ernestnwo:

Thought we could share experience of mobile phone navigation in Nigeria via this forum.

What is your experience with any you have used?

Been using a Garmin SatNav in Naija for about 8 months and a Garmap for mobile for 2 month. I dropped the SatNav cos it was limited to my car and I like hitching rides. Great for navigating. Not perfect but finds some places you dont expect like Abaranje in Ikotun. I look forward to the location messaging catching on. It is cool if someone can send me coordinates from their phone and my phone can find the spot.

I know Lagos very well the map has allowed me to try new routes because I believe I can't get lost. And I drove in Abuja.

But the application is power intensive so it is advisable to launch only when needed.
Oh! And I gave the wife the SatNav and those 'where is the way' calls have reduced.

susuman,

Perception about fuel consumption is comparative. The only Toyota I have used was an I6, which made it fuel thirsty but it delivered extraordinary power going uphill. My other cars have been German brands. I presently use an I4 BMW, strong and powerful and better fuel consumption than the Toyota.

Don't be deceived by number of cars of certain brands you see on our roads. Some are purchased because they are cheap but cost of maintenance are high. Most Nigerians don't do objective research. Parts of American brands are more expensive than the Japanese but you are less likely to get fakes.

I believe most cars are good to use in Nigeria, once you get them in very good condition. BM is reputed to overheat. Once my radiator started leaking I bought a brand new one. Expensive but cost effective. Two years after I use my AC always and I drive in mad traffic, yet my temperature needle remains at recommended level.

If you can care for a car and you can spend the little extra, please go ahead with the Cherokee. Get a brilliant auto electrician. They are more important for the new age cars than mechanics.
If you barely have time or you dont have great maintenance culture , please buy a more common brand.
Research online. There are reviews of these cars that can help you with your decision. LR3 is rated by consumers as problematic. It has some generic faults. I wouldnt buy it based on the review from people in europe and yankee. Q7 is considered as the best SUV to buy. Built to last.