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VOL. 2 ISSUE 3 | MARCH/APRIL 2016

TheSpiritOf LuxuryThe Mercedes S-Class Cabriolet

DRIVE KENYA2

Contact usfor more detailsand options

P.O.Box:1911 – 00606 Westlands, Nairobi

Email:info@drivekenya.co.ke

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Tel:+254 718 221 222

+254 732 221 222

www.drivekenya.co.ke

Published By:Triple Two Holdings Ltd.

Editorial & Design Team:Amit Kwatra

Amit Soni

Vivek Kothary

Quality Car & Home Care Products Available at all leading supermarkets

WelcomeGreetings Dear Reader,

It seems like 2016 is whizzing by at a frenetic pace. There is a lot of action taking place globally in relation to politics, the global economy and oil prices. We estimate that, given the precipitous oil price drop, a litre of petrol should be retailing for Kshs 55 to 58. Motorists should at least appreciate the brief respite we have been given from the global oil glut.

This month’s main feature is the superlative S-Class Cabriolet. This new member of the S-Class family, reintroduced after a decades long break, is going to start selling this year. We certainly expect DT Dobie to be selling a few units of these luxurious vehicles. It combines a beautiful silhouette with incredible performance.

We also take a close look at the recent Top 10 Cars of 2015, that the highly influential Consumer Reports released. Although the list is applicable to US roads and conditions, there are certainly a few Kenyan favourites there, including the Subaru Impreza and Forester. Consumer Reports has a rigorous testing methodology, and Japanese vehicles tend to dominate the list, something both, Kenyan and US consumers are familiar with.

In the bikes section we feature the ‘semi-cruiser’, the Indian Scout Sixty. This unique bike is ‘relatively’ pocket friendly in price too, for the discerning enthusiast.

Once again it is the beginning of the rally season in Kajiado, which got off to a fantastic start with the ‘Flying-Finn’, Tapio Laukkanen, who is one of the fastest rally drivers ever seen on the Kenyan scene. He commanded the field, and it will be interesting to see who can challenge him this season.

We are eagerly awaiting the start of the F1 and MotoGP season. The pre-season testing is well underway, and fans are waiting for the race action to begin. Mercedes looks heavily dominant already, while MotoGP looks explosive with Yamaha teammates Jorge Lorenzo and Valentino Rossi, set for a titanic battle for the title. Last season was thrilling to say the least!

We have got tyre tips for you, courtesy of our friend, the Kenya Car Guy, and weird and quirky automotive factoids, which make for an amusing read.

In our classic car category, we have the lovely VW Karmann Ghia, that has also graced the presence of the local Concours d’Elegance.

Enjoy the ride!

NEWPACK

OLDPACK

Helplines: 0703333777, Tel: 020 2165703/4/6

NEWPACK

OLDPACK

Helplines: 0703333777, Tel: 020 2165703/4/6

Contents

Pg10

Top 10 Consumer Reports

Indian Scout Sixty

WRC Sweden

Pg16

Pg14

Pg21

CoverStory

Other Topics

The News Pg 6

Weird & Quirky Pg 8

Classic Car Pg 9

Kenya Car Guy Pg 15

2016 Motorsport Calender Pg 20

Kajiado Rally Pg 22

KNRC Calender Pg 23

DRIVE KENYA 5

Motor PrivateWhat is covered under a motor private policy?

GA Insurance Limited 4th floor, GA Insurance House, Ralph Bunche Road P.O. Box 42166Nairobi 00100 GPO Kenya Tel 2711633

www.gakenya.com

Accident collision and / or overturningTheft of vehicleFireRiot and strikesMalicious damage by another person with illmotiveFlood and natural perilsDamage to other peoples propertyInjury to pedestriansWindscreenRadio cassetteTowing

Am i covered against Political violence & terrorism?

Political risk and terrorism can be covered by paying asmall supplementary premium in addition to your normalannual premium. Also covered would be strikes, riots andcivil commotion.

What is policy Excess

This is the amount you pay towards repairs orreplacement of the vehicle after accidental damage ortheft occurs respectively. In the event accidentaldamage occurs, the excess is usually a percentage of thevehicles’ value and ranges from 2.5% to 10% dependingon the use of the vehicle.

