Finding affordable and reliable transportation is crucial for young people in Tanzania. Cheap Japanese used cars in Tanzania offer the perfect solution for students and young adults who need dependable vehicles without breaking the bank. Japanese cars are famous worldwide for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance costs.
Why Choose Japanese Used Cars in Tanzania?
Japanese vehicles dominate Tanzania's used car market for good reasons. These cars are built to last and perform well in various conditions. Japanese second hand cars maintain their value better than most other brands. Young buyers love them because they are affordable to buy and cheap to maintain.
Market Overview: Used Car Prices in Tanzania
|
Car Category |
Price Range (USD) |
Popular Models |
Target Age Group |
|
Compact Cars |
$800 - $4,000 |
Passo, Vitz, March |
15-25 years |
|
Sedans |
$1,500 - $7,000 |
Corolla, Premio, Civic |
20-35 years |
|
SUVs |
$1,500 - $8,000 |
RAV4, X-Trail, Harrier |
25-45 years |
|
Minivans |
$1,500 - $6,000 |
Noah, Serena, Stepwagon |
30-50 years |
Understanding how much does a car cost in Japan helps you make better buying decisions when importing vehicles to Tanzania.
Top 30 Cheap Japanese Used Cars in Tanzania
Compact Cars (Perfect for Students)
1. Toyota Passo ($1,000–$3,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1000cc–1300cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 15-18 km/liter
- Transmission: Manual/Automatic
- Year range: 2004-2016
Price: $1,000–$3,000
Pros:
- Extremely fuel efficient
- Easy to park in tight spaces
- Low insurance costs
- Perfect size for city driving
- Affordable spare parts everywhere
Cons:
- Small interior space
- Limited luggage capacity
- Not suitable for long trips
- Struggles on steep hills with full load
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Toyota Passo is ideal for young drivers who need basic transportation. Its small engine means lower import duties. Used Toyota cars from Japan like the Passo are perfect first cars for teenagers.
2. Toyota Vitz (Yaris) ($1,000–$3,500)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1000cc–1500cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 14-17 km/liter
- Transmission: Manual/CVT
- Year range: 1999-2019
Price: $1,000–$3,500
Pros:
- Very reliable performance
- Widely available spare parts
- Easy to maintain
- Good resale value
- Suitable for new drivers
Cons:
- Road noise at high speeds
- Small boot space
- Basic interior features
- Not powerful for highway driving
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Vitz remains one of the most popular used Japanese Toyota cars in Tanzania. Mechanics everywhere know how to fix it. Parts are cheap and readily available.
3. Toyota IST ($1,500–$4,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1300cc–1800cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 12-15 km/liter
- Transmission: CVT/Manual
- Year range: 2002-2016
Price: $1,500–$4,000
Pros:
- Stylish modern design
- Spacious interior
- Good performance
- Reliable Toyota quality
- Appealing to young buyers
Cons:
- Higher fuel consumption than smaller cars
- More expensive spare parts
- Complex CVT transmission issues possible
- Higher insurance premiums
Why Popular in Tanzania: Young people love the IST's sporty look. It offers more power than the Vitz while maintaining Toyota reliability. Used Japanese cars Toyota models like IST balance style and practicality.
4. Nissan March (Micra) ($1,000–$3,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1200cc–1500cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 14-16 km/liter
- Transmission: Manual/CVT
- Year range: 2002-2017
Price: $1,000–$3,000
Pros:
- Economical fuel consumption
- Compact size for easy parking
- Affordable maintenance
- Reliable performance
- Good city car
Cons:
- Basic interior features
- Limited power for overtaking
- Small luggage space
- Road noise issues
Why Popular in Tanzania: The March offers Nissan reliability at Toyota Vitz prices. It is perfect for budget-conscious students. Many driving schools use March cars for training.
5. Honda Fit (Jazz) ($1,500–$4,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1300cc–1500cc petrol/hybrid
- Fuel consumption: 15-20 km/liter (hybrid)
- Transmission: CVT/Manual
- Year range: 2001-2020
Price: $1,500–$4,000
Pros:
- Excellent fuel economy
- Spacious interior despite small size
- Reliable Honda quality
- Hybrid options available
- Versatile seating
Cons:
- CVT transmission problems possible
- Expensive hybrid battery replacement
- Higher initial cost than competitors
- Complex electronic systems
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Fit offers the best interior space in its class. Used cars Japan Toyota competitors like Honda Fit provide excellent alternatives with similar reliability.
