Let’s face it — buying a car in Kenya right now is no joke. With everything going up, you want something reliable, fuel efficient and most importantly, affordable. Whether you’re getting your first car, upgrading from that old Probox or need a second car for the family, you’re probably wondering:
“Can I really get a decent car under one million shillings in 2025?”
The answer is a big yes! You just need to know what to look for, what to avoid and how to get the best deal without getting scammed.
So, let’s go through 5 of the most popular, pocket friendly cars Kenyans are buying right now — and why they make sense for your budget.
1. Toyota Vitz – Small But Mighty
Price Range: KES 650,000 – 900,000
Fuel Efficiency: Around 18–21 km/l
Engine Size: 1000cc–1300cc
The Toyota Vitz is everywhere — and for good reason. It’s small, fuel efficient and super easy to maintain. It’s one of those cars you buy and hardly ever regret.
It’s perfect for:
- City dwellers who deal with traffic daily
- First time car buyers
- Someone who wants a reliable and easy to service car
Pro tip: Go for the 2018 or 2019 models. They have better safety features and improved fuel efficiency. Plus, they’ll hold value longer.
2. Honda Fit – Spacious and Stylish
Price Range: KES 750,000 – 980,000
Fuel Efficiency: About 18–22 km/l
Engine Size: 1300cc–1500cc
The Honda Fit is that one budget car that feels more premium than its price tag. It’s got a roomy interior, smart design and if you go for the hybrid version, the fuel savings are massive — especially if you’re in Nairobi traffic daily.
But here’s the catch: some CVT gearboxes can be problematic if not well maintained. So always buy from a trusted dealer or importer who can provide full service records.
Good for:
- Uber/Bolt drivers
- Small families
- Anyone who wants that balance between style and function
3. Mazda Demio – Fun and Fuel-Smart
Price Range: KES 600,000 – 950,000
Fuel Efficiency: Roughly 16–20 km/l
Engine Size: 1300cc–1500cc
The Mazda Demio, especially the SkyActiv model, is a favourite for young professionals and students. It’s small, stylish and fun to drive. It may not be the most spacious but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in character.
Good for:
- Short distance drivers who want a zippy car
- Someone who wants a modern car but not at an arm and a leg
- Someone who wants something different from the usual Vitz crowd
Best value: 2017–2019 models. They have solid features without breaking the bank.
4. Nissan Note – More Room, Less Fuel
Price Range: KES 650,000 – 900,000
Fuel Efficiency: About 19–23 km/l
Engine Size: 1200cc–1500cc
The Nissan Note is one of the best-kept secrets in Kenya’s used car market. It’s a hatchback with a spacious interior and amazing fuel efficiency. If you can get your hands on the e-POWER version, even better — it runs on electric drive with a petrol-powered generator, so you get EV-like fuel savings with zero charging worries.
Who’s it for?
- Families looking for space
- Daily commuters
- Anyone needing a fuel-efficient ride for both city and highway use
Just make sure to service it regularly, especially the gearbox and battery system if it’s a hybrid.
5. Suzuki Alto – Simple and Super-Efficient
Price Range: KES 550,000 – 750,000
Fuel Efficiency: Around 20–25 km/l
Engine Size: 660cc–1000cc
Don’t let its tiny size fool you — the Suzuki Alto is one of the most affordable cars to run in Kenya. It’s extremely fuel-efficient, easy to drive in traffic, and perfect for solo drivers, students, or anyone who wants something light on the wallet.
Ideal for:
- City dwellers
- First-time car buyers
- Those who want a car that “just works” with low maintenance costs
Bonus: You’ll find many of these models imported from Japan in excellent, almost-new condition.
Should You Import or Buy Locally?
This really depends on your patience and preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Buying Locally:
✔ Instant delivery
✔ Easier inspection
✔ Local service history
❌ May be slightly pricier
Importing:
✔ Better variety
✔ Lower prices on newer models
❌ Takes 6–8 weeks
❌ You’ll need to trust the dealer or do it yourself
Either way, always:
- Check the logbook status on NTSA TIMS
- Ask for service records
- Avoid dealers who want full payment before delivery
Final Tips Before You Buy
Whether you’re shopping for your first car or a second ride, remember:
✅ Test drive
✅ Don’t skip inspections
✅ Know your insurance options
✅ Check NTSA transfer history
✅ Trust your gut — if something feels off, walk away
Final Word: Drive Smart, Spend Smarter
You don’t have to spend millions to own a good car in Kenya. With KES 1 million or less, you can drive away in a car that’s fuel efficient, easy to maintain and built for Kenyan roads.
Stick to the Toyota Vitz, Honda Fit, Mazda Demio, Nissan Note or Suzuki Alto and you’ll thank yourself later. All of them are in the sweet spot between price and performance — and they’re popular for a reason.