Cars in Mexico
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Cars of Mexico refers to the automobile marketing and its evolution in Mexico, as well as a comprehensive list of every car currently sold with a short description of the car's manufacturer history in the country.
[edit] Mexican automotive marketing history
In 1903, the first automobiles arrived in Mexico City, totalling 136 in that year, rising to 800 three years later. This encouraged the president (from 1884 to 1910) Porfirio Diaz, to create the first Highway Code in the country. This would allow cars to move at a maximum speed of 10 km/h on crowded or small streets and 40 km/h on another. However, he also created a tax for car owners which would be abolished in 1911 with Madero's victory over Díaz (see also Mexican Revolution) but later re-issued in 1961.
In 1921, Buick was the first automobile produced to be officially established in Mexico but the current longest-running brand is Ford Motor Company, since 1925.
Many car makers were already operational by 1961 when the first decline of the Mexican economy showed up. In the early 60s government regulations forced car companies to assemble cars in Mexico, using local as well as imported components. The idea was to develop a national car industry in the country, to promote employment and technological advances. Those companies that would not comply with these regulations left the country. These included [Mercedes Benz]], Fiat, Citroën, and Volvo. The American Big Three remained along with American Motors, Renault, Volkswagen and Datsun.
With the programmed 1968 Summer Olympics held in Mexico, the government created for the first time since 1910 a tax for owning a car in order to "afford" the construction of new facilities for the Olympics, the Tenencia (from the verb tener; "to have" in Spanish). However, the tax remained to finance the 1970 FIFA World Cup, held also in Mexico. Ironically, the tax remains today, and was aligned with the Mexican Constitution after one irregularity within the Carta Magna (and possible extension of payment by people who found that) was fixed modifying an article on May 2005. This tax is variable depending of the car's value, number of cylinders, etc. Since many Mexican drivers default on paying this tax, the government started taking countermeasures but due to this being perceived as uncontrollable, candidates to the presidency started making proposals to quit this tax before the July 2, 2006 elections including Felipe Calderón, current president of Mexico who took the charge on December 1. However, the tax remains to date though it's still due to be abolished by 2012.
Several manufacturers have left the country since the late 60s, including FIAT and Peugeot and later by 1984, due to crisis, Renault. Until the 1990s, almost every automobile or car maker offered in Mexico shared American origin, such as Oldsmobile and Pontiac. The growth of Mexico's economy during the late 90s stimulated car sales in Mexico and eventually, the retired car makers established again in the country. Annual passenger vehicle sales in Mexico crossed the 1 million mark in 2005. The increasing number of sales is encouraging car makers to offer cars with alternative fuels like the Honda Civic Hybrid and the Volkswagen Jetta TDI. Such type of cars haven't been available in Mexico since the first VW Golf TDI in the 80s. (See paragraphs in each makes Honda and Volkswagen). Few cars are available for the moment in diesel or hybrid versions in Mexico. 2008 will see the beginning of production of the first ever fully Mexican designed and engineered serial-produced car, the Mastretta MXT, a sports car built in a similar way of those of English Noble Cars. To date, 42 makers have official representation in the country with nearly 400 different models.
[edit] Automotive culture and Mexico Autoshow
Since the first "Autoexpo del Automóvil" the automotive culture in Mexico started growing in the Mexicans. The publication of the first Mexican auto magazines in early 1995, 4 Ruedas Magazine and shortly after Automóvil Panamericano encouraged it also. The Autoexpo changed denomination in 2004 into the "Salón Internacional del Automovil" to convert into an international size event. It is in fact an event comparable to the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. In the first two editions of the Mexico Autoshow brands new to Mexico, like Mazda, were introduced. On the other hand, some manufacturers like Jaguar and Volvo have been to neither the 2004 nor the 2005 editions. On the other hand, Renault would attend every two years. However, the 2006 edition of the autoshow was considered a failure and a fraud since over 15 carmakers missed the event, including Volkswagen Group, Renault and Peugeot. After the 2006 edition and for the first time since 1994, SIAM wasn't hosted in 2007, but it was stated that the 2008 edition is to be held by September, making a two-year event such as the Sao Paolo one.
