Japan's reputation as makers of best Japanese cars; electric-proof, high-tech, and exciting automobiles is well-deserved. From mythical JDM legends to the latest fuel-efficient hybrids, Japanese imports bring unmatched reliability and innovation, a leading attraction for UK motorists in 2025. With increasing popularity for efficient but performance-driven vehicles, importing from Japan is the smartest move ever. But what are the top models? We’ve handpicked the 10 best Japanese cars to import in 2025, covering key specs, real-world strengths. Plus, we’ll break down which models suit UK drivers best.

1. Toyota GR Yaris

A rally-bred star among best JDM cars, the GR Yaris blends power with everyday usability. It has a 1.6L turbocharged three-cylinder engine providing 300+ HP, paired with a GR-Four AWD system. Lightweight and strong, it's ideal for Japanese import cars for sale UK roads, whether carving up tight B-roads or the occasional weekend track. The 2025 update washes away its aggressive appearance and tech, with it becoming an impending JDM classic. With demand high and supply low, importing one now equals exclusivity and driving thrills.

2. Honda Civic Type R (FL5)

This top Japanese car proves FWD can still thrill, perfect for best import cars for sale UK enthusiasts. The 2025 Honda Civic Type R (FL5) is the ultimate front-wheel-drive hot hatch. Actually, it's balanced with everyday usability. Its 2.0L turbocharged inline-four is good for 330 HP, with a silky 6-speed manual transmission. With razor-sharp handling, aggressive aerodynamics, and a track-tuned chassis, it's a drivable yet thrilling daily driver. Being one of the last high-performance manual hot hatches, it's an import must-have for UK enthusiasts before electrification takes over the scene.

3. Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R

The holy grail of Japanese car brands, the legendary Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R is now finally legal to bring into the UK in 2025 under the 25-year rule of importation, and it's a holy grail of JDM collectors. Powered by the iconic twin-turbo 2.6L RB26 engine (300-500+ HP) and best-in-class ATTESA E-TS AWD, the "Godzilla" dominates the roads and the circuit. With prices through the roof everywhere, buying an R34 today is a good investment, this is your last opportunity to have a mint car before they turn into museum pieces. Unadulterated 90s performance royalty.

4. Mazda MX-5 (ND2)

One of the best Japanese cars UK for sale under £30K, offering pure RWD joy. Mazda MX-5 ND3 (2025) is still the unadulterated essence of budget sports car fun, now keener than ever. The refreshed 2.0L Skyactiv-G engine (184 HP) offers keen response with a faultless 6-speed manual, and a hybrid variant is rumor-cued to make its debut. At a little over a tonne, and spot on 50:50 balance, it's the perfect UK weekend warrior - whether cutting country lanes or cruising coastline. With its classic roadster charm and bullet-proof reliability, the MX-5 remains the benchmark for driving fun on a shoestring.

5. Lexus LC 500 (2025)

A flagship of Japanese luxury car brands, mixing V8 power with hybrid tech. The Lexus LC 500 of 2025 embodies Japanese luxury in its most cinematic form. In fact, it's a combination of a coupe design with addictive V8 performance. The 5.0L normally aspirated V8 produces 471 HP via a snappy 10-speed automatic, providing a true sports GT driving experience all too little available in the electrified world today. For environmentally friendly consumers, an LC 500h hybrid model exists with 359 HP from its 3.5L V6 hybrid powerplant at no loss of performance. With its hand-stitched interior, latest technology, and Lexus' reputation for reliability, the LC 500 becomes Japan's most stunning grand tourer.

6. Subaru WRX STI (2025 Final Edition)

The 2025 Subaru WRX STI is the swan song of an era as Subaru retires its celebrated performance sedan. Its 2.4L turbocharged boxer engine (guessed to be 310+ HP) drives all four wheels via Subaru's legendary Symmetrical AWD and snappy 6-speed manual. Rally-bred suspension and aggressive styling make it still the ultimate all-weather performance car for UK roads. As this model disappears into the sunset, this last STI iteration is a last opportunity to drive a part of Subaru's motorsport legacy.

7. Toyota Supra (2025 Model Year Updates)

The 2025 Toyota Supra carries on Japan's ultimate sports coupe mantle, albeit with refined changes to its already proven recipe. The turbocharged inline-six 3.0L engine makes 382 HP, the output of which is sent through a rapid-shifting 8-speed automatic (with rumored manual transmission changes). BMW-derived foundations are paired with Toyota calibration for fearless handling, and the latest technology equipment brings it on a level with fresh rivals. With its aggressive design and budget-friendly capability, the Supra makes an alluring import choice for UK motorists looking for rear-wheel-drive excitement.

8. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X (2025 Import Special)

The 2025-legal Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X is the final genuine street-legal rally car from Japan's golden age of performance sedans. Its 2.0L MIVEC turbocharged engine (291-303 HP) is complemented by Mitsubishi's sophisticated S-AWC all-wheel-drive system, providing relentless grip on UK roads in any weather. The raw, mechanical sensation and rally-bred suspension configuration of the Evolution provide a real driving experience that most modern performance cars sanitize. With production having ceased in 2016 and clean examples in short supply, importing an Evo X in 2025 provides a unique chance to possess one of Japan's most iconic performance legends before prices rise further into collector realms.

9. Honda NSX (2025 Import Opportunity)

The 2025 model year represents the ideal chance to import Honda's innovative NSX hybrid supercar. Its advanced 3.5L twin-turbo V6 and three electric motors combine to produce a total of 573 HP via an ultra-responsive 9-speed dual-clutch transmission. The NSX's game-changing Sport Hybrid Super Handling AWD ensures aggressive UK road grip with the accuracy demanded of Honda's performance flagship. With production wrapping up in 2022, the NSX is the epitome of Japanese hybrid engineering - a future classic that combines innovative technology with analog driving pleasure.

10. Nissan 370Z (2025 Heritage Edition)

The 2025 Nissan 370Z Heritage Edition marks the end of an era for Nissan's much-loved sports car before its complete electrification. Its factory-standard 3.7L V6 (332 HP) delivers linear power through a satisfying 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic. Indeed, one of the last unquestionably analog driving experiences. Its compact wheelbase and rear-wheel drive handling render the 370Z ideal for UK B-roads. Its distinctive styling details and limited numbers make this special edition an essential purchase for enthusiasts who want an affordable Japanese sports car with future classic status.

Conclusion

From best JDM cars to new Japanese cars, 2025’s imports cater to all. For UK buyers, Japanese import cars for sale offer unrivaled value, whether you seek top Japanese cars for daily driving or appreciating classics. The GR Yaris from the rally, the legendary Nissan R34 GT-R, and other variants offer excellent performance and reliability. The Honda Civic Type R and Mazda MX-5 offer functional choices but are both enjoyable and suitable for daily use. However, the Lexus LC 500 and Honda NSX showcase Japan's luxury and hybrid technology. With the Subaru WRX STI and Mitsubishi Evo X retiring, 2025 is the last year to drive these weather heroes. While the Toyota Supra and Nissan 370Z preserve pure combustion for good. For UK purchasers, importing now guarantees future classics, brilliant engineering, and driving pleasure, before electrification remakes the market. Move quickly; these Japanese treasures won't remain affordable indefinitely.