New analysis from Cartell, based on SIMI data, shows a surge in Irish registrations of used cars imported from Japan. Between January and September 2025, registrations have risen 19.84% to 26,942 units. In September alone, registrations climbed 56.57% compared with the same month in 2024, pointing to a growing appetite for high-quality Japanese imports among Irish buyers.
Used imports from the UK fell -20.91% year-to-date (9,790 vs 12,379 in 2024). With 26,942 Japan-sourced imports (+19.84%), Japan now supplies almost three times as many used cars as the UK—a decisive shift in sourcing that continued in September (UK -9.85% YoY).
Wesley Littleford, Commercial Operations Manager at Cartell, said, “As import costs and conditions from the UK remain unpredictable, the market has adapted fast. Japan has emerged as a stable, affordable source, so more buyers and dealers are sourcing there.”
Petrol-electric hybrids now account for almost a quarter (6,704 units) of all used imports from Japan, up from 22.21% year on year. Petrol accounts for 65.06% of imports (17,528 units), representing a decline from 72.45% market share in 2024. Diesel is rebounding from a low base (872 units), up 152.64% year-on-year to 2,203 units, now 8.18% of Japan-sourced imports. Older vehicles are prominent too, with 6 to 9-year-old models making up 51.08% (13,762 units) of imports and 10+ years rising to 36.75%.
Among Japanese imported cars, German marques continue to lead overall. Volkswagen is the most popular make imported from Japan, led by the Golf and Polo. Toyota ranks second, boosted by strong demand for the Prius hybrid, up 55% on last year. Audi follows in third. Leading models by volume are the VW Golf (3,858), VW Polo (2,588), Audi A3 (2,043), Honda Fit (1,612) and Toyota Prius Hybrid (1,268). Interest in EVs remains low, with just 19 pure EV imports so far this year.
Cartell’s Car VX Japanese Vehicle History Report provides verified background checks for Japan-sourced vehicles, using official Japanese government (MLIT) and private databases. The report includes details on accident and repair history, odometer readings, theft, flood or fire incidents, manufacturer recalls, prior use (such as taxi or police), safety ratings, and even radiation contamination risk.
