n elektrochromatiese truspieël, truratgidsmonitor, en parkeerhulp (PDC).

Die nuwe ES behou die tradisie van ritgemak en rysamestelling – durf ons waag om te sê selfs beter gemak – maar bied ook ’n verfrissende kinkel in die wese van sy gevorderde dinamiese eienskappe.

Lexus se ingenieurs het ook nog rompversterkings regdeur aangebring om die voertuig se onderkant verder te versterk.

Dié soort onderstel-instelling, wat van Lexus se IS-sportsedan oorgeneem is, gee die ES 250 ’n gevorderde ritgehalte en interaktiewe hantering.

Text and Images Lexus South Africa

Daarbenewens het die ES ook ’n klankdempende laag agter die voorpaneel om enjingeraas nog meer doeltreffend uit die kajuit te hou.

Die draaiknop waarmee die verskillende rymodusse gekies kan word, gee die bestuurder toegang tot die ECO-, NORMALof SPORT-verstellings.

ES 250 word aangedryf deur Lexus se satyngladde, dubbele VVT-i viersilinderenjin van 2.5 liter wat 135kW kan opwek en 235Nm ontwikkel.

Brandstofverbruik kom op ’n prysenswaardige 8ℓ/100km in die gekombineerde siklus neer.

Die Lexus ES 250 versnel met die hulp van sy outomatiese sesgang-transmissie in minder as tien sekondes van 0 tot 100 km/h en kan ook 200 km/h oorskry.

Wat veiligheid betref, bied die ES ’n magdom van aktiewe en passiewe veiligheid. Dit sluit in tien lugsakke, ’n blindekolmonitor met baanwisselhulp en agterkant-dwarsverkeerwaarskuwing-stelsel (RCTA), s t a b i l i t e i t s b e h e e r ( VS C ) ,

sluitwerende remme (ABS) met noodremhulp (EBD) en remkragverdeling (BA) sowel as ISOFIX kindersitplekmonterings. Nog ’n nuwe eienskap is wegtrekhulp (Hill Assist Control) wat nou ES standaard-toerusting is.

Wat? Die nuweling is eintlik goedkoper? Glo dit of nie, maar die antwoord is ‘Ja!” Die nuwe ES se prys is effens laer as dié van die uitgaande model deurdat die lys van toerusting op 'n slim wyse aangepas is.

Eintlik net een stuk toerusting – die ingeboude navigasiestelsel.

Die verwydering van dié stuk toerusting het Lexus in staat gestel om die prys van die ES 250 met N$14,700 te verlaag.

Ingeboude satelliet-navigasie is deesdae minder gewild weens slimfone wat hierdie funksie toenemend oorneem Elke nuwe Lexus-model word deur ’n waarborg van vier jaar of 100,000km gedek. Wat instandhouding betref, word die nuwe ES 250 deur Lexus se “Distance Plan Plus” gedek.

*Please check all prices with your Namibian dealership(s)

Audi Lexus

ADVERTORIAL

NAMWHEELS

10

PAGE 10

OCT / NOV 2015

NAMWHEELS

Mercedes-Benz

SPRINT REVIEW

CLS 63 S AMG

You have a Porsche? That's cute.

What you need to know: The Mercedes CLS is a fourdoor coupé, which means that it’s technically a twodoor car with four doors.

This brazen contradiction is quite elegant and practical though, proven by the CLS’ popularity – built since the mid 2000’s, this model is the second generation of this car.

It gets even trickier; takes note if you have to. This 63 model is the most powerful CLS for sale locally and S means that it’s got more power (+20kW to 430kW) and all-wheel-drive. It’s not actually a 6.3-litre, that’s merely a reference to AMG’s heritage, as this engine displaces about 5.5 litres.

Some more facts: With up to 800Nm attacking the wheels, AMG fitted a clever rear diff and 4Matic system which can send up to 33% of torque to

the front wheels. This car also features a three-stage drive mode, three-stage air suspension setup (with selflevelling rear), hard-core brakes and speed-sensitive sports steering.

The brutal power of the 63 S gets dispersed by an AMG 7speed auto'box with four modes, Race Start function and shift paddles. Get the sequence right and it will destroy 100km/h in just 4.1 seconds. This white press car managed it in 4.15 seconds, making it one of the fastest cars we’ve ever tested. Top speed is 250km/h with an optional pack for 300km/h.

