Mitsuoka M55 Concept: A Retro Twist on Honda Civic Hatch Celebrates 55 Years

Modern CREATIONS - Welcome to the fascinating realm of automotive modifications, where creativity knows no bounds. Enthusiasts and followers of the modification scene are accustomed to witnessing a myriad of intriguing and sometimes unconventional transformations within the motoring industry worldwide.

The Mitsuoka M55 Concept is unveiled in celebration of the company's 55th anniversary, is based on the 11th-generation Honda Civic Hatch and boasts a distinctive appearance reminiscent of a Dodge Challenger. (Picture from: Motor1)

Mitsuoka Motor, a name synonymous with eccentric and often divisive builds rooted in mainstream models, has once again captured attention with its latest creation – the Mitsuoka M55 Concept. Unveiled in celebration of the company's 55th anniversary, this concept car is based on the 11th-generation Honda Civic Hatch and boasts a distinctive appearance reminiscent of a Dodge Challenger. A nod to the muscle cars of the late 1960s-1970s, the M55 Concept exudes a retro charm, complete with rear window louvers that harken back to the golden age of automotive design.

The Mitsuoka M55 Concept showcases a distinctive appearance reminiscent of a Dodge Challenger, with the front end standing out as the most convincing aspect of this remarkable replica. (Picture from: Motor1)

The design journey faced a unique challenge, considering the 5-door hatchback body style of the Honda Civic Hatch—a canvas not conventionally associated with crafting a Dodge Challenger replica. Despite this hurdle, Mitsuoka's designers rose to the occasion, implementing extensive visual modifications to bring this ambitious project to life.

The Mitsuoka M55 Concept unmistakably carries the genetic traits of its Honda Civic Hatchback roots in its profile as it retains the stock greenhouse, chrome-trimmed windowline, roofline, and doors. (Picture from: Motor1)

The result is a vehicle that, when viewed from certain angles, bears a striking resemblance to the iconic Challenger. However, it's important to note that this creation is unequivocally not the next-generation Challenger.

The Mitsuoka M55 Concept interior maintains a blend of classic and contemporary elements, enhanced with vintage-inspired blue leather upholstered seats, a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a Mitsuoka's steering wheel. (Picture from: Motor1)

Step inside, and you'll find a cabin that retains the familiar Civic layout, enhanced with vintage-inspired blue leather upholstered seats, a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a steering wheel proudly bearing the Mitsuoka brand. While the exterior undergoes a transformation reminiscent of muscle car glory days, the interior maintains a blend of classic and contemporary elements.

The Mitsuoka M55 Concept featured with sportier alloy wheels with eye-catching white lettering on the tires. (Picture from: Motor1)

Technical specifications for this one-off concept remain undisclosed by Mitsuoka. Speculation suggests it draws power from the Civic's turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine, producing 180 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed manual transmission channels this power to the front wheels, delivering a driving experience that aligns with the spirited nature of muscle cars.

The Mitsuoka M55 Concept is estimated to be powered by the Civic's turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine, producing 180 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. (Picture from: Motor1)

Comparisons arise within Mitsuoka's own lineup, questioning whether this retro-styled Challenger lookalike can stand shoulder to shoulder with the Orochi. The Orochi holds a special place as one of Mitsuoka's most iconic products, with a design inspired by the Japanese legendary mythological creature, Yamato no Orochi—an eight-headed and eight-tailed dragon/serpent. Additionally, pondering whether it can rival the Rock Star roadster, whose design draws parallels to the Corvette Stingray C2, adds another layer to the discussion.

Regrettably, or perhaps fortunately, Mitsuoka has no plans for a production version of the M55 Concept. However, automotive enthusiasts and curious onlookers can catch a glimpse of this unique creation at the Mitsuoka Azabu Showroom in Tokyo from November 24 to December 16. As we celebrate Mitsuoka's 55th anniversary, the M55 Concept stands as a testament to the brand's boldness in pushing the boundaries of automotive design, adding another chapter to the ever-evolving world of car modifications. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MITSUOKA-MOTOR | CARSCOOPS | MOTOR1 | ROADANDTRACK | TECHEBLOG ]

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