Tag Archives: Japan

Junkyard Find: 1982 Plymouth Sapporo

<img data-attachment-id="1775228" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-3/00-1982-plymouth-sapporo-in-colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-murilee-martin/" data-orig-file="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/00-1982-Plymouth-Sapporo-in-Colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-Murilee-Martin.jpg" data-orig-size="3000,1688" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"2.4","credit":"","camera":"SM-G960U1","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1628950248","copyright":"","focal_length":"4.3","iso":"50","shutter_speed":"0.00083402835696414","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, LH front view" data-image-description="

1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, LH front view – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars

” data-medium-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-11.jpg” data-large-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo.jpg” class=”aligncenter size-large wp-image-1775228″ src=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo.jpg” alt=”1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, LH front view – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars” width=”610″ height=”343″ srcset=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo.jpg 610w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-10.jpg 75w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-11.jpg 450w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-12.jpg 768w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-13.jpg 120w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-14.jpg 800w” sizes=”(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px”>Chrysler began importing rebadged Mitsubishis to North America starting with the Colt in the 1971 model year, with more models being added as the decade progressed. By 1976, Plymouth shoppers could buy a Mitsubishi Lancer Celeste as the sporty Arrow; Plymouth Arrow and Dodge D-50 (later Ram 50) pickups, based on the Mitsubishi Forte, showed up here in 1979. So that those Dodge/Plymouth dealers would have a small personal luxury coupe to sell, the Japanese-market Galant Lambda hardtop was pressed into American service as the Dodge Challenger and Plymouth Sapporo for 1978. Sales continued through 1983, and I’ve found one of those final Sapporos in a yard south of Denver, Colorado.

<img data-attachment-id="1775262" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-3/44-1982-plymouth-sapporo-in-colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-murilee-martin/" data-orig-file="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/44-1982-Plymouth-Sapporo-in-Colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-Murilee-Martin.jpg" data-orig-size="3000,1688" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"2.4","credit":"","camera":"SM-G960U1","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1628950272","copyright":"","focal_length":"4.3","iso":"50","shutter_speed":"0.0038759689922481","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, emblem" data-image-description="

1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, emblem – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars

” data-medium-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-16.jpg” data-large-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-1.jpg” class=”aligncenter size-large wp-image-1775262″ src=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-1.jpg” alt=”1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, emblem – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars” width=”610″ height=”343″ srcset=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-1.jpg 610w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-15.jpg 75w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-16.jpg 450w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-17.jpg 768w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-18.jpg 120w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-19.jpg 800w” sizes=”(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px”>These machines haven’t been terribly difficult to find in car graveyards, though I certainly saw more of them a decade ago. So far, I’ve documented this ’78 Sapporo, another ’78 Sapporo, this ’81 Challenger, this ’82 Sapporo, and this ’82 Sapporo. Mitsubishi began importing vehicles under its own badging starting in late 1982.

<img data-attachment-id="1775246" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-3/22-1982-plymouth-sapporo-in-colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-murilee-martin/" data-orig-file="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/22-1982-Plymouth-Sapporo-in-Colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-Murilee-Martin.jpg" data-orig-size="3000,1688" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"2.4","credit":"","camera":"SM-G960U1","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1628950194","copyright":"","focal_length":"4.3","iso":"50","shutter_speed":"0.00063694267515924","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, hardtop windows" data-image-description="

1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, hardtop windows – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars

” data-medium-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-21.jpg” data-large-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-2.jpg” class=”aligncenter size-large wp-image-1775246″ src=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-2.jpg” alt=”1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, hardtop windows – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars” width=”610″ height=”343″ srcset=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-2.jpg 610w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-20.jpg 75w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-21.jpg 450w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-22.jpg 768w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-23.jpg 120w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-24.jpg 800w” sizes=”(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px”>The 1978-1982 Challenger/Sapporo was a true hardtop, and it came stuffed with the same sort of snazzy features normally found in much pricier machinery. List price on the ’82 Sapporo was $8,043, while the MSRP of the ’82 Chrysler Cordoba hardtop started at $8,258 (about $23,330 and $23,960 today, respectively).

