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PARELVALLEI: SPACIOUSHOMEWITH LUXURY FINISHES

Gracious living inSomersetWest

P

arelVallei isoneof themostprestigi-

ous suburbs in Somerset West,

sought after for its scenic location at

the foot of the Helderberg, as well as its

excellent schools and ease of access to

shopping, medical and sporting facilities.

Established in the 1950s, the suburb is typi-

fied by three- or four-bedroomed family

homesonervenofaround1000 m,withprices

usually ranging from around R2,5 million to

R5,5 million.

However,PamGoldingProperties (PGP)re-

ports there are also a number ofmore upmar-

ket homes which can fetch up to R8 million

and more, depending on their size, location

and luxury features.

One such property is currently on the mar-

ket exclusively through PGP, priced at R6,49

million.

The elegant home occupies an unusually

large stand of over 2 100 m, and offers spaci-

ous, well-appointed accommodation with a

number of luxury finishes. There are three

doublebedroomsuites, includingamasterbe-

droomwith its own fireplace, and a fully-con-

tained guest suite.

An immaculate eat-in kitchen is fitted with

integrated appliances, while the large open-

plan lounge/dining room opens onto teak pa-

tios on both sides of the house.

Other features include a study, temperatu-

re-controlled wine cellar, oak floors and air-

conditioning throughout the home.

The patios overlook a manicured garden

which includes a solar-heated swimming

pool, water feature and al fresco dining deck

shaded by large trees. The garden is watered

by automated irrigation using filtered bore-

hole water.

The propertys security features include an

alarm system, electronic beams and electric

perimeter fencing, while vehicles are housed

in a double garage.

PGP agent Mabel Botha says Parel Vallei

is noted for its level plots and quiet streets,

and is largely sheltered from the prevailing

winds.

It ishome toanumberofpre-schools, play-

groups and primary schools as well as one of

the most highly-regarded high schools in So-

merset West, Parel Vallei High.

This is a dual-medium, co-ed high school

with superb facilities, and was ranked 10th

in last years (2012) list of top schools in the

Western Cape, based on the matric exam re-

sults. It also has the unusual feature of offe-

ring students the opportunity to study for

their Cambridge AS- or A-levels in a number

of subjects, at the same time as completing

their South African matric. This means that

they finish school with an internationally-re-

cognised academic qualification which can

open doors for them all over the world.

To view the home, or for more information

on the property, contact PGP agentMabel Bo-

tha on 021 851 2633, 083 458 3782 or e-mail ma-

bel.botha@pamgolding.co.za.

This elegant home in Parel Vallei, Somerset West, is on the market exclusively through Pam Golding Properties, priced at R6,49 million. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

2Districtmail

4 April, 2013

BOLAND

SOLD

HELDERBERG

Is your house-market ready andwould you buy your own house?

A sound way of determining if

your house is market-ready is to

askyourself:Wouldyoubuyyour

own home?

Thats according toRichardGray,

CEO ofHarcourts Real Estate South

Africa, who says its a question that

calls for an honest answer, best ar-

rived at by an objective analysis of

its best and worst features. And if

you find it difficult to be objective,

get input from someone else who

will be honest, he adds, since an

honest answer will help you arrive

at a realistic selling date as well as

an achievable selling price.

Sellers generally dont see their

homes with the same eyes of pro-

spective buyers, he continues. Bro-

ken windows, peeling paintwork,

missing roof tiles, sagging gates and

mould in the shower these tend to

go unnoticed by owners after a

while. Yet, they are detractors that

will stand out a mile to buyers, who

will either be put off the property

completelyor theylluse themto jus-

tify a low offer.

Buyers who are prepared to upgrade or

renovate and they are in the vast minority

will not pay a premium for the property be-

cause of the danger of over-capitalising, he

continues. Its therefore critical for sellers

to ask themselves what they would expect to

get for their money and then, if their home

offers this. While shortcomings such as loca-

tion are unchangeable, there are many budg-

et-friendly improvements that will improve

the appearance and buyer appeal of the prop-

erty significantly.

The best place to start is in the street out-

side. Gray explains: This is where buyers

will form a first and lasting - impression of

your home, so you need to assess its verge ap-

peal. If you dont like its appearance, buyers

probably wont either. Look critically at the

overall state of repair as well as the garden.

Is it neat and welcoming or run-down and

over-grown? If the gates sag, the driveway is

broken or the garden unkempt and full of

weeds, you need to schedule in some mainte-

nance before putting it on the market.

Its at this point that a re-paint should be

considered, he says further. Painting is one

of the quickest, most effective ways of spruc-

ing up a property, so if your budget permits,

list this as a priority. And while your favour-

ite colour may be purple or pink, rather

choose a neutral shade that will appeal to the

widest selection of buyers.

Re-hanging gates and cleaning up around

the house can also make a big difference to

the propertys saleability, as will getting rid

ofbrokenplantpots, fixingbrokenguttersand

windows and weeding and mowing.

Stilloutside,Graysuggestsprospectivesell-

ers take a tour of their neighbourhood to see

whatotherpropertiesareonthemarket. You

need to knowwhat youre competing with, so

ascertain the asking prices and the length of

time theyve been on the market, which will

allow you to set a realistic selling price.

Its now time for the interior analysis.

