Best car to retire with in Mexico?

I have a pickup now, but I'm thinking of retiring in Mexico. I'm thinking I'll need an SUV, wagon or mini-van with good gas mileage, plus maybe something I can throw into four wheel drive if I encounter a washed out road. (I prefer driving the back roads--to discover new towns--rather than driving the toll roads.) Can you think of anything that meets these criteria? I'm thinking Lake Chapala area, right now, but I also like Oaxaca and San Cristobal de las Casas. If I were going to Mexico City, I WOULD NOT take a car. No I won't consider a Landrover.

Public Comments

1. Depending on where you're going to live...I'd prefer a Rav4 with the V6 only because if you're going to do highway driving there, you'll need it. If you're planning on going to Mexico City, don't be too attached to your exterior or your suspension so no really low profile tires.
2. Something a little high off the ground and with 4 wheel drive..and not brand new is best. If you do buy a new vehicle, and it is financed, it must be at least 6 months old when you come to Mexicol. This is because you must have a letter of permission from the lender to bring the car to Mexico, and they will NOT give you a letter for a car that has been financed for less than 6 months. Yes, there are toll roads, but many of the regular highways require a sturdy vehicle tool. If you plan to live around Chapala you will be in the midst of thousands of gringos...and higher prices. I have a med. size SUV with 4 wheel drive and I drive in remote areas on unbelievable roads frequently. ( I live in the state of Veracruz.) Remember you need Mexican car insurance and will need to get a car permit at the consulate before coming or at the first town after you cross the border, in the permit office. Here are a couple of web sites that may help you.
3. firstly, i would consider the repair places in the area you want to live. my boyfriend owns a landrover and it is a PAIN because the nearest dealership/repair shop able to fix it is over 50 minutes away and the parts are incredibly expensive! having a skilled repairman/parts availability in mexico is key, because shipping is expensive and access is low. major factories in mexico include Nissan, and Chevy. so these parts are readily available. i would consider an SUV by one of these companies.
4. get an SUV explorers are pretty common around here