SAMURAI WHEELS is a new program introducing Japan made automobiles. It will focus on not only new technologies but also lifestyles with vehicles. In this episode, we will introduce one of those popular new crossover SUVs, Mazda CX-3. It sips fuel like a hybrid, runs as clean as a gasoline engine and performs like a beast. See how Mazda reinvented the diesel engine for New SUV. We also report the customizing motor show in Osaka.
Features a test drive of the Subaru WRX STI, one of Japan's hottest 4WD sports sedans. Built to go rallying in the early 90s, the WRX won no less than three World Rally Championships. We also chat with the car's chief engineer. Meanwhile, Sarah investigates roadside service areas (SA) that have become destinations in themselves. SA features include restaurants, food court dining areas, convenience stores, gift and souvenir shops, information counters, gas stations and even bath houses. In the Wheels Watch segment, Peter looks at Japan's hi-tech, unmanned parking lots.
Unlike any other SUV, the Mitsubishi's PHEV can be driven as an electric vehicle meaning incredible fuel economy. It can generate electricity by its engine, so you may use gadgets on campsite.
In this edition, you will see the all-new Honda S660, a 2-seater open-top mini sports car. We will also report the Drafting 1 Grand Prix 2015 which has held in Odaiba Special Course in Tokyo.
In this episode, we'll feature a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, Toyota Mirai. It is one of the first hydrogen fuel cell vehicles to be sold commercially. We'll also report the Fire Truck Manufacture.
Features a test drive of Nissan's sporty Juke Nismo RS crossover. Specially built from the ground up to deliver sports car-like handling and performance, the Juke RS surprised our trio with its gutsy engine and pinpoint steering. We also visit Nissan's global HQs in Yokohama to chat with Nismo supremo Hiroshi Tamura about how the Juke RS came about. In the Wheels Watch segment, Peter takes a dirty Landcruiser to a hi-tech carwash and checks out the world's most compact car cleaner. Remember Daniel in Karate Kid? Wipe on, wipe off...
Features a test drive of the Suzuki Alto Turbo RS, one of Japan's hottest kei-cars (minicars). Powered by a 660cc turbo and weighing just 720kgs, this pocket rocket packs a punch. And it costs just 1.29 million yen ($11,000). Its base version - the Alto - also holds the world record for fuel economy achieving 37km/liter or 87mpg!! In this episode, our team also investigates Mitsuoka Motors, Japan's 10th authorized carmaker.
Features a test drive of the V8-powered Lexus RC-F luxury sports coupe at Fuji Speedway, a track boasting the longest straight in recent F1 history. Our presenters push the RC-F to its limits and beyond, before jumping behind the wheel of the RC-F CCS-R, a competition-spec concept which recently debuted at the Pikes Peak Hill Climb and then finished 1st and 2nd in its class at Nurburgring. Also, we will have a behind-the-scenes story on the Metropolitan Expressway Patrol Units whose job it is to keep Tokyo's expressways safe and flowing smoothly.
In this edition, we'll focus on a brand new mini van, HONDA STEP WAGON SPADA. We also have a special report about the driving school, how to get the driving license in Japan. It costs you a lot!
In this episode, the SAMURAI WHEELS team tests the all-new Levorg, a stylish sports wagon built by the pioneer of wagons, Subaru. It is the successor to the game-changing Legacy, a wagon launched in 1989 that boasted an unbeatable combination of gutsy boxer engine, 4WD, great handling and sharp looks. Now, 25 years on, they are redefining the sports wagon genre. Subaru have had some challenging times with styling recently, but they nailed it with the Levorg. In addition, we also have a report about mini "Kei" camping cars that are becoming popular in Japan and Asian countries.
In this episode, the SAMURAI WHEELS team competes in its first-ever race, the Mazda MX-5 Media 4-hour endurance race. That's after first testing the all-new MX-5 road car on the mountain roads of Hakone. Ukyo and Peter took turns behind the wheel while Sarah donned her team manager's cap for some intense pit board action. On a packed grid of 27 cars, Samurai Wheels started from the middle of the pack and fought its way up to 5th before falling down the order. In a roller-coaster ride, our position changed dozens of times until the nail-biting finish that saw us climb the rankings to finish in ---? Hang on, you'll have to watch the show to find out how we did.
We will test drive a sporty design like a trekking shoe, the new Toyota Sienta. And we will have the final report on the Roadster/MX-5 4-hour endurance race that took place at the Tsukuba Circuit.
