Import - Advantages/Disadvantages

Claire G · August 12, 2002

One of my friends who came along to JAE is now interested in getting a Lexus. He's thinking of an IS200 or a GS300. He's seen some Altezzas and was wondering if he'd be best to get one of these as they appear quite a bit cheaper 2nd hand.

I know some of you have got Altezzas and I wondered what you thought, whether or not you'd do it again and general advantages or disadvantages.

My husband and I bought an import Honda a few years back but got stung on insurance and servicing - is it the same for Altezzas?

Thanks.

Rodders_UK · August 12, 2002

Tell him to get an Aristo Vertex and make us all dead jealous!!!!:bounce::bounce:

JayOne · August 12, 2002

Hi Claire

Couple of things to watch out for: Cannot get the navigation to work in the UK (yet)!

Also get a BIMTA certificate, this covers you in case the car turns out to be stolen or a write off. My insurance premium went up by 20% as well.

Hope this helps.

Risky3301 · August 12, 2002

Claire, Importing a 'Gen UK Spec RHD' shouldn't make any difference to your insurance and service costs, If it does take your business else where.

If your going to import a Lexus, the best place is Denmark, I currently investigating this route for Importing, approx saving on IS200 Sport is about £5000 at todays exchange rate. If you want the dealer info let me know and gladly forward you the name and contact number.

:cool:

Steven · August 12, 2002

Originally posted by Risky3301
Claire, Importing a 'Gen UK Spec RHD' shouldn't make any difference to your insurance and service costs, If it does take your business else where.

If your going to import a Lexus, the best place is Denmark, I currently investigating this route for Importing, approx saving on IS200 Sport is about £5000 at todays exchange rate. If you want the dealer info let me know and gladly forward you the name and contact number.

:cool:

I think claire means a Jap import... or do i have my wires crossed?

altezzaz · August 13, 2002

Well, I'm thrilled to bits with mine - not sure about this "cheaper" malarky though - you try and find one! I guess if you bring it in yourself it could be. My one moan so far is the radio, but the exhaust note more than makes up for it......

Claire G · August 14, 2002

Hi, yep my friend is looking at Japanese imports.

My husband's Honda Prelude is a Jap import and the first year he had it, there was no difference in insurance as it's the same spec as UK models. However, after a while Insurance companies seemed to cotton on that this was a good way to make more money.

I would hesitate in getting another import car but wanted to get some less biased opinions.

I hadn't really thought of imports from other countries, but I'll pass this on to my mate.

Thanks for the feedback!