How to Choose Your First Car

Choosing your first car in Georgia has never involved more decisions or more opportunity. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, vehicle imports into Georgia reached USD 622.2 million, representing nearly 15% of all imports. A broader look at January–October shows that motor-car imports soared to USD 3.15 billion, accounting for 21% of Georgia’s total import volume.

What this tells us is clear: the Georgian car market is booming, competitive and evolving. As a first-time buyer, you’re not just choosing a vehicle, you’re navigating a marketplace with rising costs, more import options, and stronger head-winds and advantages than ever before.

In this guide, we walk you through how to set your budget, evaluate what type of car suits you, assess hidden costs (especially with imports), and decide whether buying locally or sourcing from the USA might be your smarter move.

Should You Buy Your First Car Locally or Import From the USA?

Choosing between a locally purchased car and an imported one is one of the biggest decisions first-time buyers in Georgia face. Both options have advantages, but they are not equal in terms of price, reliability, and long-term value. Here’s a clear, honest breakdown to help you decide.

Local Market Overview (Short and Honest)

Price Inflation

Car prices in Georgia have been steadily rising due to import costs, taxes, and high demand. Even older models can be priced unusually high, making it difficult for a first-time buyer to find a good deal within a limited budget.

Limited Model Availability

Local dealers often stock a narrow selection of vehicles. If you’re looking for:

• a specific trim,
• certain safety features,
• low mileage,
• or factory packages,

you may quickly discover that the Georgian market simply doesn’t have what you want.

Risks of Hidden Issues

Cars sold locally may come with:

• undisclosed accident history,
• repaired or replaced parts,
• mileage manipulation,
• or unclear service records.

Without verifiable history, a “good deal” can turn into expensive repairs later.

Benefits of Importing Your First Car

Up to 35% Savings

Importing from the USA often results in significant savings compared to similar cars sold locally. especially for first-time buyers with strict budgets.

Bigger Selection

U.S. auctions offer access to thousands of vehicles:

• sedans,
• SUVs,
• hybrids,
• electric cars,
• premium models,
• specific trims that never reach Georgia’s market.

This means you can pick exactly what suits your needs, not just what’s available.

Verified History (VIN, Carfax, AutoCheck)

Every car has a digital footprint in the U.S. Using a VIN, you can check:

• accident history,
• mileage accuracy,
• maintenance records,
• ownership history,
• flood or structural damage indicators.

This drastically reduces the risk of unpleasant surprises.

Better Condition

U.S. vehicles often come with:

• lower mileage,
• better maintenance,
• advanced safety features,
• higher trim levels compared to many cars on Georgia’s local market.

Transparent Auction Process

You see:

• the exact car condition,
• auction photos,
• damage reports,
• bidding price,
• fees,
• and final sale amount.

No hidden costs and no “mystery history.”

Potential Drawbacks

Delivery Time

Shipping from the USA to Georgia typically takes several weeks. If you need a car immediately, importing may feel slow, although the long-term savings often make it worthwhile.

Auction Deposit

Participating in a U.S. auction requires a security deposit (often around 10%).
This deposit is not a fee, it is fully refundable and simply ensures serious participation.

Who Should Import Their First Car?

Budget-Conscious Buyers

If your priority is maximizing value, importing can stretch your budget much further than buying locally.

People Who Want Long-Term Reliability

U.S. vehicles usually offer better maintenance history and fewer hidden problems, ideal for a first-time owner who wants stability.

EV Buyers

Electric vehicles are often significantly cheaper to import than to buy locally.
Plus, U.S. EVs frequently include improved safety features and battery warranties.

Buyers Who Want Specific Trims or Options

If you care about:

• panoramic roof,
• adaptive cruise control,
• premium audio,
• all-wheel drive,
• extended safety packages, you’re much more likely to find the exact configuration through U.S. auctions.

Why First-Time Buyers Choose Lion Auto

Expert Advisor

A dedicated sales advisor guides you through:

• choosing the right model,
• finding options within your budget,
• understanding maintenance costs,
• comparing several cars before you decide.

Help Avoiding Mistakes

Beginners often overpay or pick cars with hidden issues. Lion Auto handles:

• VIN checks,
• damage analysis,
• price forecasting,
• and risk evaluation so you don’t fall into common traps.

