SAMURAI WHEELS

This time on the show, the HONDA CIVIC, back on sale in Japan after a 7-year hiatus. With the longest history of all HONDA passenger vehicles, the CIVIC is a stalwart accounting for a quarter of the brand's worldwide production. But with the continuous growing demand for subcompact cars in Japan, CIVIC sales lagged, and HONDA took it off the domestic market in 2010. 7 years later, labeled as the New CIVIC Series, will the reintroduced CIVIC be able to carry out a revival in Japan? SAMURAI TEAM investigate! Also on the show, a report about expanding new services for car sharing in Japan. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

This time on the show, we introduce the LEXUS CT 200h. The smallest in the LEXUS lineup, it's a hatchback with a hybrid 1.8-liter engine and an electric motor, coupling great fuel economy with sporty driving performance -- a winning combination. The CT 200h competes within the fiercely contested C-segment in Europe. What makes LEXUS think it can go head to head with juggernauts in this segment the likes of VOLKSWAGEN, BMW, AUDI and MERCEDES BENZ? SAMURAI TEAM attempts to decipher LEXUS' global strategy! In addition, a report on a Japanese venture that has developed an electric car that floats and moves on water.

This time on the show, we cover 3 SUV flagship models from MITSUBISHI -- the PAJERO, OUTLANDER PHEV and RVR. MITSUBISHI MOTORS ran into development setbacks in April 2016, when reports surfaced of improper fuel economy testing. To make a fresh start, MITSUBISHI enacted sweeping measures, foremost including coming under the umbrella of NISSAN. Positive results from the changes are gradually appearing, as unit sales are on the rise. SAMURAI TEAM conducts a thorough review of the driving performance of MITSUBISHI MOTORS' three 4WD vehicles -- a field in which the company has always excelled. They predict what the future holds for MITSUBISHI. Also, a feature on the evolving Japanese taxi experience, toward the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Our SAMURAI WHEELS duo visits Tokyo Auto Salon 2018 to check out various custom cars and tune-up parts. A major point of attention at this year's show are the many more hybrid and EV custom cars than in years past. Also, for the first time ever, an international auction for custom cars will be held. How will prized Japanese custom cars be evaluated and priced by the world's experts? This year marks the 36th year for the event, and it will be held on a larger scale than ever. From the venue of this major event that attracts attention from all over the world, we deliver the latest information on Japanese custom cars!

This time on the show, the MAZDA CX-8. 1 month from launch in Japan in December 2017, over 12,000 orders have been recorded, exceeding the monthly sales target by 10 times. What sets it apart is that it's a crossover SUV, but with the same three-row seating as a minivan. Among its buyers, people in their 30's or younger account for 40% -- prominently young families. The CX-8 was created with a new strategy. SAMURAI TEAM gives it a chance to prove it has the right stuff. In addition, a report on a legendary car collector who owns more than 250 domestic and foreign rare and famous cars. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

For 3 years since 2015, SAMURAI WHEELS has made it its mission to communicate to the world, the allure of Japanese cars and car culture. As the program comes to an end in March, this episode is a compilation that looks back, focusing on aspects of car culture. From car hobbyists and dedicated enthusiasts, peculiar customs involved in handling cars, domestically developed special vehicles, to the unique evolution of the Kei-car and trends for minivans, this episode is a roundup of car culture unique to Japan. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)

For 3 years since 2015, SAMURAI WHEELS has made it its mission to communicate to the world the allure of Japanese cars and car culture. As the program comes to an end in March, this episode is part Ⅱ of a compilation that looks back, centering on the keyword future. Where are Japanese cars headed? SAMURAI TEAM passionately addresses major issues, starting with the rapidly progressing shift to eco-cars like EV and hybrids, popularity of the SUV and trends for sports cars. Navigators: Ukyo Katayama (Racing Driver) Peter Lyon (Chairman of the World Car Awards, Motor Journalist)