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[[Mastretta]] (est. 1989) first announced production of their [[Mastretta MXT|MXT]] through ''[[Automóvil Panamericano]]'' magazine in May 2007. Even though up to a year will have passed, September 2008 will see the production version of the first ever fully Mexican designed and engineered serial-produced sports car, the [[Mastretta MXT]], an automobile built in a similar way of those of [[England|English]] [[Lotus Cars]], being their [[Lotus Elise|Elise]] its main target.
[[Mastretta]] (est. 1989) first announced production of their [[Mastretta MXT|MXT]] through ''[[Automóvil Panamericano]]'' magazine in May 2007. Even though up to a year will have passed, September 2008 will see the production version of the first ever fully Mexican designed and engineered serial-produced sports car, the [[Mastretta MXT]], an automobile built in a similar way of those of [[England|English]] [[Lotus Cars]], being their [[Lotus Elise|Elise]] its main target.
To date, 42 makers have official representation in the country with nearly 400 different models, making Mexico one of the most varied and fulfilled automotive markets in the world. While [[Lancia]] and [[Lexus]] are due to arrive in 2009, the only missing "mainstream" makers, [[Citroën]] and [[Kia Motors|Kia]], have given no official advice, although the latter has commented so in the past.
To date, 42 makers have official representation in the country with nearly 400 different models, making Mexico one of the most varied and fulfilled automotive markets in the world. While [[Lancia]] and [[Lexus]] are due to arrive in 2009, the only missing "mainstream" makers, [[Citroën]] and [[Kia Motors|Kia]], have given no official advice, although the latter has commented so in the past.

== Vehicle use restrictions ==
In Mexico City the "Hoy no circula" ("Today you can't drive") program is implemented. Every vehicle has a color sticker depending on the ending number of its plate, as well as a number to determine its pollution rate. Brand new cars "00" and recent models "0" are exent; "Hoy no circula" only applies to vehicles older than 8 years, which have "1" and "2" designations.
The program works by removing these vehicles from circulation one day during the week, and recently one Saturday per month, depending on their last license plate digit number.
Said limitations occur as follows:
* Plates ending with 5 or 6 (<font color="yellow">yellow</font>) cannot be driven on Mondays and the 1st Saturday of the current month.
* Plates ending with 7 or 8 (<font color="magenta">pink</font>) cannot be driven on Tuesdays and the 2nd Saturday of the current month.
* Plates ending with 3 or 4 (<font color="red">red</font>) cannot be driven on Wednesdays and the 3rd Saturday of the current month.
* Plates ending with 1 or 2 (<font color="green">green</font>) cannot be driven on Thursdays and the 4th Saturday of the current month.
* Plates ending with 9 or 0 (<font color="blue">blue</font>) cannot be driven on Fridays and the 5th Saturday of the current month.
For example, a 1985 Volkswagen Golf with 903-NRX plates won't be allowed to be driven on Wednesdays and the 15th of May, 2010, the 19th of June, 2010, etc.


==Automotive culture and Mexico Autoshow==
==Automotive culture and Mexico Autoshow==

Revision as of 06:48, 2 July 2010

Honda Civic, Range Rover, Toyota RAV4 and Volkswagen Golf over Avenida Carlos Lazo, Mexico City.

Cars of Mexico refers to the creation of automobile marketing, as well as a comprehensive list of every car currently sold with a short description of the car's manufacturer history in the country.

Mexican automotive history

Early years (1903 - 1960)

In 1903, motorcars first arrived in Mexico City, totalling 136 in that year and rising to 800 by 1906. This encouraged then president Porfirio Díaz, to create both the first highway code for the country (which would allow cars to move at a maximum speed of 10 km/h or 6 mph on crowded or small streets and 40 km/h or 25 mph elsewhere) and, along with this, a tax for car owners which would be abolished in 1911 with Madero's victory over Díaz (see also Mexican Revolution). In 1921, Buick became the first automobile producer to be officially established in Mexico. Four years later in 1925, Ford Motor Company was established, which remains the current longest-running brand after 83 years.

In 1959, the first ever Mexican automobile was produced. The Rural Ramirez, truck in SUV and pickup truck format. Made by Grupo Industrial Ramirez.

Decline (1961 - 1993)

Many car makers were already operational by 1961 when the first decline of the Mexican economy showed up. In the early 1960s, 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, Peugeot and Volvo. The American Big Three (General Motors, Ford and Chrysler) remained along with American Motors, Renault, Volkswagen, Datsun and Borgward.

