Kei cars explained: Japan's mini vehicles for import

Kei cars are Japan's unique class of mini vehicle, limited by law to a 660cc engine and compact dimensions in exchange for cheaper tax, insurance and parking. The result is an enormous supply of tiny, frugal, surprisingly practical cars that can be exported very cheaply.

Popular kei models include the Suzuki Wagon R and Alto, Daihatsu Mira and Move, Honda N-Box and Nissan Dayz. Despite their size, tall-roof kei cars offer remarkable interior space, and kei vans and trucks like the Suzuki Every and Carry are workhorses for tight urban delivery.

The advantages are low purchase price, excellent fuel economy and easy parking, which suit dense cities and tight budgets. The trade-offs are modest highway performance and small engines, so they suit urban and short-distance use more than long rural runs.

Import eligibility varies. Right-hand-drive markets buy kei cars readily, but some countries restrict very small engines or specific body types, and a few left-hand-drive markets exclude them. Always confirm your national rules before buying a kei vehicle.

For city dwellers, fleet operators and budget buyers, a kei car is one of the cheapest ways into reliable Japanese motoring. ASTONISHING CARS can source kei cars, vans and trucks, inspect them and ship them economically by container consolidation.