Top FIVE Most Popular Japanese Cars to Buy in Nigeria this 2023

Japanese cars are some of the most popular cars in Nigeria. From the Toyota brands to Honda, and Mazda. These vehicles have been around in the country for the longest time, and have acquired a household name in the Nigerian car industry.

While these are vehicles with good reliability ratings, one major reason why they’ve dominated the Nigerian car scene is due to their manufacturers’ messaging about the vehicles. Toyota and Honda’s message is providing car lovers with deal vehicles that still offer elements of luxury amenities. And over the years, the brands have stepped up even more, ensuring their vehicles are a blend of affordable and still a worthy deal for buyers.

Another major reason why these vehicles are highly sought-after in Nigeria is due to their market value. Toyota, Honda, and Mazda are known for having great market value in Nigeria, and even a 2005 Toyota model would sell faster than a Lamborghini in the country.

While that’s the case, here are the top five Japanese cars you should consider purchasing in Nigeria today.

1. Toyota Corolla

It’s nearly impossible to have a list of popular vehicles in any category without the mention of Toyota vehicles. In fact, Toyota has already cemented its place as one of the top car brands in the global market. 

Not only that, Toyota vehicles are known for their dependability and affordability, and the Corolla is the compact sedan that fits perfectly in that reputation Toyota has created for its brand. 

The arrival of the Toyota Corolla dates as far back as the 1960s, with over 50 years in the market, the vehicle still retains its reputation for quality and dependability and has become the best-selling car worldwide — to the tune of nearly 1.5 million per year in more than 150 countries. 

Now in its 12th generation starting in 2019, the Corolla is primarily known as a four-door sedan, but it’s also been offered in coupe, hatchback, and wagon form over the years. Attractive economy-car pricing has always been part of the Corolla’s value proposition, though it has at times been criticized for being too conservative and for making some common features optional to keep the base price low.

There’s the availability of various models of Toyota for every income level in Nigeria. In the Nigerian market today, you’ll easily find the 1999 models of the Corolla upwards, making the Corolla a great vehicle to purchase regardless of your pocket size.

2. Honda Accord

Another vehicle you should highly consider when thinking of your potential vehicle is the Honda Accord which is in the same category as the Toyota Camry. Just like the Camry counterpart, the Accord is an affordable sedan with luxury elements across all its available models that suit every pocket size.

While Honda cars are popularly driven in Nigeria, it’s important to take note of the popular problems these vehicles have had in the past. As such, when purchasing a Honda Accord old model, be sure to avoid models like the 2005 Honda Accord Hybrid as it has issues with its suspension and drive train making them a challenging vehicle to own in Nigeria.

3. Toyota Camry

The Toyota Camry automobile in Nigeria is a household name for a low-maintenance quality car. The Camry is a mid-size sedan that was made to carry 5 people maximum at a time. Relevant Camry models in Nigeria start with the 1986 model still present. However, if you are in the market for a Camry, it’s essential to focus on models from 2000 upwards.

The Toyota Camry is a great option vehicle if you are considering something bigger than the Corolla but still has a good feel and driving experience. The interesting part is that the Camry also enjoys the good market value of other Toyota models in Nigeria, and there’s a Camry car for every budget level in the country.

4. Lexus RX

If your interest is in a luxury SUV that’s also affordable, then look no further than the Lexus RX. The RX is a quality SUV designed by the luxury arm of the Toyota company, Lexus. Popularly known and driven in Nigeria, the Lexus RX also enjoys the reputation that the Toyota models enjoy. As such, this has made the RX a household-named vehicle in Nigeria today.

For comfortability, reliability, and affordability, the Lexus RX is the right SUV you should consider. The vehicle has been around in Nigeria since the late 1990s till date. If you need cheaper options of the RX you could purchase for N5 to N10 million, then consider the early 2000s models of the SUV. While they’ve aged considerably, they still perform efficiently to date.

5. Toyota Land Cruiser

If you are in the mood for a full-size SUV that exudes luxury but on an affordable budget, then look towards this Japanese-made SUV, the Land Cruiser. The vehicle is Toyota’s flagship full-size SUV that has a cult-like following in Nigeria today.

Both top government officials and wealthy Nigerians looking to experience that executive ride with their vehicle go after the Land Cruiser. While the 2010s and 2020s models of the Land Cruiser are quite pricey for the average Nigerian, there are still the early 2000s models of this vehicle that still serve perfectly to date.

Conclusion

There are tons of Japanese vehicles in Nigeria. But all of them are as popular and loved as the above-listed ones. While you can also consider purchasing any other vehicle not included in this list, these ones are among the top list of Nigerian vehicles with good reliability and great market value.