I've looked up cars for import and read about it, but I still don't understand why it cost so much. I've heard that it is the process to make it legal in the US, is that it?

it is the process that makes it legal for US streets. there are parts that have to be replaced to make it legal, so that costs money, and then somebody has to do it and 9 times out of 10 a professional mechanic will do it and he will charge for labor, so there is more money. also, shipping it over here will cost you some.