Motoring July 2016

IN THIS ISSUE: JEEP ON STAGE AT MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL | TOYOTA TECH LEADER | ROLL-ROYCE PORTO CERVO INSPIRATION | VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE REVISED | TEST DRIVE TIPS | SUCCESSFUL OPEL ASTRA | AMERICA’S CUP WORLD SERIES | LAND ROVER BAR | ABSOLUTE YACHTS 50 FLY

The Malta Independent on Sunday. July 2016

RIGHT ON Q

BAROSSA VALLEY SOUTH AUSTRALIA

VINEYARD SPOTLIGHT LANGMEIL

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ALSO

cht INSI ing DE Spe cia l

NEW AUDI Q2

EXPLORING BAROSSA VALLEY

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Tanunda

THE BAROSSA VALLEY LOCATED 60KM NORTHEAST OF ADELAIDE, IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA IS ONE OF THE WORLD'S GREAT WINE REGIONS, RENOWNED FOR ITS FOOD AND WINE, CULTURAL EXPERIENCES AND EASY-GOING LIFESTYLE. THE AREA ENCOMPASSES TOWNS SUCH AS TANUNDA, ANGASTON AND LYNDOCH. THE STONE COTTAGES AND LUTHERAN CHURCHES THROUGHOUT THE REGION ARE TESTAMENT TO A 19TH-CENTURY WAVE OF GERMAN SETTLERS. THANKS TO ITS MEDITERRANEAN CLIMATE AND 170 YEARS’ WORTH OF EUROPEAN SETTLERS EXERTING THEIR INFLUENCE OVER THE GRAPES AND CUISINE ON OFFER, YOU CAN’T HELP BUT GET INTO THE SPIRIT OF THE GOOD LIFE.

HERITAGE he heritage and history of the Barossa stretch back into nineteenth century Europe when an uncompromisingly devout Lutheran Pastor named Kavel befriended George Fife Angas, an entrepreneurial Scottish industrialist who had recently come into possession of vast tracts of land in the newly founded South Australia. Together they paved the way for the migration of the founding families of the Barossa.

These founding Barossans were lit by the light of God who, they believed, had delivered them to a promised land of plenty. Their industriousness, devotion and unfailing belief in community found expression in their new home and delivered into the 21st century a region unlike any other in Australia. You can see it in the celebrations and festivals that bring the whole region together, in the abundant food culture and in the rich and diverse arts community.

Reflecting its European heritage, the Barossa consists of a patchwork of towns, villages and hamlets, each with its own special charm, from the beautifully preserved German hueffendorf village of Bethany to the old English charm of Angaston.

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German bakery, great coffee and local produce.

Lyndoch is colloquially known as ‘The cool end of the Barossa’ with a variety of wineries nearby.

The Rose Garden at Lyndoch Hill, part of the Barossa Chateau estate, is a mecca for rose lovers from around the world. When it was opened in 2002 by Queen Elizabeth II, it was the largest collection of roses in the Southern Hemisphere.

Trail, which highlights 22 locations of interest along a 5km return walk. Bethany is also home to a number of very established wineries.

TANUNDA While today Tanunda (8km northeast of Bathany) is the cosmopolitan heart of the Barossa, it started life far more humbly as the tiny settlement of Langmeil located on the banks of the North Para River, to the north of the presentday town. Langmeil (‘Long Mile’) was settled in 1843 with a school house as their first public building followed soon after by the Langmeil Church. As the settlement grew and prospered it joined with, and was eventually incorporated into, the town of Tanunda.

Visitors to Tanunda can experience a whole cross section of the Barossa here, with an ever-growing cluster of cafes, restaurants, butchers, bakeries and cellar doors providing a glimpse into the Barossa’ famous food and wine offering.

