2020 Toyota Porte: A Carimports.co.ke Review
The Big Picture
The 2020 Toyota Porte (XP140 Final Edition) is the ultimate car for accessibility. Production ended in December 2020, making these the final, most refined versions of this unique MPV. Unlike its twin, the Spade (which looks aggressive), the Porte features softer, friendlier styling ("Porte" is French for "Door"). Its defining feature is the massive electric sliding door on the passenger side that opens a whopping 1,020mm wide, allowing passengers to practically walk into the car.
Quick Specs
Engine Options & Model Codes
By 2020, the Porte was standardized on the 1.5L engine:
- 1.5L (2NR-FKE): 109 HP. STANDARD This high-efficiency engine features VVT-iE and a high compression ratio. It is shared with the Corolla Axio and is renowned for reliability. Paired with a Super CVT-i.
Interior & Practicality
- 700mm Slide: The front passenger seat slides back and forth by 700mm. You can push it all the way back to create a limousine-like space or fold it forward to use as a table.
- Low Floor: The step-in height is just 300mm—lower than a sedan. This makes it the absolute best car for elderly parents or people with mobility issues.
Fuel Efficiency & Ownership Costs
- Consumption: 18–20 km/l. The 2NR engine with Stop-Start system is incredibly frugal.
- Service: Parts are interchangeable with the Vitz and Axio. Maintenance is as cheap as it gets for a Toyota.
- Resale: Values are holding steady as no direct successor exists (the Roomy is smaller/different). It is a niche favorite.
Suitability for Kenyan Roads
City Only: At 130mm clearance, it is low. The long wheelbase means it can scrape on high bumps. It is strictly for tarmac use. The suspension is soft and comfortable, prioritizing ride quality over handling.
Safety & Reliability
Final Edition models come with Toyota Safety Sense C (Pre-collision, Auto High Beam). The sliding door mechanism is robust but keep the rails clean. Reliability is 10/10.
💰 2020 Toyota Porte 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| F (Base 1.5L) | Ksh 1.15M | Ksh 1.35M | Ksh 200,000 |
| G (High Spec) | Ksh 1.25M | Ksh 1.45M | Ksh 200,000 |
The Ci Verdict
Who is this for? The family with an elderly relative or wheelchair user. The ease of access is unmatched by any SUV. Who is it NOT for? Speed demons or those who want to look "cool"—it is a functional box.