[2026 A Fresh Start!] Ranking of Desired Domestic Cars! Buy New or Used?

Domestic Car Popularity Ranking and Survey on New vs. Used Car Purchase Intentions.

📋 Article Processing Timeline

  • 📰 Published: April 1, 2026 at 20:00
  • 🔍 Collected: April 1, 2026 at 16:47
  • 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 17, 2026 at 13:38 (380h 51m after Collected)
## ■ What is the most desired domestic car right now? New or used, which do you choose? Car selection varies greatly depending on family composition, hobbies, commuting circumstances, and individual priorities. Some people look for good fuel efficiency, while others are drawn to cool aesthetics. So, what domestic cars are drivers truly desiring right now? For this reason, in collaboration with Goo-net Used Cars, we conducted a survey on 'Desired Domestic Cars' targeting 300 men and women nationwide who answered in a preliminary survey that they 'drive a car regularly'. *When quoting the contents of this press release, please follow these guidelines:* * Indicate that the source is a 'Survey conducted by NEXER Co., Ltd. and Goo-net Used Cars'. * Include a link to Goo-net Used Cars (https://www.goo-net.com/). **'Survey on Desired Domestic Cars' Overview** **Survey Method:** Internet-based questionnaire **Survey Period:** February 27, 2026 - March 5, 2026 **Target Audience:** Nationwide men and women who answered 'I drive a car regularly' in the preliminary survey **Valid Responses:** 300 samples **Questions:** **Question 1:** Do you drive a car? **Question 2:** Please tell us the one domestic car model you most desire right now. **Question 3:** Please tell us the reason for choosing that model. **Question 4:** If you were to purchase a car, would you choose new or used? **Question 5:** Please tell us the reason for your choice. *In principle, figures are rounded to two decimal places, so the total may not be 100%. ### Ranking of Desired Domestic Cars! ## ◆ 1st Place: Prius (Toyota) - 18 votes Survey respondents provided the following comments: * Because it has good fuel efficiency. (30s, Male) * Hybrids are cool. (50s, Male) * Because it's good for the environment. (50s, Female) * It has good fuel efficiency among sedans. (50s, Female) * Because I think it's a good plug-in hybrid car. (50s, Male) The 1st place winner was the 'Prius (Toyota)'. The Prius, synonymous with hybrid cars, overwhelmingly wins support for its high fuel efficiency. In an era where gasoline costs directly impact household budgets, it seems to be the first car that comes to mind for drivers who prioritize economy. ## ◆ Tied for 2nd Place: Jimny (Suzuki) - 16 votes Survey respondents provided the following comments: * It's compact and easy to drive, strong for outdoor activities. (40s, Male) * When customized, it looks like a G-Wagen and is cute. (40s, Female) * It's practical, has a cute shape, and stylish colors. (50s, Female) * Can drive vigorously on forest roads. (50s, Male) * Because the shape is cool. (50s, Female) Tied for 2nd place was the 'Jimny (Suzuki)'. The Jimny, which boasts genuine off-road performance despite being a Kei car, enjoys high popularity among both men and women. Its high degree of customizability, allowing owners to express their individuality, also contributes to its appeal. ## ◆ Tied for 2nd Place: Skyline GT-R (Nissan) - 16 votes Survey respondents provided the following comments: * Because I think it's the coolest in the world. (40s, Male) * Because I think it's the coolest domestic car. (50s, Male) * I want to experience the monster-class engine acceleration. (50s, Male) * Excellent performance and exterior design. (60s, Male) * I want to drive a sports car. (40s, Male) Also tied for 2nd place was the 'Skyline GT-R (Nissan)'. As symbolized by passionate comments like 'coolest in the world' and 'coolest domestic car,' the GT-R maintains a loyal fanbase with its overwhelming brand power and driving performance. It is characterized by attracting a segment that chooses it more for romance and aspiration than for daily practicality. ## ◆ 4th Place: Land Cruiser (Toyota) - 15 votes Survey respondents provided the following comments: * It's cool and aspirational. (60s, Female) * Because it seems like it can handle any rough road with ease. (50s, Male) * Because it's suitable for comfortable and spacious outdoor activities. (60s, Male) * It's an aspirational model. (40s, Female) * Cool and practical. (60s, Male) The 4th place winner was the 'Land Cruiser (Toyota)'. It was notable that the keyword 'aspiration' appeared frequently. The imposing form of this large SUV and its ability to traverse any terrain give it the presence of a 'dream car I want to own someday'. ## ◆ 5th Place: N-BOX (Honda) - 12 votes Survey respondents provided the following comments: * It seems convenient due to its sliding doors and boxy shape. (40s, Female) * Because it's easy to use and maneuverable. (40s, Female) * Because I want a spacious Kei car. (40s, Female) * Because it's convenient, as I'm currently driving one. (50s, Female) * Because I currently drive it and love it. (60s, Female) The 5th place winner was the 'N-BOX (Honda)'. The N-BOX, which consistently ranks high in sales volume, showed stable