Toyota Motor Corporation announced on April 2 that it will begin selling the Tundra pickup truck and the Highlander sport utility vehicle, both manufactured at its plants in the United States, in Japan. The vehicles will be available through Toyota Mobility Tokyo Inc. starting April 2, with nationwide sales planned for this summer.
The move follows a new system introduced after negotiations between Japan and the United States that allows vehicles produced in the U.S. to be sold in Japan without additional country-specific certification testing. According to Toyota, both models have now obtained certification under this system.
The company said that bringing these American-made models to Japanese customers aims to meet diverse consumer needs and strengthen relations between Japan and the United States. Sales of another U.S.-produced model, the Camry, are expected to begin once preparations are complete.
The Tundra is described as a full-size pickup truck featuring a ladder-frame structure for durability and reliability. It includes features such as an aluminum cargo bed, power tailgate, multimedia touchscreen display, leather seats, and is powered by a 3.4-liter Twin-Turbo V6 engine paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission. The Tundra will be produced at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas (TMMTX) with an initial base sales volume set at 80 units per month.
The Highlander is presented as a three-row midsize SUV designed for family use with spacious seating for seven passengers and advanced hybrid technology providing strong performance across various road conditions. It offers amenities such as a panoramic roof and premium sound system. Production will take place at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana (TMMI), targeting monthly base sales of 40 units following national rollout.
Toyota said it continues its efforts to develop innovative products supporting mobility for all while contributing toward sustainable development goals.
