With the year only just beginning, Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 arrived as an early reminder of why people fell in love with cars in the first place. As the first major automotive event of the year, it set the tone not through promises or projections, but through passion, creativity, and driving enjoyment.
Held at Makuhari Messe from January 9 to 11, the show leaned into what Tokyo Auto Salon does best: celebrating cars that exist because someone cared enough to build them. From flagships and subtle factory evolutions, to playful teases, retro revivals, and wildly imaginative customs, the message across the show floor was clear, enthusiasm still matters.
More than just a calendar opener, Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 served as reassurance that even as cars continue to evolve, the joy, character, and fun that define car culture are very much alive.
Toyota: Performance, Personality, and Play
Toyota occupied a massive footprint, striking a masterful balance between serious motorsports engineering and playful fan engagement.
GR Yaris Morizo RR
Photo Source: https://toyotagazooracing.com/gr/yaris/morizo_rr/
This special edition GR Yaris is a direct evolution of the No.109 car Akio Toyoda (“Morizo”) drove for 15 grueling laps in the 2025 Nürburgring 24 Hours. It was developed by the “Toyota Gazoo Rookie Racing” team, featuring a stiffened chassis, an 8-speed Direct Automatic Transmission, and a “Morizo mode” that replaces the “Gravel” mode, setting a 50:50 torque split between the front and rear axles.
He might be the Chairman of the Board of Directors, but at a show like TAS, Akio Toyoda is simply the ‘Master Driver.’ There’s a certain peace of mind that comes from knowing the guy in charge isn’t just looking at spreadsheets, he’s the one actually out there pushing prototypes to their limit in 24-hour endurance races.
Limited to just 100 units in Japan, the Morizo RR is a 300hp+ love letter to “car-driver unity.”
The MR2 “Trolling”
Photo Source: https://global.toyota/jp/album/images/43834816/
For weeks, Toyota were teasing a “mid-engine, two seater” vehicle, hyping up that it could be a reveal of a new MR2. However, the reveal turned out to be a duo of Kei trucks: the GR HiJet Morizo K-Trail, Daihatsu Hijet Jumbo Star Climber, it was a viral hit that proved the brand hasn’t lost its sense of humor while pursuing performance.
GR GT & GR GT3 Flagships
Photos Source:(Left) https://www.instagram.com/p/DTXOeY4jB3q/?img_index=1 (Right) https://www.instagram.com/p/DTWvkK6jP1v/?img_index=1
From the 2000GT, the LFA, now the GR GT.
Toyota used TAS 2026 to prove that its soul still belongs on the racetrack. The GR GT isn’t just a new flagship; it’s a “road-legal race car” designed to pick up right where the legendary LFA left off. Inside sits a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 hybrid that sounds absolutely mechanical and raw. Toyota has created a machine that feels like a pure extension of the driver.
Nissan & NISMO: The Purist’s Resolution
Photo Source: https://usa.nissannews.com/en-US/releases/nissan-heads-to-tokyo-auto-salon-2026
Nissan used the New Year to grant a long-standing wish: the Manual Transmission Z NISMO. For those who felt the previous automatic-only version was a bit too “clinical,” Nissan has officially added a six-speed manual as an option. It’s a direct response to the fans who argued that while an automatic might be faster, it can’t replace the feeling of rowing your own gears.
Photo Source: https://global.nissannews.com/en/releases/release-76803039228d331ae51857b22b04e073
The 2027 Z also gets a facelift, featuring a “G-nose” and a new color, the Unryu Green. This combination is a direct nod to the legendary S30-generation Fairlady 240ZG, with the smoother, elongated nose-piece and the deep metallic green paint channeling the exact same “modern-classic” energy that made the original Z a global icon.
Photo Source: https://global.nissannews.com/en/releases/260109-01-e
Nissan also unveiled the Aura NISMO RS Concept, a widebody hybrid hot hatch that looks like it drove straight out of a time attack. It borrows the heavy-duty AWD system from the X-Trail to pump out a combined 335 hp. This isn’t just a “green” commuter; it’s a loud, visual promise that even as we move toward an electrified world, Nissan plans to keep the driver’s seat exciting.
Photo Source: https://www.subaru.jp/tas/?_ga=2.246265351.2072119283.1768306831-851796078.1768038171
Subaru: The Return of the Three Pedals
Subaru’s booth was all about giving the local fans exactly what they’d been asking for: a way to shift for themselves. The star of the show was the WRX STI Sport #, a limited-edition prototype that finally brings the six-speed manual transmission back to the WRX in Japan. While the rest of the world has had the stick-shift for a while, Japanese buyers have been stuck with the CVT, making this a massive “welcome home” for the three-pedal setup.
Mazda: Soul over Specs
Mazda’s presence leaned heavily on AutoExe’s approach to thoughtful performance tuning.
