Why 2000–2001 Japanese Cars and Kei Trucks Are the Next Big Thing in the U.S.
Japanese cars have long fascinated enthusiasts around the world, and the United States is no exception.
Thanks to America’s “25-Year Import Rule”, vehicles that were never officially sold in the U.S. can now be legally imported and registered once they reach 25 years of age.
Starting in 2025, vehicles built in 2000 become eligible, and those from 2001 follow in 2026 — opening the door to a wave of sought-after JDM sports cars and Kei trucks finally reaching American shores.
Good Loop helps buyers and importers across the U.S. source, inspect, and export vehicles directly from Japan.
Here’s everything you need to know about the 25-Year Rule, which cars are worth watching, and how to import them safely.
What Is the 25-Year Rule?
Under U.S. federal law, any vehicle 25 years or older is considered a classic car and is exempt from FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards).
This means right-hand-drive Japanese cars can be imported and registered without modification to meet U.S. safety standards.
The rule was originally established in the late 1980s to curb unsafe “gray market” imports while still allowing historically or culturally significant cars to enter the country.
Today, it forms the legal backbone of the JDM import boom that’s redefining the American car scene.
However, note that emissions and registration laws vary by state, so verifying requirements in advance — especially for California — is essential.
Model Years Eligible in 2025–2026
| Year | Eligible Production Year | Featured Vehicles |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2000 | Nissan Skyline GT-R R34, Silvia S15, S2000, Lancer Evolution VI TME, etc. |
| 2026 | 2001 | R34 V·spec II, Altezza RS200, RX-7 FD late model, Impreza WRX STI (GDB early) |
Highlighted Vehicles for 2025–2026
🔹 JDM Sports Cars
- Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34) – 2000 models become eligible in 2025. Prices are already soaring worldwide.
- Nissan Silvia (S15) – Never sold in the U.S.; demand is expected to spike once imports open.
- Honda S2000 (AP1) – The JDM 2.0-liter high-rev engine differs from the U.S. spec 2.2L.
- Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI TME – The celebrated Tommi Mäkinen Edition; rally fans’ dream.
- Mazda RX-7 (FD3S late) – The 1999–2001 facelifted models were Japan-only; now finally eligible.
- Toyota Altezza RS200 – The real deal behind the Lexus IS300, featuring a 6-speed manual and 3S-GE engine.
- Subaru Impreza WRX STI (GDB early) – Pre-U.S.-market version with lightweight body and raw character.
🔹 Cult Favorites and Sleepers
- Toyota Crown Athlete (JZS171) – A turbocharged 1JZ sedan that stands out in the U.S. market.
- Subaru Legacy GT-B (BH5) – A turbo AWD wagon with balanced performance and utility.
- Toyota bB (1st gen) – The original boxy design that inspired the Scion xB.
- Honda Insight (1st gen) – Early hybrid engineering and distinctive aluminum body.
🔹 Kei Trucks & Kei Vans
Compact, reliable, and surprisingly versatile — Kei trucks have exploded in popularity among U.S. buyers, especially for farms, workshops, and campers.
- Suzuki Carry (DA52/DA62) – 4WD manual versions are the most sought-after.
- Daihatsu Hijet (S200 series) – Easy to maintain with excellent parts availability.
- Honda Acty (HA6/HA7) – Mid-engine layout offers excellent balance and maneuverability.
- Subaru Sambar (TT1/TT2) – Nicknamed “the farm Porsche”, some models even featured a supercharger.
- Mitsubishi Minicab (U61 series) – Simple, durable, and cost-effective to ship.
Key Points When Importing Under the 25-Year Rule
1. Verify the Production Date
Eligibility is based on the month and year of manufacture, not the first registration date.
A car built in January 2000 is legal in January 2025; one from December 2000 isn’t legal until December 2025.
Always confirm with manufacturer documentation.
2. Check State-Level Requirements
Federal import clearance doesn’t guarantee registration.
Some states — particularly California — enforce strict emissions standards (CARB), which may restrict registration.
3. Prepare Proper Documentation
Typical export paperwork includes:
- Export certificate (Deregistration document)
- Invoice & Packing List
- Manufacturer’s production-date certificate
- HS-7 Form (declaring 25-year exemption on U.S. entry)
How Good Loop Helps
Good Loop provides end-to-end export support for U.S. buyers, from sourcing vehicles in Japan to delivery at U.S. ports.
Our Services
- Vehicle sourcing from nationwide Japanese auctions and dealerships
- Export deregistration and customs documentation
- Container or RoRo shipping arrangements
- Marine insurance and post-arrival coordination
Main Ports
- Japan: Yokohama, Kobe, Nagoya, Hakata
- U.S.: Long Beach, Tacoma, Baltimore, and more
Whether you’re an individual buyer or a dealer,
Good Loop makes it easy to import authentic Japanese vehicles legally and safely.
Why Now: The Next Wave of Classic Imports
The years 2025–2026 mark a turning point:
cars from 2000–2001 — the golden era of JDM engineering — will finally be eligible for import.
Not only icons like the Skyline and Silvia, but also everyday heroes like the Crown Athlete and Kei trucks,
are gaining global attention for their craftsmanship and character.
Good Loop can handle vehicle sourcing, documentation, export logistics, and shipping all in one place —
helping you bring your dream car across the sea.
Contact us here