If you’ve ever searched “how much does it cost to import a car from japan”, you’ve probably seen wildly different figures.
One site says KSh 800,000, another says KSh 1.3 million, and a dealer tells you “it depends” without explaining why.
So let’s clear the confusion.
This guide breaks down the real cost of importing a car from Japan to Kenya in 2026, using actual cost components, realistic examples, and honest explanations. No hype. No hidden figures. Just facts — the way a serious buyer deserves.
Why Car Import Prices in Kenya Confuse So Many Buyers
Before we talk numbers, you need to understand why online estimates differ so much.
Here’s the truth most people won’t tell you,There is no single fixed price for importing a car to Kenya.
The final cost depends on six major variables, and even changing one can shift the price by hundreds of thousands of shillings..
The 6 Major Cost Components of Importing a Car to Kenya
1. Purchase Price in Japan (FOB or C&F)
This is the price of the car before it reaches Kenya.
- FOB (Free on Board): Car price only (shipping paid separately)
- C&F (Cost & Freight): Car price + shipping to Mombasa
Most Japanese exporters quote C&F, which is easier for buyers to understand.
Example:
- Toyota RAV4 2019 – C&F price: USD 12,500
⚠️ Important:
Two identical cars can have very different prices depending on:
- Mileage
- Auction grade
- Accident history
- Trim level
2. Shipping Cost from Japan to Mombasa
In 2026, shipping costs typically range between:
- USD 900 – 1,300 for standard vehicles
SUVs and larger engines may cost more
Shipping method:
- RoRo (Roll-on Roll-off): Cheaper, most common
- Container: More secure, more expensive
Shipping cost is usually included in C&F, but always confirm.
3. Import Duty & Taxes (The Biggest Cost Shock)
This is where most buyers get surprised, Kenya calculates import taxes using CRSP (Current Retail Selling Price) — not what you paid in Japan.
Taxes include:
- Import Duty – 25%
- Excise Duty – 20% to 35% (depends on engine size)
- VAT – 16%
- IDF – 3.5%
- RDL – 2%
These are applied sequentially, not all at once.
💡 This is why two similar cars can have very different taxes.
4. Age of the Vehicle (Critical in 2026)
Kenya allows importation of cars up to 8 years old.
In 2026 the oldest allowed: 2018 models
Older cars:
- Have higher depreciation
- Can attract higher tax values
- May face compliance issues
📌 Always check eligibility before buying.
5. Clearing, Port & Registration Costs
Once the car arrives in Mombasa, you’ll pay for:
- Port handling charges
- Clearing agent fees
- KRA processing
- NTSA registration & number plates
Typical range:
- KSh 150,000 – 250,000, depending on vehicle size and agent
6 Transport from Mombasa to Your Location
This depends on where you live:
- Nairobi: KSh 40,000 – 60,000
- Other towns: varies by distance
Realistic Cost Examples (What You’ll Actually Pay)
Let’s look at real-world scenarios.
🚙 Example 1: Mazda CX-5 2018 (2200cc Diesel)
| Item | Estimated Cost |
| C&F Price | KSh 1,500,000 |
| Import Taxes | KSh 620,000 |
| Clearing & Port Charges | KSh 200,000 |
| Transport | KSh 50,000 |
| Total Landed Cost | ≈ KSh 2,370,000 |
🚘 Example 2: Toyota Passo 2019 (1000cc)
| Item | Estimated Cost |
| C&F Price | KSh 650,000 |
| Import Taxes | KSh 280,000 |
| Clearing & Port Charges | KSh 160,000 |
| Transport | KSh 40,000 |
| Total Landed Cost | ≈ KSh 1,130,000 |
Why Online Car Import Estimates Are Often Wrong
Here’s the uncomfortable truth:
❌ Many websites:
- Ignore CRSP
- Use outdated tax rates
- Don’t include clearing costs
- Quote “from” prices that don’t reflect reality
❌ Some dealers:
- Advertise unrealistically low figures
- Add costs later when the car arrives
That’s why buyers feel misled
What a Transparent Importer Should Do (And What We Do)
A professional car importer should:
- Show full cost breakdown
- Explain tax calculations clearly
- Use real CRSP values
- Tell you upfront what can change
- Put everything in writing
To get in contact with us you can visit us at carskenya and we will bring your dream car to your door step.
