First serialized in Hakusensha's Young Animal Comics, the story of Peleliu comes to life on the big screen, where one soldier's dream becomes an arduous struggle for survival.
Peleliu: Guernica of Paradise
Starring Rikito Itagaki and Tomoya Nakamura, the movie adaptation of the Peleliu manga brings the life and struggle of a soldier named Tamaru to life on the big screen.
Set a year before the end of the Second World War, Tamaru, a Japanese soldier, was an aspiring manga artist who was assigned to write down the final, heroic scenes of his fallen comrades for their bereaved families as a "merit clerk". That is, until the Japanese forces were outnumbered by the US forces invading Peleliu. For Tamaru, the Peleliu island he set foot on becomes a living hell.
True to the manga's roots, don't let their cuteness fool you; this movie depicts the life-and-death struggle of a young Japanese soldier on the island of Peleliu. The storytelling is more than enough to give viewers the emotions worth the box of tissues because, let's be honest, you can really cry in moments that showcase the dramatic color of this movie adaptation.
If you want to watch an anime movie that will make you cry, consider this adaptation of the Peleliu manga. Be sure to have a box of tissues or a handkerchief nearby.
Because today's Hasunosora Girls' High School Idol Club is an eight-member unit, a different sub-unit approach was implemented, meaning the unit was split into two teams.
The team, comprising Rurino Osawa (CV: Kanna Kan), Sayaka Murano (CV: Kokona Nonaka), Kosuzu Kachimachi (CV: Fuuka Hayama), and Ceras Yanagida Lilienfeld (CV: Miu Miyake), will be known as "Ruri&To", while the other, comprising Hime Anyoji (CV: Rin Kurusu), Kaho Hinoshita (CV: Nozomi Nirei), Ginko Momose (CV: Hina Sakurai), and Izumi Katsuragi (CV: Amane Shindo) will be known as "PRINCEε>ε>".
This latest Hasunosora single is the first for the two shuffle teams ready to make their statements.
Cho, Toutoi LOVE/New Black
For this new single featuring Hasunosora's two shuffle teams, the former will perform two new songs, such as "Cho, Toutoi LOVE" and "Hey Say Gals!!!!", while the latter will perform the other two, such as "Nεw Black" and "IcHiGo milK love".
These new songs truly showcase how the two shuffle teams make their statements, and you should too. Expect more to come for Hasunosora's two shuffle teams.
The Subaru Solterra, the Subaru version of the Toyota bZ4X all-electric crossover, has gained its minor change following the Toyota bZ4X's facelift a few moments ago. Let's find out how much improvement this revised version has.
2026 Subaru Solterra
2026 Subaru Solterra
Starting at 5.17 million yen plus additional costs, the updated Subaru Solterra is all about reintroducing to the public the Subaru equivalent of the recently facelifted Toyota bZ4X, which is now available for private ownership. Compared to the Toyota equivalent, the updated Solterra features an updated front face that is crisp and fresh compared to the pre-facelift version. At the back, what a surprise. Subaru ditched the logo in favor of the SUBARU lettering, just like every Subaru model made from the 1990s.
2026 Subaru Solterra interior
While the exterior design's been revised to keep it fresh for its potential owners, it's the new interior layout that makes a statement. Pity that Subaru canned the option to have a yoke in it (boo...), but amid the dashboard changes, the boot space is still good for 452 liters with the rear seats present.
2026 Subaru Solterra
The EV powertrain gets a shakeup for the recent facelift. The front-wheel-drive ET-SS features a 73kWh battery with 224PS of power and 746km of driving range. The alpha of the range is the 4WD ET-HS with the same 73kWh battery but with an extra electric motor, producing a powerful 342PS and 687km of driving range.
The shakeup of the Solterra's powertrain is thanks to its new eAxle with silicon carbide semiconductors for greater efficiency and higher power while also being lighter and more compact.
For a car that weighs over two tons, the Solterra behaves like a normal crossover daily thanks to its Rack and Pinion steering, front struts, rear double wishbones, and ventilated disc brakes. It's not an enjoyable ride as expected, but it feels nice to drive and downright as regular as a regular show.
