Many Kenyans have found themselves in a tough spot during the ongoing economic crisis that has ravaged all the industries in the country.
This situation has been largely attributed to the weakening of the Kenyan shilling against the dollar which hit its worst with the US Dollar appreciating against the Kenyan Shilling from Ksh109.8 in January 2021 to Ksh123.9 in January 2023.
As a result, most car importers and buyers are in a tough spot resulting in a fall in car imports and more people buying second-hand cars.
However, all is not lost since there are still very cost-effective hatchbacks you can buy which will give you the best guarantee of saving your money.
Kenyans.co.ke spoke with Edward Frank Dola, a car expert and the Chief Executive Officer of Dinga World Limited who revealed some of the few options Kenyans can consider when buying a hatchback.
Hybrid Honda Fit
This is a sleek, tiny hatchback with outstanding fuel efficiency. The 1,500cc has an average fuel consumption of 35-36Km/L combined with plenty of room to hold five people.
"This model has a price range of Ksh750,000 but the price depends on the car dealership you buy from," Dola revealed.
Mazda Demio
According to Dola, this is also a popular car in the Kenyan market. The 1,300cc has a fuel consumption rate of 25km/L combined with a 1.3L engine.
This car’s price ranges from Ksh700,000 to Ksh1.5 million depending on the car dealership you buy from.
Toyota Vitz
"This hatchback was commonly perceived to be a woman’s car but things have changed because of its cool features and power," Dola revealed.
The Vitz comes in 1000cc, 1300cc, and 1500cc models with a fuel consumption rate of up to 20 km/L.
The Dinga World Limited CEO revealed that the car costs from Ksh750,000 to Ksh1 million making it a great option for someone looking for power and fuel saving.
Toyota Passo
The Toyota Passo is a small, compact car with a 1000cc engine. It has a fuel consumption rate of 25 km/L.
This car goes for around Ksh700,000 to Ksh1 million depending on the car dealership you buy from.
Nissan Note
"This is an excellent option for fuel efficiency, interior space, and comfortable style is hard to beat. The car manages 23-25km/L combined with all the benefits of driving a hybrid, such as excellent fuel consumption and low emissions," the CEO indicated.
It has models with 1.2L and a supercharged option called the Nismo. This car’s price ranges from Ksh750,000 to Ksh1.25 million
“These cars are seen as small cars but you will be amazed at just how good they compete with the other high-end cars in terms of performance,” commented Dola.
The expert advised that when trying to figure out the best car the above options would be great, especially for first-time car owners.
Most of the hatchbacks mentioned were found to have a lower maintenance cost as compared to other car varieties.
