A COMPARISON OF THE AUDI A4 Vs THE AUDI A3

The arrival of the new Audi A4 marks one of the most important car launches of the year. The latest four-door compact executive will have to be seriously talented if it is to compete with the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C-Class and Jaguar XE.
Before it takes them on, however, it also has a rival much closer to home. The A4’s baby brother, the A3, is available in saloon form, too. So is the latest A4 set to justify its extra asking price over the smaller car?

Styling

We could perhaps summarise this section with one short statement: if you like the look of the Audi A3 saloon, you’ll like the look of the A4, too.

From a distance, it seems little has changed from the old car and, indeed, the design of the A3 saloon. The “serrated” lower edges of the A4’s headlights give its face a look familiar to TT owners, while the lower air intakes mirror their shape. A large hexagonal grille dominates the front just like every other Audi on sale.

Along the sides, both feature similar sharp creases, a sloping roofline and squared-off boot design. Only the length sets them apart – the A3 measures 4,456mm, while the A4 is 270mm longer.
The story is much the same at the rear – aside from a distinctive light signature from the LED taillights, you’d be hard pushed to tell the difference between the two until you moved close enough to read the badges.

Interior

The A3’s cabin is definitely one of its selling points. The dashboard is simple and modern, with two central air vents that sit above the heating controls, while most of the infotainment functions can be tweaked through Audi’s MMI system.

The A4’s dash is slightly angled towards the driver for a sportier feel, although the infotainment screen – like many recent Mercedes models – appears to sit on top of the dash. The central console is wide, helping to contribute to impressive shoulder room for front seat passengers. Ahead of the driver, the fantastic LCD instrument panel found in both the TT and the Lamborghini Huracan is optionally available in place of traditional dials.

For the fifth generation A4, Audi’s MMI interface has been completely redesigned. Audi says the menu system is designed to more closely mimic smartphones which, in theory, should make the system more intuitive to use than the one found in the A3.

If you frequently carry taller passengers, the A4 is the one to go for. Already larger than the A3 in its previous guise, the new model offers 11 and 24mm more legroom front and rear than the old car. The A3 shares its platform with the likes of the Volkswagen Golf, and therefore cabin space should be more than adequate for most families, even if it can’t match the A4.

Driving

While the exterior styling suggests not much has changed from the old A4, under the skin almost everything is new – or at least extensively updated. The A4 sits on an entirely new platform set to underpin Audi and VW’s biggest cars in the future. Thanks to the increased use of lightweight materials – including an aluminium roof to lower the centre of gravity – the A4 is now 120kg lighter than before.

At 1,320kg, the lightest A4 is now just 80kg heavier than an equivalent A3 saloon.
Both cars send their power to the front wheels, with the option of four-wheel drive further up the ranges. Audi claims the A4 is one of the most refined cars in its class, thanks to a rigid body structure, fancy door seals and acoustic glass. While the A3 boasts impressive refinement itself, the A4 should have it covered in this area.

Engines

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The A4 is set to hit showrooms with a choice of three petrol and four diesel engines. Being the larger car of the pair, the A4 is available with the more powerful engine choices than the A3, particularly when it comes to diesels.

Two versions of the current 2.0-litre diesel are offered, albeit upgraded to pass the most stringent EU emissions regulations. With either 150 or 184hp on tap, these units produce the same power as those offered in the A3. However, an eco-minded Ultra version is claimed to return 76.4mpg – a full 7.5mpg better than the A3 can achieve. The A4 benefits from a powerful 3.0-litre V6 diesel – despite producing as much as 275hp, mpg figures in the mid-sixties are still expected.

The A4’s entry-level petrol is a 150hp 1.4-litre turbocharged unit. It’s also available in a largely similar guise in the A3 but, due to the lower weight, is slightly faster in the smaller car. 2.0-litre turbo petrols are offered higher up the A4 range, while the A3 makes use of a smaller, more frugal 1.2-litre turbo at lower price points.

The A4’s new six-speed manual gearbox saves 16kg over the old unit which can be found in the A3. An updated eight-speed automatic can be paired with the A4’s V6 diesel, which includes a coasting function to improve fuel economy.

