Mazda Axela Review
2017-2023
The third-generation Mazda Axela (BM/BY Series) and its successor Mazda3 (BP Series) are highly popular compact hatchbacks and saloons imported from Japan. Renowned for Mazda's Kodo design, responsive SkyActiv-G/D engines, quiet cabin insulation, and sub-1,500 cc duty savings on 1.5L models, the Axela is a top choice for urban commuters across Nairobi and Mombasa.
*This score is awarded by our team of expert reviewers after extensive testing of the car
What’s good
- Sub-1,500 cc customs duty advantage: 1.5L petrol and diesel models qualify for KRA's lowest excise tax bracket.
- High-torque 1.5L diesel engine: 15XD turbo diesel delivers 270 Nm torque while achieving 21.6 km/L fuel economy.
- Upscale cabin craftsmanship: Soft-touch interior materials, MZD Connect infotainment, and heads-up HUD display.
- Excellent high-speed stability: Rigid SkyActiv chassis and 2,700 mm wheelbase provide planted highway handling.
What’s not so good
- 145 mm ground clearance: Requires cautious driving over tall estate speed bumps and ramps.
- Compact rear passenger headroom: Sloping roofline reduces rear headroom for tall adults over 6 feet.
- Costly i-Stop AGM battery replacement: Start-stop system requires specialized Q-85 (petrol) or S-95 (diesel) batteries.
Most popular: Axela 15S / 15XD L-Package
5 doorsPetrol, Diesel, HybridAutomatic
At a glance
- Model
- Mazda Axela / Mazda3 (BM / BP Series)
- Production years
- 2017–2023
- Body type
- 5-Door Hatchback / 4-Door Saloon
- Seating capacity
- 5 seats
- Fuel types
- Petrol, Clean Diesel, Mild Hybrid
- Engine sizes
- 1,496 cc / 1,758 cc / 1,997 cc
- Transmission
- 6-speed Skyactiv-Drive Automatic
- Drivetrain
- FWD or i-ACTIV AWD
- Ground clearance
- 145 mm
- Source market
- Japan (RHD)
Fuel consumption
Manufacturer / import-market figures: 21.6 km/L (1.5L Diesel) / 17.2 km/L (1.5L Petrol). Tank: 51 L (about 1102 km combined). Real-world use varies with load, traffic and altitude.
Running cost
- City driving
- KES 1,261 / 100 km
- Highway driving
- KES 926 / 100 km
- 1,000 km a month
- KES 10,507
- Full tank (51 L)
- KES 11,575
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
15C / 15S / 15S Touring / 15S L-Package
- Setup
1.5L naturally aspirated 4-cylinder petrol (111 hp / 144 Nm), 6-speed automatic, FWD or AWD, returning 17.2 km/L combined.
- Why it gets shipped
The most popular import variant, balancing low non-hybrid maintenance with sub-1,500 cc customs tax savings.
- Local consideration
Highly reliable daily urban commuter running comfortably on standard unleaded petrol.
Package tiers
Axela grades progress from well-equipped 15S packages to luxurious leather-appointed L-Package editions.
| Package | Level | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| 15C / 15S | Base grade | Fabric upholstery, dual-zone climate control, 7-inch MZD Connect display, keyless start |
| PROACTIVE | Mid safety | Adaptive LED headlights, Blind Spot Monitoring, Smart City Brake Support, HUD heads-up display |
| L-Package | Flagship luxury | Leather seats, power driver seat, Bose surround audio, 18-inch dark alloys, heated steering wheel |
About the Mazda Axela
Kenya strictly enforces a right-hand drive mandate and an 8-year age limit from the month of manufacture. In 2026, 2019 to 2023 Axela / Mazda3 models sit comfortably inside the legal import window, 2018 models face month-by-month cutoff deadlines, while earlier units are traded locally.
A major fiscal advantage of the 1.5L Axela in Kenya is its 1,496 cc engine displacement. Sitting under 1,500 cc, it qualifies for Kenya Revenue Authority's lowest customs tax valuation category and 20%–25% excise duty bracket, keeping total landing costs significantly lower than 1.8L or 2.0L hatchbacks.
Disclaimer
Tax figures are estimates based on October 2026 KRA schedules. Always verify specific chassis CRSP entries with your clearing agent prior to purchase.