We will report the Tokyo Motor Show 2015 for two weeks. The 44th show theme is based on the concept of Technology and Fantasy. You will see dozens of Japanese car makers's world premieres and more.
This episode is the 2nd part of the TOKYO MOTOR SHOW 2015, had been held from Oct. 29 to Nov. 8. The show aims to become the top technology motor showcase in the world, building upon more than 60 years of history. The 44th show theme is based on the concept of "Technology + Fantasy" and Japanese car makers had unveiled dozen of world premieres. In Part 2, we will feature DAIHATSU, LEXUS, MITSUBISHI, NISSAN and MAZDA. Experience the TOKYO MOTOR SHOW 2015 as one of visitors and discover the latest technologies.
We'll take a look at the Nissan X-Trail hybrid. Nissan has sold more than 800,000 X-trails all over the world. For the first time, the new X-trail pairs Tough Gear tech with a hybrid drive train.
Daihatsu launched new mini passenger vehicle CAST nationwide. The concept for developing of the CAST was to create a K-car with the options people want that is capable of freshening up their lives.
In this new edition, we will take you to TOKYO AUTO SALON 2016. It is one of the biggest showcase in the world to demonstrate the latest technology and products for cars to be tuned-up or dressed up.
In this episode, the SAMURAI WHEELS team visits a Suzuki dealership in western Tokyo and checks out some of the brand's best known models before jumping in an Escudo SUV and heading for snow country. See how competent the SUV is on the slippery stuff although studless tires would have improved grip logarithmically.
This episode will be a special report on TOYOTA that has been the world's No. 1 car producer for the last four years. We will delve into the reasons why Toyota has managed to maintain that top spot.
In this week's episode, we will introduce a new segment referred to as COMPACT CROSSOVER, and a car making its debut -- the Suzuki IGNIS. In the LIFE ON WHEELS segment, we will report on "Driving with Disabilities" in Japan. Mobility is important because it also means independence. Today, almost any vehicle can be converted to cater to those with disabilities.
In this new episode of SAMURAI WHEELS, our team will test drive the SUBARU Legacy Outback on public roads and a rugged off-road course, pushing the car to its limits. Last year, SUBARU recorded their best ever sales figures, thanks to unprecedented sales growth in the US. Also Peter will report on road signs in Japan and introduce a radical idea to do with the upcoming Olympics and the international interpretation of "STOP!"
MAZDA call their new styling theme Kodo Design. Now this may sound a little contrived, but they tell us their design theme captures natural motion and creates a sense of movement in the car, even when it's stationary. The CX-5 which debuted as a flagship model for MAZDA in 2012. Total production passed the 1 million mark last year. SAMURAI TEAM will find out the secret of their car manufacture and their strategy. And we will have a report about Japan's cutting edge EV technology. We have traveled to the Tsukuba Circuit to see The All-Japan EV Grand Prix Series.
In this episode, we will compare two cars that have been developed to cater for Japan's unique minivan market. You might be surprised by two of Japan's most luxurious minivans or people-movers.
In this episode, we will feature one of the world bestselling sedans. HONDA has launched a new model of ACCORD with latest driver assistance technologies and an innovative hybrid system.
In this episode of Samurai Wheels, we will focus on TOYOTA ESTIMA, which is called PREVIA in US. ESTIMA has been popular as egg-shaped design in Japan. Samurai team will check its fascination.
In this episode of Samurai Wheels, we will focus on MEDIA ROADSTER 4 HOURS ENDURANCE RACE held by MAZDA. The race is known for its strict fuel limits. Samurai team will compete in the race.
In this episode, we will focus on a compact car with the state-of-art clean diesel engine. MAZDA AXELA, also known as MAZDA3, achieved good fuel efficiency with powerful 1.5-liter engine.
In this episode of Samurai Wheels, we will focus on a brand new mini passenger vehicle. DAIHATSU MOVE CANBUS is full of original functions in small space as it was developed to target women.
In this episode of SAMURAI WHEELS, we will cover TOYOTA 86 GT "LIMITED", a small sports car to chase fun to drive. Samurai team will test-drive its latest model just released this year.
In this episode, we'll focus on a worldwide popular hatchback, SUBARU IMPREZA SPORT. This model with a brand new platform has won Car of the Year Japan for 2016-2017. SAMURAI TEAM will check it out.
In this new episode of SAMURAI WHEELS, our team will take a test drive in the LEXUS RX F SPORT. Let's see what the most selling luxurious crossover SUV of LEXUS has to offer.
