What Makes the Mitsuoka Viewt Royal Edition Stand Out from Other Retro Cars?
Take one look at the Mitsuoka Viewt Royal Edition and you’ll know it’s not your average city car. This isn’t just a nod to nostalgia—it’s a full-on embrace. Inspired by the iconic 1963 Jaguar Mk2, the Royal Edition wears its British heritage on its sleeve, but with a distinctly Japanese twist. Mitsuoka has always marched to the beat of its own drum, and the Viewt line is the best example of that philosophy. Where most automakers play it safe, Mitsuoka leans into eccentricity, creating cars that are instantly recognizable and, frankly, a little bit cheeky.
For the Royal Edition, Mitsuoka offers three exclusive colors—Royal Green, Royal Red, and Royal White. Each hue is rich and classic, echoing the kind of palette you’d expect from a vintage British saloon. Chrome bumpers front and rear, a new rear badge, and those signature round headlights complete the look. The result? Pure magic. It’s a car that turns heads and sparks conversations, even if nobody’s fooled into thinking it’s a real Jaguar.
How Does the Viewt Royal Edition Blend Classic Looks with Modern Engineering?
Here’s where things get interesting. Underneath that retro skin, the Viewt Royal Edition is all Toyota Yaris. Last year, Mitsuoka switched the Viewt’s underpinnings from the Nissan Micra/March to Toyota’s TNGA-B platform. That means you’re getting the reliability, safety, and efficiency of a modern hatchback, wrapped in a package that looks like it just rolled out of a 1960s London suburb.
You’ve got three engine choices: a 1.0-liter petrol, a 1.5-liter petrol (with either a six-speed manual or a CVT), and a 1.5-liter hybrid. The 1.0-liter is strictly front-wheel drive, while the 1.5-liter options offer both front- and four-wheel drive. The hybrid, unsurprisingly, is the pick for city dwellers who want vintage style without vintage fuel bills. According to Toyota’s own data, the Yaris hybrid system can achieve up to 60 mpg in real-world conditions—so you can look the part without paying the price at the pump.
What’s the Interior Like—Is It All Show, or Is There Substance Too?
Step inside, and the Royal Edition continues its theme of playful luxury. Every version comes with Royal Brown artificial leather on the seats, door panels, and lower dashboard. It’s not real cowhide, but it feels plush and looks the part. Mitsuoka adds a subtle Union Jack motif on the seatbacks—a wink to the car’s British inspiration, but not so over-the-top that it feels like cosplay.
The interior is, at its core, a Yaris, so you get all the modern conveniences you’d expect: touchscreen infotainment, advanced safety features, and comfortable ergonomics. It’s a blend of old-school charm and new-school practicality. Think of it as driving a classic, minus the leaky windows and questionable heating.
How Much Does the Mitsuoka Viewt Royal Edition Cost, and Is It Worth It?
Let’s talk numbers. The Royal Edition starts at 3.85 million yen (about $26,300) and tops out at just over 5.13 million yen ($35,100), depending on your chosen engine and drivetrain. That’s not exactly pocket change for a compact car, but you’re paying for exclusivity. Mitsuoka hasn’t revealed how many units they’ll build, but orders are only open until December 21, so it’s safe to say this is a limited-run affair.
Is it worth the money? If you’re after pure practicality, probably not. But if you’re the kind of driver who wants to stand out, who values craftsmanship and individuality over blending in, then the Viewt Royal Edition makes a compelling case. It’s a car for collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone who believes driving should be fun—even at 30 mph.
Who’s the Ideal Buyer for the Viewt Royal Edition?
This isn’t a car for everyone, and that’s the point. The Viewt Royal Edition is for people who appreciate the art of motoring as much as the act itself. Maybe you grew up admiring classic British cars but don’t want the headaches that come with owning a sixty-year-old machine. Or perhaps you’re a city dweller who wants something different from the sea of grey hatchbacks in the parking lot.
It’s also a smart choice for those who want vintage looks with modern reliability. The hybrid option, in particular, makes it a genuinely practical daily driver—one that just happens to look like it belongs in a period drama.
What’s the Real-World Appeal—Is This Just a Gimmick?
It’s easy to dismiss retro-inspired cars as gimmicks, but Mitsuoka’s approach is more thoughtful than that. The company has been building the Viewt since 1993, and its commitment to quirky design has earned it a loyal following. In Japan, Mitsuoka is almost a cult brand, and its cars regularly pop up at enthusiast events and classic car shows.
The Royal Edition takes the formula a step further, offering a level of customization and exclusivity that’s rare in the compact segment. It’s not about pretending to be something it’s not—it’s about celebrating the joy of driving and the nostalgia of a bygone era, all while enjoying the perks of modern engineering.
The big takeaway? The Mitsuoka Viewt Royal Edition isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. Whether that’s choosing a car that makes you smile or simply embracing your own unique style, sometimes standing out is the best way to fit in.