Monthly Motor - August 2014

MONTHLY

KSH 350/-

AUGUST 2014

ALL YOUR MOTORING NEEDS

inside:

2015

Mercedes-Benz Printed in Kenya www.media7group.co.ke

C-Class Tanzania 7,000/= Uganda 10,200/=

Issue No. 212 Volume 22

Barclays Bank of Kenya is regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya

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from the publisher

Fuel Efficient Driving Techniques That Work the highway, where this feature is available.

3. Stay alert. Keep your car’s momentum by planning your manoeuvres ahead of time. Pay attention to the road ahead, anticipate the movements of pedestrians and other drivers, and keep a safe distance from the car in front of you. This will save you fuel and keep you safer on the road.

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veryone’s trying to save money on fuel these days.

But did you know that your own driving habits and techniques can actually affect your fuel consumption by as much as 25 percent? Check out the following tips for fuel efficient driving and watch the savings add up: 1. Don’t be a lead foot. Putting the “pedal to the metal” wastes fuel because the harder you accelerate the more fuel you waste. Press the accelerator pedal gently. A good rule of thumb for optimal fuel efficient driving is to take about five seconds to accelerate your car up to 25 kph from a stop. For a manual transmission, use a moderate throttle position and shift between 2,000 and 2,500 rpms.

2. Keep it steady. Dips in speed combined with spurts of acceleration can increase your fuel use by up to 20 percent. One easy fuel efficient driving technique is using cruise control on

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4. Don’t slam on the brakes.

Sometimes, to avoid an accident, you have no choice. But in regular driving situations, coasting toward a stop sign or red light helps you conserve fuel and save money. It’s not only a fuel efficient driving habit, it’s also easier on your tyres and brakes, which help you save on maintenance and repair costs.

5. Slow down. While every model is different, most cars’ fuel mileage starts to tank at speeds above 80 Kph. Look at it like this: every 10 Kph you drive over 80 Kph is like paying an extra quarter for a litre of fuel. Slowing down also saves you money on those speeding tickets and insurance costs arising out of accidents caused by speeding.

Aside from exercising these fuel efficient driving techniques, keeping your tyres properly inflated and following your car’s maintenance schedule will also help you save money on fuel as well as increasing the life of your car and the various components.

Dr. Hanningtone Gaya PhD EBS Publisher/CEO Media 7 Magazines Group

ALL YOUR MOTORING NEEDS MANAGING EDITOR Dr. Hanningtone Gaya +254 722 74 22 87 info@media7groupkenya.com gaya@wananchi.com gaya@media7groupkenya.com

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AUGUST

CONTENTS Santiusae demrae

Volume 22, Issue 212

2014

6 Headlight

8

Driving at night safety facts and tips

38 your pick-up Nissan unleashes New Navara

16

40 pick-up review

8 teST DRIVE

Pajero Sport is an unsung hero

First Drive: 2015 Porsche Macan

44 Q&A

12 FIRST IMPRESSION

Shell FuelSave

Drive: 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

46 Car MAINTENANCE

16 WISH LIST

10 Tips to extend the life of your car

Tested: New Isuzu KB

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18 SUV REVIEW 2014 Mazda CX-5 – A top winner

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22 READERS’ CHOICE All-New Volvo XC90 - first official glimpse

26 EDITOR’S CHOICE New Nissan QASHQAI: The ultimate urban experience

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32 LAUNCH New Polo

38 26

32

48 SAFE DRIVING What not to do after a car accident

50 USED CARS Car safety checks to make during purchase

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46

52 car pricing 2014 60 MOTOR ACRONYMS 64 HUMOUR 4

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5

HEADLIGHT

Driving at Night

Safety Facts and Tips

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raffic death rates are three times greater at night than during the day, according to the National Safety Council. Yet many of us are unaware of night driving’s special hazards or don’t know effective ways to deal with them. Driving at night is more of a challenge than many people think. It’s also more dangerous.

Why is night driving so dangerous? One obvious answer is darkness. Ninety percent of a driver’s reaction depends on vision, and vision is severely limited at night. Depth perception, colour recognition, and peripheral vision are compromised after sundown. Older drivers have even greater difficulties seeing at night. A 50-year-old driver may need twice as much light to see as well as a 30-year old.

Another factor adding danger to night driving is

fatigue. Drowsiness makes driving more difficult by dulling concentration and slowing reaction time.

Traffic crashes that include at least one driver or motorcycle operator with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 g/dl or greater account for about 32% of total traffic fatalities. That makes weekend nights more dangerous. More fatal crashes take place on weekend nights than at any other time in the week.

Fortunately, you can take several effective measures to minimize these after-dark dangers by preparing your car and following special guidelines while you drive.

The National Safety Council recommends the following:  Prepare your car for night driving. Clean headlights, taillights, signal lights and windows (inside and out) once a week, more often if necessary.

 Have your headlights properly aimed. Misaimed

headlights blind other drivers and reduce your ability to see the road.

 Don’t drink and drive. Not only does alcohol severely impair your driving ability, it also acts as a depressant. Just one drink can induce fatigue.  Avoid smoking when you drive. Smoke’s nicotine and carbon monoxide hamper night vision.  If there is any doubt, turn your headlights on.

Lights will not help you see better in early twilight, but they’ll make it easier for other drivers to see you.

Being seen is as important as seeing.

 Reduce your speed and increase your following distances. It is more difficult to judge other vehicle’s speeds and distances at night.  Don’t overdrive your headlights. You should be able to stop inside the illuminated area. If you’re not, you are creating a blind crash area in front of your vehicle.  When following another vehicle, keep your headlights on low beams so you don’t blind the driver ahead of you.

 If an oncoming vehicle doesn’t lower beams from high to low, avoid glare by watching the right edge of the road and using it as a steering guide.  Make frequent stops for light snacks and exercise.

If you’re too tired to drive, stop and get some rest.

If you have car trouble, pull off the road as far as possible. Warn approaching traffic at once by setting up reflecting triangles near your vehicle and 300 feet behind it. Turn on flashers and the dome light.

Stay off the roadway and get passengers away from the area. Observe night driving safety as soon as the sun goes down. Twilight is one of the most difficult times to drive, because your eyes are constantly changing to adapt to the growing darkness.

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TEST DRIVE

First Drive: 2015

Porsche Macan Review by Lesley Wimbush

There are over six kilometres of rugged off-road trails at Porsche’s Leipzig test centre. Strapping ourselves into the company’s latest arrival, a luxury cute ute named “Macan”, we strike out into the Deutsche Outback for a hands-on demonstration of its off-road prowess.

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eeping a sharp eye out for wild horses, we tackle some 30-degree embankments and trundle along under a WWII Soviet tank bridge.

As we straddle a sheer granite berm, stones pinging off the car’s underbelly – it seems impossible to maintain our footing, or even continue at this angle without rolling off into the underbrush.

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It’s fascinating to watch the suspension at play in the car ahead of us, extending and compressing to keep the cockpit on a fairly even keel, despite such improbable angles. And while it doesn’t quite boast the same clearance as big brother Cayenne, the Macan is perfectly capable off the pavement – particularly when equipped with the air suspension, giving it an extra 40 mm in height.

The Macan, which may sound a bit like a bird

of colourful plumage but is actually the Indonesian word for “tiger”, is Porsche’s entry into one of the most rapidly growing segments in the automotive market: the luxury compact crossover.

Over the last half-dozen years, the segment has exploded, selling well over a million vehicles globally, and it shows no sign of slowing down.

With the Macan, Porsche is well-poised to take advantage of that growth, and the company predicts

it will surpass the full-size Cayenne to become their top-selling model. A turbodiesel variant will also be released in other markets, but is still undergoing emissions-related development before arriving in sub-Sahara Africa.

It’s been eleven years since Porsche debuted the Cayenne, unleashing a furore of wailing from those who considered it a blasphemous move from a brand known for its pure, raw sports cars. Perhaps

the passing of time has led to acceptance, or at least a wearing down in outrage since there has been very little backlash surrounding the Macan’s arrival thus far. Even the purists must realize that the Cayenne has been credited with almost singlehandedly pulling Porsche through the economic meltdown a few years ago, and now accounts for about half of its overall sales.

Without such mass appeal and mainstream vehicles, it’s unlikely we’d have unattainable yet inspiring vehicles like the $800,000+ 918 Spyder.

There’s a misconception that this is a rebadged Audi Q5 – it’s not. While parts-sharing with the mother company helps keep costs down, the Macan and Q5 share only the floor pan and some interior components – roughly 30 percent in all.

The Macan Turbo, $82,200, boasts a twinturbo, 3.6L V6 with an output of 400 hp and 406 lb-ft and can blast from 0–100 km/hr in as little as 4.4 seconds.

Standard on the Turbo, the “S” models comes loaded with performance options: Porsche Active Suspension Management $1,560 (PASM), Porsche Torque Vectoring $1,700 (PTV Plus), Sport Chrono Package $1,480 (Sport Plus and Launch Control) and Air Suspension $3,140. There is one transmission offering, and it’s the seven-speed twin-clutch Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK).

The Macan’s compact size, wide stance and much lower height give it the look of a bulkier 911 rather than a scaled-down Cayenne. Powerful rear haunches are enhanced by wider wheels behind; MOTOR AUGUST 2014

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Rating: Comfort: Perfomance: Fuel Economy: Interior: Exterior Styling:

while skinny treads up front sharpen the steering response. Flanks are creased with what Porsche refers to as “side blades” (borrowing jargon from the Audi R8), visually slenderizing and lowering the Macan and furthering the illusion of a squatting sports car. Turbo models are distinguished by the signature red calipers and Turbo script badging on the rump, and there’s available carbon-fibre trim to smarten up those side blades. Aside from its compact size, the easiest way to tell the Macan from the Cayenne is its slick new clamshell hood – whose clean, uninterrupted length streamlines the nose.

It’s a typical Porsche environment, with the

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familiar bank of Carrera GT–inspired switchgear, chunky brushed aluminium accents, stitched leather upholstery and a steering wheel lifted from the 918 supercar.

While un-optioned vehicles are upholstered in Alcantara, the testers were all fitted with firstrate leather sports seats with excellent support and bolstering. Anyone who’s driven anything in the Porsche lineup will be instantly comfortable in the Macan’s cabin.

Rear seats split 40/20/40 and fold down for a nearly flat load floor. The shortened roofline does eat into rear headspace however. Still, I rode in the

back for part of our drive route and had plenty of knee room.

Minutes after leaving the off-road course, we’re chasing a Porsche 911 around an FIA-certified track that takes bits and pieces from the world’s most demanding raceways – Laguna Seca’s corkscrew, Loews Hairpin from the famed Circuit of Monaco – and splices them into one ten-turn, 3,707-metre long circuit.

For sports car lovers who’ve been forced to compromise – rejoice – there is no finer-handling crossover on the market. On the Autobahn, the Macan accelerates with the same linear thrust as its

sports-car stablemates, and while it may not stick to the road with the same suction cup thrust as the 911 Turbo, there’s very little body roll at all. In fact, it’s easy to forget you’re not in a coupe.

But it’s on track that the Macan will make believers out of SUV haters. Dynamically – the Macan is tight and predictable with the sort of snappy response more suited to a Cayman than a 1,916-kg utility vehicle. While the steering lacks the telepathic feedback of the 911, it’s perfectly accurate. Switch to Sports Plus mode, and the PDK rips through the gears, with the familiar melodic bellowing from its twin tailpipes.

Porsche’s sports cars have a certain intangible quality that infuses the driver with a feeling almost akin to the wheels being extensions of one’s own limbs. The Macan’s compact size lends it handling that approaches, if not exactly achieves that level of confidence. It is remarkably neutral and planted for a vehicle that’s considerably taller than a 911.

While Porsche seems confident that there won’t be any scavenging of Cayenne sales to the Macan, they’re bound to lose a few once this excellent crossover hits the market. The Macan will appeal to those who want a 911 or Cayman, but whose family obligations insist on more utility. Minutes after my

test drive, I received a text message from a friend who’d put off his much longed-for dream of buying a 911 until the kids were bigger.

“Wouldn’t you know it,” he said, “Now I’m too fat to fit in one.” For him, the Macan might just be the perfect solution.

Competitors:  Audi Q5  BMW X3  Mercedes-Benz GLK  Land Rover Range Rover Evoque.  Volvo XC60 MOTOR AUGUST 2014

11

FIRST IMPRESSION

Drive: 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review by Jeff Wilson Marseille, France – “The drop line.”

Amid a lively discussion with C-Class designer Volker Leutz, the affable German was asked if there were any aspects of the attractive new mid-size Mercedes that were simply “right” from the initial sketches. Leutz, without pausing, proclaimed the “drop line” – the sweeping arc of a crease that runs from the headlights down to its termination point just below the rear door handle. This was a defining element in the design and one that was more or less untouched from early in the lengthy design process.

The C-Class is an extremely important vehicle for Mercedes, being the marque’s sales leader on an international scale. Since the 1982 launch of the compact 190E, Mercedes has sold over 8.5 million cars in this lineage.

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electing a most-challenging aspect was not so easy – and not because the whole design was an immediate home run. Quite the contrary. This is Mercedes-Benz after all, and as one would expect from the German automotive stalwart, the army of literally thousands of engineers who had a hand in the development of the C-Class carry a lot of clout – and are apparently almost always at odds with the design team.

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Incidentally, Volker finally decided the “shoulder line” (the subtle crease above the rear fender) proved most controversial and problematic.

It might seem strange that something as simple as the placement and sweep of a body crease could cause so many designers many nights of lost sleep, but the new C-Class is intended to embody the current – and future – design language of MercedesBenz. Plus, the C represents one of the first wholly fresh designs under the new regime of Design VP

Gorden Wagener following the celebrated S-Class; a car Mercedes’ representatives repeatedly referenced in many discussions about the new C. And the C-Class is an extremely important vehicle for Mercedes, being the marque’s sales leader on an international scale. Since the 1982 launch of the compact 190E, Mercedes has sold over 8.5 million cars in this lineage. With ever-improving competition not only from the Stuttgart firm’s domestic and Asian-brand rivals, but increasingly from

former non-starters like Cadillac, Mercedes could ill-afford to misstep with the new C. Seeing the C-Class out on the road amidst traffic, observers will need to do a double take to confirm they’re witnessing a C-Class and not an S-Class. The new car has tremendous presence for an entry-level luxury machine – more so than is evident in photos.

