The Honda Fit and Nissan Note, both hatchbacks, are popular choices among Kenyan used-car buyers seeking compact, efficient vehicles. The Fit is often praised for its reliability and hybrid option, appealing to those prioritizing fuel efficiency and lower emissions. In contrast, the Note typically offers a more budget-friendly entry point and slightly broader availability, making it attractive for cost-conscious buyers.
On current Garisea listings, the Nissan Note is about 15% cheaper on median asking price, the Nissan Note has a newer average fleet, the Nissan Note shows lower average mileage.
| Honda Fit | Nissan Note | |
|---|---|---|
| Median price | KSh 1,595,000 | KSh 1,350,000 |
| Typical range | KSh 782,500 – KSh 1,650,000 | KSh 1,000,000 – KSh 1,600,000 |
| Avg mileage | 107,374 km | 90,878 km |
| Avg age | ~10 yrs | ~9 yrs |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Drive | 2WD | FWD |
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Honda Fit
KSh 600,000
2009
Nissan Note
KSh 400,000
2008
Honda Fit
Nissan Note
The Honda Fit, also known as the Jazz in some markets, is a compact hatchback that strikes a balance between urban practicality and efficient performance. It's particularly suited for city dwellers in Kenya who need a nimble and fuel-efficient car for navigating Nairobi's traffic or making trips to the market. With its spacious interior for a hatchback, it also appeals to small families and young professionals. The Fit is available in both petrol and hybrid variants, offering options for those prioritizing either cost-efficiency or eco-friendliness.
The Honda Fit is generally reliable, with the petrol engine known for its durability. However, hybrid models may require more attention to battery health as they age. The CVT transmission is smooth but can develop issues if not maintained properly, especially in high-mileage units.
Routine maintenance is straightforward, with service intervals generally every 5,000 km. The CVT requires regular fluid changes to avoid long-term issues. Hybrid models may incur higher maintenance costs due to battery checks and potential replacements after several years.
For urban commuters or those prioritizing fuel economy, the Honda Fit, especially in its hybrid variant, offers an edge with its efficient powertrain and Honda's reputation for reliability. However, the Nissan Note may suit buyers looking for a more affordable initial purchase and wider availability of petrol variants, which can be advantageous for those concerned about hybrid maintenance costs or availability of parts. The Note's slightly lower resale value makes it a practical choice for first-time car owners or those needing a reliable vehicle for daily use without a heavy investment.
Many buyers spread the cost over 12–60 months. See what monthly repayments could look like.
Explore financingOn current Garisea listings, the Nissan Note has the lower median asking price — about 15% cheaper. The Honda Fit medians KSh 1,595,000 and the Nissan Note medians KSh 1,350,000.
The Honda Fit typically ranges KSh 782,500–KSh 1,650,000 (from KSh 600,000), and the Nissan Note KSh 1,000,000–KSh 1,600,000 (from KSh 400,000), based on active Garisea listings.
The Honda Fit is generally reliable, with the petrol engine known for its durability. However, hybrid models may require more attention to battery health as they age. The CVT transmission is smooth but can develop issues if not maintained properly, especially in high-mileage units.
The Nissan Note is generally reliable, with the HR12DE 1.2L engine being a robust performer. However, the CVT transmission can develop issues if not properly maintained, particularly beyond 100,000 km. Regular servicing and timely oil changes are crucial to maintaining its longevity.
Figures are asking prices from active Garisea listings (not sale prices). Median and quartiles are used so a few unusually priced listings don't skew the comparison.
Parts for the Honda Fit are readily available across Nairobi's Kirinyaga Road, Grogan, and Ngara, as well as in major towns like Mombasa and Nakuru. Both genuine and aftermarket parts can be sourced, with the former available through authorised Honda service centres. Hybrid components may be less common and pricier.
The petrol variants, typically powered by the L15A 1.5L engine, are frugal in city driving, but expect higher consumption in stop-and-go Nairobi traffic. The hybrid model offers superior fuel efficiency, especially in urban settings, making it ideal for those with a daily commute.
The Nissan Note is a compact hatchback that appeals to urban drivers and young families in Kenya. Known for its practicality and efficient use of space, it offers a comfortable ride for city commutes and occasional upcountry trips. The most common models available are from 2012 to 2018, with a predominance of petrol engines and a few hybrid variants. Its compact size makes it ideal for navigating Nairobi's traffic and tight parking spaces, while the interior space is surprisingly ample for a car of its class.
The Nissan Note is generally reliable, with the HR12DE 1.2L engine being a robust performer. However, the CVT transmission can develop issues if not properly maintained, particularly beyond 100,000 km. Regular servicing and timely oil changes are crucial to maintaining its longevity.
Maintenance for the Nissan Note is straightforward, with service intervals typically every 5,000 to 10,000 km. The CVT requires special attention, and it's advisable to use genuine Nissan transmission fluid to avoid premature wear. Routine maintenance costs are moderate compared to similar models, but hybrid variants may incur higher costs due to battery checks and potential replacements.
Parts for the Nissan Note are widely available across Nairobi's Kirinyaga Road, Grogan, and Ngara, as well as in major towns like Mombasa and Kisumu. Both genuine and aftermarket parts can be sourced easily, though genuine parts are recommended for critical components like the CVT. Importers and online platforms also offer a good range of spares, ensuring minimal downtime for repairs.
The petrol variants of the Nissan Note are generally frugal, performing well in city traffic with moderate highway consumption. The hybrid versions offer even better fuel economy, especially in stop-and-go conditions, making them ideal for urban dwellers who prioritize fuel savings.