Auction Access

Lion Auto provides direct access to top U.S. auctions, including exclusive access through an alliance with IAA, giving you a broader, safer, and more affordable pool of vehicles.

Logistics Handled End-to-End

We coordinate:

• U.S. transport to port,
• overseas shipping,
• customs clearance,
• delivery to Poti terminal,
• and final vehicle handover.

Meaning you don’t need to manage any complex logistics yourself.

How to Define Your Budget (Realistically)

Before choosing models, trims, or engine types, the most important step for any first-time buyer is defining a realistic, all-inclusive budget. Many beginners focus only on the car’s sticker price and end up surprised by additional expenses they didn’t anticipate. Below is a clear framework to help you understand the true cost of buying your first car in Georgia, whether locally or through U.S. import.

1. Start With Your Maximum Purchase Budget

Your “headline” vehicle budget should answer two questions:

How much can you afford to spend upfront?

For many first-time buyers in Georgia, this number typically falls between:

• $6,000–$10,000 for budget sedans and hatchbacks
• $10,000–$18,000 for crossovers and SUVs
• $15,000–$25,000+ for EVs and premium models

Buying through U.S. auctions often allows you to get newer, better-equipped vehicles within the same price range.

If using financing, what is your comfortable monthly payment?

Consider a monthly amount you can pay without pressure. This helps determine:

• down payment
• loan duration
• total budget
• whether leasing makes sense

Lion Auto can assist with financing calculations, using your preferred monthly payment to determine which vehicles fit your budget.

2. Calculate Total Ownership Costs (Not Just the Purchase Price)

A car’s true cost includes more than the vehicle itself. Make sure to factor in:

Insurance

Depending on the vehicle and coverage:

• $250–$600 per year for basic insurance
• Higher for premium models or EVs

Fuel or Electricity

• Gasoline: Georgia’s average fuel cost makes high-consumption SUVs more expensive long-term
• Electricity: EVs cost significantly less to operate

Routine Maintenance

Estimate:

• $150–$400 per year for Japanese/Korean cars
• $400–$700+ per year for European premium brands

Parking

If you live in Tbilisi’s central areas, parking may cost extra.

Unexpected Repairs

Set aside:

• $200–$300 for minor issues
• More for older European vehicles

3. Understand Import-Related Costs (If You Buy From the USA)

Importing can save you up to 35%, but your budget should include predictable steps:

Auction Purchase Price

This is the final amount the car sells for in the U.S.

Auction Fees

IAA or Copart auction fees vary by:

• final price
• auction type
• vehicle category

Your Lion Auto advisor provides exact fee predictions before bidding.

U.S. Inland Transport

Transport from the auction yard to the port.

Overseas Shipping to Georgia

Shipping to Poti port: a fixed, transparent cost.

Customs Clearance & Taxes

Depends on:

• engine size
• age
• vehicle category

Lion Auto provides a detailed cost breakdown before purchase so you know exactly what to expect.

4. Choose Your Budget Based on Long-Term Needs

Your budget should reflect how you plan to use your car:

Daily City Driving?

Choose:

• small sedan or hatchback
• hybrid
• compact EV

Family Car?

Budget more for:

• SUV
• crossover
• safety features

Long Road Trips?

Consider:

• comfortable seats
• reliable engine
• AWD (if needed)
• moderate fuel consumption

Your Lion Auto advisor can help match your usage with realistic budget brackets.

5. Avoid the #1 Mistake First-Time Buyers Make

Many beginners spend their entire budget on the purchase price, leaving nothing for:

• taxes
• plates
• insurance
• first maintenance
• minor repairs

A safer approach is Use the 80/20 Rule:

• 80% for the vehicle itself
• 20% reserved for additional costs

This ensures your first months of ownership are stress-free.

6. How Lion Auto Helps First-Time Buyers Budget Correctly

Lion Auto provides:

• complete cost transparency before bidding
• a line-by-line breakdown of every expense from auction to delivery
• guidance on choosing cars that won’t exceed your total budget
• predictions on repair costs if the vehicle is lightly damaged
• access to financing options so your monthly payment stays comfortable

This structured approach helps you avoid overspending and choose a car that fits both your needs and your long-term financial comfort.

Identify Your Needs Before Choosing a Car

Once you establish your budget, the next crucial step is understanding what you actually need from your first car. Buying a car that doesn’t fit your lifestyle can quickly turn an exciting purchase into an expensive inconvenience. The goal here is simple: match the car to your real-world habits, not just your wish list.