Grays advice on entering the front door is to

stop and sniff. The smell of animals is ex-

tremely off-putting for buyers, he warns.

Youmaybe oblivious to the doggy odour em-

anating from your carpets but buyers wont

be. Its this type of problem that an honest

friend should pick up and share,

which will in turn allow you to do

therequisite cleaning thatwillmake

your home market-ready.

Your home inspection should also

focus onmess and clutter, the condi-

tion of the interior paint, the cleanli-

ness of the kitchen and bathrooms

and how well lit it is. Prospective

buyers like to picture their own fur-

nitureandpictures inahouse, some-

thing that will be almost impossible

for them to do if the place is jam-

packed with tables, chairs, boxes

and ornaments, he points out. For

an instant and appealing facelift, his

advice is to store all but the most es-

sential stuff and, if necessary, have

the inside walls repainted. He also

recommendshaving thegrouting re-

done in discoloured bathrooms and

kitchens, tackling dripping taps and

cleaninglight fittingsandswitches.

Gray says most of these are cos-

metic fixes that would be recom-

mended by any competent estate

agent, bearing in mind that the ma-

jority of buyers want to be able to

move in and live. What is not al-

lowed is a superficial patch of major defects

such as rising damp, leaky roofs and broken

pipes, which will cause you as the seller to

run foul of the law.

Having done a thorough inspection of your

home, you now need to establish what price

you would be willing to pay for it. If you ar-

rive at a selling price based on howmuch you

needtopayoffdebtorupgradetoabetterprop-

erty, youre going to spend a long time on the

market,warnsGray. Inthisvein,healsocau-

tions against choosing an agent on the basis

of who gives you the highest valuation.

The bottom line is that if you want the top

price for yourhome, youhave to give themar-

ket a top product. If you dont, the buyers will

simply move on to the next property.

4Districtmail

4 April, 2013

BOLAND

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HELDERBERG

5Districtmail

4 April, 2013

BOLAND

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HELDERBERG

6Districtmail

4 April, 2013

BOLAND

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HELDERBERG

AZen-inspired bathroom for peace and serenity... and luxury

Inordertoocopewiththefastpaceofmod-

ern lives,more andmorehomeowners are

looking to transform their homes into

sanctuary-like spaces in which they can

relax, unwind and recharge. And,

nowhere is this trendmoreprevalent than

in the bathroom.

Jasmin Kraneveldt from Bathroom Bi-

zarre says Asian-inspired bathroom designs

arebang-on-trend: Homeownersare increas-

ingly choosing bathroom designs that evoke

a mood of timelessness, serenity, calm and

wellbeingandnothingsays thisquiteaswell

as anAsian-inspired Zen bathroom. Reminis-

cent of high-end spas, these designs are an

amalgamation ofminimalism, clean lines, or-

ganic influences and natural hues. A Zen

bathroomis thequintessential space inwhich

you can go and forget yourworries, relish the

peace, and savour some real luxury.

Zen is a uniquely Buddhist approach to life

part of its teachings focus on experiencing

life in the present, the bringing together of

mind and body, and how to discover a natural

balance and harmonywith our environment.

In a Zen bathroom less is truly more.

In a bathroom design that boasts Zen-like

sensibilities, the design encourages a calm

and almost meditative state. The best way to

encourage this is to create a space that is free

from over-stimulating ornamentation and

clutter. Instead, the overall composition

should be formed around elements that in-

spire quiet self-reflection and internal dia-

logue.

As a result, Jasmin notes that storage is an

incredibly important aspect of any Zen de-

sign: In a room as functional as the bath-

room, including enough storage so that none

of your essential bathroom products clutter

up the space can be problematic. My recom-

mendation is to includea largebathroomvan-

ity with ample drawer and cupboard space,

which can hold a host of bathroomproducts.

She says a modern vanity with typically

Asian influences is ideal: ThePeru1200bath-

room vanity form Bathroom Bizarre for ex-

ample, is ideal for any Zen bathroom. Con-

structed fromdarkwood, it boastsmodernpa-

goda-style legs that are reminiscent of the

traditional upturned roof pagoda towers so

popular inAsianarchitecture,aswellas frost-

ed glass panelling on the two doors, which is

evocative of Japanese rice paper shutters.

Any successful Zen bathroom will feature

a lot of organic elements in its design includ-

ing the likes of organicwoven rugs, rocks and

pebbles, and of course the inclusion of a lot

of wood and natural light. Jasmin elaborates:

Bringing nature into the design really in-

tensifies the Zen-like quality of the bathroom

design. This can be successfully achieved by

incorporating plants with an Asian flavour

into the design, such as orchids or bamboo

forexample, aswell ashangingartworkof ele-

ments found in nature, such as prints of fish,

flowers or plants for example.

Lighting is another important considera-

tion. To create harmony with the outdoors,

it is essential to ensure that the bathroom is

infused with as much natural light as possi-

ble. Electric lighting is also just as important

include anarray of spots, aswell as a central

feature light thatwill complement the overall

design, but also stand apart as a feature in its

own right.

It is very effective to include lighting that

resonates with nature available from The

Lighting Warehouse, the round Klinton pen-

dant featured in this bathroom for example,

reminds us of the soft glow of themoon, while

recessed spots are reminiscent of the starry

night sky.