<img data-attachment-id="1775250" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-3/28-1982-plymouth-sapporo-in-colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-murilee-martin/" data-orig-file="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/28-1982-Plymouth-Sapporo-in-Colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-Murilee-Martin.jpg" data-orig-size="3000,1688" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"2.4","credit":"","camera":"SM-G960U1","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1628950215","copyright":"","focal_length":"4.3","iso":"80","shutter_speed":"0.01","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, engine" data-image-description="

1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, engine – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars

” data-medium-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-26.jpg” data-large-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-3.jpg” class=”aligncenter size-large wp-image-1775250″ src=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-3.jpg” alt=”1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, engine – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars” width=”610″ height=”343″ srcset=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-3.jpg 610w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-25.jpg 75w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-26.jpg 450w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-27.jpg 768w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-28.jpg 120w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-29.jpg 800w” sizes=”(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px”>At that price, the Cordoba came with a 90-horsepower Slant-6 engine to drag its 3,315 pounds down the avenue (the 318-cubic-inch V8 and its 130 horses cost a well-worth-it additional 70 bucks). The Sapporo got this 2.6-liter Astron four-cylinder, rated at 105 horsepower, and it weighed a mere 2,410 pounds. That made this car respectably quick by the standards of the time.

<img data-attachment-id="1775252" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-3/30-1982-plymouth-sapporo-in-colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-murilee-martin/" data-orig-file="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/30-1982-Plymouth-Sapporo-in-Colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-Murilee-Martin.jpg" data-orig-size="3000,1688" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"2.4","credit":"","camera":"SM-G960U1","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1628950220","copyright":"","focal_length":"4.3","iso":"50","shutter_speed":"0.0020876826722338","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, intake manifold" data-image-description="

1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, intake manifold – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars

” data-medium-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-31.jpg” data-large-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-4.jpg” class=”aligncenter size-large wp-image-1775252″ src=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-4.jpg” alt=”1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, intake manifold – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars” width=”610″ height=”343″ srcset=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-4.jpg 610w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-30.jpg 75w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-31.jpg 450w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-32.jpg 768w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-33.jpg 120w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-34.jpg 800w” sizes=”(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px”>The Astron went into so many Chrysler and Mitsubishi vehicles over the decades (including some K-cars that got big HEMI 2.6 fender badges) that junkyard shoppers often grab parts from them. Perhaps this car’s cylinder head now lives on in a Montero or Conquest.

<img data-attachment-id="1775264" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-3/46-1982-plymouth-sapporo-in-colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-murilee-martin/" data-orig-file="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/46-1982-Plymouth-Sapporo-in-Colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-Murilee-Martin.jpg" data-orig-size="3000,1688" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"2.4","credit":"","camera":"SM-G960U1","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1628950281","copyright":"","focal_length":"4.3","iso":"50","shutter_speed":"0.0031347962382445","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, interior" data-image-description="

1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, interior – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars

” data-medium-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-36.jpg” data-large-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-5.jpg” class=”aligncenter size-large wp-image-1775264″ src=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-5.jpg” alt=”1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, interior – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars” width=”610″ height=”343″ srcset=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-5.jpg 610w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-35.jpg 75w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-36.jpg 450w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-37.jpg 768w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-38.jpg 120w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-39.jpg 800w” sizes=”(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px”>The interior is grimy and the upholstery has become quite crunchy thanks to relentless Colorado sunshine, so I doubt much of this stuff will be sold before the car faces the cold steel jaws of The Crusher.

<img data-attachment-id="1775272" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-3/55-1982-plymouth-sapporo-in-colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-murilee-martin/" data-orig-file="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/55-1982-Plymouth-Sapporo-in-Colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-Murilee-Martin.jpg" data-orig-size="3000,1688" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"2.4","credit":"","camera":"SM-G960U1","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1628950314","copyright":"","focal_length":"4.3","iso":"50","shutter_speed":"0.00099800399201597","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, MCA-Jet sticker" data-image-description="

1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, MCA-Jet sticker – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars

” data-medium-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-41.jpg” data-large-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-6.jpg” class=”aligncenter size-large wp-image-1775272″ src=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-6.jpg” alt=”1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, MCA-Jet sticker – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars” width=”610″ height=”343″ srcset=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-6.jpg 610w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-40.jpg 75w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-41.jpg 450w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-42.jpg 768w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-43.jpg 120w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-44.jpg 800w” sizes=”(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px”>Mitsubishi was very proud of the MCA-JET high-swirl fuel-delivery system, which was sort of a simplified version of Honda’s CVCC rig, and applied these stickers accordingly.

