by Chek Digital | Mar 22, 2019 | Audi, Car Maintenance, car service
2018 saw sports car sales fall and the trend hasn’t stopped with further falls in the first quarter of 2019. Car sales across Victoria and NSW have seen the highest drop – the fall correlates with the current decline in house prices and consumer spending. The strongest fall in sales is in the sports car category. Lately, a number of sports car manufacturers have announced they will be stopping production. The latest rumour, according to our Audi Repairs team, is that the Audi TT will stop production at the end of its run in 2022.
“I think there’s a future for an icon [like the TT] but I don’t know if it’s a TT… I’ve got some things cooking, which could replace the TT, though not necessarily directly.” Bram Schot Audi CEO
The Audi TT is not the only iconic car to halt production. Mercedes-Benz has also announced it will stop production of its SLC Roadster and, although not officially a sports car, the iconic VW Beetle is also at the end of its run.
The Audi TT made its debut at the Paris Auto Show in 1998. Prior to this, the TT concept car was described as “an enthusiasts’ car with great charisma”. The public was so enthralled with it that Audi decided to make it a reality. 20 years on, and this car has proved its iconic status in the world of sports cars but unfortunately, all good things come to an end and its reign is nearly over. However, our Audi service team is looking forward to seeing what Audi has in the works for the future.
Volks Affair: Auto Service and Repair Centre
We are one of Melbourne’s best car service and repair centres. We specialise in all European brands. If you are an Audi driver, then make sure your car is in top condition. We service and repair Audis – we’ve been in business for more than 20 years and have experienced and professional mechanics.
by Chek Digital | Mar 8, 2019 | Car Maintenance, car service
A recent study conducted by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) revealed that consumers have better relationships with independent car service centres than with dealerships.
The Best Car Mechanics
The study found that consumers valued skills, expertise and trustworthiness over fancy premises and even cost. Consumers are searching for local car mechanics or independent car service centres run by mechanics with whom they can build a relationship. Independent car service centres are viewed as more trustworthy with better skilled staff which fosters long-term consumer loyalty.
“This independently conducted AAAA consumer survey is the most comprehensive insight to consumer attitudes, trends and habits in our industry that has ever been conducted,”
stated AAAA Executive Director, Stuart Charity.
The study showed that:
- 78% of respondents believe that it is important to have a good relationship with their mechanic
- 71% of respondents trust their mechanic to select the parts to be fitted to their vehicles.
- 68% of respondents also like the fact that the person who owns the workshop is also the person working on their car.
Car Service at Volks Affair
As an independent car service centre that specialises in European brands such as BMW, Skoda, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen and Audi – we are happy to hear that Australian consumers look towards independent car service centres for their auto services and repairs. As a local Melbourne business that has been in the European Car Service industry for more than 20 years, it is wonderful to know that the public value our expertise. Our team of car mechanics are knowledgeable and skilled. We keep up-to-date with all the latest technological advances and we pride ourselves on our outstanding customer service. If you would like to book your car in for a service, please use our online booking system or give us a call.
by Chek Digital | Mar 1, 2019 | BMW, Car Maintenance, car service, News
It’s interesting to see how popular European car brands such as BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz are increasingly focusing on driver experience and creating an emotional connection to the brand. Our BMW Service team in Melbourne take a look at the future path for the popular German Auto manufacturer.
BMW Vision Next 100
BMW has revealed its futuristic Vision Next 100 concept car. The concept car is in commemoration of BMW’s hundredth anniversary and it gives us a solid idea of the direction BMW is heading in the future.
Our goal was to create a very personal vehicle. There will always be that highly emotional connection between a BMW and its driver.
Karim Habib
Head of BMW Automobile Design
Emotions are at Play
We all know that playing on people’s emotions is an age-old marketing technique, but BMW is striving to intensify the emotional connection between their brand and the driver. With today’s advances in technology the connection between driver’s and their cars can be heightened and BMWs concept car makes sure technology and driver can interact seamlessly.
BMW envisions their cars providing subtle intuitive guidance. The car will be kitted out with a digital ‘BMW Companion’ that will strive to meet personal mobility preferences. The future fully automated ‘ease-mode’ will allow the digital ‘Companion’ to take over driving tasks. In ease-mode (autonomous drive mode), the interior of the car will be designed to be a space suited to the driver preferences (it can be entertaining or relaxing). The front seats will be able to swivel round to face the back seats to ‘ease’ conversation.
In ‘boost-mode’, the seats will face forward, and the steering wheel will emerge from its hidden spot so the driver can resume control of the car.
