Top 10 Best Cars in Kenya and Their Prices (2025)

Kenya’s car market continues to evolve, offering a mix of affordability, reliability, and fuel efficiency. Whether you're a first-time car buyer, a family looking for a spacious SUV, or a business owner seeking a reliable commercial vehicle, this guide provides the most accurate and up-to-date car prices and features for 2025.

Prices are based on data from local car bazaars, dealerships, and import platforms like Cheki, Jiji Kenya, and AutoBazaar.

Variations in price depend on mileage, year of manufacture, condition, and seller location.

Top 10 Best Cars in Kenya and Their Prices (2025)

1. Toyota Premio
2. Mazda CX-5
3. Toyota Harrier
4. Nissan X-Trail
5. Honda Fit
6. Toyota Fielder
7. Subaru Forester
8. Toyota Vitz
9. Suzuki Alto
10. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

1. Toyota Premio

Why It’s Popular in Kenya

• Reliable sedan with a blend of comfort and fuel efficiency.
• Affordable maintenance and strong resale value.

Key Features

Engine Options and Performance

• Engine Variants: Available in 1.5L, 1.8L, and 2.0L petrol engines.
• Power Output: Ranges from 109 hp for the 1.5L engine to 158 hp for the 2.0L engine.
• Fuel Efficiency: Approximately 16.6 km/l for the 1.5L engine, 15.3 km/l for the 1.8L, and 15 km/l for the 2.0L.

Interior Features

• Seating: Spacious 5-seater with comfortable legroom and headroom.
• Convenience: Equipped with power windows, keyless entry, and a push-button start system.
• Storage: Ample boot space, with rear seats that can be folded to increase cargo capacity.

Safety Features

• Standard Safety: Includes anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and multiple airbags.
• Advanced Safety: Higher trims offer features like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and pre-collision systems.

Exterior Design

• Aesthetics: Sleek and modern design with chrome-accented grille and LED headlights.
• Wheels: Comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its sporty appearance.

Trim Levels

• Standard Grade: Features keyless entry, multifunction steering wheel, and rearview cameras.
• L Package: Adds leather-textured upholstery, improved soundproofing, and heated power seats.
• EX Package: Enhances interior with wood grain paneling.
• G Package: Top-tier trim with Toyota Intelligent Parking Assist and traction control.

Market Prices in Kenya (2025)

• 2015–2017 models: KSh 1.8M – KSh 2.3M.
• 2018–2021 models: KSh 2.5M – KSh 3.2M.

2. Mazda CX-5

Why It’s Popular in Kenya

• Stylish mid-size SUV that’s both fuel-efficient and fun to drive.
• Advanced safety features and modern interior design.

Key Features

Engine Options and Performance

• Engine Variants: 2.0L, 2.5L petrol, and 2.2L turbo-diesel engines
• Power Output: Ranges from 155 hp (2.0L) to 187 hp (2.5L)
• Fuel Efficiency: Averages around 12-16 km/l, depending on the engine type

Interior Features

• Seating: Comfortable 5-seater with premium upholstery
• Convenience: 10.25-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Storage: Spacious cargo area with a power liftgate on higher trims

Safety Features

• Standard Safety: Multiple airbags, ABS, traction control
• Advanced Safety: Mazda's i-Activsense suite with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist

Exterior Design

• Aesthetics: Sleek Kodo design language with LED headlights
• Wheels: Comes with 17-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels

Trim Levels

• Base Model: Standard features with fabric seats
• Mid-Level: Leather upholstery, sunroof, premium audio system
• Top Trim: Adds ventilated seats, heads-up display, and advanced safety features

Market Prices in Kenya (2025)

• 2016–2018 models: KSh 2.6M – KSh 3.2M.
• 2019–2022 models: KSh 3.5M – KSh 4.8M.

3. Toyota Harrier

Why It’s Popular in Kenya

• Luxury SUV with a smooth ride and high durability.
• Ideal for business executives and families.

