#9 Nissan Patrol – Great looks, more luxury

Reliable, unbreakable, affordable: The Nissan Patrol is a name synonymous with ruggedness, a legendary off-roader capable of going anywhere, anytime. Meticulously honed for over five decades, the Patrol is Nissan's flagship large SUV model and enjoys a rich heritage that dates back to the 1950's.

Nissan Patrol 

This impressive SUV has also made its mark in Africa where it has taken explorers, travellers and adventure enthusiast on the toughest terrains our continent has to offer. The Nissan Patrol is back as an all-new seventh generation model, building on its impressive history, but at the same time, incorporating a new platform, a radical new design direction, significantly enhanced interior comfort and luxury, powerful new V8 engine, a 7-speed automatic transmission and a new 4WD system.

Large, appealing and practical 

Design

The all-new Nissan patrol is not as edgy and hardcore as its predecessor. The softer new surfaces are beautiful and add a sense of modernity to its new design, while still maintaining a ruggedness and commanding road presence. A restyled grille, which is adorned in chrome, new powerful headlamps, and a long bonnet add to its dynamic and aggressive front stance. The all-new Nissan Patrol’s profile is dominated by larger doors and windows (compared to its predecessor) and large 20-inch wheels which come as standard. New rear lights, with LEDs, are visible at the back while a roof spoiler improves the aerodynamics of the all-new Nissan Patrol.

Distinct profile 

Performance

The Nissan Patrol is one of the most powerful vehicles in its class. The key technology achieving this jump in performance over the predecessor's 4.8 litre power plant is the newly developed 'VK56VD' 5.6-litre V8 power plant, which generate 298kW (400hp) and 550Nm of torque. The power plant needs 14.1 litres of fuel per 100km and has a top speed of 200km/h. Paired with the engine is a new 7-speed automatic transmission that gives the off-roader the ability to deliver power faster.

Large spacious boot 

Ride

The  Nissan Patrol employs a Hydraulic Body Motion Control System (HBMC), which keeps the car flatter (with less body roll during lane-changing and cornering), while delivering a comfortable ride in city driving and superb stability on rugged and sandy tracks. Another crucial part of the handling equation comes from the new suspension system, which now employs 4-wheel independent suspension, upgraded from the previous rigid axle setup. The Nissan Patrol also employs a newly developed ALL MODE 4x4 system incorporating a variable 4x4 mode package. The system allows the driver to switch quickly between four drive modes: sand, on-road, snow and rock, at flick of a button.

Nissan Patrol in action 

Interior

Featuring generous amounts of leather, polished aluminium and wood grain panelling, the Nissan Patrol's interior has also been significantly upgraded. The designers wanted to create a better, higher quality interior for the whole family. The Nissan Patrol delivers seat dimensions outclass most of its rivals. Boasting wider, higher and deeper front seats, the Nissan Patrol offers over 100 mm more legroom for second row passengers and a roomier third row of seats as well.

Cockpit 

Comforts

Nissan designers paid special attention to the second row seat passengers, not only by significantly expanding legroom, but by also fitting a new multi-screen DVD entertainment system. It boasts two rear-facing TVs: One 7-inch monitor embedded into each front seat headrest.

Spacious cabin 

Fitted with six airbags for top grade, the Nissan Patrol also comes with a totally revised climate control system boasting another world-first - the curtain vent. Curtain vent has several small but highly effective vents mounted in the ceiling above each side window to blow a strong current of cool air down forming a curtain of air that acts as a barrier to heat penetrating the cabin.

Less boxy than its predecessor 

Verdict

The Nissan Patrol delivers impressive performance anyway you go. The SUVs ability to combine premium-saloon levels of luxury with great off road capability is something worth noting. Although the 5.6-litre V8 engine might not be the ideal choice on a SUV these days, you will only need to feel the incredible surge of power and the power unit’s charming soundtrack to sign the cheque. If you are in the market for a large, adequately equipped, and powerful SUV, the Nissan Patrol should be among the first choices on your list. An updated 2015 model has already been launched in Dubai. 

2015 Nissan Patrol

#8 All-New Mitsubishi Outlander – Efficient and improved

Debuting a few years after the start of the new millennium, the first-generation Mitsubishi Outlander was a late arrival to the small-SUV segment. Like many of its peers, the first generation model had a car-based design that translated into good handling and a comfortable ride on paved roads, but limited off-road capability.

