The Mazda Demio and Subaru Impreza both sit in the hatchback segment, appealing to urban drivers seeking compact, maneuverable vehicles. The Demio is known for its affordability and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. In contrast, the Impreza offers a more robust build and all-wheel-drive capability, catering to those who value performance and versatility, particularly in varied Kenyan terrain.
On current Garisea listings, the Mazda Demio is about 28% cheaper on median asking price, the Mazda Demio has a newer average fleet, the Mazda Demio shows lower average mileage.
| Mazda Demio | Subaru Impreza | |
|---|---|---|
| Median price | KSh 1,290,000 | KSh 1,780,000 |
| Typical range | KSh 899,250 – KSh 1,350,000 | KSh 1,300,000 – KSh 1,975,000 |
| Avg mileage | 98,264 km | 102,637 km |
| Avg age | ~10 yrs | ~11 yrs |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Drive | FWD | AWD |
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Mazda Demio
KSh 600,000
2011
Subaru Impreza
KSh 550,000
2007 · G3 1.5L
Mazda Demio
Subaru Impreza
No distinct trim split.
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 first-time car buyers or those prioritizing low running costs, the Mazda Demio is a practical choice, with its readily available parts and economical petrol engines. It's ideal for city commuting and short trips. On the other hand, the Subaru Impreza suits drivers who need a bit more power and stability, especially for upcountry travel or those living in areas with rougher roads. It also appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate Subaru's driving dynamics. Resale value tends to favor the Demio due to its broader market presence, but the Impreza holds its own among niche buyers who value its capabilities.
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 28% cheaper. The Mazda Demio medians KSh 1,290,000 and the Subaru Impreza medians KSh 1,780,000.
The Mazda Demio typically ranges KSh 899,250–KSh 1,350,000 (from KSh 600,000), and the Subaru Impreza KSh 1,300,000–KSh 1,975,000 (from KSh 550,000), 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 Impreza is generally reliable, with its boxer engine known for durability. However, regular maintenance is crucial, especially for the AWD system and suspension components, which can wear quickly 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.
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 Subaru Impreza is a compact hatchback known for its all-wheel-drive capability, making it a popular choice for Kenyan drivers who frequently travel on mixed road conditions. With a strong presence in the 2014 to 2018 model years on the market, it suits urban dwellers who need reliable performance in both city and upcountry settings. Its spacious interior and practicality appeal to small families and individuals who value versatility and safety.
The Impreza is generally reliable, with its boxer engine known for durability. However, regular maintenance is crucial, especially for the AWD system and suspension components, which can wear quickly on rough roads.
Service intervals are standard, but the AWD system requires attentive maintenance. The automatic transmission should be checked regularly to avoid costly repairs. Service costs are moderate, but specialized knowledge is needed for engine and AWD system work.
Parts are widely available in Nairobi's Kirinyaga Road and Grogan, with genuine and aftermarket options. Subaru's authorized service centers provide reliable access to genuine parts, though at a premium. Availability in other major towns is decent, but sourcing specific components may require ordering from Nairobi or importers.
The Impreza's 2.0L petrol engine offers moderate fuel economy, performing efficiently on highways but consuming more in heavy Nairobi traffic. Expect better mileage on open roads than in stop-start conditions.
