Ask an expert

I'm wondering if you can help me. I'm looking at buying a reliable station wagon, preferably manual and 4wd for getting up the mountain.

I've been trying to get some reliability information but it's hard to find. At the moment I'm trying to decide between a Honda Orthia and Toyota Caldina.

I'm also thinking about the option of importing directly from Japan.

Have you come across any problems with these cars, are there any others I should be considering, and is there anything I should be watching out for when importing.

Quite a few questions in one!

Greg

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 14 December 2009

Be very careful importing used cars into NZ. The rules have changed recently regarding emissions and the vehicles you are looking at are likely not comply due to their age.

You need to bring yourself up to speed with the rules or only look at importing a very late model vehicle.

The cars you mention are both OK, I assume you are looking at 4WD variants. A proven service history and a pre-purchase inspection may help in the final decision if you buy from the local market.

If you are still keen on importing a vehicle remember to think about all the costs involved. By the time you import a vehicle and pay for the shipping and all the compliance costs, you may be better off having a look around for a ex NZ new used Subaru which are ideal for your needs with their AWD system.

They can be a risk, but if you take your time, and are prepared to look around you will come up with a suitable vehicle depending on your budget of course.

Another underrated vehicle in my opinion is the Honda HRV which comes in 4WD (on demand). They were sold new in NZ but never topped the sales charts. Value for money wise they may be worth a look.