New-shape Defenders were sold in Japan in right-hand drive with the same D300 diesel and P300/P400 petrol engines as UK cars. Importing one can make sense when Japanese prices are well below UK prices. But because most are under 10 years old, the UK paperwork is more involved than for older imports.
Approval: the main hurdle
UK personal imports under 10 years old need approval before registration, usually IVA (Individual Vehicle Approval) or a mutual-recognition route using manufacturer documents. For a Defender that typically means:
- a Certificate of Conformity or Land Rover confirmation of the spec,
- an mph speedometer and UK-compliant lighting,
- an IVA test booking with the DVSA.
Budget for this when comparing prices. A UK-registered Defender may be simpler if the price gap is small.
Classic Defenders
Classic Defenders more than 10 years old skip IVA and need only an MOT and DVLA registration. They're a simple import.
Duty and VAT
Import duty and VAT are charged on the car plus freight (CIF). On an expensive vehicle this is the largest cost, so work it out before buying.
What to check
- Air suspension and all driver-assist systems.
- Software and recall status. Land Rover UK dealers can check the VIN.
- Japanese infotainment language: usually switchable, but confirm.
Price
The table below shows how many Defenders we have and the delivered price to the UK, from live stock and freight.
Model guide: Land Rover Defender from Japan. UK page: Japanese cars in the UK. WhatsApp us.