The Appeal of Kei Trucks
Tiny trucks and minivans from Japan, known as kei-class vehicles, are finding a niche among US buyers seeking a practical and affordable alternative to oversized pickups. These compact vehicles, originally designed for the Japanese market, offer a solution for urban environments where larger trucks can be cumbersome.
Aficionados of kei cars and trucks laud the usefulness of these smaller-sized work vehicles, which are being imported from Japan in larger numbers. Photo: Nate Fontes-Fried.
Faced with a dilemma when his 2007 Ford F-150 gave out, one writer found himself searching for a replacement. The options available felt more about style than substance. Prices were also exorbitant. This frustration led to a consideration of Kei trucks, machines engineered for the Japanese market. “Cheap to buy and run, they’re rugged, practical, no-frills machines — exactly what the American-built pickup truck used to be, ” said a writer. These imported pickups and minivans present a compelling option for those seeking functionality and efficiency in their vehicles.
