When automotive fans think of what Japan has contributed to the world of cars, it is easy to picture high performance models like the Toyota Supra and Honda NSX, or the ultra-reliable Corolla, still the world’s best-selling car.
However, Japanese drivers will typically shun high-end models for kei cars, an ultra-small range of vehicles that are almost entirely unique to their domestic market.
Originally devised by the Japanese Government to encourage more citizens to buy a car after World War Two, kei car owners can take advantage of cheaper road tax, not to mention a vehicle much better suited to the narrow, crowded streets of Tokyo.
For a model to be considered a kei car, it must be no longer than 3.4 metres and under 1.48 metres wide and have an engine of no more than 660cc.
Whilst it may sound incredibly restrictive, almost all of Japan’s car companies offer a range of scaled-down versions of more conventional models.
Currently, the best-selling car in Japan is the Honda N-Box, a kei-sized minivan that retails from 1,648,900 yen (£8,600).
Boxy by name and nature, the little Honda has enough room for four adults and their luggage, with the rear occupants entering through a set of sliding doors.
As standard, the Honda N-Box comes with a reversing camera, electric handbrake, heated front seats and tray tables for rear passengers.
However, not all kei cars are simply boxes on wheels, with the all-electric Nissan Sakura bringing some modern style into the segment.
Styled after the larger Nissan Ariya, the Sakura features an ornate trapezoid-shaped grille and nicely sculptured concaves across the sides.
With Government subsidies, the Nissan Sakura costs a little under 2,000,000 yen (£10,200) and can cover a small yet still useful range of 112 miles.
Much like the rest of the motoring landscape, SUVs have continued to rise in popularity with Japanese buyers, and the Suzuki Hustler is one of the most popular kei-sized examples.
Sporting a pair of bug eye-like headlights and matte-black bumpers and wheel arches, the Hustler manages to look both cute and rugged at the same time.
Nevertheless, whilst the Suzuki’s attractive styling makes it a hit on the roads of Japan’s overcrowded cities, it’s soft suspension and tiny engine means very few drivers will take one off the beaten track.
However, Japanese motorists looking to own something affordable and economical yet fun to drive can even get behind the wheel of a kei-sized sports car, with the Daihatsu Copen being one of the most popular choices.
Able to accelerate from 0-62mph in 13.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 99mph, it is certainly no contender to a Toyota GR Yaris or Mazda MX-5.
However, whilst there are far faster models on the market, motorists in Japan can get behind the wheel of a brand new Daihatsu Copen for just 1,888,700 yen (£9,580).
