Exploring Japan's Used Kei Car Market: Affordable Fun on Wheels!

A look at the used Kei car market. What you can get for your money.
Kei cars, also known as Kei jidosha or K-cars, are a unique category of small vehicles that are popular in Japan. These vehicles have a specific set of regulations and characteristics that make them distinct from regular cars. Here are some key points about Kei cars in Japan:
Size and Dimensions: Kei cars are small in size, with strict regulations governing their dimensions. As of my last update in September 2021, the maximum dimensions for a Kei car are typically 3.4 meters in length, 1.48 meters in width, and 2 meters in height.
Engine Size: Kei cars are limited in engine displacement size, typically having engines with a capacity of 660cc or less. The engine's power output is also limited to around 63 horsepower (47 kW).
Tax and Insurance Benefits: In Japan, Kei cars enjoy certain tax and insurance benefits, which make them an attractive option for buyers. These benefits can result in lower ownership costs.
Fuel Efficiency: Kei cars are known for their fuel efficiency, making them a practical choice for urban driving. Their smaller engines contribute to their excellent mileage.
Classification: Kei cars are classified into different categories, including regular passenger cars, microvans, and trucks. There are also sportier Kei cars designed for enthusiasts.
Design and Functionality: Despite their small size, Kei cars are designed to maximize interior space and functionality. They often feature innovative interior layouts to make the most of the limited space.
Popularity: Kei cars are incredibly popular in Japan, especially in crowded urban areas where their small size and easy maneuverability are advantageous. They are also popular among older drivers.
Safety: Manufacturers of Kei cars prioritize safety, and modern Kei cars often come equipped with safety features such as airbags and stability control.
Electric and Hybrid Kei Cars: In recent years, there has been a growing interest in electric and hybrid Kei cars as a more environmentally friendly alternative.
Cultural Significance: Kei cars have cultural significance in Japan and are often seen as a symbol of practicality and efficiency. They are a part of Japan's automotive heritage.

[@AbbasQamar-mf1xb]

Nice

[@lifeinruraljapan]

Thanks

[@xporkrind]

Also, if I rent a cheaper apartment farther from the train station, how hard would it be to reliably find parking at the train station in say Atsugi, Aiko Ishida, or Hon Atsugi? There seem to be empty spaces at almost all hours of the day when I walk by the Aiko Ishida train station? Is there any problem with my plan of driving from home to the train station? It's not central Tokyo so I assume parking at the train station isn't so much of a problem ??? Or am I being too optimistic?

[@lifeinruraljapan]

Parking around stations is usually expensive. You might be better off getting a bike and riding to the station.

[@xporkrind]

I am moving to Japan soon, but don't know much about K cars. Obviously they would be fine to drive a few miles to take my daughter to school or to get to the nearest train station. But let's say I wanted to drive from Atsugi to Chiba to visit Tokyo Disneyland by car instead of bus or train. Would you have any qualms about driving that distance by freeway or highway??? Would it be reasonably safe or perhaps dangerous for medium to long distance highway driving?

[@lifeinruraljapan]

A lot of people drive them on highways. I think if you don’t drive them too fast they would be okay. I have never had a Kei car I have always had bigger cars. Now I have a Toyota Aqua it’s about 5 years old has 20,000 kms on it like new cost me 1,000,000 yen. Kei cars I think are a bit expensive many people want them. I hope this helps you out.

[@2fastGEO]

the new Daihatsu Tonto is only 1,738,000 yen, which is converted to 11.6k usd. Quite the affordable car honestly.

[@encomium0525]

There is no problem to move from Atsugi to Urayasu by kei-car on expressway.
But I think it's much much more exhausting than a non-kei-car to drive from , say Aomori to Tokyo.

[@yukistraton5304]

I wish we could get theses cars hear in the us

[@lifeinruraljapan]

Many people do

[@kitchenGardenofficalchannel027]

very good👍👍👍😊

[@lifeinruraljapan]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@KDuubi]

I wish europe had those...:

[@lifeinruraljapan]

A lot of people say that.

[@deutschlanddendeutschen849]

Depending where you live, you could easily import one

[@kitchenGardenofficalchannel027]

like ❤👍👍55😊

[@lifeinruraljapan]

Thank you 🤗

[@Sir-G-69]

Downstairs is made by Toyota

[@lifeinruraljapan]

Maybe

[@DerpEye]

Kei cars are incredibly cheap. This stuff with a more european appearance, would sell well elswhere too. I mean, 10k for a brand new city car? Cmon.

[@lifeinruraljapan]

I know. For a city car you can’t beat them.