10 Exceptional Cars That Never Made It To The USA

In addition to having a rich automotive history, the United States is one of the world’s largest automotive markets. Being a hotbed of automotive enthusiasm, it has an abundance of domestic and imported vehicles plying its roads. In terms of production, the US auto industry is also one of the largest. But with manufacturers outsourcing their production, no cars are made 100% in America. The American car market, vast and diverse as it is, is not without its share of exclusions. European car companies like Skoda, Peugeot, and Dacia have no presence in the US.

Apart from cars from the brands above, numerous exceptional Japanese cars have never officially reached the shores of the USA. There are different reasons for their absence in the USA. Factors like regulatory hurdles, market considerations, and lack of official presence have all played a role in keeping some cars out of the US. In this article, we will explore ten such cars. Despite their innovative features, performance, and unique designs, these cars remain out of reach for American buyers. We have not included concept cars, which never make it to production due to practicality, safety compliance, and cost concerns. Allow us to take you across the ocean for ten exceptional cars that never made it to the USA.

10 Toyota GR Yaris

The GR Yaris is an exceptional 3-door rally-inspired hot hatch with a body, chassis, and drivetrain different from the regular Yaris. An intoxicating turbocharged 3-cylinder engine combines with a sophisticated AWD system to deliver endless thrills.

Performance Specs

It has a front-wheel drive version, the GR Yaris RS, only for JDM buyers. However, due to various factors, neither version is available in US dealerships.

Why It’s Unavailable In The US

• Low Sales Volume Of The Regular Yaris
• Low Production Volume Of The GR Yaris

9 Subaru WRX STI S207

In 2015, Subaru created a JDM version of the WRX STI with an exclusive body kit and several performance enhancements. But limited to only 400 units, it is one of the rare cars JDM enthusiasts drool over.

Performance Specs

The S207 delivers an exhilarating driving experience with its agile handling, responsive steering, and potent acceleration. Sadly, these feisty Subaru never crossed the ocean to the US. However, by 2040, Americans can import JDM cars like the WRX STI S207 into the States.

Why It’s Unavailable In The US

• It Did Not Meet The Emission Standards Of The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

8 Renault Megane RS Trophy-R

Renault placed the Megane RS Trophy on a strict weight loss diet to create the ultimate expression of the company’s racing heritage. The result is a hot hatch with an incredible power-to-weight ratio and quick acceleration times.

Performance Specs

The Trophy-R is an outstanding track toy with 295 hp on tap, a tweaked suspension, and a limited-slip differential. But despite its stellar qualities, the truth remains that hatchbacks don’t thrive in the US market. Furthermore, Renault lacks the all-important brand recognition and distribution channels in the US.

Why It’s Unavailable In The US

• Low Demand For Hatchbacks In The US
• High Cost Of Importing
• Homologating The Trophy-R

RELATED: This Is Why We Wish The Renault Megane RS Was Sold In The States

7 Peugeot 508 PSE

Riding on a dual-motor hybrid powertrain, the Peugeot 508 PSE is available as a sedan or a wagon. In either form, there is no shortage of power, as the large car can hit 62 mph in 5.2 clicks. It also provides a nice balance between ride comfort and handling.

Performance Specs

However, Peugeot had withdrawn from the US market following decades of poor sales. Moreover, sedans and wagons are not big in the US. Hence, Peugeot’s most potent and efficient family car remains out of reach for US buyers.

Why It’s Unavailable In The US

• Low Demand For Sedans
• High Cost Of Homologation
• Lack Of Brand Recognition

6 Alpine A110

When it arrived in 2017, the Alpine A110 sorted the retro design of the classic car of the same name. But unlike the vintage car, the new A110 came in an all-aluminum bodysuit.

Performance Specs

Its most powerful form (the A110 S) offers blistering performance, just like the first iteration. Besides a remarkable power-to-weight ratio, the A110 S features modifications that make it more responsive and precise on the blacktop. Although there is no current plan to bring the A110S to the US, hope springs eternal.

Why It’s Unavailable In The US

• Lack Of Dealer Network
• High Cost Of Homologation
• Low Demand For Niche Sports Cars

RELATED: Why America Desperately Needs The Alpine A110 R

5 Suzuki Jimny

Since its arrival in the 1970s, the pint-size Jimny has thrilled off-road enthusiasts with excellent performance in various terrains and conditions. Just like the classic models, the current Jimny lineup goes where larger offroaders fear to tread.

Performance Specs

It has a part-time 4-wheel drive system with low-range gearing, allowing it to easily tackle steep slopes, rocky trails, and slippery surfaces. While the Jimny remains a popular and affordable offroader in more than 100 countries, it is unavailable in the US.

Why It’s Unavailable In The US

• Lack Of Dealership Network Since Suzuki Left The American Market

4 Dacia Duster

Depending on the market, the Dacia Duster boasts an array of engines and special edition models. The most potent version of the Dacia Duster packs a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine that cranks out 148 hp.

Performance Specs

Inside, the compact SUV offers modern features like a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, in America’s oversaturated SUV market, the Duster would have a hard time competing with established brands and models. It would need more than a competitive price to earn brand recognition.

Why It’s Unavailable In The US

• Does Not Meet The Safety And Emission Standards Of The US Market

3 Genesis G70 Shooting Brake 2.0T

Genesis’ first-ever wagon, the G7 Shooting Brake, offers everything one can expect from a luxury wagon. Besides a refined and spacious interior, it also packs a generous range of tech features. The G7 Shooting Brake also boasts excellent warranty coverage.

Performance Specs

Considering the poor demand for wagons in the US, it is not surprising that there are no plans to bring the G70 Shooting Brake stateside.

RELATED: Here’s Why We Need The Genesis G70 Shooting Brake In The US

Why It’s Unavailable In The US

• Genesis Designed It With European Customers In Mind

2 Citroen C5 Aircross

As part of the Citroen Advanced Comfort Program, the quirky C5 Aircross offers a spacious, comfortable interior with sliding/reclining rear seats. It also packs an impressive range of advanced safety and driver assistance features.

Performance Specs

Thanks to its advanced hydraulic suspension system that adapts to different road conditions and driving modes, the C5 Aircross boasts a smooth ride quality. Depending on the market and the model, it offers various powertrain options, including a 1.6-liter turbo-4 unit that puts down 178 hp.

Why It’s Unavailable In The US

• Does Not Meet US Regulatory Standards
• Lack Of Brand Presence And Reputation

1 Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34)

The Skyline GT-R (R34) is one of the most iconic JDM cars ever. Standing out from the standard GT-R, the V-Spec features enhancements like an active limited-slip differential, a stiffer suspension, and larger brake rotors.

Performance Specs

With a twin-turbo I6 mill feeding the four wheels through the ATTESA E-TS Pro system, the GT-R (R34) is quick and agile. The good news is that it is among the JDM imports we expect stateside from 2024. Finally, US enthusiasts can legally get their paws on this great car.

Why It’s Unavailable In The US

• Import Regulations
• Relatively Low Demand