TOKYO, March 6 — Honda has confirmed plans to begin selling the Acura Integra Type S and the Honda Passport TrailSport Elite in Japan during the second half of 2026, expanding the availability of vehicles originally developed for the North American market.
The two models will be imported from the United States using a simplified vehicle certification system introduced by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT). The initiative allows US-built vehicles to be sold more easily in Japan, enabling manufacturers to bring overseas models into the domestic market.
Honda said the move is intended to accommodate the diverse preferences of Japanese consumers who are increasingly interested in global models that were previously unavailable in the country.
Reverse Import From US Manufacturing Plants
Both vehicles are produced at Honda’s manufacturing facilities in the United States, specifically at Honda Development & Manufacturing of America plants located in Ohio and Alabama.
The company first previewed the models for the Japanese public during the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 in January and later at the Osaka Auto Messe 2026 in February. Honda reported strong interest from visitors at both events, which helped confirm the company’s decision to introduce the models to Japan.
Performance-Focused Acura Integra Type S
The Acura Integra Type S is the performance flagship of the Integra lineup and first debuted in the United States in 2023. The sport compact is powered by a 2.0-litre VTEC turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 320 horsepower and 420 Nm of torque.
The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission and a helical limited-slip differential, sending power to the front wheels. The drivetrain is closely related to the performance setup used in the Honda Civic Type R, making it one of the most powerful front-wheel-drive performance cars in Honda’s lineup.
The Integra range also includes a lower-powered variant using a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine producing 200 horsepower, paired with either a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a manual gearbox.
Honda Passport TrailSport Elite SUV
The second model scheduled for the Japanese launch is the Honda Passport TrailSport Elite, a rugged midsize SUV designed primarily for the North American market.
The five-seat SUV is larger than the Honda CR‑V and is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine delivering 285 horsepower and 355 Nm of torque.
The SUV features a 10-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring, giving it enhanced traction for off-road driving. The TrailSport Elite variant also includes 31-inch off-road tyres and 18-inch wheels, designed to improve durability and performance on rough terrain.
Expanding Honda’s Global Strategy
Honda’s decision to introduce US-built vehicles in Japan reflects a broader strategy of offering a wider variety of models across different markets. The reverse-import approach allows the automaker to respond quickly to consumer demand without needing to establish new domestic production lines.
Industry observers say the launch could strengthen Honda’s brand appeal among enthusiasts in Japan who are interested in performance vehicles and larger SUVs that have traditionally been more popular in North America.
With strong interest already shown at major automotive events, the company expects the arrival of these models to attract both performance car fans and SUV buyers looking for unique offerings in the Japanese market.
