20 MAART
PROPERTY: CONCERNS ON IMPACT
Shorter tourism visa proposed DALEEN FOUCHÉ
The Helderberg Property market may take a beating if proposed legislation to shorten tourist visas is passed. The Department of Home Affairs has proposed several amendments to the Immigration Act, one of which is to allow for only three-month tourist visas for foreigners, instead of the current six months. The proposed amendments were out for public comment until February. Joachim Schuckmann, Immigration Director for Initiate Immigration, a company that helps foreigners to immigrate to South Africa, says many so-called swallows (Europeans who spend their winters in the Southern Hemisphere) are now looking for alternative locations in the south to spend their European winters. Schuckmann explains that the Act will force visitors on a three-month tourist visa to fly back to their home country and apply for a second threemonth visa if they wish to stay a full six months, as per habit. He says if the amendments are approved it will have an adverse effect on the Helderberg property market because swallows will no longer want to invest in a country where they can only spend three months of the European winter. He says Helderberg, especially Somerset West, is a preferred destination for swallows because it is centrally located, but not part of the busy city life, and because it offers gated villages, loads of space and great views. He says, however, that many swallows are now looking to South America as an alternative to South Africa. Lee Siebert, principal of Remax Helderberg, agrees and says one of her clients, an investor from the United Kingdom, was considering buying residential property in South Africa, but decided on buying in Costa Rica because of the proposed legislation
changes in South Africa. Siebert says between 10% and 12% of their business is with foreigners and predicts that half of these clients will be affected if the proposed amendments are approved, because they travel on tourism visas and do not have residency. Carl Nagel, who manages the residential team at Rose McFall Properties, described the proposed legislation to the Immigration Act as “too broad and short sighted”. He says foreigners who invest in the residential property market are an asset to South Africa and, contrary to popular belief, do not make a major contribution to property inflation. Nagel estimates that, in Somerset West, the level of foreign residential ownership is less than 2% and is focused in the upper end of the market, Erinvale being a good example. “The swallows who can afford to flee the European winters are exactly the kind of tourists we need, they contribute to our local work force directly, they frequent our restaurants, tourist attractions, retail stores and on almost every rand they spend, they pay 14% directly into our state coffers.” Nagel believes that as a country, South Africa should “bend over backwards” to accommodate the regular long-term tourists, as they constitute a small percentage of visitors and their rand spent deserves a more accommodating visa treatment. Schuckmann says another proposed amendment will restrict foreigners who wish to start a business in South Africa. The proposal entails that businesses, owned by foreigners, must prove that 60% of the employees are South African. Schuckman argues that foreigners in South Africa might want to start a business to keep themselves busy, but would not necessarily want to grow this business and only run a one man show. He says if the proposed legislation is passed, this will no longer be possible.
COUNTRY LIVING: This 23 ha farm is part of the historic Goedeverwachting estate and has excellent potential for subdivision. The property includes a threebedroomed home stead, manager’s house and two cottages, as well as stables and an entertainment centre. The property is on the market through Pam Golding Properties, priced at R11 million. READ MORE ON PAGE 2
READ INSIDE Print marketing a powerful tool to showcase property 6
Local trader competes internationally
16
2
Districtmail
SOLD HELDERBERG BOLAND
20 Maart, 2014
Sir Lowry’s Pass offers sought-after country homes Sir Lowry’s Pass, spanning the Hottentots Holland mountain range, offers one of the most panoramic and famous views of Cape Town, and is traversed by thousands of motorists every year. Yet few may realise that its lower slopes are home to some of the most scenic country homes in the Cape, offering sweeping views of False Bay and the Winelands. Pam Golding Properties (PGP) reports that these properties are highly sought-after for the secure, wholesome country lifestyle they offer, as well as their rich cultural heritage. The area’s famous farmlands were first developed in the 18th century, with notable estates including Goedeverwachting, Knorhoek and Frederiksburg. Originally the area now known as Sir Lowry’s Pass Village was nothing more than an outspan site for travellers who could water their oxen at its two streams. But by the early 19th century a small mission settlement had been established, and by 1846 it already had a post office of sorts - a private house where travellers could leave or collect letters. With the extension of the Somerset West railway line to the area in 1890, the settlement soon grew to include a small school, hotels and shops, as well as facilities for farmers to drop off their crops at the railhead. The area grew in fame in 1806 when the peace treaty to end the Battle of Blaauwberg was signed at
COUNTRY LIVING
This exclusive Tre Donne property is in the market for R2,995 million Goederverwachting, formally ending hostilities and handing the Cape to the British. Construction began on the pass itself in 1828, and it formally opened in July 1830. It is named after Sir Galbraith Lowry Cole, who was governor of the Cape during this period. This rich history provides the backdrop for a number of historic farmsteads and vineyards, which are now flanked by a wide variety of residential homes, including several acclaimed secure estates as well as smallholdings. PGP agent Edelweiss Hankey says the likes of Tre Donne, Wedderwill,
Knorhoek and High Riding Estates offer a combination of country living in a rural setting, with access to a wide variety of city amenities and entertainments, from excellent schools, shops and medical care, to a wealth of recreational activities. Entry level prices typically start from just under R2 million while top end prices have reached R6 million in Wedderwill Estate and R8 million in Tre Donne. The estates are most popular with families wishing to raise their children in a country environment with good security and large gar-
