Based on 2011 figures, South Africa did experience a boom in its economy and growth. In spite of the “changing of the guards” among auto makers, Japan’s Big Two still maintained a comfortable margin considering the March earthquake and tsunami. Japan’s Big Two refers to Toyota and Honda. However, since Nissan was able to get back on its feet ahead of these two auto giants, it gained more of a foothold among consumers.
In terms of cars for sale and cars recently bought, the most popular 4×4 vehicles from Nissan in South Africa are the Nissan Navara pick-up, the X-Trail, and Nissan Patrol. Unfortunately, the Nissan 4×4 bakkie or pick-ups always seem to fall under the vehicle most likely to be stolen. The X-Trail has gotten a reputation for overheating which has forced South Africans back to Honda or Toyota.
These are the two most fuel efficient 4×4 brands for a country whose terrain shifts from city driving to sandy dunes, wet and slippery rocks, uneven surfaces, and mountain trails. Of the Honda and Toyota 4×4, the CR-V and Toyota Land Cruiser have taken top slots.
Why Honda CR-V?
The Honda CR-V did win acclaim for being the “most reliable 4×4” however one must buy the older models. This is because the newer CR-V models have been receiving comments from consumers about its less-than-usual quality. On the other hand, the new Cr-V 2012 model has new features like the Real Time AWD, Intelligent Control System, and a lighter upgrade. All these along with a revamp on the interior to make it more comfortable combine to make the CR-V grip the terrain better under excellent fuel efficiency modes.
Why Toyota Land Cruiser?
The Toyota Land Cruiser has won so many votes among South Africans and other nationalities for its performance over South African terrain and its ability to “bring me home safely.” And isn’t that the most basic of all needs when driving away from home? Most certainly those who choose to go on 4×4 adventures know that the sweetest pleasure is seeing the lights of your own home in the distance and sleeping in your own bed.
The Land Cruiser may not be a Land Rover which is the classic 4×4 but that’s not such a bag thing because Land Rovers are extremely expensive to buy and maintain. This explains why the Land Rover and other European 4×4 vehicles have fallen to the bottom of most top 10 4×4 lists while Japanese 4×4 vehicles have shot up to the upper echelons of top 10 lists.
Comparing the Land Cruiser to the CR-V, the Toyota 4WD is higher priced, even as a used SUV and many buyers are willing to pay the price. The Land Cruiser is tougher and able to go places the CR-V would not be able to handle. It has been called the “King of Japanese 4×4.”
From another angle, buyers who looking for a used 4×4 would naturally consider future repairs and its cost. In this respect, both Toyota and Honda models is toe-to-toe. The parts and labor are affordable and easily available.