2018 Mazda CX‑5 (Wine Red)
The 2018 Mazda CX‑5 is a compact/mid‑size crossover SUV that combines elegant styling, a composed ride, and solid safety features. It’s offered with Mazda’s SKYACTIV‑G 2.5‑litre engine (among other options), producing around 187 hp and ~186 lb‑ft of torque, paired to a 6‑speed automatic transmission. It uses Mazda’s SKYACTIV technology to optimize fuel consumption (e.g. ~25 mpg city / ~31 mpg highway on front‑wheel drive models) and features enhancements like G‑Vectoring Control for smoother handling. From trims like Touring or Grand Touring, you get comforts like leather upholstery, blind‑spot monitoring, rear cross‑traffic alert, upgraded wheels, adaptive lighting, and a refined interior. A wine‑red finish (often similar to Mazda’s “Soul Red Crystal” or other metallic reds) adds a premium, eye‑catching appearance that enhances its upscale appeal.
How to Buy a 2018 Mazda CX‑5 (Wine Red) from Clyde Motors
Here’s a step‑by‑step to ensure a smooth, confident purchase when dealing with Clyde Motors in Nairobi.
- Check Availability & Specifications
- Ask whether Clyde has a 2018 CX‑5 in wine‑red (or something similar), or whether they can import one.
- Request full details: engine type (2.5L petrol or other), whether it’s AWD or 2WD, trim level (Touring / Grand Touring etc.), features (leather, sunroof, safety assists, upgraded wheels), mileage, condition, accident history.
- Color Verification
- Make sure the paint finish is original (or properly refinished) and matches the “wine red” description. Inspect in natural light for blemishes, fading, mismatched panels.
- Check for repaint jobs (e.g. overspray, differences in shade) — wine red finishes often show imperfections more visibly.
- Assess Market Price & Set Your Budget
- Use local Nairobi listings and previous sales of similar 2018 CX‑5s to understand what a wine‑red, well‑finished unit should cost.
- Budget for import / clearance duty (if not already cleared), registration, insurance, any mechanical servicing, logbook transfer, etc.
- Compare with non‑red CX‑5s to see if the color or added features justify a premium.
- Inspect & Test Drive
- Do a thorough physical inspection: body (rust, dents, panel gaps), undercarriage, interior trim, leather condition, electronics.
- Test drive in different conditions: city, highway, inclines. Listen for engine performance (at high RPM, low RPM), how smoothly the automatic shifts, how AWD (if applicable) behaves.
- Check features unique to higher trims: adaptive cruise control, lane‑keep assist, cameras, sunroof etc.
- Check how colour‑sensitive parts are: lights, wheel arches etc., which may age if exposed.
- Document & Legal Verification
- Verify logbook (RC) and whether ownership is clean. Ensure chassis / VIN and engine numbers match documents.
- Use NTSA / TIMS to check for outstanding fines, stolen vehicle status, logbook pledges.
- If imported: check customs duty clearance, import / auction sheet, whether car meets local requirements (emissions, etc.).
- Negotiate & Clarify Costs
- Use findings from your inspection (condition, mileage, any required fixes) as points to negotiate.
- Get a full breakdown of all costs: base price + any pending import/duty + registration + insurance + any dealer prep.
- See what financing options Clyde offers (hire‑purchase, payment plans, etc.).
- Contract & Payment
- Have a written sales agreement stating all specs (including color, trim, engine, features), the price, any promised fixes, warranty if any.
- Make payment via secure, traceable means (bank transfer, bankers cheque). Avoid paying full sum before verifying everything.
- Ownership Transfer & Registration
- Ensure Clyde initiates the logbook transfer via NTSA / TIMS and you accept the transfer.
- Pay transfer and registration fees.
- Only drive away once logbook (RC) is in your name, unless other arrangements are agreed.
- After‑Sale & Maintenance Considerations
- Ask if there is any dealer warranty (especially for drivetrain, electronics).
- Check service history and maintenance record.
- Identify reliable workshops / spare parts availability for Mazda in Nairobi.
- Consider upkeep costs: red paint care, general maintenance, insurance.