In terms of safety, the Solterra is packed with safety features such as Pre-Crash Safety, Blind Spot Monitor, and Advanced Park, among many others.
So, there you have it. If you want a Toyota bZ4X but your nearest dealership is a Subaru, the updated Solterra is your bet. With its updated EV powertrain and crisp design, the new Solterra is about taking a different approach to its familiar formula.
The 2025 Super Formula season concludes at Suzuka Circuit for the season finale, and as expected, it's a three-race finale to compensate for the recent cancellation of the final race at Fuji due to foggy conditions. With the title battle heating up between Sho Tsuboi, Ayumu Iwasa, and Kakunoshin Ohta, this is an event fans will remember forever.
In the first part of the season, Ayumu Iwasa narrowly defeated Tomoki Nojiri and Igor Fraga. In the second part, Igor Fraga achieved his first Super Formula victory by overcoming Tadasuke Makino and title contender Kakunoshin Ohta. Finally, in the last race of the season, Ayumu Iwasa secured his status as the 2025 season champion by beating Ren Sato and Kakunoshin Ohta.
Screengrab from Super Formula
As Iwasa was crowned Driver's Champion, the DoCoMo Team Dandelion Racing were crowned Team Champion, and Igor Fraga was named this season's Rookie of the Year.
This concludes the 2025 Super Formula season. See you next year.
Mamoru Hosoda, the visionary behind the animated classic Mirai, returns with his latest work, which is going to be a must-watch anime movie of the season.
Scarlet (2025 film)
Mamoru Hosoda's latest masterpiece, titled "Scarlet", made its debut at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, where it attracted significant attention. Set in the Medieval Times, the story follows Princess Scarlet, who, after failing to avenge her father's death, is plunged into the underworld, a realm inhabited by wandering souls. There, she meets a young man named Sai, a nurse from modern-day Japan. As she learns that Claudius, her uncle and the man who killed her father and seized her kingdom, is lurking in the underworld, Princess Scarlet must choose between vengeance and justice.
Another visionary masterpiece in the making since Mirai, Scarlet showcases a unique storytelling approach that blurs the lines between time and personal loyalty, as well as the path between vendetta and justice. This originality makes it feel like a blend of The Lord of the Rings anime movie, The War of the Rohirrim, and the universe of Makoto Shinkai. The film is gripping, emotional, and intense, revealing the true essence of this latest Mamoru Hosoda masterpiece.
If you loved Mirai, you should check out Scarlet. It's one of the must-watch anime movies not just for the entire autumn season but for the entire year 2025.
The Nijigasaki High School Idol Club has introduced the Monthly Songs project, similar to Aqours' monthly birthday song singles. Each month, one of your favorite members will have the opportunity to shine. For the November edition of the Nijigaku Monthly Songs project, Setsuna Yuki's here.
YES! to Tomorrow
Setsuna Yuki, voiced by Coco Hayashi, takes over the November edition of the Nijigaku Monthly Songs project with her featured song "YES! to Tomorrow". The penultimate installment includes this featured track and the additional song titled "think of you"
For the first time in the KYOJO series' eight-year history, the Japanese all-female rookie racing series, held mostly at Fuji Speedway, was transitioned from prototype racing to formula racing.
The decision to switch to formula racing stems from growing concerns about the participation of Japanese women in motorsport. Since the cancellation of the now-defunct W Series' Japanese leg—originally scheduled to take place alongside the F1 Japanese Grand Prix three years ago—there have been increasing worries that the ongoing F1 Academy series may not feature a Japanese driver or might not be held during next season's Japanese Grand Prix and in the foreseeable future.
Given these circumstances, the organisers of KYOJO felt that transitioning to formula racing was their only option. This move serves as an opportunity to send a message to the motorsport world: female drivers in Japan, whether local or foreign, deserve a chance to be part of all-female racing events.
The formula machine used in the 2025 KYOJO series, codenamed KC-MG01, is equipped with a turbocharged 1.4-liter engine that generates 176 horsepower. It also features a 12 kW hybrid system and is paired with a Sadev 6-speed paddle-shift transmission. The vehicle adheres to FIA F4 regulations regarding performance. In terms of suspension, it utilizes a double wishbone design with pushrods and adjustable anti-roll bars. The braking system is comprised of AP Racing 2-piston radial mount calipers and ENDLESS brake pads. Additionally, the car is outfitted with OZ Racing wheels and Bridgestone racing tires.
