As a first-time car buyer, you probably feel overwhelmed with the broad selection of cars you have to choose from. You may have read a lot of contradicting car reviews and other car buyers have probably bombarded you with their own car buying horror stories. Take it easy, there is only so much you need to know before you make your decision.
To make your life easier, we have put together a list of ten affordable cars you can buy as a first-time buyer.
1. Toyota Passo
This is a pocket-friendly subcompact car that you should not be overlooking. It may look small but you would be pleased to know that it is spacious enough to carry up to five adults and still have enough space for your cargo in the trunk. Aside from being affordable, it is fuel-efficient, reliable and affordable to maintain.
2. Mazda Demio
This is a very popular vehicle on Kenyan Roads. The Mazda Demio gained popularity amongst the ladies because of its beautiful vibrant colours. It has since evolved and has become popular for commercial purposes- taxis. This is a great first-time car as it has proven to be reliable and affordable.
3. Toyota Vit
This is a car that has withstood the test of time and remains one of Kenyans favourite hatchback cars. It has excellent safety features making it great for first-time car buyers with small families. It has excellent infotainment features, is spacious and reliable. Additionally, just like almost all Toyota cars, the Toyota Vitz offers great fuel-efficient at a good price point.
4. Honda Fit
Since its first entrance into the Kenyan Car Market, its popularity has grown steadily as more people have come to appreciate its great quality. As a first-time car buyer, you need a car that you can count on at any time and still save money. The Honda Fit has proven time and again that it can offer great services and still conserve fuel particularly the hybrid version.
5. Nissan Note
Though it may have not been popular right from inception, Nissan Note has gone through a lot of improvements over time. It is now a great hatchback with a lot of space to offer. It’s great as a family car or even as a commercial vehicle. If you have a small family, this is a good car for you and is very affordable.
6. Volkswagen Polo
If you are shopping for a small car with a lot to offer, the Volkswagen Polo might be the car for you. It is one of the safest small cars on the market. It comes with advanced safety features, amazing infotainment features and the interior is finished to perfection. This is a car that has proven to be reliable and worth every penny you pay for it.
7. Mazda Axela
If you are looking for a practical car with a sporty exterior, the Mazda Axela is the car for you. Voted one of the best hatchbacks in the world, it comes packed with amazing features, great fuel economy and is very spacious. This is a car that appeals to a wide range of car shoppers since it has something for everyone. As a first-time car buyer, you can never go wrong with this car.
8. Toyota Auris
Toyota never went wrong with the design of this car. It is diverse, with great fuel economy, great cabin design and spacious enough to carry five adults. It is a fairly priced car and is also quite safe to drive around given its great safety features.
9. Subaru Impreza
If you are a speed junkie and you have always dreamt of owning a reliable car that feels like a sports car but at a great price, this is the car for you. Since the introduction of improved aerodynamics, the Subaru Impreza seems to have more power and excellent fuel economy. It can now compete with its rivals in the same class.
10. Mitsubishi RVR
SUVs are usually considered aspirational vehicles and most first-time car buyers are discouraged from owning one due to their cost of purchase and maintenance. However, the Mitsubishi RVR is a great choice for any first-time car buyer who has a medium-size family or simply wants a spacious car. It can handle the Kenyan rough roads well, has all the necessary four-wheel drive features you need and is quite affordable.
Parting Shot
There is an information overload on the internet on what first-time car buyers should or should not do. However, to avoid making the wrong decision to take your time when researching the type of car you plan on buying. You can use the Cheki True Price tool to counter check or compare prices. Finally, keep your eyes open for red flags when buying a car.