BY ERICK WOKABI: Probox vs Nissan AD: Light commercial vans come in very handy for both small and large businesses. In addition to that, they are a tool of trade for individuals who run “side hustles”. In the Kenyan car market, there are two light commercial vehicles that are commonly used, The Toyota Probox and the Nissan AD. On this article we are going to compare the two and settle for the best vehicle for your business.
The Toyota Probox
The Probox is identified as a beast of burden on Kenyan roads. It also matches up as a family or errand vehicle. The Probox has been tested and proven as an ideal vehicle. It is very reliable, comes with 1300cc and 1500cc engine options; Front wheel and 4WD drivetrain configurations.
The 1500cc engine option is however more popular. The 2014 models come with a CVT transmission unlike the older model that came with an automatic transmission
The Nissan AD Van
The Ad Van is on Nissan’s lineage of light commercial vehicles. It is also sold (Re-badged) as the Mitsubishi Lancer Cargo and even Mazda Familia. It is the same car in different badges. It comes with 1200cc, 1500cc, 1600cc and 1800cc engine options, however the most common in the Kenyan market is the 1500cc option. The 1500cc option comes with Nissan’s CVT transmission.
Where the Probox wins over the Nissan AD Van
Reliability
The Toyota Probox is very reliable and very familiar to most mechanics even in the most remote parts of the country. The AD Van is not as reliable and most times will get problematic as it advances in age. It also faces Nissan’s CVT gearbox defect
Fuel consumption
The Probox has been proven to have very good fuel consumption, especially if well driven. The Ad Van on the other hand has been known to guzzle fuel especially when loaded.
Suspension and build quality
The Nissan AD Van has a tendency of “eating up” bushes especially if you frequent rough roads. The Probox on the other hand is a bit more robust. Fact! Did you know that the Probox is built by Daihatsu? It has a good build quality compared to that of the AD Van.
Where the AD Van wins over the Probox
Price
The Nissan AD Van is way cheaper compared to the Toyota Probox. Prices of the AD Van start from Ksh.600,000 whereas prices of the Probox keep on going up and are now starting from Ksh.850,000 for 2014 models.
Space
The AD Van has more cargo space compared to the Probox.
Probox vs Nissan AD: So which between the two is the best car for your business?
The Probox despite being more expensive, is the better option since it’s more reliable and will give you some peace of mind running it. On top of that, it has lower running costs namely fuel, service and basic maintenance.
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