These 2000s-Era Cars Are Finally Legal in the U.S.

If you’re a car lover who has spent years admiring rare 2000-era cars from afar, 2025 brings excellent news. Thanks to the 25-year import rule, some of the most iconic cars from the year 2000 can finally be imported into the United States legally. These are the kinds of cars that never made it to American dealerships—but have been featured in video games, car magazines, and tuning communities across the world.

With advancements in engineering, racing history, and cultural impact, many 2000-era cars were ahead of their time. From high-performance Japanese sports coupes to luxurious sedans that never crossed the Pacific, these cars are now ready to hit American roads. While there are many exciting models to consider, here are three of the most outstanding 2000-era cars you can finally bring to the U.S. in 2025.

What Is the 25-Year Import Rule?

The 25-year import rule is a federal regulation from the U.S. Department of Transportation. It allows individuals to legally import foreign-market cars that are at least 25 years old, even if those vehicles do not meet U.S. safety or emissions standards. In simple terms, if a car was built in the year 2000 or earlier, it becomes eligible for importation in 2025.

This rule has made it possible for American enthusiasts to drive rare vehicles that were once only available in Japan, Europe, or other markets. These cars can be brought into the country, registered, and legally driven on public roads.

You can find more information about how this process works on the official NHTSA import guide.

1. Nissan Silvia S15 (Japan)

The Nissan Silvia S15 is one of the most beloved cars in the JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) community. It was never officially sold in the U.S., which made it a dream car for many enthusiasts who saw it in drifting competitions, car shows, and video games like Gran Turismo and Need for Speed.

The 2000 model comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged SR20DET engine, producing around 250 horsepower, paired with a manual transmission. It features rear-wheel drive, a lightweight chassis, and a sleek, aggressive body design that still looks sharp today. Its handling, power delivery, and tuning potential made it a favorite among racers and modifiers.

Now that the S15 has crossed the 25-year threshold, it’s finally available for legal import into the U.S. This means you can finally own a piece of automotive history that delivers performance, style, and massive collector appeal.

2. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition

If you love rally cars, you’ll instantly recognize the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition. It’s named after the Finnish rally driver Tommi Mäkinen, who won four consecutive WRC titles. Built as a tribute to his achievements, the 2000 Evo VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition (often called “TME”) features unique upgrades that make it one of the most desirable Evo models ever made.

This special edition includes quicker steering, improved suspension for better grip, a lighter titanium turbocharger, and a revised front bumper for improved aerodynamics. It also stands out visually, with its signature red paint, white rally wheels, and exclusive Recaro seats embroidered with Mäkinen’s name.

Under the hood, it’s powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine producing 276 horsepower, mated to a five-speed manual transmission with all-wheel drive. It was a road-legal rally machine that could conquer any surface.

Now in 2025, the TME is finally legal for import into the U.S., offering driving thrills for fans who’ve waited decades to get behind its wheel. It’s more than just a car—it’s a piece of motorsport heritage.

3. Toyota Crown Athlete V

When people think of Toyota, they often imagine practical sedans or reliable family cars. But in Japan, Toyota’s lineup also included high-performance luxury sedans like the Toyota Crown Athlete V. In the year 2000, this car was one of the most refined, powerful, and luxurious sedans available in the Japanese market.

The Athlete V version came with the famous 1JZ-GTE 2.5-liter twin-turbo inline-six engine, capable of producing around 280 horsepower. It was rear-wheel drive and offered a smooth yet sporty driving experience. With advanced features like electronic suspension, automatic climate control, and plush leather interiors, the Crown Athlete V offered comfort and performance in one elegant package.

This car was never available outside Japan, which makes it a rare find for collectors and enthusiasts in the U.S. It’s the perfect blend of subtlety and strength—a true sleeper that can keep up with European luxury sedans while flying under the radar.

As of 2025, the Crown Athlete V meets the 25-year rule and can be legally imported into the U.S. It’s ideal for drivers who want something classy, quick, and unique.

What You Need to Know Before Importing

Importing a car isn’t as simple as buying it and shipping it over. You need to follow a few steps to make sure the process goes smoothly. These include:

• Verifying the vehicle is at least 25 years old
• Working with a reliable importer or broker
• Handling customs, shipping, and compliance paperwork
• Paying applicable taxes, duties, and fees
• Converting or modifying any necessary components (such as lighting or speedometers)
• Registering the vehicle with your state’s DMV

If you’re serious about importing, start with trusted resources. The NHTSA website provides a great guide to help you navigate legal requirements and avoid costly mistakes.

Final Thoughts

The year 2025 marks a major milestone for car enthusiasts. With the 25-year import law catching up to the millennium, legendary vehicles from the year 2000 are now legal to bring into the U.S. From the agile and stylish Nissan Silvia S15 to the rally-bred Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition, and the luxurious yet powerful Toyota Crown Athlete V, these cars offer more than just performance—they offer history, uniqueness, and nostalgia.

Whether you’re a collector, tuner, racer, or simply someone who appreciates the golden age of car engineering, now is the perfect time to explore your options. These three models are only the beginning of what’s becoming available. Start your research, choose wisely, and get ready to welcome something truly special to your garage.

Let the imports begin.

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