Car Hunting in Mexico!!

What is it like buying a car in Mexico? Today I'm in Guadalajara looking at new/used cars for sale. I'll be walking through the entire process, including 2023 wait times, deposits, test drives, and more.
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Since the pandemic, the process of buying a car has changed dramatically all over the world due to supply chain shortages. I wasn't sure what to expect when car hunting in Mexico but it turned out to be a little frustrating.
In this video, I'll be visiting Toyota, Subaru, and Kia dealerships to try and find my next car. I quickly learned that all the dealerships no longer have 2022 models, despite looking in early January. Additionally, they all have very limited stock of their various models to look at on their showroom floor.
Next, it seems to depend on which model you're looking for whether the wait will be 2-6 months or more before it arrives. So ultimately, if you want to buy a new car, you have to put a $5,000 peso non-refundable deposit to hold your spot in line. Each month, they are given a new batch of cars (the dealership doesn't choose which models or colors). When those come in, they call the next person in line on the waiting list. You have the option to accept the car or wait for the model/color you want.
What do you think of car hunting in Mexico? Do you have any thoughts, comments, or questions about this experience?
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Hi, I'm Maddie, former partner of Tangerine Travels, a travel vlog with over 350 videos that I helped build for 4 years to over 250k subscribers. I'm originally from Arizona and have been living in Mexico since 2018. These days, I'm traveling around Mexico, doing the "solo female travel" thing.
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#MaddieGold #Mexico #CarHunting

[@MaddieGold]

What do you think about the car-buying experience in Mexico? Any advice for me/others? Don't forget to subscribe to my email newsletter if you want the next edition coming out tomorrow 🤓 maddiegold.aweb.page/p/1c1d4297-44aa-4e36-8d2a-cec315e981ea

[@SuiGenerisAbbie]

Love your email newsletters! I have lived all of my life without a car, but, can well understand why one would needed.

[@MONKNER]

I know two people that have had RAV4’s and both ended up with transmission problems. The reason for the 4 in the name is because it’s all wheel drive all the time. When you need a transmission repair in that, it’s like $4000-$5000+!!! Keep that in mind. Most Toyotas are awesome, but personally because of that, I would steer clear of the RAV4.

[@Park3r3398]

I am so happy for you 🎉

[@JohnSmith-ok6gb]

Are you prepared to take that new car depreciation, deal with car professional salesmen (professional thieves), and of course over pay for a vehicle ?

[@JohnSmith-ok6gb]

I purchase my vehicles in the U.S and then import them in Queretaro, which allows me to purchase the vehicles used @ about 55% of the original sticker value plus U.S. cars come a bit more equipped too.

[@studsofdespair]

I have drove the same Toyota since 2006. Pushing 300,000 miles with no end in sight. Take care of them right and they will last you forever. And they are easy to work on. This video makes me miss the complexities of doing anything in Mexico lol

[@duanepadilla2514]

Maddie, you should hold off on purchasing a new car. Wait until the dealerships get their inventory back up so they don’t try to price gouge. Get a Toyota hybrid. It will last a long time, low maintenance and the hybrid system will save you so much gas in the long run.

[@h.r.9898]

Your friend is a real one to go to each dealership with you. 😂 it gets old real quick. Hope you find something you really like!

[@MaddieGold]

He REALLY is! Juan Diego is such a gem and I was incredibly grateful for his help and patience

[@tammyhoward2811]

Awesome car seach Maddy! What I loved is the research you did while looking at cars. What your teaching women while car hunting in a foreign country is an immeasurable service. Thank you!

[@SirCarlosMusicBMI]

I’ve been buying cars 🚗 for over 35 years. I used to absolutely love Toyota but they have just gotten way too pricey. I started buying KIA’s about 20 years ago and have never had any problems with them. I’ve purchased well over 30 vehicles for myself my wife and my Mom. We all drive KIA’s 😊. I’m currently driving a Kia Sportage and LOVE IT 😊 Good luck 🍀 with your shopping. Blessings, Carlos ✝️🙏❤️😊❗️

[@kerrierohr9341]

I've had THREE Kia's. I'll never go back. Even with a long warranty I've never had any issues. My middle of the road Sorento cost less than the base model of the Toyota equivalent with less options. People still think of Kia's as cheap, but if you actually do the research, they are better rated for safety.

