Blog Archives - Page 4 of 6

EOFY – The best time of the year to bag a car bargain!

Posted on May 6, 2018 at 10:52 pm.

Thanks to oversupply and stocktakes, EOFY is one of the best times to buy a new car. Here are 3 proven tips and tricks to rely on, along with some of the most common pitfalls to avoid.

1 – Plan ahead

EOFY deals are only on the table until July 1. After that, it’s business as usual, so take the time to do your research and sort out your finance before you hit the showrooms. That way, you’ve got time to consider multiple options without succumbing to the pressure last minute buying can bring. It’s also worth remembering that delivery on new cars can take up to 6 weeks, so getting started sooner rather than later is always a good idea.

2 – Don’t be afraid to bargain

Dealers are in the game to make money, so it pays to remember that as great as that EOFY offer seems, it still contains a built-in margin. With that in mind, don’t be afraid to ask for an even bigger discount. If your dealer can’t (or won’t) go down on price, see which optional extras they’re prepared to throw in to sweeten the deal. Conversely, you can also ask about which optional extras they’d be prepared to discard to bring your costs down.

3 – Read the fine print

Some deals look great on the surface, but when you get down to the details, they don’t always stack up. To ensure you’re not getting taken for a ride, take the time to read the fine print and don’t let slick sales talk lead you astray. Pay particular attention to delivery costs and finance deals and ensure any ‘additional extras’ aren’t reflected in the ultimate purchase price.

Work with the experts

With fleet buying power and financial savvy on our side, we can help you find the EOFY deal that’s the perfect fit for your budget and your lifestyle. We know all the tax time tips that’ll ensure you get maximum bang for your buck and have access to deals you won’t get as an individual buyer. To find out more, get in touch with us today.

Introducing the Ford Ranger Raptor

Posted on April 4, 2018 at 10:21 pm.

Written by Michellep

The new Ford Ranger Raptor’s covers have been taken off and it’s got everyone’s attention. Like the F-150 Raptor before it, it has been extensively developed, factory-built and factory-warranted. It’s the off-road performance truck you’ve been waiting for and Ford means business.

Looks that thrill

With pumped front and rear guards house wider tracks at both ends and bespoke alloy wheels wrapped in off-road tyres, the new Raptor certainly looks the business. An imposing new grille adds to the rugged look and is set to take everything nature can throw at it. A two-stage powder and grit process on the running boards ensures high-level protection from scratches and stains while extra under-body protection helps to keep expensive components from damage. Colour choices of Conquer Grey, Frozen White, Lightening Blue, Race Red and Shadow Black guarantees everyone’s aesthetics will be satisfied. Throw in lightening blue stitching, leather-accents and a heated leather steering wheel and it’s a beast that won’t be confused for anything else.

Proven performance

The more aggressive look isn’t just for show. Those new alloy wheels hide larger brakes and suspension is now replete with Fox Racing Shox for significantly improved control and capability off road. Ahead of the new 10-speed auto transmission is an equally-new 2.0lt bi-turbo diesel engine, generating 157kW of power and a whopping 500Nm of torque, allowing for improved performance across a greater range of conditions. Driver assist tech like Terrain Management, trailer sway control and roll-over mitigation are all included and recalibrated to help ensure safety.

Intelligent tech

A reverse camera is standard, along with an 8.0-inch touch screen enabled SYNC 3 infotainment system complete with voice control, sat-nav and Bluetooth connectivity. An Intelligent Access key with remote start is included, along with the EZ Lift Tailgate which Ford claims reduces your lifting effort by 66%. According to Ford’s Performance Chief Engineer, Jamal Hameedi, it’s a motorcross bike and ATV rolled into a pick-up truck and will be a unique offering in the Australian market when available in the latter half of 2018.

Coming to a showroom near you

You can expect to see the new Raptor in showrooms late in the second half of 2018. Prices haven’t yet been released but are expected to hover around $80,000. Watch this space for more details.

Novated leasing – how does it work?

Posted on March 12, 2018 at 11:43 pm.

Written by Michellep

Whether you’re an employee or an employer, novated leasing is one of the most tax effective and flexible ways to finance your next car, saving you considerable money on tax and GST. Here’s how it works and why it’s worth considering.

If you’re an employee

Fleet discounts on the price of the car, servicing and tyres are just some of the benefits on offer with a novated lease. A novated lease allows you to use some of your pre-tax dollars to pay for running costs, allowing you to save an average of $4,132 per year, making a novated lease one of the most financially sound ways to purchase and run your next car.