In this same year, and due to the announcement of the upcoming 1968 Summer Olympics to be held in Mexico, the government reissued the tax on owning a car in order to "afford" the construction of new facilities for the Olympics; this was called 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. Although an irregularity within the Mexican Constitution was found in 2003 (and possible extension of payment by people who alleged that), this was fixed by modifying an article of the Carta Magna in May 2005, thus, legalizing the tax. This tax is variable depending of the car's value, number of cylinders,transmission,Aircon or other features, reaching payment of up to 10% of the car's total value. Taxing does not end there,there is another tax to pay if purchasing a new vehicle called ISAN "Impuesto Sobre Auto Nuevo" ("Tax On New Car"), also depending on vehicle's specs and price,as in the "Tenencia" tax, this tax is paid one time only. Federal law requires all listed car prices on media or dealerships to have the standard 15%tax and ISAN included on the listed price,making listed prices total on car and taxes. Since many Mexican drivers default on paying this tax, 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. Tenencia remains to date though it is still due to be abolished by 2012 on Federal level, leaving the States the choice to charge or not the Tax on a State level. As of 2010, only the State of Querétaro announced that the tax would be abolished in 2012.

Rebirth (1994 - 2006)

The growth of Mexico's economy during the late 90s stimulated car sales in Mexico and, eventually, most of the retired car makers established again in the country. Makers such as Honda and Porsche arrived for the first time during the last years of the 20th Century, and others such as Peugeot and Mercedes-Benz gave Mexico a "second chance", both reestablishing in 1997.

The 34 makers established (or reestablished*) between 1994 and 2006

Annual passenger vehicle sales in Mexico crossed the 1 million mark in 2005. Then increasing number of sales encouraged car makers to offer cars with alternative fuels like the Honda Civic Hybrid and the Volkswagen Jetta TDI. Such type of cars had't been available in Mexico since the first Volkswagen Caribe Diesel in late 70's and early 80's (see paragraphs for each makers: Honda and Volkswagen); however, still few cars have released their diesel-powered versions for the Mexican consumer due to stricter government emission laws than those of the European Union Euro IV, in order to maintain a petrol car market ONLY, so drivers cannot benefit from saving money on fuel. Diesel Cars do not apply for the privilege of driving every day in Mexico City,brand new Diesel vehicles enter the "Hoy no Circula" restrictions. Government officials claim Diesel powered vehicles are more pollutant than their petrol counterparts because they produce a bit of smoke, although modern Diesel engine technology has proven to be more reliable in fuel consumption and lower Co2 emissions than petrol. Diesel engines have a 50% energy efficiency compared to 23% on the most advanced petrol engines, fuel economy on a 2.0L Diesel engine can go up to 30 km/L, compared to a 2.0L Petrol engine averaging 16 km/L.

The first product (2007 - present)

Main article: Mastretta MXT

Mastretta (est. 1989) first announced production of their MXT through Automóvil Panamericano magazine in May 2007. Even though up to a year will have passed, September 2008 will see the production version of the first ever fully Mexican designed and engineered serial-produced sports car, the Mastretta MXT, an automobile built in a similar way of those of English Lotus Cars, being their Elise its main target. To date, 42 makers have official representation in the country with nearly 400 different models, making Mexico one of the most varied and fulfilled automotive markets in the world. While Lancia and Lexus are due to arrive in 2009, the only missing "mainstream" makers, Citroën and Kia, have given no official advice, although the latter has commented so in the past.

Automotive culture and Mexico Autoshow

Main article: Salón Internacional del Automóvil México


Since the first "Autoexpo del Automóvil" the automotive culture in Mexico started growing in the Mexicans. The publication of the first Mexican auto magazines was in November 1981, Motor y Volante magazine, in early 1995 4 Ruedas Magazine and shortly after Automóvil Panamericano edited by Televisa 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.

Successful cars in Mexico

Some cars have been especially successful in Mexico, depending on their cost and viability.

Opel Corsa

Main article: Opel Corsa


The second generation Opel Corsa was first introduced in Mexico in 1994 imported from Spain 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. From 1996, when the Chevy Popular, or Chevy Pop Budget trim was introduced, and the Chevy began to be produced in the Ramos Arizpe GM assembly plant, replaced the Volkswagen Sedan (Beetle) as the top selling car in Mexico. Chevrolet soon launched the also Mexican made Chevy Monza, similar to the 4 door saloon version of the Chevrolet Classic still produced in Brazil, for those who wanted a bigger trunk and more room with for the same low price.

