Fact Jeke Behind the Wheel
December is the best month of the year, not only do we celebrate the birth of Christ Jesus, but we also get to have a long break from work and do a lot of travelling to different places.
Some travel to the rural areas while others visit lodges and chalets dotted around the country which are accessible via dirt roads which require a reliable, comfortable and convenient vehicle
For those shopping around for such a vehicle or those who want to hire or choose one from your collection, I suggest you consider the following 4x4s.
The Toyota Fortuner is one such vehicle. With its long frame, the Japanese vehicle clearly delivered. The fabulous Fortuner has been a success since it was first introduced to this part of the world in 2006. It has over the last two years gained a new family member in the form of the powerful 2.5-litre diesel derivative.
This firm family favourite is much loved because of the fact that it offers luxury, no fuss reliability and proven off road capabilities.
With generous interior space and modern exterior, you can see why Toyota always comes out tops. When it comes to fuel consumption and general service and maintenance on a budget, you will defiantly save with this car. It’s also available at a generous price from Toyota Zimbabwe.
Another beauty is the Land Rover Discovery with its outstanding off-road capabilities. The one millionth Land Rover Discovery was produced early last year at Jaguar Landrover’s Solihill manufacturing plant near Birmingham in the UK.
When you hop behind the wheel of this 4×4, it’s easy to understand why. The interior smacks of luxury, it can seat seven passengers so it’s perfect for your five kids.
It has a load space of 2 500 litres making it stand out in its class. Packed with technology including Land Rovers award winning Terrain Response System and many other unique techno features, this is among my favourites and it’s available at Premier Auto Services.
And from the East we have H5, which is a Sports Utility Vehicle that is manufactured by Great Wall Motors.
It is well equipped and it comes with just about everything. The drive wasn’t so exciting for me but hey when everything else works, it makes up for the shortcomings. If you are looking for a large SUV that practical and low on pricing, this will be it for you.
GWM is Chinas biggest privately owned automotive manufacturer. When I first came into contact with this brand, I was concerned about quality and back-up services and after test driving a few of their offering available at Zimoco and after touring their service centre I was converted.
Finally, we have the Trailblazer from General Motors. The trailblazer, which is part of the Chevrolet family, is a robust seven-seater SUV.
It does not compromise on quality and practicality. A few of these vehicles have hit our streets and am sure more will grace our streets.
Since I am writing about the festive season I would like to look at some safety tips that can possibly help drivers this holiday.
In terms of security solo drivers are often the most likely targets for criminals so as we celebrate this festive season, make sure you don’t drive alone and if you are be attentive on the road.
Be alert and trust no one, even a child needing assistance. This might be a trick for you to make you stop and get out of your car. Another favourite tactic that robbers use is bumping into you and pretend that it is genuine accident.
When you stop to check for damages they pounce on you. Some might recall a recent accident involving a lorry being driven by thieves and a security vehicle carrying money for salaries for workers in Nyanga recently.
Fact Jeke is an auto enthusiast who has over a decade worth of experience having attended auto shows and rallies around the world and written for various publications. She can be contacted on email missjeke@gmail.com or on Facebook, torque with Fact Jeke & YOOKOS