16 JANUARIE
RENOWNED US REALTORS: ‘COACHING AND MENTOR’ COMPANY
Keller Williams launching in Boland soon Renowned international realtors Keller Williams have launched their first business centre in Stellenbosch. They will be opening offices in Somerset West and Paarl in the first and second quarter of this year. This is very exciting news for aspirant and existing real estate agents in search of highly promising career prospects, as well as home owners looking to sell, or prospective buyers keen on the professional support and advice of an established realty brand. Keller Williams Realty started in the US over 30 years ago. It is the largest estate agency group in North America where it far outsells its closest competitors. It was recently announced in the Swanepoel Trends Report (http://blog.kw.com/2014/01/10 /the-mostpowerful-people-in-real-estate-are/) at KW has the most powerful people in leadership positions in the USA in the real estate industry. Interestingly enough, Keller Williams Southern Africa’s (KWSA) growth has been so impressive that in 2013 KWSA was awarded as “fastest growing region in history” within the group, a testimony to the success of the company’s unique business model. (KW launched in November 2013 in Zimbali and sold out a R400 million development on the KZN North Coast within only a few hours – a clear indication of its immense drive and genius marketing capabilities.) Keller Williams Cape Town has been fortunate to secure sole mandates in Paarl, Somerset West and Stellenbosch and they are confident that more listings will be secured with opening their new market centres. Niel Cronje, CEO of KWSA emphasises that what makes the company’s business model so unique is that: “We are a realty company which stands 100% behind agents and not in front of them. We are there to facilitate the
development and earning potential of each and every one of our agents. We even have a real estate university which trainees can attend to ensure that their training and education in the field is the best in the business.” “We also grant a lot of independence to individual agents within the company structure and strive to assist them to fulfil their dreams. Our business is created for agents by agents. It is completely agent-centric. This really sets us apart and incentivises our workforce.”
Keller Williams launched in Stellen bosch and will be opening offices in Somerset West and Paarl soon.
“While some areas are showing signs of becoming more of a sellers’ market, other areas may still be locked into limited demand from buyers and very far removed from their neighbouring area. These may still remain in a depressed state of economic activity. We as estate agents are all waiting for the moment when buyers suddenly realise what good deals are available to them. The moment when the first line of best-value properties are identified as acceptable will change the market from a buyers to a sellers’ market.” It’s tricky to deliver a blanket forecast for estate agents regarding their
individual markets, especially a few months before a national election which in itself may create serious momentum in any direction in any area regarding real estate. Real estate is supported by serious and long-term financial involvement from homeowners and investors. Communal support on a national basis is required to activate a positive attitude towards investing in real estate which as we have seen during previous upswings in the market can happen overnight and catch most estate agents unprepared. It is therefore the right time for agents to list properties like never before. When the market turns, regardless of direction, a
full book of mandates will be your saviour. The point is, KWSA is aware of all these issues and works to counteract negative trends and harness positive ones.Andtoreiterate–intheWestern Cape generally, trends look largely very positive.” Adriaan van der Merwe, a director of Tim Du Toit & Co. Inc., agrees: “Nationally, our various offices have seen house-price growth remain relatively flat during 2013, with property transfer volumes still well below the market highs experienced in 2007. Our financial-institution clients have largely maintained their relatively tight mortgage lending and credit policies, conceivably as a result of household debt to disposable income ratios that remain stubbornly high in a sluggish economy, and there is very little to indicate a dramatic change to these factors during 2014. Having said that however, and while this might be true for the South African property market in general, we’ve seen significant increases in property sales volumes (and result-
