Kei cars are notorious in Japan; they’re perfect for Japan’s small narrow streets and windy corners.
In general terms, kei cars are small, simple, not super powerful, and fun. They bring enjoyment to any car enthusiast who wants to feel fast but isn’t. One issue is that, because they are small, they are not exactly tall-person friendly.
So here are my top 5 picks for kei cars:
Honda S660
The Honda S660 is a modern take on the kei car, sporting a mid-engine layout with rear-wheel drive. It packs a punch with its lightweight design and a small turbocharged engine. Though it’s not incredibly fast by regular car standards, the S660’s responsive handling and spirited performance make it feel much quicker than it actually is. Its unique styling and open-air design make it a fun and stylish choice for driving enthusiasts. It also has a surprisingly comfortable cabin, despite being a compact two-seater.
The Kei Truck
Although kei trucks might not be as stylish or performance-oriented as other kei cars, they are incredibly practical and an iconic part of Japan’s road landscape. With their compact size and functional design, they are often seen on farms, construction sites, and even urban deliveries. Despite their utilitarian nature, these trucks can be surprisingly fun to drive, especially in tight spaces. Many kei truck enthusiasts enjoy customizing them, turning them into off-road machines or quirky, personalized rides.
Suzuki Cappuccino
The Suzuki Cappuccino is another brilliant example of how small can still be sporty. This tiny convertible roadster offers a classic formula: small, lightweight, and rear-wheel drive. Equipped with a turbocharged engine, it can zip through corners with ease and is widely loved by enthusiasts for its fun driving experience. Despite its compact size, the Cappuccino gives the feeling of a much larger sports car. It’s easy to see why it has such a loyal fanbase—whether you’re on the open road or in tight city streets, the Cappuccino is pure driving pleasure.
Autozam AZ-1
Designed by Mazda and sold under the Autozam brand, the AZ-1 is a quirky and unique kei car. Its gull-wing doors are reminiscent of more expensive exotic cars, and its design feels like a mini sports car. The AZ-1 comes with a 657cc turbocharged engine that provides just enough power to make it a joy to drive while keeping it within the restrictions of the kei car class. Its rare and distinctive looks make it highly collectible among kei car enthusiasts. Despite its small footprint, the AZ-1 delivers a thrilling, go-kart-like driving experience.
Daihatsu Midget
The Daihatsu Midget is one of the most charming kei cars ever produced. Originally intended as a micro-commercial vehicle, it features a single-seat design with a small cargo space behind the driver. The Midget has a quirky, almost cartoonish appearance, making it an iconic and fun little car. Its tiny engine and minimalist design embody the essence of kei cars—small, simple, and functional. Its unique design and fun factor have made it a favorite among collectors and fans of quirky, unusual cars.
Kei cars may not be the fastest or the most powerful, but they are undoubtedly an integral part of Japan’s automotive culture. With their compact size, affordability, and spirited driving experience, these little machines continue to bring joy to drivers who appreciate the art of simplicity. Whether you’re looking for a fun weekend toy, a practical urban runabout, or just a unique piece of automotive history, there’s a kei car for everyone. From the roadster to the quirky commercial vehicle, kei cars remain a symbol of Japan’s creativity and ingenuity.