Bethany

BETHANY Founded in 1842 Bethany (just 16km northeast Lyndoch) is the Barossa’s oldest settlement and a village sealed in time. Home to 300, the focal point of this tight-knit community remains the Herberge Christi Lutheran Church. The Barossa Vintage Festival is a fantastic time to visit, with the church hosting a biennial Step Back in Time event showcasing heritage farm equipment and homemaking skills such as butter churning and traditional Barossan recipes. Throughout the rest of the year, visitors can learn about the history of this unique village by following the Bethany Heritage Rose Garden Barossa Chateau, lyndoch

LYNDOCH On 13 December 1837, Colonel William Light camped in the vicinity of the Kies Wines cellar door and Burge Family Winemakers and made a sketch of the area. He named it Lynedoch Vale after his esteemed friend Lord Lynedoch who was his captain in the Battle of Barossa in 1811. With a population of 1,909 residents, Lyndoch (60km northeast of Adeliade) retains the feel of a small country town and the main street offers quirky shops, a butcher and traditional

Union Chapel, Angaston built 1844

ANGASTON Angaston (10 km east of Tanunda) is a charming, bustling village of 2,000 people which today still proudly displays a unique, English-influenced character. It was named after one of South Australia’s founders, George Fife Angas, who sponsored many of the region’s early German Settlers. Home to the oldest public building in the Barossa and replete with beautiful examples of classic 19th century architecture.

Angaston is also a rambling food lover’s paradise, with some of the Barossa’s finest produce on display. The Barossa Farmers’ Market is an absolute must-see experience while a gentle stroll down Angaston’s elegant main street will reward you with vibrant cafés, homemade preserves and a variety of lunch options.

July 2016 | motoring 03

AUSTRALIAN VINEYARD SPOTLIGHT

BAROSSA VALLEY> LANGMEIL FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED, LANGMEIL IS THE HOME TO WHAT IS BELIEVED TO BE THE BAROSSA AND AUSTRALIA’S OLDEST KNOWN SURVIVING VINEYARD PLANTED TO SHIRAZ IN 1843, FROM WHERE THE ICONIC FREEDOM 1843 SHIRAZ HAILS. LANGMEIL HAS HAD CONSIDERABLE SUCCESS AND HAS BEEN AWARDED 5 STARS IN THE HALLIDAY WINE COMPANION PLACING IT IN THE TOP 5% OF PREMIUM AUSTRALIAN PRODUCERS. WITHOUT CONTRADICTION, LANGMEIL WINES ARE ‘CUTTING EDGE OLD SCHOOL’ QUALITY BAROSSA WINE.

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ith a history dating back to 1842, Langmeil Winery is one of a few places where the blend of Barossa’s cultural beginnings with world-class winemaking can truly be experienced.

Pioneer Christian Auricht first settled the trading site of Langmeil where he established what is understood to be the world’s oldest surviving shiraz vineyard, believed to be planted in 1843.

Today, the winery grounds form a captivating pocket of Australian history, now owned by the Lindner family, whose own mark on the Barossa landscape spans six-generations of regional farming, food, community, and now wine.

Recognising the rarity of this shiraz vineyard, the site was dedicated to Auricht (who fled his native Prussia to escape religious persecution) and named Freedom, from which family winemaker Paul Lindner crafts ‘The Freedom 1843’ Shiraz – a single vineyard, old vine wine, which holds the honor of ‘Excellent’ in the Langton’s Fine Wine Classification VI. Resurrecting Barossa’s aged vines is an undertaking Langmeil Winery continues to take in its stride since becoming custodian of the notable property in 1996.These winery-owned vineyards are now the foundation for its dedicated ‘Old Vine Garden’ wines that span the Barossa Old Vine Charter of 35 to 125+ year-old vines.

A fine example is the ‘Orphan Bank’

Orphan Bank Vineyard 04 motoring July 2016 |

Richard, Shirley, Paul and James Lindner

Shiraz, which in a past life was a site of 320 vines planted pre-1860. Langmeil Winery saved the vines from a developer’s bulldozer, transplanting each vine one by one to its property with an incredible 95% success rate and a first for Barossa.

In addition to these winery-owned vineyards, which include an Eden Valley site planted in 1890, Langmeil Winery works with Barossa’s multi-generational family grape growers who form the core of the region’s culture built on tradition, not trends.

Having access to such diverse vineyard sites through these growers fortifies Langmeil’s philosophy to produce worldclass red and white wines with individual style, while still maintaining the distinct hallmarks of Barossa.Through Paul’s passion to combine old world and new world techniques with minimal handling and intervention, the fruit’s full potential is captured.

This is evident across all wines, yet perhaps more so in the Barossa ‘Valley Floor’ Shiraz; an expression of the region’s most renowned variety from many of its 30 original villages with a nod towards history and wine evolution, and recognised by the Barossa Trust Mark as a product of integrity and quality.

