Japan is known for crafting dependable and long-lasting vehicles. However, not all Japanese manufacturers’ cars live up to their reputation. While some of these cars offer great value for the money, a few models might not justify their cost due to various factors such as lackluster features, performance issues, or reliability concerns.
To help you make an informed decision, let’s take a closer look at Japanese cars that you might want to think twice about before making a purchase.
1. Mitsubishi Mirage
The Mitsubishi Mirage G4 is a really affordable car, with a fuel economy of 35/41 city/highway mpg in 2024. Despite its excellent fuel efficiency and low price tag, the car needs to improve in terms of performance, interior materials, and cabin noise, making it less attractive compared to other subcompact cars on the market.
According to Automotive News, in 2023, insiders reported that the five-door Mirage and the four-door Mirage G4, cheap and no-frills small hatchbacks and sedans, would be discontinued. They are expected to be removed from the US lineup by the middle of the decade.
2. Suzuki Alto
The Suzuki Alto is a great choice if you’re looking for an affordable, fuel-efficient, and practical car. Its small size and well-proportioned design make it perfect for city driving and parking in tight spaces.
However, the car’s small engine may struggle during highway merges or on steep inclines, which can make for a less dynamic driving experience. Furthermore, it may not have as much interior space or cargo capacity as larger vehicles, limiting its practicality for long trips and carrying large loads.
3. Mazda RX-8
Did you know that the first-generation Mazda RX-8 was produced for just four years? Despite its sleek design and 212 horsepower 4-cylinder engine, it didn’t quite make it to the finish line in terms of reliability. In fact, according to MazdaProblems.com, it ranks just 11th out of 19 Mazda models evaluated for reliability.
At the same time, numerous complaints have surfaced regarding engine failure, power steering jerks, and excessive oil consumption, and it has had several recalls over the years.
4. Toyota IQ
This city car is known for its impressive specifications despite its small size—just 2.985 meters in length. It is designed to accommodate four passengers, which means its trunk is very small. If you enjoy going on road trips, consider another option.
The car may seem underpowered on highways or steep inclines, although it is sufficient for driving in cities. At higher speeds, engine noise becomes more noticeable and may affect cabin comfort while driving on the highway.
5. Honda CR-X del Sol
If there’s a Japanese car brand with a stronger reputation than others in the market, it is Honda. Two of their most recognized sedans, the Honda Civic and Honda Accord, even made it to the Car & Drive bestselling cars list in 2023.
However, the Honda CR-X del Sol, introduced in 1993 as a replacement for the popular Honda CR-X, turned out to be disappointing. The cabin was noisy, the roof was leaky, and the front brake rotors tended to warp. It was far from as sporty as its namesake, the Honda CR-X, and was considered a failure. Honda no longer produces a car that is equivalent to the del Sol.
6. Toyota AYGO
The AYGO is a small, trendy car ideally suited for city driving. It is designed to provide an enjoyable driving experience with excellent fuel efficiency and responsive handling. Since its release in 2005, this Toyota has had several recalls, according to whocanfixmycar.com. The most recent recall was in 2018–2022, with reports of leaks from the rear door, corroded front brakes, and incorrect stitching on the rear seatbelts.
In the ToyotaOwnersClub, many members complain about the engine and its low performance. This may be a concern for drivers who frequently take long journeys or need to carry a lot of passengers. In terms of its interior, it provides a functional but basic design.
7. Mitsubishi Eclipse
If you’re considering buying this popular drive from the Fast & Furious movies, it’s worth noting that Kelley Blue Book values it at around $3,000. However, be aware that models produced between 1999 and 2003, and again in 2007, have been known to have some issues.
The rims and wheels damage easily and make the car appear worn out sooner rather than later. In addition, drivers have reported problems with the automatic transmission, power train, and steering on the 1999 model.
8. Mazda2
The car’s tastefully decorated interior and high-quality materials ensure a relaxing trip. Its fuel-efficient engine is also a plus. However, some may find the ride quality too firm, and there can be intrusive engine noise at higher speeds. Additionally, the car lacks advanced safety features, and optional hardware upgrades are limited. Rear-seat legroom may also be tight for taller passengers.
9. Nissan LEAF
This electric vehicle (EV) is an excellent option for eco-conscious drivers who want sustainable transportation. The LEAF has an impressive electric range of 150–226 miles, depending on the model year, and despite its compact size, it provides ample passenger and cargo space. However, if you live in an area with cold weather, consider other options, as the LEAF’s range and performance may decrease in cold weather conditions.
10. Suzuki Swift
This vehicle boasts a sleek design and a comfortable interior, making it a pleasure to drive. It comes with an efficient 1.2L and turbocharged 1.0L engine options. However, the Swift may not meet your expectations if you are looking for a car with upscale finishes. According to Car Expert, the Bluetooth audio quality and sound quality during phone calls are not the best. Additionally, there is no manual option available.
11. Lexus IS
The car boasts an elegant and sophisticated interior that ensures passenger comfort. Its powerful engine options deliver impressive performance while still being efficient. However, it has its drawbacks. Firstly, it has limited rear-seat space compared to competitors, and the infotainment system can be finicky and distracting while driving. The rear seat is also not adult-friendly, and the base four-cylinder engine feels underpowered.
12. Nissan Versa Note
The Nissan Note, known as the Nissan Versa Note in North America, is a reliable and versatile option for daily commuting. It’s a compact hatchback with a 1.2-liter petrol engine and a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity.
Nissan pitched the Versa Note as a sporty option. However, they dropped it from their range in 2017 because the Micra and Juke models were more popular among traditional Note buyers. In 2019, the Versa Note was discontinued in North America because subcompact hatchbacks were not in high demand in the region.