Buying a salvage car

looking to buy a salvage car???

Lets face facts the only reason you looking salvage is price, you may get some comments where consumers have had value but for every one I guarantee there is 10 that's not you don't hear about.

SUMMARY...If you went shopping for a chair that cost ksh.1000 and right next to it the identical chair ksh. 40. but the sticker said all 4 legs were broken at one point but now glued together and declared safe...

THAT'S SALVAGE...

How safe would you feel driving a salvage, never mind going down the highway at 80 mph. Do your homework guys, get the vehicle’s history and, take it to a certified mechanic for a full pre-purchase inspection.

Good luck!

Volkswagen Beetle

The Volkswagen Beetle has been around for many generations. It has also transformed from the simple car it started off as to nearly icon status today.  Many features of the Volkswagen Beetle have been upgraded, and improved, vastly over what they once were.

The refined little Beetle has a very high standard of build quality.  Merit has to be given to Volkwagens first-class manufacturing systems.  The fitting of the exterior panel work and interior trim are first-class, and this excellence in workmanship lays down the platform for an enjoyable classy drive. Long term ownership of a VW-Beetle will be a satisfying moment in time.

 

The Volkswagen Beetle is sold new, in Australia, with three responsive engines. The Volkswagen Beetle Miami has a 1.6 litre petrol engine that feels nippy.  Its maximum 75 kW output and 148 Nm of torque work well in unison. This is an efficient engine that won’t cost you much to fill at the gas station. Speaking of fuel efficiency, the Bettle TDI has the exceptional 1.9 litre turbocharged diesel engine. 77 kW of output and a juicy 240 Nm of torque are linked to a slick 5-speed manual. This makes the car return an average fuel economy figure of just 5.5 litres/100 km!  The other engine in the line-up is the 2.0 litre Cabriolet.  Heaps of fun to drive with the top down, the car covers the ground nicely and offers a very nice grippy, and balanced, handling package.  The Beetles are linked to either a 5-speed manual or 6-speed manual gearbox.  

 

The Beetles interior is stylish and modern with a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, power assisted steering, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, a very nice audio system with a CD player that boasts RDS and 6 speakers, and a roof aerial.  The seating comes in cloth material. All seats are very comfortable and offer superb lumbar support. There is a leather seat option, heated seats and a standard split folding rear seat.  You can also enjoy first rate air conditioning systems, an upgraded 6-disc CD auto changer, cruise control, electrically foldable door mirrors, cool fog lights, an interior cargo pack, iPod® preparation, a parking sensor, radio "Gamma" with a "Monsoon" sound pack, a sunroof and a weather pack which includes a rain sensor and automatic dimming rear-view mirror.  In other words, you can load your Beetle up with heaps of awesome goodies - if you so desire.

 

Safety features for the Volkswagen Beetle are excellent. The vehicle earned a full 16 points in the ANCAP side impact crash test.  And the front on crash test resulted in the passenger compartment remaining in good shape after the crash.  A side curtain airbag system, side impact airbags and front driver and passenger airbags come as standard passive safety items.  A passenger deactivation switch, an electronic dynamic safety stabilization programme, heat insulating tinted glass and a high level 3rd brake light are also part and parcel of the Volkswagen Beetle safety package.

 

Give the new Volkswagen Beetle a whirl today, and see what fun a Beetle is to drive.  By the way, pricing is excellent!

Current model series include:

• Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet 2.0
• Volkswagen Beetle Miami
• Volkswagen Beetle TDI 1.9

Car for Christmas

Have you ever seen one of those car commercials where some unsuspecting person opens the front door on Christmas morning to find a shiny new car sitting in the driveway with a monstrous red bow on top. It's an image burned into our fantasies by powerfully suggestive ad campaigns. But to whom does this actually happen?

The whole idea of receiving a $25,000 car (or more!) for a holiday present must be an American thing, as I cannot imagine other countries thinking that this would be appropriate.

The important thing to remember is that you don’t need to give or receive a gift of any value whatsoever just to make someone feel important or make yourself feel important.

Me I will keep blogging for now but if I give one as a gift it will be amazing.

My car sucks too

Where will my car probably be this December??? I dont know because it sucks. I have been talking to people who had beater rides,  when this friend called in and complained that my whip sucks....

So I jst joined this group on Facebook.

 

yeah my car sucks, but it gets me where i need to go....sometimes ... 

Chrysler Crossfire

a car that has the X-factor that can turn heads at the drop of a hat. Enter the Chrysler Crossfire. This is such a great looking vehicle. Everything about it is balanced; everything about it is powerful and captures high velocity in car design. The Chrysler Crossfire also has the little details that draw the eye. Take, for instance, the three lines chiselled into the bodywork behind the front wheel arches, the striped indentations on the long sweeping bonnet, the twin exhausts set in middle at the rear, the satin silver door handles and the sexily spoked mags.

There are two versions in the Chrysler Crossfire line-up. There is the hard top version and the cabriolet. The cabriolet would be my pick because open top motoring in a car like this is sheer pleasure. To match the hot looks of either version of the Chrysler Crossfire, a 6 cylinder 3.2 litre V6 motor is at the heart of the beast. A six speed manual or automatic transmission is available, depending on which you find to be the more fun. The transmission is a smooth one that is able to run the Chrysler Crossfire up to 62 mph in a zesty 6.5 seconds.


Slide onto these leather-trimmed seats and one soon becomes aware of the fabulous comfort levels. A beautiful clear CD sound system blasts out superb quality tracks - even with the hood down in the cabriolet version of the Chrysler Crossfire. There is comfortable seating for two, and sharing the pleasure of a journey in the Chrysler Crossfire is definitely worth it - especially if your passenger is the attractive member of the opposite sex mentioned above.

