by Mitsuoka updates the retro hatchback Viewt Story for the Japanese market
Mitsuoka, a company known for its unusual bodywork, has introduced an updated version of its retro hatchback Viewt Story for the Japanese market. This model is based on the Toyota Yaris and now receives better standard equipment, but the price has increased due to the discontinuation of the base engine.
Design and Styling
The Viewt Story retains its unique style, which has not changed since the debut of the latest generation in 2023, when the model switched from the Nissan Micra platform to the Toyota Yaris. The body still resembles a classic Jaguar MK2 with round headlights, chrome bumpers, and an elegant retro grille. This year, Mitsuoka slightly updated the color palette, which now includes 15 shades.
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Interior and Technology
Inside the cabin, which is derived from the Yaris, an 8-inch infotainment screen (replacing the 7-inch) and a standard rearview camera are now installed. Interestingly, Mitsuoka abandoned the 10.5-inch display that appeared in the Japanese version of the Yaris after the 2026 update.
The body specialists add their own touches. Buyers can order leather upholstery in eight colors, as well as a “special flower set” installed next to the center console. Hybrid versions now get an electric parking brake with an auto-hold function, and all Viewt Story trims are equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense system.
Engines and Transmission
The most significant change is mechanical. The initial 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine producing 68 hp (51 kW / 69 PS) has been discontinued, reflecting changes in the regular Yaris lineup. Now the base engine is a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter three-cylinder producing 118 hp (88 kW / 120 PS), paired with a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT, and offered with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
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The other option is a self-charging hybrid system that combines a 1.5-liter engine with one or two electric motors (E-Four), with a total output of 114 hp (85 kW / 116 PS).
Prices and Comparison
The updated engine lineup raised the starting price to ¥3,691,600 ($23,200) for the front-wheel drive gasoline model with a manual transmission. At the other end of the spectrum, the flagship Viewt Story Hybrid LX with E-Four AWD costs ¥4,803,700 ($30,100).
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For comparison, a standard Toyota Yaris currently sells in Japan for between ¥1,697,300 and ¥2,994,200 ($10,700 to $18,800).
Mitsuoka
The Viewt Story update demonstrates how Mitsuoka continues to find a niche for its retro cars, despite a significant price increase compared to the base Yaris. The discontinuation of the weakest engine makes the model more modern and powerful, but also raises the entry price. Interestingly, the company chooses its own path in technology, abandoning the larger screen but adding unique options like the flower set. This underscores that for Viewt Story buyers, individuality and style are more important than purely technical specifications or savings.
