A hatchback for adults

The Toyota Blade debuted with the concept of "Short Premium." While a short hatchback in body size, it uniquely possesses a sense of luxury comparable to sedans and coupes.

The Blade boasts a generous wheelbase of 2600mm and is equipped with either a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 167 horsepower or a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 280 horsepower. The 3.5-liter V6 features continuous variable valve timing for both intake and exhaust, achieving high efficiency by balancing power with good fuel economy. The 2.4-liter model is paired with a continuously variable transmission combined with a 7-speed Sport Shiftmatic, offering high sportiness.

We often say something is "well-made," but in the case of automobiles, it's not just about driving performance. True completion is achieved when design, quality, and image are all brought together at a high level. The Blade is a car that deserves this description. Its dynamic proportions with large-diameter tires signify "performance" that promises a good drive; its body, skillfully sculpted with curves, represents "beauty"; and the meticulous craftsmanship evident in every interior detail conveys "precision."



The Blade's suitability for adults is also evident in its compatibility with precision watches and fashion. Hiroshi Morioka, a fashion director active in various fields, is one who recognizes the Blade's appeal.

"Nowadays, not overdoing it is cool. Overly elaborate fashion isn't the mood. Take traditional style, for example; rather than a head-to-toe British ensemble, people tend to incorporate just a part of it to create their own style. Expensive foreign sports cars are nice, but I don't think it's an era where you 'force' yourself into such cars to elevate your value. If you call that adding value, I think stripping things down aligns better with the current mood. It's cool to eliminate the superfluous and pursue only necessary performance. When looking at cars, I want to drive something that fits my style, rather than something overly ornate."



An Appeal Perfected Through Refinement

The styling Hiroshi Morioka has prepared for the Blade, assuming he were to wear it, perfectly embodies this philosophy.

"For a sports car, one might immediately think of trendy sportswear, but the Blade's world has a more mature feel. While cherishing a sporty mood, incorporating chicness and elegance seems appropriate for an adult's attire. For this occasion, I've prepared two looks. Whether it's the trench coat made from material resembling firefighter uniforms, or the jacket skillfully utilizing synthetic fibers, both emphasize a mature sense of sportiness. They also evoke the image of someone who would look sharp in a suit. Like the Blade, I believe that what conveys the depth of the wearer's worldview is what is truly 'good' right now."

The Blade's selling point is precisely its construction, as if excess fat has been trimmed away. Coupled with a highly rigid chassis that excels in handling, and the powerful, large-displacement engine that responds accordingly, it embodies an "unconventionally conventional" appeal, positioned in opposition to the value of mere luxury.

"For me, the Blade's charm lies in its 'aura,' so to speak. I believe this keyword is most important right now. In fashion, rather than loudly proclaiming 'Look at this!' with an overly elaborate outfit, we emphasize giving a glimpse into the person's lifestyle. For instance, it's best to stop at details that suggest, 'This person seems knowledgeable about British traditional style.' In the Blade's case, its appeal, perfected through refinement, lies in the impression it gives: 'This person loves cars, has experienced many fine things, and has chosen something compact yet high-quality.'"

Regarding the watches selected by Morioka, who possesses such a fashion perspective, that will be covered in the latter part.