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Buying a car in Costa Rica

Buying a Car in Costa Rica: A Real-World Guide to Making the Right Choice

Thinking of buying a car in Costa Rica? Learn from experienced expats about the best vehicles, what to avoid, and why Toyota dominates the market in this guide.

For people considering a move to Costa Rica, buying a new vehicle often ranks high on the priority list. But, as many experienced residents point out, prospective buyers might find that the market differs somewhat from what they might be familiar with in North America or Europe. The car market in Costa Rica offers different specifications and presents different considerations that reflect the country’s driving conditions. Drawing from a recent post on the Expatriates in Costa Rica Facebook group, this article explores some of your considerations when buying a car in Costa Rica.

I had a hybrid Toyota RAV4 AWD and it sucked going up my steep hill in rainy season,” shares one resident, highlighting why vehicle choice matters so much in Costa Rica. “Wheels were spinning out and it had a weak engine. It was brand new.” This experience underscores a crucial point: vehicles that perform admirably in other countries might struggle with Costa Rica’s challenging terrain.

The country’s driving conditions shape vehicle requirements in ways that might surprise newcomers. One resident vividly describes how even GPS navigation can lead you into challenging situations: “Google maps tried to murder us once by sending us down a steep, narrow, curvy, abandoned road down into the jungle, that just ended in the jungle. We had to back up the entire steep mountainside, burning out a brand new rental SUV’s transmission.” Such experiences explain why local knowledge proves invaluable when selecting a vehicle.

Popular Brands and Models

Toyota is the overwhelming favorite among long-term residents, with the Prado and Fortuner models receiving particular praise. “The only recommendation that will hold up in Costa Rica is Toyota,” states a 25-year resident who drives a new Toyota Hilux. He explains that diesel vehicles are particularly well-suited to the country’s conditions, offering “not only far more rugged motors [but] they come with a heavier duty drive train and suspension 40% more rugged than the comparable gas vehicle.

Toyota’s dominance in the Costa Rican market is supported by several factors:

  • The most extensive network of qualified mechanics
  • Readily available parts
  • Proven reliability in local conditions
  • Strong resale value
  • Comprehensive dealer support

While Toyota dominates recommendations, price-conscious buyers have other options to consider. The Suzuki Jimny XL has gained favor among recent purchasers. “We’ve just bought a Suzuki Jimney XL 5 door. It’s 2 weeks old and we’re very pleased with it,” shares one new owner. “We chose it because it’s a proper 4×4, where you can change the diff ratio from 2WD to high 4 or low 4WD.” Another resident reports fifteen years of positive experience with Suzuki, purchasing new vehicles every three years without encountering significant problems.

Hyundai and Kia have also established themselves in the market. One satisfied customer who purchased a new Hyundai Palisade 4×4 praised their dealer experience. The Hyundai Tucson receives mention for its practical features, including a transmission option that switches to manual mode – a valuable feature for mountain driving and rough terrain.

Practical Considerations

The question of electric vehicles generates mixed responses. While some residents have successfully imported EVs, most experienced expats advise waiting until the charging infrastructure develops further. “I don’t want to get stuck somewhere because the only nearby charging station is dead,” explains one potential buyer, sharing a cautionary tale about charging difficulties even in urban Los Angeles.

When it comes to dealerships, Grupo Purdy is Toyota’s exclusive dealer in Costa Rica, with multiple locations throughout the country. Veinsa Motors is another major dealership network, and various brand-specific dealerships operate primarily in the San José area. Recent buyers report positive experiences with English-speaking staff and comprehensive support through the purchase process.

Price expectations require adjustment for many foreign buyers. New Toyota Prados and Fortuners typically go for over $60,000, reflecting both import taxes and the cost of vehicles built to handle local conditions. However, vehicles tend to hold their value better in Costa Rica than in many other markets, partially offsetting the higher initial investment.

Making the Right Choice

For those considering diesel vehicles – which many experienced residents strongly recommend – maintenance proves surprisingly straightforward. “Even with 200,000 kilometers that’s still just break-in mileage for a diesel,” explains one resident. “They will go 6-700,000 kilometers easy.” This longevity helps justify the higher initial investment in premium brands and models.

The consensus among experienced residents emphasizes prioritizing mechanical robustness over electronic features, genuine 4×4 capability over all-wheel drive, and proven reliability over initial cost savings. As one resident cautions, attempting to save money upfront often leads to higher costs over time: “If you buy anything else you will probably spend the same amount of money fixing it in a 3-year period than just buying the Toyota.

When selecting a new vehicle in Costa Rica, the collective wisdom suggests prioritizing:

1. Robust mechanical systems over complex electronics
2. True 4×4 capability for challenging terrain
3. Diesel engines for durability and performance
4. Established brands with strong local support networks
5. Adequate ground clearance and suspension systems

For potential immigrants buying a car in Costa Rica, these insights from experienced residents provide valuable guidance. While personal preferences and budget constraints naturally influence the final decision, understanding the demands of Costa Rica’s driving conditions helps ensure a choice that will serve well over the long term. Whether that means stretching the budget for a Toyota or exploring alternative options like Suzuki or Hyundai, success lies in selecting a vehicle that aligns with both individual needs and the realities of driving in Costa Rica.

CA Staff

CA Staff