The 2025 KYOJO CUP season is packed with new and returning faces in the grid. A few foreign drivers are joining in the action, such as popular Asian-American racer and content creator, Hana Burton, as well as Thailand's Sitarvee Limnantharak, China's Zhao Yun Qing, and Kelsey Pinkowski from the United States.
Screengrab from KYOJO
The 2025 season kicked off last May 10-11 as a support race alongside the Inter Proto Series for Rounds 1, 3, and 5. Rounds 2 and 4 were support races that took place within the Super Formula 2025 season calendar.
Winning four out of five races, Rio Shimono, the driver of the #86 Dr.Dry with Team IMPUL KC-MG01, emerged as the 2025 season champion, holding her head high. In Round 2, Miki Onaga secured victory over Aimi Saito and Shimono.
With the successful transition of the KYOJO CUP from the VITA-01 to the KC-MG01, this Japanese all-female racing series has sent a strong message to the world: female drivers in Japan, whether local or foreign, deserve opportunities to participate in all-female racing events, particularly in the F1 Academy. While there's still more to achieve, we hope that the 2026 season will bring even more excitement to the new era of KYOJO.
The Nijigasaki finale trilogy continues with the second part, and this time, the girls are heading to Kansai for the next phase of the School Idol GPX.
Nijigasaki High School Idol Club Kanketsu-hen Chapter 2
Set shortly after the first film, the second chapter of the Nijigasaki High School Idol Club finale trilogy follows the girls as they travel to the Kansai region. Setsuna Yuki, Ai Miyashita, Karin Asaka, Rina Tennoji, Shioriko Mifune, and Mia Taylor are participating in the Kansai leg of the School Idol GPX, a competition where school idols from across Japan compete to become "the most popular school idol at the moment."
Unlike the first film, the second installment is set to bring intense drama by delving into the challenges faced by the featured idols. It raises more questions for fans who eagerly anticipate seeing the other members showcase their new songs. This chapter includes Mia's confrontation with her sister Chloe Taylor, Setsuna Yuki's quest for self-discovery and the true meaning of loyalty, and introduces a shadowy masked vigilante who seemingly appears out of nowhere. Overall, this second chapter delivers a gut-wrenching emotional experience.
As tensions continue to rise dramatically, this movie reveals the authentic essence of the Kansai region, featuring Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe. We can expect fans to flock to the locations highlighted in the film, creating a lively buzz around this "touring" experience. For LoveLivers, this is what tourism looks like, and the movie is sure to generate a lot of excitement.
From tensions to tourism, the second chapter of the Nijigasaki finale trilogy is a must-watch of the season. Those who enjoyed the first film last year can look forward to continuing with this latest installment.
Do you miss Liella? Their latest single has arrived in anticipation of their 7th live concert coming this February 2026.
OPEN THE G☆TE!!! (Liella! version)
OPEN THE G☆TE!!! (Liella! 2nd-3rd Generation version)
"OPEN THE G☆TE!!!" is the latest single from Liella! from Love Live! Superstar!! It was released in anticipation of their 7th live concert next year, giving fans something to enjoy while they wait. The single includes two covers: one featuring the entire group and the other showcasing the 2nd and 3rd generation members. Many Love Live! fans tend to overlook these earlier members, often thinking of Liella! as just a five-member group. However, the unit has now expanded to include 11 members.
No matter which cover you choose, you will be greeted by two new songs you can only listen to, such as "OPEN THE G☆TE!!!", performed by the entire Liella! girls, and "High Motivation", performed by the Liella! 2nd and 3rd Generation members.
If you missed Liella, it's best to check out their latest single. That's all you need to do.
Let's get to know about the legendary cars that are hard to get in Gran Turismo 7's Legend Cars, not only because of their extreme rarity that appears once in a blue moon, but also their outrageous price tag that takes almost forever to save one. Today, let's get to know about the Honda RA272, the race car that gave Honda its first-ever F1 race win.