Photo Source: https://www.autoexe.co.jp/en/?p=119846
The ND-07S Roadster, described by AutoExe as “Adult Sensibility Tuning,” is a masterclass in restraint: dry carbon aero, a titanium exhaust, and body reinforcement parts aimed at refining Mazda’s signature “horse and rider” connection.
Photo Source: https://www.autoexe.co.jp/en/?page_id=64276
Alongside it was the KH-07 AX (CX-60), an “Active Xross” build that lifts Mazda’s SUV for a more rugged, go-anywhere stance while preserving the composed handling the brand is known for.
BYD: The Sea Otter
Photo Source: https://chinaevhome.com/2025/10/29/byd-debuts-first-k-car-racco-in-japan-sales-start-summer-2026/
The BYD Racco EV originally made its global debut at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, but it returned to the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 to prove it’s ready for the streets. Named after the Japanese word for “sea otter,” the Racco is BYD’s first-ever Japan-exclusive model, developed to take a shot at Japan’s tightly regulated kei-car segment.
Honda: Sports DNA Reimagined
Honda’s booth at TAS 2026 was a manifesto on how to keep the “joy of driving” alive in any type of terrain. Under the banner of Honda Sports DNA, they introduced two new product lines: the asphalt-focused “Sport Line” and the off-road-ready “Trail Line”.
Sport Line Concept
Photo Source: https://global.honda/en/newsroom/news/2026/c260109aeng.html
The standout was the Civic Type R HRC Concept. Rather than a simple aesthetic package, HRC (Honda Racing Corp) literally threw their touring car secrets at it to make a track-ready monster you can actually buy.
Alongside it, the Prelude HRC Concept finally gave us a look at the “HRC Performance Parts” that will be available for the new coupe, proving Honda hasn’t forgotten how to make a hybrid handle.
Trail Line Concept
Photo Source: https://global.honda/en/newsroom/news/2026/c260109aeng.html
Honda also proved that “Sports DNA” applies to the dirt. The Trail Line is a new category for off-road models, applying what they’ve learned participating in various off-road races such as Baja races.
Honda showcased a full fleet of rugged concepts based on the CR-V, ZR-V, Vezel, and WR-V. These aren’t just appearance packages; they use HRC’s off-road expertise to give the SUVs a spirit of adventure. The Passport TrailSport Elite was also exhibited, serving as the “icon” for the Trail Line.
Analog Feels for a Digital Era
Photo Source: https://global.honda/en/newsroom/news/2026/c260109aeng.html
The Civic e:HEV RS Prototype pays homage to the JAACS EG6 that won the 1993 Japan Touring Car Championship. It features the new Honda S+ Shift technology, which uses electric motors to simulate the feel and sound of traditional gear changes. It features the same Honda S+ Shift technology used on the Prelude, which simulates the feel of traditional gear changes.
Photo Source: https://global.honda/en/newsroom/news/2026/c260109aeng.html
Now, the Super-ONE Prototype brought out the “fun in driving” in an electric car. Based on the N-ONE, it also features a “Boost Mode” that synchronizes a simulated 7-speed transmission with the sound of an engine played through its Bose Premium Sound System.
Mitsubishi: The Delica Matsuri
Mitsubishi turned their booth into a full-blown “Delica Festival”. Under the theme “Unleash Your Playful Spirit,” they showcased how their most versatile models, the Delica D:5, and the Delica Mini can be transformed into the ultimate adventure tools.
Ultimate Gear Concept
Photo Source: https://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/newsroom/newsrelease/2026/20260106_1.html
The Delica D:5 Ultimate Gear takes the toughness of the legendary minivan to the next level. Designed for harsh environments, it features a 30mm suspension lift, rugged bumper guards, and side steps. The entire body is finished in a specialized textured coating that makes off-road scratches practically invisible.
Photo Source: https://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/newsroom/newsrelease/2026/20260106_1.html
The Delica Mini Ultimate Gear follows the same recipe in a pint-sized package. This customized kei car features a 20mm lift, a front grille guard, and a rear ladder, proving that you don’t need a massive rig to tackle challenging terrain.
Active Camper Concept
For those that prefer camping over overlanding and rock crawling, Mitsubishi introduced the Active Camper series.
Photo Source: https://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/newsroom/newsrelease/2026/20260106_1.html
The Delica D:5 Active Camper, in collaboration with the outdoor brand LOGOS, features a premium interior with white birch wood-grain accents and a brown cabin, turning it into a cozy camper.
Photo Source: https://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/newsroom/newsrelease/2026/20260106_1.html
Meanwhile, the Delica Mini Active Camper has a functional pop-up roof, front skid bar, and a 25mm lift kit. Now this is completely the perfect set up to have outdoor adventures with your friends.