Below are the key considerations that help first-time buyers in Georgia make the right decision.

1. How Will You Use the Car Daily?

Start with your primary driving environment:

City Driving (Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi)

You’ll benefit from:

• compact size
• easy parking
• low fuel consumption
• good visibility in traffic

Ideal options: sedan, hatchback, compact SUV, EV.

Mixed Driving (City + Highway)

You’ll need:

• stronger engine
• better stability at higher speeds
• comfortable seats for long rides

Ideal options: sedan, crossover, hybrid.

Long-Distance or Weekend Trips

Look for:

• comfortable suspension
• larger fuel tank or battery range
• more cargo space

Ideal options: SUV, crossover, EV with long range.

2. Passenger Capacity

Ask yourself:

• Do you drive alone most of the time?
• Do you often carry family or friends?
• Do you need space for a child seat?
• Do you need three seats in the back?

If you carry passengers often, prioritize:

• rear seat space
• comfort
• safety ratings

If you rarely carry passengers, a smaller, more economical car may suit you better.

3. Cargo and Trunk Space

Consider:

• grocery runs
• luggage for weekends
• sports equipment
• strollers
• tools or work-related items

If trunk space matters, focus on:

• hatchbacks
• crossovers
• SUVs
• sedans with deep trunk space

You don’t want to discover after purchase that your suitcase doesn’t fit.

4. Parking and Maneuverability

If you live or work in central Tbilisi:

• parking is limited
• spaces are tight
• parallel parking is frequent

Compact cars, hatchbacks, and small crossovers offer:

• easier maneuvering
• lower risk of scratches
• less stress during daily driving

5. Fuel Efficiency & Daily Cost

Your daily commute affects your long-term expenses.

If you drive a lot:

• choose fuel-efficient models
• consider hybrid or EV
• avoid high-consumption SUVs unless you truly need one

If you drive occasionally:

• fuel economy is still helpful
• but comfort or size may matter more

Lion Auto advisors can show you real fuel consumption estimates, not the unrealistic numbers often listed by sellers.

6. Safety & Comfort Features

For first-time buyers, certain safety features make a huge difference:

• multiple airbags
• ABS + ESP
• lane assist
• blind-spot monitoring
• reversing camera
• parking sensors
• adaptive cruise control

Comfort features such as:

• heated seats
• good A/C
• ergonomic seating become essential if you spend long hours driving.

U.S. vehicles often include higher trim-level safety features that are rare in locally sold cars.

7. Reliability vs Performance

As a first-time owner, reliability should almost always come first.

Ask yourself:

• Do you want a worry-free, low-maintenance car?
• Or do you want performance, even if maintenance costs rise?

Reliable brands for first-time owners:

• Toyota
• Honda
• Hyundai
• Kia

Higher-maintenance premium brands:

• BMW
• Mercedes
• Audi

Lion Auto advisors guide you toward models that match both your budget and maintenance expectations.

8. Special Requirements (If Applicable)

Depending on your lifestyle, you may need:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

• mountain trips
• winter driving
• unpaved roads

Electric Vehicle (EV)

• low running costs
• easy city driving
• silent, modern driving experience

Hybrid

• great for Tbilisi traffic
• good range
• low fuel usage

Higher Ground Clearance

• rural roads
• uneven surfaces
• countryside trips

Being clear about these needs prevents you from buying a car that looks good but performs poorly in your daily routine.

How Lion Auto Helps You Define Your Needs

First-time buyers often struggle to balance:

• budget
• lifestyle
• reliability
• long-term costs

Lion Auto’s advisors walk you through:

• your typical driving habits
• your required safety features
• your comfort preferences
• the most suitable car categories
• recommended models in your budget

Whether you want a compact EV or a family SUV, the team helps you find the option that fits your life, not just your wallet.

Choose the Type of Car That Matches Your Lifestyle

Once you understand your daily needs and driving habits, the next step is choosing the right type of vehicle. Every body type offers unique advantages and drawbacks and selecting the wrong one can affect comfort, safety, long-term costs, and overall satisfaction.

Below is a clear breakdown of the most common car types for first-time buyers in Georgia, including who they’re best suited for and what to expect from each.

