My surf is a luxury-oriented vehicle
The Toyota Hilux Surf was a good alternative to the older version of the Prado which was the car Emwaat wanted. PHOTO BY MICHAEL KAKUMIRIZI
What you need to know:
Joe Samuel Emwaat is a car enthusiast who works at KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. He spoke to
Gillian Nantume about his car.
What is the make of your car?
It is a Toyota Hilux Surf.
Where did you buy it from?
I bought it from Master Motors at COIN.
How long have you had it?
I have had it for six months.
What do you like about it?
The fuel consumption is affordable. It is a comfortable car and its off-road performance is quite good.
How do you maintain your car?
I always make a point of servicing it before the due date.
Where do you get the spare parts from?
I haven’t yet had to use spare parts, but they are available on the market and they are affordable. Basically, the car uses the same parts as a TX Prado, so it is sustainable.
Where do you service it from?
Total Petrol Station in Katabi, Entebbe.
What is the engine size?
2.7 cc.
Is it automatic or manual?
Automatic. This was the main reason I bought it because I enjoy fast driving.
What is the speed limit?
180 kmph.
Do you share it with friends or family members?
No. The only other person who gets to drive it is our driver, once in a while.
Have you received offers from people wanting to buy it?
Not yet, but I would not welcome them for a long time. I still love my car.
Where did you get the inspiration to drive this type of car?
There was no inspiration really. I wanted an older version of the Prado, but at the dealer shop they didn’t have it. The sales man told me of the attributes of the Toyota Hilux Surf and I decided to buy it.
How much do you spend on fuel in a week?
Between Shs190,000 to Shs200,000 depending on the rounds I have to make.
What is the farthest you have
driven it?
Wipolo in Pader District.
Worst moment that happened to you when on the road?
Near collisions with bodaboda riders because of their reckless riding, veering in and out of traffic.
What was your first car?
Vista Ardeo.
What characteristic does this car have that other cars you have driven don’t have?
It is a four-wheel drive with height advantage, comfort and good performance. I can also see further when on the road.
What is your dream car?
Mercedes Benz G-Wagon.
More on the surf
This car shared its chassis with that of the Land Cruiser Prado four-door wagon. It is a more luxury-oriented vehicle. This third generation 4Runner has a large body on a longer wheelbase, more interior space, larger cargo space, dual airbags, and coil-spring suspension all round, and aerodynamic contour designed glass headlights.
