The Mazda CX-3 and Peugeot 208 both occupy the hatchback segment, appealing to urban dwellers and first-time car owners in Kenya. The CX-3 offers a higher ride height and a choice between petrol and diesel engines, catering to those who prioritize versatility and occasional upcountry travel. Meanwhile, the Peugeot 208, exclusively petrol-powered, is more affordable upfront and boasts a lighter footprint, making it ideal for city-centric driving.
On current Garisea listings, the Peugeot 208 is about 41% cheaper on median asking price, the Mazda CX-3 has a newer average fleet, the Peugeot 208 shows lower average mileage.
| Mazda CX-3 | Peugeot 208 | |
|---|---|---|
| Median price | KSh 2,450,000 | KSh 1,450,000 |
| Typical range | KSh 2,050,000 – KSh 2,600,000 | KSh 1,280,000 – KSh 1,650,000 |
| Avg mileage | 84,940 km | 61,171 km |
| Avg age | ~8 yrs | ~9 yrs |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Drive | AWD | FWD |
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Mazda CX-3
KSh 1,580,000
2016 · 1.5L
Peugeot 208
KSh 950,000
2014
The Mazda CX-3 is a compact crossover that blends stylish design with nimble handling, making it an attractive choice for urban dwellers and small families in Kenya. With its hatchback body style and seating for five, it offers practicality without sacrificing aesthetics. The CX-3 is well-suited for city driving and occasional highway trips, appealing to those who value a sporty drive and modern features in a compact package.
The CX-3 is generally reliable, with the petrol engines known for their durability. Diesel models require regular maintenance of the turbo and injectors to avoid costly repairs. The suspension handles Kenyan roads well, but the low ground clearance can be a concern on rougher terrain.
Routine maintenance is straightforward, with service intervals typically every 10,000 km. The automatic transmission requires regular fluid changes to maintain smooth operation. Diesel models need more frequent checks on the DPF and EGR systems, especially if used primarily in urban environments.
Parts for the Mazda CX-3 are moderately available in Nairobi's Kirinyaga Road and Grogan areas, with genuine parts accessible through the authorised Mazda service network. Aftermarket options exist but may vary in quality. Diesel engine components, particularly injectors and turbos, can be pricier and less readily available than petrol parts.
For buyers seeking a versatile vehicle with the option for diesel efficiency, the Mazda CX-3 stands out, especially for those who may occasionally travel upcountry or need the flexibility of a crossover-like hatchback. Its higher ground clearance is a plus for rougher roads. On the other hand, the Peugeot 208 is well-suited for urban environments, offering better fuel economy in city driving and a lower purchase price, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers or those prioritizing budget-friendly commuting. The Peugeot's widespread petrol engine availability ensures easier maintenance and parts sourcing in urban centers.
Many buyers spread the cost over 12–60 months. See what monthly repayments could look like.
Explore financingOn current Garisea listings, the Peugeot 208 has the lower median asking price — about 41% cheaper. The Mazda CX-3 medians KSh 2,450,000 and the Peugeot 208 medians KSh 1,450,000.
The Mazda CX-3 typically ranges KSh 2,050,000–KSh 2,600,000 (from KSh 1,580,000), and the Peugeot 208 KSh 1,280,000–KSh 1,650,000 (from KSh 950,000), based on active Garisea listings.
The CX-3 is generally reliable, with the petrol engines known for their durability. Diesel models require regular maintenance of the turbo and injectors to avoid costly repairs. The suspension handles Kenyan roads well, but the low ground clearance can be a concern on rougher terrain.
The Peugeot 208 has a mixed reliability reputation. While the engine is generally robust, electrical issues can arise, particularly with the infotainment system and sensors. Regular maintenance is key to avoiding these problems.
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 petrol variants, typically equipped with the Skyactiv-G 2.0L engine, offer decent fuel economy in urban settings, though they can be a bit thirsty in heavy Nairobi traffic. The diesel variants, often featuring the Skyactiv-D 1.5L engine, provide better mileage on highways and are more economical for long-distance travel, though they require careful attention to fuel quality.
The Peugeot 208 is a compact hatchback that appeals to urban drivers in Kenya looking for a stylish, European design with a comfortable ride. With its compact dimensions, it's well-suited for navigating Nairobi's traffic and tight parking spaces. The 2016 model year, commonly found in the market, offers a balance of modern features and affordability, making it ideal for first-time car buyers or those upgrading from a smaller vehicle like a Vitz or March.
The Peugeot 208 has a mixed reliability reputation. While the engine is generally robust, electrical issues can arise, particularly with the infotainment system and sensors. Regular maintenance is key to avoiding these problems.
Service intervals are typically every 10,000 km. The automatic transmission requires careful maintenance to avoid costly repairs. While parts are available, they can be pricier than Japanese counterparts, and it's advisable to use Peugeot specialists for complex issues.
Parts for the Peugeot 208 are available in Nairobi's Industrial Area and through importers. While genuine parts can be sourced from the authorised Peugeot service centres, aftermarket options are also available but may vary in quality. Some electronic components may be less readily available and more expensive.
The 1.2L petrol engine in the 208 is frugal in city traffic, offering decent fuel economy for urban commuting. However, expect slightly higher consumption on highways due to its smaller engine capacity needing more revs to maintain speed.
