A Year of Endeavor Across Diverse Fields in the Automotive Industry

Overall, 2014 was an interesting year. In the IT industry, there's a strong positive outlook on the current era of smart media, seen as a revolutionary period since Gutenberg invented the printing press. Cars, too, saw the growing influence of IT, and the advancement of autonomous driving technology began to accelerate.

From the perspective of an old-school car enthusiast, it was a year where the automotive industry's efforts were commendable. Many examples come to mind, but one notable instance is Toyota Motor Corporation's release of the 30th-anniversary model of the "Land Cruiser 70," which was launched "just like the old days." Despite its large body, high-displacement engine, off-road suspension, and manual transmission—specifications that might not typically be welcomed by Japanese consumers—it became a huge hit.

On the other hand, in terms of future-oriented technology, Toyota Motor Corporation once again delivered. The launch of the "Mirai" was a historic event. The practical realization of fuel cell vehicles so soon was an unexpectedly welcome development. Recently, Toyota Motor Corporation, along with Nissan Motor Corporation and Honda Motor Co., Ltd., announced their joint efforts to build hydrogen station infrastructure. 2015 looks set to be a year of transition, bridging the gap from 2014 into the future.

At the start of 2014, there was a somber mood with predictions that "gasoline prices would soon reach 400 yen per liter." However, as you know, due to factors such as some oil-producing nations in the Middle East potentially checking the United States' shale gas development, crude oil prices dropped. Consequently, premium gasoline, which had been around 180 yen, fell to the 130-yen range by year's end. This experience reaffirmed the fundamental importance of "cars running on gasoline."

The drop in gasoline prices also led to a resurgence in sales of large-displacement and high-performance vehicles in the United States, which was another striking development. In the U.S., CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) regulations set a strict target for 2016, equivalent to about 15.1 km per liter in Japanese terms. However, "Do our domestic automakers remember this?" a U.S. automotive journalist remarked with a wry smile.

In Japan, the significant increase in sales of Kei cars was also notable news in 2014. A development engineer for Toyota Motor Corporation's Prius PHV told me, "Fuel efficiency exceeding 30 km per liter is incredible; we can't afford to be complacent," highlighting the remarkable technological innovation. However, I couldn't help but feel that it would be wonderful if the Kei car manufacturers' approach of "providing consumers with what they want in the best possible form" also incorporated a bit more "dream" or a spirit of pioneering.

Fumio Ogawa's Top 5 Picks of 2014

Toyota Mirai

I never expected it to be released this year, so when I received an invitation to the test drive event, I thought I was dreaming. It's been a cause for celebration since the announcement of the Prius. Although infrastructure like hydrogen stations hasn't caught up, Toyota Motor Corporation's achievement in making a hydrogen car a reality deserves 101 out of 100 points. The only drawback is the styling, particularly the design around the rear wheels, which I find unconvincing. Hence, a one-point deduction, making it a perfect 100.

Mazda Demio XD

Mazda consistently creates cars that are exceptional when you're behind the wheel. The new Demio equipped with the 1.5-liter Skyactiv diesel engine is also a thoroughly enjoyable driver's car. It's particularly praiseworthy when driven with the manual transmission. The combination of a quick, satisfying shifter and a torquey yet rev-happy engine offers both excellent fuel economy and driving pleasure. Its compact size makes it ideal for urban environments.

Subaru WRX STI

Subaru Corporation continues to forge ahead on its unique path with remarkable success. While the Legacy series is well-executed, the sheer excellence of the WRX STI was astonishing. It's a sports car in sedan form. While it's true that aspects like refinement and environmental compatibility can be debated, in an era where rivals are disappearing, ceasing to produce cars like this would signify the end of an automaker. I hope they eventually create a 1.2-liter WRX.

BMW i3

Perhaps it's ahead of its time, but it looks cool on those who drive it. As the English say, 'cutting edge'—and it's precisely this sharp, avant-garde approach that defines BMW. From the concept of its dual-layered platform, its astonishingly rapid acceleration, its one-pedal control for acceleration and braking, to its unique interior and exterior design, it truly makes you appreciate how cool cars can be. I'd buy one immediately if I could install a charger at home.

Porsche Macan Turbo

The four-cylinder Macan felt perfect, but the Turbo is even more so. Its astonishingly rapid yet ultra-smooth acceleration, incredibly powerful yet delicate braking, and handling that absorbs road imperfections while feeling like an extension of the body—everything operates at a high level. It's truly flawless. The body size is also slightly more compact and user-friendly, and the interior craftsmanship is of high quality. It's an astonishing masterpiece.