Five New Cars Govt Ministers Can Afford in 2016
The 2016 Budget speech killed off hopes that office-bearing
politicians may have had of procuring first class sedans and premium
SUVs at the government's expense. We suggest five vehicles that will
comply with the ministerial handbook and provide respectable transport
According to Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan the new car
allowance is subject to “new guidelines to limit the value of vehicle
purchases for political office bearers”. The furore over ministerial
vehicle purchases refuses to subside; the issue came to a head in 2009
when some ministers were accused of wasteful expenditure on vehicles
costing in excess of R1-million.As it stands now, the ministerial handbook dictates vehicle purchases must not exceed R750 000, which rules out many vehicles commonly associated with the "blue-light brigade". This has got us thinking. Which vehicles would be most appropriate for our government officials, yet tick the affordability boxes both in terms of outright purchases and running costs.
Lexus ES
For those wanting comfort, a multitude of features and generous rear legroom, the Lexus ES is hard to fault. Not only is well built, it’s also reasonably cheap to run. The engines offer reasonable performance and return respectable fuel consumption. The boot’s hugely spacious, plus the ES is generic in the styling department, so you can arrive at events discreetly.
Toyota Fortuner
The new Toyota Fortuner has just been launched and it's a rugged, capable vehicle that offers affordable (by large SUV standards) comfort and luxury. Expect some powerful engines and it’ll seat seven passengers in comfort. With its offroad ability, crossing any terrain will be easy and this vehicle is perfect for those who work in the remote regions of South Africa.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class was launched internationally and it’s due in SA soon. While it’s significantly cheaper than the popular flagship Mercedes-Benz S-Class, it incorporates several new technological features and boasts a level of refinement that many would expect from a first class car. The E200 costs R709 357; which even leaves room for extra spec!
BMW 5 Series
Politicians who were previously partial to the 7 Series will be forced to scale down because as the latest model exceeds the R750 000 limit. The good news is that the BMW 520i and 520d falls within this price limit and the better news is that it’s a really good drive too. For those who drive themselves, they’ll be rewarded with a sporty and luxurious driving experience...
Land Rover Discovery Sport
If the Toyota Fortuner is deemed too uncomfortable and not premium enough for our ministers’ needs, then we can recommend the Land Rover Discovery Sport. It won Best Leisure vehicle in the Cars Awards and this Discovery Sport SD4 SE version is R100 000 within budget. It’ll go offroad comfortably and even boasts seven-seat practicality.