A couple of Chevys saloon in Mexico City
File:DSC01073a.jpg.JPG
A 2006 Corsa saloon made in Brazil

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 imported from Argentina was also launched, as well as a Brazilian-made Pick Up variant. With the introduction of the Corsa III, however, the older Corsa was no longer manufactured in European GM plants. This generation Corsa was remaining in production in Mexico, Brazil and Argentina. In 2004, Mexican designers redesigned the Chevy inside and outside and upgraded the 1.6 liter engine to reach 98 bhp. This newer Chevrolet was called C2 as a reference to the Corvette generations. In July 2008, a new facelift made in Detroit makes its debut into the new 2009 Chevy, available in 3 and 5 door hatchback, and 4 door sedan bodies.

File:Nissan tsuru.JPG
1992 Nissan Tsuru

Nissan Tsuru

Main article: Nissan Sentra


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. 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).

2007 Volkswagen Jetta Europa

Volkswagen Jetta

Main article: 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 1998 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 is still selling the fourth generation, while renaming the fifth generation as Bora.

Volkswagen Sedán

A Volkswagen Sedán.
Main article: Volkswagen Beetle
Main article: Volkswagen Beetle in Mexico


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 chapter 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.

Taglines: Había una vez... Fin. (Once upon a time... The end. Announcing the last Sedán, with a split photo of the 1954 model and the 2003 one)

Companies with official representation brands in Mexico

This is a brief history of the car makers in this country.

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG

Brands BMW and MINI.

Chrysler Group, LLC

Brands Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep; and vehicles by Hyundai.

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. Hyundai has no official representation in Mexico so Hyundai cars are sold under Dodge's badge.

First Automobile Works

Brands FAW.

The first Chinese car maker in Mexico was introduced 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.

Fiat S.p.A.

Brands Ferrari, Fiat and Maserati.

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 the beginning of 2006. The Punto's introduction meant a hit for the maker.

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. Five units were sold. Furthermore, Ferrari chose Chiapas to test its F430 in 2004 before it came out. Curiosly, is the only maker to offer its entire catalogue in Mexico.

Ford Motor Company

Brands Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo.

Ford Motor Company México had great sales during the 50s, 60s and 70s, before being overtaken by General Motors. It used to hold 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 (with a Ford Granada front end), Grand Marquis, Cougar, Topaz (an upmarket Ford Tempo) and Ghia (an upmarket Mercury Topaz). Last example became the Mercury Sable rebadged as the Ford Taurus.

From 1996, Lincoln dealerships became Lincoln-Mercury dealerships selling both brands.

For a time, the hot hatch Focus ST was the only hatchback Focus available there. It offers a 2.5i 5-cylinder engine, as with European versions, being Mexico the only country in America in which Ford offers this European version which is imported from Germany. Family versions were released with 2 trim levels and a 2.0i petrol engine. This is not the same as the Focus sold in United States, which is based on the 1998-2005 original version.

The European Ford Mondeo appeared in 2003, although it was different to the mainland Europe version; being more luxurious, it sold for approximately £20,000 for a 2.0i model.

Their successful Ikon (sedan version of the Fiesta II) remained as a favorite for low income families, sharing a similar success with the next generation in 2005, the Fiesta III Sedan. However, it is the Brazilian mini SUV Ecosport which now holds the Ford's best seller title. The latest Mustang remains a favourite between men in their 20s and 30s, as its previous generations did.

In 2010, the Taurus badge is to return to Mexico after a 12-year absence.

Fuji Heavy Industries Group

Brands Subaru.

General Motors Company

Brands Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Hummer, Pontiac and Saab and vehicles by Daewoo, Opel and Saturn.

General Motors was the sales leader in Mexico until 2009, when Nissan overtook GM, becoming the new sales leader in Mexico[1]. 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) kept this maker at the top 1 from 1995 until 2009[1]. Chevrolet was the one of the first carmakers to establish in Mexico. Previously all Buick, Oldsmobile and GMC vehicles were marketed as Chevrolet. 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. The Hummer H1 was 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 funds, notably a Hummer), jokes referring to the Hummer became popular throughout the country. After the Pontiac brand stops production of all cars in late 2010 as GM announced , Buick is expected to replace Pontiac in the Mexican market and become the partner brand together with GMC as most dealerships in Mexico are GMC-Pontiac Saab has a reputation similar to Volvo's. Both brands are respected for their safety concept and Swedish design. First Opel car in Mexico was the Rekord in the 60s. The maker was retired from the country from 1972 until 1994, when GM introduced the Opel Corsa and changed the denomination to Chevrolet Chevy. The Catera became a successful model in Mexico during the 90's. Nowadays the Escalade is the top selling of the maker.

Honda Motor Company, Ltd.

Brands Acura and Honda.

Isuzu Motors, Ltd.