dens, as well as with those wanting a home office in a tranquil environment, and those wishing to keep livestock on their properties. Wedderwill Estate includes around 80 properties, ranging in size from 800m² to 6 000m². These are laid out in six precincts to create a sense of true country living. The estate spans over 400 ha, of which just over half is allocated to a private game reserve. Residents also have access to dedicated hiking and riding trails, as well as a private lake for watersports. Equestrians also love the High Riding Estate, which con-
sists of a community of smallholdings ranging in size from 8 500m² to 14 000m², and offers 5 km of bridle paths. There are just over 90 properties in the estate, with a number of vacant plots still available. Also popular is Tre Donne Estate with just over 90 erven, and plots ranging in size from just under 3 000m² to over 10 000m². Knorhoek Estate offers larger properties, with erven ranging in size from 12 ha to 66 ha. Property turnover is particularly low on this estate, and it is only seldom that homes are available for purchase. “Residents of these estates not only live in a secure environment with rich flora and fauna surrounding them, but also have access to the beaches of Strand and Gordon’s Bay, the hiking trails and concerts of the Helderberg Nature Reserve and Vergelegen Wine Estate, and the wild beauty of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve,” says PGP’s area manager for Somerset West, Louise Varga. “They are also close to popular wine estates such as Waterkloof (with a popular restaurant), Mount Rozier and Journey’s End, and can enjoy guided wine walks through the vineyards of the Schapenberg Hills. Private medical care is available nearby at Mediclinic Vergelegen. There are also endless possibilities for horseriding, mountain-biking, hiking, and bird-watching in the surrounding areas, as well as two nearby golf courses including the acclaimed Erinvale.”
BOLAND SOLD
HELDERBERG
Districtmail 20 Maart, 2014
3
4
Districtmail 20 Maart, 2014
SOLD HELDERBERG BOLAND
BOLAND SOLD
HELDERBERG
Districtmail 20 Maart, 2014
5
6
Districtmail
SOLD HELDERBERG BOLAND
20 Maart, 2014
Print marketing a powerful tool to showcase property If someone told you that watching TV or movies in colour was a waste of time, and that black and white is perfectly acceptable, what would your response be?
The move from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to clear the slate on bad credit information is good news for the property market, according to principal of Remax Helderberg, Lee Siebert, Dr Rob Davies, Minister of Trade and Industry, announced in February regulations for the Removal of Adverse Credit Information and Information Relating to Paid Up Judgments that will take effect in April. Davies emphasised that this will not remove the obligation on consumers to repay debt owed by them to credit providers. Instead, it seeks to create the incentive for consumers to repay their debt better and timeously. “Through this process, we also seek to encourage consumers to approach credit bureaus to check their credit records and to hasten to settle amounts owed on judgments so their clean credit record can be restored immediately.” Davies says the regulation
provides a simple and quick process to remove such negative information without approaching the court once the consumer has paid up. It also provides relief to a consumer, whose financial position has changed to start on a clean slate and maintain a clean credit record going forward. According to Siebert, credit providers would turn clients away because of their credit ratings, even if the client has the appropriate buying power. She says the new regulations will allow these clients to move into the property market, as it will be easier to get approval for a home loan. The regulation will also have an effect on the rental market. Siebert explains that currently, agencies perform a credit check on a potential lessee to ensure they can afford the property rent, but this would have to be replaced by new ways like referrals, to ensure potential lessees have the capacity to pay rent.
EXPERT OPINION
A clean slate on credit information
For one, you’d wonder what century they were from? We all know that colour is the standard that everyone expects, and has been for decades. To suggest it’s not necessary is simply absurd. Surprisingly some real estate “marketing experts” suggest that print marketing is not necessary for your property. Really? I’m curious to know what marketing research that is based on? If it were true, then why do the largest estate agencies spend so much on print marketing? It’s not for boasting rights, I can assure you. The reality is that, even though print marketing is by far the largest expense that a real estate company has, it works! It works because in South Africa – and in most property markets in the Western World – buyers still search for properties in the printed media. What has changed in the last 20 years is that buyers also use the Internet to search for properties. The Internet and property websites are powerful tools to showcase properties, with additional photos, floorplans, videos, and detailed information. Every estate agency serious about selling real
Talking Property, by Steve Cara docDavies, principal of Har courts Platinum estate will definitely list all their properties on the web. But that doesn’t mean that print advertising isn’t necessary. On the contrary, print marketing is a very powerful way to drive potential purchasers to websites. At Harcourts we can track the individual number of views on our website listings. Without exception, every time we advertise a property in print we see a spike in our website views on those specific listings. Dropping print advertising is as
naïve as dropping Internet advertising. It’s simply not an “either/ or”. In fact, to ensure your property receives maximum exposure and attracts all the buyers, you need all forms of marketing to be used. These also include showhouses (where properly advertised), For Sale boards, marketing to a database of buyers, property flyers, floorplan presentations and video marketing. Estate agents have access to more marketing tools and methods than ever before. Why would you willingly exclude any of them? It would be like asking a surgeon to exclude some of his surgical instruments from the operating theatre to reduce the cost of your operation. Somehow it doesn’t make sense. These different marketing methods appeal to different buyers. What we do know is that many buyers who enquire off print marketing have a very strong emotional interest in the properties they enquire on. When a buyer has a strong emotional interest in a property they usually make their best offer to purchase it. And isn’t that what a seller wants? The best offer in the marketplace? So, the next time an estate agent suggests that print marketing isn’t necessary to sell your property, consider how you’d feel exchanging your flat screen TV for a black and white tube set!
