The notion that SUVs and MPVs are exclusively meant for family use has fallen by the wayside recently as automakers now endeavour to blend spacious interiors and comfortable journeys with stylish exteriors. In recent years, the best-selling vehicles globally have often hailed from these popular segments, frequently produced by Japanese automakers. It comes as no surprise, then, that the Japan Mobility Show showcases a multitude of exciting SUV and MPV concepts.
The competition in this segment is so fierce that BMW is introducing its latest luxury crossover, the X2, at the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo. Nissan has revealed a total of five EV concept cars this year, with three of them falling into the SUV/MPV category. The Nissan Hyper Punk can be described as a concept with a more sci-fi-inspired style aimed at the younger generation, while the Hyper Urban embodies a sportier look. The Hyper Tourer, on the other hand, offers a luxurious minivan option, perfect for those who prefer sitting in the back row. Toyota’s FT-3e claims to be the driver’s “lifestyle partner,” and the Land Cruiser Se is a bold concept featuring three-row seating. In addition, Toyota’s premium division, Lexus, has unveiled its vision through the spacious LF-ZL.
Elsewhere, Suzuki’s eVX may appear modest, but its understated design is quite sensible, considering it is set for production in 2025.
BMW X2
The German automaker brings not just one but two models of the X2 production range – the iX2 pure electric car and the X2 M35i – to debut in Tokyo, but the latter’s expressive appearance seems to catch more attention. Being the pinnacle of the second generation X2, this particular X2 35i features a four-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, M-specific chassis, and M Sport package including 21-inch wheels and the quad pipe exhaust system.
Lexus LF-ZL
The LF-ZL is Lexus’ vision for a battery electric SUV, representing what a flagship luxury model should offer. Although the automaker hasn’t gone into the details, the SUV is meant to deliver a personalised driving experience by taking hints from the driver’s habits, with an AI-supported voice recognition system responding and providing helpful, flexible suggestions.
Nissan Hyper Punk
This futuristic concept has a very specific target audience that includes content creators, influencers, and artists. The origami-styled cabin is a hub for creativity as it provides seamless internet connectivity, while AI turns nearby environments into manga-style scenery or graphic patterns. The stylish polygonal exterior is finished in a silver paint that changes colours depending on the viewing angle and light source, ensuring the SUV stands out from the crowd.
Nissan Hyper Tourer
The Hyper Tourer is designed for people who appreciate the finer things in life. With full autonomous driving, high-density batteries for supporting extra devices and appliances, an LED floor, and 360º swivelling front seats, the cabin can easily become a meeting space or a relaxing lounge. Rear passengers can view and operate the navigation through a wearable display. The AI system monitors passengers’ biometric signs, including brain waves, heart rate, breathing and perspiration, to ensure the music and lighting fit the mood.
Nissan Hyper Urban
Despite the name, this crossover EV concept is aimed at active people living in both the city and the countryside. Paired with a wide wheel and tyre package and front and rear scissor doors, the sleek and sporty silhouette ensures aerodynamic excellence for increased efficiency. Like the previous Nissan concepts, the Hyper Urban also has the “V2H” function that provides power to the home for cost savings.
Suzuki eVX
While Suzuki is showcasing several EV concepts at the show, the eVX is said to be its first all-electric to go ahead for production, targeted for 2025. It features a powerful battery that offers 550 km of range, although the motor output has not been announced yet. It made its debut earlier this year at the Auto Expo 2023 in Delhi, and seeing it again here makes it’s imminent release all the more likely.
Toyota FT-3e
Toyota believes future mobility will be about more than physical transportation tools and become a “lifestyle partner” aligned with each individual’s values, and the SUV-type FT-3e here will be part of the game. It’s unclear what exactly Toyota means by this, but the BEV concept offers some form of ride personalisation, and the digital displays surrounding the doors provide information such as battery level, indoor temperature, and air quality when the driver approaches the car.
Toyota Land Cruiser Se
This concept may use the legendary Land Cruiser name, but it uses a far more elegant, less rugged design than what we’d expect from anything with that badge. This machine sports a hyper-futuristic look and feel, especially thanks to its narrow LED strip headlights. Still ready to rock on all types of terrain, the three-row interior is set to meet the needs of more drivers and extend the Land Cruiser fan base.
