Beach car care

level steering wheel obscures some of the driver information screen but like many things you soon acclimatise and these aren’t huge issues.

IF you can find a parking space, driving to the beach can be quick and convenient, but it also comes with its risks, in regard to the health of your vehicle.

Many people decide to take the car to the beach because of the convenience it offers when it comes to moving around with all the necessary equipment. But it is good to keep in mind that parking too close to the sea is harmful to the vehicle, especially if it is going to be stationary for several days.

The salty sea breeze pro­ motes corrosion of the bodywork, but it can also damage the interior of the car, as well as the metal parts and the engine. In fact, the longer the car is exposed, the more serious the impact will be. Rubber seals, for example, cannot be repaired, they have to be replaced.

Just like seawater, sea breezes carry sand, which can also damage the bodywork. It is recommended to wash the car with water or compressed air afterwards and, as a precaution, al ­ ways park with your back to the sea and, if possible, cover the vehicle with a car cover. Also, when getting into the car, it is advisable to shake out shoes and even clothes, along with the use of seat covers. In this way, the upholstery will be protected aimed at making life practical with an extremely generous amount of space inside the car and lots of storage. It is a large car too and the build quality is pretty good, but given it’s a Toyota one almost expects that to be the case.

Vehicles left in direct sunlight are particularly at risk, with potential damage to plastics and tyres. Always using a sun visor and performing regular tyre checks are ways to reduce the damage.

As with the external looks the interior is a bit Marmite, some will love it, and some won’t. The usual pattern of a large central screen is adopted, the low

On the road there’s a distinct absence of road noise and despite its lofty stature and complaint ride the BZ4X makes admirable progress along twisting lanes. Rough roads, and there’s lots to choose from in the UK, make little disturbance to the ride and while not sporty it’s a decent drive.

Like most EVs the BZ4X isn’t cheap with prices starting from €53,506/£46,110, but you do get an awful lot of car for your money. The fact it’s a Toyota will also count for a lot with practical folk and those who want to go safely green with useable and family friendly transport.