BOLAND SOLD
HELDERBERG
Districtmail 20 Maart, 2014
7
8
Districtmail 20 Maart, 2014
SOLD HELDERBERG BOLAND
BOLAND SOLD
HELDERBERG
Districtmail 20 Maart, 2014
9
10
Districtmail 20 Maart, 2014
SOLD HELDERBERG BOLAND
BOLAND SOLD
Paarl Post
PAARL/WELLINGTON
20 Maart, 2014
11
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
12
Paarl Post 20 Maart, 2014
SOLD PAARL/WELLINGTON BOLAND
BOLAND SOLD
Paarl Post
PAARL/WELLINGTON
20 Maart, 2014
SA Property Owners Association to host essential workshop about lease agreements The South African Property Owners Association (SAPOA) will host a Lease Agreement workshop on 25 March at DoubleTree by Hilton Cape Town from 08:30 to 16:00 The workshop is an intense full-day programme that looks at the rights and obligations of the parties to a lease, new legislation and case law affecting lease agreements.
The workshop, which covers essentials for a lease agreement, is aimed at professionals who have to implement lease agreements and/or who are responsible for negotiating, renewing, drafting, and managing leases and lease agreements. The lease agreement is one of the most important documents in commercial, industrial and retail property from the moment you start working in property until
you retire. Legislation, needs and trends change all the time and those working with lease agreements have to be aware of these changes and legal requirements. Tickets are R2 500 for members and R3 200 for non-members. For more information on SAPOA education offerings, send an email to Melissa@sapoa.org.za
13
14
Eikestadnuus 20 Maart, 2014
SOLD STELLENBOSCH BOLAND
BOLAND SOLD
STELLENBOSCH
Eikestadnuus 20 Maart, 2014
15
16
Eikestadnuus
SOLD STELLENBOSCH BOLAND
20 Maart, 2014
Andries Havenga
Local trader competes internationally Andries Havenga, trainee accountant at BGR Pyper Turner Incorporated in Somerset West, will travel to Amsterdam in April to compete for the title of “best student trader of the world”.
Havenga was the first runner up in the 2012 South African Traders Trophy national final competition held at the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. At the time he was a student at the University of Stellenbosch. Malusi Mthiyane, a student from the University of KwaZulu-
Natal was the winner and Siyanda Pali from the University of Pretoria took third place. A total of 1 050 students enrolled in the qualification rounds and 37 candidates took part in the final competition to become South Africa’s best student traders. This year in April the winners of 2012 and 2013 will compete against winners from 15 other countries in the Traders Trophy Worldwide Final to be held in Amsterdam in order to become “the best student trader of the world”!
BOLAND SOLD
Eikestadnuus
STELLENBOSCH
20 Maart, 2014
Never too early to plan for your retirement However you choose to spend your retirement, the real secret to enjoying your golden years is to have enough pension money. The younger you start to save and invest, the easier it will be to meet your retirement goals. This means implementing good planning practices, so decide today where you’d like to be tomorrow and then start putting a plan in place. For many, however, one of the hardest things about planning for retirement is knowing where to start. This is often a daunting prospect, left all too late Today, with higher career volatility and corporate trends towards outsourcing, and pension funds changing from defined benefit to defined contribution, the risk and responsibility for providing for retirement has shifted increasingly to the individual. It’s also important to remember that the tax implications of your company pension fund and any annuities that you have accumulate during your working life need to be assessed before your retirement. This ensures that you do not get any unwanted surprises when you do retire. Ideally, when you plan for retirement you should have, wherever possible, a balanced portfolio of investments that include property, cash, equities and annuities. Importantly, when you reach retirement, you’ll require a lump sum of around ten times your highest annual salary. Experts recommend
that your retirement income replace a minimum of 75% of your preretirement income. This is a good target to plan for, until you are within ten years of retirement. At that point, comparing your present budget with what you wish to spend when you reach retirement, will provide a more precise income target. It’s also worthwhile to use financial services websites – many of which include “retirement calculators” that can assist you with your planning. A general rule of thumb is to use 10% of your monthly gross income towards planning for retirement; the percentage will vary depending on when you started your retirement plan. Remember, you will probably live longer than you expect – improvements in medical technology and health habits will result (in time) in life spans of 90 and even 100 years becoming the rule rather than the exception. Someone retiring at 65 may well live a further 30 years or more. Remember that the cost of medical treatment, in particular, and general living expenses are increasing all the time and will continue to increase long after your retirement. On average, women tend to live longer than men, and experts say they are 50% more likely to need long-term care. Because of this, married women should be involved in all aspects of retirement planning and budgeting of the couple’s pensions, social security and savings, as well as their long-term care
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
options. Another consideration is to ask yourself what legacy you wish to leave behind. Perhaps you wish to leave a certain amount of money upon your death to your children and grandchildren. If so, then factor this into your retirement planning and consider taking out a funeral plan to ensure that your children are not left having to finance the cost of your funeral while awaiting beneficiary payments from your estate.
finally comes to choosing a retirement village that you select something that will provide you with peace of mind on all levels. Look at a range of options that best suit the type of lifestyle you have in mind and ensure that it has facilities that allow for flexibility or change of circumstances wherever possible. Furthermore, one needs to look at purchase options and whether you would opt for life-rights, sectional title or share-block models.