[@Gary65437]

I only buy a car with a key. They have never failed me or cost me $300 for a battery replacement. Or have never not shut down because the push button doesn't work. The less bells and whistles to fail, like the slow foot operated rear hatch. Basic and reliable, thank you.

[@1972myc]

So excited for you Maddie! Definitely Toyota was the right way to go. I just bought my first dealer bought car last month, a Toyota Prius, and I love it!!! Love you, young lady!

[@OscarHerrera-xc4to]

ohh yeahh toyota rocks! owner here and its a great car!

[@mexicanspec]

Did you get the new redesigned Prius?

[@1972myc]

@@mexicanspec No, I got a 2014.

[@mayanaztec6440]

Toyota is Definitely the way to go l. I have a Tacoma with 300,000 miles and it’s still going really strong.

[@juanzepeda711]

Hey Maddie, digital nomad based out of Morelia here. Great video! I bought the 2023 Kia Niro as soon as it hit the sales floor and I cannot be more in love with it. The mileage, the styling, the quality and comfort is beyond what I expected. It is definitely a head turner especially since there aren’t too many on the road currently. I’ve owned a Camry, Outback and Elantra in the states and the Niro is the first care I’ve really loved.

[@MaddieGold]

That’s awesome! Thanks for sharing

[@gloriamiller5543]

Kia Soul is a very nice ride and great for shorter people. I loved mine.

[@emilysmith5654]

I am crazy about my bright yellow Kia Soul and get lots of compliments. People are always amazed at how much cargo it can carry with the back seats down.

[@oftedahlh]

with the luxury of having a car comes with a lot of exspence buying it is just the start

[@patrickwatson5276]

Great video as always and a great decision on the Toyota. It's smart to not buy when a vehicle is first introduced or modified. The newly designed Rav has had most bugs corrected. Enjoy your new ride Maddie💜

[@suchamomm1059]

Wow even in Mexico the cars are so expensive. There is no way I could afford a new car now a days. Good luck.

[@WeggieQueen2005]

It really sucks doesn't it?

[@Park3r3398]

Me too 😢

[@Hankjones1]

To spend that much money on a new car in Mexico I think it's crazy

[@benjidog1514]

They have economical small cars in Mexico. Models only available only in Mexico that are gas efficient and more economical for the average Mexican income. Maddie is shopping for standard US models.

[@JohnSmith-ok6gb]

Mexico is generally inexpensive when it has to do with human labor but when talking about material purchases it is the same or more expensive because of mark ups.

[@suejohnson6254]

I loved this video, your editing is really flawless and I think you made the right decision with the deposit. You are going to have lots of options. YAY!!!

[@rejeanguindon5012]

One thing to keep in mind about leather seats, is when your car is in the sunlight, your seats will get burning hot... Also, for the pricing of used cars, it's the same thing here in Canada, slightly used cars will cost more because you have the luxury of getting it right away instead of waiting 6 months or whatever the wait time is for a new order to arrive. Love your videos Maddy, keep up the good work!

[@cindyk3076]

Congratulations! I'm glad that you made a decision and you are officially a Toyota gal! I hope that it comes in the color and style that you want and that you don't have to wait too long for delivery. Thanks for taking us along as you car shopped, Juan Diego was very patient going along with you, I think I would have given up way before you did, lol. The wait time in the states is on par with Mexico but it will be worth it.

[@jenniferanngarcia2496]

FYI Maddie, This is just a thought. My Uncle owns a dealership and he said the prices are dropping on cars. BIG! I just seen this a few days ago also. You might want to wait. I thought I might let you know.

[@Regularguylive]

In Mexico?

[@subaru4me]

I love Subie's up here in the snow where I live but I'd say in Mexico stick with Toyota. They are common and easier to get serviced. One more thing, given the roads of Mexico stick with smaller wheels with bigger tires. In other words you want more sidewall. If you hit a bump or pothole you have a good chance of denting the rim on the small sidewall tires.

