Motoring September 2017

IN THIS ISSUE: AUDI UNMATCHED FOR FUTURE VIABILITY | KEEPING YOUR CAR ON THE ROAD | THE NEW RANGE ROVER VELAR | RENAULT ZOE WINS PARKERS ECO CAR OF THE YEAR 2018

The Malta Independent on Sunday. September 2017

DRIVING THE NEW

MINI COOPER S E COUNTRYMAN ALL4 also inside

Discover Puglia: Southern Italy’s hidden treasure PUGLIA VINEYARD SPOTLIGHT LEONE DE CASTRIS

DISCOVER Southern Italy’s Hidden Treasure PUGLIA IS A TREASURE TROVE OF ART, HISTORY, AND NATURE. CENTURIES OF HISTORY AND A RANGE OF CHARMING LANDSCAPES ARE JUST SOME OF THE REASONS WHY IT'S SUCH A UNIQUE DESTINATION, ONE WHERE YOU’LL ENJOY SOME TRULY UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES. PUGLIA, WITH ITS 800 KM (500 MILES) OF COASTLINE, IS HUGGED

BY TWO INCREDIBLE SEAS. THE IONIAN AND THE ADRIATIC HAVE CRAFTED A VARIETY OF DIFFERENT SHORES, WITH STEEP CLIFFS OVERLOOKING COLOURFUL SEA BOTTOMS AND GOLDEN BEACHES SLOPING INTO CRYSTAL CLEAR WATERS. INLAND, THE UNCONTAMINATED REALM OF NATURE COMPRISES GREAT VALLEYS AND GENTLE HILLS COVERED WITH OLIVE TREES, VINEYARDS, AND LUXURIANT FORESTS, AS WELL AS SOME SURPRISING MEDITERRANEAN GRAVINE (RAVINES). FROM THE GARGANO AND DAUNIA TO IMPERIAL PUGLIA, FROM THE TERRA DI BARI (LAND OF BARI), TO MAGNA GRAECIA, MURGE AND THE GRAVINE (RAVINES), PASSING THROUGH THE ITRIA VALLEY AND MURGIA DEI TRULLI, ALL THE WAY DOWN TO THE SALENTO, PUGLIA IS A PERFECT DRIVING HOLIDAY DESTINATION.

Mattinata, Baia delle Zagare

From the Ancient Greeks to the Romans, from the Byzantines to the Normans, and from the Swabians to the Angevins, many civilizations have followed one another in ruling Puglia. Over the years, numerous archaeological excavations have brought back to light priceless artefacts and works of art and architecture testifying to the history and wide-ranging cultures of the different societies that were once here.

And so you'll find menhirs, cave churches, medieval castles, Baroque and Romanesque churches, noble palaces and historical residences, enchanted hamlets and art cities, charming masserie (manor farms) and casali (rural homes).

In addition to this exceptional heritage, there are also three Unesco World Heritage Sites: Castel del Monte, the mysterious fortress of Fredrick II (near Andria); the trulli, characteristic drystone huts, unique in the world; and the Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo in Monte Sant’Angelo, a masterpiece of medieval art and an international pilgrimage destination.

Puglia is shrouded in a magical

atmosphere, where the past embraces the present, and where ancient religious and popular traditions are safeguarded.

Towns and cities come to life with thousands of lights, colors, sounds, as they commemorate their devotion to patron saints with lively celebrations and festivities. In Puglia, ancient customs are perpetuated through rituals related to

harvests and fishing, and the work of master craftsmen.

The authentic Puglia can also be enjoyed at the table. Its food and wine are an explosion of exceptional flavors.

The secret is in the ingredients, all genuine and locally grown, which give rise to superb extra virgin olive oil and exquisite wines.