ant price growth) in a number of specific areas, which presents the wellinformed purchaser or property investor with good opportunities in a generally weak market. We’ve been very fortunate in Cape Town generally, with transfer volumes increasing significantly during 2013 from the 2012 figures. The stellar performer from our perspective, specifically, has been the Boland region of the Western Cape. The Paarl, Stellenbosch and Somerset West property markets have been especially active during 2013, with a significant number of former Gauteng and Mpumalanga residents relocating to the area.” “As an example, a well-known security estate outside Paarl recorded in excess of 120 property sales during 2013, with roughly 100 homes constructed on the particular estate during that same period. The increased building activity in turn resulted in a lack of rental property in the Paarl area, with investors presently achieving exceptional rental returns. Investors or purchasers making use of a knowledgeable real estate broker will most certainly benefit in these circumstances.” Wayne Heidmann, team leader for Keller Williams Cape Town adds: “We are very excited to be launching Keller Williams in Somerset West and Boland areas. Keller Williams is essentially a training, coaching and mentor company that happens to be in real estate. We grow and nurture all our agents so that they go from being good to being great.” Should you wish to join the Keller Williams team or require more information, feel free to visit their website (www.kwcpt.com). Aspiring or experienced real estate agents can contact Wayne at: Keller Williams CPT C +27 82 328 8421 T +27 21 888 7400 E info@kwcpt.com W www.kwcpt.com
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SOLD HELDERBERG BOLAND
16 Januarie, 2014
Biggest and Best Property guide in the Boland
SOLD is die mees koste-effektiewe, hoĂŤ-impak keuse vir die bemarking van eiendom in die Boland
021 841 4285
021 887 2840
021 870 4600
BOLAND SOLD
Districtmail
HELDERBERG
Biggest and Best Property guide in the Boland
16 Januarie, 2014
SOLD is die mees koste-effektiewe, hoĂŤ-impak keuse vir die bemarking van eiendom in die Boland
021 841 4285
021 887 2840
021 870 4600
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HELDERBERG 8 Districtmail Spend time and money on preparing your home before selling 16 Januarie, 2014
You have decided to sell your property but have found that the roof needs to be replaced. Do you repair the roof or drop the asking price? When wanting to sell their home, sellers will generally need to spend a bit of time and money on preparing the home and ensuring that the cosmetics of the property are up to standard. While it may not necessarily be the roof that needs repairing, many homeowners may find themselves in similar situations
and need to decide between taking on the repairs themselves or telling potential buyers and hoping they can still sell their home for a reasonable, market-related price. This is according to Adrian Goslett, chief executive officer of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, who says it goes without saying that it is far easier to sell a property that is in tip top condition and is visually appealing. He says when wanting to sell their home, sellers will generally need to spend a bit of time and money on preparing the home and ensuring that the cosmetics of the property are up to
standard. These preparations will normally include a fresh coat of paint and perhaps some spring cleaning, he says. “Often it may also require that some easily fixed defects are repaired and that everything is in working order. However, to what extent do sellers need to repair their home before placing it on the market?� Goslett notes that structural defects that are costly to fix such as replacing the roof, pose a challenge to homeowners when deciding to sell.
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He says every home is likely to have its fair share of defects, some of which will be obvious to spot, while others could be hidden. He says sellers are mistaken if they think that potential buyers will assume that the only defects in the home are the ones they can see. In fact, Goslett says more often than not, serious buyers will have the property inspected by a professional company before signing on the dotted line. Continued on page 12
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Considering buying property soon? Then start saving for a deposit now! If you’re in the property market or thinking about buying your first home, you should be considering a number of things to help save you money and protect your investment. If you’re considering buying a property at any time in the next two to three years, the time to start saving for a deposit is right now. This is according to Careen McKinon, ooba Western Cape provincial sales manager, who says it’s always easy to start the new year with good intentions, but it’s also just as easy to lose determination as the year gets underway. She says property is an ongoing commitment so whether you’re a buyer, owner or seller, make sure you stick to your property resolutions. McKinon says these should be your top resolutions for 2014: 1. Start saving for a deposit If you’re considering buying a property at any time in the next two to three years, the time to start saving for a deposit is right now. “Having a deposit increases your chances of securing a home loan and a better interest rate Even if you’re just starting
to think about buying a home, this is the first and most important step you should take.” 2. Pay more into your bond Aim to pay a little (or a lot) more into your bond than your specified monthly repayment. McKinon says paying extra into your bond reduces the interest that you have to pay. She says even just a few extra hundred rands can shave years off the term of your bond and thousands off the amount that you end up paying. Once-off lump sums like inheritances or bonuses will also significantly reduce the amount you end up paying back, if you put them into your bond account. 3. Negotiate on your interest rate with your bank Even a small reduction in your interest rate will have a massive impact on the amount of money you pay into your bond. If you have a good track record of bond repayment over a few years, speak with your bank manager about reducing your interest rate, suggests McKinon. She says the answer might be no this time, but find out when you can approach them again. 4. Fix those niggling repairs needed around the house
