Over the decades, the Japanese auto industry has produced some amazing SUVs and always have something to offer, from the classic look of angular shapes, clean lines, and round headlights to high-tech sleek designs.
When the SUV boom began in the 1980s, automakers threw all their efforts into this promising direction. At the time, they didn’t stand out from the crowd, but looking back, they have become more attractive with age, considering that these days, crossovers and SUVs for sale are becoming more uniform. Today, the Indy Auto Man auto experts from Indianapolis prepared an overview of outstanding Japanese models of all times.
1. Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 (1960-1984)
Few SUVs have the same charisma as the classic Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40. Its simple, utilitarian look, defined by a flat, vertical grille and round headlights, perfectly reflects the Land Cruiser’s legendary reliability. Essentially a Japanese version of the Jeep Willy, the FJ40 surpasses its design. Although there have been many different versions over the years, from pickups to wagons, the basic two-door SUV is the one to go for because the large roof and short hood look significantly more attractive here and are not as cumbersome as in other variants. It proves that good design does not have to be complicated, and the new Land Cruiser has tried to revive this retro aesthetic.
2. First-generation Nissan Pathfinder (1985-1995)
The first-generation Nissan Pathfinder is a signature vehicle of the 1980s. Its bold, angular shapes and rugged proportions, borrowed from the Nissan Hardbody pickup, express the spirit of off-road adventure that many competitors (like the Ford Bronco and Jeep Cherokee) were trying to capture in those days. The Pathfinder’s size made it affordable, and the four-door version with hidden handles gave a finished look that Nissan models have maintained for decades. The Pathfinder didn’t just look like an off-roader, it was one with suspension elements from the Nissan Safari and a robust all-wheel drive system. Later versions became softer and instantly lost their charm. These cars are now extremely rare in the US.
3. Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution (1997-1999)
The Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution is the most unique model on this list. It is a homologated car created by Mitsubishi to participate in the Dakar Rally. It has all the attributes of a real SUV, with the craziest body kit one has ever seen: huge wheel arch extensions, studded tires, extreme ventilation, and wings at the rear. Yes, the Pajero may be compact, but you will immediately notice it on the road. Every line and curve in this model served a purpose, and Mitsubishi did not miss a single detail. Not to mention how impressive the car was from a mechanical standpoint (with MIVEC and a robust all-wheel drive system).
4. Infiniti QX70 (2009-2017)
In a way, the QX70 was a pioneer in the world of premium SUVs, introducing a sleek, coupe-like silhouette back when it debuted in 2009 (as did the FX). The QX70 is based on the company’s signature “Bionic Cheetah” design. Experts are still not quite sure what that means but the car has a cheetah-like appearance, with a long hood, flowing roofline, and muscular fenders that give it a sporty yet aggressive stance. Of all the generations, the one that came out during the FX-to-QX name change looks the best. The front and rear ends emphasized its sporty appeal in a way that previous generations lacked. While the QX may look a bit dated now, it has qualities that most of its competitors lack, and it’s going to be around for a long time, thanks to Infiniti QX70 distinctly sporty character.
5. Current Suzuki Jimny (2018-present)
The Jimny has long been the best compact SUV in the world, but it is not officially available in US dealerships. The Japanise manufacturers take a new generation to the next level with the perfect combination of modern technology, retro style, and a relatively affordable price. Jimmy retains the rugged silhouette, but its design has become more sophisticated. Many even call the Jimny a mini Mercedes G-Class (especially when viewed from the rear). Its rugged charm makes Suzuki Jimny attractive to tens of thousands of off-road enthusiasts, but its size makes it a good fit for city dwellers, proving that compact SUVs can be as stylish as they are functional.
6. Lexus GX 550 (2024-present)
This premium SUV has proven itself to be more capable than many of competitors, but it still offers enough luxury and comfort to justify its price, and a new look makes it a true segment leader. The bold, angular design, with crisp lines and imposing grille, makes GX550 instantly recognizable, while the squared-off fenders and upright profile make the vehicle look tall and sophisticated. The company has created a car that perfectly reflects the dual nature of the GX: built for off-road driving, it is also at home in a big city like Indianapolis. It is one of the most beautiful luxury SUVs today, and one of the best Lexus has ever made.
7. Mazda CX-90 (2024-present)
The last model on this list provided by Indy Auto Man technicians for your review is a newcomer, but experts consider it the best design among Mazda models. The CX-90 is the perfect embodiment of the brand’s pursuit of excellence: elegant, stylish, and sporty. The soft lines of the body give the impression that it’s sculpted from clay, with subtle curves and folds that give it character. The long hood, rear-wheel drive proportions, and sculpted body shape fully embody the brand’s KODO design philosophy, emphasizing elegance in motion. This is an outstanding car in its segment, ideal for those who want a real premium, without a dozen luxury badges on every detail. It is interesting to see how it will influence future models.