6. Mazda Demio (Mazda2) ($1,200–$3,500)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1300cc–1500cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 14-16 km/liter
- Transmission: Manual/Automatic
- Year range: 2002-2019
Price: $1,200–$3,500
Pros:
- Stylish modern design
- Economical fuel consumption
- Practical for urban driving
- Good handling characteristics
- Reliable Mazda engineering
Cons:
- Limited rear seat space
- Expensive spare parts
- Not widely serviced
- Road noise at speed
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Demio offers European styling with Japanese reliability. It appeals to young buyers who want something different from Toyota and Nissan.
7. Suzuki Swift ($1,500–$4,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1200cc–1400cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 15-17 km/liter
- Transmission: Manual/CVT
- Year range: 2004-2020
Price: $1,500–$4,000
Pros:
- Sporty design
- Fuel-efficient engine
- Affordable maintenance
- Good handling
- Compact size
Cons:
- Limited interior space
- Basic safety features
- Not as reliable as Toyota
- Spare parts availability issues
Why Popular in Tanzania: Young drivers love the Swift's sporty appearance and handling. It offers good performance at an affordable price point.
8. Nissan Note ($1,500–$4,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1200cc–1500cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 13-15 km/liter
- Transmission: CVT/Manual
- Year range: 2004-2020
Price: $1,500–$4,000
Pros:
- Spacious hatchback design
- Economical operation
- Popular for family use
- Good interior space
- Reliable Nissan quality
Cons:
- CVT transmission issues
- Higher maintenance than Toyota
- Electronic problems in older models
- Limited ground clearance
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Note provides more space than typical compact cars. Families choose it for city driving and short trips.
9. Toyota Belta ($1,500–$3,500)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1000cc–1300cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 15-17 km/liter
- Transmission: CVT/Manual
- Year range: 2005-2012
Price: $1,500–$3,500
Pros:
- Compact sedan design
- Hatchback-like efficiency
- Low running costs
- Toyota reliability
- Good fuel economy
Cons:
- Limited production years
- Small trunk space
- Basic interior features
- Not widely available
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Belta offers sedan comfort with compact car efficiency. Second hand cars Japan Toyota like Belta provide unique alternatives.
10. Daihatsu Mira ($800–$2,500)
Specifications:
- Engine: 660cc–1000cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 18-22 km/liter
- Transmission: Manual/CVT
- Year range: 2002-2018
Price: $800–$2,500
Pros:
- Excellent fuel economy
- Very low import duties
- Cheapest insurance
- Easy to park anywhere
- Minimal running costs
Cons:
- Very small size
- Limited highway performance
- Minimal safety features
- Not suitable for families
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Mira is perfect for students with tight budgets. Its kei car status means lowest possible costs.
Sedans (Great for Families)
11. Toyota Corolla ($1,500–$5,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1500cc–1800cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 12-14 km/liter
- Transmission: Manual/Automatic
- Year range: 1995-2019
Price: $1,500–$5,000
Pros:
- Legendary reliability
- Spare parts everywhere
- Easy maintenance
- Strong resale value
- Comfortable for long drives
Cons:
- Basic interior features in older models
- Higher fuel consumption than compact cars
- Common model means less uniqueness
- Higher insurance costs
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Corolla is the most trusted sedan in Tanzania. Used car Japan imports of Corolla have served Tanzanian families for decades. Every mechanic can repair it.
12. Toyota Premio ($2,000–$6,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1500cc–2000cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 11-13 km/liter
- Transmission: CVT/Automatic
- Year range: 2001-2021
Price: $2,000–$6,000
Pros:
- Comfortable ride quality
- Reliable performance
- Good interior space
- Popular for business use
- Modern features
Cons:
- Higher maintenance costs than Corolla
- CVT issues in some models
- More expensive spare parts
- Higher fuel costs
Why Popular in Tanzania: Business people and families love the Premio's comfort. Used car in Japan Toyota models like Premio offer luxury at affordable prices.
13. Toyota Allion ($2,000–$6,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1500cc–2000cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 11-13 km/liter
- Transmission: CVT/Automatic
- Year range: 2001-2021
Price: $2,000–$6,000
Pros:
- Similar to Premio comfort
- Reliable family sedan
- Good interior space
- Strong Toyota reputation
- Decent fuel economy
Cons:
- CVT transmission problems
- Higher running costs
- Expensive maintenance
- Limited differentiation from Premio
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Allion offers Premio-level comfort with slightly different styling. Families appreciate its reliability and space.
