Okay, so we have done our "window shopping" and have talked with four different Toyota dealers (for a Camry 2.0G). We have settled on a dealer, based on location and accessory packages offered for free (it appeared that the price was really fixed, as no difference at all between 4 dealers).

So, here is the list of things I can think of that I should do...in order. What have I goofed up or is missing?:

1. Final dealing with the dealer over specific accessories and any free service.

2. Order car.

3. Arrange cashiers check with HSBC bank (no financing).

4. Finalize insurance through independent international insurance company (already got quotes, etc.).

5. Take delivery and register car to pay tax (dealer said he would do it for us this first time).

Thanks for clarifications.

When we purchase are new car part of the package deal was first year 1st class insurance was free. All the dealers and car makers made the same deal. Check this out with them you should get this free as part of the deal.

Okay, I've read your post, you can miss step 4 as Toyota will arrange fully comprehensive cover for the first year, and as for 'window shopping', that's fine, but the step you neglected was the test drive - have you? If you take the Camry for a spin you may agree with me that it's got quite a small engine for such a big car! For a similar price, could I suggest a certified used Toyota Camry 2.4V from 'Toyota Sure'?

Okay, I've read your post, you can miss step 4 as Toyota will arrange fully comprehensive cover for the first year, and as for 'window shopping', that's fine, but the step you neglected was the test drive - have you? If you take the Camry for a spin you may agree with me that it's got quite a small engine for such a big car! For a similar price, could I suggest a certified used Toyota Camry 2.4V from 'Toyota Sure'?

Sounds like you are working for Toytota sure.

I think the power specs on the old 2.4 are very similar to the current motor the OP is looking at, only more efficient.

The OP might want to buy his own comprehensive insurance policies so he doesnt get caught up in one of those PROBLEM insurance schemes that happened not so long back.

OP are you putting the car in your name or the wifes?

I needed a letter of residence from immigration to register my car in my name.

Pay deposit to dealer when ordering - never give more than Baht 10k as a deposit and write on the order forms the conditions under which the deposit will be refunded, e.g, if the delivery date changes etc. I wont bore everyone with my tale of woe on this point about when I bought my new CRV from Honda in CM a few years ago but I think the clause and deposit are important considerations.

Okay, I've read your post, you can miss step 4 as Toyota will arrange fully comprehensive cover for the first year, and as for 'window shopping', that's fine, but the step you neglected was the test drive - have you? If you take the Camry for a spin you may agree with me that it's got quite a small engine for such a big car! For a similar price, could I suggest a certified used Toyota Camry 2.4V from 'Toyota Sure'?

I've got a Camry 2.0G, I find that it has plenty of power, gets up and goes quite easily.

Okay, I've read your post, you can miss step 4 as Toyota will arrange fully comprehensive cover for the first year, and as for 'window shopping', that's fine, but the step you neglected was the test drive - have you? If you take the Camry for a spin you may agree with me that it's got quite a small engine for such a big car! For a similar price, could I suggest a certified used Toyota Camry 2.4V from 'Toyota Sure'?

I appreciate the suggestion. I happened to rent a Camry 2.4 my last three weeks in the U.S. and really liked. So when I got here and was planning a week's trip upcountry, I rented another -- exact same model -- just to see if the Thai version seemed significantly different than the one in the U.S. I didn't find it to be of any significant difference. Having driven a 2.0 on both California freeways and here, I don't see the need for the larger engine.

In terms of the insurance, several people have told me not to go with the Toyota insurance. I guess it's a preference sort of thing.

I think the power specs on the old 2.4 are very similar to the current motor the OP is looking at, only more efficient.

The OP might want to buy his own comprehensive insurance policies so he doesnt get caught up in one of those PROBLEM insurance schemes that happened not so long back.

OP are you putting the car in your name or the wifes?

The dealers I talked to said they sell the 2.0 well over 60% of the time, and they didn't even feel the larger engine was necessary.

It will only be in my name, but my spouse will also be a listed driver on the insurance.

I needed a letter of residence from immigration to register my car in my name.

You're absolutely correct. Thank you for reminding me!

Pay deposit to dealer when ordering - never give more than Baht 10k as a deposit and write on the order forms the conditions under which the deposit will be refunded, e.g, if the delivery date changes etc. I wont bore everyone with my tale of woe on this point about when I bought my new CRV from Honda in CM a few years ago but I think the clause and deposit are important considerations.

Ah, very good advice. Thanks so much!