Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 – Do you have VTEC? The Hondas of TAS

Transitioning to the next manufacturer that has long punched above its weight, we have (until recently) the masters of NA, the champions of extracting power from small powerplants, the temple of VTEC: Honda. While Honda may have moved away from exclusively using NA engines, their commitment to power extraction through innovative engineering remains steadfast. This…

Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 – The Mazdas of TAS

Having taken a gander at the two biggest automotive manufacturers of Japan, it would be remiss not to shift our focus to the smaller marques that have been punching well above their weight for decades. One of these, is Matsuda Kabushiki Gaisha, better known, as Mazda. This celebrated and determined manufacturer from Hiroshima, known not…

Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 – Of Skylines and GT-Rs

Now that we’ve taken a look at the Fairladies and Silvias of TAS, there only remains one (two?) more model variant(s) in the Nissan lineup we’ve up to touch upon. Yes, we’re referring to Nissan’s pride of Japan: their GT-Rs, along with the Skylines upon which earlier generations of one of Japan’s most celebrated nameplates…

Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 – The Nissans of TAS

With a rich history deeply rooted in both off-track and on-track racing, it’s undeniable that Nissan cars have made a significant impact on the automotive scene. With numerous iconic models playing monumental roles in cementing their mystique. Although Nissan may not wield the same level of influence as it did during the 1990s and 2000s,…

Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 – Hachiroku revival

Great looking, affordable (unless you live in Singapore), and from what we’ve heard and read, a riot of a drive, the latest GR86 has become the go-to choice for young (and young at heart) drivers worldwide. Naturally, with such widespread acclaim, a plethora of aftermarket options have surfaced for this platform, giving owners the opportunity…

Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 – The Toyotas of TAS

As one of the largest car companies globally, Toyota’s influence is undeniable, and this prominence undoubtedly translates into a substantial presence at the Tokyo Auto Salon. From the manufacturer’s own booth to numerous aftermarket companies, you would be hard-pressed not to encounter a car from Aichi, showcasing the brand’s diverse and impactful contributions to the…

Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 – NATS it that’s it!

Although the DAMD Jimnys were among the most intriguing and visually appealing customs at TAS, if you’re seeking something genuinely wild, direct your attention to the booth featuring cars from NATS, also known as the Nihon Automotive Technology School. Each year, graduating students showcase their final year projects at the Auto Salon, and truth be…

Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 – The TOM’s Effect

Chances are, if you’re a fan of the earlier Gran Turismo games, you’d recognise this car rather well. The TRD 3000GT Supra, immortalized in the digital realm, is now making a real-world comeback courtesy of TOM’s, the Japanese tuning outfit with 50 years of expertise. In a nod to the past and an eye on…

Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 – DAMD if you do

If your idea of automotive fun involves not taking things too seriously with a hint of light-hearted humour, DAMD’s Jimny duo at this year’s TAS might just have what it takes to tickle your fancy! Many of us were likely first introduced to DAMD through Fast & Furious 2, but this company is far from…