STATEMENT PIECE
DESIGNER TURET KNUEFERMANN’S THE TRAVEL EDIT SHOW IS OPENING 2018 FASHION WEEK
What you are driving?
A breathtaking 2018 Mercedes AMG CLA 45 Shooting Brake automatic in an elegant grey. I am besotted with it.
And you’re a Mercedes-Benz friend of the brand?
I have the pleasure of driving a Mercedes for the year and I think it will be near impossible to consider any other make after this. Not only is it a beautiful statement but, with its incredible specs, it makes a difference to my driving experience and lifestyle. Its intelligence and ability help in typical driving circumstances and the safety factor is a priority for me — with my son, Ayrton, I feel like I have more precious cargo.
Did you or Mercedes-Benz choose the car?
I chose the Shooting Brake and have had the pleasure of driving the CLA 250 in obsidian black and now the CLA 45, which is even more sporty and makes for an even more exciting driving experience.
In your designs, you have a preference for luxury fabrics, clean lines, and unfussy silhouettes. How does that translate to this car?
This car encompasses all these elements. Its interior is luxurious with every detail considered and meticulously finished. The clean outside lines make it appear light and effortlessly sporty despite its solid structure and incredible technology.
How far do you drive it in Auckland?
I drive daily between stores, manufacturers and suppliers. Features such as keyless entry and locking are a must for any mum/ designer/creative who tends to carry copious bags. The sunroof makes you feel like you’re on holiday and allows you to snatch a little fresh air and vitamin D while on the road. The intelligent alerts, such as when changing lanes or nearing another object, add to the security and your well-being.
What do you keep in your car?
My clothing bar, which slots into the back arm supports and carries copious garments, a phone cord and snacks.
How do you think this car fits your personality?
It’s quick and classic and reliable.
And your lifestyle?
I love speed and it’s there when I need it. I love to zip from A to B and squeeze as much as possible into every day. It feels stylish and is a great reflection of the Knuefermann brand.
Tell us about your show at Fashion Week?
The show, The Travel Edit, embraces a versatile, contemporary collection of musthaves that bring a sense of lifestyle into your everyday wardrobe and are the essential travel pieces. We are opening Fashion Week this Monday, at 8.30pm.
First car you owned?
My first car, about 25 years ago, was a 1990 Honda Prelude 2.2 VTEC and I loved it. It was a bit small for fitting in rolls of fabric but I managed to squeeze them in among my cat and copious shoes. I drove it for a long time. After that I bought a Mercedes station wagon, which also remained trusty for many years. I tend to keep my cars for a long time so buy something that will stand the test of time.
Your dream car?
A 1970s 350 SL Mercedes convertible in midnight blue with an electric motor, or the one I’m driving now.
Favourite movie car scene?
Arabesque (1966). Professor David Pollock (Gregory Peck) and Yasmin Azir (Sophia Loren) tool around exchanging one-liners and crazy plot twists in a gorgeous red Mercedes 230 SL.
Great day trip out of Auckland?
Taupo¯ . They have brought the horses in for summer trekking and I am looking forward to doing this after Fashion Week to relax and regroup with the family.
How do you feel about technology and cars?
I can imagine myself in a driverless car; I do trust that they will enhance our lives.
Your view on Auckland’s traffic?
I work my hours to avoid traffic and feel lucky to be able to, but embrace more train options.