“A house is an investment just like any other. To protect your investment, you should keep it in the best condition possible. This is particularly relevant if you’re planning on selling at some point in the future.” Keep the interior and exterior paintwork fresh, fix any electrical, plumbing or structural problems as soon as they come up, pay attention to rising damp and leaky roofs and make sure that the garden or exterior spaces are maintained. 5. Revise your insurance policy Check with your homeowner’s insurance broker to find out whether you are covered for the current value of your property and update it if necessary. McKinon says the point of insurance is that it’s there when you need it. If you are underinsured, you could come up short if any unexpected damage were to befall your property. This is why it’s so important to keep the insured value up to date, she says. Remember to disclose any renovations or alterations when you are discussing your insurance with your broker. Property 24
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
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Weigh your repair options Continued from page 8 There are few buyers who will buy a home with the assumption that everything that is not visible must be in working order, he says. “Ideally, homeowners should have the home inspected before they put it on the market so that they are aware of any issues or structural defects that need to be addressed. Sellers are morally obliged to inform the estate agent marketing their property and/ or the seller, of any known defects.� Goslett says once the property has been inspected and a quote obtained for any necessary repairs, homeowners need to ask themselves whether they will be better off repairing the defects or dropping their asking price. He notes that if the defects cost R50 000 to repair, but it results in the seller getting their asking price rather than dropping it by R100 000 or more, the repair is well worth it. However, if the sale price of the property is not really affected by the repairs, then the homeowner will have to base their decision on that fact. The outcome will depend on the circumstances and the repairs that need to be done. Goslett says a compelling circumstance for the seller to take on the repairs is where an interested buyer has the capacity to put down a small deposit, but will not be able
to finance any major repairs to the home after buying it. In this way, he says the seller will be securing the sale of the home. He points out that the downside for the seller, should he decide to fix the repairs, is that often major repairs will take a lot of time, which will delay the whole process of selling the property. This may not be an issue for sellers who are not in any particular rush but it may be a massive issue for sellers who have committed to another property and need their home sold as quickly as possible. Another instance in which it may be better for the buyer to do the repairs or changes is when the fix could be a matter of taste such as the colour of tiles used or design of the deck. If repairs or cosmetic enhancements could be done in a variety of different ways, the buyer may want the option to be able to do it the way they want it. Ideally, Goslett says both the seller and buyer should have the property inspected independently to ensure they’re fully aware of all defects before entering into the negotiation process. He says whether repairing defects before the sale or not, all parties involved in the sale need to be happy and agree to the terms and conditions before any contracts are signed.
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Eikestadnuus
STELLENBOSCH
16 Januarie, 2014
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
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PAARL/WELLINGTON 16 Paarl Post Prospective home buyers advised to shop around 16 Januarie, 2014
With buyer sentiment growing, more balance in the market and coming off one of the best years since the economic downturn, the residential real estate market appears to be on solid ground as we head into 2014, says Seeff chairman, Samuel Seeff. Last year saw trading conditions in the primary urban sectors of the market at the best levels in more than five years, with stock shortages and growing sellers’ markets in the high demand areas. While the favourable buying conditions are set to persist, there is now for the first time in years, encouraging signs for sellers as well, he adds. The tenuous macro-economic landscape
however, is likely to keep the real estate market under pressure throughout the year and while optimistic, we remain cautious, says Seeff. This notwithstanding, it will be business as usual for buyers and sellers. Provided that the economy remains stable, we anticipate a good year for real estate with buyer sentiment and the willingness to buy continuing to strengthen. FNB’s latest Property Barometer confirms the improved market conditions and notes that the demand and supply rating at 48,73 for December is edging closer to the more balanced 50-point benchmark. It also reports the average house price growth at 8,7% as at December and predicts
