There are cars that you will never miss to see on Kenyan roads. They are loved because of various factors such as their affordability and their spare parts availability. Below are 5 popular cars driven in Kenya:
Toyota Probox
This popular station wagon is loved and hated in equal measure. Those who love it appreciate its practicality, thanks to its massive boot and fold flat rear seats.
Again fuel efficiency is important as its 1.5-litre VVTi engine is able to achieve roughly 12 kilometres to the litre. Availability of affordable spare parts also plays a big role in making the Probox a contender in this segment. Current market price ranges from Ksh 700,000 to 900,000.
Subaru Forester
This popular crossover gains its popularity courtesy of its rally DNA that made Subaru invincible in the 90s. This practical family crossover shares its underpinnings with the rally-bred Impreza, paired to symmetrical All Wheel Drive and legendary ‘boxer’ engine makes it a winning package.
The prices start from Ksh. 1.4 million for the entry level to 2.5 million for the top specification version.
Toyota Land Cruiser VX
This car is considered as a status symbol by many Kenyans due to its sheer size and stature. With 60 years of heritage, the Land Cruiser has withstood the test of time by utilising a sturdy chassis, suspension and a powerful V8 turbo diesel engine that produces 615Nm of torque.
In terms of comfort, the VX comes with plenty of kit including pneumatic suspension and so much more. Prices range from Ksh 5 million to 10 million.
BMW 3 Series
Young aspiring Kenyans enjoy the finer things in life including the 3 series. This perennial winner sets the bar in the compact executive segment, fighting it out with the likes of Mercedes C Class and Audi A4.
The 3 series chassis is its strong point. Sharp to drive and has decent road manners. The well-appointed cabin is loaded with features like Dynamic Stability Control, Cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control among others. With prices starting from Ksh 1.6 million, its a sure way of making a statement.
Mazda Demio
Also known as Mazda 2 in other markets, the Demio has grown in popularity over the years, due to its flashy styling, peppy engine and competitive pricing making it hard for anyone to ignore.
Since it’s a hatchback, it has plenty of space, comfortable seating positions and is practical enough to carry a decent amount of luggage.
In this category, its main rivals include the Honda Jazz/Fit, Toyota Yaris/Vitz and the Volkswagen Polo. Prices start from Ksh 700,000 to 900,000.
Conclusion
The choice of these models is mostly influenced by their retail prices, maintenance cost and class. In addition, they are well built to withstand the various weather conditions and the tough Kenyan roads.