Value for money

Audi has yet to disclose prices for the new A4, but the outgoing car cost approximately £3-4,000 more than the equivalent A3 saloon. For that price, buyers benefit from the greater cabin space, the option of more powerful engines, and the latest safety tech. Thanks to the improvements in aerodynamics and reduction in weight, the A4 is unlikely to be significantly more expensive to run on a day-to-day basis than the A3 and, as mentioned previously, it could end up even cheaper.

 Verdict -

The A4 represents all the latest know-how from Audi crammed into one car. On paper, it looks set to be one of the most competitive models in its class, and we’d say, overall, it’s more than likely to offer a superior drive to that found in the A3.

However, the A3 Saloon still has many merits. If performance isn’t a priority, plump for the 1.2-litre petrol and save thousands of pounds off the A4’s asking price. The two cars look so similar, the average passer-by will hardly notice. It still boasts a gorgeous cabin anyway, and it’s more than practical enough for most.

In other words, if your finances allow, we’d suggest placing a deposit on the A4, but if not, then the A3 will be more than up to the task.

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Get your Audi in Durban by phoning Tami on +2783 784 1046

How To Import A Used Japanese Vehicle Into Mozambique

USED JAPENESE VEHICLES IN DURBAN - MOZAMBIQUE INFO

This article seeks to clarify certain issues regarding the process of Importing a used Japanese vehicle into Mozambique. Please note that all used Japanese vehicles being imported into Mozambique will be required to undergo an INTERTEK Inspection in Durban. The Inspection can only be done when the customer provides the MOZ number only obtained from Intertek.

Most customers wonder whether it is them or  the Dealership from which they buy their vehicles who applies for the Moz number. The fact of the matter is that it is the duty and responsibility of the customer to apply for the Moz number at the Intertek office.

HOW DO I START THE PROCESS OF APPLYING FOR THE MOZ NUMBER?

When you purchase your used Japanese vehicle in Durban, the Dealer will issue you with a Pro forma Invoice. You then contact the Intertek office from where you will complete a PAF (Pre Advice Form), with all the details of the vehicle. Most Pro Forma invoices already contain almost all vehicle information which you will need to complete the PAF.
After completing the PAF, you need to submit it along with the Pro forma invoice to the Intertek office. Submissions may be done in person at the office, or via email or faxing to the Intertek office.

Once processed, Intertek will issue you with a MOZ number which you then need to send to the Dealer from wich you are buying your used Japanese vehicle from.

WHAT IF THERE IS AN ERROR IN MY DOCUMENTS?

In the event that Intertek finds an error that prevents them from completing Inspection Services on your used  Japanese vehicle, they will return the documents for correction.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER YOU GET THE MOZ NUMBER?

Once you apply and receive your Moz number from Intertek, you need to forward to forward it to the dealership from which you bought your vehicle. The Dealership will then Contact Intertek Inspectors in Durban, and book for the Inspection of your used Japanese vehicle in Durban. Once Intertek officials do the Inspection, your vehicle is ready to be transported to Mozambique.

IS PRE-INSPECTION COMPULSORY FOR USED JAPANESE VEHICLES TO MOZA?

Unless the rules and regulations of the government of  Mozabique changes, as things stand, Inspection of used Japanese vehicles going to Mozambique is compulsory.

WHAT IS INTERTEK AND WHAT ARE ITS FUNCTIONS?

Intertek government and Trade Services is an organization/department, solely appointed by the Government of Mozambique to carry out pre shipment Inspections on certain imports, used Japanese vehicles Included.
One of the duties of Intertek includes, butis not limited to the physical Inspection of Cargo in the country of Exporter, in this case Durban.

The Inspection covers an assessment of the prices, customs classification of the cargo and the determination of the import duty payable.

Free Import Duty For Zimbabweans Working In South Africa

Used Japanese Vehicles In Durban South Africa - Sales and Marketing: Home: A SIMPLER, RELIABLE, FASTER AND SAFER WAY TO BUYING USED JAPANESE VEHICLES IN DURBAN :   FIND ...