In an attempt to maintain allegiance of traditional buyers and attract younger buyers alike, two distinct design languages are offered for the C-Class.

The first – Exclusive line – has its roots in the traditional Benz idiom with the three-pointed-star hood ornament atop the classic radiator grille. But

don’t be fooled into thinking it’s a retro feature. The grille bars actually have closing louvres to improve aerodynamics, lending to a best-in-class Cd value of 0.24.

Alternatively, buyers can opt for the sportier Avantgarde line dominated by the oversized logo affixed to the middle of the grille. An AMG design package is also available with more aggressive cladding and body kits.

The interior is where the 2015 C-Class makes the most dramatic improvement over the 2014 models. It is nothing short of remarkable and well deserving of the “Baby S-Class” moniker.

The design and materials are a quantum leap

beyond the old model, and launch the new C-Class to best-of-category status, especially when equipped with the sportier (and wonderfully comfortable) AMG-trim seats. Dark-stained and matte-finish wood trims, contrasting aluminum accents, handsome stitching and an overall contemporary design will make occupants scrap the “entry” portion of the entry-level luxury classification.

The updated COMAND infotainment system features an effective rotary knob controller as well as a touch panel enabling simple “finger drawings” of characters and digits to facilitate easier operation of the system. The speed and effectiveness of the navigation system was appreciated to help route us around Marseille’s notorious traffic congestion.

With 40 mm of added width and an 80 mm MOTOR AUGUST 2014

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increase in wheelbase, passengers will have more space to enjoy all that luxury (trunk space also increases to 480 L) and the excellent (optional) Burmester audio system.

For every bit as good as the new C-Class is to look at and sit in, it’s equally pleasing to drive. Despite its increase in size, the new car is approximately 100 kg lighter than the outgoing model owing largely to increased use of aluminum throughout construction of the car.

Dynamically the C-Class is improved over the preceding model in each of the handling, acceleration and braking departments, all of which should

prove to be on par with the category best – qualities we at Autos.ca look forward to evaluating in future comparison tests.

During the press launch we were given the opportunity to try the turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder C 300 (estimated at 245 hp) and turbocharged 3.0L V6 (333 hp) that will be available in North America early this autumn.

Enthusiasts will want to pony up for the C 400 with its boosted six-cylinder. This engine propels the C-Class with exuberance, making it an honest sport sedan and highly competitive in its class. If there is one complaint of all three engines it’s that

they’re not as melodic in their engine note as some of the competitive marque’s machines. The upcoming AMG high performance model will surely rectify that along with providing an additional dose of performance.

Mercedes has added an “Agility” toggle switch to the lower console that allows the driver to adjust the personality of the car by selecting various drive modes ranging from Eco to Comfort to Sport and Sport+. We found the differences between Comfort and Sport too subtle to appreciate, but switching into Sport+ produced a noticeable change in aggression from the car, affecting everything from

throttle response, transmission behaviour (holding gears longer, downshifting earlier) and suspension stiffness when equipped with the optional Airmatic air suspension.

Driving the C 400 4Matic in Sport+ on the hilly switchbacks above Cassis was exhilarating with the sporty Benz storming between corners at a startling pace and handling the hairpins with aplomb. The roads in this region are far too smooth to accurately project the quality of the ride over our frost-heaved and pockmarked Canadian roads, but motions seem well damped.

Steering feel is quite good and the car is solid and planted without feeling heavy, thanks in part to the new four-link front suspension geometry. The curviest of roads we experienced was also hair-raisingly narrow in many spots, so a feeling of control and security is paramount and appreciated. Brakes offer a firm, linear pedal and impressive stopping

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power, even as we repeatedly drove up and down the hilly, twisty route.

Should the worst happen, the C-Class is just about as well protected as you can get in a modern car. While the engineers and stylists battled on many fronts, safety is the fundamental aspect that was never open for debate – this new car must protect its occupants at the highest level.

In addition to a robust structure that meets or exceeds all crash safety standards the world over, the C-Class is available with an impressive host of active safety features and technology. The usual aides like blind-spot monitoring and collision warning sensors and cameras are augmented by things like Crosswind Assist and Lane Keeping Assist in which the car will compensate for inattention or unexpected lateral gusts by gently steering the car back on course.

When coupled with Distronic Plus (Benz-speak

for adaptive cruise control), the C-Class can help remove a lot of the drudgery of commuting by keeping the car at a safe distance even in stop-andgo traffic.

We had occasion to sample some of the C-Class’s active safety features at the Michelin Proving Grounds in Southern France, where we were asked to ignore our self-preservation instincts and drive, foot-down on the accelerator in an attempt to rear-end a mock car being towed in front of us. Sensing danger, the Benz reacts with moderate initial braking, overriding the driver’s throttle input; then if the driver still does not react, the car will come to a complete and safe stop on its own. Very impressive indeed, and while we all like to believe we’re great drivers who would never need such driving help, occasional lapses in judgment do happen to the best of us and this system will undoubtedly save lives.

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15

WISH LIST

Tested: New Isuzu KB

By Jesse Adams New generation Isuzu KB is offered in 21 guises. The test vehicle was the KB 300 D-Tec 4x4 LX. Let me start by saying that in the brand-name pickup royal rumble happening in our market, there are no outright losers.

If one is strong here, another makes up for it there. The playing field is reasonably level and brand loyalty often takes precedence over measurable differences in price, power and other fiddly features such as break over angles, load-bin sizes and reach-adjustable steering columns (or, in some cases, the lack thereof).

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o with that I bring you the all-new Isuzu KB. Launched just weeks ago in South Africa, this locally-made pickup is the latest to debut with a shiny new face fit for the 21st century, and there’s a huge following of loyal Isuzu jokes who’ve eagerly awaited this day to see how their new bad boy stacks

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up in the on-going pickup brawl.

The new KB comes in 21 different guises, ranging from low-slung workhorses through butch four-wheel drive double cabs and everything in between, meaning there’s a model to contest every weight category.

In this top KB model, specification is fair. For

the money you get cruise control, park-distance control, and Bluetooth connection for the radio that also accepts a mini USB cable, two 12-volt outlets and other extras that were once only found in passenger cars but are now spreading into the pickup realm.

However, there are some noticeable omissions; there’s no stability control in any KB, unlike almost all of its pickup rivals, even the ageing (but still best-selling) Hilux. Fancy electronics systems such as off-road-specific ABS braking and hill-descent control (à la Amarok) also can’t be found here.

Moreover, the steering’s only adjustable for height and not reach.

PULLING POWER But, as mentioned earlier, most mainstream pickups get their own claim to fame to separate them from the rest and the new KB, in this specific trim, holds the title of South Africa’s strongest tower.

The 300 D-Teq has a class-leading claimed towing capacity of 3500kg with either 4x2 or 4x4 drivetrains (with an optional heavy-duty tow bar), and a wonderfully torquey three-litre turbodiesel that makes a manly whistle like a Mack truck.

On paper its 130kW/360Nm rating isn’t the strongest by a long shot when compared to market rivals, but the way it delivers power over a wide rev range makes for a relaxed drive and infrequent gear shifts. I found it best to pull off in second most of the time, and even though there are only five manual gears to Amarok, Ranger and Navara’s six, the broad torque spread deals nicely with the longer ratiosy.

FUSS FREE Diesel consumption averaged just under 10 litres per /100km while in our hands, and is a good reflection of a daily driver without any fuel-sucking towing or four-wheeling involved, but the trip computer, which only comes in top LX versions, still reads in old-school kilometres per litre measure.

Some old-school jokes might prefer it that way.

Selecting four-wheel drive is achieved via a fuss-free dial in the console and can be done on the fly at speeds up to 100km/h.

A rear differential lock is standard in the LX and the suspension, as in most other 4x4 pickups, comprises a double wishbone front and leaf spring rear setup. On a scale of one to ten I’d give the ride quality here a seven on road and an eight off, which is very good considering how bouncy other pickups can be.

Driving controls are rather weighty, though, and clutch, steering and gearshift operation require some muscle. Smaller-built drivers might struggle manhandling this beast around inner cities.

LOW-RENT ACCOMMODATION I am disappointed with the interior quality, though. The dashboard’s styled with a modern flair that matches the exterior’s aggressive look, but all the plastic, and there’s lots of it, feels a little cheap and hollow.

The seats in our test unit were covered in a cool looking chocolate brown leather, but it doesn’t feel as durable as it should for a vehicle that might live a hard life.

Also, the climate-control system which looks

like it’s straight out of a Tron movie, is simple to use and perfectly placed but its big red display orb becomes impossible to read in the daytime if you drive with your headlights on like I do. It’s a silly oversight that could be simply fixed if the dashboard-dimming rheostat switch would go brighter.

VERDICT Where other modern pickups are incorporating a touch of finesse to make them easier to drive daily, the new KB – while a big leap forward over its predecessor in refinement – is more focussed on pure brawn.

It gets a stylistic veneer that puts it at the cutting edge of the current pickup fray, but this one’s nowhere near as soft as it looks.

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17

SUV REVIEW

2014 Mazda CX-5 – A Top Winner

The CX-5 is splendid and supportive, just by being unobjectionable. Where the competition seat thigh cushion does not tilt and seems very short, the CX-5’s is longer and tilts. The CX-5 also features a naturally higher seating position, but still a lot of height adjustability to go along with seat. In addition, the CX-5 has a greater sense of quality in the materials Driving impressions Although the CX-5 has endeared itself to driv-

There is no question that the Mazda CX-5 SUV is a top winner, with the CX-5 living up to motorists’ expectations time and time again.

The CX-5 was first released in 2012, featuring a captivating design, ground-breaking efficiency, class-competitive interior space and a driving quality rarely seen among the small SUV segment.

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ince launch, the 2.0L SkyActiv engine suffered a myriad of criticisms, with motorists writers accusing the CX-5 of being anaemic – a whole lot of sky, not a lot of activ in comparison to the competition. For 2014 models, Mazda added a beefier 2.5L SkyActiv that provide enough motivation to keep up with the reputation for excellent dynamics that the CX-5 has quickly established.

Value The CX-5, retailing at over Ksh 4.5 million, deliver luxurious levels of content and impressive levels of quality. The top tier in the CX-5 line-up

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starts with such amenities as 19-inch wheels, intelligent key proximity entry and push-button start, intuitive AWD with torque-vectoring braking, fog lights and halogen headlights, heated leather seats power eight-way adjustment for the driver, four for the passenger, dual-zone auto climate, power panoramic sunroof, USB. Mazda’s Technology Package matches the competitor’s navigation system and satellite radio, and also offers a couple of standout features in the adaptive bi-xenon headlights and Smart City Brake Support, an automatic pre-collision braking system.

In its segment, the CX-5 headlights are undoubtedly superior, and the cream coloured seats

ing enthusiasts and automotive scribes the world over, the rest of the world has continued buying on practicality, style, value and countless other factors that vary from individual to individual and family to family.

You get in, without taking the key out of your pocket, press a button to start it. The 2.5L fourcylinder fires up with a muted whirr, with 184 hp and 185 psf of torque respectively, both coming in handy when you need to merge urgently, as the CX-5 groans itself up to highway speeds.

The CX-5 is equipped with a clever six-speed automatic that feels almost as smooth as any SUV in its class fitted with a CVT. The CX-5 is sufficiently decisive with downshifts when needed to pass that it may be marginally preferable to the competition’s constantly searching transmission.

Visibility is on par with most in competition, thanks to the incredible resemblance between window openings and D pillars. In addition, the CX-5 lets you guide the vehicle precisely and confidently, with comfortable and well controlled ride quality

The CX-5, retailing at over Ksh 4.5 million, deliver luxurious levels of content and impressive levels of quality.

and slightly higher level of materials quality favour the CX-5.

Practicality This section will again come down to a couple of very specific details as they are so closely matched in many ways.

The Mazda CX-5 also offer 40/20/40 splitfolding rear seats, with second row legroom sufficient for the passenger to sit comfortably ahead of a rear-facing child seat. For adults in the back row, the CX-5 is superior in headroom and decent enough for legroom, so it is the choice of gangly teenagers if that is a prime consideration.

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MORE THAN A CAR

The CX-5 proves excellent representation of the small SUV segment and their brand’s priorities, the Mazda achieving it through simple mechanical quality, attention to engineering detail and an inviting interior.

Not just fun to drive and supple but slightly firmer ride.

In conclusion, the CX-5 proves excellent representation of the small SUV segment and their brand’s priorities, the Mazda achieving it through simple mechanical quality, attention to engineering detail and an inviting interior. The CX-5 also represents an exemplary value, offering a tech-laden, comfortable and accommodating interior that really makes everyday life easier. Before you make your decision in any segment, spend some quality time behind the wheel and decide for yourself if the CX-5 lacks in any features you need.

At monthly MOTOR this month, we enjoyed driving and looking at the CX-5, as it proved itself a thoughtful companion in a few small but significant ways, and earns my nod as one of the best small family SUV.

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it’s unforgettable to drive The New Ford Focus is engineered to excite, bringing power, performance, safety and innovation together for an outstanding drive. Rule the road with the best-in-class engines, delivering the perfect balance between performance and fuel economy. Driving The New Ford Focus goes beyond fun and enjoyable. In it, you’ll discover something more visceral. A dynamic design. An addictive driving experience. Technology matched with interior ergonomics that wrap around and plug you into something that is definitely more than just a family car. Visit CMC Motors Group for more.

For more details contact: CMC Motors Group Ltd (Lusaka Road) P. O. Box 30135 – 00100 Nairobi.

Tel: +254 6932345, 6932301/2, 6932000 Fax +254 20 650795, Mombasa: 041-2230490/1/2/3. Kisumu: 057-2023752/0138. Nakuru: 051-2211875/6/7.

Eldoret: 053-2062565/6/7. Kitale: 054-30382/3. Meru: 064-30984/991. Nanyuki: 062-2030033

READERS’ CHOICE

SUV segment.

To give everyone a taste of what’s to come, Volvo has released the first images and video clips of the interior of the all-new Volvo XC90.

Iconic Luxury The all-new Volvo XC90’s interior is the most exquisitely designed of any Volvo to date, drawing inspiration from its country birth - Sweden - which has a global reputation for integrating cutting-edge

technology with design that is clean, beautiful and crafted from the finest materials.