All-New Mitsubishi Outlander 

With so many competitors, Mitsubishi tried to set the Outlander apart with distinctive styling and sporty characteristics. However, it was not until Mitsubishi launched the second generation model that the world begun to notice the great qualities the Outlander had. The popular second generation model is paving way to an all-new model. The all-new Mitsubishi Outlander brings with it a radical redesign, more interior luxury, and comfort combined with great performance.

The three generations of the Outlander 

Design

With its eye-catching, thoroughly modern all-new sheet-metal design, the all-new Mitsubishi Outlander is one of the most aerodynamically-efficient crossovers in its class. Whether its high flanks, raised beltline, uncluttered surfaces, strong shouldering or soft-contoured fenders, the crossover offers a very comforting sense of quiet protection and safety to its occupants - a quality car of substance devoid of cheap styling thrills and designed for the long-haul travelling its innovative power-train will allow. The all-new Mitsubishi Outlander's exterior design is further enhanced by a slim front aerodynamic grille, with stylish hockey-shaped chromed strips that shield the three-diamond logo, in-between the feline look of the sculptured wrap-around headlamps.

Distinct profile 

Performance

The all-new Mitsubishi Outlander is available with an efficient yet capable power train: a 2.4-liter inline-4-cylinder engine working in concert with a technologically advanced continuously-variable transmission (CVT). Designated the 4J12, the 16-valve 2.4-liter SOHC 4-cylinder engine features an aluminum engine block and the latest version of Mitsubishi Innovative Valve-timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) variable valve-lift system for maximum power production and fuel efficiency as well as reduced exhaust emissions.

2.4 litre power unit 

Horsepower is rated at 123 kW (166 hp) at 6,000 rpm with torque of 219 Nm. A reworking of the CVT control system and new unique ratio patterns allow the updated continuously-variable transmission (CVT) to reduce fuel consumption while providing additional driving enjoyment thanks to better shifting feel and smoother acceleration.

Practical and spacious interior 

Interior

The all-new Mitsubishi Outlander's clean; contemporary-looking interior receives an entirely new makeover as well that features vastly improved premium surfaces and high-grade materials including a soft-touch instrument panel and attractive high-gloss piano black center console panel. Helping to make the cabin exceptionally quiet is an abundant use of high-grade sound insulation material throughout the crossover. For additional comfort and improved ergonomics, all seven of the passenger seating sections have been completely reconfigured, with the designers paying particular attention to making the fold-flat seats. 

Cockpit 

The second row seats have a 60/40 split while 3rd row have a 50/50 split. Other points of refinement included at no cost to the consumer as part of the all-new Mitsubishi Outlander's standard equipment package include automatic climate control; tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment; electric power steering; redesigned steering wheel with easy-to-use cruise control and audio system controls; premium security alarm system with remote keyless entry and engine immobilizer; an exquisite-sounding 6-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3-compatible audio system; intermittent rear wiper with washer; and halogen headlamps.

Rear design 

Verdict

In spite of its increased size, the all-new Mitsubishi Outlander is a competitive small SUV. It has the available all-wheel-drive system, high driving position and versatile cargo space consumers have come to expect in this segment, and sets itself apart with distinctive styling, advanced technology, and a lively personality.

#7 All-New Kia Cerato – Striking design, refined performance

In recent years, some of the most improved players on the automotive playing field have been entry-level compact saloon. Many of these so-called economy cars now offer levels of style and equipment that rival larger and more expensive cars. A good example is the Kia Cerato. This particular Kia has charmed the hearts of many and continues to retain the title of the best-selling car in the company’s motoring range. The previous generation Kia Cerato laid the foundations of successes for the Korean automaker. This was attributed to the saloon’s attractive price, great looks, efficient engines and a long list of standard equipment. 

All-New Kia Cerato

Replacing the outgoing model is an all-new Kia Cerato Sporting a sleeker profile with futuristic and dynamic styling, the all-new Kia Cerato saloon is longer, lower and wider than its predecessor. The car features an all-new re-engineered body shell structure and boasts improved quality, upgraded equipment and a host of additional convenience features. The all-new Kia Cerato drivers will experience a more spacious and refined cabin as well as an upgraded power train line-up. 

