Is it True That Japanese Cars are Better Than European Cars?

Both Japan and Europe are renowned for producing world-class automobiles. Any model churned out by their carmakers is bound to make waves globally. While both of these nations attempt to surpass one another by rolling out one great vehicle after the other, the sheer excellence of engineering demonstrated by their automakers makes it tough to pick a winner. Therefore, both Japan and Europe are global leaders in car manufacturing, but can we pass a verdict that Japanese cars are better than their European counterparts, or vice versa. To find this out, we have carefully evaluated both Japanese and European vehicles across five main yardsticks. Now, the decision rests in your hands based on what you are looking for, so keep reading to find out:-

1. Fuel Efficiency

Nothing beats Japanese-manufactured vehicles when it comes to fuel efficiency. Over the years, Japan has come forward with numerous hybrid models and is globally renowned for producing environment-friendly and fuel-efficient vehicles, unlike its European counterparts. Because of the improved fuel economy, Japanese vehicles are also efficient in terms of CO₂ emissions. Compared to the rest of the world, Japan is quite ahead of technology and innovation. They use the latest tech to their advantage in producing fuel-efficient and hybrid cars. Popular examples include Honda Insight, Toyota Camry Hybrid, Honda Fit, and Toyota Prius. Interestingly, Japan is moving more and more towards producing zero-emission vehicles. The manufacturers are geared towards making their cars at least 30% more fuel-efficient by 2030.

2. Design

The design of cars is one element where Europe easily takes the lead over Japan. European carmakers place a lot of stress on a vehicle’s overall bodywork and appearance. This is the reason that even an average European car boasts a unique style and eye-catching design. Besides, European automakers tend to change their vehicles’ designs quite often. On the other hand, the Japanese prefer to stick to a particular design for a while. European brands are also known for their luxurious vehicles, and a luxury model would just be incomplete without the right looks to complement it. It is no surprise that brands like BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Ferrari, Porsche, and Lamborghini have emerged from Europe. They are globally known for producing ultra-stylish and aesthetically-pleasing designs. In fact, some of the most beautiful cars on sale for 2020 are manufactured by European automakers.

3. Performance

In terms of performance, again European carmakers bag the number one spot compared to their Japanese counterparts. Renowned automakers including BMW, Bugatti, Porsche, and Mercedes-Benz have been producing some of the best-performing vehicles for decades. Only a few other brands can surpass these in acceleration and power. Performance is measured across various factors including the suspension, steering, handling, and braking capabilities. European manufacturers focus quite a lot on these elements. Most performance cars are also built for speed in addition to the above-mentioned aspects. Consequently, both the interior and exterior of European cars are designed to reflect and support these capabilities.

4. Reliability

Reliability is a vital consideration for buyers when getting a car, and Japanese automakers know how to deliver on this front. Japanese are globally known for producing safe, reliable vehicles and have perfected their production techniques to support these expectations. Due to strict quality control and lean manufacturing techniques mastered over the years, the Japanese have implemented very high production standards in their vehicle manufacturing industry. Japanese automakers mostly focus on building cars for practicality, convenience, and longevity, which means fewer trips to the workshop or mechanic for day-to-day issues. According to Consumer Reports, Japanese brands including Toyota and Lexus have produced some of the most consistently reliable models over the years. This has earned them top spots in Auto Reliability Brand rankings, which is a testament to the claim that Japanese cars are highly dependable.

5. Cost

It is no secret that Japanese cars are some of the most reasonably-priced options out there without significantly compromising on quality. Japanese build their vehicles keeping in view the common persons. This idea makes them accessible to a large proportion of the population. The reason for low prices is the significant economies of scale in the Japanese manufacturing industry that allows the car manufacturers to lower their costs. European models, on the other hand, are a bit expensive and not affordable by the majority. European manufacturers mainly charge for the extra features and the perceived benefits associated with their brands, as well as, for the luxury and refinement their vehicles possess.

Key Fact

Car buyers have a multitude of preferences and requirements, and both European and Japanese cars appeal to their target audiences through their unique offerings. These competing car manufacturing giants constantly strive to outdo each other, which results in their customers getting the best. Some offer the most exquisite designs and performance, while others are better in fuel-economy and cost. Therefore, it is quite challenging to pass a straightforward verdict on who is better. It all comes down to your personal requirements and budget.