Reliable and affordable driving
Japanese cars remain favorites in the used car market due to their great value and excellent reliability record.
With so many Japanese manufacturers producing cars in almost every market, you’ll find yourself in a plethora of options when you browse through used car classifieds.
If you want a used Japanese car, here’s a collection of the 20 best Japanese used cars.
Mazda MX-5
Best Japanese Used Car Buying Recommendation: The Mazda MX-5 is a terrible car choice if you have a family of seven, but it’s an excellent sports car if you want a weekend car or if you don’t have kids to transport.
The MX-5’s formula is always refreshing: low overhang, rear-wheel drive, lower roof. As a result, Mazda sold millions of units worldwide. What’s more, they are very fun to drive thanks to the balanced chassis and low curb weight. Or, driving under a roof is just as fun.
Under the hood, you can choose between 1.5 liters or 2.0 liters of petrol, producing 130 and 158 horsepower, respectively. They are not particularly fast, but will reward keen drivers with their helpful nature. Plus, they’ll return over 40mpg without too many issues.
Suzuki Alto
What are the best Japanese used cars? Another excellent Japanese city car made the list, this time in the form of Alto, which was a huge success for Suzuki in the UK. Alto is very affordable to buy, and they have a decent list price.
Buyers enjoy a good reputation for low running costs, decent specs (especially on the SZ3 and SZ4 models), and reliability. All Altos are equipped with a 1.0 petrol engine with a total fuel capacity of more than 60mpg, CO 2Emissions are only 103g/km.
You’re unlikely to win Alto’s rally, but its compact proportions and excellent visibility make up for it, as it’s easy to maneuver in the city.
Toyota AYGO
As far as city cars go, you can’t go wrong with the Toyota AYGO, which is the sister car of the Citroen C1 and Peugeot 108. Since the launch of the original in 2005, all three models have been very popular with UK buyers.
Initially AYGO only had AYGO, Plus or Sport trim, but the second wave in 2008 introduced special editions in black, blue and platinum. All of them have different features and prove to be popular with buyers.
The 2012 facelift gave AYGO a new look, with an all-new model (pictured) in 2014, as well as the all-new Citroen C1 and Peugeot 108. The latest generation of AYGO is undoubtedly a sharp-looking car that truly sets itself apart from the rest of the crowd. It’s even surprisingly fun to drive.
Toyota IQ
The Toyota iQ is one of the smallest four-seater cars in the UK and accommodates incredible space in a ridiculously small package. Sitting in the front seat, it’s hard to tell you’re sitting in a vehicle of such tiny size; It’s only when you look at the rear seats and the “trunk” that you really understand how small this wonderful little city car is.
With 32 liters of space (no, it’s not a typo), these boots really don’t have much to brag about. At least the rear 50:50 split folding seats can be folded down to create more space, and then 238 litres are available.
The iQ comes with either a 1.0-litre or 1.33-litre petrol engine that produces 67bhp and 97bhp, respectively. The smaller unit is best for city driving, while the larger unit is really surprising in an iQ-sized car.
Mazda 2
The Mazda2 is a reliable competitor to models like the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa, with similar dimensions and low running costs, leading the impressive list of certificates.
With a capacity of 280 liters, this boot may not be the largest in its class, but it is by no means the smallest either. The Mazda2 is a dedicated 5-door model, so access to the rear of the car is very convenient; Ideal for families with child seats.
This generation of Mazda2 comes with a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre engine and is available in three variants: 74bhp, 89bhp or 113bhp. The engine does require relatively hard work to get performance, but the sleek gearbox and balanced chassis mean it’s not a chore.
Nissan Micra
Best Japanese Used Car Collection: The Nissan Micra has been a British favorite since 1983 and is known worldwide for its reliability, affordability, and ease of driving. They are also valuable on the second-hand market, with plenty of great examples to choose from.
As you can imagine, the gasoline option is the most popular, and diesel engines have been discontinued in recent years. A 1.2-liter petrol engine is more than enough for a small Micra, but if you plan to drive more than 12,000 miles per year, 1.5-liter diesel engines are essential because they’re kinder to the environment.
The Acenta model is noteworthy, with cruise control, DAB radio, and a 7-inch infotainment screen. If you’re looking for a sporty style, then go for the N-Sport model, which comes with 17-inch alloy wheels and lowered suspension.
Nissan Leaf
What are the best Japanese used cars? Nissan introduced the LEAF in the late 2000s, an all-electric hatchback that was a true alternative to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars.