Isuzu Motors de México started operations in November 2005, thanks to the Economic Partnership Agreement that had been signed by Mexico and Japan. Isuzu is the first Japanese commercial vehicle manufacturer to enter Mexico, and it's a Joint Venture between Isuzu Motors Limited (51%) and Mitsubishi Corporation (49%). The company started sales with the ELF in 3 different versions: ELF 300 with payload capacity of 3.4ton, ELF 400 for 4 ton payload and ELF 450 for 4.5 ton. Since then the brand has expand throughout the country, as of 2008 has 27 dealers and will start assembly operations of the model ELF 600 in 2009.

GM Mexico sold Isuzu pick-up truck as Chevrolet Luv imported from Chile (GM Chile). Single Cab and Crew Cab 4x2, 2.3 cc Petrol. The sirst South American compact truck (before Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux from Argentina).

Jaguar Land Rover

Brands Jaguar and Land Rover.

The X-Type is the most successful Jaguar in the country with a price range of US$40,000. Very few Jaguars are sold per year however (less than 1000). 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.

Mazda Motor Corporation

Mazda was introduced in Mexico in November 2005 with the aid of the Mazda3 and Mazda6 then current generations.

While it was common to spot illegal B2000 pick-ups and 626 sedans on the streets, Mazda vehicles were virtually unknown in Mexico. This led to an unexpected sales range when the Mazda3 was introduced; both hatchback and notchback versions became a success among youngsters.

Throughout 2007 and 2008, Mazda fulfilled most of its clients' requests by presenting the MPV Mazda5, the SUVs CX-7 and CX-9, and the popular roadster Miata, rebadged MX-5. Though coupé RX-8 had been also considerated, the modifications needed to achieve good perormance in the Valley of Mexico led the idea to be dropped. The only RX-8 delivered by Mazda Motor de México to an individual was raffled by Mazda itself in 2008.

The new generation Mazda3 and the CX-7 have kept Mazda among the most successful brands in Mexico; Mazda6 and MX-5 maintain regular sales, while Mazda5 and CX-9 have the weakest.

Mitsubishi Motors

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.

PSA Peugeot Citroën

Brands Peugeot and a vehicle by Citroën.

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.

Renault-Nissan Alliance (Renault S.A. and Nissan Motor Company, Ltd.)

Brands Nissan and Renault, and vehicles by Dacia, Infiniti and Samsung.

Nissan is a well-known maker in Mexico and number one in sales[1], for its model Tsuru II, based on the 1991-94 Sentra and being facelifted every four years. This car is especially prized by taxicab companies for being affordable (around $97,000 MXN or $9000 USD), strong, spacious, fast and trustworthy. 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 Mexicana sell Dacia Logan as Nissan Aprio made by Renault Brazil. Nissan sells also one Infiniti car.

First established in 1959, Renault cars were quite successful during the late 70s and early 80s, being their R5 (nicknamed "zapatito" or "little shoe") and R12 well-known within the Mexican people. The French pronunciation of the marque was mis-conceived as "Reh-nol", "Roh-nol" and even "Roh-ñol". Renault remained successful until 1986, when it left the country due of financial reasons. Following the steps of Mercedes-Benz and most notably Peugeot, Renault returned to Mexico in late 1999 through the Mexican Autoshow (then Autoexpo) of 1999, where they offered the first generation Mégane Scénic's (or simply Scénic) test-drive, a feature seen for the first time in the Autoshow. This vehicle, known for being the first mid-size MPV, was introduced in 2000, and seeing a warm welcome by the Mexican buyers. The small family sedan Mégane followed next year, along with their best seller Clio's sportive version, the Clio II Renault Sport. Regarding the success of the hot hatch, Renault decided to present their Mexican-made Clio II, featuring the 2001 restyling (though the 1998 original dashboard), dark gray rims and a unique 1.6i mounted on other Renaults in order to resist Mexico's central states' heights. The Nissan factory in Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes is used to assemble the Clio, Nissan's Clio sedan version the Platina and, formerly, the previous Scénic. A facelifted Clio was introduced on late 2006 featuring new front and rear end and new interior design (from the European 2001 version) programmed to remain on sale, as in most countries, until 2010. Ironically, this Clio II outlasted new Clio's presence on the Mexican market. It is one of the two remaining French Renaults, since the Mégane II hatch has stopped production in Spain. Korean Koleos, Safrane and Fluence, and Colombian Sandero are expected to replace all French models by 2012.

Suzuki Motor Corporation

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.