9% for the year, something that should encourage not only sellers, but also buyers who may still be uncertain as to whether it is the right time to buy, he says. For those still hesitant, now is indeed a great time to buy, but these favourable conditions are not likely to last too much longer, says Seeff. Buying now means that you can still pick up great value and take advantage of the historically low interest rate. The longer you wait, the more you will pay. Aside from a potential interest rate hike towards the end of this year, house prices in the urban, high demand areas continue to rise although still at modest levels. Using the ABSA house price index as a guide, a small home (80-140 sqm) that would have cost R709 500 on average in 2009, now costs around R804 000; R94 500 and 13% more than in 2009. Mortgage lending too is improving, advises Seeff. While the high national household debt ratio will continue to influence the levels of mortgage granting, the latest National Credit Regular data points towards accelerated growth of 20% in mortgage granting over the last year. Prospective buyers that are in good credit standing should take real encouragement from this. One of the contributing factors to the improved market conditions has been that serious sellers are heeding the call to adjust their pricing expectations in line with market dynamics, says Seeff. This has facilitated the clearing of some of the oversupply of stock in the primary areas with shortages becoming prevalent. This in turn paves the way for those looking to sell to get their properties listed and now is indeed an opportune time for serious sellers, he adds. The low home loan borrowing costs and flat house price growth will continue to boost home affordability and encourage buying. Pricing in line with prevailing market conditions will remain vital for sellers hoping to
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Samuel Seeff conclude a successful transaction, says Seeff. Having said this, sellers in high demand areas are seeing good offers, sometimes even multiple offers and getting closer to their asking prices. Prospective buyers are encouraged to shop around and ensure they buy below their means and pay fair market value. Investing a deposit and careful budgeting for the costs of home ownership, especially in view of the rising basic living and travel costs, will be more vital than ever, he concludes. Issued by Seeff PR Manager, Gina Meintjes, telephone 021 481 1044/079 886 4802, email: gina.meintjes@seeff.com or visit www.seeff.com.
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16 JANUARIE
SUZUKI SWIFT: NUWE STANDAARDTOERUSTING
Kraakvars aansig en meer waarde QUICKPIC Suzuki se gewilde Swift-luikrugmotor wat in 2011 bekendgestel is, het pas ’n aantal verbeteringe vir die 2014-modeljaar ondergaan. Die meerderheid veranderinge is op ’n varser voorkoms gerig, maar die lys standaardtoerusting is ook aangepas. Die 2014 Swift baat by ’n deftiger binneruim, met Bluetooth-koppeling wat nou deel word van die GLSweergawe se standaardmondering. Dié stelsel laat nie net toe dat versoenbare toestelle soos selfone draadloos aan die motor se klankstelsel gekoppel kan word nie, maar buiten telefoonoproepe kan musiek van slimfone en Bluetooth-toegeruste toestelle ook deur die klankstelsel gespeel word. Nog ’n toevoeging wat byval sal vind is togsnelheidsbeheer, wat eweneens by die GLS-model se lys standaardkenmerke gevoeg is. Die stelsel word gerieflik deur middel van kontroles op die meerfunksiestuurwiel beheer. Daarbenewens spog die GL en die GLS-weergawes van die nuutste Swift met nuwe, meer moderne doekstofbekleedsel, wat verder tot die luikrug se hedendaagse beeld bydra. Die mees ooglopende verandering aan die 2014 Swift is die splinternuwe sierrooster, wat met ’n herontwerpte voorste buffer gepaard gaan. GLS-weergawes word voortaan met LED-dagryligte toegerus, terwyl die luginlate van die GL-modelle met nuwe sierstroke omring word. Die derde, hooggeplaaste remlig agter maak ook van ’n helderder LED-eenheid gebruik. Die volgrootte naafdoppe van die GL-model is heeltemal herontwerp, terwyl die GLS met splinternuwe allooiwiele toegerus is. Die 2014 Swift-
Die 2014 Swift baat by ’n deftiger binneruim, met Bluetoothkoppeling wat nou deel word van die GLSweerga we se standaardmondering. FOTO: QUICKPIC modelreeks kry ook ’n nuwe kleur, wat as Luminous Blue Metallic bekend staan. Die 2014 Swift-reeks maak steeds van dieselfde doeltreffende, brandstofingespuite viersilinder-kragbron gebruik. Die sogenaamde K14Beenheid se maksimum-kraglewering beloop 70 kW by 6 000 r/min, met ’n gepaardgaande wringkragpiek van 130 Nm by 4 000 r/min. Suinige brandstofvebruik bly ’n hoogtepunt van die hele Swift-reeks. Die vyfgang-handratweergawes behaal ’n verbruiksyfer van net 5,5 F/ 100 km in die gekombineerde siklus, met ’n gepaardgaande CO²-uitlaatgasvlak van 132 g/km. Die GLS Outomaties, met sy seepgladde outomatiese viergangratkas, spog met ’n gekombineerde siklusverbruiksyfer van 6,2 F/100 km, met CO²-uitlaatgasvlakke van 147 g/km.
