AUTONEWS

Mitsuoka: the Japanese tuner that transforms the Honda Civic hatchback into a classic Dodge Challenger

Mitsuoka, a traditional Japanese tuner known for transforming modern cars into nostalgic reinterpretations, has decided to bet again on its most recent and most successful project: the M55.

Based on the Honda Civic hatchback, the model won over the public by mixing visual elements of 1970s muscle cars with touches of classic Japanese sports cars, such as the first Nissan Skyline.

After the excellent reception of the first edition (dubbed the “Zero Edition”), the brand announced a new batch of the model, now called the “First Edition”.

Despite the confusing name — since it is the second batch, not the first — Mitsuoka guarantees that this version celebrates the official start of production of the M55.

The first round was created only as a commemorative edition of the 55th anniversary of the company, founded in 1968, with production limited to 100 units. To the manufacturer's surprise, more than 350 people applied to buy the car in just one week.

Given the unexpected demand, Mitsuoka decided to open 250 more vacancies for this new phase.

Visually, the M55 First Edition maintains the same bold proposal: transforming the Civic hatchback into a retro coupe that mixes the soul of the classic Dodge Challenger with the essence of Japanese sports cars from the Showa Era.

The square front end, the muscle car-inspired taillights and the chrome details make the model look like it came straight out of 1971.

Inside, the M55 maintains the Civic's interior with exclusive details, such as carbon fiber trim, special upholstery and metal rings embedded in the seat backs.

This time, the M55 will be available in three versions, with two engine options.

The LX version will come equipped with Honda's well-known 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder, while the LX and EX hybrid configurations will use the 2.0-liter engine with electric assistance.

Unfortunately, neither model will feature a manual transmission — a disappointment for enthusiasts who would like to combine the retro aesthetic with a more purist driving experience.

Another new feature is the color palette: while the Zero Edition was sold in a single shade, the First Edition will be offered in up to 10 variations.

However, even with this increase in production and customization options, the car will remain exclusive to the Japanese market.

Those who want one will have to pay a high price. The M55 LX with combustion engine starts at ¥7,568,000 (about US$50,000), while the hybrid versions go up even more: the LX hybrid costs ¥8,118,000 (US$53,800) and the EX hybrid comes in at ¥8,427,100 (US$55,800).

For comparison purposes, this amount is considerably higher than what is charged for a Honda Civic Type R in Japan or the United States.

Mitsuoka's proposal, however, is not to compete with hot hatches or performance cars, but to offer exclusivity and style. The M55 is an automotive ode to nostalgia, made for those who want to stand out in traffic with something truly unique — even if the heart is a modern Civic.

It is a car that does not hide its nostalgia, but does so with the charm and boldness typical of a brand that has already transformed a Miata into a 1960s Corvette and a RAV4 into a retro Blazer-style SUV. The M55 is, above all, a journey through time on wheels.

Mundoquatrorodas