Zimbabwe Top 5 Best First Cars Under $1,000

For first-time car buyers it is advisable to buy a trusted and easy to service vehicle, and one that doesn’t break the bank is an added bonus. Those looking for a used car in Zimbabwe will find that Japanese used cars tick all of these boxes, but with so many cars to choose from it can be difficult to decide on what’s best for you. Here, we take a look at some of the best first car recommendations you can buy—all for less than $1,000!

1. Toyota IST

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The Toyota IST’s name means “unique”. This is an easy-to-drive vehicle that is very economical, going for more than 19km/L in most highway situations. It is small and compact making it easier to park and drive around in. The IST comes in 1.3L, as well as a slightly bigger 1.5L and 1.8L to meet different needs for the consumer. The vehicle is a hatchback, but incorporates an SUV and station wagon’s spaciousness. The vehicle is beautiful on the eye and will surely get noticed from many. As a plus, this car is also easy to service and to get spare parts for.

Other optional and standard features of the Toyota IST include a centralised Temperature Control System, alloy wheels, roof rail, fog lights, power steering and windows, and many more convenient components that make your drive easier. The IST is a great first car recommendation due to its smooth handling, range of available features and attractive, modern design.

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<Toyota IST Specifications>
Make: Toyota
Price Range: $800 (FOB) second-hand from BE FORWARD
CC: 1.290 to 1.790
Year: From 2001

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2. Toyota Vitz

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The Toyota Vitz has one of the smallest engines you can find. This is a hatchback available in 3 or 5-door varieties. It is available from a modest 0.99L engine up to 1.490, making it very fuel efficient. This gives it a unique offering for most first-time buyers as it is not only affordable, but it also offers low service costs and its component parts can be found with ease.

 

The Toyota Vitz is not only a great car for first-time drivers, but even for small families due to its large amount of interior space and great fuel efficiency. Due to its low price point, range of features, and sporty styling, it doesn’t come as a surprise that the Vitz is one of the best used cars you’ll find on the roads in Zimbabwe today.

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<Toyota Vitz Specifications>
Make: Toyota
Price Range: $400 (FOB) second-hand from Be Forward
CC: 0.99 to 1.790
Year: From 1998

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3. Volkswagen Golf

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For first-time buyers who prefer a sporty, durable driving option that has low maintenance then the Volkswagen Golf is the ultimate vehicle for them. Coming in from a modest 1.380cc, this sporty and powerful hatchback is an upmarket vehicle, but is priced quite modest at BE FORWARD, starting from as low as $500 FOB. For most Zimbabweans, this car is classy and durable and can withstand the roads as it has quite a long wheelbase and distance from the ground.

The long-running Volkswagen Golf is one of the best first cars under $1,000 today, due to its unique interior and exterior styling, wide availability of spare parts, and surprisingly powerful yet fuel efficient engine. If you’re looking for an affordable used car that has European flair and offers a different experience than a Japanese used car, the Golf is a great option to consider.

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<Volkswagen Golf Specifications>
Make: Volkswagen
Price Range: $800 (FOB) second-hand from BE FORWARD
CC: 1.380 to 1.980
Year: From 1997 to 2004

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4. Honda Fit

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The Honda Fit is the ultimate car for the Zimbabwean market. It is a sturdy vehicle for the Zimbabwean terrain and has an ease of service with many component parts available in case one needs to replace something. Service parts are easily accessible across the country at reasonable costs, and most mechanics are well versed with the Honda Fit. It is also one of the easiest cars to resell in Zimbabwe, as it is in high demand.

The Honda Fit is great for first-time drivers who are looking for a fun daily drive. Not only boasting a youthful design and wide range of colours but also an easy to park body and certified Honda reliability, its no wonder that this Japanese used car is so popular with younger Zimbabweans.

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<Specifications>
Make: Honda
Price Range: $500 (FOB) second-hand from Be Forward
CC: 1.330 to 1.490
Year:  From 2001

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5. Mazda Verisa

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The Mazda Verisa is a perfect car for first-time buyers as it combines simplicity and a compact design, yet gives a lot of power from the engine. In terms of service and back-up, Zimbabwean first-time buyers need not worry as this car is offered  with affordable service and back-up from many mechanics. This car offers a true driving pleasure, and has a reasonable space from the ground making it perfect for the Zimbabwean terrain.

Despite it not being as popular as the other vehicles on this list, the Mazda Verisa offers a great experience for first-time car buyers. With a range of optional and added features such as power steering, GPS system, and even a foldable magnifying mirror tucked away in the glove compartment, the Verisa

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<Mazda Verisa Specifications>
Make: Mazda
Price Range: $900 (FOB) second-hand from Be Forward
CC: 1.490
Year: From 2004 – 2015

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BE FORWARD: Your Source for the Best First Cars for New Drivers & More

Whether you’re looking for even more first car recommendations or to upgrade your current car, BE FORWARD offer thousands of high-quality used Japanese cars ready to be shipped to Zimbabwe and beyond at the lowest cost. Click or tap the button below to check out our constantly updated stock list and find the perfect vehicle for you!

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This article was written by BE FORWARD Supporters ID 297836 Nokhuthula in Zimbabwe. What is BE FORWARD Supporters? Click here to join!