This time, we’ll be looking at the most popular minicars on sale in Japan as of 2024 ( Reiwa 6 ) and presenting a ranking of them. This ranking is based on the 2023 annual sales ranking. Many of the cars on the list boast excellent fuel economy. We hope this will be helpful when making your purchase.
Light car ranking
In the minicar category, the Honda N-BOX took the top spot with 231,385 units sold. In second place was the Daihatsu Tanto with 15,9392 units sold, and in third place was the Suzuki Spacia with 122,275 units sold. Both are regular contenders in the minicar rankings.
| Ranking | Manufacturer | Car name | Sales volume |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st place | Honda | N-BOX | 231,385 units |
| 2nd place | Daihatsu | Tanto | 15,9392 units |
| 3rd place | Suzuki | Spacia | 122,275 units |
| 4th place | Daihatsu | Move | 104,557 units |
| 5th place | Suzuki | Hustler | 82,720 units |
| 6th place | Suzuki | Wagon R | 72,235 units |
| 7th place | Nissan | Luke’s | 70,536 units |
| 8th place | Suzuki | Alto | 67,719 units |
| 9th place | Daihatsu | Mira | 64,080 units |
| 10th place | Daihatsu | Taft | 59,330 units |
| 11th place | Mitsubishi | Delica Mini | 40,573 units |
| 12th place | Suzuki | Jimny | 39,910 units |
| 13th place | Nissan | Days | 38,687 units |
| 14th place | Honda | N-WGN | 37,779 units |
| 15th place | Nissan | Sakura | 37,140 units |
2023 Kei car sales ranking
▼For more details, please refer to this article.
→ Honda “N-BOX” ranks first in new car sales for the second consecutive year. Total sales of the series exceed 2.5 million units.
▼For more details, please refer to this article.
→ [2023] What are the best-selling cars? Annual sales ranking: Honda N-BOX ranks for the second consecutive year
The appeal of minicars
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.)
1. Honda N-BOX
Honda will be fully redesigning its tall wagon-type minicar, the N-BOX, with the model announced on October 5th, 2023 , and released on October 6th, 2023. We’ve checked out the specifications and summarized the details. Attention is focused on how the N-BOX, Japan’s best-selling car as of 2023, will evolve.
About the new Honda “N-BOX”
The exterior of the new N-BOX features a front grille with a round hole design .
The exterior of the new N-BOX CUSTOM features a precisely shaped front grille with a three-dimensional feel, horizontal single lights at the front, and direct projection LED headlights .
Honda’s first 7-inch TFT LCD meter .
Adopts a “multi-view camera system.”
New safety features include a “sudden acceleration control function” and a “near-collision mitigation brake . “
The exterior adopts a new design while maintaining the same concept. Continuing with the current model, it employs Honda’s now traditional ” center tank layout ” and adopts a ” super sliding passenger seat ” (available for different types). The rear seat slide is standard on all vehicles, and instead of a bench seat, it is a separate seat that allows for a walk-through. An electric parking brake and auto brake hold are also adopted. Honda SENSING is standard on all models. The full model change has resulted in engine improvements and a revised platform, which are expected to reduce weight and increase rigidity, as well as slightly improve fuel efficiency. Usability has been improved with the adoption of a “7-inch TFT LCD meter” that clearly displays Honda SENSING functions and various information, a large glove box that can store luggage all in one place, and large side pockets in the rear seats.
Honda’s new “N-BOX” exterior
The exterior of the new N-BOX expresses simplicity and friendliness, with a front grille featuring a round hole design and headlights shaped to resemble human eyes.
Honda’s new “N-BOX CUSTOM” exterior
The exterior of the new N-BOX CUSTOM features a front grille with a detailed, three-dimensional design, horizontal single lights at the front, and direct projection LED headlights . It also features the clear lens rear combination lamps that are characteristic of the N-BOX CUSTOM that have been developed in previous models, and an exclusive aero design that takes into consideration a low and wide view and aerodynamic performance.
Honda’s new “N-BOX” interior
We have created a comfortable space, like enjoying a fun gathering with family and friends in your living room at home. Grip-shaped recesses have been added to part of the trunk side lining in the rear seats, allowing small children and the elderly to hold on tightly, making it easier to get in and out. The car is equipped with a 7-inch digital meter and a 9-inch navigation system that is compatible with Honda CONNECT connected technology. It is also compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto . An optional 12.8-inch rear seat monitor is available, allowing rear seat passengers to enjoy impressive video content.