<img data-attachment-id="1775238" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-3/17-1982-plymouth-sapporo-in-colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-murilee-martin/" data-orig-file="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/17-1982-Plymouth-Sapporo-in-Colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-Murilee-Martin.jpg" data-orig-size="3000,1688" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"2.4","credit":"","camera":"SM-G960U1","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1628950150","copyright":"","focal_length":"4.3","iso":"80","shutter_speed":"0.016666666666667","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, radio" data-image-description="

1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, radio – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars

” data-medium-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-46.jpg” data-large-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-7.jpg” class=”aligncenter size-large wp-image-1775238″ src=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-7.jpg” alt=”1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, radio – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars” width=”610″ height=”343″ srcset=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-7.jpg 610w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-45.jpg 75w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-46.jpg 450w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-47.jpg 768w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-48.jpg 120w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-49.jpg 800w” sizes=”(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px”>Unusually for 1982, the Sapporo came with an AM/FM radio as standard equipment. When a company makes consumer electronics (not to mention fighter jets and heavy-lift rocket boosters) in addition to cars, there’s plenty of off-the-shelf audio hardware to put in those cars at a low cost.

<img data-attachment-id="1775234" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-3/11-1982-plymouth-sapporo-in-colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-murilee-martin/" data-orig-file="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/11-1982-Plymouth-Sapporo-in-Colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-Murilee-Martin.jpg" data-orig-size="3000,1688" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"2.4","credit":"","camera":"SM-G960U1","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1628950134","copyright":"","focal_length":"4.3","iso":"50","shutter_speed":"0.0083333333333333","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, interior" data-image-description="

1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, interior – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars

” data-medium-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-51.jpg” data-large-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-8.jpg” class=”aligncenter size-large wp-image-1775234″ src=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-8.jpg” alt=”1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, interior – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars” width=”610″ height=”343″ srcset=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-8.jpg 610w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-50.jpg 75w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-51.jpg 450w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-52.jpg 768w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-53.jpg 120w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-54.jpg 800w” sizes=”(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px”>The future is here now!

<img data-attachment-id="1775278" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-3/63-1982-plymouth-sapporo-in-colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-murilee-martin/" data-orig-file="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/63-1982-Plymouth-Sapporo-in-Colorado-junkyard-photograph-by-Murilee-Martin.jpg" data-orig-size="3000,1688" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"2.4","credit":"","camera":"SM-G960U1","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1628950351","copyright":"","focal_length":"4.3","iso":"50","shutter_speed":"0.00063816209317167","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, Tube Sand" data-image-description="

1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, Tube Sand – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars

” data-medium-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-56.jpg” data-large-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-9.jpg” class=”aligncenter size-large wp-image-1775278″ src=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-9.jpg” alt=”1982 Plymouth Sapporo in Colorado junkyard, Tube Sand – ©2021 Murilee Martin – The Truth About Cars” width=”610″ height=”343″ srcset=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-9.jpg 610w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-55.jpg 75w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-56.jpg 450w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-57.jpg 768w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-58.jpg 120w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/junkyard-find-1982-plymouth-sapporo-59.jpg 800w” sizes=”(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px”>If you’re too cheap to buy winter tires for your rear-wheel-drive car, there’s always tube-sand for the trunk.


Science-fiction robot women with strangely-colored sunglasses agree: 11.9% interest is a steal for this Celica fighter.

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Datsun 200SX? Forget it!

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The JDM version got some seriously cool package-shelf speakers.

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Yes, you could get the padded landau roof in Japan.

For links to more than 2,100 additional Junkyard Finds, including lots of Mitsubishis, please visit the Junkyard Home of the Murilee Martin Lifestyle Brand™.

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Opinion: Here’s Where Infiniti Lost its Way

Late last year I put forth some thoughts about the future direction of Infiniti, largely about how the company was on a downward trajectory. Looking forward, the brand needs a major change in direction – not much has changed since December when I wrote that piece.

But one might then logically ask “Where did the company first lose its way?” I’m going to answer that question right now. Let’s take a little trip to the Before Times, in 1990.

