The Kenyan used car market is shifting fast in April 2026. New KRA valuation rules, exchange rate fluctuations, and changing buyer preferences are reshaping what Kenyans pay for their next car. Here's what you need to know this week.
## Price Movements This Week
Several popular models have seen notable price shifts:
- Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (2013–2015): Prices holding steady at KSh 4.5M–6.7M. Supply remains tight, keeping values firm - Subaru Forester (2015–2018): Slight dip to KSh 1.8M–2.5M as more units arrive from Japan - Mazda CX-5 (2015–2017): Rising demand pushing prices up — now KSh 2.2M–3.5M for diesel variants - Honda Fit (2014–2017): Still Kenya's most affordable reliable car at KSh 650K–1.1M - Nissan Note (2015–2018): Stable at KSh 700K–1.2M, strong demand from first-time buyers
## Import Costs Are Climbing
Car importers are raising alarms over rising costs in 2026. The new KRA valuation system is a major factor — the authority has shifted to a more aggressive duty assessment model that's increasing the landed cost of imports by an estimated 10–15%.
Key cost factors for April 2026: - Import Duty: 25% of CIF value - Excise Duty: 20–35% depending on engine size - VAT: 16% - Import Declaration Fee (IDF): 3.5% - Railway Development Levy: 2% - Clearing and forwarding: KSh 60,000–120,000
For context, a Toyota Harrier valued at $10,000 CIF could cost approximately $17,950 (about KSh 2.3M) after all taxes and duties — before you even pay for the car itself.
## New Import Rules: What Changed in 2026
Important: From January 2026, only vehicles first registered from January 1, 2019 or later are eligible for import into Kenya. This effectively reduces the import window and is pushing up prices on newer-year Japanese imports.
Kenya continues to require right-hand drive vehicles for personal use, and pre-shipment inspection (through KEBS-approved agencies) remains mandatory.
## What Dealers Are Saying
Dealers across Nairobi report strong demand for mid-range SUVs (KSh 2M–5M bracket). The Mazda CX-5 diesel is emerging as a surprise favourite, with several dealers noting it's outselling the Subaru Forester for the first time.
Electric and hybrid vehicles are gaining attention but still represent a tiny fraction of sales. The BYD Atto 3 and Neta V are appearing on more lots, but charging infrastructure remains the bottleneck.
## Most Searched Models This Week
1. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2. Mazda CX-5 3. Toyota Harrier 4. Subaru Forester 5. Honda Fit 6. Nissan X-Trail 7. Toyota Hilux 8. Mercedes-Benz C-Class 9. BMW X3 10. Toyota Fielder
## The Bottom Line
If you're buying in April 2026, expect to pay more than you would have a year ago — especially for imports. The new KRA valuation system and tighter age limits are pushing prices up across the board. Locally used cars with clean service history are becoming increasingly attractive as import costs rise.
*Prices as of April 17, 2026. Market data sourced from MotorLink listings, AutosKenya, Cars45 Kenya, and Jiji.*