The car is equipped with Honda CONNECT, an in-vehicle communication module exclusively for Honda vehicles . Honda Total Care Premium is available. Remote operation via smartphone is possible, and the car itself connects to the emergency support center in the event of an accident or other emergency, enabling quick and accurate troubleshooting support. It also comes with an automatic map update service. It also features the Honda Digital Key and Honda App Center, which allow your smartphone to function as a key, and in-car Wi-Fi, which allows you to purchase data capacity in the car and connect to the internet for enjoyment.
About the price of the new Honda “N-BOX”
| Specifications | N-BOX | |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 3,395mm | |
| Overall width | 1,475mm | |
| Overall height | 1,790mm | |
| Wheelbase | 2,520mm | |
| engine | 658cc inline 3-cylinder DOHC i-VTEC engine |
|
| Maximum power | 43kW (58PS) / 7,300rpm |
|
| Maximum torque | 65Nm (6.6kgm) / 4,800rpm |
|
| transmission | CVT | |
| Drive system | FF/4WD | |
| WLTC mode fuel economy | 21.6km/L (FF) 19.4km/L (4WD) |
|
Pricing for the new N-BOX CUSTOM
| 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) |
▼For more details, please refer to this article.
→ Price and specifications revealed. New “N-BOX” full model change. Release date announced on October 5, 2023. Release date on October 6.
▼For more details, please refer to this article.
→ [2022] What are the best-selling cars? Toyota Yaris and Honda N-BOX take first place in annual sales rankings for the third consecutive year
2. Daihatsu Tanto
Daihatsu has completely redesigned the new Tanto/Tanto Custom, releasing it on July 9th, 2019. The new model employs the newly developed platform ” DNGA (Daihatsu New Global Architecture) .” It also features the newly developed ” Miracle Walk-Through Package ” and ” Next Generation Smart Assist .” The packaging effectively utilizes the center pillarless design on the passenger side, and employs a “long sliding driver’s seat seat ( maximum 540mm forward/backward movement). Furthermore, the passenger seat can be moved forward and backward (380mm) , allowing the passenger seat to be moved completely forward, making it easy to move from the driver’s seat to the rear seat and making the most of the pillarless design.
These days, ISOFIX-compatible child seats can only be placed in the rear seats, so children have to be placed in the back, and drivers have to get out of the driver’s seat each time to put the child in or take the child out, but the biggest advantage of the new Tanto is that you can easily move to the rear seat and get in and out with your child. The new N-BOX , its biggest rival, does not use a pillarless system, which is a major differentiator.
About the new Daihatsu “Tanto”
Daihatsu has unveiled the Tanto Funcross, a new model that expresses fun and activeness in the facelifted Tanto, and began accepting pre-orders on August 22, 2022. The car will be released on October 3, 2022 .
The exterior design has been changed. (The Tanto Custom has a new front grille and headlights.)
A new model, ” FUNCROSS,” has been introduced as an active model.
The L model (vehicle without Smart Assist) will be discontinued, and Smart Assist will be equipped as standard on all vehicles.
New body and interior colors will be added.
The new Tanto features a significantly revised front face from the Tanto Custom, giving it a more imposing presence and expressing the quality and sophistication of adults.
In addition, a new model, the Tanto Funcross, has been added to the expanding active super-height wagon market as an active vehicle that goes beyond everyday use and allows for fun times . Smart Assist now features a blind spot monitor and RCTA (rear cross traffic alert) . The L model (vehicle without Smart Assist) has been discontinued, and Smart Assist will now be standard equipment on all vehicles. New body and interior colors have been added.