[edit] Successful cars in Mexico
Some cars have been especially successful in Mexico, depending on their cost and viability.
[edit] Chevrolet Chevy
The second generation Opel Corsa was first introduced in Mexico in 1994 as a response to the successful Volkswagen Sedán, under the name "Chevrolet Chevy". General Motors used a practical, supermini with an affordable price tag for the Mexican consumer that gave excellent results. The Chevy replaced the Beetle as the best selling car in Mexico. Chevrolet soon launched the Monza, a saloon version of the Chevy produced in Brazil, for those who wanted a bigger trunk and more room with for the same low price.
The design was not changed until 2000, when it was facelifted in Europe with transparent headlights, newer rear lights and new interior. A station wagon was also launched. With the introduction of the Corsa III, however, the older Corsa was no longer manufactured in European and US American GM plants. Only one General Motors plant in the state of Guanajuato, producing the older version until 2004. Mexican designers redesigned the Chevrolet Chevy inside and outside and upgraded the 1.6 liter engine to reach 98bhp. This newer Chevrolet was called C2 as a reference to the Corvette generations and it's still on sale
[edit] Nissan Tsuru
The Datsun 160J was a mid-size saloon that sold well but did not meet the sales number benchmark set by its successor. In 1984 the first Nissan Sentra was launched as a replacement of the 160J under the name "Tsuru", Japanese for crane. While the Tsuru was quickly accepted by Mexicans as a comfortable and affordable choice of car, it did not replace the VW Sedán as the top-selling car in Mexico.
A second generation Tsuru was launched in 1989, with a more square-shaped and larger design. Neither generations, however, managed to replace to become the best selling car in Mexico.
The third generation Tsuru (the Sentra III) was introduced in 1992. This Tsuru featured a more rounded 1990s type design scheme. Soon the third generation Tsuru came to be known as powerful and comfortable, yet affordable. With the Chevrolet Corsa in 1994, however, the Tsuru had a new rival. It didn't take so long for it to overpass the Chevy, and soon the Sedán. It reached the top at number 1 in 1998 and it didn't missed until 2005, with the VW Pointer. The Nissan Platina was thought to be its successor, but the incredible sales ranking of the Tsuru kept the Platina as another option. It's good to mention that the Renault-based Platina remains to date on the top 10.
Tsuru are the most popular choice for city taxis in Mexico (Airport and hotel taxis usually consist of higher end vehicles) and the MkIII it's the current longest-running sold car in the country (14 years).
[edit] Volkswagen Pointer
The Pointer is Volkswagen's response to the Chevrolet Chevy and the Nissan Tsuru success. First launched in 1998, the Pointer sales did not start to really pick-up until 2000, with its first facelift in Mexico but second one in Brazil. It has been a success as both a fleet vehicle for taxis and corporations and a private car. The last facelift in the 2005 Mexico Autoshow gave the Pointer a fresh image and new interior without changing prices. It finally reached top 1 in 2006, over passing the Tsuru, the Platina and the Chevy C2.
[edit] Volkswagen Jetta
The Volkswagen Atlantic was the first Jetta in Mexican territory. It had good sales so Volkswagen decided start manufacturing this car in their factory at Puebla, Mexico. In late 1999 the fourth generation Jetta (called Bora in Europe) reached Mexico. The car presented a new design which didn't appeal initially to Mexicans. However, good marketing tactics and phrases like "No cambies, evoluciona" (Don't change, evolve) made Mexico change quickly its opinion and for the first time, a mid-sized vehicle reaching the Mexican top selling 10; the Jetta converted into a hit, reaching the top 3 of sales. The inventive phrase "Todo mundo tiene un Jetta, al menos en la cabeza" (Everyone has a Jetta, at least in their mind) came reality at such point it's common to see four or five Jettas running together in the street. Volkswagen decided selling the fourth generation until 2009, renaming the fifth generation as Bora.
