11 Cars Doug DeMuro Wants to Import to the US (Not Yet Legal)

Top 3 Most Desired Import Cars

• 💡 The Audi A1 Quattro is Doug's number one most desired import, a rare, high-performance, all-wheel-drive hatchback with 250 horsepower, of which only 333 were made.
• 🚀 The E61 BMW M5 Touring (station wagon) with the V10 engine is highly coveted, especially the manual transmission version, despite known reliability issues.
• 🚗 Doug also desires the W203 Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG wagon, appreciating its subtle looks, powerful V8 engine, and practicality, noting it's now nearing import legality.

Other Highly Anticipated Imports

• 💨 The BMW M3 Touring (G80) is another fast wagon Doug wishes BMW had sold in the US, praising its performance and practicality.
• 🏎️ The Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG Black Series is a rare, coupe version of the SLK that was never sold in the US, featuring a powerful V8 and aggressive styling.
• 🤯 The Renault Avantime is highlighted as a bizarre minivan coupe with a cult following, known for its unique design and limited production.
• 🇫🇷 A related quirky French car, the Renault Vel Satis, is mentioned as a luxury hatchback/wagon that was also unpopular but offers a more practical take on unusual French design.
• 🇮🇹 The Lancia Thesis is presented as a strange-looking Italian luxury sedan from the early 2000s, notable for its unique styling cues.
• 🏁 The Renault Clio V6 is an exciting mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive hot hatch that Doug believes will be highly sought after once fully legal to import.

Unique and Emerging Market Cars

• 🚙 The SsangYong Rodius is described as one of the ugliest cars ever produced, a minivan/SUV hybrid that Doug wants to experience despite its poor reputation.
• 🛵 The Tata Nano is discussed as an ultra-inexpensive Indian car intended to mobilize the country, offering a fascinating look at emerging market automotive design.
• ⚡ The Honda E is a stylish, fully electric hatchback that was unfortunately never sold in the US, praised for its cute design and city-friendly nature.

The Evolving Import Landscape

• 🇺🇸 Doug notes that while many desirable cars from Europe and Japan are now legal to import into the US, there are still unique vehicles that remain unavailable.
• 📈 The US market has shown automakers its readiness to embrace diverse and exciting car models, leading to fewer restrictions over time.