Maserati, Volkswagen and other foreign automakers are riding their best sales streak in years in Japan, as the economy improves and drivers like Taichi Matsukura try to stand out amid a sea of Toyotas.
"When I opened the door, the colors and interior immediately evoked Italy. The sound of the muffler got my heart racing," Matsukura, a 42-year-old restaurant designer, said about the Fiat Abarth 595C convertible he bought to replace his Honda CR-V.
"I don't play pachinko or golf. So at least I deserve a car to excite myself."