BMW Service Melbourne: Volks Affair
At Volks Affair our BMW Service team is proud to be experts in German Autos. We specialise in BMW service and repair to keep it in optimal condition. Volks Affair is a genuine dealership alternative conveniently located in South Melbourne.
by Chek Digital | Feb 22, 2019 | Car Maintenance, car service, Mercedes-Benz
2019 has only just kicked off and the Mercedez Benz A class is already a winner. The A-Class has won 2 awards from Company Car Today who awarded the A-class ‘Car of the Year’ and ‘Premium Lower Medium Car of the Year’. It also won the What Car? safety award for 2019 when it scored the highest in the Euro NCAP crash test. Our Mercedes Specialists in Melbourne tell us why this hatchback is a great car.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class: A superior drive
The A-class is a well-deserved winner that combines interior comfort with innovative technology. It has a sleek, well-designed exterior making it a popular premium small car choice. The new model is slightly bigger and smarter than previous models, but the look stays mostly the same only slightly more refined. Of course, if you want an even sportier look you can still opt for the AMG Line package. Sat nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard with the car and who doesn’t love being able to say, ‘Hey Mercedes’.
In the safety awards, the A-class showed superiority in the protection offered during a crash and also in its crash avoidance technology making the A-class one of the safest small cars to drive. The drive assist technology includes lane centring, speed limit detection, guided lane changes and adaptive cruise control.
Volks Affair – German Car Specialists
Our Mercedes Specialists in Melbourne offer top-rated car service and repair. We specialise in German luxury brands and have a wealth of experience and knowledge when it comes to keeping cars in optimal condition. We are an independent service centre that services BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Audi and Skoda. If you’re looking for European car specialists, then give us a call or make a booking with our online booking form today.
by Chek Digital | Feb 15, 2019 | Car Maintenance, car service, Volkswagen
Our Volkswagen mechanics in South Melbourne regularly service and repair VW Golfs. The Volkswagen Golf GTI is one of the most popular hatchbacks amongst Aussie car buyers. The endurance of the Golf brand is a testament to its functionality and style. There was, however, talk of the next generation Golf GTI going hybrid but Herbert Diess, the Volkswagen Group Chairman, has revealed this is not the case.
The Future of Volkswagen’s Golf GTI
The new Golf GTI is expected to unveil in Germany in September 2019 (set for sale in 2020) but it will not be the hybrid everyone was expecting, it will rather be sticking with its petrol engine which will be tweaked for better performance. This popular car is known for its decent fuel economy and well-liked for its sporty take on the VW Golf. It’s latest unveiling will uphold its place as a benchmark amongst sporty performance-focused hatchbacks. It will still come with a standard 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and front wheel drive. All the expected safety features such as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, rear-traffic alert and forward collision warning will be offered. Fans of the Golf GTI are happy to hear this news and Volkswagen looks set to keep its enthusiastic fan base happy.
Volks Affair
Our Volkswagen Mechanics in South Melbourne specialise in the service and repair of VWs. We are an independent dealership alternative – we offer competitive pricing and have all the latest diagnostic equipment. Our friendly and highly skilled VW mechanics are here to assist you. We offer transparent pricing, expert advice and great customer service. We welcome all new and returning customers. If you’d like to make a booking, you can use our online booking system to secure a spot; if you have questions or need advice then don’t hesitate to give us a call.
by Chek Digital | Jan 25, 2019 | Car Maintenance, car service, Mercedes-Benz
Luxury car fans are in for a treat in 2019, with one of our favourite luxury brands –Mercedes-Benz – set to release a range of new models Downunder this year. From the A-Class sedan to the GLE SUV – Mercedes-Benz is breaking new ground in terms of luxury, performance and style. At Volks Affair our Mercedes service team pride themselves in keeping your luxury vehicles in optimal condition. The key to maintaining optimal performance is keeping a regular service schedule – If you’re a Mercedes-Benz driver looking for a reliable Mercedes Service in South Melbourne then look no further than our first-class mechanics at Volks Affair.
Top DIY Tips to Keep Your Mercedes-Benz in Optimal Condition
Whilst we can provide all your major and intermediate Mercedes service needs – here are some easy-care tips that will ensure your Mercedes-Benz stays in great condition for your driving pleasure (and for resale value)
1. Wash your car
To keep your paintwork in great condition, you should wash your car often. This keeps it free from road chemicals and dirt – this is especially necessary if you live in the ‘salty’ coastal areas.
2. Check your fluid levels
Check your coolant, oil and window washing fluids. To check oil, you should ensure your engine has been off for at least 5 minutes.
3. Report any new or unusual sounds to your mechanic
If your car feels or sounds different, let us know. It’s best to consult with a mechanic as soon as possible to prevent any potential further damage.
4. Inspect your tyres
Fill your tyres to the correct setting and keep an eye on the wear and tear. For optimal driving, your tyres should be rotated regularly to ensure even wear.
5. Park in a garage
Whenever possible choose covered parking to protect your car from the elements. Especially in Melbourne’s changeable climate – a sunny day may end in hail, rain and wind.
Proper care and maintenance of your Mercedes can keep it running for many rewarding years.
Volks Affair
We can provide a Mercedes car service and repair at affordable and competitive rates. Our Mercedes service mechanics are highly trained and able to offer in-depth insights into the condition of your Mercedes-Benz. We are a dealership alternative and offer personal service and invest time in seeing that you get the best care possible.