That was the first model year for Infiniti just like it was the first model year for Lexus, but Infiniti started off on the wrong foot. I am of course speaking about the Q45, the grill-free, no-nonsense, no-wood, super-serious, full-size luxury sedan that was the company’s flagship. Where Lexus spent big money and years dreaming up an all-new car for its first U.S. luxury foray, Nissan went the cheap route. It took the upcoming new-generation President (the company’s JDM full-sizer) and then tried to Americanize it. Whereas Lexus made a more reliable Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Infiniti made a more hardcore BMW 7-Series without any of the iconic styling.

Americans wanted wood, ruched leather, a hood ornament, and a reasonably compliant suspension in their large sedans (they hate all that shit today, but whatever). Infiniti got a focus group together and then proceeded to edit the President into a firm-riding car without any wood or ruched leather. No grille, no hood ornament. After Judgment Error Number One was finished, they hired an ad agency to produce commercials for the exciting new Q45, and chose not to show it to customers. That’s right, they assumed that the luxury car buyer concerned with image and prestige would visit their dealer upon seeing an ad with a lake, rocks, and trees and “You can see this at a dealer!” tag line. That didn’t work then, and it wouldn’t work today. It was a terrible idea.

Their other premier offering was the M30 coupe and convertible. Based again on an existing Nissan, the Leopard, Infiniti went cheapo. Lexus spent big time money on the SC 400 and amortized that cost with the now-legendary Supra with which it shared a platform. The Leopard had some wood and leather added eventually (they’re learning!) and debuted as the M30. The Leopard wasn’t a bad car per se, and it had the V6 from the 300ZX. But it was again not what the American customer wanted. It was dated looking, too square, too small, not nice enough inside for the asking price, and half-assed. The SC and Acura Legend trounced it.

Shortly thereafter, Infiniti went after the Lexus ES 300 and the BMW 3-Series with the Nissan Primera-based G20. The Primera was more a world car than the President or Leopard, and more competitive generally. But G20 was a compact sedan with very bland styling, again based on something slightly too small for its American purpose. The ES 300 was larger and more luxurious and had interesting frameless windows. Most importantly, the ES didn’t look like it was a Camry. The G20 looked like a Sentra – which it wasn’t – but people assumed it anyway. People still think that even today in the age of the Internet. The G20 did make it quite a while (another problem) and earned itself a second generation that ran from 1999 to 2002. Infiniti had been around for nine years when the second G20 debuted, and the brand was still was doing badge swap jobs against unique Lexus product.

<img data-attachment-id="1617298" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2018/03/buy-drive-burn-1995-buying-sports-luxury-sedan/attachment/97804011990406/" data-orig-file="http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-29.jpg" data-orig-size="1024,682" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="1995 Infiniti J30t" data-image-description="

Image Infiniti

” data-medium-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-26.jpg” data-large-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-3.jpg” class=”aligncenter size-large wp-image-1617298″ src=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-3.jpg” alt width=”610″ height=”406″ srcset=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-3.jpg 610w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-25.jpg 75w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-26.jpg 450w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-27.jpg 768w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-28.jpg 120w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-29.jpg 1024w” sizes=”(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px”>Don’t worry I didn’t forget the other Nineties flop they had, the midsize J30! Again with 300ZX power, the J30 was a slight rework of an updated Leopard, the Leopard J Ferie sedan. At least the J30 had unique looks, but they came at a price: Space. The midsize exterior of the J was not reflected in its interior, where it had space like a subcompact. The J was smaller than a contemporary Sentra inside because of its aggressive roofline and stubby trunk. The ingredients were there on this one: good engine, rear-drive platform, Poltrona Frau interior. But they misjudged the market again and delivered a car too small and too quirky looking for Americans. The rear end treatment is not dissimilar to a bustle-back Seville, really. And how’d that one go?

