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Earl Karanja’s journey from a passionate car enthusiast to an award-winning automotive journalist was shaped by years of consistent, value-driven content creation and European experience
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Among the extraordinary vehicles Earl sold was the ultra-rare McLaren SLR Stirling Moss, but the most expensive transaction he handled was a KSh 732 million Gordon Murray Automotive T.50 supercar
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Earl urged young Kenyan creators to specialise in their niche and pursue advanced automotive training abroad to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving car culture
The Kenyan car community is growing year by year, with more people embracing not just the love for cars but the thrill, passion, and culture that comes with them.
From car meets to competition events, from performance garages to enthusiasts’ circles, the momentum is gaining traction and at the heart of this rising movement is a name that has become synonymous with local car content creation: Earl Karanja.
Whether it was watching Fast and Furious, the historic Safari Rally, or family traditions passed down like heirlooms, every Kenyan car lover has a story.
For Earl, that story has seen him evolve from an ordinary enthusiast to an award-winning journalist and one of the most respected auto voices in the region.
Which award did Earl Karanja win?
Recently, Earl bagged the Top Automotive Review and Presenter Award at the Motorsports Excellence Awards, a recognition he says goes beyond personal achievement.
“It’s a step in the right direction for car content creators. This award is dedicated to both current and upcoming creators, the effort we put in matters, and I’m glad it’s being recognised,” he said in an exclusive interview with .co.ke.
Earl’s journey in the car scene spans over 15 years, starting in 2009.
Over the years, he has curated car content across continents and platforms, especially during his time in Europe, gaining critical technical insight along the way.
That dedication, he says, has kept his content sharp, relevant, and deeply respected.
“I think it’s just consistency, and making sure the audience gets value from the content.”
Does Earl Karanja sell supercars?
Earl, having been exposed to the supercar world in Europe as a journalist, found himself in the car business, trading in the very best that car manufacturers have to offer.
From McLarens to Lamborghinis, Ferraris to BMWs and Mercedes, Earl has seen them all and sold them too.
Among the many cars he has dealt with, one machine stands out for him, the McLaren SLR Stirling Moss.
The supercar is an ultra-rare, roofless speedster built in 2009 to honour legendary racer Sir Stirling Moss.
Only 75 units were ever produced, and Earl was privileged to sell one to a prominent Danish collector.
However, while that might be the most remarkable car he has ever sold, the most expensive to date is the Gordon Murray Automotive T.50, valued at a staggering €5 million (KSh 732 million), and that, he says, was before commissions.
What does Earl personally drive?
While his recent purchase, a sleek Mercedes C 63 S Coupe, is turning heads, his taste is surprisingly simple.
“I’m attracted to cars that can take a beating, like the Suzuki Jimny. But I also have a love for V8s. I’m currently working on a 1968 Ford Bronco with a Toyota V8,” he shared giving insight into his car project.
The car journalist explained that one thing he wishes the world would take seriously is the slow death of the 2-door car.
“Save the 2 doors. Unless it’s a Ferrari or a McLaren, no one is making them anymore. Ten years ago, even a Golf GTI came in two doors, now everything’s just bloated four-doors,” he lamented.
How can you be like Earl Karanja?
Earl advised young, upcoming creators in the industry to identify their niche, know the nitty-gritties of the industry, and work hard to deliver valuable content to their audience.
“Learn cars. Understand how everything works so your content adds value. And if you want to go pro, study abroad. Take courses in automotive engineering, detailing, diagnostics, whatever you can. Kenya has lots of new cars that are too advanced for the average mechanic. That training exists. Fetch it and bring it back,” he explained.
Watch one of his car reviews that have become so popular below:
