The 5 Best Used "Grey Import" Cars You Can Buy in Australia
If you have spent any time in a suburban car park lately, you have probably seen them. They look like spaceships from the future—boxy, high-tech, and incredibly practical. These are Japanese import cars Australia (also known as "grey imports"), and they are currently the best-kept secret in the used car market.
Why are people choosing to import Japanese cars Australia instead of buying local? It comes down to value. In Japan, cars are often traded in with very low kilometres because of strict "Shaken" inspections. This means you can get a luxury-spec van or a rugged 4x4 with 40,000km that feels brand new, for the price of a beaten-up local SUV.
Here are the top 5 Japanese import cars Australia has to offer in 2026.
Toyota Vellfire / Alphard (2015–2023)
The Toyota Vellfire (and its twin, the Alphard) is essentially a Lexus disguised as a van. In 2026, these are the "must-have" imports for families who find the Kia Carnival a bit too ordinary.
- The Appeal: Forget bench seats. These come with "Ottoman" captain’s chairs in the middle row that recline like business-class aeroplane seats.
- Reliability: They use the same 2.5L Hybrid or 3.5L V6 engines found in the Toyota Camry and Kluger, so getting them serviced at your local Toyota specialist is easy.
- Price Range: $35,000 – $65,000 depending on the year and luxury grade.
Honda Stepwgn (2015–2022)
The Honda Stepwgn is the ultimate "smart" car for city families. It is famous for its "Waku Waku" gate—a rear door that opens like a normal hatch and swings open like a fridge door for tight parking spots.
- The Appeal: The 1.5L Turbo or 2.0L Hybrid engines are incredibly fuel-efficient, which is vital with petrol prices currently around $2.50.
- Why it works: It’s narrow enough to fit into tiny Melbourne or Sydney car parks but can still seat seven people comfortably.
- Price Range: $22,000 – $38,000.
Mitsubishi Delica D:5 (2007–2024)
There is nothing else like the Mitsubishi Delica D:5. It is a 4WD Pajero chassis with a van body on top. If you want to take the kids camping on the beach or up to the snow, this is the tool for the job.
- The Appeal: True off-road capability with high ground clearance and a locking centre differential.
- The Engine: Most Australian imports use the 2.2L Turbo Diesel, which is a torque-heavy workhorse perfect for towing a small camper.
- Price Range: $18,000 (older models) – $55,000 (newer facelifts).
Toyota Noah / Voxy (2014–2022)
Think of the Toyota Noah (or the sportier-looking Voxy) as the "junior" version of the Vellfire. It is slightly smaller, much more affordable, and incredibly reliable.
- The Appeal: The Hybrid versions are the big winners here. They use the same tech as a Prius but in a boxy, practical shape that fits three rows of seats.
- Why it works: It’s the perfect Uber or large family car if you want to keep running costs to an absolute minimum.
- Price Range: $25,000 – $42,000.
Nissan Elgrand (2010–2022)
The Nissan Elgrand (E52) has long been the rival to the Toyota Alphard. While it doesn't hold its value quite as well as the Toyota, that makes it a bargain for second-hand buyers.
- The Appeal: A lower centre of gravity than other vans means it actually handles more like a sedan. It feels premium and looks aggressive.
- The Engine: Usually comes with a 2.5L four-cylinder or a powerful 3.5L V6 (the same engine used in the 350Z sports car).
- Price Range: $15,000 – $35,000.
Comparison: Japanese Import vs. Local Australian Car
| Feature | Japanese Grey Import | Local Used Car (e.g., Carnival) |
|---|---|---|
| Kilometres | Usually very low (30k–70k) | Usually high (120k–200k) |
| Luxury | High (Captain's chairs, dual sunroofs) | Standard (Cloth/Leather bench) |
| Tech | Advanced (Parking cameras, Hybrid) | Basic to Moderate |
| Insurance | Specialist required | Any insurer |
| Resale | Strong with enthusiasts | Standard market rate |
3 Critical Tips for Buying Japanese Imports in Australia
Verify the Auction Grade
Every car sold at a Japanese auction comes with a sheet. Grade 4.5 or 5 is "as new." Grade 3 or lower usually means it has had accidents or high wear. Ask the dealer to show you the original Japanese Auction Sheet. If they won't show it, walk away.
Check the Compliance Plate
To be legal on Australian roads, an import must go through a "RAW" (Registered Automotive Workshop) for compliance. Ensure there is a silver compliance plate attached to the car (usually in the engine bay or door sill). Without this, you cannot register the car.
Check for Rust
Japan uses salt on their roads in the snowy northern regions. Always get under the car with a torch to check for chassis rust. A car from southern Japan (like Kyushu) is usually a much safer bet than one from Hokkaido.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get parts for these cars in Australia?
Yes. Most imports share engines and brake parts with Australian-delivered models (like the Camry, Kluger, or Outlander). For body panels or glass, there are specialist importers in every major city that stock these parts.
Is insurance more expensive?
It can be. Mainstream insurers like NRMA or RACV might not cover them, but specialist insurers like Enthusiast, Shannon’s, or Lumley offer competitive rates for grey imports.
Why is the radio all in Japanese?
Most imports come with Japanese infotainment systems. Many dealers will "flash" the software to English or install a new Apple CarPlay/Android Auto head unit for you as part of the sale. Always ask if this is included.
Are they safe?
Yes. Japanese safety standards are world-class. Most of these models come with 360-degree cameras, lane-keep assist, and autonomous emergency braking, often surpassing the safety tech found on local cars of the same age.
Ready to Level Up Your Ride?
If you are tired of the same three SUVs everyone else is driving, Japanese import cars Australia offer a way to get luxury, reliability, and unique style for a fraction of the price of a new car.