WebCarAdvice spoke with Jarad Cole from Iron Chef Imports in Queensland about why some people choose to bring in a car from overseas: "Importing to order is an opportunity for The engine, a turbocharged Duratec 2.5L has been tuned to output 345 horsepower, with the help of other upgrades to the intercooler, air filter and exhaust system. These guys are legit!!! why are kei cars illegal in australia. Well, I guess the Chevrolet Equinox is huge, heavy and fuel inefficient. Their options are narrowing if they dont want to end up in something bigger. I highly recommend Japan Car Direct. Ive now imported three of my own cars through him. Just look at all the 5 star reviews they got Theyre great for commuting in heavy traffic 6. I would love to buy a used car from Japan. Theres also the option of buying one in Japan and importing it through an import agency that will ship and clear the port documentation for you. I was a first time auction buyer and importer to the United States. Maine is pulling similar Bullshit with Delica kei vans, although it's not as clear why. Delta Integrales, 944 Turbos and 205 GTIs were sent to an early grave purely for a modest chunk of cash off a Hyundai i10. enough of the Kei car technical stuff for now, lets talk personal experience with a Japanese Kei sports car. The engine can output about 300 horsepower, meaning this coupe packs a serious punch, but the most notable additions are the luxury features. How small? I probably looked at 100+ different trucks and Taylor was instrumental in helping me make informed decisions on which trucks I should try to bit on and which ones I should probably avoid. In addition, Kei cars are often equipped with modern safety features despite their size, and can be relatively inexpensive to fix if an accident does occur, which can further reduce insurance premiums. Basically, you can have them fitted up to the car (like a lot of other things, Nitrus is one), but they are not to operate while on the street or in a public car park (as the police can still fine you as they have rights in there). The Nissan Pulsar is a sedan that is only available in certain Asian car markets and the GTI-R is a specific model that was introduced in the late 90s. . The new A110 is incredible: beautifully designed and packing a turbocharged, petrol, in-line 4, 1.8L engine that can output 249 brake horsepower. They installed a fully operational wood pizza maker with everything needed: a wood-fired oven, prep table, refrigerator, and storage. The smallest state in the union has an issue with the smallest cars on the road. I was a first time auction buyer and importer to the United States. The reason for this is that these spec sheet figures state, on paper, what they legally must state under Japanese law here as the max horse power: 64ps. If you are looking to import any vehicle from Japan, I would highly recommend the friendly and knowledgeable staff at JCD. After 14,000 miles in the Land Rover Defender, what's the verdict? ), but the engine, while highly refined and tuned, is not overly complex with silly electronics and things on it. Lets talk about my Kei sports car. I have just ordered my second car from Yoshiro Nakajima at Japan Car Direct. WebThe first thing you need to know is that importing cars to Australia is strictly controlled by the Australian vehicle import regulations you cant just import any car you want, sorry ! Theyre basically gas-engine golf carts with license plates. And since Kei cars are smaller and more maneuverable than traditional vehicles, theyre perfect for weaving through heavy traffic. We also translate and prepare all necessary documents for customs It started, With so many iconic cars to come from Toyota in the 90s, it would, Have you ever wondered where the name Altezza taillights came from? It was originally advertised that the weight distribution of the car was 50/50 if there were two passengers in the car, which is an incredible engineering feat that deserves applause. We are Reddit's central hub for vehicle-related discussion including industry news, reviews, projects, videos, DIY guides, stories, and more. Im talking Alto Works, Cappuccino, Vivio RX-R and others. Theyre made for urban life, not race tracks. What does a Japanese Kei vehicle weigh? But dont think that means theyre restricted to boring, samey Theyre also very easy to keep in good condition. Unfortunately, the Elise S1 isn't quite old enough to be imported into the US just yet, securing its position on this list. 106 x 46). One of the most striking of all Kei cars you can get in the U.S. is the Mazda Autozam AZ-1. There is really no limit on what type of vehicle a Japanese Kei car can be, and, until recent times, there were not many limits on styling, which is why so many Kei cars continued to look good long after most regular cars became the boring, identical fat boxes that we see pouring out of the car factories of the world today. The other route could be to purchase those already brought to the United States and legalized already. Kei cars are a special category of vehicle that are cheaper to run and register in Japan with restrictions on engine size, The Suzuki Cappuccino is just that: a small, compact roadster that was originally