Which Compact Hatchback Is Best for You in Kenya?
Compact hatchbacks remain hugely popular in Kenya thanks to their fuel efficiency, easy maneuverability, and low running costs — strong selling points for city commuters and first-time buyers alike.
In this comparison, we look at three standout 2021 Japanese hatchbacks:
✔ Nissan Note (E13)
✔ Honda Fit (2021)
✔ Mazda Demio / Mazda 2 (2021)
We’ll compare their fuel economy, performance, features, and best use cases so you can make an informed decision.
🚗 1. Nissan Note E13 (2021)
🔎 Overview
The Nissan Note (E13) is a compact 5-door hatchback known for a spacious cabin and excellent fuel economy — especially in the e-Power hybrid variants. In 2021, most Notes came with advanced driver assists and a comfortable interior.
🌿 Engine & Fuel
- Typical engine: 1.2 L petrol (or hybrid e-Power setup)
- Fuel economy for 2021 Note: ~21.7 km/L real-world in hybrid setups.
- Hybrid e-Power models use the petrol engine as a generator for the electric motor, giving them a very smooth and responsive feel.
📦 Practical Aspects
✔ Spacious cabin for a hatchback
✔ Good boot space (expandable with rear seats folded)
✔ Safety features like Blind Spot Warning, ProPILOT Assist, and more on higher trims
🚘 Who It Fits Best
The Note is well suited for:
✔ City commuters
✔ Small families
✔ Buyers who value fuel savings and interior comfort
🚙 2. Honda Fit (2021)
🔎 Overview
The Honda Fit 2021 continues to be a favorite for its flexible interior and strong fuel efficiency. The Fit’s innovative interior layout maximizes cabin space and visibility — very useful for tight urban driving.
⚙️ Engine & Economy
- Engines typically: 1.3 L or 1.5 L petrol
- Average fuel consumption: ~23–24 km/L for petrol versions, and up to ~30+ km/L on hybrid variants.
🌟 Experience
✔ Agile handling
✔ Great visibility and compact size for city traffic
✔ Hybrid variants shine in stop-and-go urban driving
👤 Best For
The Fit is ideal for:
✔ Daily city driving
✔ Ride-hail drivers
✔ Buyers who want efficiency with a comfortable ride
🚕 3. Mazda Demio / Mazda 2 (2021)
🔎 Overview
The Mazda Demio, known internationally as the Mazda 2, is a sporty, stylish hatchback with Mazda’s SkyActiv technology that balances fuel economy and driving enjoyment.
⚡ Engine & Efficiency
- Engines: Often 1.3 L or 1.5 L petrol with SkyActiv
- Fuel economy typically: ~18–24 km/L depending on engine and conditions.
🚗 Driving Feel
✔ Slightly sportier handling compared to others
✔ Comfortable and refined cabin
✔ Easy maneuvering in traffic
👤 Best For
Mazda Demio/Mazda 2 works well for:
✔ Drivers who want fun handling
✔ Smaller families
✔ Urban and suburb commuting
📊 Head-to-Head at a Glance
| Feature | Nissan Note (2021) | Honda Fit (2021) | Mazda Demio / Mazda 2 (2021) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Economy | Excellent (~21.7 km/L & up in hybrid) | Very Good (~23–30 km/L) | Good (~18–24 km/L) |
| Cabin Space | Spacious | Very flexible | Comfortable |
| Handling | Smooth & comfortable | Agile | Sporty |
| Best For | Long commuting & family | City & economics | Stylish & drive feel |
| Price Range | Mid | Mid | Mid |
🔍 Fuel & Ownership Cost Insights
In real Kenyan driving conditions:
- Honda Fit hybrids cost less per km due to very high fuel economy and efficient design.
- Nissan Note e-Power also shows strong economy and a smoother power delivery thanks to its electric motor-driven wheels.
- Mazda Demio balances fuel economy with a sportier drive feel.
🏁 Which Should You Pick?
🚗 Choose Nissan Note if:
✔ You want a comfortable compact with roomy feel
✔ Fuel efficiency is important
✔ You like hybrid tech smoothness
🚕 Choose Honda Fit if:
✔ You want great urban economy
✔ Flex seating space matters
✔ You plan lots of city driving
🚙 Choose Mazda Demio / Mazda 2 if:
✔ You want sportier handling
✔ You like slightly more dynamic drive feel
✔ Urban & suburb travel mix
🤝 Why Buy from Clyde Motors Company Ltd
At Clyde Motors, we help you find the right hatchback that fits your needs, whether it’s a Note, Fit, or Mazda Demio — with:
✔ Verified import documentation
✔ Professional inspection of each unit
✔ Clear pricing without hidden fees
✔ Help with test drives and comparisons
✔ Guidance tailored to your budget & use case
We regularly stock quality 2021 compact hatchbacks — perfect for first-time buyers, city commuting, or economical ownership.
📞 Contact Clyde Motors
Clyde Motors Company Ltd
📍 Physical yard available for inspection
📱 Phone: +254 740 635 621
📧 Email: Clydemotors@ulslxgxd
🌐 Website: www.clydemotors.co.ke
Whether you want fuel efficiency, comfort, or driving fun, our team will help you choose the best 2021 hatchback for your lifestyle. 🚗🔥