Author: Iko Gari Team

Chinese vehicle manufacturers are making significant gains in Kenya’s automotive market, more than doubling their combined market share as demand for their vehicles continues to grow. Data reported by Business Daily on shows that Chinese manufacturers sold 1,847 vehicles between January and September 2026, compared with 733 during the same period last year. Their combined share of Kenya’s new-vehicle market consequently increased from 7.39% to 14.65%. Sinotruk accounted for the largest share of the growth, recording 1,442 vehicle sales, representing a 169.5% increase. Passenger vehicle brands are also gaining ground. BYD sold 54 units, compared with just two in the…

Changing engine oil is one of the most important parts of vehicle maintenance. It lubricates moving components, reduces friction, helps control engine temperature and carries contaminants away from critical parts. However, replacing old oil with fresh oil does not automatically mean your engine is properly protected. The type of oil you use matters. Engine oils come in different grades and specifications, and choosing the wrong one can affect how your engine performs and wears over time. In some cases, the effects may not be immediately noticeable, but repeated use of unsuitable oil can contribute to serious mechanical problems. Why does…

Modern cars are safer, more comfortable and more fuel-efficient than vehicles produced a few decades ago. They come with advanced electronics, sophisticated engines, digital dashboards and driver-assistance systems designed to make driving easier. However, this progress has introduced a challenge for car owners. When something goes wrong, diagnosing and repairing a modern vehicle can be considerably more complicated and expensive than fixing an older model. A fault that once required replacing a relatively simple mechanical component may now involve electronic diagnostics, specialised equipment and several interconnected systems. For motorists in Kenya, where many vehicles are imported second-hand, this is an…

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado has built a strong following in Kenya, where buyers value its combination of comfort, durability and ability to handle rough roads. The J150 has been a familiar sight for years, but the arrival of the J250 brings a new generation with a noticeably different design and more modern technology. For someone considering a Prado today, the choice is between the established appeal of the J150 and the updated capabilities of the J250. Both carry the Prado name, but they offer different ownership experiences. Design: Familiar luxury or a tougher new look? The J150 has a…

CFAO Mobility Kenya has introduced the ninth generation Toyota Hilux into the Kenyan market, bringing a redesigned pickup that combines increased cabin technology, improved comfort and familiar off-road capability. The locally assembled model was unveiled in Nairobi on October 29, 2026, under the campaign name “New Shujaa”. The new Hilux is initially available in a 2.8-litre Double Cab automatic configuration, offered in Mid and High specifications. The Mid variant retails at KSh 7.87 million, while the High specification costs KSh 10.84 million. Both versions use Toyota’s 2.8-litre 1GD turbo diesel engine, producing 150kW and 500Nm of torque. Power is delivered…

A car showing 200,000 kilometres or more on its odometer can make many buyers uncomfortable. At that mileage, questions about engine wear, transmission problems and expensive repairs are understandable. Some buyers will immediately rule it out, preferring a vehicle with 100,000 kilometres or less. But is a car with more than 200,000 kilometres necessarily a bad purchase? Not always. A well-maintained vehicle can remain reliable beyond this mileage, while a neglected car with considerably fewer kilometres may already have serious mechanical problems. The challenge is knowing what to inspect before committing your money. Does 200,000 kilometres mean the engine is…

The Suzuki Alto is one of the smallest cars you can buy, but its appeal is easy to understand. It is compact, relatively economical and designed around simple everyday transportation. For Kenyan motorists looking for an affordable first car or a vehicle for navigating busy urban streets, the Alto is worth considering. Unlike larger hatchbacks that try to balance family space with performance, the Alto keeps things simple. Its small footprint makes it easy to manoeuvre through traffic, park in tight spaces and handle routine trips around town. However, its affordability comes with compromises that buyers should understand before making…

Driving a car for just a few kilometres may seem easier on the engine than covering long distances. After all, the vehicle is not spending hours on the road, and you are using relatively little fuel. However, frequent short trips can create their own maintenance challenges. If you regularly start your car, drive for five or ten minutes and switch it off before the engine reaches its normal operating temperature, some components may experience more stress than you realise. The problem is not necessarily the distance itself. It is what happens when the engine and other systems repeatedly operate without…