The Cerato's profile

Looks

Sculpted to portray ‘dynamic muscularity’ and provoke an emotional response, the sleeker new Kia Cerato has cab-forward styling, a lower coupe-like roofline, distinctive eye-catching concave door contours and a rising beltline with a chrome window moulding extending into the C-pillar to project an aura of elegance. Moving the A-pillar forwards and the C-pillar backwards allows the addition of front and rear quarter glass panels which enhance the car’s sense of spaciousness and improves visibility by eliminating blind spots while enhancing the car’s premium image. At the rear, the boot lid is shaped to reduce aerodynamic drag and the rear combination lamps smooth the airflow while reinforcing the all-new Kia Cerato’s wide stance. 

 

DOHC power plant

Performance

The all-new Kia Cerato is available with a choice of two petrol engines – a 118 kW (158 hp) 2.0-liter Nu engine and the popular 95 kW (127 hp) 1.6-liter Gamma engine. Powered by the 2.0-litre power unit, the saloon, with the manual gearbox, accelerates to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds or 9.3 seconds (automatic model) and attains a top speed of 210 km/h. With Gamma power, the 1.6-litre power plant, the all-new Kia Cerato has a top speed of 200 km/h and reaches 100 km/h in 10.1 seconds and 11.6 seconds on the automatic model. The all-new Kia Cerato rides on McPherson struts front suspension and a coupled torsion beam rear axle. 

 

Best selling Kia car

Steering feel is improved utilizing larger bushings and revised front suspension geometry. Electric power steering has replaced the hydraulic system from the previous model. Optional Flex Steer puts the driver firmly in control. For maximum stopping power, all-new Kia Cerato models can be equipped with an all-disc braking system featuring large diameter ventilated front discs and solid discs at the rear, backed up by ABS anti-lock, to achieve a stopping distance from 100 km/h of as little as 42.3 meters. 

 

Driver oriented dashboard

Interior

Opening the wide doors reveals a cabin sculpted in organic curves. Gentle ripples are visible across the instrument panel. The driver-centric cabin is angled by 10 degrees and features high-quality materials and soft touch points. Large, easy-to-read instrument dials are visible behind the sporty steering wheel. Secondary controls for air-con and radio are also easier to reach. An optional 4.2-inch colour LCD screen is visible between the black and white instrument gauges.

Comfortable front seats

This displays trip and auxiliary vehicle information to the driver. Tasteful chrome surfaces ring the AC rotary knobs and the optional push-start power button. Additional chrome accents, standard Bluetooth hands free phone integration and power window mirrors are also fitted. Optional leather seating trim, HID head lights, power sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control and rear seat vents enhance the Kia Cerato interior environment. 

Coupe like design

Verdict

Amid the growing crowd of compact saloon, the affordable Kia holds its own. We consider the all-new Kia Cerato as a legitimate alternative to traditional segment leaders due to its eye-catching style, competitive feature content and good value. Should you be interested in a fun little car at a low price, the all-new Kia Cerato is worth a look.

2014 Toyota Probox and Succeed – Updated practicality

The Toyota Probox (short for professional box) and its more ‘luxurious’ twin, the Succeed, have been on sale in Japan since July of 2002. Both the Probox and the Succeed are designed as small multipurpose commercial vans. They both feature efficient engines, large luggage compartment and can be customised to match any business requirement. This explains why both the Probox and Succeed are not designed to be catchy to the eyes as compared to the Toyota Fielder, which they are both based on. To better meet the demands raised by customers, Toyota has decided to update both the Probox and the Succeed.

Toyota Probox 

Exterior

Both cars receive a new front design with a new front bumper, grill, bonnet design and headlamps. New rear lights and the addition of an optional reverse camera complete the revamped look. The profile and boxy shape remains unchanged. Six new body colour options are now available for both cars.

Toyota Succeed 

Performance

Two engine options are available for both cars. The 1.3L1NR-FE engine and1.5L1NZ-FE feature Dual VVT-i and are paired to a Super CVT-i transmission. The transmission delivers smooth acceleration while boosting fuel efficiency. Power is sent either to the front wheels (in the 2WD version) or to all four wheels (in the 4WD version). Fuel consumption for both engines has been reduced by 18%. Hill Start assist is now fitted as standard on all Toyota Probox and Succeed models.

Profile remains unchanged 

Ride

The engineers have optimized the overall structure of the suspension. The revamped suspension delivers a more comfortable ride and stability. In addition, all models now feature a speed-sensitive electric power steering. This makes both the Probox and Succeed easier to handle on the road and lets the driver enjoy a comfortable drive.

