Toyota has announced that it will cease production of the Corolla Axio and the Fielder station wagon by October 2025. These models, which have been a staple for budget-conscious drivers in Japan and beyond, have captured the hearts of many, especially here in Kenya.
The Corolla Axio sedan and Fielder wagon, both based on the “E160” generation of the Corolla, have been available since 2012. They have become a favourite among Kenyans because of their affordability, practicality, and reputation for reliability.
For many years, the Toyota Corolla Axio and Fielder have been a common sight on Kenyan roads. Known for their low maintenance costs, ease of repairs, and good fuel efficiency, these cars have proven to be ideal for the Kenyan market, where durability and affordability are key factors for most buyers. The availability of spare parts and their widespread presence in the local market has made them even more appealing to Kenyan motorists, especially those looking for budget-friendly vehicles.
In Kenya, where many vehicles are imported, the rule is that cars not more than 8 years old from the year of manufacture are allowed to be brought into the country. This means that while production will end in 2025, Kenyans can still expect to see used Axio and Fielder models being imported into the country for years to come. In fact, it is likely that the cars will still be available for purchase in Kenya until around 2032, as used imports will continue to arrive, albeit in decreasing numbers as we approach the end of their production run.
The discontinuation of the Corolla Axio and Fielder is not the first time Toyota has bid farewell to popular models. Kenyans have already seen the end of models such as the Toyota Premio, Allion, and the Toyota Wish, each of which had a loyal following. These cars, much like the Axio and Fielder, were known for their practicality and cost-effectiveness, making them strong contenders in the competitive Kenyan car market.
As we approach the end of an era, there’s growing interest in what Toyota might replace them with. Will the brand introduce new, similarly affordable models, or is there a shift towards more premium options?
While there’s no official word on a direct successor just yet, industry watchers speculate that the next generation of Toyota’s compact sedans and wagons might lean more heavily on hybrid or electric technologies, in line with global automotive trends. Whatever the future holds, Toyota will likely continue to serve the needs of the Kenyan market with reliable, affordable, and efficient vehicles.
It will be interesting to see how the Japanese automaker redefines the affordable compact car in the coming years, especially for markets like Kenya where budget-friendly vehicles are in high demand.