Importing a Luxury Van to Kenya (2026): Mercedes V-Class, Toyota Alphard and Vellfire Compared

Luxury vans are booming in Kenya. If you want to import a luxury van to Kenya, three models dominate: the Mercedes-Benz V-Class from the UK and the Toyota Alphard and Vellfire from Japan. They offer business-class comfort for families, hotels, churches, tour operators and VIP transport companies. As a result, they are increasingly common on Nairobi roads and at airport arrivals.

This guide compares the three, with landed prices, seating, features and running costs. Moreover, it covers alternatives such as the Noah and Serena. Finally, it explains how Elisa Motors imports luxury vans with one fixed price.

Luxury van landed prices in Kenya (2026)

These indicative landed prices include shipping, KRA duty, clearing and registration for 2019-or-newer units.

Mercedes-Benz V-Class

The V-Class is a premium people carrier, usually sourced from the UK. The V220d lands at about KES 6.5M – 7.5M. Meanwhile, the V250d AMG Line costs about KES 7.2M – 8.2M.

It offers seven or eight seats, a diesel engine and a refined cabin. Moreover, its flexible seating can face backwards for meetings. Therefore, it suits hotels, corporate shuttles and families.

Toyota Alphard

The Alphard is Japan's flagship MPV. It lands from about KES 6.5M. The Executive Lounge Hybrid offers reclining first-class seats with ottomans. As a result, it is a favourite for VIP and executive transport.

Toyota Vellfire

The Vellfire is the Alphard's sportier twin, from about KES 6.2M. It has bolder styling and similar luxury. In fact, the choice between them often comes down to looks.

Mercedes-Benz V-Class specifications by version

Here is how each Mercedes-Benz V-Class version we import compares. All of them seat 7, and you can import them from UK or Japan.

Mercedes-Benz V-Class V220d. This version uses a 2.1-litre diesel engine with 163 hp, a 7-speed automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. In addition, it returns about 14 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 6.5M – 7.5M.

Mercedes-Benz V-Class V250d AMG Line. This version uses a 2.1-litre diesel engine with 190 hp, a 9-speed automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. Moreover, it returns about 13 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 7.2M – 8.2M. Furthermore, compared with lower trims, it adds leather captain seats, twin sliding doors.

Every Mercedes-Benz V-Class we import includes these key features: luxury van, 7 seats, captain seats, twin sliding doors and VIP transfers.

Toyota Alphard specifications by version

Here is how each Toyota Alphard version we import compares. All of them seat 7, and you can import them from Japan.

Toyota Alphard S 2.5. This version uses a 2.5-litre petrol engine with 182 hp, a cvt automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. In addition, it returns about 12 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 6.5M – 7.5M.

Toyota Alphard SC 3.5 V6. This version uses a 3.5-litre petrol engine with 301 hp, a 8-speed automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. Moreover, it returns about 10 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 7.5M – 8.5M.

Toyota Alphard Executive Lounge 2.5 Hybrid. This version uses a 2.5-litre hybrid engine with 197 hp, a e-cvt automatic gearbox and AWD. As a result, it returns about 18 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 8.5M – 10M.

Every Toyota Alphard we import includes these key features: first-class captain seats, twin power sliding doors, rear entertainment, JBL audio option and hybrid option.

Toyota Vellfire specifications by version

Here is how each Toyota Vellfire version we import compares. All of them seat 7, and you can import them from Japan.

Toyota Vellfire Z 2.5. This version uses a 2.5-litre petrol engine with 182 hp, a cvt automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. In addition, it returns about 12 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 6.2M – 7M.

Toyota Vellfire ZG 2.5. This version uses a 2.5-litre petrol engine with 182 hp, a cvt automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. Moreover, it returns about 12 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 6.8M – 7.8M. Furthermore, compared with lower trims, it adds power ottoman captain seats, leather.