In the case of a theft claim, the percentage can go ashigh as 20%, this can however be reduced up to 5% ifrisk mitigation measures such as, installation ofAnti-Theft devices, tracking devices and fleetmanagement systems are installed. However, one canpurchase excess protection benefit to guard against theabove.

Is it cheaper to pay annually or monthly?

It's almost always cheaper to pay up front annually formotor vehicle Insurance.

Why GA?

GA is a strong Brand in the market with strong financialstability, years and years of experience dating back to1979 as well as the experienced staff who are alwayswilling to assist.

Customer satisfaction is our key pillar and we will leave nostone unturned until all your insurance demands are met.

How is our claims management process

Our claims process is quite fast having a wide range ofgarages and assessors among other service providers atour disposal. We are able to repair your vehicle and haveit back on the road within the shortest time possible.Also, our team of well-experienced staff is alwaysat hand to your unlimited support ensuring your claimsprocess runs smoothly.

Can i pay my premium in installments?

Yes! We have partnered with I&M Bank Ltd forcompetitive rates on Insurance Premium Financing (IPF).This is a facility provided by the bank where they pay theinsurance company the full premium amount and you asthe insured get to pay the bank back in flexibleinstallments that can run up to 10 months

Documents required for a motor cover?

National ID, Logbook, drivers license, pin number,proposal form, postal address, valuation of the vehicleand abstract

Documents required for an accident claim

National ID, Logbook, Copy of DL and statement bydriver, police abstract, executed claim form

What do i need for a cover outside the country?

COMESA yellow card which needs to be requested andpremium paid.

With GA Insurance, our clients are assured

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DRIVE KENYA6

Nairobi, Kenya – Just four months after the opening of Daimler’s first Regional Center for commercial vehicles in Dubai, UAE, the launch of the second Regional Center in Nairobi, Kenya, marks the next step in the rollout of Daimler’s Regional Center strategy. The concept is designed to consequently expand the company’s presence close to customers and markets, with a clear focus on the commercial vehicle business. Covering East, Central, and West Africa, the new unit Daimler Commercial Vehicles Africa (DCV Africa) will be responsible for the complete commercial vehicle portfolio, ranging from the light-duty truck FUSO Canter, to the heavy-duty Mercedes Benz Actros. Its scope will also include Mercedes Benz buses.

“Our new Regional Center for East, Central and West Africa, will bring us even closer to our commercial vehicle customers and their needs. It will allow us to benefit further from the growth potential of this region in the sales and customer service business,” said Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard, member of the Board of Management responsible for Daimler Trucks & Buses. “Today’s opening in Nairobi, therefore, represents a win-win situation for Daimler, our business partners and the entire region”, Dr. Bernhard added.

Clear focus on the needs of commercial vehicles customers

Based in Nairobi, DCV Africa enjoys excellent facilities and connections for doing business, e.g. it is directly connected to the port of Mombasa and other neighboring countries. Its establishment allows for an even stronger focus on the specific characteristics of East, Central, and West Africa’s commercial vehicles business, and even a closer sector specific engagement with customers and

markets in the region. Rajaram K, Head of DCV Africa said, “Kenya is not only one of the region’s most dynamic economies, but also the business and transport hub of Eastern Africa and the ideal launching pad for Sub-Saharan Africa. This makes it the perfect location for increasing our business in this promising part of Africa. We are convinced that we have the right set of products and services to win more and more customers in this economically growing region.”

Long-term growth potential in the region

Eastern, Central, and West Africa is a promising growth region for Daimler’s commercial vehicles business. After one decade of growth of 5%, experts predict and even greater growth. With 68% of its overall population of 770 million being below 25 years old, the region continues to be an attractive location for foreign direct investment, which has increased six-fold since the year 2000. Daimler’s CV sales in the region totaled to about 5,900 units in 2015.

DCV Africa steers the commercial vehicle business in 41 markets

Daimler looks back on more than 50 years of serving customers in the region in cooperation with local distributors. Many of its current General Distributors have been long standing partners. In addition, FUSO is also engaged in kit assembly of FUSO vehicles in Kenya with local partners.