Boxy shape for easy loading of items 

Safety

The new front design of both the Probox and Succeed reduces pedestrian head injury if they are unfortunately hit. A new emergency brake signal, which flashes the hazards during heavy braking, is fitted as standard. This helps to warn other drivers in time, thus preventing rear end collisions. A new ABS system and larger brake discs offer more braking performance for quick deceleration.

Redesigned cockpit 

Interior

The new dashboard has been design to suit the driver. The front seats have been optimised to offer a firm support from the back to the waist. The seats also feature a slide and recline feature to boost comfort. The seats can also be adjusted in height to match the physic of the driver.

Toyota Succeed interior 

Numerous storage areas located all-round the interior can accommodate numerous items that the driver might need to carry. The Probox’s ‘rear bench’ has been slightly improved to offer more comfort. The Succeed on the other hand gets larger comfortable seats with individual headrests for both outer seat occupants. The shape of both cars and large rear cargo door allows for boxy items to be loaded and unloaded with ease. Both cars can carry items with a total weight of up to 400kgs.

Toyota Probox interior

The luggage space can be increased further by folding the rear backrests. The rear seats can also be removed entirely to allow for a more flat floor. A seat belt latch, located at each sides of the door, prevents the belts from been caught up when folding the rear backrest. The standard manual air conditioning offers improved cooling and heating.  

New rear lights 

Verdict

The latest updates to both the Toyota Probox and Succeed make them more capable both as passenger and commercial vehicles. The car will definitely be an attractive choice for buyers in the used car market in this side of the world.  Prices start at ¥1,317,600 (Kshs 1.14 million).  

#6 Toyota Hilux Double Cab – A tough, dependable and durable workhorse

First released in Japan in 1968 the Toyota Hilux, the world's favourite pick-up, has recorded cumulative global sales of over 13 million units. Compared to the previous generation model, the current Toyota Hilux range offers a myriad of styling cues that enhance the pick-up’s modern design, emphasise its tough underpinnings and keep the vehicle truly appealing.

Toyota Hilux Double Cab

Looks

Seen from the front the Toyota Hilux offers the first cues of its tough nature. The bonnet, with clearly defined centre bulge, creates a powerful presence. The bonnet lines flow through to the bold grille. The grille features a trapezoidal design with wide horizontal slats. On the upper level the grille is flanked by eye catching headlights.

Remains the world's most popular pick-up 

Below the grille the large bumper mirrors the shape of the grille. It is in turn flanked by fog lights, with chromed bezels on top spec versions. Viewed from the side the Toyota Hilux numerous wheel designs for the steel wheel caps and alloy wheels on higher specification models. At the each end of Toyota Hilux rear are large lights with clear squared off distinctions and a chrome strip. The indicators and reverse lights feature clear light coverings.

Capable off-road 

Performance

Powering the Toyota Hilux is a choice of two power units. There is a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder unit and a large more powerful 3.0-litre four cylinder unit. The 2.5-litre unit churns out 75 kW (100 hp) at 3 600 rpm. Maximum torque, rated 200 Nm, is available from 1,400 rpm through to 3,400 rpm. Paired with the 2.5-litre unit is a 5-speed manual transmission.

Power train

The larger and more powerful 3.0-litre unit delivers 120 kW (160 hp) and 343 Nm of torque between 1,400 rpm and 3,200 rpm. This engine shares the electronically controlled common rail type fuel injection technology used on the 2.5-litre engine, to improve its overall efficiency. The 3.0-litre delivers its power to the wheels via a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The Toyota Hilux rides on double wishbone independent suspension, with coil springs, while the rear suspension consists of leaf springs.

Chromed face on top spec model

Interior

Step inside the Toyota Hilux and you will be welcomed by a range of design and comfort features. Gone is the cylindrical instrument cluster design of the previous model as it has been replaced with one that is squarer in shape. The instrument cluster features analogue instrumentation and gloss black detailing on entry level models and Optitron instrumentation with graduated amber lighting, chrome highlights and finer detailing on high spec versions. The centre console is wider than the unit on previous model.

Room for five in the double cab version 

The centre console also features large air vents and silver detailing on higher spec versions and ventilation controls on entry level versions. High spec models feature a display audio system that integrates RDS radio function, CD player and iPod and USB connecting ports. The driver grips a four spoke steering wheel with high volume foam padding. On high spec models, the steering wheel is adorned with silver detailing and remote controls for the audio and Bluetooth systems. All occupants benefit from a large and airy cabin with room for five for double cabin versions.

