As the African auto market rapidly evolves, one trend has become increasingly clear: Chinese used cars in Africa are transforming mobility for both individuals and businesses. Their unbeatable combination of low prices, upgraded quality, and growing dealer networks make them a top choice for value-driven buyers.
Whether you’re a first-time car owner in Lagos or a fleet operator in Nairobi, the appeal of cheap used cars from China is hard to ignore.
Affordability and Availability
One of the most compelling reasons African buyers turn to Chinese used cars is price. Compared to Japanese or Korean alternatives, Chinese used cars often cost 30–50% less while offering similar features.
For example:
| Model | China Car Prices | Japanese and Korean Car | Price Gap | Cases and rationale |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy Sedan | $3,000-6,000 | $5,000-10,000 | ↓30%-50% | Used Chery QQ car sells for EGP 43,000 (about $2,300) in Egypt, Toyota Corolla of same vintage over $8,000 |
| Compact SUV | $5,000-8,000 | $8,000-15,000 | ↓35%-45% | Haval H6 used cars sell for about $7,000 in Nigeria, Hyundai Tucson over $12,000 |
| Mini Commercial Vehicle | $2,000-4,000 | $4,000-8,000 | ↓50%+ | Wuling van refurbished for just $5,000, used Sea Lion van costs $10,000 |
Moreover, in resent years,the availability of used Chinese cars has grown significantly across West and East Africa and even in South Africa, with major importers stocking models suitable for both city and rough terrain use.Chinese car brands are endeavouring to reverse the public perception of the reliability of Chinese cars by offering generous warranty policies.
On the other hand,resale value is another central consideration for consumers. If you buy a Toyota, you can recoup a significant amount of money when you sell it or trade it in, whereas in the past Chinese cars have depreciated more than conventional cars. However, as the market demand for Chinese cars continues to grow, their resale value is gradually rising.
Ease of Shipping to Africa
In addition to being affordable and guaranteed resale values, Chinese used cars are logistically easy to import. China’s proximity to key African ports and a well-established freight system ensures faster, more predictable delivery compared to vehicles from Europe or North America.
- Major shipping routes connect China to Mombasa, Dar es Salaam, Lagos, and Tema
- Many Chinese brands support pre-shipment inspection (PSI) for smoother customs clearance
- Documentation (bill of lading, invoice, inspection certificate) is easy to process with most Chinese exporters
Comparison table of core transport modes
| Method | RORO Transport | Container Transport | Special Scenarios |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scope of application | Wholesale exports (≥100 units) | Small volume/speciality vehicles | Africa Inland Transit |
| Loading | 7,000 vehicles/ship | 1-2 units in a single box | Lorry stacking |
| Costs | $800-1,200/vehicle | $1,500-2,000/vehicle | Combined cost of land + sea transport ↑30% |
| dominance | High loading and unloading efficiency (vehicles drive directly onto the ship) | Good resistance to damage (individually encapsulated) | Adaptation to areas with weak port infrastructure |
| Sore Point | High risk of transporting new energy vehicle batteries | Loading and unloading time (crane operation) | Vehicle misalignment requires secondary alignment |
As a result, African importers experience less port delay, lower shipping costs, and more direct supplier communication.
Best Models for African Roads
Chinese vehicles have evolved to meet a wide range of real-world road challenges – from urban traffic to rural potholes, deserts and the Gobi.
Today, many Chinese manufacturers now build models with reinforced suspensions, higher ground clearance, and fuel-efficient engines specifically for export markets like Africa.
Best-selling Used Chinese Cars in Africa:
According to the Africa Used Cars Market Data and Industry Report 2023-2025, the best-selling Chinese used cars in Africa can be categorised into the following three types of models:
| Vehicle Type | Typical model | Price（$） | Core Strengths | Primary Markets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mini Commercial Vehicle | Wuling Van Series | 2,000-4,000 | Large cargo space low maintenance costs (70% of spare parts) | Kenya, Tanzania |
| Compact SUV | Haval H6 | 5,000-8,000 | 18cm High Ground Clearance Panoramic Image | Nigeria, Egypt |
| Economy Sedan | Chery QQ | 3,000-6,000 | 7L/100km fuel consumption Air-conditioning system withstands high temperatures | Egypt, South Africa |
The Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, Haval Jolion and Omoda C5 are very popular in the African, and particularly South African, used car market due to their affordability, modern features and good build quality.
