Imported Cars In Japan
These lists are based on my observations of Japanese roads during my stay in early 2001. It is by no means scientific, and Japanese trends change quickly. It may seems obviou, but I never really stopped to think about the fact that what constitutes an imported car is different in a different country. Looking at the types of foreign cars the Japanese likes really helps us to better understand their overall automotive tastes.

Popular:
Peugeot 106/206/306 hot hatches
BMW-all models
Mercedes-all models
Austin Mini
VW Lupo and Golf hatches
FWD late-model Alfa (156 or somesuch?)


Occasional:
Renault-many different models
Citroen
Volvo
SAAB 900
Ford Focus/Mustang/Taurus-always wagon
Cadillac Northstar
Jeep Cherokee
Smart
Lancia-mostly Delta Integrale
Ferrari-all models
Fiat-usually Coupe 20Valve, less frequently Barchetta
Porsche-911/924/944/928
Audi-usually S3 or TT
Lotus-especially Seven, but any old/new/replica
Opel-hot hatchbacks and small wagons
MG/Rover-usually MGF, less frequently hot hatchback or small wagon


Rare:
Rolls Royce
Bentley
GMC S10 Blazer
Maserati-late model
Mitusbishi Eclipse-yes, an import-developed specifically for U.S. market (based on JDM Galant)
Jaguar-all models
Aston Martin
TVR-late model
Saturn
Chevy Camaro/Corvette


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