Mercy Murugi,Kenyan Film producer and manager speaks of her love for big cars

What type of car do you drive?

A red Nissan X-Trail

She’s hot. What’s her name?

I call her Nelly like the Nissan, especially when she malfunctions.

What make was your first car?

A Toyota Celica. I bought it from an Indian guy who was leaving the country.

What additions have you made to your car?

I changed the rims and got a new radio for it.

What girly stuff do you carry in your car?

A change of high heels and flat shoes. A jacket, scarf and umbrella. I also used to carry around a tent and my passport for those spontaneous road trips.

Are you fast and furious or cautious and calculating?

I love speed. My best road to cruise on is the 90km Emali - Loitoktok route. It has no traffic, bumps or potholes. I can do 180km/h on that road.

What is your dream car?

A jeep; I love its look though it is hard to maintain. The Toyota Landcruiser 200 VX is not a bad either. Basically, I love any big car.

If you were stranded on a highway with a flat tyre, what would you do to get help?

I have never been in a situation where I had to change it by myself, but I would if I had to.

If you had the privilege of a siren on your car, what outrageous thing would you do?

I would not want a siren. I would, however, very much like a water gun and fill it with paint. Then I would spray the windscreens of all those reckless drivers.

What do you do to kill time while in traffic?

I download podcasts and listen to audio books. At times when the book is interesting, I take the road with the heaviest traffic just so I can finish listening to it by the time I get to my destination.

What habit would you not tolerate from people you carry in your car?

I have three rules;

1. You can trash my car all you want but do not throw things out of the window.

2. I do not start driving unless you have fastened your seat belt.

3. Do not smoke in my car. Drinking is, however, allowed.

What advice would you give a lady who wants to buy a car?

Buy a functional car- that is- a car that serves your needs.

On average, how much do you spend on fuel?

I drive a full tank every week, but that is because I drive everywhere in my car. I never take matatus.

What is the worst driving experience you have had?

When I was just back in the country, I tried getting my way to Gikomba and ended up on Temple Road sandwiched between two Paradiso buses that did not want to give way. In panic, I put on my sunglasses and cried before I gathered the courage to ask for the way. It was the longest 15 minutes.

On another occasion, while on Waiyaki Way, both my side mirrors were stolen while I was in traffic. Worse, the other drivers just watched and did nothing.

What one thing have you learned about driving that was not taught in driving school?

Everyone on the road is mad and you are the only sane person.

Photos: Courtesy