EXHIBIT 23.1



                       CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS


         As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the
incorporation by reference in this registration statement of our report dated
February 15, 2001 included in Group 1 Automotive, Inc.'s Form 10-K for the year
ended December 31, 2000 and to all references to our Firm included or
incorporated by reference in this registration statement.


/s/  ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP

Houston, Texas
February 22, 2002