SUVs have gained immense popularity in Kenya due to their versatility, spaciousness, and capability to handle diverse road conditions. In this comprehensive review and comparison, we will explore the top 10 SUV models available in the Kenyan market.

These SUVs have been carefully selected based on criteria such as popularity, fuel economy, price range, safety features, off-road capabilities, and customer reviews. Whether you’re a family seeking comfort, an adventurer looking for off-road capabilities, or someone who values luxury, there’s an SUV on this list to suit your needs.

Toyota Harrier

The Toyota Harrier is a stylish and reliable SUV that offers a blend of comfort and performance. It features a 2.0L petrol engine paired with a CVT transmission, delivering a smooth and efficient driving experience.

The 2.0L petrol engine provides adequate power for daily commuting and long trips. The CVT transmission ensures seamless gear changes and contributes to the Harrier’s fuel economy rating of 12.5 km/l.

The Toyota Harrier is priced between 3,300,000 and 4,500,000 Ksh, depending on the variant and optional features.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Sleek design, comfortable interior, reliable performance.
• Cons: Higher price range compared to some competitors.

Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 is a stylish and sporty SUV that stands out with its distinctive design and engaging driving dynamics. It comes equipped with a 2.0L petrol engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The 2.0L petrol engine in the CX-5 delivers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, with a fuel economy rating of 13.0 km/l. The 6-speed automatic transmission offers smooth gear shifts and enhances driving pleasure.

The Mazda CX-5 is available in the price range of 2,800,000 to 4,000,000 Ksh, depending on the trim level and optional features.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Stylish exterior, well-crafted interior, engaging driving experience.
• Cons: Limited off-road capabilities.

Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is a popular choice among SUV enthusiasts, known for its reliability and practicality. It comes equipped with a 2.0L petrol engine and a CVT transmission.

The RAV4’s 2.0L petrol engine delivers a commendable balance of power and fuel efficiency, achieving a fuel economy rating of 13.0 km/l. The CVT transmission provides seamless gear changes for a smooth driving experience.

The Toyota RAV4 is priced between 2,600,000 and 3,700,000 Ksh, depending on the variant and additional features.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Spacious interior, comfortable ride, strong resale value.
• Cons: Some may find the design conservative.

Nissan X-Trail

The Nissan X-Trail is a versatile and practical SUV that offers ample space for passengers and cargo. It features a 2.0L petrol engine mated to a CVT transmission.

With its 2.0L petrol engine, the X-Trail delivers decent performance and achieves a fuel economy rating of 12.0 km/l. The CVT transmission contributes to smooth gear shifts and enhances fuel efficiency.

The Nissan X-Trail is available in the price range of 2,500,000 to 3,600,000 Ksh, depending on the trim level and optional features.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Spacious and comfortable cabin, practical features, competitive pricing.
• Cons: Some may find the styling less distinctive.

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V combines elegance and performance, making it a popular choice among SUV enthusiasts. It comes equipped with a 1.5L turbo petrol engine paired with a CVT transmission.

The 1.5L turbo petrol engine in the CR-V offers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, achieving a fuel economy rating of 14.0 km/l. The CVT transmission ensures smooth gear changes and enhances overall driving experience.

The Honda CR-V is priced between 2,900,000 and 4,200,000 Ksh, depending on the variant and optional features.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Upscale interior, strong turbocharged performance, excellent fuel efficiency.
• Cons: Relatively higher price range compared to some competitors.

Toyota Land Cruiser

The Toyota Land Cruiser is a legendary SUV known for its off-road capabilities and robust build quality. It is powered by a 4.0L petrol engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The Land Cruiser’s 4.0L petrol engine delivers ample power and torque, making it suitable for tackling tough terrains. However, its fuel economy rating is relatively lower at 9.0 km/l. The 6-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth gear shifts and enhances driving experience.

The Toyota Land Cruiser is available in the price range of 10,000,000 to 15,000,000 Ksh, depending on the variant and additional features.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Exceptional off-road capabilities, spacious cabin, strong build quality.
• Cons: Higher fuel consumption, higher price range compared to other models.

Land Rover Defender

The Land Rover Defender is an iconic SUV renowned for its ruggedness and versatility. It is equipped with a 2.0L turbo diesel engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The 2.0L turbo diesel engine provides a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, achieving a fuel economy rating of 11.0 km/l. The 8-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth gear changes and enhances overall performance.

The Land Rover Defender is priced between 10,000,000 and 16,000,000 Ksh, depending on the trim level and optional features.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Off-road prowess, distinctive design, advanced features.
• Cons: Higher price range, potential maintenance costs.

Jeep Wrangler

The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic SUV renowned for its unmatched off-road capabilities and rugged design. It features a 2.0L turbo petrol engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The 2.0L turbo petrol engine delivers strong performance both on and off the road. It achieves a fuel economy rating of 11.0 km/l. The 8-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth gear shifts and enhances overall driving experience.

The Jeep Wrangler is available in the price range of 7,500,000 to 10,000,000 Ksh, depending on the variant and optional features.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Unmatched off-road capabilities, rugged design, removable roof and doors.
• Cons: Relatively higher price range, limited cargo space.

Mitsubishi Pajero

The Mitsubishi Pajero is a reliable and capable SUV known for its robustness and off-road prowess. It comes equipped with a 3.0L V6 petrol engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission.

The Pajero’s 3.0L V6 petrol engine delivers strong performance both on and off the road. However, its fuel economy rating is relatively lower at 10.0 km/l. The 5-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth gear changes and enhances overall driving experience.

The Mitsubishi Pajero is priced between 5,500,000 and 8,000,000 Ksh, depending on the trim level and additional features.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Excellent off-road capabilities, spacious cabin, durable construction.
• Cons: Higher fuel consumption, limited advanced features.

Suzuki Jimny

The Suzuki Jimny is a compact and capable SUV designed for off-road adventures. It is powered by a 1.5L petrol engine and a 5-speed manual transmission.

The 1.5L petrol engine provides sufficient power for both urban commuting and off-road excursions. It achieves an impressive fuel economy rating of 14.0 km/l. The 5-speed manual transmission offers direct control and enhances the driving experience.

The Suzuki Jimny is available in the price range of 2,700,000 to 3,500,000 Ksh, depending on the variant and optional features.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Compact size, excellent off-road capabilities, good fuel efficiency.
• Cons: Limited interior space, basic features.

Conclusion

In this comprehensive review and comparison, we have explored the top 10 SUVs available in the Kenyan market. Each model offers unique features and specifications, catering to different preferences and budgets. From the reliable Toyota Harrier to the rugged Land Rover Defender, there’s an SUV for every need.

Consider your requirements, such as off-road capabilities, fuel efficiency, pricing, and interior space, when choosing the right SUV for you. Conduct further research, visit dealerships, and take test drives to make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize comfort, adventure, or luxury, these top SUVs in Kenya offer an array of options to suit your lifestyle and enhance your driving experience.