Honda Vezel Hybrid Review
2017-2023
The Honda Vezel Hybrid (RU3/RU4 & RV series) is one of Kenya's most popular compact urban crossovers. Powered by Honda's high-tech 1.5L i-VTEC engine paired with an electric motor (i-DCD or dual-motor e:HEV system), it combines 170–185 mm ground clearance, coupe styling, and versatile Magic Seats with up to 24 km/L fuel economy.
*This score is awarded by our team of expert reviewers after extensive testing of the car
What’s good
- Exceptional 22–25 km/L fuel economy: Advanced hybrid drive drastically cuts fuel costs in Nairobi traffic jams.
- Honda Magic Seats: Rear seats fold completely flat or flip upward to carry tall cargo like furniture.
- Sub-1,500 cc tax advantage: Qualifies for Kenya's lowest customs duty valuation category.
What’s not so good
- i-DCD dual-clutch fluid sensitivity: Requires strict 40,000 km changes of specialized Honda Ultra DW-1 / ATF-TYPE 2.0 fluid.
- Hidden rear door handles: Exterior C-pillar handles can be unintuitive for first-time rear passengers.
Most popular: Vezel Hybrid Z / RS / e:HEV
5 doorsHybridAutomatic
At a glance
- Model
- Honda Vezel Hybrid (RU3/RU4 & RV Series)
- Production years
- 2017–2023
- Body type
- 5-Door Compact Crossover SUV
- Seating capacity
- 5
- Fuel types
- Full Hybrid (i-DCD / e:HEV)
- Engine sizes
- 1,496 cc
- Transmission
- 7-Speed Dual Clutch / e-CVT
- Drivetrain
- FWD or Real-Time AWD
- Ground clearance
- 170 mm (RU3) / 185 mm (RV5)
- Source market
- Japan (RHD)
Fuel consumption
Manufacturer / import-market figures: 22.0–25.0 km/L. Tank: 40 L (about 940 km combined). Real-world use varies with load, traffic and altitude.
Running cost
- City driving
- KES 946 / 100 km
- Highway driving
- KES 1,081 / 100 km
- 1,000 km a month
- KES 9,658
- Full tank (40 L)
- KES 9,078
Based on petrol at KES 226.96/L, 15-10-2026 to 14-11-2026. Combined economy unless stated.
Work out a trip cost →Trims & variants
Hybrid X / Hybrid Z / Hybrid RS
- Setup
1.5L Atkinson i-VTEC engine paired with electric motor built into a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (152 hp combined), FWD or AWD, returning 22.0–25.0 km/L combined.
- Why it gets shipped
The premier hybrid compact crossover in Kenya, delivering sports-car throttle response and high fuel economy.
- Local consideration
Highly popular among urban executives in Nairobi, Eldoret, and Mombasa.
Package tiers
Vezel Hybrid package tiers range from practical urban trims to sporty RS and luxurious e:HEV editions.
| Package | Level | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| Hybrid X | Base comfort | 16-inch alloy wheels, fabric seats, Honda Sensing, dual-zone climate, and LED headlights. |
| Hybrid Z | Executive tier | 17-inch alloys, half-leather seats, roof rails, heated front seats, and auto-dimming rearview mirror. |
| Hybrid RS | Sport flagship | 18-inch dark alloys, RS sport steering, performance dampers, suede interior accents, and sport body kit. |
About the Honda Vezel Hybrid
Kenya strictly enforces an 8-year age limit from manufacture month and right-hand drive regulations. In 2026, 2019 to 2023 Vezel models sit comfortably in the direct import window, while 2018 units face month-by-month age deadlines.
With its 1,496 cc LEB engine displacement, the Vezel Hybrid qualifies for Kenya's sub-1,500 cc tax valuation category and standard 20%–25% excise duty rate, resulting in significantly lower import duty liabilities than larger 2.0L crossovers.
Disclaimer
Tax figures are estimates based on October 2026 KRA schedules. Always verify specific chassis CRSP entries with your clearing agent prior to purchase.
