The Mazda Demio and Nissan Note are two popular hatchbacks in the Kenyan used car market, both appealing to budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable urban transport. While the Demio is known for its sporty handling and efficient petrol engines, the Note offers a slightly roomier interior and a hybrid option for those prioritizing fuel efficiency. The core decision for buyers often revolves around the Demio's driving dynamics versus the Note's practicality and potential fuel savings.
On current Garisea listings, the Mazda Demio is about 4% cheaper on median asking price, the Nissan Note has a newer average fleet, the Nissan Note shows lower average mileage.
| Mazda Demio | Nissan Note | |
|---|---|---|
| Median price | KSh 1,290,000 | KSh 1,350,000 |
| Typical range | KSh 899,250 – KSh 1,350,000 | KSh 1,000,000 – KSh 1,600,000 |
| Avg mileage | 98,264 km | 90,878 km |
| Avg age | ~10 yrs | ~9 yrs |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Drive | FWD | FWD |
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Mazda Demio
KSh 600,000
2011
Nissan Note
KSh 400,000
2008
Mazda Demio
Nissan Note
The Mazda Demio, known as the Mazda2 in some markets, is a compact hatchback that appeals to urban drivers and small families in Kenya. With its nimble handling and compact dimensions, it's ideal for navigating Nairobi's traffic and tight parking spaces. The Demio is popular among first-time car buyers and those upgrading from motorcycles due to its affordability and ease of maintenance. Its presence in the Kenyan market is bolstered by the availability of petrol, diesel, and the rare LPG variant, catering to different fuel preferences.
The Demio is generally reliable, with the petrol engines being particularly robust if serviced regularly. Diesel models require more attention to the fuel system and turbocharger. High mileage units may start showing wear on suspension components due to Kenya's rough roads.
Routine maintenance is straightforward, with service intervals typically every 5,000 to 10,000 km. Petrol engines are easier and cheaper to maintain compared to diesel. Automatic transmissions, common in the market, need regular fluid changes to prevent issues.
For city dwellers or first-time car owners, the Mazda Demio is an attractive choice due to its nimble handling and widespread availability of petrol engines, making it easier to maintain with parts readily available in Nairobi's Kirinyaga Road and Grogan areas. Conversely, the Nissan Note suits those who need a bit more interior space and are interested in hybrid technology for reduced fuel costs, ideal for family use or frequent long-distance travel. Its slightly lower median price also makes it appealing for budget buyers. Both models offer good resale liquidity, but the Note's hybrid variant may fetch a premium in the future as fuel prices rise.
Many buyers spread the cost over 12–60 months. See what monthly repayments could look like.
Explore financingOn current Garisea listings, the Mazda Demio has the lower median asking price — about 4% cheaper. The Mazda Demio medians KSh 1,290,000 and the Nissan Note medians KSh 1,350,000.
The Mazda Demio typically ranges KSh 899,250–KSh 1,350,000 (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 Demio is generally reliable, with the petrol engines being particularly robust if serviced regularly. Diesel models require more attention to the fuel system and turbocharger. High mileage units may start showing wear on suspension components due to Kenya's rough roads.
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 are widely available in Nairobi's Kirinyaga Road and Grogan areas, as well as in major towns like Mombasa and Kisumu. Genuine and aftermarket parts are accessible, though diesel-specific components like injectors can be pricier. Mazda's authorized service centers can source genuine parts, but at a premium.
The petrol variants, often equipped with the 1.3L or 1.5L engines, are known for their frugality, especially in urban settings, making them economical for daily commutes. The diesel variant offers better highway fuel economy and torque, but requires careful maintenance of the turbo and injectors.
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.
