Dear Baraza, In your column last week, you mentioned that the Nissan Pathfinder is a dressed-up Navara. I could not agree more, and this remark reminded me of an experience I had with traffic police officers out to nab motorists exceeding the speed limit just before Naivasha on the Nairobi-Nakuru highway a while back. I … Read more
Hi Baraza, I am confused about which of these vehicles to go for: the Volkswagen Tiguan, the Suzuki Grand Vitara, and the Mitsubishi Outlander. Given that I drive long distances and intend to use it for both business trips and family outings, which one is most suitable? Currently, I am using a manual X-Trail diesel. … Read more
Hi JM, I recently rolled over at a corner in a Nissan X-Trail but survived… with great lessons. Now I know that speed that thrills can kill. Also, I have developed a great fear for this car because I have comfortably done the same corner at a higher speed in a BMW 318. Speaking of … Read more
Dear Baraza, I’d like to know how the Ford Everest (you rarely talk about it, why?), Suzuki Grand Vitara, and Prado compare with regard to: (a) Fuel consumption (please don’t bash me, I’m so keen on this!). (b) Performance on rough and tarmac roads. (c) Durability. (d) Availability of spare parts. (e) General maintenance costs. … Read more
Hi Baraza, One of my friends who owns a Forester XT claims that, if fully stocked, the car stands a chance against a Lamborghini Gallardo LP-400 in a race. What’s your take on this? Yes, there are races in which the Forester can beat a Lambo. Off-road races. Or a race to see who can … Read more
Hi, I had a 1982 Toyota DX-KE70 model that had a 1300cc carburettor for five years. The car was lovely, extremely hardy and very reliable. It used to do 10kpl but I used to buy fuel tablets, which I would put in the fuel tank — one tablet for every 30 litres or as recommended … Read more
Hi Baraza, I have been arguing with my friends over which would be the winner in a battle involving the Subaru ST-i, the Mistubishi Evo VIII and ‘Godzilla’ (the Nissan GT-R R34). I believe in the Evo due to its superior handling capabilities while the others go with the ST-i due to its superior acceleration. … Read more
Hi Baraza, There is a car that I do not think I have read about in the recent past in your column; the Pajero iO. I would be really grateful if you can let me know its merits/demerits as a 4WD, its fuel consumption, durability and maintenance (are the spares readily available and cost effective). … Read more
Baraza, I have a Toyota Prado, model KZJ95, which I love as it is a lot of fun to ride in. However, I have two problems which I hope you can help me sort out. The first concerns consumption. The car is a 3.0 diesel and yet it consumes fuel as if crude is going … Read more
Hi Baraza, Thank you for the informative articles on motoring. I would like you to clarify something about Subarus. Are they the strongest and most powerful cars around? I am saying this because all the people I have come across driving Subarus are big-headed and arrogant on the road. They go to the extreme of … Read more