All Zen bathrooms must feature a colour

palette that stems from nature, says Jasmin:

MotherNatureoffers thebest inspiration for

colour combinations if you are ever at a loss

of which colours to use together, let nature

be your muse.

In thisbathroom, richgreyhasbeenaccent-

ed with an array of bright turquoise hues for

added interest a colour combination often

found by the seaside, where the turquoise

ocean hits the grey rocks. Jasmin notes that

decorating with grey is one of the hottest

trends to hit the decor market, and the bath-

room is not different: Grey is the new beige

it is neutral, but contemporary, and itworks

well with so many other colours. It also has

an edginess to it that makes it even more at-

tractive.

Grey is able to give rooms extra depth and

sophistication, and it is an welcome change

from the somewhat dreary cream and beige

colour schemessopopular in the recentpast.

She says that the Sahara Gris tiles, availa-

ble fromBathroomBizarre, are ideal for bath-

roomapplications: Glazedporcelain tilesare

far superior for bathroom applications when

compared to natural stone. Although these

tiles look identical to natural slates stone,

they boasts a number of qualities that are not

inherent in natural stone glazed porcelain

tiles are not porous and dont need to be

sealed, they are easy to clean and maintain,

theydont scratch, they are easy to install and

affordable,andtheyoffergreatslip-resistance

in wet conditions.

The key to creating a Zen-inspired bath-

room is creating a feeling of peace, serenity

and luxury. According to Jasmin, any Zen-

bathroomworth its saltwill feature anumber

of spa-like elements that invite you to linger

in the bathroom that little bit longer, and to

take time out to relax and unwind. A large

free-standing bath, such as the large and deep

IOS free-standing bath for example, available

fromBathroomBizarre, is amust-have amen-

ity for long, luxurious soaks.

An example of a Zen-inspired bathroom PHOTO: BATHROOM BIZARRE

7Districtmail

4 April, 2013

BOLAND

SOLD

HELDERBERG

8Districtmail

4 April, 2013

BOLAND

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HELDERBERG

9Eikestadnuus

4 April, 2013

BOLAND

SOLD

STELLENBOSCH

10

Eikestadnuus

4 April, 2013

BOLAND

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STELLENBOSCH

Marketing property without a price

Weve previously discussed

the importance of pricing

correctlywhenmarketinga

property with a price. Price

creates interest and is the

most effective way of at-

tracting buyers.

However, an alternative

marketing strategy is to

market a property without

a price. This is called no-

price marketing.

If, as a seller, youare real-

lyunsureofthecorrectmar-

ket value of your property

orifyouareunwillingto list

at market value, then you

could opt to list without a

price.

Listingwithout aprice ismuchbetter than

listing at the wrong price. If you overprice

a property youwill attract the wrong buyers

buyers who are expecting a property of

higher value or you will attract hardly any

buyers at all.

If you list without a price then you will at-

tract buyers to the property for what the

property offers, and the price will not deter

buyers.

There are different selling methods that

can be used to market without a price. The

first, and the most familiar, is the auction

method.A property ismarketedwith an auc-

tiondateandbuyersareattractedtotheprop-

erty to seewhat it offers.Awide rangeof buy-

ers are attracted in price ranges at, above,

and below the market value of the home.

Buyerswillviewthepropertyandtheywill

decide for themselves what the property is

worth. Then they will bid what they believe

to be a market-value price either at the auc-

tion, before it, or after it if not sold at auction.

Thesellerwiththenhaveaclearindication

from the market what the market value of

the property is. The undeniable fact is that

its the market, made up of

the buyers, that determine

what a property is worth. Its

not theagent, andnot thesell-

er who decide this.

Another sellingmethod for

no-price marketing is for

sale by tender. As with auc-

tion, a property is marketed

withoutanypriceandbuyers

are attracted to the property

for what it offers. A tender

date is set with the seller and

the agent, usually about four

weeks after marketing com-

mences.

Buyers will decide what

the property is worth and

make awritten offer that is placed in a sealed

envelope and opened by the seller and agent

once the tender date closes.

Its a very effective way of attracting buy-

ers without chasing them away with an in-

flated listing price. The buyers will tell the

seller what they think the property is worth

in writing.

At Harcourts Platinum weve been using

the tender method for over five years to at-

tractbuyerswhenasellerchoosesno-price

marketing. It offersall thebenefits of auction

marketing, but without the negativity that

can be associated with auctions.

Soasaseller, ifyouareunableorunwilling

to list at the correct market value of your

property, then rather than deter buyer en-

quiry, consider listing on the no-price meth-

od. Of course, no-price marketing will only

workwhenverypowerfulprint andelectron-

ic advertising is used so that buyers are at-

tracted to the property. So be sure to use a

written advertising plan that is specifically

designed for no-price marketing, as without

it the selling strategy cannot work.

E-mail your real estate question to ste-

ve.cd@harcourts.co.za.

Talking Property with Steve

Caradoc-Davies

11

Eikestadnuus

4 April, 2013

BOLAND

SOLD

STELLENBOSCH

Old Mutual Building, 40 Bird Street, Stellenbosch

t 021 809 2760 | admin@sothebysrealtystb.co.za | www.sothebysrealty.co.za | www.sothebysrealty.com

R3 100 000

Wonderful mountain views from this luxurious well

appointed home on the Devonvale Estate. Three

bedrooms, main en suite. Lovely open plan living

area leading to modern granite topped kitchen.