1. Sedan: Practical, Comfortable, and Ideal for Daily Driving

Sedans are one of the most popular choices for first-time buyers because they offer a balanced mix of comfort, economy, and affordability.

Pros

• Excellent fuel efficiency
• Smooth, comfortable ride
• Affordable maintenance
• Great for city + highway driving

Cons

• Lower ground clearance (not ideal for rural roads)
• Less cargo flexibility compared to hatchbacks and SUVs

Best For

• Students
• Young professionals
• Daily Tbilisi commuters
• Drivers who value comfort and lower running costs

Recommended examples (commonly imported from USA):
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Nissan Altima

2. Hatchback: Compact, Easy to Park, and Surprisingly Spacious

Hatchbacks offer maximum practicality in a small footprint, perfect for crowded city areas.

Pros

• Very easy to park
• Lower fuel costs
• Flexible trunk space (rear seats fold flat)
• Affordable repairs

Cons

• Smaller cabin than sedans and SUVs
• Not ideal for long road trips with many passengers

Best For

• City drivers
• First-time owners living in densely populated zones
• Drivers who value easy maneuvering

Recommended examples:
Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Hyundai i30, VW Golf

3. SUV/Crossover: Spacious, Versatile, and Great for Families

SUVs and crossovers are the most popular imported category from the USA due to their comfort, safety features, and practicality.

Pros

• High seating position and visibility
• Great for Georgian highways and rougher roads
• Lots of cargo room
• Strong safety ratings
• Ideal for families

Cons

• Higher fuel consumption
• Higher maintenance costs
• Larger size can be challenging in tight parking areas

Best For

• Growing families
• Long-distance travelers
• Drivers needing extra cargo space
• People who want better ground clearance

Recommended examples:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage

4. Electric Vehicles (EVs): Low Running Costs and Ideal for City Driving

Demand for EVs is growing rapidly in Georgia, especially with the availability of affordable EVs imported from China and the U.S.

Pros

• Extremely low running costs
• Quiet, modern driving experience
• No oil changes or typical engine repairs
• Perfect for city traffic
• Instant torque (fast acceleration)

Cons

• Requires reliable charging access at home or nearby
• Winter range may be lower
• Higher initial purchase price (but cheaper long-term)

Best For

• Daily city commuters
• Drivers with charging access
• People who want technology-forward vehicles
• Budget-focused buyers who want low upkeep

Popular models:
Tesla Model 3/Y, Volkswagen ID.4, Nissan Leaf, Hyundai Kona EV, Honda MNV

5. Hybrid: The Smart Middle Ground Between Fuel Efficiency and Convenience

Hybrids offer excellent fuel savings without relying on charging stations.

Pros

• Excellent fuel economy
• Great for stop-and-go Tbilisi traffic
• Lower maintenance than gasoline engines
• No need for external charging

Cons

• Slightly higher initial cost than gasoline cars
• Battery repair is expensive (but rare)

Best For

• Heavy city drivers
• Drivers who want low fuel expenses without EV charging
• People who value reliability and comfort

Popular models:
Toyota Prius, Toyota Camry Hybrid, Honda Accord Hybrid, Hyundai Ioniq

6. Sports Cars: Fun, Fast, and Not Always Ideal for First-Time Buyers

Sports cars look exciting, but they come with responsibilities.

Pros

• High performance
• Attractive design
• Engaging driving experience

Cons

• High insurance
• Higher fuel consumption
• Not great for Georgian roads or daily commuting
• Costly repairs and parts

Best For

• Enthusiasts
• Weekend drivers
• People who have a second primary car

Popular models:
Ford Mustang, Dodge Charger, Subaru BRZ

Which Car Type Is Right for You? Lion Auto Helps You Decide

Choosing the right vehicle type can be overwhelming, especially when you’re buying your first car. Lion Auto’s advisors help you evaluate:

• your daily driving habits
• long-distance needs
• passenger frequency
• fuel budget
• parking situations
• long-term ownership costs
• comfort and safety priorities

With access to thousands of vehicles from U.S. auctions, Lion Auto helps you find the perfect match, whether you need a compact city car or a family-friendly SUV.

Check the Vehicle’s History (VIN, Carfax, AutoCheck)

Before committing to any used car, especially as a first-time buyer, the most important step is verifying its true history. A car that looks perfect in photos may have accident damage, flood exposure, odometer rollback, or repeated mechanical issues that aren’t visible at first glance.