Kenya’s Senate has rejected three sets of proposed road-safety regulations covering motor vehicle inspections, school transport and commercial vehicle operations, raising questions about the government’s plans to strengthen vehicle safety standards. The regulations, developed by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), were intended to improve vehicle roadworthiness, protect schoolchildren and tighten safety requirements for commercial transport operators. The proposed measures included additional requirements for school buses, vehicle inspections and commercial vehicle safety equipment. Some provisions also addressed telematics systems for monitoring vehicle operations and underride protection for commercial vehicles, which can help reduce the risk of smaller vehicles sliding…

The Audi Q5 and BMW X3 appeal to drivers who want a premium SUV without moving up to a much larger vehicle. Both offer comfortable cabins, strong performance and a commanding driving position, but they approach the driving experience differently. For Kenyan buyers considering a used import, the decision goes beyond the badge. Fuel consumption, repair costs, parts availability and the condition of the individual vehicle can make a bigger difference than the specifications on paper. Design and comfort The Audi Q5 takes a restrained approach to luxury. Its styling is understated, while the cabin focuses on a clean dashboard…

If your car shakes when you press the brake pedal, the problem could be worn brake components, uneven brake discs or a fault in the suspension or steering system. You might feel the steering wheel vibrating, the brake pedal pulsing or the entire car shuddering as you slow down. It is not something to ignore. Braking problems can affect how safely your car stops, and the location and timing of the vibration can help a mechanic identify the cause. Worn or uneven brake discs One of the most common causes is uneven brake-disc thickness or an irregular disc surface. Brake…

Choosing the right car size for Nairobi depends on where you drive, how many people you carry and how often you deal with traffic or tight parking spaces. A large SUV may offer comfort and road presence, but a smaller hatchback can be easier to manoeuvre through crowded streets and fit into limited parking spaces. For most urban motorists, a compact hatchback or small sedan offers a good balance of convenience, fuel economy and everyday practicality. However, the best choice depends on your routine rather than size alone. Compact cars such as the Toyota Vitz, Suzuki Swift and Honda Fit…

The Honda Freed is a compact seven-seater that makes a strong case for buyers who need more space than a conventional hatchback but do not want a large, fuel-hungry family van. In Kenya, where the Toyota Sienta is a familiar choice among families, small businesses and ride-hailing operators, the Freed offers a similar formula with a few differences worth considering. Both vehicles prioritise practicality over appearance. They have compact dimensions, sliding rear doors and flexible seating, making them easier to use in crowded parking spaces and busy urban neighbourhoods than many larger people carriers. Space and everyday practicality The Freed’s…

Most car owners pay attention to the bodywork, windows and wheels when washing their vehicles. The underside often gets forgotten, even though it is exposed to mud, dust, water, road grime and debris every time the car moves. So, how often should you wash it? There is no single schedule that suits every vehicle. For most Kenyan motorists, an occasional underbody wash is sufficient, but cars regularly driven on muddy or dusty roads may need more frequent attention. The underside of your car contains important components, including suspension parts, brake lines, exhaust components and, depending on the vehicle, exposed drivetrain…

New-vehicle sales in Kenya have risen by 27% in the first nine months of 2026, driven largely by stronger demand for trucks, pickups and other commercial vehicles as road construction and business activity pick up. Data from the Kenya Motor Industry Association (KMIA) as of October 20, shows that dealers sold 12,606 new vehicles between January and September, compared with 9,924 during the same period last year. The increase represents 2,682 additional vehicles. The strongest growth came from vehicles used in transport, construction and logistics. Truck sales rose by 38.3% to 5,527 units, while single-cab pickup sales climbed 55.9% to…