The Chrysler Crossfire is great fun to drive - whether it's on a long motorway journey or pushing the taut suspension through tight corners. The Chrysler Crossfire offers loads of attainable grip during cornering manoeuvres and covers distances quickly. The ABS brakes with emergency brake assist and traction control are tenacious and can bring high velocities down to a halt in a lightning quick response.
The safety features in the Chrysler Crossfire are exemplary, with driver and passenger side airbags, driver/front passenger airbags and occupant protection system and side impact protection beams all coming as standard.

The Chrysler Crossfire is a car to be seen in. There is no escaping the admiring onlookers' gazes in this one. The attention to detail is second to none and the Chrysler Crossfire is a car that pleases.

Current model series include:

• Chrysler Crossfire 3.2
• Chrysler Crossfire Roadster 3.2
• Chrysler Crossfire Roadster SRT-6 3.2
• Chrysler Crossfire SRT-6 3.2

This is one enjoyable ride!

Car Humor

Honda - Had One Never Did Again

Kia - Killed In Assembly

Saab - Sad Attemр At Beauty

Hyundai - Hoрe You Understand Nothing`s Driveable And Inexрensive

Ford - Fix Or Reрair Daily.

Fiat - Failure in Italian Automotive Technology.

BMW - Born Moderatly Wealthy. (Be My Wife)

Audi - Accelerates Under Demonic Influence.

Acura - Asia`s Curse Uрon Rural America

If you want your name to get in news paper headlines - read the newspaper while street crossing Mombasa Rd or even better try Thika Rd...

2011 cars to watch.

2011 - Best Cars

View more presentations from Power Point Slide Shows.

Honda Odyssey

Honda’s latest Odyssey is the best vehicle of its kind. Loads of space make seating, for seven, comfortable and relaxed, while the smooth 132 kW  engine is matched up to a very taut handling package - making the sleek looking Honda Odyssey an inspiring drive.

Putting the newest Honda Odyssey to a task is easy. The five-speed, grade logic transmission instantly links optimum engine power to the required job at hand, ensuring that the driver feels satisfied with the level of performance - whether it be in and around town or out on the open road.

 If you are after a swift and capable people mover, the 2010 Honda Odyssey is unmatched. Balanced handling, accurate steering strong brakes and a sharp engine give the Odyssey the nod.

       

There’s plenty of luxury onboard: Climate control (tri-zone climate control in the luxury Odyssey model), cruise control, cup and bottle holders, an onboard trip computer, powered windows, a comprehensive active and passive safety package and superbly comfortable seats. 

Sleek Odyssey body styling is made even racier with Aero side skirts and bumpers.

As can be expected in a family car, the Honda Odyssey has an excellent range of safety features. Front and side airbags are provided for the front seats in both versions, and the Honda Odyssey Luxury also has curtain airbags for all three rows. The seatbelts in the front seat are pretensioned, while all the rest are three-pointers. Side impact protection and Honda's unique G-CON and progressive crumple zones complete the safety package.
Why join the White Van Brigade when you can drive in comfort and style with the Honda Odyssey?

Current model series include:

• Honda Odyssey 2.4
• Honda Odyssey 2.4 Luxury

For any more information on the Honda Odyssey, or for that matter any other new car, contact me

5 Things Every Driver Should Know

Here are five skills, that every driver should have. Some are maintenance related, others are driving related. Some you’ll use all the time, others you’ll use once in a lifetime. The common theme? All are really good skills to learn.

1. Check Your Tire Pressure - Always check your tire pressure cold and inflate to the pressure recommended in your owners manual (or on your door sticker). Inflation pressure will vary with vehicle load, so be sure to pay attention to this. Even if you have tire pressure sensors on your car (and you do if it was built after 2006), check your tires at least once per month.

2. Check Your Oil, Coolant, and Transmission Fluids -

   Always check your owner’s manual to make sure you know where the oil dipstick, transmission dipstick (automatic transmissions only) and coolant reservoir are located. Do not, under any circumstances, mix up your oil and transmission dipsticks or your coolant and windshield washer reservoirs. Bad, bad things will happen if you do.

3. Change a Headlight Bulb (non HID headlights) -

   Halogen headlights generally last a long, long time, so you won’t be doing this often. First, make sure you have the correct wattage replacement bulb. Next, open the hood and find the back of the bad headlight. Take off the rubber boot, disconnect the electrical connection (generally by squeezing the sides or top and pulling the connector off) and remove the existing bulb and mount (generally by turing counter clockwise until the mount comes loose). Pull out the old bulb and discard. Keep the new bulb in its plastic sleeve (to avoid getting fingerprints on it, which will shorten bulb life) and press it into the mount. Reinstall the mount, reattach the electrical connector, put the rubber boot back in place and you’re done.

4. Change a Tire - It never ceases to amaze me how few drivers actually know how to change a tire. It’s a basic skill, and one you can practice at home in about 15 minutes. First, RTFM; know where your jack, lug wrench and spare tire are located. Next, make sure your car is in “Park” with the handbrake firmly engaged. If you drive a manual, put the transmission in first or reverse, then make sure your handbrake is fully engaged. Put something underneath the wheel diagonally away from the one you’re changing to block it; a rock or piece of wood will do fine.

5. Jump Start a Car With a Dead Battery -

   Sooner or later, you’re going to have a dead battery. Sure, you can carry around one of those portable jump starters, but who’s got room in their car of one? Not me. It’s better to learn the good, old fashioned skill of jump-starting a car.

   Make sure the dead battery isn’t frozen, cracked or visibly damaged before you attempt this. Battery explosions aren’t cool, especially if you’re anywhere near one.

