Toyota Aqua Review
2017-2023
The Toyota Aqua (NHP10 Series Facelift & MXPK10 2nd Gen: 2017–2023) is Kenya's most popular full-hybrid compact hatchback (known internationally as the Prius c). Powered exclusively by Toyota's 1.5L THS II hybrid powertrain, the Aqua combines whisper-quiet city EV motor gliding, sub-1,500 cc import duty relief, and world-class fuel economy (24.5 to 29.5 km/L). Sourced extensively by urban commuters, fleet managers, and ride-hailing operators in Nairobi and Mombasa, landed prices range from KSh 1.25M to KSh 2.45M depending on year, generation, and equipment spec.
*This score is awarded by our team of expert reviewers after extensive testing of the car
What’s good
- Unrivaled 24.5–29.5 km/L hybrid efficiency: Ultra-low fuel expenditure in daily Nairobi stop-and-go commuting.
- Sub-1,500 cc KRA import duty advantage: Sits in Kenya's lower customs tax baseline tier.
- 170 mm ground clearance on Aqua Crossover trim: Lifted suspension easily clears estate speed bumps.
- Exceptional hybrid battery longevity: Proven 1NZ-FXE / M15A-FXE durability with cheap replacement cell availability in Kenya.
What’s not so good
- Low 140 mm ground clearance on standard hatchbacks: Requires careful driving over tall speed bumps.
- Firm rear suspension over corrugated dirt roads: Tuned primarily for Japanese asphalt.
Most popular: Aqua 1.5 S / 1.5 G / 1.5 Crossover / Z Package
5 doorsHybridAutomatic, CVT
At a glance
- Model
- Toyota Aqua (NHP10 Facelift & MXPK10 Series)
- Production years
- 2017–2023
- Body type
- 5-Door Compact Hatchback
- Seating capacity
- 5
- Fuel types
- Full Hybrid (Petrol + Electric)
- Engine sizes
- 1,496 cc (NHP10 1NZ-FXE) / 1,490 cc (MXPK10 M15A-FXE)
- Transmission
- e-CVT Automatic
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or E-Four Electric AWD (MXPK10)
- Ground clearance
- 140 mm (Standard) / 170 mm (Aqua Crossover)
- Source market
- Japan (JDM RHD Spec)
Trims & variants
L / S / G / GR Sport / Crossover
- Setup
1.5L 4-cylinder Atkinson petrol + electric motor (100 hp combined), e-CVT, FWD, tank size 36 L, returning 24.5 km/L combined (WLTP).
- Why it gets shipped
The core volume seller in Kenya; offers incredible 24.5 km/L fuel savings with low maintenance costs.
Fuel consumption
Figures for the Toyota Aqua NHP10 Facelift (1,496 cc 1NZ-FXE Hybrid). Tank: 36 L (about 882 km combined). Real-world use varies with load, traffic and altitude.
Running cost
- City driving
- KES 890 / 100 km
- Highway driving
- KES 966 / 100 km
- 1,000 km a month
- KES 9,264
- Full tank (36 L)
- KES 8,171
Based on petrol at KES 226.96/L, 15-10-2026 to 14-11-2026. Combined economy unless stated.
Work out a trip cost →Package tiers
| Package | Level | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| L / B | Fleet Utility | Manual windows (rear L), fabric seats, 14-inch steel wheels, halogen headlamps. |
| S / X | Executive Base | All power windows, Smart Entry & Push Start, 15-inch wheels, Toyota Safety Sense, 7-inch touchscreen. |
| G / Z | Luxury Flagship | Leatherette upholstery, 15/16-inch alloys, LED headlights, 10.5-inch audio display, 100V AC power socket. |
| Crossover | Lifted Rough-Road | 170 mm ground clearance, roof rails, black wheel arch moldings, 16-inch dedicated alloys. |
About the Toyota Aqua
Kenya strictly enforces an 8-year age limit from manufacture month and right-hand drive regulations. In 2026, 2019 to 2023 Aqua models sit comfortably inside the legal direct import window.
Because both the 1NZ-FXE (1,496 cc) and M15A-FXE (1,490 cc) engines remain under 1,500 cc, all Aqua models qualify for KRA's sub-1,500 cc tax valuation bracket, saving over KSh 400,000 in import taxes compared to 1.8L/2.0L cars.
Disclaimer
Tax figures are estimates based on October 2026 KRA schedules. Always verify specific chassis CRSP entries with your clearing agent prior to purchase.
