A must-read for anyone looking for a stylish and cool kei car! While many people tend to think of them as cute, there are some models with styling that will make you say, “Cool!” This article introduces the top 10 cool kei cars available for purchase as of 2024. With rising fuel costs and prices, kei cars are becoming increasingly popular as an economical choice. With more manufacturers focusing on differentiating their designs, there are now many attractive models available. Be sure to check out the specs and prices to help you choose your kei car.
Top 10 cool minicars
Kei cars, a uniquely Japanese standard, adapt to all road conditions, from urban to rural areas, and continue to evolve to meet the needs of the times. Automakers strive to differentiate themselves and create distinctive models. The lineup is centered around models known as “tall wagons” and “height wagons,” but there are a variety of interior and exterior designs. There are also a few models that emphasize personal taste. To enjoy an economical and personalized car life, be sure to find a kei car that you think is cool!
1. Honda N-BOX Custom
The N-BOX Custom is an even more stylish evolution of the popular N-BOX. Honda announced a full model change for the tall wagon-style minicar “N-BOX” on October 5, 2023, and released it on October 6. The N-BOX is currently known as “Japan’s best-selling car.” The exterior features a three-dimensional, intricately sculpted front grille and direct-projection LED headlights. The N-BOX Custom also features clear-lens rear combination lamps and a special aerodynamic design that takes aerodynamic performance into consideration. The powerful front mask and bold headlights truly give the impression of a “minicar for adults.” The interior is also high-quality and exudes a luxurious feel. Its spacious interior and comprehensive safety features make it a recommended family car.
The living room at home has become a comfortable space for enjoying time with family and friends. The infotainment system uses a 9-inch navigation system that is compatible with Honda CONNECT connected technology, and is also equipped with a 7-inch digital meter.
It uses a center tank layout and features a super slide passenger seat, which is available depending on the type. All vehicles come standard with a sliding rear seat, which allows for a separate walk-through seat rather than a bench seat. It also features an electric parking brake and auto brake hold, and all models come standard with Honda SENSING.
| Specifications | N-BOX CUSTOM NA vehicle |
N-BOX CUSTOM Turbo |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 3,395mm | 3,395mm |
| Overall width | 1,475mm | 1,475mm |
| Overall height | 1,790mm | 1,790mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,520mm | 2,520mm |
| engine | 658cc inline 3-cylinder DOHC i-VTEC engine |
658cc inline 3-cylinder DOHC turbo engine |
| Maximum power | 43kW (58PS) / 7,300rpm |
47kW (64PS) / 6,000rpm |
| Maximum torque | 65Nm (6.6kgm) / 4,800rpm |
104Nm (10.6kgm) / 2,600rpm |
transmission |
CVT | CVT (with 7-speed mode) + paddle shift |
| Drive system | FF/4WD | FF/4WD |
| WLTC mode fuel economy |
21.5km/L (FF) 19.4km/L (4WD) |
20.3km/L (FF) 18.4km/L (4WD) |
2. Suzuki Spacia Custom
The Suzuki Spacia Custom is a stylish custom version of the Spacia, which boasts a spacious interior and ample storage space. Its rugged SUV-inspired design makes it perfect for outdoor activities and leisure, and it’s also recommended as a family car.
Suzuki will release the new Spacia Custom on November 22, 2023. The concept is “A Spacia that’s full of excitement! A safe and comfortable Spacia that you can use freely,” and the original appeal of the Spacia has been further evolved, including its design, comfortable interior, and safety features. The front design of the Spacia Custom is painted silver, adding a sense of quality and elegance, creating a bold design reminiscent of Toyota’s Vellfire. In addition, the headlights feature DRLs (daytime running lights) and LED sequential turn signals (flowing turn signals).
Spacia Custom
The long-awaited electric parking brake and auto brake hold, a first for Suzuki, have finally been adopted, along with a large 9-inch HD display with memory navigation and a digital meter + LCD.
The Suzuki Spacia is the first Suzuki minicar to feature a heated steering wheel and a digital speedometer and multi-information display (color). It also uses the HEARTECT platform, which improves body rigidity and handling stability by employing a ring-shaped framework and structural adhesives. Furthermore, damping adhesives are used on the underbody joints, and sound-insulating baffles are placed in eight locations on both sides, resulting in a very quiet interior.
3. Daihatsu Tanto Custom
The Daihatsu Tanto Custom is a custom version of the Tanto, which is characterized by its spacious interior and outstanding usability, and is now even more stylish. The front mask has been significantly changed to give it a more masculine impression. The interior is also of high quality, providing a comfortable ride.
