TOYOTA PROBOX: KENYA'S FLYING CAR REVIEW

If you’ve been on Kenyan roads, you’ve seen it. No, scratch that, you’ve been overtaken by it. The Toyota Probox, affectionately dubbed Kenya’s flying car, is more than just a vehicle; it’s a symbol of hustle. Whether it’s zipping down Thika Road at ungodly speeds or being loaded to the brim with miraa for that early morning delivery, the Probox doesn’t just get the job done, it redefines what it means to hustle. This isn’t your average car. It’s a beast in the business world, a lifeline for small enterprises, and a staple in rural and urban Kenya alike.

Detailed Features:

Let’s be honest, the roads in Kenya aren’t exactly friendly. Potholes, rough terrain, and long distances can wear out even the toughest cars. But the Probox? It’s built like a tank. This car can handle everything from the unforgiving murram roads ito the pothole-riddled highways. It’s the go-to vehicle for “watu wa murima” who need something tough enough to transport everything from farm produce to the beloved miraa without breaking a sweat.

The Toyota Probox may not be the flashiest car on the road, but its practicality and reliability make it one of the most popular cars in Kenya, especially for those who need a tough, durable workhorse. Let’s break down some of its key features and specs:

Engine and Performance

- Engine Displacement: The Probox typically comes with two engine options:

  - 1.3-liter (1,329cc): This is a 4-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC engine, commonly found in the base models. It’s designed for efficiency and durability.

  - 1.5-liter (1,496cc): A slightly more powerful option that provides a bit more grunt, making it perfect for those who need to carry heavier loads or travel longer distances.

  

- Power Output: 

  - The 1.3-liter engine produces around 94 horsepower (hp).

  - The 1.5-liter engine pushes around 109 horsepower (hp).

  

- Fuel Type: Petrol.

  

- Transmission: The Probox is typically available in either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission, depending on the model. The manual version is more popular in Kenya due to its reliability and better control for carrying heavy loads.

- Drive Type: Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, although some models offer an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option, ideal for off-road or rural Kenyan terrains.

Fuel Efficiency

- One of the Probox’s strongest selling points is its fuel efficiency:

  - The 1.3-liter model averages around 15-18 km/l, depending on driving conditions.

  - The 1.5-liter model averages around 13-16 km/l

For a car that’s often used for transporting goods or people, these figures make it a very economical choice, especially in today’s world of fluctuating fuel prices.

Despite its compact appearance, the Probox is surprisingly spacious, making it a favorite for transport services.

- Seating Capacity: The Probox is usually available as a 5-seater. However, some configurations are adapted for transporting cargo, meaning the rear seats can be folded or removed altogether.

- Cargo Space: This is where the Probox shines. With the rear seats down, it provides a vast amount of space, perfect for carrying farm produce, spare parts, miraa, or other goods. You can easily fit more than you’d expect.

Towing and Payload

- Maximum Payload: The Probox can carry a maximum load of up to 400 kg. This makes it suitable for small businesses, especially those in need of a reliable cargo vehicle.

Suspension and Handling

- Front Suspension: MacPherson strut with coil spring, which helps absorb shocks from uneven Kenyan roads.

- Rear Suspension: Torsion beam with coil spring, offering durability even when carrying heavy loads.

The Probox’s suspension system is built to handle rough roads, potholes, and bumpy terrains without breaking down easily, making it perfect for rural Kenyan areas.

Braking System

- Front Brakes: Ventilated disc brakes for efficient stopping power.

- Rear Brakes: Drum brakes, which are cost-effective and sufficient for the vehicle's purpose.

Interior Features

- Basic yet Functional: The interior of the Probox is designed with simplicity in mind. It’s not luxurious, but it’s functional and comfortable for daily work.

- Manual Air Conditioning: Available on most models, ensuring you stay cool while driving in hot Kenyan weather.

- Basic Audio System: Comes with a standard AM/FM radio with USB and AUX input in some models.

  

While the interior may not have the bells and whistles of higher-end cars, it’s straightforward and easy to clean, which is a bonus for drivers frequently hauling goods.

Safety Features

- Airbags: Driver and passenger airbags come as standard in most models, although earlier versions may not have them.

- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): Prevents the wheels from locking up during sudden braking, improving safety, especially on slippery roads.

Price Range (in Kenya)

- The Toyota Probox remains one of the most affordable vehicles on the market. Depending on the condition and year of manufacture, you can find a Probox for anywhere between Ksh 600,000 and Ksh 1,200,000.

Conclusion

The Toyota Probox isn’t flashy, and it doesn’t pretend to be. But what it lacks in looks, it more than makes up for in functionality, speed, and resilience. It’s the car for the Kenyan hustler, the miraa transporter, the trader, the family man who needs something affordable yet reliable. It’s built for our roads, built for our hustle, and built for our way of life. So if you’re looking for a ride that’s tough, fast, and ready to tackle anything Kenya throws at it, look no further than Kenya’s flying car, the Probox.