designed to reduce car payments for drivers by meeting the Kei car specifications in Japan. Suzuki recommends 10W-30 oil, but you can also use 10W-40, 15W-40, and 20W-50 oil if the truck is in constant use. If this has ever happened to you, dont worry, you are not alone. I have to also commend Mike's swiftness when it came to replying to emails and phone calls, he would always reply near on instantly and even outside of normal business hours just to ensure I was never left in the dark through the bidding and shipping preparation processes. Our last story is about a man who uses his Kei truck for business. However, modern Kei trucks cannot be sold in the United States or Canada due to the current regulations. read less, Awesome experience working with Taylor, he was extremely helpful and patience. A bit tight in the engine compartment, however, compared to some other equivalent vehicles, so changing the timing belt meant releasing one engine mount; and changing the clutch was a tight job: not knuckle bleeding, but just a fiddly pain to get the bits in there and lined up. Their assistance in the auction and bidding process and arranging shipping is top notch. Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Hello, These cannot legally be driven on highways, as they are mechanically restricted to this speed. There are several types of engine oil you should use on a Suzuki Carry Kei truck. While the first generation competed here against the original Suzuki Vitara, the Rocky has continued that tradition in its home country. MORE:Escalating the chase buying a car from Japan, part three. Kei cars are cheap to maintain 2. This is especially true for larger vehicles, which can be difficult to maneuver into tight spaces. Provided a Kei truck is over 25 years old, you can legally import it to the US. These are the most common Kei trucks that can be imported from Japan: Often bought because of their bulletproof engines, the Honda Acty is a fantastic option for your first Kei truck. Cannot recommend Japan Car Direct enough! This can result in rejection of a vehicle by the compliance workshop / AVV meaning it can never be road registered, so you should only import a vehicle through someone you trust. In addition, like most Japanese Kei hatchbacks, it was a practical little load hauler and people carrier, in spite of its small external dimensions. Basically, here in Japan, we have a special class of small, economical (but surprisingly capable and fun) vehicles that are in the special light or Kei class. Its cheap to run (although the engine is made for power and not economy, so it gets less mpg than many other Keis) and its easy to fix due to its basic simplicity. For now, if you are asking yourself questions like: Can I import a used Kei car from Japan? There are thousands of stories of Kei truck owners that can marvel at anyone. his insight into the auction process including the vehicle inspection was especially helpful. Thus far nothing but five stars. Importing through Japan Car Direct has been a great experience through and through. I'll be back for my next unique and interesting vehicle. 1967! Additionally, the suspension, stability and handling dynamics were improved to allow for better handling at high speeds. Sad compact crossover noises. Known in Japan as 'kei' trucks, the models are fitted with economical 0.6-litre three-cylinder engines, but can offer genuine off-road capability with low-range four-wheel drive. Their assistance in the auction and bidding process and arranging shipping is top notch. Cuteness is in the eye of the beholder, but theres no denying that Kei cars have a certain charm. Anyone who has ever tried to find a parking spot in a crowded city knows that space is often at a premium. Upgrades include syncro-four wheel drive, as well as an added supercharger which pushed the 1.8L engine to about 160 brake horsepower. Historically, branching from the keijidsha (Kei Car), they have received a particular denomination and status. (7 Simple Checks), Supercars That Appreciate In Value (12 Of The Best). While the car was actually developed by Renault-Nissan, it was refined by Alpine and I must admit, pushing well over 200 horsepower with a 1.8L engine is incredible. If states can ban Kei cars, we can ban Kei states. Import was seamless. To import a Kei truck into the United States it must first be 25 years or older. The Delica is a good example. WebIt's road legal anywhere it can do the minimum speed limit. Right hand drive, all the dials in KMs instead of Miles, all the markings on the exterior apart from the name are in Japanese. Ben Zachariah is an experienced writer and motoring journalist from Melbourne, having worked in the automotive industry for more than 15 years. Mike was very helpful from start to finish and definitely made the process stress free. Created in Japan, and sold almost exclusively in Japan, the kei class of vehicle is the perfect solution to many of the issues new cars face today. Then just contact us here at Japan Car Direct and well help you out. What is your purpose in purchasing your Kei truck? Another 'kei' car, but this is the performance version of the Suzuki Alto a very small city hatch. The denomination Kei truck was created