Alberobello, Trulli

Andria, Castel del Monte

Lecce, Basilica Santa Croce

Taranto, Castello e Ponte Girevole

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PUGLIA

VINEYARD SPOTLIGHT

Leone de Castris

FOUNDED IN 1665 BY THE SPANISH DUKE ORONZO, EARL OF LEMOS, IN THE ITALIAN REGION OF PUGLIA, LEONE DE CASTRIS HAS BEEN EXPORTING WINE SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THE 19TH CENTURY. THE LEONE DE CASTRIS WINERY HAS PLAYED A LEADING ROLE IN THE REVITALIZATION OF THE SALENTO’S EXTENSIVE WINE INDUSTRY. SITUATED IN THE SMALL, RURAL TOWN OF SALICE SALENTINO, THE LEONE DE CASTRIS WINERY IS ONE OF THE TOP PRODUCERS IN THE SALENTO AREA AND THE PUGLIA REGION OVERALL. IT HAS EXTENSIVE VINEYARD HOLDINGS SCATTERED THROUGHOUT THE SALENTO AREA AND PRODUCES A WIDE RANGE OF INTERESTING AND RELIABLE WINES. AMONGST THEIR ACHIEVEMENTS, THE FIRM IS CREDITED WITH THE INVENTION OF THE FAMED RED WINE CALLED SALICE SALENTINO DOC OVER 50 YEARS AGO.

LOCATION OF VINEYARD For centuries Leone de Castris has worked only in Puglia, producing only Apulian products. While some may view this as a limitation, for Leone de Castris, it is a specialty to be proud of. Their mission is to make the highest-quality products possible in the land where they were born and raised.

Along with their famous rosé Five Roses Rosato which was first produced in 1943, the winery produces a wide range of red and white DOC wines (Salice Salentino, Primitivo di Manduria) and interesting IGT Salento and Puglia wines.

WINE HIGHLIGHTS "Five Roses" has special significance to the Leone de Castris family. Despite being created during the turmoil of World War II, it actually became quite a success story: it was the first rosato bottled in Italy.

Moreover, several generations of the family each had five children, so the name 'Five Roses' holds special significance for the Leone de Castris family. Tasting Notes Five Roses is bursting with aromas of ripe cherries, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and red currants. These delightful notes continue on the palate, complimented by fresh, crisp acidity, good

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structure, and smooth texture. Food Pairing Enjoy this special wine as an aperitif or serve it with grilled vegetable dishes, risotto, poultry or flavourful seafood.

Salice Salentino Leone de Castris specializes in traditional wines. This exceptional wine commemorates the winery's 50th anniversary vintage, or "vendemmia," which has been featured on the label since 2004. This wine is made from hand-harvested, select grapes from the Salice Salentino DOC, a picturesque wine region dotted with ancient watchtowers and old farmhouses, just north of the village of Lecce. Tasting Notes Intense ruby-red in color, concentrated aromas of black cherries and baked red fruits complement

undertones of plums, spices, vanilla, and anise. On the palate, velvety tannins and a full body frame the long, delectable finish of stewed strawberries and vanilla beans. Food Pairing Pair this wine with well-aged steaks, demi-glaces, barbecue, and farsumagru (a traditional Sicilian meat roll dish).

Villa Santera is named after a historic villa, which belongs to the Leone de Castris family, located in the province of Taranto. The Primitivo di Manduria appellation is known for the production of bold and spicy reds.

This wine is no exception, skillfully crafted from hand-picked grapes grown on very mature vines – 40 years old on average. It is a concentrated and layered example of a true classic from Puglia. Tasting Notes Rich purple in color, inviting aromas of spiced cherries and black fruits complement undertones of tobacco and dried plums. It is a full-bodied wine, warm and soft on the palate with flavors that continue to evolve into the finish. Food Pairing Pair this wine with sweet Italian sausage, fresh berry coulis, jamón iberico, and barbecued ribs.

Visit Leone de Castris. Several different tours are available including ‘THE GREAT TRADITION’ tour which includes a guided tour to the historical offices, wine cellar and Museum ‘Piero e Salvatore Leone de Castris’ with a wine tasting of three historical wines of the winery; as well as ‘THE FOOD EXPERIENCE’ tour and ‘THE FOOD AND WINE’ tour. For info and reservations contact Serena Guida at serena.guida@leonedecastris.com, tel +39 0832731112. Located close to the winery is Leone de Castris’ restaurant and hotel, Villa Donna Lisa, where they host travelers wishing to visit the winery. Locally Leone de Castris 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

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or those not familiar with the 'E' and ALL4, as I was before venturing out in this superb vehicle, this is not 'just another' Mini. This is MINI's first ever plugin hybrid model (E) with an innovative driving experience due to the electrified all-wheel drive system (4x4).

