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ROVER SEVS verified

How to import a Mitsubishi Airtrek to Brisbane

The Mitsubishi Airtrek is a compact crossover SUV produced in Japan for domestic and Asian markets, known globally as the first-generation Outlander.

About the Mitsubishi Airtrek

The Mitsubishi Airtrek is a compact crossover SUV produced in Japan for domestic and Asian markets, known globally as the first-generation Outlander. It suits buyers who want a practical, higher-riding vehicle for Australian conditions without the bulk of a full-size SUV. Many importers choose it for its compact footprint, which makes it easier to park in tight Brisbane suburbs, while still offering the ground clearance needed for rougher local roads.

As of November 2026, the SEVS approval covers the Turbo R variant (chassis code CU2W) built between January 2001 and December 2005. This specific model is often sought after for its performance characteristics. If you are looking at an older example, cars built before November 2001 can be imported under the 25-year rule, provided they are more than 25 years old at the time of import. We confirm the exact car's SEVS eligibility or age-based compliance before you bid.

If you have a specific budget or colour in mind, ask us to search for a Mitsubishi Airtrek that fits your needs. Our team will handle the auction search and provide a landed estimate for the exact car before you commit to bidding.

Why import the Mitsubishi Airtrek to Brisbane & Queensland?

AI-generated insights

Known globally as the first-generation Outlander, it offers a familiar platform with Japanese domestic market quality.

The compact crossover size makes it easier to handle in city traffic and parking spaces than larger SUVs.

The Turbo R variant provides a sportier driving experience, which is a key reason many buyers seek this specific model.

Importing from Japan often means finding examples with lower kilometres and meticulous maintenance histories.

It serves as a practical daily driver for families or individuals who need extra ground clearance for local roads.

Inspection watchouts & mechanical notes

Commonly reported on the Mitsubishi Airtrek: worth checking on the auction sheet, the inspection report or the service history before you bid.

  • Rust on the chassis and wheel arches

    What to check: Inspect the auction sheet for rust notes and request underbody photos, especially for cars from snowy northern regions.

  • Wear on the Turbo R system

    What to check: Check the auction sheet for any notes regarding the Turbo R variant's condition and listen for unusual noises during a physical inspection if possible.

    Applies to: CU2W Turbo R

  • Suspension bushings and mounts

    What to check: Look for signs of excessive wear on the suspension components, as these can be costly to replace after long-term use.

  • Odometer accuracy

    What to check: Verify the odometer reading against the service history and the auction sheet to ensure the mileage is consistent.

  • Export certificate details

    What to check: Ensure the export certificate matches the chassis code and build date to avoid compliance issues during registration.

Estimated landed cost breakdown (Brisbane, QLD)

Expected auction hammer & export docs
Market variable
Shipping (Japan to Brisbane)
$4,000 AUD
Port to dealer transport
$250 AUD
Compliance & roadworthy
$1,500 AUD
Rego & stamp duty (approx.)
$350 AUD
Import service fee
$1,500 AUD
Est. total drive-away
Contact us for an estimate

At today's rate of ¥110.46 per A$1: the same estimate as the import calculator. Japanese-built cars are generally duty-free under JAEPA. An estimate, not a quote.

Approved SEVS register variants

From the federal ROVER register of published approvals (checked 31/08/2026).

1 approved entry
Chassis codeVariant / specBuild rangeSEV approval
CU2WTurbo R ONLY01/2001 – 12/2005SEV-000750

Mitsubishi Airtrek import FAQ

Can I import a Mitsubishi Airtrek to Australia?
Yes, you can import a Mitsubishi Airtrek if it fits the SEVS approval for the Turbo R (CU2W) built between January 2001 and December 2005. Alternatively, any Airtrek built before November 2001 can be imported under the 25-year rule, as it will be more than 25 years old at the time of import.
How do you find a Mitsubishi Airtrek for me?
We can search the Japanese auctions for a Mitsubishi Airtrek for you and work out a landed estimate for the exact car before you bid. Just let us know your budget, preferred colour, and condition, and we will handle the search.
Which Mitsubishi Airtrek models does the SEVS approval cover?
The SEVS approval specifically covers the Turbo R variant with chassis code CU2W, built from January 2001 to December 2005. We confirm the exact car's eligibility before you bid to ensure it meets these criteria.
Can I import an older Mitsubishi Airtrek under the 25-year rule?
Yes, if the car was built before November 2001, it will be more than 25 years old at import and can be brought in under the 25-year rule. This pathway is separate from the SEVS approval and applies to older vehicles regardless of variant.
What should I check before buying a Mitsubishi Airtrek at a Japanese auction?
Review the auction sheet for rust notes, interior grades, and any mechanical issues. For Turbo R models, pay extra attention to notes about the vehicle's condition. We also verify the odometer history and ensure the export certificate details match the car's chassis code and build date.
What happens after we buy a Mitsubishi Airtrek for you?
After the purchase, we arrange shipping from Japan to Australia. Once the car arrives, it is sent to a RAW workshop for compliance, where it is checked and prepared for registration. Finally, we assist with the registration process in Queensland so you can drive your new vehicle.

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Important pricing and vehicle availability disclaimer

The figures, auction results, specifications and images on this page are for information and feasibility guidance only. They are historical Japanese auction data, compliance estimates and general market benchmarks. Unless a car is marked as in stock at CarStrike, the vehicles described here are custom import sourcing possibilities from licensed Japanese vehicle auctions. Final drive-away costs vary with the exchange rate (JPY/AUD), the hammer price, the condition grade and roadworthy requirements.