TOTAL ENHANCES BON VOYAGE FUEL CARD FEATURES

Total Kenya Limited has been enhancing the company’s TOTAL Bon Voyage card by introducing new features. The latest digital makeovers are vehicle tagging and web based extranet tools.

Speaking about the innovations, Gerald Matola, Total Kenya’s Card Sales Manager, explained, “The card now comes equipped with a tagging microchip which is permanently fixed on windscreens. This means vehicle authentication will no longer be human, but automated to ensure only the right vehicle for a specific card can be fueled at TOTAL service stations.”

“This technology uses Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID), which enables a point of sale terminal, to scan the card on the microchip before dispensing fuel. The tags are tamper proof, meaning, any attempt to remove it renders the same useless, in which case the card will not transact.”

The TOTAL Bon Voyage card is the pioneer fuel card in Kenya, with over 15 years of experience of controlling and monitoring fuel consumption, for any size of fleet. The card can be configured to suit the needs of individuals, corporates and fleet owners. Credit transfer services from one prepaid card to another, via the point of sale terminal at the service stations, is also available. Customization or change of parameters for existing cards can be done remotely, without having to present the cards to Card Centre.

TOP QUALITY ISO 9001: 2008 CERTIFICATION AND FRANCHISE LAUNCH

From left: Top Quality Auto Limited- Director, Rose Kendi Ndegwa, Top Quality Auto Limited, Managing Director, Eng Benard Ngore M’Mutirithia, Morris Maina from Crown Paints and Top Quality Auto Limited Finance Manager, Samuel Githinji.

DAIMLER OPENS REGIONAL CENTER COMMERCIAL VEHICLES FOR EAST, CENTRAL AND WEST AFRICA

THE NEWS

GA Insurance Limited 4th floor, GA Insurance House,Ralph Bunche Road P.O. Box 42166 Nairobi 00100 GPO, Kenya Tel 2711633

www.gakenya.com

SME INSURANCE If your business provides a range of products and services, youmay face a number of risks. We tailor the Business Combinedpolicy around your needs, so you're covered for any exposuresyou may face.

(a) Fire & Perils

This insurance covers assets such as buildings, plant &machinery, business stocks, furniture, fixtures & fittings andoffice equipment.

(b) Fire Loss of Profits

A viable business continues to incur expenses after a fire loss,these reduction of gross profit, additional wages and audit fees,these costs are covered by the loss of profits policy.

(c) Burglary

The Burglary policy provides cover against loss or damage toproperty following forcible or violent entry or exit from insuredpremises or through hold-up.

(d) Machinery Breakdown

(a) Electronic Equipment Insurance

Machinery Breakdown Insurance provides cover against suddenand unforeseen physical loss or damage to the insuredmachinery, plant and equipment

This cover is suitable for electronic items usually to be found inan office accessories .These will include computers, cameras,printers, PABX and other office equipment’s.

This will protect the client against theft of stocks while in thepremises, the damage to building as the thieves break in and it iseven extended to cover goods in the open to a certain limit.

Single insurance policies may not be flexible enough for yourneeds, so a business combined package will give you peace ofmind, knowing that your business has the cover it deserves, veryconvenient and cost effective.

With a Business Combined Insurance package, you can choosefrom a wide range of insurance options that will suit yourbusiness as follows:-

1. Cover for Assets

(a) Money

Money insurance policy covers loss or damage to money by robberyor theft while in transit, premises and safe.

(b) Fidelity Guarantee

Cover for loss of money or insured’s property caused by fraud ordishonesty of an employee or employees.

(g) Political & Terrorism Risks

Provides cover against loss or damage to property caused by thefollowing incidents:

2. Cover For Computers and Portable Items

(b) All Risks

The product provides cover against loss or damage to specified items(portable items) which include laptops, cameras, projectors and all otherportable items as a result of any cause within the business premises.

3. Cover For Liabilities

(a) Public Liability

Public insurance provides protection against claims arising from:

Accidental bodily injury to any third party person.Accidental loss of or damage to third party property.