Where it took us: The many highways and byways around our base where the mad CLS demonstrated that it can do reasonably quiet and comfortable as long as you stay away from bad roads

Hyundai

SPRINT REVIEW

Veloster

Turbo

Look - it's an Australian Veloster Turbo! Off to a shrimp barbie, no doubt.

and the far right pedal. Cabin fit ‘n finish is excellent, it’s crammed full of toys and the active, heated and vented massage seats are superb.

The elegant design and butch AMG goodies attracted loads of attention with neighbours and strangers all creeping closer for a good look.

Most observers loved the burbling V8 exhaust note which, especially in Comfort mode and city street cruising, slacks well below 1,500rpm but is still in the amazing motor’s power band.

Watch out for: Full throttle is not for the inexperienced or weak of heart. First gear full tilt is usually a mess of flashing lights and drive train jerkiness, second gear wide open gives you more ESP warnings and a fishtailing rear end while third gear

eventually finds some grip.

And three-figure speeds.

Rear headroom isn’t great; one passenger bemoaned the hard ride back there.

Mercedes claims an average consumption of 9.9L/100km from the 80L tank but this is like a new year’s resolution – wishful thinking. Although we managed to charm 1314L/100km out of the beast, it ran low on fuel at 430km.

You do the math.

Why you’ll want one: Those unique CLS coupé looks with venomous power, a refined sedan which gurgles you to work during the week and happily ridicules your board members' Porsches at a track on Sundays.

And starting at N$1.6 million, there’s even a degree of value in this car.

A few good facts for you: The Hyundai Veloster is not exactly new, it was launched internationally in 2011.

We got the car about three years later because it took that long to re-engineer its distinctive feature for righthand-drive – the Veloster has two doors on one side and only one on the other.

The three-door layout had to be swapped around for our traffic as the lonely rear door should allow rear peeps to disembark on the pavement side, not the road. The rest of the car is equally quirky with split rear window, bulbous lights, sloping windows and modern, sculptured interior.

More facts: Up to a few months ago, the exhilarating Veloster was only available with a not-so exhilarating 1.6litre petrol engine.

I tested an automatic one for a week and was bored to tears.

The car’s decent handling cried out for more power which finally arrived with Hyundai’s new 1.6 GDi turbopetrol engine.

Its 150kW and 265Nm are a whopping 47kW and 98Nm jump from the unassisted 1.6 while both versions are still available with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic gearbox.

The fuel tank holds 50L and Hyundai claims average fuel consumption of 8.4L/100km for the atmospheric 1.6 and 7.2L/100km for the Turbo.

Where we took it: Yoh, a few places, actually. Somewhere between meetings, dinners, shopping and parties we’d get the odd comment – mostly about our press car’s vibrant yellow paint.

Most admirers were glad to learn that the go now matches the show, specification levels are high and the Veloster Turbo is a hoot to drive.

That was to be expected, as it’s a cousin of the Kia Koup – one of our favourite cars of 2014.

The Hyundai does offer a slice of extra practicality thanks to that lonesome rear door but any childless buyers should consider the Kia for its extra front space and conventional rear window.

Why you'll want one: The Veloster starts at N$313,000; this Turbo model is roughly N$74,000 more which isn't exactly a bargain and throws it right into the GTi, ST cage.

You’d buy the Veloster Turbo because it is quite practical and fast, good to drive, but mostly, extremely eccentric.

*Interested? Please confirm these prices with your nearest Namibian dealership(s)

advertise in

Contact us at info@namwheels.com or on 081 272 3535

find us online Find or use the hashtag #NamWheels on your favourite social media platform

a product of

Local is Lekker.

OCT / NOV 2015

11

NAMWHEELS

PAGE 11

AS A MOTORIST

SAFETY: PEDESTRIANS

Keep an eye out Be mindful when driving at night and in urban areas. Slow down when passing stationary vehicles or while making a turn. Go extra slowly past schools and playgrounds!

Drive responsibly DO NOT SPEED or drive recklessly! To further aid pedestrians, turn your headlights on and, if need be, sound your hooter.

Anticipate danger Expect the unexpected - pedestrians may suddenly step into the path of your vehicle. DO NOT phone or text while driving! By paying extra attention you are able to react quickly - and possibly save lives.

AS A PEDESTRIAN

Keep looking Look left, right and left again when crossing the road; but keep looking as you cross. Do not run across the road!

Walk responsibly Do not walk in the road, that's what pavements (sidewalks) and road verges are for. Try to walk facing oncoming traffic so you can identify potential dangers. DO NOT walk on highways or next to high-speed roads and STAY AWAY from traffic if you're dronk!

