The Audi Q5 is not getting the proper attention it deserves in Kenya and we feel it’s our duty to put the good word out there. Its capabilities manifest themselves in many ways but more so when stacked up against its competitors such as the BMW X3, VW Tiguan, Volvo XC60, Land Rover Discovery Sport, Subaru Forester and Mazda CX5. The Q5 was always a top performer but the equilibrium shifted in 2013 with the arrival of the SQ5 that totally blew the competitors out of the window. Of course it comes with its fare share of problems as with any modern SUV but when all factors are considered, the Q5 emerges tops.
The Toyota RAV4 continues to be one of the best selling compact SUVs in Kenya and its demand is projected to grow with the phasing out of the Toyota Vanguard which is no longer available for import into the Kenyan market from 2021. It’s also important for buyers to know that both the 3rd generation(2005 – 2016) and the 4th generation(2013 – 2018) RAV4 will be sold in Kenya concurrently until 2023.
The BMW 5 Series is an executive car that bridges the gap between the smaller 3 Series and the swanky 7 Series. In Kenya, the 5 Series appeals to a corporate and upscale clientele that is drawn to its high-end luxury and uncompromising safety features. It’s locked in an eternal duel with the similarly loaded Mercedes Benz E-Class with buyers torn between the two. Both are really excellent cars and a choice between either usually boils down to personal preference.
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is named after the eclipse which is an event in astronomy that has dazzled humanity for ages. As the name goes, the Eclipse Cross is hoping to dazzle its way into the SUV market and spread its mystique across the globe like the solar eclipse it’s named after. It finally landed in Kenya and we immediately put it through its paces in the streets of Nairobi and the muddy tracks of the National Park. It put on such a rousing performance that we were left in no doubt of its capabilities and only wished we could spend more time in it. Its going up against the Honda Vezel, Subaru XV, Toyota C-HR, Nissan Juke and Mitsubishi RVR.
The Toyota TownAce is a long running light commercial vehicle that is widely used for cargo and passenger transport. In Kenya, it is popular in the rural towns where it enjoys great success and is regarded as a reliable workhorse. Though not famed for its looks, it offers a high level of adaptability which appeals to business people. It’s the same as the Toyota LiteAce and competes with the Mazda Bongo, Nissan Vanette and Mitsubishi Delica D2.
The Mitsubishi RVR is a compact SUV that boasts of a spacious interior and an excellent luggage capacity. We found it to be roomier, comfortable and economical than most of its rivals. It competes with the Nissan Juke, Subaru XV, Nissan Dualis and Honda HR-V.
The Mazda Verisa is a true master of deception. Let not the small stature or passive demeanor fool you. Underneath the veneer of colorful paintwork lies a potent motor that outperforms its closest rivals. There’s a perfect balance between power and weight that creates a harmonious ride reminiscent of the Mini Cooper. The Mazda Verisa competes with the Nissan March, Toyota Passo, Suzuki Swift and the Mini Cooper.
The Mitsubishi Mirage is a small car that is marketed as a fuel efficient and affordable compact. It replaced the Mitsubishi Colt that was fairly popular in Kenya especially the 1.5L turbo version that was revered by young people and racing enthusiasts. All the power is gone and racing enthusiasts will have to look elsewhere. The Mirage comes with a docile 1.0L engine that cannot mount any meaningful race. On the plus side, the Mirage is the perfect car for practical and business minded people. It’s economical, utilitarian and reliable.