Daihatsu New “Tanto” Body Color
MONOTONE
Ice Green〈G62〉
Sand Beige Metallic (T34)
Shining White Pearl (W25) (manufacturer option)
White〈W09〉
Black Mica Metallic〈X07〉
Bright Silver Metallic (S28)
Laser Blue Crystal Shine (B82) (manufacturer option)
Fire Quartz Red Metallic (R67)
Plum Brown Crystal Mica (R59) (manufacturer option)
Two Tone
White〈W09〉×Ice Green〈G62〉【XM8】(Factory option)
White〈W09〉×Sand Beige Metallic〈T34〉【XM7】(Factory option)
Daihatsu New “Tanto Custom” Body Color
MONOTONE
Shining White Pearl (W25) (manufacturer option)
Black Mica Metallic〈X07〉
Chrome Gray Metallic (S44)
Cool Violet Crystal Shine (P19) (manufacturer option)
Turquoise Blue Mica Metallic (B86)
Laser Blue Crystal Shine (B82) (manufacturer option)
Fire Quartz Red Metallic (R67)
Two Tone
Black Mica Metallic (X07) x Shining White Pearl (W25) [XH3] (Factory option)
Black Mica Metallic (X07) x Fire Quartz Red Metallic (R67) [X96] (Factory option)
About the new Daihatsu Tanto Funcross model
The rear seats feature a two-stage adjustable deck board, which can be raised to double-stack mode. The waterproof seat backs also mean you can load wet luggage without worry. A luggage room lamp (on the right side of the deck/ceiling) and a USB socket (one on the right side of the rear seats) are also included.
(rear seats)
(deck side right/ceiling)
(1 on the right side of the rear seat)
Daihatsu new model “Tanto Funcross” body color
MONOTONE
Lake Blue Metallic (B87)
Sand Beige Metallic (T34)
Compagno Red (R75)
Shining White Pearl (W25) (manufacturer option)
Chrome Gray Metallic (S44)
Laser Blue Crystal Shine〈B82〉
Black Mica Metallic〈X07〉
Forest Khaki Metallic (G63)
Two Tone
Black Mica Metallic (X07) x Lake Blue Metallic (B87) [XM5] (Factory option)
Black Mica Metallic (X07) x Sand Beige Metallic (T34) [XM6] (Factory option)
Black Mica Metallic (X07) x Compagno Red (R75) [XH7] (Factory option)
Black Mica Metallic (X07) x Shining White Pearl (W25) [XH3] (Factory option)
Black Mica Metallic (X07) x Forest Khaki Metallic (G63) [XM4] (Factory option)
Daihatsu New “Tanto” Specifications
| Specifications | Tanto | Tanto Custom |
|---|---|---|
| Engine type | NA | 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 | 21.2km/L (2WD) 20.2km/L (4WD) |
20.0km/L (2WD) 18.8km/L (4WD) |
For more details, please refer to this article.
→ Daihatsu New Tanto and Tanto Custom Full Model Change DNGA Next-Generation Smart Assist System Released on July 9, 2019
For more details, please refer to this article.
→ Daihatsu New Tanto Partial Improvement Released December 1, 2020
3. Suzuki Spacia
Suzuki will release the new light height wagons “Spacia” and “Spacia Custom” on November 22, 2023. Based on the concept of “A Spacia that’s full of excitement! A safe and comfortable Spacia that you can use freely,” the original appeal of the Spacia has been improved, including its design, comfortable and cozy interior space, and safety features.
About the new Suzuki “Spacia”
The exterior design has been changed.
It features a memory navigation system with a large 9-inch HD display .
The car is the first to feature an electric parking brake and auto brake hold, both of which are Suzuki’s first features .
Equipped with a rear seat center armrest, ottoman, and personal table .
Uses the latest “R06D engine.”
The Spacia’s digital speedometer and multi-information display (color) and steering wheel heater are adopted for the first time in a Suzuki minicar.
The platform is made of “HEARTECT,” and by using a ring-shaped frame structure and structural adhesives, body rigidity and handling stability have been improved. In addition, damping adhesive has been used on the underbody joint surfaces, and sound-insulating baffles have been installed in a total of eight places on the left and right sides, resulting in a very quiet interior.
In addition to the rear step ground clearance (345mm) and sliding door opening width (600mm) and opening height (1250mm) that make it easy to get in and out of the rear seats, the ease of getting in and out has been improved by the ingress/egress grip with an enlarged handle.
About the exterior of the new Suzuki “Spacia”
The exterior will retain its concept, but the design will be changed to give it a completely new image.
The standard model “Spacia” keeps the concept almost the same as the previous model, but the front design has been slightly changed. The “Spacia Custom” has a silver painted front design, giving it a more high-quality and glamorous look, and although it is a different company, it has a bold design reminiscent of Toyota’s “Vellfire”. Furthermore, the headlights are equipped with ” DRL (Daytime Running Lights) ” and ” LED Sequential Turn Lamps (flowing turn signals) “.
