Toyota and Nissan are taking an unusual route in Japan by selling models built for other markets with clear buyer warnings. The Toyota Tundra, Toyota Highlander and Nissan Murano are being brought in from overseas, but the companies are telling customers to expect differences in finish, features and after-sales support.
The warnings do not suggest the cars are unsafe to drive. Instead, they simply remind buyers that these vehicles were built with other markets in mind, not Japan’s usual customer expectations.
US-Built Toyota And Nissan Cars In Japan Come With Quality Warnings
Rather than quietly importing the vehicles, both automakers are openly outlining the compromises that come with selling models originally developed for other markets.
The message gives customers a heads-up about the vehicles that were not originally built around Japan’s usual standards, so customers should know what they are getting before buying.
Nissan gives one of the clearest warnings for the Murano, which is built in Tennessee. The company says the SUV is finished for overseas markets, not Japan. Because of that, buyers may notice small panel gaps, slight misalignment between parts, minor dust in the paint or adhesive marks. Nissan adds that these issues do not affect how the car works or performs.
The Murano will also come in left-hand drive, even though Japan is a right-hand-drive market. It will not support Japanese on the instrument cluster or infotainment system. NissanConnect will not work in Japan, AM/FM radio will be unavailable and the reverse buzzer will not function.
Toyota’s notices follow a similar line. The Tundra, built in Texas, will also arrive in left-hand drive. Toyota says some connected services will not work, while built-in maps, traffic sign recognition and Japanese language support may also be unavailable.
The company also warns that the Tundra’s paint finish was designed for overseas markets. Customers may see thin paint, colour differences, polishing marks, paint bulges or dents on painted surfaces.
Toyota also points out that some Tundra safety and compliance features differ from what Japanese customers may expect, including collision braking, pedestrian protection, external noise performance, smoke-emission prevention devices and front fog lights.
The Highlander, built in Indiana, carries similar finish warnings. Toyota also says some spare parts may need to come from overseas, which could make repairs take longer.