Not being your run of the mill, internal combustion engined vehicle it does take a while to take in all the different modes on tap and with limited time available I opted to 'let it drive me' instead.

Propulsion is shared between a 3-cylinder petrol engine and a synchronous electric motor. Together they produce a system output of 224 bhp. Equally impressive is the average fuel consumption quoted at 134.5 mpg and the CO2 emissions figure of 49 grams per kilometre (EU test cycle figures

DRIVING THE NEW MINI COOPER S E COUNTRYMAN ALL4 REVIEW AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN PEEL

for plug-in hybrid vehicles), yet also enabling a 0-62 mph time of just 6.9 seconds!

The MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 is the perfect vehicle for those who wish to enjoy the benefits of purely electric mobility when commuting between home and work every day for example, while at the same time benefiting from unlimited long-distance suitability at the weekend.

The plug-in hybrid drive of the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 combines the best of a 3-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor. The space under the bonnet is occupied by a 3-cylinder petrol engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology from the latest generation of the BMW Group engines. From a capacity of 1.5 litres this provides a peak output of 136 bhp. In the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4, the combustion engine is combined with a modified 6-speed Steptronic transmission

which transfers its power to the front wheels.

The second power unit of the MINI S E Countryman ALL4 is an electric motor that is housed under the luggage compartment floor. Designed according to the principle of a hybrid synchronous motor, the electric drive offers a high output of 88 bhp considering the size and weight of the car -

and generates a maximum torque of 165 Nm that is available from standing. In addition, it provides constant power delivery

even during high engine speed ranges as well as a very high level of efficiency. The electric motor directs its power to the rear axle via a two-stage single-speed transmission.

Only one of the two power units is used when the car is moving, while the other one can be additionally enabled at any time to optimise traction, ride stability and agility. The signal required for this purpose comes from the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) unit, which continuously analyses both the situation on the road and the commands of the driver.

Thanks to the compact structure and arrangement of the eDrive components, the plug-in hybrid model variant of the new MINI Countryman has a versatile interior.

The high-voltage battery is housed underneath the slightly raised rear seat, as is the 35-litre fuel tank. When all seats are in

use, the luggage compartment volume in the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 is only slightly less than in the conventionally powered model variants.

Discreet but equally unmistakable indications of the car’s unique drive form are provided by the model-specific design features on the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 exterior. The connection for the charging cable is under a flap in the area of the left-hand side scuttle. Other features are the model-specific “e” badge on the side scuttles and also a yellow “S” in the model inscription on the rear as well as on the radiator grille and door sill finishers.

Inside, the cockpit includes a yellow start/stop unit at the centre of the toggle switch panel and a performance display in the instrument cluster on the steering column.

The MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 comes as standard with the MINI Visual boost Radio featuring a 6.5-inch colour screen in the central instrument. This displays information such as the charge state of the high-voltage battery and operating mode of the hybrid drive selected by eDrive toggle switch. In conjunction with the optional Media package including MINI navigation system XL, operation is via an 8.8-inch screen with a new graphic design and touchscreen function as well as via the Touch Controller in the centre console.

The MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 combines highly efficient driving fun with versatile space and all the other advancements that characterise the new edition of the all-round model for the premium compact segment. Its powerfully expressive design and optimised use of space are just as striking as its increased ride comfort and refined premium ambience.

The MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 comes with the MINI Driving Modes as standard. Regardless of the operating mode selected via eDrive toggle switch, the vehicle set-up can be adapted to a particularly sporty or efficient driving style, according to preference.

