Importing a vehicle into Kenya remains one of the most popular ways for individuals, businesses, ride-share operators, and fleet managers to acquire reliable, cost-effective cars—especially in a market where new-vehicle prices often exceed KSh 5–10 million for popular SUVs and saloons. In 2026, the process is tightly regulated by three core authorities: the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) for customs valuation and taxation, the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) for pre-shipment conformity and age/roadworthiness compliance, and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) for final registration and road-use approval. The landscape shifted significantly at the start of 2026. Effective January 1, 2026, KEBS enforced a stricter interpretation of the long-standing eight-year age limit under KS 1515:2000 (Code of Practice for Inspection of Road Vehicles) and Legal Notice No. 78 of 2020. Only Right-Hand Drive (RHD) vehicles whose year of first registration is January 1, 2019, or late...
I. Introduction: The Luxury Off-Road Duel For decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and the Mitsubishi Pajero have defined the Kenyan luxury SUV and off-road market. Both offer the space, power, and rugged capability required for navigating remote roads, police patrols, and weekend safari trips. However, in the real-world Kenyan context—where maintenance budgets, parts availability, and resale value dictate survival—one stands clear of the other. This guide provides an honest, localized comparison of these two great SUVs, focusing on the total cost of ownership over five years. II. Mechanical Showdown: Reliability & Common Issues Feature Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (150 Series) Mitsubishi Pajero (V80/V90 Series) Engine (Common) $2.7\text{L}$ Petrol, $3.0\text{L}$ Diesel ( $1\text{KD-FTV}$ ) $3.2\text{L}$ Diesel ( $4\text{M41}$ ), $3.0\text{L}$ Petrol Ground Clearance Excellent ( $215 - 220 \text{ mm}$ ) Excellent ( $225 \text{ mm}$ ) 4WD System Highly reliable,...