Go Green Motors · Higham, Kent

Why buy a Japanese import?

More choice. Interesting specifications. A car that suits your life. Discover Japanese and European makes sourced from Japan.

A wider world of cars

Imported from Japan. Chosen for you.

A Japanese import is a vehicle brought to the UK from Japan. It can be a Toyota, Honda or Nissan—or a European make such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi or Volkswagen that was previously supplied to the Japanese market.

The opportunity is to find the right combination of condition, equipment and price. Every vehicle is different, so we encourage you to compare the individual car and its paperwork.

01 / CHOICE

Discover something different

Explore models, seating layouts and versions that can be harder to find among UK-market cars. Family MPVs and distinctive specifications open up more possibilities.

02 / EQUIPMENT

Find the features you want

Selected examples offer appealing comfort and convenience features. Ask us about the exact equipment fitted, from seating and climate control to parking aids.

03 / VALUE

Compare more for your budget

Considering imports widens your search and may help you find a specification you prefer within your budget. Compare the full purchase price, condition and running costs.

04 / CONDITION

Look for a well-kept example

Japan can be a source of carefully maintained cars. Assess each vehicle on its inspection, history and present condition; age or country of origin alone cannot tell the full story.

05 / HISTORY

Understand the background

Where available, Japanese auction inspection sheets and export documents can help explain a car’s background. Ask what records support the stated mileage and condition.

06 / EVERYDAY USE

Choose a familiar driving position

Many cars supplied in Japan are right-hand drive, which can suit UK driving. Check the steering position and UK adaptations on the particular vehicle you are considering.

Japanese makes and European favourites

Japanese makes

Toyota, Honda, Nissan and other Japanese brands offer a broad range of vehicles. Japan-market models can be particularly interesting if you want flexible seating, family space or a version less commonly seen in the UK.

Tell us about your passengers, daily journeys and preferred features so we can help you choose.

European makes from Japan

You can also find BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volkswagen and other European marques previously supplied to Japan. These can offer another route to the model and specification you want.

“Imported from Japan” describes the source market; it does not mean a European car was manufactured in Japan. Equipment and UK compatibility need checking for each example.

Buy with a clear picture

What to check before you buy

The best import is the one that meets your needs. We welcome questions about the vehicle you are considering.

  • History and mileage: ask which service, export and auction records are available, and how kilometres and miles have been recorded.
  • Condition: review the inspection, including the underside, and any recorded repairs. Cars from Japan are not automatically rust-free.
  • UK registration: confirm registration status, any applicable approval requirements, MOT requirements and adaptations before road use.
  • Equipment: check the speedometer display, lights, radio frequencies, navigation and language settings. Some systems may need conversion or replacement.
  • Ownership costs: obtain an insurance quote declaring the import, and check servicing, parts availability, tax and any warranty terms.
  • ULEZ: check the specific vehicle using TfL’s checker. Import status, badge or age alone does not establish compliance.
An auction grade is useful background information, but it is not a guarantee of condition or a substitute for inspecting the car.

Go Green Motors

A local team to guide your choice

Visit us in Higham, Kent, to discuss what you need from your next car. We can help you explore available stock, discuss sourcing a particular vehicle and answer questions about owning an import.

Our workshop also offers a place to discuss servicing and ongoing care. Ask us about preparation, any included warranty and the terms that apply to the vehicle you choose.

Speak to our team

Your questions, answered

Are all Japanese imports Japanese brands?

No. The term describes where the car was imported from. European marques previously sold in Japan can also be Japanese imports.

Are imports always cheaper or lower mileage?

No. Some offer attractive value or lower recorded mileage, but this varies. Compare individual cars and ask for supporting records rather than relying on a general claim.

Can I use a Japanese import in the UK?

Yes, provided the vehicle meets the requirements that apply to it, including registration, insurance, roadworthiness and any necessary approval or adaptations. Requirements vary with the vehicle and its circumstances. See the GOV.UK import guide for official information.

Will it be ULEZ compliant?

This must be checked for the individual vehicle. Use TfL’s vehicle checker and ask about supporting emissions evidence if the result needs clarification.

Can you help me find a particular model?

Tell us your budget, preferred make, seating needs and essential features. Visit our vehicle sourcing page or contact the team to discuss options and availability.

Find the import that fits your life.

Explore our stock or speak to us about what you are looking for.