If you want to save on fuel without buying a fully electric car, the Toyota Aqua and Honda Fit Hybrid are two options worth considering in Kenya. Both are compact, economical Japanese imports suited to everyday driving, but they appeal to slightly different buyers. The Aqua has built a strong reputation for fuel efficiency, while the Fit Hybrid offers a more versatile cabin and practical seating arrangements. The difference becomes clearer when you look beyond fuel consumption and consider space, maintenance and the condition of the particular car. Fuel economy and performance The Toyota Aqua uses a 1.5-litre petrol engine…

A sunroof can make an ordinary car feel a little more special. It brings in natural light, makes the cabin feel more open and lets you enjoy fresh air without lowering the side windows. For some buyers, it is one of those features that makes a particular car more attractive than an otherwise similar model. But when buying a used car in Kenya, is a sunroof worth paying extra for, or is it another component that could eventually cost you money? The answer depends on how much you value the feature and, more importantly, the condition of the vehicle. One…

You start your car in the morning, and instead of the familiar engine sound, you hear a sharp squeal from under the bonnet. It lasts a few seconds, disappears, and the car seems to run normally. The following morning, it happens again. It is tempting to ignore the noise, especially when the car starts without difficulty. However, a repeated squealing sound can be an early warning that a belt, pulley or another engine component needs attention. One of the most common causes is a slipping auxiliary belt. Depending on the vehicle, this belt drives components such as the alternator and…

Matatu operators in Kenya have ruled out a fresh strike over rising fuel prices, saying they will continue operating despite higher costs following the latest Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) review. Matatu Owners Association (MOA) president Albert Karakacha said on Sunday, October 18, that operators would remain on the road. However, the association has called for a 10% fare increase to help cushion transport businesses against rising operating costs. “We will continue to do our business. We have no reason to say there is a problem. We are at work and we will continue to work,” he said. The…

The Subaru Impreza is a good option for Kenyan buyers who want a compact car that feels a little different from the usual Toyota Axio, Mazda Demio or Honda Fit. It offers a comfortable cabin, confident road manners and, in some versions, Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. But with Subaru ownership often associated with higher maintenance costs, is the Impreza a practical everyday car? The answer depends largely on which version you buy and how well it has been maintained. Design, space and everyday comfort The Impreza comes in hatchback and sedan forms, depending on the generation and market. The hatchback…

You check your engine oil, find that the level has dropped, and top it up. A few days or weeks later, you are doing the same thing again. There is no obvious puddle under the car, and the engine seems to run normally. So where is the oil going? Engine oil does not normally disappear without a reason. If the level keeps dropping between services, your car may be leaking oil, burning it inside the engine or losing it through a fault that needs attention. The important thing is to identify the cause before the problem becomes expensive. One common…

It is easy to underestimate how much weight we put into a car. A few passengers, shopping in the boot, luggage for an upcountry trip and perhaps some extra cargo can quickly add up. The vehicle may still move normally, but that does not necessarily mean it is carrying the load safely. Every car has a maximum weight it is designed to carry. Exceeding that limit can affect braking, handling, tyre performance and the lifespan of suspension components. For Kenyan drivers who regularly travel with family, luggage or business supplies, understanding this limit is an important part of vehicle ownership.…

Kenyan motorists will pay more to fuel their vehicles following the latest review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), which has increased petrol, diesel and kerosene prices for the October–November period. In Nairobi, a litre of Super Petrol now costs a maximum of KSh226.96, an increase of KSh12.93. Diesel has risen by KSh9.90 to KSh227.76 per litre, while kerosene has recorded the steepest increase, climbing by KSh28.49 to KSh219.87. The new prices took effect on October 15 and will remain in place until November 14. For motorists, the increase means that even routine driving will become more expensive.…

If you need a family car with three rows of seats but do not want the size and running costs of a large van, the Toyota Sienta and Honda Freed deserve a place on your shortlist. Both are compact Japanese MPVs with sliding doors, flexible seating and engines designed for everyday use. They are particularly useful for families navigating busy estates, school runs and tight parking spaces. The Toyota Sienta has a strong advantage in familiarity and resale demand in Kenya. The Honda Freed, however, offers a slightly different appeal, with a well-designed cabin and seating arrangements that can make…