So how does it work?

It’s simple: you choose your dream car and our sister-company, beCarWise does the rest. They tailor a quote for you and once you’re approved they take care of the details and the setup with your employer; payment of the lease and running costs is done with a simple, regular payroll deduction.

As a beCarWise customer, you’ll also benefit from:

Savings on GST payable on the purchase price, repayments and running costs of your new car;
Discounts on servicing, tyres and batteries, along with an easy-to-use fuel card;
Monthly driver reports allowing you to keep track of how your budgets are going with at-a-glance ease.

Choices, choices, choices

Under a novated lease, you have the flexibility of a new, used or existing car and a choice of term from 12 to 60 months. Additionally, when your lease is up you can choose to keep and re-novate for an additional term, pay out and keep your vehicle, or trade up to the latest and greatest.

You can also have more than one lease at a time, use your new car for business or personal purposes and often don’t need to drive a set number of kilometres over the life of the lease.

How does it work for employers?

It’s easy as 1, 2, 3…

Step 1. beCarWise procures the employee’s car of choice at fleet discounts not available to individual buyers. They work with them to tailor a package that suits their needs.

Step 2. They work with your payroll department to create the payroll deductions and assist your business with the setup process. They handle the setup, determine the deductions and supply you with easy-to-understand information to get things underway and they’re always on hand to answer questions you may have.

Step 3. You reduce your company tax, reward your employees and become an employer of choice with greater staff retention and reduced turnover costs. With employees saving an average of $4,132 on average per year, it’s one of the easiest ways to keep your employees happy.

Want to know more?

beCarWise is a sister-company of Platform Direct Finance and is a nationally recognised expert in novated leasing. They have the knowledge and experience you need to make an informed decision. Give them a call on 1300 734 500 to learn more, or visit www.becarwise.com.au to calculate your savings today.

7-step guide to caring for your car

Posted on March 9, 2018 at 1:59 am.

Written by Michellep

Cleaning your car doesn’t just keep it looking good, it also makes it easier to maintain and, later on down the line, easier to sell. Here are the 7 steps you need to follow to keep your ride looking super slick.

Step 1 – Always read the label

Before you get busy with your car cleaning chemicals, read the label. Application methods vary from brand to brand and car to car and using the wrong product (or using the right product the wrong way) could cause some serious damage. We also recommend you invest in some microfibre cloths – keep separate ones for paint, wheels and windows and give them a wash after every use.

Step 2 – Rinse

Before you put pad to paint, it’s a good idea to park your car in a shady spot and give it a top-down rinse first. Rinsing your vehicle first with a high-pressure hose (or a high-pressure washer if you have one) helps to remove dirt and contaminants that can get caught up in your sponge or wash mitt and scratch the paint.

Step 3 – Wash

Next you want to grab a good quality car was detergent (household detergents can often contain harsh chemicals that can damage your vehicle’s paintwork) and start working from the top of the car down in sections and rinsing as you go. We also suggest a separate cloth or to clean door sills and exhaust tips as these can be especially dirty. Once you’ve washed and rinsed the vehicle, use a chamois to dry the vehicle off to help avoid water spots.

Step 4 – Prep your surface

After your car has had a good clean, you may notice scratches, swirls and oxidation in the paint that washing can’t remove. A clay bar is an effective, gentle way to remove more stubborn contaminates from the paint surface, restoring smoothness to the finish. For scratches and etching under the surface, you can use a compound applied by hand with applicator pads or a dual-action polisher, being careful to follow all instructions.

Step 5 – Polish

Polishing is an optional extra and can be done by hand or with a dual-action polisher. For dark coloured vehicles, it’s particularly effective as the conditioning oils add depth of colour and maximum gloss before waxing.

Step 6 – Wax on, wax off

Waxing protects your car from UV rays that can fade your finish, as well as anything that may land on the paint. You can go with a carnauba or polymer wax – both perform the same way but a polymer wax can usually be wiped off soon after application and won’t haze as it dries.

Step 7 – Windows and wheels

Steer clear of Windex and other household glass cleaners as they can damage your window tint. Instead, use an auto window cleaner, wiping down twice to ensure the cleaner is properly removed. For your wheels, use the cleaner formulated for your type of wheel. If you’re not sure, pick the least powerful version which can be used on all types of wheels.

