Japan is famous for its advanced and well-organized automobile industry. The country has a vibrant culture of car enthusiasts. Public transportation is slightly better and more efficient. However, many Japanese people prefer private, electric vehicles for their simplicity. Some cars have become standard on the roads from Tokyo to Okinawa. If you plan on taking a trip there, these ten most common cars in Japan will help you blend in.
1. Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius has always been famous for its hybrid technology and eco-friendliness. This is one of the most common cars in Japan, with its penchant for clean technologies. The Prius records high sales figures because it serves millions of consumers. Another thing that attracts buyers is the handy 1.8 four-cylinder engine. The engine tops out at 121 horsepower. When driving, users can be sure of a smooth and comfortable ride.
Inside, the Prius has a 7-inch touchscreen display that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. And the car holds spacious seating for five, with high-quality materials throughout the cabin. The car features Toyota’s Safety Sense Suite, with advanced, adaptive cruise control. This enhances a smooth drive with peace of mind for the driver.
Eco-conscious drivers with Japanese vehicles enjoy the Prius. It has an EPA-estimated efficiency of 54 MPG in the city and 50 MPG on the highway. The sleek and aerodynamic design helps conserve fuel. Priuses range from ¥2,300,000 to ¥3,000,000, widely accessible to many consumers. Around 10-15% of drivers in Japan use the Prius.
2. Honda Fit
As it is known in some markets, the Honda Fit or Honda Jazz is very popular. This is due to its size and ability to be used in different terrains. Therefore, it is one of the most common cars in Japan. The interior has a highly spacious cabin that easily accommodates five people. A magic mount function also allows for changes in the back seat. Owners can fold back the rear seats for 52.7 cubic feet of space. This resource makes it a popular choice for drivers needing passenger and cargo space.
Just like the Prius, The Fit has a 7-inch infotainment screen display. This is compatible with multiple platforms, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Advanced safety features include Honda’s patented collision mitigation braking systems. The Fit has grown immensely popular. Almost 9% of cars sold in Japan last year were Honda Fit models.
What’s noteworthy is the 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine under the hood. Provides a maximum power of 130 horsepower combined with Honda’s exclusive pistol system. And a continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) for smooth acceleration and fuel efficiency. The Fit goes for between ¥1,800,000 and ¥2,400,000, offering an excellent cost-to-benefit ratio. It remains a favorite in the Japanese market because of its reliability, impressive fuel efficiency, and practicality.
3. Suzuki Swift
This little hatchback is known for how easily it moves around, which is perfect for driving in the city. It’s super light, so it saves a lot of gas, about 20 to 25 kilometers per liter, depending on how you drive. Inside, it’s surprisingly roomy for a small car, with comfortable seats for five and a layout that’s easy to use. It is one of the most common cars in Japan.
The Suzuki Swift comes equipped with a touchscreen system. This connects to your smartphone and even Bluetooth for hands-free calls. For safety, it has features like dual airbags and anti-lock brakes. It is aiming to keep everyone safe while driving on busy Japanese roads. It sports impressive performance, practicality, and good value. Millions of consumers in Japan love the Suzuki Swift. It is priced at ¥1,727,000 to ¥2,087,800.
Under the hood, the Swift comes with a 1.2-liter four-cylinder series engine. It tops out at 91 horsepower, plenty enough for daily drives. And for those drivers looking for an extra kick, the turbocharged 1.0-liter four-cylinder option keeps things interesting. It might be compact, but this hatchback is all about agility. It’s able to breeze and maneuver through city streets. The Suzuki Swift is used by around 7% of drivers in Japan.
4. Nissan Leaf
The Nissan Leaf is one of the most common cars in Japan. This shows how much its residents are interested in eco-friendly options. The Leaf prices are between ¥3,000,000 and ¥4,000,000, which is reasonable for anyone wanting to go green. It runs purely on electricity, with a motor that gives you 147 horsepower on a 62 kWh battery. The Leaf’s motor is the equivalent of a typical three-cylinder engine.
