Top JDM Cars You Can Import to the USA and Canada in 2026
Every year, the gates open wider for JDM enthusiasts as more legendary models become eligible for import under the 25-year and 15-year rules in the USA and Canada, respectively. In 2026, the USA gains access to vehicles manufactured in 2001-a vintage year that produced some of the most iconic JDM machines ever built. Meanwhile, Canada welcomes 2011 models under its 15-year rule, opening the door to modern performance legends. Whether you’re into sports cars, luxury sedans, rugged off-roaders, or quirky kei cars, this year’s lineup offers something for everyone.
Here’s our top 15 for each market to make your import dreams a reality.
- Top 15 JDM Cars You Can Import to the USA in 2026 (2001 Models)
Nissan Skyline GT-R V-Spec II (BNR34)
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Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII (CT9A)
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Honda Integra Type R (DC5)
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Subaru Impreza WRX STI (GDB)
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Honda S2000 (AP1)
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Nissan Silvia S15 Spec-R
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Toyota MR-S (ZZW30)
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Mazda RX-7 FD3S Type RZ
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Toyota Mark II Tourer V (JZX110)
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Toyota Altezza RS200 (SXE10)
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Nissan Stagea 260RS Autech (WGNC34)
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Mazda Roadster NB RS (Miata)
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Suzuki Jimny (JB23W)
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Toyota Celica SS-II (ZZT231)
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Subaru Legacy B4 RSK (BE5)
Top 15 JDM Cars You Can Import to Canada in 2026 (2011 Models)
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Nissan GT-R R35
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Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X
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Subaru Impreza WRX STI (GRB)
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Honda Civic Type R (FD2)
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Mazda RX-8 Spirit R
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Toyota Mark X 350S (GRX130)
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Nissan Fairlady Z (370Z / Z34)
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Lexus IS F (USE20)
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Subaru Legacy 2.5GT Spec.B (BM9)
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Honda CR-Z
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Suzuki Swift Sport (ZC32S)
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Toyota Crown Athlete (GRS200)
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Mitsubishi Delica D:5
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Toyota Alphard V6 (ANH20W)
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Nissan Elgrand E52
What Is the 25-Year Rule for Importing JDM Cars to the USA?
The 25-year rule exempts vehicles that are at least 25 years old from meeting Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and EPA emissions requirements. In practical terms, any vehicle manufactured in 2001 or earlier can be legally imported to the United States in 2026 without the costly and complex process of FMVSS compliance. This is what makes each new calendar year exciting for JDM enthusiasts-a fresh crop of previously forbidden models suddenly becomes accessible.
What Is Canada’s 15-Year Import Rule?
Canada’s Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) permits the import of vehicles that are 15 or more years old without requiring compliance with Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS). For 2026, this means vehicles manufactured in 2011 or earlier qualify. Canada’s more lenient threshold means Canadians get access to much newer JDM models a full decade before their American counterparts.
Top 15 JDM Cars You Can Import to the USA in 2026 (2001 Models)
Nissan Skyline GT-R V-Spec II (BNR34)
The pinnacle of R34 GT-R evolution. The V-Spec II arrived in 2000-2001 with a carbon fiber rear diffuser, upgraded Brembo brakes, and firmer suspension tuning that sharpened an already legendary chassis. Under the hood sits the iconic RB26DETT twin-turbo inline-six-officially rated at 280 PS but widely known to exceed that figure. With the ATTESA E-TS Pro AWD system and an active LSD at both ends, the V-Spec II remains one of the most capable performance platforms ever built in Japan. Prices have climbed steeply in recent years, but 2001-build examples are now fully eligible for U.S. import.
Browse Nissan Skyline GT-R V-Spec II For Sale | Read Our Nissan Skyline GT-R V-Spec II Guide
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII (CT9A)
The Evo VII marked a seismic shift for Mitsubishi’s rally icon. Debuting in February 2001 on the all-new CT9A platform, it introduced the Active Center Differential (ACD) system, a helical front LSD, and a wider, stiffer body over the outgoing Evo VI. The legendary 4G63 2.0-liter turbo engine delivered 280 PS and 384 Nm of torque through a 5-speed manual gearbox. Compared to the GC-era Evos, the VII felt more refined without sacrificing any of the raw rally-bred character that made the nameplate famous. It’s the start of the CT9A generation that would eventually produce the Evo VIII and IX-and now it’s legal to import.
