Mitsuoka is one of the most unique car companies in the Japanese market. The brand handcrafts Mitsuoka is known for its unique approach to car manufacturing, creating vehicles that blend retro designs with modern functionality. The Japanese brand, which traditionally specializes in sedans and sports cars, is now gaining attention with its SUV model, the Mitsuoka Buddy.
Launched in 2020, the Buddy is Mitsuoka’s first SUV. Based on the Toyota RAV4 stands out with its distinctive design, which reflects Mitsuoka’s commitment to handcrafting and customizing each vehicle. Although the Buddy is more expensive than standard brands, its appeal lies in its exclusive and classic styling.
Crafting the Mitsuoka Buddy: A Unique Process
The production process of the Mitsuoka Buddy is far from conventional. Mitsuoka receives the finished Toyota RAV4 and then disassembles the exterior to reassemble it using different parts. This method is akin to creating a special car, resulting in a classic exterior design that sets the Buddy apart from the standard RAV4. The vehicle’s front end is inspired by the Chevrolet K5 Blazer, while the rear features Cadillac-style taillights, the signature Buddy lettering on the trunk, and the Mitsuoka emblem.
Although the Buddy’s exterior is drastically different, the side profile and rear still retain some of the RAV4’s design, making it a hybrid of Mitsuoka’s distinctive look and Toyota’s practical platform.
Interior and Powertrain: Maintaining the RAV4’s Core
While the Buddy’s exterior is completely transformed, the interior remains unchanged from the RAV4. The dashboard, doors, and center console are identical, with only the Mitsuoka emblem added to the steering wheel. The seats and certain other elements are customized based on customer preferences, offering some degree of personalization.
Regarding powertrain, the Buddy retains the RAV4’s engine options, which include a 2.0-liter gasoline engine, a 2.5-liter gasoline engine, and a 2.5-liter gasoline hybrid. Notably, the plug-in hybrid option from the RAV4 is not available for the Buddy. Despite the extensive exterior reworking, the Buddy’s powertrain remains the same as the RAV4’s, ensuring solid performance and reliability. The Buddy is available in 12 single colors and 6 two-tone color options, offering buyers a variety of choices.
Pricing and Limited Production: A Premium for Exclusivity
The Mitsuoka Buddy starts at 4,697,000 yen (approximately $30,024) in Japan, significantly higher than the base price of the Toyota RAV4, which starts at 3,237,300 yen (approximately $20,694). The Buddy’s higher price is attributed to the labor-intensive process of disassembling and reassembling the vehicle by hand and its limited production.
Since Mitsuoka produces these vehicles in small quantities, each Buddy is essentially a bespoke creation, which adds to its value. Given its rarity and unique design, buyers who appreciate its classic look and exclusivity demand the Buddy.
While the Mitsuoka Buddy may be priced higher than the Toyota RAV4, its distinctive design and handcrafted production process make it an appealing choice for those seeking a standout vehicle.
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