Japanese 4WD microvans are compact, fuel-efficient, and highly versatile. These small but mighty vehicles are becoming popular in the U.S., especially among off-roaders, campers, and collectors. Thanks to the 25-year import rule, enthusiasts can now legally bring in classic microvans from Japan. Here, we’ll cover the rules for importing these JDM vehicles and highlight seven popular models.

Understanding the 25-year import rule

The U.S. allows vehicles at least 25 years old to be imported without needing modifications to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). This rule applies to vehicles originally built for the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM). If a microvan was manufactured in or before 1999 (as of 2024), it can be imported legally.

By the way, for emissions, some states have additional regulations, so it’s essential to check local laws before purchasing a JDM microvan.

Subaru Sambar

The Subaru Sambar, introduced in the 1960s, is a kei-class microvan known for its reliability and off-road capability.

Specifications and Features:

• Size: Approx. 3,395 mm (L) x 1,475 mm (W) x 1,815 mm (H)
• Engine: 544cc to 660cc, 4-cylinder
• Transmission: 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
• Occupant Capacity: 2 to 4 passengers
• Drive Orientation: Right-hand drive

The Sambar features an optional supercharged engine and full-time 4WD, making it one of the most capable microvans for rugged terrain.

Suzuki Carry/Every

The Suzuki Carry (truck) and Every (van) are Japanese-born workhorses used for delivery, farming, and personal transport.

Specifications and Features:

• Size: Approx. 3,295 mm (L) x 1,395 mm (W) x 1,715 mm (H)
• Engine: 657cc, 3-cylinder
• Transmission: 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
• Occupant Capacity: 2 to 4 passengers
• Drive Orientation: Right-hand drive

With its compact size and lightweight design, the Carry/Every is perfect for navigating tight spaces while offering impressive payload capacity.

Daihatsu Hijet

A direct competitor to the Suzuki Carry, the Daihatsu Hijet has been a staple in Japan’s kei truck and van market for decades.

Specifications and Features:

• Size: Approx. 3,395 mm (L) x 1,475 mm (W) x 1,800 mm (H)
• Engine: 547cc to 659cc, 3-cylinder
• Transmission: 4 or 5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic
• Occupant Capacity: 2 to 4 passengers
• Drive Orientation: Right-hand drive

The Hijet is known for its durability and excellent fuel economy, making it a favorite for businesses and hobbyists alike.

Mazda Scrum

The Mazda Scrum is essentially a rebadged Suzuki Every, offering the same performance and reliability under the Mazda brand.

Specifications and Features:

• Size: Approx. 3,295 mm (L) x 1,395 mm (W) x 1,715 mm (H)
• Engine: 657cc, 3-cylinder
• Transmission: 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
• Occupant Capacity: 2 to 4 passengers
• Drive Orientation: Right-hand drive

While nearly identical to the Every, the Scrum sometimes comes with Mazda-specific trim options and minor design changes.

Nissan NT100/NV100 Clipper

The Nissan Clipper series was originally a Mitsubishi Minicab clone but later became a distinct lineup of small Japanese commercial vehicles.

Specifications and Features:

• Size: Approx. 3,395 mm (L) x 1,475 mm (W) x 1,800 mm (H)
• Engine: 657cc, 3-cylinder
• Transmission: 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
• Occupant Capacity: 2 to 4 passengers
• Drive Orientation: Right-hand drive

The NV100 Clipper features a boxy design that maximizes interior space, making it a great choice for transporting cargo or passengers.

Honda Acty

Honda’s Acty microvan is known for its unique mid-engine layout, which provides better weight distribution and handling.

Specifications and Features:

• Size: Approx. 3,295 mm (L) x 1,395 mm (W) x 1,715 mm (H)
• Engine: 545cc to 656cc, 2 or 3-cylinder
• Transmission: 4 or 5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic
• Occupant Capacity: 2 to 4 passengers
• Drive Orientation: Right-hand drive

The Acty is a favorite among microvan enthusiasts due to its reliability, ease of maintenance, and compact footprint.

Mitsubishi Minicab

The Mitsubishi Minicab is one of the longest-running microvan models, with production starting in the 1960s.

Specifications and Features:

• Size: Approx. 3,395 mm (L) x 1,475 mm (W) x 1,800 mm (H)
• Engine: 657cc, 3-cylinder
• Transmission: 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
• Occupant Capacity: 2 to 4 passengers
• Drive Orientation: Right-hand drive

The Minicab has been widely used in Japan for deliveries and small businesses, and its 4WD variants make it an excellent choice for off-road enthusiasts.

With the 25-year import rule, a variety of Japanese 4WD microvans are now legal in the U.S. Each model offers unique strengths, from the supercharged Subaru Sambar to the mid-engine Honda Acty. Whether you’re looking for a practical work vehicle, an off-road adventure van, or a nostalgic JDM collectible, these microvans are worth considering. Before importing, always verify your state’s registration and emissions requirements. Many import dealers specialize in kei vehicles and can help with the process.