Top 10 Japanese Used Car Exports in 2024

Executive Summary

This report identifies the top 10 Japanese used car models exported in 2024 and analyzes the factors behind their popularity. The study found that models such as the Toyota Corolla, Toyota Hiace Van, and Toyota Land Cruiser Prado ranked highest in terms of export volume and frequency of market mention. These vehicles are driving global demand due to their high reliability, fuel efficiency, affordability, and compatibility with specific regional preferences.

The year 2024 marked a record-breaking period for Japanese used car exports, with 1,573,479 units shipped, reflecting a 2.0% increase compared to the previous year. This growth was achieved despite a decline in export volume to certain countries, indicating the continued strong reputation of Japanese used vehicles worldwide.

Looking ahead, rising environmental awareness and technological advancements are expected to lead to increased exports of hybrid and electric vehicles.

Overview of Japan's Used Car Export Market in 2024

In 2024, Japan’s used car exports reached a record high of 1,573,479 units, representing a 2.0% increase compared to 1,543,364 units in 2023. This historic growth was driven by significant increases in exports to countries such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Mongolia, and New Zealand, which helped offset declines in other markets.

• UAE: 226,762 units (+10.9%)
• Mongolia: 111,661 units (+40.0%)
• New Zealand: 80,000 units (+40.0%)

In contrast, exports to certain destinations saw a decline:

• Russia: 199,098 units (−8.8%)
• Vietnam: 1,305 units (−28.9%)
• Tanzania: 77,992 units (−4.5%)

Meanwhile, several other countries experienced notable growth:

• Kenya: 63,236 units (+3.4%)
• Pakistan: 39,961 units (+45.7%)
• Malaysia: 38,616 units (+10.1%)
• Bangladesh: 36,226 units (+4.7%)
• Singapore: 9,245 units (+82.3%)
• Hong Kong: 8,513 units (+18.3%)

These figures reflect the widespread global demand for Japanese used vehicles and their ability to meet diverse economic and transportation needs. In markets with high growth rates, the data suggests a surging interest in Japanese used cars and potential shifts in local market dynamics.

Major Importing Countries of Japanese Used Cars in 2024

Top 10 Japanese Used Car Exports in 2024

Based on analysis from multiple sources, the following models are considered the most popular Japanese used cars exported in 2024. While direct statistical data on the number of units exported per model is limited, this ranking is derived from a combination of listing frequency on export platforms, expert commentary, and historical sales performance.

Toyota Corolla

Known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability, the Corolla continues to enjoy stable demand worldwide.

Toyota Hiace Van

Highly valued for its durability and cargo capacity, it remains in strong demand as a commercial vehicle.

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

With exceptional off-road performance and long-term durability, this SUV is especially popular in Africa and the Middle East.

Nissan X-Trail

A well-rounded SUV praised for its practicality and fuel efficiency, appealing to a broad range of customers.

Honda Fit (Jazz)

Compact and fuel-efficient, it's ideal for urban use and is popular in many countries.

Toyota Vitz (Yaris)

Small, easy to maneuver, and fuel-efficient—highly sought after in emerging markets.

Toyota Prius

With outstanding fuel economy, the Prius is in growing demand in environmentally conscious markets.

Toyota Axio / Allion / Premio

These practical sedans are favored for both business and family use.

Suzuki Swift

Compact and sporty in design, the Swift is particularly popular among younger buyers.

Subaru Forester

Valued for its AWD (All-Wheel Drive) system, driving performance, and safety—popular among outdoor and adventure enthusiasts.

The strong presence of Toyota models in the top rankings highlights the global trust in the brand's reliability and durability. Additionally, the diversity of body types—sedans, SUVs, vans, hatchbacks, and hybrids—demonstrates the Japanese used car export market’s ability to meet a wide range of international needs.

Detailed Analysis of Top Models

Toyota Corolla

The Toyota Corolla boasts exceptional reliability and durability, as clearly demonstrated by its long history and global sales figures. It also offers excellent fuel efficiency, and because of its relatively low maintenance costs, it is extremely popular in the used car market.
According to data from Times Trading Japan, it is listed as a best-seller, and its wide range of options and affordable price range meet diverse needs.
Globally, the Corolla remains an attractive choice for buyers who prioritize reliability and cost-effectiveness.

Toyota Hiace Van

The Toyota Hiace Van is widely used around the world as a commercial vehicle due to its sturdy construction and high cargo capacity. It is highly durable and can handle rough roads, making it reliable even in regions where infrastructure is underdeveloped.
It is listed as a popular model on many export platforms, and its high practicality supports strong international demand.

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado is a SUV that combines genuine off-road performance with comfortable ride quality, enjoying high popularity especially in Africa and the Middle East.
It is also listed as a recommended vehicle by AutoCJ. Its durability and off-road capability make it well-suited for use in harsh environments.
In recent years, its high resale value has also gained attention, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking long-term value.

Reasons for Popularity of Major Export Models (Top 3 Vehicles)

Regional Demand and Preferences

Demand for Japanese used cars varies significantly by region.
In Africa, durable SUVs and pickup trucks such as the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and Toyota Hilux, as well as fuel-efficient models like the Honda Fit, are especially popular.

In the Caribbean region, compact and fuel-efficient models like the Toyota Vitz and Honda CR-V are preferred.

In South America, reliable vehicles that can handle diverse terrain, such as the Toyota Corolla and Subaru Forester, are commonly chosen.

In the Middle East, there is strong demand for high-performance, durable SUVs such as the Toyota Land Cruiser and Nissan Patrol.

In Southeast Asia, smaller and fuel-efficient models like the Honda City and Toyota Fortuner are popular, especially in urban areas with heavy traffic.

In Australia and New Zealand, 4WD vehicles such as the Toyota Hilux and Subaru Outback, as well as hybrid models like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, are well-supported.

These regional preferences are shaped by factors such as local road conditions, climate, economic situations, and consumer lifestyles. For exporters, understanding these characteristics and offering vehicle models that match the needs of each market is essential.

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Comparison with Previous Years and Emerging Trends

When compared with data from previous years, it is evident that models such as the Toyota Corolla and Toyota Land Cruiser Prado have consistently maintained high export demand. This is likely due to their universal value, namely reliability, durability, and strong global brand recognition.

On the other hand, in recent years, hybrid vehicles like the Toyota Prius have been gaining popularity. This trend may reflect the growing environmental awareness among buyers and an increasing preference for fuel-efficient vehicles.

Moreover, the economic conditions and regulatory changes in importing countries also influence the types of vehicles being exported. For example, in countries where fuel efficiency regulations are becoming stricter, demand for Japanese vehicles with better mileage is expected to increase.

Overall, while the Japanese used car export market continues to place strong emphasis on reliability and practicality, interest in environmental performance is gradually rising.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

In 2024, Japan's used car export market recorded its highest-ever export volume, demonstrating steady growth. The top-ranked models all featured high reliability, durability, and strong alignment with the specific needs of each market.
In particular, Toyota vehicles continue to earn strong demand and global recognition, thanks to the brand’s solid image and product quality.

Differences in regional demand were also observed, indicating the need for exporters to develop strategies tailored to each market's characteristics.

Looking ahead, with the global rise in environmental awareness and fluctuations in fuel prices, exports of hybrid and electric vehicles—so-called next-generation vehicles—are expected to increase.
In addition, economic growth in emerging markets is likely to create demand for a wider variety of vehicle types.

Japan's used car export industry is expected to continue meeting the mobility needs of people around the world by adapting to these changes.

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