{"id":28758,"date":"2026-08-03T11:22:01","date_gmt":"2026-08-03T11:22:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/?p=28758"},"modified":"2026-08-03T11:24:54","modified_gmt":"2026-08-03T11:24:54","slug":"is-it-worth-importing-a-japanese-car-a-cost-benefit-analysis-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/news\/is-it-worth-importing-a-japanese-car-a-cost-benefit-analysis-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"Is It Worth Importing a Japanese Car? A Cost-Benefit Analysis 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"28758\" class=\"elementor elementor-28758\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"has-el-gap el-gap-default elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-eb6a5c2 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"eb6a5c2\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-no\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-1c5bb4b\" data-id=\"1c5bb4b\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a853845 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"a853845\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><span class=\"\">Have you ever wondered whether you are better off buying a local used car or importing a Japanese vehicle?<\/span><\/p><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><span class=\"\">Japanese car imports are more popular than ever. In 2025, Japan exported 1.7 million used vehicles \u2014 driven by the weak yen (near \u00a5160\/$) and a record 12.1% increase in auction supply\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"\">. But the answer is not a simple &#8220;yes&#8221; or &#8220;no.&#8221; It depends on your budget, patience, and the hidden costs many buyers overlook. This analysis breaks down the cost-benefit equation for 2026.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"has-el-gap el-gap-default elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-8e42bd9 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"8e42bd9\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-no\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-1d04bfd\" data-id=\"1d04bfd\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ea177c4 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ea177c4\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><span class=\"\">\u00a0What Makes Japanese Cars Attractive?<\/span><\/h2><ul><li class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">Cost advantage (The Yen Factor):<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"\">\u00a0Japanese auction prices often undercut local dealerships. The weak yen gives international buyers up to 9% more purchasing power than a year ago\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"\">. In the UK, a \u00a310,000 car in Japan costs around \u00a34,000 to buy, creating potential \u00a33,000 margins even after all import expenses\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"\">.<\/span><\/li><li class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">Condition and maintenance:<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"\">\u00a0Japan&#8217;s &#8220;Shaken&#8221; inspection system and low-mileage culture result in better-preserved cars. Irish import specialists note that &#8220;the cars that come in from Japan need very, very little work doing to them, whereas an eight-year-old Irish car? Oh my god&#8230;&#8221;\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"\">. Most vehicles come with clear service records.<\/span><\/li><li class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">Selection:<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"\">\u00a0Japanese auctions offer access to exclusive JDM models and rare trims not available locally \u2014 from Kei trucks to turbocharged sports cars like the Nissan Skyline R34 and Toyota Supra\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"\">.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><span class=\"\">For a deeper understanding, read our guide on\u00a0<\/span><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/japanese-car-auction\/how-japanese-car-auctions-work-a-beginners-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span class=\"\">how Japanese auctions work<\/span><\/a><\/strong><span class=\"\">\u00a0.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"has-el-gap el-gap-default elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-a1e8a8e elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"a1e8a8e\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-no\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-3a8335b\" data-id=\"3a8335b\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-be30f7e elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"be30f7e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><strong>What Are the Hidden Fees When Importing a Car from Japan?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2><ul><li class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">Shipping and logistics:<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"\"> Inland transport and freight costs from Japan range from $1,200 to $5,000 USD depending on vehicle size, shipping method (Ro-Ro vs container), and destination <\/span><span class=\"\">.