SLEEK and sporty, tall and accessible, concepts and evolutions, those powered by petrol, diesel, hydrogen or electric, and the simply quirky – Tokyo motor show had it all.
Jonathan Burn weighed up all the offerings for our tantalising Top Ten from Tokyo, some of which will be coming our way while others are just as importantly pointing the way ahead.
Nissan IDS concept
It may only be a concept but the IDS is intriguing for two very important reasons. Firstly, the fully electric concept shows Nissan’s commitment to autonomous technology that is set to arrive by 2020, but more than that the IDS also points us in the direction as to what we can expect to see from the next-generation Nissan Leaf. Expect an improved range, more conventional styling and new on-board tech.
BMW M4 GTS
The M4 is the latest BMW to get the GTS treatment. Costing more than twice the price of a standard M4 at £121,770, the GTS get unique exterior styling, front splitter and rear wing. The 3.0-litre six-cylinder twin-turbo engine has been tuned to develop 493bhp thanks to a new water injection system. Sadly, they’re all sold out.
Honda Clarity FCV
Honda is the latest manufacturer to introduce a new hydrogen fuel cell vehicle. The new Clarity carries over the name used on Honda’s previous hydrogen models, but here it is capable of over 420 miles on a single tank of hydrogen, emits no CO2 and can transport five in relative comfort. Best of all it will arrive in the UK late next year.
Lexus LF-LC
Honda wasn’t the only manufacturer to display a new hydrogen vehicle at Tokyo, with Lexus showcasing the LF-LC concept. As well as being powered by hydrogen, the LF-LC also gives us a sneak peak into the future design direction of Lexus and how the next-generation LS saloon could look.
Mazda RX-Vision
Perhaps the most exciting debut at Tokyo was the Mazda RX-Vision. Heralding the return of the famous rotary engine, the RX-Vision confirms the Japanese manufacturer’s commitment to the engine technology. It’s a two-door, two-seat coupe which is expected to make production with a rotary engine in the coming years. Porsche’s Cayman will be its closest rival.