Key Features

Engine Options and Performance

• Engine Variants: 2.0L petrol and 2.5L hybrid engines
• Power Output: 171 hp (2.0L) and 194 hp (hybrid)
• Fuel Efficiency: Around 15 km/l (petrol) and 21 km/l (hybrid)

Interior Features

• Seating: Luxurious 5-seater with leather upholstery
• Convenience: Panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and large infotainment screen
• Storage: Ample cargo space with power liftgate

Safety Features

• Standard Safety: Airbags, ABS, electronic stability control
• Advanced Safety: Toyota Safety Sense suite with lane departure alert and adaptive cruise control

Exterior Design

• Aesthetics: Premium SUV look with chrome accents and LED lighting
• Wheels: 18-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels

Trim Levels

• Grand: Basic features with cloth upholstery
• Elegance: Leather seats, upgraded audio system
• Premium: Fully loaded with all safety and comfort features

Market Prices in Kenya (2025)

• 2016–2018 models: KSh 3M – KSh 3.8M.
• 2019–2022 models: KSh 4.5M – KSh 5.8M.

4. Nissan X-Trail

Why It’s Popular in Kenya

Affordable SUV with good ground clearance.

Suitable for both urban roads and off-road terrain.

Key Features

Engine Options and Performance

• Engine Variants: 2.0L and 2.5L petrol engines, and a 1.6L diesel engine
• Power Output: Ranges from 142 hp for the 2.0L to 170 hp for the 2.5L petrol engine
• Fuel Efficiency: Averages around 13 km/l for petrol and 16 km/l for diesel

Interior Features

• Seating: Spacious 5 or 7-seater configurations with premium upholstery
• Convenience: Large touchscreen infotainment system, panoramic sunroof, and power-adjustable seats
• Storage: Generous cargo space with split-folding rear seats for more flexibility

Safety Features

• Standard Safety: Multiple airbags, ABS, electronic stability control
• Advanced Safety: Includes lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control in higher trims

Exterior Design

• Aesthetics: Modern SUV design with a bold front grille and LED lighting
• Wheels: Available in 17-inch and 19-inch alloy wheels, depending on the trim

Trim Levels

• XE: Base model with essential features
• SV: Adds larger wheels, enhanced interior finishes, and better infotainment
• SL: Top-tier trim with all available features, including advanced safety and premium comfort options

Market Prices in Kenya (2025)

• 2016–2018 models: KSh 2.4M – KSh 3M.
• 2019–2022 models: KSh 3.2M – KSh 4.2M.

5. Honda Fit

Why It’s Popular in Kenya

• Compact, fuel-efficient, and budget-friendly.
• Ideal for first-time car buyers and urban drivers.

Key Features

Engine Options and Performance

• Engine Variants: 1.3L and 1.5L petrol engines.
• Power Output: Approximately 98 hp for the 1.3L and 130 hp for the 1.5L engine.
• Fuel Efficiency: Highly efficient, averaging around 20 km/l.

Interior Features

• Seating: Comfortable seating for five with Honda's Magic Seat system for versatile cargo configurations.
• Convenience: Features a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera.
• Storage: Impressive cargo space for a subcompact car, enhanced by configurable rear seats.

Safety Features

• Standard Safety: Equipped with multiple airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), and vehicle stability assist.
• Advanced Safety: Higher trims offer Honda Sensing suite, including collision mitigation braking and road departure mitigation.

Exterior Design

• Aesthetics: Compact and aerodynamic design with a sleek front grille and LED headlights.
• Wheels: Comes with 15-inch or 16-inch alloy wheels, depending on the trim.

Trim Levels

• LX: Standard features with basic amenities.
• Sport: Adds a larger touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and fog lights.
• EX: Includes a sunroof, keyless entry, and additional safety features.
• EX-L: Top-tier trim with leather upholstery, heated seats, and navigation system.

Market Prices in Kenya (2025)

• 2016–2018 models: KSh 1M – KSh 1.4M.
• 2019–2022 models: KSh 1.5M – KSh 1.9M.

6. Toyota Fielder

Why It’s Popular in Kenya

• Spacious station wagon with excellent fuel efficiency.
• Ideal for Uber/Bolt drivers, businesses, and families.

Key Features

Engine Options and Performance

• Engine Variants: 1.5L and 1.8L petrol engines
• Power Output: Around 109 hp (1.5L) and 139 hp (1.8L)
• Fuel Efficiency: Averages 16-20 km/l

Interior Features

• Seating: Comfortable 5-seater with ample rear legroom
• Convenience: Touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity
• Storage: Spacious boot, ideal for families and cargo transportation

Safety Features

• Standard Safety: Airbags, ABS, stability control
• Advanced Safety: Optional lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control

Exterior Design

• Aesthetics: Simple and practical station wagon look
• Wheels: 15-inch or 16-inch alloy wheels

Trim Levels

• X: Base model with fabric seats and manual AC
• G: Upgraded interior, infotainment system
• Hybrid: Most fuel-efficient option with additional safety features

Market Prices in Kenya (2025)

• 2016–2018 models: KSh 1.5M – KSh 1.9M.
• 2019–2022 models: KSh 2.2M – KSh 2.6M.