Daihatsu’s Tanto and Tanto Custom will undergo a minor change on October 3, 2022, with the introduction of a new exterior design and the addition of new body and interior colors. Additionally, the Smart Assist system will be equipped with a blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert (RCTA). The L model (without Smart Assist) will be discontinued, and Smart Assist will become standard equipment on all vehicles.
The new platform “DNGA (Daihatsu New Global Architecture)” is adopted, along with the newly developed “Miracle Walk-Through Package” and “Next Generation Smart Assist.” The driver’s seat also features a long sliding seat that can be adjusted up to 540mm forward and backward. The passenger seat can also be adjusted up to 380mm forward and backward, making it easier to move from the driver’s seat to the rear seat. This allows the pillarless design to be used to its full potential.
| Specifications | Tanto Custom NA |
Tanto Custom Turbo |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 3,395mm | 3,395mm |
| Overall width | 1,475mm | 1,475mm |
| Overall height | 1,755 to 1,775 mm | 1,755 to 1,775 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,460mm | 2,460mm |
| engine | 658cc inline 3 DOHC engine |
658cc inline 3 DOHC turbo engine |
| Maximum power | 38kW (52ps) / 6,900rpm |
47kW (64ps) / 6,400rpm |
| Maximum torque | 60Nm (6.1kgm) / 3,600rpm |
100Nm (10.2kgm) / 3,600rpm |
| transmission | CVT | CVT |
| Drive system | FF/4WD | FF/4WD |
| WLTC mode fuel economy | 21.9km/L (2WD) 21.4km/L (4WD) |
21.2km/L (2WD) 19.6km/L (4WD) |
4. Mitsubishi Motors Delica Mini
The Delica D:5 is an all-rounder wagon with a more SUV feel, based on the super-height light wagon eK Cross Space. While the exterior design has been revised and many aspects remain similar to the current model, the new model features a larger grille and a new generation Dynamic Shield, giving it a new look. The headlights now feature built-in semicircular LED daytime running lights, and the front and rear bumpers have been redesigned to reflect the Delica’s unique style.
The new platform, special off-road tires, and increased vehicle height emphasize its SUV-like character. A mild hybrid model has also been added to the lineup, featuring full-time 4WD for optimal performance on road surfaces and Grip Control, which supports starting on slippery roads. Hill Descent Control (HDC) also provides braking control for safe driving on steep downhill slopes. The e-Assist package comes standard, featuring a Forward Collision Mitigation Braking System (FCM), Lane Departure Warning System (LDW), Lane Departure Prevention Assist (LDP), Pedal Misapplication Prevention Assist, and Automatic High Beams (AHB). The MI-PILOT system is available as an option. Power sliding doors on both sides and a 650mm rear-seat opening are also available, along with hands-free automatic sliding doors.
| Specifications | Delica Mini |
|---|---|
| full length | 3,395mm |
| Overall width | 1,475mm |
| Overall height | 1,790mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,495mm |
| Model | Turbo car |
| engine | 660cc water-cooled inline 3-cylinder DOHC intercooler turbo + motor |
| Maximum power | 47kW (64ps) / 5,600rpm |
| Maximum torque | 100Nm (10.2kgm) / 2,400rpm~4,000rpm |
| Motor maximum output |
2.0kW (2.7ps) / 1,200rpm |
| Motor Max Torque |
40Nm (4.1kgm) / 100rpm |
| transmission | CVT (Xtronic) |
| Drive system | 4WD |
| Vehicle weight | 1000kg to 1100kg |
| WLTC mode fuel economy |
15.8km/L to 17.2km/L |
5. Nissan Roox
The current model, the Roox, was announced on February 25, 2020, and released on March 19 of the same year. This minor change saw the exterior design change, with the exterior and interior design resembling that of the new Serena, which was released on December 22, 2022. In addition, a new Nissan emblem was adopted, and the latest V-motion design language was introduced, featuring a V-shaped grille and aggressive headlights.
roox
Furthermore, it adopts S-HYBRID (Smart Simple Hybrid) and comes equipped with safety features such as “Emergency Braking,” “Around View Monitor,” and “High Beam Assist” as standard equipment. ProPilot is also available as an option.
