On current Garisea listings, the Mazda CX-8 is about 4% cheaper on median asking price, the Subaru Forester SKE shows lower average mileage.
| Mazda CX-8 | Subaru Forester SKE | |
|---|---|---|
| Median price | KSh 3,600,000 | KSh 3,750,000 |
| Typical range | KSh 3,425,000 – KSh 3,750,000 | KSh 3,700,000 – KSh 3,800,000 |
| Avg mileage | 75,257 km | 71,530 km |
| Avg age | ~7 yrs | ~7 yrs |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic |
| Fuel | Diesel | Hybrid |
| Drive | 2WD | AWD |
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Mazda CX-8
KSh 3,000,000
2018 · XD
Subaru Forester SKE
KSh 3,300,000
2018 · SKE Hybrid
The Mazda CX-8 is a mid-sized crossover SUV that appeals to families and individuals seeking a blend of practicality and style. With most units in Kenya being AWD and offering a 5-seat configuration, it's well-suited for urban commutes and occasional upcountry trips. The CX-8 primarily attracts those looking for a premium feel without the premium badge, offering a spacious interior and a smooth ride. It’s a solid choice for those who need versatility and comfort in a single package.
The CX-8's diesel engine is generally reliable but requires attentive maintenance, particularly concerning the turbocharger and diesel particulate filter. The petrol engine is less complex and tends to be more forgiving. Both engines are known for their longevity if serviced regularly.
Regular maintenance is crucial, especially for the diesel's turbo and DPF. Service intervals are standard, but costs can be higher than average due to the advanced technology. The automatic transmission is generally robust but benefits from periodic fluid changes to ensure longevity.
Many buyers spread the cost over 12–60 months. See what monthly repayments could look like.
Explore financingOn current Garisea listings, the Mazda CX-8 has the lower median asking price — about 4% cheaper. The Mazda CX-8 medians KSh 3,600,000 and the Subaru Forester SKE medians KSh 3,750,000.
The Mazda CX-8 typically ranges KSh 3,425,000–KSh 3,750,000 (from KSh 3,000,000), and the Subaru Forester SKE KSh 3,700,000–KSh 3,800,000 (from KSh 3,300,000), based on active Garisea listings.
The CX-8's diesel engine is generally reliable but requires attentive maintenance, particularly concerning the turbocharger and diesel particulate filter. The petrol engine is less complex and tends to be more forgiving. Both engines are known for their longevity if serviced regularly.
The Forester SKE is generally reliable, benefiting from Subaru's reputation for durability. However, the petrol engine requires regular maintenance to avoid issues with oil consumption over time. The hybrid system is robust but requires specialist attention for battery and electrical components.
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 are moderately available, with genuine spares accessible through Mazda's authorized service centres in Nairobi and Mombasa. Aftermarket and used parts can be sourced from Kirinyaga Road and Industrial Area, but some specific components, like the DPF, might be pricier and less common.
The diesel variants, powered by the 2.2L SkyActiv-D engine, are notably frugal, especially on highways, but can be slightly thirstier in Nairobi's stop-and-go traffic. The petrol variant, less common, tends to consume more fuel overall but offers a smoother driving experience.
The Subaru Forester SKE is a 2019 model year crossover SUV that appeals to buyers seeking a balance of practicality and rugged capability. With its all-wheel-drive system, it's well-suited for both urban driving and occasional off-road adventures, making it ideal for families and individuals who frequently travel upcountry. The SKE variant is available in petrol and hybrid options, both featuring automatic transmissions, offering versatility for different driving preferences.
The Forester SKE is generally reliable, benefiting from Subaru's reputation for durability. However, the petrol engine requires regular maintenance to avoid issues with oil consumption over time. The hybrid system is robust but requires specialist attention for battery and electrical components.
Routine maintenance is straightforward, but the all-wheel-drive system needs regular checks to ensure optimal performance. The CVT requires fluid changes at recommended intervals to prevent premature wear. Service costs are moderate compared to peers, but hybrid-specific repairs can be pricier due to the need for specialized knowledge.
Parts for the Forester SKE are readily available in Nairobi's Kirinyaga Road and Industrial Area, as well as in major towns like Mombasa and Nakuru. Genuine parts can be sourced through Subaru's authorized service centres, though aftermarket options are also plentiful for common components. Hybrid parts may take longer to source and can be more expensive.
The petrol variant of the SKE tends to be thirstier in urban settings, especially in Nairobi's stop-and-go traffic, but performs more efficiently on highways. The hybrid version offers improved fuel economy in city conditions, thanks to its electric assist, though it's less common in the market.