Magical garden and 24 hour security.

Derek 082 776 8282 / Brenda 082 569 4632

R750 000

Cute & Cosy modern home in a retirement com-

plex close to central town, offering open-plan

lounge with kitchen, 2 bedrooms and bathroom. A

small yet, manageable garden and built-in braai

with single garage, completes this home.

Christine 082 417 2506 / Graham 084 308 3540

R2 995 000

Prag eiendom in baie gewilde sekuriteits kompleks.

Winkelsentrum, restaurante en geskenke winkels

komplimenteer die ontwikkeling. Iets besonders

met n spesiale ligging!

Contact: Marelise Visagie 072 776 2645

R1 395 000

Style, comfort and space combined with excellent

security. Enjoy this three bedroom flat in peaceful

setting adjacent to Oude Libertas Amphitheatre.

Contact: Marelise Visagie 072 776 2645

R3 900 000

An enchanting homewith loads of natural light, offer-

ing a fine lifestyle within this gated complex. Situated

close toMedi-Clinic and Shops this home is a perfect

retirement home or scaling down.

Christine 082 417 2506 / Graham 084 308 3540

Stellenbosch

Each office independently owned and operated

Joint Mandate

Joint Mandate

Web Ref: 224229

New Release

Web Ref: 199495 New Release

Sole Mandate

New Release

R5 500 000

A newly built, delightful home with loads of space,

set in a tranquil suburb with mature trees. Offering

5 bedrooms all with air-cons & 6 bathrooms, plus

a separate flatlet with its own entrance. Well main-

tained garden with pool & space for the children.

Christine 082 417 2506 / Graham 084 308 3540

New Release

R6 650 000

Geniet die vryheid en sorgelose lewensstyl in die

regte adres. Voorreg om die Meulstroom deur jou

erf te hoor vloei.

Contact: Marelise Visagie 072 776 2645

New Release

Sole MandateJoint Mandate

Sole Mandate

12

Paarl Post

4 April, 2013

BOLAND

SOLD

PAARL/WELLINGTON

Wonderful petunias for winter

Petunias are the perfect way to brighten up

your winter garden. With their vivid flowers

inakaleidoscopic rangeof colours, theseannu-

als are a sure fire way of banishing those cold

winter blues.

You may wonder at this, as most gardeners

consider them to be summer annuals. In fact

petunias can be grown all year round. Because

they dont like water of their flowers youmust

just know what type to plant.

Grandiflora petunias have large flowers

andareideal forplantinginautumnandwinter

in summer rainfall areas. Multiflora petuni-

ashavemassesofsmallerflowersandarebetter

suited for plantings in spring and summer in

thesummerrainfallregionsasthesmallerflow-

ering varieties are more tolerant of rainfall.

The opposite obviously goes for the Western

Cape. Petunias are easy to grow and maintain

and are hassle-free and generous. They do best

in full sun, but can handle partial shade, espe-

cially inhotter areas.Theyareawelcomeaddi-

tion to most parts of your garden, but because

of their profuse blooms, petunias are excellent

in hanging baskets, either on their own en

masseorasa trailingplant inamixedplanting.

Top Tip: If your plants become leggy after a

few months, then simply pinch back the plant

byhalf. Thiswill encourage aneater shape and

betterblooms.InformationsuppliedbytheBed-

ding Plant Growers Association. For more go

to www.lifeisagarden.co.za

A splendid petunia spectacle

PHOTOS: BEDDING PLANT GROWERS ASSOCIATION

Attractive violet petunias with green edges.

Mixed Bravo petunias

13

Paarl Post

4 April, 2013

BOLAND

SOLD

PAARL/WELLINGTON

140 Main Road, Paarl. 7646. | t 021 870 1011 | info@sirpaarl.co.za

www.sothebysrealty.co.za | www.sothebysrealty.com | www.farmssouthafrica.com | www.farmandranchsir.com

Boschenmeer Estate | Offers fromR3 900 000

Pure excellence in prime position. Dempers built,

library shelves in Mahogany, dressing room cup-

boards in Pearwood, designed byPierre Cronje.Ask-

ing Price: R4 500 000.

Contact: Bronwyn Boyd 083 420 1747

Paarl | R2 950 000

Delightful Victorianwith rich history within walking dis-

tance from town centre. 5 bedrooms, 3 receptions, 2

studies, separate flat and swimming pool. Superb

central location.

Contact: Bronwyn Boyd 083 420 1747

Paarl | Wellington

Each office independently owned and operated

Web Ref: 231441

Web Ref: 227999

Wellington | R1 050 000

Invest in a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom house, situated

in a secure complex on the outskirts of Wellington.

A fantastic plot and plan package.

Contact: Estelle Denys 072 141 4117

Web Ref: 230383

Wellington | R2 600 000 (Ohb)

Mooi uitsig, goeie ligging, puik belegging. Hierdie

mooi stuk grond, sowat 5 ha, beplant met wingerd,

is geskik vir n droomhuis. Water en dienste beskik-

baar.