| Specifications | Luke’s | Luke’s |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 3,395mm | 3,395mm |
| Overall width | 1,475mm | 1,475mm |
| Overall height | 1,775mm | 1,775mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,495mm | 2,495mm |
| Model | Turbo car | Mild hybrid vehicles |
| engine | 660cc water-cooled inline 3-cylinder DOHC intercooler turbo |
660cc water-cooled inline 3-cylinder DOHC + motor |
| Maximum power | 64ps/ 5,600rpm |
52ps/ 6,400rpm |
| Maximum torque | 100Nm/ 2,400rpm to 4,000rpm |
60Nm/ 3,600rpm |
| Motor maximum output |
2.1ps/ 1,200rpm |
2.1ps/ 1,200rpm |
| Motor Max Torque |
40Nm/ 100rpm |
40Nm/ 100rpm |
| transmission | CVT (Xtronic) |
CVT (Xtronic) |
| Drive system | FF/4WD | FF/4WD |
| Vehicle weight | 940kg to 1060kg | 940kg to 1060kg |
| WLTC mode fuel economy | 19.2km/L (2WD) 17.5km/L (4WD) |
20.9km/L (2WD) 19.0km/L (4WD) |
6. Suzuki Jimny
The Suzuki Jimny is a light, off-road four-wheel drive vehicle that has been on sale since 1970. Its simple structure and excellent off-road performance have made it a perennial favorite. The current model, the fifth generation, was released in 2018. It features a ladder frame and three-link rigid axle suspension for superior off-road performance. It is powered by a 1.5L inline-four engine paired with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The Jimny is popular not only for its off-road capabilities, but also for its user-friendly size and unique design for city driving. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular among female drivers and younger generations.
suzuki jimny 2024
The exterior has returned to its roots rather than keeping the concept, with a more angular body design. It also features round headlights similar to those on the new Hustler, and a two-tone black color scheme is also available. The off-road model features a ladder frame for strength and durability, a three-link rigid suspension, and a part-time 4WD with a sub-transmission (low range). Additionally, the preventive safety feature “Dual Sensor Brake Support” is being used for the first time on a Jimny, and the Drive Action 4×4 system allows for comfortable switching from 2WD to 4WD (4H, 4WD high speed) with a switch.
The instrument panel is fitted with two independent meters. The long, vertical section in the middle houses a multi-information LCD panel, which is designed around the car navigation system. Many changes have been made, including the automatic air conditioning, and a large multi-information display has also been newly introduced. The seats can also be arranged, and can now be made fully flat, which was not possible in the previous model.
| Specifications | New Jimny |
|---|---|
| full length | 3,395mm |
| Overall width | 1,475mm |
| Overall height | 1,715mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,250mm |
| ground clearance | 205mm |
| Minimum turning radius | 4.8mm |
| engine | R06A type 658cc inline 3 DOHC intercooler turbo |
| Maximum power | 64ps (47kW) / 6,000rpm |
| Maximum torque | 96Nm (9.8kgm) / 3,500rpm |
| Drive system | 4WD (part-time 4WD) |
| transmission | 4AT/5MT |
| Vehicle weight | 1,040kg (4AT) 1,030kg (5MT) |
| WLTC mode fuel economy | 13.2km/L (4AT) 16.2km/L (5MT) |
7. Suzuki Hustler
The first model was released in 2014 as a “crossover SUV” and won the Good Design Award, Auto Color Award, and Car of the Year award. The second generation was announced on December 24, 2019, and released on January 20, 2020. The concept retained from the previous model was “More fun! More excitement! A more active light crossover,” and it was developed based on that concept. The headlights are round, just like the previous model, and combine functionality inspired by outdoor items with a powerful look.
The new model’s wheelbase has been extended by 35 mm to provide more legroom for rear seat passengers, and the distance between front seat passengers has been increased by 30 mm, resulting in a more comfortable and spacious interior.
The interior is also very high-quality, giving it an outdoor and sporty feel. It’s equipped with a newly developed Pioneer navigation system with a 9-inch HD display and memory, and is compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SmartDeviceLink.