<img data-attachment-id="1670270" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2019/04/qotd-your-least-favorite-rear-drive-nineties-ride/q45_pebble-beach/" data-orig-file="http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-34.jpg" data-orig-size="800,518" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"}" data-image-title="1997 Infiniti Q45" data-image-description="

Infiniti

” data-medium-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-31.jpg” data-large-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-4.jpg” class=”aligncenter size-large wp-image-1670270″ src=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-4.jpg” alt width=”610″ height=”395″ srcset=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-4.jpg 610w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-30.jpg 75w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-31.jpg 450w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-32.jpg 768w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-33.jpg 120w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-34.jpg 800w” sizes=”(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px”>This Nineties foundation started Infiniti off in the wrong direction, and the brand really never recovered. There was overcompensation in the opposite direction in the case of the second-gen Q45. It was a mushy, Buick-like car without a unique V8 (and was actually 4.1-liter). Gen-two Q was based on a smaller less prestigious car than the original Q. While Lexus was improving the LS 400 into the LS 430, Infiniti aimed downward and put forth a smaller car with a shorter wheelbase and a smaller engine. But it had lots of ruched leather and wood, at least. Your father might have considered one if he didn’t like the Park Avenue’s styling update in ’97.

The company’s had two or three bright spots along the way, but they’ve never been able to replicate the success or mature it into a second-generation offering. The G35 was a sales success and brought back sporting credibility to Infiniti. Sedan, coupe, convertible, the G35 was the right product at the right time. It used Nissan’s FM platform that carried over into the G37 version, where things started to fall apart. It wasn’t as inspired as the G35, and overall less original. The VQ V6 problem was here too, among others: Each time Nissan made the VQ larger it lost some refinement, sounded more like a paint mixer, and got more thirsty (3.0, 3.5, 3.7, 4.0). G37 became Q50 and Q60, and that 20-year-old FM platform is still in use today. It’s a big problem that Nissan can’t seem to fix.

FM also became the FX35, a stylish and unique crossover way ahead of its time. But then it turned into the FX37 and started looking like a fish. There weren’t enough new ideas there, and people demanded more cargo room out of their midsize two-row SUV circa 2009. They’d be okay with crap cargo room now because that’s marketable as “coupe SUV,” which is bullshit, but it would’ve worked had the FX persisted today.

<img data-attachment-id="1618832" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2018/03/qotd-whats-reliable-car-youve-ever-owned/attachment/96804051990203/" data-orig-file="http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-50.jpg" data-orig-size="1024,682" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="1997 Infiniti I30" data-image-description="

Image Infiniti

” data-medium-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-47.jpg” data-large-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-7.jpg” class=”aligncenter size-large wp-image-1618832″ src=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-7.jpg” alt=”Image: 1997 Infiniti I30″ width=”610″ height=”406″ srcset=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-7.jpg 610w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-46.jpg 75w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-47.jpg 450w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-48.jpg 768w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-49.jpg 120w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-50.jpg 1024w” sizes=”(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px”>Their third success was the I30 and subsequent I35, reworked Maximas which were different enough to work because the Maxima underneath them was decent enough at the time. Moderately luxurious, reliable, softer, and quieter than Maxima, attainably priced. The I30 especially was a nice car (if boring). The I35 suffered at the hands of cost-cutting in a big way but was still serviceable, and sold well. I35 lived on too long as Infiniti readied the G.

Oh, and there’s more FM: the M35. A larger midsize, M took over for the final Q45 as the only large-ish sedan the brand offered in 2007 (it shared the stage with Q for 2006). It was unrelated to the M45, a rebadged Nissan Gloria circa 2003 that was very enthusiast-approved but flopped with the general public given its looks. A generally successful offering, the M35 was not large enough to compete with full-size offerings from the other luxury brands and went against the E-Class, Lexus GS, and BMW 5-Series. The M had 2003-type styling at introduction in ’06 and maintained it through 2010 when everyone else had long moved forward. It was updated in 2011, again to add fish-like styling elements. It got larger in its rework (still not full-size), and spawned a long-wheelbase L version. It was renamed Q70 in short order but by then nobody cared. Stretched beyond its means, the FM Q70 did not feel well made, had an outdated interior full of 2006 components that were never updated, and was floppy in its handling while being too firm over bumps.

