5 Best Selling Kei Cars of 2023 in Japan: Rankings and Reviews

Sdílet
Vložit
  • čas přidán 28. 05. 2024
  • You can support me by me buying a coffee on ko-fi.com/lifeinruraljapan
    Kei cars, also known as Kei jidosha or K-cars, are a unique category of small vehicles that are popular in Japan. These vehicles have a specific set of regulations and characteristics that make them distinct from regular cars. Here are some key points about Kei cars in Japan:
    Size and Dimensions: Kei cars are small in size, with strict regulations governing their dimensions. As of my last update in September 2021, the maximum dimensions for a Kei car are typically 3.4 meters in length, 1.48 meters in width, and 2 meters in height.
    Engine Size: Kei cars are limited in engine displacement size, typically having engines with a capacity of 660cc or less. The engine's power output is also limited to around 63 horsepower (47 kW).
    Tax and Insurance Benefits: In Japan, Kei cars enjoy certain tax and insurance benefits, which make them an attractive option for buyers. These benefits can result in lower ownership costs.
    Fuel Efficiency: Kei cars are known for their fuel efficiency, making them a practical choice for urban driving. Their smaller engines contribute to their excellent mileage.
    Classification: Kei cars are classified into different categories, including regular passenger cars, microvans, and trucks. There are also sportier Kei cars designed for enthusiasts.
    Design and Functionality: Despite their small size, Kei cars are designed to maximize interior space and functionality. They often feature innovative interior layouts to make the most of the limited space.
    Popularity: Kei cars are incredibly popular in Japan, especially in crowded urban areas where their small size and easy maneuverability are advantageous. They are also popular among older drivers.
    Safety: Manufacturers of Kei cars prioritize safety, and modern Kei cars often come equipped with safety features such as airbags and stability control.
    Electric and Hybrid Kei Cars: In recent years, there has been a growing interest in electric and hybrid Kei cars as a more environmentally friendly alternative.
    Cultural Significance: Kei cars have cultural significance in Japan and are often seen as a symbol of practicality and efficiency. They are a part of Japan's automotive heritage.
  • Auta a dopravní prostředky

Komentáře • 79

  • @ringomoko3762
    @ringomoko3762 Před měsícem +14

    I owned kei car 18yrs.now. no problem,no stress and Iove it.

  • @colinrenfrew48
    @colinrenfrew48 Před 6 měsíci +55

    Most cities in the U.K. would benefit from this class of car. It’s not always about an £80k suv!

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 6 měsíci +13

      I think most cities around the world would benefit. Good mileage, small easy to park, cheap and the list goes on.

    • @TokyoHomes
      @TokyoHomes Před 3 měsíci +1

      100% agree but SUV sometimes better in winter driving like in Canada lots of snow on Mountains but for warmer place I love to have Kei cars, I own few Kei cars in Canada before I'm thinking to buy it again.

    • @Mobik_
      @Mobik_ Před 3 měsíci +2

      every time I visit America and take an Uber... I feel like I have to climb a mountain to get into one of those SUV. It's crazy and unnecessary!

  • @eronedalessandria5914
    @eronedalessandria5914 Před 7 měsíci +36

    I am Italian and I live in Rome. I have a 2004 Suzuki Wagon r+ and I love it. If I wanted to change it for a similar one I couldn't do it. In Italy they don't sell these types of small cars derived from Japanese kei cars. If there was one like this kei car. I would buy it tomorrow. It makes me angry that the diffusion of this type of car is limited by prejudices regarding their aesthetics. I find them marvels of technology and pragmatism. It makes me angry that I can't buy one because I don't like their shape. I hope that one day a Japanese car manufacturer will have the courage to export a kei car model to Europe and Italy. I looked into importing one into Italy but the problem is not getting it delivered but rather that it cannot circulate because it is not approved to European safety standards. How stupid. There are many videos on CZcams that demonstrate the opposite. These cars are as safe as those on European roads. Suzuki! Nissan! Honda! Courage! Export these cars to Europe! Or make sure they are approved for the European Highway Code. Ah! I forgot! Put the driver's seat on the left.

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 7 měsíci +1

      It is crazy. They are great little cars. I don’t think they will ever make them left hand drive. Check out the new video on the Delica mini it’s a great car.

    • @DerpEye
      @DerpEye Před 6 měsíci +2

      I'm italian too. I used to own a Daihatsu Copen, the eurospec one with the 1.3l toyota engine. That car was incredible. Fast, nible, and very fun to drive in the mountains.