Furthermore, it uses the next-generation lightweight platform “Heartect” and is equipped with “Dual Camera Brake Support” as a safety feature. It also qualifies as a “Support Car S Wide” vehicle, which is being promoted by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
| Specifications | New Hustler | New Hustler |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 3,395mm | |
| Overall width | 1,475mm | |
| Overall height | 1,680mm | |
| Wheelbase | 2,460mm | |
| engine | 660cc inline 3-cylinder engine R06D type + motor |
660cc inline 3-cylinder turbo engine R06A type + motor |
Maximum engine output |
36kW (49ps) / 6,500rpm |
47kW (64ps) / 6,000rpm |
Maximum engine torque |
58Nm (5.9kgm) / 5,000rpm |
95Nm (9.7kgm) / 3,000rpm |
| Motor maximum output |
1.9kW (2.6ps) / 1,500rpm |
2.3kW (3.1ps) / 1,000rpm |
| Motor maximum torque |
40Nm (4.1kgm) / 100rpm |
50Nm (5.1kgm) / 100rpm |
| battery | Lithium-ion battery |
|
| Drive system | 2WD(FF)/4WD | |
| WLCT mode fuel economy |
25.0km/L (2WD) 23.4km/L (4WD) |
22.6km/L (2WD) 20.8km/L (4WD) |
| Passenger capacity | 4 people | |
8. Daihatsu Taft
Daihatsu released the new Taft mini crossover on June 10, 2020. This is the third model based on the DNGA system, following the new Tanto and Rocky. The new DNGA-A platform prioritizes suspension arrangement, improves bending rigidity, uses high-tensile steel, and streamlines the structure to reduce the overall weight of the body structure.
The “Tuft” is designed as a “backpack style” based on the new concept of “fun for leisure and everyday use!” The angular design expresses a playful “toughness and strength.”
Taft
The interior maintains a playful design while featuring a highly functional layout and ample storage facilities. A “flexible board” allows the luggage height to be adjusted to two levels, and by folding down the rear seats, a flat, spacious space can be secured. In addition, the seat backs are made of stain-resistant resin, so you don’t have to worry about dirty luggage.
| Specifications | New Taft NA |
New Taft Turbo |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 3,395mm | |
| Overall width | 1,475mm | |
| Overall height | 1,630mm | |
| Wheelbase | 2,460mm | |
| ground clearance | 190mm | |
| engine | 658cc inline 3 DOHC engine |
658cc inline 3 DOHC turbo engine |
| Maximum power | 38kW (52ps) / 6,900rpm |
47kW (64ps) / 6,400rpm |
| Maximum torque | 60Nm (6.1kgm) / 3,600rpm |
100Nm (10.2kgm) / 3,600rpm |
| transmission | CVT | |
| Drive system | 2WD(FF)/4WD | |
| JC08 mode fuel economy | 25.7km/L (2WD) -km/L (4WD) |
25.4km/L (2WD) -km/L (4WD) |
| WLTC mode fuel economy | 20.5km/L (2WD) 19.7km/L (4WD) |
20.2km/L (2WD) 19.6km/L (4WD) |
9. Daihatsu Copen
As of 2024, the Daihatsu Copen is the only two-seater light sports car in the lineup. Honda’s S660 was also available, but production of it ended in March 2022. The Copen features an electric hardtop and comes in two variations: the Robe and the Cero. Both are equipped with an in-line 3-cylinder 12-valve DOHC IC turbo engine and feature front-wheel drive. They have a dynamic exterior design and are based on the concept of being “tough and aggressive.”
Although it is a light vehicle, it has the performance and design of a full-fledged sports car.
| Specifications | New Copen |
|---|---|
| full length | 3,395mm |
| Overall width | 1,475mm |
| Overall height | 1,280mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,230mm |
| engine | Inline 3 660cc turbo engine |
| Maximum power | 47kw (64ps) / 6,400rpm |
| Maximum torque | 92Nm (9.4kgm) / 3,200rpm |
| transmission | CVT/5MT |
| Drive system | FF |
| WLCT mode fuel economy | 19.2km/L (CVT) 18.6km/L (5MT) |
10. Nissan Sakura
Nissan’s mini-vehicle BEV “Sakura” won the highest rating of “Five Star Award” for automobile safety performance in 2022. Furthermore, the Nissan “Sakura” and Mitsubishi “ek Cross EV” won the 43rd Japan Car of the Year Award (2022-2023) . Nissan announced on May 20, 2022, that the Sakura will be released on June 16, 2022. If you take advantage of the Clean Energy Vehicle Adoption Promotion Subsidy (550,000 yen), the effective purchase price is said to start from approximately 1.78 million yen (including consumption tax).
Nissan SAKURA
Nissan’s new minicar features a front face and luminous emblem that expresses the next generation of Nissan. The exterior design exudes a calm and mature atmosphere, and the advanced, elegant, thin headlights support safe driving on nighttime roads. The back door is also equipped with wide LED rear combination lamps inspired by a lattice pattern.