Champion Pedigree & The Festival Mascot
Mitsubishi also reminded fans that they still know where they came from.
Photos Source: (Left)https://www.reddit.com/r/mitsubishi/comments/1qakhu6/triton_axcr_rally_car_at_the_tokyo_auto_salon_2026/(Right)https://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/newsroom/newsrelease/2025/20250107_1.html
The booth also proudly displayed the Triton Rally Car along with the Delica D:5 support car that claimed overall victory at the Asia Cross Country Rally 2025.
Photo Source: https://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/newsroom/newsrelease/2026/20260106_1.html
The Delica Mini x “DALI” by DAMD stole the hearts of Mitsubishi fans. This Delica Mini pays homage to the Pajero through its front grille and round headlights, blending retro charm with a cute, rugged styling.
Photo Source: https://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/newsroom/newsrelease/2026/20260106_1.html
Now the real star of the matsuri was Delimaru, the official mascot that was inspired by the Delica Mini. A special Delica Mini Delimaru Festa edition was also on display, featuring Delimaru riding on top dressed in a traditional Japanese happi coat.
Mitsubishi’s booth felt like a love letter to the glory days of the Delica, reminiscing about the time when the lineup was packed with iconic variants. From the winter-ready Chamonix and Jasper, to the all-season Active World, the Delica has always been about offering the perfect “gear” for any lifestyle, a tradition Mitsubishi is clearly determined to keep alive in 2026.
Independent Builds
As always, the independent halls are where the “soul” of TAS lives.
Result Japan’s NEO86
Photo Source: https://carbuzz.com/toyota-gr86-tokyo-auto-salon-pop-up-headlights/
Nostalgia really is one hell of a drug, and Result Japan just brought nostalgia back with the NEO86. It’s a Toyota GT86 wearing an AE86-inspired bodykit that brings back the iconic pop-up headlights.
The kit features the iconic two-tone black and white “Panda” livery, a set of Watanabe rims, and a widebody kit that transforms the AE86’s younger brother into a retro-futuristic homage to the Initial D legend.
Hardcore Tokyo’s Pocket Godzilla
Photo Source:https://www.rocketbunnypandem.com/blogs/news/new-pocket-bunny-r32-gt-r
Remember Car Town? If you spent the early 2010s building dream garages in that iconic Facebook game, this build will feel like a core memory unlocked. Created by Hardcore Tokyo in collaboration with Rocket Bunny, the Choro-Q R32 brings that signature “squashed” style into the physical world.
Choro-Q is a line of pullback car toys created by Takara Tomy which were famous for their chibi appearances. To bring this to life, Hardcore Tokyo used a Suzuki Twin as its base. It still has its original 658cc 3-cylinder engine, which makes a solid 27 horsepower.
The Vellfire Sedan
Photo Source: https://www.carscoops.com/2026/01/nats-students-build-lexus-vellfire-sedan-for-tokyo-auto-salon/
The mad geniuses at NATS (Nihon Automobile College) are known for their wild mashups, and the Vellfire LS460 is their most ambitious yet. They grafted the face and rear of a Toyota Vellfire minivan onto the body of a 2011 Lexus LS460.
The car is slammed to the ground on air suspension and sits on massive 21-inch WORKS wheels, making this the ultimate “Bippu” or VIP style build.
Italdesign: Honda NSX Tribute
Photo Source: https://www.italdesign.it/en/project/honda-nsx-tribute/
Italian flair meets Japanese engineering in the Honda NSX Tribute by Italdesign, which debuted at TAS 2026. Built on the second-generation hybrid platform, this ultra-limited project features entirely new carbon-fiber bodywork and a roof-mounted air intake nodding to the rare NSX-R GT. The design includes a “floating ring” rear spoiler reinterpreting the original silhouette, while the car is produced exclusively in right-hand drive. It marks 35 years of NSX history and 60 years since Honda’s first F1 victory.
The “Fang Armor” Escalade
Photo Source: https://www.tokyoautosalon.jp/cars/detail/7732
While the rest of the world is currently obsessed with JDM cars, it’s a well-known secret that Japan has a massive, long-standing affair with American cars.
Japanese Tuner Rohan Izawa Art Design leaned into this “Amesha” obsession with the Fang Armor Escalade, a Cadillac Escalade with a “Fang Armor” bodykit and a stunning Emerald Blue “3D Metal” mirror paint.
More Than a Machine
As the first major automotive gathering of the year, Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 didn’t try to predict the future, it reminded us why cars still matter in the present. Across factory booths and independent halls alike, the common thread wasn’t horsepower figures or tech buzzwords, but intent. Whether it was a manufacturer listening to enthusiasts, a tuner leaning into nostalgia, or a builder creating something purely because it made them smile, TAS once again proved that car culture is still driven by people and passion.