And that’s it, you’re done!

Driving to make a difference – Electric and Hybrid cars

Posted on March 9, 2018 at 1:57 am.

Written by Michellep

Previously the realm of science fiction, electric and hybrid cars are now an everyday reality. But how exactly do they work? What’s the difference between the two, and which one should you buy? We’ve got your basic breakdown right here.

Electric cars

Just as the name suggests, electric cars are powered by an electric motor (or two). Rather than being powered by petrol or diesel, they use energy stored in rechargeable batteries which are recharged can be charged by household power point, though some manufacturers offer higher-capacity chargers that can be installed in your home or in the case of Tesla, their Superchargers for even faster charge times. Being electric, they don’t produce any tailpipe emissions, reduce our ongoing dependence on oil, and can be cheaper to run. They’re also especially quiet to drive, with substantial performance to boot.

Hybrid cars

Combining a petrol or diesel engine with an electric motor and a battery, hybrid cars are precisely that. More efficient than their conventional counterparts, they require less petrol or diesel to run and subsequently produce less emissions. There are currently 3 different types of hybrids on the market – parallel, range extender and plug-in hybrids. Although they all work slightly differently, they drive much the same as a conventional car. They also come with a range of power modes, enabling drivers to choose either maximum efficiency or performance, depending on the driving conditions.

3 options to consider

Hyundai Ioniq

Arriving in Australia soon, the Hyundai’s Ioniq will have the Toyota Prius firmly in its sights. However, unlike its Japanese competitor, Hyundai is hoping the Ioniq will be available in Australia with regular hybrid, plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) and pure electric versions to appeal to more customers. Hyundai’s eco offering will also come with a dual-clutch gearbox (hybrid models only), promising a sharper drive without the “rubber band” feeling that comes with the CVT transmissions that are typical of the hybrid breed. Pricing is expected to open Around $35,000 for the regular hybrid, rising to almost $50,000 for the pure electric model.

Toyota Prius

The darling of the eco and Hollywood set, the Toyota Prius is now in its fourth generation and maintains its position as the world’s best-selling hybrid vehicle. The value proposition and driving dynamics have been improved over its predecessor and sharp and distinctive styling ensures it won’t go unnoticed. It comes with a suite of technology, a fresh interior design and proven reliability. With lots of mod cons you’d expect like active cruise control, pre-collision safety system and LED headlights, those after an eco-focused driving should have the Prius on their shopping list.

Tesla Model 3

Set to land in Australia in early 2019, the Model 3 will bring Tesla into the most hotly-contested luxury segment – the compact sedan segment currently dominated by BMW’s 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz’s C-Class. Pricing is expected to be comparable to those competitors, starting around the early $50,000 mark, plus on-road costs. However, whilst the pricing is similar, the performance is in another league. Even in the base spec, this sexy looking sedan dispatches the 0-100km/h sprint in only 5.6 seconds, humbling all but focused performance machines.

Volvo’s XC60 – 2018 Wheels Car of the Year

Posted on February 12, 2018 at 1:42 pm.

Written by Michellep

Zooming past a field of 22 contenders, the new Volvo XC60 has scooped the coveted Wheels Car of the Year Award for 2018. Employing Volvo’s latest design language, the XC60 is Scandinavian design through and through with clean, chiseled lines that are unmistakably Volvo and propel its mid-size SUV into a true stand-out.

Sporting Volvo’s latest range of turbo petrol and diesel engines, the XC60 is both easier to drive and kinder to the environment. The clean-sheet and contemporary design carries through to the lush interior with outstanding materials and quality that give an air of sophisticated luxury that’s easily a match for its German rivals, whilst remaining distinctly Swedish.

Power to the people

In keeping with Volvo’s drive for efficiency, the XC60’s powertrain options borrow from its big brother, the XC90. Gone are the days of thirsty six-cylinder engines and in come Volvo’s latest family of petrol, diesel and hybrid powerplants that opens with the D4 (diesel) and T5 (petrol) twins, moving up to the flagship T8 hybrid, which promises 100km/h from a standing start in a hot hatch-humbling 5.3 seconds. At the same time Volvo claims a miserly 2.1 litres per 100km’s for the hybrid powerplant.

