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Grey Imports

A term used to describe a car that was destined for markets outside the EU, and imported to the UK by parties outside the manufacturer's official distribution chain. Where there is an equivalent European model, the grey import tends to be much cheaper; for example, the Mazda MX-5, which is badged as the Eunos or Mazda Roadster in Japan. However, it is important to note that grey imports may not meet the full requirements of British or European law, and parts and servicing can be very expensive.

A grey import should not be confused with a parallel import, which is a standard European model bought in another European country.

See also Parallel Imports and Personal Imports.