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13 Underrated JDM Cars That Deserve More Love

Image Credit: Car & Bids.
Madison Clark

Madison Clark

When it comes to JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) cars, there are plenty of iconic models that grab all the attention. Yet, nestled in the shadows of these legends are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Exploring these underrated JDM cars can open up a world of unique styling, performance, and value that you might not have considered before.

Many enthusiasts often overlook these vehicles, yet they offer exceptional driving experiences and a distinct character. From quirky designs to impressive engineering, there’s something for every car lover to appreciate. So, if you’re ready to dive into the lesser-known side of the JDM scene, you’re in for a treat.

Isuzu VehiCROSS

Image Credit: Car & Bids.

The Isuzu VehiCROSS, produced from 1997 to 2001, is a unique SUV that stands out with its distinctive design. It features a muscular stance and a rugged appearance that appeals to those who crave character in their vehicles.

Under the hood, the VehiCROSS is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, offering around 190 horsepower. Its all-wheel drive system enhances off-road capabilities, making it a fun choice for adventurous drivers.

With only about 5,000 units made for North America, this SUV is relatively rare today. If you’re into something different, the Isuzu VehiCROSS definitely deserves more love in the JDM scene. You can learn more about its quirks at Hagerty.

Suzuki Cappuccino

Bright red Suzuki convertible sports car parked on a street. Features rounded headlights, smooth curved body, and red side mirrors. License plate K6A XD visible. Stone wall and other vehicles partially visible in background
Image Credit:Vauxford – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

The Suzuki Cappuccino is a unique little gem in the JDM world. With a mid-engine, RWD layout and a weight of just around 1,500 lbs, it’s surprisingly fun to drive.

This two-seater sports car features a turbocharged 660cc engine, pushing out about 63 hp. While that might not sound like a lot, the lightweight design gives it a zippy performance that’s hard to beat.

Its compact size makes it perfect for tight corners and winding roads. Plus, the removable hardtop lets you enjoy open-air driving when you want to feel the breeze. If you’re looking for something different, the Cappuccino is definitely worth considering.

Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution

Silver Mitsubishi Pajero SUV parked on a blue-tinted background. Compact design with rugged front grille, headlights, and alloy wheels. Sturdy off-road vehicle profile with a checked blue mark in the corner
Image Credit: Mitsubishi.

The Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution is a unique SUV that made waves in the 1990s. It was designed specifically for off-road racing, showing off a blend of ruggedness and performance.

With a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine, it produced around 280 horsepower. The Pajero Evolution was built to tackle challenging terrains and even competed in the famous Dakar Rally.

Its aggressive styling and lightweight frame set it apart from typical SUVs. If you’re looking for a JDM vehicle that combines practicality and speed, this one deserves your attention.

Nissan 240SX

Bright red sports car with black-topped roof, parked on green grass near stone landscaping. Sleek 1990s design featuring smooth curves, tinted windows, and silver wheel covers. Landscaped garden backdrop with shrubs and stone wall
Image Credit:The pun stops here – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

The Nissan 240SX is a classic choice for drift enthusiasts and sports car fans alike. Produced from 1989 to 1998, this car features rear-wheel drive and a lightweight chassis, making it perfect for handling.

You’ll find both the S13 and S14 variants popular among tuners. The S13 comes with a 2.4L engine that delivers around 155 horsepower. Meanwhile, the S14 offers improved suspension and more refined styling.

Mods and aftermarket support for the 240SX are extensive. With a little effort, you can transform this underrated ride into a performance machine that turns heads on the street. It’s truly a hidden gem in the JDM world.

Toyota MR2 W10

A red Toyota MR2 W10 with a targa top drives through a town. The car has a wedge-shaped design, side vents, and a rear spoiler. A man with dreadlocks is driving, while blurred cars, buildings, and traffic signs fill the background
Image Credit:Motacilla – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

The Toyota MR2 W10, produced from 1984 to 1989, is a charming little sports car. It features a mid-engine layout, which gives it brilliant handling. Weighing around 2,200 pounds, it remains agile and fun to drive.

Equipped with a 1.6-liter inline-four engine, it produces about 112 horsepower. You’ll appreciate its quick response and light chassis on winding roads. Plus, the t-top roof option adds a fun open-air experience.

This car often flies under the radar, making it a unique choice in the JDM scene. If you’re into lightweight, responsive vehicles, the MR2 W10 deserves your attention. Don’t overlook this gem; it’s a blast to drive and offers a different take on classic sports cars.

Subaru SVX

A green Subaru SVX is parked on a street, showing its rear end with a spoiler, dual exhausts, and distinctive taillights. The car has a European license plate, black aftermarket wheels, and is surrounded by fallen leaves, other vehicles, and overgrown bushes
Image Credit:Alexander Migl – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

The Subaru SVX, produced from 1991 to 1996, stands out with its unique design and quirky features. With a distinctive wedge shape, it turns heads wherever you go.

This grand tourer packs a punch with a 3.3-liter flat-six engine, generating around 230 horsepower. It also features an all-wheel-drive system, providing excellent handling.

Inside, the SVX offers a comfortable cabin with leather seating and an impressive sound system for its time. If you’re looking for a blend of style and performance, the SVX deserves your attention. Explore more about this underrated gem here.

