The cost of buying a car in Kenya is expensive, especially due to the 25% import duty on all cars. The best way to reduce this import duty is by buying a cheap car because it will have a low invoice price which translates to low importation tax. Today, you’ll know some of the cheapest cars in Kenya that will help you reduce the importation duty.
The following are the 11 cheapest cars in Kenya:
- Nissan March
- Toyota Vitz
- Honda Fit
- Nissan Note
- Mazda Demio
- Subaru Impreza
- Toyota IST
- Toyota Auris
- Nissan Tiida
- Toyota Belta
- Nissan Cube
In this article, I’ll discuss the specifications for these cheapest cars in Kenya. You’ll also know the process of buying a car in Kenya. After reading the article, you’ll know which car fits your needs in terms of its specifications and how to buy it. So, keep reading!
List of Cheap and Affordable Cars in Kenya
The table below shows the cheapest cars in Kenya and their specifications:
| Vehicle Model | Price Range | Mileage Per Liter |
| Nissan March | Ksh. 300,000 to Ksh. 700,000 | 18-23km |
| Toyota Vitz | Ksh. 400,000 to Ksh. 800,000 or less | 18-26km |
| Honda Fit | Ksh. 600,000 to Ksh. 900,000. | Around 23km |
| Nissan Note | Ksh. 800,000 to Ksh. 1 million | 14-26km |
| Mazda Demio | Ksh. 700,0000 to Ksh. 900,000. | 16-30km |
| Subaru Impreza | Ksh. 400,000 to Ksh. 2 million | 15-20km |
| Toyota IST | Ksh. 400,000 to Ksh. 1 million | 16-18km |
| Toyota Auris | Ksh. 400,000 to Ksh. 800,000 | 14-19km |
| Nissan Tiida | Ksh. 450,000 to Ksh. 700,000 | 16-20km |
| Toyota Belta | Ksh. 600,000 to Ksh. 800,000 | 20-23km |
| Nissan Cube | Ksh 600,000 to Ksh. 900,000 | 12-15km |
1. Nissan March
Nissan cars, just like Toyota, are popular and cheap. Nissan March has a 1.2 Litre petrol engine coupled to a 4-speed automatic transmission system.
Nissan March is the least expensive Nissan car in Kenya, and it uses a small amount of fuel per Km. The car costs between Ksh. 300,000 to Ksh. 700,000 depending on where you purchase it, and the year it was manufactured.
Related: The Process of Buying a Car from a Dealer
2. Toyota Vitz
Toyota Vitz is among the cheapest cars in Kenya, costing around Ksh. 400,000 to Ksh. 800,000 or less. One good thing about Toyota Vitz is that it’s an ideal starter car for new drivers, learners, and people looking for affordable but reliable cars in Kenya.
As an entry-level, most inexpensive vehicle, it has several features, including speed control setting, a sound system with fog lights, and Bluetooth technology. The car also has an automatic transmission and power locks installed to make locking and unlocking the doors easier for you.
Another interesting thing about Toyota Vitiz is its fuel economy. It consumes meager amounts of fuel compared to other cheap vehicles in Kenya.
3. Honda Fit
The third car on our list of cheapest cars in Kenya is Honda Fit. This model of car costs between Ksh. 600,000 to Ksh. 900,000. The vehicle is a basic model among Honda’s cheapest Japanese cars that they added to f mass production line.
Honda Fit is among the best and cheapest cars in Kenya since it shares similar features with Honda Civics except for its smaller body size. The vehicle has accessories such as power windows, fog lights, and control locking accessories.
Fit consumes very little fuel per Km and has a good warranty offer. This model has been on the road since 2001 and still is among Kenya’s best and cheapest cars.
Find Out: How to Get a Car Loan from a Bank
4. Nissan Note
Nissan Note is the 4th compact car released by Nissan after cube, Tiida, and March. The car was designed as a ‘small car for flexible use” under the premise of “ pleasant driving.”