[@mjc42701]

Subaru's with awd are great for the desert, rough terrain and sand, I hope they bring the Baja back, that is my dream car/truck, I have a Toyota currently but owned a Legacy prior, I think Subaru is a notch above but when it comes to price you can get a Toyota for less and they are both great vehicles.

[@mikes8248]

Maddie. Congrats on the new car. I will say your math on the hybrid vs. non is what most people do but it's a missing this point. Assuming you are going to eventually trade in your car - a hybrid will retain a higher value so paying more at first is basically a wash over the whole cycle of ownership. Hopefully this makes sense.

[@MaddieGold]

Totally makes sense! That's also why I'm more inclined to go with a Toyota...they hold their value!

[@nancysmith2389]

Hmmm.

[@ernestopatino6897]

Hello Maddie. Like your videos. I used to drive for Uber in San Francisco, California. During that time, logged just under 150,000 miles in a Subaru Forester. Forester has a higher ceiling than the model you were looking at in video. Extra height made it easier to stack luggage high which came in handy during airport runs. To this day engine/transmission work fine. Still change engine oil every 5000 to 6000 miles using ONLY synthetic which is really slippery. Also, Subaru's high ground clearance helps avoid scraping on steep driveways and prevents bottoming-out when driving down a severe San Francisco hill. I've driven the Forester in Baja California and ground clearance helps when confronting potholes or those crazy steel ball speed bumps. On the negative side, I did have to replace the front axles at least twice and the rear axles once. But hey, after 150,000 miles of heavy-duty use carrying up to four adults, some being a bit portly, and their luggage up and down San Francisco streets, what can you expect. Also, being a bit porky myself, the right side of my knee rubs against the side of the center console making it necessary to adjust my seating position often. All other aspects of the car (hardware, paint, electronics, etc.) have been 99% flawless. Hope this helps. My best to you.

[@deegee9560]

Wow! You are a great sales woman...your car video descriptions are way better than other youtubers! Yes...the Toyota rav 4 is luxurious and after 3-5 years you can trade it in or sell for a lot more money! I bought the Kia Sportage to save a lot of money...I've had it for 16 years and it looks showroom new and is in excellent shape! Always change oil and filter every 2500 miles and transmission oil and filter every 20,000 no matter what! Then your car will last for a long time! Polish at least once a year with a good wax / cleaner!!! Yes, Kia is not as good as Toyota, and parts take longer to get! Only buy original parts! After market sometimes dont fit or dont work as well! Also learn to change a flat tire or pay for a roadside yearly service! It is worth it!!!! Awesome videos!!!!!

[@leslieclaire]

I’m shopping for a RAV4 in Arizona and they are hard to come by. I appreciate all the details you mentioned. You definitely are doing your homework! 🌵🌵

[@MisterMikeTexas]

Bronco Sport, maybe?

[@leslieclaire]

@@MisterMikeTexas I’ll check it out. Thanks for the tip.

[@wknight022]

Love my 2018 RAV4 Adventure. It rides so nice and gets good mileage on the hwy. Comfortable in the back row, also. I bought mine used as I was replacing a wrecked car. Great purchase.

[@MaddieGold]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@heronimousbrapson863]

My wife and I bought a 2019 RAV4 here in Alberta, Canada in 2020. We absolutely love it. It's great for winter driving too (not that that would be a concern in Mexico, obviously)!

[@jayhodges2243]

I bought a 2015 RAV4, coming off a lease, in 2018 with about 25k miles on it and a full one year warranty. Had a minor transmission issue that was fixed by the dealer with no problems. Car now has 77K miles....I don't drive alot anymore, retired. No problems at all, will never buy anything other than Honda/Toyota forward, and both of my sons have picked up Toyotas as well for daily drivers. I would have bought the 2021 used and got them to extend the warranty another year or 2 if possible. Happy and safe driving.