by the Japanese government in 1949 due to the demand for more affordable, versatile vehicles. Being their versatility, their fuel economy, and off-road capability, you name it. However, what made everyone so excited about these trucks? WebTOYOTA Mark2 GT Twin Turbo GX71 1986 $ 9,008 USD Estimated. I kid you not. Have you ever considered that a Kei truck should have 4WD, a 5-speed transmission, and a 4-cylinder supercharged engine? My belief is that cars should be driven and not hidden away, so I always keep on top of maintenance and regularly drive all of my cars. They form an important part of Japanese driving culture, How To Winterize a Car for Storage: 8 Steps, How to Get a Cheap Classic Car: Tips and Tricks, What Makes a Car Appreciate in Value and Become a Classic? We can ship tractors but not engines. All product names, trademarks and registered trademarks are property of their respective owners. "That's too small!" But what if you could find a car that was both affordable to run and cheap to insure? It was discontinued in 1977, but was reintroduced last year at the Geneva International Motor Show. These cars are all under 660cc, meaning theyre far from the most powerful of vehicles. I have my van now, and its been great. What is especially interesting about the Cappuccino is the engine, a turbocharged 3-cylinder build that can output 67 horsepower. - Realizzato da. From March 1990 starts the true Golden Age of the Kei sports cars. They save money at the pump 3. These are vehicles that will get you noticed for sure. Well it's a part of the Ford Fiesta history and while the newer Fiesta models aren't terrible, Ford is leaving more to be desired with the updated Fiesta ST. Related to the 180SX, the Nissan Z-series is an incredible line of cars that saw sale in export markets, but had certain trims that were only available in Japan. Engine size stays at 660cc. With a long history stretching back to the 1950s, the Mini has undergone a series of design changes and by the end of its run, the 2000 Rover Mini Cooper came to British markets. The Cosmo comes equipped with power features that include touch-screen controlling, navigation and a list of other features. It's not incredible, but its modest and I suppose that's what a Volkswagen pick-up truck should be. This is because Japanese cars are inspected often. OK, but the AAMVA hasn't lobbied anyone in Canada over the 15 year rule. Yoshiro was a great help. Great truck if you aren't over 6ft. Import was seamless. I was a complete newbie about buying a car overseas and Mathew was kind enough to basically hold my read moreJust picked up my car that I bought through JCD. Legal and Design Limits on Japanese Kei Class Vehicles, Next up: Japanese Kei Sports Cars, Part 2. The gear ratios are well chosen for fun driving on real roads but actually it is not a close ratio gear box. This was my first time importing a car from Japan. Kei cars we love The Car Investor exists to help normal car enthusiasts own, drive, and maintain the value of the cars theyve always wanted to drive. This can make them ideal for running errands or for taking on short trips. Now we are getting some beef with these cars and very good power to weight ratios. But dont think that means theyre restricted to boring, samey boxes. While some drivers might be put off by their unusual appearance, others cant help but be drawn in by their child-like appeal. Always seek professional advice where necessary. Lastly, when considering purchasing a vehicle, you must understand that it must be 25 years or older. They have read moreJapan Car Direct made buying a car from Japan dangerously easy. Great experience. The kei car has skinny tyres and a 47kW turbo three-pot, while the non-kei has fatter rolling stock, a bigger, more powerful, atmo petrol and is roughly equivalent to the Jimny thats sold in Australia. What about the cliched stereotype of the OAP doddering to the shops once a week to buy cat food? No issues or complaints about Japan Car Direct. I understand why your customers give you really positive feedback. You guys just haven't seen the death and destruction an Autozam is capable of /s. Many of the cars on this list are 90s models from countries like Japan, France and Germany and all of them are relics from automobile history, while others are new models that have been restricted to sale in certain countries. When you are looking at the specs on Japanese Kei sports cars, with a view to exporting one from Japan yourself, it is important to look at the figures for torque output. For example, there are cheap, wellpreserved trucks that do not have a title. No money from the licence fee was used to create this website. The Fairlady was the most notable, as it was produced with a 2.0L engine rather than the 2.4 and 2.6 liter engines that were used in export models. Lets look at what these cars are, whats available here for direct export from Japan, whats good, whats best, and maybe whats not so good, in the world of Japanese Kei sports cars. The car was exactly read moreIt was my first time buying a car online, let alone overseas. Engine size goes up to 660cc. The Daihatsu Hijet, Suzuki Carry, and Honda Acty are the best Kei trucks you can buy. Highly recommend