Die 2014 Suzuki Swift bied ’n keuse van twee afwerkings. Die Swift GL koppel bekostigbaarheid aan bogemiddelde vlakke van standaardtoerusting. Onder die hoogtepunte tel kragstuur, ’n hoogteverstelbare stuurwiel, elektries-beheerde ruite voor en agter, afstandbeheerde sentrale sluiting, en lugversorging. Die lys sluit ook elektries-verstelbare buitespieëls, hoogteverstelling vir die bestuurdersitplek, en ’n meerfunksie-ritrekenaar in wat inligting soos die buite-temperatuur, brandstofverbruik en reikafstand vertoon. Die agtersitplek is 60/40 verdeel en kan platgevou word om meer pakplek te bied. ’n Handige nutshaak op die agterste sitplekleunings bied slim bergplek vir inkopiesakke. Veiligheid word ook deeglik aangespreek: GL-weergawes spog met
twee lugsakke voor, asook ABS-sluitweerremme. Die Swift GLS is nog deftiger, en bied ook die keuse van ’n outomatiese of ’n handratkas. Wat voorkoms betref, word die GLS-model veral deur sy nuwe allooiwiele van 16 duim onderskei, asook deur die voorste misligte en die nuwe LED-dagryligte. Binne word Bluetooth en togsnelheidsbeheer by die GLS se uitvoerige lys standaardtoerusting gevoeg. Die leerraamstuurwiel kan vir hoogte en reikafstand verstel word, en bied kontroles vir die klankstelsel en die nuut bygevoegde togsnelheidsbeheer. Wat veiligheid betref, word die getal lugsakke na ses uitgebrei, met syen gordynlugsakke wat by die voorste lugsakke gevoeg word. Die GLS se lys bykomend kenmer-
ke sluit outomatiese klimaatbeheer in, asook ’n USB-sok waarmee geheue-stokkies en musiekspelers aan die klankstelsel gekoppel kan word. ’n Sleutellose bedryfstelsel laat toe dat die Swift met die blote druk van ’n skakelaar aan- en afgeskakel kan word, terwyl die deure ook oop- en toegesluit kan word. Die lewendige Swift Sport bly grotendeels onveranderd, en bied steeds al die ontwerp- en binneruimkenmerke wat dié unieke verrigtingsmodel van die gewone Swiftreeks onderskei. Die Sport baat egter by die toevoeging van Bluetooth-koppeling en togsnelheidsbeheer tot die Swiftreeks. Dit geld ook die kontroles vir die togsnelheidsbeheer op die stuurwiel. Die Sport is die Swift-reeks se atleet, en word deur ’n toergierige viersilinder-enjin van 1,6 liter aangedryf. Die eenheid bereik sy wakker maksimum-kraglewering van 100 kW by 6 900 r/min, gekoppel aan ’n wringkragpiek van 160 Nm by 4 400 r-min. Die Sport word as standaard met elektroniese stabiliteitsbeheer (ESC) toegerus, wat nie net veiligheid en traksie baat nie, maar ook afgeskakel kan word vir diegene wat ’n selfs meer opwindende bestuurservaring wil geniet. Pryse vir die nuwe Swift begin by R165 900 en eindig by R223 900 vir die Swift Sport. Die pryse sluit metaalverf in, asook die Suzuki Complete-pakket, wat alle fasette van naverkope-diens behels. Die Suzuki Swift-reeks word deur ’n omvattende waarborg van drie jaar/100 000 km gedek, asook roesweerdekking van ses jaar. Boonop is ’n diensplan van drie jaar/60 000 km ook standaard, tesame met ’n AA-bystandsplan van drie jaar.