<\/span><\/li><li class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">Taxes and duties:<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"\">\u00a0Import duties vary significantly by country:<\/span><\/li><\/ul><div class=\"ds-scroll-area ds-scroll-area--show-on-focus-within ds-scroll-area--enabled _1210dd7 c03cafe9\"><div class=\"ds-scroll-area__gutters\"><div class=\"ds-scroll-area__vertical-gutter\"><table style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"><thead><tr><th><span class=\"\">Country<\/span><\/th><th><span class=\"\">Duty Rate<\/span><\/th><th><span class=\"\">GST\/VAT<\/span><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><span class=\"\">USA (25+ years)<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">2.5%<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">State tax<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span class=\"\">USA (Kei trucks)<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">25% (&#8220;chicken tax&#8221;)<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">State tax<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span class=\"\">Canada<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">6.1%<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">5%\u00a0<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span class=\"\">Kenya<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">25% + Excise + 16% VAT<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">\u2014<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span class=\"\">UK<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">0% (CEPA)<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">20%\u00a0<\/span><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/div><\/div><ul><li class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">Compliance and modifications:<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"\">\u00a0Factor in headlight adjustments, speedometer conversion, and vehicle approval costs (IVA, T\u00dcV, or provincial inspections).<\/span><\/li><li class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">The &#8220;landed cost&#8221; shock:<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"\">\u00a0A cheap auction car can quickly become expensive after adding customs clearance, port handling, and clearing agent fees. In Ireland, importers note: &#8220;You&#8217;ll actually pay more in tax than you will on the cost price of the car&#8230; I&#8217;d say the cost of the actual car is about 40 per cent of the final price&#8221;\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"\">.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"has-el-gap el-gap-default elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-d512d62 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"d512d62\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-no\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-7a7a6b4\" data-id=\"7a7a6b4\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d5e7ae6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"d5e7ae6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><span class=\"\">A Simple Framework \u2014 Is It Worth It for You?<\/span><\/h2><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">Importing makes sense if you:<\/span><\/strong><\/p><ul><li><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><span class=\"\">Want a specific JDM model unavailable locally<\/span><\/p><\/li><li><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><span class=\"\">Have patience for2 &#8211; 3 months of shipping and clearance<\/span><\/p><\/li><li><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><span class=\"\">Are willing to manage paperwork or work with a trusted exporter<\/span><\/p><\/li><li><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><span class=\"\">Can budget for the full landed cost (not just auction price)<\/span><\/p><\/li><\/ul><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">Importing does NOT make sense if you:<\/span><\/strong><\/p><ul><li><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><span class=\"\">Need a car immediately<\/span><\/p><\/li><li><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><span class=\"\">Are not prepared for customs delays or compliance modifications<\/span><\/p><\/li><li><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><span class=\"\">Cannot access the required permits (e.g., ITAC permit in South Africa)<\/span><\/p><\/li><li><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><span class=\"\">Are buying a common car that is already cheap locally<\/span><\/p><\/li><\/ul><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><span class=\"\">For a complete walkthrough, read our\u00a0<\/span><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/news\/how-to-import-a-car-from-japan-step-by-step-guide-2026\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span class=\"\">step-by-step import guide.\u00a0<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"has-el-gap el-gap-default elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-baa95d5 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"baa95d5\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-no\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-8d6775e\" data-id=\"8d6775e\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-71ff84a elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"71ff84a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figure class=\"wp-caption\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/TokyoCarz-Nissan-Note-for-sale.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-27811\" alt=\"TokyoCarz Nissan Note for sale\" srcset=\"https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/TokyoCarz-Nissan-Note-for-sale.jpg 640w, https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/TokyoCarz-Nissan-Note-for-sale-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/TokyoCarz-Nissan-Note-for-sale-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/TokyoCarz-Nissan-Note-for-sale-450x338.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figcaption class=\"widget-image-caption wp-caption-text\">Used TokyoCarz Nissan Note for sale<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"has-el-gap el-gap-default elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-e52828a elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"e52828a\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-no\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-07ff1bd\" data-id=\"07ff1bd\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c9222dd elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"c9222dd\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><span class=\"\">The Most Popular Models to Import and Why<\/span><\/h2><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><span class=\"\">Some vehicles are imported more frequently because they offer the best value-to-cost ratio.