The Big Picture
The 2019 Toyota Pixis Epoch is the master of minimalism. It proves you don't need complex hybrid technology to save fuel; you just need lightness. This 2nd Generation model (launched in 2017) sheds 80kg compared to the 1st Gen (which debuted in 2011). It is a rebadged Daihatsu Mira e:S, designed for one purpose: to be the cheapest car to run in existence.
Quick Specs
Clearance
150mm
Tank Size
28 Litres
Power
49 HP
Seating
4 Seats
Engine Options & Model Codes
There is only one engine, refined to perfection:
-
KF-VE (660cc 3-Cyl): 49 HP. STANDARD This naturally aspirated engine focuses on thermal efficiency. It features cooled EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) and dual injectors to squeeze every kilometer out of a drop of fuel. It feels peppy up to 60km/h but requires patience on the highway.
Interior & Practicality
- Digital Speedo: All 2019 models feature a high-contrast digital speedometer that is easy to read. The dashboard is simple hard plastic—built to last forever, not to impress.
- Space: Front legroom is excellent. Rear legroom is surprisingly decent for two adults, though the bench is flat. Boot space is minimal, fitting maybe two school bags.
Fuel Efficiency & Ownership Costs
- Consumption: 25–30 km/l. This is not a typo. In real-world Nairobi traffic, it is more efficient than a Toyota Aqua because the Aqua engine has to turn on to charge the battery; the Pixis just sips fuel at idle.
- Service: An oil change requires less than 3 litres of oil. Spark plugs are cheap. It is the cheapest car to maintain in Kenya, period.
- Tyres: Uses tiny 13-inch tyres (155/65R13 or 155/70R13). A full set costs less than one tyre for a Harrier.
Suitability for Kenyan Roads
City Only: At 150mm clearance, it is low. The suspension is basic and feels crashy on rough roads. It is designed for tarmac. Do not take this car to the Mara. However, its small size allows you to dodge potholes that bigger cars have to hit.
Safety & Reliability
Includes Smart Assist III (SA3), which uses stereo cameras to detect pedestrians and vehicles, applying brakes automatically if needed. It is a very safe city car. Reliability is 10/10—there is almost nothing on this car that can break.
💰 2019 Toyota Pixis Epoch 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 |
| L (Base) |
Ksh 850,000 |
Ksh 980,000 |
Ksh 130,000 |
| G SA3 (Top Spec) |
Ksh 950,000 |
Ksh 1,150,000 |
Ksh 200,000 |
The Ci Verdict
Who is this for? The Bolt/Uber Lite investor or the student who wants the absolute lowest cost of ownership possible. Who is it NOT for? Anyone with an ego. It is a basic transport appliance, nothing more.
Meet the Rivals
Suzuki Alto
The best-seller. Parts are even cheaper.
Check Specs »
Daihatsu Mira e:S
The original version. Identical car.
Check Specs »
