Blog · August 30, 2026

Suzuki Carry vs Daihatsu Hijet: which should you buy?

These are the two most commonly imported kei trucks in the US, and for good reason -- both are proven, widely available, and well supported. But they are built around genuinely different priorities, so the right choice depends on what you actually plan to do with the truck.

Where the Carry wins

• Widest parts availability of any kei truck imported to the US, helped by shared components with later Suzuki models
• Largest population on US roads, so more independent mechanics have direct experience with one
• Strongest resale value if you plan to sell down the line
• Lighter overall, which some owners prefer for everyday driving and easier maneuvering

Where the Hijet wins

• True body-on-frame construction handles heavy, repeated loads better than the Carry’s car-based structure
• Longest wheelbase in the kei truck class, meaning the largest flatbed for its footprint
• The Jumbo extended cab option adds real passenger and storage space without sacrificing bed length
• Trusted enough for Japanese municipal and fire department fleet use -- a strong real-world durability signal

Our take

If this is your first kei truck import and you want the safest, best-supported choice -- easiest parts sourcing, easiest resale, most mechanics familiar with it -- the Carry is the lower-risk pick. If you know you’ll be hauling heavy loads regularly, need the extra cab space, or simply want the toughest truck in the class, the Hijet is worth the slightly narrower parts support. Neither is a wrong choice; they are built for overlapping but distinct priorities.

For the full breakdown of each model, see our dedicated guides: Suzuki Carry buying guide and Daihatsu Hijet buying guide.

New to importing? Read our full step-by-step import guide first.