(JUBA) — The Toyota Raum has emerged as a compact yet highly practical option for drivers seeking affordability, interior space and day to day reliability in South Sudan’s growing second hand car market. Originally produced between 1997 and 2011 for the Japanese domestic market, the Raum is now widely imported into South Sudan through Mombasa, Kenya and is increasingly popular among families, commercial users and urban drivers in Juba.
Built as a five seater mini MPV (multi-purpose vehicle), the Toyota Raum is engineered around functionality and space efficiency. Its name, “Raum”, is German for “room” or “space” and the model delivers on that promise.
The sliding rear doors (especially helpful in narrow parking spots in Juba), absence of a central B-pillar on the passenger side, and flat interior floor allow for easy entry and movement inside the vehicle, even for the elderly or those with mobility challenges.
Mechanically, the Raum features a front engine, front wheel-drive (FF) layout, with some models offering full time four wheel-drive (4WD) for rougher roads. Its 1.5-litre 1NZ-FE engine is shared with other trusted Toyota models like the Vitz and Prius, known for durability and low fuel consumption.
Drivers in Juba will find fuel economy figures around 15–16.2 km/l, making it ideal for both city and inter city use. Paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission mounted on the dashboard, the Raum ensures smooth control with a spacious feel in the cabin.
The second generation Raum (2003–2011) particularly stands out with its thoughtful redesign, earning a Japan Good Design Award in 2003 for its accessibility features. This version includes remote sliding doors, upgraded safety such as side impact reinforcement, a shock absorbing body, and a high strength cabin frame, important features for Juba’s often unpredictable traffic conditions. Some trims even include smart locking systems, DVD navigation, air filters and HID headlamps.
Toyota Raum Prices in South Sudan
The vehicle remains competitively priced. Below is a summary of current import prices of the Toyota Raum models available from Japan (converted to South Sudanese Pounds using the official rate of $1 = 4,600 SSP as of July 2025):
| Year | Model/Trim | Mileage | Price (USD) | Price (SSP) | Total C&F Price (USD) | Total C&F Price (SSP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Toyota Raum Welcab | 27,964 km | $2,030 | 9,338,000 SSP | $3,971 | 18,266,000 SSP |
| 2004 | Toyota Raum (Standard) | 106,765 km | $2,760 | 12,696,000 SSP | $4,698 | 21,610,800 SSP |
| 2006 | Toyota Raum C Package | 126,601 km | $1,780 | 8,188,000 SSP | $3,749 | 17,245,400 SSP |
| 2007 | Toyota Raum G Package | 129,481 km | $1,920 | 8,832,000 SSP | $3,817 | 17,558,200 SSP |
| 2009 | Toyota Raum HID Selection | 87,785 km | $2,210 | 10,166,000 SSP | $4,151 | 19,094,600 SSP |
| 2010 | Toyota Raum HID Selection | 148,822 km | $2,000 | 9,200,000 SSP | $3,941 | 18,128,600 SSP |
| 2003 | Toyota Raum C Package | 72,438 km | $2,070 | 9,522,000 SSP | $3,971 | 18,266,000 SSP |
The Raum’s modest running costs and spare parts availability make it a compelling option. The vehicle’s compact dimensions (approximately 4.0 metres in length) and high roofline combine comfort and ease of parking, ideal for Juba’s congested streets or narrow residential roads.
For local buyers, several dealerships and importers based in Juba stock or can arrange delivery for Toyota Raum models, along with after sale support and parts. Some of the most active dealerships include:
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Dal Motors Company Ltd – Specialises in Japanese imports, quality inspections assured.
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A-Z Auto Dealers – Known for reliable used car imports into Juba.
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Danmos Investment Co. Ltd – Offers vehicle sourcing and importation support.
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Agab Auto Spare Parts – Supplies genuine Raum spare parts across models.
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Lolitoba Used Cars – Stocks Raum models and handles custom orders.
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Auto African Garage Ltd – Also stocks MPVs and light trucks from Japan.
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Chakpuru and Sons Co. Ltd – Reliable importers with dealership since 2013.
With newer models such as the Toyota Spade taking over in Japan, the Raum has entered the international second hand market strongly. In South Sudan, where vehicle affordability and maintenance costs are key considerations, the Toyota Raum offers a solid, budget friendly alternative to more expensive SUVs and sedans.
For prospective car owners in South Sudan, the Toyota Raum remains an affordable and spacious option that meets the everyday driving demands of urban and family life alike.
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