Look at a range of options that best suit the type of lifestyle you have in mind and ensure that it has facilities that allow for flexibility or change of circumstances wherever possible Funeral plans are very inexpensive policies that pay out a lump sum immediately upon your death, as well as catering for other expenses associated with a funeral. Taking all this into consideration, the next vital step should be talking to a financial service provider. An adviser will be able to conduct a regular assessment of your changing financial circumstances as well as help you take advantage of the markets where appropriate. With all of the above in mind, it’s particularly important that when it
The life-rights scheme is a relative newcomer to the SA retirement landscape. As a purchase option it is considered ideal for those who have less capital to invest, or simply favour this scheme due to its other numerous benefits. Life rights is a widely practised and requested retirement model in the more mature markets worldwide. In the USA (the world market leader for retirement villages) the most common type of sale is based upon the life-plan model, the same as the South African life-rights sys-
17
tem. A life-right scheme refers to a contract whereby a resident enjoys similar privileges to those afforded by sectional or other titles except that the developer remains the sole owner of the property. The developer is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the village. Unlike sectional title developments, an advantage of life rights is that it is not a property transfer – there are no bond registration fees, transfer duties and no VAT payable, thereby avoiding the negative effects that such costs have upon discretionary income and estate values. The developer is fully involved and provides financial, estate, healthcare and operations management, taking a huge burden off the shoulders of a life-rights holder. Conversely, the headache of managing a retirement estate when you are retired is not a welcome burden, but one that the retirees often face in a sectional title scheme. The secret is to evaluate your needs and plans as soon as possible, and to seek sound financial advice. We all want to retire happily with personal and financial peace of mind and retirement can most certainly be an exciting and fulfilling experience once you have eliminated any of the potential stress factors involved. Getting the quality of life you want in the future will depend on how well you plan for your retirement now. S Adjustment of an article courtesy of Property24
MITSUBISHI PAJERO SPORT: TOYOTA FORTUNER RIVAL
Pajero Sport 4x2 Auto: the nippy flip HANJO STIER It had to happen eventually. We have a stern rule at the office that my boss only drives Diesels, bakkies and automatics while I test anything he describes as fancy, flat ‘n fast. This way everyone’s happy, we won’t be exposed to our most loathed automotive segment and the resulting reviews should be relatively fair. Despite our best booking and logistical efforts, I somehow still found a Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 2.5 DiD 4x2 Automatic on my driveway recently. Great. Although it’s a car I’d never want to own myself, I vowed to be as objective as possible and even found a few big jobs for the Japanese SUV. First up was the transportation of a few bulky items to a farm on the outskirts of Stellenbosch and this immediately tested the Sport’s versatility. Blessed with seven seats, it took us quite a while to figure out how to collapse them but the resulting space (1,149-1,776F) is enough for most pieces of oversized cargo. Dirt roads, ditches and other loose surfaces quickly showcased the Mitsubishi’s offroad abilities which are underpinned by impressive ground clearance (205 mm), approach (34°) and departure (24°) angles. If you stay away from soft sand, mountains, mud and other such obstacles, the 2.5 4x2 will do just fine. The rear leaf-spring suspension is hard and jittery on the road but settles down with
The 2.5litre inline four cylinder turbodiesel engine develops 131 kW or 350 Nm and delivers this through a smooth fivespeed automatic gearbox with touchshift option. PHOTO: QUICKPIC a dose of weight or speed. Pajero Sport’s overactive steering needs 1.5 turns to navigate a normal 90 degree corner in town, yet we found that its upside is excellent control over slow-speed, rough terrain. No sooner was the cargo delivered and we were cruising on the highway to the airport. Road holding is a tad wonky but you simply need to treat the high-riding car with respect for it to follow your commands. Travelling at the national speed limit, it’s also fairly quiet and economical. The 2.5-litre in-line four cylinder turbodiesel engine develops 131 kW or 350 Nm and delivers this through a smooth five-speed automatic gearbox with touch-shift option. Pajero Sport has surprisingly nippy performance (we achieved 0-100 km/h in 10.4 seconds) and will gladly jack-hammer to 4,000rpm if you wish. Obviously it’s most happy between 1 500 and 2 000 rpm so you need never bury your right foot to gain thrust. The 8.5F/100 km claimed average consumption and a 70F tank do their best to stretch time between refills. Our average consumption during the week was closer to 10 though. At the airport, three see-through visitors from overseas were immediately roped into helping me review the car and it started with their mass of luggage. No problem for a Pajero Sport and five adults were soon motoring towards the mother city in air-conditioned, cruise controlled comfort. Some declared the leather seats to be a little hard but the following items all got at least one thumb up: the comprehensive trip computer with individual graphs, the touchscreen sound system, ride height, overall visibility, head room, storage solutions,
wheels and front design of the car. It’s not exactly racy but the projector headlights and grills have been skillfully joined in a tapered nose. Step/skid boards along the flanks break the slab-sidedness of it all while the tailgate has a simple, uncomplicated look. Based on the Triton bakkie, we’re not sure how this ended up being called a Pajero? Never mind though, when outdoorsy types queue for a big, rugged, affordable SUV they obviously don’t care about its name. Price and spec are way more important so here goes: leather, Bluetooth, front and rear aircon, cruise control, three 12V sockets, HID headlights, rear-view camera and park sensors. Auto lights and wipers, power windows and mirrors as well as driver’s seat controls, ABS, EBD, BAS, stability control and six airbags. I could go on about our many trips, the lights and seat adjustments but I sense that there’s one burning question in the air. Is it as good as a Fortuner? Unfortunately, Mitsubishi has an inferior dealer count to its big Japanese rival and this Pajero Sport 2.5 4x2 Auto will set you back R419 900. The cheapest Fortuner, a 2.5 Raised Body, costs “just” R361 600 but doesn’t come close to the Mitsu’s specifications. The next model up is on par with our test car but costs R20 000 more so the entry-level Pajero Sport is competitively priced and well spec’d. Its 3-year/100 000 km warranty and 5 year/90 000 km service plan are identical to Toyota’s so you may want to draw straws or flip a coin to choose between these models.