The generation you see here builds on the success of its predecessors and now has a wider range as well as more advanced technology. The smaller 40kWh battery has a range of 168 miles, making it ideal for motorists with shorter commutes. A larger 62kWh battery can also be used and the range can be increased to 239 miles.
Essentials such as air conditioning, cruise control, and power windows are all standard. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included, making it easy to pair your smartphone with your car.
Mazda 6
Best Japanese Used Car Buying Recommendation: The Mazda6 is a great family car that also makes sense for professionals who often travel long distances. Despite being criminally underrated, there are plenty of great examples to choose from in the used car market.
The Mazda6 can be used as a traditional sedan or as an ultra-spacious estate that can easily haul people or bulky items. Most of the Saloon models come with a 500-liter suitcase, but later models come with a 480-litre trunk. The estate model has 520 litres for you; Should be useful for tip runs.
Engine options are available with a 2.0-liter petrol engine and a 2.2-liter diesel engine. Gasoline has 163bhp available, while the early 40s mpg should be easily achievable. Diesel is better for long distances and easily reverts back to 55mpg.
Toyota Prius
At the turn of the century, Toyota brought us the Prius, leading the trend of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) in the UK. It may seem unremarkable, but its knack for restoring incredible fuel efficiency and producing low emissions is unmatched.
Fast forward to today, and the Prius has evolved and now features more advanced battery technology, as well as a futuristic design. The 1.8-liter petrol engine is completed by a self-charging battery that goes in and out as needed to improve fuel economy.
The 120bhp doesn’t make the Prius particularly fast, but it can go up to 83mpg in the combined cycle, which is very appetizing. All cars come standard with adaptive cruise control, keyless driving, dual-zone climate control, and lane departure warning; You can’t argue with the value on offer.
Suzuki Swift
The Suzuki Swift has been super real and carefully crafted to be affordable ultra-mini, as well as fun to drive. The model pictured was launched in 2017 and is the next step for the Japanese manufacturer, who is working to improve Swift’s improvements and technology.
If you’re after diesel, then you might want to move on (because there’s no diesel). However, the petrol and hybrid options offer excellent fuel economy and produce low emissions. The entry-level 1.0-liter engine may sound small, but the turbocharger and mild hybrid technology (MHEV) make it surprisingly powerful.
If you like reliable supermini cars with some old-school features, then the Suzuki Swift Sport is definitely worth a look. The turbocharged 1.4-litre engine (later models being hybrids) produces close to 140bhp and is guaranteed to make you smile.
Lexus
Are you looking for a luxury executive car? Are products like Mercedes-Benz or BMW not satisfying you? In that case, the Lexus IS is most likely for you.
Lexus is a luxury brand and is owned by Toyota, which means that the reliability should be excellent. In addition, the Lexus IS is a great car in its own right and was an early adopter of hybrid technology (HEV) (in the executive car segment). As a result, it has excellent fuel economy and environmental friendliness, and the battery recharges itself for maximum convenience.
The interior is typical of Lexus, with plenty of leather and soft-touch materials throughout the cabin. Compared to a traditional transmission, a CVT automatic transmission may take some getting used to, but it will give you a silky smooth driving experience.
Nissan Juke
Best Japanese Used Car Collection: The Juke of the previous generation was a strong performer of Nissan cars with drivers buying from a day with a unique look and SUV proportions. The successor you see here is simply building on the foundation of its predecessor, bringing greater efficiency while new technology.
The second-generation Juke you see here only comes with an all-new turbocharged 1.0-litre petrol engine that delivers 115bhp and a fuel economy between 44.1 and 47.9mpg. Traditional manual transmissions are common, but if you want a more refined driving experience, it’s worth looking for a 7-speed automatic transmission.
The Juke comes with a 422-liter trunk, which is 60 liters larger than the previous model, making it ideal for family drivers. The level of equipment is excellent throughout the range, with Bluetooth, cruise control, and DAB radio all standard.
Nissan Qashqai
What are the best Japanese used cars? The Qashqai Nissan you see here has been a huge success, and that’s because it’s an affordable family SUV that comes with great technology.
Despite being an affordable car, the interior of the Qashqai is a great place to spend some time, with high-quality materials complementing the spacious cabin layout. Starting in 2018, all cars come standard with air conditioning and smart infotainment systems, while smartphone apps like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available on higher-spec cars.
The 430-litre boot and spacious rear seats mean the Qashqai is ideal for young and mature families, while the efficient range of petrol and diesel engines means running costs are affordable.
