Forbidden Rides: Cars Banned in the U.S.

Ever wonder which cars you can’t drive in the land of the free? Here’s a list of vehicles banned in the U.S. for various reasons, from safety concerns to environmental regulations. Buckle up, because some of these might surprise you.

1. Nissan Skyline GT-R R34

The legendary Nissan Skyline GT-R R34, famous for its performance and appearances in the “Fast & Furious” series, is banned due to its failure to meet U.S. safety and emissions standards. Importing one can result in hefty fines and even seizure.

2. Toyota Hilux

The Toyota Hilux, known for its durability and popularity in many parts of the world, is banned due to stringent U.S. safety regulations. Despite its reputation as an indestructible workhorse, it doesn’t meet American crash test standards.

3. Alfa Romeo 8C Spider Roadster

The Alfa Romeo 8C Spider Roadster is a beautiful Italian sports car that was never certified for sale in the U.S. Due to emissions and safety standards, owning one in the U.S. is a dream that remains unfulfilled for many enthusiasts.

4. Morgan Le Mans ’62 Prototype

The Morgan Le Mans ’62 Prototype, a rare and classic British sports car, is banned primarily due to its inability to meet modern safety regulations. Its vintage design simply doesn’t align with current standards.

5. Land Rover Defender 90 and 110

The Land Rover Defender, despite its rugged appeal and off-road prowess, was banned from the U.S. market in 1997 due to not meeting safety requirements. Newer models have been re-engineered for compliance, but the classic versions remain forbidden.

6. Koenigsegg Jesko

The Koenigsegg Jesko, a hypercar with jaw-dropping speed and performance, is banned because it does not comply with U.S. emissions regulations. Its extreme engineering is too much for current environmental standards.

7. Porsche 959

Despite its legendary status and groundbreaking technology, the Porsche 959 was never officially sold in the U.S. due to emissions and crash regulations. Only a few exist in the U.S. under the “Show and Display” exemption, and they cannot be driven extensively.

8. TVR Sagaris

The TVR Sagaris, a British sports car known for its wild design and raw performance, is banned due to not meeting U.S. safety and emissions standards. TVR’s refusal to include airbags is one of the key reasons for its ban.

9. Lotus Elise Series 1

The original Lotus Elise Series 1 is banned because it does not meet U.S. crash safety standards. Despite its lightweight design and exceptional handling, it’s considered too unsafe for American roads.

10. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI, beloved by rally enthusiasts, is banned due to failing to meet U.S. emissions and safety standards. Its successor models were re-engineered for compliance, but the Evo VI remains off-limits.

11. Smart Crossblade

The Smart Crossblade, an unconventional open-roof city car, is banned in the U.S. primarily due to safety concerns. Its lack of a windshield and proper doors make it unsuitable for American regulations.

12. Aston Martin Virage

The Aston Martin Virage, a luxurious British grand tourer, is banned due to not meeting emissions standards. Its limited production and niche market appeal kept it from being re-engineered for U.S. compliance.

13. Renault Clio V6

The Renault Clio V6, a mid-engine hot hatch, is banned because it does not meet U.S. safety and emissions standards. Its unique design and performance make it a forbidden gem.

14. Peugeot 205 GTI

The Peugeot 205 GTI, often hailed as one of the best hot hatches ever, is banned due to not meeting emissions and safety regulations. Its absence from the U.S. market is a disappointment for many car enthusiasts.

15. Citroën SM

The Citroën SM, a French luxury coupe with innovative technology, is banned due to not meeting U.S. emissions standards. Its complex design and unique engineering made compliance difficult.

The Forbidden Dreams

These banned cars represent a mix of innovation, performance, and style that, for various reasons, didn’t make it to the U.S. market. While they remain out of reach for most American drivers, their allure continues to captivate car enthusiasts.

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The post Forbidden Rides: Cars Banned in the U.S.  first appeared on Mechanic Insider.

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For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.