Tokyo Auto Salon 2022 was a blast. While Makuhari Messe was filled with jaw-dropping engineering and cutting-edge concepts, people who had been to the event numerous times might have noticed a shift in the atmosphere.
The “hot models” that populated the booths in previous years were noticeably absent on business day, which meant the focus remained on the cars.
Let’s dive into this event and relive the highlights. Below is my selection of the top 10 vehicles in random order that stole the show.
My Top 10 Tokyo Auto Salon 2022 cars
Honda Civic Type R
This prototype featured a camouflage aesthetic that was nothing short of brilliant. The livery was a chaotic mix of black with distinct red “R” logos and white car silhouettes.
Visually, the effect looked like a high-speed scribble at a cursory glance. In terms of pure optical impact, it was arguably the best-looking machine at the show.
Ferrari Monza SP2
What is there to say? It’s a Ferrari. However, this specific build diverges slightly from Maranello’s usual modern output.
This car evoked the spirit of a classic roadster from the 1920s and 30s. Equipped with a formidable V12 engine and an exquisitely appointed interior, it is a certainty that buyers are already lining up.
Bedford Campervan
Sometimes, cars speak for themselves. Amidst the supercars and race-spec monsters, this van stood its ground.
Many people would love that retro look combined with the popup roof for extra room to make it great for camping. How could this one not be on a top 10 list?
Toyota Zent Cerumo GR Supra
Dressed in a sharp red and white livery, this Supra looked the part of a champion. Beyond the aesthetics, seeing it brought back a wave of nostalgia and memories from my youth.
Anija Lamborghini
The color scheme for this build was truly inspired: silver, blue, and pure speed. It possessed a distinct sense of style that demanded attention on the floor.
Toyota GR GT3 Concept Car
This concept looked positively dangerous. The silhouette was so sleek it carried a palpable air of menace. Whoever eventually gets behind the wheel of this machine is undoubtedly in for some thrills.
Datsun 240Z
This selection was automatic. My father owned a 280ZX when I was in high school, and I loved driving it. While there were none at Tokyo Auto Salon 2022, seeing this pristine 240Z was reason enough to include it in this list.
Subaru BRZ
If I could write a check today, I would buy this car. It strikes the perfect balance, refined enough to drive on the road, yet capable enough to perform on the track.
Toyota Orc Rookie Corolla H2 Concept Car
If I am not mistaken, this vehicle utilizes hydrogen power. When you combine that future-forward engineering with its aggressive color scheme, you have a winner for sure.
Toyota GR010 Hybrid Race Car
Just imagine completing a few laps around Le Mans in this cockpit. Merely thinking about the experience makes my head spin.
Was Tokyo Auto Salon 2022 worth visiting?
I saw countless vehicles on business day, many of them excellent, but these ten appealed to me the most. Tokyo Auto Salon remains a tremendous car show and an essential pilgrimage for automotive enthusiasts.
Tokyo Auto Salon 2022 attendance figures
- Friday (January 14): 24,934
- Saturday (January 15): 53,771
- Sunday (January 16): 48,164
My photography gear for this shoot
- Camera body: Fujifilm X-T3
- Lens: Fujifilm XF 16-55mm F2.8 R LM WR
Are you ready to see more? I’ve made a [Tokyo Auto Salon Photo Guide] which has all the information you need to know about the event.
