Mazda is somewhat of the everyman’s BMW. The small Japanese company’s trophy case is stuffed with awards, its design language is passionate, and there is a dollop of the magical Miata in every car’s driving dynamic. And that is true even in the five-passenger CX-5 crossover. Just one letter away from the MX-5 (Miata is … Read more
Hey Jim. I want to know more about the Nissan GTR 2012 model. I don’t know the right questions to ask but I’d just like to know whether it is suitable for everyday use? Is it efficient in terms of performance — power, speed and handling? I have seen it on racetracks as well as … Read more
Hello Baraza, I have previously owned a Toyota AE100 and 110. I now believe it is time for upgrade. I am looking for a used car that won’t cost more than Sh2m. Though I mostly drive in urban areas, I won’t mind a four-wheel drive (4WD). I am looking for stability, safety, comfort and manageable fuel cost. … Read more
Hi JM, Could you please explain to us this small mystery… Many versatile 4x4s like the (police) Landcruisers have free-spinning front hubs which you must physically get out into the mud to lock before engaging four-wheel drive. This free-wheeling, we were told long ago, enhances fuel consumption on tarmac by reducing drag on the front … Read more
In regards to the Honda Accord and Honda CRV, they are both good cars, but my friends advised me against them citing poor resale value. Is this true? If yes, which is the better option with a better resale value? How about the Toyota Camry? Does it have good resale value like other Toyota vehicles … Read more
Hello Baraza, Thank you for your advice on motoring. Could you kindly take your time to help me decide on what is the best vehicle in relation to the issues I state below? 1. Infrequent travel on the rough roads of areas like Marsabit, Turkana, and the coastal region. 2. Going to work in town. … Read more
Hello Braza, Thank you very much for your advice on tyre size. It worked perfectly. I have one other question. Somebody advised me to be changing my gear selection to N (Neutral) when going downhill in order to save fuel. Is this true? Does it have any adverse effect on the vehicle, especially when I … Read more
Hi Baraza, Your column is like a special motoring university. Kudos! I am moving back to Kenya from the UK at the end of the year and intend to reward myself with a car after my studies. I have identified the following used cars based on how much I want to spend (both cost here … Read more
Hello Baraza For years, people have always had different issues on petrol and diesel engines. Some say diesel cars do not perform like petrol ones, they do not last long and are more expensive to maintain. Please clarify this issue for me in respect to the questions below: 1: I’ve always thought that car performance … Read more
Hi Baraza, I understand the Russians make some of the best war planes and tanks, but rarely do we see Russian products on our roads, like the Niva, or the Kamaz, which I understand has won the Dakar Rally nine times in a row. Tell me about the Lada Niva and the Mazda 6 Joe … Read more