[@juanjmolina]

excelent video, the car buying experience is crazy for the last 2 years. Make sure to shore up your warranties on drivertrain. Mexico has harsh roads and they will tax the drivetrain on the car. Test drive before you take delivery and plan a whole day to inspect the vehicle, look for PDI checklist and if you know a mechanic or someone mechanically inclined take them and treat for lunch.. From a toyota fan to another, Yotas are known for great reliability but will often cheap out on details like seat fabrics and interior plastics. Good luck

[@inecita1958]

I love Hondas so I went with a Honda Civic Touring model, I put down the deposit and waited about 3 moths to get it. I love everything about it!!!! Good luck and thank you!

[@stevekirschman354]

It’s nice to see you so happy and filled with joy , you look great ❤

[@meechyshelm3692]

I love watching your videos for a random reason. In 1995 (probably before you were born) I lived and worked in Gudalajara at a Children's Home El Ejercito de Salvacion Hogar de Ninos on Avenita Revolucion. It was the best thing that ever happened to me. To even possibly have a glimpse here and there of places I may remember is super cool. I should go back and visit. Thanks for sharing.

[@sydneyberquist7113]

I drove rav4s for years I went to another brand because the wheel base on the newer ravs are short and the ride was really bouncy. If you have any spine issues it makes for a very sore back on long rides. I went to Honda. Good luck, it's a big purchase.

[@MaddieGold]

Thanks for sharing your experiences! I'll keep that in mind

[@Hankjones1]

I'm an American who moved to Mexico a year-and-a-half ago just got my car last month I got a beautiful used car for $5,000 and it runs great.

[@VABeachgirl-np8iw]

Toyota's are very good. I was in a very bad car accident and I was in a Camry. I am still here living. I attribute some of my good luck is the Camry.

[@JoseLopez-it1op]

Excellent choice! As long as you keep up with the maintenance, that car will last you 12-15 years w/ no major issues. Well done Maddie

[@zonacrocone4804]

Well, just to defend the honor of my KIA, I am driving a 2016 Sorento (the larger SUV) I must say it is the best car I had since I had to say good bye to my Audi. It has 127000 miles (not kilometers) now and never had any repair, any issues, nothing, drives very well and feels pretty luxurious. I think they are very well made cars.

[@hed2410]

Kias have steadily improved over the years to evolve into a quality car.

[@k.k.9897]

I love my Rio hatchback.

[@ryry8402]

And soon you will enjoy oil burning and the car falling apart trust I have worked in plenty of shops and nothing but issues with kias. And all you have to do is look up some reviews on kias and they have all kinds of issues.

[@shayb2007]

I have a Kia Sorento and I Love it! My husband drives a Kia also 😊

[@philipfareio4445]

You should show Maddie more cars Many people can paint orange color

[@bradfordwramsden7499]

With out question you deserve kudos for a realistic per mile economic evaluation. Bravo Mattie!

[@jerkytoo8184]

Buying a care can be stressful in the best of circumstances. With the supply chain issues, it's even crazier. Best of luck with getting your car, Maddie.

[@delinquense]

Excellent choice. So impressed that you didn't let the price sway you and opted for the more expensive option. Remember, there's usually a reason it cost more. You get what you pay for. You will enjoy your vehicle for years to come and ride in comfort and convenience. Oh what a feeling! Who could ask for anything more?

[@alejandraescobedo1]

I'm still in a contemplation mode to move to Mexico. I will need a car to drive my mom to places. Definitely, your videos will be very useful to me. Thank you Maddie for all the information.

[@JohnLowe-kt5gr]

You are fuc#ing awesome Maddie. Love your new car!

[@doingtime20]

If you ever plan to reside in Mexico City (or close to it) I would strongly suggest you to buy a hybrid, it's a true nightmare to deal with verificación vehicular (pollution control system of Mexico City).

