Most people work out car finance in Kenya backwards. They fall for a car, then try to make the money fit. It works far better the other way round: work out how you'll pay, then go shopping in the right price band.
This guide covers the main ways people pay for a car with us, and the questions to settle before you sign anything.
The main ways to pay
| Route | How it works | Suits you if... |
|---|---|---|
| Cash or full payment | Pay the agreed price, then registration and transfer | You have the funds and want the simplest deal |
| Bank finance | A bank funds part of the price, and you repay the bank | You'd rather keep savings and have a steady income |
| Hire purchase | Pay in instalments, and ownership transfers when paid off | You want to spread payments |
| Staged import payments | 20% deposit, 40% on selection, then the balance | You're importing to order |
Our FAQs cover our payment modes, hire purchase and bank finance. Terms change, so ask our sales team what's available on the specific car you want.
Step 1: Work out your real budget
Start with the monthly figure you can afford without strain, not the biggest loan you could get. Then add the running costs on top of any repayment: insurance, fuel, servicing and tyres. A KSh 8M Prado and a KSh 3.3M CX5 cost very different amounts to run, not just to buy.
To see what each budget band buys right now, read used cars in Nairobi by budget.
Step 2: Line up your deposit
Almost every finance route needs a deposit. The bigger it is, the less you borrow and the less interest you pay. If you're importing, the deposit is set: 20% of the approximate landed cost.
Step 3: Get finance agreed before you fall for a car
If you're using a bank, talk to them before you shop. Knowing the amount they'll approve stops you test-driving cars you can't finance. Bring the bank's requirements to us, and we'll work with you on the paperwork for the car you choose.
Step 4: Ask the questions that catch people out
That last one matters with popular models. A well-priced Prado or CX5 doesn't always wait for a slow approval. Our FAQs explain how reserving a car works.
How staged import payments work in practice
If you import through us, payments come in stages rather than one lump sum. Here's an illustration on a KSh 6,000,000 landed cost:
| Stage | Share | Amount (KSh) |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit, to start the search | 20% | 1,200,000 |
| On approving a car | 40% | 2,400,000 |
| Balance, at final payment | Remaining | 2,400,000 |
An illustration only, based on our published percentages.
Staging helps you plan cash flow, but read the deposit refund policy before you pay. Full details are in Import Cars From Japan to Kenya: The 7 Steps.
Match the car to the finance, not the other way round
| If you can comfortably finance about... | Look at (current stock) |
|---|---|
| KSh 1.5M to 2M | Demio, Note e-Power, Axio |
| KSh 3M to 3.5M | Mazda CX5, Mazda CX-8 |
| KSh 4.5M to 5M | RAV4, Audi Q5, Harrier new shape |
| KSh 6.5M to 8M | Prado diesel, Fortuner, Volvo XC90 |
Good car finance in Kenya starts with a budget you can keep up with, then a car to match it. Pick a car from our stock, then call +254 116 101 111 or WhatsApp us. We'll talk you through the payment options available on it.
FAQs
Do you offer hire purchase?
Hire purchase is covered in our FAQs. Ask our sales team for current terms on the car you want.
Can I use a bank loan to buy from Eleven Motors?
Bank finance is also covered in our FAQs. Speak to us early and we'll help with what the bank needs for your chosen car.
How much deposit do I need to import a car?
20% of the approximate landed cost.
Can I reserve a car while my finance is approved?
Our FAQs explain how reservation works. Ask us about the specific car.
Do prices change if I finance?
The car's listed price is the starting point. The total you pay depends on your lender's terms.
