Baraza JM Hi Baraza I’m looking for a fancy, low-maintenance, hardy, four-wheel-drive mainly for use in city roads but with an occasional off-road run on not-so-rough terrain. My budget is below Sh3 million. I have narrowed my attention to the VW Touareg, Toyota Lexus/Harrier RX3000, Nissan Murano, Subaru Tribeca and a Hyundai (can’t remember the series). I’m, … Read more
Hi Baraza, I am in a dilemma as to which car is preferable for me between the Mazda CX-7 and Toyota Fortuner. Please advise me bearing in mind the initial cost, maintenance, fuel consumption and availability of spare parts. The Mazda looks unique and stylish, but is it as reliable and durable as the Fortuner? … Read more
Hello Baraza, I love your column and would like your advice on buying a starter car. I am a married with one child and my husband and I are planning to buy our first ride. Our Budget is about Sh350,000 to Sh400,000. We have seen some affordable choices on import websites. Kindly advice us on … Read more
Dear Baraza, I live in the UK and would like to return home with any of the following cars: Fiat Panda, Ford Focus/Fiesta, Hyundai i10/i20/i30, or Skoda Octavia/Yeti/Superb. Do we have any local service dealership or franchise for any of them in Kenya, please? Masiya. Ford and Skoda are handled by CMC Motors who, according … Read more
Hi Baraza, I always look forward to reading DN2 every Wednesday morning. 1. Kindly do a review on HINO trucks that Toyota has introduced in the market. 2. Say something about Landcruiser VX because they seem to go strong even after seeing better days. 3. How come a Landcruiser VX, which is 4700 CC VVT-I … Read more
Hi Baraza, I refer to your article in DN2 of 6 March, 2013 titled “Driving on Neutral, it makes no sense”. Please clarify if driving downhill on Drive (D), with revs reading 3000RPM does not consume fuel with my foot off the accelerator. My vehicle is a Nissan X-Trail, 2000cc. Also note that on Neutral … Read more
Hi Baraza, I have a Toyota AE91 that has been running well for a few years. Lately, however, the fourth gear slips out while driving and I am forced to bypass it and engage fifth. What could the issue be with the gearbox? Is it repairable or do I need a new gearbox. Mike Your … Read more
Hi Baraza, I am in the process of importing a BMW 3 series E90 (320i). My query is: Why does it have rave reviews in Europe, yet it hardly features on our roads? Is there something about the car that I may have overlooked? Second, I am told it is a rear-wheel-drive. How does that … Read more
Dear Baraza, I am looking for a 12- or 14-seater van. Kindly compare the Nissan Caravan and Toyota Hiace on build quality, off-road ability, fuel consumption, parts availability, and resale value in around five to seven years. What particular engine would you recommend in these two? Are there any other vehicle options in this category … Read more
Hi? I am a budding car enthusiast and recently I stumbled upon your column in the papers. I am thinking of getting myself a Ford Mustang. Please advise me on availability of the make locally, fuel consumption, spares availability and its off-road capabilities, if any. Finally, what is the range of its price range locally … Read more