Models of Interest from the Tokyo Auto Salon | Tokyo Auto Salon 2022

Tokyo Autosalon 2022 | Tokyo Auto Salon 2022

Tokyo Auto Salon Feature (Part 2): Notable Models Unveiled at Each Booth

Held for three days from January 14th at Makuhari Messe, the "Tokyo Auto Salon 2022" showcased a variety of vehicles and items that caught our eye at each booth.

Text & Photographs by HARA Akira

The "STI E-RA" BEV Racing Car Exceeding 1000ps

Notable Models Unveiled at Tokyo Auto Salon | Tokyo Auto Salon 2022

Subaru and its motorsports division STI unveiled the concept car codenamed "STI E-RA." Based on a two-seater GT car rather than a Formula racer, this model is a 100% electric Subaru-typical all-wheel-drive vehicle. Currently, there are no motorsport categories it can compete in, so one of its stated goals is to lap the Nürburgring Nordschleife in under 400 seconds (6 minutes 40 seconds).

If development proceeds smoothly, actual running is expected to be possible within 2022. The powertrain is a four-motor, four-wheel independent torque-vectoring AWD system jointly developed with Yamaha, boasting a maximum output of 800kW (1088ps!) and a peak torque of 1,100Nm. The vehicle weight has been reduced to 1,690kg.

Also on display as a reference exhibit were a Subaru Solterra BEV equipped with STI parts, planned for release this year, along with STI Performance Concept versions of the WRX S4 and Levorg.

Subaru Solterra BEV with STI Parts

At Daihatsu's booth, known for its unique displays, the "Atrai Deck Van Camperver." stood out. Not only was the roof-mounted tent eye-catching, but upon closer inspection, a bathtub was installed in the rear cargo area. It's said to offer an open-air bath experience at campsites and also be useful in disaster situations. Regardless, it looks like fun.

Also displayed were ten generations of the "Hijet," a commercial vehicle that celebrated its 60th anniversary last year. These models, preserved in Daihatsu's in-house museum in Osaka, were all in pristine condition. The third-generation (1968~) model with its square headlights, in particular, brought back memories of seeing them frequently in my neighborhood as a child, allowing me to bask in nostalgia.

Mitsubishi globally premiered the "K-EV Concept X Style," a kei-car battery EV scheduled for release this year. Also on display was a Ralliart version of the crossover SUV "Outlander."

Mitsubishi "K-EV Concept X Style"

Among the imported cars, the Alpine booth featured the new "A110," making its global debut. The model on display was the limited edition "A110S Ascension" with 30 units produced, priced at ¥10.59 million, featuring a 300ps/340Nm engine and a body with exclusive equipment.

Alpine "A110S Ascension"

Another vehicle at the Renault booth was the "Arkana," a mid-size SUV equipped with a full hybrid system called "E-TECH HYBRID," incorporating Renault F1 technology. The powertrain consists of a 1.6-liter engine combined with two motors.

Renault "Arkana"

Lotus exhibited the "Emira," its final mid-engined car, set to begin production this year. Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 405ps/420Nm, this highly sought-after model has already sold out its allocation of 200 units for the year. The "First Edition" on display is priced at ¥13.53 million.

Lotus "Emira"

Volkswagen showcased a new "Golf GTI" fitted with nostalgic "Oettinger" body parts. The front spoiler, rear diffuser, and roof spoiler featured a subtle, mature design, with the "Oettinger" logo discreetly placed. For those who remember the era, it might evoke the urge to apply a large white logo across the windshield.

Volkswagen "Golf GTI"

At the BBS booth, new 18-inch wheels exclusively for F1 were unveiled. Due to this year's F1 regulations mandating a single supplier for wheels and tires to equalize performance, BBS was chosen to supply wheels to all teams. President Hidetaka Kita appeared visibly proud.

BBS F1 Exclusive Wheels

Rocky Auto's "3000GT," exhibited in Aichi Prefecture, also drew considerable attention. Featuring a flowing body completely supervised by former Toyota works driver Shiroki Hosoya, a traditional seven-gauge cluster, and modern mechanics allowing for comfortable driving in contemporary conditions, it is packed with appeal. With pristine 2000GT models already exceeding ¥100 million, the 3000GT, available for ¥30 million, is the sensible choice for those looking to own one.