Highlights from the Japan Mobility Show

The large Japan's mobility showcase returns to Tokyo And it does so with a distinctly Japanese blend of tradition and innovation. Between prototypes, product plans, and emerging technologies, mobility in the broadest sense. It hosts a show that is no longer just about "motors", but about mobility in a broad sense.. The edition Open to the public from October 31st to November 9th, with press days on the 29th and the morning of the 30th, and a special invitation day on the 31st.

Beyond the glitz of the stands, the interest in Europe—and in Spain—lies in to identify what will reach our markets, when and with what approachIn this edition, two coexist. Electric vehicles, hybrids and alternative proposalsAlong with a strong push from kei cars and onboard electronics, this is a sign that the Japanese transition will be as pragmatic as it is gradual.

Trends and pulse of the salon

Electrification in Japan is progressing, but cautiously: Manufacturers are prioritizing hybrids and intermediate solutions over mass adoption of BEVsThe message that comes through is that real efficiency in the cityThe charging infrastructure and the total cost are key factors, something that also fits with what a large part of the European public is asking for.

In design, one perceives a a more robust and protective aesthetic, with solid-looking bodies and sanctuary-like interiors that embrace the occupant. This “bunkerization” coexists with very clean and elegant proposals, demonstrating that There is room for emotion without sacrificing functionality..

And if we're talking about mobility, it's not all about cars: scooters, quadricycles, autonomous solutions and even aircraft Concept cars rub shoulders with sports cars and SUVs. There's no single answer; the Japanese automotive industry is showing its hand in several directions at once.

Japanese premieres and prototypes

Honda has saved one of the show's headlines with the world premiere of the prototype. Honda 0 αThe new 0 Series SUV features meticulously crafted proportions and a slim cabin thanks to its Thin packaging philosophy. The brand plans to begin sales of the production model in 2027, primarily in Japan and India. In the Japanese market, it will preview three members of the 0 Series—the Saloon, the SUV, and the 0 α—before the end of the fiscal year, which concludes on March 31, 2028.

At the Nissan stand, the focus is divided between the new generation of the Elgrand —a benchmark minivan in Japan that is aiming for a summer 2026 launch—, the confirmation of the return of the robust Patrol to the domestic market in the first half of fiscal year 2027 and a facelift of the Ariya With connectivity and comfort improvements planned for this year in Japan. In terms of driver assistance, the latest evolution of ProPILOT expands assisted driving functions, with hands-free support in low-speed traffic jams.

Mazda has set the conceptual tone with two meticulously crafted design pieces: the MAZDA VISION X-COUPE and VISION X-COMPACTThe first, a PHEV with a twin-rotor turbocharged rotary engine as both generator and electrical system, boasts 510 PS and a range that the brand claims is up to 160 km on a single charge and up to approximately 800 km in combination, in addition to research involving a blend of carbon-neutral, microalgae-based fuel with mobile CO₂ capture. The X-COMPACT explores the human-machine relationship through empathetic AI. Alongside these, the [other vehicle] is being shown to the public for the first time. new CX-5 in European specification, with a renewed electrical/electronic architecture.

Mitsubishi showcases a concept line focused on leisure and adventure, with a PHEV approach and electric four-wheel driveA driving assistant with AI and a meticulously crafted interior. Furthermore, the Delica family is updated with the prototype of the new D:5 and a brand-new Delica Mini.

In the key territory of kei cars, Suzuki has set his sights on electrify without losing size or utilityThe Vision e-Sky anticipates a 3,4 m urban vehicle with a range of about 270 km, and the e Every Concept —developed together with Toyota and Daihatsu— proposes a compact van with a range of about 200 km.

There was also movement among passion-oriented brands: Subaru revived the STI emblem with Performance-E and Performance-B electric concepts, while Kawasaki explored hydrogen-powered platforms For motorcycles and ATVs, an alternative route with an eye on the next decade.

The European bet: BMW and MINI

BMW leads the way with the first major new product for Asia with the debut of the new iX3, the first model in the Neue Klasse family. Beyond the design, the leap forward lies in the electronics and software: zonal architecture with high-performance computers, a next-generation operating system, and the Panoramic iDrive interface with Panoramic VisionFor Japan, the Production is scheduled to begin in March 2026 and sales in the second half of the year, although the technology will spread to the rest of the global range.

The brand also stages the playful connectivity with onboard video games via AirConsolewith popular titles available when the car is parked. On the technological horizon, BMW is keeping the hydrogen route open with the iX5 Hydrogen, planned for 2028, the result of a collaboration with Toyota for more compact and efficient fuel cell systems.

MINI, for its part, achieves a world first with the Paul Smith Edition For the Cooper family (3-door, 5-door and Cabrio), which begins sales in its 100% electric variants and will open orders for the combustion versions in the first quarter of 2026. A nod to British design with exclusive details and specific finishes.

For the most enthusiastic, the BMW M stand in Tokyo showcases for the first time in Japan the M2 CSWith a significant weight reduction using CFRP and a 530 hp six-cylinder engine that reduces the 0-100 km/h time to under four seconds. The display is completed by the concept car. BMW Concept Speedtop —a three-door with very limited production— and an X7 Nishiki Lounge that combines luxury with Japanese craftsmanship.

BMW Motorrad is also present at the event CE 02 electric and the M 1000 RR, world champion of Superbikes, reinforcing that the Bavarian company's mobility ecosystem transcends the car.

Dates, venue, and why it matters to Europe

The event is organized by JAMA and takes place at the convention center. Tokyo Big SightThe exhibition will be open to the public from October 31 to November 9. For the European public, and the Spanish public in particular, it will be of interest to closely follow: BMW's roadmap with Neue Klasse and hydrogen; the development of Honda's 0 Series (with an initial focus on Japan/India); Mazda's concepts—which could inspire future models—; and Nissan's plans, with an immediate impact on its electrified range and driver assistance systems.

With a balance between pragmatism and ambition, the Japanese exhibition paints a picture of a future of orderly transition: More software, more aid, phased electrification and a range of formats from kei cars to luxury SUVs. Not everything will arrive in Europe exactly as it is, but the direction these new releases set will be a benchmark for product decisions in our market.