Import 2019 Subaru Forester (New Shape) Price in Kenya: The Duty & Engine Guide

The "New Shape" is finally affordable. The 2019 Subaru Forester (SK Series) is a massive upgrade in luxury and size over the old model. While local dealers sell these for Ksh 4.0 Million+, sophisticated buyers are importing the 2.0L "Touring" spec for approximately Ksh 3.1 Million. This guide explains how to avoid the expensive 2.5L tax trap.

The Financials: 2019 Forester (2.0L Touring)

Estimates for a Grade 4.5, "New Shape" SK9 Model.

Cost Component Estimated Cost (KES) Insider Notes
Vehicle Cost (CIF) Ksh 1,750,000 Price for the SK Series is dropping in Japan.
Duty & Taxes Ksh 1,250,000 Based on 2019 2.0L CRSP (8-Year Depreciation).
Port & Clearing Ksh 95,000 Agency Fee, Shipping Line, NTSA.
TOTAL LANDED COST ~ Ksh 3,100,000 Your Final Price
Compare Market Price: Local showrooms average Ksh 3.95M for the New Shape. You save ~Ksh 800,000.

The "Tax Trap": 2.0L vs 2.5L

In the New Shape, Subaru offers a 2.5L Direct Injection engine on high trims. Be careful: this engine pushes you into a higher tax bracket.

  • 2.0L Duty: ~Ksh 1.25M
  • 2.5L Duty: ~Ksh 1.55M

Verdict: Unless you need the extra 30HP, stick to the 2.0L Touring to keep the price near Ksh 3M.

Trim Decoder: SK Series

The naming convention has changed from the old "2.0i-L".

Touring (The Smart Buy)

Engine: 2.0L Petrol (FB20)

  • Key Features: EyeSight Ver.3, Reverse Auto Braking, X-Mode.
  • Interior: Fabric/Power Seats.
  • Target Price: Ksh 3.1M – 3.2M

X-Break (The Rugged Spec)

Engine: 2.0L or e-Boxer

  • Key Features: Orange exterior/interior accents, Water-repellent seats, Black 17" Alloys.
  • Target Price: Ksh 3.2M – 3.35M

Premium (The Tax Heavy)

Engine: 2.5L Petrol

  • Key Features: 18" Alloys, Leather, Power Tailgate.
  • Target Price: Ksh 3.6M+
  • Warning: High Duty Cost.

Ownership Reality: New Shape Maintenance

The SK Forester is reliable, but parts are more expensive than the old SJ model.

Item Est. Cost Advisor Note
Windshield (EyeSight) Ksh 80,000+ Must be original glass for cameras to work. Get Windshield Insurance.
CVT Fluid Ksh 2,500 / Liter Use only Subaru High Torque (Green) Fluid. Change every 40k km.
Radio Expander Ksh 3,500 Required for local FM stations.
View Live 2019 Forester (New Shape) Inventory »

Verified SK Series Units Available