14. Nissan Tiida ($1,500–$4,500)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1500cc–1800cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 12-14 km/liter
- Transmission: CVT/Manual
- Year range: 2004-2012
Price: $1,500–$4,500
Pros:
- Spacious sedan design
- Fuel-efficient operation
- Affordable maintenance
- Good interior room
- Reliable Nissan engine
Cons:
- CVT reliability issues
- Limited model years
- Electronic problems possible
- Higher maintenance than Toyota
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Tiida provides good value for families needing sedan comfort without premium prices.
15. Honda Civic ($2,000–$5,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1500cc–1800cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 11-14 km/liter
- Transmission: CVT/Manual
- Year range: 1996-2020
Price: $2,000–$5,000
Pros:
- Reliable Honda quality
- Sporty design appeal
- Popular among younger drivers
- Good performance
- Strong build quality
Cons:
- Higher maintenance costs
- Premium fuel recommended
- Expensive spare parts
- Insurance costs higher
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Civic appeals to young professionals who want reliability with sporty styling. Honda's reputation attracts quality-conscious buyers.
16. Toyota Mark X ($2,500–$7,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 2000cc–2500cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 9-11 km/liter
- Transmission: Automatic
- Year range: 2004-2019
Price: $2,500–$7,000
Pros:
- Sporty sedan performance
- Reliable Toyota quality
- Premium interior features
- Strong acceleration
- Good highway comfort
Cons:
- Higher fuel consumption
- Expensive maintenance
- Larger engines increase duties
- Higher insurance premiums
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Mark X offers sports sedan performance with Toyota reliability. Business executives and car enthusiasts prefer it.
17. Nissan Bluebird Sylphy ($1,500–$4,500)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1500cc–1800cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 12-14 km/liter
- Transmission: CVT/Manual
- Year range: 2000-2012
Price: $1,500–$4,500
Pros:
- Comfortable family sedan
- Economical operation
- Widely used for urban driving
- Spacious interior
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- CVT transmission issues
- Electronic problems
- Limited modern features
- Higher maintenance than Toyota
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Sylphy provides family sedan comfort at competitive prices. Many taxi operators choose it for reliability.
Minivans and MPVs (Perfect for Large Families)
18. Toyota Raum ($1,500–$4,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1500cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 13-15 km/liter
- Transmission: CVT
- Year range: 2003-2011
Price: $1,500–$4,000
Pros:
- Spacious family transport
- Reliable Toyota quality
- Economical operation
- Easy entry and exit
- Good for city use
Cons:
- Limited model years
- CVT reliability concerns
- Not suitable for long trips
- Basic interior features
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Raum offers practical family transport with Toyota reliability. Small businesses use it for passenger transport.
19. Toyota Noah ($2,000–$6,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1800cc–2000cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 10-12 km/liter
- Transmission: CVT
- Year range: 2001-2021
Price: $2,000–$6,000
Pros:
- Popular minivan choice
- Reliable for long trips
- Spacious interior
- Good for large families
- Strong resale value
Cons:
- Higher fuel consumption
- CVT transmission issues
- Expensive maintenance
- Higher insurance costs
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Noah is the most trusted minivan in Tanzania. Large families and tour operators depend on its reliability.
20. Toyota Voxy ($2,000–$6,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1800cc–2000cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 10-12 km/liter
- Transmission: CVT
- Year range: 2001-2021
Price: $2,000–$6,000
Pros:
- Modern design appeal
- Family-friendly features
- Similar reliability to Noah
- Spacious cabin
- Good performance
Cons:
- Higher purchase price
- CVT problems possible
- Expensive spare parts
- Higher running costs
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Voxy offers Noah reliability with more modern styling. Families prefer its updated features and design.
21. Nissan Serena ($2,000–$5,500)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1800cc–2000cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 10-12 km/liter
- Transmission: CVT
- Year range: 1999-2020
Price: $2,000–$5,500
Pros:
- Spacious family minivan
- Reliable performance
- Versatile for family or commercial use
- Good interior space
- Competitive pricing
Cons:
- CVT transmission reliability
- Higher maintenance than Toyota
- Electronic system issues
- Limited ground clearance
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Serena provides Toyota Noah competition at lower prices. Many families choose it for value.
