Mitsuoka Motor has always stood out in the automotive world for its quirky, retro-inspired designs. Among its lineup, the Ryugi sedan has been one of the most eccentric yet charming offerings. Based on the Toyota Corolla Axio, the Ryugi combined everyday practicality with styling cues reminiscent of mid-20th century British luxury cars. Now, in 2026, Mitsuoka has announced the end of the Ryugi’s production, marking the occasion with a Final Edition limited to just 20 units.
A Retro Design Philosophy
The Ryugi was introduced in 2014 and quickly became a cult favorite among enthusiasts who appreciated Mitsuoka’s unique approach. Instead of chasing modern trends, the Ryugi embraced nostalgia:
- Vertical Chrome Grille: Evoking Rolls-Royce and Bentley designs of the 1950s.
- Round Headlights: A deliberate throwback to classic British sedans.
- Extended Overhangs & Chrome Bumpers: Adding to its vintage silhouette.
- Classic Badging: The Final Edition features emblems crafted using the traditional Japanese “Shippo-yaki” enamel technique, highlighting Mitsuoka’s artisanal touch.
Under the Skin: Corolla Practicality
Despite its retro looks, the Ryugi was fundamentally a Toyota Corolla Axio. This meant:
- Engine Options: A 1.5-liter gasoline engine or hybrid powertrain.
- Reliability: Toyota’s proven mechanicals ensured durability and ease of maintenance.
- Affordability: While more expensive than the Corolla due to hand-modified styling, it remained accessible compared to European luxury cars.
This combination of eccentric design and everyday usability made the Ryugi a unique proposition in the Japanese market.
The Final Edition: A Collector’s Gem
The 2026 Ryugi Final Edition is Mitsuoka’s farewell to this quirky sedan. Only 20 units will be produced, each priced around $21,000 (RM83,000).
Special features include:
- Exclusive Badging: A “Final Edition” badge on the trunk.
- Handcrafted Details: Shippo-yaki enamel emblems, emphasizing Mitsuoka’s artisanal craftsmanship.
- Limited Production: With just 20 cars, the Final Edition is destined to become a collector’s item.
Cultural Impact
The Ryugi may never have been a mainstream success, but it represents Mitsuoka’s philosophy of celebrating individuality. In a world dominated by sleek, futuristic EVs, the Ryugi stood as a reminder of automotive history and nostalgia.
- Quirky Appeal: It attracted buyers who wanted something different from the crowd.
- Retro Revival: Part of a broader trend where automakers revisit heritage designs.
- Japanese Craftsmanship: Showcasing how tradition and modern engineering can coexist.
Conclusion
The Mitsuoka Ryugi sedan is bowing out with dignity, leaving behind a legacy of eccentric charm and retro flair. The Final Edition, limited to 20 units, encapsulates everything Mitsuoka stands for: individuality, craftsmanship, and a refusal to follow mainstream trends.
For collectors and enthusiasts, the Ryugi Final Edition is more than just a car—it’s a piece of automotive art, a quirky chapter in Japan’s motoring story, and a reminder that sometimes, the most memorable cars are the ones that dare to be different.
Hello, my name is Himanshu Kumar and I am an experienced Digital Marketer. I have been blogging for the last 4 years and I have special interest in SEO. Here I give you easy bikes and writes easy-to-understand reviews and news about the latest bikes, helping readers choose the best options.. My aim is to always provide you with accurate, new and useful information.