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SOLD AUTO BOLAND
Donderdag
16 Januarie, 2014
Mercedes-Benz CLA: the hip sedan HANJO STIER Caution caution, I’m about to go into grumpy-old-man mode. What happened to common courtesy and good manners? Why do our lives move quicker and quicker? Who needs all these new cars we have on our market? Take the new Mercedes-Benz CLA, for example.
All engines are stateoftheart, turbocharged four cylinders which comply with Euro 6 emis sions regulations; one more than they have to. PHOTO: QUICKPIC
Who is it aimed at? Unconventional, younger, lifestyle-orientated customers, ladder climbers and innovators who are looking for a confident, sporty, untamed, compact C-segment sedan with sporty, powerful design language and an aggressive, stand-out, dynamic edge to it – according to Mercedes-Benz South Africa. So what’s wrong with the C-Class? Well, yes, M-B execs were quick to point out, the slightly larger, rear-wheel-drive sedan is more re-
strained and classic so the new CLA is in no way a C-Class substitute. In fact, it looks, feels and drives differently, for customers who weren’t considering this brand before, also financially. Isn’t that being greedy? Not really, they would argue, by following the daring CLS designs with a lower price tag, this car lures a completely different *cough* younger *cough* audience and hopefully they’ll stay with the three-pointed star. Merc aims to lead luxury segments by 2020, locally by as early as 2015. Really. How? Progressive and exciting products, like this CLA with a world-record Cd (aerodynamic) value of just 0.22. All engines are state-of-the-art, turbo-charged four cylinders which comply with Euro 6 emissions regulations; one more than they have to. All petrols are also BlueDirect (direct injection) motors. Sounds complicated. What else? All CLAs have an Eco start/stop system to further lower their emissions and consumption. Other standard items, besides most available electric and automatic goodies, are a dynamic DirectSteer system, Attention Assist drowsiness detection and Collision Assist system. Is that all? Of course not. The CLA is packed with safety features to the tune of five EuroNCAP stars and an advanced award, it boasts a premium interior with lots of individualisation options, differing specification levels and a host of connectivity solutions – more of which will be added in the near future. Right, which models are available? For you Sir, CLA180 and CLA200 turbo-petrol (90kw/200Nm and 115kW/250Nm) or CLA220 CDI turbo-diesel (125 kW/350Nm) with either 6-speed manual or 7-speed double-clutch automaticgearbox(includingeco,sportandmanual modes with shift paddles). Both petrol cars claim average fuel consumption of around 5.5F/100 km with about 130 g CO²/km while the diesel manages 4.5 and 117 g. All of them hit 100km/h in eight to nine seconds and can reach 210 to 230 km/h. The boot takes 470F, the fuel tank 50+6F, maximum load is 525 kg and the turning radius is 11 m. For absolute speed freaks, there’s also the CLA45 AMG which assaults you with another world-beating 265 kW and can scare Porsche’s by hitting 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. After sampling the dynamic CLA range on our launch route, we were given the chance to fling the AMG around an airfield – amazing. Good Heavens. How much? The CLA45 AMG is about R675 000 and slightly sold out while the CLA180 costs R348 700, CLA200 is R372 200 and the CLA220 CDI will set you back R397 600. All cars are sold with a 6-year/100 000km full maintenance plan and a choice of seven exterior colours. From our short drive and all these impressive specs I can confirm that the CLA is not an oldman’s car, especiallyagrumpyone.Judging by the public’s reaction, Mercedes has certainly hit their mark and will attract a lot of hip new clients. And for clients with a new hip, there’s always the C-Class. Galimoto Media
Check oil and water levels regularly If your car runs out of oil the engine will have no lubrication, seize up and die, leaving you with a car that doesn’t work and a hefty mechanic bill. Checking the oil once a month can prevent this. Make sure your car engine has been turned for five minutes, open the bonnet, pull out the dipstick, then wipe and replace it, before pulling it out again. The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks. If it’s not, then it’s time to top up
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AUTO
Donderdag
16 Januarie, 2014
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Volvo Concept XC Coupé for an active lifestyle QUICKPIC The second of Volvo’s three much-anticipated concept cars is the new Volvo Concept XC Coupé. Inspired by the design of modern sports equipment and demonstrating the safety capabilities of Volvo’s new Scalable Product Architecture, it is a sophisticated and capable car for people with an active lifestyle. “Those who love gravity sports freely seek new thrills and challenges. To ensure that they make it back in one piece, they prefer high-performance equipment that offers the ultimate sense of freedom and protection,” says Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President Design of Volvo Car Group. “The Volvo Concept XC Coupé is perfectly in tune with this active lifestyle. Its capability and protection is cleverly integrated into the sophisticated looks. Concept XC Coupé is ready and willing to bring you into the adventure zone and back,” he adds. The three concept cars are designed to demonstrate vital elements of the company’s new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA): namely the confident stance, the perfect proportions and the most prominent design signatures. “Volvo’s Concept XC Coupé also shows how clever engineering makes it possible for us to reinforce our world-leading safety without compromising design, size or weight. Thanks to the extensive use of high-strength boron steel and structures with new, ingenious decoupling, we can make SPA cars
