2019 Toyota Estima (Final Edition): A Carimports.co.ke Review
The Big Picture
The 2019 Toyota Estima (XR50 Final Edition) marks the end of an era. Toyota officially ceased production of the Estima in October 2019, meaning there is no 2020 or 2022 model. These "Final Edition" units (2016-2019 Facelift) are highly sought after. Known as the "Spaceship" since its 1990 debut, the 3rd Generation (launched 2006) was so good Toyota kept it alive for 13 years. It remains the perfect balance between the boxy Noah and the massive Alphard.
Quick Specs
Clearance
155 mm
Tank Size
65 Litres
Power
150 - 170 HP
Seating
7 or 8
Engine Options & Model Codes
The Final Edition simplified the lineup (the V6 was dropped in 2016):
-
2.4L Petrol (2AZ-FE): 170 HP. STANDARD The classic 2AZ engine. Powerful enough, but known for oil consumption in high-mileage units. Paired with a CVT (Super CVT-i).
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2.4L Hybrid (2AZ-FXE): 150 HP (Combined). RECOMMENDED Features "E-Four" electric 4WD. It offers excellent fuel economy for a van of this size. The heavy battery gives it a planted feel.
Interior & Practicality
- 7-Seat Layout: The "Aeras" grade with 7 seats features "Super Relax" captain chairs in the middle row with ottomans. They slide way back for limousine legroom.
- Flat Floor: The 3rd row folds flat into the floor (unlike the Noah/Alphard where seats fold up to the side). This creates a cleaner, wider cargo area.
Fuel Efficiency & Ownership Costs
- Consumption: 14–16 km/l (Hybrid) vs 9–11 km/l (Petrol). The hybrid is the clear winner for family use.
- Service: Parts for the 2AZ engine are everywhere (Rav4, Camry, Harrier). However, body parts (headlights, bumpers) for the 2016+ facelift are expensive and specific to this model.
- Weak Point: The CVT gearbox on the 2.4L petrol can fail if fluid is not changed every 40,000km. The Hybrid e-CVT is bulletproof.
Suitability for Kenyan Roads
Low Overhang: While 155mm clearance sounds decent, the front bumper on "Aeras" models is low and long. It scrapes on steep ramps. The suspension is comfortable but soft—it wallows a bit on undulating roads compared to a Honda Odyssey.
Safety & Reliability
The Final Edition introduced Toyota Safety Sense C (Pre-collision system, Lane Departure Alert). Reliability is solid, though the 2AZ engine's oil burning reputation persists (mostly fixed in later years). Hybrid batteries may need replacement after 10-12 years.
💰 2019 Toyota Estima Price in Kenya
The following are average showroom prices for fresh imports in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret.
| Trim Level |
Import Cost |
Showroom Price |
Difference |
| Aeras Premium (Petrol) |
Ksh 2.6M |
Ksh 3.0M |
Ksh 400,000 |
| Aeras Smart (Hybrid) |
Ksh 3.0M |
Ksh 3.5M |
Ksh 500,000 |
The Ci Verdict
Who is this for? The family that wants the space of an Alphard but the driving dynamics (and lower price) of a car. Who is it NOT for? Those who want the latest tech—the core design is from 2006, and it shows.
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