[edit] Volkswagen Sedán
The first Volkswagen car sold in Mexico was the 1954 Beetle, called Sedán in this country. The popularity of the Beetle made VW to build its own factory in the state of Puebla, Mexico. The Sedán was until 1999 the cheapest car in the Mexican territory, with a price of $47,000 MX pesos in 1996 (US$4,300 current dollars). Reasons for the success of this car were the price, quality and trust. In the early 80s, Mexico and Brazil were the only countries producing the Beetle (Sedán in Mexico, Fusca in Brazil), so many foreigner enthusiasts used to import the car and keep it as a collection object. On July 30, 2003 the last Beetle came out from the Puebla factory closing a cipher in the automobile history. The 3000th last edition Sedán (with a final price of $84,000 MX pesos) was gifted to Pope John Paul II and now resides in the Volkswagen museum in Germany.
[edit] List of makers and models
This is a list of every car currently sold in Mexico and a brief history of the carmakers in this country.
Note: all cars are available as its newer version (elsewhere). Exceptions are marked in brackets ()
[edit] Mainstream Carmakers
[edit] Chrysler de México
Chrysler entered Mexico around 1937. In the 60s the company was renamed as Automex and the in the 70s to Chrysler de México. The latest models are launched just after the United States. It sells several brands as Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Smart, Maybach, Mitsubishi (in partnership) and Hyundai under a "by Dodge" badge.
[edit] Chrysler
- PT Cruiser
- PT Cabrio (2003-2008)
- Cirrus
- 300C
- Voyager (1995-2008)
- Town&Country
- Pacifica (2004-2008)
- Aspen
- Crossfire (2004-2008)
[edit] Dodge
- Avenger
- Caliber
- Challenger
- Charger
- Charger Daytona
- Dakota
- Durango
- Nitro
- Journey
- Ram
- Ram SRT-10 (2003-2005)
- Viper SRT-10
[edit] Hyundai
Hyundai has no official representation in Mexico so Hyundai cars are sold under Dodge's badge.
- Atos by Dodge (1998-2008)
- Verna by Dodge (Accent LC) (2004-2006)
- Dodge Attitude (Accent MC Current Model) (2006-2008)
- H100 by Dodge (2003-2008)
Hyundai is expected to enter officially in 2009.
[edit] Jeep
[edit] Smart
The German-Swiss based city-car maker Smart started sales in Mexico by 2000 through Liverpool Stores, a large chain of departmental stores. Smart entered officially through Daimler-Chrysler in 2002 with the City-Coupé, now Fortwo. People tend to think Smarts are extremely expensive due to their size and features (62bhp with a base price of US$13,000) so the maker sells less than Ferrari per month, about 20 cars.
[edit] General Motors Mexico (GMM)
General Motors is the sales leader in Mexico. From the early 60s to early 90s Chevrolet was the only brand available, even in the 90s when GM sold Buicks and Oldsmobiles under the Chevrolet brand. The second formal brand to re-enter the market was Cadillac in 1991, and several other brands throughout the decade. GM sells several brands like Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC, Saab, Pontiac, etc., and Daewoo and Opel under the Chevrolet brand name. The success of the Chevrolet Chevy (C2 redesigned in Mexico) has kept this maker at the top 1 since 1995.
[edit] Chevrolet
Chevrolet was the one of the first carmakers to establish in Mexico. Previously all Buick, Oldsmobile and GMC vehicles were marketed as Chevrolet.
- Malibu
- Corvette
- Colorado
- LUV (2002-2005)
- Tracker (1989-2008)
- Uplander (2005-2008)
- HHR
- Equinox
- Captiva Sport
- TrailBlazer (2002-2008)
- Avalanche
- Silverado
- Tahoe
- Suburban
[edit] Daewoo
GM introduced the previous Daewoo Matiz to Mexico under the name Pontiac Matiz, but now the newest Matiz is sold under the Chevrolet logo in Europe. With the G3 and Aveo, GM became the same brand to offer the exact same car model in Mexico in such a fashion as Saturn does in the United States.
- Pontiac G2 (2003-2008)
- Pontiac G3/Chevrolet Aveo
- Chevrolet Optra
[edit] GMC
The last maker arrived, last May 2006.
