Assuming that you intend to import a car in 2026, then the game has changed. The 2019 is now the Golden Year to importers. Why? Since 2019 models are the oldest and hence the cheapest units yet they comply with the 8 years of age stipulated by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS).
However, importing involves not only seeking the lowest priced vehicle but also seeking the vehicle that will live through the Kenyan roads, uses little fuel and will keep its value when one resells. According to the trend in the market, the level of duty, and reliability, the following are the 5 best cars you should be placing bids in Japanese auctions in 2011.
1. The Crown Jewel: 2019 Toyota Harrier (XU60 Facelift)
Toyota Harrier is the most up-market middle-class SUV in Kenya. The 2019 facelift version is the sweet spot in terms of luxury and affordability in 2026.
The Engine: You will have 2.0L Petrol (trustworthy and easy) and 2.5L Hybrid (the king of fuel-saving).
Why it is a Top Pick: It provides the comfort of Lexus at a maintenance price of a RAV4. It is revered inside the corporate parking lots and resale worth nears the stability of land.
Landed Cost: KSh 3.7M -4.2M (with trim).
2. The Hyper-Efficiency King: 2019 Nissan Note e-Power.
The most demanded hatchback among the urban Kenyans has been the Nissan Note e-Power due to the high prices of petrol.
The Technology: It is a generator type that runs on petrol to operate an electric motor. It is an electric vehicle that never needs to be plugged in.
Why it should be a Top Pick: You can record an amazing 24-28 km/L in the Nairobi traffic. It is the ideal vehicle of daily commute or an up market ride-share enterprise.
Estimated Landed Cost: KSh 1.6M – 1.9M.
3. The Adventure Partner: 2019 Subaru Outback (6 th Gen – BT Series ).
The 6th generation Outback was initiated in 2019. This is the ultimate vehicle to those who live in Nairobi but spend the weekend in Nanyuki or in Mara.
The Build: Highground clearance (213mm) and the legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
Why it is a Top Pick: It is capable of tackling rough, or “last-mile” roads better than most SUVs, but still performs on the highway as a luxury sedan. It is the final of the real wagons until the boxy SUV redesign of 2026.
Estimated Landed Cost: KSh 3.2M – 3.6M.
4. New Shape: The Family Workhorse: 2019 Toyota RAV4.
The 2019 model was the first year of the new shape (XA50) RAV4. It is rough, violent and very spacious.
The Choices: It comes in AWD and 2WD, and a very popular Hybrid variant that is slowly becoming popular in Kenya.
Why it is a Top Pick: It is also based on TNGA platform, and hence, better handling and safety than any other past RAV4. It is the sensible option that can never be out of style.
Estimated Landed Cost: KSh 3.9M – 4.5M.
5. The Luxury crossover: 2019 Mazda CX-5 (KF Series).
When you are concerned about the beauty and quality of the interior, then the Mazda CX-5 is the prettiest SUV in the Kenyan roads.
The Interior: Soft-touch leather, heads-up display and cockpit feels more like a German luxury car.
Why it is a Top Pick The SkyActiv technology offers an excellent combination of power and fuel economy. It is the vehicle of the driver that desires to feel the class without having to spend too much on running it like the European brands.
Estimated Landed Cost: KSh 2.8M – 3.3M.
| Model | Fuel Type | Avg. Fuel Economy | Est. Landed Price (KSh) |
| Toyota Harrier | Hybrid / Petrol | 14 – 21 km/L | 3.7M – 4.2M |
| Nissan Note | e-Power (Hybrid) | 24 – 28 km/L | 1.6M – 1.9M |
| Subaru Outback | Petrol | 11 – 13 km/L | 3.2M – 3.6M |
| Toyota RAV4 | Hybrid / Petrol | 14 – 18 km/L | 3.9M – 4.5M |
| Mazda CX-5 | Diesel / Petrol | 12 – 16 km/L | 2.8M – 3.3M |