The Langmeil range of wines can be enjoyed locally or experienced first hand at its Cellar Door in the Barossa. A visit will immerse you in the charm of an historic original Barossa trading settlement, with the old Stable now the place where visitors are hosted with friendly banter over the sharing and tasting of its award-winning wines. For a cellar visit contact > contact Jonathan Bitter at Langmeil Winery, Cnr Langmeil & Para Roads,Tanunda SA 5352, Australia. Email jonathan@langmeilwinery.com.au or cellardoor@langmeilwinery.com.au.

Paul and James Lindner in the Freedom 1843 Vineyard

Locally Langmeil Wines are imported by Attard and Co and available from Sistina Wine & Co., The Strand Gzira.

Opening hours: 10am till late.

Web: www.sistinawineco.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/sistinawineco Tel: 2131 4161.

Gozo Distributor: Abraham’s Supplies Co. Ltd. Tel: 2156 3231 Web: www.abrahams.com.mt

OVG Range 35 Fifth Wave and 100 Yr Orphan and Riesling

JEEP

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ON STAGE AT THE 50TH MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL

EEP is supporting the Montreux Jazz Festival, one of the most prestigious jazz festivals in the world.This year’s special edition which kicked off on July 1, marks the 50th anniversary of the Festival and coincides with JEEP’s 75th Jubilee celebration.

Three unique show cars created by Garage Italia Customs and inspired to the Festival made their debut in Montreux. 30 Jeep vehicles have been made available to shuttle performers and international guests such as Muse, Lana Del Rey, Santana, Deep Purple, Neil Young, Simply Red,Van Morrison, Patti Smith, Marcus Miller and Zappa.

The 50th edition of the Montreux Jazz Festival in the beautiful Swiss town overlooking Lake Geneva, will feature JEEP as Global Partner for the second year running. Recognized as one of the most

THE 50TH EDITION OF THE MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL IN THE BEAUTIFUL SWISS TOWN OVERLOOKING LAKE GENEVA, FEATURED JEEP AS GLOBAL PARTNER FOR THE SECOND YEAR RUNNING important and prestigious music festivals in Europe, attracting each year visitors and great performers from all over the world, the Montreux Jazz Festival will this year be a very special edition, as it celebrated its 50th birthday.

To honour the occasion, three unique show cars created for the JEEP brand and based on Grand Cherokee, Renegade and Cherokee will be revealed to the public attending the event. Dedicated to Montreux Jazz Festival, these show cars were produced in collaboration with Garage Italia Customs (GIC) and are inspired by the world of music.

The Jeep brand and the Montreux Jazz Festival stand out in their respective fields.

Jeep, with its 75-year history, is a real lifestyle brand and a legend in the automotive sector, while the Montreux Jazz Festival has been at the forefront of music innovation and evolution for the last 50 years. Both brands stand out for the passion, authenticity and quality experience they deliver to their fans and customers and can claim a history of innovation and the ability to pioneer and anticipate trends, while remaining true to their roots.

Core of the 2016 partnership are the exclusive Jeep activities scheduled to take place at the branded locations along the

lakeshore, in particular those that will take place at the Jeep Temporary Store and at the Terrace Le Jardin. Located one and half kilometres from the Auditorium area, on the lakeshore, the Jeep Temporary Store will be the place where visitors can book a test drive of the Jeep range, including the "75th Anniversary" special edition models.

Also inspired by the ‘Free To Improvise’ claim is the advertising campaign produced by the creative team of Leo Burnett to celebrate the partnership between the Jeep brand and Montreux Jazz Festival, as their respective anniversaries. A short video clip, highlighting the concept of freedom to improvise will be broadcast in the Montreux Jazz Cafés across Europe and on the web.This video clip features images of legendary Jeep models on the notes of a jazz motif of the 40s and brings the audience back to the origins of the Jeep brand and of the festival itself, which over the years opened its original formula to welcome several different musical genres.

TOYOTA NAMED AS ONE OF THE WORLD’S SMARTEST COMPANIES IT Technology Review has named Toyota one of the world’s smartest companies, placing the car maker among respected tech leaders such as Amazon, Alphabet, and Facebook, and ahead of others such as

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Microsoft, IBM, and Intel. Ranked No17, Toyota was one of only two car makers to achieve the distinction.

“We’re very grateful to be recognised by MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), one of the finest educational institutions in the world,” said Jim

Lentz, chief executive officer of Toyota Motor North America.