BOLAND SOLD
AUTO
Donderdag
20 Maart, 2014
19
Lexus debuts RC 350 F SPORT at Geneva MOTORPRESS Lexus will unveil the F Sport* variant of its RC Coupe at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. First revealed at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show, the RC is a standalone model rather than a two-door derivative of a sedan. Although based on the GS platform, it differs in all dimensions from the GS and IS model lines. The F Sport variant of the RC 350 offers visual and dynamic upgrades over the standard model. Visual upgrades include unique interior and exterior styling package, including body kit, wheels, interior instruments, seating and other touches. The F Sport’s dynamic upgrades take the form of exclusively tuned front and rear suspension hardware, the availability of adaptive variable suspension (AVS) and the Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH) system (incorporating dynamic rear steering), providing drivers with an even more rewarding and engaging driving experience. Readily identified by a modelspecific ‘F’ mesh grille design, the front of F Sport models features a further evolution of the Lexus spindle grille. The F Sport model range combines model-specific badging with a unique 19” F Sport alloy wheel design featuring a machine-finished outer 10-spoke layer offset over an inner 10-spoke layer finished in a dark metallic paint. Three exterior colours – white nova, orange and flame blue – are
When the vehicle’s Sport+ drive mode is selected, AVS is set to SPORT and allows the driver to feel improved body control and precise responses to steering input via a firmer suspension setting and revised power steering assistance. PHOTO: MOTORPRESS exclusive to F Sport. The RC F Sport also adopts an LFA-style instrument cluster with moveable centre ring, and an F Sport steering wheel and premium shift knob. The F Sport-exclusive interior design is completed by wedge metal ornamentation and an F Sportexclusive dark rose interior col-
our. Lexus Engineers have carefully tuned the RC F Sport to offer greater dynamic performance. Kicking off the dynamic upgrades for the F Sport model is the adoption of AVS. Teamed to drive mode select, AVS responds to driver inputs, vehicle body motion and road surface
conditions to automatically and independently adjust the performance of the suspension at all four corners to maximise dynamic performance. When the vehicle’s Sport+ drive mode is selected, AVS is set to SPORT and allows the driver to feel improved body control and precise responses to steering input
via a firmer suspension setting and revised power-steering assistance. The suspension enhancements of the RC 350 F Sport are complemented by the four-wheel steering benefits of the LDH system. This leading-edge technology offers the integration of dynamic rear steering (DRS), electric power steering and variable gear ratio steering (VGRS). The system calculates the optimum angle for all four wheels by monitoring vehicle speed, steering direction and driver inputs. Using VGRS in the front and DRS in the rear, the system can independently manage both front and rear wheel steering angles to help improve turn-in response, rear grip, vehicle control and overall agility when cornering. The Lexus unique vehicle dynamics integrated management system coordinates LDH, the antilock braking system, traction control, vehicle stability control and adaptive variable suspension. The LDH system monitors vehicle speed and yaw rate, steering angle and speed, and lateral G to calculate the required rear wheel steering input up to a maximum rear wheel angle of two degrees. The front and rear wheels turn in opposite directions at lower speeds to assist manoeuvrability and in the same direction at higher speeds to provide stability. The Lexus Dynamic Handling system coordinates all of the above and optimises dynamic and safety systems to suit vehicle speed and driving style.
