29 The Great Eastern Mail MARCH 2018 IF & Automotive Engineers E: service@iandfautomotive.com.au 83 Macleod Street, Bairnsdale VIC 3875 5152 3718 Call us today LOG BOOK SERVICING Book your service with us today! Licensed Vehicle Tester 9582LV Automotive Air Conditioning AU30956 All types of Vehicle Maintenance Latest Diagnostic Equipment EUROPEAN AUTOMOBILE SERVICE WITH an increase in equipment, complimented by subtle styling changes, the new model Renault Captur is in a better position to drive sales up and beyond those of 2017. The Captur returns with a two-model range, the base- model Zen and the top-spec Intens - mirroring the changes already seen in the Clio, Megane and Koleos range. With the new-look package, Renault is hoping that the new Captur range can revisit years of past glories where sales were stronger than what they have been of late. Hopes are high with respect to achieving this with the knowledge that both models have features not previously introduced. Styling tweaks are would expect, complete with washable seat covers, climate control, keyless start and standard sat nav. All surfaces are in a happy “space” with plastic used restrictively to supply a bright and fresh outlook. In terms of the back seat passenger and overall seat space, it has to be said this smaller SUV is above the average. The seats are designed and positioned accordingly that allow the average driver in shape and height to sit in comfort and manage a good driving session in any conditions on the open roads. The bi-level boot, with it’s capacity at its max, does become quite handy with its very subtle and may not be picked up on, even by Renault’s most enthusiastic followers. The base model Zen now has rear parking sensors, a rear view camera and auto folding side mirrors. The Intens model goes a couple of steps further. It now includes features as standard such as self-parking, LED headlights, additional parking sensors at the front and sides, panoramic sunroof (fixed), Renault’s R–Link sat nav system, and a blind-spot warning system for those sometimes tricky lane changes. The top-spec Intens now also includes a new three-mode traction-enhancing “extended grip control” system that is designed to improve abilities removable upper panel. Its size of 455/1235-litre minimum/ maximum load is rated at the upper end of its SUV class, and often bettering its rivals. The 1.2 litre turbo petrol engine, 88k/190Nm, does not disappoint and isn’t bad for torque overall. The Captur’s light kerb weight of 1215kg – below competitors such as the Mazda CX-3, Mitsubishi ASX and Holden Trax – and handy size suggests a potential for easy zipping around suburbia and that’s where it’s in its element. With the help of the self-parking system, a tight 10.4m turning circle, light, quick steering and reasonable all-round visibility, it’s a great ‘city’ car and ideal for off road - but Renault have not yet laid all its cards on the table when describing what it does. Watch this space. What we know is there are three modes, Expert, Off Road and On Road - systems designed to balance braking and engine output, depending on the terrain and road conditions the driver finds themselves in. Another, more known, addition to the Intens model is Renault’s Easy Park system. Designed with minimal input required from the driver, the self-steering system will place the vehicle into a parallel kerb side spot only 70cm longer, and 90cm wider, than the car. The Captur interior keeps its groovy French styling as you those short-sharp trips to your favourite local destinations. Off the leash and on the open road, the Captur does “buzz” along. Steering and road feel does not disappoint, it is all there. The Captur comes with five year/unlimited kilometre warranty, including a full five years of roadside assist. Drive away pricing that matches pre–on road pricing of some competitors certainly puts this little Renault SUV in a good space. Renault has definitely moved a step forward with their Captur range. Being bold and brave in both styling and price, with a generous warranty package. “Viva Le France!” New-lookCaptur isadriveonthe brightside Attentiontoeverydetailgives overallstrengthtothecar WITH Term One of the school year almost done, East Gippsland Shire Council is hoping to see an improvement in driver behaviour in school zones when Term Two begins. The roads around schools are hectic at the start and end of the school day which is why some schools have specific parking restrictions. Council’s Community Laws Coordinator Bill Petersen said most schools have drop off and pick up zones that allow parents to pull in, drop off or pick up children and then drive off. “These areas are designed to enable a large volume of cars to access the school pick up or drop off zones in a short period of time with minimal congestion,” Mr Petersen said. “Users of these zones must not leave the vehicle and have several minutes before being required to move on. Substantial fines apply to those who disobey these signs. Anyone not simply picking up or dropping off children must park in areas where there are no restrictions. Mr Petersen encouraged all parents to ensure they read the parking signs before they park. “The safe and efficient movement of vehicles around our schools is paramount to protecting our young children as they arrive and leave school each day. “Council’s Community Laws officers are often notified to deal with some motorists who continually behave in an inappropriate manner and compromise road safety,” Mr Petersen said. Council will not issue warnings to motorists doing the wrong thing. Authorised officers will be patrolling schools during peak times and issuing fines to those breaching road rules. “Motorists who offend and drive off before our officers have completed issuing the infringement will have their fine posted to them,”Mr Petersen said. Mr Petersen also reminded motorists that parking on naturestrips or footpaths is not permitted. “People sometimes use the naturestrip because they feel it is safer than parking on the road. However, it is against the Victorian Road Rules for a number of reasons. It can reduce visibility for traffic and pedestrians, damage public infrastructure above and below the ground, and may prevent emergency services from accessing key infrastructure,” Mr Petersen said. Parents needto beaware ofschool parking zones: Safetya priority