Stay alert

Pedestrian

Look and listen all the time, don't get distracted by cellphones or other gadgets. For extra safety, dress in bright or even reflective materials (especially at night) and only cross roads where it's safe to do so.

SAFETY

Help others Children and the elderly often need assistance, offer it where and when you can. Teach children from an early age how to read traffic, look properly and safely cross the road. DO NOT let children play in the street or near high-speed traffic!

2013 Toyota Bus 2.7 10-seater

N$250 000

2013 Ford Figo 1.4 H/B

N$115 000

2012 Volkswagen Golf 6 N$210 000 1.6 TDi BlueMotion

2013 Toyota Etios 1.5 H/B

N$115 000

2011 Chevrolet Utility 1.4, CD

N$110 000

2013 VW Polo 1.4 Auto Sedan

N$170 000

2010 VW Polo 1.4 H/B Comfortline

N$120 000

2011 VW Polo Vivo 1.6

2010 Nissan NP300 2.5 TDi 4x4

N$170 000

2013 Kia Rio 1.4 H/B

N$160 000

2013 Kia Optima 2.4 Gdi N$285 000 A/T

N$135 000

MORE STOCK COMING SOON CALL OR VISIT US FOR MORE DETAILS!

c/o John Meinert & Mandume Ndemofayo Tel (061) 249 690

12

PAGE 12

Audi Nissan

ROAD TEST

OCT / NOV 2015

NAMWHEELS

Qashqai

1.2T Acenta

H Efficiency is a current automotive trend and Nissan got it right with the new Qashqai.

Text Hanjo Stier Images Nissan South Africa & Galimoto Media

The times they are a-changing.

The times I'm referring to are current trends and exciting developments in the motor industry and although one part of me will miss big, lazy motors, the other half gets a proper petrol-head kick out of small, efficient engines.

Like the one in Nissan's new Qashqai. To put things into perspective, I’ve calculated the average engine size of all cars I’ve ever owned: 3.18 liters.

Doing the same for my father’s cars shows an average capacity of 3.61 liters. That means that this number will statistically continue to drop because of the down-sizing trend.

The new Qashqai is available with two small turbo-Diesels or this new turbo-Petrol, a 1.2L inline four-cylinder which kicks out 85kW (116hp) at 4,500rpm or 190Nm from 2,000rpm.

That’s the same amount of power an old 1.6 or 1.8L would produce, with considerably higher twisting power. Before I get into the nitty-gritty of its engine, I’d like to convey my personal opinion on the looks of this new Nissan.

From its trademark chrome V grill and snazzy LED day-time lights (standard on all models) to its flowing new shape and agreeable rear end, I think the Qashqai is a seriously goodlooking car.

Someone noted a resemblance to the Hyundai ix35’s rear lights and I’ll chalk that up as high praise. Inside, the fresh SUV shows interesting forms and textures, modern lighting and sharp displays.

Nissan’s trusty but crusty radio / media unit is finally gone, replaced by a touch-screen device surrounded by sparkly black trim.

The cloth seats are comfortable and versatile; boot space grows from 430L to 1,585L with the rear 60/40 split seats folded. We enjoyed lots of cup holders and bottle holders, power windows and exterior mirrors.

My better half bemoaned the unlit ignition slot but that’s all the criticism we could conjure up in a week.

Available in two spec levels, this Acenta model boasts 17-inch alloy wheels, more cup holders, auto lights, rain sensor, power folding mirrors, leather-covered gear lever and steering wheel, front fog lights, more speakers, climate control and seat-back pockets over the cheaper Visia.

Qashqai base specifications are properly impressive and include Bluetooth, 12V sockets, multiple airbags, ABS, EBD, brake assist, stability control, hill start assist, active chassis control, cruise control and on-board computer.

Our test car had the optional Techno Pack which gives you surround cameras, navigation, Nissan Connect system and heated exterior mirrors.

Let the needle drop below 1,500 revs and it’ll go on strike. Other than that, it pulls well and uses less than 10L/100km from the 65L tank; Nissan claim 6.2.

Nissan also offers a Design Pack which includes silver roof rails, privacy glass and 19-inch alloys; unfortunately both packages aren't available on the cheapest model.

Our performance tests resulted in 0-100km/h times around 11 seconds but I must stress that this Qashqai feels much faster.

The next thing to strike us was the car’s split between agile road holding and pliant damping, courtesy of front McPherson struts and independent multilink setups at the back.

180mm of ground clearance completes a pleasant picture which should suit most growing suburban families like a glove.

To finally describe its power: while not breath-taking, this new turbo has an energetic and linear delivery with its only Achilles’ heel being low revs.