In this episode, we will take you to the Tokyo's Shitamachi Downtown district, and test drive the compact car that will be perfect for navigating these narrow streets.
In this new episode, our SAMURAI team will test drive one of the most famous off-road vehicle, The Toyota Land Cruiser. Its reliability and longevity has led to huge popularity all over the world.
Nissan Leaf
In this episode, we will focus on a brand new minivan, NISSAN SERENA. NISSAN released the 6th generation of the car last summer and it was chosen as RJC Car of the Year 2016 by Japanese car researchers' and journalists. Along with safety and comfort functions such as "dual rear door" and "effortless hands free sliding side-door", their autonomous drive technology features the new SERENA. The system helps a car to drive between the lines of a lane in a highway automatically. Does it mark a start of autonomous drive? Let's hear what the SAMURAI WHEELS team has to say! Also, we will have a report on "Auto Color Awards 2016" which evaluates color design in Japanese car industry. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
The HONDA NSX, a leading Japanese sports car, headlines this episode. It debuted in 1990 as a flagship of the brand to go alongside world supercars like FERRARI and PORSCHE, but went out of production in 2005. 11 years later, it returns with a fully revamped model. The new NSX HYBRID uses carbon fiber to achieve high fuel economy performance through weight reduction. It adopts an original four-wheel drive system that gives enhanced maneuverability. HONDA presents the long-awaited new NSX, but how does it stack up against the supercars of the world? SAMURAI TEAM will check this out. Also, we'll have a report about a venture company's development of electric ultra-compact mobility. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
In this episode, the SAMURAI TEAM visits TOKYO AUTO SALON 2017, one of the world's biggest custom car events. Myriad custom cars and parts are on exhibit at the venue, where people can witness unique Japanese car culture. This year marks the event's 35th time, the largest ever, with about 300,000 people in attendance. Car tuning and customization was once thought to be the domain of a small group of enthusiasts, but nowadays automobile manufacturers have come to participate seriously as well. A background factor for this is manufacturers' reaffirmation of the market's viability. From the venue of this mega event which is attracting attention from overseas, we throw some light on Japanese custom car culture! Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
In this episode, we visit MAZDA's headquarters in Hiroshima Prefecture. Hiroshima is the city where an atomic bomb was dropped in World War II. MAZDA was founded in this city in 1920 and has developed with Hiroshima even after the war. MAZDA once had fallen into financial crisis in the 90's, but now it has raised its profits to record highs, with technical strength and stylish design even more popular in the West than in Japan. What was it that changed MAZDA? Automobile manufacturer's very essence and culture are clearly reflected in their product. The SAMURAI TEAM tours the MAZDA headquarters, factory and museum, looking back at the history of the company, along with its corporate philosophy. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
This episode will throw the spotlight on TOYOTA's global strategic car, CH-R. A new specialty genre from Japan - the compact crossover SUV. After going on sale in last December, the following month, the company received an order for 48,000 units, exceeding its target by 8 times. The reason behind its popularity? In addition to a distinctive design, it adopts a new platform and achieves a low center of gravity and stable driving performance, fanning expectations from users around the world. SAMURAI TEAM tests the mettle of this new crossover SUV. In addition, a report on a project to revive an extremely limited sports car from the 90's when a mere 200 units were put on sale. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
SAMURAI WHEELS makes its mission to convey the appeal of Japanese cars and the unique car culture of Japan to the world. In 2016, we've reported on number movements in the automobile industry over more than 20 episodes. Just to name a few are the movement to reboot the sports car, development of technology for safe driving, and the evolution of next generation FCV and EV. This episode looks back at the topics that dominated 2016, and makes some predictions to what awaits the automobile industry in 2017. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
We compare the top 3 selling "Kei-cars", mini passenger vehicles in Japan in 2016, based on data from the Japan Light Motor Vehicle and Motorcycle Association. Coming in 1st place is the HONDA N-BOX. 2nd place goes to the DAIHATSU TANTO. 3rd place is the NISSAN DAYS. All 3 have low fuel consumption and a low price range, as well as striking features like spacious interior and safety devices. The SAMURAI TEAM will test each car and check their performance. From this ranking, we speculate on what Japanese people expect from cars. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
Is this a hybrid? Or is it an electric car? This time we focus on the NISSAN NOTE e-POWER. Its new powertrain uses the engine only as a generator and runs 100% on an electric motor. While achieving trademark quiet and powerful motor driving, it has low fuel consumption of 37.2km/l by using the engine for power generation. It also saves the trouble of having to be charged like a normal EV. The SAMURAI TEAM checks the real power of this much-discussed compact car's "New sensation driving"!! We also have a report on a Japanese car magazine which celebrates 50th anniversary. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
