26/27 SEPTEMBER
Interior of one of the homes on show at The Somerset.
New developments explode east of SW
Since approval of all services, growth at The Somerset has been extremely active.
The building team of Westacre Devco has commenced with their fifth foundation and an additional 52 homes and apartments have been purchased by the Cape Peninsula Organisation for the Aged (CPOA) for an amount in excess of R80 million. These units will be offered for liferight ownership on very attractive terms and financial packages. Dennis Moss Partnership have submitted the plans of an elegant club house and frail care facility, being the first phase, which will be suitable to accommodate 150 residents in this prestigious estate. The developers boast of it being the first lifestyle and retirement development which conforms 100% to the new South African National Building Standards. Clients can expect to have up to 60% energy saving when purchasing a home in this development. Two additional show cottages will be launched on 5 November, and if you are one of the almost 1 000 clients who have admired the main show house, then take a run out to
The Somerset and view the wide variety of cottages that will be on show from the above date. Across the road, the new shopping centre is expected to break ground early in the new year. A most exciting precinct is on the drawing board of the urban designer, comprising an office park, boutique hotel and a small building of apartments and restaurants. Adjoining the new shopping centre will be a 27-unit gated village of 2- and 3-bedroom homes selling from R1,9 million, known as Beechwood. This development is the 21st gated village by the Westacre Property Group and will also be of a high standard of finishes conforming to the SANS requirements. There has been a high demand for the new block of apartments in the retirement village, says Jane Martin, and plans are due for completion and submission before the end of October. North and sea facing 1- and 2-bedroom apartments will be available for occupation by about August/ September 2014. Every resident in the retirement village will be connected to optical fibre cabling, connecting them to a television circuit without display-
ing any television dishes on their homes. Every resident will be equipped with a Call 4 Care unit, and a mobile wrist button, or pendant that, when activated, will be a call to a 24/7 exchange with state of the art computer equipment. This equipment will display full details of the caller to the operator. The result will enable the operator to divert this call to an emergency service. A recent purchase of 150 trees and 40 000 plants are in the process of being landscaped by Rod Gilson, the landscaper employed by the Westacre Property Group, who are well known for their quality of landscaping in their previous developments in Somerset West. The management of The Somerset have just invited all estate agencies in the Helderberg to introduce possible buyers to the sales team, on duty seven days a week, at the site office in Bizweni Avenue. A very attractive introduction commission package has been offered. For any enquiries about the precinct or The Somerset please call the agents at our sales office 021 8400018 or 021 8527035.
Official entrance to The Somerset.
PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
The sales team of Westacre Property Group comprises Jane Martin, Okkie Potgieter, Liezel Visage and Kim du Plessis.
2
Districtmail
SOLD HELDERBERG BOLAND
26 September, 2013
Biggest and Best Property guide in the Boland SOLD bied die grootste en maklikste toegang tot die mark vir eiendomkopers en -verkopers in die Boland.
021 841 4285
021 887 2840
021 870 4600
BOLAND SOLD
HELDERBERG
Districtmail
26 September, 2013
3
4
Districtmail
26 September, 2013
SOLD HELDERBERG BOLAND
BOLAND SOLD
HELDERBERG
Districtmail
26 September, 2013
5
6
Districtmail
26 September, 2013
SOLD HELDERBERG BOLAND
BOLAND SOLD
HELDERBERG
Districtmail
26 September, 2013
7
8
Districtmail
SOLD HELDERBERG BOLAND
26 September, 2013
Healthier housing market shortages have become an almost universal challenge for estate agents countrywide. While the macro-economic environment is still not conducive to induce a real recovery of We are in a much healthier pothe property market, conditions sition than in 2009 and even 2010 are healthy for both buyers and when market activity was busellers. oyed by the positive sentiment For buyers, it is still the best of the FIFA Soccer World Cup. time to buy in over three decSeeff’s year-to-date sales figades and, since there has been ures for example are not only no major capital appreciation 18% up on last year, but the best over the last few years and the since 2007. interest rate is still at a historic Despite the fact that the winlow, the value on offer is outter months are historically a standing. quieter period, our July nationConversely, now is a good al sales turnover of just under Samuel Seeff time to sell. Well-priced properR1 billion is not only the best in recent years, but about 20% higher than in ties are not only moving, but they are moving fast. In some instances sellers are getting mul2007. National sales volumes have settled down tiple offers with many deals being concluded over the last two years at just over 19 100 at quite close to the asking price. Prices, though, are likely to remain flat for monthly transactions on average; 5% higher than the 2010 monthly average of 18 255 and the foreseeable future as buyers, largely for economic reasons, are just not able to put in 16% higher than the 2009 average of 16 452. Bond registrations have also strengthened bigger offers. Looking at FNB’s recent House Price Index to an average of around 14 450 monthly registrations, about 7–8% more than the 2012 aver- for example, the bank reports marginal growth age of 13 374 and the 2009 average of 13 530, says in the August rate to 6,4%, a slight improvement on the 6,3% reported in July. While the Seeff. Leading mortgage originator, ooba for exam- interest rate has been flat for the last year, Seeff ple recently reported that its bond approvals says that it now looks as if bond holders may were up in August by 24% on a year-on-year need to prepare for a rate hike sooner than exbasis and up by 227% over the corresponding pected. The weakening of the rand by about 30% since the start of the year, may prompt period in 2009. This year in particular, we have seen the bal- the Reserve Bank to increase the rate before ance between supply and demand improve and the end of this year to strengthen the rand, he indications are that we are moving closer to says. Indications are that we are heading towards a position of equilibrium in the primary housing market, although still predominantly in a healthy summer trading period, but with a the sub-R1,5 million sector, says Seeff. Nation- potential interest rate hike looming, buyers wide, our branches are reporting more buyers should perhaps consider fixing their interest at show days, with some areas noting about rate. They may initially pay a premium for this, 40% more buyers than last year. For the first time since pre-2007/8, offers are now being tak- but Seeff says that it will provide certainty and en on show days, continues Seeff. Major stock will level out over time. The South African housing market is in the healthiest position since 2009, says Seeff chairman, Samuel Seeff.