A few years ago I would have dismissed the idea of driving a 1.2L front-wheel-drive SUV, now I’d even proclaim that I wouldn’t mind owning one.

Part of this may be due to the Nissan Qashqai 1.2L Acenta’s starting price of N$320,588 which seems quite reasonable for such an attractive, efficient and well-spec’d soft-roader.

A five-year / 90,000km service plan and an incredible six-year / 150,000km warranty are also included in what I think is one of the best new compact SUV's in town. Brilliant!

MAKE Nissan MODEL Qashqai 1.2 Acenta ENGINE 1.2L i-4 Turbo-Petrol 85kW 190Nm DRIVETRAIN 6-speed Manual, FWD ABS, EBD, ESP PERFORMANCE 0-100km/h: 11.53 0-400m: 18.16 Max km/h: unknown CONSUMPTION 6.2L/100km avg.* TANK / RANGE 65L / 1,040km* BOOT SIZE 430 - 1,585L WARRANTY 6 years / 150,000km SERVICE PLAN 5 years / 90,000km TYRE SIZE 215/60R17 (alloys) SPARE WHEEL 215/65R16 (steel) PRICE N$320,588 (Oct. 2015, excl. Techno pack) *Manufacturer claims.

Vehicle unwisely provided

by Nissan South Africa

N$ 139 900

N$ 137 900

N$ 129 900

N$ 119 900

N$ 99 900

2014 VW Polo Vivo 1.4i Trendline 44 000km

2014 VW Polo Vivo 1.4i Trendline H/B 38 000km

2012 Toyota Yaris 1.3 XS 5dr 43 000km

2012 KIA Picanto 1.2 EX 22 000km

2011 Ford Figo 1.4i Trend 48 000km

N$ 249 900

N$ 319 900

N$ 199 900

N$ 139 900

N$ 165 900

2011 Toyota Hilux 2.5 D4D D/C 4x4 145 000km

2011 VW Amarok 2.0 BiTDI 4Motion D/C 110 000km

2012 Hyundai ix35 2.0i GL 95 000km

2009 Nissan NP300 S/C 2.4i 4x4 137 000km

2011 Dodge Caliber 2.0i CVT 58 000km

*Please check all prices with your Namibian dealership(s)

SPEC SHEET

C 2000/0403

Jaco 081 129 7200 Joseph 081 323 2552

Tel: (061) 255590 / 1 Fax: (061) 255592 Tacoma Street / P.O.Box 11738, Windhoek

OCT / NOV 2015

NAMWHEELS

KNOWLEDGE: TYRES

Know your

TYRES MINIMUM TREAD DEPTH

Although Namibia isn't exactly known for its adverse weather conditions, sufficient tread can make a huge difference to how your car holds the road, uses fuel and behaves in an emergency situation.

Besides the fact that worn tyres are illegal, they pose a huge risk to you, your passengers and any fellow road users.

So how do you know if your tyres are worn? The legal limit for a tyre's tread depth is 1.6mm but it is recommended that you change tyres before then. Modern tyres have diagonal ridges which, once exposed, indicate that you should replace the tyre.

Tyres which are going bald (i.e. blank profile) are far beyond the limit while any visible sign of a tyre's canvas or metal belt is even worse - and a looming disaster.

If you are in doubt about the state of your tyres or simply need some help, have your tyres checked by a qualified retailer or technician.

Which make of tyre is good? Yet again, speak to the experts who deal with cars and tyres all day.

They can also advise you on the best rubber for the type of driving you do. We advise buying the best you can afford although we've had good experiences with lesser known tyre brands - and a few punctures of well-known tyres.

Don't buy second-hand!

The depth of these ridges should be at least 1.6mm

PAGE 13

13

14

PAGE 14

OCT / NOV 2015

NAMWHEELS

LAUNCH REPORT

Volkswagen Golf

GTi I beg your pardon, Fritz?

Visit www.galimoto.co.za to read this report in Queen's English.

Volkswagen's Golf GTi ist in seiner siebten Generation. Wir fühlen ihm auf den Zahn.

Ähnlich wie sein Vorgänger, verspricht der GTi seinen Wählern eine weiche Evolution in Richtung Exzellenz.

Und wenn man bedenkt, daß er fast nie das Licht der Welt erblickte... Anfang der siebziger Jahre, als der innovative neue Golf erschien, bauten ein paar heitere Volkswagen-Ingenieure einen Leistungs-Prototyp als Spaß.

Ausgestattet mit einem 110-PS 1,6-L Vierzylinder samt Benzineinspritzung und kleinen Verbesserungen, stellten sie ihr Werk der Firmenleitung vor.