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STUDY SHOWS AUDI UNMATCHED FOR FUTURE VIABILITY • FIRST PLACE IN BRANDTRUST RESILIENCE INDEX OF AUTOMOBILE BRANDS IN GERMANY • AUDI ADVANCES IN OVERALL RANKING, IMPROVEMENTS BASED ON NEARLY ALL INDIVIDUAL CRITERIA • TECHNOLOGY OF THE FUTURE IN NEW AUDI A8 AND AUDI E-TRON PRODUCTION MODELS

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udos for the four rings: When it comes to viability for the future, the BrandTrust Resilience Index has ranked Audi in first place among automobile brands in Germany.

The brand moved up a spot since the last survey in 2015 and took over the top ranking from Tesla.

The index covers the resilience and future viability of automobile brands in Germany.

It is based on a representative study by the brand and management consulting firm BrandTrust. Ten “resiliency indicators” served as the assessment criteria. These include a brand’s ability to adapt, its social relevance, the ability to be a trend-setter, the quality of the brand experience, and the loyalty of its customers.

Compared to the study results two years ago, this time the survey respondents gave Audi higher scores in almost every category. The factors behind this success, according to the

authors of the study, are outstanding products, clear brand positioning and impressive brand experiences.

Audi is continually working on the mobility of the future. The new Audi A8 is the world’s first production automobile developed for highly automated driving. And last week at the International Motor Show (IAA), the premium brand presented its idea for a fully autonomous car of tomorrow – in the form of the design vision Audi Aicon.

The Ingolstadt-based brand will usher in the age of purely electric cars next year with the Audi e-tron. Audi wants to offer more than 20 electric cars and plug-in hybrids in its product range by 2025, represented in all segments and concepts. The plan calls for a third of all Audi models delivered to be electrically powered by then.

KEEPING YOUR CAR ON THE ROAD A FEW SIMPLE REGULAR CHECKS CAN WORK WONDERS, WRITES PAUL VELLA, RMF TECHNICAL DIRECTOR.

engine might already be damaged by then.

COOLANT AND WINDSCREEN WASHER FLUID

Give your car a thorough check every few weeks and you may spot problems before they cause a breakdown. There are 6 key areas to keep an eye on: fuel, lights, oil, coolant, electrics and rubber.

FUEL Don’t wait until your fuel indicator comes on. It may sound obvious but, if you’re running low on fuel and you see a petrol station, top up.

LIGHTS Give all your exterior lights a decent clean every few weeks, making sure to check for blown bulbs and cracks in the lenses.

OIL Some cars can get through up to a litre of oil every 1,500 km, so it pays to check your oil level regularly (check your handbook if you’re not sure how to). Don’t wait for the red oil pressure warning light to come on – your 06 motoring | September 2017

Overheating causes a lot of breakdowns, especially in hotter weather, so check your coolant level every couple of weeks. If the level always seems low, check for leaks. It’s always a good idea to keep your windscreen washer fluid topped up, too.

ELECTRICS Yea round battery problems are the number one cause of breakdowns. If your battery’s getting a bit old and tired, renew it before it lets you down. You should also make sure that your radiator’s electric cooling fan starts running when the engine gets hot. You can check this by running the engine with the car stationary, or ask your garage to have a look for you.

RUBBER If your tyres are not properly inflated, you could be putting yourself at serious risk. They will also wear out faster and can lead to wasted fuel. If you’ve got a full load on board you’ll need to increase your tyre pressures – your handbook will tell you the right levels.

MUSCATS MOTORS LAUNCHES THE NEW RANGE ROVER VELAR THE FOURTH RANGE ROVER ast Thursday, 14th September, Muscats Motors finally revealed the most anticipated Range Rover Velar in the launch event which took place at Giardini Lambrosa in Rabat. For this exclusive event, we were joined by Mr Antonio Coscione, our Jaguar Land Rover Regional Marketing Manager.

Apart from two Range Rover Velar vehicles, we also had on display, the Range Rover Sport and the Range Rover Evoque Convertible.The Corris Grey Velar was placed inside the stunning venue and was unveiled during the night. While the other vehicle was set-up on the outside part of the location. Attendees

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could then access and view the Narvik Black vehicle on the outside after the inside vehicle had been revealed.

