Popular choices for small business and farms in Japan, Kei trucks are becoming so popular in North America. Certain US states are trying to ban them. Aren't you glad you're Canadian?
Small. White. Ubiquitous in Japan. Buying a Kei truck may be in the future for your Canadian business or farm. Check out our beginners' guide to buying Kei trucks.
When most people dream JDM dreams, they think fast, furious and legendary speed machines that hung on bedroom walls or lounged in the digital garages of Need for Speed. However, the charm of Japan is not solely limited to 400hp beasts, but also to the domain of the dinky. The realm of the small.
The corner,... of the Kei.
While that could (and will!) be an article on its own, today we're getting into Kei trucks: mini-vehicles, weaving through rice fields or the narrow streets of Tokyo, carrying anything from bales of hay to appliances. But have you ever wondered why Japan decided to turn compact trucks into such a big part of its automotive culture? Enter the world of Kei vehicles—a concept that’s been driving Japan’s streets since post-war times and has morphed into a phenomenon.
#1: You must me this small to ride
To kick off, the Kei vehicle class (軽自動車, or “light automobile”) was created in the late 1940s to offer affordable, compact transportation to a country in the process of rebuilding after World War II (Kei Truck Connect). Japan needed vehicles that could handle narrow city roads, minimal parking, and, most importantly, light budgets. Kei cars, and especially Kei trucks, became the national answer to all these problems. Kei vehicles are a unique category in Japan's automotive landscape, defined by specific regulations to promote affordable and efficient transportation. As of 1998, to qualify as a Kei car, a vehicle must adhere to the following specifications:
Source: https://www.motor1.com/photos/846501/motor1-numbers-kei-cars/#7139994_motor1-numbers-kei-cars
Dimensions: Maximum length of 3.4m, width of 1.48m, and height of 2.0m.
Engine Capacity: Up to 660cc.
Power Output: Maximum of 63 hp (yes, your snow-blower could beat it up).
Carrying Capacity: typically a maximum payload capacity of approximately 350 kg (771.6 lbs). (Japan Car Direct
These constraints ensure that Kei cars remain compact and economical, making them ideal for Japan's urban environments. (Motor1; Japanified Pete).
Despite their modest size, Kei vehicles have maintained significant popularity in Japan. In 2022, they accounted for approximately 34.1% of new passenger car sales in Japan (Motor1).
And this continues to grow as the market for passenger minicars grew by 9.5% in 2023, underscoring the enduring 'love of small' among Japanese consumers. (Best Selling Cars)
#2: Evolution of the Kei
The first Kei trucks or Keitora (軽トラ) - literally 'light to-ra-ku' ... light truck...) looked, let’s say, “quaint.” Picture a scooter on four wheels, and you're not too far off. Early models often had small, two-stroke engines that could be found on motorcycles. Despite sporting minimal features, these trucks quickly found a solid fan base, especially in rural areas. Farmers loved them because they could zip through small fields, and businesses adored them for their budget-friendly maintenance. Fast forward to the 1970s, and Japan started enforcing regulations on size, power, and emissions, which further molded Kei trucks into the efficient machines we know today (Kei-Trucks.com).
A turning point in Kei truck history came in the 1980s when manufacturers like Suzuki, Daihatsu, and Honda began improving both the technology and design of these trucks. They became quieter, more comfortable, and, dare I say, even stylish? Kei trucks started featuring interiors that wouldn’t look out of place in a small sedan, making them suitable not just for farm work but also for urban deliveries and small business operations. They come in 2wd and 4wd, automatic and manual. Some come with a dump bed. And for the bougie, some even come with air conditioning! By this time, Kei trucks had become a symbol of Japanese ingenuity—a “you-get-what-you-need” philosophy embodied in a boxy frame (JDMBUYSELL).
For a quick fun fact: in Japan, you’re not just buying a Kei truck; you’re joining an entire culture. There’s a massive aftermarket scene for these trucks, from custom paint jobs to off-road kits. Yes, you heard that right—some Kei truck enthusiasts add lift kits and knobby tires to transform their compact pickups into mini-monsters ready to hit the trails.
I mean.... sure..?
Try picturing a tiny lifted Suzuki Carry rolling through the woods, and you’ll understand just why these trucks are so beloved (Wikipedia). And honestly, with SxS UTV's like the Polaris Ranger starting at $16000 CDN for a base model and NOT generally being road legal, it might me a cheaper and more versatile alternative!
#3: Best buys in the 15 year range for Canada
If you’re thinking about joining the Kei truck club, here are three top models from 2008–2010 that have earned their stripes both in Japan and internationally. These trucks, known for their reliability and versatility, come highly regarded not only by Japanese drivers but by enthusiasts worldwide. Kei's are fairly 'bare-bones' utility vehicles, but can come with 4wd/all-wheel drive and working dump beds. If you're in the market, you need to know these standouts.
1. Suzuki Carry
The Suzuki Carry has long been a Kei truck staple. By the 2008-2010 production years, it had earned a reputation for toughness, becoming especially popular in rural and industrial areas for its efficiency and maneuverability (MINI Monsters USA).