Puristen werden argumentieren, daß die ersten beiden Modelle des Golf GTi der Ware Jakob waren, frei von schweren Sicherheits-und KomfortAusstattungen.

Volkswagen betont aber zu Recht, daß Ihr heißer Schlitten ein Alleskönner sein muß. Die perfekte Mischung aus Leistung, Sicherheit, Vielseitigkeit, Komfort, Zuverlässigkeit, Spaß und Understatement ist eine etwas große Aufgabe.

Ich komme gerne zu meiner Politiker Analogie zurück, in der Volkswagen’s GTi allen Fahrern ein besseres Leben verspricht, unabhängig von Alter, Geschlecht, Rasse, Herkunft oder Religion, in allen Bereichen und Aspekten ihrer Reisen.

Die Reaktion war nicht gut. Doch in der letzten Minute überzeugten sie einen der Bosse von ihrem Baby und dieser Herr war so beeindruckt, daß eine begrenzte Produktion genehmigt wurde.

Und die Tatsache ist - der neue GTi leistet genau das. Sein konservatives Aussehen, der nüchterner Innenraum und die germanische Technik sind nicht jedermanns Geschmack, aber sind wie der schwarze Anzug und die guten Manieren des Bürgermeisters.

Edel und zeitlos.

Der Rest, wie ein VWSA Manager bei der Gti 7 Einführung mit einem Kichern bestätigte, ist Geschichte.

GTi 7 Komfort, Qualität, Detaillierung, Geräusche, Instrumente und andere Sinneseindrücke sind ausgezeichnet.

Afrikanische GTi‘s sind (leider) nur mit fünf Türen und Volllederausstattung zu haben- ein Dreitürer mit halb-Leder halb-Karostoff wäre meine Wahl.

Sie können derzeit zwischen einem 6Gang-Schaltgetriebe (N$426,000) oder einem 7-Gang-DSG-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (N$441,300) mit schwarzem Leder und verschiedenen Lackfarben wählen.

Bei seiner Vorstellung waren die neuen Preise nur eine leichte Erhöhung über die der Vorgänger aber beinhalten zusätzliche Leistung (7kW, 10PS, 70Nm), weniger Gewicht (42kg) und zusätzliche Features. Mit dabei sind LED Lampen in den Nebelleuchten und Rücklichtern, nette Innenbeleuchtung, 5,8-Zoll-Touchscreen InfotainmentSystem, Müdigkeits-warnung und ein XDS elektronisches Sperrdifferenzial.

Unterscheidungsmerkmale zu einem normal Golf sind seine roten Aufkleber, rote Bremssättel, Wabengrill, doppelte Auspuffrohre, größere Stoßstangen, Lamellengrills, ein Diffusor am Heck, Golfball Schalthebel, Ledersitze, Sportlenkrad, roten Nähten, Chrom Pedale, digitale Klimaautomatik, elektronische Parkbremse und 18-ZollRäder.

Standard-Ausrüstung beinhaltet auch eine fernbediente Zentralverriegelung, Tempomat mit Geschwindigkeitsbegrenzer, elektro-beinahe-alles, autoalles-andere, Bluetooth, SD / USB und mp3-Fähigkeit, drei Klimasensoren, acht Lautsprecher, Sitzheizung für die Vordersitze, mehrere Fahrzeug- und Fahrerhilfen (ESP, ABS, EBD, ASR, TCS), Multi-Kollisions-Bremse und reichlich Airbags.

Zur Sonderausstattung gehören, unter anderem, ein 8-Zoll Navigationssystem mit Festplatte, schlüsselloser Zugang, adaptive Fahrwerksregelung, XenonScheinwerfer, Scheinwerfer-Assistent, Panorama Glasdach, Rückfahrkamera, Dynaudio Lautsprecher und mehrere Einparkhilfen.

Ein Leistungspaket ist auch erhältlich (zzgl. 10kW und nur für DSG Modelle), ließ aber auf sich warten. Volkswagen mußte erst ein paar Heißwettertests machen - warscheinlich in der Namib Wüste...

Das Standard- GTi Modell verspricht 162kW (220PS) und 350Nm, erreicht 100km/h in 6,5 Sekunden und verlangt laut Hersteller nur 6.0L Bleifrei pro 100km mit 139g/km CO2 Ausstoß (Durchschnittswerte).

GTi Heritage

Während unserer umfangreichen TestRoute, die etliche Bergpässe enthielt, haben wir schnell gelernt, daß der GTi seine Alleskönner Krone behalten darf.