BOLAND SOLD
Districtmail
HELDERBERG
One of the homes on the Croydon Olive Estate
26 September, 2013
View of an olive grove on the Croydon estate
9
The Lifestyle Centre on the estate
Croydon Olive Estate offers lifestyle and value For centuries an olive branch has represented “peace”, and when you visit Croydon Olive Estate it’s not hard to understand why. Walk past lush olive groves, look across the calming waters of the dam and enjoy views of the majestic mountain ranges, before relaxing in the Lifestyle Centre lounge with a cup of coffee. Perhaps you feel like a work-out in the private gym or a braai with friends in the communal braai area while your children swim in the sparkling pool. No, this is not a holiday resort. This is another day enjoying the unique lifestyle in Croydon Olive residential estate. With just over 200 properties in this exclusive gated village, 24-hour security and luxury facilities in the Lifestyle Centre, this is a rare opportunity to invest in a way of life that is synonymous with “peace”. You’d be forgiven for thinking that owning property that offers such advantages comes at a price that is out of your
reach. But for many, you will be pleasantly surprised to know what value is on offer, and how affordable such a lifestyle is. Harcourts Platinum, on-site agents at Croydon Olive Estate, have a range of different purchasing options available to meet the needs of discerning buyers. Completed homes – ready to move in – are available from R2 250 000. Other completed homes developed by a master builder, with exceptional attention to detail, are priced at R 2 395 000, including VAT. Also on offer are vacant plots, most of them priced between R550 000 and R750 000, but with a few under R500 000. The plots are very competitively priced, especially when one considers this is not just a plot, but a lifestyle in a low density security development. A third option is to purchase a “plotand-plan” – where you choose the plot you want, and Harcourts will put you together with one of their preferred builders already active on the estate, to create
a home that meets all your needs, and fits your budget. This is packaged as a plot-and-plan so that you submit your bond application for your total finance requirement. The architecture and mood of the estate takes one back centuries to a time when life was calmer – time moved slower – and families grew up in an environment much more peaceful than the world we live in now. But here, in Croydon Olive Estate, you can still enjoy some of that lifestyle. Every property opens onto an olive grove. Every family receives their own allocation of olive oil produced on this working olive farm. And every family deserves their bit of “peace”. Come and claim yours at Croydon Olive Estate today. Harcourts Platinum has their site office open at the estate on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday afternoons. Appointments can be made at any other time and on short notice. Call Nicki Piek on 084 962 8234 or Deline Gough on 079 775 1313 for more information.
The dam on Croydon Olive Estate
10
Eikestadnuus 26 September, 2013
SOLD STELLENBOSCH BOLAND
BOLAND SOLD
STELLENBOSCH
Eikestadnuus 26 September, 2013
11
12
Eikestadnuus 26 September, 2013
SOLD STELLENBOSCH BOLAND
BOLAND SOLD
STELLENBOSCH
Eikestadnuus 26 September, 2013
13
14
Paarl Post
26 September, 2013
SOLD PAARL/WELLINGTON BOLAND
BOLAND SOLD
Paarl Post
PAARL/WELLINGTON
26 September, 2013
Lifestyle farm for sale in Franschhoek
The town of Franschhoek has become synonymous with fine food and wine, clean mountain air and panoramic views.