Toyota Motor Corporation

Toyota entered Mexico in early 2002, with the Camry and Corolla. The maker was known in the country for the pick-ups and cars imported (illegally) from the United States. The Corolla and the RAV4, as in the rest of the world, are very successful.

Volkswagen Group

Brands Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini, SEAT and Volkswagen.

Volkswagen is a sales leader in Mexico, just behind Nissan and GM. The commercial success of the models Pointer, Jetta and Lupo increase considerably this carmaker's sales. 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 numbers in Mexico.

Audis are very popular amongst Mexican youths and business people. The most successful models are the A4 and the A3 Sportback.

The Spanish carmaker SEAT arrived to Mexico in 2001 with the Ibiza. It has been very successful in Mexico, the strong sellers are the Ibiza and the León (new 1.4 and 1.8 TSi variants have been recently introduced). The Seat Córdoba will be produced from next year in the Volkswagen assembly plant in Puebla as the 2.0 Tiptronic variant.

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 Volkswagen Caribe Diesel (1979–1983) which was slow-selling in this country. Unfortunately the sales of the Jetta TDi (which has a huge number of sales on its 2.0i edition) are in small numbers, 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.

Mainstream carmakers

Notes:

  • If a car's retiring year reads 2009 and its availability cell is coloured green, it means no more units will be produced nor imported, but the last units are still on sale.
  • If a car has no retiring year marked but its availability cell is coloured red, it means either that car is in the middle of a restyling or the maker is waiting for new units to arrive.
  • No future dates shall be given.
  • Family, executive and leisure cars are found below, following Mexican body configurations: microauto (microcar), auto de ciudad (city car), subcompacto (supermini), compacto (small family car), mediano (large family car), lujo (executive car), miniván (MPV by size), SUV (by size), pick-up (by size), van (small LAV), van mediana (light van) and van larga (van). Sport cars are found on the lower part of each table following the same format and including (if any): roadster and coupé. Convertibles may not be considered sport cars.
  • Blue link/text indicates a car whose brand and name are/were the same as the original model.
  • Green link/text indicates a car whose name is/was different as its original market.
  • Gamboge link/text indicates a car whose brand is/was different as its original market.
  • Dark red link/text indicates a car whose both brand and name are/were different from its original market.

Acura[2]

Name Body Introduced Retired Engine Transmission options Origin Available?
TSX Sedan 2009 I4 2.4i 240 hp M Sayama, Saitama Yes
TL III Sedan 2005 2008 V6 3.2i 258 hp M Marysville, Ohio No
TL IV Sedan 2008 V6 3.5i 280 hp M Marysville, Ohio Yes
TL IV Sedan 2008 V6 3.7i 305 hp M Marysville, Ohio Yes
RL II Sedan 2005 V6 3.7i 305 hp M Yes
RDX SUV 2006 V6 3.7i 305 hp M Marysville, Ohio Yes
MDX SUV 2007 V6 3.7i 305 hp M Alliston, Ontario Yes

Audi[3]

Bentley

BMW[4]

  • 1-Series The 120i and 130i are available in 3 and 5 door Hatchback, 125i and 135i are available as Coupé. The 1-series Comvertible is scheduled to be introduced next December
  • 3-Series The 325i and 335i are available as Sedan, Coupé and Convertible
  • 5-Series The 525i, 530i, and 550i are available only as Sedan
  • 6-Series The 650i is available as Coupé and Convertible
  • 7-Series The 750i is available in short and long wheelbase bodies, while the 760i is available only as a long wheelbase sedan
  • M3 Available as Sedan and Coupé
  • M5 Available as Sedan only
  • M6 Available as Coupé and Convertible
  • X3 2.5 and 3.0 variants are available
  • X5 3.0 and 4.8 variants are available as 5 or 7 seater SUV
  • X6 3.0i, 4.8i
  • Z4; 2.0i, 3.0i
  • Z4 M Coupé

Cadillac[5]

Chevrolet[6]

Chrysler[7]

Dodge[8]

FAW (2008 - 2010)[9]

Name Body Introduced Retired Engine Transmission options Origin Available?
F1 Hatchback 2008 I3 1.0i 65 hp S Changchun, Jilin Yes
F1 Notchback 2008 I3 1.0i 65 hp S Changchun, Jilin Yes
F5 Hatchback 2008 I4 1.5i 101 hp S Changchun, Jilin Yes
F5 Notchback 2008 I4 1.5i 101 hp S Changchun, Jilin Yes

Ferrari[10]