<img data-attachment-id="1436825" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2016/10/consumer-reports-most-reliable-vehicles-mostly-unpopular/2016-infiniti-q70-premium-select-edition/" data-orig-file="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/2016-Infiniti-Q70-e1533069414239.jpg" data-orig-size="2928,1949" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"7.1","credit":"Infiniti","camera":"NIKON D4","caption":"The 2016 Infiniti Q70 Premium Select Edition's exterior offers dark chrome trim, a darkened lower rear bumper, a rear decklid spoiler and unique design and color 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 245\/40R20 all-season performance tires. The interior of the Q70 Premium Select Edition is highlighted by unique Graphite or Stone semi-aniline leather seating, suede-like headliner, aluminum interior trim, illuminated kickplates and floor mats with contrasting piping.","created_timestamp":"1438974858","copyright":"\u00a9 2015 Infiniti","focal_length":"105","iso":"100","shutter_speed":"0.05","title":"2016 Infiniti Q70 Premium Select Edition","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="2016 Infiniti Q70 Premium Select Edition" data-image-description="

Image: Infiniti

” data-medium-file=”https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/2016-Infiniti-Q70-450×300.jpg” data-large-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-9.jpg” class=”aligncenter size-large wp-image-1436825″ src=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/opinion-heres-where-infiniti-lost-its-way-9.jpg” alt width=”610″ height=”406″>I’ve gone on for a while here and now I’m worn out. In summation, bad foundational product lead to a poor start. The foundational product was bad because Nissan didn’t invest enough in Infiniti the way Toyota did with Lexus and to a lesser extent Honda did with unique product for Acura. The G37 should have been the last FM platform ever, yet Infiniti can’t seem to get away from it. Among their more recent problems, the subsistence on FM is the worst, most important, and most persistent. When are they gonna cut that cord?

[Images: Infiniti]

Guyton New Mazda North American Ops President

Guyton

Appointed Mazda North American Operations (NAO) president and CEO, Jeff Guyton replaces Masahiro Moro effective June 24th. Recalled to Hiroshima, Moro becomes the newly-minted Chief Communications Officer.

Guyton’s oversight includes North America, Canada, Columbia, and Mexico, along with US and Mexican vehicle production.

Moro will handle public and investor relations, social responsibility, human resources, government affairs, and other functions.

“Mazda has invested in new products, manufacturing facilities, and an enhanced dealer experience,” Moro said.

“Jeff led Mazda’s growth in the US, strengthening the business. In his new roll, he will collaborate across the regions and continue to grow our brand.”

President of North American Operations since joining Mazda in 2019, Guyoton guided the company to year-over-year sales growth in 2020.

Guyton orchestrated Covid response programs, Mazda Financial Services launch, and Retail Evolution dealer program expansion. He served as Mazda Motor Europe president and CEO prior to joining Mazda NAO.

At Mazda Motor Europe, Guyton was executive officer and general manager of the cost planning division, before becoming the VP and Chief Financial Officer.

Starting his automotive career as a Ford financial analyst in Japan, he relocated to Dearborn, Michigan as finance manager.

Achieving a B.A. in chemistry and Asian studies in 1988 from Wittenberg University, Guyton received his MBA and masters degrees from the University of Michigan.

Mazda NAO, headquartered in Irvine, California, oversees Mazda sales, marketing, parts and customer service support in the United States and Mexico through 620 dealers. Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City manages sales in Mexico.

[Image: Mazda]

Toyota’s Akio Toyoda Chosen 2021 World Car Person of the Year

Toyoda

Selected 2021 World Car Awards Person of the Year was Akio Toyoda, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) president and CEO.

Toyoda

“Akio Toyoda is the charismatic President and CEO of Toyota Motor Corporation. He has spent years successfully remaking his company. In 2020 despite COVID-19, under his leadership Toyota remained profitable, protecting jobs worldwide. He has maintained Toyota’s steady pace of development in the connected, autonomous, shared and electric (CASE) era. He has also initiated construction of the Woven City, an exciting, real-life prototype city of the future. All while actively participating in motorsports himself, as a driver,” said the World Car Awards in a statement.

Toyoda said, “At Toyota, we are very fortunate that we were able to protect the employment of our team members during COVID-19 and continue our work to meet the future challenge of our industry. Creating new ways to support the well-being of our planet and people everywhere is our commitment. This has been a difficult period in the history of the world. But it has also reminded us that people are what matters most. And if we at Toyota can contribute some measure of happiness to their lives, it will be my never-ending goal to do just that.”

Toyoda

Toyota joined the company in 1984, after graduating with a law degree from Keio University. He also received a masters in business administration from Wellesley, Massachusetts’ Babson College. Toyoda served in different areas of the business in Japan and overseas, before becoming a member of the TMC board of directors in 2000. He held other senior and executive vice-presidential roles until becoming TMC president in 2009.

