The car makes and models in Nigeria 2025 reflect the evolving automotive landscape, with both brand-new and used vehicles dominating the market. Buyers prioritise durability, affordability, and spare parts availability, making certain brands and models more popular than others. This guide explores the top car brands, models, and categories shaping Nigerian roads in 2025.
As the industry continues to grow, fuel efficiency and sustainability are becoming key considerations. While gasoline-powered vehicles remain dominant, electric and hybrid cars are gradually gaining attention. To better understand the most common vehicles on Nigerian roads, check out our Comprehensive Guide on Popular Vehicles in Nigeria. If you're weighing fuel options, our article on Electric vs. Gasoline Cars: Pros, Cons, and What’s Best for Nigeria breaks down the advantages and disadvantages. For those prioritising fuel economy, don’t miss our Top 10 Fuel-Efficient Cars in 2025 for the best options available.
Popular Car Makes and Models in Nigeria 2025
Certain manufacturers have maintained dominance in Nigeria due to their reliability, resale value, and fuel efficiency.
1. Toyota – Nigeria’s Most Popular Car Brand
Toyota remains the top-selling brand in Nigeria due to its durability, fuel efficiency, and availability of spare parts.
🔹 Toyota Corolla – Nigeria’s best-selling sedan, widely used for personal and ride-hailing services.
🔹 Toyota Camry – A preferred choice for private and commercial use.
🔹 Toyota Highlander – A rugged SUV for family and executive use.
🔹 Toyota RAV4 – A compact SUV known for reliability and fuel economy.
🔹 Toyota Prado – Popular among government officials and business executives.
🔹 Toyota Hilux – The go-to pickup truck for businesses and security agencies.
🔗 Visit Toyota Nigeria for the latest models and specifications.
2. Honda – Fuel-Efficient and Stylish
Honda is popular for its smooth performance, stylish design, and fuel economy.
🔹 Honda Accord – The “Discussion Continues” and “Evil Spirit” models remain favorites.
🔹 Honda Civic – A compact car known for affordability.
🔹 Honda CR-V – A reliable SUV with excellent resale value.
🔹 Honda Pilot – Preferred for family travel and durability.
🔗 Check Honda Nigeria for more details.
3. Lexus – The Luxury Favorite
Lexus dominates the luxury car market in Nigeria with its comfort and high resale value.
🔹 Lexus RX 350 & RX 500h – Premium SUVs for high-end buyers.
🔹 Lexus GX 460 – A rugged yet luxurious option.
🔹 Lexus ES 350 – A top choice for executives.
4. Mercedes-Benz – Prestige and Performance
Mercedes-Benz vehicles are known for luxury, class, and high performance.
🔹 Mercedes-Benz C-Class & E-Class – Common among business professionals.
🔹 Mercedes-Benz GLE & GLC – High-end SUVs with a strong presence.
5. Hyundai & Kia – Affordable and Fuel-Efficient
Hyundai and Kia offer budget-friendly vehicles with great fuel economy.
🔹 Hyundai Elantra & Sonata – Gaining popularity among ride-hailing services.
🔹 Kia Rio & Cerato – Affordable sedans for daily commuting.
6. Nissan – Affordable and Durable
Nissan is recognized for its cost-effectiveness and strong performance.
🔹 Nissan Altima & Sentra – Budget-friendly sedans.
🔹 Nissan Pathfinder & X-Trail – SUVs built for Nigerian roads.
🔹 Nissan Navara – A durable pickup for commercial use.
7. Ford – Rugged Pickups & SUVs
🔹 Ford Explorer – A preferred rugged SUV.
🔹 Ford Ranger – A solid alternative to the Toyota Hilux.
8. Volkswagen – Leading in Commercial Transport
🔹 Volkswagen Golf 3 & 4 – A popular taxi option.
🔹 Volkswagen Transporter (T4 & T5) – Used for Lagos “Danfo” buses.
Car Categories in Nigeria 2025
1. Best Sedans in Nigeria
Sedans remain popular for personal and commercial use due to fuel efficiency.
✔ Toyota Corolla
✔ Honda Accord
✔ Hyundai Elantra
✔ Nissan Altima
2. Best SUVs for Nigerian Roads
SUVs are favored for their higher ground clearance and ruggedness.
✔ Toyota Highlander
✔ Lexus RX 350
✔ Honda CR-V
✔ Mercedes-Benz GLE
3. Best Pickup Trucks for Business & Security
✔ Toyota Hilux
✔ Ford Ranger
✔ Nissan Navara
4. Best Commercial Vehicles (Buses & Taxis)
✔ Toyota HiAce – Common for intercity transport.
✔ Volkswagen Transporter (Danfo Bus) – Popular in Lagos.
✔ Toyota Sienna – Used by transport companies.
5. Best Motorcycles & Tricycles for Public Transport
✔ Bajaj Boxer – The most used Okada (motorcycle taxi).
✔ TVS Apache – Rising in popularity for Okada services.
✔ Bajaj RE (Keke Napep) – The leading three-wheeler for short distances.
Car Buying Guide in Nigeria 2025
Things to Consider Before Buying a Car
🔹 Fuel Efficiency – Consider cars with low fuel consumption.
🔹 Availability of Spare Parts – Choose brands with easy-to-find spare parts.
🔹 Resale Value – Toyota and Honda have strong resale value.
🔹 Road Conditions – SUVs and pickups are better for rough terrain.
Conclusion
The car makes and models in Nigeria 2025 continue to be dominated by Toyota, Honda, Lexus, and Nissan. SUVs, sedans, and commercial vehicles remain the top choices. Whether you're looking for an affordable sedan, a rugged SUV, or a commercial vehicle, this guide helps you make the right choice for Nigerian roads.
🔗 For more details on car pricing, visit Toyota Nigeria.