Which Hondas are made in Japan?
Honda is a globally recognized automobile manufacturer, known for its reliability and innovation. While Honda has manufacturing plants worldwide, many car enthusiasts and buyers often wonder which Honda models are still made in Japan. This article explores the topic in detail, helping you identify the Japanese-made Hondas and understand why this matters to some buyers.
Why Does It Matter Where a Honda Is Made?
The country of origin for a vehicle can influence its perceived quality, craftsmanship, and even resale value. Japanese-made Hondas are often associated with meticulous attention to detail and high manufacturing standards. For some buyers, owning a car made in Japan adds a layer of prestige and confidence in the vehicle's durability.
How to Identify a Honda Made in Japan
Before diving into specific models, it's important to know how to identify whether a Honda was manufactured in Japan. Here are some tips:
- Check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): If the VIN starts with the letter "J," the car was manufactured in Japan.
- Inspect the Manufacturer's Label: This label, usually found on the driver's side door frame, will indicate the country of manufacture.
Current Honda Models Made in Japan
As of recent years, Honda has shifted much of its production to other countries, including the United States, Canada, and Thailand. However, some models are still manufactured in Japan. These include:
- Honda Fit (Jazz in some markets): The Honda Fit is a compact hatchback that continues to be produced in Japan for certain markets.
- Honda S660: This sporty kei car is exclusively manufactured in Japan and is a popular choice among enthusiasts.
- Honda NSX (Acura NSX in some regions): While the NSX is assembled in the United States, certain components are sourced from Japan.
- Honda Stepwgn: A minivan primarily sold in Japan and select Asian markets.
- Honda N-Series: This includes models like the N-Box, which are part of Honda's kei car lineup and are exclusively made in Japan.
Why Are Some Hondas Still Made in Japan?
Honda continues to manufacture certain models in Japan due to the following reasons:
- Domestic Market Demand: Some models, like kei cars, are designed specifically for the Japanese market.
- Specialized Manufacturing: High-performance or niche models, such as the S660, require specialized production facilities.
- Export to Specific Markets: Certain regions prefer Japanese-made vehicles due to their reputation for quality.
Conclusion
While many Honda models are now produced outside of Japan, several iconic and specialized vehicles are still made in the country. By checking the VIN or manufacturer's label, you can confirm the origin of your Honda. Whether you're a car enthusiast or simply value Japanese craftsmanship, knowing which Hondas are made in Japan can help you make an informed purchase decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are any Hondas made in the USA?
USA-Made Honda Vehicles
While this brand is based in Japan, you can locate a number of manufacturing facilities in a variety of states throughout the country such as Ohio, Alabama, and Indiana as of 2022! If you've got your eye on the Accord, Accord Hybrid, or CR-V, you'll be intrigued to know that they hail from Ohio.
Are any Honda cars made in China?
The plant solely produced vehicles for international exports, while vehicles for domestic market supply are manufactured by 50-50 joint ventures Dongfeng Honda and Guangqi Honda. Honda Automobile (China) Co., Ltd.
Is the Honda Accord made in Japan?
Debuted on 22 September 1981, in Japan, Europe, and North America, this generation of the Accord being produced in Japan, also became the first to be built in the United States, at Honda's plant in Marysville, Ohio.
What new Hondas are made in Japan?
American market Hybrid models, such as the Civic Hybrid, Insight and FCX Clarity, are produced in Japan. All of these models as well as the Honda Fit line are produced at the Honda production facility in Suzuka, Mie, Japan with exception of the FCX Clarity, which is produced solely in Takanezawa, Japan.
What is the best year of Honda CR-V to buy?
Which model years of the Honda CR-V are best? If you are looking to get a used Honda CR-V, anything made in the last five years will get you a certified used Honda model. We recommend 2020, 2021, or 2022, but other years since 2017 are also extremely good.
Which American Hondas are made in Japan?
American market Hybrid models, such as the Civic Hybrid, Insight and FCX Clarity, are produced in Japan. All of these models as well as the Honda Fit line are produced at the Honda production facility in Suzuka, Mie, Japan with exception of the FCX Clarity, which is produced solely in Takanezawa, Japan.
Are any Honda CRVs made in Japan?
Honda began producing the CR-V in Sayama, Japan, and Swindon, United Kingdom, for worldwide markets, adding North American manufacturing sites in East Liberty, Ohio, United States, in 2007; El Salto, Jalisco, Mexico, in late 2007 (ended in early 2017); Alliston, Ontario, Canada, in 2012; and Greensburg, Indiana, United ...
How do I know if my car is Japan built?
Vehicles with VINs that start with "J" were produced in Japan.
Is the Honda CR-V made in the USA?
Where is the Honda CR-V Made? As a very popular SUV in the U.S market, the Honda CR-V is produced close to home! This fan favorite is built in Greensburg, Indiana. Along with the agile handling and stunning good looks this model offers, its homegrown roots are certainly a perk!
How to tell if a Honda is made in Japan?
TL,DR; VIN number on Japanese built cars begins with 'J', most NA market cars built in Mexico with a '3' as first character of VIN. Note: the VIN on my Fit in Canada starts with 'L', it was built in China.