MIT TECHNOLOGY REVIEW RECOGNISED TOYOTA FOR THE LAUNCH OF THE TOYOTA Research Institute, which “will study the future of mobility, artificial intelligence, and robotics.” The magazine also highlighted the release of the Toyota Mirai, one of the world’s first mass-market hydrogen fuel vehicles, and Toyota’s efforts to develop “a network of accessible and reliable hydrogen fuel stations” to support the Mirai and other potential future hydrogen vehicles.The Mirai has a range of over 300 miles and emits only water vapour.

MIT TECHNOLOGY REVIEW, A GLOBAL MEDIA COMPANY BACKED BY THE MASSACHUSETTS Institute of Technology, is recognised for its coverage of science, business and technology. To make the list, editors “pick the 50 companies that best combine innovative technology with an effective business model.”

For more information on Toyota and its products visit the Toyota showroom situated in Mdina Road Zebbug log on the Toyota Malta Facebook page or call on 2269 4000.

06 motoring | July 2016

RIGHT ON Q

NEW AUDI Q2 SUV

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udi strengthens its presence in the booming SUV segment with the Audi Q2 – an urban car for everyday driving and leisure with a progressive design and youthful charm.

“We have specifically developed the Audi Q2 for young customers,” explained Prof. Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG. “Its looks distinguish it as a model with attitude. The compact SUV blends the technical expertise of our brand with high everyday utility and emotional character.”

Measuring 4.19 meters (13.7 feet) in length, the Audi Q2 has a powerful road

stance. With its overtly geometrical formal idiom it takes up position as an independent character within the Q family. Customers can tailor many of the details to their individual preferences, and there are two trim lines to choose from.

WE HAVE SPECIFICALLY DEVELOPED THE AUDI Q2 FOR YOUNG CUSTOMERS Expressive colours create highlights both on the exterior and in the spacious interior. The seated position is sportily deep in relation to the steering wheel, and the controls are self-explanatory.

Options include the all-digital Audi virtual cockpit and a head-up display. The infotainment range culminates in the MMI navigation plus with the online component Audi connect. The Audi Q2 also redefines the class benchmark for

assistance systems. Audi pre sense front can avoid collisions with pedestrians or vehicles; adaptive cruise control with stop & go function and traffic jam assist represent precursors of piloted driving.

The newest member of the Q family is available with powerful and efficient TDI and TFSI engines – its performance range extends from 85 kW (116 hp) to 140 kW (190 hp). The seven-speed S tronic with lightning-fast action is available for all engine versions, and quattro permanent all-wheel drive right from the 110 kW (150 hp) version upward. It owes its agile handling to the standard-fit progressive steering, the sporty suspension – optionally with damper control – and the optional driving dynamics system Audi drive select. The Audi Q2 goes on sale in Europe in fall 2016.

The Audi Q2 is a winner in the Automotive Brand Contest: The compact SUV captured “Best of the Best” honors in the Exterior Premium Brand category.

The award ceremony will be held in Paris on September, 2016.

July 2016 | motoring 07

ROLLS-ROYCE UNVEILS EMERALD EM DAWN AND WRAITH INSPIRED BY POR

Styling changes and new R-Line trim for revised

VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE

• VOLKSWAGEN’S SPORTY R-LINE TRIM JOINS THE BIG VALUE BEETLE LINE-UP • ADDITIONAL ENHANCEMENTS AND OPTIONS THROUGHOUT THE BEETLE RANGE

08 motoring | July 2016

he Volkswagen Beetle is a genuine motoring icon. It’s one of a handful of cars that, in the 20th Century, brought motoring to the masses as more than 20 million examples of the original Beetle were sold around the world.

And when it was reborn in 1998 as the New Beetle, a further million sales brought the Beetle’s distinctive character to a new generation.

In 2011 the ‘New’ moniker was dropped and the Beetle comprehensively redesigned. Its new shape was lower and wider, with a longer bonnet, and the Beetle’s more sporting and masculine stance captured the world’s imagination all over again.

Now, this latest iteration of perhaps the best loved Volkswagen is being refreshed, with changes that include a more sculptured body and a fresh interior design. The styling enhancements and new options further enrich the appeal and value that is inherent in Volkswagen’s Beetle range, which is available in coupe and cabriolet forms and, with the new Beetle Dune, as a crossover.