22. Honda Stepwagon ($2,500–$6,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1800cc–2000cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 10-13 km/liter
- Transmission: CVT
- Year range: 1996-2022
Price: $2,500–$6,000
Pros:
- Roomy interior design
- Reliable Honda quality
- Suitable for group transport
- Good fuel economy for size
- Innovative features
Cons:
- Higher initial cost
- CVT transmission issues
- Expensive maintenance
- Limited local support
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Stepwagon appeals to buyers wanting Honda reliability in minivan form. Tour operators appreciate its durability.
23. Mazda Bongo Van ($1,500–$4,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1500cc–1800cc petrol/diesel
- Fuel consumption: 12-15 km/liter
- Transmission: Manual/Automatic
- Year range: 1995-2020
Price: $1,500–$4,000
Pros:
- Affordable commercial vehicle
- Versatile for commercial and family use
- Diesel options available
- Good payload capacity
- Simple maintenance
Cons:
- Basic interior features
- Limited comfort
- Older designs
- Spare parts availability
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Bongo serves as both family transport and commercial vehicle. Small businesses rely on its versatility and affordability.
SUVs (Perfect for Adventures)
24. Toyota Harrier ($3,000–$8,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 2000cc–2400cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 9-11 km/liter
- Transmission: CVT/Automatic
- Year range: 1997-2020
Price: $3,000–$8,000
Pros:
- Luxury SUV features
- Reliable Toyota quality
- Suitable for Tanzania's varied terrain
- Premium interior
- Strong performance
Cons:
- High fuel consumption
- Expensive maintenance
- Higher insurance costs
- Premium fuel required
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Harrier offers luxury SUV comfort with Toyota reliability. Successful professionals and business owners prefer it.
25. Toyota RAV4 ($2,500–$7,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1800cc–2000cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 10-12 km/liter
- Transmission: Manual/Automatic/CVT
- Year range: 1994-2018
Price: $2,500–$7,000
Pros:
- Excellent off-road capability
- High ground clearance
- Reliable 4WD system
- Good for Tanzania's roads
- Strong build quality
Cons:
- Higher fuel consumption
- Expensive maintenance
- More costly insurance
- Larger size harder to park in cities
Why Popular in Tanzania: The RAV4 handles Tanzania's challenging roads perfectly. Understanding 4L vs 4H driving modes helps maximize RAV4 performance. Toyota used cars in Japan like RAV4 are built for durability.
26. Nissan X-Trail ($2,500–$7,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 2000cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 9-11 km/liter
- Transmission: CVT/Manual
- Year range: 2001-2017
Price: $2,500–$7,000
Pros:
- Spacious SUV interior
- Good off-road performance
- Comfortable ride quality
- Modern safety features
- Reliable engine
Cons:
- CVT transmission issues
- Higher fuel costs
- Expensive spare parts
- Complex electronic systems
Why Popular in Tanzania: The X-Trail offers luxury SUV features at reasonable prices. Many families choose it for weekend trips to national parks.
27. Mitsubishi Pajero Mini ($1,500–$4,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 660cc–1100cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 14-17 km/liter
- Transmission: Manual/Automatic
- Year range: 1994-2012
Price: $1,500–$4,000
Pros:
- Compact SUV design
- Fuel-efficient operation
- Low import duties
- Good ground clearance
- Affordable maintenance
Cons:
- Very small interior
- Limited highway performance
- Basic safety features
- Not suitable for large families
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Pajero Mini provides SUV capability at compact car costs. Students and young professionals appreciate its uniqueness.
28. Suzuki Escudo (Vitara) ($2,000–$6,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1600cc–2000cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 10-12 km/liter
- Transmission: Manual/Automatic
- Year range: 1988-2018
Price: $2,000–$6,000
Pros:
- Affordable SUV option
- Capable off-road performance
- Reliable operation
- Good ground clearance
- Simple maintenance
Cons:
- Higher fuel consumption
- Basic interior features
- Limited comfort
- Spare parts availability issues
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Escudo offers genuine 4WD capability at competitive prices. Adventure enthusiasts and rural drivers prefer it.
29. Daihatsu Terios ($2,000–$5,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 1300cc–1500cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 11-13 km/liter
- Transmission: Manual/Automatic
- Year range: 1997-2018
Price: $2,000–$5,000
Pros:
- Compact SUV design
- Economical operation
- Suitable for mixed terrains
- Good ground clearance
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- Limited interior space
- Basic safety features
- Not powerful for heavy loads
- Limited brand support
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Terios provides SUV capability with good fuel economy. Small families and young professionals choose it for versatility.
