Tokyo Big Sight was buzzing with energy as the 2025 Japan Mobility Show opened its doors, and this year’s edition was more than just a concept car playground - it was a declaration of intent from Japan’s top 15 passenger car brands.

With Chinese carmaker BYD gaining ground globally with its Kei car concept, Japan’s automotive giants responded with a unified front, unveiling production-ready models and near-production prototypes that blend heritage, innovation, and electrification.

Daihatsu: Kei revival

The beloved Copen (or K-open at the JMS) is making a comeback, albeit Japan-only. Daihatsu’s focus remains on compact, fun-to-drive vehicles that cater to domestic tastes, but we’re hoping that its design language and engineering could inspire broader applications.

Just as well since the theme for the brand is “DAIHATSUMEI for me. Invented for you. Small but capable. Do it all step by step.” Other compact cars that are present include the Kayoibako-K, the K-Vision and the Midget X.

Honda: Global ambitions

Honda’s booth was a masterclass in urban mobility. The Super-ONE, based on the N-One Kei car, is a compact EV that may never see the light of day in Singapore (very unfortunately). The Honda 0 Alpha, a futuristic SUV prototype, hints at a new EV series designed, with global rollout potential.

Of course, as we previously reported, Honda also showcased a plane, a rocket and a sensible Honda Prelude. Out of this world…

Lexus: Electrified elegance and strong statements

Lexus turned heads with its wild six-wheeled van concept that redefines flagship luxury – a deserving vehicle that may well be a better option than the Toyota Vellfire and Lexus LM that have occupied our roads. The Lexus Sport Concept, a two-seater electric vehicle (EV), may well be put into production alongside the V8-powered Toyota GR GT, signalling a dual-path future of electrification and performance.

Mazda: Different phases of cars to roll out

Mazda showcased a couple of Vision concepts. The Vision X-Compact previewed the next-gen Mazda2, proving superminis are far from dead, and darn near cool. On the other hand, the Hiroshima-based carmaker also unveiled the Vision X-Coupe, a four-door flagship concept, showcasing Mazda’s design evolution.

These concepts, according to Mazda, will be the next phase of cars it has planned to roll out. Sleek, stylish and substantial enough to compete with its current competitors and future ones from China.

More notably, Mazda also introduced carbon-capture tech aimed at preserving the combustion engine’s future.

Subaru: Rally DNA recharged

Very surprisingly, Subaru unveiled two STI Concepts - one petrol-powered and one electric: Dubbed the Performance-B STI and Performance-E STI. The latter EV version, purely conceptual, pays homage to Subaru’s rally heritage, while the former internal combustion engine (ICE) variant is an almost production-ready hot hatch, keeping performance purists engaged.

With performance car sales from Motor Image currently sluggish, these concepts could be exactly what Subaru needs right now.

Suzuki: Compact car connoisseur

Showcasing the Vision e-Sky proves that the brand fits perfectly into Japan’s Kei car philosophy, designed for narrow streets and urban convenience. Expected to have a range of over 270km on a full charge, the Suzuki concept car is an ideal vehicle for customers who rely on minicars for everyday life - showcasing, shopping, and short trips.

Suzuki also showcased electric Kei cars such as the e-Every concept and even robot dogs, emphasising its playful yet purposeful approach to mobility.

Toyota: Reinventing icons and expanding luxury

Occupying an entire hall on its own, Toyota led the charge with a radical reimagining of the world’s best-selling car - the Corolla Concept – with over 50 million units. Presumably slated for release in 2027, the car should come in petrol, plug-in hybrid, hybrid and full electric variants.

Alongside it, the Land Cruiser made waves as a rugged mid-sized off-roader built on TNGA-F body-on-frame platform. But the real surprise was the Century Coupe Concept, Toyota’s ultra-luxury sub-brand stepping into Rolls-Royce and Bentley territory.

Thoughts…

The 2025 Japan Mobility Show wasn’t just a spectacle. It was a strategic showcase of Japan’s readiness to evolve. From electrification and alternative fuels to luxury and performance, the production cars on display reflect a nation determined to lead the next chapter of global mobility.

I reckon this is more than just a car show, it’s a roadmap to the future…

- Julian Kho (posted on behalf of)