The styling changes comprise sharpened lines for the front bumpers, while larger openings

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around the indicator and fog light surrounds give extra depth to the car’s appearance.

Meanwhile, the new Beetle RLine trim has a more sporty bumper design unique to that model. It features extra air intake openings along the upper edge of the bumper.

On the inside, the Volkswagen Beetle’s distinctive cabin has brighter instrument panel lighting and new dials and dash styling for the Design and R-Line models. New upholstery materials bring further styling options.

In the new range the Beetle RLine replaces the previous Sport trim level. The R-Line will be available with Volkswagen’s powerful 2.0-litre TDI 150 PS diesel engine and a choice of either six-speed manual or sixspeed DSG transmission.

The new Beetle R-Line also boasts sports suspension, 18inch ‘Twister’ alloy wheels, and the unique new R-Line bumper.

It is also available with a new alloy wheel design, the 18-inch ‘Ashmie Adamantium’, at no extra cost.

Whichever wheels are chosen, the sporty finish of the Beetle R-Line is enhanced further with a body-coloured rear diffuser and chromed twin exhausts.

And the R-Line’s exterior styling is developed with gloss black

MBELLISHED RTO CERVO

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ast Thursday, 28 July, honoured guests of the Rolls-Royce Summer Studio in Sardinia witnessed the unveiling of two remarkable Bespoke motor cars, commissioned to reflect the atmosphere and vibrancy of one of the world’s most exclusive and glamorous enclaves; Porto Cervo.

The essence of the marina, which resides on the Costa Smerelda, is embodied in two Bespoke Rolls-Royces; a Wraith, the marque’s most powerful motor car ever created, and Dawn, the recently launched and most social of Drophead Coupés.

Patrons of the marque relish in creative freedom by commissioning highly Bespoke personal legacies. To mark the opening of the Summer Studio and demonstrate this art form, the Bespoke Rolls-Royces will be themed from ‘Dusk until Dawn’.

Isobel Dando, General Manager, Future Retail, RollsRoyce Motor Cars, commented, “Patrons of our marque delight in inhabiting some of the world’s most beautiful enclaves. Sardinia, and its stunning Costa Smerelda, serves as the perfect backdrop for Rolls-Royce to host these patrons of true luxury in an intimate setting; The Rolls-Royce Summer Studio. The stunning Bespoke Wraith and emerald embellished Dawn, inspired by the sights and colours of Porto Cervo, have been commissioned in the spirit that so many of our customers delight in.”

The ambient hues of dusk are imbued on the Bespoke Wraith. A two-tone silver exterior reflects the dimming of the day’s light, whilst a purple feature line hints at the interior mood of this unique motor car.

The Spirit of Ecstasy, the figurine that has graced the bonnet of each Rolls-Royce since 1911, casts a soft

illumination from her position upon the motor car’s signature grille. On opening the coach doors, the mysterious aura of twilight, so appreciated by the Costa Smerelda’s glamourous denizens, is depicted using shades of blue, purple, slate and black, bestowing the feeling of calm as night falls. The use of ostrich leather adds depth and texture to the exquisitely furnished cabin.

In stark contrast, Dawn has been specified to capture the vibrancy and vivid colour of the Porto Cervo seascape. A unique emerald green exterior is offset against a distinct seashell and green leather interior.

Open-pore teak encapsulates the occupants, alluding to the elegant sensation of a marine sojourn. A Bespoke teak boot floor mat has been created for the luggage

compartment, continuing the nautical theme.

At the heart of this unique motor car lies art within art; precious emeralds and mother of pearl are set into white gold and presented on the fascia as a timeless memory of the beguiling island. As a brooch adorns a gown, so the jewels complete the visual harmony of this exquisite motor car. Set in the shape of the emblem of Porto Cervo, the occupants are reminded of the magical island from which the spirit of this motor car originated.

The Costa Smerelda is an abundant source of inspiration for artisans the world over. London-based tattoo artist Mo Coppoletta was party to such inspiration during the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Design team’s creative meetings for the curation of these two motor cars. Himself an artisan held in the highest regard, Coppoletta mused over exquisite blank canvases – two leather Rolls-Royce headrests – resulting in tattooed works of art which will be presented alongside the Dusk until Dawn configuration in The Summer Studio.

