Kei Vans For Sale

Branching off the popularity of the kei class, kei vans can be found all over Japanese roads and in many countries worldwide. Known for their compact size, loading capacity, and fuel economy, Kei vans have become a new favorite in the USA. So is kei van a good choice as the rumor? We'll break down the facts so you can decide whether to choose a kei van.

What Are Kei Vans? 

A kei van or what you can call a microvan is a special category of vehicles in Japan that is within the kei car classification. These kei vans are designed to meet strict regulations related to fuel efficiency and accessibility. 

Similar to kei trucks, kei vans are mostly from Japan and subject to the requirements of the engine and the size, specifically: the engine displacement can't exceed 660cc, and the length, width, and height must be under 3.4 m, 1.48m, and 2m, respectively. Because of their small sizes and unique aesthetics, these kei vans are nicknamed "bread-loaf vehicles" in China. While limited in dimension, microvans still provide surprising cargo capacity and comfort for passengers. 

Smaller than traditional vans, the tiny vans are compact utility vehicles that are purposed for easy maneuvering in tight urban spaces. Far beyond deliveries, the kei vans are popular choices for commercial use, small businesses, and personal uses. With their flexibility and ample space, microvans can be modified into camping vehicles and adventure partners. 

Due to its unique design, having a kei van can be an instant ticket to stand out from the crowd, should you buy this tiny van? Let's move to the next part to find out: 

The Outstanding Features Of Kei Vans

Is a kei van the best option for you? Here are the advantages of owning a kei van:

Unique design

The kei vans are commonly known as "kei one-box" in Japan due to their boxy design. These designs will maximize the interior space within the strict size requirements. Most kei vans are designed with two sliding rear doors, two swinging front doors, and a large tailgate. 

When it comes to the kei van interior, it's surprisingly spacious. Seating can vary from four to nine depending on each model and year; these seats are usually very thin and vertical to optimize space.

Although not advanced technology, kei vans offer the necessary utilities for drivers like AC, power windows, power steering, and superchargers... that are comfortable enough for passengers. Most microvans have the maximum payload from 770 to 1100 lb (350 to 500 kg) so you can make use of these vans to transport a lot of cargo. 

Excellent fuel efficiency 

Like other kei cars, kei vans can achieve impressive fuel efficiency. Fuel economy is unbeatable in town, with most kei vans achieving 50 to 60 mpg in city traffic which can result in significant long-term cost savings. Plus, their smaller engines produce fewer emissions, making them more environmentally friendly. We can see that these micro vans are inching toward the future we need when the gas price is increasing day by day. 

Affordability 

Cost is one of the distinct advantages when buying a kei van. Not only it's generally less expensive to purchase, but the running and ownership costs will far less than when you have a normal van because it has a lightweight and small engine. 

Tax benefits

With restricted size and engine specifications, kei van owners can enjoy lower tax and insurance rates, further reducing the cost of ownership. Specifically, the excise tax is 3% for kei cars instead of 5% for normal vehicles, the weight tax is 30% cheaper, and the insurance cost and the annual road are more than 10% lower. 

Japanese Kei Van Models

Lower expense on fuel, easier maneuvering on crowded streets and parking lots, and more affordable, are these features enough to persuade you to buy a kei van? If you are looking for a kei van for sale, below we will share with you some popular Japanese kei van models you might also like: 

Honda Acty Van 

The Honda Acty van is a series of cabovermicrovans produced by the well-known Japanese automaker Honda from 1977 to 2021. The Acty van is known for its, multi-purpose vehicles, adaptability, and maximum space utilization. Thanks to its fuel-efficient design and engine, the Honda Acty van can achieve up to 45 miles per gallon on the highway, a very impressive number compared to other kei vans. Currently, the Honda Acty van prices will range from $1400 to $1800 depending on model and year. 

Subaru Sambar Van

The Subaru Sambar van is a microvan produced and marketed by Subaru in 1961. What was so great about this kei van? This Subaru kei van is a surprisingly practical van with a spacious interior and larger load capacity for the minimum exterior dimensions. 

The Subaru Sambar van can handle a payload capacity of approximately 350 to 500 kg so it's suitable for personal city transport of small deliveries. Additionally, offering all-wheel drive as standard, the Sambar van also excels in challenging terrains.

Suzuki Every Van

Having a long history since 1961, the Suzuki Every van was first called the Carry until 1982 when it was renamed the Suzuki Every. The Suzuki Every was designed to serve the purpose of carrying goods in urban areas, this is a popular vehicle for the Japanese people. The square van is no bigger than a regular small car but has more space. This van has had quite good sales with 3 million sales since the first generation was introduced to users in Japan in 1964. Blending between practicality and reliability, the Suzuki Every van can be another option for you to consider at very affordable prices from $1900 to $11000. 

In addition to the three models, you can refer to a lot of other Japanese kei vans such as the Mitsubishi Kei Van, Nissan Clipper, or Honda Street Van...

The Popularity of Kei Vans: Beyond Japan

Small in size yet able to perform well and with low fuel consumption, the tiny vans have conquered Japan and spread around the world. As the world is moving towards smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles, the practicality and affordability of Kei vans are attracting attention from international buyers. Kei vans are becoming popular in the US vehicle market, including the Honda Acty Van, Honda Street Van, and Subaru Sambar Van…

However, import regulations and safety standards can pose challenges in bringing Kei vans to other markets. For example, imported kei vans are eligible for street use on most US roads in some states If they are over 25 years old. 

Nevertheless, the growing interest in these tiny vans suggests that their global footprint may expand in the years to come. The process of purchasing and importing this car took several months but it was worth the wait. 

If you have an interest in a used kei van, let's visit carfromjapan.com to choose your van.