Rear look 

Verdict

The world’s most favourite pick-up is kitted with numerous features key among them being powerful performance. The Toyota Hilux remains one of the must have pick-ups in its segments. An all-new Toyota Hilux is already undergoing development. 

#5 All-New Peugeot 3008 – Perfectly blends practicality and versatility

Peugeot focused on practicality rather than style when designing the 3008. As a result the Peugeot 3008 offers a bit more functionality than other compact crossovers in the segment. The Peugeot 3008 blends the qualities of a hatchback, an SUV and an MPV. The compact crossover’s big 4x4-inspired exterior, a spacious and versatile interior and the agile driving dynamics continue to boost the Peugeot 3008 popularity. However, the aging Peugeot 3008’s design was in desperate need of an upgrade. Peugeot has responded by ushering in an all-new model. 

 

All-new Peugeot 3008

Design

The character of the all-new Peugeot 3008’s front face has been completely redesigned. The grille and the fog lamp trims appear to form a single chromed part emerging from the bodywork. The air intake is adorned with two thin chromed strips. The headlamps are designed in detail with a subtle contrast of materials. The main beam is integrated on a black mask surrounded by a chromed part. The LED direction indicators and running lights add a sophisticated touch to the headlamps. The “Lion” badge dominates this rich, high-quality front face. At the side are fine touches of chrome on the window upper trim, the body sills, and the mirror shells. The “Lion” also adorns the tailgate, accompanied by the name of the brand. New LED tail lights, with a dark tint and look like three floating claws, have a sharp design and emerge from the lamp with a 3D effect.

 

A more mature front design

Performance

Two petrol power units are available with the all-new Peugeot 3008. All engines have a displacement of 1.6-litres. Entry level petrol versions feature a 1.6-litre unit with a total output of 88 kW (120 hp) and 160 Nm of torque. Paired with this particular unit is a 5-speed manual gear box. Fuel consumption is pegged at 6.7 litres per 100km. Next in line is the 115 kW (156 hp) 1.6-litre unit with a maximum torque figure of 240 Nm. This particular engine features a 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic. Fuel consumption with the manual transmission is 6.9 litres and 7.6 litres with the automatic. 

 

3008's dimensions

The most powerful version of the 1.6-litre unit has 120 kW (163 hp) and 340 Nm of torque. Paired with the 120 kW engine is a 6-speed automatic as standard. Fuel consumption is a reasonable 8.4 litres per 100km. The all-new Peugeot 3008 rides on MacPherson front suspension. This suspension permits rigorous road holding and precise steering. At the rear, the suspension features a deformable cross member, two trailing arms, and an integrated anti-roll bar, which limit roll and improve rear wheel traction. 

 

Practical and spacious interior

Interior

On opening the door, the passenger compartment proves to be a new source of surprise and attraction. The light provided by the panoramic glass roof reveals the instruments and controls with supreme ergonomics with high quality and clarity. In the centre of the driver's field of vision, above the dashboard, the 'head-up' display shows key information on its retractable polycarbonate strip. At the centre of the dashboard the retractable screen displays the interface for the audio-navigation, the trip computer, the front, and rear parking assistance and the image filmed by the reversing camera. All controls are grouped together on the centre console which extends to the rear seats. 

 

Driver's department

With their forearm resting ideally on the armrest (that hides a capacious storage space), the driver can switch from one function to another with ease which promises great reactivity. For everyday practicality, the passenger compartment has numerous storage compartments, amounting to a total of nearly 50-litres. The split tailgate, which can bear a load of 200 kg, allows for a very accessible boot. The Multiflex interior allows one to adapt the boot of the All-New Peugeot 3008 to suit your requirements due to the three-position boot floor and the folding rear seat backs. The volume of the boot can varies from 512 litres to o 1604-litres with the rear seats flat on the floor. 

 

Rear design with claw like lights

Verdict

The all-new Peugeot 3008 is a stylish crossover that offers the practicality of the MPV and rugged styling of an SUV. This means that the crossover can conquer rough road surfaces while caring a family of five and all their luggage. The outgoing model already sold over 500,000 units all over the world proving that this particular Lion’s qualities suit lots of buyers.