Coppoletta commented, “The colours and atmosphere of Porto Cervo are truly inspiring. The designs I have created for Rolls-Royce evoke the emotion experienced by observing this magical place from the harbour of Promenade du Port.”

The Rolls-Royce Summer Studio in Porto Cervo will be open until September 2016.

By appointment for patrons of true luxury.

Please contact portocervostudio@rolls-roycemotorcars.com.

CLEARLY VOLKSWAGEN’S DESIGNERS HAVE WORKED DILIGENTLY TO ENHANCE THE EXTERNAL LOOK OF THE MODERN BEETLE BUT, INSIDE THE CAR, THE TRADITIONAL VOLKSWAGEN DRIVER-FOCUSED DESIGN REMAINS door mirrors and door protectors. Of course an R-Line specification Beetle wouldn’t be complete without a rear tailgate spoiler.

Clearly Volkswagen’s designers have worked diligently to enhance the external look of the modern Beetle but, inside the car, the traditional Volkswagen driver-focused design remains. In the R-Line

this starts with ‘Sports’ instrument dials, while the pedals are trimmed in aluminium and the scuff plates feature the distinctive R-Line logo.

The quality of the interior is evidenced by the leathertrimmed three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, which has an R-Line badge insert and coloured stitching

too. The seats are finished in ‘Kyalami’ cloth and the R-Line badge is resplendent in the headrests. Height and lumbar adjustment add to the comfort of the seats.

Finally, 2Zone climate control with automatic air recirculation, ambient lighting, front and rear parking sensors and cruise control increase the technology that is standard on the Beetle R-Line.

In addition to the debut of the R-Line trim, a new option pack is available for the Beetle Design. The Black Style Pack includes 17-inch ‘Rotor’ black alloy wheels and a black painted roof. The air intake grille is also coloured black, as are the outside decorative trim stripes.

The protective side moulding is painted black and has a chromed strip, while the wing

mirror housing is painted black.

The Beetle of course has a wide array of personalisation options to match the individual customer’s choice. Outside, two new pearlescent-effect colours are available: ‘Bottle Green’ and ‘White Silver’. The interior colours can also be changed, with the dash centre console and steering wheel inserts of the Design trim now being offered in a choice of Sandstorm Yellow, Tornado Red, Habanero Orange or Pure White.

Interior lighting colour, too, can be changed depending on customer preference, when the ‘Fender’ premium sound pack is purchased. It also includes eight-speakers and a subwoofer.

The body style of the Volkswagen Beetle is particularly receptive to changes in the wheel design. For the daring, there is now even the option of fitting 17-inch ‘Orbit’ wheels in red: an option on the Beetle Design.

Recently the Beetle range was extended to include the rugged Beetle Dune, too. This charismatic new Volkswagen harks back to the famous Beetle dune buggies that roamed the West Coast of America in the 1960s and 1970s, and Dune models also benefit from the upgrades.

July 2016 | motoring 09

Test drive tips

GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR TEST DRIVE

BY PAUL VELLA TECHNICAL DIRECTOR, RMF.

right for all your needs. Main dealers might even be prepared to let you test drive a new car for an extended time.

If you're buying a second–hand car, the test drive is even more important as it's your only chance to make sure everything is in good working order. Buy a used car from names you can trust.

thorough test drive is vital. It's your best chance to make sure you're comfortable, that you'll enjoy driving the car and that it's

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TIPS FOR TEST DRIVING A USED CAR Try to take your time on a test drive, and try to drive more than one example if you're looking at an unfamiliar model. This will give you a better idea of what

that car should feel like to drive and may help you to tell the difference between characteristics and possible faults.

• Allow at least half an hour and drive on all kinds of road – • Can you get in and out of the car easily?

• Can you adjust the seat and steering so you're comfortable?

• Can you see the instruments clearly and reach the controls easily?

• Try reversing into a parking space to check all round vision and blind spots.

• Take your children with you – are they comfortable in the back?

• Take any child seats you use with you and check that they fit • Is there space for your regular shopping bags, luggage, pushchair etc? Can you fold the rear seats easily?

WHAT TO LOOK FOR - ENGINE & SUSPENSION The engine should be cold before you start – feel the bonnet. If it's warm, the seller could be trying to hide a starting problem. Check for signs of excessive smoke when you start the car and when you're driving.

The engine should be quiet and pull smoothly. Listen for unusual rattles or shudders from the suspension.

