If you want a compact crossover from Japan that Kenya accepts in 2026, the Honda Vezel, Toyota C-HR, Mazda CX-3 and Nissan Kicks all exist with 2019 or later first registration. The Kicks is the exception to watch: it was only sold in Japan from June 2020, so Japanese Kicks start from 2020.
Key takeaways
- Kenya accepts only vehicles first registered on or after 1 January 2019 in 2026; the 2027 cut-off had not been announced as of 1 October 2026.
- Vezel and Kicks offer hybrids with 4WD options; the C-HR hybrid is front-wheel drive only; the CX-3 offers petrol or diesel.
- Toyota stopped building the C-HR for Japan in July 2023, and Mazda discontinued the CX-3 in Japan in 2026, so supply of those two is fixed.
- Always confirm the exact first registration date with our office before you pay.
Start with the Kenya age rule
In 2026, Kenya accepts right-hand-drive vehicles whose year of first registration is 2019 or later. The registration year counts, not the model year.
The rule moves every 1 January. KEBS had not announced the 2027 cut-off as of 1 October 2026 and usually announces it in November. If your car may arrive in 2027, check first.
Read our Kenya age limit guide and the Kenya import rules page for the full picture.
Will my car be allowed into Kenya?
Honda Vezel
The Vezel is the most flexible choice of the four, with two generations available as 2019+ cars.
- 1st generation (sold until early 2021): 1.5-litre petrol (plus a 1.5-litre turbo “Touring” grade from 2019) or i-DCD hybrid with a dual-clutch gearbox; 2WD or 4WD. 2019–2021 registrations qualify for Kenya.
- 2nd generation (from April 2021): 1.5-litre petrol or two-motor e:HEV hybrid; 4WD offered on most grades. Facelifted in April 2024.
The first-generation hybrid shares its i-DCD system with the Fit Hybrid. Our Fit Hybrid problems guide explains what to check.
Browse Honda Vezel 2019+ stock.
Toyota C-HR
The C-HR is the most style-led of the four, with a coupe-like shape. It was sold in Japan from December 2016 until production for Japan ended in July 2023.
- 1.8-litre hybrid: front-wheel drive only.
- 1.2-litre turbo petrol: the version to look for if you want 4WD. A 6-speed manual was added in October 2019.
The sloping roof and small rear windows mean the back seat and boot feel tighter than in the Vezel. Sit in one, or ask for interior photos, if you carry adults in the back.
Browse Toyota C-HR 2019+ stock.
Mazda CX-3
The CX-3 is the only one of the four with a diesel engine, and none of its Japanese versions are hybrids.
- Engines on 2019+ cars: 1.8-litre diesel, 2.0-litre petrol, and a 1.5-litre petrol added in 2020.
- Drive: 2WD or 4WD.
Modern diesels with a particulate filter are happiest with regular longer drives. If most of your trips are short town runs, a petrol CX-3 may suit you better. Ask a local mechanic about diesel servicing before you choose.
The CX-3 is smaller inside than its rivals, so it suits singles and couples more than big families. If you need more room, compare the Mazda CX-5 and CX-30.
Browse Mazda CX-3 2019+ stock.
Nissan Kicks
The Kicks went on sale in Japan on 30 June 2020, so there are no Japanese 2019 Kicks. For Kenya, you are looking at 2020 or later.
- 2020–2026 model: e-POWER only, built in Thailand. The petrol engine charges the battery and an electric motor drives the wheels. 4WD was added in 2022, together with an updated e-POWER system.
- New model from June 2026: built in Japan with a newer e-POWER system and optional e-4ORCE all-wheel drive. Expect few of these on the used market for now.
Browse Nissan Kicks stock (all Japanese Kicks are 2020 or newer).
Side by side
| Honda Vezel | Toyota C-HR | Mazda CX-3 | Nissan Kicks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019+ cars available from Japan | Yes (two generations) | Yes (to mid-2023) | Yes | 2020 onward only |
| Hybrid | i-DCD (to 2021), e:HEV (2021 on) | 1.8 hybrid | No | e-POWER only |
| Petrol / diesel | 1.5 petrol (1.5 turbo Touring, 2019–2021) | 1.2 turbo petrol | 1.5 and 2.0 petrol, 1.8 diesel | None |
| 4WD | Yes, most grades | 1.2 turbo only | Yes | From 2022 |
Before you pay
Every car for Kenya passes the QISJ pre-export inspection in Japan and receives a Certificate of Roadworthiness. See how QISJ inspection works.
Read the auction sheet, check hybrid cars for warning messages, and ask our Mombasa or Nairobi office to confirm the exact first registration date.
Pay only to bank accounts in Japan in the name of “Autocom Japan Inc.” Read how to avoid scams before you send money.
Frequently asked questions
Can I import a 2019 Nissan Kicks from Japan to Kenya?
No Japanese 2019 Kicks exists, because Nissan started selling the Kicks in Japan in June 2020. Look for 2020 or later cars.
Which of these crossovers has 4WD?
The Vezel (most grades), the C-HR with the 1.2 turbo, the CX-3, and the Kicks from 2022 all offer 4WD. The C-HR hybrid is front-wheel drive only.
Is a 2018 Vezel allowed into Kenya in 2026?
Not if it was first registered in 2018. Kenya counts the year of first registration, so a car built late in 2018 but first registered in 2019 can qualify. Ask us to confirm the date.
Will a 2019 car still be accepted in 2027?
KEBS had not announced the 2027 cut-off as of 1 October 2026. It usually announces it in November, so check before you buy a car that will arrive in 2027.
Is the CX-3 diesel a good idea for Kenya?
It can be if you drive longer distances regularly. For mostly short town trips, a petrol CX-3 or one of the hybrids may be the simpler choice.
Sources
- KEBS: Public notice on renewal of QISJ contract (May 2026)
- People Daily: KEBS to stop importation of specific used vehicles from January 2026 (17 November 2025)
- Nissan (via Automotive World): New Nissan Kicks goes on sale in Japan (19 July 2022)
- Kuruma News: Mazda adds 1.5-litre petrol to CX-3 (Japanese) (2020)