[@emildejulio1085]

Another thing to look for in your new rav 4 is where it’s assembled. Look at the vin number outside at the bottom of the windshield on the drivers side. Hopefully the vin number starts with a J. That shows it’s assembled in Japan. Much better quality. People have complained about the transmission on your comments. The first year they had this body style in 2019 they had some problems with shifting judder. That has been corrected. Another car that’s also nice is the Corolla hatchback. It’s smaller easier to control and is cheaper and gets better gas mileage. My brother in law has one of these and gets 41 mpg on the highway and it’s fun to drive. Good luck

[@smeag9280]

Maddie pleeease be super careful when you buy your car, especially if it's brand new. I recommend you have a group of good male friends keep a look out the entire time. My uncle was carjacked at gunpoint in Guadalajara by cartel members minutes after driving his new car off the lot (and he ended up having a nervous breakdown as a result). The gang members were watching him and my aunt buy the car and waited for them to drive off before it happened. The car dealership gave my uncle an insane deal on another car because they were so afraid of retaliation.

[@L.Spencer]

These things need to be taken into consideration. As I just commented, I wouldn't drive a newer, nice car in Mexico. You gotta be careful. But I don't have money, like nothing, so it wasn't an option for us. Of course, to an extent, you have to live and can't worry about everything that could happen.

[@mr_4point681]

That was no cartel bro...why would cartel waste time on a car?? Unless it was a 100k dollar car..it probably was some random group calling themselves cartel...so in a way it could happen to anyone regardless of what she gets...

[@Jazminzesati]

That was not cartel lol

[@JSSCA-lk7hl]

The Toyota RAV4 is good reliable car. My uncle works for Toyota headquarters in Texas and has for many years so we have had access to Toyota. My grandma and myself both owned a Toyota RAV4 ( she still has hers, I totaled mine) the trick is to buy a car a couple years old with low miles for half the price!!

[@SunnyGamesYT]

Congrats Maddie! Seemed stressful but awesome you got it narrowed down. Well wishes on your health and safety from here in AZ

[@JohnDroneClips]

I love the Kia Rio sport , I had BMWs and Audis I would not give up my Kia Rio for anything… Love it❤

[@emildejulio1085]

Very smart getting a non hybrid. Your right it takes a long time to get the numbers to work out. Make sure you get one that has both sides 6way power seats. The passenger seat on the older rav 4 didn’t go up and down only back and forth and the ceiling height is low and it’s easy to hit your head on it. I was buying a 2021 rav 4 limited but backed out when I couldn’t sit on the passenger side. I’m only 5’9” and my head was right on the roof. I ended up getting a Honda crv they gave more headroom. The new rav 4’s have changed on the higher end ones to have both 6 way sests on both sides. Good luck. Toyotas are great.

[@Anyone553]

I just purchased a 2022 Toyota RAV-4 XLE Hybrid! I love it!

[@TrujilloRosalba]

Oh my .. how stressful, Maddie! This is such a major purchase, wishing you the best. 🧡

[@sflscott11]

11 Kia/Hyundais in my family over the last 15 plus years and we love them. And no, the impressive warranty is not an indicator of them being problem vehicles.

[@Cornelius87]

You can never go wrong with a toyota. Nice car hope you get it fast, btw I also dislike digital speedometer but that's where most cars seem to be going.

[@jonathanjacques7250]

My daughter has a Rav4 hybrid, great vehicle. Highly recommend.

[@Peggy-Kay]

I have a Kia Forte as our second car, and I love it! I had a Lexus before that I also loved (totaled in an accident 🥴) but no complaints at all about my Kia.

[@Chrisc205]

So, that’s bananas. But I get it. In the end you made the right choice going with Toyota! 😎😊🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@suzytorres7133]

Aww what a great friend ! Good luck on ur new car and I think u did a great choice by choosing a Toyota!! 😉 Enjoy Love ur videos! And I love Mexico 🇲🇽 so friendly and beautiful ❤

[@chrisluc1423]

If you don't have to have a car now, wait. The marked is currently flipping as the supply is building up. Used car prices are falling and new cars are expected to start having incentives soon. Wait 3-6 months, you may get a much better deal

[@judyrosario7342]

Maddie: I’m from Chicago suburban area. My daughter is looking to buy an SUV as well n stopped looking due to the shortage. Same is happening all over. I read it’s Fiona get better this year after spring. So there’s hope. You are doing great research n taking someone along is a great idea. I’ve owned Hondas for many years n have had great experience, very reliable. Check there too!

