We’ve grown to love Honda cars, thanks to the carmaker’s reputation for reliable, efficient, and innovative models, but some of its most interesting creations never gained widespread attention in the U.S. From iconic Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) gems to unique trims that vanished from the mainstream, each of these vehicles tells a fascinating story.
They’ve stayed under the radar for all sorts of reasons, but true Honda fans are determined to track down these hidden treasures. Here’s what they are looking for.
Honda Beat
Released only in Japan to meet the kei car craze of the early 1990s, the Beat was a sporty alternative to practical compact cars. The quirky design and high-revving 660cc engine of this little roadster supply plenty of fun for enthusiasts craving something different. Collectors prize the Beat for its retro charm and limited availability outside Japan.
Honda S660
Like the Beat, the S660 was never officially sold in the U.S. It debuted in 2015, bringing modern flair to the kei sports car segment. Sharp styling and a turbocharged 660cc engine rekindled the spirit of the Beat for a new generation. Its futuristic design and limited production run solidified its status as a collectible.
Honda Prelude SiR
Honda’s Prelude was a popular car in America, so it remains a puzzle why the parent company didn’t release the incredible SiR model Stateside. This special trim featured the H22A engine, which delivered over 200 horsepower – an impressive feat for its time. The SiR’s sleek coupe styling and refined handling made it a standout in Japan, making it an elusive find stateside.
Honda CR-X Del Sol SiR
Here’s another impressive performance car that Honda only released in Japan. The CR-X Del Sol SiR stood out as a stylish sports car. Equipped with a high-revving B16A engine featuring VTEC, it also boasted better suspension and more aggressive performance tuning. The SiR remains a prized find among U.S. enthusiasts due to its rarity and spirited driving dynamics.
Honda Integra Type R (DC2)
This model was sold in America, but the car bearing the same name in the Japanese domestic market (JDM) delivered more horsepower from its hand-built B18C engine, plus exclusive features like thinner glass and seam-welded chassis. Hunting down an authentic JDM Integra Type R is a badge of honor for Honda fans who appreciate the car’s unmatched driving precision.
Honda Civic Type R (EK9)
The U.S. never officially received the EK9 Civic Type R, so importing one has become a dream for die-hard enthusiasts. It was Honda’s first foray into the Type R badge for its legendary Civic lineup. Exclusively sold in Japan, this hot hatch combines lightweight construction, a B16B engine, and track-focused suspension for an exhilarating drive.
Honda City Turbo II
The quirky Honda City Turbo II, nicknamed “The Bulldog,” was a quirky 1980s model that only sold in small numbers in the U.S. With boxy styling and a turbocharged engine, it was ahead of its time. It offered impressive performance for its size and even came with a folding scooter (the Motocompo) that fitted in the trunk. It’s a rare gem that resonates with fans who love Honda’s playful side.
Honda Ballade Sports CR-X
Aerodynamic design and lively engines made the Ballade Sports CR-X a popular forerunner of the beloved CR-X series. However, unlike the latter, it wasn’t sold in America. This JDM version combined efficiency with sporty handling, making it a hit with young drivers. It remains a hard-to-find relic of Honda’s early innovation.
Honda Civic Mugen RR
The Civic Mugen RR is a genuine rarity: only 300 were sold – and all in Japan. It’s a shame because the Mugen RR took performance to the next level with upgrades like a tuned K20A engine producing 240 horsepower, enhanced aerodynamics, and lightweight components that turned the Civic into a track-ready beast. Finding a genuine Mugen RR in the U.S. is almost impossible.
Honda S2000 CR
The CR in its name stands for “Club Racer,” so it’s no surprise that this model is a track-focused variant of Honda’s popular S2000 roadster. It featured a stiffer suspension, reduced weight, and aerodynamic enhancements for better performance. It was available in the U.S., but only in extremely limited numbers.
Honda NSX-R
It remains a mystery why Honda’s iconic race-inspired supercar was only available in Japan. Honda poured a huge amount of engineering expertise into the NSX-R, which redefined supercar performance. This lightweight, race-inspired version of the NSX focused on precision handling and responsiveness.
All luxuries were stripped away to save weight, while its tuned suspension and aerodynamic tweaks made it a joy to drive. It’s a crying shame it wasn’t available over here: its rarity and racing heritage make it a bucket-list car for enthusiasts.
Honda Jazz Hybrid RS
Plug-in hybrids sound very green and worthy, but many carmakers use the electric boost to add a sporty. That’s what Honda did with the Jazz Hybrid RS, which combined eco-friendliness with a sporty twist. The hatchback hybrid has sharper suspension and unique styling cues, adding a sense of fun and making it a standout in its category.
Rare in the U.S., the Jazz Hybrid RS is a hidden gem for fans who want something both green and exciting.
Honda Element SC
Limited production of the Element SC makes this urban take on the SUV a rarity. The stylish SC featured a lower stance, sport-tuned suspension, and sleek design elements. Its spacious interior and quirky boxy shape appealed to a niche audience, which has made it a collector’s item.