“The most striking feature is a tablet-like touch screen control console, which forms the heart of an all-new in-car control system,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President Design of Volvo Cars. This system is virtually button free and represents an entirely new way for drivers to control their car and access a range of Internet-based products and services.

The all-new Volvo XC90’s interior combines materials such as soft leather and wood with handcrafted details including a gear-lever made of crystal glass from Orrefors, the famous Swedish glass maker, in certain derivatives and diamond-cut controls for the start/stop button and volume control.

“These details are designed to become the jewels of the interior. They add a bit of exclusive playfulness rather than pure functionality,” said Robin Page, Volvo Cars’s Interior Design Director.

The all-new Volvo XC90 is the first Volvo to use the company’s Scalable Product Architecture

All-New Volvo XC90 First Official Glimpse One of the most anticipated car launches - Volvo’s all-new XC90 – began last month. Volvo Car Group (Volvo Cars) has created a unique launch programme that will gradually unveil the all-new Volvo XC90 from the inside out.

S

tarting last month, Volvo have been systematically disclosing the many new interior features of the car through images, films and information that will be shared across all media platforms. Over the next few months Volvo’s inside-out launch approach will methodically reveal all the detail on the vehicle and will culminate in the full global reveal of the all-new Volvo XC90 in this year, finally showing off the stunning exterior.

This is a completely new launch approach that

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allows Volvo to share all the detail, technology and pure Swedish craftsmanship - details that often get lost in the bigger picture of an all-new car reveal - in the run-up to the official launch of the all-new Volvo XC90. A series of reveal events kicks off after August and into 2015 when the all-new Volvo XC90 goes into production.

Iconic SUV The original Volvo XC90 was launched in 2002, and it revolutionised the SUV segment with its

combination of space, versatility and safety. It went on to become a global sales phenomenon. As will be made clear in coming weeks, the all-new Volvo XC90 will also be a transformational vehicle in its market segment.

The introduction of the Volvo XC90 was a turning point for the brand in South Africa. The Volvo XC90 took SA’s competitive SUV market by storm and became a firm favourite due to its capability, safety, space and design. The all-new Volvo XC90 is set to make an even bigger impact in the local MOTOR AUGUST 2014

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SantiusaeCHOICE READERS’ demrae

RANGER BEST-IN-CLASS

BACK TO CONQUER OUR TOUGH TERRAINS

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DAANN

(SPA), which creates a far wider range of design possibilities, improves driveability and permits the inclusion of the latest safety features and connected in-car technologies, while at the same time increasing interior space.

“Our new interior architecture is pure and uncluttered, while still radiating the sophisticated confidence and formality that luxury SUV customers expect,” said Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President Research and Development of Volvo Cars.

“The customer and the customer experience are at the heart of everything we do at Volvo Cars. We don’t do technology for technology’s sake - everything in a Volvo is there to make our cars safer and more pleasurable to drive,” said Alain Visser, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Sales and Customer Service of Volvo Cars.

For more details contact: CMC Motors Group Ltd (Lusaka Road) P. O. Box 30135 – 00100 Nairobi.

Tel: +254 6932345, 6932301/2, 6932000 Fax +254 20 650795, Mombasa: 041-2230490/1/2/3. Kisumu: 057-2023752/0138. Nakuru: 051-2211875/6/7.

Eldoret: 053-2062565/6/7. Kitale: 054-30382/3. Meru: 064-30984/991. Nanyuki: 062-2030033

EDITOR’S CHOICE

New Nissan QASHQAI: The Ultimate Urban Experience

ern, trendy and energetic in its execution, the new Nissan QASHQAI is not just a reworked original with a renewed lease on life. Longer, wider, lower, lighter and redesigned from the ground up, the new QASHQAI features a refreshing, trendy new design, state-of-the-art technology and increased efficiency - all on the new Renault-Nissan Alliance CMF (Common Module Family) modular platform which, thanks to its adaptability, paves the way for future Nissan models as well.

New face of Nissan In a complete rework of its ground-breaking predecessor which retains original QASHQAI DNA, the new Nissan QASHQAI features the new face of Nissan as well as an edgy and striking body design which not only gives it a unique new look but also a sassy new character. Keeping everything fresh, the bold new design is fronted by the prominent new Nissan V-grille, supported by angular headlights, an accented clamshell bonnet and an aggressive front bumper with a deep air dam for a purposeful look. All models are also characterised by new LED daytime running lights which create a classy light signature that is unquestionably QASHQAI. The muscular cues continue into bold wheel

The world’s most popular compact crossover now enters its second generation. All-new QASHQAI builds on success of first generation and aims higher in every direction. Two million QASHQAI owners worldwide testament to Nissan’s success as the crossover pioneer.

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he first generation model proved to be overwhelmingly popular, achieving more than two million sales worldwide since its 2007 launch. Now, the all-new, all-improved QASHQAI is set to continue this success in a market segment which is unequivocally led by Nissan.

“The ultimate driving experience - this is how we describe the new Nissan QASHQAI,” comments General Manager of Marketing and Planning at Nissan Africa, Konstantin von Vieregge. “The new model represents a new lifestyle choice for people who value their driving as part of their everyday experience, and aim to make their time behind the wheel more than just a chore. The new Nissan QASHQAI ultimately personifies our ‘Innovation that Excites’ ethos.”

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Compact hatchback proportions with the practicality of a passenger car and the adventurous driving stance of an SUV - these key factors culminated in the original Nissan QASHQAI. The first model pioneered the compact crossover segment and set the bar high for other manufacturers to follow in what has evolved into one of the largest market segments globally. Catering to the needs of consumers who require the virtues offered by a crossover, QASHQAI ticks all the right boxes.

Product Manager for Passenger and Crossover vehicles at Nissan Africa, Nancy Reddy, elaborates: “Few vehicles in the world have enjoyed the sales success we have seen with the first generation Nissan QASHQAI - a car we pioneered by investigating what consumers really want from a vehicle, and then giving them the answer. We are now proud

to introduce the all-new QASHQAI to Africa, a continent where compact crossovers are increasingly popular and where the QASHQAI name carries much weight in its segment - over 20 000 African QASHQAI owners can’t be wrong!

“New and revamped from the ground up, the new Nissan QASHQAI gives fresh perspective to the term ‘compact crossover’ and, with heightened design, luxury, quality, refinement and technology headlining its introduction, we expect African consumers to continue to view the Nissan QASHQAI as the answer to their diverse motoring needs.

QASHQAI is a vehicle which can do it all - it has the space, power, comfort, versatility and practicality to suit the busy and adventurous lifestyles of African buyers, now at a more premium level than ever before.”

arches and a strong shoulder line which dictates the sleek and aggressive side window profile - balanced by a selection of new wheel designs. The SUV stance remains, with raised ride height and black bumper cladding adding to the adventurous image. At the rear, a pert tail gate is flanked by strong wraparound tail light clusters with LED elements and a fuss-free bumper design which rounds off the SUV appeal.

Purposeful in its execution as much as it is striking to look at, design elements have also been employed to enhance aerodynamics, the new QASHQAI featuring a drag coefficient of just 0.33 thanks to clever features like a flat underbelly and a roof spoiler with winglets.

The all-new interior, which is bolstered by the three core elements of comfort, connectivity and control, is where the biggest leap in quality and feel has been achieved, with the use of premium quality materials culminating in a chic interior which creates a wonderful driving environment.

The ergonomic and fuss-free layout ensures ease of use, with key touch points and surfaces designed to enhance the sensory experience and provide longterm durability.

Sculpted design cues on the steering wheel and dashboard are complemented by matt-silver

accents and glossy black finishes which elevate the new QASHQAI’s interior ambience to new heights and set a precedent for other Nissan models in the future, while a new Drive-Assist Display brings increased interaction with high-definition graphics to the driving environment, making the new Nissan QASHQAI holistically more enjoyable than before.

So too does the new ambient lighting system which includes full driver control to create the perfect night driving environment.

Exclusively available with five seats, Nissan was in fact inspired by NASA to analyse blood flow and pressure in the lower backs of seated passengers, the engineers using advanced medical scanning techniques to design brand new seats which offer even support. The resultant highly-advanced seats include special bolstering in the pelvis, lumbar and chest areas and offer unparalleled long-distance comfort.

QASHQAI is also a by-word for practicality and in the new version, availability of space is still an intrinsic feature. Spacious seating for five occupants with improved leg-, head- and shoulder room than before, is matched by improved door apertures for easier ingress and egress. The capacious 430 litre boot which is fronted by a tailgate which now opens

Compact hatchback proportions with the practicality of a passenger car and the adventurous driving stance of an SUV

The best just got better Produced at the Nissan Sunderland plant in England, the new QASHQAI arrives in Africa with a five-model range supported by three engine variants and two trim lines. Affordable, efficient, modMOTOR AUGUST 2014

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150 mm higher than before, is 20 litres bigger than that of the first generation Nissan QASHQAI. Cargo capacity is extendable to an enormous 1 585 litres with the rear seatbacks folded down in a 60:40 split - standard in all models.

The new Nissan QASHQAI’s highly-advanced CMF platform has been tailored specifically for the second-generation crossover. One of the most adaptable platform systems in existence, designers and engineers are given the opportunity to tailor the chassis for specific products, their diverse application requirements and ultimately, customer needs.

Suspension in the new QASHQAI is a MacPherson strut design with a rigid-mounting mini sub-frame up front and an independent multilink design at the rear, with advanced double-piston shock absorbers to provide faultless damping at both ends of the dynamic range. The two-channel damp-

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ing system features a conventional channel which takes care of low-frequency bumps on rougher roads, with an additional channel to deal with smaller, high-frequency bumps found on smoother roads. The result is a car which delivers a smooth and refined ride whatever the road surface.

Dynamics are further enhanced by the completely new Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS), standard across the range. Tuned with a new control logic that delivers a more natural driving experience, EPAS returns a 5% reduction in overall steering ration for better responsiveness.

The caster trail of the front suspension has also been lengthened to improve straight line stability as well as create a more positive self-centring action, resulting in better feel through the steering wheel.

The EPAS system is also adjustable according to driver preference, allowing for lighter or heavier

feel depending on the driving environment and the driver’s mood. In Normal mode, EPAS offers light responses perfectly suited to low-speed manoeuvring and effortless cruising, while in Sport mode, a heavier feel requiring more effort to turn the wheel and increased steering feel enhances sportiness.

CVT or manual transmissions Powertrain development, which includes downsizing principles and the endless quest for lower fuel consumption and reduced carbon emissions, has resulted in a trio of engines to power the new Nissan QASHQAI - all of which are ultimately frugal while offering the power and torque for a pleasant driving experience. All new QASHQAI engines are Euro 5-compliant.

The single petrol engine offering comes in the form of an all-new 1.2-litre direct injection turbo-

charged mill, which defies its small capacity with ample power and torque outputs. Producing 85 kW at 4 500 rpm and 190 Nm at just 2 000 rpm, the two new QASHQAI 1.2T models - available in Visia and Acenta trim levels - are a force majeure in the segment. Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox in both derivatives, power is transferred easily to the front wheels, making for comfortable and economical driving.

Technology highlights include start/stop technology, a regenerative alternator, optimised gear ratios and special low-viscosity oils. Fuel economy is the key benefactor of the advanced technology in this regard, the new 1.2T models averaging 6.2-litre per 100 km on the combined cycle, with corresponding carbon emissions of 144 g/km.

Headlining the charge on improved fuel economy and emissions, diesel engines make up the

rest of the powertrain line-up for the new Nissan QASHQAI range. Familiar to anyone who enjoyed the most frugal derivative in the original QASHQAI range, the new QASHQAI 1.5dCi Acenta model features the latest evolution of the world-class 1.5litre common rail turbocharged diesel engine, which produces 81 kW at 4 000 rpm and abundant torque of 260 Nm between 1 750 and 2 500 rpm. Quieter and with reduced vibration, the motor is also lighter than before.

Bestowing the new QASHQAI with ultimate driveability and unbelievable fuel efficiency, this engine is paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox and powers the front wheels. Fuel economy remains class-leading, the combined cycle average just 4.2-litres per 100 km and carbon emissions only 109 g/km - which makes this new Nissan QASHQAI derivative exempt from carbon emissions tax.

Topping the range are two more diesel models - the QASHAI 1.6dCi Acenta XTRONIC CVT and 1.6dCi Acenta AWD. Powered by a new-generation 1.6-litre common rail turbocharged diesel engine, mated to either Nissan’s XTRONIC CVT or a sixspeed manual gearbox with ALL MODE 4x4-i, these derivatives also carry heightened specification levels to match their superior engine characteristics.

Power output is 96 kW at 4 000 rpm, with generous torque of 320 Nm peaking as low as 1 750 rpm.

With technological innovations that include a cold-loop low-pressure Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system and improved thermal management for a quicker warm-up phase, fuel economy in the QASHQAI 1.6dCi CVT is exceptionally low at 4.9-litres per 100 km on the combined cycle, with corresponding carbon emissions of 129 g/km.

The new QASHQAI 1.6dCi AWD manual returns

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similarly attractive numbers, with carbon emissions of 139 g/km met by average fuel consumption of 5.3-litres per 100 km on the combined cycle.

Both diesel engines require 50 ppm diesel or better and feature start/stop technology, along with Active Engine Brake on the CVT model which replicates the natural braking force of the engine while cornering, the benefits of which include greater braking control and enhanced feel with less pedal effort and less brake application required when cornering, along with greater braking feel when coming to a stop. Furthermore, XTRONIC CVT has been specifically enhanced for the new Nissan QASHQAI by defying conventional CVT principles to create a more natural driving sensation with stepped changes to mimic conventional multiratio automatic gearboxes during hard acceleration.

Under smoother acceleration the ratios are subtly adjusted for ultimate smoothness.

Both manual diesel derivatives go even further in the aerodynamics stakes, featuring an intelligent new Active Grille Shutter system which maximises aerodynamic efficiency by closing off air flow through the radiator above speeds of 30 km/h and only reopening if sensors detect that the engine requires further cooling.

Safety counts Achieving five stars in the increasingly stringent Euro NCAP crash tests, safety was of para-

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mount importance when developing the new Nissan QASHQAI. All models carry the highest complement of safety equipment as standard, including four-disc ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution) and BAS (Brake Assist System), six airbags, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) which incorporates traction control, hill start assistance, an electric parking brake, three-point seat belts for all five seats and ISOFIX child seat anchor points. All models also feature a full-size 16-inch spare wheel.