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 6 měsíci +1

      That would be fun one of them with a 1.3 engine in it.
      @@DerpEye

  • @gd131
    @gd131 Před 9 měsíci +23

    I recently bought an N-WGN! Its not on the top 5 though but I love it very much.

  • @user-ub3ph8rq6h
    @user-ub3ph8rq6h Před 7 měsíci +11

    Damn I got to wait 25 years to get one of these sweet vans… we will be of the ground by then lol I got a 97 acty street I love it

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 7 měsíci

      I had a feeling that they changed that law. You should check.

    • @nmatthews7260
      @nmatthews7260 Před 7 měsíci +2

      The 25 year law only applies to our emissions and crash testing rules, but I’m pretty sure a lot of these fit those requirements. Not all tho.

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 7 měsíci +1

      Good to know. Probably is different from country to country.

  • @tron520
    @tron520 Před 7 dny +1

    Hi, thanks for the reviews, do like these, seem to have everything you need in a compact vehicle, wish they did these for the UK, would make parking a breeze and just so practical for every day driving.

  • @xporkrind
    @xporkrind Před 8 měsíci +5

    Outstanding video. Incredibly informative !

  • @peterdavis1820
    @peterdavis1820 Před 6 měsíci +19

    Why are these not available everywhere. I live in London and they’d be perfect.

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 6 měsíci +2

      Because they are built for the Japanese market. Some countries are importing good used ones don’t know about England.

    • @raymondramos7670
      @raymondramos7670 Před 2 měsíci

      Is importing brand new one possible?

    • @deutschlanddendeutschen849
      @deutschlanddendeutschen849 Před 2 měsíci

      @@raymondramos7670yes

    • @keithhooper6123
      @keithhooper6123 Před měsícem

      Certainly Honda N Box is available in the UK,from at least two suppliers.

  • @georgekrpan3181
    @georgekrpan3181 Před 5 měsíci +7

    1.738 mil yen is $12,257 US. The average transaction price for a new car in the US is $48k. Americans are being bled.

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 5 měsíci +1

      That’s crazy. For big cars here like Prius that size car would cost about 28 - 35k US

    • @georgekrpan3181
      @georgekrpan3181 Před 5 měsíci

      @@lifeinruraljapan Cheers!

  • @daciamcv1026
    @daciamcv1026 Před 4 dny +1

    Should be the only car for cities

  • @kaleygoode1681
    @kaleygoode1681 Před 3 měsíci +4

    Mad that they don't sell these in the UK!
    They'd sell loads!

  • @user-ur6fp6tt8v
    @user-ur6fp6tt8v Před 2 měsíci +1

    Hello again! Please make a video about Honda N WGN!

  • @RobinhooD.5
    @RobinhooD.5 Před 7 měsíci +7

    Can u do video on affordable new ones! With basic models!.

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 7 měsíci +1

      I can do that.

    • @2fastGEO
      @2fastGEO Před 6 měsíci +3

      the tanto is quite the affordable. Only around 11.6k USD if you cash in usd for yen.

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 6 měsíci

      @@2fastGEO Really cheap if you use USD. The yen is so weak now.

  • @SpicyMatti
    @SpicyMatti Před 2 měsíci +2

    im in love with the suzuki special car, what is its exact name of the model? im very interested in looking it up and its prices.

  • @boris035..4
    @boris035..4 Před 6 měsíci +3

    Best cars ever!!!!
    This is how all cars should look like!!!!

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 6 měsíci +1

      They do look good

    • @boris035..4
      @boris035..4 Před 6 měsíci +1

      @@lifeinruraljapan Actually they do look ok, but who the fuck cares about how vehicle looks like?!?!?! Why?!?!?!
      Or how much does it take from 0 to 60?!?!?
      If you wanna racing car buy a racing car!!!?!!!
      I mean bro, just look at the space they have!!! When i ride in audi, bmw, wv and alike I get claustrophobia!!!!The glass is right on my face and I need to lay down when I'm in a car like that... :(

  • @jayce704
    @jayce704 Před 8 měsíci +4

    Is it possible to buy one wirh a stearing wheel on the left for the European countires?

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 8 měsíci +2

      No they are all right hand drive because they are made for Japan.