<\/span><\/p><p><span class=\"\">They balance reliability, fuel economy, and resale value \u2014 making them the most cost-effective imports for their respective markets.<\/span><\/p><div class=\"ds-scroll-area ds-scroll-area--show-on-focus-within ds-scroll-area--enabled _1210dd7 c03cafe9\"><div class=\"ds-scroll-area__gutters\"><div class=\"ds-scroll-area__vertical-gutter\"><table style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"><thead><tr><th><span class=\"\">Model<\/span><\/th><th><span class=\"\">Why It&#8217;s Popular<\/span><\/th><th><span class=\"\">Typical Auction Price<\/span><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><span class=\"\">Toyota Land Cruiser<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Legendary off-road durability, high resale value<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">$15,000 \u2013 25,000<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span class=\"\">Toyota Hilux<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Reliable bakkie\/pickup, strong demand in Africa and Australia<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">$8,000 \u2013 15,000<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span class=\"\">Toyota Aqua (Prius C)<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Fuel-efficient hybrid, affordable excise duty<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">$4,000 \u2013 8,000<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span class=\"\">Nissan Note e-Power<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">EV-like driving feel, fuel economy<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">$4,000 \u2013 7,000<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span class=\"\">Mazda CX-5<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Stylish SUV, reliable SkyActiv engines<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">$6,000 \u2013 12,000<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span class=\"\">Subaru Sambar<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Kei truck, practical and affordable<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">$3,000 \u2013 7,000<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span class=\"\">Nissan Skyline R34<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">JDM icon, recently US-legal (2001 models)<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">$15,000 \u2013 20,000 (non-GT-R)\u00a0<\/span><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><p><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"\" style=\"font-size: 14px;\">For a deeper look at affordable JDM imports, see our guide on\u00a0<\/span><strong style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/usa\/10-best-jdm-cars-legal-in-the-usa-under-20000\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span class=\"\">best JDM cars legal in USA under $20,000<\/span><\/a><\/strong><span class=\"\" style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"has-el-gap el-gap-default elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-837ce66 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"837ce66\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-no\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-ffab00d\" data-id=\"ffab00d\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b8962d7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b8962d7\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><span class=\"\">Import vs. Buy Local \u2013<\/span><span class=\"\">A Side-by-Side Comparison<\/span><\/h2><div class=\"ds-scroll-area ds-scroll-area--show-on-focus-within ds-scroll-area--enabled _1210dd7 c03cafe9\"><div class=\"ds-scroll-area__gutters\"><div class=\"ds-scroll-area__horizontal-gutter\"><div class=\"ds-scroll-area__horizontal-bar\"><table style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"><thead><tr><th><span class=\"\">Model<\/span><\/th><th><span class=\"\">Year<\/span><\/th><th><span class=\"\">Import Cost (Landed, KES)<\/span><\/th><th><span class=\"\">Local Dealer Price (KES)<\/span><\/th><th><span class=\"\">Savings (KES)<\/span><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><span class=\"\">Toyota Aqua<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">2018<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">1.3M \u2013 1.5M<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">1.6M \u2013 1.8M<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">~300,000<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span class=\"\">Mazda CX-5 (2.0L)<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">2019<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">3.2M \u2013 3.4M<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">3.8M \u2013 4.1M<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">~600,000<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span class=\"\">Toyota Hilux<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">2026<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">7.8M+ (CIF only)<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">7.8M \u2013 9.5M<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Varies<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span class=\"\">Land Cruiser Prado<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">2019\u20132021<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">6M \u2013 12.7M<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">6M \u2013 12.7M<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Varies<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span class=\"\">Land Cruiser 300<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">2022\u20132023<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">14M \u2013 18.5M<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">20M \u2013 28M<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Up to 10M<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span