If you're planning to import a used car from Japan to Kenya, two names you'll encounter frequently are World Navi and SBT Japan. Both companies have served Kenyan buyers for years and provide access to thousands of Japanese used vehicles.
While both exporters have similar goals, they differ in vehicle selection, pricing tools, financing options, and buying experience. Here's a detailed comparison.
1. Company Overview
| Feature | World Navi | SBT Japan |
| Japanese Exporter | ✅ | ✅ |
| Kenya Office | ✅ Nairobi | ✅ Nairobi |
| Ships to Kenya | ✅ | ✅ |
| Japanese Auction Access | ✅ | ✅ |
| Online Vehicle Search | ✅ | ✅ |
Winner: Tie
2. Vehicle Selection
Both companies offer a large inventory of:
- Toyota
- Nissan
- Mazda
- Honda
- Subaru
- Lexus
- BMW
- Mercedes-Benz
- Audi
- Mitsubishi
- Suzuki
- Vans
- Trucks
- SUVs
- Pickups
World Navi
World Navi displays recommended vehicles and allows buyers to browse by manufacturer and vehicle category.
SBT Japan
SBT provides an extensive inventory with thousands of listings and highlights popular models such as:
- Toyota RAV4
- Mazda CX-5
- Honda Vezel
- Subaru Forester
- Nissan X-Trail
- Toyota Corolla Fielder
- Toyota Vitz
- Nissan Note
- Toyota Harrier
Winner: SBT Japan (slightly larger searchable inventory)
3. Vehicle Search Experience
World Navi
Search by:
- Make
- Model
- Year
- Price
- Vehicle Type
The interface is straightforward and easy for first-time buyers.
SBT Japan
Offers more advanced search filters, including:
- Destination country
- Destination port
- Shipment type
- Currency
- Inspection
- Price sorting
- Newest listings
- Inventory location
Winner: SBT Japan
4. Price Transparency
Both companies display vehicle prices in USD.
However, SBT goes a step further by showing:
- Vehicle Price
- Total Price
- Freight calculation
- Destination country
- Shipping options
This allows buyers to estimate costs more easily before making an inquiry.
Winner: SBT Japan
5. Popular Cars
World Navi
Popular vehicles include:
- Toyota Prado
- Toyota Land Cruiser
- Subaru Forester
- Toyota Axio
- Toyota Premio
- Toyota Hiace
- Toyota Fielder
- Toyota Noah
SBT Japan
Popular vehicles include:
- Toyota RAV4
- Mazda CX-5
- Honda Vezel
- Subaru Forester
- Nissan Note
- Nissan X-Trail
- Toyota Harrier
- Toyota Vitz
Winner: Tie
6. Buying Process
World Navi
The buying process includes:
- Select a vehicle
- Contact the sales team
- Receive a quotation
- Make payment
- Vehicle purchase
- Quality inspection
- Shipping
- Customs clearance
- Vehicle delivery
World Navi also outlines each stage on its website, making it easy for first-time importers to understand the process.
SBT Japan
SBT follows a similar process but focuses more on:
- Online quotations
- Price calculator
- Vehicle estimation
- Direct inquiries via WhatsApp and email
Winner: World Navi
7. Financing
One feature highlighted by World Navi is its partnership with Co-operative Bank Kenya, which it says supports customers importing vehicles through its platform.
SBT Japan's website, based on the screenshots provided, emphasizes vehicle pricing and quotation tools rather than a similar financing partnership.
Winner: World Navi
8. Kenya Customer Support
Both companies maintain a presence in Nairobi, allowing Kenyan customers to make inquiries and receive assistance locally.
Winner: Tie
9. Website Features
| Feature | World Navi | SBT Japan |
| Price Calculator | ❌ | ✅ |
| Vehicle Search | ✅ | ✅ |
| Freight Estimate | Limited | ✅ |
| Vehicle Comparison | Basic | Better |
| WhatsApp Inquiry | ✅ | ✅ |
| Email Inquiry | ✅ | ✅ |
Pros and Cons
World Navi
Pros
- Simple buying process
- Kenya office
- Financing information
- Easy for beginners
- Local customer support
Cons
- Fewer pricing tools
- Less detailed search filters
- Limited online cost estimation
SBT Japan
Pros
- Large inventory
- Advanced search filters
- Price calculator
- Freight estimation
- Detailed vehicle information
- Excellent filtering options
Cons
- More features may feel overwhelming for first-time buyers
- Financing partnerships are not as prominently presented
Which One Is Better?
The best choice depends on your priorities.
Choose World Navi if:
- You are importing your first vehicle.
- You prefer a guided buying process.
- You value local customer support and financing information.
Choose SBT Japan if:
- You want a larger selection of vehicles.
- You like comparing prices online.
- You want freight estimates before making an inquiry.
- You prefer advanced search and filtering tools.