On current Garisea listings, the Nissan Skyline is about 45% cheaper on median asking price, the Mazda 3 has a newer average fleet, the Nissan Skyline shows lower average mileage.
| Mazda 3 | Nissan Skyline | |
|---|---|---|
| Median price | KSh 2,530,000 | KSh 1,400,000 |
| Typical range | KSh 2,350,000 – KSh 2,650,000 | KSh 1,100,000 – KSh 1,690,000 |
| Avg mileage | 90,494 km | 81,000 km |
| Avg age | ~7 yrs | ~12 yrs |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Drive | 2WD | 2WD |
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Mazda 3
KSh 2,150,000
2019 · 1.5L
Nissan Skyline
KSh 1,100,000
2012
The 2019 Mazda 3 sedan is a stylish and compact vehicle that appeals to young professionals and small families in Kenya. Known for its sharp handling and upscale interior, it offers a premium feel at a relatively accessible price point. The 2WD configuration and 5-seat capacity make it ideal for urban environments, while its sleek design stands out in traffic. It's a solid choice for those seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and aesthetics in a mid-range sedan.
The Mazda 3 is generally reliable, with the SkyActiv-G engine known for its durability. However, regular maintenance is crucial to avoid issues with the automatic transmission. High-mileage units are prone to minor electrical issues, but the overall build quality remains solid over time.
Routine maintenance is straightforward, with service intervals typically every 10,000 km. The automatic transmission requires regular fluid changes to prevent wear. Service costs are moderate, though slightly higher than some Japanese rivals. Independent mechanics can handle most tasks, but complex issues may require a specialist.
Parts for the Mazda 3 are readily available in Nairobi's Kirinyaga Road and Grogan areas, as well as in major towns like Mombasa and Nakuru. Genuine and aftermarket options exist, though some electronic components can be pricier. Mazda's authorised service centres provide reliable sourcing for genuine parts.
Many buyers spread the cost over 12–60 months. See what monthly repayments could look like.
Explore financingOn current Garisea listings, the Nissan Skyline has the lower median asking price — about 45% cheaper. The Mazda 3 medians KSh 2,530,000 and the Nissan Skyline medians KSh 1,400,000.
The Mazda 3 typically ranges KSh 2,350,000–KSh 2,650,000 (from KSh 2,150,000), and the Nissan Skyline KSh 1,100,000–KSh 1,690,000 (from KSh 1,100,000), based on active Garisea listings.
The Mazda 3 is generally reliable, with the SkyActiv-G engine known for its durability. However, regular maintenance is crucial to avoid issues with the automatic transmission. High-mileage units are prone to minor electrical issues, but the overall build quality remains solid over time.
The V36 Skyline is generally reliable, with the VQ series engines praised for durability. However, regular maintenance is crucial to avoid issues with the timing chain and cooling system. High-mileage units may require attention to suspension components, especially if driven on rough roads.
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.
The Mazda 3's petrol engine is efficient for its class, offering moderate fuel consumption. In Nairobi's stop-and-go traffic, expect it to be thirstier, while highway cruising yields better economy. It's frugal enough for daily commutes but not the most fuel-efficient in its segment.
The Nissan Skyline, particularly in its V36 generation, is a mid-sized luxury sedan that appeals to enthusiasts and those seeking a sporty yet practical vehicle. Its sleek design and performance-oriented engineering make it a popular choice for drivers who appreciate a blend of comfort and agility. In Kenya, it suits urban dwellers and those who enjoy weekend drives on open roads, offering a balance between performance and everyday usability.
The V36 Skyline is generally reliable, with the VQ series engines praised for durability. However, regular maintenance is crucial to avoid issues with the timing chain and cooling system. High-mileage units may require attention to suspension components, especially if driven on rough roads.
Service intervals are standard, but the V6 engine requires quality oil and regular checks to maintain performance. The automatic transmission should be serviced at recommended intervals to prevent issues. Overall, maintenance costs are moderate but can rise if neglected.
Parts are relatively accessible through Nairobi's Kirinyaga Road and Grogan, with aftermarket options available. Genuine parts can be sourced from Nissan dealers, though they may be pricier. Importing specific components from Japan is also an option for rarer parts.
The VQ35HR 3.5L V6 engine is known for its power but can be thirsty in city traffic, especially with the automatic transmission. On highways, it offers better efficiency, but don't expect it to be as frugal as smaller-engine sedans.