STEERING & BRAKES Steering should be responsive with no vibration or 'free play'.

Brakes should give confidence and stop the car in a straight line.

CLUTCH & GEARS Can you engage all gears smoothly without crunching? If the clutch doesn't start 'biting' until the pedal has nearly reached the top, the clutch could be worn and may need to be changed.

FAMILY If you're buying a family car then take your children with you – it's better to hear their objections before you buy, rather than every time you take them out.

ELECTRIC CARS Electric cars can be found in several dealer showrooms today but should not be approached any differently when being testdriven. There are two aspects that need special consideration, range and charging time.

Disappointing fuel consumption from a new petrol or diesel car, compared with official figures, means only more frequent visits to a filling station.

10 motoring | July 2016

But an electric car that doesn't live up to range expectations could leave you walking the last few miles home from work every evening.

• Can you get to work and back on a single charge – or can you charge it enough while you're there to make the return journey? In Malta we do not have long destinations but slow traffic and especially air-conditioning will add up to battery drain.

• Once you've got home is there enough left in the batteries to make your regular evening trips – children, sports, shopping – without a recharge?

• If you only make shorter journeys how often are you likely to have to recharge – and what would be the consequence of forgetting to plug the car in one night?

You will also need to find out where public charging points are located – particularly in and on the way to places you might visit frequently.

Check with your employer too rather than assume you'll be able to charge the batteries while you're at work, if that's in your plan.

Cold weather, use of electrical items such as lights, air-condition and heating, and carrying loads/passengers will all reduce the car's range on a full charge as will a heavy right foot.

To get a good idea of the car's true range: • Drive as you intend to drive normally • If you regularly carry passengers take them with you on the test drive • Switch on everything electrical Even then you'll need to allow some safety margin as maximum range will drop over time as the batteries get older.

RMF recommends that if you intend to purchase a second hand vehicle, always have it looked by a qualified experienced mechanic. RMF members can have this service for free. Non-members can also have this service available for a reasonable fee. (Terms & Conditions apply)

Opel growth in sales surpasses 2015 results in May already • INCREASE IN VOLUME ALREADY BIGGER THAN IN ENTIRE YEAR OF 2015 • MAY SALES UP BY AROUND 12% • OVER 200,000 ORDERS FOR THE NEW ASTRA ALREADY

THE STRONG GROWTH IS THE RESULT OF OUR YOUNG AND ATTRACTIVE MODEL PORTFOLIO. THE NEW ASTRA IS ONE OF THE KEYS TO OUR SUCCESS AND WE HAVE ALREADY RECEIVED OVER 200,000 ORDERS FOR IT FROM ACROSS EUROPE. WE ARE ON THE RIGHT TRACK

pel continues on its successful path in Europe: May sales were up by around 12% to more than 102,600 cars in total. Opel’s overall volume increase in Europe for the first five months of the year now stands at almost 38,500 units (more than 8%), giving Opel an increase in volume surpassing the overall 2015 results after only five months.

Opel grew stronger than the overall European total vehicle market both in May and year-todate. The market was up by only around 6.8 % in the period from January to May. Opel’s market share has increased by around 0.1 percentage points to 5.9% over the course of this year.

Opel registered an increase in registrations in 18 European markets in the first five months.

The brand with the Blitz managed to improve its market share in 15 European countries.

“The strong growth is the result of our young and attractive model portfolio. The new Astra is one of the keys to our success and we have already received over 200,000 orders for it from across Europe. We are on the right track,” said Peter Christian Küspert, Vice President Sales & Aftersales.

Europe’s “Car of the Year 2016”, the new Opel Astra, was once again the main driver of this growth. So far this year, more than 113,500 Astra have been sold – an increase of around 22% compared to the same period last year. The current orders are proof of how well the overall Opel portfolio is

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perceived. The Opel Corsa has been ordered more than 500,000 times across Europe, the lifestyle champion ADAM over 200,000 times and the successful

Mokka SUV 580,000 times.

Opel is represented in Malta by Cars International Ltd in Mdina Road, Qormi. For more information or a test-drive of any

Opel car, send an email to opelsales@cil.com.mt or call 2269 2122. You can also visit opel.com.mt or the Facebook page Opel Malta.

