Top 10 Fastest Selling Tokunbo Cars In Nigeria (And 7 Factors To Consider When Buying A Used Car)

We scan the market for the 2008 to 2012 models of the most popular used cars in Nigeria right now, including the average market prices

You know, although the term “tokunbo” is now synonymous with fairly used products imported from overseas, the term was originally used to describe children born overseas. Tokunbo originated from the Yoruba language meaning “from overseas” before metamorphosing into slang for all used stuff brought into the country from abroad, primarily, used cars.

How a term for brand-new babies born overseas turned into the description for used goods is a story we need your help telling us in the comment box at the end of this article. In any case, Nigeria is a country with a huge demand for cars, both new and used.

Tokunbo (foreign-used) cars are a popular option for many Nigerians due to their affordability and availability. In this article, we will take a look at the top ten fastest selling tokunbo cars in Nigeria right now, ordered by their popularity. 

Related: Two Solid Reasons Why Nigerian Drivers Should Consider The Chevrolet Malibu 

10. Fastest Selling Tokunbo Cars: Honda Civic – ₦3 Million

The Honda Civic is a compact car that is popular among Nigerians due to its affordability, reliability, and fuel efficiency. The car is available in both sedan and coupe versions, with the sedan being the more popular option. The Civic is definitely one of the most reliable tokunbo cars money can buy.

A tokunbo Honda Civic between 2008 and 2012 can cost anywhere between ₦3 million and ₦5 million depending on the vehicle condition, mileage, options, and of course, the buyer’s negotiation power. It can also cost slightly less or more based on the factors we just mentioned. 

9. Fastest Selling Tokunbo Cars: Honda Pilot – ₦5 Million

The Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV popular among Nigerians due to its reliability, comfort, and spaciousness. The car is available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive versions, with the two-wheel drive being the more popular option. The Pilot is one of the most affordable tokunbo cars in the market.

A foreign-used Honda Pilot of model years 2008 to 2012 typically goes for ₦5 million to ₦7 million, depending on market factors like mileage, trim, and overall vehicle condition. Of course, location also matters when shopping for used cars. 

8. Fastest Selling Tokunbo Cars: Lexus RX – ₦7 Million

The Lexus RX is a luxury SUV that is popular among Nigerians due to its comfort, reliability, and prestige. The car is available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive versions, with the two-wheel drive being the more popular option. The RX is one of the best used car models in Nigeria right now.

These days, the RX350 is the real deal, compared to the erstwhile RX300. So, unless you’re pinching pennies, or you found a particularly compelling RX300 model, the RX350 is the way to go. The Nigerian used car market is currently selling tokunbo 2008–2012 RX350 anywhere from ₦7 million to ₦13 million, or more, all factors considered. 

7. Fastest Selling Tokunbo Cars: Toyota RAV4 – ₦6 Million

The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV that is popular among Nigerians due to its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. The car is available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive versions, with the two-wheel drive being the more popular option. 

The SUVs currently go for ₦6 million to ₦9 million for the 2008 to 2012 models, but we bet you’ll easily get a good deal with less than ₦8 million for the 2012 RAV4 if you scan the market properly. 

6. Fastest Selling Tokunbo Cars: Toyota Sienna – ₦5 Million

This one is the transporter of choice for interstate commercial drivers in the country. It’s also the preferred family car and widely used by small-scale businesses. The Toyota Sienna is a popular minivan among Nigerians due to its comfort, reliability, and spaciousness. Of course, Toyota leads the most popular tokunbo car brands in Nigeria.

Sienna is available in both seven and eight-seater versions, with the eight-seater being the more popular option. Sienna’s popularity explains why foreign-used models of 2008 still go for an average of ₦5 million, while the 2012 model can go for anywhere between ₦8 million and ₦12 million.

Frankly, we don’t see why you should pay more than ₦12 million for an 11-year-old technology, not when you can buy the CNG-powered 2015 Fiat Ducato Natural Power with half that money and still save a small fortune on long-term fuel cost. Indeed, buying pre-owned cars in Nigeria isn't always as simple as it often seems.

5. Fastest Selling Tokunbo Cars: Toyota Highlander – ₦8 Million

The 2008 Highlander is most likely our first recommendation if you asked us which SUV you should buy and drive forever and ever. The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV popular among Nigerians due to its reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. 

The SUV is available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive versions, with the two-wheel drive being the more popular option. This year, Toyota introduced a bigger, more-equipped Highlander called the Grand Highlander. 

The 2008 Highlander now sells for an average of ₦8 million, which is a huge shame considering the vehicle’s age. Unfortunately, it doesn’t get cheaper as you move up the years, with a 2012 tokunbo Highlander commanding an upward of ₦12 million. 

4. Fastest Selling Tokunbo Cars: Nissan Altima – ₦4 Million

The Nissan Altima midsize sedan enjoys plenty of popularity in Nigerian due to its affordability, reliability, and fuel efficiency. The car is available in both sedan and coupe versions, with the sedan being the more popular option. 

Altima is one of the cheapest good-looking and well-featured sedans money can buy, whether new or used. You can get a foreign-used 2008 Altima for less than ₦4 million these days, while the 2012 models typically go for around ₦5 million. 

3. Fastest Selling Tokunbo Cars: Toyota Camry – ₦4 Million

The Toyota Camry is probably the only car with “Big for Nothing” as a nickname and still be a bestseller in Nigeria. We highly doubt any other brand will easily get away with such a tag and still command respect in the market.