Leistung ist lebendig und geschmeidig mit erfreulich bösem Motorsound...

Das knackige 6-Gang-Schaltgetriebe machte uns mindestens soviel Spaß wie das weiche und schnelle DSG. Platz, Komfort, Bremsen, Ergonomie, Lenkung und Straßenlage sind sehr gut, doch leider kam es bei der Truppe von brandneuen Golf GTi's zu einem unvermeidbaren Unglück.

Einer der Wagen krachte bei hoher Geschwindigkeit mit einem großem Lieferwagen zusammen und beweiste die exzellente Sicherheitsausstattung eines GTi; Fahrer und Beifahrer liefen mit nur leichten Verletzungen davon.

VW kann stolz sein auf ihren Neuling.

Also - das nächste Mal, wenn Sie für CSegment Kandidaten stimmen, ist es wohl Ihr demokratisches Recht, Ihren Favoriten zu wählen. Aber wenn Sie Ihr Kreuz machen, garantiere ich, daß Sie den Bürgermeister GTi nahe der Spitze des Stimmzettels finden werden. Eine Position, die Er verdient hat.

Image Source: Netcarshow.com N.B. These are local / ZA specs while photos are of international models. Other high-performance Golfs like VR6 or Golf R have been excluded from this list.

Volkswagen's hot hatch can look back on almost 40 years of affordability, versatility and driving fun.

Mark I

1976

Mark II

1983

Mark III

1991

Mark IV

1997

Mark V

2004

Mark VI

2009

Mark VII

2014

Here's where it all started, with a very simple recipe: small car, peppy engine.

Bigger and better than Mk1, the "Jumbo Golf" GTi came with eight and 16V motors.

The difficult third album, and one most (local) fans want to forget. Fun to drive but pap.

One of the biggest changes in GTi history, this was the first turbocharged model.

Another big step up for GTi with a new engine and lots of modern technology.

Not wanting to mess with a winning recipe, Mk6 was a soft evolution from Mk5.

More fine-tuning and minor tweaks make the seventh version even better.

Petrol atmospheric 8 valve

Petrol atmospheric 8 / 16 valve

Petrol atmospheric 8 valve

Turbo-Petrol 20 valve

Turbo-Petrol 16 valve

Turbo-Petrol 16 valve

Turbo-Petrol 16 valve

1.6 / 1.8L

110BHP+

1.8 / 2.0L

139BHP+

2.0L

115BHP

1.8L

150BHP+

2.0L

197BHP

2.0L

210BHP+

2.0L

220BHP+

*Please check all prices with your Namibian dealership(s)

Wenn Autos Politiker wären, würde der Golf GTi ein angesehener Minister oder Bürgermeister sein. Zur Zeit im Wahlkampf für eine siebte Amtszeit, hatte der GTi manchmal eine holprige Karriere aber ist mit Sicherheit wieder auf Kurs.

Text Hanjo Stier Images Volkswagen of South Africa

OCT / NOV 2015

NAMWHEELS

PAGE 15

15

GESKIEDENIS

ABS-Remme en ander nuwighede

Noodsaaklik op nuwe motors? Dr Hans Heese vertel ons meer...

‘n Week of twee gelede het ek weer ‘n ongeluk gesien wat vermy kon gewees het. ‘n Klein motortjie het probeer uitswaai vir ‘n motor wat voor hom ingedraai het. Twee weke later is die remmerke nog steeds daar as ‘n stille getuienis van die drama wat op die pad afgespeel het.

Hoe weet mens dat dit vermy kon gewees het? Kyk gerus volgende keer na die swart strepe op die teerpad. Die remme het gesluit omdat die rempedaal instinktief so hard as moontlik getrap is - en die wiele gesluit het. Teen hoë snelheid sal dit gebeur op alle motors wat nie oor ABS-remme beskik nie. Vir diegene wat werklik nog nie weet nie, ABS is die afkorting vir Anti-Blokkering (sluit) Stelsel.

Indien die bestuurder die stuurwiel probeer draai het om ‘n ongeluk te vermy, sal die patroon altyd dieselfde wees; twee lang swart strepe gevolg deur kort swart spoortjies wat na links of regs uitswaai net voordat die motor amper tot stilstand gekom het.

Dit het gebeur omdat die spoed sodanig verlaag het dat die wiele teen lae spoed meteens “stuurbaar” geword het. Maar gewoonlik was dit al te laat en is die voorwerp wat die bestuurder wou vermy het, reeds getref. Hou maar dop volgende keer as u weer na vars strepe op die pad kyk.