Toyoda The World Car Person of the Year award was established in 2018 to acknowledge the contributions made by an individual in the auto industry during the previous year. The World Car Awards program hands out six awards annually, which they started doing in 2003. A group of more than 90 journalists, none of whom are a part of TheTruthAboutCars.com, made the selection.

[Images: Toyota, Babson College]

2022 400Z HP Revealed?

400Z

According to Project Cars 3, a video game from Slightly Mad Studios distributed by Bandai Namco, the new Nissan 400Z is shown in their latest downloadable content (DLC) power pack to possess some very serious horsepower.

400Z

In its interpretation of the Power Pack, thenewnissanz.com flaunts the numbers shown in the video, such as 445 horsepower and a weight of 3,251 lbs. When it compared the 400Z to the powertrain in the last Z, the 2020 370Z, the numbers they found were 332 hp with a curb weight of 3,333 lbs. If that wasn’t impressive enough, they then pitted the new Z versus the 2021 Toyota Supra, whose inline-six produces 382 hp while weighing in at 3,400 lbs.

400Z

We’ve previously chronicled what we know so far about the 400Z’s powertrain and its design. With no official word from Nissan, there is more speculation than usual, and thus far no spy photos taken here or in Japan.

400Z

Project Cars 3’s power pack is referenced in a trailer, which can be viewed on Yahoo! Entertainment. In the trailer, there are numerous examples of 400Zs, modified for motorsport competition.

400Z

Not having played Project Cars 3, I had to admit the trailer gave me the urge to go out and buy a Playstation4. I wonder if there’s a Gamestop nearby where I can go and try it out?

[Images: Slightly Mad Studios]

Jeep Easing Electrification Into Japanese Market, World to Follow

<img data-attachment-id="1739330" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2020/10/jeep-easing-electrification-into-japanese-market-world-to-follow/2019_11_14_6028_wallbox_new4-1/" data-orig-file="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2019_11_14_6028_Wallbox_new4-1.jpg" data-orig-size="1920,1280" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"14","credit":"","camera":"Canon EOS 5DS R","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1573744368","copyright":"","focal_length":"115","iso":"100","shutter_speed":"1.3","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="Jeep Renegade 4xe" data-image-description="

Jeep/FCA

” data-medium-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/jeep-easing-electrification-into-japanese-market-world-to-follow-5.jpg” data-large-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/jeep-easing-electrification-into-japanese-market-world-to-follow.jpg” class=”aligncenter size-large wp-image-1739330″ src=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/jeep-easing-electrification-into-japanese-market-world-to-follow.jpg” alt width=”610″ height=”407″ srcset=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/jeep-easing-electrification-into-japanese-market-world-to-follow.jpg 610w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/jeep-easing-electrification-into-japanese-market-world-to-follow-4.jpg 75w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/jeep-easing-electrification-into-japanese-market-world-to-follow-5.jpg 450w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/jeep-easing-electrification-into-japanese-market-world-to-follow-6.jpg 768w, http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/jeep-easing-electrification-into-japanese-market-world-to-follow-7.jpg 120w” sizes=”(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px”>

One of the main reasons Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is partnering with PSA Group is to help soften the financial blows of battery development, we literally just talked about it. But the French automaker has its own reasons for wanting to get into bed with the FCA, namely its rather diverse list of subsidiaries — with Jeep occupying spot número uno.

Despite being offensively American to some, Jeep is the sixth most-popular nameplate in the United States. It also happens to be world-renowned as an off-road brand and had made strong inroads in places you’d never expect. This has forced the brand to rethink its global appeal, requiring Fiat Chrysler to issue some market-specific models like China’s Jeep Commander PHEV and the Renegade 4xe — the latter of which is already sold in Europe and slated to launch this November in Japan. But these models are only the tip of the iceberg as FCA intends on meeting ever-tightening emissions regulations in major markets that aren’t the United States.

Purists will undoubtedly cry foul here. For many, if it isn’t powered entirely by combustible fuels and body-on-frame then it’s an abomination unworthy of the Jeep name. But these people are increasingly finding themselves edged out of the conversation as aggressive mandates in China and Europe leave the company with fewer options. As a positive, these changes are assumed to help improve the brand’s global volume — especially in Japan where Jeep is already the best-selling American brand.

