A Cuban sends a car to Cuba and explains which brand is better to take to the island: "It's my opinion."

A Cuban explains on TikTok why he chose a Toyota to send to Cuba, highlighting its accessible and affordable parts compared to other brands like Honda, considering the country's conditions.


A Cuban living abroad shared in a TikTok video his experience of shipping a car to Cuba and explained why he chose a Toyota over other brands like Honda.

“For me, Toyota is better than Honda. Honda is nicer, but the transmission is more expensive. And for a Corolla, it’s cheaper,” stated the user identified as @deivi.portales0, who shared his testimony on the platform.

In the video, the man displays the vehicle he sent to the island and points out that one of the main reasons for choosing Toyota is that its spare parts are more accessible and economical in the Cuban context.

"The engine is also cheaper. The parts are easier to find. Toyota is the best for Cuba," he commented, emphasizing the importance of making practical decisions when exporting a car to the country.

The testimony adds to others from Cubans who, faced with the transportation crisis on the island, choose to import vehicles from abroad, prioritizing not only the condition of the car but also the costs of maintenance and repair in Cuba.

The choice of brands like Toyota is based on an economic reality where the availability of parts, the ease of repair, and the cost of components determine the practicality of certain models over others, beyond design or aesthetics.

The video has sparked comments among Cuban users who agree that, given the current conditions, Toyota represents a safer and more economical option for those looking to have a functional vehicle on the island.

Frequently asked questions about vehicle importation to Cuba

Why is Toyota considered a good option for sending to Cuba?

Toyota is a popular choice for shipping to Cuba due to the accessibility and affordability of its spare parts. Furthermore, engine parts are cheaper and easier to find in the Cuban context, which is crucial given the transportation crisis on the island.

What challenges do Cubans face when importing cars from abroad?

Cubans who import cars face challenges such as a shortage of spare parts, high maintenance costs, and government restrictions. Additionally, Cuban import policies can complicate shipments, requiring official authorizations from the manufacturer to ensure technical support.

How does buying a car in Cuba compare to buying one in the United States?

In Cuba, acquiring a car is a privilege limited to a few due to high prices and a scarcity of options. In contrast, in the United States, while cars can also be expensive, there are more opportunities for financing and a greater variety of options in the market.

What impact does the importation of luxury cars have on Cuban society?

The importation of luxury cars in Cuba sparks a debate about economic inequalities in the country. While some celebrate access to prestigious brands, others question how these cars coexist with the economic reality of most Cubans.

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Yare Grau

Originally from Cuba, but living in Spain. I studied Social Communication at the University of Havana and later graduated in Audiovisual Communication from the University of Valencia. I am currently part of the CiberCuba team as an editor in the Entertainment section.