USED JAPANESE NISSAN X-TRAIL FOR SALE IN DURBAN [ For export only]

A Short Review of the Used Japanese Nissan X-trail.

Below we look at the specs of the Nissan X-trail and possible prices one is likely to pay for the vehicle in Durban Dealerships.

The Nissan X-trail is a compact SUV produced by the Japanese auto maker Nissan since the year 2001. Its All-Mode 4*4 transmission transfer case allows or enables the driver to select between 2WD,4WD or 4WD lock through an electronic switch on the Dashboard.

The Japanese market offers the SR20VET engine that produces 206kw [280ps]

Prices Of The Used Japanese Nissan X-trail In Durban Dealerships :

There are about 14+ Dealerships of Used Japanese Vehicles in Durban South Africa. Each Dealership has its own set of prices and they all buy from different auctions and owners in Japan and their expenses for bringing the vehicles to Durban are also different. They all expect different profit margins per vehicle hence the prices of these vehicles will never be uniform hence the need to compare not only vehicles but prices as well.

The 2001-5 models of the Used Japanese Nissan X-trail ranges from +/-3500 to 5500 dollars in Durban. Some Dealers may even sell them for $6000 to unsuspecting customers [due to greediness mainly].

USED JAPANESE HONDA FIT IN DURBAN SOUTH AFRICA

A Review Of A Second Hand Honda Fit From Japan

Durban Price Range for the 2001/2 model of the Fit

With 18 dealerships to choose from it ranges from +/-1800 to 2800 dollars depending on Dealership found.

Mussina Price Ranges for the 2001/2 model of the Fit

In Mussina it ranges from +/- 3000 to 3500 dollars depending on Dealership found.

The Honda Fit In General

The Honda fit is described as a subcompact car and it is produced by the Japanese Manufacturer Honda. It first entered the market around the year 2001 and it is now in its 3rd Generation.

In some parts of the world like here in South Africa, Europe, Oceania, Australia among others, the fit is also known as the Honda Jazz.
The name Honda Fit is mostly used in japan, China and the Americas.
According to Wikipedia, due to the dimensions and modularity of its interior space, the fit has been considered to be closer to a mini MPV.

Other Versions Of The Honda Fit

The manufacture of the fit, Honda, released the Hybrid Gasoline - Electric version of the fit in Japan  in the year 2010. They went on to do the same thing in Europe in the early months of 2011. The Honda Fit EV, an all electric version was released in the United States in July 2012.

The Honda Fit Drivetrain and Platform

The vehicle is available on a 1.2, 1.3 as well as 1.5 I-DSI engine. The engines are 8 valves which use 2 spark plugs per cylinder. This allows gasoline to burn completely thereby reducing fuel consumption and emessions..

What You May Not Like About The Honda Fit.

Just like any other vehicle, the used Japanese Honda fit has its own shortcomings. People who use or have used the vehicle usually complain about the noisy engine and the ride. They say that the vehicle has abrupt ride characteristics in certain situations.
Besides some users complain about diminished performance when the vehicle is loaded to full capacity. More so, the seats in the pre - face lift models are said to be uncomfortable.

In conclusion, one can safely say that a Japanese Honda fit is a fairly good car. There is no vehicle that is 100% perfect. After all, the weaknesses of the vehicle tend to be just a drop in the ocean compared to the advantages and strengths.

If you are looking for a Honda Fit or any Used Japanese vehicle in Durban, (for export only), please read the services page of this site to see how we can help you when it comes to used vehicles from Japan or simply call +2783 784 1046.

Latest: SA car dealers dupe Zim buyers

Herald Reports That  ....  Some  Japanese used Car Dealers are not being honest.

Beitbridge Bureau South African dealers of pre-owned cars are duping Zimbabweans by selling them vehicles which they claim are on special offer and would attract low excise duty during their importation into the country. They also claim that they have notified the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) on the development for easy excise duty calculations.

Investigations by The Herald reveal that most of the cars bought from KDG Auto Exports on the South African side of the border are not on the price list supplied to Zimra.

In some cases other vehicles have higher prices than those at the sales warehouse.
The development has seen a number of Zimbabwean car dealers being stranded at Manica Transit Shed where vehicle imports into the country through Beitbridge are processed.