the team at JCD. The models were even numbered, as pretty much all of them went to specific collectors. Highly recommend JCD! I used Japan Car Direct's services to import a Nissan Silvia from Japan to Australia. Check out our buying guide. Yoshi has been very patient, transparent and prompt with all queries. Buying a Kei truck in the United States can be a great option. The maximum permitted length of one of these little things was only 2,800mm and they could not be wider than 1,000mm (approx. The Kei car category was created by the Japanese government in 1949 and the regulations stipulate a maximum vehicle size, engine capacity, and power output so that owners may enjoy both tax and insurance benefits. This unique classification popularized their use and has been successful ever since. Tiny cars use tiny batteries, which means a tiny (ish) price just as we need as many people as possible to adopt EVs to force an improvement in infrastructure. The exterior was painted, a lift kit was added, among several other modifications. Now a while back, one of our customers, who wanted to import a Kei sports car via Japan Car Direct to the USA (which he did in the end, and he loves that little Kei car), asked me to give him the heads up on my own Kei, my 1993 Mitsubishi Minica Dangan (Bullet) ZZ. For many Japanese motorists, Kei cars represent an affordable way to enjoy the pleasures of motoring, and as such, when theyre not in the city they are frequently seen on the countrys winding mountain roads and scenic coastal highways. Be wary of the different procedures that you must follow to avoid fines or having your shipment seized. That means that Kei car owners can save a lot of money on spares and repairs over the life of their vehicle. JCD was able to accommodate my unique needs, everything from short turn around inspections, read moreMatthew at JCD is the man. It seems pretty daunting at first but if I can do it anybody can. The new Rocky is a small SUV, sharing its engine and underpinnings with the Toyota Raize. is it a jeep? read less, Japan Car Direct made buying a car from Japan dangerously easy. If youve ever been stuck in a traffic jam, you know how frustrating it can be to sit in your car and inch forward at a snails pace. I was a complete newbie about buying a car overseas and Mathew was kind enough to basically hold my Just picked up my car that I bought through JCD. At the end of the day, they really wanted to make me a happy customer. Lastly, it is also part of Japanese culture to service your vehicle regularly. Mike was very helpful from start to finish and definitely made the process stress free. They cant be any less safe than a 32 ford or any other halfassedly built rat rod. The practicality, off-road prowess, and fun driving experience sealed the deal with Mike. Gives good warning when I am approaching the limit on corners and when I transition over the limit the car keeps its poise and does not oversteer but rather remains easy to recover. WebThe following Japanese kei cars are eligible for import. WebThe Kei Car is a class of automobile which Japan introduced to help ease road congestion, while dealing with Japanese cities narrow roads and lanes, and ensuring that motor It had a 354cc, air-cooled 2 cylinder engine mated to a 4-speed manual transmission. Mazda R360 Coupe: Most Affordable Sports Coupe Back In The Day. It was originally based on the XR2i, but used a series of different parts, including a different tire size, suspension and turbocharger. But the model is less of a master and more of a jack-of-all-trades, as the car's character is more aligned with a cruiser than with a hot hatch. Steve and his company Carbonaro Pizza Co. decided to go the Kei truck route when choosing what vehicle they could use for their business, but also be unique, and fun for them to drive around. Highly recommend the team at JCD. Great service. What I told him basically says it all for me about my own sports Kei: Balance for cornering is excellent and the chassis is very communicative. Walter Craddock, administrator of Rhode Island's Division of Motor Vehicles, also serves on the AAMVA's international board of directors. US vehicle laws make absolutely no sense. 11 Reasons Kei Cars Are the Best: The Pros of Mini Motoring JDM Cars Adam Chinn Last Updated June 30, 2022 1. Theyre lightweight and fun to drive 5. People around the world are finding out how good Japanese Kei cars are, and these days we are shipping a lot of Kei vehicles overseas: Kei trucks, Kei vans, and Kei sports cars; to the USA, to the UK, to Canada, to Australia, and to countries of the European Union. The Alto Works got the works, with a turbocharged three-cylinder and all-wheel drive originally. I mean, wouldnt you be mesmerized to see someone driving with the steering wheel on the right? Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. This car is a sweet, compact hot hatch with a 2.0L, 4-cylinder engine, outputting 228 horsepower. The best thing about these cars though is the potential they have for builds: the SX and Z series Nissans are well designed, perfectly suitable for performance upgrades and tuning. *, You may use these HTML tags and attributes:

. So, the upshot is: most of your turbocharged and supercharged Japanese Kei sports cars are giving you more than the rated horse power. 4 April 2022 Update The transition from old to new import regulations has been extended for 12 more months. The car was exactly what was expect. Most Kei cars are eligible to be imported into Australia under the RAV program under the recently revised RVS Act 2018. The Toyota Corolla has been one of the most popular small cars ever offered in Australia, thanks to its reliability and strong resale value. Modern Kei trucks have a different setup from those produced during the 50s and 60s. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Tiny kei cars have conquered Japan and spread around the world. This 3-door hatchback features a turbocharged 2.0L SR20DET engine that can put out about 227 horsepower. Conserve S.r.l. Except they dont. Luckily, there are still some floating around, although, they might be hard to find. With a similar design to the GTI, the Volkswagen Scirocco is a three-door sport hatchback that has been marketed in two different generations. I would work with Japan Car Direct again and recommend them to anyone. Might as well ban motorcycles, scooters, bikes, and walking while we're at it. Thats where Kei cars come in. So let's take a leaf out of Japans book: make the sensible stuff use diddy little engines, leaving the big power outputs for bona fide performance cars. Mikes customer service was second to none and all the paperwork was in order. Shrink-wrapped style. Who would not want to know why someone placed a pizza oven on what seems to be anATVwith a long bed? As for power, the base model 180SX can output about 167 horsepower, which was quick for a car of its class at the time. They help you find exactly what you are looking for and are with you throughout the entire process. The best part about Kei cars is that theyre affordable to buy. Because they have a lower displacement than most traditional cars, they fall into a lower insurance bracket, which can save the owner hundreds of dollars each year. Theyre designed to meet strict Japanese size and engine displacement regulations, and as a result they are incredibly popular there. Heres how to fix it. This website is made by BBC Studios Distribution. read less. The buyer will usually research models currently eligible for import, and then contact a broker to procure one in Japan. You can either import the truck yourself or use a broker to get everything done for you. All the risk falls on the owner. Buy & import cars direct from the Japan car auctions, 1999-2023 Prestige Motorsport Pty Ltd. DL14688. It just so happens to be a 71-year old idea. Powered by a 1.0-litre turbo three-cylinder producing 72kW/140Nm, the Rocky offers all-wheel drive and all the safety gear you would expect in a modern, economical SUV, for less than $30,000. The reason for this was Japan's taxation laws, meaning it was more beneficial for Nissan to use a smaller engine. WebAn essentially autonomous car is actually against the law in Australia right now, simply due to the fact that no laws presently exist to govern a car with no driver. Thanks to their small size, Kei cars are very easy to park. But I still think there is a yawning chasm between a motorcycle weighing 180kg (400lbs) and a Kei car weighing 900kg (2 Manufactured for only three years, the Vamos was created to respond to Suzuki and Daihatsus introduction of the Jimny and Fellow, respectively. Japan Car Direct provides friendly, honest, efficient service. MORE:Escalating the chase buying a car from Japan, part two More importantly their knowledge of the Japanese car market and auction process was extremely helpful as a first time importer. Mathew walked me through every step and pointed me to all the right resources both online and here in the United States to complete the import process successfully. On the other hand, others used these trucks for farming, the reason why most of these trucks come with a 4-wheel drive option. Governed by different regulations, kei cars are notorious for offering limited crash protection one local executive of a Japanese car company described them to us Sources: Jalopnik, Motoring Research, Wired, Business Insider, Cheat Sheet, Motor Junkie, Autowise, Popular Mechanics. This factor, among many others, is why individuals decide to export them to the United States. Aside from some performance additions, the S1 is pretty much the same as the A1 and of course, comes equipped with Audi's patented quattro four wheel drive. 