Name Body Introduced Retired Engine Transmission options Origin Available?
California Coupé-cabrio 2009 V8 4.3i 453 hp S Maranello, Emilia-Romagna Yes
360 Módena Coupé 1999 2005 S Maranello, Emilia-Romagna No
360 Spider Cabrio 1999 2005 S Maranello, Emilia-Romagna No
360 CS Coupé 2004 2005 S Maranello, Emilia-Romagna No
F430 Coupé 2005 V8 4.3i 490 hp S Maranello, Emilia-Romagna Yes
F430 Spider 2005 V8 4.3i 490 hp S Maranello, Emilia-Romagna Yes
F430 Scuderia Coupé 2005 V8 4.3i 490 hp S Maranello, Emilia-Romagna Yes
F430 Scuderia 16M Spider 2005 V8 4.3i 503 hp S Maranello, Emilia-Romagna Yes
550 Maranello Coupé 1999 2002 V12 5.5i 485 hp S Maranello, Emilia-Romagna No
550 Barchetta Coupé 1999 2002 V12 5.5i 485 hp S Maranello, Emilia-Romagna No
575M Maranello Coupé 2003 2006 V12 5.7i 508 hp S Maranello, Emilia-Romagna No
575M Superamerica Coupé 2007 2007 V12 5.7i 530 hp S Maranello, Emilia-Romagna No
599 GTB Fiorano Coupé 2008 V12 6.0i 620 hp S Maranello, Emilia-Romagna Yes
456M Coupé 1999 2004 V12 5.5i 442 hp S Maranello, Emilia-Romagna No
612 Scaglietti Coupé 2005 V12 5.7i 540 hp S Maranello, Emilia-Romagna Yes
Enzo Coupé 2003 2004 V12 6.0i 660 hp S Maranello, Emilia-Romagna No

Fiat[11]

Ford[12]

GMC[11]

Honda [13]

Name Body Introduced Retired Engine Transmission options Origin Available?
Fit I Hatchback 2005 2008 No
Fit II Hatchback 2009 Yes
City V Notchback 2009 Yes
Civic VI Notchback 1997 1999 No
Civic VII Notchback 2000 2005 No
Civic VIII Notchback 2006 Yes
Accord V Notchback No
Accord VI Notchback No
Accord VII Notchback No
Accord VIII Notchback Yes
CR-V II SUV No
CR-V III SUV 2007 Yes
Pilot I SUV 2004 2008 No
Pilot II SUV 2008 Yes
Odyssey II SUV 2000 2004 Lincoln, Alabama No
Odyssey III MPV 2004 Lincoln, Alabama Yes

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Hummer [14]

Isuzu[15]

Jaguar [16]

Jeep

Lamborghini

Lamborghini's first official shop is to open in early 2010. The same building had previously housed Maserati, Ferrari and Alfa Romeo vehicles. To be offered

Land Rover

Lincoln

The Navigator is Lincoln's most popular and successful car in Mexico.

Maserati

Mastretta[17]

Name Body Introduced Retired Engine Transmission options Origin Available?
MXA Coupé 1998 1998 B4 1.6i 44 hp S Mexico City No
MXB Coupé 1998 1998 B4 1.6i 44 hp S Mexico City No
MXT Coupé L4 2.0ti 230 hp S Mexico City No

Mazda [18]

Mercedes-Benz

Mercury

Name Body Introduced Retired Engine Transmission options Origin Available?
Mariner II 4X2 SUV 2007 V6 3.0i 240 hp M Claycomo, Missouri Yes
Mariner II 4WD SUV 2007 V6 3.0i 240 hp M Claycomo, Missouri Yes

MINI

Name Body Introduced Retired Engine Transmission options Origin Available?
Cooper II Coupé 2008 L4 1.6i 118 hp S/M Oxford, Oxfordshire Yes
Cabrio II Coupé 2008 L4 1.6i 118 hp S/M Oxford, Oxfordshire Yes
Cooper II S Coupé 2008 L4 1.6i 172 hp S/M Oxford, Oxfordshire Yes
Clubman II S Station wagon 2008 L4 1.6i 172 hp S/M Oxford, Oxfordshire Yes
Cabrio II S Coupé 2008 L4 1.6i 118 hp S/M Oxford, Oxfordshire Yes
John Cooper Works Coupé 2008 L4 1.6i 208 hp S Oxford, Oxfordshire Yes
John Cooper Works Cabrio 2008 L4 1.6i 208 hp S Oxford, Oxfordshire Yes

Mitsubishi

Nissan

Peugeot

Pontiac (1994 - 2010)

Porsche

Radical[19]

Name Body Introduced Retired Engine options Transmission options Origin Available?
SR3 RS Racecar 2009 L4 1.5i 265 hp S Westwood, Cambridgeshire Yes