Innovative and exciting, class-leading technology on all models also includes Chassis Control, comprising Active Trace Control and Active Ride Control. Active Trace Control complements VDC at lower speeds by applying specific braking force to each wheel to correct the course of the QASHQAI during cornering, enabling a more dynamic feel without interfering with the driving experience.

Active Ride Control goes even further to enhance the comfortable ride with flatter body control by applying subtle braking to individual wheels when driving over undulating surfaces.

The smartest safety technology - in the form of the Nissan Around View Monitor - is available as an option on all derivatives except the QASHQAI 1.2T Visia. Around View Monitor incorporates four exterior cameras - mounted on the nose, tailgate and under each door mirror - to create a ‘helicopter view’ of the new QASHQAI. This unprecedented technology in the segment makes parking and

manoeuvring exceptionally easy, linked to a 7-inch LCD display which is included in the optional TECHNO PACK. With each of the derivatives in the new Nissan QASHQAI range bringing different possibilities to the table, there is a new QASHQAI for everyone.

The range starts with the 1.2T Visia manual, which includes standard feature highlights like LED daytime running lights, electrically-adjustable door mirrors, Charcoal cloth trim, 16-inch wheels, a 5-inch full-colour HD Drive-Assist Display which includes several information readouts as well as access to customisable vehicle settings, remote central locking, a fully-compatible audio system with four speakers, a multi-function steering wheel, Bluetooth cellphone connectivity, cruise control, two cup holders, four bottle holders and manual air conditioning. Seventeen-inch alloy wheels are available as an option.

The new 1.2T Acenta and 1.5dCi Acenta derivatives ramp up the features list considerably with the addition of 17-inch alloy wheels as standard, along with automatic lights and wipers, front fog lights, electric folding door mirrors, a leather steering wheel and gear lever, Graphite cloth trim, an electric anti-dazzle rear view mirror, six speakers, dual-zone climate control, driver and passenger seatback pockets, and an extra two cup holders.

Options available on these two models include the DESIGN PACK and the TECHNO PACK, or a combination of both. The DESIGN PACK consists of smart silver roof rails, privacy glass and 19-inch V-design alloy wheels, while the TECHNO PACK includes Around View Monitor, heated door mirrors and the new NissanConnect system.

This latest version of NissanConnect, which makes its debut in the new Nissan QASHQAI, is a fully-fledged infotainment system operated via a stylish 7-inch touch screen interface and incorporates satellite navigation, Google® search, full smartphone integration for iOS and Android devices, and a Facebook social media app.

The two range-topping 1.6dCi Acenta models pull out all the stops in terms of features. Standard equipment increases to include 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights with auto levelling, silver roof rails, privacy glass, chrome-accented front fog lights and an intelligent key with keyless entry and pushbutton starting. The all-wh­eel drive derivative also features ALL MODE 4x4i, Nissan’s intelligent allwheel drive system. The TECHNO PACK is also available as an option on these models along with heated leather upholstery.

Santiusae demrae LAUNCH

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n South Africa, the Polo is produced for both the local and export markets. Since its launch in 2010 Polo hatch has consistently been the second best-selling passenger car in Africa.

In 2013, Polo hatch was bought by 23 501 customers. The best-selling car in Africa since 2010 has been Polo’s sibling, the Polo Vivo which was also launched in the same year.

The new Polo has been enhanced both visually and technically. The driver assistance and infotainment systems as well as the new TSI engines now available with either 5 or 6-speed manual transmissions or the award winning DSG gearbox, have taken the new Polo to another level. The new Polo offers the widest range of assistance systems in

its class. It is also the first car in this segment that comes equipped with an Automatic Post-Collision Braking System as standard.

Pure efficiency Thanks to the new award-winning TSI engines, the new Polo fuel economy has been improved by as much as 20 percent. The pick of the bunch is the 1.2 TSI 66kW engine. It has a claimed fuel consumption of 4.9 l/100km (117 g/km of CO2 emissions).

Visually, the new Polo can be identified by a sharper front and rear design. In addition, the new model introduces fresh colours, new interior materials and new specifications. The new Polo now comes in three equipment levels, Trendline, Comfortline

New Polo Volkswagen Polo is one of the world’s bestselling compact models with nearly 14 million units produced and sold worldwide to date. The Volkswagen factory in Uitenhage is one of the two plants in the Volkswagen production network that assembles the Polo hatch.

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and Highline. Customers who want a Polo with rugged but sporty looks can opt for the CrossPolo.

Assistance systems that are traditionally associated with cars found in upper segments have found their way into the new Polo. These include the standard Automatic Post-Collision Braking System (automatically initiates braking of the vehicle that had an accident in order to prevent a subsequent collision) and Driver Alert System.

The new Polo also increases its edge over the competition with an impressive range of new convenience and safety functions that are unique in its segment. The base model, the Polo Trendline, is equipped with K7 headlights which have a black background housing as standard whilst H7 head-

lights which have silver background housing will be standard in the Comfortline and Highline derivatives. The H7 headlights are further enhanced with chrome accents.

The new radio has been upgraded into an infotainment system which has been designed to reflect state-of-the-art technology, known as the modular infotainment system (MIB). Depending on the equipment level, these include functions such as Bluetooth connectivity and a proximity sensor.t - brief summary.

EXTERIOR This sophisticated design of the Polo with its clean lines has now been made even more precise

and sharper. The newly designed headlights and tail lights also have their very own charisma. The new Polo is 3,972mm long (+ 2mm), 1,682mm wide (without door mirrors) and 1,453mm tall.

Front end. The front-end design has a much more three-dimensional and sporty look due to its redesigned bumper and larger lower air intake.

Acting as a design detail providing structure, a new chrome trim connects the two fog lights and makes the Polo appear wider; at the same time, the visual focus is lowered by the trim. Meanwhile, another chrome element also supports the formal integration of the grille into the headlight design on the Polo Comfortline and Highline. This chrome line joins the centres of the headlights with the horizon-

tal alignment of the radiator grille, which creates a sophisticated impression.

Rear section. In the rear bumper area, the car’s width is emphasised by new styling cues, including a cleaner horizontal layout and a wider cut-out for the licence plate. The trapezoidal outer contour of this area extends towards the rear wheels, which creates a more dynamic tension of surfaces. The rear reflectors, now embedded in the bumper, also give the visual impression of greater width. The rear lights were also redesigned.

Side profile. From the side, the new Polo can be differentiated by the new alloy wheels. New to the wheel line-up are the standard alloy wheels for the Polo Comfortline (15 inch) and for the Polo Highline (16 inch). A newly developed 16-inch ‘Rivazza’ alloy wheel can be ordered as an option on the Comfortline. Additionally, there is a new set of alloy wheels for the CrossPolo (17 inch).

Body colours. The new Polo is available in the following body colours: Base - Black, Flash Red, Corn Flower Blue (new), Pure White. Metallic Pepper Grey, Reflex Silver, Urano Grey, Blue Silk, Sunset Red (new). Pearlescent - Deep Black. Honey Orange Metallic and Titanium Beige Metallic are only available with CrossPolo.

INTERIOR New layout of instruments and centre console. Many new ergonomic and visual improvements have been made inside the latest Polo. Aside from the new three-spoke steering wheel, the new instrument cluster in 3-D “tubes” look catches the eye immediately; the instruments are in typical Volkswagen design language. The newly designed layout of controls on the centre console make for intuitive operation.

New radio systems. Located on the next control level of the centre console is the infotainment system, which is ideally positioned in the field of view. The new Polo is the first Volkswagen to get the second generation radio systems of the “modular infotainment system” (MIB). Two versions with touchscreen are available: the “Composition Touch” model is the entry level which features a 5-inch monochrome screen coupled with four speakers, SD-card, as well as AUX-IN interfaces. This radio is standard with the Trendline.

The more sophisticated version the “Composition Colour”; offers a 5-inch colour display, two additional rear loudspeakers, CD player, MP3 functionality, SD-card input and USB and Bluetooth connectivity.

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Thanks to the new awardwinning TSI engines, the new Polo fuel economy has been improved by as much as 20%.

Braking System is triggered when a primary collision has been detected. It assures controlled handling of the car by the driver, even in case of automatic braking. The driver can “override” the Automatic PostCollision Braking System at any time. The system is deactivated, for instance, if it senses a press of the accelerator pedal. The Automatic Post-Collision Braking System is also deactivated if the driver initiates hard braking with greater deceleration than the system deceleration.

Driver Alert System The Driver Alert System, which is standard in Highline derivatives, detects waning concentration of the driver and outputs an acoustic warning for the duration of five seconds, and a message appears in the instrument cluster recommending a break from driving. If the driver does not take a break within the next 15 minutes, the warning is repeated once.

FEATURES Volkswagen has added another equipment line in the new Polo model range. The new Polo is now also available in the top end Highline equipment line. It complements the two specification levels previously available on Polo, namely the entry level Trendline and popular Comfortline. There is also

New climate control interface and chrome accents. Interior designers also optimised controls for the climate control systems (manual or automatic control). They are arranged below the infotainment system. Chrome accents on the door panels, the air vents and around the gear shift console also add to the sophisticated ambience.

ENGINES The new Polo will be launched with fuel efficient TSI engines which replace the MPI engines.

Initially only the four-cylinder 1.2 TSI engines will be available with the power output range of 66kW and 81kW. New petrol engines.

TSI engines. The two 1.2 TSI engines replace the 1.4 (63kW) and 1.6 (77kW) MPI engines. The new Polo is the latest Volkswagen model to be

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offered with the award winning small capacity TSI engines.

1.2 TSI with an output of 66 kW. The entry derivative is fitted with the TSI engine that delivers an output of 66 kW available at 4 800 rpm. The claimed combined fuel consumption of the 1.2 TSI 66kW engine is as low as 4.9 l/100 km (117 g/km of CO2 emissions). Turbocharging boosts the torque at this power level to 160 Nm (over the range 1,400 to 3,500 rpm). The 66kW powered Polo 1.2 TSI has a top speed of 184 km/h and accelerates to 100 km/h in 10.8 seconds. This engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. The 1.2 TSI 66kW engine is available with the Trendline and Comfortline derivatives.

1.2 TSI with output of 81 kW. At 81kW, the new Polo attains a fuel consumption value of 5.1 l/100 km (equivalent to 120 g/km CO2). The maximum power of this engine is available at 5,000 rpm and its

maximum torque of 175 Nm is delivered between 1,500 and 4,000 rpm. At this power level, the Polo 1.2 TSI has a top speed of 196 km/h and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.3 seconds.

As an alternative to the standard 6-speed transmission, this engine can also be ordered with an optional 7-speed DSG which provides an optimum of efficiency, dynamics and comfort. The consumption for the DSG transmission remains unchanged at 5.1 to l/100 km (122 g/km CO2).

The 81kW engine is available in the Highline derivatives as well as the CrossPolo.

RUNNING GEAR McPherson and twist beam suspension.

The running gear is based on the basic layout of McPherson front axle and twist beam rear suspension. The ESC electronic stabilisation programme is included in the Polo as standard. Numerous other

an option of a Cross Polo for customers who want a Polo with sporty but rugged looks. The standard features across the three equipment lines have vastly been upgraded.

ENTRY LEVEL The Polo Trendline offers customer attractive added value with standard features such as 14-inch steel wheels, asymmetrically split and folding rear seats and rear seat backrests and remote central locking.

More safety features. In the interior, the Polo Trendline is characterised by various applications in elegant black as well as new seat materials in the “Grip” design. The Polo Trendline is also comes standard with an extensive list of safety and comfort features.

Active safety features include ABS, the ESC electronic stabilisation programme with Multicollision braking system and hill-hold control assistant. Fitted standard passive safety features are front airbags and combined head-thorax airbags (passenger front airbag can be deactivated), heightadjustable three-point safety belts in the front, belt tensioners and belt force limiters in the front as well as Isofix fittings for child seats (on the outside of the rear seats). The front head rests have been designed

electronic driver aids are also incorporated. These include anti-lock braking system (ABS), hill hold assistant, anti-slip regulation (ASR), engine drag torque regulation (MSR) and electronic differential locks (EDS).

DRIVER ASSISTANCE The new Polo has wide range of comfort and assistance systems that are unique in this class so far.

The new assistance systems include the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System (automatically initiates braking of the vehicle that had an accident in order to prevent a subsequent collision) and Driver Alert system.

Among the technological highlight of the new Polo is the standard Automatic Post-Collision Braking System. After a collision, it automatically brakes the vehicle to avoid secondary collisions or reduce their severity. The Automatic Post-Collision MOTOR AUGUST 2014

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LAUNCH

in such a way that they counteract whiplash.

Other comfort features are Radio Composition Touch with touch screen, front electric windows and manual air conditioner. A warning buzzer for lights left on, height-adjustable driver’s seat, makeup mirrors in the sun shades and green-tinted heat protection glazing complete the package.

COMFORTLINE Sophisticated centre. Additionally to the Polo Trendline features, the Comfortline comes standard with 15-inch “Torsa” alloy wheels, the “Composition Colour” radio system with colour touchscreen, USB, SD card input and Bluetooth connectivity, leather multi-function steering wheel, parking brake lever and shift lever grip in leather and the multifunction display.

Beyond that, the “Comfortline” equipment line reveals its identity on the exterior by a chrome trim around the air inlet, wing mirror housings, front fog lights and door handles painted in body colour as well as newly designed H7 twin headlights.

In terms of comfort, features such as electrically adjustable and heated side mirrors, heightadjustable passenger seat, sliding drawers under the front seats, various trims in aluminium look (instruments, air nozzles, light turn switch, radio and climate controls) and storage pockets on the

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MOTOR AUGUST 2014

backs of the front seats complement the standard equipment. The seat and door panels are fitted with “Rail” design cloth trim.

HIGHLINE High-end Polo. The Polo Highline can be differentiated by 16-inch “Portago” alloy wheels. On the exterior, the top of the range Polo features a high-gloss black trim in the air inlet screen. Interior details such as a graphite grey centre console, centre armrest in the front as well as the elegant sport seat design in “Cell” material give the “Highline” model a particular sophisticated feel.

