Did you know that data from the DVLA shows that over 209,374 cars have been imported by individuals in the UK over the last decade?
Imported cars can be cheaper, have better equipment, and can sometimes allow you to get your hands on unusual models that aren’t available in the UK.
In fact, there is actually a model that is imported much more frequently than any other. Wondering which? Make sure to read below to find out more.
Why Are Cars Imported?
Some car manufacturers choose to not sell some models in the UK, meaning that some UK motorists are left to import these vehicles.
Often these imported cars are unique in their styles and the features they come with. Imported cars often have special trim levels, including features that do not come on the models sold to the UK market.
Import cars are also sometimes cheaper to buy, thanks to favourable exchange rates and how depreciation differs in other countries.
What Are Some Of The UK’s Favourite Imported Cars?
Toyota Prius
Did you know that the Toyota Prius is the most frequently imported car in the UK? In the past 10 years, 12,514 Prius’ have reached British soil.
Chevrolet Corvette
An American sports car icon, often imported for its V8 engine performance. The Corvette is one of the UK’s stand-out favourite import cars, with 856 currently registered in the UK.
Daihatsu Copen Xplay
No longer sold in the UK after 2011, the Daihatsu Copen Xplay is a 2-door convertible that has received rave reviews. In fact, its popularity in the UK has led to 1,292 making their way from Japan to the UK.
Nissan Skyline
If you think of an imported car, a Nissan Skyline will likely pop into your head. The Skyline was never manufactured outside of Japan, with three main exports to Hong Kong, Australia and New Zealand.
The UK can, fortunately, import the iconic sportscar, with 1,990 currently registered in the UK.
Suzuki Cappuccino
This dinky two-seater, with a classic sports car layout, is a Japanese Kei car, built to fit into the country’s strict ‘kei regulations’. This, therefore, means that they weren’t destined for a UK market.
There are currently around 190 currently registered on UK roads.
Ford Mustang
An iconic muscle car with aggressive styling and high-powered performance, the Ford Mustang is an icon amongst American-built cars. With around 1,268 imported models in the UK, many motorists are choosing the iconic roar of a Mustang V8.
Are Imports More Expensive To Insure?
Buying an imported car is only the start. If you want to drive it, you will need the right insurance policy. As imported cars are different to their UK counterparts, and are typically more expensive, it’s advisable that you look into a specialist imported car insurance policy.
This will ensure that you are fully covered.