Renault

Name Body Introduced Retired Engine options Transmission options Origin Available?
R5 Hatchback 1972 1984 I4 1.3i 59 hp S Ciudad Sahagún, Hidalgo No
Sandero Hatchback 2010 I4 1.6i 101 hp S/A Yes
Scala Notchback 2010 I4 1.6i 101 hp S/A Yes
Clio II Hatchback 2002 2010 I4 1.6i 110 hp S/A Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes No
Clio III Hatchback 2006 2008 I4 1.6i 110 hp S/A France No
Mégane II Hatchback 2003 2009 I4 2.0i 140 hp S/A France No
Mégane II Notchback 2007 2010 I4 1.6i 110 hp S Turkey No
Mégane II Notchback 2004 2010 I4 2.0i 138 hp S/A Turkey No
Mégane II CC Coupé-cabrio 2004 2009 I4 2.0t 162 hp M No
R12 Notchback 1972 1978 S No
R18 Notchback 1978 1984 I4 2.0i S No
Laguna II Hatchback 2002 2008 V6 3.0i M France No
Laguna II Grand Tour Station wagon 2002 2007 V6 3.0i M France No
Safrane II Sedan 2009 V6 2.3i 168 hp M South Korea Yes
Scénic I MPV 2000 2005 I4 2.0i 138 hp S/A Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes No
Scénic II MPV 2005 2009 I4 2.0i 138 hp S/A No
Kangoo I LAV 2004 I4 1.6i 110 hp S Yes
Trafic Panel 2007 I4 1.9d 99 hp S Yes
Trafic Van 2007 2009 I4 1.9d 99 hp S No
Clio II RS Coupé 2001 2004 I4 2.0i 172 hp S Dieppe, Seine-Maritime No
Clio II RS Team Coupé 2005 2007 I4 2.0i 182 hp S Dieppe, Seine-Maritime No
Mégane II GT Hatchback 2008 2009 I4 2.0ti 165 hp S Palencia, Castile-Leon No
Mégane II GT Coupé 2008 2009 I4 2.0ti 165 hp S Palencia, Castile-Leon No
Mégane II RS Coupé 2004 2009 I4 2.0ti 247 hp S Dieppe, Seine-Maritime No

Saab

SEAT

Smart

Name Body Introduced Retired Engine options Transmission options Country of origin Available?
Fortwo I Coupé 2001 2007 I3 1.0i 70 hp S Böblingen, Baden-Württemberg No
Fortwo I Cabrio 2001 2007 I3 1.0i 70 hp S Böblingen, Baden-Württemberg No
Fortwo II Coupé 2007 I3 1.0i 70 hp S Böblingen, Baden-Württemberg Yes
Fortwo II Cabrio 2007 I3 1.0i 70 hp S Böblingen, Baden-Württemberg Yes
Fortwo II Passion Coupé 2007 I3 1.0i 84 hp S Böblingen, Baden-Württemberg Yes
Fortwo II Passion Cabrio 2007 I3 1.0i 84 hp S Böblingen, Baden-Württemberg Yes
Roadster Cabrio 2003 2005 S Böblingen, Baden-Württemberg No
Roadster Coupé Coupé 2003 2005 I3 1.0i 81 hp S Böblingen, Baden-Württemberg No

Subaru

Suzuki

Toyota

Volkswagen[20]