popularity in this survey as well. Its high utility in daily use, such as 'convenient sliding doors' and 'maneuverability,' was highly evaluated. ## ◆ 6th Place to Tied 10th Place Here, we will present the 6th to tied 10th places collectively, along with some reasons. **Tied for 6th Place: RAV4 (Toyota) - 10 votes** * The coolest SUV. (20s, Male) * Because I like the design. (40s, Male) * An SUV with a good exterior appearance and popularity. (60s, Female) **Tied for 6th Place: Spacia (Suzuki) - 10 votes** * The interior ceiling is high, making it feel spacious. Easy to get in and out with sliding doors. (30s, Male) * It's compact, easy to drive, and seems reasonably priced. (40s, Male) * Because I currently own one and find it easy to drive. (50s, Female) **Tied for 6th Place: Tanto (Daihatsu) - 10 votes** * Because it's a Kei car with low maintenance costs, a high roof, and seems spacious inside. (50s, Male) * Easy to ride and I like the exterior. (40s, Male) * I believe it's a Kei car, and the interior seems spacious. (60s, Female) **Tied for 6th Place: Roadster (Mazda) - 10 votes** * It's the most beautiful car currently available for purchase. (50s, Male) * I heard rumors that it's fun to drive. (50s, Male) * Because it's an aspirational open-top car. (50s, Male) **Tied for 10th Place: Step Wgn (Honda) - 9 votes** * It's family-oriented and highly practical. (40s, Male) * Because I currently own one, I'm used to driving it and it's easy to use. (30s, Female) * Spacious interior, can choose a turbo engine. (60s, Male) **Tied for 10th Place: Hustler (Suzuki) - 9 votes** * Because it combines cute looks with good maneuverability. (40s, Female) * Because it seems maneuverable and has a striking appearance. (50s, Female) * Because the design is good. (40s, Male) So, this time, the ranking turned out as follows: ## ■ 69.7% Responded They Would Choose 'New Car' Finally, we asked about the choice between new and used cars for purchase. The results showed 'New Car' at 69.7% and 'Used Car' at 30.3%. Approximately 70% of people chose new cars. So, what are the reasons for choosing each? **Those who chose New Cars** * Because there are fewer troubles after purchase and it provides peace of mind. (30s, Male) * Because I'm unsure about how the previous owner drove it. (30s, Male) * Because buying new and driving it for a long time is ultimately more economical. (40s, Male) * Because I want to add options as I like. (30s, Female) * Considering maintenance costs, new cars seem better. (40s, Male) **Those who chose Used Cars** * It's not too expensive, which is good. (20s, Female) * Because I can buy the grade I want at a bargain. (40s, Male) * Because I don't want to spend too much money on a car. (40s, Female) * Japanese cars last a long time, so used ones are sufficient. (50s, Male) * Because even a Kei car becomes quite expensive when new. (50s, Female) The most common reason for choosing a new car was 'peace of mind.' Points such as the absence of worries about breakdowns or troubles, and not having the 'quirks' of a previous owner, were mentioned. Opinions prioritizing long-term perspective and customization freedom, such as 'it's ultimately more economical if you drive it for a long time' and 'I want to add options as I like,' were also prominent. The reason for choosing used cars was overwhelmingly 'price.' With new car prices continuing to rise, being able to afford desired models while staying within budget is a significant advantage. ## ■ Summary In this survey, the 'Prius' ranked first as the most desired domestic car, followed by a tie for second place between the 'Jimny' and the 'Skyline GT-R.' Furthermore, while about 70% expressed a preference for 'new cars' for purchase, 30% chose 'used cars' due to price advantages. To find a car that suits you, it may be that comparing a wide range of options, regardless of whether they are new or used, is the first step towards a satisfying car life. **** When quoting the contents of this press release, please follow these guidelines: * Indicate that the source is a 'Survey conducted by NEXER Co., Ltd. and Goo-net Used Cars'. * Include a link to Goo-net Used Cars (https://www.goo-net.com/). **About NEXER Co., Ltd.** Headquarters: Rise Arena Building 11F, 4-5-2 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 170-0013 Representative Director: Yuya Miyata URL: https://www.nexer.co.jp Business Activities: Internet research, SEO, web branding, review content, real shop support, website production

FAQ

What is the most desired domestic car model in Japan right now?

The Toyota Prius ranked first, followed by the Suzuki Jimny and Nissan Skyline GT-R tied for second. These were chosen for reasons like fuel efficiency, design, and performance.

Which is more popular, new or used cars?

According to the survey, about 70% of respondents preferred new cars. Key reasons for choosing new cars include fewer troubles and customization options, while used cars are chosen for their lower price.

What can be understood from this survey?

It shows that consumers value not only economy but also brand image and driving pleasure when choosing a car. The sense of security associated with new cars also remains strong.