The vehicle is recognized for its enormous cargo capacity and comfortable interior space, with a two-layered multi-configurable trunk that allows passengers to store their belongings separately at the top and the bottom of the trunk.
The Note has a 1.5-liter engine, and its estimated consumption is 14 to 26km per liter. The car cost ranges between Ksh. 800,000 to Ksh. 1 million depending on the model and mileage.
5. Mazda Demio
Like Vitz, Mazda Demio( formally Mazda 2) is an affordable car that can be used as a personal car or for a taxi business. Demio has become one of Mazda’s major products since the launching of the first generation model in 1996, with global sales surpassing 2.5 million units over the last 20 years.
The vehicle has two types of engines, 1500cc and 1300cc. A Mazda Demio with 116 horsepower is presumed to consume one liter of fuel between 16 and 30 kilometers, depending on numerous factors.
Brand new Mazda Demio is rare to find in Kenya. Most of the ones sold in the country have been used abroad, costing between Ksh. 700,0000 to Ksh. 900,000.
6. Subaru Impreza
Subaru Impreza is a Japanese manufacturer product that has been on the road since 1992 and is currently on its 5th generation. Generally, Subaru Impreza is a reliable, economical vehicle for anyone on a budget.
Although the high-end models can cost up to Ksh. 2 million, you can find a decent option starting at Ksh. 400,000. This vehicle is available as a 4-door or 5-door sedan and is usually all-wheel-drive (AWD).
The most recent models now include a rear vision camera and turbocharger to ensure maximum power out. Also, they are fitted with driver-assist technology and enable multimedia integration, making them enjoyable to drive.
Subaru Impreza consumes a liter of fuel for every 15-20km.
7. Toyota IST
Commonly known as Urban Cruiser, this model is a fantastic subcompact car for buyers on a budget. Toyota IST cost ranges between Ksh. 400,000 to Ksh. 1 million depending on the generation.
Since its introduction to the Kenyan market in 2002, the vehicle has impressed in performance and features. Its impressive features include power windows, power steering, and a collapsible rear seat, offering you more cabin space.
In addition, it has safety impressive safety features like SRS bags, brake assist, and ABS brakes. Its also equipped with bright headlamps to offer you extra visibility at night. Toyota IST is economical on fuel use; it consumes a liter every 16-18km.
8. Toyota Auris
Toyota Auris is a precursor of the 2006 Toyota Allex. Auris is a Latin word for gold. The car includes a 5-speed automatic transmission system that makes it easy to drive, especially for new drivers.
It has a 1.3-1.8 liter engine which makes it fuel efficient. It’s assumed to consume one liter of petrol every 14-19km. Toyota Auris has 3 or 5 doors and generally enjoys an instinctive interior and a striking exterior. In Additional, it provides you with a vibrant space.
The Auris spare parts are readily available in all Toyota outlets. Generally, this vehicle is cheaper to maintain. Its cost ranges between Ksh. 400,000 to Ksh. 800,000 depending on the generation and place you opt to buy it.
9. Nissan Tiida
Nissan Tiida dates since 2004. It’s a continuation model of the 1996 Nissan Sunny. Tiida is a Japanese name for the sun. This vehicle comes in a small-medium compact size, making it suitable for families.
Nissan Tiida is fitted with a smooth-running engine that doesn’t consume much fuel. The car is estimated to consume one liter of fuel every 16-20km. In addition, Nissan Tiida has a great interior and spacious cabin space.
The car price ranges between Ksh. 450k and 700k depending on the generation.
10. Toyota Belta
Toyota Belta is among the cheapest cars in Kenya. It’s a subcompact vehicle manufactured by the Japanese Toyota automaker. Toyota Belta was founded in 2007 and was available in hatchback and sedan body styles.
Based on the Toyota Yaris/Toyota Vitz chassis, Toyota Belta shared its engine and other features with the Yaris/Vitz. Toyota Belta, sold in Japan, had a 13 or 1.5-liter engine, while 1.0-liter options were available in the overseas market.