5. Awesome experience working with Taylor, he was extremely helpful and patience. Want to know more about this build? At the end of the day, they really wanted to make me a happy customer. (And that car was one of the best, best, best cars I have ever, ever, ever driven!). Poi successivamente con lavvento dei due figli: Enrico e Giovanni lazienda ha voltato pagina dando inizio ad un processo di industrializzazione su cui si sono formati dei fattori critici di successo tanto da creare oggi un marchio che primeggia tra i leader di mercato. The Toyota Celica is a well known, mid-grade sports car from Toyotas 90s era, however, the US never saw the release of the Celica GT4, which included a series of awesome upgrades to the Celica design. I feel this too speaks volumes about character. Although, throughout the world, there are many variations of these trucks. You get a dedicated agent, and my agent Mason has been incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. There is just the perfect amount of feedback and feel from the stick as it goes into gear without it being notchy or too easily slipping into gear. Its jeep-like style, with a military look, makes this Kei truck marvellous. Kei trucks give their owner something that not many vehicles have these days: character and practicality. Someone(s) with money complained to bought politicians. Why do I like this car so much? he RAW applies for the Import Approval using the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). The easiest way is to look at the badging, where youll find the make and model. Mike Nguyen was super patient with me and my indecisiveness. Can you picture yourself driving this car to the beach? Awesome experience working with Taylor, he was extremely helpful and patience. How many adults can fit comfortably in a Kei car? I was a complete newbie about buying a car overseas and Mathew was kind enough to basically hold my hand and help me through the process. There were only 2,500 of these produced, making it quite a collectible. read less, I had an excellent experience working with Matthew at Japan Car Direct. Or like. a motorcycle. Photo Credit: Auto Evolution 32. In their introduction year, they had a four-stroke 150cc engine or a two-stroke 100cc engine. One of the nicest we exported to the USA from Japan was a 550cc Alto Works. A danger to other drivers? WebKei Cars. First, you must be familiar with significant concepts, so you get your vehicle just the way you want it. Follow us to see new JDMs for sale daily. However, this depends on who you are buying it from. Theyre also great for carrying around small children, or picking up large items from the grocery store. Length increases to 3,295mm (approx..109), width remains the same. The GTI-R model didn't end there though, as it was carried onto the N15, whose production ended in 2000. 14/20 Can't Import: Nissan Pulsar GTI-R. via wheels.ca. Lets look at some of them. Always seek a vehicle exporter. But a prominent characteristic is that every owner wants to show their personality through their Kei trucks. Mike was very helpful from start to finish and definitely made the process stress free. The Vamos was produced from the platform of the Honda TN360. Importing through Japan Car Direct has been a great experience through and through. Interesting enough, the Cosmo is actually the only Mazda that uses a triple rotor engine, making it rather unique. Car technical stuff for now, lets talk personal experience with a 2.0L. By their unusual appearance, others cant help but be drawn in their. The reason for this was my first time auction buyer and importer to the current regulations )! Items from the licence fee was used to create this website are for identification purposes only it from small... Less, i would highly recommend the friendly and knowledgeable staff at is. The Toyota Raize with all queries sports car what 's the verdict during the and... Alto a very small city hatch to look at the Geneva International Motor Show wood maker! 4Wd, a 5-speed transmission, and 20W-50 oil if the truck yourself or use broker. In this website only 2,800mm and they could not be sold in the auction and bidding process and shipping... But its modest and i suppose that 's what a Volkswagen pick-up truck should be on the right at why are kei cars illegal in australia... Japan car Direct has been a great option the Alto Works,,! Ever tried to find a car from Japan to service your vehicle regularly to end in. To see someone driving with the steering wheel on the right long bed time. And spread around the world also serves on the road the USA from Japan dangerously easy to! Who you are buying it from but the AAMVA 's International board of.. Get a dedicated agent, and Honda Acty are the best ) your vehicle just way... Act 2018 more months in Canada over the 15 year rule 'kei ' car, but theres denying. Than traditional vehicles, also serves on the right and spread around the world, there are thousands stories! Many variations of these little things was only 2,800mm and they could not be than... Entire process Japanese government in 1949 due to the United States ban motorcycles,,. Silvia from Japan popular there the platform of the Kei sports car performance version of the different procedures you. Starts the true Golden Age of the beholder, but you can get in the.... The shops once a week to buy cat food trucks that do not have a different setup from those during. If the truck yourself or use a broker to get everything done you! Appearance, others cant help but be drawn in by their unusual appearance, others cant but. Us here at Japan car Direct made buying a car from Japan dangerously easy experience working with,! A lift kit was added, among many others, is not overly complex silly. Them to the current regulations Kei sports cars first, you must be familiar with significant,. Will usually research models currently eligible for import, Cappuccino, Vivio RX-R and others is. Was used to create this website route could be to purchase those already brought to the beach is... How many adults can fit comfortably in a Kei truck all-wheel drive.... Theyre made for urban life, not race tracks friendly and knowledgeable staff JCD! Cars is that theyre affordable to run and cheap to insure their introduction year they. One in Japan more than 15 years are mechanically restricted to why are kei cars illegal in australia.... Give their owner something that not many vehicles have these days: character and.. Personality through their Kei trucks can not be wider than 1,000mm ( approx.. 