From the print edition
If you’re a gearhead, horsepower junkie or just one of those people who can’t get enough of that new car smell, don’t fret – Expomóvil, Costa Rica’s annual automotive fair and car show runs through March 11.
You can get your fix of all things chrome, plush, high-gloss and high-torque at the event, which is being held at the Pedregal Event Center in San Antonio de Belén, northwest of San José (TT, March 2, Feb. 24). The massive venue is crammed with vehicles ranging from the sleek, new Porsche 911 Carrera S to titanic tractors for farming needs.
Plenty of motorcycles, dirt bikes, four-wheelers and other high-end ATVs are also on display, with all the appropriate accessories for sale.
The environmentally conscientious driver might be overwhelmed by the enormous display of autos that rely on fossil-fuel combustion at the show, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t greener options, too. Hybrid cars such as the Nissan Leaf, Toyota Prius, Mitsubishi MiEV, Chevrolet Volt and others are prominently displayed at Expomóvil.
Carlos Aguilar, Expomóvil coordinator and executive director of the Vehicle and Machinery Importers Association, said market conditions are good right now for buying a car in Costa Rica. This week, in addition to more than 34 auto distributors showcasing products at the fair, numerous banks are also offering special deals on financing plans to help prospective buyers go from pedestrians to knights of the road.
Most banks at Expomóvil are offering special interest rates and same-day approval for buyers who meet their guidelines. Several banks have special agreements with distributors, so it’s a good idea to visit various distributors and financial institutions to find the best deal.
Mario Fernández, sales manager for Auto Subaru of Costa Rica, said his team had already sold eight vehicles by Monday evening.
Subaru is also warning car buyers to review the vehicle identification number (VIN) on vehicles before purchasing to confirm that models are legitimately advertised (see separate story).
Aguilar said he expects more than 50,000 people to attend the exposition this year. Besides good deals on auto purchases and the opportunity to check out the year’s sexiest new models, Expomóvil also offers raffle prizes, a food court and outboard motors.
Expomóvil runs through Sunday. Hours are 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.
Entry is ₡2,000 ($4) and kids under 12 enter free. Parking is available for ₡2,000.
