Before Price Changes, Here are 5 million Naira cars in Nigeria

The cost of cars has skyrocketed to the extent that 5 million naira is no longer able to purchase some foreign used cars popularly known as “tokunbo cars”. If you have a budget of 5 million naira and are wondering which car would be suitable for you with the current prices of cars in 2024, don’t worry; we have compiled a comprehensive list that will be perfect for you.

Many people believe that Nigeria used cars are not reliable, but this is not always the case. In fact, some car brands such as Hyundai, GAC, and Geely have a good clean Nigeria used car value. These brands are often imported brand new into Nigeria, which means that buying a second-hand car could still be in excellent condition depending on the previous owner’s maintenance routine.

Here are some cars you can get for 5 million naira in Nigeria in 2023, along with an overview of their specifications.

• 2012 Hyundai Elantra

The first car on our list that you can get within the 5 million naira mark in Nigeria in 2024 is the 2012 Hyundai Elantra. The 2012 Hyundai Elantra is available in three trim levels: GLS (Manual) Sedan, GLS (Auto) Sedan, and Limited Sedan. It offers a blend of style and value, featuring Hyundai’s “Fluidic Sculpture” design language, which gives it a sleek and modern appearance. Under the hood, the Elantra boasts a 1.8-litre engine producing 148 horsepower, with fuel economy ratings of 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway for a combined 33 mpg, regardless of transmission or trim level.

The interior offers comfortable seating and modern styling, with available touchscreen navigation and keyless entry. However, rear headroom may be tight for taller passengers. In terms of performance, the Elantra handles confidently and achieves quick acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 9.1 seconds during testing. Safety features include six airbags, Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and four-wheel disc brakes with an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS). 

• 2009 Toyota Camry

Next is the 2009 Toyota Camry. This car offers two engine options: a four-cylinder or a V6, and you can choose between manual or automatic transmission. It’s known for its fuel efficiency, with a rating of 21 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The Camry also comes equipped with basic features like a stereo, cruise control, and power windows. In terms of safety, it includes airbags and anti-lock brakes to ensure a secure ride for drivers and passengers.

• 2008 Lexus IS250

The 2008 Lexus IS250 is a compact luxury sport sedan available in a single trim level. It is powered by a 2.5-litre V6 engine. The IS 250 delivers 204 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. It has rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, with a choice between a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission for the rear-drive model, while the AWD version is automatic only. In testing, the manual-transmission IS 250 reached 0–60 mph in 7.5 seconds, with automatic-equipped models expected to be slightly slower. Fuel economy estimates for the IS 250 automatic are revised to 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, which is impressive for its class.

The manual gearbox and AWD versions achieve average results, with ratings of 18/26 mpg and 20/26 mpg, respectively. The 2008 Lecus IS250 has standard features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, leather seats, power front seats, automatic dual-zone climate control, and a premium audio system with a six-disc CD changer and auxiliary audio jack. It also has practical features like 18-inch alloy wheels, adaptive bi-xenon headlights, parking assist, adaptive cruise control, driver seat memory, rain-sensing wipers, a power rear sunshade, a navigation system, and Bluetooth connectivity, among others. 

• Ford Edge

The Ford Edge is a midsize SUV that fits between the compact Escape and the larger Explorer in Ford’s lineup. It comes in four trims: SE, SEL, Limited, and Sport. It has three engine options, including a 3.5-liter V-6 and a turbocharged EcoBoost 2.0-liter four-cylinder, with power ranging from 240 to 305 horsepower. While it’s smooth on highways and offers a quiet ride, its handling can feel cumbersome on twisty roads. The interior features modern design and materials, but the MyFord Touch system can be frustrating to use. Safety ratings are generally good, though some customers have reported issues with brakes and rust. Overall, it’s a solid SUV choice, especially if you prioritize comfort and engine variety. You can get some models of the Ford Edge for 5 million naira. 

• 2013 Kia Cerato

The 2013 Kia Cerato comes with a 4-cylinder naturally aspirated 2-litre SX engine, packing 115 kW and 194 Nm of power. However, some drivers find it a bit underwhelming, especially on highways or when needing quick acceleration. Inside, the Cerato offers a roomy cabin with comfy leather seats and plenty of tech features like Bluetooth and a reverse camera.

It’s also packed with safety features, including six airbags, an anti-lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution, electronic stability control, and vehicle stability management, providing peace of mind for both drivers and passengers.

• 2012 Ford Focus

The 2012 Ford Focus is a car with good performance, fuel efficiency, features, and style. Under the hood, it has a 60-horsepower 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. Paired with Ford’s six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 8.3 seconds. This setup also offers impressive fuel economy, with up to 28 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, especially when equipped with the Super Fuel Economy package. Inside, the Focus has a luxurious cabin, featuring tech goodies like MyFord Touch, Bluetooth, navigation, and Sync.

Plus, it offers comfortable seating both upfront and in the rear, along with quality materials throughout. On the safety front, the Focus comes loaded with features like traction and stability control, ABS, TPMS, and LATCH systems. It also includes dual-stage airbags for the front row, side-impact airbags, and side-curtain airbags. Ford emphasizes the use of high-strength steel in 55% of the Focus’ body shell, enhancing safety while keeping the car lightweight.

• 2009 Acura TSX

Next is the 2009 Acura TSX. The 2009 Acura TSX has a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine under the hood, delivering a solid 201 horsepower. You can choose between a smooth six-speed manual or a convenient five-speed automatic transmission. In terms of fuel efficiency, it holds its own. With the automatic transmission, you’ll enjoy up to 21 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. Opting for the manual transmission slightly reduces those numbers to around 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

Inside, the TSX offers a comfortable and stylish cabin. It features leather seats, a power moonroof, and dual-zone automatic air conditioning for a pleasant ride. Plus, it’s equipped with modern amenities like Bluetooth connectivity and a USB port for your devices. Safety-wise, it comes standard with antilock brakes, side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, an electronic stability system, and active head restraints for the front seats. Additionally, a backup camera is included with the optional navigation system, adding an extra layer of confidence while driving.

• 2008 Toyota RAV4

Another car you can get within the 5 million naira mark is the 2008 Toyota RAV4. The 2008 Toyota RAV4 has an optional V6 engine with 269 horsepower. The six-cylinder engine provided excellent acceleration while maintaining fuel efficiency. The RAV4 has a spacious interior with ample cargo space of up to 73 cubic feet, making it practical for families.

Additionally, the optional third-row seat provided room for two children or small adults, and features like an available rear-seat DVD entertainment system added to its family-friendly appeal. Safety features such as antilock disc brakes, stability control, traction control, and multiple airbags came standard. Overall, the 2008 Toyota RAV4 offered a blend of power, space, features, and value.