Ever feel like the Imported Vehicle Safety Compliance Act of 1988 was standing in the way of your dream exotic ride? Now that 2025 is here, a new wave of legendary vehicles is finally free from the 25-year import restriction. It’s time to welcome these classics into your driveway—just make sure they meet the necessary EPA and FMVSS regulations before you rev the engine.

2000 Nissan Silvia S15 Spec-R

The Nissan Silvia S15 Spec-R stands out as a drifting legend, with sharp looks with sharp looks that still impress. Beneath the hood, the turbocharged SR20DET engine churns out 250 horsepower, delivering an exhilarating ride. FMVSS regulations might be a pain, although you can take care of it by using the “kit car” loophole. Be sure to do it correctly to avoid trouble with the law.

2000 Honda Civic Type R (EK9)

This hatchback redefined what a compact performance car could do. Powered by a screaming B16B engine that redlines at a stratospheric 8,400 RPM, it’s a lightweight track-ready machine straight out of Honda’s golden era. Thankfully, the wild popularity of this car has ensured pre-existing pathways to compliance with EPA and FMVSS standards.

2000 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition

Named in honor of rally legend Tommi Mäkinen, the Evo VI delivers blistering speed and motorsport heritage in one thrilling package. Its turbocharged 4G63 engine, paired with all-wheel drive and specialized tuning, transforms it into a rally beast ready for the road. With its 25-year import ban lifted, it’s time to ensure FMVSS compatibility and claim this prized machine for your garage.

2000 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Version 6

The WRX STI Version 6 is where Subaru’s rally roots shine brightest, thanks to a turbocharged flat-four engine and Symmetrical AWD. These make it a force on both dirt and pavement, on top of which the iconic blue paint and gold wheels make it ‘the’ rally hero that all of us dreamed of being. Another plus is its rally heritage, which would make it easier to find compliant parts to pass other regulations.

2000 Toyota Altezza RS200

Known elsewhere as the Lexus IS200, the Toyota Altezza RS200 is a sport sedan with surprising agility. Its naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-four punches way above its weight class to offer exceptional grunt, complimented by the inherently sharp-handling chassis. This sleeper car’s clean lines and understated performance make it a hidden gem for import fans.

2000 BMW M3 (E46)

It’s hard not to hear the Need For Speed: Most Wanted soundtrack when gazing at such an iconic machine. With a high-revving 3.2-liter straight-six producing 333 eager horses, it’s a masterpiece of Bavarian engineering. Now, with the 25-year rule in your favor, beauty can conquer American roads, and cars can meet with equal prowess.

2000 Audi RS4 Avant (B5)

Why settle for a regular wagon when you can have the Audi RS4 Avant? With a twin-turbocharged V6 and Quattro all-wheel drive, it’s both practical and fast in the tradition of the vaunted ‘Hammerwagen’ from Mercedes. In this list, the B5 RS4’s muscular stance and blistering performance make it the coolest way to haul groceries in 2025.

2000 Renault Clio V6

Hatchbacks might scream practicality, but the Renault Clio V6 defies every convention. Replacing the rear seats with a mid-mounted engine, this blend of compact design and raw power is slightly challenging to make compliant with other regulations. Nonetheless, it is possible, and this unapologetically wild French masterpiece is now ready to make its mark stateside.

2000 Ford Falcon XR8 (AU)

Australia’s muscle car culture has long been an underrated gem, but that’s about to change. A burly V8 engine and rear-wheel drive can turn this powerhouse into a burnout king if you modify it like a similar imported muscle car. As an evolution of Max’s ride from “Mad Max,” it brings enough Aussie grit to dominate any road—or wasteland.

2000 Mazda RX-7 Type RB

The RX-7’s already iconic silhouette got an upgrade in the Type RB to blend beauty and performance. Its lightweight chassis and twin-turbo 13B-REW engine deliver an unforgettable driving experience, which is why this final-generation RX-7 is revered for its perfect balance. In 2025, it’s ready to bring its wankel wizardry to the U.S.