[edit] Hummer
The H2 looks massive and useless wherever in the city, specially as it wasn't designed for a Megalopolis like Mexico City. However, it achieves a good rank of sales. The H1 was only available for the Mexican Army through the 90s. With the late 2007 scandal involving former president Vicente Fox (portraying him as the owner of diverse vehicles from unknown fonds, notably a Hummer), jokes reffering to the Hummer became popular throughout the country.
- H3
- H2SUV
- Hummer H2 SUT
[edit] Opel
First Opel car in Mexico was the Rekord in the 60s. The maker was retired from the country until 1994, when GM introduced the Opel Corsa and changed the denomination to Chevrolet Chevy. Now all Opel cars are sold in Mexico under Chevrolet's logo, so they are called Chevrolet Astra, Chevrolet Zafira, etc.
- Corsa MkII (Chevy C2), MkIII (HB and saloon, as sold in Brazil)
- Tornado (Corsa MkIII Pick-up version)
- Astra (only hatchback); unlike Europe, this version has only a 2.4-litre 16v petrol engine.
- Vectra (2003-2008)
- Meriva (2003-2008)
- Zafira (2000-2006)
[edit] Pontiac
Pontiac cars have been available in Mexico since the 90s, sold over Chevrolet dealerships with the now extinct Trans Am.
[edit] FAW
The first Chinese car maker in Mexico entered in January 2008 through the convenience stores Elektra, owned by Grupo Salinas. Though the F1 is the cheapest automobile in the country, FAW has been achieving really poor sales in comparison with popular brands such as GM, Volkswagen and Nissan. While some have dismissed FAW due to its origin and the main purpose of economy, some have supported the maker by showing videos recorded during the EuroNCAP tests for the F5. However, the F5 is the one FAW's model that offers airbags in the country. Its current slogan is "impulsa tus sueños" (impulse your dreams) as a reference for people unable to afford an expensive car.
[edit] Fiat
Fiat reentered Mexico in 2004 with collaboration of General Motors, before its commercial rupture. Fiat hadn't achieved a good rank of sales due of having one single model until beginnings of 2006. The Punto's introduction meant a hit for the maker.
- Panda
- Grande Punto
- Idea Adventure
- Palio
- Palio Sedán
- Palio Adventure
- Stilo Schumacher (2007)
- Strada
- Ducato
[edit] Ford Motor Company México
Ford Motor Company Mexico had great sales during the 50s, 60s and 70s, before being overtaken by General Motors. It holds the second place in sales. For several decades, Ford sold various successful Mercury models under a Ford badge, most notoriously the Mercury Zephyr as the Ford Elite II, Ford Grand Marquis, Ford Cougar and the Mercury Sable sold here as the Ford Taurus. From 1996, Lincoln dealerships became Lincoln-Mercury dealerships selling both brands. The Focus ST is the only hatchback Focus currently available there - it has a 2.5-litre 5-cylinder engine, as with European versions. This is not the same as the Focus sold in United States, which is based on the 1998-2005 original. The Mondeo is available as a four-door sedan only. Trim levels are Core, Trend and Ghia. A choice of 2.0-litre 4-cylinder and 2.5 V6 engines are available. The Ghia trim level is the only version in the range that has the 2.5 V6 engine.
- Ka (2001-2007)
- Fiesta
- Fiesta ST
- Ikon (Fiesta MkIII saloon) (2000-2007)
- Focus (Only sedan)
- Focus ST
- Mondeo (2001-2006)
- Fusion
- Five Hundred (2005-2007)
- Freestar (2004-2007)
- Ecosport
- Econoline
- Escape
- Edge
- Explorer
- Explorer Sport Trac
- Excursion (2000-2005)
- Expedition
- Courier
- F-Series
- Lobo
- Mustang
- Ranger
- Transit
[edit] Isuzu Motors de México
Isuzu are one of the first Japanese commercial vehicle manufacturers to enter Mexico in 2005. This was because of an Economic Partnership Agreement that had been signed by Mexico and Japan. The ELF is currently the only model sold in Mexico.