20
SOLD AUTO BOLAND
Donderdag
20 Maart, 2014
Road test: Honda VFR1200 Crosstourer XD FRANS LE ROUX The adventure bike category has long been ruled by the Germans at BMW with their very popular GS models. If you wanted a big dual purpose adventure bike which could easily carry two passengers and all their luggage, the 1200GS was the bike of choice. Other manufacturers who share the spoils in the segment is the more off-road orientated KTM 990 and the ever reliable Yamaha Super Tenere 1200. Adventure biking has developed into a major market segment in the last 10 years, and buyers seek a whole host of features when considering to fork out a hefty sum of their hard-earned South African rands. These multipurpose motorcycles should be comfortable, easy to control, fuel efficient, safe and reliable. This is a tall order, but thanks to healthy competition, increasingly better options are now available. Enter the not so brand new Honda VFR 1200 Crosstourer. A rather good looking adventure bike which seems to have all the makings of a proper 1200GS competitor. The Crosstourer has been around since 2012, although the model I tested has a brilliant trump-card. Something so special in fact, that it is unique to Honda, and might sway other potential clients to give this bike a try. I am of course talking about the brilliant dual clutch transmission, yes your eyes are not deceiving you. This capable tourer features a fully automatic dual clutch gearbox, which, simply put, makes biking
Adventure biking is a lucrative segment for manufacturers. Honda has caught the opposition napping with the introduction of their VFR1200 Crosstourer automatic. PHOTO: FRANS LE ROUX loads more fun. When I first heard that I would be testing an automatic motorcycle, I was a bit hesitant. Part of the fun of owning a bike is that small lever at your left foot which you use to shift gears at a frantic pace. At first glance, the VFR1200 looks purposeful and ready for anything you can throw at it. Good ground clearance and a v-shaped front lightcluster help to make the Honda attractive and modern. LED indicators work well and aid visibility in
low light conditions. The instrument cluster is digital with the speed, fuel level and temperature gauge at your disposal. A trip computer is also fitted although the rev counter is difficult to read if the sun is not at your back. The switch to operate the trip computer would have been more efficient if it was situated on the handlebars. At your left hand you can easily operate the indicators, lights and horn, while at your right is where you select your gears for the auto-
matic dual clutch gearbox. This is where things get interesting. If you start the bike, it is automatically in neutral. Flip the switch at your right hand into D to select normal Drive mode. This mode is for relaxed city driving and really adds to the appeal of this bike. The big 1200cc motor shifts up at the twist of the throttle and changes down by itself when you approach a stop street or traffic light. S or Sport mode is the one you select if the need arises to get to your destination a
little quicker. This livens up the gearbox, stretches each gear until no more revs are available and puts an even bigger smile on your face. If you want full automatic mode, you can also shift gears using a plus (+) or minus (-) switch. This Honda features a wonderful engine. A deep V-Twin growl ads to the aural pleasure of the 4-cylinder engine. With 95 kW/126 Nm, this 275 kg bike is by no means lazy. In fact, acceleration is brisk and safe overtaking in any gear is possible. With a 21.5F fuel tank, you can expect a tank range of around 270320 km. My average consumption was 15,8 km/F which included various road surfaces and driving conditions. I would have enjoyed a bigger screen on my bike, but Honda can fit one for you or you can have the larger touring screen standard on your VFR1200 Adventure version. I am a big fan of adventure bikes and enjoy everything they stand for. The VFR1200 Crosstourer XD was comfortable, featured confidence inspiring handling, looked great and took care of all the obstacles I threw at it. At R174 990, the Honda offers good value for money. The gearbox alone is enough to convince me that Honda is truly onto something with the Crosstourer. If you have a little extra money to burn, I would opt for the Crosstourer Adventure which features cruise control, heated grips and the larger screen as standard. There is just no way that the BMW 1200 GS could be more comfortable. Who knew that an automatic adventure bike could be this much fun.
BOLAND SOLD
AUTO
Donderdag
20 Maart, 2014
21
Road test: Harley-Davidson Night Rod special FRANS LE ROUX If someone would have told me a year ago that I would suddenly do road tests on motorcycles as well, I would have had a quiet chuckle. But, as the old saying goes - there is a first time for everything. Clearly, in my case “everything” meant that I would be given an opportunity to test probably the most iconic of motorcycles, namely a Harley-Davidson. My motorcycling background takes me back almost 20 years when I got my first 50 cc Honda. Back in Gr 1 that was probably the coolest gift any child could ask for. Since then I have owned a hand full of motorbikes, but nothing quite prepared me for the Harley-Davidson I tested recently. In motorcycling terms, no other make has as much brand power, iconic status or cult following as Harley-Davidson. The brand is synonymous with big, heavy cruisers all paired beautifully with that unique exhaust rumble, although in technology terms Harley hasn’t quite moved along at the same pace as its competitors. This still does not stop people from buying them. The United States police force still use them today. They are notoriously tough and unbreakable and carry heaps of street-cred when seen driving one. When I arrived at the Harley-Davidson Tygervalley store, my heart skipped a couple of beats because a childhood dream was about to come true. Ten minutes after I arrived I was shown around the bike and sent
If you are in the market for a fast, gorgeous and powerful Harley Davidson, look no further than the VRod Night Rod special. PHOTO: MOTORCYCLECRUISER.COM on my way. The V-Rod model was introduced in 2002 and it changed the face of Harley-Davidson. The bike broke the mould in look and feel and was seen as the sportiest of the Harley lineup. Firstly, the 2014 V-Rod features a keyless starting system. The key is safely stored in your pocket while a manual ignition switch is found on the right side of the engine. Turn the ignition, press the electric starter
and the 1250cc v-twin motor erupts. Wait, it is a lot more quiet than I expected, but I suppose that isn’t a bad thing. My first ride on the near R200 k machine certainly did not take place at the best possible time. Five o’clock on a Friday afternoon in bumper to bumper traffic I carefully made my way out of Durbanville. If you own a Harley-Davidson, you should get used to envious stares from passing
motorists. Parents point to show their children while schoolboys wish they could sell their scooters to ride a Harley. In an unfamiliar seating position with a rather heavy hydraulic clutch I made my way home. On the open road, this V-Rod certainly comes into its own. With a massive 240 mm wide rear tyre, the 94 kW/112 Nm is effortlessly sent to the road via a belt driven mechanism. You quickly get used to the
Harley’s hefty weight thanks to its low centre of gravity. The comfortable seat and low positioned engine aid manoeuvrability at slow speeds. It quickly becomes evident that this V-Rod (with no wind protecting screen) is perfect for cruising. At a legal 120 km/h wind pushed you right back into your seat. But luckily that is not the only thing that sends you to the rear of your seat. The VRod is by no means slow. With a 5speed gearbox and rev happy motor, manufacturers claim a top speed of close to 220 km/h. That is in no way super bike quick, but in Harley terms that's blisteringly fast. A 19 F fuel tank makes for a theoretical tank range of around to 250 kilometres. With the handlebars set slightly closer to the rider, you do get some confidence when leaning into a corner. The suspension is forgiving and you never feel the sudden jolts which you expect to find on a motorbike. On my last trip towards Riebeek Kasteel, I had some chance to stretch the legs of the V-Rod and fully appreciate what a company can do with more than a 110 years of experience. In my opinion the V-Rod is the perfect bike from Harley-Davidson. It is more than a 100 kg lighter than the Electra Glide and has loads more power than the entry level Sportster 883. As a whole, riding the V-Rod was a far less daunting task than I originally imagined. At R199 500, the VRod does not come cheap. I would rather pay the premium than venture over to any Japanese brand which tries and imitate the HarleyDavidson’s ultimate cruiser image.
