Hi Jamie, welcome to the forum. No problems with imports at all, there is a list of differences in the JDM section. At the moment the market is slow and there are quite a few zeds at good prices.
Very much depends what you want. I would certainly suggest having a look at the ones on sale here. You will know that they have been well looked after and should get no suprises.
I must admit its the first time someone has said that they are changing to a zed for practicality.
Also check out the very few warranty issues listed on here, just to give you a few things to look for.
Apart from that, if you find something you like feel free to post up the ad for comments.
Whatever you decide on you wont be dissappointed.
Oh dont believe dealers when they tell you what a car is, they get confused, lots of special editions about it would seem.