KM Editorial | Kun Motors

When most people think of a full-size 7-seat SUV in Kenya, one name comes to mind: Toyota Fortuner. It has dominated the segment for years, and for good reason — it is tough, reliable, and backed by Toyota’s extensive service network.

But at KES 9,500,000–11,600,000 ($73,000–$90,000) for a new one, the Fortuner is not cheap. Which is why the majority of Fortuners on Kenyan roads were imported as used vehicles from Japan, South Africa, or the Middle East. A 2021 model with 45,000 km runs about KES 6,900,000 ($53,000). A 2018 model closer to KES 6,000,000 ($46,000).

The SAIC MAXUS D90 enters this conversation with a proposition that is difficult to ignore: a brand new, fully loaded 7-seat SUV for $52,000–$56,000 — with specifications that the Fortuner simply cannot match at any price point.

The Powertrain

The D90’s right-hand-drive diesel variant runs a 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel producing 160 kW and 500 Nm of torque, paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive with centre differential lock. The Luxury variant adds a rear differential lock.

For context: the Fortuner’s 2.8-litre turbo diesel produces 150 kW and 500 Nm. The D90 matches the Fortuner’s torque output while generating more power from a smaller, more efficient engine. Both use proven automatic transmissions — the D90’s ZF 8-speed is the same gearbox family found in BMW, Audi, and Jaguar Land Rover products.

Safety and Technology

This is where the gap becomes a chasm.

The D90 comes standard with a full Level 2 advanced driver assistance system (ADAS): adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking (AEBS), lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW), blind spot detection (BSD), lane change assist (LCA), rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA), door open warning (DOW), 360-degree surround view camera, front and rear parking radar, driver fatigue monitoring, and a dashcam.

It has 6 airbags (front, side, and curtain), ESP with hill start assist and hill descent control, electronic parking brake with auto hold, and TPMS.

The interior features dual 12.3-inch LCD screens (instrument cluster and infotainment), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, DAB digital radio, 8 speakers, wireless phone charging (Luxury), front sunroof, auto front and rear air conditioning, rain-sensing wipers, LED headlights with automatic induction, and keyless entry with push-button start.

The Fortuner, even in its top-spec GR Sport variant at KES 11,600,000, does not offer adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, 360-degree camera, or a digital instrument cluster as standard. Its base infotainment screen is 8 inches.

The Value Equation

At $52,000–$56,000 landed in Kenya, the D90 is priced at the same level as a 4-year-old used Fortuner — but delivers:

• Zero kilometers vs. 40,000–60,000 km
• 3-year/100,000 km warranty vs. no warranty
• Full L2 ADAS vs. no ADAS
• 6 airbags vs. typically 2–3 (in used imports)
• ZF 8-speed vs. 6-speed
• Dual 12.3-inch screens vs. 8-inch single screen
• 160 kW vs. 150 kW

For corporate fleet use, executive transport, hospitality, tourism, or family use, the D90 represents a category shift — not just a cheaper alternative, but a more capable vehicle at a lower price.

Availability

The MAXUS D90 is available in right-hand drive diesel configuration through Kun Motors East Africa. Both 4WD Elite and 4WD Luxury variants are offered. Contact our team for detailed specifications, pricing, and delivery timelines.

Kun Motors is an authorized distribution partner for SAIC MAXUS in East Africa.

WhatsApp: +86 18962394189 | Email: yangkuoming@kunmotors.com