Name Body Introduced Retired Engine Transmission options Origin Available?
Sedán Coupé 1954 2003 B4 1.6i 44 hp S Puebla, Puebla No
Pointer II Hatchback 1998 2008 I4 1.8i 98 hp S São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo No
Gol V Hatchback 2008 I4 1.8i 98 hp S São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo Yes
Gol V Notchback 2008 I4 1.8i 98 hp S São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo Yes
Lupo II Hatchback 2004 2009 I4 1.6i 100 hp S São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo No
SportVan Hatchback 2004 I4 1.6i 100 hp S Córdoba, Córdoba Yes
CrossFox Hatchback 2005 I4 1.6i 100 hp S São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo Yes
Caribe I Hatchback 1977 1987 I4 1.6i 66 hp S Puebla, Puebla No
Atlantic I Notchback 1981 1985 I4 1.6i 66 hp S No
Caribe I GT Hot hatch 1984 1987 I4 1.8i 85 hp S Puebla, Puebla No
Golf II Hatchback 1987 1992 I4 1.8i 72 hp S Puebla, Puebla No
Golf II Hatchback 1987 1992 I4 1.8i 85 hp S/A Puebla, Puebla No
Jetta II Notchback 1985 1992 I4 1.8i 85 hp S/A Puebla, Puebla No
Golf II GTI Hot hatch 1989 1992 I4 1.8i 105 hp S Puebla, Puebla No
Golf III Hatchback 1993 1999 S Puebla, Puebla No
Golf III Cabrio 1993 1999 S Puebla, Puebla No
Jetta III Notchback 1993 1999 S Puebla, Puebla No
Golf III GTI Hatchback VR6 2.8i 172 hp S Puebla, Puebla No
Golf IV Hatchback 1999 2007 I4 2.0 115 hp S/A Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony No
Jetta IV Notchback 1999 I4 2.0 115 hp S/A Puebla, Puebla Yes
Golf IV Cabrio 1999 2004 I4 2.0 115 hp S/A Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony No
Golf IV GTI Hot hatch 1999 2004 I4 1.8ti 180 hp S Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony No
Golf IV R32 Hot hatch 2003 2004 VR6 3.2i 237 hp S/A Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony No
Golf IV R32 Hot hatch 2003 2004 VR6 3.2i 237 hp S/A Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony No
Golf V GTI Hot hatch 2006 2010 I4 2.0ti 197 hp S/DSG Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony Yes
Bora II Notchback 2005 I5 2.5i 172 hp S/M Puebla, Puebla Yes
Bora V Notchback 2007 I4 1.9td 103 hp S/DSG Puebla, Puebla Yes
Bora V GLI Saloon 2005 I4 2.0ti 197 hp S/DSG Puebla, Puebla Yes
Golf V GTI Pirelli Hot hatch 2006 2010 I4 2.0ti 227 hp DSG Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony Yes
Golf VI Sportwagen Station wagon 2009 I5 2.5i 170 hp S/M Puebla, Puebla Yes
Passat VI CC Coupé 2008 I4 2.0ti 197 hp DSG Emden, East Frisia Yes
Passat VI CC Coupé 2008 V6 3.6i 276 hp M Emden, East Frisia Yes
  • Eurovan (T5 Transporter cargo and passenger van w/long wheelbase. Only sold with the 1.9TDi/105 hp engine)
  • Jetta IV; 2.0i, 1.9TDi
  • Beetle(Sold as GLS with 2.0 115 hp engine, Sport, Cabriolet and Sport GLX trims with 5 cil. 2.5 lt 170 hp engine. All variants with 5 speed manual and 6 speed tiptronic gearboxes)
  • Routan
  • Passat (It is sold with 2.0 TFSi 200 hp, and V6 3.6 280 hp engines with 6 speed Tiptronic gearbox, the latter one is available also as a 4Motion model. Imported from Germany)
  • Tiguan
  • Touareg; V6, V8 Petrol, V6 TDI.
  • Crafter
  • Jetta GLI; 1.8T
  • GLI; 2.0 TFSi/DSG

Volvo


See also

References

  • Automóvil Panamericano. Mexican magazine (issues from October 1996 to October 2006). Retrieved August 18, 2006.
  • 4 Ruedas Magazine. Mexican Magazine (issues from October 1996 to September 2006). retrieved August 18, 2006.
  1. ^ a b c http://www.elsemanario.com.mx/news/news_display.php?story_id=30807
  2. ^ "Acura México". Retrieved 2009-10-05.
  3. ^ "Audi México". Retrieved 2009-10-05.
  4. ^ "BMW México". Retrieved 2009-10-05.
  5. ^ "Sitio Oficial de Cadillac México". Retrieved 2009-10-05.
  6. ^ "Sitio Oficial de Chevrolet México". Retrieved 2009-10-05.
  7. ^ "Chrysler México". Retrieved 2009-10-05.
  8. ^ "Dodge México". Retrieved 2009-10-05.
  9. ^ "FAW: Impulsa tus sueños". Retrieved 2009-10-05.
  10. ^ "Ferrari & Maserati México". Retrieved 2009-10-05.
  11. ^ a b "Fiat México". Retrieved 2009-10-05.
  12. ^ "Ford México". Retrieved 2009-10-05.
  13. ^ "Honda de México". Retrieved 2009-10-27.
  14. ^ "Sitio Oficial de Hummer México". Retrieved 2009-10-27.
  15. ^ Template:Citeweburl=http://www.isuzumex.com
  16. ^ "Jaguar México". Retrieved 2009-10-27.
  17. ^ "Mastretta Cars". Retrieved 2009-10-05.
  18. ^ "MAZDA Mexico". Retrieved 2009-10-21.
  19. ^ "Radical Sportscars México". Retrieved 2009-10-05.
  20. ^ "Volkswagen México". Retrieved 2009-10-16.

Template:Mexican automotive presence timeline, 1920s-present

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