Japanese Nostalgic Car

On August 12, 1981 Suzuki, Isuzu, and General Motors signed a deal to co-develop compact cars. In hindsight we know that this deal didn’t result in any game-changing products. Instead, it produced a lot of rebadged models under the defunct Geo brand. History is littered with captive imports, cars produced by a foreign manufacturer but sold under a domestic brand. From the Mitsubishi-made Dodge Challenger to the GM-made Toyota Cavalier, these badge-engineered cars sometimes let customers buy a car that would have been otherwise unavailable in their market. Other times, it was just a lazy emblem swap. But they were once everywhere, and now a dying breed.

What’s your favorite captive import?

The most entertaining comment by next week will receive a prize. Scroll down to see the winner of last week’s QotW, “What’s your Honda, Nissan and Mitsubishi dream build?” Continue reading →

We’re assuming that because JNC readers are car enthusiasts, you often get asked by your normie friends what kind of car they should buy. Obviously the recommendation will depend on the various needs of the buyer, but is there a brand you find yourself gravitating towards? Do you minimize the number of repair shop visits with a Toyota, open their eyes to the joy a driving experience with a Mazda, encourage them to get out and see the world in Subaru? Maybe you’re just a misanthrope and foist a Mitsubishi on everyone. Years ago Honda would’ve probably been at the top of our list, but is it still the king? We want to hear your suggestions and your reasons.

Which marque do you most often recommend?

The most entertaining comment by next week will receive a prize. Scroll down to see the winner of last week’s QotW, “What car do you not regret selling or letting get away?“. Continue reading →