Suzuki’s new “Spacia” interior
The interior has been redesigned with more user-friendly layout and space. The newly designed steering wheel is equipped with a steering wheel heater. It is equipped with a large 9-inch HD display with memory navigation , digital meters and LCD, and finally, the long-awaited first adoption of Suzuki’s “electric parking brake” and “auto brake hold”. For a minicar, the rear seats are equipped with comfortable features, such as a “rear seat center armrest” and a “multi-use flap” that prevents luggage from falling and can also be used as an ottoman. The “personal table” has a stopper that allows you to place a tablet or other device on it.
For more details, please refer to this article.
→ [2023] Which cars are equipped with “electric parking brake” and “auto-hold brake”? We’ve compiled a list
Suzuki’s new “Spacia” specs
The powertrain is a mild hybrid that combines an R06D engine that produces a maximum output of 36kW (49PS)/6500rpm and a maximum torque of 58Nm (4.1kgfm) with a WA04C motor that produces a maximum output of 1.9kW (2.6PS)/1500rpm and a maximum torque of 40Nm (4.1kgfm)/100rpm.
The turbo models include the R06A type, which produces a maximum output of 47kW (64PS)/6000rpm and a maximum torque of 98Nm (10.0kgfm)/3000rpm, and the R06B type, which produces a maximum output of 2.3kW (3.1PS)/1000rpm and a maximum torque of 50Nm (5.1kgfm)/100rpm.
| Specifications | Spacia | Spacia |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 3,395mm | 3,395mm |
| Overall width | 1,475mm | 1,475mm |
| Overall height | 1,785mm | 1,785mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,460mm | 2,460mm |
| engine | Inline 3-cylinder 660cc <R06D type> + motor (mild hybrid) |
Inline 3-cylinder 660cc <R06D type> Turbo + motor (mild hybrid) |
| Maximum power | 36kW (49ps) / 6,500rpm |
47kW (64ps) / 6,000rpm |
| Maximum torque | 58Nm (5.9kgm) / 5,000rpm |
98Nm (10.0kgm) / 3,000rpm |
| Motor maximum output | 1.9kW (2.6ps) / 1,500rpm |
2.3kW (3.1ps) / 1,000rpm |
| Motor Max Torque | 40Nm (4.1kgm) / 100rpm |
50Nm (5.1kgm) / 100rpm |
| transmission | CVT | CVT |
| Drive system | 2WD (FF) / 4WD | 2WD (FF) / 4WD |
| Passenger capacity | 4 people | 4 people |
| WLTC mode fuel economy | 22.2km/L (2WD) 20.2km/L (4WD) |
19.8km/L (2WD) 19.2km/L (4WD) |
For more details, please refer to this article.
→ The third-generation new “Spacia” will be fully redesigned and equipped with many features to defeat the “N-BOX.” It will be released on November 22, 2023.
6. Suzuki Wagon R
Suzuki’s Wagon R will undergo a minor change and a new model, the Wagon R Custom Z, will be added, which will be released on August 30, 2022. The minor change to the Wagon R will see changes to the exterior design (new grille and bumper design), and the addition of the new Wagon R Custom Z. The interior will feature a new 7-inch display audio . It will also be compatible with the new SUZUKI connect service. The safety system will be equipped with Dual Camera Brake Support, which can detect pedestrians even at night . It will also feature Active Cruise Control (ACC) (with full-speed pursuit function) and lane departure control . It will also be equipped with two USB power sockets (Type-A/Type-C) on the instrument panel.