CROSSPOLO Designed for the urban environment An underbody protection panel, offset in silver, on the front and rear bumpers as well as black covers on the wheel arches, sills and doors give the upgraded CrossPolo an independent off-road character. The door mirror housings are painted in silver, regardless of the car colour, and the matching silver anodised roof rails, make for an extra portion of sportiness.

In addition, two new metallic colours (“Honey Orange” and “Titanium Beige”) as well as newly styled 17-inch “Canyon” alloy wheels complete the range of equipment features. The smoked tail lights

have also been redesigned.

All inclusive. In addition, exclusive fabrics (‘Link’ interior cloth trim for sport seats and door trim) designed especially for the Cross Polo, enhance its value. The CrossPolo can be ordered with optional bi-xenon headlights.

The newly designed steering wheel as well as the gear and parking brake lever are covered with leather; contrasting colour seams increase the highvalue ambience in the interior that has a two tone colour scheme as does the new instrument cluster in “tubes” look and applications in matt chrome.

The CrossPolo will only be available with 1.2 TSI 81 kW engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission.

OPTIONAL FEATURES There are optional convenient features on offer for the new Polo customers that want to individualise their cars. These optional features include Bi-Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights (only available with CrossPolo at launch), panoramic sunroof, removable towbar, climatronic air-conditioning, light and vision package (includes auto-dimming interior mirror, rain sensor wipers and low beam assist), park distance control (front and rear), rear view camera ‘Rear Assist’ and cruise control.

YOUR PICK-UP

Nissan Unleashes

New Navara By: Jason Woosey Nissan has wasted no time in pointing out that its all-new NP300 Navara is backed by 80-years of pickup-building experience. Yet the new contender looks to be a truly modern pickup in every respect, with reduced body weight, improved efficiency and contemporary styling.

MODERN STYLE Although its exterior design appears less rugged than before, with its smooth silhouette, sculpted fenders and boomerang-shaped LED signature in the headlights, the new design is easy on the eye and it’s unlikely to offend any potential customers; except, perhaps, those completely stuck in a 1980s time warp.

But let there be no confusion here - it’s still quite a toughie beneath the skin, where you’ll still find

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a high-strength chassis and leaf spring suspension that have been “engineered to take the punishment of intense daily usage” according to Nissan. It does, however, boast a reduced turning circle to make life a little easier in the urban jungle.

LESS THIRST Initially the new Navara will only be available in 2.5-litre turbodiesel and 2.5-litre normally aspirated petrol guises. The diesel will be offered in two output levels: 120kW/403Nm and 140kW/450Nm and Nissan boasts about fuel economy gains of up to 11 percent.

The engines can be mated to either a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic gearbox and as you’d expect, the choice also extends to 4x2 and 4x4 drive configurations. All-road performance is aided by gadgets like Vehicle Dynamic Control, Active Brake Limited Slip and Hill Descent Control.

According to Nissan Africa’s Veralda Schmidt, the new NP300 Navara will follow a global roll-out plan that includes Africa, although specific timing and manufacturing locations will be confirmed in due course.

We also asked whether it would be assembled locally in Rosslyn, to which Schmidt replied: “It remains our ambition to increase future production volume in Rosslyn, which possibly includes local production of a new 1-tonne pick-up. Production of the new model has been delayed while global manufacturing capacity is aligned to demand worldwide.”

MOTOR AUGUST 2014

39

PICK-UP REVIEW

Pajero Sport: The Unsung Hero

By Jesse Adams

the floor the rear cargo area is immense. Both passenger rows fold up and down easily, and when both are flat the loading area becomes almost pickup-like in size.

I threw a bicycle in there, both wheels attached, and there was plenty of space to spare.

Of course the Pajero Sport is indeed based on the Triton bakkie chassis - a fact given away by its nearly identical front end - which should offer some perspective of its size. It should also offer some perspective of how it drives too, and where some SUVs might take on more luxurious personas, this one definitely falls into the butcher, manlier end of the segment.

Even with side-step running boards (which are slightly too narrow and more decorative than functional) you’ll need to hoist yourself into the high-rise cabin, but once up there the 215mm ride height adds to an awesome sense of invulnerability.

The transfer-case gear lever is of the old-school mechanical type and almost requires two hands to wrench through its gates, while the steering system seems to take endless turns from lock to lock. Just

parking the beast has your arms flailing around like the Karate Kid waxing on and waxing off.

LAVISH FURNISHINGS There are some lavish furnishings, however, that help disguise the fact that this is a glorified double-cab; I liked the dusk-sensing lights, rainsensing wipers, and easy to use touchscreen radio/ rear-view camera with one simple volume knob positioned off to one side.

I never did get its voice-activated Bluetooth function to communicate with my phone, though.

Standard leather upholstery is also a nice feature that will wipe down easily after dusty holidays in the bush - but a set of F1-style paddle shifters are, I’m sorry to say, very out of place and almost useless in a car like this. I wonder how much money could have been saved if they were left out.

OFF-ROAD ABILITY The sheer capability of the Pajero is incredible, but there are none of those fancy control knobs or electronic systems that do all the work for you in

more expensive SUV’s. Instead you get Mitsubishi’s signature Super Select 4x4 system that works the old-fashioned way with mechanical differential locks operable by the aforementioned manual lever.

You get Normal, 4 High, 4 Low and 4 Low with centre diff-lock positions - each offering varying degrees of un-stuck-ifying. Get stuck in its top position, and you’ll need call the army for help.

Certain cokes, who prefer knee-high socks and cigarettes without filters, will certainly like the Pajero Sport’s mechanised four-wheel drive system

This seven-seater SUV’s geared with ratios more suited to climbing rock faces and towing khaki-coloured caravans, than it is for out-dragging zippy hatches between city blocks

Latest Mitsubishi Pajero Sport is fitted with a new 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine. I believe it was the seven dwarves who whistled while they worked. So does Mitsubishi’s new Pajero Sport. But it’s no dwarf.

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s part of a major facelift launched a couple of months ago, this Pajero was given a more powerful and more fuel-efficient 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine to replace a dated 3.2-litre unit - and boy, can it whistle. The turbo here whirs away like an 18-wheeler’s, and if the burliness of the vehicle itself doesn’t bring out the five o’clock shadow in you, the diesel-clattering, wastegate-chirupping, intake-whining engine noise certainly will.

Power is up to 131kW from the outgoing engine’s 120, and torque in manual versions is now at 400Nm from 343. Five-speed automatic models,

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like the one on test here, are de-tuned to 350Nm as a gearbox-saving measure, but even so the Pajero Sport is (ever so slightly) more powerful than its arch nemesis the Fortuner. And that counts a lot in a segment where “mine’s bigger than yours” means everything. There may be a lot of power here, but don’t expect to get places in a hurry.

This seven-seater SUV’s geared with ratios more suited to climbing rock faces and towing khaki-coloured caravans, than it is for out-dragging zippy hatches between city blocks; and this can be a frustrating thing while contesting suburban grands prix. But somehow, when that turbo begins its high-

pitched lullaby, and the floaty suspension rockabyes like a cradle in a tree top, there’s a calming effect that makes the outside world slow in pace a little.

This is a very comfortable SUV. A tall up seat and a steering column with no reach adjustment take some getting used to, but once accustomed to the position the Pajero Sport’s a tranquil place where the hours of long-distance trips while away easily.

With so much space, the rest of the family should be happy too. The cabin is huge and airy, with tons of leg and shoulder room for everybody on board.

The third-row seating, as expected, can be a little tight for grown-ups, but when tucked away into MOTOR AUGUST 2014

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PICK-UP REVIEW

Life changes in 10 years, but your fridge remains the same.

without any computers taking the fun out of bashing bundu.

VERDICT An unsung hero in the rugged, pickup based SUV market. The new Pajero Sport is supremely comfortable, practical and spacious. It also undercuts its nearest Toyota rival substantially in price too.

GWM’s H5 SUV spruced up for 2014 As expected, the 2014 H5 has received subtle design enhancements inside and out.

Being something of a ‘proper’ SUV built on ladder frame architecture, GWM’s H5 has carved itself a little niche as a more affordable alternative to the

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Toyota Fortuner and friends.

Consider that you’ll fork out over R350 000 for even the most affordable Fortuner and more than R370K for the equivalent Chevy Trailblazer. Yet you can pick up a diesel-powered 2014-model-year H5 for just R262 900. You can even have the petrol version for R234 900, although it is a bit short on grunt.

The H5 entered the 2014 model year with numerous refinements. Externally it can be told apart by a new chrome strip above the lower front air dam as well as by LED tail lamps and a tailgate spoiler.

The subtle makeover continues inside with the addition of piano black and chrome inlays, redesigned column stalks and a new rev counter that indicates optimal engine speed.

Standard features across the board include

climate control, leather seats, automatic headlights and an infotainment system that incorporates a reverse camera and MP3/USB/Aux audio system.

Diesel models add an auto-dimming rear view mirror, instantaneous fuel consumption readout; tyre pressure monitoring and an airbag disable function.

Furthermore, cruise control is fitted to automatic diesel H5s.

On the safety front, all H5s come with dual airbags and ABS brakes. Traction control is not offered, which is a concern in this type of vehicle, but crash protection looks to be rather decent given that the H5 achieved a four-star NCAP rating.

Interior This is well appointed across the board. As before there’s a 2.4-litre normally aspirated petrol option that pushes 100kW and 200Nm and a 2-litre VGT turbodiesel credited with 110kW and 310Nm from 1800rpm. The petrol engine is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, while the diesel can be had with either a six-speed manual or five-speed auto box.

With all but one of the models priced below the R300 000 mark, the H5 continues to offer solid value for those seeking a more traditional SUV package on a budget. Also included is a three-year/100 000km warranty and 2-year roadside assistance package.

THE NEW SAMSUNG The Samsung Duracool Smart Refrigerator uses the revolutionary digital inverter compressor technology, which comes with a 10 year warranty, to serve you perfectly for years.

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MOTOR AUGUST 2014

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Q&A

Q

Vivo Energy Kenya recently launched SHELL FUELSAVE unleaded petrol and low sulphur Diesel. Are these products really fuel saving?

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Vivo Energy has launched two new Shell fuels reportedly designed to help motorists save fuel. The new FuelSave Unleaded and FuelSave Diesel replace Shell Super Unleaded and Shell Diesoline Ultra. Having worked with Shell all these years, firstly as the firm that pioneered the unleaded gasoline in Kenya and secondly, during their launch of low sulphur diesel, we can confidently attest that these are “a breakthrough in fuels technology and contain the most advanced Shell fuel economy formula to date.” By switching to these fuels, motorists will save up to 1 litre per full tank using the new fuels (around 2%, depending on your fuel tank capacity). What is even more gratifying is the fact that the new fuels cost the same as the brands they are replacing.

As people trained in automobile engineering, the monthly MOTOR team aim to inspire other drivers to save more fuel, and in return, save more money by switching to the new FuelSave fuels available at the various Shell Service Stations dotted all over Kenya.

“I had no idea that by using the right fuel and making a few simple changes to my driving habits, I could be so much more fuel efficient. It really is that simple – which is why I am working with Shell to help drivers all over the Kenya learn how to save fuel and money,” says Jude Gaya, a test editor at the monthly MOTOR magazine.

New Shell FuelSave Unleaded and Shell Fuel Save Diesel have been developed over the years by Shell scientists who are dedicated to creating innovative fuels for drivers. They are designed to improve fuel efficiency from the very first fill of the tank.

The innovation behind the new fuels lies in the Shell Efficiency Improver. For Shell FuelSave Unleaded, it works to reduce energy losses by lubricating parts of the engine where oils are less effective. On the other hand, for Shell FuelSave Diesel, it is designed to ignite and burn more effectively than regular diesel, helping to produce more efficient combustion in the engine.

“In these cost-conscious times, it’s not surprising that our customers want to save fuel and cut driving costs. In fact, in a recent research study, 96% of drivers said they were hungry for help to drive more efficiently. We have listened and, as a result, are proud to offer Shell FuelSave Unleaded and Diesel

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that can help them save from the very first fill,” said Polycarp Igathe, Vivo Energy CEO in Kenya, during the launch.

According to selected drivers in Kenya being monitored while using the new Shell Fuel Save fuels, the results are so far outstanding. These everyday drivers are already experiencing tangible benefits of fuel efficient driving, with the top achiever getting an 84 percent improvement in fuel efficiency, especially when coupled with fuel efficient driving techniques and habits. The driving tips include avoiding overrevving and excess idling, driving smoothly and planning trips carefully.

In markets where Shell Fuel Save is in supply, for instance Singapore, to date, over 800,000 drivers

have benefitted from Shell’s efforts to be more fuel efficient. In addition, Shell also introduced the Shell FuelSave Log Card, a mini-booklet which allows drivers to track their fuel efficiency and manually log their results upon refuelling.

Now available at all Shell stations in Kenya, including the newly re-opened outlets in Western Kenya, the Shell FuelSave is retailing at the same price as the fuels they have replaced. In addition, Shell has launched a mobile lab to monitor the quality of the fuels available for its customers, in a bid to fight the adulteration of fuel by mixing with kerosene, to ensure the customers fuelling in Shell outlets enjoy both quality fuel and protection from unscrupulous businessmen.

MOTOR AUGUST 2014

45

Santiusae CAR MAINTENANCE demrae

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are and maintenance tips keep your car running in top-notch condition.

In this issue, the monthly MOTOR magazine starts to serialise for your benefits, the best expert advice, surprising tricks, and car care tips to prolong the life of your car!

1. Be patient during the break-in period You’ve bought your dream car and now you want to make it last as long as possible in top condition.

Here are some things to remember as you pull it out of the dealer’s lot:  During the break-in period, typically the first

1,000 km, keep your speed under 100 – 110kph or to the speed recommended by your car’s manufacturer and the traffic regulations in the area you are driving.  Avoid heavy loads on the drive train and on the roof rack or trunk, especially with heavy construction materials.  Do not allow your new car to idle for long periods — this is good advice for the life of your car, but especially during break-in. The oil pressure generated by doing so may not be sending oil to every part of your engine.  Use only light to medium acceleration, keeping the engine rpms below 3,000 for the first few hours of driving.

10 Tips to Extend

the Life of Your Car 2. Drive with care everyday Being car considerate shouldn’t stop after the breakin. Drive with care every day and your car will reward you with longer intervals without repair.  Do not race your car’s engine during start-up.

