Japanese automaker Honda Motor Co. has announced plans to begin selling two vehicles manufactured in the United States in the Japanese market starting in the second half of 2026. The move marks a notable shift in strategy as the company prepares to “reverse-import” models designed primarily for North American buyers, expanding options for customers in Japan and taking advantage of newly simplified certification rules for US-built cars.
Two US-built models to enter Japan
Honda confirmed that it will introduce the Acura Integra Type S and the Honda Passport TrailSport Elite in Japan. Both vehicles are currently produced by Honda Development & Manufacturing of America (HDMA) at facilities in the United States.
The launch follows a regulatory change by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, which introduced a simplified certification system for passenger vehicles manufactured in the US. This has made it easier for automakers to sell American-built models in the Japanese market.
According to Honda, importing these models will help broaden its domestic product lineup and cater to a wider range of consumer preferences. Interest in the vehicles has already been observed at major automotive events such as Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 and Osaka Auto Messe 2026, where the models were showcased earlier this year.
Performance sedan and off-road SUV
The Acura Integra Type S represents the high-performance variant of the Integra lineup. It features a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission, producing around 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The model combines premium styling with performance-focused engineering and is positioned as a sport-oriented offering within the Acura brand.
The Honda Passport TrailSport Elite, meanwhile, is a mid-size SUV designed for both off-road capability and everyday comfort. The vehicle is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, producing approximately 285 horsepower. It also features enhanced off-road capabilities, reflecting the TrailSport variant’s rugged design philosophy.
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Strategic move to expand options
By introducing these US-built models to Japan, Honda is effectively reversing the traditional flow of vehicles, where Japanese-designed models are exported to North America. The company sees the initiative as an opportunity to diversify its domestic lineup while responding to changing customer preferences in Japan.
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The planned launch of the Acura Integra Type S and Honda Passport TrailSport Elite signals Honda’s effort to leverage global production and regulatory changes to expand its reach. If successful, the strategy could pave the way for more cross-market vehicle introductions as the company adapts to evolving automotive demand worldwide.