22
Donderdag
20 Maart, 2014
SOLD AUTO BOLAND
BOLAND SOLD
AUTO
Donderdag
20 Maart, 2014
23
Top honours for Kia Motors Hermanus Kia Motors Hermanus proudly received top honours in CSI (Customer Satisfaction Index) amongst 68 other competing KIA dealers in the country at Kia Motors South Africa’s annual awards evening in Cape Town on 12 February. Yes, that’s right – first in the country! Customers who purchased and/or serviced their Kia motor vehicles at Kia Motors in Hermanus had the opportunity to rate their service experience at thelocaldealershipand their combined ratings throughout 2013 culminated in three highly acclaimed awards for the local Kia dealership. ) Kia Motors Hermanus was ranked 1st Pictured here is the winning team of Kia Motors Hermanus. From the left: Stuart King (sales executive), Francois Basson (sales executive), Carla King (service in South Africa in Sales advisor), Bulelani Dondolo (general assistant), Antoinette Abrahams (F & I consultant), Vincent Duffy (driver), Amelda Lotter (accountant), Johann Kotzee (techni CSI Category C for 2013 cian), Pauline Smith (new & used car sales manager) and Sean Smith (managing director). and took the award for “I am very proud of our team for “Sales CSI Dealer of the Year, Cat 3” “Overall CSI Dealer of the Year, tors Hermanus, Sean Smith, had the ed like family – it is the only way focusing on our goals and believing following to say: “Thank you to all we know how! ) Kia Motors Hermanus’s service 2013”. “We are very fortunate to be asso- in themselves and most importantThe Kia Motors Hermanus team our family members (customers). advisor, Carla King, excelled in her CSI performance and amongst all has certainly made the Overberg ar- We are extremely proud of you for ciated with such a great quality ly, for taking care of you. We knew Kia dealerships throughout South ea proud and has shown that right believing in us and commending product with fresh modern looks if taking care of you was done with Africa won “Service Advisor of the here in Hermanus you can receive our ability to look after you. We will (thanks to our German designer, Pe- passion this would culminate in succustomer service worthy of being continue to strive to be the best we ter Schreyer), excellent re-sale val- cess. We do have the best of the best Year, 2013”. ) Due to these two highly ranked ranked number one in South Africa. possibly can in all aspects of our ue, a comprehensive standard list of working at Kia Motors Hermanus 1st place achievements the Kia Mo- It seems all you need to do is join business. If you are a Kia owner or features and benefits all warranted and I really enjoy seeing our team tors Hermanus team was awarded the ever-growing Kia Motors Her- you are thinking of purchasing a for 5 years or 150 000 km and very members delight each and every the most sought after and prestig- manus list of very happy customers. new or used car you can rest assured importantly at a very competitive family member (customer) they interact with.” The managing director of Kia Mo- that you will be welcomed and treat- price. ious dealer award of them all, the
Geely betree Turbo-era QUICKPIC Turbo-enjins met ’n klein verplasingsinhoud, maar met baie oemf, sal binnekort in ’n aantal nuwe produkte van Geely aangetref word. Hoewel die Geely-passasiersmotorafdeling van die Zhejiang Geelygroep die afgelope paar jaar al verskeie turbo-aangejaagde kragbronne op internasionale motorskoue onthul het, het dié private Chinese voertuigvervaardiger nog nie dié soort tegnologie begin gebruik nie. Maar dit is besig om te verander . . . Die eerste turbo-kragbron in die Geely-stal sal ’n 1,3 F-weergawe
wees. Die maatskappy se eerste turbo-produk sal die GC7 1.3 T wees, wat na verwagting voor die einde van die jaar bekend gestel sal word. Die 1.3T sal ’n eerbare 99 kW lewer en aan ’n 5-gang-handratkas of ’n outomatiese 6-gang van Geely se Australiese ratkasvervaardiger, DSI, gekoppel wees. Hoewel die GC7 (wat nog nie in Suid-Afrika beskikbaar is nie) nie ’n nuwe voertuig is nie, is dié model al ’n paar jaar in die Gleagle-reeks. Geely ondersoek ook die moontlikheid van kleinverplasing-turboenjins vir sy bestaande EC7-reeks, wat verlede jaar in Suid-Afrika bekend gestel is.