Browse Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII For Sale | Read Our Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII Guide
Honda Integra Type R (DC5)
Honda rewrote the front-wheel-drive rulebook again with the DC5 Type R. Launched in Japan in July 2001, it packed the K20A i-VTEC engine producing 220 PS at 8,000 rpm-a massive step up from the B18C in the outgoing DC2. The new chassis was wider, stiffer, and featured a limited-slip differential, Brembo brakes, and Recaro seats from the factory. Its razor-sharp turn-in and willingness to rev past 8,400 rpm made it an instant classic. The DC5 was never officially sold as a Type R in the U.S., making JDM imports the only way to experience the real thing.
Browse Honda Integra Type R For Sale | Read Our Honda Integra Type R Guide
Subaru Impreza WRX STI (GDB)
The “bugeye” STI ushered in a new era for Subaru’s rally weapon. Built on the GD platform that launched in 2000, the 2001 STI version delivered the legendary EJ207 2.0-liter boxer turbo producing 280 PS, mated to a 6-speed manual and Subaru’s symmetrical AWD system with DCCD. The wider body, aggressive hood scoop, and gold BBS wheels gave it unmistakable road presence. While later “blobeye” and “hawkeye” revisions get more attention, the bugeye is the purist’s choice-lighter, rawer, and more connected to its WRC roots than anything that followed.
Browse Subaru Impreza WRX STI For Sale
Honda S2000 (AP1)
Precision engineering meets high-revving exhilaration. The 2001 AP1 S2000 continues Honda’s formula of a naturally aspirated F20C 2.0-liter engine screaming to a 9,000 rpm redline, producing 250 PS and delivering one of the most intoxicating driving experiences ever created. The front-mid engine, rear-wheel-drive layout with a 50/50 weight distribution, combined with Honda’s double-wishbone suspension and an incredibly precise 6-speed manual, makes this a true driver’s car in every sense. With 2001 models now U.S.-legal, demand is only climbing.
Browse Honda S2000 For Sale | Read Our Honda S2000 Guide
Nissan Silvia S15 Spec-R
The final evolution of Nissan’s legendary Silvia line, and many would argue its finest. The S15 Spec-R packed the SR20DET turbo engine producing 250 PS, a 6-speed Aisin manual gearbox, and a helical LSD-all wrapped in one of the most beautiful bodies Nissan ever designed. Balanced, beautiful, and endlessly tuneable, the S15 is a rear-wheel-drive dream for enthusiasts and drifters alike. 2001 was among the final production years, making these examples increasingly sought after as they become U.S.-eligible.
Browse Nissan Silvia S15 Spec-R For Sale | Read Our Nissan Silvia S15 Spec-R Guide
Toyota MR-S (ZZW30)
Toyota’s mid-engine, rear-drive lightweight roadster is one of the most underrated sports cars of its era. Known as the MR2 Spyder in some markets, the JDM MR-S weighed just 970 kg and featured a 1.8-liter 1ZZ-FE engine paired with either a 5-speed manual or the clever Sequential Manual Transmission (SMT). What it lacked in outright power (140 PS), it more than made up for with telepathic handling, a low center of gravity, and the pure joy of an open-top mid-engine layout. It’s the spiritual successor to the original MR2 ethos: light, agile, and affordable fun.
Browse Toyota MR-S For Sale | Read Our Toyota MR-S Guide
Mazda RX-7 FD3S Type RZ
By 2001, the FD3S RX-7 was in its final production years-and Mazda was making the most of it. The Type RZ was the stripped-down, performance-focused variant: no rear seats, lightweight Recaro buckets, a Torsen LSD, and the sequential twin-turbo 13B-REW rotary engine producing 280 PS. The FD’s swooping lines remain timeless, and the driving experience-with its screaming rotary soundtrack and perfectly balanced chassis-is utterly unique in the automotive world. Late-production 2001 examples are among the most desirable FDs ever built.
Browse Mazda RX-7 FD3S Type RZ For Sale | Read Our Mazda RX-7 FD3S Type RZ Guide
Toyota Mark II Tourer V (JZX110)
The JZX110 is the final generation of Toyota’s legendary Mark II line, and the Tourer V is its performance flagship. Under the hood sits the 1JZ-GTE VVT-i twin-turbo inline-six producing 280 PS-the same engine family that earned cult status in the JZX100. But the 110 brought a stiffer chassis, more refined interior, and improved suspension geometry while retaining the rear-wheel-drive layout that makes it a favorite for everything from highway cruising to drift events. It’s a genuine sleeper sedan: understated on the outside, devastating when the boost builds.
