Top 10 Reasons To Buy A Japanese Kei Truck

2025 Sep 15th

Here are the top 10 reasons to buy a Japanese kei truck, especially if you're in the U.S. and looking for a practical, economical, and unique vehicle:

Suzuki Carry

1. Incredibly Versatile Utility Vehicle

Kei trucks are mini workhorses. They're used for:

  • Farming

  • Landscaping

  • Construction

  • Off-road adventures

  • Campgrounds, warehouses, and golf courses

  • Business promotional use

With flatbeds, dump beds, van-style enclosures, or even snowplow attachments, they can be adapted for almost anything.

2. Extremely Affordable

You can usually buy a well-maintained used kei truck for under $10,000, even after import costs. Many are available for $4,000–$7,000, making them a great value compared to U.S. pickups or UTVs.

3. Great Fuel Economy

Most kei trucks get 35–45+ mpg, thanks to their lightweight frames and small 660cc engines. That's significantly better than any American truck—and many small cars.

4. Simple and Cheap to Maintain

Older kei trucks are known for:

  • Basic, no-frills mechanical systems

  • Easy DIY repairs

  • Abundant parts (especially for Honda, Suzuki, Daihatsu, Subaru)

They're a mechanic’s dream if you like working on your own vehicle.

5. Off-Road Capability

Many kei trucks come with:

  • 4WD (selectable or real-time)

  • High ground clearance

  • Locking differentials (on some models)

They’re used in Japan for mountain roads and rice paddies—and in the U.S. for farms, trails, and hunting.

6. Street-Legal in Many States (If 25+ Years Old)

Thanks to the 25-year import rule, kei trucks are exempt from U.S. safety/emission standards in many states. They can often be registered and insured just like a regular vehicle.

Important caveat: Highway use may be limited depending on your state.

7. Perfect for Small Properties or Tight Spaces

Their compact size means:

  • Easy to maneuver on narrow roads, driveways, or trails

  • Ideal for small farms, gardens, orchards, or even around large properties

They do the work of a side-by-side, but with more capability.

8. Great Payload-to-Size Ratio

Despite their small size, most kei trucks can carry 350–700 kg (770–1,540 lbs) of cargo—more than many UTVs and similar to small pickups.

9. Unique, Fun, and Quirky

Let’s be honest—kei trucks are just cool.

  • Right-hand drive

  • Boxy, retro styling

  • JDM culture appeal

They turn heads, spark conversations, and are increasingly popular in car shows and collector communities.

10. Lower Environmental Impact

Because they’re lightweight, fuel-efficient, and often repurposed used vehicles, kei trucks are a more sustainable alternative to buying a new full-size truck or UTV.

BONUS: They're Also Great for…

  • College campuses

  • Parks departments

  • Private security

  • Utility companies

  • Firewood hauling

  • Towing small trailers (in some models)

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