[@kyennerell]

I've been on a waitlist for a Chevy Bolt since 6/2022! These supply chain issues are no joke and the problem isn't expected to resolve itself anytime soon. In case of an accident, it can take months to get a car repaired here in Georgia due to labor shortages and supply chain issues. I just bought a 2015 Red Prius, with the hope that enough spare parts will always be available should it need service or repair.

[@WeggieQueen2005]

You cannot go wrong with a Subaru. I promise. My uncle's was 8 years old when he sold it and never had a problem...he just wanted a new Subaru.

[@mayanaztec6440]

I do t honk she can wrong with a Toyota either.

[@jimpie231]

You made the right decision buying the regular RAV4 rather than the hybrid. Besides the obvious that you never get the money back for the extra price, what about maintaining and repairing what ever fails on the hybrid system? I bought new 2017 RAV4 XLE, in the Chicago area in March of 2017. At the time there was a $3500 rebate from Toyota and I paid $24,500. The car has 75,000 miles and so far, I have repaired nothing. Good choice, good luck!

[@andrewthacker114]

Interesting clip on buying new cars in Mexico. I’m surprised at the long wait times for new cars.

[@MaddieGold]

You and me both!

[@mexicanspec]

The US is the main market. Mexico gets left overs and when there aren't many left overs, this happens.

[@andrewthacker114]

@@mexicanspec yes, I was wondering if that was the case.

[@Jazminzesati]

Since the pandemic and lack of microcontrollers we get very few cars and most go to Mexico City. Things are getting kinda better but still a very long wait compared to previously were you could pick up to the last detail and get great deals with maybe a 2 weeks wait.

[@philippecloarec]

Hi Maddie. Thx for sharing your experience..yes to buy a car is a challenge..and you often face to some immediat choice for some available car..or to wait months and months...same everywhere in the world............where used cars are sometimes more expensive than new ones...🙃SO you do need to stay pragmatic...and move forward I mean to purchase some available car to enjoy it the same day......😉

[@333Hitgirl]

I just bought a KIA Sportage and it’s loaded, so cute!! I love it , great in Snow! Looks like a Lexus lol

[@jaynedee4577]

I’ve had 4 Toyotas over several years time. 1 new, 3 used. All were long lasting and never bought a warranty. No need for them .

[@rootsiesworld]

Love, love, love my Kia Rio. 2nd Kia and this one is still like new after several years. Kia's got a bad rap in the 90s but they have vastly changed. Great warranties and reliability, gas mileage. Have a friend with a new hybrid and she loves it too. . Sorry you couldn't get to drive one.

[@k.k.9897]

I love my Rio hatchback. It's a blast!

[@annettemunroe2696]

We have had a Kia Sorento, Soul Ev, Rio 5 and my daughter’s boyfriend has a Niro - we all love them! My Sorento was well over 12 years and was still in great condition considering it was in snow & salt! Agree with other posters - great cars, would recommend KIA!

[@Mannycreated]

i recommend you get a 2023 mazda suv/crossover they are super amazing and beuatiful. inside and out. i own a 2023 mazda 3 Hatchback Carbon Edition AWD!

[@jamesedward2470]

You made a wise choice buying the RAV4 they are very reliable vehicles, I’m a mechanic and help people in La Paz to buy vehicles and for people looking for a small SUV, I always look for those or CRV, glad you listened to people that said Kia’s are junk, because they are

[@sharonpower9749]

I noticed a gold car at the Subaru dealership, and since your last car was tangerine (for Tangerine Travels). I vote for the gold Subaru model, for MaddieGold

[@stevenpaul5540]

Great choice. I love that cement color.

[@sallyzedillo4468]

Congratulations! Really good job, Maddie!

[@MaddieGold]

Thank you!!

[@PalaminoHills]

I love cars, since I was 3 years old, but BUYING a car can be so aggravating. A friendly salesman makes a difference.

[@MisterMikeTexas]

Regardless of country, all those electronics are scary! A 20-year-old Ranger with a 4-cylinder and 5 speed would work for me.

