By Horton Cars — Volvo Import Specialists
Japanese import Volvos have become increasingly popular in the UK over the last decade. They offer low mileage, excellent condition, and high specifications — often far better than their UK supplied equivalents.
As a long established Volvo specialist with years of experience importing and selling JDM Volvos, we’ve put together a complete guide to help you understand the market, the value, and the best way to sell your Japanese import Volvo in the UK.
What Makes Japanese Import Volvos Different?
Japanese import Volvos (often called “JDM Volvos”) are right hand drive vehicles originally sold new in Japan. They’re built to the same high standards as UK models, but they often come with:
- Lower mileage — Japanese drivers typically cover far fewer miles
- Better condition — strict inspection laws encourage regular maintenance
- Higher specifications — Japan often received premium trim levels
- Unique features — such as upgraded interiors or rare colour combinations
This makes them extremely desirable to UK buyers — especially XC90s, XC60s, V70s, and V60s.
Are Japanese Import Volvos Worth More or Less?
This is one of the most common questions we hear.
The truth is:
✔ A well imported, well prepared Japanese Volvo can be worth MORE than a UK car
Because of:
- Lower mileage
- Better condition
- Higher spec
- Rust free underbodies
- Strong demand
✔ Poorly imported or poorly prepared cars can be worth LESS
Because of:
- Incorrect conversions
- Poor mechanical preparation
- Unknown importers
This is why BIMTA verified imports and cars prepared by reputable specialists (like us) hold their value extremely well.
What Affects the Value of a Japanese Import Volvo?
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1. Import Source & Documentation
Cars imported through reputable agents (such as Nichibo) with mileage verification hold the strongest value. -
2. Condition & Mileage
Most JDM Volvos arrive in excellent condition with low mileage — a major selling point. -
3. UK Preparation Work
A properly prepared import should have:- Cambelt replacement
- Gearbox fluid changed
- Full Speedo conversion
- English software updates
This is where many imports fall short — and where specialists like us add real value.
-
4. Model & Specification
Japan received some of the best Volvo specs available. SE Lux, Summum, and Ocean Race trims are especially desirable.
Common Myths About Japanese Import Volvos
-
Myth 1: “Parts are different.”
False.
Volvos built for Japan use the same mechanical components as UK cars. -
Myth 2: “Insurance is difficult.”
False.
Most insurers now recognise Japanese import Volvos. At worst, details need to be entered manually – We use Independent Personal & Commercial Broker – Chris Knott Insurance & Specialist Car Insurance Brokers | Keith Michaels Insurance -
Myth 3: “They’re hard to sell.”
False — if you sell to the right buyer.
Specialists like us actively seek them.
Who Buys Japanese Import Volvos in the UK?
- 1. Volvo Specialists (like Horton Cars)
We understand the specs, the value, and the preparation work.
We buy JDM Volvos every week. - 2. Enthusiasts
Many buyers specifically look for Japanese imports because of their condition. - 3. Export Buyers
Some JDM Volvos are re exported to Europe or Ireland. - 4. General Car Buying Sites
They will buy them — but often undervalue them because their systems don’t understand the spec.
Why Horton Cars Is the Best Place to Buy a Japanese Import Volvo
We’ve imported, prepared, and sold Japanese market Volvos for years.
We understand:
- Japanese service records
- Auction sheets
- Mileage verification
- JDM specifications
- Software conversions
- Common import issues
- Market demand
We buy:
- XC90 Japanese imports
- V40 Cross country Japanese imports
- V60 Cross Country Japanese imports
- V70 Cross Country Japanese imports
- XC70 Japanese imports
- XC60 Japanese imports
- V70/V60/V50 Japanese imports
- Petrol, diesel, and hybrid models
- High mileage or faulty imports
- Cars with missing history