30. Mitsubishi Outlander ($3,000–$8,000)
Specifications:
- Engine: 2000cc–2400cc petrol
- Fuel consumption: 9-11 km/liter
- Transmission: CVT/Automatic
- Year range: 2001-2020
Price: $3,000–$8,000
Pros:
- Spacious family SUV
- Reliable performance
- Good for families and off-road use
- Modern safety features
- Comfortable interior
Cons:
- Higher fuel consumption
- Expensive maintenance
- CVT reliability issues
- Higher insurance costs
Why Popular in Tanzania: The Outlander offers family SUV comfort with capable off-road performance. Large families appreciate its space and reliability.
Brand Comparison Guide
Choosing between Japanese brands can be confusing. Toyota vs Honda brand comparison guide 2024 helps you understand the differences. Mazda vs Toyota comparisons show each brand's strengths.
Toyota Advantages
- Most reliable brand globally
- Cheapest spare parts in Tanzania
- Every mechanic can fix Toyota cars
- Best resale value
Honda Advantages
- More fuel efficient engines
- Better interior space utilization
- Advanced safety features
- Smooth CVT transmissions
Nissan Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Modern designs
- Good performance
- Comfortable interiors
Best Cars for Different Needs
For City Driving
Most reliable Japanese car brands for purchase in 2021 include Toyota, Honda, and Nissan for urban use. Compact cars like Passo and Vitz work perfectly in Dar es Salaam traffic.
For Mountain Areas
Best cars for mountain driving include SUVs with good ground clearance. RAV4 and X-Trail perform excellently in mountainous regions like Mbeya and Arusha.
For First-Time Buyers
Best first JDM cars for young Tanzanians include Corolla, Vitz, and March. These models offer reliability without complexity.
Importing Process and Costs
When importing second hand cars Japan Toyota models, consider these costs:
Import Duty Structure
- Cars under 1000cc: 25% duty
- Cars 1000cc-1500cc: 35% duty
- Cars 1500cc-2000cc: 45% duty
- Cars over 2000cc: 50% duty
Additional Costs
- Shipping: $800-1200 per car
- Clearing agent fees: $200-300
- Port handling: $150-250
- Registration: $100-150
Maintenance Tips for Japanese Cars
Regular Maintenance Schedule
- Engine oil change: Every 5,000 km
- Air filter replacement: Every 10,000 km
- Brake inspection: Every 15,000 km
- Transmission service: Every 40,000 km
Common Issues to Watch
Common problems after engine replacement can occur in older imports. Regular maintenance prevents most issues.
Finding Spare Parts
Tanzania has excellent spare parts availability for Japanese cars. Kariakoo Market in Dar es Salaam stocks parts for almost every Japanese model.
Insurance and Registration
Insurance Costs
- Third party: $50-80 annually
- Comprehensive: $200-400 annually (varies by car value)
Registration Process
- Vehicle inspection at VETA
- Obtain insurance certificate
- Pay registration fees
- Receive number plates
Best Dealers and Importers
Top 10 Japanese used car exporters can help you import directly from Japan. Local dealers in Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, and Arusha also offer good selections.
Recommended Inspection Points
- Engine condition and service history
- Transmission operation (especially CVT)
- Brake system condition
- Suspension wear and tear
- Electronic system functionality
Future Trends and Classic Models
Top 25 best classic Japanese cars are becoming valuable collector items. Young buyers should consider classic models for their uniqueness and appreciation potential.
Conclusion
Cheap Japanese used cars in Tanzania offer the perfect combination of reliability, affordability, and practicality for young buyers. Whether you choose a compact Toyota Vitz for city driving or a RAV4 for adventures, Japanese cars provide excellent value. Toyota used cars from Japan remain the top choice for most Tanzanian buyers due to their proven reliability and low maintenance costs.
Start your search by determining your budget and needs. Visit Next Drive for more information about importing quality Japanese vehicles. Remember that a well-maintained Japanese car can serve you faithfully for many years while retaining good resale value.
The key to successful car ownership in Tanzania is choosing the right vehicle for your needs and maintaining it properly. With this guide, you are ready to make an informed decision about your next vehicle purchase.