This time we will cover the TOYOTA PRIUS PHV, which underwent a complete redesign in February, 2017. With a larger driving battery, the mileage in EV mode doubles that of the previous generation at 68.2km. For normal charging, general household wiring can be used. It's packed with interesting features like the world's first roof solar power generation panel on a vehicle for volume sales. Since the launch of the eco car market over 20 years ago, TOYOTA has been leading the market. The SAMURAI TEAM thoroughly probe the capabilities of the vehicle positioned as the "pillar of next-generation eco cars"!! Also, we have a report on the luxury trend of long-distance buses with fancy interiors in Japan. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
This is the first in a two-part special from the New York International Auto Show, an exhibition with a history dating back to 1900's. Centering on Japanese carmakers, we provide in-depth coverage on new models and the latest trends. In a collaboration with the PBS network's program MotorWeek, the show's presenter John Davis and our own Peter Lyon exchange thoughts on some of the key movements in automotive culture. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
This is the second installment of a special from the New York International Auto Show, where the World Car Awards are announced every year. More than 70 automotive journalists from 25 countries equally evaluate new models and cast their votes. Serving as Chairman of the awards is SAMURAI WHEELS' very own Peter Lyon. For total coverage of the announcement of this highly regarded award, be sure to watch. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
The SUZUKI SWIFT HYBRID headlines this episode. Since being fully revamped in 2004, it has become popular in India, China, and even in Europe, with cumulative sales exceeding 5.3 million units. A core element to SUZUKI's business, the car is recognized across the globe. The standout feature of the new model is low fuel consumption realized by a considerably lighter body and "Mild Hybrid" technology. SAMURAI TEAM thoroughly examines its capabilities! In addition, we look back on the history of ISUZU, the well-known Japanese truck and bus manufacturer. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
This episode focuses on the SUBARU FORESTER, the global model crossover SUV powering SUBARU's favorable sales. In North America, monthly production has topped 10,000 units for 43 months running. The vehicle is highly evaluated for its spacious interior and safety. With a minimum ground clearance of 220mm, the highest among SUBARU cars, it easily takes on snowy or unpaved roads. Developed with an emphasis on utility, this full-time 4WD SUV is in high demand in North America. SAMURAI TEAM takes thorough stock of its capabilities. Also, we have a report on KUBOTA, an agricultural vehicle manufacturer that supports rice making in Japan. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
MAZDA's flagship model, the ATENZA WAGON, has undergone major improvements 4 years now since first hitting the market. The station wagon lineup includes the option for manual transmission -- an increasingly rare offer in Japan. With this, MAZDA is clearly targeting European markets, and receiving high praise from Japanese car lovers. SAMURAI TEAM conducts a comprehensive review of its newly refined 2.2L diesel engine and abundant safety features. Also, we'll have a report about WHILL, a remarkable next generation electric wheelchair. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
This time on the show, the LEXUS LC 500, the flagship coupe that shows how far the brand has come. The luxury sports coupe category is dominated by European manufacturers the likes of FERRARI, PORSCHE, BMW and MERCEDES. LEXUS aims to secure the LC 500 a firm position in this market through evolution and change as a brand. The standout feature is the beautiful design that implements nearly the exact essence of the LF-LC concept car exhibited at the Detroit Motor Show. SAMURAI TEAM conducts a thorough review! Also, we'll have a report on the deep world of plastic model cars. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
This time on the program, the DAIHATSU MIRA e:S. First coming to market in 2011 as a normal gasoline-powered vehicle with off the charts fuel efficiency of 32km/l, it carved out a new genre called a 3rd type of clean vehicle after HV and EV. 6 years later in 2017, the 2nd generation has been released. It boasts improved fuel consumption, cost performance and the latest safety features. The MIRA e:S is emblematic of the continually evolving orthodox K-car in Japan. SAMURAI TEAM checks the performance of the latest model! In addition, a report on the latest developments in traffic lights in Japan. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
This time on the show, we feature the SUBARU XV. The fully revamped model released this spring is the 3rd generation of the vehicle. It is a crossover SUV based on the popular IMPREZA SPORT. Although an entry-level model targeting a wide range of customers, it combines genuine SUV function and safety performance. SAMURAI TEAM checks the performance of the latest model from SUBARU to enter the fierce arena of the compact SUV market! In addition, we have a report on the unique automotive culture in Japan "Dekotora", extravagantly decorated trucks. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
This time on the program, the TOYOTA CAMRY, a mid-sized sedan that has sold 18 million units worldwide. This summer it underwent a full model change for the first time in 6 years. Although it boasts huge popularity in the US as the best-selling passenger car for 15 consecutive years, sales have been sluggish in Japan. Eager to revive the sedan in Japan, the CAMRY has been completely overhauled in regards to driving performance, fuel efficiency, body rigidity and design. Can this sedan bounce back? SAMURAI TEAM checks its performance! In addition, a report on Japan's "other" car culture -- the racing game, Gran Turismo. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