The village has a distinctly Gallic flavour thanks to its French Huguenot heritage, and offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle of pavement cafes and restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries and antique collectibles. The surrounding farmland is also renowned for its rich soil and abundant vineyards, producing some of South Africa’s most famous wine brands. Pam Golding Properties (PGP) reports that this rich agricultural heritage and chic lifestyle make the valley highly sought-after as a weekend getaway, holiday destination or place of permanent residence. One of the most popular property options for buyers in all of these categories is the lifestyle farm – typically a smallholding with a generous homestead and some smallscale farming activity. Buyers in this category usually seek a warm family home in a picturesque setting, where they can enjoy quality time together and perhaps dabble in a little wine-making or artisan farming on the side as a hobby. “Prices for such farms can vary tremendously depending on their size, location and condition,” say PGP agents Doug Gurr and Shelly Schoeman, “as well as on the size, historic value and luxury features of the homestead. One can pay anything from R10 million to R40 million for farms in this category – but the lifestyle on offer is priceless.” PGP’s area manager for Fransch-
Pam Golding Properties has the exclusive mandate to market this 9,75 ha lifestyle farm named Fleur Vue, on the banks of the Franschhoek River, at R16,5 million. hoek, Surina du Toit, adds that for those seeking to escape the “rat race” and raise their families in a wholesome rural environment, Franschhoek offers the best of both worlds – a small village lifestyle in a magnificent rural setting, that is still within easy reach of amenities such as Cape Town International Airport, major shopping facilities and medical care. “The town also offers an excellent private co-ed school – the acclaimed Bridge House – making it a feasible option for those with school-going children,” she adds. “And once they reach student age, the University of Stellenbosch is just 20 minutes’ drive away. What better environment can there be for children than to grow up on a farm where they can enjoy a
healthy outdoor lifestyle, fresh air and sunshine, surrounded by magnificent mountains?” PGP currently has the exclusive mandate to market what Gurr describes as the “quintessential lifestyle farm” – a 9,75 ha property named “Fleur Vue” (meaning “view of flowers”), located on the banks of the Franschhoek River, just minutes from the village centre. The farm consists of an immaculate main homestead, guest cottage and manager’s house, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. The property is on the market at R16,5 million. The main homestead offers four bedrooms and four bathrooms, including a well-appointed master suite with a fireplace and his and
hers dressing rooms, as well as a study or fifth bedroom. The spacious double-volume living areas are open plan, with easy flow from the gourmet kitchen to a dining room, coffee nook and lounge. These in turn flow out via French doors onto a large undercover patio, ideal for outdoor entertaining, with views across the gardens, vineyards and mountains. A large entertainment room offers a more informal space to relax, with a built-in braai, pizza oven and wine cellar. The entire home is finished with travertine tiles, and under-floor heating ensures the living areas remain cosy all year round. The charming guest cottage offers two en-suite bedrooms plus an openplan living room and kitchen, a fire-
15
place and undercover patio with built-in braai. Additional buildings on the property include a three-bedroomed manager’s house, a large barn for storage of farm vehicles and tools, and a cold room for wine storage. Automated garaging is provided for three vehicles. The farm’s fully irrigated manicured gardens include a swimming pool, herb and vegetable garden as well as an orchard with a variety of trees - several nuts and citrus fruits, plus mangos, figs and plums. The garden and household obtain their water from a borehole, and are protected by electronic security beams. Fleur Vue currently has just over 5 ha under vine, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc varietals. The olive grove spans another 2 ha, and includes over 1 650 trees, including both mission and kalamata olives. The farming areas are watered by micro/drip method from the Robertsvlei River, for which the farm has pumping rights. The current owners bottle a relatively small quantity of wine for personal use, and sell the rest of the grapes on to larger producers. They also produce their own bottled olives and olive oil in small quantities. Schoeman says while the next owners could continue to operate on this small scale, they could also opt to expand the production to the level of a more established boutique wine or olive estate. To view Fleur Vue, or for more information, call PGP agents Doug Gurr (072 610 7208) and Shelly Schoeman (083 301 8833) or contact their office on 021 876 2100 or winelandsint@pamgolding.co.za.
16
Paarl Post
SOLD PAARL/WELLINGTON BOLAND
26 September, 2013
Don’t delay, upgrade today Sellers immediately want more for their properties while buyers still want to pay recession prices – this is always the scenario when a real estate market starts to turn upwards. However, says Lew Geffen, chairman of Sotheby’s International Realty in SA, this should not deter those with plans to upgrade to bigger or better-located properties from doing so as soon as possible. Indeed, he says, there are several very good reasons for doing so, particularly in the current SA market, “the first of which is that it is probably going to take some time for home
prices to start showing any significant upward movement. “Although there are many more buyers in the market now than there have been for the past few years, it is not quite a sellers’ market yet. In addition, the banks are keeping a tight rein on things by valuing properties very conservatively for home loan purposes. “There is thus no point in delaying the sale of an existing property in the hope of getting a higher price to assist your upgrade.” The second reason to make an upgrade move now, Geffen says, is that interest rates could very well move off the current historic lows within the next 12 months, and home-
owners who want to upgrade might then find it more difficult to qualify for a new bond in addition to having to budget for bigger-thanexpected monthly repayments. “Thus their new home could end up costing much more than necessary in the long term. For example, the monthly repayment on a R2 million home bought now with a R1,8 million bond at the 8,5% prime rate would be about R15 600, putting the total cost over 20 years at some R3,749 million. “But an interest rate increase of just one percentage point would push up the monthly bond repayment on the same bond to R16 800, and the total cost over 20 years to R4,027 million.” And finally, he says, experts predict that the credit amnesty which government intends to introduce before the end of the year is likely to make it more difficult for anyone to get a home loan. “The banks are opposed to the amnesty, which will see millions of credit records expunged from the credit bureaux, because it will make it extremely difficult for them to tell the difference between high risk and low risk borrowers. Thus they are going to become extremely cautious about lending once more, and may well pass their additional risk on to consumers in the form of bigger deposit requirements and higher interest rates. “In short then, there really is no time like the present for anyone planning a home upgrade.”
