Simple, Reliable, and Practical: My Life with a Ksh1M Toyota Auris

‍Welcome to the Money254 Car Series — where we spotlight car owners across Kenya and their experiences behind the wheel. From first-time buyers to seasoned motorists, we dig into the motivations, costs, lessons, and joys of owning different car models in Kenya today.

This week, we feature Miriam, a Nairobi-based professional whose family owns a  2011 Toyota Auris.

***

When I decided to get a car, I wasn't looking for a status symbol or a thrilling ride. My priority was simple: I needed a vehicle that was reliable, fuel-efficient, and easy to maintain. In a city like Nairobi, with its unpredictable traffic and a cost of living that keeps rising, practicality is key. That’s why a 2011 Toyota Auris was the perfect fit.

I bought my Auris in 2022 at Ksh1.1 million. It was within a budget that made sense for me, a mid-career professional navigating life in the city. The decision was purely a practical one. Toyotas have an undeniable reputation in Kenya for their durability, low maintenance costs, and a strong resale value—all of which were at the top of my checklist.

The Cost of Convenience

My Auris is my daily driver. It gets me from home to work and handles all my weekend errands with ease. Its primary stomping ground is the city, with the occasional leisure drive on the highway. 

With a 1500cc engine, it sips on fuel rather than gulping it down. I can get through a whole week, including my commute and weekend errands, on a maximum of Ksh4,000 worth of petrol. For someone who has to deal with Nairobi’s traffic every day, this is a huge win for my wallet.

In terms of maintenance, I’ve been pleasantly surprised. The car is incredibly reliable, and my visits to the mechanic are limited to regular services, which I do about twice a year. This keeps the car running smoothly and, most importantly, keeps my expenses predictable. The cost of a service is very manageable, which is a big relief. So far, the car has been a workhorse, and I’ve had no major, unexpected repairs to deal with.

A Car for the People

The great thing about owning a Toyota in Kenya is the peace of mind that comes with it. If anything were to go wrong, I know I wouldn't have to search far and wide for parts. They are incredibly easy to get and accessible from nearly every spare parts shop. This widespread availability is a huge advantage, making the cost of ownership even lower in the long run.

While I love my Auris for its practicality and reliability, there are a few things I would change if I could. The design is a bit dated and lacks the modern flair and features of newer cars. I wish it had more aesthetic appeal and some of the newer conveniences, like park assist. But when I remember the cost of a car like this and the money it saves me on fuel and repairs, those aesthetic desires fade into the background.

At the end of the day, my 2011 Toyota Auris is a testament to the fact that you don't need the most expensive or flashiest car to live comfortably in Nairobi. It’s a smart choice for anyone. It's a car that just works, and in the grand scheme of things, that's what truly matters.