Text and bottom image Dr Hans Heese Top Image Daimler AG

Hoe gebeur dit dat mens beheer verloor oor ‘n motor met goeie skokbrekers, padhouvermoë en splinternuwe bande?

Die antwoord is eenvoudig; die oomblik as ‘n paniekstop gemaak word, het die rubber geen vasklou-vermoë op die oppervlakte nie; dit is so goed as wat die wiele gedraai is maar op ys beweeg en slegs vorentoe gaan – ongeag watter manewales die bestuurder probeer om die voertuig se rigting te laat verander.

Die ABS-remstelsel is in Duitsland deur die firma Bosch ontwikkel en is vanaf die tagtigerjare feitlik die norm in WesEuropa by Mercedes-Benz en Volvo motors wat eerste hierdie stelsel as standaardtoerusting op hulle motors – later ook Busse – aangebring het.

Wat dit beteken is dat die remme nie sluit nie maar deur die gebruik van elektroniese sensors, die remme vir ‘n breukdeel van ‘n sekonde sal sluit en dan weer laat los – en so aanhou sluit en los totdat die voertuig tot stilstand gekom het. Boonop gee dit die belangrike voordeel dat die motor wel “bestuur” kan word in die sin dat die rigting waarin die voertuig beweeg, verander kan word.

Dit gebeur ten spyte van die feit dat die bestuurder paniekbevange die remme doodtrap – en daar gebeur niks nie behalwe dat daar rook trek soos die bande skuur; en lelike byklanke daarby.

Ou veterane van my tyd wat elkeen een of ander tyd so-iets ervaar het, en wat in ‘n botsing of ongeluk geïndig het, kan van daardie magtelose gevoel getuig; jy sien al in jou geestesoog hoe die volgende sekonde of twee-drie gaan verloop en jy wag op die slag wat gaan volg.

Dit is dan ook daarom dat ons nie ons kinders of kleinkinders wat so-pas hulle bestuurslisensies verkry het, hierdie nare ervaring toewens nie.

In die geval van die ongeluk wat ek bo genoem het, kon dit vermy gewees het as die pa vir sy onervare seun of dogter ‘n paar duisend dollar meer uigehaal het en 'n duurder model gekoop het wat oor ABS-remme (en lugsakke) beskik.

Maar in tye waar die ekonomie nog sy kop moet oplig, is nuwe motors met die ekstra veiligheidskenmerke waarskynlik buite die ouers (of jong werkendes) se geldelike vermoë. Wat dan gemaak?

As deel van die motorlisensietoets behoort daar ook klem gelê te word op gevorderde tegnieke wat op ‘n glybaan geoefen kan word. Die ABS-elektronika kan deur enige bestuurder aangeleer word op ‘n eenvoudige manier. Die rempedaal word hard getrap tot op die punt wat die remme sluit. En hier kom die moeilike deel: LOS die rem vir ‘n breukdeel van ‘n sekonde en trap weer hard, los weer en trap weer hard – en hou

so aan totdat die voertuig geleidelike stadiger beweeg en weer hanteerbaar is.

Die Engelse noem hierdie stelsel “cadence braking”; so ver ek weet het ons nie ‘n soortgelyke term in Afrikaans nie. Hierdie tipe remtoetse kan op ‘n stil, reguit pad geoefen word maar die beste is tog maar om dit op ‘n glybaan onder toesig en raadgewing te probeer by enige instelling wat gevorderde motorbestuurkursusse aanbied. Die AA sal enige tyd bereid wees om die naaste instelling se naam en nommer te verskaf.

Ek self het op die harde manier die “trap-en-los” geleer na ‘n dramatiese pletterstop in 1975 in Angola toe ek met my regterhandstuur links moes gaan om te sien of die pad skoon was om ‘n staande vragmotor verby te steek. Daar was toe ‘n voertuig van voor-af op pad in my rigting!

Op die heel laaste oomblik het die groot Peugeot sy remkrag teruggekry en het ek dwars voor die voertuig gestop met die voorwiele op ‘n klein bruggie – die enigste een vir kilometers. Hierna het ek toe die geheim van “cadence braking” aangeleer en kon ‘n paar besliste ongelukke oor die dekades vermy.

Kyk tog volgende keer weer met meer kundigheid na remstrepe op die teerpad en kry óf ‘n motor met ABS-remme of kry gevorderde bestuursopleiding!