The event was given a British feel, serving British style canapes and finger food, as well as British cocktails to portray the British trademark that is Land Rover. A gin bar with Tanqueray was also made available, where the cocktails served were specifically given the names of the actual Range Rover Velar colours available – the red cocktail was given the name Firenze Red. As part of the finger food served, fish and chips and beef wellington were some of the few food items we had in place for our attendees.

For this event we collaborated with Diamonds International.They showcased the watch ‘El Primero Range Rover Special Edition’ – the watch which highlights the partnership between Range Rover and Zenith. In tribute to the first luxury SUV, the watch’s brushed grey dial bears the inscription “Zenith Range Rover”.

Additionally, Demajo Group sponsored our Tanqueray Gin Bar, serving British-themed cocktails

by Richard Pons. General Soft Drinks also supported us with several beverages throughout the night.

As part of our Launch Week, Muscats Motors teamed up with Grazielle Camilleri from Blog by Grazielle for a €200 voucher to

spend on Land Rover Gifts and Merchandise found in our showroom.The winner will be announced on Monday 25th September.

The Range Rover Velar is now available at Muscats Motors Ltd priced from €73,900.

Muscats Motors is the official Land Rover dealership in Malta.

For more information or to book a test drive, contact the Land Rover sales team at Muscats Motors on 2326 4584/5 or e-mail info@mml.mizzi.com.mt.

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RENAULT ZOE WINS PARKERS ECO CAR OF THE YEAR 2018 • RENAULT ZOE CONTINUES WINNING FORM TAKING “BEST ECO CAR” AWARD • ZOE OFFERS BEST RANGE OF ANY MAINSTREAM ELECTRIC VEHICLE • NEW Z.E.40 BATTERY PROVIDES 250 MILES (NEDC) OF DRIVING ON A SINGLE CHARGE • ZOE IS EUROPE’S BESTSELLING ELECTRIC CAR

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he Renault ZOE has been awarded Best Eco Car at the Parkers New Car Awards 2018.

This is further recognition for Renault’s all-electric supermini which boasts the longest range of any mainstream electric vehicle at 250 miles (NEDC).

Parkers editor Keith Adams commented: “The Renault ZOE is currently Europe’s bestselling electric car, and it’s easy to see why. Ownership is painless, and it’s great fun to drive. If your life fits an electric car, buy with confidence.”

Vincent Tourette, Managing Director, Renault UK, said of the result: “The Renault ZOE has always excelled at providing motorists with a stylish, comfortable and practical electric car at an affordable price tag. The ZOE now with the Z.E.40 battery, and its 250 mile (NEDC) autonomy, builds on this success

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and delivers the longest range of any mainstream electric vehicle. We’re delighted that Parkers has recognised the ZOE as a pioneer in the electric vehicle sector.”

The Parkers award add to many accolades ZOE has secured and follows the recent ‘Game Changer’ award from Autocar in May. Earlier in the year ZOE was also awarded ‘Best Electric Car 2017’ by What Car? and took the ‘Best Electric Car under £20,000’ for the fourth consecutive year. In February, the Renault ZOE was awarded ‘Best Ultra Low Emission Vehicle’ at the Fleet World Honours 2017.

With the new Z.E.40 battery, ZOE’s range is 250 miles (NEDC) – Renault estimates that in real-world driving conditions this equates to around 186

miles in summer and 124 miles in extreme cold winter conditions. ZOE Z.E.40 can charge from zero to 80 per cent full in as little as 65 minutes thanks to its patented Chameleon Charger™ that

allows it to make the most of the widest range of power supplies and also keep charging times to a minimum.

Renault’s Range OptimiZer technology ensures ZOE is highly efficient with its heat pump, a bi-modal braking system and Michelin ENERGY E-V tyres all as standard. The ZOE is available in 3 trims, Expression Nav, Dynamique Nav and Signature Nav, all of which are supplied with a free 7kW wall charger.

ZOE is one of three models in Renault’s diverse electric vehicle range which also includes the Twizy quadricycle and the Kangoo Van Z.E. A larger van, the Master Z.E., will join the growing line-up from early 2018.