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Usually, the United States is very lenient when it comes to what cars are allowed on US soil. Especially when compared to the limitations that other countries place on their vehicles with annual emissions and inspections. However, there are a few cars that were never allowed into the US. Surprisingly enough, Canada actually received a handful of European imports which could not be sold to the US market.
 
 
#1.  BMW 320i
The 320i is the baby brother to BMW's 328i. Putting out a rather unimpressive 180hp from its 2.0 liter four cylinder engine; it is the economical choice averaging forty miles per gallon on the highway. The styling and handling remain true with the 3-series platform. Perfect 50/50 weight distribution and rear wheel drive make this a fun car for any enthusiast to drive. Because of the lack of power, it is the cheapest 3-series on the market, but the US buyers were not able to enjoy the first release of this model.
 
 
BMW 320i
 

 

#2.  Volkswagon Golf Wagon

The Golf Wagon is only special to Canada due to the naming convention for an engine configuration. Part of the sixth generation Golf lineup, the Golf Wagon is nearly the same as the Jetta Estate sold in US markets. However, the Jetta will forever be known as an economical and versatile family vehicle; the Golf Wagon carries the sporty background of VW's Golf family. In 2010, the Golf Wagon was the only VW wagon available with the TDI diesel engine in Canada.
 
VW Golf Wagon
Image from caradvice.com.au 

 

 

 

#3.  Mercedes-Benz B200

A rather odd car for Mercedes, the B200 is a front wheel drive hatchback that could be compared to the five-door Ford Focus in the US. Sales in Canada began in 2005 and the vehicle sold rather successfully. Not marketed specifically to the business man, these Mercedes are practical and luxurious family cars.
 
Image from carmagazine.co.uk 
 

 

 

#4.  Volvo C30 2.4i

Both the United States and Canada saw the T5 (2.5 liter turbocharged) C30. However, only Canada got the naturally aspirated 2.4i. US markets were privileged with both the 2.4i and T5 for S40 and V50 models from 2004-2012. However, the T5 became the logical choice considering it is roughly 50hp faster and gets 1 mile per gallon better fuel economy on the highway. That being said, Canada still got the 2.4i C30. For those looking for a naturally aspirated five-cylinder with a five-speed manual gearbox, the C30 was a unique choice on Canadian markets.
 
Volvo C30
Image from parkplacedallasvolvo.com 
 
 

#5.  TVR Griffith

The TVR was never sold in the United States, but the Griffith was sold on Canadian markets. This TVR was often referred to as the baby Dodge Viper. The lightweight fiberglass body held a Rover V8 engine. Despite the Griffith hitting showrooms in 1991, the timeless sports car shape can still compete with modern design.
 
TVR
Image from tvr-car-club.co.uk
 
 

#6.  Lada Samara

Lada is a Russian brand under the manufacturer AvtoVAZ. Like many Russian manufacturers of the times, they were often considered lacking in design and quality. However, their Fiat-based models sold very well and in hindsight, the cars are unique and full of character. The Lada Samara was the last Lada sold in Canada. With its classic 80s hatchback styling it is somewhat appealing to the enthusiast market, but finding one that is running and not rusted could pose a challenge.
 
Image from honestjohn.co.uk 
 

 

#7.  Skoda 120

The Skoda 120 is a unique car sporting a rear engine and rear wheel drive. That basically makes it a Porsche 911, right? While the car is nothing fancy, the design is classic with European sedans of the 70s and 80s. The 120 is bound to turn a few heads when it rolls up to a local car show.
 
Image from zonderpump.com
 

 

 

Bonus! MkII Ford Focus RS

With all the hype for the new Focus RS, it is worth mentioning the MkII RS. It was not sold in the US, nor was it sold in Canada. However, a single RS did make its way to a Mexican showroom where it was quickly purchased and imported into the States. This American Ford used a five-cylinder Volvo engine with a larger turbo and shared the same C1 Volvo chassis. That basically makes it a European sports car that the US never received, which was purely ironic considering that it is a Ford.
 
Image from youtube.com

 

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Written by :
Alex Fiehl


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