Daihatsu Hijet import guide
Kei truck · 660cc · Jumbo cab · 2WD / 4WD
The Daihatsu Hijet is a compact, fuel-sipping kei truck with one standout option U.S. buyers love: the extended "Jumbo" cab. Reliable and economical, it's a favorite for property work and tight delivery routes.
- 660cc engine
- Jumbo cab option
- 4WD available
At a glance
Daihatsu Hijet quick facts
- Type
- Kei truck (Atrai = kei van sibling)
- Engine
- 660cc inline-3 (EF, KF)
- Drivetrain
- Rear-wheel drive or selectable 4WD
- Generations
- S80/S110, S200/S210, S500/S510
- Notable trim
- Hijet Jumbo (extended cab)
- Import eligibility
- 25+ year examples are FMVSS-exempt
Overview
Why import a Daihatsu Hijet
Daihatsu builds the Hijet (and is a Toyota subsidiary), and the truck has a reputation for excellent economy and dependable, low-maintenance running. The Hijet Jumbo's stretched cab adds real seat and storage room behind the occupants — a big draw for taller drivers.
Deck-van and cargo variants make the Hijet a flexible delivery and chore vehicle, while 4WD trims handle orchards, snow, and unpaved access roads with ease.
- Hijet Jumbo extended cab for more interior space
- Strong fuel economy and low operating costs
- Deck van, flatbed, and cargo configurations
- Available selectable 4WD
Generations
Hijet generations & variants
The S80/S110 trucks of the late 1980s and early 1990s are firmly import-eligible. The S200/S210 (1999–2004) is the modern sweet spot becoming eligible year by year, and it's the era where the Jumbo cab became widely available.
- S80 / S110 — late-80s/early-90s, fully eligible
- S200P / S210P — 1999+ refinement, Jumbo cab era
- Hijet Jumbo — extended cab with reclining seats
- Atrai — the enclosed kei van sibling
Buyer notes
What to look for at auction
- Rust on the frame, bed floor, and rocker panels
- 4WD engagement and (if fitted) diff-lock operation
- Timing belt history on EF engines
- Cab and seat condition on Jumbo models
- Auction grade and odometer verification
Importing
Importing a Hijet to the U.S.
Under the U.S. 25-year rule, a vehicle is exempt from FMVSS once it is at least 25 years old. Eligibility is rolling — each model year becomes importable on the anniversary of its build date.
Once landed, road registration follows state law. Kei trucks are street-titled in many states and restricted in others — check your state's rules before buying.
Keep exploring
Related import guides
Suzuki Carry
Kei truckJapan's best-selling kei truck — huge supply, strong parts support, and dependable 4WD options.
Honda Acty
Kei truckHonda's rear/mid-engine kei truck and van — reliable, affordable, and one of the most popular U.S. imports.
Subaru Sambar
Kei truckSubaru's rear-engine kei truck — enthusiast favorite with available supercharger and true 4WD heritage.
Mitsubishi Minicab
Kei truckMitsubishi's durable kei truck and van — solid 4WD options and strong value at auction.
FAQ
Daihatsu Hijet import — common questions
- What is the Hijet Jumbo?
- The Jumbo is a Hijet trim with an extended cab. The longer cabin adds reclining seats and storage space behind the occupants in exchange for a slightly shorter bed — popular with taller drivers and anyone who wants more comfort.
- Is the Daihatsu Hijet fuel-efficient?
- Yes — economy is one of its calling cards. The small 660cc engine and light weight make the Hijet inexpensive to run for property and delivery duty.
- Does the Daihatsu Hijet come in 4WD?
- Yes, selectable 4WD is widely available, and many trims add a differential lock. Confirm the exact drivetrain on the auction sheet before bidding.
- Is a Daihatsu Hijet street-legal in the U.S.?
- Hijet trucks 25+ years old import legally under the FMVSS age exemption. On-road registration depends on your state — see our state import guides.
- Daihatsu Hijet vs Suzuki Carry — which is better?
- Both are excellent. The Carry has the largest supply and parts pool; the Hijet counters with the Jumbo cab and strong economy. Choose based on the specific truck's condition, drivetrain, and price.
Import eligibility and state registration rules change over time and vary by vehicle. Confirm current requirements before purchasing. This page is informational only and not legal advice.
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