SAMURAI WHEELS

In this episode, we will focus on a brand new minivan, NISSAN SERENA. NISSAN released the 6th generation of the car last summer and it was chosen as RJC Car of the Year 2016 by Japanese car researchers' and journalists. Along with safety and comfort functions such as "dual rear door" and "effortless hands free sliding side-door", their autonomous drive technology features the new SERENA. The system helps a car to drive between the lines of a lane in a highway automatically. Does it mark a start of autonomous drive? Let's hear what the SAMURAI WHEELS team has to say! Also, we will have a report on "Auto Color Awards 2016" which evaluates color design in Japanese car industry. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

The HONDA NSX, a leading Japanese sports car, headlines this episode. It debuted in 1990 as a flagship of the brand to go alongside world supercars like FERRARI and PORSCHE, but went out of production in 2005. 11 years later, it returns with a fully revamped model. The new NSX HYBRID uses carbon fiber to achieve high fuel economy performance through weight reduction. It adopts an original four-wheel drive system that gives enhanced maneuverability. HONDA presents the long-awaited new NSX, but how does it stack up against the supercars of the world? SAMURAI TEAM will check this out. Also, we'll have a report about a venture company's development of electric ultra-compact mobility. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

In this episode, the SAMURAI TEAM visits TOKYO AUTO SALON 2017, one of the world's biggest custom car events. Myriad custom cars and parts are on exhibit at the venue, where people can witness unique Japanese car culture. This year marks the event's 35th time, the largest ever, with about 300,000 people in attendance. Car tuning and customization was once thought to be the domain of a small group of enthusiasts, but nowadays automobile manufacturers have come to participate seriously as well. A background factor for this is manufacturers' reaffirmation of the market's viability. From the venue of this mega event which is attracting attention from overseas, we throw some light on Japanese custom car culture! Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

In this episode, we visit MAZDA's headquarters in Hiroshima Prefecture. Hiroshima is the city where an atomic bomb was dropped in World War II. MAZDA was founded in this city in 1920 and has developed with Hiroshima even after the war. MAZDA once had fallen into financial crisis in the 90's, but now it has raised its profits to record highs, with technical strength and stylish design even more popular in the West than in Japan. What was it that changed MAZDA? Automobile manufacturer's very essence and culture are clearly reflected in their product. The SAMURAI TEAM tours the MAZDA headquarters, factory and museum, looking back at the history of the company, along with its corporate philosophy. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

This episode will throw the spotlight on TOYOTA's global strategic car, CH-R. A new specialty genre from Japan - the compact crossover SUV. After going on sale in last December, the following month, the company received an order for 48,000 units, exceeding its target by 8 times. The reason behind its popularity? In addition to a distinctive design, it adopts a new platform and achieves a low center of gravity and stable driving performance, fanning expectations from users around the world. SAMURAI TEAM tests the mettle of this new crossover SUV. In addition, a report on a project to revive an extremely limited sports car from the 90's when a mere 200 units were put on sale. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

SAMURAI WHEELS makes its mission to convey the appeal of Japanese cars and the unique car culture of Japan to the world. In 2016, we've reported on number movements in the automobile industry over more than 20 episodes. Just to name a few are the movement to reboot the sports car, development of technology for safe driving, and the evolution of next generation FCV and EV. This episode looks back at the topics that dominated 2016, and makes some predictions to what awaits the automobile industry in 2017. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

We compare the top 3 selling "Kei-cars", mini passenger vehicles in Japan in 2016, based on data from the Japan Light Motor Vehicle and Motorcycle Association. Coming in 1st place is the HONDA N-BOX. 2nd place goes to the DAIHATSU TANTO. 3rd place is the NISSAN DAYS. All 3 have low fuel consumption and a low price range, as well as striking features like spacious interior and safety devices. The SAMURAI TEAM will test each car and check their performance. From this ranking, we speculate on what Japanese people expect from cars. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

Is this a hybrid? Or is it an electric car? This time we focus on the NISSAN NOTE e-POWER. Its new powertrain uses the engine only as a generator and runs 100% on an electric motor. While achieving trademark quiet and powerful motor driving, it has low fuel consumption of 37.2km/l by using the engine for power generation. It also saves the trouble of having to be charged like a normal EV. The SAMURAI TEAM checks the real power of this much-discussed compact car's "New sensation driving"!! We also have a report on a Japanese car magazine which celebrates 50th anniversary. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

