 Cool Japanese Cars Turning 25 and Becoming US-Legal in 2025 & 2026

Thanks to the 25 Year Import Rule, iconic Japanese cars built in 2000 and 2001 are now eligible to legally import into the United States — no show or display exemptions, no DOT or EPA hassle. If you're a JDM fan looking for your next import, these are some of the coolest rides hitting 25 years old and becoming legal in 2025 and 2026.

 Cars Turning 25 in 2025 (Built in 2000)

• Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 V-Spec
  Legendary RB26DETT, ATTESA AWD, and aggressive aero — one of the most coveted GT-Rs ever built.
• Honda S2000 (AP1)
  9,000 RPM redline, 240hp, rear-wheel drive — a high-revving, pure driver’s car.
• Subaru Impreza WRX STi (GC8 Type RA)
  Lightweight, rally-bred, adjustable center diff, and raw mechanical simplicity.
• Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Makinen Edition
  The final Evo VI and most desirable — faster turbo spool, sharper suspension, and unique aero parts.
• Toyota Crown Athlete V (JZS171)
  Sleeper sedan with a 1JZ-GTE twin-turbo inline-6, rear-wheel drive, and loads of luxury.
• Mazda RX-7 Type RS / RZ (FD3S)
  Late-production FD RX-7s with factory performance upgrades and refined styling.

 Cars Turning 25 in 2026 (Built in 2001)

• Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 M-Spec
  Adds luxury touches like leather, heated seats, and improved ride quality to the iconic GT-R package.
• Honda Integra Type R (DC2 Final Edition)
  The very last and most refined DC2 Type R, built for pure driving enjoyment.
• Toyota Aristo V300 Vertex Edition
  Japan’s twin-turbo 2JZ-GTE version of the Lexus GS — big power, big potential.
• Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII
  Newer chassis, improved AWD system, and a stronger 4G63 engine.
• Subaru Legacy B4 RSK (BE5)
  Twin-turbo EJ20, AWD, and classic Japanese sedan styling — a rare find in the US.
• Suzuki Cappuccino (late models)
  A tiny, turbocharged kei roadster that’s a blast to drive and super collectible.

✅ Why These Cars Matter

As these cars hit the 25-year mark, you can legally import them into the US without federal DOT or EPA modifications. It’s a golden opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to own something truly unique — cars that were never officially sold in the States and are now rare, valuable, and highly desirable.

 How to Import One

If you're ready to make one of these your own, Toprank Importers can help you find, inspect, and legally import your dream JDM car. With years of experience and a trusted reputation, we handle:

• Sourcing and purchasing in Japan
• Shipping and customs clearance
• 25-Year Rule paperwork
• State titling and DMV registration
• CARB emissions certification (for California buyers)

 View our current inventory of legal JDM imports here

 Bonus: Imagine pulling up to your next cars & coffee in one of these. It’s your chance to own a piece of Japanese automotive history!