(b) Professional Liability

Provides cover to the Insured from issues of professional negligence anderrors & omissions in relation to their profession. It covers legal liability fordamages, claimant’s costs and litigation expenses

(c) Employer’s Liability

This policy offers protection to employers for their legal liability (underCommon Law), for damages and claimant’s costs and expenses oflawsuits filed by an employee. The liability would arise if an employee inthe insured’s immediate service dies or is injured out of or in the courseof their work, through any perceived negligence on the employer’s part.

5. Cover For Employees

(a) Work Injury Benefits Policy

This is Compulsory for ALL employees by Workmen’s CompensationLaw: WIBA 2007 compensation per employee.

DeathPermanent Total DisablementTemporary Total/Partial disablementMedical ExpensesFuneral Expenses:

(b) Group Personal Accident

This cover provides compensation if the insured person shall sustainbodily injury caused by solely or directly by accident, violent, external andvisible means which injury shall solely and independently of any othercause result in death or disablement both permanent and temporary, itcan be extended also to cover medical expenses and funeral expenses.

SabotageMutiny, Insurrection, rebellion, or Coup d'EtatStrike, Riot or civil commotionLootingMalicious damageTerrorism Acts

4. Financial Risks

DRIVE KENYA8

DRIVE KENYA 9

In the early 1950’s, Volkswagen was focused on producing its economy model, the VW Beetle, but, with an increase in prosperity, executives suggested that VW add a high end model to their line-up. The VW Karmann Ghia was born as a result and made its debut at the October 1953 Paris Auto Show. The name Karmann comes from the German coach builder, Karmann, who was designated to build the vehicle. Ghia was an Italian firm that Karmann in turn, outsourced the work to. Ghia adapted styling themes from Chrysler and Studebaker for the vehicle, and expanded the base Beetle chassis floorplan by 300mm. In contrast to the construction process of the VW Beetle, which had a machine-welded body with bolt-on fenders, the Karmann Ghia’s body panels were welded, hand-shaped, and smoothed with English pewter, in a time-consuming construction process, commensurate with higher-end manufacturers, resulting in the Karmann. Ghia’s higher price - the equivalent of two VW Beetles.

VW Karmann Ghia

American industrial designer Walter Dorwin Teague, included the Karmann Ghia in his list of the world’s most beautifully designed products

The Karmann Ghia was initially available as a 2+2 coupe sports car, in 1955, and later on, as a convertible. The Ghia shared an engine with the Beetle, and ultimately, over a period of time, arrived at a displacement of 1584 cc, producing 60-hp. In 1961, VW introduced the Type 34 variant, which was based on the newly introduced Type 3 chassis and featured angular bodywork. American industrial designer Walter Dorwin Teague, included the Karmann Ghia in his list of the world’s most beautifully designed products. It is estimated that more than 445,000 Karmann Ghias were made over the lifetime of the vehicle in Germany, and another 42,000 in Brazil. In late 1974, the car was superseded by the Porsche 914 and the Golf/Rabbit based Scirocco. The Karmann Ghia was represented at the local Concours d’Elegance by Paul Chemngorem’s 1962 model.

We agree with Mr. Walter, that it is a good looking classic.

Image Source - Flickr/Tom

DRIVE KENYA10

he new S-Class Cabriolet is the sixth variant of the current S-Class family, and the first open-top, luxury four-seater from Mercedes-Benz since 1971! The

Cabriolet made its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show last year, and according to Mercedes, is intended to offer a distinctive, sensual and exclusive design. The cutting-edge technology of the S-Class displays a comprehensive warmth and wind protection concept, which includes intelligent climate control for convertibles. “With its sensual and pure design idiom, our new S-Class Cabriolet is one of the most beautiful and exclusive S-Class cars of all time!” said Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Daimler AG.

The centerpiece of the front end is the black diamond radiator grille, featuring the Mercedes star and a single louvre in silver and chrome inserts. The bonnet adds dynamic touches with two powerful character lines. The striking front bumper incorporates large air intakes, in the middle and at the sides. The chrome trim adds a sporty finishing touch to the front end. The optional LED Intelligent Light System showcases the car’s elegance in glittering style, with exquisite Swarovski crystals for the direction indicators and daytime running lamps.

