Please help !
I am currently thinking about buying a Jap import MPV direct from Japan for myself. I have lived in japan a few years ago and have seen the Toyota Townace Noah Field Tourer 4WD model and I really like the off-road styling. The question I have is does anyone have an imported Townace Noah or any more information about the 1996 models. I am most interested to know if the parts on the car are "e" marked and would pass the SVA test. I am worried that things like headlamps etc. if not "e" marked might have to be changed due to the SVA test and the Townace Noah model does not exist in the UK so this could prove to be tricky. I like the styling of the car and the value for money so if you know of any further information on this model type please forward me in the right direction.
If you can help I'd be very grateful.
Thanks,
Mark. - (#1855) Mark Eastwood, 8 Jan 02
I was speaking with an importer of Jap vehicles a couple of weeks ago. He was telling me that the SVA testers are getting so picky that they invent new things to pick up on, on an almost daily basis. The cost of the test plus the cost to rectify "faults" is getting so high that soon there will be little saving in cost compared to a British model as all these extra costs are passed on to us, the buying public. So it is likely that you will just have to see how the test goes. You may come off lightly, then again you may not.
Good luck
Ian - (#1859) Ian Dunse, 9 Jan 02
Ian thanks for your message. I have heard that an area that they often pick up on the SVA is parts not being "e" marked to European standard. They don't do the Townance Noah in the UK so I am not sure wether it has "e" marked parts. It is a bit risky if it arrives and I can't get replacement parts with "e" marks on. I am thinking it might perhaps be better to buy a well established import model such as the Toyota Estima or Nissan Serena. If the SVA test and preparation is geting more stringent and expensive then you could be right and its not worth importing. Howver I do think the used Jap spec cars generally have much more features, better interiors, better looking, lower mileage and often well looked after.
I'll have to think this one over very carefully before taking the plunge. I currently run a Nissan Serena UK model but it is very basic and not so attractive compared to a Jap import one. - (#1861) Mark Eastwood, 9 Jan 02
Mark,
I agree with you re the Serena. Because of the splendid, totally trouble free 150K miles I did in my Nissan Prairie, I should like to have stayed with Nissan and did look at one or two Serenas. I am sure their quailty is good but, their style and lack of "extras" went against them. The style, and the full complement of extras made me go for an imported Masterace. I have been totally satisfied, despite having to do the mandatory cooling check/repairs etc and I would recommend them but, not to the novice or toanyone who objects to getting their hands dirty - (#1862) John Davis, 9 Jan 02