more compact and safer at the same time,” says Ingenlath. The two-door, four-seater Volvo Concept XC Coupé has a strong connection with its sibling, the Volvo Concept Coupé. However, the larger 21-inch wheels, the more accentuated wheel-arches and the taller roofline all contribute to a more ro-
bust impression and a fuller, capable look. The extended distance between the dashboard and the front axle is still a very powerful visual element. The capable stance is emphasised by details such as the new bonnet and a beltline that spans an elegant bow along the length of the
car. The connection with modern, high-tech sports gear is highly present in the concept car. Among the sources of inspiration for the design team is the Swedish company POC, which develops high-tech protective gear for gravity sports athletes.
The twodoor, fourseater Volvo Concept XC Coupé has a strong connection with its sibling, the Volvo Concept Coupé. PHOTO: QUICKPIC
“Several orange details and exterior graphics in combination with bold use of matte rubber mouldings, which cover the rear end of the car, add to the highly functional expression of the design,” says Ingenlath. To strike the right balance between aesthetics and functionality, the design team has also given traditional SUV elements, such as side mouldings and skid plates, a modern interpretation. They are more integrated into the sleek design, lying flush with the surrounding body areas. Just like Volvo Concept Coupé, the face of the Volvo Concept XC Coupé is characterised by a new topography on the bonnet and the “floating” grille, flanked by headlights featuring new T-shaped DRL light guides. The rear light signature is also a distinctive element in the new design direction of Volvo Cars. “Both concept cars show how we can shape our cars from now on. We add emotional value to the Volvo brand with the calm, confident beauty that is the hallmark of Scandinavian design,” says Ingenlath. Volvo Cars paved the way for a completely new segment by introducing the V70 Cross Country in 1997. The range has been continuously developed and extended since then. Presently, it spans from the Volvo V40 Cross Country, via the XC60 and XC70, to the XC90. “With the Volvo Concept XC Coupé, we take this unique blend of capable ruggedness and expressive elegance up to a new, sportier level,” says Ingenlath.
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SOLD AUTO BOLAND
Donderdag
16 Januarie, 2014
Lexus RC F to make world debut QUICKPIC The aggressive new Lexus RC F coupe – equipped with new 5.0litre engine with power well above 330 kW (450 hp) – will be launched at the North American International Auto Show on January 14. The model has been styled for optimum high speed stability to support the most powerful V8 performance car ever developed by Lexus. The RC F is based on the spectacular new RC coupe revealed at the Tokyo Motor Show in November. It has wider wheels and tyres, an active rear wing, air scoops, cooling ducts and carbon-fibre components, each delivering what Lexus describes as “functional beauty”. “The form of each component is carefully designed to contribute to performance,” Lexus RC F chief engineer Yukihiko Yaguchi said. “Unique air outlets in the hood and rear section of the front fenders contribute to optimum engine cooling and handling stability, and create an aggressive look that immediately conveys the expectation of a dynamic driving experience.” The signature Lexus spindle grille dominates the front of the RC F and encompasses one single F-pattern in its mesh, from the bonnet line to the lower lip. The bonnet is higher than that of the RC and helps create a powerful flared profile suited to an F model. Ducts beneath the front bumper
The RC F has taken design cues from the Lexus LFA supercar. and fenders and strategically placed aerodynamic stabilising fins create a stance which further identifies the F model. Air outlets at the rear of the front fender form the shape of an L when they merge with side sill extensions, while stacked trapezoidal quad-outlet tailpipes at the rear add further aggression. The RC F has taken design cues from the Lexus LFA supercar. An
active rear wing deploys from the RC F’s deck at speeds over 80 km/h and retracts at less than 40 km/h to enhance the coupe’s lines at standstill. Three variations of 10spoke 19” forged aluminium wheels are available by grade. Two are machine polished and on the High Plus grade the wheels are hand polished by a craftsman. The striking cockpit-like interior of Lexus RC F complements the
PHOTO: QUICKPIC
aggressive exterior. Unique components include the meters, steering wheel, seats, ornamentation and pedals. The instrument panel is dominated by a switchable central dial which changes according to the four selectable driving modes. The information, colour of the display and size of text all alter. RC F debuts a Lexus-first elliptical cross-section thick-grip steering wheel with optimum place-
ment of paddle gear shifts. All-new high back seats with an embossed F on the headrests have been styled to resemble tight-fitting athletic sportswear and to offer similar levels of support. The seats are available in a selection of five leather trims. Outstanding new L-shaped rubber slits in the brake and accelerator pedals combine form and function by providing better foot grip.
