2026 Import Eligibility
Kei trucks produced in 2001 are now eligible for US import. Combined with all earlier production years, here is everything you can legally bring in right now under the 25 year rule.
Production Year
2001
Models Available
6
Price Range
$4,500-$15,000
Eligible Models
These kei trucks were in production during 2001 and are eligible for import. Prices are estimates based on recent Japanese auction data and include the vehicle only. Shipping, customs, and compliance costs are additional. See our import guide for the full cost breakdown.
Suzuki Carry
10th Gen · DA52T/DA62T/DA63T
1999-2013
660cc K6A DOHC 3-cylinder
46-50 hp (NA), 64 hp (turbo)
Part-time 4WD with low range
5-speed manual, 3-4 speed auto
$8,000-$15,000
Key Features
- DOHC engine upgrade over 9th gen
- Available turbo
- Part-time 4WD with low range
- Power steering standard on later models
Honda Acty
4th Gen · HA6/HA7
1999-2021
656cc E07Z SOHC 3-cylinder
40-48 hp
Real-time 4WD
5-speed manual, 3-speed auto
$8,000-$14,000
Key Features
- Mid-engine layout continued
- Real-time 4WD
- Improved cabin ergonomics
- Last generation before discontinuation in 2021
Daihatsu Hijet
10th Gen · S200/S210
1999-2014
658cc KF-VE DOHC 3-cylinder
48-53 hp (NA), 64 hp (turbo)
Part-time 4WD with low range
5-speed manual, 4-speed auto, CVT
$8,000-$15,000
Key Features
- DOHC with variable valve timing (DVVT)
- Jumbo cab option
- CVT available on later models
- Parts shared with Toyota Pixis
Subaru Sambar
6th Gen · TT1/TT2
1999-2012
658cc EN07 inline-4 cylinder
46-48 hp (NA), 58 hp (supercharged)
Part-time 4WD
5-speed manual, 3-speed auto/ECVT
$7,000-$14,000
Key Features
- Last Subaru-engineered Sambar generation
- 4-cylinder engine continued
- Rear-engine layout continued
- Post-2012 models are rebadged Hijets
Mitsubishi Minicab
6th Gen · U61T/U62T
1999-2014
657cc 3G83 SOHC 3-cylinder
38-50 hp (NA), 64 hp (turbo)
Part-time 4WD with low range
5-speed manual, 3-speed auto
$7,000-$14,000
Key Features
- Available rear diff lock
- Improved cabin comfort
- Part-time 4WD with hi/lo range
- Platform shared with Nissan Clipper
Rebadge Alternatives
These are mechanically identical to the models above but wear different badges. They often sell for less at Japanese auctions because of lower brand recognition, making them smart buys for informed buyers.
Mazda Scrum
3rd Gen · DG52T/DG62T/DG63T
1999-2013
660cc K6A DOHC 3-cylinder
46-50 hp (NA), 64 hp (turbo)
Part-time 4WD with low range
5-speed manual, 3-4 speed auto
$6,000-$12,000
Key Features
- Rebadged Suzuki Carry, 100% parts interchangeable
- Often cheaper at auction than Carry equivalent
- DOHC K6A engine same as Carry
Before You Import
Importing a kei truck is more than just finding one at auction. You need to verify the vehicle's condition, navigate US Customs paperwork, arrange shipping, and then register it in your state. Check NHTSA's import page for the latest on federal exemptions, and Hagerty for market value trends. Read our pre-purchase checklist before bidding on anything.
Check your state's registration laws to make sure you can legally drive a kei truck on public roads. Some states restrict them to roads under 35 or 55 mph. Our dealer directory lists importers who handle the entire process from auction to delivery.
Once your truck arrives, you will want to source replacement parts, consider insurance options, and figure out what mods make sense for your use case.
New Models Become Eligible Every January
Get notified when the next batch of kei trucks hits the 25-year mark, plus law changes and market trends. One email a week.