Mazda Demio Review
2017-2023
The Mazda Demio is a highly popular compact hatchback imported directly from Japan. It offers exceptional fuel efficiency, a refined near-luxury interior, and agile handling that appeals to urban professionals and first-time car buyers in Kenya.
*This score is awarded by our team of expert reviewers after extensive testing of the car
What’s good
- Superior fuel efficiency: The SkyActiv petrol and diesel engines achieve up to 25 km/L on Kenyan highways.
- Premium interior finish: Soft-touch materials and available MZD Connect screen rival European subcompacts.
- Smooth torque-converter automatic: Avoids the rubber-band CVT feeling found in competitor hatchbacks.
- Sub-1,500 cc tax advantage: Qualifies for Kenya lower customs valuation and excise duty bracket.
What’s not so good
- Modest rear legroom: Tighter rear passenger seating space compared to the Honda Fit or Toyota Vitz.
- Diesel DPF sensitivity: The 1.5L SkyActiv-D diesel requires regular long highway runs to prevent DPF clogging.
- Low ground clearance: The 145 mm clearance requires careful driving over tall speed bumps.
Most popular: Demio 13S Touring
5 doorsPetrol, DieselAutomatic
At a glance
- Model
- Mazda Demio / Mazda2
- Production years
- 2017–2023
- Body type
- 5-Door Hatchback
- Seating capacity
- 5
- Fuel types
- Petrol, Clean Diesel
- Engine sizes
- 1,298 cc, 1,496 cc
- Transmission
- 6-speed Automatic
- Drivetrain
- FWD / AWD
- Ground clearance
- 145 mm
- Source market
- Japan (RHD)
Fuel consumption
Manufacturer / import-market figures: 22 km/L. Tank: 44 L (about 968 km combined). Real-world use varies with load, traffic and altitude.
Running cost
- City driving
- KES 1,261 / 100 km
- Highway driving
- KES 908 / 100 km
- 1,000 km a month
- KES 10,316
- Full tank (44 L)
- KES 9,986
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
13C / 13S / 13S Touring / 13S L-Package
- Setup
Naturally aspirated 1.3L petrol generating 93 hp and 123 Nm torque paired with a 6-speed automatic.
- Why it gets shipped
High reliability, simple maintenance, and excellent urban fuel economy.
- Local consideration
Highly recommended for daily commuting in Nairobi traffic.
Package tiers
Understanding the trim hierarchy helps buyers select the right specification for local needs.
| Package | Level | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| 13C / XD Base | Entry grade | Fabric seats, steel wheels with covers, manual air conditioning, keyless start |
| 13S / XD Touring | Mid tier | 15-inch alloys, MZD Connect screen, reverse camera, leather-wrapped steering wheel |
| L-Package | Flagship luxury | Leather upholstery, 16-inch alloy wheels, heads-up display, radar safety monitoring |
About the Mazda Demio
The fourth-generation Mazda Demio features Mazda Kodo design language and SkyActiv technology. It stands out in the subcompact segment by delivering driver engagement without sacrificing everyday fuel economy.
In Kenya, the Demio is widely favored over standard commuter hatchbacks due to its premium cabin materials, acoustic soundproofing, and responsive 6-speed torque-converter automatic transmission. Both the 1.3L SkyActiv-G petrol and 1.5L SkyActiv-D clean diesel variants sit comfortably inside Kenya sub-1,500 cc customs tax bracket, keeping import duties low.
Disclaimer
Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.
Information correct as of Sep 15, 2023.
The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.
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