BOLAND SOLD
AUTO
Donderdag
16 Januarie, 2014
Jaguar sponsors Simola Hillclimb QUICKPIC Jaguar Land Rover South Africa is proud to announce its sponsorship of the Simola Hillclimb, an event which is not only becoming a highlight of the motorsport calendar, but also a social occasion of great significance for performance car enthusiasts. The Jaguar Simola Hillclimb extravaganza will take place in Knysna from May 16 to 18 and will comprise a host of automotive events and competitions designed to cater for young and old alike – whether talking about the people or the mechanical machinery. The latter span nearly a century of competition and production cars, from pre-war thoroughbreds to the very latest performance offerings, including the Jaguar F-type launched locally last year. Says Jaguar Land Rover South Africa and sub-Sahara Africa managing director Kevin Flynn: “The Simola Hillclimb is custom-made for Jaguar, a brand which not only has an incredibly rich heritage but an impressive current line-up and an equally exciting future. “We are thrilled to be the headline sponsor of an event that pays homage to the past but is firmly rooted in the present. “The Jaguar Simola Hillclimb transcends mere metal and is ultimately a weekend for those who love car culture and what it embraces: it is a celebration of all that personal
On top of the hill…an Etype and an Ftype get acquainted. They’ll both grace the Jaguar Simola Hillclimb in Knysna come midMay. PHOTO: QUICKPIC mobility is about, bringing people with a common passion together. “I can’t wait for May to come and to enjoy the sensory pleasures that are part and parcel of the weekend.” Jaguar has signed up to be the title
sponsor of the Simola Hillclimb for the next three years, and has every intention of powering it into the same league as the Durban July horse race and Sun City’s Million Dollar golf tournament.
“This will be the fifth running of the event and each year it has grown in stature. Jaguar’s involvement will accelerate that process. “We are incredibly excited to have Jaguar on board as the title
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sponsor as there is no doubt that it will mark a turning point for the event and lift it to a new level,” says event director Ian Shrosbree. “Jaguar and the Simola Hillclimb are a perfect fit for each other, both representing the finer things in the automotive world.” The festival will include Classic Car Friday for pre-1975 cars and the King of the Hill Shootout for modern, exotic and supercars on the Saturday and Sunday. Needless to say, Jaguar has cars which fit perfectly with both sides of this coin, from the graceful SS100 of the 1930s, through D-Type competition cars, the iconic E-Type and MkII saloon cars, and the more modern R cars. “It has been our vision from day one to build the Hillclimb into the premier motorsport event in South Africa – objectives which gel perfectly with Jaguar’s goals for the event. “Jaguar is as enthusiastic as we are to grow the Simola Hillclimb into the South African equivalent of the Goodwood Festival of Speed,” says Shrosbree. “It has grown incredibly quickly in its first four years which has set a solid foundation for it to now move to a new level. Competitors and fans will not be disappointed when they arrive in Knysna in May.” The invitational event is expected to attract a wide variety of the best and fastest competition cars in the country, including at least one surprise never seen on SA roads before.
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Donderdag
16 Januarie, 2014
SOLD AUTO BOLAND