This is a quick way to add years of wear to your engine, especially if it’s cold outside.  Accelerate slowly when you begin your drive. The most wear to the engine and drive train occurs in the first ten to twenty minutes of operation.  Warming the engine by letting it idle in the driveway is not a smart idea. The engine doesn’t operate at its peak temperature, resulting in incomplete fuel combustion, soot deposits on cylinder walls, oil contamination, and ultimately damaged components.  Put less strain on your engine and automatic transmission by shifting to neutral at red lights.

Otherwise, the engine is still working to push the car even while it’s stopped.  Avoid driving at high speeds and accelerating quickly, especially when it’s very hot or very cold outside. Such driving behaviour will result in more frequent repairs.  Extend the life of your tyres with careful driving.

Observe posted speed limits. Avoid fast starts, stops,

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and turns. Avoid potholes and objects on the road.

Don’t run over curbs or hit the tire against the curb when parking. And, of course, don’t burn rubber.  When turning your steering wheel, don’t hold it in an extreme right or left position for more than a few seconds. Doing so can damage the powersteering pump.  Consolidate your short driving trips. Most of the wear and tear — as well as the pollution your car generates — takes place in the first few minutes of driving. Doing several errands at once, during low traffic hours if possible, will keep your engine happier longer.

3. Buy gas at reputable service stations Ask whether the gas you buy is filtered at the pump and if the station has a policy about changing the pump filters regularly. If you get a song and dance, find another gas station. Some stations don’t have pump filters, making you more vulnerable to dirty gasoline. Other stations may not mix alcohol and fuel properly — or worse, water down their product using cheap kerosene. Find a station you trust and stick to it. An example of fuel service stations that are safe is the Shell outlets, which are more than 175

all over Kenya. Shell outlets are checked regular for quality fuels, through a mobile lab that was acquired specifically to protect your engine. In addition, Shell recently launched the Shell FuelSave petrol and diesel, meant to give you more mileage per litre purchased.

4. Don’t fill up if you see the tanker If you happen to see a gasoline tanker filling the tanks at your local gas station, come back another day or go to a different station. As the station’s underground tanks are being filled, the turbulence can stir up sediment. Sediment in your gas can clog fuel filters and fuel injectors, causing poor performance and possibly necessitating repairs.

5. Go easy when you’re stuck When stuck in mud or snow, don’t make the problem worse by damaging an expensive component.

Gently rocking in an attempt to free the car is fine.

But if it looks as though you’re really stuck, don’t keep at it. Throwing your car from forward to reverse repeatedly, as well as spinning tires at high speeds, can generate lots of heat and spell trouble for transmissions, clutches, and differentials. It may be cheaper in the long run to call the tow truck rather

than risk big repair bills down the road. It’s a good idea to carry a traction aid in the trunk, such as sand, gravel, or cat litter.

6. Lighten up your key chain Does your car key share a chain with a dozen or more other keys? That’s a pretty heavy load hanging off the car key when it’s in the ignition. The weight, combined with bouncing while you drive, can wear out the tumblers inside the ignition and eventually lead to ignition switch failure. To add years of service to your ignition switch, purchase a lightweight key chain that allows you to separate your ignition key from the others. Drive with only the ignition key in your ignition. If your ignition key “sticks” when you try to turn on the car, it’s a warning that your ignition switch is about to fail. Replace it before you get stranded.

7. Choose a good car insurer Sometimes, no matter how careful you are, disaster inevitably strikes — typically in the form of an accident. Make sure that your car will be repaired to the best possible standard by finding an insurer that will pay for parts from the original manufacturer and guarantee the repairs it authorizes. Among leading

insurers who pay claims promptly are Britam, CIC, UAP, REAL, ICEA/LION and Jubilee. For peace of mind, buy comprehensive policies that include riot, terrorism, car hire, towing and personal injuries to driver and occupants.

8. Keep an auto log Keep a pad and pencil in the glove compartment and use them to record your gas fill-ups and mileage. If you notice that your gas mileage worsens, mention it to your service man. It may be an early warning sign that something is wrong with your car.

9. Preserve your car during long-term storage If you are not going to use your car for more than a month, store it properly to prevent unnecessary damage and repairs upon your return.  Fill the gas tank to help prevent condensation from accumulating in the gas tank. Add a fuel stabilizer and drive the car around a bit to distribute the additive to engine parts.  Wash and wax the car thoroughly to protect the finish.  Place a vapour barrier on your garage floor. A 4-mil polyethylene drop cloth will do.

 Disengage the parking brake to help avoid brake corrosion.  Put the car on jack stands to take the weight of the vehicle off the wheels and tires.  Disconnect and remove the battery to keep it from draining. Place the battery on a trickle type charger.

Or periodically drain the battery, using a small light bulb, and then recharge it with a low-volt charger.  Plug the tailpipe with a rag to prevent moist air from infiltrating into it.

10. Park in the shade Park in the shade to protect your car’s interior. Of course, a garage is always the ideal place to park your car. But if one isn’t available, minimize interior damage from UV sunlight and heat by always trying to park your car in the shade. If no shade is available or if you find parking under a tree results in bird droppings, use a car shade to minimize the sun’s impact. As a bonus, you’ll have a cooler car to step into on hot sunny days. Car shades come in two basic types: those that you unfold and place on the front windshield and rear window, or pleated types that attach to the windshield posts (with adhesive), window frames (with Velcro), or the windows themselves (with suction cups).

MOTOR AUGUST 2014

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Santiusae safe driving demrae

What Not to do

After a Car Accident

By Martin Gaya Unless you want to attempt insurance fraud, or you’ve got a date with death or appointment with your maker, then chances are you don’t ever want to be in a car accident.

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car accident can ruin your entire day, let alone your entire life. In addition to the inconvenience of missing work or a crucial appointment, you have to deal with damage to your car, liability issues, possible traffic offence charges and body injuries in unfortunate cases.

The truth of the matter is that most drivers are likely to be involved in a car accident at least once in their life time. You may assume that you’re the safest and most cautious driver around. Caution alone cannot exempt you from effects of another person’s carelessness or mistakes. For example, a driver who speeds through a red light and into your car because they are sending a short a text message while on the wheel.

When you’re involved in an accident, there are certain steps that you should take to ensure your own safety, the safety of the other driver or anyone else involved in the wreckage. Following these steps will ensure you have proper documentation of everything and you have adhered to the requirements of law enforcement officers. The steps taken should also conform to standing procedures of your insurance provider. On that note, this article highlights those things that you should avoid after a car accident. If you can avoid these foolish and often illegal mistakes, you should be back on the road in no time; with a little extra wisdom and experience under your belt.

“Hit and Run” So you’re involved in a minor car accident; where you’ve collided with another car but the damage seems to be of a minor degree, and no one appears to be injured at first instance. Are you free to drive off and leave the scene?

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No, you’re not. Regardless of whether an accident looks serious or not, you always have to stop, check on the other person involved, exchange insurance information and report it to police. Failure to do so will automatically amount to a crime and expressly incriminate you.

In addition to that, if someone is injured due to your actions, you are required by law to provide assistance to the injured party, which involves transporting them to a hospital where necessary.

It’s all about due diligence in hanging around and offering your help or assistance. After all it was your fault and I’m pretty sure 100% of all you would want them to do the same.

Forget to Call the Police Most of us tend to believe that if no one was hurt in an accident, it’s not necessary to call the police and report the accident. This is actually a very bad idea, and these are the why.

The making of a mere “gentleman’s agreement” between you and the other driver is not enough to ensure that their insurance is valid or whether it actually exists. It is best to be on the safe side, and the safe side is usually the law’s side. Reporting an accident to the relevant law enforcement authorities or agencies is paramount in ensuring that matters are documented and the insurance companies know that the police are fully aware of the accident.

Forget Relevant Documentation So you’ve decided to stay at the scene of the accident and call the relevant law enforcement officers. What else do you need to do? For one, don’t forget to properly document the accident and get the right insurance information from the other motorist.

Trying to stay calm to clear your head and figuring out exactly what happened, will help you remember a lot of relevant information such as: what you were doing just before the crash? What street you were on, and in what direction you were headed? At what point the other driver entered the picture?

Your recollection of events will need to be a consistent and accurate to avail the police and insurance providers with the actual accounts of the car accident. You may even find yourself retelling this story on a number of occasions.

Generally, you’ll need to get the other driver’s name, address, and insurance company name and policy number. Make note of the make, model and colour of vehicle they were driving as well. Don’t forget to write down the other vehicle’s registration plate

number as well. If there were any witnesses, get their names and phone numbers. If you have a mobile phone with a camera, take some pictures of the crash site. Those may come in handy during the claims process later on.

Road Rage Like any sane person, emotions are bound to run high after a car accident. Suffering injury will most definitely make things worse. In spite of all this, it’s never a good idea to “lose your cool”, and hammer insults in the other driver’s direction; even if it was their fault.

When you’re dealing with the other driver, the first thing to ask is, “Are you alright?” Don’t start laying blame on them or yelling at them. It’s not going to fix anything and it’s not doing anyone any good.

Take some deep breaths and stay calm. You need to be in a good frame of mind to assess the situation and do everything you need to do in terms of docu-

menting the accident. Another key thing to note is that you should never say that it was your fault.

Doing this is a simple way of you legally admitting liability for the accident, which could incriminate and expose you to a lawsuit or other penalties. My advice is to keep cool, ensure the safety of everyone, try and be polite (no matter how implausible that may seem), but above all, protect yourself and your interests.

Neglect the Aftermath The car accident like any other accident was without a doubt traumatic and difficult enough to deal with; however, the hardest part often comes after. It is therefore paramount to follow up on everything that needs to be taken care of, such as the insurance claims and legal as well as medical advice. Your health and sanity depends on what you do after the accident has already occurred.

First and foremost, if you were injured in the crash

or have persistent health problems since it happened, you will need to see a doctor right away.

Hiring a lawyer may help you seek for damages and compensation where you incur high medical bills that your health insurance may not cover.

It is advisable that you register your insurance claim as soon as possible. Many insurance companies have time limits on when a claim can be filed, so it should be your number one priority after ensuring your health and safety. Therefore, it is wise to be fully aware of the conditions and stipulations provided for in your insurance policy. Another key element is that you have the right to send your car to any repair shop of your choosing.

You should never be afraid to stay on top of the insurance companies, as they work for you and your interests. Keep in constant contact with them and with the repair shop. After all, you want to get this resolved as soon as possible and to your satisfaction in order to get on with your life.

MOTOR AUGUST 2014

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Santiusae USED CARSdemrae

Car Safety Checks to Make During Purchase

EXPERIENCE THE BENCHMARK IN ONLINE BANKING

By Hanningtone Gaya

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efore spending your hard earned money in a junk, it is vital that you carry out a test drive yourself or convince somebody knowledgeable and trustworthy to do this on your behalf. A test drive is now even more compulsory also if you’re planning on buying nearly new car from our many road side motor dealers.

It’s your only chance to make sure the car is in a roadworthy and good condition and free of hard to note mechanical defects. If you don’t feel confident enough doing the test drive, it is prudent you book a qualified motor engineer or good mechanic you can trust, to check the car on your behalf. Loss adjusters serving in the insurance industry, vehicle valuers and organizations like the AA of Kenya do offer test drives, complete with vehicle valuations.

through corners, or upon the application of brakes.

 Broken springs, a fault you may find on a used car, will reduce road grip and braking performance.

Steering and Brakes  With the car stationary, turn the steering wheel from lock-to-lock to check that its action feels smooth and is free from resistance.  Check the turning circle in a car park to make sure it meets your needs.  Check that that the wheels do not rub on the bodywork while you drive forward on full lock.  The brakes should respond immediately, and not need pumping or pressing very hard.  There should be no loud noises from the brakes, however hard you use them.

Don’t be afraid to ask the dealer to allow you to take a car out more than once. Always be in the company of a colleague to minimize your chances of being jacked. Dealers will be keen to close the deal, but if you’re close to making a decision, going back for an extended drive is the best way to confirm that those good first impressions are here to last. Before you even think of taking to the driver’s seat, make sure you are insured. Car dealers will have cover specifically for this purpose, but if you test drive a used or nearly-new car being sold by a private vendor, you’ll need to use your own. If you are unsure, talk to your insurer. They will be able to offer you comprehensive covers over a short period of time so that you can test drive the cars you are thinking of buying.

During the test drive, be sure to specifically check the following:

and without hiccups when changing gears, if it is manual in transmission.

Transmission  Gears should be easy to engage, and the action should feel consistent.  Automatic gearboxes should swap gears smoothly and quickly. Avoid a car with strange noise that diminishes with increased acceleration.  If the clutch doesn’t engage until the pedal has reached the top of its travel, it means the clutch will soon need to be changed.

Suspension  Make sure there are no unusual clunks or bangs from the suspension, especially when accelerating or descending down.  Check that the car doesn’t bounce or roll unevenly

Second Opinion Take your family or a friend with you. They will help you spot problems with practicality and versatility.

Do not by any of the first three cars you are mesmerized with. You could have been carried away.

to check for signs of excessive smoke.