7. Subaru Forester

Why It’s Popular in Kenya

• Powerful all-terrain SUV with a sporty design.
• Great for long-distance travel and rough roads.

Key Features

Engine Options and Performance

• Engine Variants: 2.0L and 2.5L petrol engines.
• Power Output: Approximately 156 hp for the 2.0L and 182 hp for the 2.5L engine.
• Fuel Efficiency: Averages around 12 km/l for the 2.0L and 10 km/l for the 2.5L engine.

Interior Features

• Seating: Spacious seating for five with ample headroom and legroom.
• Convenience: Equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
• Storage: Generous cargo space with a wide rear gate for easy loading.

Safety Features

• Standard Safety: Includes multiple airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), and electronic stability control.
• Advanced Safety: Features Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, including adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.

Exterior Design

• Aesthetics: Rugged and robust design with LED headlights and alloy wheels.
• Wheels: Comes with 17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels, depending on the trim level.

Trim Levels

• Base: Standard features with cloth upholstery and basic infotainment.
• Premium: Adds a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable driver's seat, and upgraded audio system.
• Limited: Features leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and additional safety features.
• Touring: Top-tier trim with all available features, including a heated steering wheel and navigation system.

Market Prices in Kenya (2025)

• 2016–2018 models: KSh 2.8M – KSh 3.3M.
• 2019–2022 models: KSh 3.5M – KSh 4.6M.

8. Toyota Vitz

Why It’s Popular in Kenya

• Compact, easy to maintain, and extremely fuel-efficient.
• Great for students, small business owners, and city dwellers.

Key Features

Engine Options and Performance

• Engine Variants: 1.0L, 1.3L, and 1.5L petrol engines.
• Power Output: Ranges from 69 hp for the 1.0L to 110 hp for the 1.5L engine.
• Fuel Efficiency: Highly fuel-efficient, averaging between 18 km/l to 22 km/l.

Interior Features

• Seating: Compact yet comfortable seating for five.
• Convenience: Features include a multifunction steering wheel and a simple infotainment system.
• Storage: Adequate boot space for a compact car, with foldable rear seats for additional cargo capacity.

Safety Features

• Standard Safety: Includes airbags, ABS, and stability control.
• Advanced Safety: Higher trims may offer additional safety features like lane assist.

Exterior Design

• Aesthetics: Compact and modern design with a distinctive front grille.
• Wheels: Equipped with 14-inch or 15-inch wheels, depending on the model.

Trim Levels

• F: Standard features with basic amenities.
• U: Adds enhanced interior features and improved materials.
• RS: Sportier variant with a more powerful engine and sport-tuned suspension.

Market Prices in Kenya (2025)

• 2016–2018 models: KSh 750K – KSh 1.1M.
• 2019–2022 models: KSh 1.2M – KSh 1.6M.

9. Suzuki Alto

Why It’s Popular in Kenya

• One of the cheapest cars in Kenya with outstanding fuel efficiency.
• Ideal for personal use, businesses, and ride-sharing.

Key Features

Engine Options and Performance

• Engine Variants: 0.8L and 1.0L petrol engines
• Power Output: Around 47 hp (0.8L) and 67 hp (1.0L)
• Fuel Efficiency: Very economical, averaging 22-26 km/l

Interior Features

• Seating: Compact 4- or 5-seater with basic fabric upholstery
• Convenience: Basic infotainment system with USB connectivity
• Storage: Small boot, suitable for city commuting

Safety Features

• Standard Safety: Airbags, ABS, seatbelt reminders
• Advanced Safety: Some trims offer parking sensors and rearview camera

Exterior Design

• Aesthetics: Small and practical design for urban driving
• Wheels: 12-inch or 13-inch steel wheels

Trim Levels

• Base Model: Minimal features, manual windows
• Mid-Level: Adds central locking, touchscreen infotainment
• Top Trim: Power windows, rear parking sensors

Market Prices in Kenya (2025)

• 2016–2019 models: KSh 650K – KSh 900K.

10. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

Why It’s Popular in Kenya

• High-performance luxury SUV with durability and a strong resale value.
• Suitable for business executives, government officials, and off-road enthusiasts.

Features

Engine Options and Performance

• Engine Variants: 2.8L turbo-diesel and 4.0L petrol engines

Power Output

• 2.8L Diesel: 201 hp, 500 Nm torque
• 4.0L Petrol: 271 hp, 381 Nm torque

Fuel Efficiency

• Diesel: Around 10 km/l
• Petrol: Around 8 km/l
• Drivetrain: Full-time 4WD with Multi-Terrain Select for off-road capability

Interior Features

• Seating: Spacious 7-seater with leather or fabric upholstery (depending on trim)

Convenience

• 9-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Multi-zone climate control
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Electric adjustable seats (higher trims)

Storage

• Large cargo space with split-folding rear seats

Safety Features

Standard Safety

• Multiple airbags (front, side, curtain, and knee airbags)
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
• Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)

Advanced Safety

• Toyota Safety Sense (pre-collision system, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control)
• Rearview camera and parking sensors
• Blind-spot monitoring (higher trims)

Exterior Design

• Aesthetics: Bold, rugged SUV design with a chrome grille and LED headlights
• Wheels: 17-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels (depending on trim)
• Ground Clearance: 215 mm, suitable for off-road and rough terrain

Trim Levels

• TX: Base model with fabric seats and basic features
• TX-L: Adds leather seats, sunroof, and premium infotainment
• VX: Fully loaded with all advanced safety and comfort features

Market Prices in Kenya (2025)

• 2016–2018 models: KSh 5.8M – KSh 7.5M.
• 2019–2022 models: KSh 8.5M – KSh 12.5M.

Conclusion

The best car for you in Kenya depends on budget, fuel efficiency, resale value, and intended use. This list provides a reliable reference to compare the most popular cars in Kenya in 2025.

FAQ

1. What are the most popular car brands in Kenya?

In Kenya, popular car brands include Toyota, Nissan, Mazda, Subaru, and Honda. These brands are favored for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and availability of spare parts.

2. How much does it cost to import a car into Kenya?

The cost of importing a car into Kenya varies based on factors such as the vehicle's age, engine capacity, and customs duties. It's essential to consult with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) or reputable import agents for accurate and up-to-date information.

3. Are hybrid cars popular in Kenya?

Yes, hybrid cars are gaining popularity in Kenya due to their fuel efficiency and environmental benefits. Models like the Toyota Prius and Honda Fit Hybrid are becoming more common on Kenyan roads.

4. What should I consider when buying a used car in Kenya?

When purchasing a used car in Kenya, consider the following:

• Vehicle history: Ensure the car has a clean history without major accidents.
• Mileage: Lower mileage often indicates less wear and tear.
• Service records: Regular maintenance records suggest proper care.
• Condition: Inspect for any mechanical issues or rust.
• Ownership documents: Verify that all legal documents are in order.

5. How can I finance a car purchase in Kenya?

Several financial institutions in Kenya offer car loans with varying interest rates and terms. It's advisable to compare offers from different banks and credit facilities to find the best deal that suits your financial situation.

6. What are the maintenance costs for cars in Kenya?

Maintenance costs depend on the car model, age, and usage. Generally, Japanese brands like Toyota and Nissan have affordable maintenance costs due to the widespread availability of spare parts and service centers.

7. Are electric cars available in Kenya?

Yes, electric cars are entering the Kenyan market. Brands like NETA have launched models such as the NETA V compact SUV in Kenya, with plans to introduce more models in the future.

8. What is the resale value of cars in Kenya?

Resale values vary by brand and model. Toyota vehicles, for instance, tend to have high resale values due to their reliability and demand in the Kenyan market.

9. How do I verify the authenticity of a car dealer in Kenya?

To ensure you're dealing with a legitimate car dealer:

• Check for registration: Verify that the dealer is registered with relevant authorities.
• Read reviews: Look for customer feedback and testimonials.
• Visit the dealership: A physical visit can provide insights into their operations.
• Ask for references: Reputable dealers should provide references upon request.

10. What are the best cars for rough terrains in Kenya?

For rough terrains, vehicles like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and the locally manufactured Mobius II are suitable choices due to their durability and off-road capabilities.