Small Car, Big Savings: My Ksh500K Investment in a 2012 Mazda Demio

‍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 Njoki kiarie, a Nairobi-based professional who owns a 2012 Mazda Demio.

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In the world of Nairobi's bustling traffic, where every shilling counts, practicality and efficiency are everything. That's what led me to my 2012 Mazda Demio. 

I've been the proud second owner of this silver hatchback since 2021, and for Ksh500,000, it has been one of the best financial decisions I’ve made. It’s not a large or flashy car, but it’s a perfect fit for my lifestyle and a testament to the value of smart choices.

A few key features really sealed the deal for me. The fuel efficiency is a game-changer. Its compact size makes navigating Ngong Road and finding parking in the city a breeze.

The design, while small, has a stylish, youthful vibe that I love, and the interior feels surprisingly spacious and comfortable with good legroom. But most importantly, I was sold on its reputation for being reliable and low-maintenance.

My Daily Commuter and Weekend Companion

My Demio is a true workhorse. It handles my daily commute of about 20 kilometers to and from the office in Nairobi without a hitch. The best part? It also serves as our go-to family car for weekend trips to the village. 

The compact size might seem like a disadvantage, but it’s amazing how much you can fit inside when you need to. It’s a car that seamlessly transitions from the urban jungle to a more relaxed, upcountry pace.

The Finances: Fuel, Maintenance, and Value

Let’s talk money. My 1.3L Mazda Demio is incredibly kind to my wallet. With an average fuel consumption of about 16-20 km per litre, it is super economical. I get to save a good amount of money on fuel, whether I'm stuck in city traffic or cruising on the highway. This is a huge relief when you consider the ever-fluctuating fuel prices in Kenya.

In terms of maintenance, this car has lived up to its reputation. In the five years I've owned it, I've only had to do regular servicing twice a year. This includes an oil change every 5,000 km, a check of the coolant, filters, and belts. 

The most common repairs have been the usual wear-and-tear items for a car of its age, like brake pads, spark plugs, and wheel alignment. I’ve only had to replace the battery once in five years.

A typical service costs me around Ksh 6,000, and on the days I need a few repairs, the cost rarely exceeds Ksh 10,000. It's a low-cost, low-stress car to own.

The cost of spare parts is another big win. The parts are widely available and affordable in Kenya, which is a massive plus. I've never had a struggle finding what I need, which saves me time and prevents the kind of financial anxiety that comes with owning a less common car.

A Small Car's Big Weakness

If there’s one thing I wish were different about my Demio, it would be the design of the cross member. Because of the car’s relatively low ground clearance, it’s prone to scraping on bumps or rough roads, a common issue for many small cars in Kenya. A bit more clearance or reinforcement would make it an even more perfect all-terrain vehicle.

Despite this minor drawback, my Mazda Demio has been an excellent investment. For anyone looking for a stylish, reliable, and incredibly affordable car for city driving and family trips, a well-maintained Demio is a fantastic choice. It proves that you don't need a massive budget to drive a car that is both comfortable and dependable.

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