Inside the S-Class Cabriolet, boasts a luxuriously sporty design setting and a choice of fine materials, that Mercedes so lavishly included alongside their exceptionally classy interior setting. The soft top opens up to create an open-air lounge that is designed to exude a yacht-like atmosphere. To enable the broadest scope for individualization and exclusivity, there is a choice of leather, nappa leather or designo exclusive nappa leather, plus six different interior color concepts, including a maritime-inspired combination of deep-sea blue and porcelain. The materials per Mercedes, feature the highest standard of workmanship and are hand-crafted in character. This is one immensely powerful car, with a V8 engine that has an output of 455-hp. The engine displacement stands at 4663 cc and the engine produces peak torque of 700 Nm from 1800 rpm.

All Media images - daimler media

MercedesS-Class Cabriolet

The Spirit of Luxury

Cover Story

Key Features

9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission

AIRMATIC semi-active air suspension system

THERMOTRONIC climate control technology, AIRCAP automatic wind protection system and AIRSCARF neck-level heating system

Intelligent Drive systems such as DISTRONIC PLUS, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist

0-60 mphin 4.5 seconds S550 Cabriolet

3.9 seconds AMG S63 4MATIC Cabriolet

4.7-liter V-8 biturbo engine-449 hp, 516 lb-ft of

torque - S550 Cabrioletor a hand-built AMG 5.5-liter V-8 biturbo

engine-577 hp, 664 lb-ft of torque

AMG S 63 Cabriolet

DRIVE KENYA 13

Available design nappa leather

upholstery

Soft top that can open or close in less than 20 seconds at speeds up to 37 mph, available in four different colors - black, dark blue, beige and dark red

Optional ENERGIZING massage function with 6 different programs and optional hot-stone

massage function

MAGIC VISION CONTROL

DRIVE KENYA14

The Indian Scout Sixty is described as, giving a first impression of lightness and friendliness and we agree. This is not an intimidating bike: it looks good, is well-built and provides an affordable entry point into the authentic cruiser market, from one of the world’s oldest motorcycle firms. The seat, at a low height of 642mm, allows the option of placing both feet firmly on the ground for maximum control, when stopped. The ride is described by critics as, “easy, but not perfect”. The tyres are said to be good, but could be replaced with a more mainstream manufacturer of cruiser rubber. The engine has a displacement of 999c with 78-hp of power, a class-leading performance.

Reviewers view this bike as comfortable, smooth, and with free revving. In terms of appearance, this bike looks sleek, with blacked out engine parts, fork bottoms, a modified headlight, clock surround, crackle-finish black frame and black wheels. We used the term ‘semi-cruiser’ in our intro editorial, as the Scout Sixty has a small fuel tank, of only 12.5-litres, which means more breaks on longer runs. ABS is standard in European versions and there is very easy handling, requiring less tech support to operate. The layout is simple and clean. As Indian says, “Scout Sixty is the perfect motorcycle to start your legend.” Going for a reasonable price of, £8,999 ex-UK…it is not a bad start.

Indian Scout SixtyEngine Type

Liquid Cooled V-Twin

Engine Displacement 999cc

Bore 60 mm

Primary Drive Gear Drive Wet Clutch

Fuel System Closed loop fuel injection

Exhaust Split dual exhaust with crossover

Max. power 75-hp

Max. torque 65 ft-lbs

Suspension Front

Telescopic Fork/120 mm Rear

Dual Shocks/76 mm

Tires Front

130/90-16 72H Rear

150/80-16 71H

Brakes Front

Single/298 mm Rotor 2 Piston Caliper

Rear Single/298 mm Rotor

1 Piston Caliper

Rake and Trail 29°/119.9 mm

Dry Weight 247 kg

Fuel capacity 12.5-litres

Seat Height 643 mm

Quick SpecsImage Source - Indian Motorcycle Media

Bikes

DRIVE KENYA 15

Kenya Car Guy

Tires

We have all grown used to Kenya’s ever changing weather patterns. You are boiling in your seat while driving to work one morning and next thing you know you are struck with Nairobi’s ever so unpredictable rain and traffic. You have scrapped together your savings for those tyres you have been meaning to get after your Christmas splurge, but which type of tyre do you need? We asked Kenya Car Guy to tell us a thing or two about tyres and hopefully make it simple for us.