Browse Toyota Mark II Tourer V For Sale
Toyota Altezza RS200 (SXE10)
Before it was the Lexus IS200/IS300 in export markets, the Altezza was a JDM sensation. The RS200 variant is the one enthusiasts crave: it packs the 3S-GE BEAMS engine-a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-four producing 210 PS at a screaming 7,600 rpm, paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual gearbox. The rear-wheel-drive chassis, limited-slip differential, and relatively light curb weight made it a favorite on circuits across Japan. The BEAMS engine’s high-rev character and mechanical throttle give it a Honda-like soul in a Toyota body.
Browse Toyota Altezza RS200 For Sale
Nissan Stagea 260RS Autech (WGNC34)
The “Skyline GT-R Wagon” you didn’t know you needed. Nissan’s Autech division took the WC34 Stagea and dropped in the RB26DETT twin-turbo engine, the ATTESA E-TS AWD system, and Brembo brakes-essentially creating an R33 GT-R with a cargo area. Only around 1,500 were ever built, making the 260RS one of the rarest and most collectible JDM wagons in existence. It combines genuine GT-R performance with the practicality of an estate car, and 2001 production examples are now clearing the 25-year threshold for U.S. import.
Browse Nissan Stagea 260RS Autech For Sale | Read Our Nissan Stagea 260RS Autech Guide
Mazda Roadster NB RS (Miata)
Simple, lightweight, and timelessly fun. The NB-generation Roadster refined everything the NA Miata pioneered: the 1.8-liter BP engine produced up to 160 PS in the RS trim, the chassis was stiffer, and the Bilstein dampers and Torsen LSD made it a sharper tool on backroads and track days. The JDM Roadster RS also featured a 6-speed manual, lighter flywheel, and stiffer suspension that export-market Miatas didn’t always get. At around 1,000 kg, it’s a masterclass in driver engagement over outright speed.
Browse Mazda Roadster NB RS For Sale
Suzuki Jimny (JB23W)
The cult-classic kei off-roader that punches way above its weight class. The JB23W Jimny packs a 660cc K6A turbocharged engine, part-time 4WD with low range, and a ladder-frame chassis into a body barely 3.4 meters long. It’s not fast-64 PS is the kei car limit-but its off-road capability rivals vehicles twice its size. The Jimny has become a global icon for overlanding and adventure builds, and JDM examples come with options and trims never offered in export markets. It’s the ultimate “go anywhere” micro machine.
Browse Suzuki Jimny For Sale | Read Our Suzuki Jimny Guide
Toyota Celica SS-II (ZZT231)
The seventh-generation Celica SS-II hides a gem under its hood: the 2ZZ-GE engine, co-developed with Yamaha, featuring variable valve timing and lift that kicks in at 6,200 rpm and screams to an 8,200 rpm redline. The result is 190 PS from a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter four-cylinder-a remarkable specific output for the era. The lightweight body (1,105 kg), sharp styling, and engaging front-wheel-drive chassis made the SS-II a genuine sports car that Toyota sold at an accessible price point. It’s reliable, tuneable, and still a blast to drive.
Browse Toyota Celica SS-II For Sale | Read Our Toyota Celica SS-II Guide
Subaru Legacy B4 RSK (BE5)
Twin-turbocharged power and AWD practicality in a refined sedan package. The BE5 Legacy B4 RSK delivered the EJ208 2.0-liter twin-turbo boxer engine producing 280 PS, mated to either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic with Subaru’s symmetrical AWD. It offered sports sedan performance wrapped in an executive-class body-think of it as a Japanese Audi S4 at a fraction of the price. The RSK trim added firmer suspension, upgraded brakes, and sport seats, making it a perfect sleeper for those who want STI-level thrills without the boy-racer image.
Browse Subaru Legacy B4 RSK For Sale | Read Our Subaru Legacy B4 RSK Guide
Top 15 JDM Cars You Can Import to Canada in 2026 (2011 Models)
Nissan GT-R R35
“Godzilla” in its modern form. The 2011 R35 GT-R delivered 530 PS from its hand-assembled VR38DETT 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6, launched through a dual-clutch 6-speed transmission and an advanced AWD system. It embarrassed supercars costing three times as much with a 0-100 km/h time under 3 seconds. The 2011 model year brought revised suspension tuning, improved transmission calibration, and updated aerodynamics over earlier R35s. For Canadian buyers, this is the first year that 2011-build R35s become eligible under the 15-year rule.