[edit] Kia
This car maker has announced its entry to Mexico since 2004. However, according to 4 Ruedas Magazine, it would have entered in 2007. Once again, it has suggested it will arrive by late 2008.
[edit] Lada
This Russian car producer was programmed to enter Mexico in 2004.
[edit] Mazda
Mazda was introduced in Mexico in November 2005 with the Mazda 3 and the Mazda 6. The Mazda 3 and CX-7 continue to achieve good sales as the first has became a popular model between young people.
[edit] Mitsubishi Motors de México
Mitsubishi entered Mexico in 2003 with the previous Galant and Montero. Mitsubishi has had success with the SUV's Endeavor and Outlander, and, recently with the Lancer.
[edit] Nissan Mexicana
Nissan is a well-known maker in Mexico for its model Tsuru II, based on the 1991-94 Sentra and being facelifted every four years. This car is affordable (around $97,000MX or $9000 Dollars), strong, spacious, fast and trusty. This has kept it on the top 1 of sales since the 90s, and that has kept Nissan on the top sales in the country. With the Renault-Nissan Alliance, Nissan México designed the Platina, based on the Renault Clio Symbol. The Platina is now an option for Mexican families which want more space for a small price. Nissan sells also one Infiniti car.
- Aprio (Dacia Logan by Renault)
- Tsuru (Sentra MkIII)
- Platina (Renault Clio II saloon)
- Micra (2004-2007)
- Sentra
- Tiida (Versa in other markets)
- Almera (2001-2005)
- Altima
- Maxima
- Quest
- Murano
- Rogue
- X-Trail
- X-Terra
- Pathfinder
- Armada
- Urvan (Caravan in other markets)
- Titan
- Frontier
- 350Z
[edit] Peugeot
Peugeot returned to Mexico in 1997 with the 306 Saloon. The 206 has had very good sales although having the Renault Clio as its hardest contender. Peugeots achieve a good sales ranking mostly because of their design.
- 206 (All versions except saloon)
- 207 (Only 2-door turbo and RC)
- 207 CC
- 307
- 307 CC
- 407 (Only saloon and coupé)
- 607
- Partner
- Manager (Known as Boxer in Europe)
- Expert/Expert Tepee
[edit] Renault
Renault returned in 2000 to Mexico after leaving in 1984 for commercial reasons. The Clio and the Mégane have achieved the highest sales of the maker. The Nissan factory in Aguascalientes, Mexico is used to assemble the Clio and, formerly the previous Scénic. A facelifted Clio was introduced on late 2006 featuring new front and rear and new interiors (the ones from the 2001 version since the previous included those from 1998) programmed to remaind on sale until 2010.
- Clio II
- Clio III (Under the name "Euro Clio", not RS)
- Mégane (All versions except SW)
- Scénic (Except Grand Scénic)
- Kangoo (Mk I, not facelifted)
- Trafic
- Mégane RS (Only 3-door 2.0T)
[edit] Subaru
One of the last to arrive, last April 2006.
[edit] Suzuki
Suzuki arrived to Mexico in November 2005 thanks to free trade between Japan and Mexico. The Grand Vitara is still having great success and led the maker to import the Swift, also a successful model.
[edit] Toyota
This huge Japanese carmaker hadn't been in Mexico until 2001, with the Camry and Corolla. The maker was known in the country for the illegal pick-ups and cars from the United States. The Corolla and the RAV4, as in the rest of the world, are very successful.
- Yaris
- Yaris Sedan
- Corolla (Only saloon)
- Matrix
- Camry
- FJ Cruiser
- Highlander
- Sequoia
- Avanza
- Hiace
- Hilux
- Tacoma
- Tundra
- RAV4
- Sienna
- 4Runner
- Land Cruiser
[edit] Volkswagen Group
Volkswagen is a sales leader in Mexico, just behind GM, Ford and Nissan. The commercial success of the models Pointer, Sedán and Lupo increase considerably the sales of this carmaker. Volkswagen hasn't introduced the ultra-luxury brands Lamborghini and Bugatti in Mexico (which may only be bought through specialist car dealers in major cities), however Audi and Bentley are having good sales in Mexico.
