Mitsuoka M55 RS The Retro Civic Explained

Mitsuoka has released its latest creation, the M55 RS. This car blends modern Honda engineering with classic American and Japanese car design. For car enthusiasts curious about this unique vehicle, here are the key questions answered.

What exactly is the Mitsuoka M55 RS?

The M55 RS is a special edition vehicle from Japanese coachbuilder Mitsuoka. It starts its life as a standard Honda Civic but receives a completely new exterior body. The design is heavily inspired by 1970s American muscle cars, such as the Dodge Challenger, as well as classic Japanese models like the “Kenmeri” Nissan Skyline. The only parts of the exterior carried over from the donor car are the doors, roof, and windows.

What are its performance specifications?

The M55 RS uses the Honda Civic RS as its foundation, not the high-performance Type R model. It is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 180 horsepower. This model is offered exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission, a choice that emphasizes a direct and engaging connection between the driver and the car rather than maximum acceleration figures.

How is the RS version different from other M55 models?

The RS designation adds several exclusive features that set it apart from other M55 editions. It is available in unique paint finishes, including Shore Blue Metallic and Nardo Grey. The exterior features special RS badging and distinct alloy wheels. Inside the cabin, the custom leather seats have RS embroidery and red contrast stitching, a detail that is also applied to the leather gearknob.

Why does it cost twice as much as a Honda Civic?

The price for the M55 RS is set at ¥8,888,000, or approximately $55,700. This is about double the cost of the standard Honda Civic RS it is based on in Japan. The high price reflects the extensive custom craftsmanship involved in its creation. Mitsuoka completely redesigns and builds the front and rear ends of the car by hand. Furthermore, its exclusivity drives up the value; only 55 units of the M55 RS will be produced for the 2026 model year. Buyers are paying for a unique, hand-finished vehicle and its rarity, not just the underlying mechanics.