This time we will cover the TOYOTA PRIUS PHV, which underwent a complete redesign in February, 2017. With a larger driving battery, the mileage in EV mode doubles that of the previous generation at 68.2km. For normal charging, general household wiring can be used. It's packed with interesting features like the world's first roof solar power generation panel on a vehicle for volume sales. Since the launch of the eco car market over 20 years ago, TOYOTA has been leading the market. The SAMURAI TEAM thoroughly probe the capabilities of the vehicle positioned as the "pillar of next-generation eco cars"!! Also, we have a report on the luxury trend of long-distance buses with fancy interiors in Japan. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

This is the first in a two-part special from the New York International Auto Show, an exhibition with a history dating back to 1900's. Centering on Japanese carmakers, we provide in-depth coverage on new models and the latest trends. In a collaboration with the PBS network's program MotorWeek, the show's presenter John Davis and our own Peter Lyon exchange thoughts on some of the key movements in automotive culture. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

This is the second installment of a special from the New York International Auto Show, where the World Car Awards are announced every year. More than 70 automotive journalists from 25 countries equally evaluate new models and cast their votes. Serving as Chairman of the awards is SAMURAI WHEELS' very own Peter Lyon. For total coverage of the announcement of this highly regarded award, be sure to watch. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

The SUZUKI SWIFT HYBRID headlines this episode. Since being fully revamped in 2004, it has become popular in India, China, and even in Europe, with cumulative sales exceeding 5.3 million units. A core element to SUZUKI's business, the car is recognized across the globe. The standout feature of the new model is low fuel consumption realized by a considerably lighter body and "Mild Hybrid" technology. SAMURAI TEAM thoroughly examines its capabilities! In addition, we look back on the history of ISUZU, the well-known Japanese truck and bus manufacturer. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

This episode focuses on the SUBARU FORESTER, the global model crossover SUV powering SUBARU's favorable sales. In North America, monthly production has topped 10,000 units for 43 months running. The vehicle is highly evaluated for its spacious interior and safety. With a minimum ground clearance of 220mm, the highest among SUBARU cars, it easily takes on snowy or unpaved roads. Developed with an emphasis on utility, this full-time 4WD SUV is in high demand in North America. SAMURAI TEAM takes thorough stock of its capabilities. Also, we have a report on KUBOTA, an agricultural vehicle manufacturer that supports rice making in Japan. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

MAZDA's flagship model, the ATENZA WAGON, has undergone major improvements 4 years now since first hitting the market. The station wagon lineup includes the option for manual transmission -- an increasingly rare offer in Japan. With this, MAZDA is clearly targeting European markets, and receiving high praise from Japanese car lovers. SAMURAI TEAM conducts a comprehensive review of its newly refined 2.2L diesel engine and abundant safety features. Also, we'll have a report about WHILL, a remarkable next generation electric wheelchair. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

This time on the show, the LEXUS LC 500, the flagship coupe that shows how far the brand has come. The luxury sports coupe category is dominated by European manufacturers the likes of FERRARI, PORSCHE, BMW and MERCEDES. LEXUS aims to secure the LC 500 a firm position in this market through evolution and change as a brand. The standout feature is the beautiful design that implements nearly the exact essence of the LF-LC concept car exhibited at the Detroit Motor Show. SAMURAI TEAM conducts a thorough review! Also, we'll have a report on the deep world of plastic model cars. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

This time on the program, the DAIHATSU MIRA e:S. First coming to market in 2011 as a normal gasoline-powered vehicle with off the charts fuel efficiency of 32km/l, it carved out a new genre called a 3rd type of clean vehicle after HV and EV. 6 years later in 2017, the 2nd generation has been released. It boasts improved fuel consumption, cost performance and the latest safety features. The MIRA e:S is emblematic of the continually evolving orthodox K-car in Japan. SAMURAI TEAM checks the performance of the latest model! In addition, a report on the latest developments in traffic lights in Japan. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

This time on the show, we feature the SUBARU XV. The fully revamped model released this spring is the 3rd generation of the vehicle. It is a crossover SUV based on the popular IMPREZA SPORT. Although an entry-level model targeting a wide range of customers, it combines genuine SUV function and safety performance. SAMURAI TEAM checks the performance of the latest model from SUBARU to enter the fierce arena of the compact SUV market! In addition, we have a report on the unique automotive culture in Japan "Dekotora", extravagantly decorated trucks. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