    • @2fastGEO
      @2fastGEO Před 6 měsíci +1

      you can import, but it can be expensive

  • @user-ur6fp6tt8v
    @user-ur6fp6tt8v Před 2 měsíci +1

    Good day! Why did you give 1st place to Honda? Is it somehow better than other options? Which one accelerates faster from a standstill? The dynamics are interesting to me. Thank you!😊

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 2 měsíci

      Honda N BOX is the number 1 selling car for the last 8 years. It sold 231,385 car 2nd was Daihatsu Tanto selling 159,392 cars. Daihatsu sells the most cars Honda is number 3.

    • @user-ur6fp6tt8v
      @user-ur6fp6tt8v Před 2 měsíci +1

      @@lifeinruraljapan Thanks!

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 2 měsíci

      You’re welcome

  • @KA9DSL
    @KA9DSL Před 5 měsíci +2

    The prices in the U.S. for cars has gotten stupidly high. Shame I wasn't living in Japan.

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 5 měsíci +1

      Every thing has got very expensive because the yen is so weak. Every time you turn around something has gone up.

  • @player1tales
    @player1tales Před 3 měsíci +2

    I live in Japan and thinking of buying a kei. What do you think about EVs like Sakura?

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 3 měsíci

      I think it is pretty good a bit expensive and you don’t have a lot of range. You can buy other Kei like the N Box of the Suzuki and save around 1 million yen that will buy a lot of petrol.

  • @ManFromYaksh
    @ManFromYaksh Před 20 dny +2

    My dream to purchase kei car

  • @yansenmaruli7758
    @yansenmaruli7758 Před 6 měsíci +3

    I wish this car available in Indonesia

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 6 měsíci

      A lot of people wish they were available in different countries.

    • @PlatinumNath
      @PlatinumNath Před 4 měsíci +1

      Indonesia technically already got kei cars in the past, but the bigger internstional versions, not the kei spec ones. Think of the Suzuki Karimun's of the old which are basically international spec Suzuki Wagon R's and RR's.

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 4 měsíci

      @@PlatinumNath You might be right

  • @allnighterist
    @allnighterist Před 7 měsíci +2

    does these all kei cars have air bags?

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 7 měsíci

      All new ones have air bags I think they have had for many years.

    • @RT392MOPAR
      @RT392MOPAR Před 7 měsíci +3

      日本語で申し訳ないですが、20年以上前から装備されています。
      現代の軽自動車ならば全方位にエアバッグが装備された車種もあります。

  • @wenxichen7672
    @wenxichen7672 Před 3 měsíci +1

    I wish I could get one of this kind of cute boxy car in Bolivia.

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 3 měsíci

      People all around the world wish they could get them.

  • @florianwagner7279
    @florianwagner7279 Před 21 dnem +1

    Unfortunately those type of cars is not shipped to Europe anymore .

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 21 dnem +1

      It is unfortunate they would sell.

    • @florianwagner7279
      @florianwagner7279 Před 21 dnem

      @@lifeinruraljapan Those cars has been sold here, but not any longer. Last one was the Daihatsu Hijet Truck, sold as the Piaggio Porter. Vans and Panelvans has vanished years ago.

  • @Grahamplaysgo
    @Grahamplaysgo Před 6 dny +1

    The Suzuki was not a Kei car. The license plate was white

  • @AlexLopez-yk8xo
    @AlexLopez-yk8xo Před 3 měsíci +1

    What about the engines?

  • @charlespilkington8170
    @charlespilkington8170 Před 5 měsíci +1

    I like but it won't drive over American speed bumps for snow over 4 in because it'll be a plow.

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 5 měsíci +1

      I don’t think they are suited for America they are great here in Japan. Small roads, tiny parking spots.

  • @tktmc
    @tktmc Před 29 dny +2

    トランクの広さを紹介するならリアシートをスライドすべきです。

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 28 dny

      True but most of the time you would have the seats pushed back.

  • @midnightchannel7759
    @midnightchannel7759 Před 4 měsíci +1

    You show no pictures of the back of the car, the most important area to women (and these cars would sell like wildfire in the US if the rear can be folded down for hauling stuff).
    The back is the only area I want to see.

    • @lifeinruraljapan
      @lifeinruraljapan  Před 4 měsíci +1

      I do open up the back door and have a look inside there is not a lot of room in there. The Honda N Box had the seats folded down. From what I have heard you can only import ones over 25 years old. I would not buy a 25 year old Kei car there are not made to last that long.