For the motorists and cost-conscious buyers alike, cars imported from Japan have been an attractive option in the UK. Owing to their reliability, state-of-the-art technology, and often lower mileage, Japanese imports, whether high-performance sports cars or versatile family vehicles, offer clear benefits.
But are they worth it? Let us break down the key points to consider.
Why Choose a Car Imported from Japan?
- Improved Condition and Lower Mileage
One of the greatest advantages of Japanese imports is that they tend to be in a higher condition than equivalent UK models of the same vintage. Japan has stringent car inspection laws (Shaken), meaning cars need frequent maintenance, so second-hand vehicles are always in good nick. Also, because of Japan’s good public transport system, many cars have much lower mileage.
It’s difficult to verify the mileage of a vehicle when it arrives in the UK as there will be no record of this on the UK databases. However you can check if the car is an import with an HPI check. This report will clearly indicate whether the vehicle has been imported to the UK.
- Competitive Pricing
Despite the import prices, Japanese cars are occasionally lower in price than those in the UK. Japan possesses a highly competitive second-hand car market, and vehicles depreciate very quickly, so UK buyers can find top-of-the-range models at discounted prices.
- Availability of JDM-Specific and Exclusive Models
Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars like the Nissan Skyline GT-R, Toyota Chaser, and Honda Beat are in hot demand among fans. Most of them were never legally imported to the UK and hence are now both rare and desirable. From the high-speed sports car to the budget kei car, imports present enticing choices.
- Advanced Technology and Features
Japanese car makers have a history of including state-of-the-art technology in their cars. Even older vehicles tend to include sophisticated safety features, hybrid engines, and luxury amenities that might not be standard equipment in UK models from the same vintage.
Possible Disadvantages of Importing a Japanese Car
- Insurance Can Be More Costly
Because numerous imported models are not officially listed by UK insurers, cover can be more costly and complicated to obtain. Certain insurers may levy higher premiums because of perceived risks around unfamiliar cars, while parts availability will also affect the cost of repairs.
- Increased Import and Compliance Costs
When importing a Japanese vehicle into the UK, shipping costs, VAT, import tariffs, and having to make adaptations to meet UK road laws (e.g., converting speedometers from km/h to mph, or altering lights) will incur additional expense. These add up rapidly, meaning some imports end up not being as good of a deal as they seem.
- Parts and Maintenance Sourcing
Whereas popular Japanese brands such as Toyota, Honda, and Nissan enjoy widespread support in the UK, less common JDM models can be more difficult to service with specialist mechanics and imported components. This can result in increased maintenance costs and longer repair times.
- Left-Hand Drive Challenges
Most Japanese vehicles are right-hand drive and, therefore, perfectly adapted for UK roads. But if you bring in one designed for some other market, left-hand drive operation might prove troublesome in everyday driving, particularly for overtaking and for using toll booths.
So, Is It Worth It?
If you want a well-looked-after, one-off, and possibly cheaper car, Japanese imports are a great option. But you must consider the added expense of insurance, compliance, and servicing before taking the plunge. For JDM fans and those who want to own a rare model, importing is sometimes the only option for their ideal car. But for the majority of buyers, a UK-market car may be the more sensible and convenient route.
Would you purchase a Japanese import, or do the potential expenses outmatch the advantages?