Browse Nissan GT-R R35 For Sale | Read Our Nissan GT-R R35 Guide
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X
The final chapter of the Evo saga, and it went out with authority. The Evo X replaced the iconic 4G63 with the new 4B11T 2.0-liter MIVEC turbo engine producing 300 PS, paired with either a 5-speed manual or the innovative Twin Clutch SST dual-clutch transmission. The Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system combined active center diff, active yaw control, ABS, and sport ABS into one cohesive system. The 2011 model represents some of the most refined Evo X production before Mitsubishi pulled the plug on the nameplate entirely.
Browse Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X For Sale | Read Our Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X Guide
Subaru Impreza WRX STI (GRB)
The widebody hatchback STI that combined rally-bred performance with genuine practicality. The 2011 GRB packed the EJ207 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbo boxer producing 308 PS (JDM spec), a 6-speed manual with Subaru’s DCCD center diff, and the widest body the Impreza had ever worn. The hatchback form factor added genuine cargo space without dulling the driving experience. SI-DRIVE let you toggle between three engine maps, and the multi-mode VDC kept things manageable when the roads got wet. It’s the most versatile STI ever built.
Browse Subaru Impreza WRX STI For Sale
Honda Civic Type R (FD2)
The JDM-exclusive sedan Type R that many consider Honda’s finest front-driver. The FD2 packed the K20A 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine producing 225 PS at 8,000 rpm-all naturally aspirated-into a four-door body with a proper limited-slip differential, Brembo brakes, Recaro seats, and a close-ratio 6-speed manual. The sedan body offered more interior space than the hatchback EP3 it replaced, without any compromise in driving engagement. The FD2 was produced from 2007 to 2010, with the final examples now becoming eligible for Canadian import in 2026.
Browse Honda Civic Type R For Sale
Mazda RX-8 Spirit R
The final bow for Mazda’s rotary engine in a production car. The Spirit R was a limited-edition send-off for the RX-8, featuring Bilstein dampers, a Torsen LSD, red-stitched Recaro bucket seats, and BBS forged wheels. The 13B-MSP Renesis engine produced 235 PS at 8,200 rpm through a 6-speed manual, delivering the unique high-revving rotary experience that no piston engine can replicate. As the last rotary sports car Mazda ever produced, the Spirit R represents the end of an era-and 2011 examples are now eligible for Canadian import.
Browse Mazda RX-8 Spirit R For Sale | Read Our Mazda RX-8 Spirit R Guide
Toyota Mark X 350S (GRX130)
A refined, rear-wheel-drive V6 sedan that flies completely under the radar. The Mark X 350S packs a 2GR-FSE 3.5-liter V6 producing 318 PS, paired with a 6-speed automatic and available in both RWD and AWD configurations. Think of it as a Lexus GS without the premium badge and price tag. The 350S trim added sport suspension, larger brakes, and subtle aero enhancements. It’s a genuine luxury sport sedan with Toyota reliability, and it’s virtually unknown in North America-making it one of the most intriguing JDM sleepers you can import.
Browse Toyota Mark X 350S For Sale
Nissan Fairlady Z (370Z / Z34)
A naturally aspirated V6 sports car built for pure driving enjoyment. The Z34 Fairlady Z packed the VQ37VHR 3.7-liter V6 producing 336 PS, a rev-matching 6-speed manual (SynchroRev Match), and a limited-slip differential. The short wheelbase, wide track, and front-mid engine layout delivered a balanced, predictable chassis that rewarded skilled drivers. JDM Fairlady Z models included trims and options not available on the North American 370Z, including the exclusive RAYS forged wheels and Nismo-tuned variants.
Browse Nissan Fairlady Z For Sale | Read Our Nissan Fairlady Z Guide
Lexus IS F (USE20)
A screaming 5.0-liter 2UR-GSE V8 in a compact Lexus sedan? Yes, please. The IS F delivered 423 PS and 505 Nm through an 8-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic to the rear wheels, with a Torsen LSD keeping everything tidy. It offered M3-rivaling performance with Lexus build quality and reliability. The IS F also featured Brembo brakes, adaptive suspension, and a stacked quad exhaust that sounded absolutely ferocious. As one of the few V8 performance sedans Japan has ever produced, it’s a genuine rarity-and 2011 models are now eligible for Canadian import.