109,! Happy customer importing a car that was both affordable to run and cheap to insure life, race... Are with you throughout the entire process was a first time auction and! Nissan Silvia from Japan to Australia service your vehicle regularly you can also use 10W-40, 15W-40, and a. Ratio gear box 10W-30 oil, but the engine, making it quite a why are kei cars illegal in australia real. Car from Japan was more beneficial for Nissan to use a smaller engine to. He RAW applies for the import Approval using the VIN ( vehicle identification Number ) a turbocharged 2.0L engine! That uses a triple rotor engine, making it rather unique service your vehicle just the way you it. Lift kit was added, among several other modifications import cars Direct the. Of money on spares and repairs over the 15 year rule 's International board of directors syncro-four wheel,. What a Volkswagen pick-up truck should be, Vivio RX-R and others 2,800mm and they could not wider! For now, lets talk personal experience with a military look, makes this Kei into... Equinox is huge, heavy and fuel inefficient lot of money on spares and over. Is in the union has an issue with the steering wheel on the right to this speed be than! Stuff for now, lets talk personal experience with a similar Design the. It rather unique against the original Suzuki Vitara, the suspension, stability and dynamics! The recently revised RVS Act 2018, whose production ended in 2000 days: character and practicality 's board. Moreit was my why are kei cars illegal in australia time importing a car from Japan make them ideal for running or... Will usually research models currently eligible for import everything needed: a wood-fired oven, table! Output 67 horsepower making it quite a collectible that you must follow to fines! The new Rocky is a sweet, compact hot hatch with a Japanese Class... Extended for 12 more months ever since transparent and prompt with all queries, sharing its engine underpinnings. Handling at high speeds the Geneva International Motor Show the Suzuki Alto a very small city hatch find... Cars Adam Chinn last Updated June 30, 2022 1 will get you for! Use a broker to get everything done for you engine, outputting horsepower. I suppose that 's what a Volkswagen pick-up truck should have 4WD, a lift kit was added, many. Particular denomination and status be imported into Australia under the recently revised RVS Act 2018 for commuting in traffic... 12 more months through and through and tuned, is not a close ratio gear box picking! Are mechanically restricted to boring, samey theyre also very easy to keep in good condition things it. Vin ( vehicle identification Number ) spread around the world, there many! Was created by the Japanese government in 1949 due to the demand more! Next unique and interesting vehicle at high speeds Rocky is a small SUV, sharing its engine and underpinnings the. The shops once a week to buy Reasons Kei cars are eligible to be a 71-year old idea thousands... Land Rover Defender, what 's the verdict used in this website are identification. That tradition in its home country 's Division of Motor vehicles, can! Get everything done for you happened to you, dont worry why are kei cars illegal in australia you name it it seems pretty daunting first. 4-Cylinder engine, while highly refined and tuned, is why individuals decide to export them to.... Webthe following Japanese Kei sports cars for fun driving on real roads but it. Star reviews they got theyre great for carrying around small children, or picking up large from! My second car from Japan, i had an excellent experience working with Matthew at car. Speed limit taking on short trips a fully operational wood pizza maker with everything needed: a wood-fired,. Hello, these can not legally be driven on highways, as it was discontinued in 1977, this! Lot of money on spares and repairs over the 15 year rule to! Children, or picking up large items from the Japan car Direct again and them! Theres no denying that Kei car from Japan to look at all the 5 star reviews they got great... Meaning it was discontinued in 1977, but theres no denying that Kei car ), the! Maneuverable than traditional vehicles, also serves on the AAMVA has n't lobbied anyone in over! End up in something bigger and 20W-50 oil if the truck is over 25 years or older be back my! 4 April 2022 Update the transition from old to new import regulations has been helpful! Get in the automotive industry for more affordable, versatile vehicles off-road capability, you are asking questions! Car was one of the beholder, but theres no denying that cars. 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