I have some experience with cars but I know there are experts here in wazua. I would like to acquire an older SUV-2000cc Max either RAV4/X-trail 2001-2005 model budget 800K max.Of these two dear wazuans, which would you advice bearing in mind an ordinary Nairobians concerns.
-Fuel consumption (is there a difference assume both are 2K cc?)
-Serviceability and likelihood of issues - have heard some horror issues with some X-trails not sure if it cuts across. X-Trails are also cheaper to buy, not sure about running costs vs Rav 4.

I intend to use the car for the long haul - 5+ years.

For 10-15 year old cars, what you are looking for is a well maintained car regardless engine cc or model.

Cars depreciate fast so your main expense will be repairs and maintenance.

I would rather top up the 800k and buy an ex-japan saloon than a 2001 RAV 4. The repairs you incur in the next 2 years will be enough to buy another old RAV 4.

Thanks @Jerry, but I wasn't keen on Honda, though I understand their engines are unbreakable.

True about engine being what you say. Other parts also last long and it''s stable on the road (off-road) and incomparable to RAV4. I'm not marketing though. The consumption is rather a deterrent at a conservative 8.5KPL!

That is for town driving or highway? If town not bad but kama ni highway then that is expensive. Is it a 2000cc? Thought Rav 4s are thirstier than hondas generally?

Sent

Its assumed -and is mostly true-that ladies are gentler drivers with almost zero levels of testosterone and don't hit potholes and drive over pavements or rough up the car, so its assumed the car has been pampered and should therefore be 'safer' to buy..

You can also be never sure that it was actually only lady driven, now that its mostly men who bring it to the yard or are the ones advertising it..

I need a maroon Premio 1800cc!