Toyota Vellfire Executive Lounge 2.5 Hybrid. This version uses a 2.5-litre hybrid engine with 197 hp, a e-cvt automatic gearbox and AWD. As a result, it returns about 18 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 8.5M – 10M. Furthermore, compared with lower trims, it adds first-class rear seats, JBL, rear entertainment.

Every Toyota Vellfire we import includes these key features: luxury captain seats, twin power sliding doors, rear entertainment, JBL audio option and hybrid Executive Lounge.

V-Class vs Alphard: which to choose?

The V-Class offers a European feel, diesel efficiency and strong road presence. However, it needs Mercedes servicing. The Alphard and Vellfire offer Toyota reliability, superb rear comfort and efficient hybrids. Moreover, Toyota parts are easier to find upcountry.

For VIP comfort, the Alphard Executive Lounge wins. For a business image and long highway trips, the V-Class is excellent.

Cheaper alternatives

The Toyota Noah and Nissan Serena offer seven or eight seats for much less. They suit families and small shuttle businesses. Similarly, the Hiace suits higher-capacity transport. Read our commercial vehicle guide.

Uses in Kenya

Hotels in Nairobi, Naivasha and the coast use luxury vans for airport transfers. Churches and schools use them for leaders and guests. Moreover, VIP transport companies serve diplomats and executives. Families also love them for road trips to Mombasa and the Mara.

If you carry paying passengers, check NTSA licensing and insurance requirements. Read our NTSA registration guide.

Running costs

The V-Class diesel is efficient on highways. Alphard and Vellfire hybrids are economical in town. Petrol V6 versions use more fuel. In addition, servicing costs are moderate for Toyota models and higher for Mercedes.

Our services: luxury van imports

Elisa Motors imports luxury vans for clients in Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, Kisumu, Eldoret and beyond. Here is what we do.

1. UK and Japan sourcing

We source V-Class vans from UK dealers and Alphards and Vellfires from Japanese auctions. Moreover, we compare both for your needs.

You see real options.

2. Seating and spec advice

We help you choose seat layouts, trim and options. For example, Executive Lounge seats suit VIP use.

The right spec saves money.

3. History and condition checks

We verify mileage, auction sheets or UK history. Read our auction sheet guide.

Doubtful vans are rejected.

4. Inspection and shipping

Every van passes the KEBS-appointed inspection. Read our shipping guide.

Then we ship to Mombasa.

5. Exact duty quote

We calculate duty for the exact model. Read our KRA duty guide.

One figure covers everything.

6. Clearing and registration

We clear the van at Mombasa and register it with NTSA. Read our clearing guide.

You receive the logbook in your name.

7. Delivery and English conversion

We convert Japanese screens to English and deliver to your door. Read our English conversion guide.

We deliver across Kenya.

Seat layouts explained

Luxury vans come in several layouts. The V-Class often has two rear rows that can face each other, which suits meetings. In contrast, the Alphard and Vellfire usually have two large captain's chairs in the second row and a bench in the third. Moreover, Executive Lounge versions add reclining seats with leg rests.

Eight-seat versions trade comfort for capacity. Therefore, choose seven seats for VIP comfort and eight for family or shuttle use.

Business case for hotels and shuttles

Hotels and tour companies use luxury vans to impress guests and win premium bookings. For example, a lodge in Naivasha may charge more for transfers in an Alphard than in a standard van. Similarly, corporate shuttle firms in Nairobi win contracts with embassies and international organisations.

However, calculate fuel, insurance, licensing and driver costs before investing. As a result, you can price your service profitably. Read our car import business guide.

Buying checklist

First, confirm the first registration date is 2019 or later. Second, verify the mileage. Third, test every power sliding door and seat function. Then check the rear entertainment, climate zones and cameras. Moreover, inspect the interior for wear, because vans carrying many passengers age faster inside. Finally, compare with a fresh import quote.

