Mitsuoka, a Japanese company known for its unconventional car designs, has captured attention once again with its latest creation, the M55. This unique vehicle, initially just a concept, has garnered significant interest since its unveiling in November 2023 to commemorate Mitsuoka’s 55th anniversary. What makes the M55 stand out is its striking resemblance to a Dodge Challenger, despite being built on the platform of a humble Honda Civic.
The M55 has sparked fascination among car enthusiasts, with over 1,300 inquiries flooding in from eager potential buyers of all ages and genders. Responding to this overwhelming demand, Mitsuoka has committed to turning the concept into a production reality, albeit with a projected release date near the end of 2025.
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While specifics regarding the production model remain undisclosed, the concept version was based on the Civic five-door hatchback, boasting a 1.5-liter engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. However, enthusiasts are hopeful that Mitsuoka might opt for the more powerful 2.0-liter engine, especially considering Honda’s recent unveiling of a sporty Civic RS prototype at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon.
Despite its Dodge Challenger-inspired front fascia, the M55’s rear design draws parallels to 1970s Japanese coupes like the Nissan Skyline and Mitsubishi Galant GTO. Yet, its unmistakable profile serves as a constant reminder of its Honda Civic origins. Inside, Mitsuoka has added retro touches with blue upholstery and replaced the Honda badge with its own logo on the steering wheel.
Mitsuoka’s creativity and willingness to push boundaries in automotive design are evident in the M55. The company’s commitment to handcrafting each car manually, including custom headlights, taillights, and grille, speaks to its dedication to craftsmanship. However, the labor-intensive conversion process means that Mitsuoka anticipates struggling to meet demand.
While pricing details are still forthcoming, it’s expected that the M55 won’t come cheap, given the extensive modifications involved. Nevertheless, for those with a taste for the unconventional and a penchant for retro styling, the M55 represents an exciting and distinctive option in the automotive landscape.
