Kei cars are synonymous with compact, economical vehicles that can roam Japan’s roads freely. They are loved by many people for their low maintenance costs and maneuverability. However, even though they are all called kei cars, there are actually many different types. The market is flooded with a wide variety of models, including sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, light vans, and light trucks.
” I want a minicar, but I don’t know which one to choose… “
For those of you with such concerns, this article will introduce “kei cars that are a good purchase” based on the opinions of owners who have actually purchased a kei car and experienced its appeal. By discussing the features and appeal of each model, as well as the real experiences of owners, we will help you find the perfect car for your car life.
Rediscover the appeal of minicars!
What is the reason behind the popularity of minicars? Let’s take a look at their appeal.
- Economical : Kei cars are relatively inexpensive to purchase and have low maintenance costs. Automobile tax, weight tax, and compulsory automobile liability insurance are all cheaper than standard cars, making them a budget-friendly option.
- Easy to maneuver : Kei cars are characterized by their compact bodies, making them easy to drive on narrow roads and in parking lots. They are also easy to make U-turns and parallel park, so even those who are not confident in their driving skills can drive them with confidence.
- Good fuel economy : Many minicars offer excellent fuel economy, helping you save on fuel costs. They are also environmentally friendly, allowing you to enjoy a car that is kind to the earth.
- Evolving safety : In recent years, the safety of minicars has improved dramatically. Thanks to collision-safe bodies and advanced safety technologies, driving can now be enjoyed with peace of mind.
- Diverse Models : Kei cars come in a wide variety of models, including sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, light vans, and light trucks. You can choose the one that best suits your lifestyle and preferences.
Kei cars that are worth buying: Let’s hear what owners have to say!
So, what kind of models do owners who have actually purchased minicars choose, and what aspects of them are they satisfied with? We will introduce some specific models and the real opinions of owners.
1. Honda N-BOX
Honda N-BOX
Honda’s N-BOX is always ranked among the top-selling minicars, boasting a spacious interior and ease of use.
- “Perfect for family outings! Spacious and comfortable even with a child seat attached.”
- “The sliding door is convenient! It makes it easy to get in and out even in tight parking spaces.”
- “It’s fuel efficient and economical! It’s safe even for long drives.”
- “There’s a lot of safety equipment and it gives me a sense of security.”
- “The luggage compartment is spacious and can carry a lot of luggage.”
2. Suzuki Spacia
Suzuki Spacia
Suzuki’s Spacia is popular among female users and features a cute design and ample storage space.
- “I love the cute design! It makes riding around town more fun.”
- “There’s plenty of storage space, which is convenient! You don’t have to worry about having a lot of luggage.”
- “It’s easy to drive and maneuverable! It can easily navigate narrow roads.”
- “There are plenty of seating arrangements, so it can be used in a variety of ways.”
- “It has good visibility and is easy to drive.”
3. Daihatsu Tanto
Daihatsu Tanto
Daihatsu Tanto
The Daihatsu Tanto features a pillarless door on the passenger side. The large opening makes it easy to get in and out of the car and load and unload luggage.
- “The pillarless doors are convenient! You can easily load large items.”
- “The interior is spacious and comfortable! Perfect for family trips.”
- “The visibility from the driver’s seat is great and it’s very safe.”
- “There are plenty of custom parts available, so you can customize it to your liking.”
- “The sliding doors make it easy for children to get in and out.”
4. Nissan Dayz
Nissan Dayz
The Nissan Dayz boasts a stylish design and comfortable ride, and is equipped with advanced technology and safety features.
- “The design is cool and I like it.”
- “The interior is luxurious and comfortable.”
- “ProPilot is convenient! It reduces fatigue during long-distance driving.”
- “It’s quiet and makes for a comfortable drive.”
- “It’s fuel efficient and economical.”
5. Daihatsu Move / Subaru Stella
Subaru Stella
Subaru’s Stella combines safety and driving performance. Equipped with EyeSight, it boasts a high level of safety.
- “EyeSight gives me peace of mind! It reduces the burden of driving.”