[edit] SEAT
The Spanish carmaker SEAT arrived to Mexico in 2001 with the Ibiza.
[edit] Volkswagen de México
Volkswagen was introduced in Mexico in 1954 to sell the popular Beetle. A major investor in Volkswagen de Mexico dealership was Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe. The Type 1 was officially called Sedán and commonly called "Vocho" as an abbreviation of Volkswagen.
Volkswagen recently introduced the Jetta TDi with 1.9 Diesel engine that is the second diesel-engineered car in Mexico since the first Golf TDi in 1980 that had very poor sales. Unfortunately the sales of the Jetta TDi (which has a huge number of sales on its 2.0i edition) are being poor, encouraging to its end in this country. VW is trying to convince government and environmental authorities of the advantages of using diesel to encourage the reduction of taxes and other stimulations to increase the sales of the TDi.
- Pointer (Only Hatchback)
- Lupo
- Crossfox (Lupo II Off-Road version)
- Sportvan (Lupo II Station wagon version)
- Polo (Mk IV, not facelifted) (2003-2006)
- Beetle
- Golf (Mk IV) (1997-2007)
- GTI (Golf Mk V GTI)
- Jetta IV (VW Bora in Europe, third facelift)
- Bora (VW Jetta Mk V in Europe)
- Passat
- Sharan (2001-2008)
- Routan
- Touareg (includes V10 TDi)
- Eurovan (Only 1.9TDi)
- Crafter
The VW Sedán (Beetle I) was discontinued on July 30, 2003. Mexico was the last place in the world where it was built.
[edit] Luxury
Luxury cars in Mexico achieve good sales in most major cities such as Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Mérida and Puebla. In 1995, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche were the only luxury makers available.
[edit] Acura
The "American Honda" entered Mexico in 2004. An advanced design had helped to raise the number of sales.
[edit] Alfa Romeo
Alfa Romeo started selling its products in Mexico circa 1998 through the Ferrari dealership in Mexico City. In 2002 started selling officially with help of General Motors in its own dealerships. When Alfa Romeo broke commercial relation with General Motors it kept selling cars but again through diverse importers. It returned officially to the country in early 2007.
- 147
- 159
- GT
- Brera
- 8C Competizione (by special order only)
[edit] Audi
Audi is a well-known luxury car maker in Mexico and around the world. In Mexico the most successful models are the A4 and the A3 Sportback.
[edit] BMW
The 3-Series (especially the 320i) and the X5 are the most successful line of the maker in Mexico
[edit] Mini
Minis are very popuar among young people in Mexico.
- Cooper
- Cabrio
- Cooper S
- Checkamate
- Park Lane
- Seven
[edit] Cadillac
The Catera became a successful model in Mexico during the 90's. Nowadays the Escalade is the top selling of the maker.
[edit] Jaguar
The X-Type is the most successful Jaguar in the country with a price reaching US$40,000
[edit] Infiniti
The G35 was planned to be introduced in Mexico but for some reason it didn't make it.
[edit] Land Rover
The SUV maker Land Rover is very popular between the middle and high class in Mexico. The LR3 and the Freelander are the most successful models.
- LR3
- LR2
- Range Rover
- Range Rover Sport
[edit] Lincoln
The Navigator is Lincoln's most successful car in Mexico though the LS is more affordable.
[edit] Lexus
Its entry was programmed for 2008.
[edit] Lotus
The British sports cars maker hadn't reached good levels of sales in Mexico, only managing to sell as much as Ferrari per month but recently launched the Exige to dealerships and sales levels are expected to increase.
[edit] Mastretta
The first ever Mexican car maker will begin operations in early 2008, however, only 45 cars out of 150 will remain for national sales as the majority will be exported.
[edit] Mercedes-Benz
It was the third luxury carmaker, just after Cadillac and Lincoln reintroduced to the Mexican market 3 years before. Reintroduced in 1994 with the E-Class as a flagship model. The C-class has been their most successful model in the country.