[@Hankjones1]

Only about 3% of the people in Mexico Drive new cars

[@NicksDrive]

20:20 love your logical thinking on that! I did the same calculations when I purchase my Rav4. We ended up with the Lunar Rock color but got a XLE premium. We wanted an Adventure like the lunar rock you were looking at, but just couldn't find one.

[@dmammag3585]

I am Home for the next 2 month🥺. Injured my knee. Just letting you know, your videos are keeping me sane🤪 IDEA..#MADDIEGOLD AROUND THE WORLD.😇🤩

[@maryn8139]

I will never put down a deposit on a car I have never seen or had checked out & especially not when told you will possibly lose your deposit if you don't take the car. For goodness sakes, YOU are the customer--you make the demands, not them!!! And you don't even get to dictate the color??? Forget it!! These dealers are monsters.

[@oceanside88]

I like kia. Solid.

[@arrivedp]

What I like about buying a vehicle in Mexico is that's the price, no games.

[@markabercrombie3763]

Great video, I think you made the best choice getting the Toyota.

[@rickcarr8439]

I'm glad you picked Toyota you won't have issues for a long time.

[@wgb_jd]

Toyotas are widely regarded by mechanics as the most reliable vehicles available.

[@kgs2280]

Both my last two cars have been KIA Sportages (yeah, I know, an older model), and I absolutely LOVE them. They are the cheapest - price-wise, and they have a really great warranty (if they still have that). They are the most comfortable and easy to drive cars I’ve ever had. I know they don’t have the “luxury options” of the others, but that’s what my budget can stand. I’ve had pretty much NO mechanical problems (or any other problems)with my two cars, which I’ve had for a total of twenty years. If I get another car, I’ll undoubtedly get another KIA. Those other car prices freak me out!

[@sydneypresley7987]

Congratulations Maddie. I know you are gonna love it. Your research on the cars is very impressive. I love watching your videos and messages. I'm a fan forever.😍

[@MaddieGold]

Thank you so much!

[@samestrada]

You made the right choice, Toyota is a safe bet!

[@amstergal]

Love your energy, Maddie!

[@valloryredner45]

We have a 2021 rav and love it! You made the right choice 🥰

[@k_and_m8745]

I know you have been looking for quite a while. My suggestion, (I live in Ecuador) is to check out what models taxis and successful tourism companies are using because I love Chev but my favourite taxi driver loves KIA because of the accessibility of parts and quick repairs.

[@k_and_m8745]

And to add to that, when you are looking for vehicles, like accomadations, find what suits you. The back seat is a plus for room.

[@kmazanec]

I asked many, many taxi drivers in Mexico City what car they would recommend. They always asked, "for work or for my personal car?" For work it was always a cheap one with very low gas milage that they wouldn't mind getting banged up on a regular basis.

[@susicanuk]

After driving beaters for years i bought a 2022 suzuki..zero regrets

[@georgejetson9801]

I think I like the highest end RAV4 the best too in Cherry Red! 2nd would be a Subaru. The Kias just looked so cheap like you pull the door handles few times and it falls off cheap. You seems like the type of person who takes care of their car too.

[@kapoweeone5567]

Just remember she was comparing a 17k car to a 37k car. And since I've sold Toyotas and Kias the build quality is comparable.

[@suzymail1000]

Hey Maddie, I think any of the Toyota, Mazda, Subaru are all good brands. Just one word of advice on the push to start. These cars are extremely easy to steal. All you need is a software to initiate and the car will start automatically without the key fob. I live in Canada and there's an average of 10 to 20 of these cars being stolen every single night. I know all of the bells and whistles are so sexy but I would stay away from push start to start. Just Google what I'm writting about push-to-start and you'll see what I am trying to help you be aware of. All the best with your car shopping!

[@stebanmendez8229]

Nice video Maddie! But if I was living in Mexico I would definitely check the VW because they are built in Mexico and thus the waiting list shouldn’t be as long & they have nice models. Good luck with your car 🚗 purchase anyway.