There are many types of tyres available, different brands and different patterns. It all boils down to one question, what conditions are you mostly driving in? I’ve listed a few common threads, to help narrow it down for you.

All Season Tyres

The “all season” tyre is hard to define specifically, as it has a lot of variation in design. Generally speaking, most passenger car and SUV tyres would fall under this category, but their applications vary widely. All terrain tyres perform well in wet and dry conditions throughout the year, and can be used in winter, but usually are not the best performing in snow. Their compounds are a little harder for a long tyre life, and continuous grooves are common (which help water flow through the tread). These tend to be the best choice for the city traveler who occasionally travels off road.

Summer Tyres

Although not commonly found locally, your imported car may have these fitted on them when it came into Kenya. Summer tyres are probably the closest relative to all seasons, as they are usually made to work well in both, wet and dry conditions. However, they are not designed to function in snow. These tyres tend to have less grooving’s and utilize softer compounds, in order to improve contact patch and grip for high performance applications.

Winter Tyres

Winter tyres are composed of rubber compounds that are specifically designed to work in cold temperatures and snowy/slick/wet conditions. Their tread patterns are specifically designed to make sure the tyre can “bite” the snow to gain traction, giving winter tyre tread, a jagged look. Some winter tyres come with studs which increase traction in icy conditions. It is important to remember that because this rubber compound is designed for cold temperatures, the performance in warmer temperatures is not optimum. Therefore, even if your shiny BMW came with them, they are not recommended for tropical climates and should be changed to a type, more suitable with our weather conditions.

Mud Terrain

These off road tyres are less efficient, but are excellent at grabbing at soggy and muddy terrain and ideal for going off tarmac during the heavy rains. Mud terrains generally have large blocks of rubber with big spaces in between, and may even have small tread on the sidewall for additional grab in loose conditions.

To send in your questions to the Kenya Car Guy

Contact: info@drivekenya.co.ke

Mobile: +254 733 666 597

E-mail: info@kenyacarguy.com

Road Safety

DRIVE KENYA16

Consumer Reports

Top 10 Picks

The influential Consumer Reports recently released their best US cars of 2015 and a number of vehicles available in Kenya were on the list. The way CR defines “best” is based on a number of tests that include performance, reliability of 740,000 vehicles, owner satisfaction and safety.

Best Subcompact CarHonda Fit

The Honda Fit is a great choice for a first car. It is light on fuel, has nimble handling, which does not give off a “compromise car” vibe. It has a surprisingly large interior space with second-row seats, that elegantly stow away or flip up to hold more cargo. A rear-view camera is also standard.

Best Compact CarSubaru Impreza

The Subaru Impreza is a smart and practical car, with expansive window glass, lots of interior space, intuitive controls, great safety technology, superb All-Wheel-Drive and great crash-test safety results, for a comfortable ride.

Image Source - Honda Media

Image Source - Subaru Media

Top Picks

DRIVE KENYA 17

Best Midsized CarToyota Camry

The Camry has a fuss-free driving experience, outstanding reliability, great outward visibility, easy controls, a roomy interior, a quiet cabin, a comfortable ride with good handling and a solid powertrain. The hybrid version offers excellent fuel economy at a reasonable price too.

Best Small SUVSubaru Forester

The Forester is roomy, rides very comfortably, handling is unflappable, and the AWD system is top of the class. Fuel economy is amongst those of its class leaders and, “It also has the best sight lines from the driver’s seat of any model on the market.” Crash-test scores are superb as well.

Economical, Fast, Trendy, Stylish, Big, Loved. We have a wide choice of the latest cars which would match your style.

Image Source - Subaru Media

Image Source - Toyota Media

Top Picks

Best Luxury SUVLexus RX

Lexus created the luxury crossover segment almost twenty years ago. The RX has an edgy Origami styling alongside a “Predator” grille. The cabin is quiet and comfortable, power delivery is effortless and calm, the ride is smooth, and the interior is reported as tasteful. The hybrid RX has a superb fuel economy of 29 mpg overall.

