The Arusha car market has continued to grow rapidly in recent years. New figures show that car sales in Arusha have increased by 45.8% in 2024 compared to 2023. Toyota is the leading brand in the market due to its durability followed by Isuzu and Nissan. Also, news sources report the popularity of Nissan, Subaru and Mercedes Benz among consumers. Car buyers in Arusha prefer SUVs due to their off-road capabilities, especially on dirt roads.
The Arusha car market is dominated by a variety of car types depending on the needs and budget of the buyer. Below is a description of the main categories of cars sold in Arusha and their prices:
Small Cars (Cheap Cars)
These are cars with high fuel efficiency and low purchase and maintenance costs. Popular examples are the Used Toyota IST which in Arusha costs between TZS 8M – 19M and the Used Toyota Vitz which costs between TZS 5–12M. These small cars are attractive to Arusha buyers because of their low fuel and maintenance costs.
Standard Sedans
Sedans like the Toyota Premio (TZS 8–15M) and Nissan Sentra (TZS 10–18M) are popular with families due to their spaciousness and low maintenance. The durability of these models makes them a safe choice for daily transportation in the city and countryside.
SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle)
Arusha has a high demand for SUVs due to its dusty roads and hilly terrain. For example, a used Toyota RAV4 in Arusha costs between TZS 15 – 25M and a used Subaru Forester costs between TZS 18–30M, while a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado costs between TZS 25–40M and is known for its strength and durability. For lovers of game drives and wilderness activities, an SUV is a great choice.
Commercial Vehicles (Commercial/Pickup)
Vehicles like the Nissan Pickup (TZS 20–30M), Toyota Hilux (TZS 25–40M) and Isuzu D-Max (TZS 22–35M) meet the needs of carrying cargo or passengers. They are preferred by businessmen and the construction industry for their heavy-duty work and high durability.
Luxury Cars
For consumers who want comfort and high-end features, models like the Mercedes Benz E200 (TZS 30–50M), Toyota Alphard (TZS 25–60M) and Land Rover Defender (TZS 50–100M) are available. Although expensive, they come with modern technologies and cost-effective efficiency levels.
For new cars from the Arusha showroom, prices range from TZS 25 million to 200 million depending on the make and features. For example, a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid starts at TZS 125 million, a new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado at around TZS 181 million, and a new Land Cruiser 300 at TZS 463 million. Even small used cars like the Toyota Rumion are sold for around TZS 22 million, and a used Hilux at around TZS 91 million.
Buying a new car from a showroom or a used car has its advantages and disadvantages:
New (0 km): They include manufacturer warranties, new technology, and high quality, but their costs tend to be high due to taxes and duties. For example, a new Toyota Land Cruiser 300 can cost around $185,000 (≈ TZS 464M) including taxes.
Used: The purchase price is affordable (e.g. TZS 5–50M), but it does not come with an official warranty and its condition depends on the service history. Before buying, it is a good idea to seek a thorough inspection of the engine, brake system and maintenance history.
Popular Car Brands in Arusha
Japanese brands are leading the way in popularity in Arusha due to their durability and availability of spare parts. Toyota, Nissan, Lexus, Mazda, Mitsubishi and Subaru are the most popular in the market. The breakdown of the most popular ones is:
Toyota: Hilux, Land Cruiser, RAV4
Nissan: X-Trail, Note
Honda: Fit (Jazz) for fuel efficiency
Subaru: Forester for road stability
Budget and Expenditure: Decide whether it's low-cost or long-distance travel; choose a car that meets your needs.
Kilometer Request: Check a car with low mileage to make sure it has been used sparingly.
Technical Status: Inspect the engine, brakes, and transmission; use a qualified mechanic before purchasing.
Car History: Make sure there are no major accidents and the service book is fully filled out.
Fuel Efficiency: A car with better fuel economy will bring savings in the long run.
Trusted Sellers: Use platforms like GariPesa to find reputable sellers and compare prices.
The car market in Arusha has a wide range of models, from affordable cars like the Toyota IST and Vitz, to SUVs and luxury cars with modern features. Before buying, make sure you consider the price, features and your needs to find the best car according to your budget.