Confidence, comfort and connection

The XC60 has been designed to be a family SUV that puts comfort ahead of dynamism. Whilst the offerings from Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz offer a relatively sporting drive, the Volvo seeks to pamper its occupants with a ride that’s more prestige than hot hatch. The result is a family vehicle that puts the family front and centre, with excellent refinement complimenting the lovely interior to help create a serene environment. Thoughtful touches abound inside and it shows it’s a family vehicle that was designed by people who have families of their own.

Terrific tech

The new XC60 shares much of its tech with the larger XC90, including seats, dash, materials and the tablet-style touchscreen media system (complete with sat-nav, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto). A cinch to operate, the touchscreen works much the same as a smartphone, providing total driver control whilst also affording a clean dash design that’s also intuitive. The screen controls all the in-car safety elements including the lane-keeping assist system, semi-automated parking system and blind-spot monitoring.

Massaging front seats and three-zone climate control with rear heating/cooling and a fan control panel ensure passengers ride in ultimate comfort, while the spacious second row has enough room for two tall adults or a clutch of kids. Whilst not as capacious as some rivals, the boot boasts a 505L capacity and on models with air suspension, the load area can be raised or lowered, making it easy as to get all your gear in.

Availability and pricing

Australian pricing starts at $59,990 (plus on-road costs) for the Momentum D4. The Inscription D4 comes onto the stage at $66,990 (plus on-road costs). If the flagship is calling you, the R-Design T8 comes in at $92,990 (plus on-road costs).

And if you’re ready to buy, we’re ready to help you get behind the wheel. Our car buying service can secure you a fantastic deal without any fancy footwork – contact us and see how easy buying your next car can be.

Self-employed? A low-doc car loan might be the answer

Posted on February 12, 2018 at 12:06 pm.

Written by Michellep

Whether you’re self-employed or simply low on documentation, a low-doc loan might be the answer to your new car dreams. Here’s a brief rundown on who they’re for and how they work.

What is a low-doc loan?

A low-doc loan is precisely what it says on the tin – a loan requiring low or little documentation. Designed primarily for ABN holders and the self-employed, it’s a great option when you may not have filed a tax return for the previous financial year and/or can’t provide pay slips as proof of regular income.

How does it work?

Low-doc loans use ‘alternative verifications’ to verify income. This allows potential borrowers (most commonly new business owners) to use documents like bank, credit card and BAS statements to support an application for car finance.

Things to keep in mind

You’ll often find one of the conditions of the loan is that the vehicle must be used primarily for business purposes, but if you’re self-employed, that’s generally not a hassle.
You’ll also need to supply the requisite proof of ID, along with trust deeds or partnership agreements if applicable to your business.
Most lenders will require you to have held an ABN for a minimum of 12 months and depending on your financer, you may also need to have been registered for GST for a similar period.
A clear and positive credit history is also a bonus, and if you’re a property owner and mortgage holder you may find the wheels move more smoothly.
It also pays to remember that your lender may require an asset as security for the loan (this may be the vehicle itself).

At the end of the day, a low-doc loan is like any other loan in that requirements differ from lender to lender, so contact one of our loan experts before committing to anything. We can find the best lender to suit your situation. A new business shouldn’t preclude you from investing in your very own set of wheels, so don’t be surprised if you find yours is waiting just around the corner.

Worried about a write-off? Value Protect Insurance has your finance covered

Posted on January 10, 2018 at 3:28 pm.

Written by Michellep

Think comprehensive car insurance will completely cover your back in the event of an accident? Think again. If your car is declared a write off, comprehensive cover may not bridge the gap between what your old car is worth, and what your new car will cost.

Sobering thought right?

But there is a solution.

If you’re unlucky enough to have your car written off, Value Protect Insurance provides the additional coverage you need. An add on to your comprehensive insurance, it’ll kick in if your comprehensive insurer makes a total loss payment for an accident that occurs during the period of your finance/contract.

So, what actually gets paid out?

Great question. VPI will pay the greater of the following:

The loan settlement amount you owe your car financier, less the total loss payment

The replacement vehicle value less the total loss payment. This should cover the gap between the vehicle that’s been written off and the one you’ll purchase to replace it. The replacement vehicle value is set when you apply for your VPI, however, the replacement value can’t be more than the value of your vehicle at the date the policy comes into force.

There’s also the added bonus that if you have new for old replacement cover and you don’t redeem your VPI, you’ll get your premium (less minimal administration costs) back.

Are there any restrictions?

There are some limits to VPI. Your vehicle must not be:

More than 10 years old when the cover is taken out
A motorcycle
Used as a taxi or a courier, delivery or any other vehicle used to transport goods for hire, fare or reward

Can VPI be part of my car finance package?

