As specialists in Japanese car imports, Garage Full Throttle has witnessed a growing trend in 2025 with Australians seeking JDM vehicles. With their unique specifications, superior build quality, and often better features than Australian-delivered models, importing a car from Japan can be an excellent decision. Let’s explore some of the best Japanese imports and why they’re worth considering.
Performance Icons
The Nissan Skyline GT-R series tops many enthusiasts’ wishlists, particularly the R32, R33, R34, and R35 generations. At Garage Full Throttle, we’ve helped numerous customers import these legendary vehicles that offer incredible performance potential, robust build quality, and increasing collector value. The Toyota Supra, especially the JZA80 model with its famous 2JZ-GTE engine, represents another highly sought-after JDM import that often comes with better specifications in Japanese domestic market form.
The Nissan Silvia series (S13, S14, and S15) offers excellent modification potential and engaging driving dynamics for those seeking a more affordable entry into the performance car world. The Mitsubishi Evolution series, particularly Evolution IV through IX (including the sought-after 7, 8, and 8MR variants), provides rally-bred performance and has become increasingly desirable.
Practical Family Options
When it comes to importing cars from Japan, it’s not all about performance vehicles. The Toyota Estima often has higher specifications than its Australian-delivered Tarago counterpart, featuring better interior materials and more advanced technology. The Nissan Elgrand and Toyota Alphard represent the premium end of the people mover market, offering luxury features and firm performance.
Economic Benefits
At Garage Full Throttle, we’ve noticed that importing from Japan often provides access to vehicles with lower mileage and better maintenance history than local equivalents. Japanese owners are known for their meticulous maintenance practices, and the country’s strict vehicle inspection system (called “Shaken”) ensures that cars are well-maintained.
Top 11 Enthusiast JDM Imports:
Nissan Skyline GT-R (R32/R33/R34/R35)
($45,000 – $350,000)
- Legendary performance
- Robust RB26DETT engine
- Strong modification potential
- Growing collector value
Toyota Supra JZA80 (MK 4)
($70,000 – $200,000)
- Iconic 2JZ-GTE engine
- Superior build quality
- Excellent tuning platform
- Better specifications than Australian models
Honda NSX (NA1/NA2)
($120,000 – $250,000)
- Mid-engine supercar
- Advanced aluminium construction
- Precision handling
- Developed with input from Ayrton Senna
Mitsubishi Evolution (VI-VIII, VIIIMR)
($25,000 – $120,000)
- Rally-bred performance
- Advanced all-wheel drive system
- Excellent handling characteristics
- Strong aftermarket support
Mazda RX-7 FD
($45,000 – $120,000)
- Unique rotary engine
- Lightweight design
- Exceptional handling balance
- Distinctive styling
Nissan Silvia (S13/S14/S15)
($15,000 – $75,000)
- Popular drift platform
- Strong SR20DET engine
- Great modification potential
- Affordable entry point
Subaru WRX STI (2006-07, 2010-12)
($25,000 – $60,000)
- Rally heritage
- Boxer engine character
- All-weather capability
- Better JDM specifications
Honda Integra Type R (DC2/DC5)
($25,000 – $85,000)
- High-revving VTEC engine
- Precision handling
- Lightweight design
- Racing pedigree
Nissan 180SX
($15,000 – $45,000)
- Popular drift platform
- SR20DET engine
- Retractable headlights
- Strong modification potential
Toyota Crown
($15,000 – $45,000)
- Executive sport sedan styling
- Available with powerful 2.5L-3.0L engines
- Advanced driver assistance systems
- Premium JDM luxury features
Honda S2000
($35,000 – $85,000)
- High-revving F20C/F22C engine
- Perfect 50:50 weight distribution
- Digital instrument cluster
- Legendary handling characteristics
Top 10 Economy/Family JDM Imports:
Toyota Estima
($12,000 – $35,000)
- Higher spec than Australian Tarago
- Excellent build quality
- Advanced features
- Reliable family transport
Toyota Axio
($8,000 – $25,000)
- 1.3L-1.5L efficient engines
- Compact sedan practicality
- Advanced safety features
- Excellent fuel economy
Nissan Elgrand
($15,000 – $45,000)
- Premium people mover
- Luxury Features
- Strong VQ35 engine
- Advanced technology
Toyota Alphard
($20,000 – $65,000)
- Executive-level comfort
- Premium Materials
- Advanced features
- Excellent build quality
Toyota Noah/Voxy
($12,000 – $35,000)
- Practical design
- Fuel efficient
- Reliable mechanics
- Affordable family transport
Honda Odyssey
($10,000 – $30,000)
- Compact MPV
- Sporty handling
- Fuel efficient
- Practical design
Nissan Cube
($8,000 – $20,000)
- Unique styling
- Practical space
- Good fuel economy
- Easy to park
Toyota Corolla Fielder
($8,000 – $25,000)
- Compact size
- Reliable mechanics
- Fuel efficient
- Practical interior
Toyota HiAce
($15,000 – $45,000)
- Versatile commercial/passenger vehicle
- Multiple configuration options
- Legendary reliability
- Strong resale value
Nissan Note
($8,000 – $22,000)
- Efficient e-POWER hybrid system
- Smart interior packaging
- Advanced safety features
- Excellent urban mobility
Market Trends and Future Outlook
Even in 2025 the JDM import market continues to evolve, with certain vehicles showing remarkable appreciation in value. Performance icons like the R34 GT-R and JZA80 Supra have seen significant price increases over the past few years, making them attractive investment opportunities. Meanwhile, practical JDM imports offer exceptional value for families seeking reliable, well-equipped vehicles with unique features unavailable in Australian-delivered models.
At Garage Full Throttle, we understand that importing a vehicle from Japan is more than just a transaction – it’s an investment in quality, performance, and uniqueness. Our team specializes in sourcing and importing these vehicles, handling everything from initial selection to compliance and registration. We maintain strong relationships with Japanese auction houses and dealers, ensuring our clients get access to the best vehicles available.
Contact us today to discuss your aspirations for Japanese imports. From classic performance cars to modern family vehicles, we’ll help you find and import the perfect JDM vehicle that matches your needs and budget in 2025.