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Next-Gen Japan Sports Wagon: A Surprising Powertrain Twist Awaits
By JVC Team - August 19, 2025
Next-Gen Japan Sports Wagon on the Horizon with Sharper Looks & Exciting New Powertrains
- Subaru’s Next-Gen Levorg Reportedly in Development for a 2026 Debut
- Rumored 2026 Subaru Levorg to Keep Sporty Wagon Looks, Add Hybrid Option
- Japan to Remain Core Market for Levorg, with Select Exports Planned
Subaru may prioritize the U.S. market—which makes up nearly 70% of its global sales—but it still produces a few models designed specifically for its home market in Japan. One of these is the Levorg, a sporty wagon that’s rumored to get a redesign next year.
Toyota Rumored to Be Developing the “Land Cruiser” of Minivans
By JVC Team - August 05, 2025
A rugged new Toyota minivan may be in development, based on the X-Van Gear Concept, aiming to blend adventure-ready design with comfort and family practicality.
- Toyota may launch a rugged new minivan in 2026, potentially based on the bold and versatile X-Van Gear Concept.
- It could share its platform with the Toyota Noah and Voxy, while incorporating bold SUV-inspired design elements.
- Powertrain options may include a 2.0L gasoline engine or a 1.8L hybrid, with optional all-wheel drive.
As anticipation builds for Toyota’s compact-sized Land Cruiser, a new rumor from Japan hints that the automaker might be working on something less expected—but just as intriguing. Rather than another SUV or truck, this time it’s a minivan with a rugged, crossover-inspired twist. The model in question is believed to be the production version of the Toyota X-Van Gear Concept, which first debuted in 2023.
Japan Automotive Market Update: Trends Shaping 2025
By JVC Team - September 06, 2025
Global Export Dynamics & Tariff Developments
- In July 2025, Japan struck a pivotal trade agreement with the U.S., slashing auto import tariffs from 27.5% to 15%, providing much-needed clarity for exporters.
- This led to a sharp rally in Japanese automaker stocks—Toyota shares surged 14%, marking one of its largest gains in years.
- However, smaller automakers like Mitsubishi, Mazda, and Subaru remain under pressure, struggling with cost adjustments and higher vehicle prices in export markets.
- Despite easing tariff pressure, corporate Japan still faces concerns over broader economic risks, with potential annual industry-wide impacts estimated around ¥4 trillion (~US$27.6 billion).
Production & Export Trends: Used & New Vehicle Markets
- Used car exports are booming. In March 2025, Japan shipped over 156,000 used vehicles to 122 countries—underscoring strong global demand.
- July 2025 data shows a staggering 191% year-on-year increase in exports, totaling 9,358 units (across all regions), with North America, Asia, and Europe leading the charge.
- The used car market in Japan is valued at approximately USD 155.2 billion in 2025, projected to grow to USD 178.2 billion by 2030 at a compounded annual rate of 2.8%.
- Trends driving this growth include robust demand for hatchbacks, rising popularity of SUVs, and significant growth in electric vehicles, which are expected to expand at nearly 14.8% CAGR through 2030.
- Digital transformation is reshaping distribution: online platforms are growing at 11.2% CAGR, enabling customers to access inventory nationwide.
Domestic Vehicle Market & Economic Signals
- Japan’s manufacturing sector remains on edge: the August manufacturing PMI was 49.7, signaling contraction amid falling export orders—especially from the U.S. and China.
- At home, new vehicle sales show mixed performance: YTD sales up to July climbed 8.2%, reaching approximately 2.31 million units, yet electric vehicle sales have declined by 10.7%.
- August brought a dip—new vehicle sales fell 8.3% year-on-year, with both mini and standard vehicle segments declining.