Year 2009 - 35000 KM - average auction retail $3300 CDN
Accolades:
Award-Winning Reliability: Known for its minimal breakdowns, the Carry was consistently rated as one of Japan’s most reliable Kei trucks, with mechanics reporting that these trucks rarely needed major repairs (JDMBUYSELL).
Outstanding Manoeuvrability: Thanks to its tight turning radius, it could handle narrow city streets and rugged countryside paths, a feature that farmers and urban drivers alike valued highly (Kei Truck Connect).
Low Maintenance Costs: Repair parts are widely available, and the Carry’s straightforward build kept maintenance costs low, making it a budget-friendly workhorse (Kei-Trucks.com).
Engine Location: under the front seats or mid-cabin, accessible by lifting a panel. This setup helps keep the cabin compact while balancing weight for better stability, which is especially helpful in narrow, urban spaces. It can occasionally be an unwanted seat-warmer if you're pushing the engine.
2. Subaru Sambar
Possibly the most talked about of the Kei's, the Sambar is known for its rear-engine layout and rugged versatility. The Suzuki Sambar of 2008-2010 held a special place among Kei trucks as an agile, practical choice for drivers navigating both urban and rural settings. Its compact design and efficient performance cater to both urban and rural driving needs. It also seems to be attracting the highest prices too.
I dunno about you, but that shifter looks a little 'hentai' to me!
Year: 2010 Mileage: 48,000 KM Average Auction Retail: $3900 CAD
Accolades:
4WD Capability: The Sambar offers a 4WD option, enhancing traction and stability on various terrains, including dirt roads and snowy conditions. This feature makes it suitable for rural applications and light off-roading. (JDM Export)
Rear-Engine Design: Unlike many Kei trucks with front or mid-engine layouts, the Sambar's rear-engine configuration provides a lower center of gravity, improving handling and balance. This design also contributes to a quieter cabin experience, as engine noise is less intrusive. (SlashGear)
Fuel Efficiency: The Sambar achieves an impressive fuel economy of approximately 18-20 km/L (42-47 mpg), making it an economical choice for daily commuting and business use. (Cars Directory)
Compliance with Emission Standards: Designed to meet Japan's stringent emission regulations, the Sambar offers lower emissions, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
3. Daihatsu Hijet/Toyota Pixis
Known for its practicality, the Daihatsu Hijet is the go-to for those who need a straightforward, dependable truck. During 2008-2010, the Hijet gained a loyal following among small businesses and contractors due to its compact design and impressive fuel economy, which clocked in around 18-20 km/L (about 42-47 mpg) similar to the Sambar (Kei Truck Connect).
Year: 2010 - 16000 KM - average auction retail $3600 CDN
Accolades:
Unmatched Efficiency: With fuel efficiency that saved drivers significant costs on fuel, the Hijet was one of the most economical Kei trucks of its time (MINI Monsters USA).
Most Practical Kei Award: Praised for its reliability and simple design, the Hijet was celebrated for its “no-fuss” approach, quickly making it a top choice for tradespeople (Kei-Trucks.com).
Low Emissions: Daihatsu worked hard to keep emissions in line with Japan’s strict standards, making the Hijet a solid option for urban business owners looking to reduce their environmental footprint (Wikipedia).
Engine Location: Typically located mid-vehicle, under the seats. The mid-engine design provides better weight distribution and stability, which is important given the tall, narrow design of Kei trucks.
4. Honda Acty
Honda’s Acty stands out as a comfortable, versatile Kei truck that’s ideal for longer hauls. From 2008-2010, Honda prioritized comfort and durability in this model, making it a favourite for both urban deliveries and occasional rural use (Kei Truck Connect).
Year: 2008 - 34000 KM - average auction retail $2800 CDN
Accolades:
Best-in-Class Comfort: Honda introduced more ergonomic seating and an improved suspension in the Acty, earning it high marks for driver comfort over long distances (MINI Monsters USA).
Honda Engine Durability: Known for its long-lasting engines, Honda’s engineering made the Acty especially low-maintenance, saving owners time and money (JDMBUYSELL).
Engine Location: Rear-engine layout, located at the back of the vehicle, just ahead of the rear axle. The rear-engine design gives the Acty better traction, especially useful for 4WD versions.
Superior Resale Value: Thanks to Honda’s strong brand reputation, the Acty maintained one of the highest resale values in the Kei truck market, making it an attractive investment (Wikipedia).
Car Companies and Kei Truck Rebadging
In the world of Kei trucks, it’s common for manufacturers to collaborate or rebadge models for other brands: think of the BRZ and the GR86 and you'll get it. Daihatsu and Toyota have a close relationship, with Toyota often rebadging the Daihatsu Hijet under the name Toyota Pixis. Similarly, Suzuki and Mazda have collaborated, with Suzuki’s Carry being sold as the Mazda Scrum. Mitsubishi and Nissan also get in on the action, with Mitsubishi’s Minicab sometimes appearing as the Nissan Clipper. In 2012 (so not yet available in North America for import), Subaru ceased in-house production of the Sambar and entered into a collaboration with Daihatsu. Under this agreement, Daihatsu began manufacturing the Sambar, which was essentially a rebadged version of the Daihatsu Hijet. This partnership allowed Subaru to continue offering the Sambar in the Kei truck market without maintaining its own production line (Wikipedia). These partnerships are all about giving each brand a presence in the Kei market without reinventing the very tiny wheel (MINI Monsters USA).