The agreement between Zimra and the South African car dealers is that the latter supply a price list to the revenue authority for reference
during duty calculations.

Several car importers today said Zimra should stop accepting vehicles from KDG Auto Exports until they put their house in order.

“I bought a Toyota Corolla from KDG Auto Exports on the understanding that it was on special offer and on a list supplied to Zimra. I discovered that I had been duped when an official from Zimra calculated duty using their standing rates rather than the price from the
supplier.”

Upon enquiries I was told that the vehicle was not on their list of cars from KDG.
“This is an inconvenience because one was expecting to pay a lesser amount of import duty. Now I have to go back to the drawing board,”
said Shingirai Gumbo of Harare.

A senior Zimra official at Beitbridge confirmed that they have had a number of incidents where people had bought vehicles from KDG which were not on the list given to them.
“In the event that the car is not on the list we use our own values for duty purposes,” said the official.
KDG Auto Exports manager Mohammed Saifula said those vehicles not on the list were part of a new stock from Durban.

“We have other cars on special offer which have arrived from Durban and we have notified Zimra but they say they will stick to the
previous document,” he said.

Source... Herald

What You Need To Know When Buying Used Japanese - Be It In Durban Or Online From Japan.

The Used Japanese car industry has become a force to be reckoned with. The industry is not only a favorite for the poor, but for the middle class as well as the rich as it tends to cater for everyone's needs. Anyone with as little as 1500 dollars can find a used car from Japan in Durban (even though the condition may be questionable), even those with 30 000 dollars also find vehicles which suits their budgets. Below we look at some of the things you need to know when you decide to buy a used car from japan. For the purposes of this article, we will look at both online buyers and those who travel all the way from Zimbabwe, Malawi, Zambia among other African Countries to come to Durban to buy their second hand vehicles.

COMING TO DURBAN TO BUY YOUR USED VEHICLE FROM JAPAN : The first thing you need consider when coming to Durban is the total cost you are likely to use for the vehicle and transporting it to your home country. Most customers who phone us think that Durban prices are the same as Japanese prices. They see prices on the internet and think that even if they come to Durban they will still pay an equal amount. That is wrong unfortunately. Durban prices are totally different from the ones you see on the internet. Prices of Japanese based companies do not include clearing fees, port charges, storage fees and some other costs involved in bringing the vehicles to Durban. Even if you buy straight from japan there is no way through which you can elude the payment of these fees, be it in Durban, Namibia or Tanzania.

HOW MUCH CAN I SAVE IF I BUY STRAIGHT FROM JAPAN

Well that depends on the type of vehicles you buy, the company from which you buy and obviously the exchange rate at the period you decide to buy. However for small vehicles, usually you may end up saving +/- 300 dollars or even spending more money than someone who buys from Durban. For example if you do not bring your bill of landing on time to Durban, then you are likely to pile storage fees, if you use the wrong clearing company, they may take days to clear your vehicle which means more costs for you. The clearing company will never cover your costs, even when they are solely to blame for the delays.

BUYING FORM DURBAN SOUTH AFRICA : There are a number of advantages associated with buying your used Japanese vehicles in Durban. These include the following :

  *No waiting period - You just choose and buy your vehicle and it is transported to your home country either same day or the following day.

*No Other Fees Charged - If you are buying from Durban, the dealerships have already taken all the tussle and hustle of clearing the vehicles from the port. You only pay for your vehicle and carrier fee for it (vehicle) to be taken to your home country. *You buy something you have physically seen not a picture on the net - If you buy on the internet you are buying a picture. The vehicle you receive could be different from the one you chose. I have come across so may complaints of customers saying the vehicles they bought was a full house but they received something totally different. A recent example is of a lady who bought a Honda CRV with leather sears and cd player radio. When the vehicle arrived, there were no leather seats inside, the radio was a cassette player.

*More than 15+ Dealerships to choose from - In Durban there are more than 15 Dealerships selling used Japanese vehicles. This gives the customer an opportunity to shop around,compare prices, compare vehicles. At the end of the day, the customers chooses the best used car from japan based on what he/she would have seen.