Let’s be honest, buying a car in Nigeria in 2026 is not for the faint-hearted.
I remember just a few years ago when you could walk into a dealership in Berger or Festac with ₦2.5 million and drive out with a clean "first body" Toyota Corolla. Today? That same amount might barely cover the shipping and clearing costs, let alone the car itself.
With the Naira fluctuating and customs duties hitting new highs this year, the dream of a fresh "Tokunbo" ride is becoming harder to reach for the average earner. This has forced a massive shift in the market. More Nigerians are asking the tough question: Is it still worth squeezing yourself for a Tokunbo car, or should you settle for a Nigerian used vehicle?
As someone who tracks the auto market daily here at Carlots.ng, I’m going to break down exactly what you’re facing in 2026. No fluff, just the facts to help you spend your hard-earned money wisely.
Before we pick a winner, we need to look at the scoreboard. The automotive landscape has changed drastically over the last 18 months.
Customs Duty Hikes: The full implementation of the 4% FOB (Free On Board) levy and the high exchange rate for cargo clearance have sent landing costs through the roof.
The "Naija Used" Boom: Because Tokunbo prices have doubled (and in some cases tripled), there is a surge in demand for locally used cars. Interestingly, we are even seeing buyers from neighbouring countries like the Niger Republic crossing the border to buy Nigerian used cars because their currency holds more value here.
So, let's weigh the contenders.
"Tear Rubber" Appeal without the Brand New Price
When we say "Tokunbo," we refer to cars imported directly from the US, Canada, or Europe that have never been registered or driven on Nigerian roads. For decades, this has been the gold standard for the Nigerian middle class.
Better Maintenance History: Most Tokunbo cars come from countries with strict roadworthiness laws. A 2018 Camry from Texas likely drove on smooth tarmac and had scheduled oil changes.
Structural Integrity: You are less likely to find a Tokunbo car with a "welded chassis" or a dashboard held together by superglue (unless you are buying an accidented salvage car, which is a different story).
Status & Resale Value: Let’s not lie—there is a pride that comes with peeling the plastic off the seats. Plus, a clean Tokunbo car holds its value incredibly well.
The Price Shock: This is the dealbreaker. A 2010 Toyota Corolla, which is technically a 16-year-old car, is now trading around ₦9 million – ₦10 million for a clean Tokunbo unit. A 2020 Highlander? You are looking at upwards of ₦47 million.
Clearance Issues: In 2026, customs enforcement is stricter. If you buy from a shady dealer who "flew" the car out of the port without paying full duty, you risk having it seized by officers on the road.
If you have the cash liquidity and you plan to keep the car for 5+ years, Tokunbo remains the safer long-term investment. You are paying for peace of mind and longevity.
The Budget-Friendly Saviour (With Risks)
"Nigerian Used" refers to a car that has already been registered and driven in Nigeria. It might have had one owner (First User) or passed through five different hands.
Affordability: This is the biggest selling point. You can often get a Nigerian used car for 40% to 60% less than its Tokunbo equivalent. That ₦10 million Tokunbo Corolla? You might find its Nigerian used twin for ₦4.5 million to ₦5.5 million.
Negotiation Power: You are dealing with private sellers or local dealers who might be desperate to sell for cash or to "swap" for an upgrade. The room for bargaining is huge.
Test Drive Reality: You can test the car on actual Nigerian roads. If the suspension rattles on a pothole in Ikeja, you’ll know immediately.
The "Nigerian Factor": Many Nigerian drivers treat cars like machines that don't need love. We skip oil changes, use "roadside" mechanics, and manage suspension noise until the wheel almost falls off.
Hidden Horrors: Odometer tampering (rewinding the mileage) is rampant. A car reading 80,000km might have actually done 250,000km.
Documentation Headaches: You must verify that the original customs papers were genuine. If the first owner didn't pay the correct duty in 2019, you will be the one answering to Customs in 2026.
If you are on a strict budget, or if you are buying your first car to "learn work" on the road, a Nigerian used car is your best bet.
To make it easier, here is a quick breakdown of how they stack up right now.
| Feature | Tokunbo (Foreign Used) | Nigerian Used |
| Price | Very High (Premium pricing) | Moderate (Best value for money) |
| Engine Condition | Usually Excellent | 50/50 (Requires thorough check) |
| Suspension | Good (but needs adapting) | Often Worn (expect to change shocks) |
| Body/Exterior | Clean (First body) | Likely repainted or dented |
| Resale Value | High | Low to Moderate |
| Risk Level | Low (if duty is paid) | High (Mechanical & Paperwork) |
Whether you choose Tokunbo or Nigerian used, the rules of the game have changed. Don't be a victim.
If you are buying a Nigerian used car, try to stick to vehicles under 10 years old if your budget permits. Older cars (15+ years) that have spent 5 years on Nigerian roads often face "component fatigue." This is when the alternator, compressor, and transmission start failing one after the other.
I cannot stress this enough. In 2026, the Nigeria Customs Service has automated much of its data.
For Tokunbo: Demand the "C-Number" and verify it.
For Nigerian Used: Don't assume the papers are fine just because the car has been driven for years. Ask for the original import documents. If they are missing, walk away.
The days of a mechanic just listening to the engine sound are over. Modern cars hide faults well. Pay a professional to run an OBD-II computer scan. It will reveal if the "Check Engine" light was disabled or if the transmission sensors are failing.
Pro Tip: At Carlots.ng, we always recommend a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI). Spending ₦20k on an inspection today can save you ₦500k in engine repairs tomorrow.
There is no single "best" choice, but there is a smart choice based on your wallet.
The Winner for 2026:
If you have a budget below ₦6 million, Nigerian Used is your only realistic option for a reliable sedan (like a 2009-2012 Corolla or Civic). Buying a "Tokunbo" car in this price range today often means buying a severe accident victim that has been poorly repaired.
However, if you are spending above ₦15 million, I strongly recommend stretching for a Tokunbo vehicle. At that price point, the risk of inheriting someone else's expensive mechanical nightmares in a Nigerian used car is too high to justify the savings.
Are you currently eyeing a specific car model but aren't sure if the price you're seeing is fair for the 2026 market? Drop the car model and year in the comments, or browse our verified listings on Carlots.ng, and we can help you find a ride that fits your budget.
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