BTW: a lot of the reviews you're seeing on YouTube at the moment are for earlier models of Kei that are being imported to America. The US has a 25 year import restriction; Canada has a 15 year restriction! We get the good stuff sooner!
#4: Know before you buy?
Important Considerations for Kei Truck Ownership in Canada
Owning a Kei truck in Canada might sound fun, and you're probably fine if you're limiting it to farms or short-distance travel, but there are a few factors to consider:
Risk of Tipping in Sharp Turns: Narrow, short, and tall—Kei trucks might be adorable, but they’re not the most stable things on wheels. Taking a sharp corner in one of these can be a bit… thrilling. That mini-wheelbase and high center of gravity means tipping over is a very real possibility. So, if you’re tempted to take that turn a little too fast, remember: this isn’t Mario Kart (Kei Truck Connect).
Braking and Stability: Stomping the brakes in a Kei truck is like hitting the “eject” button on a roller coaster. The front pitches forward, and with an empty bed, you might even feel the back wheels lift a little. Hard braking, especially in winter, gives the sensation of almost flipping "a$$ over teakettle," leaving you gripping the wheel and hoping physics is on your side (JDMBUYSELL).
Limited Highway Capability: Kei trucks were designed to putter around narrow Japanese streets and rural communities, not zoom along the Trans-Canada or 400 series highways. With a top speed hovering around 80-90 km/h (50-55 mph) and most folks on the 401 in Toronto doing 120km/h in the right lane, these little guys hit their limit right when everyone else is merging. For Canadian highways, that’s a bit of a white-knuckle ride (JDMBUYSELL). Additionally, maintaining that top speed can be put you in the literal hot-seat. As your engine is located directly 'under' your chair, you might just have a 'seat-warmer' that won't turn off.
Crash Safety at Highway Speeds: Kei trucks aren’t exactly “tank-like” and they were never designed for North American highways. At high speeds, the lack of advanced crash safety features (no airbags for you!) could turn a fender bender into automotive origami. Their thin frames and minimal crumple zones (aka. knee-caps) make them about as safe as a cardboard box (MINI Monsters USA).
Winter Performance: Japan’s winters are tame compared to Canada’s bone-chilling, snow-packed reality. Kei trucks aren’t built to dig through knee-high snow or grip icy roads. Winter tires are a must, and if you’re feeling bold, maybe even some tire chains... and possibly a dog sled team. Without them? Let’s just say you’ll be calling on a lot of friendly neighbors with shovels (Kei Truck Connect).
Parts Availability: Finding parts in Canada can be like a scavenger hunt. While some pieces are available online, specific repairs might mean paying a premium or waiting a few weeks. Better hope your mechanic’s the patient type (Kei-Trucks.com). Nevertheless, most basic maintenance parts can be sourced at your local Canadian Tire. Most JDM unique parts are not 'that' expensive as they are ubiquitous older-model vehicles. Oddly, the most annoying (but not impossible) thing to source for these are tires (Daily MBT RIder)
#5: Many Keis in Canada can be overpriced
Ok, you want a Kei truck, but the locals are asking $11000-15000 for a Kei with 150000km and years of Canadian winters and rust. Does that make the following ads attractive to you? Here's an overview of current listings. Look for prices, but look at the km's and years and figure if that is a flag for you:
2008 Honda Acty Base
Price: $8,000
Mileage: 95,000 km
Condition: Fresh import, 4WD, 5-speed manual transmission. The bed is in good shape, and the truck will come certified with an Ontario ownership.
2001 Honda Acty SDX Automatic
Price: $11,000
Mileage: Under 20,000 km
Condition: Fresh import in very good condition, 4WD, automatic transmission, air conditioning. Comes certified with an Ontario ownership.
2005 Nissan Clipper Truck (4WD)
Price: $13,980
Mileage: 28,752 km
Condition: Imported from Japan, daily driven, 4WD, manual transmission. The truck is in good condition and has been well-maintained.
Note that some of these are ads from importers specifically.
So, is it worth it?
You've seen the prices above. Compare that to importing.
Take one of our three Best Buys from above. Now add around $3000 CDN to get it to Port of Vancouver and $_____ to get it to your province (Toronto Ontario would be about $2500 + tax).
Yes, the prices seem to come out the same, but you may find that the km's and the years make all the difference when looking at things like rust and wear.
Whether it’s for utility, a touch of kitsch, hauling things around the cottage, or just the satisfaction of pulling up next to a guy in a Ram 1500 and subtly proving you've got nothing to compensate for, a Kei truck is one memorable addition to your automotive lineup.
So do you still dream of owning a Kei truck? How would you be using it?
Post your thoughts in the comments below!
~DREAM