The Honda RA272 is a Formula 1 car from the 1965 season, known for being the first Japanese vehicle to win an F1 Grand Prix at the Mexican Grand Prix with Richie Ginther driving. It featured a 1.5-liter V12 engine producing 230 horsepower, the highest output of its era, with a unique sound and high performance. The car had an aerodynamically advanced aluminium monocoque chassis and double wishbone suspension, weighing just 498 kg, which gave it an impressive power-to-weight ratio. Although it initially exceeded minimum weight regulations, improvements were made during the season to enhance handling.
Let's give the RA272 a quick lap around Goodwood to prove the legend is real. Roll the tape.
It did it in 1m20.416s.
Thanks to the RA272, Honda became synonymous with F1 racing.
What other hard-to-get legendary cars should I drive next? Stay tuned for more.
The CR-V, Honda's first true crossover SUV, celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2025. With six generations throughout its history, let's take a quick look back at three decades of the Honda CR-V.
2025 Honda CR-V e:FCEV
1st Generation (1995-2001) - The first CR-V was one of the first compact SUVs with a car-like ride and handling, offering the practicality of an SUV without sacrificing comfort. It also featured front-wheel drive (FWD) with an optional all-wheel drive (AWD). The CR-V's tall stance and distinctive styling made it stand out from the crowd. It also offered an innovative rear seat design and spacious cargo space.
2nd Generation (2001-2006) - The second generation of the vehicle features a more modern and aggressive design, along with enhanced interior space and safety features, such as side-curtain airbags. Additionally, the use of higher-quality materials has improved the overall feel. The revised all-wheel drive (AWD) system contributes to better performance. The vehicle has grown slightly in size, resulting in increased interior room and cargo capacity.
3rd Generation (2006-2011) - The 3rd generation had more technology, such as Bluetooth, navigation, and a more premium feel with better interior materials. The CR-V continued to offer AWD as an option, and there were safety upgrades, including standard stability control and more airbags. This generation had a sleeker, modern design, with more focus on fuel efficiency and improved handling.
4th Generation (2011-2016) - The standard features included a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a touchscreen interface. There was a greater emphasis on cabin comfort, featuring enhanced noise reduction and improved materials. The fourth generation showcased a more rounded design compared to its predecessors, and it also offered advanced safety features like lane departure warning and forward collision warning in higher trim levels.
5th Generation (2018-2022) - Recent updates to the technology features include the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as advanced safety features now standard across all trims, such as the Honda Sensing suite. This suite encompasses adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking. The exterior design has been refined, presenting sharper lines and a more upscale appearance. The interior quality has also seen significant upgrades, and the 1.5L turbo engine strikes a good balance between power and fuel efficiency. Notably, this is the first CR-V to offer a hybrid variant and the last to be manufactured in Japan, as Honda closed its Sayama plant, where it was produced, in 2022.
6th Generation (2024-present) - Imported from the United States, the CR-V's e:FUEL CELL powertrain generates 174 PS of power and 310 Nm of torque. It offers a driving range of 600 km on a full tank of hydrogen, along with an additional electric range of 60 km. This version of the CR-V is exclusively available in Japan and can only be leased.
2026 Honda CR-V
Honda is celebrating three more decades of the CR-V, and as a token of appreciation, the company announced that the sixth-generation Honda CR-V e:HEV will be released in Japan this winter. Imported from Thailand, this model will be available exclusively in a hybrid configuration. It features the e:HEV 2.0L dual-motor hybrid system, which produces 135 kW of power and 335 Nm of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Happy 30th anniversary and welcome back again, Honda CR-V.
MobilityResort Motegi serves as the final stop for the Autobacs Super GT 2025 Series. This finale signifies the end of an era for the Honda Civic Type R-GT racing machines, as they will be replaced by Prelude race cars for the 2026 season. Additionally, it marks the conclusion of the BRZ GT300 race car's EJ engine. With many bittersweet farewells, this finale will determine the champion of the series.