Kontak: Irene 074 127 9280 / Danie 083 627 2148

Web Ref: 224232

Wellington |Aanbiedinge vanafR6500000

10 Hektaar teen berg! Natuurlike plantegroei en wa-

terstroom, uitsig en ligging. Huis, swembad, gastee

eenhede, stoor. n Droomlewenstyl.

Vraprys: R6 900 000.

Kontak: Irene 074 127 9280 / Danie 083 627 2148

Web Ref: 231036

Paarl | R2 595 000

Beautiful renovated home with modern finishes in

sought after area. This house offers 3 bedrooms,

main en suite, loads of space and flat with sepa-

rate entrance.

Contact: Miranda Coetzee 083 414 7212

Web Ref 227944

Paarl | R3 700 000

Close to Paarl GirlsHigh School, this beautiful home

has ample accommodation with 4 bedrooms and 4

bathrooms, suited for easy and relaxed living.

Contact: Miranda Coetzee 083 414 7212

Web Ref: 231411

Sole Mandate

New Release

Joint Mandate

New Release

BRUTE: JEEPSWRANGLERNOWMODERN?

JeepWrangler SaharaV6, the

colourful dinosaur

HANJO STIER

With a lineage that goes back to the first ci-

vilian 4x4 vehicle, the Jeep Wrangler is a

true American iconwhich has retained the

essence of its ancestors shape since 1941.

Jeep kept the dinosaurs amazing off-road

abilities, onlyaddinga fewmodernconven-

iences over the years.

Next to airbags and ABS brakes (on- and off-

road),Wranglers benefit fromESP, roll mitiga-

tion, a multi-function steering wheel, electric

windows, central locking, trip computer, vi-

cious air-conditioning and a rather infuriating

multimedia systemwhichwont play aUSBde-

vice until youve copied its contents to the hard

drive. Our Sahara-spec model had other inter-

esting features like two removable (targa) roof

panels and what appeared to be a removable

canopy or back roof section. A sturdy and pad-

ded roll-bar sits underneath all this and we

founda rolled-up soft top in the ridiculousboot;

together with a thumping Infinity subwoofer

(Alpine for 2013 models). Youll surely agree

thatalltheseingredientsspellbigfunanditonly

took us two minutes to turn our bright orange

Jeep into a semi-convertible. The rear seats

haveadequatespacefortwoadultsorafewkids,

plus you can fold them twice or remove them

completely to drastically increase boot space.

Somestrangecharacteristicsbecameevident

afterjustafewhoursofdrivingandwhileevery-

one loved them, somemay be amatter of taste.

The flimsy doors arent so flimsy at all, thanks

to man-sized door handles and solid rubbers

whichdemandaman-sized shovewhenclosing

them. The driving position is fairly low for a

4x4 but the drivers seat is height-adjustable.

The dashboard rises up steeply with very rudi-

mentarycontrols,ergonomicsareiffy,theaccel-

erator feels like its three feet behind the brake

pedal, steering feel is light n fluffy, material

quality isnt bad and this Jeep even has height-

adjustable headlights with decent brights.

Slumbering under the bulky bonnet (sorry,

hood!) with its extra catches and stoppers is

Jeeps new Pentastar 3.6 L petrol V6. Forget

about lazy two-valve American iron, this is a

modern aluminium-alloy unit with maximum

outputs of 209 kW (284 hp) at 6,350 rpm or

347 Nm at 4,300 rpm.

It starts up and commutes with a faint V6

throb but changes to a raspy scream when

floored. The five-speed automatic (six-speed

manual also available on 2-door Rubicon) isnt

the fastest box on the market but offers a tip-

function and beautifully smooth shifts at any

speed most importantly, also when off-road-

ing. Big body roll and wonky handling are par

for this course, as are the obligatory 4x4 jiggles

the on-road sensation which can only come

from a proper, old-school ladder-frame and

solidaxle setup. It spells out that this carmeans

business and the little off-roading we did

mustve seemed like a walk in the park.

Equipped with a four-wheel-drive and low-

range transfer box, the Wrangler is usually in

2-wheel-drive high mode which, together with

its chunky tyres, provided sufficient traction

formostofourexcursions.Thatmaynotbevery

surprising, but the following might be.

Given this robust engineeringand theTrans-

formers nature of its roof, we couldnt believe

the Wrangler Saharas exceptional highway

manners. Its already comfortable andpleasant

to drive around town, but you simply

wouldnt believe how quiet and planted it is

at 120 km/h. The next shockwill arrive from

under your right foot andmay even catch out

hot hatches if that angryV6 catches the right

ratio and rockets past the posted limit, com-

pletewithYankTankpitchingnose.Thesame

goes for traffic light starts we measured 0-

100 km/h in 7,9 seconds (claimed 8,1) and be-

lieve it could easilymax its 200 km/h speedo.

The Pentastar motor also has impressive

torque so you dont need to take on every

Speed nSoundreaderwithkick-downs, espe-

cially because that can get a little expensive.

