Car News, Reviews and Advice in Mauritius

Fair Competition or Unfair Advantage? The Uber Question in Mauritius

Alalila 2.0 powered by Uber launched on 25 March 2026 without formal NLTA approval. The government has flagged this as a concern and is now developing a regulatory framework. But whilst the service rolls out, two very different perspectives on its impact have emerged.The Commuters ViewFor everyday commuters, Uber addresses a real problem. You can now book a ride with transparent, upfront pricing through an app instead of negotiating fares at the roadside. The service uses licensed PSVL drivers, so you're not

Guides
How Much Is Import Duty on Vehicles in Mauritius?
If you have ever wondered why cars cost so much more in Mauritius than they do elsewhere, the answer lies in a layered system of import taxes that can more than double the original price of a vehicle. The 2025-2026 national budget, effective from 6 June 2025, overhauled this system significantly, and whether you are planning to import a car, buy locally, or simply make sense of the market, understanding how these duties work is essential.At AutoCloud.mu, we help individuals
July 03, 2025
News
Government Defends New Vehicle Measures as Opposition Demands Clarity
In the latest parliamentary session on 30 June 2025, Opposition Leader Joe Lesjongard raised a Private Notice Question directed at the Minister of Land Transport, Osman Mahomed. The focus was on the recently announced measures in the 2025-26 Budget aimed at reducing the number of vehicles on Mauritian roads.The new fiscal measures, which come into effect in July 2025, include revisions to excise duties, customs charges, vehicle registration fees and the Road Motor Vehicle Licence. These changes are expected to increase the
June 30, 2025
Buying a car
Surviving Mauritius Roads: How to Choose the Right Vehicle
Choosing the right car for Mauritius is not always straightforward. While the island has well-developed infrastructure, its unique mix of driving conditions, traffic habits, and local quirks means that some vehicles are far better suited than others. At AutoCloud, we help buyers navigate these decisions every day. Here’s a clear guide to help you make an informed choice.Understanding Mauritius Roads and TrafficOverall, roads across Mauritius are generally well-maintained and signposted. However, several daily driving realities come into play.
June 17, 2025
Buying a car
5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Buying a Car in Mauritius
Buying a car in Mauritius is not just about finding something you like. With the island’s unique driving conditions, cost considerations, and availability of models, it pays to think carefully before making a decision. At AutoCloud, we often see buyers rushing into purchases without fully weighing the realities of local ownership. Here are five simple but important questions to help you make the right choice.1. Where will I be driving most of the time?Your typical driving pattern should
June 17, 2025
Car ownership
What Does It Really Cost to Buy a Car in Mauritius?
When it comes to buying a car in Mauritius, the figure you see on the advert is often just the tip of the iceberg. Whether you're eyeing a brand-new model, a reliable second-hand option, or even planning to import one yourself, there are several extra costs that can sneak up on you, some more obvious than others.Here’s a closer look at the key expenses you should factor into your budget before you get the keys in hand.The
June 16, 2025
Guides
How to Import a Vehicle to Mauritius: What You Need to Know
If you’re considering importing a vehicle into Mauritius, you’re not alone. Whether you’re relocating, returning home, or looking for a particular model not readily available on the island, bringing in a vehicle from overseas can make sense — provided you understand the process.At AutoCloud, we make things simple by connecting drivers to experienced local import partners who know the system inside out. From permits and inspections to customs clearance and registration, they guide you through each
June 11, 2025
Car ownership
Should You Rent or Buy a New Vehicle in Mauritius?
Choosing between renting or buying a vehicle in Mauritius can be a tricky decision. With rising car prices, shifting lifestyles and more flexible transport options, it's worth taking the time to weigh up the pros and cons of both.At AutoCloud, we connect drivers with all the available choices, whether you're browsing cars for sale, looking to rent, or exploring finance options. Here's a clear guide to help you make the right move.How long will you need the vehicle?
May 15, 2025
Guides
How to Inspect a Used Car Before You Buy: AutoCloud’s No-Nonsense Guide
Buying a used car in Mauritius can be a smart move - but only if you know what to look out for. Overlooking warning signs can lead to unexpected repair costs or serious mechanical issues down the line. That’s why your inspection starts long before the test drive - it starts online.Let’s walk through how to spot a quality vehicle, avoid costly surprises, and give any used car a proper once-over before committing your hard-earned cash.What
May 07, 2025
Guides
Driving in Mauritius as a Foreigner: What Licence Do You Need?
If you're planning to drive in Mauritius as a foreigner, it's important to understand the legal requirements and how they're actually enforced. While the official rules are straightforward, enforcement on the ground can vary and is often more relaxed than you might expect. Still, staying within the law remains the safest option, especially in the event of an accident or police check.Here’s a practical breakdown of what’s required for tourists, long-term visitors and expats.Tourists and short-term
May 07, 2025
News
Toyota’s Got a Baby Land Cruiser in the Works — and It’s Based on the Suzuki Jimny
If you’ve ever looked at a Suzuki Jimny and thought, “This thing’s basically a mini Land Cruiser,” you’re not alone, and it turns out, Toyota agrees. The Japanese giant has officially confirmed that it's developing a new, entry-level Land Cruiser, and it’s going to be based on none other than the beloved Jimny.Let’s take a look at what we know so far.A new direction for the Land Cruiser familyThe Land Cruiser name
April 01, 2025
Buying a car
Buying a Car in Mauritius? Here’s What to Expect
Whether it’s your first car or just time for an upgrade, buying a car in Mauritius is a pretty straightforward process, once you know the ropes. But between all the paperwork, taxes, and figuring out whether to go new or used, it helps to have a clear picture before diving in.Let’s break it down in simple terms.Start with the big choice: new, used, or import?New cars are easy to find. We’ve got some
April 01, 2025
Guides
How to Renew Your Vehicle License in Mauritius
Renewing your vehicle license, known as the Motor Vehicle Licence (MVL) or declaration, is a mandatory process for all vehicle owners in Mauritius. This guide outlines the steps and requirements to ensure a smooth renewal.1. Required DocumentsBefore initiating the renewal process, ensure you have the following original documents:Registration Book – The official document proving vehicle ownership.Valid Insurance Certificate – The insurance must cover the entire period for which you're renewing the MVL.Fitness Certificate:Required for private cars
March 18, 2025
News
Mauritius Auto Industry Trends: Growth in Vehicle Registrations & Road Safety Insights
The automotive landscape in Mauritius continues to evolve, with steady growth in vehicle registrations and shifting patterns in road traffic incidents. According to the latest statistics from Statistics Mauritius, the total number of registered vehicles has increased in the first half of 2024, reflecting a rising demand for personal and commercial transportation. However, this growth also comes with challenges, including an increase in road accidents, particularly among vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists and pedestrians.This report provides key insights into
March 11, 2025
News
Food for thought: Mauritius vs. La Réunion - A Comparison of Road Fatalities in 2024
Road safety remains a significant concern for both Mauritius and its neighboring island, La Réunion. Despite similarities in geographic size and infrastructure, road fatalities in the two regions present a stark contrast. Analyzing 2024 statistics sheds light on the scale of the issue and highlights key areas where improvements can be made.Road Fatalities: A Statistical ComparisonIn 2024, Mauritius recorded 111 road fatalities, while La Réunion reported 39 deaths due to road accidents. Considering the population difference - Mauritius has approximately 1.27 million people compared
March 07, 2025