2014 Hyundai i10 1.25 Fluid

2014 VW Polo 1.2 TSi

10% Deposit

109 500km

N$ 279,500-00

2014 VW Polo Vivo 1.4 Hatch, 63kW

T E IS NG W SS CI A N N INA CA H F IT

2011 Nissan Navara 2.5 Tdi D/cab 4x4

W

Supreme Wheels, Sales

Contact Nico at: Tel: 061 - 304 903 • 081-334 9222 sws@africaonline.com.na No 5 Parson Street

2014 Nissan NP 200 1.6 Safety Pack

5% Deposit

18 250km

N$116,500-00

2013 Hyundai Elantra 1.8 GLS

21 175km

N$ 175,000-00

2011 VW Polo 1.6 Comfortline

42 000km

N$ 129,500-00

2014 Chevrolet Utility 1.4 Club

N$ 11 000-00 Deposit

22 500km

N$ 139,500-00

64 500km

N$ 210,000-00

64 000km

N$ 148,500-00

15 800km

N$155,000-00

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2010 Toyota Hilux 3.0 D-4d Raider 4x4 D/C, 138 000km N$ 275 000

2014 Isuzu Kb 300 D-Teq LX 4x4 D/C, 45 000km N$ 440 000

2011 Renault Logan 1.6 Expression 72 000km N$ 78 000

2014 Toyota Landcruiser 76 S/W 4.5d V8, 30 000km N$ 580 000

2013 Mercedes-Benz C180 BE Classic A/T, 59 000km N$ 299 900

2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 Dune A/T, 46 500km N$ 235 900

2011 VW Polo Vivo 1.4 Trendline 5dr, 73 000km N$ 110 000

2010 VW Golf Vi 1.6 Tdi Comfortline 77 000km N$ 189 990

2008 Land Rover Discovery 3 TdV6 S A/T, 198 000km N$ 220 000

2011 Nissan X Trail 2.0 4x2 XE 177 000km N$ 139 900

2013 Toyota Hilux 3.0 D-4d Raider R/B D/C, 75 000km N$ 350 000

2009 Bmw 3 Series 320d A/T (E90) 134 000km N$ 179 900

2012 VW Amarok 2.0 Bitdi Trendline 120kw 4M S/C, 150 000km N$ 269 700

2013 Fiat 500 1.2 Pop 74 000km N$ 109 990

2010 Mazda Mazda2 1.3 Active 59 000km N$ 89 990

2011 Hyundai I20 1.4 84 000km N$ 109 000

2007 Bentley Continental GT 30 000km N$ 1 899 990

2012 Chevrolet Optra 1.6 LS 72 000km N$ 110 000

2011 VW Golf Gti 2.0 Tsi DSG 100 000km N$ 265 000

2014 Toyota Innova 2.7 VVTi 7 Seater, 25 500km N$ 225 000

2015 Toyota Hilux 3.0 D-4D Xtra Cab Legend 45 N$ 346 000

2012 Toyota Rav4 2.0 GX A/T 30 600km N$ 219 900

2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta 1.4t 5dr Progression, 73 000km N$ 179 990

2012 VW Polo Vivo 1.6 Trendline 5dr, 39 000km N$ 139 990

2014 Volkswagen Polo 1.6 Trendline 39 000km N$ 164 900

2013 Audi A5 2.0t Fsi Multitronic 41 000km N$ 399 900

2014 Toyota Prado Vx 4.0 V6 A/T 14 000km N$ 675 000

2012 Hyundai Sonata 2.4 Gls Executive A/T, 54 000km N$ 229 990

2013 Jeep Patriot 2.4 Limited 39 000km N$ 245 000

2013 Isuzu Kb 300 D-Teq LX D/C 110 000km N$ 320 000

2013 Volkswagen Polo 1.6 Comfortline, 47 000km N$ 182 300

2015 Foton Tunland 2.8 ISf D/C Comfort N$ 305 995

2014 Renault Sandero 900t Stepway 11 000km N$ 143 000

2011 Toyota Land Cruiser 79 4.0P 60th Ed S/C, 95 000km N$ 360 000

2012 VW T5 Kombi 2.0 Tdi 75kw Base Trendline, 132 800km N$ 235 900

2013 Nissan Juke 1.6 Acenta 43 000km N$ 168 900

2013 Hyundai I30 1.8 GLS Exec 30 000km N$ 225 000

2012 Toyota Prado Tx 3.0 Tdi A/T 60 000km N$ 479 990

2014 Nissan Np200 (dual airbags) 16 000km N$ 135 000

2013 Ford Ranger 2.2Tdci XLS 4x4 D/C, 56 000km N$ 329 000

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