Recent dismal occurrences of thunderstorms and deluges had a gargantuan variety of cars submerged underwater. Some gave up owing to lack of adequate ground clearance while others struggled to scythe through the water because of power deficiency and lack of all-wheel drive. Many are on the grind for their next wheels purchase after losing their motored companion to floods. We help you select used car models shown on Sell My Car advertisements that are likely to be unfettered by such challenging situations.
Mitsubishi Pajero
Amongst the most reputed automotive monikers in the Middle-East, is the Mitsubishi Pajero. Known for its deftness in off-road excursions and a solid build, the Pajero is anything but tamed. From shattering its contemporaries in rallies to crafting a sublime experience on the road, this do-it-all SUV could be one of your considerations.
Having been discontinued in the UAE now, one is likely to come across used car advertisements with prices ranging from approx. AED 20,000 to AED 90,000 depending on the mileage and year of purchase. With a water wading capacity of 700mm, it can decimate possibly anything that dares to stymie its gait. Pajero’s base-spec models come with a 3.5-litre engine while higher models source their power requirement from a 3.8-litre V6 petrol engine. It comes with 4X4 and shift-on-fly.
Toyota Fortuner
A household name for reliability, the Toyota Fortuner is known for its bold road presence with burly dimensions and Lexus-inspired regal looks. With the choice of two petrol engines, a 2.7-litre 164 hp 4-cylinder or a full-fed 4.0-litre V6 with 235 hp, the Japanese seven-seater has got enough grunt to pull itself out of situations that demand intense labour.
Not only does it bear water wading capacity of 700mm, but also proudly portrays its 225-mm ground clearance. On Used Cars pages, the model’s price range could be massive as it has been on sale in the UAE since 2006.
Ford Everest
The Everest nameplate witnessed a resuscitation this year as a bold and rugged seven-seater twin of the Ranger pickup. It comes loaded with bells and whistles such as 360-degree camera, forward collision alert, cornering assist, tire pressure monitoring system, alcantara seats, panoramic sunroof and rear entertainment screens.
It is a great package for those who want a commanding ride position and the rawness of an old-school SUV into a beguiling package. Powered by a 2.3-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine, the Everest has got 296-hp and 420-Nm of torque to ‘go further’ on trails that would be a test for even the most consummate drivers’ dexterity. With such grunt, it can wade water upto a depth of 800-mm. However, this proposition can be significantly expensive than some of its counterparts, depending on the variant chosen.
Mercedes-Benz GLS
For those who have sanguinely reserved a budget for their next purchase taking firmly into account, the floods, the Mercedes-Benz GLS is amongst the finest luxury SUVs, money can get. Particularly of interest here, is its Bounce Mode which literally bounces on its suspension to make its way out from a tedious situation such as getting stuck in mud or sand and water. Its 4MATIC all-wheel drive system is equipped with electronics that can sense lack of traction and offer more oomph to those wheels for easy maneuvering through the abyss. T
he GLS 450 comes powered by a 3.0-litre turbo-petrol engine that churns out a solid 367-hp and 500 Nm of torque, mated to a 9-speed automatic ratchet. Its electronic trickeries, this rather special ‘Disco Mode,’ high ground clearance and a bevy of ambient lighting colour options to keep the mood of occupants in check while traversing through such situations makes the GLS, a very capable and versatile SUV, on and off the road. However, being an expensive bargain, it’s better to drive it where it would appeal the most, the urban jungle.
Nissan Patrol
When the going gets tough, 4X4s get going. However, when the going gets toughest, it’s the Nissan Patrol that gets going. Synonymous with power and presence, the Nissan Patrol is the brand’s flagship SUV. Rubbing shoulders with some trucks, this 2.8-ton behemoth dares to obliterate everything in its path. Enveloping a massive 5.6-litre V8 engine under the hood, its 400 Japanese horses and 560 Nm of torque can be the savior in the most Herculean of situations. Icing on the cake is its water wading capacity of 770 mm.
It’s always recommended to avoid driving over extremely flooded roads and resort to public transport instead. However, in such a turmoil where one is compelled to drive, the above mentioned cars demonstrate good capability where minimal damage might be sustained by the car and keep occupants safe. SUVs have made a formidable position for themselves in the current automotive scenario, with sales of sedans and hatchbacks getting smothered hard. Floods and battered roads further embolden the trust and affection in people for SUVs. The model has remained largely unchanged in its life-cycle so one can get his hands on a used Patrol for an affordable price.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Do Insurance companies cover car damage caused by flood?
A vast variety of insurance companies offer comprehensive insurance packages. It is essential to read the contract carefully to see if the policy covers rain/flood damage. It is also advisable to have a detailed conversation with your insurer about the same.