Screengrab from Super GT
The #1 au GR Supra defeated the #23 MOTUL AUTECH Z and the #100 STANLEY CIVIC TYPE R-GT to win not just the race but also the Autobacs Super GT 2025 Series GT500 class champion title. In the GT300 class, meanwhile, the #5 TEAM MACH 86 wins the finale against the #61 SUBARU BRZ R&D SPORT and the #666 seven x seven Porsche 911 GT3R. However, it's the #65 LEON PYRAMID AMG, which finished 6th in this finale, that takes home the GT300 class champion title.
Congratulations to the #1 au GR Supra and the #65 LEON PYRAMID AMG for becoming Autobacs Super GT 2025 Series champions!
This concludes the Autobacs Super GT 2025 Series. See you next year.
The tall kei minivans from the NMKV joint venture, the Mitsubishi eK Space, the Mitsubishi Delica Mini, and the Nissan Roox, have gained their full model changes. Let's find out how much these kei minivans have changed.
2026 Mitsubishi eK Space
2026 Mitsubishi Delica Mini
2026 Nissan Roox
The all-new Mitsubishi eK Space starts at 1,749,000 Yen, while the Delica Mini starts at 1,964,000 Yen, and the all-new Nissan Roox starts at 1,672,000 Yen, excluding additional costs. These new-generation NMKV kei minivans have been redesigned with new and exciting ways to please their drivers while maintaining their boxy characteristics that made them special.
2026 Mitsubshi eK Wagon
2026 Nissan Roox
2026 Mitsubishi Delica Mini
For starters, the exterior design retains its boxy attributes from the previous models, but how their designs differentiate between them holds a different story. In the eK Space and the base Roox variant, it's like a mashup between the Serena's back and the front of a certain Chinese EV city car I can't mention due to search query reasons. The Roox Highway Star, meanwhile, is like a mini-me Elgrand. As for the Delica Mini, the derpiest of the three, the iconic Delica Mini design from its predecessor remains. Even with the all-new look, it's still the Delica Mini that every Japanese family loved.
2026 Nissan Roox interior
2026 Mitsubishi eK Space interior
2026 Mitsubishi Delica Mini interior
The interior of these new models is spacious, maintaining the roomy feel typical of kei minivans. The driver's view highlights a modern layout featuring a Google-powered panoramic widescreen, which has become a standard in today's vehicles. However, there are no physical buttons or knobs for adjusting the volume or changing the radio station, which may be disappointing for some. The air conditioning controls are touch panels, but the gear lever is still present. Notably, the Delica Mini includes a unique dial for selecting driving modes, allowing drivers to switch between tarmac, gravel, and snow settings.
2026 Nissan Roox
2026 Mitsubishi eK Space
2026 Mitsubishi Delica Mini
These kei minivans are powered by the same 660cc BR06 three-cylinder DOHC 12-valve engine mated to a CVT gearbox. Thanks to some slight improvements, the fuel economy is up to 21kmpl for 2WD variants and up to 18.8kmpl for 4WD variants based on WLTC Mode standards. Turbocharging is reserved for the Roox Highway Star and the Delica Mini.
Most variants have Rack & Pinion Power Steering, front MacPherson struts, front ventilated disc brakes, and rear reading/trailing drum brakes. FF variants have rear torsion beam suspension, while 4WD variants have torque arm three-link suspension.
The eK Space, Delica Mini, and the Roox come with a wide variety of safety features from the 3D Multi-Around Monitor, e-Assist, and MI-PILOT, granting them a "Safety Support Car S Wide" credential.
With these new forms, the all-new Mitsubishi eK Space, Delica Mini, and the Nissan Roox are ready to tackle the new normal with their familiar shapes, new interiors, improved fuel efficiency, and tech. Kei car fanatics, rejoice.
Photo: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
With Love Live, fans are becoming familiar with the Ikizulive girls from "IKIZULIVE! LOVE LIVE! BLUEBIRD." Here comes the next step to familiarize the members with the Ikizulive! 1st Solo Single Series.
The Ikizulive! 1st Solo Single Series is a range of solo singles with each member performing two songs and the solo version of "What is my Life?"
Polka Takahashi (CV: Honon Ayasaki) performs the songs "浅草Guilty Girlの歌" and "オドルポルカ".
