- CFAO Motors has introduced a new hatchback model dubbed Suzuki Baleno into the Kenyan market, at a cost of KSh 2.73 million
- The Suzuki Baleno is powered by a 1500cc petrol engine that delivers robust performance and fuel efficiency
- Customers can also acquire the vehicle through financing options through major financial institutions in Kenya
CFAO Motors, formerly known as Toyota Kenya, has introduced a new hatchback model dubbed Suzuki Baleno into the Kenyan market, at a cost of KSh 2.73 million.
On February 14, 2023, the company announced that the move is intended to help the firm meet the growing demand for fuel-efficient vehicles in Kenya.
The Suzuki Baleno is powered by a 1500cc petrol engine that delivers robust performance and fuel efficiency.
The new sporty and stylish model also features a 4-speed automatic transmission, 360-degree camera plus Heads Up Display, 6 airbags, LED headlights, 9-inch infotainment system display, and enhanced fuel consumption of 14-17km per litre.
CFAO Motors Managing Director Arvinder Reel said the Suzuki Baleno targets young motor enthusiasts as well as families.
“This model is specifically designed with the young motor enthusiast, families, and budding entrepreneurs in mind due to its unique features and fuel efficiency fit for customers seeking to make bolder moves,” he said.
CFAO Motors added that customers are guaranteed a 3-year or 100,000km manufacturer warranty. Customers can also acquire the vehicle through financing options through major financial institutions in Kenya.
The vehicle will be available nationwide through CFAO Motors’ extended network of 33 branches and dealerships.
Since 2019, CFAO Motors has targeted the B2C segment by offering small passenger vehicles under 1500cc that are compact, fuel-efficient, and affordable to meet growing demand. They include the Toyota Starlet, Suzuki Dzire, Toyota Vitz among others.
CFAO Motors opens premium spare parts outlet in Kenya
The unveiling of Suzuki Baleno comes barely two months after CFAO Motors (Kenya) opened a 600-square metre central parts outlet for its Winpart division.
The launch of the outlet comes when the company is seeking to expand its product offering and services by distributing original vehicle maintenance spare parts.
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Located along Baricho Road, just behind CFAO Motors headquarters, the outlet will host parts for all vehicle models.
Toyota Kenya rebrands
Last year, Toyota Kenya Limited rebranded to CFAO Motors effective February 2022, a move that would enhance its value proposition in the automotive market.
In 2012, Toyota Tsusho Corporation (TTC) acquired the Corporation for Africa & Overseas (CFAO) (based in Paris, France). TTC went further to form an African Division with all operations in Africa reporting to CFAO Paris.
CFAO is a key player in the fields of mobility, healthcare, consumer goods, infrastructure and energy in 39 countries on the African continent.
The rebrand and name change by Toyota Kenya Limited, was approved through a special resolution by shareholders and authorization by the Board of Directors.
“Overall, this change allows us to enhance our value chain in the automotive sector over and above the Toyota brand, which remains the core of our business,” said Reel.
Reel added that CFAO Motors would continue to remain the exclusive distributor of brand new Toyota vehicles and genuine parts in Kenya as well as exclusively offering Toyota manufacturer’s warranty.
The company added that it would also distribute other new cars and equipment such as Suzuki vehicles, Yamaha motorbikes and Hino trucks.
CFAO expands distribution of Mercedes Benz in Africa
In a related story, CFAO said last month that it is expanding distribution for luxury automaker Mercedes Benz in four more African countries: Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana and Senegal.
These four markets add to the existing CFAO Mobility network of Mercedes-Benz dealerships, established over the course of a 23-year partnership with the German brand, which is cementing its position as a leading manufacturer with a pivotal role to play in shaping future mobility solutions.
Distribution network growth in these four African countries doubles CFAO Mobility’s coverage and confirms its drive to continue developing this key partnership at the premium end of the market.
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