Imports We're Still Dreaming About
Plenty of jaw-dropping cars exist that Americans never got the chance to buy off the lot. These machines captured hearts in Europe, Japan, and beyond, leaving U.S. gearheads watching enviously from afar. They gained cult status abroad, while fans here could only admire them in photos or by way of pricey imports. If you're wondering which car models you're deprived of here in the States, we've compiled the best of them. Let's dive in!
Shadman Samee from Dhaka, Bangladesh on Wikimedia
1. Toyota Century V12
You won't find this ultra-luxe V12 sedan at your local dealership. Since 1967, the Toyota Century has chauffeured Japan's elite in hushed elegance with handmade wool interiors and next-level noise cancelation. It's strictly right-hand drive, too.
2. Suzuki Jimny Sierra
This tiny off-roader has built a massive global fanbase, but Suzuki's 2012 U.S. exit left Americans without a chance to enjoy it. The Jimny Sierra's rugged ladder frame, real 4WD, and go-anywhere spirit keep it legendary among those who love no-frills adventure.
3. Peugeot 508 PSE
Peugeot packed the 508 PSE with 360 horsepower and all-wheel drive, yet it never crossed the Atlantic. Its hybrid system and active suspension add serious performance, while its clean design and sharp handling turn heads across Europe.
4. Mercedes-Benz G 500 4x4²
This isn't your typical luxury SUV. The G 500 4x4² features portal axles and 19.5 inches of ground clearance, which makes it excel off-road. U.S. regulations kept it out of reach, and even in Europe, it remained a rare machine.
5. Citroen C6 (2005–2012)
France's presidential choice came with hydropneumatic suspension, a 3.0-liter V6, and a concave rear window that turned heads. Though Americans do not see it in showrooms, the C6 defined French comfort due to its soft ride and distinct executive-class personality.
6. Renault Alpine A110
Renault's Alpine A110 keeps things light and focused using a turbo-four engine and a chassis built for curves. Despite its rally heritage and track-ready setup, this agile sports car never got an American release, keeping its appeal tied to Europe.
Renault_Alpine_A_110_(Sp).JPG: Lothar Spurzem
derivative work: Regi51 on Wikimedia
7. Nissan Skyline GT-R R34
The R34 Skyline GT-R became a legend through racing and street culture, but Americans never saw it sold new. Its twin-turbo RB26DETT engine and iconic silhouette turned it into a dream car for enthusiasts who had to admire it from afar.
8. BMW M3 E46 CSL
BMW built the E46 CSL for European purists, leaving American fans out. Besides being 240 pounds lighter than the regular M3, it comes with a carbon roof, racing seats, and sharper suspension. Limited production and track focus made it a collector's dream.
Alberto Pérez Franco on Wikimedia
9. Toyota Supra JZA80 (Mk4)
The Mk4 Supra did not hit U.S. dealerships when new, despite defining '90s tuner culture. Its 2JZ inline-six is legendary for power potential. Now eligible under the 25-year rule, it still faces emissions-related bans in some states unless modified for compliance.
Shadman Samee from Dhaka, Bangladesh on Wikimedia
10. Citroen DS5
Sold globally between 2011 and 2018, the Citroen DS5 brought hybrid tech and quirky styling to the luxury hatch space. The car ditched the brand's signature hydropneumatic suspension in favor of a conventional setup. Despite its innovation, it never reached American showrooms.
11. Suzuki Swift Sport Hybrid
This zippy hybrid hatch blends fuel efficiency and playful handling but isn't available to U.S. buyers. Its mild-hybrid system and lightweight design make it a favorite across Europe and Asia. Suzuki's return to hybrid tech, however, did not extend beyond its former markets.
Suzuki Swift Sport Hybrid POV Drive by Wheels Unveiled
12. Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series
While it's admired worldwide, America currently sees none of this iconic SUV. Toyota skipped the U.S. on the latest Land Cruiser despite its reputation for toughness and luxury. The 300 Series brings crawl control and multi-terrain tech to the table.
13. Skoda Octavia RS
This turbocharged hatch balances performance with practicality and tops out at around 265 horsepower. It's built under the Volkswagen umbrella, yet Skoda never brought it stateside. In Europe, drivers love it for being fast without losing its daily driving appeal.
14. Mazda RX-7 FD Spirit R
Mazda saved its finest RX-7 for Japan in the Spirit R—a 1,500-unit farewell featuring forged wheels, Recaro seats, and tuned suspension. Americans cannot get this edition when new, making it one of the most sought-after JDM cars today.
Tokumeigakarinoaoshima on Wikimedia
15. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X Final Edition
Though U.S. fans got the standard version, this special trim, having unique badging and sharper tuning, which made it a proper tribute to a rally hero, stayed exclusive. Japan built just 1,000 Final Editions, tweaking the suspension and styling for one last Evo send-off.
16. Toyota MR2 W30 MR-S
The final-gen MR2 stayed exclusive to Japan and featured a 1.8-liter 2ZZ-GE, six-speed manual, and crisp mid-engine handling. It balanced lightweight fun and real driving feedback. Although sold elsewhere, it quietly exited in 2007 without a U.S. version to follow.
17. Ford Fiesta ST200
Although it appealed to driving enthusiasts, Ford only offered this high-strung hatchback outside of America. The ST200 delivered 197 horsepower on shorter gear ratios and quicker throttle response in a compact frame. Europe received exclusive paint options and interior trims.
Ford Fiesta ST200 First Impressions - Inside Lane by Inside Lane
18. Lexus IS F (2007–2014 Japan-Spec)
The IS F introduced Lexus to the sport sedan game with a 5.0L V8 and 416 hp. Japan-only versions offered rare styling details and cabin touches not seen in U.S. models, which added distinction to an already bold first performance effort.
MotorShow_2007_Lexus_IS_F.jpg: Francesco Gasparetti
derivative work: Altair78 (talk) on Wikimedia
19. Alfa Romeo 4C Spider Italia
Only 108 Italia editions were made, each finished in Misano Blue and had unique badging. Alfa's mid-engine layout and carbon chassis gave it razor-sharp driving traits. This special version stayed in Europe, which enhanced its exclusivity even among 4C enthusiasts.
2020 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider Italia will be an uncommon sight | Chicago 2019 by CNET Cars
20. Volkswagen Scirocco R
Europe enjoyed the Scirocco R's sleek looks and 276-horsepower turbo engine, based on the Golf but reimagined using a lower stance and sharper styling. The U.S. never got this blend of power and practicality, which only made it more desirable overseas.