   Since you already have a car with a dead battery, you’ll need one with a good battery. Pull the two as close together as possible, battery to battery. Be aware that not all cars have the battery under the hood, so make sure you know where both batteries are located. Next, get out the jumper cables. Make sure that both cars are turned off and in park, with the handbrakes on. Connect the red jumper clip to the positive terminal of the dead battery. Connect the other red jumper clip to the positive terminal of the good battery. Next, connect the black jumper clip to the negative terminal of the good battery; finally, connect the other black jumper clip to a ground on the vehicle with the dead battery. This can be nearly any exposed metal on the engine.

   I’m old school, so I like to start the good vehicle before I try to start the one with the dead battery. Once the good car is running, try to start the one with the dead battery. Nine times out of ten the car will start right up. If it doesn’t start in the first thirty seconds, it’s probably not going to – time to call a tow truck.

Have a nice Ride.

 

How to Avoid Buying a Stolen Vehicle

A primary school teacher in Gucha District invested his savings to buy a new car, which he intended to use as a taxi, his colleagues were green with envy. It was a promising business that had brought him good money to supplement his income. So when he was recently asked by three men to take them to a town 20 kilometres away, he was happy for the business. He was to ferry his customers from Mogonga to Etago Market. Then he went missing for days and family members could not reach him on phone.

Days later, his mutilated body was found in a sugarcane plantation in Rongo District. A search for the missing car led to the arrest of a pastor who had unknowingly bought the deceased’s vehicle. The vehicle registration number and chassis number had been changed. The prime suspect was later arrested in a Mombasa nightclub and charged in court with the offence. However, his accomplices are still at large.

Avoid Buying a Stolen Vehicle

Not all stolen vehicles are stolen and stripped for parts. Many are resold to unknowing and unsuspecting buyers. There is little motorists can do to prevent vehicle theft. So buyers BEWARE when buying your used car. Here are some tips to help but always digg for more.

• Number one always be suspicious of any deal that seems "too good to be true."
• When buying from an individual, make sure the registration matches the name and address of the person selling the car.
• Be cautious of a seller with no fixed address, place of employment or phone number.
• Ask the seller for references about past financing, vehicle service history and insurance on the vehicle. Verify the information with the bank, finance company, garage or agents involved.
• Ensure the vehicle identification number on the automobile is present, secure and unaltered.
• Check and ensure the number plate is genuine and not a duplicate of another vehicle of the same make.
• If in doubt about plate authenticity, check with KRA, or contact a law enforcement agency.

If you ever had your car stolen you are familiar with that sickening sense of realization that its gone. Share you experince with us and help us not fall into the same trap.

Mercedes Benz CL600

If you were to ask me for one word to discribe the awesome Mercedes-Benz CL600, I would have to say that it would be the word WOW! The Mercedes-Benz CL600 is one vehicle that comes with all the bells and whistles. From the multifunction steering wheel that provides easy access to the audio, voice control and phone functions, as well as the multifunction display, to the steering wheel mounted shift buttons - the CL600 is one very well thought out design.  Distronic Plus Cruise Control is standard, as is the 4-way tilt and telescoping power steering column that is linked to the 14-way power seats - which, by the way, have 3 memory settings and are heated with massage.

On the dash, there is a cockpit management and data centre which is known as COMAND. This system uses an 8" colour LCD screen and controls the communications, instruments, lights and audio systems, all hands-free.  Superb, really!  The dynamic safety features are abundant, and the Active Body Control and Reversing Camera are a couple of mouth-watering samples of the latest technology on offer.  The passive safety features are great in number; Amongst these perhaps the most important to note are the Airbags with dual-stage trigger sensors and sidebags front and back – plus windowbags.

The Mercedes-Benz CL600 is an impressive vehicle, one that will provide the owner with the utmost in performance, luxury and comfort. The style speaks for itself.
Current model series include:

• Mercedes Benz CL600 Coupe 5.5

For any more information on the Mercedes Benz CL600, or for that matter any other car, Talk to me 

The new 2011 Toyota Sienna SE

Intent on revamping its image as well as its relative position in the minivan segment, Toyota gave its 2011 Sienna a major makeover for the new season. While the entire lineup benefited from this comprehensive reengineering effort, one version in particular, the 2011 Toyota Sienna SE, came in for its own distinctive attitude adjustment.

 

With this Toyota actually managed to make good on the execution front.

To help move its perception needle deeper into the cool zone, Toyota gave this trick Sienna an assortment of unique body bits including edgier front and rear fascias, more sculpted side sills, acolor-keyed front/rear underbody spoilers. A blackout mesh grille insert with a smoked-chrome surround for it as well as the projector-beam headlamps team with smoked LED taillamps add an extra touch of curbside cred. To complete the look, SE-specific 19-inch Super Chrome alloy wheels replace the 17-/18-inch alternatives used on its kin and get wrapped in even lower-aspect-ratio 235/50 all-season tires. Adding a final functional as well as visual flourish, the sport-spec springs used in the Sienna SE's tauter suspension further contribute to its semi-slammed appearance by marginally lowering the ride height.

Driverless electric vans

Back in July, a team of researchers from the European Research Council set out on an epic 8,000-mile journey from Italy to China through the Gobi desert. If that weren't daunting enough, the crew braved the trek in a pair of driverless electric vans.

Believe it or not, the team just finished up their drive, and while researchers on board had to intervene a few times to handle traffic and toll booths, by and large the vehicles navigated to their destination without any help from human hands.

Instead, they use a system called generic obstacle and lane detector, or GOLD, along with a series of solar-powered laser sensors to determine the van's proximity to surrounding traffic.

The vans ran at a top speed of 38 mph to maximize battery life, but the real reason that the trip took so long is that the vehicles had to be charged eight hours for every two hours of driving. The researchers say that the data they collected over the trek could be used in everything from mining to construction to augmenting driver abilities.