When you take out VPI with us, yep, it absolutely can. A lot of financiers don’t offer this option, but as your one-stop auto shop, we’re more than happy to help you out. Alternatively, you can pay via monthly instalments or one up-front payment.

Easy right?

Things to keep in mind

As with any kind of insurance, it’s your responsibility to determine whether VPI coverage is right for you. That’s why we recommend you take the time to consider the Product Disclosure Statement and ensure the level of coverage provided is suitable for your needs. When making your decision, you should consider:

The amount you’ve borrowed under your loan contract
The amount your comprehensive insurer will potentially pay out in the event of a total loss payout
The potential difference between the amount payable under your loan contract or the likely replacement cost for a new car and the total loss payment

You should also consider how much you can afford to be out of pocket if the worst happens and a total loss occurs.

Questions?

We’re here to help, so bring it on! For more information on VPI and how it can provide added protection in the event of a serious bingle, contact us.

Refer a friend and get a Free $100 Fuel voucher

Posted on December 5, 2017 at 1:30 pm.

Written by Michellep

There are two things we love more than anything else.

The first is helping customers get the best deal on a new car. And thanks to our free car buying service, quick and easy finance pre-approval and a range of insurance options, that’s exactly what they get.

Throw in independent, expert advice on your finance and motoring options and a choice of over 30 lenders for business or consumer loans and it’s obvious you’d be crazy to go it alone.

And the second thing we love?

Rewarding people for helping us out.

That’s why, when you refer a friend or family member to us, we’ll reward you with $100 WORTH OF FREE FUEL. Just our way of saying “Thank You” for your support.

To claim your reward, simply email us at [email protected]. Include the subject line ‘Refer a friend to Platform Direct’ and one of our expert consultants will be in touch to get the ball rolling. Once your friend’s loan is settled, we’ll pop a fuel card of your choice in the post (choose from BP, Caltex or Shell) and you’ll be fueling up on us in no time.

For more information, email us at [email protected]

Happy driving!

Toyota HiLux range gets a revamp

Posted on November 9, 2017 at 2:09 am.

Written by Michellep

A new lease on life for Australia’s best-selling vehicle range

A favourite of tradies, families and fleet buyers alike, the revamped Toyota HiLux range is ready to hit the streets. With 10 new auto variants available, here are just some of the reasons it might be high time to consider a HiLux.

10 new variants

Sales records have proven the HiLux a reliable best-seller for years now and with the removal of V6 petrol variants and the addition of 10 new ones to fill the gap, Toyota is hoping to continue the trend. According to Toyota Australia’s Executive Director of Sales and Marketing, Tony Cramb, the changes are designed to strengthen the sales potential of HiLux and are “the result of detailed analysis of buyer trends and feedback from dealers over the past two years”.

Autos and two-wheel-drive

According to Toyota, HiLux drivers want three things – diesel, auto transmission and two-wheel drive. So they’re giving the people what they want. To meet demand, the new range includes 17 self-shifters, up from 12 previously, along with 2 new two-wheel-drive Hi-Riders, growing the range from 3 models to 5. An affordable option for buyers who don’t need full-on off-road capability but want the looks and superior ground clearance of a HiLux 4×4, they’re sure to be top-sellers.

SR changes

SR buyers have also been vocal about what they want in a set of wheels, and it doesn’t include carpet. Hard wearing, durable PVC floor coverings are now standard in all models, and the SR extra cab-chassis in manual also makes a reappearance, along with a newly added automatic version.

There’s something for everyone

All in all, there are still 31 HiLux variants on the market, including 23 genuine one-tonners. Fuel economy varies from 7.1 to 7.7 litres per 100 kilometres for manuals and 8.3 to 8.5 per 100 kilometres for 6 speed autos. And a further benefit for the budget conscious, the entire new range is covered by Toyota Service Advantage capped-price servicing, ensuring a flat $180 per service for petrol and $240 per service for diesel.

Time for a new set of wheels?

With the new line now on sale, there’s never been a better time to consider a HiLux. Get in touch and our expert team can help you find the right deal at the right price, without the dramas of a dealership.

Equipment finance

Trucks and trailers

Cash Flow Finance

Corporate finance

Fitout finance

Estimate your repayments with Platform

1. How much would you like to borrow?

2. Where can we send your estimate?

Your quote is