Here are the Top Models:
| NO. | Model | Reference Used Price | Core Strengths | Primary Markets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chery Tiggo 4 Pro | $9,500 – $12,000 | Compact SUV Low fuel consumption | Kenya, South Africa, Namibia |
| 2 | Haval Jolion | $12,500 – $15,000 | ADAS high tech Safety features | South Africa, Botswana, Mauritius |
| 3 | Omoda C5 | $13,500 – $16,000 | Trend Design Smart Cockpit | Morocco, Algeria, South Africa |
| 4 | Chery Tiggo 7 Pro | $14,000 – $17,000 | Comfortable mid-size SUV Luxury interior | Nigeria, Tanzania, Côte d’Ivoire |
| 5 | Haval H6 | $5,000 – $8,000 | High safety Lots of space Good reputation | South Africa, Angola, Zambia |
| 6 | Jetour Dashing | $12,800 – $15,500 | Stylish Appearance Youthful Positioning | Egypt, Uganda, Kenya |
Additionally, Chinese EVs such as the BYD e2 and Changan Lumin are gaining interest in countries with electricity subsidies and growing urban infrastructure.Moreover, the BYD e6 accounts for 18% of South Africa’s taxi fleet, and a lifetime battery warranty reduces full-cycle costs.
✅ at jinyucars，Offer a large number of Chinese used cars to Africa
Import Policies and Incentives
Many African governments are now offering tax incentives and simplified import regulations to encourage affordable vehicle ownership—especially for eco-friendly or small-engine models.
For example:
- Kenya allows import of used cars up to 8 years old with flexible valuation procedures
- Ghana and Tanzania offer reduced import duty for fuel-efficient or compact cars
- Some regions waive excise taxes for hybrid and electric used vehicles
These policies make it even easier to benefit from the already low prices of Chinese used vehicles.
Click here to see more guidelines and policies on importing used cars from China by country
Kenya and Nigeria as Case Studies
Next let’s look at two of Africa’s largest used car markets:
1.Kenya
- Chinese brands like Chery, Foton, and BYD are growing in Nairobi and Mombasa
- Ride-sharing services prefer compact sedans like the Chery Arrizo 5 for affordability
- Spare parts are now widely available through local suppliers
2.Nigeria
- Jetour, Geely, and Dongfeng have gained trust for reliability and fuel economy
- Dealers in Lagos are offering financing packages for used Chinese cars
- Public transport and delivery sectors use Chinese minivans for low operating cost
- Click to learn more about the Nigerian automotive market
Conclusion
In short, Chinese used cars offer one of the best deals for African buyers today. With unmatched affordability, increasing reliability, and easier import logistics, they present a smart choice for anyone looking to drive more for less.
🚗 Ready to import cheap used cars from China?
Contact Jinyucars today to learn about our available stock, shipping support, and dealership opportunities.
FAQ
Yes. In recent years, brands like Chery, BYD, and Geely have improved significantly in quality. Many models are now globally certified and supported by expanding service networks in Africa.
Depending on the model and country, total costs (car + shipping + duty) range from $5,500 to $10,000. Smaller sedans like the Chery Arrizo 5 are especially cost-efficient.
Popular models include:
Chery Tiggo 3x – compact SUV for mixed terrain
Geely Emgrand – reliable for city use
Wuling vans – great for delivery and family use
Jetour X70 – ride-hailing & private ownership
Yes. Spare parts for common brands like Geely, BYD, and Chery are increasingly available through local importers and official service partners in Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, and more.
Most countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Ghana, and Nigeria, allow used car imports from China as long as the vehicle meets age and inspection standards (e.g., <8 years, RHD/LHD compliance).Click to learn more
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