This was not a study of "green" engineering. This was a study of autonomous navigation, and the result is staggeringly impressive. Using just laser scanners and image-recognition software, these vehicles were able to navigate a long and highly varied route, including stretches through urban traffic

The 10 Most Famous Cars Of All Time

1. 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 fastback

From Gone in 60 Seconds [2000] film

2. 1963 Volkswagen Beetle

From The Herbie series [1969, 1974, 1977, 1980, 2005] film

3. 1969 Dodge Charger

From The Dukes Of Hazzard [1979-1985] television series

4. 1972 Ferrari 365 GTS/4

From Miami Vice [1984 – 1989] television series

5. 1990 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE

From Walker Texas Ranger [1993-2001] television series

6. 2002 Aston Martin Vanquish

From Die Another Day [2002] film

 

7. 2003 Mini Cooper S [R53]

From The Italian Job [2003] film

 

8. 2001 Jaguar XKR Mk.I

From Die Another Day [2002] film

 

 

9. 2009 Chevrolet Camaro Replica

From Transformers [2007] film

10. 2054 Lexus CS

From Minority Report [2002]

Now thats my list.

Why I Won’t Tell You What Car To Buy

No matter how sound the advice, you will generally buy what you want.

When friends used to ask me “what should I buy”, I’d spend hours doing research and building comparative spreadsheets. Now matter how much effort I put into it, no matter how much documentation I provided on what to buy and what to avoid, my friends and relatives usually bought what they wanted, regardless of advice. The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, expecting a different result. I’m not insane, so I no longer give purchase advice to you!

If you buy what I recommend, every problem is my fault.

Especially true with used cars, this also applies to new cars as well. What happens when a new car is recalled by the manufacturer six months after purchase? people will look at me like I should have known this. What happens when the brake rotors require replacement 20,000 miles after a buddy buys a used car? I should have warned him about it.

Endless whining like - “I should have bought this instead”

If I actually have friends buy a car I recommend, am not prepared for endless whining about the car they really wanted. Unless I enjoy a five year guilt trip, it’s best to just nod my head when people talk about what cars to buy. Unless they take that as agreement, in which case I still get the prolonged guilt trip. Face the facts; your friends don’t want advice, they want validation of their choice. I give them that!

Why didn’t you tell me to wait for better price / newer model / bigger engine?

The internet has really improved the flow of information from automakers to the general public. Anyone with access to a computer can find pricing and new model information from any manufacturer, but that doesn’t always fit into their purchase schedule. Recommend a particular car, and be prepared for comments like, “I would have waited if you told me a new model would be released in two years.”

This just in, folks: manufacturers are constantly updating their product lines. Car models are like sharks; unless they keep moving forward, they die. It doesn’t matter when you buy a car, there will always be something better just around the corner

Next time you see me around dont ask for advice just buy what you can handle.

Mazda MX-5

A sensible, affordable roadster.

Mazda have made cruising the roads in a convertible that much more attainable. The 2010 Mazda MX5 is a sensation that needs looking into.  And the wind in the hair, sun on the face and stereo pumping clear music isn’t experienced in many better things than in the magical new MX5.

 

It all starts in the driver’s seat, where Mazda has made the emphasis on superior handling and a responsive engine plant. A Mazda MX5 is made for the driver, so playing on the twisty stuff is what the MX5 is all about. The handling package in the latest Mazda MX5 is purely balanced and wholly crisp. 

 

The engine is willing and spirited right throughout its rev range, making it a joy to work through the six-speed manual gearbox. There is a six-speed  Activematic auto transmission available, also. 

 

One of the delights of the new design print is the exterior, which is beautiful to look at - perfectly blended with sporty and elegant lines. The BBS alloy wheels, chrome exhaust, Halogen headlamps,  metallic/mica paint job and soft top with a rear window glass insert are all class.

Sure, you can short shift it and enjoy conservative top-down motoring. On the other hand, the MX-5 is happiest when being flogged like a masochist with 48 hours to live. Hang the back end out in corners, run it to redline in all six gears, get sloppy matching revs on the downshift; the MX-5 doesn’t care. It forgives all but the most ham-fisted driving mistakes, provides excellent feedback and will make you a better driver. Maybe that’s why there are multiple spec-Miata racing series, and huge aftermarket support for all generations.

Hop in and drive the brilliant Mazda MX-5 Roadster, and you might just feel like a kid all over again!


Current model series include:

• Mazda MX-5 Roadster
• Mazda MX-5 Roadster Touring
• Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe

Even the insurance companies don’t know this is a sports car. Take one for a test drive, drive it like you stole it and form your own opinion. Me? I want two of them, so you know where I stand.

For any more information on the Mazda MX-5, or for that matter any other new car contact me

Volkswagen Passat

In Kenya, the Passat is offered as a Mheshimiwa car. The 4-door sedan or a 5 door wagon, and its sleek smooth lines make it a vehicle that will turn heads wherever you care to drive. The Volkswagen Passat encorporates all of Germany's engineering prowess that bristles from every nook and cranny.  The tear drop roof line and crisp attention to detail make the solid Volkswagen a very classy proposition.

The Passat range has a variety of responsive engines in its line-up. The 2.0 litre 147 kW turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine is a real performer without being a massive gas guzzler. The 3.2 litre V6 184 kW petrol engine is scintillatingly quick, but the real mover and shaker in the bunch is the mighty R36 FSI 3.6 litre V6 220 kW petrol engine. This is an AWD model that really kicks butt! The 0-100 km/h time of a little over 5 seconds testifies to the engines huge performance potential.  A 6-speed manual with overdrive is reserved for the 2.0 litre turbo motor, while a very slick 6-speed sequential-shift gearbox is housed in the grunty V6 Passats.  If the petrol versions are not your "cup of tea", then you will be delighted to know that Volkswagen has ensured that the Passat comes with two highly sophisticated and swift diesel motors.  The standard Volkswagen Passat 2.0 TDI has a 103 kW engine that returns class leading fuel economy figures of around 6.5 litres of fuel used per 100 kilometres travelled.  This gentle sipping makes sure that the fill-ups at the bowser are few and far between.  Amazingly, the Volkswagen Passat 2.0 litre TDI 125 kW engine is just as economical, but offers that little bit extra in the pulling and power stakes. Its performance is impressive. Both diesel engines are married to the slick sequential six-speed transmission. 

