In turn Stan Karandis, general manager of Stanmar Motors told the attendees all the ins and outs of his business and the motor industry in general.
Stanmar Motors represents a number of iconic car brands like Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge. Pre-owned vehicles are also available and they sport an impressive commercial vehicle department.
Karandis said a recent poll conducted by a reputable international magazine indicated that Mercedes-Benz is one of the top 10 brands in the world. "We think of powerful brands like Microsoft, Coca-Cola and Vodafone, and it's remarkable that Mercedes-Benz is right up there with the best. We are also one of the only vehicle manu-facturers that have increased our national market share through this terrible recession. Whether you need a mom's taxi, an SUV, a rugged 4x4 or an executive sedan, we have it all.
"When I think of Mitsubishi, I think of the most gruelling race of all, the Dakar. We have 12 Dakar titles in the Pajero in the most inhospitable environment to our name, so this is a 4x4 to be reckoned with. We also have the Lancer, which usually retails for R236 900, but until stocks last, is selling for just R199 900. The car boasts a spacious and safe cabin, a peppy engine and outstanding fuel consumption.
"We also sell the Triton bakkies, that are available in petrol and diesel, in 4x2 and 4x4 derivatives and can be bought in Clubcab or double cab versions. The latest addition to the Mitsubishi family is the Pajero Sport, which is in the same league as the Toyota Fortuner. The vehicle is unbelievable off-road, has impeccable road manners and is the safest in its class."
According to Karandis Stanmar Motors is the number 1 selling Wrangler dealership in South Africa.
"Our Jeep Wrangler is an absolute cult vehicle and we saw the first of them in World War II. They are unbreakable off-road and are truly desirable. They are available in two and four door in both petrol or diesel.
"The same goes for the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee. The SRT8 on the floor is the fastest SUV in the world. It does 0-100km/h in 4.9 seconds and is governed to 250km/h. If you think that's awesome, you must see its braking figures, which match those of the acceleration."
Stanmar’s pre-owned vehicle department has performed exceptionally well over the last two years. Karandis challenged everyone to have a look at their stock of pre-owned vehicles and to find a difference between a new and used car.
He says they also have a selection of trucks and buses in their commercial vehicle division. "The Actros is the market leader in its segment, whereas the Axor is a great truck and the Fuso does not know how to break."
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At the Chamber’s networking evening were from the left Francois Joubert, Ian Matthews, dealer principal of Stanmar Motors, Val Holland from Kingswood Golf Estate, Sandra Winter from Ke Nako Golf Academy and Stan Karandis, general manager of Stanmar Motors.