In the United States, every vehicle leaves a digital trace. Understanding this information protects you from hidden risks and ensures you’re investing in a safe, reliable car.

1. Start With the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)

The VIN is the car’s unique fingerprint, a 17-digit code that reveals essential information such as:

• manufacturing year
• engine type
• trim level
• original features
• country of manufacture
• model-specific details

Using the VIN, you can check the car’s full history, even if it has changed owners multiple times.

Where VIN checks matter most

• imported vehicles
• repaired cars
• cars with suspiciously low mileage
• cars sold below market price
• heavily discounted listings

With Lion Auto, the VIN check is always included before bidding on any car.

2. Carfax Report — The Industry Standard for Vehicle History

A Carfax report provides detailed insight into a vehicle’s past based on U.S. data sources.

What Carfax shows

• accident history
• mileage records
• service and maintenance logs
• ownership history
• title status (clean, salvage, rebuilt)
• flood or fire damage indicators
• recalls and manufacturer service campaigns
• auction sales timeline

Why first-time buyers should care

Carfax helps you avoid cars with:

• hidden damage
• illegal odometer rollback
• recurring mechanical problems

Lion Auto checks Carfax and other U.S. databases to ensure every recommended car is safe and transparent.

3. AutoCheck — Another Crucial U.S. Vehicle Database

AutoCheck is similar to Carfax but sometimes includes additional data.

What AutoCheck adds

• auction history
• score comparison against similar vehicles
• accident severity
• title verification
• detailed owner transitions

AutoCheck’s scoring system is especially useful for first-time buyers because it rates the car against thousands of similar vehicles, making it easier to judge its quality.

4. Auction Photos & Damage Reports

U.S. auctions provide:

• high-resolution photos from all angles
• interior photos
• engine bay photos
• chassis and undercarriage photos
• detailed damage markings (IAAI/Copart grids)
• condition descriptions

This level of transparency is far superior to what is typically available in the Georgian market.

Why this matters

You can see:

• the exact location of damage
• which parts may need replacement
• whether airbags have deployed
• if the car is lightly damaged or requires structural work

Lion Auto’s advisors help interpret damage reports and estimate repair costs before you decide to bid.

5. Compare Photos Before and After Transportation (If Already Imported)

If you’re considering a car sold in Georgia, compare:

• U.S. auction photos
• current photos in Georgia

This protects you from:

• hidden repairs
• cosmetic-only fixes hiding deeper issues
• safety components replaced with cheap alternatives

Lion Auto always shows original U.S. auction photos to guarantee transparency.

6. Title Status — One of the Most Important Factors

Every U.S. vehicle has a title describing its condition.

Common title types

• Clean Title: no major accidents or total loss
• Salvage Title: declared total loss (but can be a great deal if repaired properly)
• Rebuilt Title: repaired and inspected after a major incident
• Flood / Hail / Fire: high-risk categories
• Lien / Repossession Titles: financial claims

What first-time buyers should avoid

• flood-damaged cars
• fire-damaged cars
• cars with undisclosed structural damage

Lion Auto screens out high-risk categories unless a client specifically wants them and understands the risks.

7. Odometer Verification

Mileage manipulation is common in some markets, but much harder in the U.S.

VIN-based checks verify:

• mileage readings from inspections
• maintenance logs
• auction entries
• dealership visits

This ensures you get a car with true mileage, not an artificially lowered number.

8. How Lion Auto Helps You Avoid Risk

Vehicle history analysis is one of Lion Auto’s strongest areas of expertise.

Every car recommended by our team is checked for:

• accident severity
• structural damage
• airbag deployment
• water/flood indicators
• mileage accuracy
• true market value
• expected repair costs

Our advisors explain the history report in simple terms, ensuring you know exactly what you’re buying before spending a single lari.