Endowed with European handling, the fluent Passat is balanced and grippy.  The owner of a Passat will enjoy the satisfaction that comes from owning a true driver’s car that is ready to perform reliably and effortlessly.

Inside a Volkswagen Passat, there is room for 5 occupants to sit in supportive and luxurious comfort because the cabin offers very good leg and head room. Occupants are guaranteed maximum comfort with the dual air-conditioned climate control system that keeps both the front and rear occupants happy. The system comes with an air filter. The heated front seats boast either a 6 or 8-way adjustable power memory, and there are adjustable headrests in the front and rear seats. An optional sunroof, a refrigerated glove box, ample dash storage, and an awesome AM/FM audio system with either an in dash mounted 6-disc CD changer or a glove box mounted 6-CD changer are all part of this very complete package.  Depending on the audio system, you can get Sirius or XM satellite radio with 8 speakers and an amplifier.  The classy Passat also comes standard with cruise control, powered door locks, powered windows, electric mirrors, a Homelink® wireless control system, extra power outlets, a telescoping and tilting steering column, and 60/40 split rear seats.

Volkswagen Passat safety includes Anti-lock brakes, daytime running lights, front driver and passenger airbags that have side and overhead airbags, and the rear passengers are kept safe with side airbags too.  There is a security system with a panic alarm and an ignition disabler.

The Volkswagen Passat is one very striking, and distinctive, vehicle to look at. The car is comfortable and very satisfying to own and drive.  The V6 engines are rapid and lush, but all Passats are dynamic, hugely refined and roomy.  Take a look for yourself, and you won't be disappointed.

The current model series includes the:

• Volkswagen Passat FSI 3.2
• Volkswagen Passat FSI Wagon 3.2
• Volkswagen Passat TDI 2.0
• Volkswagen Passat TDI Wagon 2.0
• Volkswagen Passat Turbo FSI 2.0
• Volkswagen Passat Turbo FSI Wagon 2.0

For anymore information on the Volkswagen Passat, email tagcars@live.com

BMW X6

Without much ado – the BMX X6 is a real looker! 

The Dynamic Performance Control distributes the driving power between the two rear wheels, thus helping traction to be obtained and the security that maximum grip offers – particularly in the wet. With a V8 twin turbo engine, the BMX X6 is a motor vehicle that is not lacking in serious grunt. You only need to read the words V8 and “twin turbo” to grasp the lethal power that the BMW X6 can deliver on demand for the driver. However, the thumping power outputs of the BMX X6 are refined in nature and cleverly harnessed by combining the combustion engine with twin electric motors. These electric motors provide the marriage of both power and efficiency that modern day technologically advanced motor cars strive for.

BMW know only too well that to capture the heart of the driver, the driving experience needs to deliver excitement and thrust, and yet this experience should not be at the expense of excess fuel. The two batteries in the BMX X6 are incorporated into a cleverly designed circuit that offers brake energy regeneration. As soon as you brake or take your foot off the BMX X6’s accelerator, kinetic energy is fed back to the batteries. This reduces the load on the engine and, as a result, reduces fuel consumption.

The BMW X6 is available with the very smooth, powerful and award winning straight six twin turbo petrol engine. Also available are two different six cylinder diesel power plants that prove to be very efficient and aptly torquey for those who require power for towing. The flagship of the BMX X6 range is undoubtedly the new V8 twin turbo petrol engine boasting a husky and harmonious 300kW. The explosive levels of torque peak at 600 Nm and are available, at full throttle, from engine revs touching a mere 1750 rpm. Wow!  This muscle tugs the solid BMW X6 xDrive 50i from 0-100 km/h in just 5.4 very quick seconds.

The BMX X6 has capable AWD drivetrain that was designed to go from autobahn to Swartzwald with ease. Ground clearance in the BMX X6 is higher than in a regular BMW saloon, but isn’t as high as it would be in, for example, a Range Rover. It’s good for general town-to-country running rather than riverbed running – but you’re not likely to take the BMX X6 where it’s going to get scratched and battered because it looks so good!

On the inside, the BMX X6 has all the comfort and safety that a German car should have. The rear seats are generous with plenty of headroom, the boot’s capacious enough to swallow up heaps of gear. One special little detail newly introduced for driver comfort in the BMX X6 is the addition of kneepads, so if you like to sprawl and relax in the driver’s seat (of course you do!), then you won’t bang your knees against the sides of the centre console.

The current model series includes the:

• BMW X6 xDrive 35i
• BMW X6 xDrive 35d
• BMW X6 xDrive 50i

For any more information on the BMW X6, or for that matter any other new car, contact TAGCARS

KCB Kenya National Rally Championship

For once, Cavenagh put behind the nasty roll he encountered in Nanyuki Rally a couple of years back when he destroyed his Evolution Mitsubishi upon an impact with the bridge barrier in Kabartonjo.

And fears that the title chase could go down to the wire evaporated soon enough when Subaru speedster Baldev Chager kissed the Ganze tour goodbye with a broken suspension arm in the early morning run.

Ian Duncan was all smiles in his massive Nissan Pickup when he won the KCB Amana Banking Rally in Ganze posting 1.41.39hours.

