The famous Tokyo Motor Show is one of the most popular car shows in the world. Hosted by JAMA (Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association) it’s where factories display their new cars, trucks, motorcycles and commercial vehicles.
Recently renamed the Japan Mobility Show in a woke attempt to rebrand as more than a motor show, manufacturers showed three-wheeled vehicles, no-wheeled ones, rocket-powered vehicles, electric scooters, EVs and other appliances. On a positive note, the show features more concept cars than actual production car introductions.
At the same show two years ago, every Japanese automaker jumped on the EV bandwagon and declared the death of the internal combustion engine. Oddly, in 2025 automakers are focusing on gas engines and hybrids over EVs, as sales of electric vehicles continues to wane. For example, Toyota showed off its big-seller, the next-generation Corolla, which is rumored to be offered in gas and hybrid versions. Upmarket Toyota brand Lexus displayed the LS Concept, a six-wheeled minivan with with multiple seating configurations in its luxurious interior. The design implies EV, but the automaker is silent on possible propulsion.
In tough economic times, or periods of political uncertainty, automotive design returns to ‘bunker’ design. Slab sided vehicles with small side windows like the Chrysler 300 from early this century. From a design standpoint, the tiny greenhouse of glass is supposed to ‘psychologically’ protect its occupants. Mazda seems to have followed this trend with its otherwise shapely Vision X Coupe (possibly the new RX-9). A low-slung, tough looking vehicle, it wouldn’t take much armor plating to ready this car for Death Race.
One company that’s fallen behind the competition lately is Subaru. Their focus on SUVs and EVs has alienated the faithful that supported the brand through generations of the WRX and STi that drove popularity.
Shockingly, the board of directors in Japan seems to have listened to customer complaints, and displayed a pair of STI concept cars. The more extreme is the Subaru Performance-E, with swept-back styling, strong creases, and a big wing out back. Not likely to make it to production, its styling shows what future Impreza, WRX or STI model could look like.
With worldwide media in Tokyo, at least some were able to shoot video of the Subaru concept car to give a better 3D view of the mock-up. Thanks to CarBuzz for the Insta reel.