Best Sports Car Under $40KMazda MX-5 Miata

The MX-5 Miata, “Nobody packs more fun-per-dollar into a pint-sized package than Mazda.” The MX-5 Miata is reported to have “lithe, precise handling”, a wonderfully speedy engine that gets an incredible 34mpg with a crisp manual gearbox. The ride is a bit jumpy due to the firm suspension and the cabin is loud. It is not an everyday car, but is reliable and fun to drive.

Best Large CarChevrolet Impala

The Impala is described as an outstanding car for the masses, dynamic and comfortable with responsive handling. The controls are said to be, “refreshingly intuitive, without resorting to overcomplicated interfaces.” Cabin space can fit five easily and comfortably.

Image Source - Lexus Media

Image Source - Mazda Media

Image Source - Chevrolet Media

Top Picks

Best Midsized SUVKia Sorento

The KIA Sorento is a “great SUV hiding in plain sight.” It offers above class elegance, with a superlative interior design at a similar price to peers. The Sorento has great reliability and good crash-test results. The smooth 290-hp V6 is responsive with competitive fuel economy, and the suspension absorbs the worst bumps and ruts with dignity.

Best MinivanToyota Sienna

The Sienna minivan is a super-reliable transport vehicle with all the modern features, a connected family would want. It has a spacious and modern multifunctional interior. It seats up to eight people and has an “energetic” powertrain, coupled with the Sienna’s “magic carpet ride”. It is also available in an AWD version.

Best Pickup TruckFord F-150

The F-150 has an all aluminium body construction that enables this Ford pick-up to weigh less, thus, engendering greater fuel-efficiency and quick responsiveness. The cabin is described as, “extremely quiet and spacious, with large windows and relatively narrow windshield pillars to aid outward visibility.” The infotainment system is updated and easier to use. The F-150 has Top-notch crash-test results and the best predicted reliability of any domestic truck.

Image Source - Kia Media

Image Source - Toyota Media

Image Source - Ford Media

Top Picks

DRIVE KENYA20

MAR

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MAY JUNE

JULY

AUGUST SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

Austr

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20

th

Bahr

ain 3

rd

Sochi 3rd Canada 12 th

Austria 3rd

Belgium 28

thItaly 4

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Malaysia 2

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Brazil 13th

Monaco 29th

Hungary 24 thUSA 23

rd

Germany 31st

Mexico 30

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China

17th

Spain 15th Baku 19 th

Great Britian 10 thSngpore 18

th

Japan 9th

MARCH

APRIL

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AUGUST SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

Qatar 20th

Argentin

a 3rd

Fran

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atalu

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German

y 17t

hAustria 14th Great Britian 4 th

Japan 16 th

Valencia 13th

Spain

24th

Malaysia 30 th

Aragon 25 th

Americ

as 10

thIta

ly 2

2ndH

ollan

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6th

Czech. R 21st S.Marino 11 th

Australia 23 rd

Abu Dhabi 27th

2016 Motorsport Calenders

Find out every date you want to know.

Image Source - Wikimedia Commons

Motorsports

DRIVE KENYA 21

A

WRC Sweden

s a start to the 2016 FIA World Rally Championship, Sebastian Ogier led from start to finish to secure his third Rally Sweden victory and preserve his maximum points.

The reigning world champion drove his Volkswagen Polo R to a 29.8sec success, in the Karlstad-based snow and ice rally, to add to his 2013 and 2015 triumphs.

Ogier also claimed full bonus points for winning the final Power Stage and just after two of the 14 rounds, the Frenchman has maximum championship points.

A slushy start threatened the season’s only pure winter rally, as the frozen gravel roads turned to mud. By the time the cold weather returned, nine of the 21 speed tests in Sweden and Norway had been axed. Thankfully though, due to the 10cm of snow and -10˚C temperatures, the event went ahead.

Ogier’s dominance was challenged during Saturday’s second leg, when he had to sweep fresh snow from the roads, to create a cleaner line for those behind. His half-minute lead was slashed to less than 10sec by Hayden Paddon, before he could again reassert his authority.“Two wins from the first two rallies – it can’t get any better. Yesterday was a little bit too crazy and I took risks like I had never done in my life,” said Ogier, who survived a massive sixth gear slide.

