Tokyo Auto Show is weird and cool

Tokyo is a pretty surreal place, decidedly different from every other place in the world. So, it’s only fitting that the annual Tokyo Auto Show is usually a concept-heavy showcase of automotive technology, from the innovative to the extreme. This year’s show, kicking off next week, will be no different.

Take the Honda Puyo, for example. The bubble-shaped, fuel-cell car uses a “gel body” that feels soft to touch and, according to Honda, is designed to evoke a “feeling of happiness” from its occupants and passerby. Seriously, someone needs to take the time and test the drinking water in Japan for hallucinogens. Instead of working of this, perhaps the Honda engineers should have spent more time getting the rumored successor to the NSX ready for the show. Originally slated to make its debut in Tokyo, it’s looking more likely that the NSX successor will be conspicuously missing. To make matters worse, the V-10 powered Lexus supercar, also rumored to be debuting at this year’s show, won’t be present either. Instead, showgoers will gawk at the LF-A concept, which we’ve seen plenty of already.

At least, Nissan held up its end of the bargain. The third head, of the three-headed Japanese automotive monster, will descend upon Tokyo with the V-6 twin-turbo, four-wheel drive GT-R coupe – the company’s hereditary replacement to the legendary Skyline. Also, on a lesser scale, Subaru will debut the next-generation WRX STI, which will arrive in 5-door hatchback form incidentally, and rival Mitsubishi will trot out its much-anticipated Evo X (ten).

Barring any last minute surprises, the pre-show disappearing act of the Honda/Acura and Lexus supercars is a huge disappointment. But, just like every year around this time, the Tokyo Auto Show definitely bears watching – especially given the fact that it’s the most eccentric and experimental auto show in the world, just like the city that hosts it.