Faux Dodge Challenger Based on Honda Civic Set for Production

Retro-Styled Civic, highly requested, now available for purchase.

Coachbuilding has become a nearly forgotten craft, but Mitsuoka, a Japanese enterprise, is determined to preserve its enchantment. Throughout the years, it has produced some rather eccentric vehicles, such as a vintage Miata that seemed to be the outcome of a passionate rendezvous between a Morgan Aero 8 and a Jaguar XK120. However, the most unconventional creation in recent times has been the M55 – originally just a concept, but now set to hit production.The M55, aptly nicknamed the “fake muscle car,” defies traditional design with its unique outlook. Despite its roots in Japan, the vehicle exudes an American muscle car feel, with its bulky appearance and sleek curves. It’s a combination of modern innovation and classic charm, reminiscent of old Hollywood movies.Initially conceived as a mere prototype, the M55 has captivated the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide, leading to Mitsuoka’s decision to bring it to reality. The company’s dedication to preserving the art of coachbuilding is evident in this ambitious project, which could have easily remained just a dream.The production version of the M55 is expected to retain the same striking features as its predecessor, but with some technical enhancements. With the original concept’s electric motor, the car is capable of

Revealed in November 2023 as part of Mitsuoka’s 55th anniversary festivities, the unique vehicle resembling a Dodge Challenger is in fact built on a Honda Civic chassis with a retro exterior. Since its debut, over 1,300 inquiries have flooded in from individuals interested in purchasing the unconventional ride. According to the company, this is the first instance of receiving such enthusiastic messages directly from a diverse range of people, spanning all ages and genders.

In response to high demand, Mitsuoka has announced their plans to bring the M55 to life. However, this will not happen overnight. The company anticipates that the car will be available for purchase towards the end of 2025. Specific information regarding the vehicle has not yet been revealed, but we do know that the initial concept was inspired by the Civic five-door hatchback and featured a 1.5-liter engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission.

In the recent past, Honda unveiled an athletic Civic RS concept at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon, potentially indicating the release of a manual transmission Civic Si hatchback. It would be highly desirable for Mitsuoka to develop the M55 with the upgraded 2.0-liter motor. Regardless, the imitative Challenger equipped with right-hand drive will solely be available in the Japanese market.

Although the front of the car is branded as Challenger, its back evokes a sense of nostalgia for 1970s Japanese coupes, like the Nissan Skyline or the Mitsubishi Galant GTO. The car’s sleek profile serves as a subtle hint that at its heart, it is still a Civic. However, Mitsuoka has applied its own touch to the interior, featuring vintage blue upholstery and replacing the Honda emblem on the steering wheel with their own logo.

New Mitsuoka M55 Concept | Honda Civic in Muscle Car Style | Exterior and Interior

The M55 may not appeal to everyone’s taste, however, we cannot deny its innovative features. Mitsuoka has definitely shown their creativity and the fact that they have enough supporters to justify producing this model. This is not just a simple body kit, as even the headlights, taillights, and front grille are specially designed. The rear window louvers seem to be inspired by the iconic 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1.

According to Mitsuoka, they anticipate not being able to produce a sufficient number of vehicles to satisfy the demand due to the conversion process requiring a significant amount of time as all essential alterations will be carried out manually. The cost has not been revealed yet, but considering the extensive adjustments, it is likely to be quite expensive.

Source: Mitsuoka