Biggest and Best Property guide in the Boland SOLD bied die grootste en maklikste toegang tot die mark vir eiendomkopers en -verkopers in die Boland.
021 841 4285 021 870 4600
021 887 2840
HELDERBERG SHOPPER
26 September, 2013
17
26 September, 2013
FURNITURE
18
Assorted Dining tables and suites
Assorted bar chairs - designer chairs - dining chairs and benches
Status diner pool table convert to dining table
Assorted dressers - sideboards - plasma units - ottomans - headboards and pedestals Sales Agent: Mariana Dijkstra Tel: 021 852 6877 Cell: 083 506 6339 Ardeer Street, The Interchange, Somerset West sales@verifurn.co.za - www.verifurn.co.za
HELDERBERG SHOPPER
SMALL DIESEL ENGINE: CAPABLE 4X4 MAKES SENSE
Renault’s purposeful Duster
FRANS LE ROUX
Back in the day, 4x4 vehicles were strictly reserved for the ultra rich. People who could afford a purposeful all terrain vehicle, went out and bought one. The big hitters were of course the likes of Land Rover, Jeep and Toyota. Luckily for us, the market for fuel efficient, “car-like” 4x4’s has expanded vastly in the last decade. I recently had a go at the very latest offering in this segment, namely the Renault Duster. To start with, is the very odd name Renault have gone with. With Duster they might mean that this very vehicle will kick dust into the headlights of its opposition, although this still needs to be proven. The demo vehicle I was handed was a brand new top of the range 1.5dCi Dynamique 4x4. Priced at R239 900, you do get a lot of value for your money. The engine, is exactly what you need in these trying economic times. A small, four cylinder turbo diesel, sips fuel through a straw and loves the open road. Power is rated at 80 kW/240 Nm and when this is combined with a smooth 6-speed manual gearbox, you quickly discover that this Duster is a pleasure to drive. On my weekend trip the fuel consumption never dipped below 12 km/F. It has to be mentioned that because this is a 4x4, its gear ratios are shorter than its 4x2 sibling. So if you want the best fuel consumption, I would suggest opting for the 4x2. I took the Duster in and around Paarl during yet another wet and windy weekend. Having the luxury of full four wheel drive, I felt confident when I approached muddy
A decent diesel engine, great interior space and good ground clearance make the Duster an exciting prospect in the small SUV category.
PHOTO: QUICKPIC
tracks and slippery gravel roads. Not even a washed out and eroded Paarl Mountain could stop this little Duster. Apart from the odd slip and wheel spin here and there, the Duster truly owned up to being a competent 4x4. Have a seat inside and a few things immediately grab your attention. For starters, there is a massive 8inch multimedia touch screen neatly situated in the middle of the dashboard. Having previously worked with the same system in the new Clio, I could quickly launch the SatNav and pair my phone’s Bluetooth. My only criticism is that I would have tilted the screen upwards so
that taller passengers could benefit. Seats are nothing fancy, they do their job. Leg and headroom is ample, because nothing feels cramped inside the Duster. Hard plastics dominate the cabin, but their purpose is longevity. Class leading luggage space (408F) is perfect for those weekends away. If you opt for the 4x2 you get an even bigger boot because they fitted the spare-wheel to the chassis at the rear. Let’s briefly discuss the looks, uhm, there is not much to discuss. The Duster won’t win any style awards, but if you are interested in looks, then you are kind of missing the point here. The Duster has
210 mm of ground clearance. With a bashplate in the front and rear, it’s made to do gravel roads. There is a purpose with the high roofline and short overhangs at the rear. Renault has some method in their madness, and the Duster’s styling is spot-on if you consider what it should be used for. Rivals in this category include the likes of the Suzuki SX4 and Daihatsu Terios. Not only is the Duster cheaper, bigger and has better ground clearance, but it is also the only one of the three with a diesel engine in the line-up. On paper the Duster is starting to make even more sense. With the 1,6 petrol (4x2) starting at
R194 900, it is sure to shake up the market. After spending a weekend with the Duster I came to some conclusions. Yes, there is most definitely a market for it. No, it is certainly not the prettiest thing I have driven. Yes, the diesel engine is definitely the pick of the bunch, and if it was my money I would certainly keep some change and go for the 1.5dCi 4x2. The 4x2 is extremely well priced at R219 900. Combine that with a 3 yr/45 000 km service plan a a 5 yr/150 000 km warranty, and this looks like a done deal. Drive over to Renault Paarl and test drive the Duster today.