Honda Civic
Best Japanese Used Car Buying Recommendation: The Civic is in its ninth generation since its inception in 1972 and is well worth buying. The reliable, reliable and practical Civic is also powerful and economical – the choice of the engine range is the 147bhp 2.2-litre i-DTEC.
This powerplant propels the Civic from a standstill to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds while managing a staggering 67 mpg in a combined cycle, meaning the Civic isn’t really involved in the usual performance-economy trade-offs. The trunk capacity is a class-leading 477 liters, the all-round interior space is excellent, as is the quality of the materials used in the cabin.
Attention Nissan
Looking for a hatchback that is practical, spacious, and easy to drive? They are no more spacious than the Nissan Note. The high roofline makes the most of the compact proportions, producing a trunk capacity of over 437 liters.
Engine options range from 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre petrol to the most popular 1.5-litre dCi 88 bhp diesel, which reaches 67mpg in the combined cycle and tows well in all gears. Trim levels include Visia, Acenta, and Tekna, as well as the popular special edition N-Tec+ model, which includes additional features like satellite navigation, automatic climate control, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Honda Jazz
The Honda Jazz is in a similar class to the aforementioned Nissan Note, a relatively small hatchback with a higher roofline that offers extra space and convenience. The interior is ample with a trunk capacity of 335 liters.
Low mileage examples can be purchased at a reasonable cost, which makes it a good second-hand purchase. The most popular engine option is the 98bhp 1.4-litre i-VTEC petrol that delivers a respectable 50mpg and low CO2 emissions of just 129g/km. The trim levels include the top of S, ES, SE, and EX.
Honda CR-V
The third and final Honda on our list of best-selling Japanese cars is the practical, reliable, and well-equipped CR-V. It’s one of the few gas-engined options that remains one of the popular options for SUVs, but the smooth and responsive 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine is so good that buyers love it.
The economic figure of 34mpg isn’t the best in its class, but it’s manageable for most buyers, and the 485-liter starting capacity is really useful. If petrol isn’t for you, you can use a 2.2-liter i-DTEC diesel engine with an average fuel consumption of 43mpg and a 0 to 60mph time of 9.3 seconds.
Toyota RAV4
Toyota introduced a premium midsize SUV derived from a car in 1994, which today we call the “Crossover.” Like the Honda CR-V, the RAV4’s petrol engine option is still popular with buyers, especially on the second-hand market, where it has a lower initial purchase price.
Despite being petrol-powered, the RAV4 should have an average fuel consumption of 32mpg, while the massive 586-litre trunk is accessed via a distinctive side-hinged rear door that also comes with a rear spare wheel (on earlier models). By choosing a newer model, you’ll have the option to drive a hybrid car that reduces emissions and improves fuel economy – win-win!
Toyota Yaris
Best Japanese Used Car Buying Recommendation: Toyota showed the world how it did it when it introduced the original Yaris in 1999, replacing the Starlet in their lineup of smaller cars. These cars are loved by car owners, and you can find a large number of first- and second-generation models, as well as some third-generation models, in our classified ads.
Pictured here is the second-generation 1.3-litre VVT-i TR with 85bhp, 47mpg combined cycle and 147g/km CO2 emissions. Later 1.33-litre VVT-i models bumped those numbers up to 99bhp and 54mpg, thanks to engine improvements and a sleek six-speed gearbox. If you prefer something a little more spiritual, then the GRMN has a supercharged 1.8-litre petrol engine that puts out 210bhp via a limited-slip differential. Who said Yaris was purely for seniors, hey?
Mitsubishi Outlander
What are the best Japanese used cars? Even though the Outlander came out in 2001, you’re likely thinking of the sleek-looking plug-in hybrid that has young families rolling around town and in the countryside. Mitsubishi bucked the trend with the recent Outlanders as they prioritized the marketing of the plug-in hybrid version, which means you’ll see more people.
Curiously, Mitsubishi claims that the Outlander can reach 38 to 160mpg, which is certainly widespread. However, this shows that their numbers are realistic, which means that you can get excellent mpg if you drive accordingly. The interior is spacious and well-equipped, and the Outlander is unlikely to disappoint you as it is Mitsubishi. With so many SUVs on the road, this might be the best one for you.
Summary of the best Japanese used car collections
It’s clear from the list above that there are a lot of great used Japanese cars to choose from on the market. With so many different manufacturers to choose from, all offering products that stand out from the rest, you should have no problem finding a car that suits your needs and requirements.