Mai Azabu (CV: Rina Endo) performs the songs "Public Style" and "ひっさつマイマイモード".
Akira Goto (CV: Seri Miyano) performs the songs "いつか碧" and "ジェットスターター".
Hanabi Komagata (CV: Kokoro Fujino) performs the songs "HIBANA―火花―" and "First Ride".
Miracle Kanazawa (CV: Aiha Sakano) performs the songs "HomeRun Queen!!" and "マジカル♡レシピ・シルブプレ！"
Noriko Chofu (CV: Ria Seko) performs the songs "恋のワンタイムパスワード" and "センチメートル・ランデヴー".
Yukuri Harumiya (CV: Yuki Okumura) performs the songs "Pray for love" and "二人はいつでもHappy End".
Aurora Konohana (CV: Akane Amasawa) performs the songs "キミは夜のポラリス" and "クラリトブライト".
Midori Yamada (CV: Honoka Kotomori) performs the songs "Little Green委員会" and "LOVE♡YOU♡Save the EARTH!!"
Shion Sasaki (CV: Aoi Suzunose) performs the songs "イキタクナイevery day" and "Trick or Toxic".
Which one is your favorite? Anyway, be sure to collect or stream the Ikizulive! 1st Solo Single Series at your most comfortable time. Either way, as Love Livers, there's no other choice.
The Honda N ONE e: is the company's second kei EV since the N VAN e:, and it can be yours with an MSRP of 2,699,400 Yen plus additional costs. Let's get to know more about this latest Honda EV kei car on the block.
2026 Honda N ONE e:
2026 Honda N ONE e: interior
The first-ever Honda N ONE e: shares a resemblance with the current-generation petrol-powered N ONE, but there are significant differences. It features a distinctive front design that includes charging ports, along with an interior layout that is completely different from its gasoline counterpart.
The design is surprisingly charming for a kei car, and Honda has embraced sustainability by using recycled materials in its construction. For instance, discarded Honda bumpers are collected, cleaned, and crushed to create the vehicle's front end. This innovative design not only sets the N ONE e: apart but also reflects Honda's history, creating a lasting connection to the brand.
The instrument panel is crafted from DURABIO, a bio-based resin known for its soft luster and color. This material also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the insulators are made from old Honda work clothes.
Asked about its EV powertrain, the N ONE e: runs on a 64PS MCF7 front electric motor connected to a 29.6kWh lithium battery, giving a driving range of a modest 295km by WLTC standards. As a city car that weighs a ton, it works rather well thanks to its Rack & Pinion power steering, front MacPherson struts, rear axle, front ventilated discs, and rear leading/trailing brakes.
The N ONE e: is loaded with Honda SENSING safety tech, post-collision braking system, emergency stop signal, hill start assist, agile handling assist, and others.
Another kei car with a so-so value for money, the N ONE e: may not be the ideal replacement for the cult classic Honda e, but common sense managed to find its way to this electric kei car for the masses. Whether you're a city mouse or a country mouse, consider this your travel buddy.
Available Colors: Platinum White Pearl, Lunar Silver Metallic, Cheerful Green, Fjord Mist Pearl, and Seavet Blue Pearl.
The Katamari Damacy series returns in this latest installment! The Prince of all Cosmos and his cousins are excited for you to roll through this newest adventure!
Once Upon a Katamari Damacy (PS5)
Once Upon a Katamari Damacy (Nintendo Switch)
"Once Upon a Katamari Damacy" is the latest installment in the Katamari Damacy series after a 14-year hiatus. In this game, players traverse time and space as The Prince. Tasked by his father, The King of All Cosmos, your objective remains consistent with previous titles: roll, collect, and grow your Katamari to its largest size to please the King and help restore the stars.
Various levels feature various objectives to clear. Some are easy to fulfill, while some can be somewhat tricky to finish. Achieve it, proceed to the next level. Fail, and you'll end up getting punished by The King, and you'll have to do it over again. Kinda admit, the "game over" sequences can be amusing.