Die Chinese motorvervaardiger Geely gaan eersdaags begin om turbo’s by sy enjins te voeg.
FOTO: QUICKPIC
24
SOLD AUTO BOLAND
Donderdag
20 Maart, 2014
Nuwe Suzuki Swift 1.2: Meer bekostigbaar Suzuki Auto Suid-Afrika het ’n nuwe, meer bekostigbare 1.2-weergawe by sy reeks Swiftluikrugmotors gevoeg. Die Swift 1.2 vul die bestaande Swift-reeks aan, en word in twee vlakke van spesifikasie gebied, terwyl kopers ook tussen ’n handratweergawe of ’n outomatiese ratkas kan kies. Die huidige, tweedegeslag-Swift het reeds groot welslae op plaaslike bodem behaal sedert die oorspronklike reeks as deel van Suzuki se toetrede tot Suid-Afrika in 2008 hier bekend gestel is, en is onlangs vir die 2014-modeljaar verder opgekikker. Die Swift verteenwoordig amper ’n derde van Suzuki Auto SA se algehele verkoopsvolume, en die meer as 8 500 Swift-verkope bewys dat die klein rakker se kombinasie van jeugdige, kopdraai-stilering, tasbare gehalte, bestuursplesier en doeltreffendheid die sleutelredes vir daardie welslae is. “Die toevoeging van die 1.2-weergawes tot die Swift-familie bring nie net die motor binne die bereik van ’n groter gehoor nie, maar is ook ’n reaksie op die groeiende vraag na motors met kleiner kragbronne en suiniger verbruik wat bekostigbaarheid aan gehalte, veiligheid en gerief koppel,” sê Francois van Eeden, nasionale bemarkingsbestuurder van Suzuki Auto SA. “Die GA-model se prys beteken dat begrotingsbewuste kopers steeds die Swift se ekonomiese brandstofverbruik, binneruimgerief en bestuursplesier kan ervaar. Die GL-weergawe baat by die doeltreffendheid van ons nuwe K12-
Die 1.2 GL se dinamiese persoonlikheid is identies aan die GA, maar dit word gekoppel aan ’n meer volledig toegeruste binneruim wat nog meer weelde en gerief by die 1.2pakket voeg. PHOTO: QUICKPIC kragbron, maar bied steeds die volledige toerustinglys waaraan Swifteienaars gewoond geraak het.” Die belangrikste kenmerke van die Swift 1.2 se buitevoorkoms bly onveranderd. Daaronder tel die skerp gekantelde voorruit wat lyk asof dit om die motor se kajuit gevou is, die breë bakvorm, en die opmerklike kopligte en agterlig-samestellings.
Dit skep ‘n jong en vaartbelynde indruk wat verder deur die sterk omlynde wielboë en gespierde proporsies van die motor benadruk word. Die wiele is op die hoeke van die motor geplaas om die bakoorhang te beperk, en terselfdertyd die ruimte binne optimaal te benut. Die nuwe Suzuki Swift 1.2-modelle se voorgestelde kleinhandelspryse sluit ’n diensplan van twee
jaar/30 000 km in, asook ’n waarborg van drie jaar/100 000 km, en ’n padbystandsdiens van drie jaar met onbeperkte afstand. Die diensinterval is 15 000 km. Met ’n minimum-massa van net 960 kg doen die Swift sy naam gestand wat werkverrigting en wakker reaksies betref. Die motor se gunstige krag-tot-massa verhouding bevoordeel nie net blote ver-
snelling nie, maar ook die vermoë van die motor om vinnig op versnellerinsette te reageer, terwyl brandstofverbruik ook suiniger is. Die Swift 1.2-handratmodel se verbruiksyfer vir die gekombineerde siklus beloop net 5,7 liter/100 km, met ’n gepaardgaande CO2-uitlaatgasvlak van 134 g/km. Die outomatiese Swift 1.2 is ook nie ’n brandstofduiwel nie: die motor se verbruik vir die gekombineerde siklus kom op 6,3 liter/100 km te staan, met ’n CO2-uitlaatsyfer van 149 g/km. Die nuwe Swift 1.2 is met twee vlakke van standaardtoerusting beskikbaar. Die Swift 1.2 GA is veral gemik op begrotingsbewuste intreevlak-kopers wat die rats dinamika, die gehalte en die doeltreffendheid van die Swift-reeks wil ervaar, maar ook by die bykomende suinigheid van die K12-enjin sal baat. Die 1.2 GL se dinamiese persoonlikheid is identies, maar dit word gekoppel aan ’n meer volledig toegeruste binneruim wat nog meer weelde en gerief by die 1.2-pakket voeg. Die groot nuus is egter Suzuki se jongste-geslag K12-enjin van 1,2 F. Die sestienklep-viersilinderkragbron maak van elektroniese brandstofinspuiting en Suzuki se sogenaamde VVT veranderbare kleptydreëling gebruik om optimale verbruik en verrigting te behaal. Die nuwe enjin het ’n maksimumkraglewering van 63 kW by 6 000 r/ min, met ’n gepaardgaande wringkragpiek van 113 Nm by 4 500 r/min. Die veranderbare kleptydreëling optimiseer krag en wringkrag oor die enjin se hele toerestrek, om so die beste moontlike verrigting en doeltreffendheid te bied.