Comprehensive Car Type Comparison Table (for First-Time Buyers in Georgia)

Car Type	Pros	Cons	Best For	Typical Import Budget	Annual Maintenance Cost	Fuel/Energy Cost	Parking & Maneuvering	Parts Availability
Sedan	Comfortable ride, great fuel economy, affordable repairs	Lower ground clearance, limited cargo flexibility	City + highway drivers, professionals	$8,000–$14,000	$150–$400	Low	Easy	Excellent
Hatchback	Easy to park, low running costs, flexible trunk	Smaller cabin, less comfortable for long trips	City drivers, students, small families	$6,000–$12,000	$120–$350	Very low	Very easy	Excellent
SUV / Crossover	Spacious, safe, good for Georgian roads, high visibility	Higher fuel use, higher maintenance	Families, long-distance drivers, rural areas	$12,000–$22,000+	$300–$700	Medium to high	Medium	Very good
Hybrid	Exceptional fuel economy, great for traffic, smooth drive	Higher initial price, costly battery repair if needed	Commuters, budget-conscious drivers	$10,000–$18,000	$200–$400	Very low	Easy	Very good
Electric Vehicle (EV)	Lowest running costs, no engine repairs, smooth & modern	Needs charging access, winter range drops	City drivers, eco-conscious buyers	$14,000–$25,000+	$80–$200 (minimal)	Super low	Easy	Good (model-dependent)
Sports Car	Fast, stylish, exciting to drive	High insurance, high fuel, not ideal for Georgian roads	Enthusiasts, weekend drivers	$12,000–$25,000+	$400–$900	High	Hard	Moderate to low

Common Mistakes First-Time Car Buyers Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Buying your first car is exciting, but it’s also where beginners make the most costly mistakes. Simple oversights can lead to higher long-term expenses, mechanical problems, or paying far more than the car is worth.

Below are the most common mistakes first-time buyers in Georgia make, along with clear guidance on how to avoid them.

1. Focusing Only on the Purchase Price

Many new buyers look only at the sticker price and forget about the full cost of ownership.

Why it’s a mistake

You also need to budget for:

• insurance
• fuel
• parking
• annual maintenance
• unexpected repairs
• customs fees (if importing)
• auction fees and transportation

How to avoid it

Follow the 80/20 rule:

• 80% of your budget for the car
• 20% reserved for additional costs

Lion Auto provides a line-by-line cost breakdown before you purchase anything.

2. Choosing the Wrong Type of Car for Your Lifestyle

A car can look perfect on paper, but be completely wrong for your daily routine.

Common mismatches:

• Buying a large SUV but living in a tight parking area
• Choosing a small hatchback but needing space for family trips
• Buying a premium car without considering high maintenance
• Choosing a slow-charging EV without home charging access

How to avoid it:

Use a simple question:
“Where will I drive 80% of the time?”

Lion Auto advisors help match your real-life needs with the right model.

3. Ignoring the Vehicle’s History Report

Some first-time buyers rely only on photos or seller descriptions.

Why it’s a mistake:

Without VIN checks, you risk buying a car with:

• previous accidents
• flood damage
• odometer rollback
• structural repairs
• unsafe modifications
• major repair history

How to avoid it:

Always request:

• Carfax
• AutoCheck
• Auction photos
• Title status

Lion Auto performs complete history checks before recommending any car.

4. Underestimating Maintenance Costs

A car that seems affordable upfront may require expensive repairs.

High-risk cases:

• older European cars
• turbocharged engines
• rare trims with hard-to-find parts
• hybrid batteries near end-of-life

How to avoid it:

Understand the annual cost of the model you want and ask:

• “Is this car cheap to maintain in Georgia?”
• “Are parts easily available?”

Lion Auto guides you toward low-maintenance, reliable models ideal for first-time owners.

5. Buying Based on Emotion, Not Research

First-time buyers often fall in love with:

• how the car looks
• the color
• a specific feature
• a cheap price tag

Instead of evaluating:

• safety
• mechanical condition
• long-term costs
• real needs

How to avoid it:

Don’t make a decision based on excitement alone.
Evaluate condition, history, reliability, and total cost before anything else.

Lion Auto advisors help you compare multiple options objectively.

6. Skipping the Test Drive

Even a perfect-looking car may drive poorly.

Without a test drive, you may miss:

• alignment issues
• steering vibration
• noisy suspension
• weak brakes
• poor visibility
• uncomfortable seating

How to avoid it:

Test-drive a similar model in Georgia if importing, and test your exact car once it arrives.

Lion Auto helps you understand what feels normal and what indicates a problem.

7. Rushing the Decision

Beginners often:

• buy the first good deal
• don’t compare alternatives
• skip research
• accept incomplete information from sellers

How to avoid it:

Review several options, compare prices, and analyze each car’s pros and cons.