<img data-attachment-id="1739326" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2020/10/jeep-easing-electrification-into-japanese-market-world-to-follow/jeep__4xe-17/" data-orig-file="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Jeep__4xe-17-e1603743965756.jpg" data-orig-size="3184,2123" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"10","credit":"Ph.Alberto Giorgio Alquati","camera":"Canon EOS-1D X","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1593507777","copyright":"","focal_length":"95","iso":"200","shutter_speed":"0.016666666666667","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="Jeep Renegade 4xe" data-image-description="

Jeep/FCA

” data-medium-file=”https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Jeep__4xe-17-450×300.jpg” data-large-file=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/jeep-easing-electrification-into-japanese-market-world-to-follow-1.jpg” class=”aligncenter size-large wp-image-1739326″ src=”http://ghostridermotorcycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/jeep-easing-electrification-into-japanese-market-world-to-follow-1.jpg” alt width=”610″ height=”407″>

While positively dwarfed by the sales enjoyed by practically every Japanese brand selling domestically, Jeep still saw 13,360 deliveries in the Land of the Rising Sun in 2019 — placing it right between Volvo and Peugeot. With help from the Renegade 4xe, Fiat Chrysler thinks it can improve those numbers for 2021. According to Automotive News, the automaker expects to sell roughly 4,000 Renegades in Japan next year to that end. Around 10 and 20 percent of those are presumed to be of the hybrid persuasion.

From AN:

That overall volume may not sound overwhelming compared with North American Jeep sales, but the hybrid Jeep’s arrival taps into growing Japanese interest in both the brand and electrified vehicles in general, especially hybrids.

“We understand we need to be present with electrified vehicles,” FCA Japan CEO Pontus Häggström said. “Japanese consumers are keen on technology. This is the latest technology the group has.”

Jeep intends on electrifying every single model in its lineup by 2022, specifically so it can continue doing business around the globe. Barring some regulatory changes in the United States, plenty probably won’t be targeting North American customers. But they’ll be handy in other markets where the average engine size is much lower. Jeep’s even going to hybridize the Wrangler (which will be sold in the U.S.) and promised it wouldn’t lose a single shed of its off-road prowess.

<img data-attachment-id="1739328" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2020/10/jeep-easing-electrification-into-japanese-market-world-to-follow/jeep-renegade-th_4xe-65/" data-orig-file="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Jeep-Renegade-TH_4xe-65-e1603743978526.jpg" data-orig-size="3184,2123" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"7.1","credit":"Ph.Alberto Giorgio Alquati","camera":"Canon EOS-1D X","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1593514797","copyright":"","focal_length":"300","iso":"160","shutter_speed":"0.0015625","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="Jeep Renegade 4xe" data-image-description="

Jeep/FCA

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In the case of the Renegade 4xe, Fiat Chrysler ditched the standard powerplant for a 1.3-liter gas burner (front axle) and a 60-horsepower electric motor (rear axle) mated to an 11.4 kWh battery. Jeep even has a Trailhawk version of the hybrid that positively trumps the old 2.4-liter Tigershark’s maximum output with combined (electric/ICE) 238 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque.

That’s not too shabby and will undoubtedly make it an appetizing alternative to something like the Suzuki Jimny, which may soon have the non-electric, mini-SUV off-roading world all to itself. Though it was recently removed from the European market after its positively tiny motor failed to meet emission regulations for 2021. Suzuki has gotten around this by selling the tiny 4×4 as a “light commercial vehicle” while it attempts to figure out a more permanent solution. But if that doesn’t illustrate exactly why Jeep is so sprung on hybridization, nothing does.

<img data-attachment-id="1739324" data-permalink="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2020/10/jeep-easing-electrification-into-japanese-market-world-to-follow/jee_4xe_01/" data-orig-file="https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Jee_4xe_01-e1603743944116.jpg" data-orig-size="3719,2303" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"13","credit":"","camera":"Canon EOS 5D Mark III","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1595493298","copyright":"","focal_length":"35","iso":"160","shutter_speed":"0.008","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="Jeep 4xe family" data-image-description="

Jeep/FCA

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[Images: FCA]