The Volkswagen Scirocco is a sporty, compact hatchback that’s been stealing hearts across Europe, but sadly, it’s never made its way to the U.S. since its last generation ended in 2017. With its sleek, low-slung design, powerful engine options, and refined handling, the Scirocco offered a thrilling driving experience, often compared to other hot hatches like the Golf GTI but with more style and flair.
Unfortunately, it didn't meet the U.S. market’s demand and stricter emissions regulations, so Volkswagen left it off American roads. If you’re in Europe, though, you can still spot this beauty, which remains a favorite among driving enthusiasts who appreciate both performance and a dash of Euro-chic.
The Mercedes-Benz Unimog is a true off-road legend, known for its rugged versatility and extreme durability. Designed for both military and civilian use, this multi-purpose vehicle can tackle almost any terrain, from mountain slopes to floodwaters, making it a favorite in harsh environments worldwide.
While it’s used for everything from farming and construction to firefighting and military operations, it’s not available in the U.S. due to its size and niche appeal. The Unimog's extreme suspension, high ground clearance, and powerful engines make it a beast on wheels, but Americans can only envy it from afar, unless they’re lucky enough to find one imported.
But let’s face it, the Unimog is too cool to ignore.
The Mazda Cosmo is a rare gem of automotive history, often regarded as Japan’s first true sports car. Produced from 1967 to 1995, this sleek two-door coupe is most famous for its revolutionary use of the Wankel rotary engine, which delivered smooth power and a distinctive driving experience.
While it was sold in limited numbers and was never officially available in the U.S., the Cosmo has become a sought-after classic, particularly among rotary enthusiasts. Its futuristic design and pioneering engine technology make it a standout, but U.S. regulations and limited demand kept it off American soil.
Today, the Mazda Cosmo remains a collector’s dream, a symbol of innovation and style from the land of the rising sun.
The Peugeot RCZ is a striking sports coupe that made waves in Europe but was never sold in the U.S. Launched in 2009, this French beauty combines eye-catching design with impressive performance. Its unique double-bubble roof and wide stance make it instantly recognizable, while its turbocharged engines deliver a fun driving experience.
Despite its success in Europe, Peugeot decided against offering the RCZ in the U.S., likely due to the brand's limited presence and the car’s niche appeal. Still, the RCZ remains a fan favorite, praised for its sleek looks, sharp handling, and stylish interior. Sadly, if you’re in the U.S., the Peugeot RCZ is one exotic ride you’ll have to admire from a distance.
The Toyota 2000GT is a legendary sports car that holds a special place in automotive history. Produced between 1967 and 1970, it’s often hailed as Japan’s first true supercar, showcasing stunning design and innovative engineering. With its smooth lines, powerful 2.0-liter inline-six engine, and lightweight body, the 2000GT delivered performance that rivaled European classics of its era.
Despite its appeal, it was never officially sold in the U.S., partly due to its high price and limited production (only 351 units were made). Its exclusivity, however, has only made it more desirable, with collectors and enthusiasts seeking the rare Toyota gem. If you want one, your best bet is to scour the international market, it's too rare to find stateside.
The Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34) is one of the most iconic cars in the tuner world, but it’s also one you can’t easily get your hands on in the U.S. Produced from 1999 to 2002, this Japanese performance powerhouse gained a legendary reputation thanks to its turbocharged inline-six engine, precise handling, and advanced tech features.
While the GT-R was never officially sold in the U.S., it became a cult favorite among car enthusiasts, especially after its appearance in the Fast & Furious franchise. The R34’s aggressive looks, blistering speed, and all-wheel-drive system make it a dream car, but U.S. regulations and a limited production mean it’s a rare sight on American roads, unless you're lucky enough to import one.
The Citroën SM is a French masterpiece that blends luxury, innovation, and eccentricity in a way only Citroën can. Produced from 1970 to 1975, this stunning sports coupe featured cutting-edge technology like its hydropneumatic suspension, which provided an unbelievably smooth ride, and a Maserati-engineered V6 that delivered impressive power.
The SM was ahead of its time in both design and features, with futuristic lines and a cockpit-style interior. Despite its engineering brilliance, the SM was never officially available in the U.S. due to strict emissions regulations and limited market interest. Now, it's a highly sought-after classic, admired for its striking looks and technical innovation.
The Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series is the ultimate off-road legend that’s still a workhorse in many parts of the world, but sadly, it’s not available in the U.S. Produced since 1984, this rugged 4x4 is designed for durability and performance in the harshest environments, from deserts to jungles. Known for its simple, no-nonsense design, the 70 Series offers outstanding reliability and unparalleled off-road capability.
While the U.S. market got the more modern Land Cruiser models, the 70 Series was never officially sold here. Its utilitarian appeal and heavy-duty nature make it a favorite among those who need a tough, reliable vehicle for work or adventure. In the U.S., it’s a coveted import for off-road enthusiasts with a taste for true adventure.
The BMW M3 GTS is a track-ready beast that never made it to U.S. shores, and it’s a real shame. Released in 2010, this limited-edition M3 was built for those who wanted the perfect blend of street and track performance.
With a 4.4-liter V8 engine pumping out 493 horsepower, the M3 GTS was significantly more powerful than the standard M3, and it featured enhanced suspension, lightweight materials, and an aggressive aero kit.
Only 150 units were produced, and while the GTS was designed for the European market, its lack of U.S. availability only added to its allure. As a rare collectible with a hefty price tag, it’s a dream for BMW enthusiasts, but a difficult one to own unless you’re willing to import.
The Porsche Panamera Diesel is the luxury performance sedan you never knew you couldn’t have in the U.S. Produced from 2010 to 2016, the Panamera Diesel combined the brand's high-performance pedigree with the efficiency of a diesel engine. Equipped with a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine, it offered impressive torque and fuel economy, all while maintaining Porsche’s trademark driving dynamics.
Despite its European success, Porsche chose not to bring the diesel variant to the U.S. market, possibly due to America’s shifting preference toward gasoline engines and increasing environmental concerns. Today, the Panamera Diesel remains a unique option for European buyers, leaving U.S. enthusiasts to admire it from a distance, wishing they could experience the diesel-powered luxury Porsche firsthand.