Cavenagh (Mitsubishi EVO9) romped home second overall in 1.42.56 hours with his Dalbit Petroleum teammate Carl Tundo completing the podium dash in a time of 1.44.24hours.

Duncan’s win was a somewhat unbearable experience to the Evolution 9 Mitsubishi make which had won 17consecutive KNRC rallies.

Duncan who last won Mombasa Rally in 2000 navigated by Dave Williamson in a Toyota Celica gave the Nissan make its first ever win at the Coast event.

Cavenagh was overjoyed when he drove into the ceremonial finish situated adjacent to the service Park at Ganze Secondary School. This was Cavenagh’s first finish in Mombsa Rally in 10 years.

Lee Rose watched in disbelief when he registered his fifth retirement of the season. Bldev Chager also retired with a broken suspension arm while Ugandan Jas Mangat rolled on CS5 while chasing a podium position. Mangat was lying third as at CS4.

Google tests self-driving car

Google has completed successful test run of their self-driving car this weekend in California.

Google’s self-driving car project has been in testing for months now, and their cars have driven over 140,000 miles with minimal human assistance and over 1000 miles on complete automation. While many have reported that Google’s impressive new project works on some sort of Artificial Intelligence, the truth is that Artificial Intelligence is still an impossible dream.

Larry and Sergey founded Google because they wanted to help solve really big problems using technology. And one of the big problems they’re working on today is car safety and efficiency. there goal is to help prevent traffic accidents, free up people’s time and reduce carbon emissions by fundamentally changing car use.

So they have developed technology for cars that can drive themselves. The automated cars, manned by trained operators, just drove from our Mountain View campus to  Santa Monica office and on to Hollywood Boulevard. They’ve driven down Lombard Street, crossed the Golden Gate bridge, navigated the Pacific Coast Highway, and even made it all the way around Lake Tahoe. All in all, the self-driving cars have logged over 140,000 miles. We think this is a first in robotics research.

The automated cars use video cameras, radar sensors and a laser range finder to “see” other traffic, as well as detailed maps to navigate the road ahead. This is all made possible by Google’s data centers, which can process the enormous amounts of information gathered by the cars when mapping their terrain.

To develop this technology, google gathered some of the very best engineers from the DARPA Challenges, a series of autonomous vehicle races organized by the U.S. Government. Chris Urmson was the technical team leader of the CMU team that won the 2007 Urban Challenge. Mike Montemerlo was the software lead for the Stanford team that won the 2005 Grand Challenge. Also on the team is Anthony Levandowski, who built the world’s first autonomous motorcycle that participated in a DARPA Grand Challenge, and who also built a modified Prius that delivered pizza without a person inside. The work of these and other engineers on the team is on display in the National Museum of American History.

Safety is the first priority in this project. So they ave always a trained safety driver behind the wheel who can take over as easily as one disengages cruise control. They also have a trained software operator in the passenger seat to monitor the software. Any test begins by sending out a driver in a conventionally driven car to map the route and road conditions. By mapping features like lane markers and traffic signs, the software in the car becomes familiar with the environment and its characteristics in advance.

What do you think??

I attended the classiest event of the year.

First, a question ??
How many attended this year's event??? Well I was at the AccessKenya Africa Concours d’Elegance and let's just say it was blast. Being IT savvy I had bought my tickets online. There was an incredible residential internet offer from Access@Home Brand.

At the event a 1928 Ford Model was declared the overall car winner. Second place went to a1977 Nissan 160J which has won three times in the past. There was a tie for third place between a1934 Railton sports car and the 1967 Alfa Romeo Sprint. A 1959 BMW R27 was the overall motorcycle winner.

I was at the judging line to watch the assessment of the sports cars and machines made before 1940. Stuart Allison who of Athi River contested the Concours in his 1959 MGA which won the event 21 years ago. In this year’s vehicle beauty contest his flame red classic open two seater was awarded first place in the up to 1,600 cc sports car class.

I had predicted that the overall winner would emerge from the pre-1940 class. This proved me correct when the 1928 Ford Tudor was declared both the class and best car. The 1934 Railton was the runner up in the class and earned the third overall prize behind the gleaming white Nissan 160J.


The day ended with the Starehe Boys Centre band leading the parade of Concours cars and motorcycles with the Uganda Bikers Association riders heading the cavalcade. This was followed by the Grand Finale presented by the Safari Cats with their dazzling costumes, exciting dance routines to vibrant music and a series of acrobatic displays.

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Do you want a new or used car

I'm often asked what I'd recommend? I don't think there is a certain car new or used that is just perfect for everyone. It really depends on what exactly you expecting from your next vehicle and how much money you want to spend. By purchasing a used car, you can save a lot of money. A new car depreciates quickly in the first few years and after 3 years, it is worth only about 60-70% of the original price. In fact, as soon as you leave the dealership, your new vehicle is suddenly worth 10% less, a new car requires less maintenance in first few years and most of the problems occurred within the original warranty coverage period will be covered by the car manufacturer.

Buying a new car does not always mean the buyer will get perfection. A new car may come with problems associated with poor design or manufacturing defects that may have been already repaired during the warranty coverage period if it's a used car. The same is true for all kinds of recalls and service campaigns.
Buying a used car is still a bit of a gamble - there is no guarantee that the car is accident-free, has real mileage, and was properly maintained. There may be some hidden problems like a worn out automatic transmission, or engine problems that may not have been obvious when you test-drove the car.

Here are some tips I want to share:

Safety

There is no perfectly safe car, but certain models can protect you better in case of a crash. Some vehicles offer features that may help you to avoid an accident in the first place. You can compare crash test ratings and find other car safety related information online.

Reliability

Reliability is one of the most important factors to consider. Not all cars are the same. Some models are proven to be very reliable, others are known for constant problems. There is a number of resources where you can check reliability ratings of car models.

Fuel economy

With unpredictable gas prices, choosing the more fuel-efficient vehicle will help you to save money at the pump. Fuel-efficient cars pollute less, which is good for the environment. By choosing a more economical vehicle you are helping to fight global warming. 

Depreciation
Some cars hold value well, while others depreciate very quickly. If you want to keep your car only for a few years and then trade it in, consider a model that will not drop in value too quickly over your ownership period.

Automatic or manual transmission

It is much easier to drive a car with an automatic transmission. An automatic transmission offers more convenience, but it involves a more complicated device and breaks more often. The repair of an automatic transmission tends to be quite expensive. When you buy a used car, the automatic transmission is one of the important parts to check - How to check a transmission

Cars with manual transmission are less expensive. A manual transmission is often more reliable than an automatic. Experienced drivers of manual transmissions will tell you they like how it allows the driver to feel "closer" to the car. It's just more fun! However, it is more hassle to drive a car with manual transmission, especially in a stop-and-go traffic. It also could be challenging to handle for a beginner. But don't be scared, it's not as difficult as it seems - many learn it pretty quickly. You also can save on gas - cars with manual transmission are more economical. A manual transmission gives you more control over gear shifting, and therefore more possibilities for adopting fuel-efficient drive style.

Considering a car with Diesel engine

Cars with a diesel engine consume almost half as much fuel as the same car with a gasoline engine. However, there is a price to pay: Diesel engines are a bit noisier and there always will be that not very pleasant smell from the exhaust. Some Diesel engine vehicles require only synthetic oil which means higher maintenance cost.

Four-cylinder or six

Four-cylinder engines usually provide better fuel economy, but V6 and V8 engines generally have more power and little more durability. The V6 (or V8) engine will be a good choice if you want to use your car for towing a trailer. For normal city driving, a four-cylinder engine will do the job just fine.

Do I need the ABS?

The four-wheel ABS or Anti-lock Braking System is designed to help the driver maintain steering control during hard braking, especially in slippery conditions. Driving a car equipped with four-wheel ABS, it would be easier for you to steer your vehicle while braking. If slippery road conditions are common in your area, the ABS may be helpful if you use it correctly. The disadvantage is that the ABS is quite complicated device and might be costly to repair.

Hope this tips are helpful, contact me for more tagcars@live.com

Basic Car Maintenance Tips

I received a requests to provide some very simple car maintenance tips. So here we go...

The information contained in this post is for educational purposes only and cannot substitute for the advice of professional mechanic or authorized dealer. I've tried to describe some of the car maintenance tasks in a very simple, easy to understand manner. I covered only few basic items. Don't attempt to service your car if you don't have proper knowledge and tools, you can be injured and your vehicle could be damaged.

 Few basic car maintenance tips

• Regular oil changes are very important to keep your engine in a good shape.
• Wash your car regularly, wax it once in a while to keep the car body shiny and free from corrosion.
• Take care of any minor concerns, so it won't cause serious problems and an expensive repair later.

• Use only original parts.

How to check the engine oil

Place your car at the level spot. Stop the engine. Wait for a while to let the engine oil to pour down to the oil pan. Pull
the engine oil dipstick. Check the oil level. Check the oil condition: If it's way too black, it's definitely time to change it. If it's slightly-brown, it's O.K. If it's dark-brown, but still transparent, it's admissible but it's better to change it soon. If it's white (coffee with milk color) it means the engine coolant mixes with the engine oil because of some internal engine problem, have your car inspected. It would be better to add the same type and brand of the engine oil as you already have in the engine. Add a little amount of the oil. Wait for a minute to let the oil to pour down. Check the oil level again with the dipstick. If it's still low, add some more. But don't overfill it. Don't forget to install the dipstick back and close the oil filler cap when you finished.

Check the tire pressure regularly

Check tire pressure at least once a month. You can find the recommended tire pressure  on the tire pressure placard (see photo), which might be located somewhere on the car (e.g. on the driver's door opening, inside the gas tank, inside the glove box). The maximum pressure listed on tires is NOT the proper pressure!
Rotate tires at every second oil change - it will insure all tires wear equally. Feel vibration at cruising speed? - have your tires balanced.  There is a safe limit of the tread wear. If the tire is worn below this limit it's unsafe to drive; your mechanic can check your tires for you. Uneven tire wear indicates alignment problem.
Improper alignment causes increased tire and suspension components wear and poor handling. In worst case, improper alignment may throw your car into a skid, especially on a wet or slippery road. If a car pulls aside, wanders or feels unstable on the road, have the alignment checked. Properly done alignment will make your car's ride a lot more enjoyable.

Engine coolant

Low coolant level will cause engine overheating, which may cause serious damage to the engine.How to check the engine coolant level: The coolant level should be between "LOW" and "FULL" marks in the coolant overflow tank as in the picture. If it's lower, top it up. If there is no coolant in overflow tank or you have to top it up quite often, have your car inspected in the garage, possibly there is a coolant leak.
Never open the radiator or coolant overflow tank when the engine is hot! When engine temperature is reduced (few minutes after the engine has been turned off) , simply add a coolant into the overflow tank to "FULL" mark.
 
Taking care of small concerns in time may save you a lot more
 
As soon as you feel there is something wrong with your car like any kind of irregular noise, vibration, shimmer, or you note some leak or any warning light comes on while driving or anything that seems to be irregular - have your car inspected at a dealer or a garage as soon as you can - it might be unsafe to drive. It's definitely better to check any small problem before it will cause something serious.
 
Regular mechanical inspection
 
For your safety, I recommend to have your car inspected regularly, at least once a year, by a mechanic. I mean not just visual inspection by one of the fast lube places, but a mechanic that can lift your car and check major components such as brakes, suspension, etc., while having your tires rotated, for example. This is because many components (e.g ball joints), can not be inspected visually.