Lion Auto provides multiple vehicle options within your budget and explains differences clearly.

8. Not Considering Resale Value

Some cars lose value faster than others.

Why it matters:

Even your first car might be sold later, so resale value affects future budget.

Cars with strong resale value (Georgia market):

• Toyota
• Honda
• Hyundai
• Kia

Cars with faster depreciation:

• some European luxury models
• niche trims
• older EVs with small batteries

Lion Auto helps you choose models with stable long-term value.

9. Trusting Unverified Local Sellers

Many local listings hide:

• post-accident repairs
• repainted panels
• engine or gearbox issues
• airbag replacements
• flood damage
• unreported repairs

How to avoid it:

Always compare:

• U.S. auction photos
• current condition
• VIN reports

Lion Auto ensures you know exactly what you are buying.

10. Choosing a Car Without Expert Guidance

For first-time buyers, navigating auctions, history reports, and logistics alone is overwhelming.

How to avoid it:

Work with experienced professionals who:

• check history reports
• analyze damage
• predict repair costs
• compare models
• manage shipping
• handle customs
• ensure transparency

Lion Auto supports you at every step, helping you avoid expensive mistakes and choose a car you’ll be happy with for years.

Why First-Time Buyers Choose Lion Auto

Buying your first car should feel exciting, not stressful. That’s why thousands of buyers in Georgia rely on Lion Auto for a safer, clearer, and more affordable experience. Instead of navigating auctions, researching hidden damage, or worrying about shipping, you get expert support from the very first step to the moment your car arrives in Tbilisi.

Here’s what makes Lion Auto the smartest choice for first-time buyers.

1. A Dedicated Expert Who Guides You Through Everything

First-time buyers often struggle with technical details like VIN reports, auction rules, damage assessment, and market pricing.
With Lion Auto, you get:

• a personal sales advisor
• detailed explanations of every option
• transparency on condition, history, and costs
• help comparing models and avoiding mistakes

This turns a complex process into a simple, confident decision.

2. Access to Trusted U.S. Auctions With Verified History

Lion Auto gives you access to:

• IAA, our exclusive market partner
• Copart
• Manheim
• other top U.S. auction platforms

Every vehicle is checked with:

• VIN-based history reports (Carfax or AutoCheck)
• complete auction photos
• title status verification
• condition and damage analysis

This means you choose from real, verified cars, not risky local listings.

3. Up to 35% Savings Compared to the Local Market

Because we buy directly from U.S. auctions and manage logistics in-house, many first-time buyers save:

• 25–35% on the final price
• even more on EVs and Japanese brands
• thousands of lari by avoiding hidden repairs found in local markets

You get higher quality and better prices.

4. Seamless Logistics — Lion Auto Handles Everything

Importing a car alone can involve:

• contacting the auction
• paying multiple fees
• arranging inland transport
• booking container shipping
• clearing customs
• managing unloading at port

Lion Auto handles all of this in-house through Lion Trans and our exclusive terminal in Poti.

You receive:

• fast, secure transport
• clear communication
• full visibility of each step
• no stress about shipping or paperwork

5. Honest, Transparent Pricing With No Surprises

First-time buyers are most afraid of “hidden costs.”
Our process removes uncertainty by giving you:

• clear cost calculation
• deposit explanation
• step-by-step payment timeline
• expected shipping dates
• full import cost transparency

You always know what you’re paying for and why.

6. Better Condition Cars, Chosen With Precision

Because you see the full history and original auction images, you know exactly what you’re buying.
Lion Auto selects cars with:

• minimal or cosmetic damage
• good service history
• clean titles
• low total cost of repair

This means fewer surprises, fewer repairs, and a longer-lasting car.

7. A Safer Choice for First-Time EV Buyers

EVs are among the most commonly imported first cars today.
Lion Auto helps you choose the right one by analyzing:

• battery health
• charging type
• range
• accident history
• climate impact on battery life

You get a reliable EV, not a problem waiting to happen.

Buying Your First Car Doesn’t Have to Be Hard — Lion Auto Makes It Simple

Whether you’re budget-conscious, looking for reliability, or want the best possible car for your lifestyle, Lion Auto helps you make a smart, safe, and confident decision.

Ready to find your first car?

Speak with a Lion Auto advisor today, we’ll help you choose the right model, navigate the process step by step, and avoid every mistake beginners usually make.