- “It has excellent driving stability and is safe to drive.”
- “Provides stable running even on snowy roads! Ideal for winter sports.”
- “It’s fuel efficient and economical.”
- “It has great visibility and is easy to drive.”
6. Daihatsu Hijet Cargo
Hijet Cargo
Daihatsu’s Hijet Cargo is a representative example of a light commercial vehicle, boasting a large cargo capacity and ease of use.
- “Perfect for work! Can carry a lot of stuff.”
- “It’s fuel efficient and economical! It keeps running costs down.”
- “It’s maneuverable and easy to drive in tight spaces.”
- “It’s very durable and can be used for a long time.”
- “The luggage compartment is easy to use and can accommodate a variety of items.”
7. Honda N-VAN
Honda N-VAN
Honda’s N-VAN features a center pillarless door on the passenger side. Its versatile seating arrangements make it suitable for a variety of uses.
- “Perfect for sleeping in your car! You can stay comfortable in the flat space.”
- “It’s convenient because you can load a lot of hobby equipment.”
- “The visibility from the driver’s seat is great and it’s easy to drive.”
- “It’s fuel efficient and economical.”
- “It’s also popular as a custom base, allowing you to customize it to your liking.”
8. Suzuki Hustler
Suzuki Hustler
The Suzuki Hustler features an SUV-style design and playful coloring, making it a popular model among outdoor enthusiasts.
- “The stylish design looks great both in town and outdoors.”
- “It has excellent off-road performance, so you can go camping or skiing with peace of mind.”
- “There are plenty of seating arrangements, so sleeping in the car is comfortable.”
- “It’s fuel efficient and economical.”
- “It’s safe and well equipped with safety equipment.”
9. Daihatsu Taft
Taft
Daihatsu’s Taft is a light crossover SUV that is gaining popularity. Its powerful design and comprehensive equipment make it an appealing choice.
- “The design is cool and it has a presence even when riding around town.”
- “The Sky Feel top is open and fun to drive.”
- “It has excellent driving performance and is a stable ride.”
- “It’s equipped with a wide range of safety features, so you can drive with peace of mind.”
- “The luggage compartment is spacious, so you can easily load outdoor gear.”
10. Mitsubishi Delica Mini
Delica Mini
Mitsubishi’s Delica Mini is equipped with an SUV-style design and advanced safety technology.
- “The design is stylish and looks great on the street.”
- “MI-PILOT is convenient and makes long-distance driving easier.”
- “It’s equipped with a wide range of safety features, so you can drive with peace of mind.”
- “The interior is spacious and comfortable.”
- “It’s fuel efficient and economical.”
Key points when choosing a minicar
There are many different types of minicars. What should you pay attention to when choosing the perfect one for you?
- Purpose : Be clear about the purpose for which you will use your car, such as everyday use, commuting, leisure, or work.
- Lifestyle : The amount of space and functionality required will vary depending on your lifestyle, such as living alone, as a couple, or with a family.
- Design : Choose a car with a design that suits your taste.
- Budget : Set a budget that takes into account not only the price of the vehicle but also the maintenance costs.
- Fuel economy : Fuel economy has a big impact on running costs.
- Safety : Safety equipment is an important part of driving safely.
- Features : Consider the features you need, such as comfort and safety features.
- Test drive : Take a test drive to see how comfortable and easy it is to drive.
Use these points to help you find the perfect car for you.
Enjoy your minicar even more!
Purchasing a minicar doesn’t end there. You can customize it to your liking and use convenient accessories to make your car life even more comfortable.
- Customization : Change wheels, aero parts, seat covers and more to create your own unique car.
- Car accessories : Install convenient car accessories such as a dashcam, car navigation system, and ETC in-vehicle unit.
- Maintenance : Regular maintenance will extend the life of your car and keep it safe to drive.
Kei cars are compact, economical vehicles optimized for Japan’s road conditions. Choose the one that best suits your lifestyle from our wide range of models and enjoy a comfortable car life.
I hope this article will help you choose a kei car.
