Namibia's content-driven motoring portal
As of this morning, my computer informs me that I have tested 298 cars, not including multiples at launches. The list is made up of 34 manufacturers and includes everything from a full electric to twin-turbo V12’s. Until this morning, for reasons unknown, this list did not include a Renault Clio.
The Volkswagen Beetle is undoubtedly one of the world’s most successful vehicles, racking up millions of sales in its original, basic shape. But much like its fellow sales record holders, on top of being rather common, the Beetle always left me completely cold and disinterested.
As great as it is to screech around a race track in AMG’s or chase identical Audis up a mountain pass, I find it wonderfully refreshing to test an ordinary car from time to time. By “ordinary” I mean normal, sensible and something most people (including the author) could afford – like the Chevrolet Cruze.
Today I bring you news of the freshly face-lifted Hyundai i20 which, for most people, probably bears the same significance as a kitchen appliance sale at your local mall. So – for those of you in need of a new dishwasher, err car, you may want to read on.
Time for a quick course in German. Volk means Nation and Wagen means Vehicle; more or less. Combine the two with the obligatory “s” in between and you get Nation’s Vehicle or, if you like, People’s Car. Despite a faint whiff of socialism, that’s what Volkswagen stands for – the nation’s vehicle.
Can you hear that? The fizzing noise coming from your pocket as more precious Dollars are being mercilessly fried by yet another petrol price hike. Your salary doesn’t increase proportionately, new car prices aren’t exactly dropping and public transport still in its infancy, often emulating a newborn’s sounds and smells.
Previous, current and prospective Citi Golf owners should pay extra attention today as I’ve just tested the modern equivalent of their favourite urban runabout. That’s right; if you had/have/want that nippy little number from three decades ago, there’s now a fresher alternative.
Last Monday I got up with a spring in my step, put on my best shirt and zipped through to Volkswagen in town to pick up my new Polo press demonstrator. Unfortunately there was a bit of an internal mix-up and instead I got handed a key marked “Grey Golf R”. Oh well.
Pass the caviar and that black credit card; I’m still high from driving a car so superior and luxurious that only real Beluga and serious retail therapy will cure my withdrawal symptoms. The Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG is near the top of Merc’s price list and makes damn sure you (and others) know about it.
Oor minder as ‘n maand gaan die poppe dans as Volkswagen van Suid-Afrika hulle nuwe Amarok bakkie op die mark plaas. Self nog nie die bakkie gesien en ervaar nie maar van my kollegas het al in Suid-Amerika, waar hy sy oorsprong het, met hom gery en was in die wolke oor sy verrigting – en waar hy orals kan gaan.