An added feature is the e-pedal technology based on years of study. The device allows acceleration and deceleration using just one pedal. It makes driving in the city a lot easier. Inside, the Leaf’s cabin is very spacious and modern. Accommodates five passengers comfortably. There’s also a lot of cargo space (about 23.6 cubic feet), which you can increase by folding the rear seats.
For the tech lovers, the Leaf has a great infotainment system. Having a 7-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration. The safety features of newer models are also impressive. Nissan’s custom ProPILOT Assist technology helps with semi-autonomous driving. Adaptive cruise control also helps preserve bus lanes. As a standout in the electric car market, the Nissan Leaf is a great choice. It is used by an estimated 2% of drivers in Japan.
5. Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 is a best-selling car model in Japan. And it’s easy to understand why. It has a sleek design and a truly immersive driving experience. Priced between ¥2,600,000 and ¥4,000,000, it is luxurious and accessible. You can choose between the 2.0-liter or 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Its output tops out between 155 and 227 horsepower. This compact SUV has a 6-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth shifts and responsive handling.
Mazda has transitioned to a genuinely satisfying drive, and the CX-5 reflects this. It has a light body and a well-tuned suspension system, which helps it drive sportily and comfortably. This car’s fuel efficiency is also very good. The CX-5 achieves around 12 to 14 kilometers per liter. The interior is premium and made of quality material. It can comfortably accommodate five people in an easy-to-use layout. The Mazda CX-5 is used by an estimated 3% of Japanese drivers, and it is one of SUVs under 25k.
The infotainment system also has a sizeable touch-sensitive structure. Bluetooth to connect your phone, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Safety features are complete with Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE technology. This includes adaptive cruise control and a collision warning system. The Mazda CX-5 is an attractive choice for a fun, luxurious SUV with a premium look.
6. Subaru Impreza
The Subaru Impreza is a top-selling car model in Japan. This is because it mainly has four-wheel drive. Subaru tailor-made the vehicle to suit the region’s climate change. The Impreza pricing ranges from ¥2,000,000 to ¥3,000,000. The model is versatile and reliable. Under the hood is a 2.0, four-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower. It is coupled with continuous variable transmission (CVT) for smooth steering.
A great feature of the Impreza is its symmetrical traction system (STS). This provides excellent traction and stability. This is especially useful to owners who live in Japan’s rural areas. The Impreza is very popular amongst the main population of the mountains. Its average fuel efficiency is still competitive, a modest 10 to 12 kilometres per litre.
Inside, the Impreza has a spacious cabin with quality materials. It comfortably seats five passengers. Owners can easily fold the rear seats to expand the trunk to nearly 20.8 cubic feet, making it ideal for transporting luggage or shopping. An estimated 2-3% of drivers use the Impreza in Japan.
The infotainment system has a touch-sensitive structure, including a smartphone connection. Added Navigation resources help drivers stay connected while driving. Subaru’s main focus is standard safety features. EyeSight Driver Assist technology provides resources like adaptive cruise control and pre-collision braking. The Subaru Impreza combines practicality, safety, and good performance, making it one of the most common cars in Japan.
7. Toyota Corolla
Toyota Corolla is another best-selling car model in Japan, and it’s easy to see why. The car tests high as comfortable and convenient to drive, making it a favorite among many drivers. Priced between ¥1,800,000 and ¥2,800,000, it appeals to many people. The Corolla has a 1.8-litre, four-cylinder engine that produces 139 horsepower. It also has a CVT that provides clean acceleration and precise road purchase.
The Corolla’s reputation for longevity and travel sets it apart. Families in Japan find it incredible to use. The fuel economy is also quite extraordinary. Corollas save about 12 to 14 kilometers per liter. This, of course, depends on driving type. The interior is designed for reliability and options, with space for five passengers and enough for laundry or groceries.