- B-Class
- C-Class
- E-Class
- S-Class
- M-Class
- G-Class
- R-Class
- GL-Class
- CLK-Class
- CLS-Class
- CL-Class
- SL-Class
- SLK-Class
[edit] Porsche
This German performance marque was the first sports car maker that entered Mexico, in 1995. Sales now exceed 100 cars per month, over fifty more than the city car maker smart. The Cayenne and the Boxster are the top sellers in the country and the maker continues to open new dealerships in the country.
[edit] Saab
[edit] Volvo
As a fact, Mexican designer José Díaz de la Vega created the interior of the S40, C30 and C70 and their famous floating board. Very popular nowadays.
[edit] Exotic
Ferrari was the first car maker who "dared" to sell this kind of cars in Mexico. It had great success regarding on the price the most expensive models reach (up to US$400,000).
[edit] Aston Martin
Aston Martin has no official representation in Mexico, but they are imported through an certified car dealer in Mexico City.
[edit] Bentley
The last ultra luxury maker to arrive, last May 2006 to compete with Rolls-Royce. Prices are considerably lower than other European exotics and around two are monthly sold.
[edit] Ferrari
Ferrari entered the country in 1998 with the F355 Spider. The Enzo Ferrari, arrived in early 2004 to the former dealership at Avenida de los Insurgentes (now Alfa Romeo's) in Mexico City and costing $1,285,000 US dollars, happened to be the most expensive car sold in Mexico ever. Five were sold.
[edit] Maserati
- 3200 GT
- Quattroporte
- Granturismo
- MC12 (Only 1 sold)
[edit] Maybach
[edit] Lamborghini
Lamborghini has no official representation in Mexico, but they are imported through an official importer.
[edit] Rolls Royce
The Phantom has a cost of $415,000 US dollars in Mexico.
[edit] Saleen
The same as Lamborghini.
[edit] Cars soon to enter Mexico
Dates given are approximated. Data is not deleted for showing how many programmed cars make their way to Mexico since they are announced
- BMW X6 (as released in Germany)
- [[
Chevrolet Silverado]] (Autumn 2007) - Chevrolet Corsa (Mk IV) (Fall 2008?)
Dacia Logan(Renamed as the Nissan Aprio) (as Nissan, Summer 2007)- GMC Sierra (Facelift) (Winter 2006)
- Kia Optima (2007)
- Kia Rio (2007)
- Lada Niva (Winter 2006)
Land Rover LR3 V6]](Cancelled)- Mitsubishi L200 (Spring 2007)
Porsche 911 Targa(Winter 2006)Porsche 911 GT3 RS(Autumn 2006)- Renault Koleos (October 2006)
SEAT León Cupra (MkII) (Winter 2006)- Volkswagen Eos
(Winter 2006)(2009?) - Volkswagen Golf (Mk. V HB)
(Winter 2006)(Not likely to be released)
[edit] Cars which entered Mexico since 2006
- Audi A5/S5 (Entered January 2008)
- Audi S8 (Winter 2006) (Entered January 2007)
- Acura RDX (Autumn 2006) (Entered October 2006)
- Chrysler Cirrus (Mk. II) (Spring 2007) (Entered November 2006)
- Chrysler Pacifica (facelift) (Entered November 2006)
- FAW F1/F4/F5 (Entered January 2008)
- Ferrari 599GTB (Entered November 2006)
- Fiat Grande Punto (Entered November 2006)
- Ford Focus (Mk. II) (Winter 2006) (Entered October 2006)
- Ford Edge (Winter 2006) (Entered November 2006)
- Ford Expedition (facelift) (Entered September 2006)
- Explorer Sport Trac) (Entered October 2006)
- Honda Ridgeline (Autumn 2006) (Entered August 2006)
- Jeep Compass (Winter 2006) (Entered October 2006)
- Mazda CX-7 (Autumn 2006) (Entered October 2006)
- Nissan Rogue (Entered Winter 2007)
- Peugeot 207 (Autumn 2006) (Entered Winter 2007 as 207 Turbo)
- Peugeot 307 Saloon (Autumn 2006) (Entered October 2006)
- Porsche Cayman (Normal version) (Entered October 2006)
- Renault Clio III (Winter 2006) (Entered February 2007)
- SEAT León FR (MkII) (Spring 2007) (Entered January 2007)
- Subaru Forester
- Subaru Impreza WRX STI (Winter 2006) (Entered December 2006)
- Suzuki Swift (Winter 2006) (Entered October 2006)
- Suzuki XL7 (Spring 2007) (Entered January 2007)
- Toyota Avanza (2007) (Entered February 2007)
- Toyota Highlander (2007) (Entered August 2007)
- Toyota FJ Cruiser (Fall 2007) (Entered September 2007)
- Toyota Tundra (2007) (Entered March 2007)
- Volkswagen Sportvan (Autumn 2006) (Entered August 2006)
- Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDI (Entered October 2006)
- Volvo C30 (Spring 2007) (Entered April 2007)
[edit] Missing makers
Few are the mainstream makers that have not official representation in Mexico but all of their models can be imported through exotic cars dealers, mostly in Mexico City, Puebla, Monterrey and Guadalajara.
