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Showing posts from June, 2019

Buying used: VW T5 Kombi (2004 – 2010)

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The Volkswagen Kombi has a storied history and remains highly popular as transport for people and goods (or as converted campers). Examples from the ‘50s, ‘60s and even the ‘70s are much sought after and prices are rising as they become rarer. As the years sped by, so the power outputs (and sizes) increased. The T5 detailed here has built a strong following among tour group operators and large families alike. WHICH MODEL? On the diesel side, you have a choice between the well-known four-cylinder 1,9 TDI with 77 kW and 250 N.m of torque or the five-cylinder 2,5 TDI with 96 kW and 340 N.m. In the more luxurious Caravelle model, the latter engine offers generous outputs – 128 kW and 400 N.m of torque. On the petrol side, there was only one choice – a 3,2-litre V6 with 173 kW/315 N.m and a Tiptronic gearbox. This model was available until 2007. Facelifted T5s saw a trio of 2,0-litre TDIs introduced with 75 kW and 250 N.m, 103 kW and 340 N.m or 132 kW and 400 N.m (thanks to a pair o

Buying used: Ford Fiesta

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Spacious and brilliant to drive, the Fiesta is a great small car choice For whatever reason, many motorists will never own a Ford. When it comes to the Fiesta, they’re really losing out. Almost by magic, this supermini somehow manages to combine sweet handling with a wonderful ride. It will deal as easily with broken urban roads as it does with long motorway hauls, and it’s also very practical. It may not have quite as much passenger space as a Skoda Fabia or a Vauxhall Corsa, but the Fiesta counters that with a fine range of engines and a massive selection of used examples to choose from. You might not be able to run to a brand new Fiesta, but most of the current model’s talents are on offer in the used Fiesta . Which is the best model to go for? Best versions Among pre-2013 Fiestas, we’d go for the 81bhp petrol 1.25. In the diesel, the 1.6 is nicely responsive, but the 1.4 is more affordable and not at all deficient in its real-world driving manners. If your budget will stretch to

What Does CPO Mean?

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When looking at used cars for sale Gauteng or Cape Town alike, you’ll often see listings for CPO, or certified pre-owned vehicles. While that looks good in ads, its meaning can vary greatly. Generally speaking, CPO certification means that a vehicle has been through some sort of pre-sale inspection, typically involving more than 100 items from the engine and transmission to tires, battery, cosmetic appearance and more. In theory, issues with these are addressed. If they cannot be, the vehicle doesn’t make the cut. Depending on the manufacturer and/or the dealer, certification also includes limitations on the vehicle’s age, how many miles are on it and whether it has been in an accident, flood or otherwise has an undesirable history. Other benefits of buying a CPO vehicle from Group 1 Cars can include an extended warranty, roadside service, scheduled dealer maintenance and use of a loaner while the vehicle is in the shop. Chevrolet , for example, includes all the above and adds an ad