July 2016 | motoring 11

SAILIN G

IAL PEC

D YA CHTING AN S

Sailing and yachting special

Britain’s Kate, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William ride in the front of a boat as they watch the America’s Cup World Series Race, on the Solent, in Portsmouth, England, Sunday, July 24, 2016. The royal couple visited the home of the British competitors for the America’s Cup before observing the ongoing competition.

12 motoring | July 2016

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British sailing star Sir Ben Ainslie clinched his second straight hometown America’s Cup World Series victory with a win and two second-place finishes in last weekend’s three races in Portsmouth, England.

Ainslie’s Land Rover BAR team finished with 82 points, one ahead of his former employer, two-time defending America’s Cup champion Oracle Team USA. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge presented the trophy to Ainslie, who was knighted following the London Olympics, when he won his fourth straight gold medal and fifth games medal overall.

“I think it’s been a brilliant

weekend,” Ainslie said. “For us to race in Portsmouth, in front of our home crowd with the weather playing its part and two cracking days of racing, as a home team to win in front of our home crowd is the best thing we could do.”

Oracle had a strong day, with two wins and a second.

After Oracle struggled early in the 2013 America’s Cup, Ainslie was promoted from the backup crew to the race crew. Oracle staged one of the biggest comebacks in sports to retain the Auld Mug. Ainslie then launched his British syndicate in an effort to win back the trophy his country lost to the schooner America in 1851.

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AINSLIE LEADS BRITISH CREW TO AMERICA’S CUP WORLD SERIES WIN

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FOR US TO RACE IN PORTSMOUTH, IN FRONT OF OUR HOME CROWD WITH THE WEATHER PLAYING ITS PART AND TWO CRACKING DAYS OF RACING, AS A HOME TEAM TO WIN IN FRONT OF OUR HOME CROWD IS THE BEST THING WE COULD DO Ainslie’s team also won the 2015 America’s Cup World Series stop in its home waters, not far from where the original America’s Cup was contested 165 years ago.

Land Rover BAR took over the ACWS lead from the Kiwis,

followed by Oracle, Team New Zealand, SoftBank Team Japan, Sweden’s Artemis Racing and Groupama Team France.

The ACWS is a series of warmup regattas for the 2017 America’s Cup in Bermuda.

Foiling. The new fast.

GO-FASTER FOILS HAVE CHANGED THE FACE OF THE AMERICA’S CUP. These beefy blades raise the hulls out of the water, reducing drag, and allowing the boat to “fly” at speeds of more than 40 mph.

The foils act exactly like an aeroplane wing and work by generating lift force when the boat speed reaches about 18 knots.

“The reason to foil is quite clear,” says Land Rover BAR’s chief technical officer Andy Claughton. “If you look at the average yacht sailing around, it might go at 10 knots on a good day. In the same wind we can go at 35 knots. We’re getting rid of 75% of the drag of the boat by riding on our hydrofoils.”

Adjusting the angle of the foil, by changing “rake”, is a role performed by the helmsman with a panel of buttons.

Changing rake alters the amount of lift.

Try sticking your hand palm-down out of a car window when moving.

Then adjust the angle of the front edge and feel it pushed up or down by the air. That’s what the foils are doing, while lifting about 2.5 tonnes – or about the weight of a range rover - out of the water on a plank the size of a small kitchen table.

Wings on the rudders also help with the lifting like the tail plane on an aircraft, without these the boat would be completely uncontrollable.

The crew, especially the grinders, must generate the hydraulic power to adjust the foils and wing.

“These things are heavy,” says grinder David “Freddie” Carr. “It takes the three front guys a lot of hard work to get the daggerboards up and down and in and out of the water.”

An ideal state is for the hulls to be flying about a metre out of the water on a level plane.

“The key to speed in the America’s Cup is stable flight,” says Land Rover BAR team principal and skipper Ben Ainslie.

“We must work as a team to achieve stable flight but I’m in charge of making small adjustments that will keep us going in the right direction.

“And I have to adjust the rake to get just the right amount of lift to keep the boat flying.”

Designing the shape, width and thickness of daggerboards is a trade-off between speed and stability. It is also influenced by wind conditions and planned race tactics.

Foils that bend (or are canted) far below the hull increase stability, but reduce speed.

Foils with a short cord (width) are more aggressive, working well in low winds, but are less stable. A daggerboard that forms a V-shape in the water will help keep the hull at a constant height, but increases drag.

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