A holed radiator gave Paddon cause for concern after the Power Stage. Commenting Paddon said, “Conditions were terrible at the beginning of the week,

but the organizers did an impressive job, so that we had a good rally.” Paddon hatched his career-best results on his debut in Hyundai’s new i20 and became the first non-European driver, to finish on the Sweden podium, surviving a late scare after hitting a wooden post, metres from the finish.

The impact damaged the radiator causing a small hole to stem a fluid leak, forcing Paddon and co-driver to drive cautiously for the 85km liaison section to the finish.

Mads Østberg completed the podium in a Ford Fiesta RS, 25.8sec behind Paddon and 15.2sec ahead of fellow Norwegian, Andreas Mikkelsen. Mikkelsen ran as high as second, but a time-consuming spin ended his podium hopes.

Ott Tänak and Dani Sordo completed the top six, in a Fiesta RS and i20 respectively, though, a front left puncture ended the latter’s top three challenge. Henning Solberg and Craig Breen, driving Citroën’s DS 3 for the first time, were next up with WRC 2 winner Elfyn Evans and Teemu Suninen, completing the leaderboard.

Jari-Matti Latvala, Thierry Neuville and Kris Meeke, all, finished down the order after opening day problems.

Next month we have a different terrain to look forward to. The Championship heads to a gravel track for the first time, with León hosting the Rally in Guanajuato Mexico.

Source: Red Bull Media

Masterful Ogier wins in Sweden

Image Source - Red Bull Media

Motorsports

DRIVE KENYA22

The flying Finn, Tapio Laukkanen, secured the opening round of the Kenya National Rally Chamiponship (KNRC) in fine form, with a commanding performance from start to finish. The former British and Finnish rally champion, driving in a Subaru Impreza, won three of the four stages of the race in Kajiado, Il-Bissel and Parane. Laukkanen spoke of the fact that his car handled well, and he didn’t experience any major mishaps.

Ian Duncan, in his Mitsubishi Lancer EvoX, tried to challenge Laukkanen, but could not match the frenetic pace set by the Finn and finished 1.38 minutes, off the pace. Laukkanen himself was surprised by the margin with which he beat Duncan. Out of the thirty-nine cars that entered the race, 26 managed to finish, under challenging conditions, while Carl Tundo, Karan Patel and Issa Amwari, were forced to retire. Reigning KNRC champion Jassi Chatthe finished third overall, while former Uganda champion, Jas Mangat, finished fourth and also won the 10km Marble-Parane section. The Ford Fiesta ‘super car’ driven by Manvir Baryan and Rajbir Rai, came fifth and eighth, respectively. The next KNRC event is the Safari rally, which is scheduled for the Easter weekend.

Kajiado Rally

Tapio Laukkanen, secures the opening round of the Kenya National Rally Chamiponship.

1. Tapio Laukkanen (Subaru GVB13) 1.17.42

2. Ian Duncan (Evolution 10) 1:19.20

3. Jaspreet Chatthe (Evolution 10) 1:19.59

4. Jas Mangat (Evolution 10) 1:20.53

5. Manvir Baryan (Ford Fiesta R5) 1:21.18

6. Baldev Chager (Evolution 10) 1:22.01

7. Onkar Rai (Evolution 10) 1:22.27

8.Rajbir Rai (Ford Fiesta R5) 1:22.43

9. Jasmeet Chana (Evolution 9) 1:26.24

10. Izhar Mirza (Evolution 9) 1:28.45

Motorsports

CMONCY Images / Simon Mulumba

Driver: Tapio Laukkanen

Kajiado Rally

DRIVE KENYA 23

KNRC Calender

This years local ralliesthat are a mustto attend.

Motorsports

Kajiado rally

Safari rally

Eldoret rally

Nakuru rally

Mombasa rally

Nanyuki rally

Kisumu rally

Guru Nanak rally

27th - 28th February

26th - 28th March

7th - 8th May

11th - 12th June

23rd - 24th July

20th - 21st August

8th - 9th October

26th - 27th November

CMONCY Images / Simon Mulumba