After a few spirited blasts and some Low-

Range crawling, our average consumption

was just north of 14L/100 km. More sedate

driving and highway cruising chipped away

at this figure but I certainly dont need to tell

you that a Jeep Wrangler V6 isnt the most

economical vehicle. That also goes for its ask-

ing price of R389 900, which includes a three-

year/100 000 km warranty and maintenance

plan. Economy is very far down on this cars

listandsurely thatof itsexistingandprospec-

tive owners. At the top of this list, written in

day-glo orange (we even spotted a lime green

Wrangler) and capital letters, is the word

FUN. What we didnt expect to find, written

just below, that it is fast, versatile, smooth,

comfy and quiet. Galimoto Media

Forget about lazy two-valve American iron, this is a modern aluminium-alloy unit with maximum outputs of 209kW (284hp) at 6,350rpm or

347Nm at 4,300rpm.

15

Donderdag

4 April, 2013

BOLAND

SOLD

AUTO

Hyundai Santa Fe:Kraaknuut4x4uitKorea

HANS HEESE

In die relatiewe kort tydperk wat

Hyundai op die plaaslike mark be-

skikbaar is, het hierdie Koreaanse

vervaardiger, by wyse van spreke,

die stryd as een van die topverko-

pers in die landamper stormender-

hand oorwin.

Hoe is dit moontlik?

Van die Amerikaanse vervaardi-

gers wat al in die 1920s monteer-aan-

legte inPortElizabethgevestighet, sal

baie graag die Hyundai-resep wil toe-

pas in die hoogs mededingende mark

van vandag. Aanvanklik het hulle die

regte resep gehad, maar iewers langs

die pad die het hulle die klits kwyt ge-

raak.

Hyundai se resep was eintlik nie n

geheimnie;beginmet nbasiesemotor

sonder tierlantyntjies maar betrou-

baar ondersteundiekopermet onge-

kendenasorgenlaathomspesiaalvoel

enmaakhom(ofhaar) deel vandienu-

we familie.

Eers dn kan daarmeer enmeer ge-

sofistikeerde voertuie by die reeks ge-

voeg word. Een van hulle is die Santa

F wat nou al sy derde generasie op

die mark geplaas het.

Die nuwe Santa F is uit-en-uit die

ontwerp van Peter Schreyer wat ver-

antwoordelik is vir n paarDuitse ont-

werpe wat steeds die oog bly vang. Hyundai

beskryf die moderne stilering as Fluidic

Sculpture wat, myns insiens, basies daarop

neerkom dat n vallende waterdruppel die

mees arodinamiese vorm is en dat dit beter

brandstofverbruik en optimale verrigting tot

gevolg het. En belangrik, ook mooi en byder-

wets lyk.

Soos dit maar gaan, word alle sportnuts-

voertuie nie altyd op werklike rowwe terrein

aangewendnieendieaantreklikenuweSanta

F is dan ook beskikbaar in sowel die goedko-

per 4x2 asook die duurder 4x4-uitgawes. So is

daar ook modelle met vyf en sewe sitplekke

beskikbaar om aan die nuwe eienaar se be-

hoeftes te voldoen. Die vlakke van uitvoering

en toerusting verskil ook; die oorgrote meer-

derheid van Suid-Afrikaners is waarskynlik

heeltemal tevrede om klaar te kom sonder

luukses soos sitplekkewat elektries verwarm

word.

Dit is dus in hierdie super-luukse klas wat

die Santa F met die Duitsers meeding en die

opponente rand-vir-rand die spit laat afbyt.

Die jongste elektroniese hulpmiddels, of dit

nou die klank en vermaak gedeeltes is, of die

harde elektronika wat die motor veiliger laat

hanteer, alles is daar. Endanhier en daar nog

ekstras wat die Duitse modelle nie bied nie.

Hierdie ekstras sluit in vier luidsprekers en

twee tweeters, radio enCD-speler en ook poor-

te vir AUX-kabels, iPod en USB-poort om alle

musiekbronne tekoppel.Dieklankstelselkan

vankontrolesopdiestuurwielafbeheerword.

Geen vervaardiger kan dit meer bekostig

om nie al die beskikbare elektroniese veilig-

heid-stelsels, wat rem-aksie en gly-beheer in-

sluit, as standaard-toerusting in te sluit nie.

Alles wat kan help om ongelukke te vermy

is daar, en as daar fout kom, is daar die sestal

lugsakkewat die skademoet beperk. Die San-

ta F het ook die Euro NCAP veiligheidstoets

met vyf sterre geslaag.

By ons het die nuwe spasiewaens die stasie-

waens grootliks vervang. Dit is dan ook hier

waardieSantaF seaanpasbaarheid ter spra-

ke kom.

Die Premium-model is die intreevlak wa

met voorwielaandrywing en sitplek vir vyf,

met n reuse-kattebak wat meer as 1 000 liter

kan hou. Selfs n man wat net dogters het sal

al die bagasie vir n lang vakansie kan inpak

sonder om n Ventertjie aan te haak. By die

duurderExecutiveenElite-modelle,metsewe

sitplekke ingebruik, is daar steedsverbasend

baie pakplek oor.

n Belangrike kenmerk is die middelste ry

sitplekke waarvan die rugleunings agteruit

kan kantel om die maksimum gemak vir die

passasiers op die langpad te verseker. En ter-

loops, wanneer die heel agterste sitplekke nie

gebruik word nie, vou hulle netjies plat om

n gladde laai-oppervlak te verseker.

Aandiebuitekant is daaral die ontwerpers-

nuwighede soos Xenon-hoofligte met LED-

stroke wat ook as flikkerligte in die buite-

spiels dien; kenmerke van die duur luukse

motors.