 On the road, the car should accelerate smoothly, Engine  If you plan to buy a nearly new car, make sure that the engine is cold before you start it. Confirm this by placing your hand on the bonnet.  If the car feels warm, find out why, and bear in mind that the seller could be trying to conceal a defect.  When the car starts, look in the rear view mirror

50

MOTOR AUGUST 2014

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car pricing 2014 MANUFACTURER

Model Name

Retail Price (Ksh)

Status

AUDI Hatchbacks

Saloons

Sport Saloons & Couples Crossover SUVs SUV

A1

PoA

S/O

A2

PoA

S/O

A3

PoA

S/O

A4

PoA

S/O

A6

PoA

S/O

A8

PoA

S/O

A5

PoA

S/O

A7

PoA

S/O

Q3

PoA

S/O

Q5

PoA

S/O S/O

Q7

BMW Saloons

1 Series

4,400,000

S/O

3 Series

5,500,000

S/O

5 Series

9,200,000

S/O

7 Series

22,000,000

S/O

X1

5,280,000

S/O

X3

8,500,000

S/O

SUVs

X5

11,600,000

S/O

SAVs

X6

11,900,000

S/O

Aveo

2,225,000

*

Cruze 1.6 MT DLX

2,950,000

*

Cruze 1.8 AT LUX

3,450,000

*

Captiva 2.4

5,000,000

*

Chrysler 300C ( AII-NEW)

PoA

S/O

Terios DX M/T with A/C - low spec

3,500,000

*

Terios SX AT - Hi Spec

3,750,000

*

Hatchbacks

Figo 1.4 Litre M/T Ambiente - P

1,500,000

*

Saloons

Focus 1.6 Litre Ambiente - P

2,850,000

*

Focus 1.6 Litre Trend - P

2,950,000

*

Crossover SUVs

Kuga 2.5 Litre A/T Tiptronic -T P

5,346,000

*

Pick-Ups

Ranger 2.2 Litre - S/C 4x2 ( High Ride)

2,829,000

*

Ranger 2.2 Litre - S/C 4x4 ( Low Ride)

3,044,000

*

Ranger 2.2 Litre - S/C 4x4 (SP)

3,150,000

*

Ranger 2.2 Litre - D/C 4x2 ( Low Ride)

3,675,000

*

Ranger 2.2 Litre - D/C 4x4

3,958,000

*

Ranger 2.2 Litre - D/C 4x4 (SP)

4,051,000

*

Ranger 2.2 Litre - D/C 4x4 ( XL)

4,116,000

*

Ranger 2.2 Litre - D/C 4x4 (High Ride)

4,645,000

*

Ranger 3.2 Litre D/C 4x4 ( XL A/T)

4,304,000

*

Ranger 3.2 Litre D/C 4x4 ( XLT M/T)

4,950,000

*

Ranger 3.2 Litre D/C 4x4 ( Limited)

5,763,000

*

Everest 2.5 Litre M/T - T D

4,721,000

* S/O

Crossover SUVs

CHEVROLET Saloons

Crossover SUVs CHRYSLER Saloons DAIHATSU Crossover SUVs

FORD

SUVs

52

MOTOR AUGUST 2014

car pricing 2014

MANUFACTURER

Model Name

Retail Price (Ksh)

Status

Everest 2.5 Litre A/T - Turbo Diesel

5,248,000 *S/O

SUP V S/C 4x2

1,850,000 *

FOTON Pick-Ups

MPVs

SUP V D/C 4x2

1,950,000 *

Conquerer D/C 4x2

2,450,000 *

Tunland 4x2

3,383,000 *

Tunland 4x4

3,808,000 *

View Minibus

2,500,000 *

MANUFACTURER

Model Name

SUVs

Grand Cherokee 3.6 Litre A/T LTD- P

6,800,000 *S/O

Grand Cherokee 3.6 Litre A/T Overland - P

7,650,000 *

SUVs

Wingle 3 S/C 2.2 Litre 4x2 - P

1,400,000 *

Wingle 5 S/C 2.5 Litre 4x2 - D

1,788,793 *

Wingle 5 S/C 2.5 Litre 4x4 - D

2,025,862 *

Wingle 5 STD D/C 2.5 Litre 4x4 - D

2,500,000 *

Wingle 5 LUX D/C 2.5 Litre 4x4 - D

2,801,724 *

Haval H5 STD 2.4 Litres 4x2 (M/T) - P

2,543,103 *

Haval H5 STD 2.4 Litres 4x4 (M/T) - P

2,801,724 *

Haval H5 LUX 2.4 Litres 4x4 (M/T) - P

2,952,586 *

Haval H5 LUX 2.0 Litres 4x24 (A/T) - D

3,577,586 *

Rio 1.5 Litres LS- P

2,350,000 *

Cerato 1.6 Litres - P

3,000,000 *

Optima 2.0 Litre - D

3,500,000 *

Sportage 2.0 Litre- P

4,200,000 *

Sportage 2.0 Litre- D

4,600,000 *

Sorento 2.4 Litre- P

4,900,000 *

Sorento 2.2 Litre- D

5,200,000 *

K2700 S/C Pick-Up

2,100,000 *

Defender 110 TD4 ( Chassis Cab) (CKD)

3,750,000 *

Defender 110 TD4 ( S/W) (CKD)

4,700,000 *

Defender 110 TD4 ( Pick-Up) (CKD)

4,400,000 *

Defender 90 PUMA S/W TD4 (3 Door )

4,450,000 *

Saloons

Crossover SUVs

Pick-Ups LAND ROVER MPVs

SUVs

Saloons

Crossover SUVs

5,800,000 * 6,950,000 *

Jazz 1.3 Litre (2 Grade)

TBA *

Freelander 2.2 Litre TD4- Turbo D S

7,500,000 *

Jazz 1.5 Litre (2 Grade)

TBA *

Freelander 2.2 Litre TD4- Turbo D SE

Civic Hatchback 1.8 Litre (2 Grade)

TBA *

Discovery 2.7 Litre V6 Diesel S

10,500,000 *

Ballade 1.5 Litre (2 Grade)

TBA *

Discovery 2.7 Litre V6 Diesel SE

11,500,000 *

Civic Sedan 1.6 Litres (2 Grade)

TBA *

Discovery 2.7 Litre V6 HSE

10,000,000 *

Civic Sedan 1.8 Litres (3 Grade)

TBA *

Discovery 3.0 Litre V6 Diesel HSE

12,000,000 *

Accord 2.0 Litre

TBA *

Accord 2.2 Litre

TBA *

MAZDA

Accord Tourer 2.0 Litre

TBA *

Saloon

Mazda 6- 2.0 Litres A/T

3,600,000 *

Accord Tourer 2.2 Litre

TBA *

Pick-Ups

BT50 D/C 4x4

3,500,000 *

CR-V 2.0 Litre

TBA *

CR-V 2.4 Litre

TBA *

Omni (Cargo)

860,000 *

MARUTI

2,460,000 *

EECO (5-Seater)

1,240,000 *

TFS 85 S/C

2,925,000 *

EECO (5-Seater) Airconditioning

1,330,000 *

TFS 54 D/C

3,168,000 *

TFS 85 D/C

4,127,000 *

EECO (7-Seater)

1,260,000

Maruti (Gypsy) 1.3 Litre Soft Top

1,400,000 *

Maruti (Gypsy) 1.3 Litre Hard Top

1,700,000

C180CGI 1597cc Auto Elegance (W204)

5,450,000 *

C200CGI 179cc Auto Elegance (W204)

5,990,000 *

E200CGI 1796cc (184hp)

6,990,000 *

E200CGI 1796cc (204hp)

7,350,000 *

E200CGI 2996cc (231hp)

7,750,000 *

MERCEDES-BENZ XF 3.0 Litre Luxury

10,000,000 *

XF 3.0 Litre Premium Luxury

10,500,000 *

XFR 5.0 Litre Supercharged

15,300,000 *

XJ 3.0 Litre Premium Luxury

15,800,000 *

XJ 5.0 Litre Premium Luxury

16,500,000 *

Saloons

17,000,000 *

SUVS JEEP

MOTOR AUGUST 2014

860,000

TFR 54

XKR 5.0 Litre Supercharged Coupe

54

9,900,000 *

*

Omni (Passenger)

JAGUAR

Crossover SUVs

6,100,000 *

Defender 130 2.4 Litres TD4 C/C (CKD)

MPVs

Saloons

5,200,000 *

Defender 110 2.4 Litre TD4 S/W (FBU) Defender 130 2.4 Litre TD4 C/C (FBU)

Brio 1.2 Litre Small Hatchback

ISUZU Pick- uPS

Defender 130 C/C (CKD)

TBA *

HONDA Hatchbacks

Status

KIA

GWM Pick-Ups

Retail Price (Ksh)

Wrangler Sahara 4-Door 2.8 Litre A/T D

5,600,000 *

Wrangler Sahara 4-Door 3.6 Litre A/T UnTD P

5,400,000 *

S320CGI

POA *

S500CGI

POA *

ML350 PETROL INTERCOOLER 6 CYLINDER

11,500,000 *

ML350 PETROL

11,800,000 *

GL350CDi

13,500,000 *

MOTOR AUGUST 2014

55

car pricing 2014

MANUFACTURER

Model Name

Retail Price (Ksh)

MITSUBISHI Saloons

Lancer 1.6 Litre GLX M/T

Status

MANUFACTURER

*

RANGE ROVER

2,200,000 *

Crossover SUVs

Status *

Evoque Si4 Dynamic (3 Door Coupe)

11,100,000 *

Lancer 1.6 Litre GLX A/T

2,400,000 *

Evoque Sd4 Dynamic (3 Door Coupe)

11,300,000 *

3,600,000 *

Evoque Sd4 Dynamic (5 Door)

11.300,000 *

Lancer 2.0 Litre GL A/T

4,187,000 *

Evoque Si4 Dynamic (5 Door)

11,000,000 *

Crossover SUVs

Outlander 2.4 Litre M/T

4,900,000 *

Evoque Sd4 Dynamic (5 Door)

11,500,000 *

SuvS

Pajero Sport 2.5 Litre M/T TD

4,150,000 *

Sport 3.0 Litre V6 TD- TDV6

19,145,000 *

Pajero Sport 2.5 Litre A/T TD

4,750,000 *

Sport 3.6 Litre V8 TD- TDV8

20,500,000 *

Pajero Sport 2.5 Litre A/T TD ( 7 seater)

6,900,000 *

Sport 5.0 Litre V8 P

19,600,000 *

Sport 5.0 Litre V8 Supercharged P

22,300,000 *

*

3.6 Litre V8 TD TDV8

19,145,000 *

SunnyAlmera 1.5 Litre STD - P

1,995,000 *

4.4 Litre V8 TD TDV8

20,500,000 *

SunnyAlmera 1.5 Litre HI Spec M/T - P

2,450,000

5.0 Litre V8 Petrol

19,600,000 *

Nissan Sunny Almera 1.5 Litre Hi Spec Auto - P

2,550,000 *

5.0 Litre V8 Supercharged P

22,300,000

L200

Saloons

TIIDA Saloon 1.6 Litre SC11 M/T -P

Pick-Ups

Crossover SUVs

SUVs

2,700,000 *

TIIDA Saloon 1.6 Litre SC11 A/T-P

2,800,000 *

TIIDA Saloon 1.8 Litre SC11 M/T-P

2,900,000 *

TIIDA Saloon 1.8 Litre SC11 A/T-P

3,200,000 *

NP 200 3/4 Ton 1.6 Litre (4x2) S/Cab - P

1,900,000 *

Hardbody (4x2) 2.7 Litre S/Cab - X56 / X09 - D

2,385,000 *

Hardbody (4x4) 3.2 Litre S/C - X82 / X33 - D

2,890,000 *

Hardbody (4x2) 2.7 Litre S/C - X40 / X34 - D

3,100,000 *

Hardbody (4x4) 3.2 Litre S/C - X83 / X12 - D

3,685,000 *

Hardbody (4x4) 3.2 Litre D/C - X83 / X37 - D

3,850,000 *

Hardbody (4x4) 2.5 Litre D/C - J86 / X38 - TD

4,000,000 *

Navara (4x4) 2.5 Litre D/ SE - 6 M/T STD - TD

4,350,000 *

Navara (4x4) 2.5 Litre D/ LE - 6 M/T WIDE - TD

4,880,000 *

Navara (4x4) 2.5 Litre D/ LE - 5 A/T WIDE - TD

4,980,000 *

X-Trail Mpfi 2.0 Litre M/T P

4,987,500 *

RENAULT Saloons

Fluence 1.6 Litre -P

2,850,000 *

Crossover SUVs

Koleos 2.5 Litre -P

4,900,000 *

Yeti 1.8 Litre TSi 4x4 M/T

3,850,000 *

Impreza 1.6i CVT

4,350,000 *

Legacy 2.0 M/T

5,250,000 *

SKODA MPVs SUBARU Saloons

Wagons

Crossover Hatchbacks Crossover Wagons

5,235,000 S/O

XV 2.0i A/T CVT (Full Spec)

4,745,000 *

XV 2.0i A/T CVT (Full Spec)

4,985,000 *

Forester 2.0i - L

5,250,000 *

Forester 2.0 XT (Turbo)

7,095,000 *

Forester 2.5 XT AT (Full Spec)

6,525,000 S/O

Qashqai 2.0 Litre (4x4) 5 CVT (5-Seater) -P

4,400,000 *

Outback 2.5i M/T 6-speed

6,215,000 S/O

Qashqai 2.0 Litre (4x2) 6 CVT (7-Seater) -P

4,175,000 *

Outback 2.5i A/T CVT

6,475,000 *

Pathfinder 2.5 Litre (4x4) 6 M/T R51C 802 - D

6,850,000 *

Outback 3.6R A/T

7,675,000 *

Pathfinder 2.5 Litre (4x4) 5 A/T R51C 804 - D

7,150,000 *

Crossover SUVs

Tribeca 3.6

8,150,000 *

Murano 3.5 Litre (4x4) M/CVT Z51 - P

9,500,000 *

SUZUKI

Patrol 3.0 Litre Gl - Y61 -TD

8,064,000 * 10,473,750 *

Saloons

SX4 1.6 Litre (A/T)

2,800,000 *

Crossover SUVs

Grand Vitara 2.0 Litre (M/T)

4,000,000 *

Patrol 4.2 Litre STD - Y61 -D (Project Vehicle)

7,192,500 *

Grand Vitara 2.0 Litre (A/T)

4,600,000 *

Patrol 4.2 Litre GL - Y61 -D

8,662,500 *

Grand Vitara 2.4 Litre (M/T)

3,720,000 *

Patrol 4.2 Litre SGL - Y61 -D

10,473,750 *

Grand Vitara 2.4 Litre (A/T)