The latest models of the Corolla have a 7-inch infotainment system. This driving display connects to your smartphone and keeps you connected. Standard safety features are robust, headed by Toyota’s Safety Sense suite. Innovative driver’s navigation signals and automatic emergency braking are equipped. The Toyota Corolla is a popular choice for Japanese drivers. Around 10-12% of drivers use it daily.
8. Honda Accord
The Honda Accord is hard to beat when looking for any mid-size sedan. Its roomy interior lends itself to long-distance competition. It is packed with high-tech resources that keep things interesting. Reasonably priced between ¥3,000,000 and ¥4,500,000. Owners describe it as both elegant and reasonable. There is one option for the base 1.5-liter, four-cylinder turbocharged engine that makes 192 horsepower.
There’s also a 2.0-liter, six-cylinder engine that makes 252 horsepower. Both engines come with a CVT, so you get consistent acceleration. And both save time and money at the pump. The best thing about the Accord is its comfortable interior. It is spacious enough for five passengers. The cargo space is surprisingly spacious at nearly 16.7 cubic feet. It is helpful in loading the trunk for a trip to the Rokko mountains. The materials used in the cabin are made of high quality. It makes each trip just that more special.
The Accord delivers an infotainment system with a large driving display. You can listen to your favorite playlist or surf the web without any problems. Safety is the top priority for Honda. With Honda Sensing technology, adaptive cruise control is made revolutionary. The Accord sports Driver control and novel braking systems. This reduces collisions, which has diminished fatal accidents in Japan. The Accord is driven by around 3% of drivers in Japan.
9. Daihatsu Tanto
The Daihatsu Tanto has grown to become a sensation in Japan. An increase in sales stemmed from the compact Kei Car. This one works perfectly for navigating busy city streets. The price range is between ¥1,300,000 and ¥1,800,000 yen. This is quite reasonable for a build of its size. Especially considering how practical it is in city driving. Who wouldn’t want a car parked in a tight space?
Underneath the armored hood sits a 0.66-liter biathlete, three-cylinder engine. The Tanto produces around 64 horsepower. It won’t be winning any races, but it fits well with the popular automobile. Its lightweight design makes it a dream to drive in the city. It is excellent for flexible, fast travel. The Tanto is very popular in Japan, and around 4% of drivers use it.
It has a spacious interior with a smooth ride. The rear skylight is a great addition to make getting in and out easier. It is beneficial, especially in areas with crowded people. The Luggage compartment can be expanded for just ¥60,000. Perfect it if you need to carry more stuff. The Daihatsu Tanto is an intelligent choice at a great price.
10. Nissan Serena
The Nissan Serena is a flexible multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) designed for households and large cities. Its spacious and luxurious interior, priced between ¥2,800,000 and ¥4,000,000, provides plenty of space for passengers and cargo alike.
Underneath, the Serena has a 2.0-liter, roaring four-cylinder engine. This produces a respectable 147 horsepower. This range of gasoline engines is custom-paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for a clean ride. The Serena features a family-friendly design. It can accommodate up to eight passengers. You can adjust the interior to multiple floors. This is thanks to flexible cargo space and seating. The Serena holds a trunk capacity of approximately 60 cubic feet. Therefore, it is very suitable for hanging out with family and partners. Millions of consumers purchase it annually.
The Serena has advanced infotainment equipment and a large driving screen. It has Bluetooth connectivity and accessible navigation functions. Nissan’s Safety Shield Technology makes for a secure road experience. It includes all-new blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning.
Nissan Serena combines luxury, convenience, and modern facilities to come together perfectly. This is the ultimate wish for Japanese families who want a stylish and adaptable vehicle for casual adventures. An estimated 3-4% of drivers in Japan use the Serena.
Conclusion
The list above comprises the ten most common cars in Japan. The cars on the list range from electric vehicles to hybrids. They are all suitable for the country’s advanced interconnected roads and highways. Most of them are equally suited to the country’s range of mountains and countryside. This makes them perfect for Japanese residents.