Wagon R
Wagon R Stingray
Wagon R Custom Z
Suzuki “Wagon R” specs
| Specifications | Wagon R/ Wagon R Stingray |
Wagon R/ Wagon R Stingray |
Wagon R |
|---|---|---|---|
| full length | 3,395mm | 3,395mm | 3,395mm |
| Overall width | 1,475mm | 1,475mm | 1,475mm |
| Overall height | 1,680mm | 1,680mm | 1,680mm |
| Wheelbase |
2,460mm | 2,460mm | 2,460mm |
| engine | 660cc inline 3-cylinder turbo engine + motor |
660cc inline 3-cylinder engine + motor |
660cc inline 3-cylinder engine |
Maximum engine output |
47kW (64ps) / 6,000rpm |
36kW (49ps) / 6,500rpm |
36kW (49ps) / 6,500rpm |
Maximum engine torque |
98Nm (10.0kgm) / 3,000rpm |
58Nm (5.9kgm) / 5,000rpm |
58Nm (5.9kgm) / 5,000rpm |
| Motor maximum output |
2.3kW (3.1ps) / 1,000rpm |
1.9kW (2.6ps) / 1,500rpm |
– |
| Motor maximum torque |
50Nm (5.1kgm) / 100rpm |
40Nm (4.1kgm) / 100rpm |
– |
| battery | Lithium-ion battery |
Lithium- ion battery |
– |
| Drive system | 2WD(FF)/4WD | 2WD(FF)/4WD | 2WD(FF)/4WD |
| WLCT mode fuel economy |
23.4km/L (2WD) 21.8km/L (4WD) |
25.2km/L (2WD) 24.2km/L (4WD) |
24.4km/L (2WD) 23.2km/L (4WD) |
| Passenger capacity | 4 people | 4 people | 4 people |
For more details, please refer to this article.
→Suzuki’s new Wagon R undergoes some specification changes to comply with regulations for manual transmission vehicles, to be released on November 24, 2023
7. Nissan Roox
Nissan will make minor changes to the new Roox, which will be announced on April 17, 2023, and released around late June.
The current model, the Roox , was announced at 10:00 AM on February 25, 2020, and released on March 19, 2020, marking its first minor change in three years. This time, the exterior design has been revised, and the interior design has been changed to resemble the new Serena, which was released on December 22, 2022. The new model features a new Nissan emblem and the latest V-motion design language. It incorporates a V-shaped grille and aggressive headlights. The Highway Star model grade incorporates many Nissan design features, such as a large V-motion grille, boomerang-shaped headlights, and a powerful body shape. Furthermore, it is equipped with horizontal signature LED lamps, and the headlights are delicately designed to further accentuate the distinctive boomerang shape.
Luke’s
The new model features an “intelligent rearview mirror” that ensures clear visibility even in situations where rear visibility is obstructed or in bad weather. Also, “LED headlamps” and “auto-dimming rearview mirror with display” are standard equipment on all models.
All “Roox Highway Star” vehicles come standard with the “Comfort Pack (rear ceiling fan with plasma cluster, personal table, 9 cup holders, USB socket).” New body colors have been added: “Sorbet Blue Metallic/White Pearl 2-tone” and “Cactus Green Pearl” have been added to the “Roox,” and “Kanjuku Cassis Pearl” has been added to the “Roox Highway Star.” A “heated steering wheel” is standard on 4WD vehicles and optional on 2WD vehicles.
Nissan new Roox some specification improvements specs
| 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) |
For more details, please refer to this article.
→Nissan New Roox Minor Change Exterior Change Price Change Released in Late June 2023
8. Suzuki Alto
Suzuki will fully redesign the new Alto, which will be announced on December 10, 2021, and released on December 22, 2021. The safety features include Smart Assist III and Dual Camera Brake Support . A new addition to the lineup will be the S-ene Charge model, a mild hybrid model that combines an R06D engine and motor . The exterior will continue to feature the same angular design as the previous model, with changes including the adoption of a white 2-ton roof as the body color.
Alto
Suzuki “Alto” specifications
| Specifications | New Alto | New Alto mild hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| full length | 3,395mm | |
| Overall width | 1,475mm | |
| Overall height | 1,525mm | |
| Wheelbase |
2,460mm | |
| engine | Straight 3 660cc | Inline 3 660cc + motor |
| Maximum power | 36kW (49ps) / 6,500rpm |
36kW (49ps) / 6,500rpm |
| Maximum torque | 58Nm (5.9kgm) / 5,000rpm |
58Nm (5.9kgm) / 5,000rpm |
| Motor maximum output |
– | 1.9kW (2.6ps) / 1,500rpm |
| Motor Max Torque |
– | 40Nm (4.1kgm) / 100rpm |
| mission | CVT | CVT |
| WLTC mode fuel economy |
25.2km/L (2WD) 23.5km/L (4WD) |
27.7km/L (2WD) 25.7km/L (4WD) |
For more details, please refer to this article.
→Suzuki’s new Alto undergoes some specification changes and price revisions, launching on December 13, 2023