This episode will feature the NISSAN FAIRLADY Z NISMO. It will soon be 50 years since its predecessor, the DATSUN Z, debuted in 1969. For a car that is already synonymous with the term Japanese sports car, NISSAN's Motorsport division, NISMO has raised the bar even higher. SAMURAI TEAM checks its capabilities and explores the history of the FAIRLADY Z. In addition, a report on some college students taking on the world's premier solar car race, the World Solar Challenge. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
The first in a two-part installment documenting the efforts of the SAMURAI WHEELS team in the 28th MEDIA ROADSTER 4 HOURS ENDURANCE RACE. The key point of this race for MAZDA MX-5 ROADSTERs is fuel efficiency. The total amount of allotted gasoline is 60 liters, reduced by 10 liters from last year. Running at full speed will result in an empty tank, so working out a strategy with precise calculation of fuel economy to be able to race for the full 4 hours, will decide who wins or loses. SAMURAI TEAM has participated twice in the past, finishing 9th in their first year. Engine trouble down the home stretch forced them to retire from the race last year. This year, they have their sights on their first winner's podium! What's more, a discussion with 3 chief editors of automotive magazines participating in the race. They exchange views on the latest trends in Japanese cars. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
Part Ⅱ of a report on the SAMURAI WHEELS team's participation in the 28th MEDIA ROADSTER 4 HOURS ENDURANCE RACE. Representing NHK WORLD, the team has yet to reach the winner's podium in their past 2 attempts. This year, they rework their strategy and aim for a top spot. Follow their battle against rival teams from mid-race to the goal line, in what promises to be an exhilarating finish. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
This time on the show, the SUZUKI S×4 S-CROSS. As the name suggests, it's a compact crossover SUV. It's a Japanese car, yet not a Japanese car; developed and manufactured to European specifications in Hungary by SUZUKI subsidiary, MAGYAR SUZUKI. European staff insisted on using a luxurious and stately front grille design. A 6-speed AT was adopted for the transmission, rather than the CVT, which is main stream in Japan. SUZUKI's world strategic model has undergone a number of other minor changes, and SAMURAI TEAM checks its performance! In addition, we'll have a report on a 12-year-old girl who aims to become the first Japanese female F1 driver. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
The first of a 2-part series from The 45th Tokyo Motor Show 2017. 27 companies from 10 countries took part in the exhibition, where many concept cars were unveiled for their world premiere. SAMURAI TEAM visited each Japanese car maker's booth to communicate to the world, the latest information and technology on Japanese cars. Covered in this episode are environmental and automatic driving technologies used in concept cars from TOYOTA, MITSUBISHI, ISUZU, YAMAHA, SUZUKI and MAZDA. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
The second of a 2-part series from The 45th Tokyo Motor Show 2017. 27 companies from 10 countries took part in the exhibition, where many concept cars were unveiled for their world premiere. SAMURAI TEAM visited each Japanese car maker's booth to communicate to the world, the latest information and technology on Japanese cars. This episode focuses on the latest technology packed in concept cars from LEXUS, SUBARU, NISSAN, DAIHATSU and HONDA. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
This time on the program, we will cover the TOYOTA HILUX, back on the market in Japan after a 13-year hiatus. A pickup truck available in 180 countries and regions, it has racked up 17.3 million units in cumulative worldwide sales since debuting in 1968. The truck is known and loved all over the world for handling rough roads and durability -- the emblematic rugged and highly reliable Japanese automobile. Domestic demand in Japan however favors the Kei truck's better fuel economy and smaller turning radius, which is why sales of HILUX were suspended in 2004. So, what made TOYOTA re-introduce HILUX in Japan? SAMURAI TEAM attempts to find the answer! In addition, we have a report on an event where 700 old cars and bikes gather. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
This time on the show, the HONDA CIVIC, back on sale in Japan after a 7-year hiatus. With the longest history of all HONDA passenger vehicles, the CIVIC is a stalwart accounting for a quarter of the brand's worldwide production. But with the continuous growing demand for subcompact cars in Japan, CIVIC sales lagged, and HONDA took it off the domestic market in 2010. 7 years later, labeled as the New CIVIC Series, will the reintroduced CIVIC be able to carry out a revival in Japan? SAMURAI TEAM investigate! Also on the show, a report about expanding new services for car sharing in Japan. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
This time on the show, we introduce the LEXUS CT 200h. The smallest in the LEXUS lineup, it's a hatchback with a hybrid 1.8-liter engine and an electric motor, coupling great fuel economy with sporty driving performance -- a winning combination. The CT 200h competes within the fiercely contested C-segment in Europe. What makes LEXUS think it can go head to head with juggernauts in this segment the likes of VOLKSWAGEN, BMW, AUDI and MERCEDES BENZ? SAMURAI TEAM attempts to decipher LEXUS' global strategy! In addition, a report on a Japanese venture that has developed an electric car that floats and moves on water.