This time on the program, the TOYOTA CAMRY, a mid-sized sedan that has sold 18 million units worldwide. This summer it underwent a full model change for the first time in 6 years. Although it boasts huge popularity in the US as the best-selling passenger car for 15 consecutive years, sales have been sluggish in Japan. Eager to revive the sedan in Japan, the CAMRY has been completely overhauled in regards to driving performance, fuel efficiency, body rigidity and design. Can this sedan bounce back? SAMURAI TEAM checks its performance! In addition, a report on Japan's "other" car culture -- the racing game, Gran Turismo. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

This episode will feature the NISSAN FAIRLADY Z NISMO. It will soon be 50 years since its predecessor, the DATSUN Z, debuted in 1969. For a car that is already synonymous with the term Japanese sports car, NISSAN's Motorsport division, NISMO has raised the bar even higher. SAMURAI TEAM checks its capabilities and explores the history of the FAIRLADY Z. In addition, a report on some college students taking on the world's premier solar car race, the World Solar Challenge. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

The first in a two-part installment documenting the efforts of the SAMURAI WHEELS team in the 28th MEDIA ROADSTER 4 HOURS ENDURANCE RACE. The key point of this race for MAZDA MX-5 ROADSTERs is fuel efficiency. The total amount of allotted gasoline is 60 liters, reduced by 10 liters from last year. Running at full speed will result in an empty tank, so working out a strategy with precise calculation of fuel economy to be able to race for the full 4 hours, will decide who wins or loses. SAMURAI TEAM has participated twice in the past, finishing 9th in their first year. Engine trouble down the home stretch forced them to retire from the race last year. This year, they have their sights on their first winner's podium! What's more, a discussion with 3 chief editors of automotive magazines participating in the race. They exchange views on the latest trends in Japanese cars. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

Part Ⅱ of a report on the SAMURAI WHEELS team's participation in the 28th MEDIA ROADSTER 4 HOURS ENDURANCE RACE. Representing NHK WORLD, the team has yet to reach the winner's podium in their past 2 attempts. This year, they rework their strategy and aim for a top spot. Follow their battle against rival teams from mid-race to the goal line, in what promises to be an exhilarating finish. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

This time on the show, the SUZUKI S×4 S-CROSS. As the name suggests, it's a compact crossover SUV. It's a Japanese car, yet not a Japanese car; developed and manufactured to European specifications in Hungary by SUZUKI subsidiary, MAGYAR SUZUKI. European staff insisted on using a luxurious and stately front grille design. A 6-speed AT was adopted for the transmission, rather than the CVT, which is main stream in Japan. SUZUKI's world strategic model has undergone a number of other minor changes, and SAMURAI TEAM checks its performance! In addition, we'll have a report on a 12-year-old girl who aims to become the first Japanese female F1 driver. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

The first of a 2-part series from The 45th Tokyo Motor Show 2017. 27 companies from 10 countries took part in the exhibition, where many concept cars were unveiled for their world premiere. SAMURAI TEAM visited each Japanese car maker's booth to communicate to the world, the latest information and technology on Japanese cars. Covered in this episode are environmental and automatic driving technologies used in concept cars from TOYOTA, MITSUBISHI, ISUZU, YAMAHA, SUZUKI and MAZDA. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

The second of a 2-part series from The 45th Tokyo Motor Show 2017. 27 companies from 10 countries took part in the exhibition, where many concept cars were unveiled for their world premiere. SAMURAI TEAM visited each Japanese car maker's booth to communicate to the world, the latest information and technology on Japanese cars. This episode focuses on the latest technology packed in concept cars from LEXUS, SUBARU, NISSAN, DAIHATSU and HONDA. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

This time on the program, we will cover the TOYOTA HILUX, back on the market in Japan after a 13-year hiatus. A pickup truck available in 180 countries and regions, it has racked up 17.3 million units in cumulative worldwide sales since debuting in 1968. The truck is known and loved all over the world for handling rough roads and durability -- the emblematic rugged and highly reliable Japanese automobile. Domestic demand in Japan however favors the Kei truck's better fuel economy and smaller turning radius, which is why sales of HILUX were suspended in 2004. So, what made TOYOTA re-introduce HILUX in Japan? SAMURAI TEAM attempts to find the answer! In addition, we have a report on an event where 700 old cars and bikes gather. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)