AUTO 20 Ford Builds 2 millionth fuel-efficient EcoBoost engine Donderdag
BOLAND SOLD
26 September, 2013
QUICKPIC
ca is reflected in high take rates on key models: • 90 per cent of Ford Escape models are Ford Motor Company today celebrated a equipped with EcoBoost engines manufacturing milestone for its fuel-sav• 50 per cent of Fusion customers select one ing EcoBoost engines: Two million have of three available EcoBoost models been produced globally since the 2009 • 42 per cent of F-150 trucks are purchased launch of the engine line. with the 3.5-litre EcoBoost This year, EcoBoost will be available on Growing customer demand for EcoBoostmore than 90 per cent of North American powered vehicles in Ford’s major markets nameplates, rising to 95 per cent by 2015. worldwide is driving engine production, with To meet demand for the award-winning 2.0output now averaging more than 100 000 enlitre EcoBoost engine, Ford is investing neargines per month, up from 65 000 in 2012. ly $200 million to build the engine at its Cleve“Ford EcoBoost delivers great performance land, Ohio, engine plant, with production with lower fuel bills, a recipe which is proving starting in 2014. incredibly popular with consumers around Growth in Asia Pacific the world,” said Joe Bakaj, vice president, In Asia Pacific, sales of EcoBoost vehicles Powertrain Engineering, Ford. “EcoBoost enare up 202 per cent year-over-year in 2013, ingines are attracting new customers to the cluding a 189 per cent rise in China. Ford plans Ford brand every day, and our plants are to offer the fuel-efficient engine in 20 working hard to keep up with devehicles in the region by mid-decade, mand.” a five-fold increase from 2012. A Ford Escape (known as Kuga in Ninety five per cent of Kuga buyers South Africa) powered by the two milin Asia Pacific are choosing the 1.6-lilionth production EcoBoost – a 2.0-litre or 2.0-litre EcoBoost engines, tre unit – rolled off the line at Ford’s while 90 per cent of Edge owners and Louisville, Ky., U.S., assembly line. 62 per cent of Mondeo buyers are optEcoBoost technology combines ing for the efficient engines. smaller overall size with turbochargFord will soon begin production of ing, direct injection and variable the 1.0-litre EcoBoost at the $500 milvalve timing to bring customers outlion Changan Ford engine plant in standing performance and fuel econoChongqing, China, which opened in my. Ford EcoBoost engines deliver up June. to 15 per cent better fuel economy than South Africa got its first taste of larger displacement petrol engines. EcoBoost technology when the Focus Ford’s global EcoBoost engine famiST was introduced in the last quarter ly now includes the 1.0-litre three-cylof 2012 while the 1.0-litre EcoBoost inder; the 1.5-litre, 1.6-litre and 2.0-liunit was introduced in January of tre four-cylinder engines; and the this year. powerful and efficient 3.5-litre V6. EcoBoost is offered in South Africa EcoBoost will be offered on nearly 80 in the Fiesta, Fiesta ST, Focus ST, per cent of the company’s global EcoSport and Kuga. To date nearly nameplates by the end of 2013. In Europe, exceptional demand for the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine – International Engine of the Year 2012 and 5 300 EcoBoost engines have been European expansion sold in South Africa with demand In Europe, exceptional demand for 2013 – is fuelling a doubling of production capacity at the Cologne, Germany, engine plant to more than PHOTO: QUICKPIC continuing to grow. the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine – Inter- 1,000 engines a day. national Engine of the Year 2012 and 2013 – is fuelling a doubling of production capacity at the Cologne, Germany, engine plant to more than 1 000 engines a day. Already available on five European nameplates, the 1.0-litre engine will be fitted to 11 models by 2014. The three-cylinder unit is being chosen by a growing share of customers during 2013, accounting for 43 per cent of BMAX sales, 32 per cent for Focus, 26 per cent for Fiesta; and 24 per cent for C-MAX and Grand C-MAX sales. EcoBoost powertrains also are driving high demand for the Fiesta ST (1.6-litre EcoBoost) and Focus ST (2.0-litre EcoBoost), while 18 per cent of customers for the Kuga are selecting the 1.6-litre EcoBoost option in a segment which traditionally favours diesel engines. Nearly 40% more European customers are familiar with EcoBoost technology today com-
pared to 2011, internal Ford data shows. The Cologne plant also has begun production of the 1.0-litre EcoBoost for the North American market. The new 2014 Ford Fiesta – on sale later in 2013 – will be the first vehicle available in the United States with the 1.0-litre engine, and is expected to be certified most fuel-efficient non-hybrid car available in the United States. Popularity, demand rising in North America In North America, internal Ford data shows that the EcoBoost engine is now the most recognised fuel-efficient engine among consumers. In addition, consumers are nearly 50 per cent more likely to consider purchasing a Ford vehicle if they are aware of EcoBoost than those who are not familiar with the engine. The popularity of EcoBoost in North Ameri-
BOLAND SOLD
AUTO
Donderdag
26 September, 2013
21
22
SOLD AUTO BOLAND
Donderdag
26 September, 2013
