The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has released the new Current Retail Selling Price (CRSP) list which will come into effect on July 1. This will change how customs duties on imported used cars are calculated from fixed vehicle values to actual purchase prices. According to KRA, the aim is to improve fairness and accuracy in import tax valuation.
But what does this mean for car buyers in Kenya? Let’s break it down—with a list of best-value cars to buy under the new system and models you should avoid if you’re budget-conscious.
What Is CRSP and Why It Matters
CRSP stands for Current Retail Selling Price—the baseline value the KRA uses to determine how much tax you’ll pay on imported second-hand vehicles. Under the new update:
- Taxes will now be based on the actual purchase price of the vehicle instead of a fixed CRSP.
- This means lower taxes for those who negotiate good deals abroad.
- But premium models and luxury vehicles will see an increase in import costs.
Top 10 Best Cars to Buy After CRSP Update
If you’re looking for affordable and fuel efficient cars, here are the top 10 cheapest cars based on the updated CRSP data. These cars are budget-friendly for Kenyans looking to import or buy locally.
| Rank | Car Model | CRSP Price (Ksh) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Toyota C+Walk T | 544,402 |
| 2 | Toyota C+Walk T (Alternate Version) | 578,216 |
| 3 | Volkswagen New Beetle | 698,898 |
| 4 | Toyota C+Walk S | 776,180 |
| 5 | FAW CA1024V Mini Truck | 840,000 |
| 6 | Renault Twingo Zen Hatchback | 913,289 |
| 7 | Peugeot 208 Tech Pack Hatchback | 1,107,943 |
| 8 | FAW CA6371 Van | 1,125,000 |
| 9 | Peugeot Crosscity Hatchback | 1,203,336 |
| 10 | Suzuki Alto VP | 1,207,236 |
These cars are cheap, fuel efficient and compact making them perfect for city driving, ride-sharing or small business use.
Best Affordable Toyota Models in Kenya
Apart from the CRSP’s cheapest models, the most common Toyota cars in Kenya are also relatively affordable. These include:
| Model | CRSP Price Range (Ksh) |
|---|---|
| Toyota Passo | 2,253,917 |
| Toyota Probox | ~2.4 million |
| Toyota Passo Moda | ~2.5 million |
| Toyota Corolla Axio | ~2.8 million |
| Toyota Vitz | 3,251,359 |
If you’re looking for a reliable, low maintenance vehicle, these Toyotas are tested on Kenyan roads and still have good resale value.
Top 10 Most Expensive Cars to Avoid (Unless You’re Loaded)
Want to make a luxury statement? The new CRSP also listed the most expensive cars to import—models with crazy price tags.
| Rank | Car Model | CRSP Price (Ksh) |
|---|
| 1 | Ferrari 488 Pista Spider | 423,928,000 |
| 2 | Ferrari 488 Pista | 294,016,000 |
| 3 | Brabus 900 XLP | 271,393,400 |
| 4 | Ferrari 812 Superfast | ~250 million+ |
| 5 | Ferrari Spider | ~230 million+ |
| 6 | Ferrari Stradale | ~200 million+ |
| 10 | Ferrari 488 Spider | 174,238,400 |
Unless you’re a billionaire with no worry for taxes and maintenance, these cars are not for the average Kenyan.
Most Expensive Common Cars in Kenya
Now for those looking at regular high-end models—not supercars but still premium—the following are the top of the line vehicles that will attract the highest taxes under the new CRSP:
| Model | CRSP Price (Ksh) |
|---|---|
| Toyota Land Cruiser 250 ZX First Edition | 21,390,100 |
| Toyota Land Cruiser GR Sport | 21,291,610 |
| Toyota Land Cruiser 200 VXR 1VD | 20,160,000 |
| Volvo V90 | 15,379,570 |
| Toyota Land Cruiser 70 AX | 14,593,730 |
| Toyota Land Cruiser ZX | 13,770,030 |
These cars are popular with executives, government officials and those working in rough terrain. While they offer tough performance, their high CRSP will make them expensive to import after July 1.
Public Reaction to the CRSP Changes
Kenyans are divided on the new pricing system. Some welcome the fairness of taxing based on actual purchase price while others fear higher car prices due to increased import taxes—especially on cars in high demand.
Final Thoughts: What You Should Do
If you’re planning to import a car soon:
- Act before July 1 if you’re targeting models that may spike in price under the new CRSP.
- Consider fuel-efficient, low-tax cars like the Suzuki Alto, Toyota Passo, or Renault Twingo.
- Avoid high-end models unless necessary—luxury now equals luxury-level taxation.
- Keep an eye on total cost of ownership (taxes, maintenance, fuel) before making a choice.
The new CRSP list is a reality check for car buyers and importers alike. Whether you’re shopping for your first car or expanding your fleet, being informed can save you hundreds of thousands of shillings.