Mitsubishi GTO

A silver Mitsubishi GTO is parked on a city street in front of an ornate wooden door and a brick building. The car features a rear spoiler, quad exhaust tips, and a sleek, aerodynamic design, reflecting the surrounding architecture in its glossy paint
Image Credit:Matti Blume – CC BY SA/Wiki Commons.

The Mitsubishi GTO is a gem that often flies under the radar. Introduced in the early ’90s, it combined style and performance, making it a standout JDM sports car.

Under the hood, you could find a potent twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing around 300 horsepower. It offered impressive acceleration, going from 0 to 60 mph in just about 5.5 seconds.

With features like all-wheel drive and active aerodynamics, driving the GTO feels modern even by today’s standards. You’ll appreciate its sleek design and the nostalgia it brings, making it a worthy addition to any car enthusiast’s collection.

Nissan Gloria

A dusty silver Nissan Gloria sedan with a Bahrain license plate is parked on a gravel surface. The car has round headlights, a mesh grille, and visible wear on the bumper. Other vehicles, including a black Hummer, are parked nearby under a shaded area
Image Credit:Mohammed Hamad – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

The Nissan Gloria is a stylish sedan that often flies under the radar. Known for its elegant design, it offers a comfortable ride with plenty of features.

Prices for the Nissan Gloria typically start around $6,000, making it a budget-friendly option for enthusiasts. It offers a mix of performance and luxury, which is hard to beat at this price point.

If you’re looking for a car that balances sophistication with a bit of sportiness, the Gloria is worth considering. It’s not just a car; it’s a hidden gem in the world of JDM vehicles.

Infiniti M45

Silver Infiniti M-series sedan parked on a cracked asphalt surface, situated next to a weathered wooden fence with green foliage in the background. The car is shown from a three-quarter rear view
Image Credit:Mr.choppers – CC BY-SA 3.0/Wiki Commons.

The Infiniti M45 is often overlooked in the JDM scene. With a V8 engine producing 340 horsepower, it delivers a powerful ride that’s hard to ignore.

This car features a smooth 5-speed automatic transmission, providing a comfortable driving experience.

Its luxury interiors and advanced tech make it a nice blend of performance and comfort.

Despite its potential, the M45 remains relatively affordable, often available for under $10,000. You can enjoy the perks of a high-performance car without breaking the bank.

Toyota Celica SS III

White Toyota Celica with distinctive round headlights parked in a parking lot, surrounded by other vehicles. Front view shows clean lines, sporty bumper, and aftermarket styling elements
Image Credit: Toyotacoronaexsaloon – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

The Toyota Celica SS III, produced from 1995 to 1999, is a gem in the JDM world. Weighing just 2,668 lbs (1,210 kg), it’s lighter than many modern cars, which keeps it nimble and fun to drive.

Under the hood, you get a reliable 2.2L inline-four engine, offering around 135 horsepower. It’s not the most powerful ride, but the driving experience more than makes up for it.

With its distinct design that includes pop-up headlights, this Celica definitely stands out. If you’re looking for a sporty yet underrated car, the Celica SS III deserves your attention. Check out more about it here.

Nissan 180SX

Silver Nissan 300ZX sports car parked in a parking area with gray wall background. Sleek two-door coupe with pop-up headlights, distinctive front bumper, and mesh-style alloy wheels
Image Credit:By Tokumeigakarinoaoshima – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

The Nissan 180SX is a true gem in the JDM scene. Known for its sleek design, this sports coupe features a rear-wheel-drive layout, making it perfect for drifting enthusiasts.

Under the hood, you’ll typically find the SR20DET engine, which delivers around 205 horsepower. This turbocharged inline-four is popular for modifications, giving you plenty of power to work with.

With its lightweight chassis and balanced handling, the 180SX offers an engaging driving experience. It’s no surprise that many car enthusiasts seek this model for both road and track use.

Finding a well-maintained 180SX is becoming more challenging, so if you come across one, it’s worth a closer look.

Toyota Soarer

Black Toyota Crown or Toyota Crown Royal Saloon parked in a parking lot with "Trust" decal, featuring chrome wheels, against a backdrop of grass, trees, and office buildings
Image Credit:Jacob Frey 4A – CC BY 2.0/Wiki Commons.

The Toyota Soarer is a hidden gem in the JDM world. With its sleek design and available turbocharged 1JZ engine, it offers a thrilling driving experience.

You can choose between a manual transmission or the powerful 4.0-liter 1UZ V8, depending on your preference.

This car combines luxury and performance, making it a fantastic option for enthusiasts. It’s often overlooked, but once you drive it, you’ll understand why it’s worth more love.

Mazda Eunos Cosmo

Black Mazda 626 coupe parked in front of a white garage door, with California license plate. Sits on clean alloy wheels with snow and dirt surrounding the parking area
Image Credit:dave_7 – CC BY 2.0/Wiki Common.

The Mazda Eunos Cosmo is a hidden gem in the JDM scene. Produced from 1990 to 1996, it showcases Mazda’s innovative rotary engine technology.

With a powerful 13B REW engine, it delivers around 250 horsepower, offering impressive performance for its time.

This model is known for its luxurious features and unique styling, including an elegant coupe design. You might find it comes with a full leather interior and high-tech options for the era.

While it might not have the mainstream recognition of other JDM icons, the Eunos Cosmo deserves a spot in your collection for its rarity and style.

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