PRODUCTS OF THE WEEK: CFAO Motors’ Toyota Belta and Toyota Rumion  If you have ever bought a used car you are very familiar with the challenges associated. First of all the buy-as-is policy means that whatever challenge you face after driving out of the bonded warehouse, you are on your own. Secondly, there are no standard prices- most often prices are decided based on who you are and whether you are buying from the real owner or a broker. And if you are unfortunate like several Ugandans who recently lost money when agents of Beforward, a Japanese used-car company disappeared with customers’ money, you could entirely lose your money. So, the big question is: Would you rather buy a 10-year-old used mid-sized vehicle at between UGX40 million - UGX60 million or a factory new vehicle at UGX90 million, that comes with a 3-year warranty and free service for 2 years or 50,000 km, whichever comes first”?

During their rebranding- from Toyota Uganda to CFAO Motors Uganda, in February this year, Thomas Pelletier, Managing Director, said that the company, which was largely known for the high-end SUVs would soon diversify their portfolio to include pocket-friendly brand-new vehicles.  

Well, we didn’t think, it would happen this soon and that pocket-friendly would come anywhere cheaper than UGX100 million.

First, in February, CFAO unveiled a new range of passenger and mid-size SUV models, namely, the Toyota Corolla Cross, Toyota Urban Cruiser and Toyota Starlet. The three affordable ranges were launched alongside an asset financing facility with NCBA Bank Uganda that would allow buyers to receive up to 95% asset financing from NCBA. Customers also have up to 6 years to repay, and a 60 days payment holiday.  

CFAO, this November under their “Drive Brand New, Enjoy Peace of Mind” campaign, launched their latest compact vehicles: Toyota Belta and Toyota Rumion.  

The Toyota Belta is a compact size vehicle with a 1.5-litre engine and is spacious enough to comfortably seat 5 people. 

Its fuel economy aside, other key features include high-tech safety features like an automatic electrochromic rear-view mirror, LED lamps and a rear-view camera. It also comes fitted with an advanced multimedia infotainment system that has 7-touch screen controls, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, MP3, and more.

“The affordable price point makes it a great option for SMEs looking to streamline employee transportation or for hustlers as it is spacious and affordable enough to navigate Uganda’s urban jungle or carry sizeable luggage. The Toyota Belta is a statement of progress, defined by its reputation and quality that will resonate with the forward-thinking young family or entrepreneur,” CFAO says.

The Toyota Rumion on the other hand, is a spacious 7-seater with multiple configurable rear seat arrangements.

It comes with an ultra-efficient 1.5 lite four-cylinder petrol engine and among other key features, comes with rear park distance control, an emergency locking retractor for seatbelts, ISOFIX mounting brackets to secure baby seats, and child locks. It also comes with an advanced tech Apple Car Play, a keyless powered engine, 12V power charging sockets, and more.

“Whether you’re making deliveries, doing the school run, or moving into a new house, the new Toyota Rumion is where space meets comfort and versatility meets value. It is best suited for family (school drop-offs or trips) and business (taxi, hotel cabs, or company mini-van),” CFAO Motors says of the brand-new vehicle. 

The Toyota Rumion is debuting in Uganda for USD 24,500 (approximately UGX90 million) while the Toyota Belta goes for USD 25,000 (UGX91 million). 

This incredibly low pricing- for a factory new vehicle also comes with financing options- up to 95% with a maximum repayment period of 6 years. In this case, the customer only pays 5% of the car value and starts driving the car while making small and affordable monthly instalments over 6 years with a 60 days (2 months) repayment holiday included.

Every brand-new CFAO comes along with a manufacturer warranty of 3 Years/100,000km (whichever comes first). This means peace of mind is made even sweeter with free service for 2 years or 50,000km, whichever comes first.  

About CFAO Motors Uganda

CFAO Motors, formerly Toyota Uganda, is a subsidiary of CFAO Mobility, a division of the CFAO Group. Headquartered in Kampala Industrial and Business Park Namanve, CFAO Motors is the exclusive manufacturer and authorised distributor of brand-new Toyota vehicles and genuine parts in Uganda as well as authorised to offer a Toyota manufacturer’s warranty. The company has a network of four (4) branches and three (3) authorized service centres across the country. CFAO Motors Uganda is also the official distributor of brand-new Suzuki vehicles, Yamaha motorcycles, Hino Trucks, and Toyota forklifts.