class=\"\">Nissan Note E13<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">2020+<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">~1.5M \u2013 2.0M<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">1.7M \u2013 2.2M+<\/span><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"has-el-gap el-gap-default elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-fde9f18 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"fde9f18\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-no\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-44a3735\" data-id=\"44a3735\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4182085 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"4182085\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><span class=\"\">Four Questions to Ask Before You Commit<\/span><\/h2><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><span class=\"\">Before wiring money to Japan, ask yourself:<\/span><\/p><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">1. Can I legally import this vehicle?<\/span><\/strong><br \/><span class=\"\">Check your country&#8217;s age limits (25-year rule in the USA, 15-year in Canada, 8-year in Kenya). Verify steering requirements (RHD vs LHD).<\/span><\/p><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">2. What is the total landed cost?<\/span><\/strong><br \/><span class=\"\">Calculate: Auction price + shipping + import duty + VAT\/GST + port fees + compliance modifications. The cheapest auction price is rarely the cheapest final cost.<\/span><\/p><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">3. Do I have the right documentation?<\/span><\/strong><br \/><span class=\"\">Some countries require permits (ITAC in South Africa), pre-export inspections (QISJ\/Kenya), or specific customs forms (EPA\/DOT in USA).<\/span><\/p><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">4. Who will handle the logistics?<\/span><\/strong><br \/><span class=\"\">Are you using an agent or doing it yourself? Mistakes in paperwork cause expensive delays. Working with a trusted exporter reduces risk.<\/span><\/p><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><span class=\"\">To avoid costly mistakes, read our\u00a0<\/span><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/guides\/avoid-import-scams\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span class=\"\">how to avoid import scams<\/span><\/a><\/strong><span class=\"\">\u00a0guide.<\/span><\/p><p>\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"has-el-gap el-gap-default elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-6dda278 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"6dda278\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-no\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-e4dedf3\" data-id=\"e4dedf3\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-16ea9db elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"16ea9db\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figure class=\"wp-caption\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"755\" height=\"566\" data-src=\"https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/TokyoCarZ-2023-Black-Toyota-Land-Cruiser-Prado-2.7-TX-L-Package-4WD-Toyota-Safety-Sense-Black-Leather-Seats-Genuine-9-inch-Navigation-System-for-sale-1024x768.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-28737 lazyload\" alt=\"TokyoCarZ - 2023 Black Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2.7 TX L Package 4WD Toyota Safety Sense Black Leather Seats Genuine 9-inch Navigation System for sale\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/TokyoCarZ-2023-Black-Toyota-Land-Cruiser-Prado-2.7-TX-L-Package-4WD-Toyota-Safety-Sense-Black-Leather-Seats-Genuine-9-inch-Navigation-System-for-sale-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/TokyoCarZ-2023-Black-Toyota-Land-Cruiser-Prado-2.7-TX-L-Package-4WD-Toyota-Safety-Sense-Black-Leather-Seats-Genuine-9-inch-Navigation-System-for-sale-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/TokyoCarZ-2023-Black-Toyota-Land-Cruiser-Prado-2.7-TX-L-Package-4WD-Toyota-Safety-Sense-Black-Leather-Seats-Genuine-9-inch-Navigation-System-for-sale-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/TokyoCarZ-2023-Black-Toyota-Land-Cruiser-Prado-2.7-TX-L-Package-4WD-Toyota-Safety-Sense-Black-Leather-Seats-Genuine-9-inch-Navigation-System-for-sale-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/TokyoCarZ-2023-Black-Toyota-Land-Cruiser-Prado-2.7-TX-L-Package-4WD-Toyota-Safety-Sense-Black-Leather-Seats-Genuine-9-inch-Navigation-System-for-sale-2048x1536.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/TokyoCarZ-2023-Black-Toyota-Land-Cruiser-Prado-2.7-TX-L-Package-4WD-Toyota-Safety-Sense-Black-Leather-Seats-Genuine-9-inch-Navigation-System-for-sale-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/TokyoCarZ-2023-Black-Toyota-Land-Cruiser-Prado-2.7-TX-L-Package-4WD-Toyota-Safety-Sense-Black-Leather-Seats-Genuine-9-inch-Navigation-System-for-sale-450x338.jpg 450w, https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/TokyoCarZ-2023-Black-Toyota-Land-Cruiser-Prado-2.7-TX-L-Package-4WD-Toyota-Safety-Sense-Black-Leather-Seats-Genuine-9-inch-Navigation-System-for-sale-1200x900.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/TokyoCarZ-2023-Black-Toyota-Land-Cruiser-Prado-2.7-TX-L-Package-4WD-Toyota-Safety-Sense-Black-Leather-Seats-Genuine-9-inch-Navigation-System-for-sale-1320x990.jpg 1320w, https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/TokyoCarZ-2023-Black-Toyota-Land-Cruiser-Prado-2.7-TX-L-Package-4WD-Toyota-Safety-Sense-Black-Leather-Seats-Genuine-9-inch-Navigation-System-for-sale-600x450.