Homecoming: Toyota plans U.S.-built models for Japan in 2026

Toyota Motor Corporation said it plans to begin selling vehicles produced in the United States to the Japanese market from 2026, starting with three models built at its US plants.

The company identified the models as the Camry sedan, the Highlander SUV, and the Tundra pickup truck. All three are currently produced in the United States and are among Toyota’s long-running products in the American market. 

Toyota said it is intended to meet a wider range of customer needs in Japan while also contributing to improved Japan-US trade relations. The company did not provide sales targets or volumes for the models once they were introduced locally.

Camry and Highlander are not new to Japanese buyers. Toyota said both models were previously sold in Japan, with Camry remaining in the lineup until 2023. 

Highlander was sold earlier under the name Kluger before being withdrawn from the local market. Toyota said it has decided to reintroduce both models as part of the plan. 

Camry is described by Toyota as a global model that combines design, comfort, and fuel efficiency and has remained a top seller in the United States for many years. The Highlander is positioned as a three-row SUV with a spacious interior and capability suited for both urban driving and outdoor use.

The Tundra will mark a different type of offering for the Japanese market. Toyota described the full-size pickup as reflecting American culture, citing its power, towing capability, and durability. 

The company said changing lifestyles and growing interest in outdoor activities could lead Japanese customers to take an interest in the model. 

As part of the rollout, Toyota said it plans to use a new system currently being considered by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. The system follows bilateral negotiations and is intended to support the introduction of vehicles produced overseas into the Japanese market.

Toyota said preparations are ongoing to deliver the three models to Japanese customers from 2026 onward. Production will remain in the United States, with Camry built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, Highlander at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana, and Tundra at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas.