Audi A3 Japanese Import Advice

[MotorGirl]

Hi there

I'm looking to upgrade my 2012 Audi A3 and I've heard positive things mainly about Japanese imports.

I would really appreciate any advice on whether or not to think about this - any any recommended places to buy from?

Thanks in advance 

 

[enc]

To another Audi? Intrigued why you would want to do this when there are so many uk cars available ? 

Edited 17 hours ago by enc

[Steve Q]

Japanese imports will be good quality. However, I believe the Wiring and computer systems will be more difficult to navigate if it needs repair. Happy to be proven wrong through. 

[MotorGirl]

10 hours ago, enc said:

To another Audi? Intrigued why you would want to do this when there are so many uk cars available ? 

You can get higher spec cars for less and they're usually in outstanding condition - because the roads are so good.

[Steve Q]

33 minutes ago, MotorGirl said:

You can get higher spec cars for less and they're usually in outstanding condition - because the roads are so good.

It's also because the Japanese MOT is stricter 

[enc]

1 hour ago, MotorGirl said:

You can get higher spec cars for less and they're usually in outstanding condition - because the roads are so good.

Don’t you pay extra on insurance for “grey imports” 

also grey imports are generally less desirable on the used market 

also, I remeber hearing there is littllebor no underbody rust  protection on japanese imports. Not the end of the world I suppose as this could be added here but something to consider. 

all this of course  might have changed in recent years and if you plan on keeping the car a good few years less of an issue I suppose 🤔

[MotorGirl]

Really interesting! Thanks for this info!  I'll bear that in mind - probs best to go for a UK model then!

[RShole]

I've had a few Jap imports in my time MR2 turbo , GT4 etc.  All were in exceptional condition and all had been unersealed on their arrival to a dealer. Never had an issue selling them on either, all parts are available and there was never an issue with things getting lost in translation due to a combination of most parts having English print on them somewhere and Google assistance. Haven't had an import for about 12 years now though. Oh, and they all had a high spec on them especially for the price. And the mileage....super low. The only exception i ever found to euro spec being better was on the twin turbo supra where the UK got full leather and bigger brakes plus about 50bhp extra. If i found a good vehicle imported i would not hesitate if the price was right. I always made sure the car was in the country so i could go inspect it first, i've heard a few horror stories from people who imported their own.