Popular options

Buyers often want rear entertainment screens, a sunroof, premium audio and power sliding doors. Moreover, Executive Lounge seats are popular for VIP use. In contrast, eight-seat layouts suit families and shuttles. Similarly, many owners add tinted windows and trackers.

Resale value

Alphards and Vellfires hold their value well thanks to Toyota reliability and strong demand. The V-Class also sells well, especially with full service history. Therefore, both are solid investments for businesses that plan to upgrade every few years.

Toyota Noah specifications by version

Here is how each Toyota Noah version we import compares. All of them seat 8, and you can import them from Japan.

Toyota Noah X 2.0. This version uses a 2.0-litre petrol engine with 152 hp, a cvt automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. In addition, it returns about 13 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 2.5M – 2.9M.

Toyota Noah Si 2.0. This version uses a 2.0-litre petrol engine with 152 hp, a cvt automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. Moreover, it returns about 13 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 2.7M – 3.1M.

Toyota Noah Hybrid Si 1.8. This version uses a 1.8-litre hybrid engine with 136 hp, a e-cvt automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. As a result, it returns about 23 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 3M – 3.4M.

Every Toyota Noah we import includes these key features: 8 seats with flexible layout, power sliding doors, rear AC vents, hybrid option and toyota Safety Sense.

Nissan Serena specifications by version

Here is how each Nissan Serena version we import compares. All of them seat 8, and you can import them from Japan.

Nissan Serena X 2.0. This version uses a 2.0-litre petrol engine with 150 hp, a cvt automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. In addition, it returns about 15 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 2.3M – 2.7M.

Nissan Serena Highway Star 2.0. This version uses a 2.0-litre petrol engine with 150 hp, a cvt automatic gearbox and two-wheel drive. Moreover, it returns about 15 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 2.5M – 2.9M.

Nissan Serena e-Power Highway Star. This version uses a 1.2-litre hybrid engine with 136 hp, a e-power (single-speed) gearbox and two-wheel drive. As a result, it returns about 26 km/L and lands in Kenya at roughly KES 2.9M – 3.4M.

Every Nissan Serena we import includes these key features: 8 seats, hands-free sliding doors, proPILOT assist, e-Power option and rear AC.

Luxury van vs SUV

Many families compare a luxury van with a big SUV such as a Prado or Land Cruiser. The van wins on passenger comfort, easy access through sliding doors and space for luggage. In contrast, the SUV wins on rough-road ability and ground clearance. Therefore, if most of your trips are on tarmac, a van is often the more comfortable choice. Read our Prado price guide to compare.

Financing a luxury van for business

Many hotels and transport companies finance luxury vans through bank asset finance or leasing. Banks usually ask for a pro-forma invoice, company documents and a deposit. Moreover, some lenders prefer Toyota models because of their strong resale values. We provide the documents lenders ask for. Read our car finance and insurance guide.

First-year ownership tips

After delivery, service the van, convert Japanese screens to English and fit a tracker. In addition, protect the seats with quality covers if the van will carry many passengers. Similarly, train drivers on the power doors and seat functions to avoid damage. As a result, the cabin stays in top condition for longer.

Security for luxury vans

Luxury vans are valuable and attract attention. Therefore, fit an approved tracker, park in secure compounds and keep keys safe. Moreover, many insurers require these steps for cover. Similarly, VIP transport firms often add dash cameras for safety and accountability. As a result, both the vehicle and its passengers stay better protected on every trip, whether in Nairobi traffic or on long highway runs to the coast.

Where we deliver

We serve clients across Nairobi, including Westlands, Gigiri, Karen, Runda, Upper Hill and JKIA area hotels. We also serve Naivasha, Nakuru, Eldoret, Kisumu, Nanyuki and Machakos. At the coast, we serve Mombasa, Nyali, Diani, Watamu and Malindi.

Order your luxury van

Use the order form on this page, call +254 725 310 112 or WhatsApp +254 725 310 112. You can also browse all MPVs and 7–8 seaters.

import luxury van to Kenya: FAQs