Japan is of course world-renowned for its modern and innovative car industry. That said, Japanese car buyers also have a hankering for other models from around the globe. Especially popular are premium models from European manufacturers who offer fine alternatives to the home market with fast, exciting choices. MHH Japanese cars sell European models supplied to Japan and this has one clear advantage; cars imported into Japan are all right-hand drive. That makes choice easy because it is one less consideration to worry about. Here then is a small selection of Italian cars that may not immediately spring to mind but nevertheless offer prestige motoring at reasonable cost:
Alfa Romeo Giulia Saloon
It is not unreasonable to say that when it comes to car design, Italy leads the world. Alfa Romeo are no exception. The hugely desirable Giulia saloon looks fast standing still. The neat, sleek integration of features front-to-back – headlights, tail lights, exhaust – make for a comprehensive design that pretty much beats all-comers on the automotive catwalk. Only Maserati are arguably prettier and they’re of Italian design too.
Maserati Ghibli
Cue sharp intake of breath. The beautiful Ghibli is a four-door saloon with a very deep and well shaped boot (trunk) yet the body reflects a coupé-like philosophy of design with that long, sleek nose that can only be Maserati, a sporting name that has been around for over one hundred years. The dominant grille retains the historic classic styling with the ever present trident logo in pride of place. It is a design that makes this car immediately recognisable.
There's a choice of V6 diesel or petrol engines to choose from, mated to an eight-speed automatic ZF gearbox, but this car is all about the driving. It's a Maserati so the Ghibli has truly sporting handling. The suspension edges toward the firm side but this only encourages the driver to push on. A delightful and different motor.
Abarth 595
This diminutive motor might seem like a strange choice considering the two cars above but, for urban or suburban dwellers who at least like some pizazz with their motoring, this car makes for an outstanding choice; although large families need not apply. The FIAT 500 has been a mainstay of Italian city motoring for decades. The sporting arm of the company, Abarth, decided that there was room for a fast, fun alternative and the 595 was born. The shape and dimensions might be the same but everything else has changed.
Power is derived from a 1.4L turbo-jet petrol engine developing either 145 or 165bhp, depending upon the model. It's plenty powerful enough to deliver a spirited drive and the sound it makes can hardly be described as quiet and shy. Torque transfer control reins in understeer from the front-wheel drive and allows for well-controlled handling, especially in corners. Okay, this is a niche market and this is not a car for everyone but it is a hugely enjoyable drive.
So there's just a small selection of Italian cars we at MHH Japanese Cars have to offer. Have a look at the choices available and if Italian brands don't do it for you or your needs are more family-orientated, then there really is something for everyone.
Get in touch with us here at MHH Japanese Cars for more details.