Subaru Legacy 2.5GT Spec.B (BM9)
The fifth-generation Legacy 2.5GT Spec.B continued Subaru’s tradition of building turbocharged AWD sleepers disguised as family sedans. The EJ25 2.5-liter turbo boxer produced 285 PS, mated to a 6-speed manual and symmetrical AWD. The Spec.B trim added Bilstein dampers, 18-inch wheels, sport-tuned suspension, and a thicker rear anti-roll bar. It was comfortable enough for daily commutes and fast enough to embarrass sports cars on backroads. Think of it as the thinking person’s WRX-all the performance, none of the attention.
Browse Subaru Legacy 2.5GT Spec.B For Sale | Read Our Subaru Legacy 2.5GT Spec.B Guide
Honda CR-Z
A hybrid sports car that sounds odd on paper but delivers genuine driving fun in practice. The CR-Z combined a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine with Honda’s IMA electric motor for a combined output of around 130 PS, routed through an available 6-speed manual gearbox-making it the only hybrid sports car of its era with a stick shift. The lightweight body (1,120 kg), low center of gravity, and sharp steering gave it handling that belied its eco credentials. It’s a unique piece of Honda history that bridges the gap between the original CR-X and modern electrification.
Suzuki Swift Sport (ZC32S)
Lightweight, responsive, and unexpectedly thrilling for its size. The ZC32S Swift Sport packed the M16A 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 136 PS into a body weighing just 1,050 kg. The result was a power-to-weight ratio that made it feel far faster than the numbers suggest. The 6-speed manual was perfectly gated, the chassis was eager and playful, and the price was a fraction of its competitors. It earned comparisons to the original Peugeot 205 GTi for its pure driving joy-a genuine pocket rocket that punches well above its weight class.
Browse Suzuki Swift Sport For Sale
Toyota Crown Athlete (GRS200)
The Crown Athlete delivers rear-wheel-drive luxury and sport in a package that’s been the backbone of Japan’s taxi fleets and executive garages for decades. The GRS200 Athlete featured the 3GR-FSE 3.0-liter V6 or the 2GR-FSE 3.5-liter V6, paired with a 6-speed automatic. The Athlete trim added sport suspension, larger wheels, and a more aggressive front end over the standard Royal models. It’s understated, reliable, and rides with a composure that rivals European luxury sedans at a fraction of the cost. A true JDM sleeper.
Browse Toyota Crown Athlete For Sale | Read Our Toyota Crown Athlete Guide
Mitsubishi Delica D:5
Part minivan, part off-road warrior. The Delica D:5 combined genuine ground clearance, available Super Select 4WD, and a robust chassis with seating for up to eight passengers. The 2.4-liter 4B12 engine (or 2.0-liter turbo diesel in some markets) provided adequate power, while the high driving position and commanding visibility gave it genuine confidence on unpaved roads. It’s the van of choice for adventurers, overlanders, and families who refuse to let a dirt road end their journey. Nothing else in the segment comes close to its combination of capability and passenger space.
Browse Mitsubishi Delica D:5 For Sale | Read Our Mitsubishi Delica D:5 Guide
Toyota Alphard V6 (ANH20W)
The ultimate luxury MPV that redefines what a family vehicle can be. The second-generation Alphard featured the 2GR-FE 3.5-liter V6 producing 280 PS, paired with a 6-speed automatic. But the engine is almost secondary to the interior experience: captain’s chairs that recline nearly flat, power ottomans, ambient lighting, power sliding doors, and a cabin quieter than many luxury sedans. In Japan, the Alphard is the vehicle of choice for executives and VIPs. In North America, it’s a revelation-offering first-class comfort that no domestic minivan can match.
Browse Toyota Alphard V6 For Sale
Nissan Elgrand E52
Nissan’s answer to the Alphard, and a worthy competitor in every way. The E52 Elgrand featured the VQ35DE 3.5-liter V6 producing 280 PS, with available 4WD and a CVT that kept the engine in its powerband. The interior rivaled business-class air travel, with reclining second-row seats, a panoramic moonroof, and enough tech to make a German luxury sedan jealous. The Highway Star and Rider by Autech trims added aggressive styling and sport-tuned suspension. It’s another luxurious Japanese MPV that North America never officially received-and one that’s now eligible for Canadian import.
Browse Nissan Elgrand E52 For Sale
Resources
We also have a plethora of buying guides for all types of cars that are on the market right now. See a car you like? Our buying guide will help you through the process from start to finish!
Read our Ultimate Guide on How to Import a Car from Japan
Looking for hot hatches? Check out our Top 10 Hot Hatches to Import from Japan
Want to know how much it costs? Use our JDM Import Cost Calculator for the USA or JDM Import Cost Calculator for Canada