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 755px) 100vw, 755px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 755px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 755\/566;\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figcaption class=\"widget-image-caption wp-caption-text\">TokyoCarZ - 2023 Black Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 2.7 TX L Package 4WD Toyota Safety Sense Black Leather Seats Genuine 9-inch Navigation System for sale<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"has-el-gap el-gap-default elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-f1e78ac elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"f1e78ac\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-no\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-660bedd\" data-id=\"660bedd\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-65fb2a9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"65fb2a9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><span class=\"\">Is It Worth Importing a Japanese Car? &#8211;\u00a0 <\/span><span class=\"\">Summary Table\u00a0<\/span><\/h2><div class=\"ds-scroll-area ds-scroll-area--show-on-focus-within ds-scroll-area--enabled _1210dd7 c03cafe9\"><div class=\"ds-scroll-area__gutters\"><div class=\"ds-scroll-area__vertical-gutter\"><table style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"><thead><tr><th><span class=\"\">Factor<\/span><\/th><th><span class=\"\">Import from Japan<\/span><\/th><th><span class=\"\">Buy Locally<\/span><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong><span class=\"\">Price<\/span><\/strong><\/td><td><span class=\"\">20\u201340% lower price<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Higher \u2014 includes dealer markup<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><span class=\"\">Selection<\/span><\/strong><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Unlimited \u2014 150,000+ weekly at auction<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Limited to local inventory<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><span class=\"\">Condition<\/span><\/strong><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Documented auction sheet, low mileage<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Often unknown history<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><span class=\"\">Time<\/span><\/strong><\/td><td><span class=\"\">2-3 months delivery<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Immediate<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><span class=\"\">Paperwork<\/span><\/strong><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Requires permits, customs clearance<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Simple registration<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><span class=\"\">Risk<\/span><\/strong><\/td><td><span class=\"\">If handled by an inexperienced exporter<\/span><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Lower risk<\/span><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/div><\/div><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">Verdict:<\/span><\/strong><span class=\"\">\u00a0Importing is worth it for the right buyer \u2014 especially for specific models, JDM classics, or lower upfront costs. However, it requires patience and a clear understanding of the full landed cost<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"has-el-gap el-gap-default elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-4ebe6f1 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"4ebe6f1\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-no\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-cb10001\" data-id=\"cb10001\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4f3666c elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"4f3666c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><span class=\"\">How to Import from Japan with TokyoCarZ<\/span><\/h2><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><span class=\"\">At TokyoCarZ, we simplify the entire process:<\/span><\/p><div class=\"ds-scroll-area ds-scroll-area--show-on-focus-within ds-scroll-area--enabled _1210dd7 c03cafe9\"><div class=\"ds-scroll-area__gutters\"><div class=\"ds-scroll-area__vertical-gutter\"><table style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"><thead><tr><th><span class=\"\">Step<\/span><\/th><th><span class=\"\">What We Do<\/span><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong><span class=\"\">1. Consultation<\/span><\/strong><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Understand your budget and vehicle requirements<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><span class=\"\">2. Sourcing<\/span><\/strong><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Access live auctions or pre-vetted stock from Japan&#8217;s top auctions (USS, AUCNET, TAA)<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><span class=\"\">3. Verification<\/span><\/strong><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Provide auction sheet translation, pre-bid inspections, and history checks<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><span class=\"\">4. Shipping<\/span><\/strong><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Arrange RoRo or container shipping to your nearest port<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><span class=\"\">5. Documentation<\/span><\/strong><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Handle export paperwork, shipping manifests, and customs coordination<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong><span class=\"\">6. Delivery<\/span><\/strong><\/td><td><span class=\"\">Your car arrives at port ready for clearance and registration<\/span><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/div><\/div><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/contact\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span class=\"\">Contact TokyoCarZ<\/span><\/a><\/strong><span class=\"\">\u00a0to start your import journey.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"has-el-gap el-gap-default elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-6254e70 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"6254e70\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-no\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-213083a\" data-id=\"213083a\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a2ce92a elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"a2ce92a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Importing is worth it for the right buyer \u2014 especially for specific models, JDM classics, or lower upfront costs. However, it requires patience and a clear understanding of the full landed cost.