Aan die agterkant is daar ook twee dubbel-

uitlaatpypeen nhoremligmetLED-

beligting. Van die kant gesien is die

allooiwiele n bate vir die Santa F;

by die standaarduitgawe is die wiele

17, by dieExecutive enElitemodelle

is die wielgrootte onderskeidelik 18

en19.Die spaarwiel isnetjieswegge-

steek onder die laairuimte in die

bak.Dit sover die uiterlike kenmerke

van die nuwe langpad-ryperd.

Diemooisteeienskapvandienuwe-

ling is die beproefde en wakker 2,2 li-

ter 16-klep-turbodieselenjin wat

145 kW teen 3 800 rpm ontwikkel en

die 436 Nm wat tussen 1 800 en 2 500

rpm beskikbaar is. Die krag word na

diewieleoorgedradeur nbaiegladde

6 gang-ratkas. Hierdie goeie verrig-

ting kan gedeeltelik toegeskryf word

aan die gebruik van n enkelbuis in-

spuitingstelsel.

Die Santa F versnel van 0 100

km/h in 10 sekondes en die naald

gaan draai by 190 km/h as die kole

gegooiword. VolgensHyundai kan n

algehele verbruik van 8,3 liter per

100 kmverwagword; afhangendevan

die bestuurstyl van die bestuurder.

Die nuwe wa is effens langer en

brer as sy voorganger en die grond-

vryhoogte is effensminder.Dit is dan

ook hoekom hy meer beenspasie en

gemakvir die passasiers gee. Die laer

hoogte van die grond af maak hom

nog steeds n goeie gruispadvreter,

die doelwaarvoorhyontwerp is.Hierdieperd

uitdieHyundai-stal isniebedoelommetLand

Cruisers enLandRoversmee te dingnie. Des-

ondanksbeskikdienuweknaapoor nsluitba-

re sentrale ewenaar op die 4x4-modelle om

steiltes met los oppervlaktes of sneeupaaie

aan te durf. Kragoordrag vind dan plaas op

n 50:50 verdeling van krag op die voorste en

agterste aste. Die funksie skakel outomaties

af as 40 km/h oorskry word.

Die vlagskip van die reeks is die Elite wat

spogmet nvollengtesondakenminiatuurka-

mera om te wys wat agter die voertuig aan-

gaan.

Enwatkoshierdiewakkerbussie?Dievoor-

wielaandrywing Premium jaag jou R434 900

uitdiesak,die4x4Executivemetsewesitplek-

keR459 900 en die topElitemet sy panoramie-

se sondak R499 900. Ingesluit hierby is die ge-

moedsrus van Hyundai se 5 jaar/150 000 km

waarborg, en meer belangrik, sy 5 jaar of

90 000 kmdienskontrak.Diensintervalle is el-

ke 15 000 km.

Die Santa F versnel van 0-100 km/h in 10 sekondes en die naald gaan draai by 190 km/h as die kole ge-

gooi word. FOTO: QUICKPIC

16

Donderdag

4 April, 2013

BOLAND

SOLD

AUTO

Hooray for Hyundais newdiesel i20

FRANS LE ROUX

Having testedHyundaisnewi20, I knewwhat

I was getting myself into when I heard that

a new diesel offering was available.

A bit more than six months ago I drove the

top-spec 1.4 Glide model which has

74 kW/136 Nm and retails for R181 900. I was

impressed by the little hatchbacks standard

features and its pleasant interior.

More of the same is to be found inside the

new 1.4 CRDi turbodiesel. Power delivery is

smooth and the small oil burner pulls nicely

through the revs. Its mated with a 6-speed

manual gearbox and produces an adequate

66 kW/220 Nm.

On theopen road iswhereyou start to enjoy

the CRDi. In town the driver needs to concen-

trate on the clutch to successfully launch the

i20. With a fair amount of turbo lag, your

timing is crucial. Stalling will be part of your

routine for the first couple of days. In order

for you tokeepmoving, a fair amount of throt-

tleplayisneeded.Dieselsalsohaveatendency

torev lowerand the i20 isnodifferent.Thanks

tothat6thgeartheenginespins justasmidgen

above 2 000 rpm at legal highway speeds.

Thehandling is acceptable for a frontwheel

drivehatchandnomajorproblemswereexpe-

rienced. The steering feel, however, was just

too light for my liking. Good if you love park-

ing, bad if you want to avoid something at

speed. Speaking of parking, the rear park as-

sist is a nice touch and especially welcome

when struggling to parallel park. A feature

such as this was only seen on expensive Ger-

man cars a decade ago. Today, however, on

a small Korean hatchback, Hyundai fitted

park assist as standard. Hooray for Hyundai!

Looks stay the same on the i20 asHyundais

signature Fluidic Design theme is used. The

edgy foglights complement the simple black

grille. A rather large airdamp is found below

the numberplate and ads to a certain sporti-

ness.

Rivals includetheeverpopularKiaRio,VW

Polo and Fords Fiesta. Standard service plan

and warranty are class leading at Hyundai.

A 3 year/60 000 km service plan combined

with a 5 year/150 000 km warranty and road-

side assistancemakes the i20 anattractive op-

tion.