Limited Edition Corsa OPC Nürburgring lands in South Africa QUICKPIC The Corsa OPC has emerged out of Sir Jackie Stewart’s “Green Hell” as an agile and feisty hot hatch ready to thrill South African drivers. With only 65 of the limited Corsa OPC Nürburgring Edition models produced by Opel globally allocated to South Africa, the latest addition to the Opel range is likely to become a sought after collector’s item. The Corsa OPC Nürburgring Edition arrives in South Africa boasting an arsenal of performance enhancing features including lower ride height, newly developed spring and damper units by Bilstein and – as a further high-tech detail – a new lightweight front braking system from specialists Brembo with bespoke, high-performance brake linings. The control algorithms for the chassis support systems – ABS, Traction Control (TC) and the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) – have all been recalibrated by the engineers at the Opel Performance Centre to match the car’s new configuration. Largely regarded as the mecca of performance car engineering, the Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit in Germany shares a rich, fiftyyear-strong history with the Opel brand, where several of the marque’s performance derivatives have set and still hold lap records. The Corsa OPC has been no exception with Opel’s OPC engineering team using the track to create an exceptionally quick and exhilarating hot hatch. Based on the already impressive Corsa OPC, the Nürburgring edition has received numerous upgrades and enhancements to improve acceleration, handling and braking – along with a long list of standard features for a more enjoyable day-to-day ownership experience. The Nürburgring edition’s additional power is delivered by modified engine management and turbocharger systems, and a sports exhaust with reduced back pressure. As a result, the maximum output of the 1.6-litre OPC turbo engine increases from the standard vehicle’s 141 kW to 154 kW, giving a specific power rating of 96.2 kW per litre which is exceptional in this engine class.
Visual highlights include two new, exclusive body colours – apple-green ‘Grasshopper’ and red ‘Henna’ – as well as newly-designed 8 x 18-inch, forged aluminium wheels in high-gloss grey, shod with 225/35 R18 V tyres. PHOTO: QUICKPIC The maximum torque of the base engine (230-266 Nm) also increases to 250 Nm, and 280 Nm when the turbocharger’s “overboost” function is activated. The increase in output combined with the overboost function on the turbocharger result in an improved 0-100 km/h sprint time of just 6.8 seconds, with a top speed of 230 km/h. The Euro 5-compliant engine is still able to deliver outstanding fuel efficiency of just 7.6-litres per 100 km on the combined average cycle and carbon emissions of 178 g/km. In order to convert the 154 kW of power into efficient propulsion, Opel engineers have equipped the front axle with a mechanical, multiplate limited-slip differential which helps to reduce wheel slip when there are very high lateral forces under acceleration, or changes in the texture of the road surface. It is also ideal for forays onto the race track. In keeping with the Nürburgring Edition’s sporty nature, the traction control and ESP programmes
have been adjusted to suit the extra grunt and improved dynamics. Even at the limit, the Corsa OPC Nürburgring Edition remains a composed and sure footed sports car. Other changes include a body that sits 20 mm lower than before, with new Bilstein dampers and springs to both absorb bumps and ensure sure-footedness at all times – the shock absorbers are now gas pressure monotube units with altered characteristics. Braking is by ventilated discs allround, the front brakes having been specially designed by Italian experts Brembo. The new four-piston braking system features unique high-performance pads which provide 10% more braking surface than the pads used in a normal Corsa OPC, while a weight reduction of 30% in the brake callipers adds to the overall result of improved cooling, responsiveness and feel under maximum load. Visual highlights include two new, exclusive body colours – ap-
ple-green “Grasshopper” and red “Henna” – as well as newly-designed 8 x 18-inch, forged aluminium wheels in high-gloss grey, shod with 225/35 R18 V tyres. Other features distinguishing the Nürburgring Edition from the existing Corsa OPC are a front spoiler lip and a new dual exhaust in stainless steel, as well as “Nürburgring” logos on the B-pillars. The sports interior features unique sill plates with black and red “Nürburgring” lettering, and decorative white stitching on the front Recaro sports seats, as well as the rear seats, handbrake and gearshift console. The front seatbacks are also embossed with the “Nürburgring” logo and the steering wheel insert is finished in piano black. Added extras include automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, heated front seats, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and climate control. Standard performance figures give only hint of what the Corsa OPC Nürburgring Edition is capa-
ble of. It hits 100 km/h from a standing start in just 6,8 seconds with ingear elasticity boosted by the extra torque. The Nürburgring Edition completes the transition from 80 to 120 km/h in 5th gear in just 6,2 seconds, and with a top speed of 230 km/h it is among the performance leaders in its class. The top-of-the-line Corsa had to prove its brilliant driving dynamics during testing and tuning runs under maximum load on the Nürburgring north loop, the world’s most demanding race track. But the driving fun on offer is not restricted to speed and handling precision alone. It also includes an exciting aural experience: the sound of the newly developed exhaust system is tailored to suit the character of the vehicle, as well as giving optimal performance. The limited edition Opel Corsa Nürburgring Edition retails for R343 200 including VAT and emissions tax. The price also includes a 5-year/120 000 km warranty and Opel’s 3-year/60 000 km warranty.