\u00a0<\/p><p>Do your homework, work with a trusted partner like TokyoCarZ. If you do, you will likely end up with a better car for less money.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"has-el-gap el-gap-default elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-1741812 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"1741812\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-no\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-a0fa50e\" data-id=\"a0fa50e\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6a1bd28 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6a1bd28\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><span class=\"\">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/span><\/h2><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">1. Is it cheaper to import a car from Japan?<\/span><\/strong><br \/><span class=\"\">Yes, auction prices are often 20\u201340% lower than local markets. However, taxes, shipping, and compliance can reduce the gap\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"\">.<\/span><\/p><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">2. What is the 25-year rule?<\/span><\/strong><br \/><span class=\"\">In the US, this rule allows vehicles 25 years or older to be imported without meeting FMVSS and EPA standards\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"\">.<\/span><\/p><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">3. What is the 8-year rule?<\/span><\/strong><br \/><span class=\"\">In countries like Kenya, this rule restricts imports to vehicles manufactured in 2018 or later (for 2026).<\/span><\/p><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">4. Is the weak yen a good reason to import?<\/span><\/strong><br \/><span class=\"\">Yes. A \u00a53.5 million vehicle costs nearly $2,000 less in USD than it did a year ago\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"\">.<\/span><\/p><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">5. Should I buy dealer stock or use an auction?<\/span><\/strong><br \/><span class=\"\">Dealer stock offers fixed prices and immediate shipping. Auctions offer lower potential prices but require more patience and bidding experience.<\/span><\/p><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">6. What is the cheapest car to import from Japan?<\/span><\/strong><br \/><span class=\"\">Kei cars like the Subaru Sambar ($3,000\u20137,000) are the most affordable. The Toyota Aqua ($4,000\u20138,000) is the cheapest hybrid.<\/span><\/p><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">7. What documents do I need to import a car?<\/span><\/strong><br \/><span class=\"\">Export Certificate, Bill of Lading, Customs Declaration, and country-specific permits (ITAC, EPA, DOT, etc.)\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"\">.<\/span><\/p><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"\">8. How can TokyoCarZ help me import?<\/span><\/strong><br \/><span class=\"\">We provide auction access, sheet translation, pre-bid inspections, shipping, and customs coordination \u2014 end-to-end.\u00a0<\/span><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/contact\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span class=\"\">Contact TokyoCarZ<\/span><\/a><\/strong><span class=\"\">\u00a0to get started.<\/span><\/p><h2><span class=\"\">Related Resources<\/span><\/h2><ul><li><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/news\/how-to-import-a-car-from-japan-step-by-step-guide-2026\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span class=\"\">Step-by-Step Import Guide<\/span><\/a><\/p><\/li><li><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/japanese-car-auction\/how-japanese-car-auctions-work-a-beginners-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span class=\"\">How Japanese Car Auctions Work<\/span><\/a><\/p><\/li><li><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/news\/cost-to-import-car-from-japan-to-usa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span class=\"\">Cost to Import Car from Japan to USA<\/span><\/a><\/p><\/li><li><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tokyocarz.com\/blog\/news\/10-best-japanese-used-car-exporters-2026-trusted-verified\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span class=\"\">10 Best Japanese Used Car Exporters<\/span><\/a><\/p><\/li><\/ul><hr \/><p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><em><span class=\"\">Note: Tax rates, shipping costs, and import regulations are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker before purchasing.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Have you ever wondered whether you are better off buying a local used car or importing a Japanese vehicle? Japanese car imports are more popular than ever. In 2025, Japan exported 1.7 million used vehicles \u2014 driven by the weak yen (near \u00a5160\/$) and a record 12.1% increase in auction supply\u00a0. But the answer is<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":28432,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[118,36],"tags":[156,122,57,116],"post_folder":[],"class_list":["post-28758","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-import-guides","category-news","tag-import-from-japan","tag-import-guides","tag-japanese-car-auction","tag-the-best-japanese-car-exporters-in-2026"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v24.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Is It Worth Importing a Japanese Car? A Cost-Benefit Analysis 2026 - TokyoCarZ Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Is importing a Japanese car worth it in 2026? 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