The Nissan March and Toyota Passo both occupy the compact hatchback segment, catering to urban drivers seeking efficiency and maneuverability. The March is typically more affordable upfront, while the Passo offers a slightly newer fleet with lower average mileage. Both models are petrol-powered and come with automatic transmissions, making them practical choices for city driving, but they differ in brand reputation and parts availability.
On current Garisea listings, the Nissan March is about 32% cheaper on median asking price, the Nissan March has a newer average fleet, the Toyota Passo shows lower average mileage.
| Nissan March | Toyota Passo | |
|---|---|---|
| Median price | KSh 650,000 | KSh 955,000 |
| Typical range | KSh 605,000 – KSh 980,000 | KSh 612,500 – KSh 1,100,000 |
| Avg mileage | 139,707 km | 107,893 km |
| Avg age | ~10 yrs | ~11 yrs |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic |
| Fuel | Petrol | Petrol |
| Drive | 2WD | FWD |
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Nissan March
KSh 600,000
2015
Toyota Passo
KSh 350,000
2007
The Nissan March, a compact hatchback, is a popular choice for urban drivers in Kenya seeking affordability and practicality. This model, particularly from the 2010-2013 era, is well-suited for first-time car buyers and city dwellers who need a nimble vehicle for navigating traffic and tight parking spaces. Its 5-seat configuration and compact size make it a convenient option for small families or individuals.
The March is known for its reliable HR12DE engine, though it can develop timing chain noise at higher mileages. The automatic transmission is generally robust, but regular fluid changes are crucial to maintain its longevity.
Routine maintenance is straightforward and affordable, with service intervals typically every 5,000 to 7,500 km. The automatic transmission requires periodic attention to fluid levels and quality to prevent issues. Overall, maintenance costs are lower compared to larger vehicles.
Parts for the Nissan March are readily available across Nairobi's Kirinyaga Road and Grogan, as well as in major towns like Mombasa and Kisumu. Both genuine and aftermarket options are accessible, with most parts being reasonably priced. Nissan's service network in Kenya also supports this model for those seeking authorized service centers.
For budget-conscious buyers or those seeking a first car, the Nissan March presents an attractive option with lower initial costs. However, if you prioritize a newer vehicle with potentially better resale value and wider parts availability through Toyota's extensive network, the Passo might be the better choice. The March suits urban dwellers looking for a simple, economical ride, while the Passo is ideal for those who might consider resale and brand reliability as key factors.
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Explore financingOn current Garisea listings, the Nissan March has the lower median asking price — about 32% cheaper. The Nissan March medians KSh 650,000 and the Toyota Passo medians KSh 955,000.
The Nissan March typically ranges KSh 605,000–KSh 980,000 (from KSh 600,000), and the Toyota Passo KSh 612,500–KSh 1,100,000 (from KSh 350,000), based on active Garisea listings.
The March is known for its reliable HR12DE engine, though it can develop timing chain noise at higher mileages. The automatic transmission is generally robust, but regular fluid changes are crucial to maintain its longevity.
The Passo enjoys a reputation for reliability, with its simple 1KR-FE engine being robust if maintained properly. It handles high mileage well, although regular maintenance is crucial to avoid common issues like oil consumption and timing chain noise as it ages.
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 Nissan March is generally frugal on fuel, with its 1.2L HR12DE petrol engine delivering decent efficiency in urban settings. Expect moderate consumption in stop-and-go Nairobi traffic, with better economy on open roads.
The Toyota Passo is a compact hatchback that appeals to urban drivers and small families in Kenya. Known for its practicality and ease of maneuverability, it is ideal for city dwellers who prioritize fuel efficiency and compact size over power. The Passo's compact dimensions make it well-suited for navigating Nairobi's traffic and squeezing into tight parking spots, while its straightforward design and reliable engineering appeal to first-time car buyers and those seeking a no-nonsense daily driver.
The Passo enjoys a reputation for reliability, with its simple 1KR-FE engine being robust if maintained properly. It handles high mileage well, although regular maintenance is crucial to avoid common issues like oil consumption and timing chain noise as it ages.
Routine maintenance is straightforward and affordable, with service intervals typically every 5,000 km. The automatic transmission requires regular fluid checks to prevent issues. The Passo's simplicity means that most mechanics across Kenya are familiar with it, reducing service costs compared to more complex vehicles.
Parts for the Passo are widely available across Kenya, particularly in Nairobi's Kirinyaga Road and Grogan areas, as well as in Mombasa and other major towns. Both genuine and aftermarket parts are accessible, though genuine parts are recommended for critical components to ensure longevity. Toyota's authorized service centers also stock parts, albeit at a premium.
The Passo's 1.0L 1KR-FE engine is frugal, offering excellent fuel economy in urban settings where stop-and-go traffic is common. On highways, it maintains decent efficiency, though it can feel underpowered at higher speeds, which may lead to slightly increased consumption when pushed hard.