This time on the show, we cover 3 SUV flagship models from MITSUBISHI -- the PAJERO, OUTLANDER PHEV and RVR. MITSUBISHI MOTORS ran into development setbacks in April 2016, when reports surfaced of improper fuel economy testing. To make a fresh start, MITSUBISHI enacted sweeping measures, foremost including coming under the umbrella of NISSAN. Positive results from the changes are gradually appearing, as unit sales are on the rise. SAMURAI TEAM conducts a thorough review of the driving performance of MITSUBISHI MOTORS' three 4WD vehicles -- a field in which the company has always excelled. They predict what the future holds for MITSUBISHI. Also, a feature on the evolving Japanese taxi experience, toward the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Our SAMURAI WHEELS duo visits Tokyo Auto Salon 2018 to check out various custom cars and tune-up parts. A major point of attention at this year's show are the many more hybrid and EV custom cars than in years past. Also, for the first time ever, an international auction for custom cars will be held. How will prized Japanese custom cars be evaluated and priced by the world's experts? This year marks the 36th year for the event, and it will be held on a larger scale than ever. From the venue of this major event that attracts attention from all over the world, we deliver the latest information on Japanese custom cars!
This time on the show, the MAZDA CX-8. 1 month from launch in Japan in December 2017, over 12,000 orders have been recorded, exceeding the monthly sales target by 10 times. What sets it apart is that it's a crossover SUV, but with the same three-row seating as a minivan. Among its buyers, people in their 30's or younger account for 40% -- prominently young families. The CX-8 was created with a new strategy. SAMURAI TEAM gives it a chance to prove it has the right stuff. In addition, a report on a legendary car collector who owns more than 250 domestic and foreign rare and famous cars. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
For 3 years since 2015, SAMURAI WHEELS has made it its mission to communicate to the world, the allure of Japanese cars and car culture. As the program comes to an end in March, this episode is a compilation that looks back, focusing on aspects of car culture. From car hobbyists and dedicated enthusiasts, peculiar customs involved in handling cars, domestically developed special vehicles, to the unique evolution of the Kei-car and trends for minivans, this episode is a roundup of car culture unique to Japan. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
For 3 years since 2015, SAMURAI WHEELS has made it its mission to communicate to the world the allure of Japanese cars and car culture. As the program comes to an end in March, this episode is part Ⅱ of a compilation that looks back, centering on the keyword future. Where are Japanese cars headed? SAMURAI TEAM passionately addresses major issues, starting with the rapidly progressing shift to eco-cars like EV and hybrids, popularity of the SUV and trends for sports cars. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)
Tokyo Motor Show held its 46th event from October to November this year. Today's theme is "OPEN FUTURE." The concept is opening the door to the future car industry. We'll introduce each Japanese car manufacturer's unveiling of their future cars along with non-car related newest technologies. It's said that the automobile industry is in its "once in a century turning point," but what is changing and what will be realized? SAMURAI WHEELS to the world, you'll get the latest from the scene!
"SAMURAI WHEELS" had shown the world of amazing Japanese cars and their culture for years. Even after the program ended this March, fans all around the world never stopped asking for more. And at last, a special TV program will be aired! 2018 is said to be "a once in a century turning point" for the automobile industry with the technological advancements. The program will test-ride the hottest cars now such as "Toyota Corolla Sport," "Nissan SERENA e-POWER," and "Honda Clarity PHEV." The 2 SAMURAIS will analyze the trend of these Japanese cars, mainly focusing on the cars' connectivity, EV shift, autonomous drive, and sports.