BOLAND SOLD
AUTO
Donderdag
26 September, 2013
Team Ford Racing prepares 2014 Dakar Rally
23
QUICKPIC Team Ford Racing is preparing for its assault on the 2014 Dakar Rally in South America with an intensive nine-day test session in the remote desert wilderness near Walvis Bay in Namibia. The full-scale test encompassed a complete shake-down and set-up of the mighty Dakarspecification 5.0-litre V8 Ford Ranger, and featured almost the entire local and international Ford racing crew including team management, drivers and navigators, race engineers and mechanics. “This is the first time the Dakar Rally Ranger has really been tested,” says Neil Woolridge, team manager. “We did a short two-day test in Pietermaritzburg straight after the launch of the Dakar campaign in July, but this is our first opportunity to evaluate all aspects of the vehicle and focus on the race setup.” The test was conducted approximately 30 km from Walvis Bay and was based at the Lauberville Camp, a concession area run by West Coast 4x4. “We chose this area near Walvis Bay as it has a bit of everything and replicates a lot of the conditions we will encounter on the Dakar,” Woolridge explains. “There’s a huge dry river bed with soft sand and lots of undulations that really gives the suspension a good work-out. The area is also famous for its dune driving, plus there are vast open rocky plains that allowed us to test the high-speed performance of the Ranger.” Argentinian lead driver Lucio Alvarez, who has completed three Dakars with two top 10 finishes, agreed that the area is ideal for the Ranger’s first full test. “The location was very good for training and testing because you have all the different types of terrain experienced on Dakar. “It matches a lot of the Dakar stages we’ve done through Argentina, Peru and Chile over the past three years, which makes it the perfect place to test the vehicle in the right conditions,” he says. An exhaustive schedule was put together for the Namibia test, according to Wooldridge, with one of the main priorities being to set up the suspension and dampers on the Team Ford Racing Ranger. “We gave BOS, our suspension partners in France, all the dimensions of the vehicle, the weights, wheel travel and specifications and they built the dampers and tested them on a suspension dyno according to those require-
The test was conducted approximately 30 km from Walvis Bay and was based at the Lauberville Camp, a concession area run by West Coast 4x4. PHOTO: QUICKPIC ments,” Woolridge explains. “However the final set-up had to be done on the car and we had two of their technicians with us during the Namibia test to upgrade the dampers to the latest specification and fine-tune the settings.” The second main objective was to run the 5.0-litre V8 engine used in the Ranger with a 36 mm restrictor and Avgas as used on Dakar. The South African-spec Ranger, as campaigned in the local Cross Country Championship, uses a 35 mm restrictor and normal unleaded fuel. The Ranger uses an advanced Magneti Marelli engine management system, and a specialist engine technician from Oreca Motorsport’s Engine Technology division in France was also on hand to optimise the engine mapping for the mighty V8 to maximise its performance. “We also set out to do as much mileage on this brand new car as possible,” Woolridge says. “Although it’s similar to the SA-spec Ranger, the FIA specification for the Dakar allows us to use a totally different independent rear suspension compared to the live rear axle used in local racing.”
Further changes include high-performance Brembo 6-piston brake callipers and pistons compared to production-based versions on the local version, and the engine is moved 100 mm back. The vehicle also boasts a massive 500-litre fuel tank for the long stages versus a 200-litre tank that’s required for the SA championship, which poses a unique set of challenges in terms of weight distribution and suspension configuration. As the lead duo for the Ford Racing Dakar campaign, Alvarez and navigator Ronnie Graue believe the Ranger, which is built in Pietermaritzburg by Neil Woolridge Motorsport, is an impressive package. “It’s early days but the Ranger is very good,” Alvarez says. “The design and chassis are excellent and we simply need to fine-tune some aspects of the vehicle, including finding the perfect set-up for the suspension and optimising the engine and gear ratios. But overall the Ranger is great to drive.” Although the 2014 Dakar Rally will be the first for Chris Visser and co-driver Japie Badenhorst, they are front-running competitors in the South African Cross Country Championship and have been part of the win-
ning formula that has seen the new Ranger take victory on its debut in March, followed up by podium finishes in every race since. Visser was equally impressed with the performance of the Dakar-specification Ranger in the arid Walvis Bay test area. “This was the first time we drove this Ranger and it is superb. The independent suspension gives it a much softer ride than our SA-spec vehicle, which makes it very comfortable. “It is really good in the dunes and once the suspension, engine mapping and gear ratios are all sorted we will have a really competitive vehicle,” Visser says. “The Ford Racing Ranger has performed extremely well so far, and this is exactly the right environment to test in, as it has a bit of everything and is very close to what we will encounter on the Dakar. “It’s also important for Japie and I to get as much time as possible in the dunes, as it’s not something we’re used to. The navigation and GPS systems are very different to what we use in the local championship, so we have a bit of work to do on those fronts but Lucio and Ronnie have been very helpful and supportive and we have no doubt that we’ll be competitive on the Dakar Rally.”
