First Drive: Samand LX toughening up to serve Nigeria

First we had to make some outside observation from the cars profile. We had to make a quick observation on how the bottom of the front and rear bumpers extend from ground. Obviously at both ends it is short. That means when entering a deep gallops should not be a threat to front and rear […]

First we had to make some outside observation from the cars profile. We had to make a quick observation on how the bottom of the front and rear bumpers extend from ground. Obviously at both ends it is short. That means when entering a deep gallops should not be a threat to front and rear end of the Chassis. The distance from the bottom of the fenders to the top of the tyre is a little above five fingers high. So the tyres will not experience any harm from the body of the car.

Getting into the Samand LX in a stationed position doesn’t actually feel like a Peugeot car obviously because it has a better looking dashboard and features which upgrade its security for the passengers and against theft. But move it on first gear then every thing changes. The car is a rugged piece of machine. It has a very tough chassis and gears pick quite well no matter the circumstance. To describe the rugged feeling was very difficult because I was looking at it being an Abuja taxi- which is what we hope to see. Finally in an hour I figured it out. As rugged as a Peugoet 504 but agile like a 406. The chassis is so tough and firm we predict on a straight expressway the have steering will actually become light. Most especially the car receives a plus from it practicality because it very spacious with kneeroom, headroom and an enormous boot with accesses from the back seat. The confidence the car gives me is if I was to hand over the keys to another driver I would not have to worry about any complains- because it is tough and many of the models that will be coming in over time will have a GPS against theft and kidnapping.

Initially we had compared it to the Kia Cerato, 307 and Hyundai Elantra. Since we are now looking at it being an investment for transportation it turns out we had to look at the issue of reliability and durability. Then that brings in the Toyota Yaris or Corolla and Peugeot 307. In some states the Corolla are being used as Taxis. Here in Abuja it is being used as utility vehicles by various offices. The 307 serves as taxis in Abuja metropolis as well as interstate travel voyage. Compared to any off the Samand they more comfortable and reliable but in durability the Samand has that initial ruggedness to remain the same for a very long time.  So far it’s the cheapest and it is likely we may see the price come down for many Nigerian to have a chance at getting one.

At the end can it become a sound choice of investment? It boils down to two things. Do you want a short-term investment or long-term? Either the Samand fits the bill.