Japanese Jaguar: Mitsuoka Updates the Classic Viewt Story for 2026

Japanese automaker Mitsuoka has unveiled a new set of updates for its classic Viewt Story for the 2026 model year, aiming to preserve one of the most unusual and distinctive vehicles in the Japanese automotive industry. The car uniquely blends modern technology with design cues inspired by classic British Jaguar models.

Currently based on the modern Toyota Yaris, the Viewt Story retains its iconic design inspired by the classic Jaguar Mark 2 from the 1960s. Round headlights, a chrome front grille, and retro body lines give it a character unlike any other car on the road today.

Larger Screen and Modern Features

The most notable updates for the 2026 model are found inside the cabin. The Viewt Story now comes with a new 8-inch infotainment screen, replacing the smaller unit found in previous versions. A rearview camera is now standard across all trims.

Mitsuoka has also added a suite of safety features, offering the Toyota Safety Sense package as standard equipment. This includes modern driver-assistance technologies such as collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.

Goodbye to the Base Engine

As part of the changes, Mitsuoka has decided to drop the smaller base engine. The Viewt Story 2026 is now available with more powerful options, including a 1.5-liter gasoline engine, alongside hybrid variants that utilize Toyota's well-known hybrid system.

The hybrid powertrain produces a combined output of approximately 114 horsepower. Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations are available for certain trims.

15 Colors and Quirky Touches

Despite its classic character, Mitsuoka is trying to give the Viewt Story a more modern personality. The 2026 model is available in 15 different colors, along with customization options that include leather seats in several hues and special interior accents.

One of the quirkiest features still offered by the company is the so-called "Special Flower Set," a decorative piece placed next to the center console to add a unique classic touch inside the cabin.

Nearly Hand-Built

Mitsuoka emphasizes that Viewt cars are not produced using traditional mass-production methods. Instead, they are largely hand-assembled at the company's factories, with the manufacturing process for a single car taking approximately 40 days.

This makes the Viewt Story more of a "moving piece of art" than a mass-produced vehicle, explaining its relatively high price compared to other cars in its segment.