24
SOLD AUTO BOLAND
Donderdag
26 September, 2013
Volkswagen Group: Top Peugeot extends 208 range with value-added newcomer employer in South Africa QUICKPIC
QUICKPIC Peugeot South Africa has extended its highly successful 208 compact hatchback line-up with the addition of the affordable, three-door Access 1.0 model. The newcomer brings the 208 ownership experience within reach of a wider audience, while still offering buyers an overall exceptional motoring package. The 208 Access 1.0 VTi showcases the French marque’s latest design language, but its three-door configuration adds a further element of youthful flair and sportiness to the already popular range. The striking grille, with its black honeycomb grille and dark aluminium surround, is flanked on either side by boldly proportioned headlights, with close attention to fine detail as true of this entry-level model as it is across the 208 range. The boomerang-shaped tail lights are another visually distinctive feature, while the overall silhouette is sleek and windcheating, but also compact and athletic. A smooth roofline and sculpted sides add to the dynamic aesthetics. The interior echoes the smart functionality of the entire 208 range. The front bucket seats and
The 208 Access 1.0 VTi is a brisk performer, with a 0–100 km/h sprint time of 14 sec and a 163 km/h top speed. PHOTO: QUICKPIC rear bench are upholstered in attractive, yet durable cloth upholstery, while the overall fit and finish is exemplary. Standard equipment includes electric front windows, central locking, Isofix child seat mounts, and an on-board trip computer. ABS brakes with EBD and dual front airbags for the driver and front passenger ensure a high degree of active and passive safety. A full-size spare wheel is standard. The three-door Access 1.0 is powered by an efficient, in-line three-cylinder engine. The 999 cc unit has a maximum output of 50 kW at 6 000 r/min, combined with a torque peak of 95 Nm at 3 000 r/ min. That urge is delivered to the
front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox. The 208 Access 1.0 VTi is a brisk performer, with a 0–100 km/h sprint time of 14 seconds, and a 163 km/h top speed. Of even greater interest is the Peugeot 208’s fuel efficiency, which comes to an impressive average of 4,3 litres/100 km. Open-road consumption drops to an exceptional 3,8 litres/100 km. The three-door Peugeot 208 Access 1.0 VTi has a three-year warranty, as well as Peugeot’s Premium Plan – a 5-year/60 000 km maintenance plan – included as standard. At just R147 500, it represents strong value and affordability, making the newcomer an ideal purchase for first-time buyers.
Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) has been certified by the Top Employer Institute as a Top Employer in South Africa for the third year in a row and as the No 1 employer in the automotive industry for 2013–2014. VWSA was one of 71 organisations recognised in the 2013–2014 research into the human resources policies and practices of leading South African employers. The survey, which measures HR benefits, working conditions, training and development, career advancement and culture management, is based on an international standard that is applied across 45 countries worldwide. The Top Employers Institute is an international group that certifies excellence in conditions that employers create for their people. The award itself comes after the culmination of intense research, with findings independently audited by Grant Thornton. “Our comprehensive independent research revealed that VWSA provides exceptional employee conditions, nurtures and develops talent throughout all levels of the organisation and has demonstrated itself as a leader in the human resources environment, striving to continuously optimise its employment practices and develop, always,” explains David Plink, CEO of the Top Employers Institute.
Anthony Hunneyball from HR accepting the award on behalf of Volkswagen Group SA with David Plink, CEO of Top Employers Institute. PHOTO: QUICKPIC
Percy Smith, HR Director at VWSA, credited the staff as the cornerstone of the organisation’s considerable achievements. “This recognition of excellence is an achievement that we are very proud of. Together with other recent accolades in customer sales and satisfaction, and dealer satisfaction indices, is a culmination of great effort by our employees.” “Our employees work in a fast paced and exciting environment, where training and development is actively encouraged providing ample opportunity for personal growth. This, combined with our performance-based culture, translates into a great reason for talented individuals to want to associate themselves with VWSA and to grow a career here,” says Smith.
BOLAND SOLD
AUTO
Donderdag
26 September, 2013
21