Furthermore, this minicar is equipped with advanced equipment. In addition to the “ProPilot” driving assistance technology for single lanes on highways, “ProPilot Parking” automatically controls the steering, accelerator, brakes, gear changes, and parking brake when parking. From city streets to highways and parking lots, advanced technology supports driving.
Inside, two large displays are laid out horizontally: a 7-inch Advanced Drive Assist Display and a 9-inch navigation screen.
| Specifications | Nissan Sakura |
|---|---|
| full length | 3,395mm |
| Overall width | 1,475mm |
| Overall height | 1,655mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,495mm |
| Motor maximum output |
47kW |
| Motor Max Torque |
195Nm |
| maximum speed | 130km/h |
| Vehicle weight | 1,070kg-1,080kg |
| Passenger capacity | 4 people |
| Charging time | Normal charging: 8 hours (low battery warning light illuminated to 100%) Rapid charging: Approx. 40 minutes (low battery warning light illuminated to 80%) |
| WLTC mode cruising range |
Up to 180km |
What model is a light car?
The vehicle price is low. (Depending on the model, the vehicle price is less than 1 million yen.)
High resale value. (Light cars are in high demand and tend to have high resale values.)
Low maintenance costs. (Many fuel-efficient models and the lowest automobile tax)
Easy to drive. (Light vehicle standards are 3.4m or less in length, 1.48m or less in width, 2m or less in height, 660cc or less in engine displacement, and a seating capacity of four or less. Therefore, they are smaller and more maneuverable than standard cars, making them easier to drive on narrow roads and for those unfamiliar with driving.)
Light cars are cheaper in automobile tax
The consumption tax increase took effect on October 1, 2019, and in conjunction with this , tax reforms were made in October 2019 , resulting in different amounts being taxed depending on when a car was purchased.
Motor vehicle tax rate table for newly registered private passenger cars
| Engine displacement | tax rate |
|---|---|
| 660cc | 10,800 yen |
| 1,000cc or less | 25,000 yen |
| More than 1,000cc but less than 1,500cc | 30,500 yen |
| More than 1,500cc but less than 2,000cc | 36,000 yen |
| More than 2,000cc but less than 2,500cc | 43,500 yen |
| More than 2,500cc but less than 3,000cc | 50,000 yen |
| More than 3,000cc but less than 3,500cc | 57,000 yen |
| More than 3,500cc but less than 4,000cc | 65,500 yen |
| More than 4,000cc but less than 4,500cc | 75,500 yen |
| More than 4,500cc but less than 6,000cc | 87,000 yen |
| Over 6,000cc | 110,000 yen |
Automobile tax rate table for private passenger cars over 13 years old
You may have heard that automobile tax increases for cars that are 13 years old or older. The automobile tax for maintaining a car and the automobile weight tax paid at the time of vehicle inspection increase the older the car. Cars that are more than 13 years old or older than new registration are subject to a 15% surcharge under the “special tax rate under the green tax system.”
| Engine displacement | Less than 13 years since new registration |
13 years have passed since the first registration |
|---|---|---|
| 660cc | 10,800 yen | 12,900 yen |
| 1,000cc or less | 25,000 yen | 33,900 yen |
| More than 1,000cc but less than 1,500cc | 30,500 yen | 39,600 yen |
| More than 1,500cc but less than 2,000cc | 36,000 yen | 45,400 yen |
| More than 2,000cc but less than 2,500cc | 43,500 yen | 51,700 yen |
| More than 2,500cc but less than 3,000cc | 50,000 yen | 58,600 yen |
| More than 3,000cc but less than 3,500cc | 57,000 yen | 66,700 yen |
| More than 3,500cc but less than 4,000cc | 65,500 yen | 76,400 yen |
| More than 4,000cc but less than 4,500cc | 75,500 yen | 87,900 yen |
| More than 4,500cc but less than 6,000cc | 87,000 yen | 101,200 yen |
| Over 6,000cc | 111,000 yen | 127,600 yen |
▼For more details, please refer to this article.
→ [2023] List of car tax types, automobile tax and environmental performance tax rates
A word from the editorial department
Lightweight sports cars are tax-deductible and offer good fuel economy, making them attractive not only as a primary vehicle but also as a second car. Not only are maintenance costs low, but their compact size and light weight offer excellent acceleration and handling, as well as stylish design. In recent years, they have attracted attention overseas, with reviews such as “small but fast!” and “unique design.” There are also rumors of a revival of light sports cars, and we look forward to the arrival of new models. Attractive light sports cars are expected to appear one after another in 2024. Find the perfect one for you and enjoy your car life.