The Camry is a popular choice among Nigerians, particularly the seventh-generation model (2007-2011), due to its reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. The car is available in both sedan and coupe versions, with the sedan being the more popular option. 

The Big Daddy currently sells for around ₦4 million, and the interesting fact is that Nigerian-used models in good condition don’t sell for significantly less than that. The 2012 model goes for an average of ₦7 million. 

2. Fastest Selling Tokunbo Cars: Honda Accord – ₦4 Million

The Honda Accord is another popular option among Nigerians, particularly the eighth-generation model (2008-2012). The car is known for its comfort, reliability, and fuel efficiency. The Accord is available in both sedan and coupe versions, with the sedan being the more popular option. 

₦4 million should get you a well-equipped tokunbo 2008 Honda Accord, while 2012 models typically sells upward of ₦5 million to ₦7 million. We even found the crossover Crosstour on offer for six million naira. 

Related: Here’s How Much The Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 Costs In Nigeria Right Now 

1. Fastest Selling Tokunbo Cars: Toyota Corolla – ₦4 Million

Deserving the crown of king of tokunbo cars in Nigeria is the Toyota Corolla, a popular choice thanks to its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordable maintenance costs. 

The used models are the bread and butter of uber drivers, as well as the preferred choice for first-time drivers, and the way to go for university students looking for an affordable private transportation. 

The Corolla is available in both sedan and hatchback versions, with the sedan being the most sought after. Additionally, the Corolla’s strong resale value further promotes its popularity among forward-thinking shoppers. Foreign-used Corolla models currently have an average price of ₦4 million to ₦6 million for the 2008–2012 model years. 

7 Important Factors To Consider When Buying A Tokunbo Car In Nigeria

Buying a tokunbo (foreign-used) car in Nigeria can be a cost-effective way to get a reliable vehicle. However, there are several important factors to consider to ensure that you get a good deal and a car that meets your needs. It's important to familiarize yourself with critical car inspection tips for used vehicles.

Here are seven important factors to consider when buying a tokunbo car in Nigeria: 

1. Factors To Consider When Buying A Tokunbo Car: Price

 One of the main reasons why people buy tokunbo cars is to save money. However, it is important to have a budget in mind when shopping for a tokunbo car. 

Make sure to consider the cost of the car, as well as any additional expenses such as customs duties and clearing fees (assuming you’re importing), and transportation costs. It is also important to compare prices from different dealers to get the best deal. 

2. Factors To Consider When Buying A Tokunbo Car: Condition

The vehicle’s condition is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a tokunbo car. Make sure to inspect the car thoroughly to check for signs of wear and tear, such as rust, dents, and scratches. 

You should also check the engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, and steering to ensure that they are in good working condition. 

3. Factors To Consider When Buying A Tokunbo Car: Mileage

The mileage of the car is another important factor to consider when buying a tokunbo car. Cars with high mileage may be cheaper, but they may also have more wear and tear and require more maintenance.

It is important to find a balance between price and mileage, and to choose a car with a mileage that is appropriate for its age and condition. 

4. Factors To Consider When Buying A Tokunbo Car: Service History

The car’s service history is an important factor to consider when buying a tokunbo car. Cars with a good service history are more likely to be in good condition and require less maintenance. 

Make sure to ask for the maintenance records and receipts to check if the car has been serviced regularly and if any major repairs have been done. 

5. Factors To Consider When Buying A Tokunbo Car: Dealer Reputation

The dealer/seller’s reputation is another important factor to consider when buying a tokunbo car. Make sure to research the dealer and read reviews from previous customers (assuming you’re found them online) to ensure that they are reputable and trustworthy. 

You should also check if the dealer is registered with relevant authorities and has the necessary licenses to operate. 

6. Factors To Consider When Buying A Tokunbo Car: History Report

A car history report isn’t the same as the service history. It’s a document that provides information about the car’s history, such as accidents, thefts, and previous owners. 

The ability to investigate a car’s history is one of the perks of buying foreign-used cars. You’re unlikely to have access to such information if you’re buying a Nigerian-used model. 

It is important to obtain a car history report to ensure that the car has not been involved in any major accidents, stolen, or has any outstanding loans or liens. 

7. Factors To Consider When Buying A Tokunbo Car: Test Drive

A test drive is an important step in the buying process, as it allows you to experience the car and check if it meets your needs. 

Considering the widely publicized incident of a ‘customer’ who made away with a dealer's GLB-Class in the name of "test drive" in Abuja, you should be comfortable having a representative or two of the dealer in the car with you while you do your test drive. 

In any case, make sure to test drive the car on different types of roads and in different conditions to ensure that it performs well. You should also check the comfort, visibility, and other features of the car to ensure that they meet your expectations. 

Final Word On The Fastest Selling Used Cars In Nigeria

Summarily, the top ten fastest selling tokunbo cars in Nigeria are the Toyota Corolla, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Toyota Highlander, Toyota Sienna, Toyota RAV4, Lexus RX, Honda Pilot, and Honda Civic. 

These cars are popular among Nigerians because they offer the primary ingredients that attract the average Nigerian auto shopper – reliability, affordability, and fuel efficiency. So, if you are looking to buy a tokunbo car in Nigeria, consider one of these models as they are likely to be easy to find and have good resale value. 

Additionally, when buying a tokunbo car, it is important to do your research and inspect the car thoroughly before making a purchase. Look for signs of wear and tear, check the maintenance history, and take the car for a test drive to ensure it is in good working condition. 

Choose a reputable dealer to avoid scams and ensure that the car has been properly imported and cleared by customs. You can also consider using a car inspection service to help you inspect the car before making a purchase.