Importing a Japanese car into the UK Blog

written by:

http://www.donsautopages.co.nz/japaneseimports.htm#importers

Ok, so you know you want the Daihatsu Micro-MPV...

I know I do, and I want one really bad I can hardly wait.

If I could snap my fingers and have it appear within minutes, that would be great. But it won't. This is because you can't buy one in the UK. What has Daihatsu been thinking - here is this perfect van, just introduced into the UK about a week ago, and they offer ZERO options and ZERO chance of buying an MPV. Talk about excluding someone like me. Someone who wants to load it up with large garden plants and supplies, DIY items, new furniture - everything to fix up my new house, AND be useful for visiting familiy and in case I should have a bunch of kiddies one day. Oh, and it has to fit inside my garage.

But enough about that dream.. I've been doing extensive research (I can read Japanese) and what I can tell you is this. It is scary out there. There are hundreds and hundreds of Japanese car importers out there I can't believe it. The question is - who can I trust? I've heard that there are scam artists out there who buy cars that have been in an accident and sell them as in good condition. Also scamers who disappear after you've wired Japanese Yen to them. I don't like scammers and I don't like to think of myself as someone who will be the scamee. Therefore, my first few efforts were to gather enough information so I knew what was going on.


What's Going On??

It all goes back to the Auto Auction. How many importers tell you that? In Japan, used car auto auctions are held each week in varying locations across Japan. The car condition is listed in Japanese for each buyer and the auction is conducted through the use of under-counter bid buttons and large LCD screens which display the cars. ¶


Did you know that in Japan, thenew 2004 EXTOL is also sold as a micro-MPV known as the ATRIA?

The Micro-MPV is sporty, tiny and has the hidaway seat advantages of the Honda Odessey and Ford Freestar. For a fraction of the price.

This Blog exists to show you what is involved in importing your Daihatsu Extol MPV through us or on your own. Models 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 will be discussed. (you can't get a 2005 yet!). Why do I want to import a Daihatsu MPV?

ADVANTAGES:

* No Commercial Vat
* Extras like 4 wheel drive, automatic transmission, windows, folding hidaway seats
* Extra storage
* Cupholders!
* Small - will fit in almost any parking space
* 34+ miles per gallon
* Looks stylish in colors other than white
* Can fit the family, or fit lots of furniture, and stuff from Costco runs
* Easier to drive
* Different body treatment options
* Cheaper than a van conversion
* Has the same amount of useful space as regular sized MPV's
* Great price
* You'll stand out from the crowd - where did you get that?!! ¶

Did you know that Daihatsu makes a micro-MPV in Japan?

The Micro-MPV is sporty, tiny and has the hidaway seat advantages of the Honda Odessey and Ford Freestar. For a fraction of the price. This Blog exists to show you what is involved in importing your Daihatsu Extol through us or on your own. Why do I want to import a Daihatsu MPV?

ADVANTAGES:
* No Commercial Vat
* Extras like 4 wheel drive, automatic transmission, windows, folding hidaway seats
* Extra storage
* Cupholders! * Small - will fit in almost any parking space
* 34+ miles per gallon
* Looks stylish in colors other than white
* Can fit the family, or fit lots of furniture, and stuff from Costco runs
* Easier to drive
* Different body treatment options
* Cheaper than a van conversion
* Has the same amount of useful space as regular sized MPV's
* Great price
* You'll stand out from the crowd - where did you get that?!!