SUV & diesel engine
I've been living in La Republica for 6 years. I now own a '96 Mitsubishi Montero diesel. In all modesty, a wise choice. SUVs are very good, high ground clearance & 4 wheel drive. Diesel fuel is @ US $1.30 / gallon; gasoline @ $2.50 / gallon. A diesel engine requires less maintenance; it has less acceleration, but much better fuel economy. Parts for all Japense & American brands are readily availalbe. From what I hear, Toyota is the best [high re-sale value & all parts available everywhere], but sells @ a significan premium,; Nissan & Honda rank next in overall quality, not much behind; then Mitsubishi; then Suburu & Suzuki; then the Korean brands. Most all are available with diesel engines. Check locally re: parts availability for less popular makes. This can be a very serious problem; you only find out later! Suggestion: check the Listin Diario classified section; you can usually find a 2 - 4 year old SUV selling for a reasonable price; from someone who has to sell; much lower price than the dealers charge. Cars & SUVs seem much cheaper in Santo Domingo & Santiago than the rest of the country. It's a buyers' market; negoiate hared, the nwalk away if necessary! You can always return the next day. Good fortune.