Aiding your Katamari adventure are power-ups scattered somewhere, such as the clock that adds extra time, a magnet to attract nearby objects, and a rocket for added speed. Make good use of these power-ups and aim for the biggest Katamari!
There are 69 unlockable cousins to collect and play from iconic favorites to new additions. Think you can roll them all? What's even amusing is that you can create a cousin! The more cousins you collect, the more customization parts you'll unlock. Feel free to mix and match to create your own cousin.
Up for a challenge? You can take on online multiplayer and compete with up to four online players.
In franchise traditions, Once Upon a Katamari Damacy features a setlist of songs performed by well-known artists, including singer Clementine's version of Katamari Damacy. There's even a song performed by Gakuen IDOLM@STER's Saki Hanami as well!
After nearly a decade and a half of waiting, Katamari Damacy is back in an all-new adventure, and it's about time...and space. The Prince of all Cosmos and his cousins are ready. Are you?
The ND-spec Mazda Roadster, known globally as the MX-5, is now officially 10 years old, making it the longest-serving generation in the history of the Mazda Roadster. To celebrate this milestone, Mazda's motorsports division, Mazda Spirit Racing, has introduced a special version of the ND Roadster: the Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster. This exclusive car is available for you to drive only in Gran Turismo 7.
So, what's it all about, the Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster? What makes it the King of Mazda Roadster?
First revealed as a concept in the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon and then returned a year later as a full-fledged production model, the limited-edition Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster is the culmination not just of the ND-spec Roadster but of the whole lineage. It's the first of Mazda's new Mazda Spirit Racing brand, a brand synonymous with Mazda's motorsports activities.
Mazda Spirit Racing offers aspiring racers an exciting side hustle behind the wheel. Through its Challenge Program, participants will first compete in virtual e-sports using Gran Turismo 7, specifically in the Mazda Spirit Racing GT Cup. Afterward, they can progress to real racing events, starting with the entry-level Mazda Fan Endurance. From there, they can advance to the intermediate-class Roadster Party Race, ultimately having the chance to race in the prestigious Super Taikyu series while representing Mazda Spirit Racing.
The specifications of the MSR Roadster remain confidential since its addition to the GT7 car lineup. However, sources indicate that the Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster will feature the same 2.0L four-cylinder engine found in the RF model. This marks a significant development, as it is the first time this engine will be available in the open-top ND model's decade-long history in Japan. While the open-top ND models in global markets have had this engine, it has not been offered in Japan until now.
The limited-to-2200-units, normal Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster has 184PS of power from the said engine, while the limited-to-200-units Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster 12R, seen here, got its 2.0L engine beefed up to 200PS of power, making it the most powerful Roadster ever made. Both are mated exclusively to a 6-speed SKYACTIV-MT.
The optional Sports Package features Advan sports tires, sports suspension, a two-way limited-slip differential, sports muffler, and sports brake system.
To demonstrate the full extent of the ultimate Roadster, I went to Fuji Speedway, the venue of the annual Mazda Fan Festa, where Mazda fans gather to witness Mazda's greatest hits from the legendary 787B race car to its rotary icons like the RX-7.
By Gran Turismo standards, this car has a 0-100 kph time of around six seconds and a theoretical top speed of over 250 kph. I know this because I tested the car on Special Stage Route X to confirm its capabilities. While it is theoretically faster than a European saloon, its speedometer indicates a maximum of only 200 kph.
Anyway, let's roll the tape and find out if the ultimate Roadster's worthy of its prowess.
My attempt around the Fuji Speedway set a 2m12.224s lap time, the best I can do. Still, the 12R proved its worth as the Roadster to end all Roadsters.
From its inception to the present day, the Mazda Roadster exemplifies what a true sports car should be. It prioritizes driving dynamics over sheer speed and power. Although it may not match the acceleration of today's sports cars, its enjoyable driving experience is unmatched. The Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster has pushed the boundaries of the original Roadster in its quest to become the best entry-level sports car that has ever existed.
With the Mazda Spirit Racing Roadster ultimately known as the King of Roadsters, what's next for Mazda in the age of the new normal? The world will never know, but in the meantime, let's salivate with Mazda's last true sports car to the last mile. Enjoy it while it lasts.