[edit] Bugatti
One Veyron is known to have Mexico D.F. residence. Volkswagen imports this model under special order in Puebla but the final cost, including taxes and the car's price, rises up to US$2,500,000.
[edit] Buick
Though previously available, the maker left in the late 90s. GM has stated it won't be coming back.
[edit] Citroën
Some people have begun to import C4 models to Mexican streets. The French maker has never made an announcement or pointed out plans to its entry.
[edit] Lamborghini
Lamborghinis are popular in Mexico since several Murciélagos and Gallardos are known to exist in Mexico City.
[edit] Lancia
Lancia models were presented at the 2003 Mexican Autoshow, though the models are not available yet in the country.
[edit] Lexus
Rumour has it Lexus is about to enter by 2009 for Toyota in a similar fashion Acura made for Honda. Lexus models are a favourite for politicians.
[edit] TVR
TVR has became popular due to its videogame models such as the Cerbera Speed 12 and TVR Tuscan but no announcement has been released for its entry.
[edit] See also
- 4 Ruedas Magazine
- Automóvil Panamericano
- Automobile
- Unidiseño Mastretta
- Salón Internacional del Automóvil México
- Mexico
[edit] External links
[edit] Mexican automotive magazines
[edit] References
[edit] Mexican automotive presence timeline, 1920s-present
Mexican automotive presence timeline, 1920s-present - | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Origin | 1920s | 1930s | 1940s | 1950s | 1960s | 1970s | 1980s | 1990s | 2000s | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | |
Mexican | WWII | Mastretta | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
American | Buick | Buick | Buick | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Cadillac | Cadillac | Cadillac | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Chevrolet | Chevrolet | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Chrysler | Chrysler | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
DeSoto | DeSoto | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Dodge | Dodge | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ford | Ford | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
GMC | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Hummer | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Willys / Jeep | Jeep | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lincoln | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Mercury | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Oldsmobile | Oldsmobile | Olds | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Packard | Packard | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Plymouth | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Pontiac | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
VAM (AMC) / Rambler | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
British | Bentley | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Hillman | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Jaguar | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Land Rover | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lotus | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
MG | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Mini | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Rolls-Royce | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Rover | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
German | Audi | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BMW | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Mercedes-Benz | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Opel | Opel (marketed as Chevrolet) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Porsche | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Smart | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Volkswagen | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Japanese | Acura | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Datsun | Nissan | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Honda | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Infiniti | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Mazda | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Mitsubishi | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Subaru | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Suzuki | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Toyota | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
French | Peugeot | Peugeot | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Renault | Renault | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Spanish | SEAT | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Swedish | Saab | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Volvo | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Italian | Alfa Romeo | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ferrari | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
FIAT | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Maserati | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Chinese | FAW | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Time | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |
1920s | 1930s | 1940s | 1950s | 1960s | 1970s | 1980s | 1990s | 2000s |