3,995,000 *

Patrol 4.8 Litre SGL - Y61 -D

11,392,500 *

Jimny 1.3 Litre JX

2,450,000 *

Jimny 1.3 Litre JX M/T

2,800,000 *

Mini MPVs

Patrol Pick Up 4.2 Litre UY61 + S/ Fuel tank-D

4,750,000 *

Minibus 2.4 Litre E24 -P

3,225,000 *

TOYOTA

*

Saloons

8,450,000 *

Corolla 1.3 Litre M/T P with A/C

2,590,000 *

Corolla 1.3 Litre M/T P

2,760,000 *

Corolla 1.6 Litre Loaded Specs M/T P

2,800,000 *

308 1.6 Litre Acess HDi D

3,650,000 *

Corolla 1.6 Litre Loaded Specs M/T P

2,970,000 *

308 1.6 Litre Alure P

3,249,000 *

Corolla 1.8 Litre Loaded Specs M/T P

3,000,000 *

3008 1.6 Litre Auto

4,849,000 *

Corolla 1.8 Litre Loaded Specs A/T P

3,000,000 *

5,299,000 *

Camry 2.5 Litre A/T - Petrol

8,200,000 *

Avanza 1.5 Litre - Hi Spec M/T -P

2,600,000 *

3008 1.6 Litre Fully Loaded

3,510,000 *

Crossover MPVs

Partner Teepee 1.5 Litre P

2,999,000 *

Crossover SUVs

RAV4 2.0 Litre 4x2 STD (CVT)

4,000,000 *

508 Active Petrol (Auto)

4.999,000 *

RAV4 2.5 Litre 4x4 Hi-SPEC

5,100,000 *

508 Allure Petrol (Auto)

5,499,000 *

Fortuner 3.0 Litre (M/T) D

5,000,000 *

308 1.6 Litre Acess HDi (D)

3,249,000 *

Fortuner 3.0 Litre (M/T) D 7 seater)

5,200,000 *

Partner Teepee 1.5 HDi

Estates

Legacy 2.0 A/T CVT

6,142,500 *

PEUGEOT

Saloons

4,975,000 S/O

5,838,000 *

Civilian Bus 4.2 Litre-TOURIST VERSION -W41-D

MPVS

5,425,000 *

Legacy 2.0 M/T

X-Trail Eti 2.2 Litre M/T TD

Minibus 2.7 Litre E24 -D

Hatchbacks

Legacy 2.0 A/T

X-Trail Mpfi 2.5 Litre CVT T31-P

Patrol 3.0 Litre GRX - Y61 -TD

MPVs

SUVs

From 1,899,000 *

NISSAN

MOTOR AUGUST 2014

Retail Price (Ksh)

Lancer 2.0 Litre GLS A/T

Pick-Ups

56

Model Name

MOTOR AUGUST 2014

57

car pricing 2014

MANUFACTURER

Model Name

SUVs

Prado 3.0 Litre TX M/T D

Pick-Ups

Retail Price (Ksh)

Status

6,800,000 *

Prado 2.7 Litre TX-L M/T P

7,200,000 *

Prado 3.0 Litre TX-L M/T TD

10,200,000 *

Prado 3.0 Litre VX-L M/T TD

10,500,000 *

Landcruiser STD 4.5 Litre M/T TD

11,200,000 *

Landcruiser XG 4.5 Litre M/T TD

12,100,000 *

Landcruiser VX 4.5 Litre A/T TD

14,400,000 *

Landcruiser VX 4.5 Litre A/T TD [A1]

15,400,000 *

Landcruiser VX 4.5 Litre A/T TD [A2]

16,200,000 *

Hilux 2.0 Litre 4x2 S/C - P

2,600,000 *

Hilux 2.5 Litre 4x2 S/C - TD

2,500,000 *

Hilux 2.5 Litre 4x4 S/C - TD

3,100,000 *

Hilux 2.5 Litre 4x2 D/C - TD

3,400,000 *

Hilux 2.5 Litre 4x4 D/C - TD

4,000,000

Hilux 2.5 Litre 4x4 D/C DELUXE- TD

4,500,000 *

Land Cruiser 4.2 Litre 4x4 HD Pick-Up

4,200,000

Land Cruiser 4.2 Litre M/T D Ambulance

5,700,000 *

Land Cruiser 4.2 Litre Hardtop M/T D

7,000,000

Land Cruiser 4.2 Litre Hardtop T/C M/T D

7,100, 000

Land Cruiser 4.2 Litre Hardtop TRV M/T D

7,200,000 *

Hiace 2.5 Litre -TD

5,400,000 *

Hiace 2.5 Litre with A/C -TD

5,800,000 *

Hiace 2.7 Litre -P

4,500,000 *

Polo 1.4 Litre M/T

2,750,000 S/O

Polo 1.4 Litre DSG

2,995,000 S/O

Golf 1.6 Litre M/T

3,795,000 S/O

Golf 1.6 Litre DSG

3,995,000 S/O

Passat 1.8 Litre TSi DSG

4,500,000 *

Passat CC 1.8 Litre TSi DSG

5,850,000 *

Crossover SUVs

Tiguan 2.0 Litre TSi DSG

5,495,000 *

SUVs

Touareg 3.6 Litre V6 FSi

9,895,000 *

Pick-Ups

Amarok 2.0 Litre TDi 4x2

4,250,000 *

Amarok 2.0 Litre TDi 4x4

4,750,000 *

Caddy 1.6 Litre Panel Van

1,895,000 *

Caddy 1.6 Litre Combi

2,595,000 *

MPVs

The XTZ 125E is both an on and off road motorbike.

Its dual-purpose handling characteristics makes it suitable for a wide range of duties, from crossing rough country roads to inner city lanes or paths.

VOLKSWAGEN Hatchbacks

Saloons

MPVs VOLVO Hatchbacks

C30

POA S/O

Crossover Wagons

V40

POA S/O

V60 Saloons

S60 S80

58

MOTOR AUGUST 2014

Crossover SUVs

XC60

SUVs

XC90

POA S/O 5,200,000 * POA S/O 8,500,000 * POA S/O

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MOTOR ACRONYMS

ESP

Electronic Stability Program

Dramatically helps in correcting vehicle instability during uncontrollable under or over steer situations by measuring lateral acceleration at the car's centre of gravity.

Also Known as VSA, DSC, ESC

FSi

Fuel Stratisfied Injection

Also known as DI (Direct Injection) or GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection). Petrol is injected at high pressure directly into the car’s combustion chamber; the air fuel mixture can run far leaner than conventional EFI systems so is more efficient.

FWD

Front Wheel Drive

A car’s engine power is delivered through the front wheels. Is more common today than Rear Wheel Drive.

GVW

Gross Vehicle Weight

The maximum recommended weight for a vehicle, including: the weight of the vehicle itself, fuel and other fluids, passengers, and all cargo.

HAC

Hill Assist Control

A safety feature intended for off-road use. Helps prevent the vehicle from rolling backward or slipping sideways when performing hill start on steep or slippery gradients.

HID

High Intensity Discharge

High Intensity Discharge lighting technology uses electric inducers to provide an arc inside a gas-filled bulb, enhancing night driving. Only trained technicians should maintain the system.

A single, highly pressurized fuel line supplies diesel to all cylinders allowing for finer control over fuel use. Vastly reduces diesel engine's noise and improves fuel economy.

kW

Kilowatt

The metric equivalent of Brake Horsepower. Used to measure the energy output of a vehicle's engine.

Continuous Valve Transmission

A continuously variable transmission is an automatic transmission that can vary drive ratios seamlessly using an internal belt and cone arrangement.

LED

Light Emitting Diode

LED's are semiconductors that emit light when an electric current is applied.

Increasingly popular in vehicle lighting as they have a much quicker response time and last longer.

DAC

Downhill Assist Control

A safety feature intended for off-road use. The vehicle's ABS and throttle control systems to maintain a gradual more controlled decent on steep or slippery off-road surfaces.

LHD

Left Hand Drive

The steering wheel and controls on the left hand side of cars driven on the right hand side of the road in countries such as the USA.

DOHC

Double Overhead Camshaft

A now very common vehicle engine design that places two camshafts (one to operate inlet valves, one to operate exhausts valves) mounted above the cylinder head.

LPG

Liquid Petroleum Gas LPG

LPG is a popular alternative fuel to petrol or diesel. The cost per liter is less than petrol but it is less fuel efficient.

DSG

Direct Shift Gearbox

A computer controlled manual gearbox that pre selects additional gears to the current driven gear. No clutch pedal is required and the next gear can be engaged very rapidly.

LSD

Limited Slip Differential

A limited Slip Differential allows two driving wheels to operate in unison when one breaks traction. It provides improved control and traction in slippery conditions.

EBD

Electronic Brake Distri- Electronically controls and distributes appropriate brake pressure to all brakes dependant bution on load and braking force. Replaces traditional mechanical brake proportioning valve.

LWB

Long Wheel Base

Front and rear axles are further apart therefore the body or cargo deck of a commercial vehicle will be longer than other model variations.

ECU

Electronic Control Unit

An ECU is an electronic "brain" which controls a system in a car, such as the engine management system, transmission or body electrics.

NM

Newton Meter

Measurement of a vehicle's engine torque. Torque is the turning force of the car’s engine.

EDC

Electronic Damper Control

Electronic Damper Control An ECU-controlled wheel suspension system that adjusts the shock absorbers and regulates damper forces electronically adapting to changing road, load or driving conditions.

OEM

Original Equipment Manufacturer

Manufacturer/supplier of components fitted to a new car at the time of manufacture.

EFI

Electronic Fuel Injection

EFI systems replace carburetors as fitted to older vehicles. The electronically controlled fuel injectors deliver fuel more efficiently, improving economy, emissions and drivability.

PAS

Power Assisted Steering

A system designed to reduce the effort required to steer the vehicle, particularly at low parking speeds. Can be Hydraulic, Electric or a combination of both.

EGR

Exhaust Gas Recirculation

A proportion of car exhaust gasses are redirected back into the car’s engine to help burn fuel more efficiently and significantly reduce harmful emissions.

PDC

Park Distance Control

An audible warning device that alerts the driver when their car is getting close to other cars or objects when parking

ELR

Emergency Locking Retractor

Seatbelts which are always unlocked except in emergency situations such as rapid deceleration, rapid acceleration or hard cornering vehicle manoeuvres.

RWD

Rear Wheel Drive

A car’s engine power is delivered through the rear wheels. Less common today than FWD.

ACRONYM

NAME

ABS

Antilock Braking System

Prevents the wheels of a car locking up and skidding under sudden or heavy braking.

Hence control and steering of the car is maintained

A/C

Air-conditioning

Absorbs heat and blows refrigerated air into the cabin of the car, cooling it to below the ambient air temperature

ACC

Active Cruise Control

Using a front-mounted RADAR, ACC detects slower vehicles ahead and will maintain a relative driving speed to ensure a safe following distance.

AFM

Active Fuel Management

Also known as MDS (Multi Displacement System) or VCM (Variable Cylinder Management). During light operation the car’s engine can shut off cylinders so less fuel is used.

ATC

Active Traction Control Used primarily in off road 4x4 applications ATC (also often referred as A-Trac) brakes spinning wheels and diverts torque to other wheels to gain traction in slippery surfaces.

AWD

All Wheel Drive

Popular terminology for permanent four-wheel drive systems. Vehicle can distribute power to all four wheels rather than just to the front or rear vehicle wheels only.

BHP

Brake Horse Power

The measure of a car engine's horsepower before the rest of the vehicle's drive train. The metric equivalent is Kilowatts (kW). 1 BHP = 0.745kW.

CRD

Common Rail Diese

CVT

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Acronym

Name

Definition

SAT-NAV

Satellite Navigation System

Also known as GPS (Global Positioning System). GPS technology interfaces with mapping software either built to provide spoken, turn by turn instructions to drivers.

SWB

Short Wheel Base

Front and rear axles are closer together therefore the body or cargo deck of a commercial vehicle will be shorter

SRS

Supplementary Restraint System

Designed to be used in conjunction with seatbelts, SRS refers to a vehicle's airbag system. A car’s airbags are designed to reduce occupant injury in the event of a car crash and are deployed when the SRS sensors detect a predetermined level of impact force.

TDi

Turbo Diesel Injection

Most modern diesel engines are now fitted with turbochargers to maximize performance.

VGT

Variable Geometry Turbo

A Unique 17 digit number, for each individual car, that can indentify date of manufacture, manufacturing plant and standards etc.

VIN

Vehicle Identification Number

A Unique 17 digit number, for each individual car, that can indentify date of manufacture, manufacturing plant and standards etc.

VVT

Variable Valve Timing

VVT systems advance or retard camshaft timing to optimizing vehicle engine efficiency, performance and exhaust emissions.

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HUMOUR

A man is taking his son to school, when he inadvertently makes an illegal turn at the lights.

‘Uhoh, I just made an illegal turn!’ the man says.

‘It’s okay, Dad,’ replies his son. ‘The police car behind us did the same thing!’

A man is out on the interstate having an evening drive in his sports car. He decides to open her up and the needle jumps to 120 mph. Suddenly he sees a flashing red and blue light behind him. He thinks about outrunning the cops, accelerates for a few seconds, then comes to his senses and pulls over. The officer comes over to check his licence. ‘I’ve had a tough shift,’ says the officer. ‘And this is my last pull over. I don’t feel like more paperwork so if you can give me an excuse for your driving that I haven’t heard before you can go!’ ‘Er, last week my wife ran off with a cop,’ says the man. ‘And when I saw your car I was afraid he was trying to give her back!’ ‘Have a nice night,’ says the officer.

A boy is walking along the road when a car pulls up alongside him. ‘If you get in my car,’ says the driver. ‘I’ll give you a bag of sweets.’ The boy ignores him. ‘Okay,’ says the driver. ‘Get in my car and you can have two bags of sweets and £5.’ The boy ignores him. ‘The driver says, ‘Listen, if you’ll just get in the car I’ll give you all the sweets you want and £20.’ The boy turns to the driver and says, ‘Dad, for the last time, I’m not getting into that Skoda.’

A driver pulls up by a traffic warden. ‘If I park on these double yellow lines and pop over the road to post a letter will you give me a ticket?’ asks the driver. ‘Of course I will,’ replies the warden. ‘But these other cars are parked on double yellow lines,’ argues the driver. ‘I know,’ replies the warden.

‘But they didn’t ask me to give them a ticket.’

A farmer living by a country road is increasingly concerned by speeding traffic. Worried that he and his livestock are in danger he calls the police and asks them to put up a sign. They put up a ‘Slow’ sign but it has no effect. They try putting up a ‘Pedestrian Crossing’ sign, but that has no effect either. Finally they try erecting a ‘Children at Play’ sign, but the traffic still keeps whizzing past. Eventually the farmer asks if he can put up his own sign and the police agree. A few days later a policeman stops by to see how things are going. He’s amazed to see the traffic moving at a snail’s pace, then he notices the farmer’s home-made sign by the roadside, it reads, ‘Nudist Colony’.

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