Honda to Sell U.S.-Made Passport Trailsport Elite and Integra Type S Online in Japan

Honda Motor Co Ltd will introduce selected U.S.-manufactured passenger vehicles in Japan through an online-only sales approach during the second half of 2026. The initiative includes the Passport Trailsport Elite large SUV and the Acura Integra Type S sports model. Both vehicles will be brought to the Japanese market by utilizing the passenger vehicle certification system administered by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) for U.S.-made automobiles. The planned introduction volume remains limited, with total sales of both models expected to be around 400 units.

The online-only strategy is designed to improve operational efficiency by reducing dealership inventory requirements and lowering overall management costs. Customers will complete purchases through Honda ON, the company's online sales platform, while the existing dealer network will continue supporting buyers after the sale. Dealers will remain responsible for vehicle delivery, scheduled inspections, maintenance work, and repair services, allowing Honda to maintain customer support without requiring traditional showroom-based retail sales for these imported models.

To support servicing of U.S.-produced vehicles, dealerships are expected to satisfy additional operational requirements. One likely condition is the availability of a Cars Technical Center (CTC), enabling advanced maintenance capabilities for these imported models. This approach allows Honda to combine centralized online sales with specialized after-sales support, ensuring customers receive technical service through qualified facilities while keeping the overall retail structure more efficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Honda selling these U.S.-made vehicles only online in Japan?
Honda plans to sell the Passport Trailsport Elite and Acura Integra Type S exclusively through its Honda ON platform to reduce dealership inventory burdens and operating costs. Although sales will take place online, customers will continue receiving support from Honda's existing dealer network for vehicle delivery, inspections, maintenance, and repairs. This hybrid retail model combines digital purchasing with established after-sales service infrastructure while supporting the launch of a limited number of imported vehicles.