2019 Toyota Tank: A Carimports.co.ke Review

The Big Picture

The Toyota Tank (M900 Series) is the aggressive-looking twin to the Toyota Roomy. Launched in 2016 to replace the Toyota Ractis and bB, the Tank features a distinct front fascia with a narrower upper grille and clear-lens taillights. It targets young families who want the sliding-door practicality of a minivan but in a compact, easy-to-park footprint.

Quick Specs

Ground Clearance 130mm
Tank Size 36 Litres
Power 98 HP (Turbo)
Seating 5 Seats

Engine Options & Model Codes

Engine choice is critical here. The non-turbo can feel underpowered with a full load.

  • 1.0L Turbo Petrol (Code: M900A) RECOMMENDED
    Features the 1KR-VET engine producing 98 HP. It delivers torque comparable to a 1.5L engine, making highway merging much safer. Look for the "G-T" or "Custom G-T" grades.
  • 1.0L Naturally Aspirated (Code: M900A)
    Features the standard 1KR-FE engine (69 HP). While strictly adequate for city traffic, it struggles on steep inclines like Murang'a Road when fully loaded.

Interior & Practicality

  • Walk-Through Cabin: The front seats are separated, allowing parents to walk from the driver's seat to the rear to tend to children without exiting the car.
  • Sliding Seats: Rear seats slide forward by 240mm, allowing you to prioritize boot space or legroom. The floor is completely flat.

Infotainment & Technology

  • Smart Assist II: Most 2019 models come with collision warning and false-start suppression (prevents hitting the wall if you confuse drive/reverse).
  • Electric Doors: One-touch electric sliding doors are standard on higher trims, a feature rarely found in this price bracket.

Fuel Efficiency & Ownership Costs

  • Turbo Economy: 18–20 km/l (Surprisingly efficient)
  • Non-Turbo Economy: 20–22 km/l
  • Spares: Good. Shares mechanicals with the Vitz/Passo (1KR engine), so service parts are everywhere.

Suitability for Kenyan Roads

  • Ground Clearance: Low at 130mm. This is a city car. Heavy bumps will scrape the front lip. We advise fitting 185/65R14 tires to gain height.
  • Stability: It is tall and boxy. Crosswinds on the highway can be felt; it is best driven under 110km/h.

Safety & Reliability

The 1KR engine is generally reliable but can vibrate at idle as it is a 3-cylinder. Ensure engine mounts are in good condition. The CVT fluid must be changed every 40,000km to prevent slippage.

💰 2019 Toyota Tank Price in Kenya

The following are estimated showroom prices for fresh imports (duty-paid) in major Kenyan cities including **Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret**.

Trim Level Est. Import Cost Avg. Yard Price Difference
X / G (Non-Turbo) Ksh 1.05M - 1.15M Ksh 1.35M - 1.45M ~Ksh 300k
Custom G-T (Turbo) Ksh 1.2M - 1.3M Ksh 1.55M - 1.65M ~Ksh 350k

The Ci Verdict

The Toyota Tank offers a brilliant amount of space for its size. It is essentially a "Vitz on stilts" with sliding doors. If you want the practicality of a Noah but on a Vitz budget and fuel bill, the Tank (or Roomy) is unbeatable.

Meet the Rivals

Toyota Roomy

Mechanically identical, just a different grille.

Check Roomy »
Suzuki Solio

Offers a 1.2L engine which is smoother on highways.

Check Solio »