The transmission options comprised a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual. Belta was phased out in 2012 and was succeeded by the Toyota Corolla/ Toyota Auris Hatchback; however, the model is still available in Kenya markets.
Depending on the model year, you can get Belta for Ksh. 600k to 800k or less.
11. Nissan Cube
One of the cheapest Nissan cars in Kenya is Nissan Cube. The vehicle has features found on other Nissan cars, including remote locking and power windows. Cube is convenient for drivers with different needs, from personal to commercial use, and new drivers looking for their first and most affordable car in Kenya.
Nissan Cube is touted for consuming a meager amount of fuel per km. It costs approximately ksh600k and is a highly recommended inexpensive Nissan car in Kenya.
The Process of Buying a Car in Kenya( Step-by-Step Guide)
The car buying process is easy but not always secure. With the increased use of classified, e-commerce, and social media websites, finding a car is as easy as clicking a button.
There are many cases of car fraud and theft in the country, and you won’t want to lose your hard-earned money. You will want to purchase with confidence. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you buy a vehicle in Kenya.
Tips for Buying a Car From Local Car Dealers in Kenya
It’s advisable to purchase a car in Kenya from car dealers rather than private sellers. Buying from car dealers may be expensive, but the risk is low. Car dealers will also do the paperwork for you and give you a warranty, unlike private dealers.
The first thing you should do before you start purchasing is to pick the right car according to your budget, taste, and intended budget. After selecting the right car, proceed with the steps below:
1. Identify the Car Dealer
This is a critical step; you must find a trustworthy dealer with a good reputation who offers excellent services and sells the cars at a reasonable price. There are several ways to find dealers; here is a look at them:
2. Find Dealers physically
With this method, you’ll need to visit various car yards and showrooms in Kenya, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, Kisumu, and Eldoret.
3. Find Dealers Online
This is the easiest way, but you should never transact online. Rather, look for dealers online and meet them in person. To identify a good dealer, search for the type of car you want on social media sites like Facebook, Google, or car listing websites.
Then look for those selling the vehicle you’re looking for at a reasonable price ( not too cheap or overpriced). Reach them out and make arrangements on how you can go for the car viewing.
The next step is to go for the car viewing, which involves a test drive, inspection, and the car’s history.
4. Sign the Car Sale Agreement
Every dealer must have a sale agreement that you should sign together with your lawyer or witness. The sale agreement should outline agreement terms and details of the buyer and seller. It should also contain a mode of payment, for example, installments or full payment.
Additionally, the agreement should state that the car ownership will be transferred to you after you make the final payment. Ensure you go through the contract and understand everything before signing.
5. Make the Payment
After signing the agreement, you can now pay for the car. Never pay in cash; you should only pay through the bank. Paying through the bank will prove that you transacted with the dealer in case of anything, unlike the cash payment, which doesn’t have proof.
6. Get the Number Plate
Once you’ve paid, the dealer should issue you the number plate if the car is registered. Although many dealers register the cars when purchased, in such a case, the dealer should handle the registration, and your car will be given a registration number in a matter of hours.
Then you will wait for the number plate arrival for roughly two weeks. For the time being, you can use the Kenya garage number plate or have the number given to you on a metal sheet.
7. Ownership Transfer
Then, the dealer should transfer the car ownership to you. On the other side, you’ll have to accept the transfer via your NTSA Tims account. After transfer, you’ll carry the old logbook as you wait for a new one proving that you’re the owner to be processed by the NTSA.
The process will take two weeks, and you’ll be instructed on how to acquire it.
Bottom Line
Are you looking to purchase a car? Well, there you have it, a list of the cheapest cars in Kenya. Whether you want a used vehicle or a new one, there is something for you. However, you must do your research well to ensure you buy a reliable car.
In addition, we have also provided you with a step-by-step guide on the car buying process to help you avoid losing your hard-earned money when buying a car.