If you need more info about this post contact me tagcars@live.com

Mitsubishi Outlander

Hot isn't a word one would often use for an SUV, but it's fitting for the Mitsubishi Outlander. The Mitsubishi Outlander has a stunnning exterior that looks like a design ahead of its time.  Seven-spoke 18 inch alloys look outstandinly awesome on the XLS Luxury model.  The chunky colour-coded door mirrors, rounded fog lamps, rear roof spoiler, silver roof rails, privacy glass, chrome exhaust extensions and tear-drop lines all add to the pleasing first impressions that one gets when drooling from outside this classy machine.  Open the solid driver's door and close it again, and a very reassuring clunk follows, again adding to the building impression of strength and durability that the big Outlander encompasses in its looks, design and engineering.

The Mitsubishi Outlander's interior is designed to provide comfort for those long drives and off-road jaunts.  With seating for up to seven, the Outlander's has plenty of room.  Leather seating is an option; however, the Non-Phenol Felt looks and feels just as well-dressed.  The seats are covered in either cloth, sports mesh or leather.  The Non-Phenol Felt  fabric reduces the formation of compounds on the material and reduces lingering odors.  The audio system is very nice, and integrates into the 8 inch LCD touch screen navigation system.

There is even a Bluetooth  phone integration system available.  Another well designed feature is the steering wheel mounted controls for not only the audio system but also the navigation system.

The Outlander is commendably designed, and is very useful off-road.  At the touch of a button, you can engage the 4-wheel drive system that transfers just the right amount of power to each wheel to ensure you have the best traction available.  Not only does the 4-wheel drive system help ensure your safety when the road conditions get bad, but the Outlander has both driver and passenger front airbags as well as roll-over and side curtain airbags.  The ABS anti-lock brakes help ensure you stop very quickly. The Outlander is a very safe vehicle, and boasts crumple zones and a collapsible steering column.

Packed with plenty of punch under the hood, the Outlander performs with lots of sparkle.  There are two engine options.  The most powerful is reserved for the VR models.  The long-awaited 3.0 litre V6 bristles with the latest in engine design and pumps out 162 kW of power.  The 276 Nm of torque gives a deep throaty response and loads of pulling power.  The 2.4 litre has 125 kW of power and feels swift in operation.  The options for transmissions are: a five speed manual gearbox on the base model, a CVT transmission version, and a silky six speed auto is linked to the V6 models. 

The combination of power and modern technology make the Mitsubishi Outlander frugal on gas when travelling out on the open road.  The Outlander weighs over 1.5 tonnes and yet can hand back to the driver a class leading 32 km/litre city and 44 km/litre highway. 

Don't miss adding this one to your shopping list.  Definitely worth a look.  The Mitsubishi Outlander is an SUV that contains all the bells and whistles that make driving fun, enjoyable and exciting.

Current model series include:

• Mitsubishi Outlander ZG LS 2.4
• Mitsubishi Outlander ZG VR 3.0
• Mitsubishi Outlander ZG VRX 3.0
• Mitsubishi Outlander ZG XLS 2.4

For any more information on the Mitsubishi Outlander contact tagcars@live.com

Toyota Kluger

One of the ultimate crossover vehicles, the Toyota Kluger fits the bill. With the versatility and comfort of an on-road vehicle and the dependability and strength of an off-road vehicle, the Kluger will take you wherever you need to go in comfort and style. The Toyota Kluger is very well suited to carrying lots of people from A to B, as it has the option of seven seats.

Inside the Kluger, you will find just the right comfort levels for those long trips or short jaunts across town. This vehicle is well equipped with cruise control, air conditioning, power steering, power windows, central locking, a choice of cloth or leather seats with power adjustment and lumbar support, a 60/40 split rear seat and a fold away third row seat, power moon roof, tilt steering, intermittent front and rear windscreen wipers and a 6-speaker AM/FM radio cassette with CD player.

You can even get a touch-screen satellite navigation DVD system. The rugged Australian Outback is somewhat tamed when you travel on your adventure in a Toyota Kluger. The Kluger also has a unique set-up in the second row of seats that allows you to remove the middle seat. This creates a walk-through access to the third row. The vehicle is reasonably roomy, the most room being offered in the front seats and the second row. Certainly the seats are very supportive and comfortable to sit a number of hours in.

Powering this versatile SUV is a 3.5 litre dual overhead cam multi-valve petrol engine with variable valve timing intelligence (WT-I ). The V-6 engine is meshed with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The latest Toyota Kluger range offers both 2WD and 4WD options. The all-wheel drive system is automatic and it ensures that you will remain firmly on the road with the best available traction possible. Through corners, the Kluger feels stable and the suspension deals with road undulations well. Stability control makes the car a solid handler, even at high speed. The punchy V6 power plant means the Kluger is always going to deliver enough performance, no matter how many occupants and how much luggage is on board.

Safety is first class in the Kluger. It includes seven airbags, a reversing camera, ABS Anti-lock brakes, the all-wheel drive option, automatic transmission shift lock, Traction Control, Vehicle Stability Control, childproof rear door locks, seat belt pre-tensioners with force limiters, child restraint anchorage points, keyless remote with a theft deterrent system and a remote central locking tailgate.

The Toyota Kluger is the ultimate crossover vehicle designed to meet all your needs both on and off the road. Try one out today and see the Toyota difference.

Current model series include:

• Toyota Kluger KX-R 2WD
• Toyota Kluger KX-R AWD
• Toyota Kluger KX-S 2WD
• Toyota Kluger KX-S AWD
• Toyota Kluger Grande 2WD
• Toyota Kluger Grande AWD

For any more information on the Toyota Kluger contact tagcars@live.com