Overall, the i20 range offers something for

every kind of buyer. The 1.2 starts at R144 900

while the diesel is the most expensive at

R195 900. If it was my money I would opt for

themiddle of the rangeandpurchase 1.4Fluid

for R169 900. For more information visit

www.hyundai.co.zaorcontactAdolfat 021862

2941.

The addition of the new diesel to the already comprehensive i20 line-up just adds to the de-

sirability of this solid hatchback. PIC: FRANS LE ROUX

VolvoV40D3Elite a combinationof

design, featuresanddrive

HANJO STIER

I often get asked for

car buying advice

and happily dis-

pense it, even if its

just confirmation

of someones top

choices. Its very

rare that someone

derails from these

and ends up buying

something com-

pletely different.

Its even rarer that

they confess this

mistake to me: We

shouldve bought

the V40!

The couple in ques-

tion shall remain

nameless and I as-

sume that the two

parties werent on

thesamepagewhenit

came to replacing a

little German MPV.

When given their

shortlist of possible

candidates, my vote

immediately went to

the V40, which also

made Galimoto Me-

dias cars of 2012 list.

Not every one of

our staff members

has had a chance be-

hind thewheel ofVol-

vos new hatchback

estate effort, but

those who have,

alightedwith smiling

approval. This car

has a wonderful com-

bination of design, features and drive which

gels into a very pleasurable experience.

It evenmanages to disguise the loathed sta-

tionwagonshapeunderneathabeautifully ta-

pered and sculpted form which most observ-

ers mistake for a lengthy hatchback. On top

of that, pricing is very competitive, options

are relatively cheap and you have the choice

of five engines and four trim packages.

I could endmy reviewnowas youve proba-

blygathered that Ihighlyrecommend theVol-

voV40, but Ill domy best to dig a little deeper

into our test vehicle, a V40 D3 (2-litre in-line

five-cylinder turbo-diesel) Geartronic (six-

speed automatic) Elite (top spec) trimmed in

white wiff black leather.

The 1,984 cc engine manages maximums of

110 kW (150 hp) or 350 Nm, resulting in a 0-

100 km/h sprint of 9,3 seconds and 205 km/h

top speed. Claimed average consumption is

5,2 L/100 kmfromthe 60 L tankwhile average

CO2 output is pegged at just 136 g/km.

Our average for theweekwas slightly high-

er at 7,2 L/100 km. However, this figure will

plummet andyour rangewill skyrocketwhen

youcruiseonthehighway.TheV40D3isquiet

and planted at three-digit speeds, its torque

reserves are perfect for safe overtaking and

the five-cylinder even makes a pleasing gruff

noise.Handlingabilityandgriparemorethan

adequate for an estate or hatchbackwhile the

steering has enough feeling to liven up that

occasionalspiriteddrive.TheV40 lackedshift

paddles on its steering wheel, which can be

excused ina six-speed turbo-Diesel fittedwith

an illuminated tip-shift gear lever.

Speaking of which, this specification level

allows you to customise the interiors mood

lighting in one of nine colours and half the

instrument panel is made up of high-resolu-

tion displays. Fuel level and gear position are

displayed in light bars, but all other informa-

tion is taken care of by crisp LCD units.

Thelargecentraldial is flankedbytwoarch-

ing displays which change according to the

selected programme Economy, Perform-

ance or Elegance. This will turn the trio into

any combination of revs, speed, coolant tem-

perature, economy meter, power reserve,

range, consumption and trip information.

Taking centre stage in the dashboard is an-

other LCD display for audio and vehicle set-

tings. It sits atop Volvos trademark floating

central hang-down section with very mini-

malist buttons

these will take some

getting used to but

operate everything

you could possibly

need, including ven-

tilation.

Passenger comfort

is superb for four

adults or two adults

and three kids; boot

volume is a modest

335L(inestate terms)

and the rear seats

fold almost flat (as

does the front pas-

senger seat) in a

60/40 split to extend

carrying capacity. A

VolvoV40D3cantow

700-1,500 kg (un/

braked) and carry

500 kg, 75 of that on

its roof.

Safety equipment

includes ABS brakes

with numerous as-

sistance systems, ac-

tivecornering lights,

dynamic vehicle sta-

bility and traction

control, Volvos city

safety collision de-

tection and preven-

tion system, adap-

tive brake lights,

multiple airbags,

side impact protec-

tion, whiplash pre-

vention and many

more. Our test car al-

so had LED daytime

running lights, pow-

ered drivers seat,

lots of leather, snaz-

zy black roof spoilers, cruise control, rear

park assistwith camera, selectable start/stop

system, rain sensor, high performance audio

system with Bluetooth, audio streaming, CD

and mp3 capability.

The alloy wheels on our car even had extra

moulded covers called aerodynamic disc

conceptwhich aim to improve the cars drag

/ air resistance and thereby improve fuel

economy.Beingdark grey in colour, they also

disguise nasty brake dust for days.

There are lots of other little features and

this model will cost you R353 700 with a five-

year/100 000km warranty and maintenance

plan. So the Volvo V40 D3 is great to drive,

clever, safe and good value, but it does have

one bad mark to its name: the turning radius

is rubbish. Galimoto Media

Volvos trademark floating central hang-down section with very minimalist buttons these will take some getting used to but operate every-

thing you could possibly need, including ventilation.