Answer First:Yes — 2026 is a great time to buy a JDM import, but who, when, and what you buy should be strategic. Prices for iconic classics and tech-rich hybrids have firmed up due to strong global demand, supply chain shifts, and regulatory changes. That means smart buyers can still find value, especially in emerging […]
What the 2026 JDM Market Forecast Says About Prices — Is Now a Good Time to Buy? Read More »
Answer First:Yes—Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) imports are generally worth the extra cost, especially for Australian drivers who value safety, long-distance comfort, and resale value. However, not every buyer needs every feature. The real value depends on how you drive, where you drive, and how well the system is inspected
Smart Car Tech in JDM Imports: Are ADAS & Safety Features Worth the Extra Spend Read More »
Answer First:Kei cars and Japanese mini vans are quickly becoming some of the most affordable, fuel-efficient, and city-friendly imports available to Australian drivers. With rising fuel prices, tight parking, and growing demand for practical daily drivers, Kei imports offer a solution that’s budget-friendly, surprisingly spacious, and incredibly reliable. If you’re looking for a low-cost urban
Importing Kei Cars & Mini Vans: Budget Options for City Drivers in Australia Read More »
Answer First:To find a genuine Japanese maintenance history for your imported car, you need to verify three things: Authentic service records from Japan, Digital history checks tied to the chassis number, and Cross-verified mileage data from Japan’s inspection system (Shaken and auction records).If any of these pieces are missing or inconsistent, you may be dealing
How to Find Genuine Japanese Maintenance History for Your Imported Car Read More »
Answer First:If you’re importing a Japanese car into Australia, understanding emission compliance is essential. Australia’s post-2025 rules have become stricter, and failing to meet emission standards can mean delays, unexpected costs, or even rejection of your vehicle during compliance inspection. The good news? Most JDM vehicles already meet or exceed Australian emission requirements—if you choose
What You Should Know About Emission Compliance for Imported Japanese Cars Read More »
Answer First:JDM hybrids are rapidly becoming one of the smartest purchases Australian drivers can make—thanks to unbeatable fuel efficiency, proven Toyota/Honda reliability, lower emissions, advanced safety tech, and a surge in affordable auction-grade options post-2025. If you’re looking for a vehicle that saves fuel, reduces running costs, keeps maintenance simple, and remains dependable for 10+
Why Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) Hybrids Are Becoming a Smart Buy in Australiav Read More »
Answer First: Left-hand-drive (LHD) to right-hand-drive (RHD) conversions look simple from the outside, but in Australia they often cost far more than buyers expect. Beyond the conversion itself, you must factor in engineering certification, electrical rewiring, dashboard fabrication, compliance inspections, safety system recalibration, and long wait times. These hidden costs can push a “cheap import”
“The Hidden Cost of Left-Hand Drive Conversions for Imported JDM Cars in Australia” Read More »
Answer First:Insuring an imported Japanese car in Australia is completely possible—but you’ll pay the right price and avoid coverage gaps only if you choose a specialist insurer, provide accurate import documentation, verify compliance, and understand how mods, auction grade, and parts availability affect your premium. In 2025, JDM imports remain extremely popular across Australia, but
Insuring Imported Japanese Cars: What Australian Drivers Need to Know Read More »
Yes — high-mileage JDM imports can be worth buying in 2025, but only if they come with verified maintenance history, clean digital inspection data, and proper pre-purchase testing. Mileage alone is no longer the most reliable indicator of a vehicle’s health, especially in Japan where cars are often maintained better than in many other countries.
High Mileage Imports: Are They Still Worth Buying? Tokyo Drive’s Guide Read More »
Answer First — Why Choosing the Right Conversion Matters If you’re importing a JDM car or any left-hand-drive (LHD) vehicle into Australia, a proper conversion to right-hand-drive (RHD) is crucial for safety, legal compliance, and resale value. A poorly executed conversion can lead to: Failed registration or compliance checks Unsafe driving conditions Expensive post-conversion fixes
How to Choose the Right Left-Hand-Drive to Right-Hand-Drive Conversion for Australia Read More »