[@rafalmeidas]

You did the right choice in car brand. 👍🏻

[@brianyori5753]

Think about where your car will be repaired. How close is that place to your home. Your monthly cost with gas, insurance. Plus how easy is it to steal your car. .

[@MaddieGold]

Great considerations

[@larry6682]

Excellent decision to go with the Toyota. You won't regret it.

[@bigskyblessing]

Awesome video Maddie! I am looking to buy a used car here in Queretaro and you’re so right it’s a pain! I am so happy to see you getting a new Toyota!

[@MaddieGold]

Good luck!! And thank you 😊

[@touchoflighthomesteadmexico]

I have a small s10 truck that me and the kids all squeeze into lol but I think it a fun part of mexico. My kids will always remeber driving around the ranch in the back of the truck

[@Dinoraifu]

Love all the luxurious cars but sadly, as Mexican I’d never drive with a car like the Toyota ones as a solo woman traveler around Mexico 😢 keeping a low profile would be my advice but I hope you find the best option for you!

[@annettemunroe2696]

We recently moved to Mexico and have thought the same, don’t bother getting something too flashy and ‘nice’. 😊

[@mexicanspec]

What is flashy about a Toyota?

[@thomaseichelberger1330]

I think you have a very good point. I would think that she would be safer using public transport during daylight hrs. What do you think?

[@L.Spencer]

@@mexicanspec Toyota and Honda are not common in Mexico. So only people with money who can get parts will have them. And anything new is flashy. People notice those things. If she tends to live where extranjeros live, it probably won't be a huge problem.

[@mexicanspec]

@@L.Spencer I live in a smaller town and newer cars like Honda and Toyota are extremely common. In big cities BMW and Mercedes are extremely common these days.

[@Pangea_Abortion]

You can never go wrong with Toyota. Very reliable cars. Subarus are good but like you said, they can be expensive to repair if they ever break down. Plus, maintenence on them costs an arm and a leg. Finally, Kias are good cars but of course bit on the cheaper side. Back in the day, Kias used to be junk, but they have been greatly improving in recent years. With that being said, I feel that toyota should be first choice. I am looking for a (used) car too and I am sticking with toyota in my search. If I can't find a good toyota then I will consider other brands like Honda or kia. Good luck, Maddy!

[@soren9310]

Kia is still wacking you with higher parts costs than comparable competitors...they lure you with good warranty offers, yet exclude a lot and whenever you have to go to them and pay out of pocket, they make you pay for their"generosity" towards new car buyers...on top, are the cars not very well build and more inline with Ford, VW etc

[@Hankjones1]

Why don't you buy a 73 Volkswagen I see a lot of those in Mexico you could probably get that for $1,500

[@gladlock]

why buy one?

[@situated4]

We have a 2014 Toyota RAV-4 LE AWD (4 cyl engine) with just over 100,000 miles. We've had zero issues or repairs since new. Just regular oil changes, new tires and brake pads recently. Will definitely purchase another when the time comes around 250 - 300k miles or so.

[@carlbutts6937]

Hello Maddie this is Carl and as long as I have been a Subscriber and Number One viewer you have always made excellent choices and I trust your judgment. Watching your enthusiasm and excitement when you sat in the first two RAV4’s clearly sold me. Your excitement while in the Red Luxury model stood out but I see that you were just as motivated by the Gray Sports model. But your a classy lady an will not be denied. So “Queen” Maddie the Red Luxury model is yours to keep. MaddieGold is now “Cherry Red” flaming hot 🥵. RAV4 it is! Happy New Year 🎈🎊 and Happy Motoring at (38 mpg)! Now please take your viewers back to the Monolith in Bernal Village in Mexico. But please drive there in your brand new RAV4. MaddieGold “2023”!

[@Phoenixfire1974]

I love the Carolla Cross. Plus with less electric items, less things to break. I like the Rave Limited as well. Especially the color.

[@MaddieGold]

I asked Jorge to keep me posted once they get the Cross XLE so I can check out the nicer version and make a choice from there. It would be nice to have a smaller vehicle for the narrow roads / tight parking in Mexico