Honda CR-X Import Guide: 2026 USA Cost Breakdown
A lightweight, efficient sport compact that remains a tuning and driving favorite decades later.
A Honda CR-X costs about $16,930 all-in to import on the Japan → USA route in 2026 — a $10,000 purchase plus roughly $6,930 in shipping, 2.5% duty, compliance and registration.
- Route
- Japan → USA
- Est. all-in cost
- ~$16,930
- Duty & tax
- 2.5% duty
- On a purchase of
- $10,000
The Honda CR-X is a small, light front-drive coupe known for its efficiency and nimble handling.
Japanese-market versions, including high-revving VTEC variants, are now importable and well regarded.
How much does it cost to import a Honda CR-X?
Every line below is a researched 2026 estimate in USD. We start from the $10,000 purchase price, add marine insurance at about 1.5% and ocean freight, then 2.5% US duty on the declared value, and the broker, compliance and registration fees. Change the purchase price and everything else scales only modestly.
| Vehicle (purchase price) | $10,000 |
| Export agent & auction fees | $1,200 |
| Ocean freight | $2,700 |
| Marine insurance (~1.5%) | $150 |
| The standard US passenger-car import duty is 2.5% of declared value | $250 |
| Customs broker & port handling | $830 |
| EPA / DOT entry & compliance paperwork | $300 |
| Inland transport & registration | $1,500 |
| Estimated all-in landed cost | $16,930 |
Into USA the duty is light, just $250, so tax is the small part of the bill. It is shipping (about $2,700), compliance and registration that make up most of the roughly $6,930 you add on top of the $10,000 purchase price — around 69% before you turn a wheel.
How to import a Honda CR-X, step by step
- Agree the purchase and secure the title/export paperwork in Japan (an export agent or auction house usually handles de-registration).
- Book ocean freight — roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) is cheapest, a sole-use container is safest for a high-value car.
- Confirm eligibility from the build month — the US 25-year DOT exemption is calculated month by month, not by model year.
- Clear US customs and pay the 2.5% duty, then file EPA Form 3520-1 and DOT Form HS-7 at entry.
- Arrange inland transport, then title and register in your state — a few states add emissions or kei-vehicle checks.
Is a Honda CR-X legal to import? Rules & compliance
CR-X cars are well past 25 years old and qualify for both the DOT and EPA exemptions. Given their age, inspect for rust and originality carefully before importing.
Frequently asked questions
What makes the CR-X appealing?+
Its low weight and efficient engines make it both fun to drive and economical to run.
Are Japanese CR-X variants different?+
Some Japanese versions offered higher-performance VTEC engines not available in all markets.
What is the total estimated cost to import a Honda CR-X?+
About $16,930 all-in for a $10,000 example — the purchase price plus roughly $6,930 in freight, insurance, duty, compliance and registration. Your figure shifts with the exact price, route and exchange rate.
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