Kei Trucks 2025 Ranking showcases Japan’s most loved and versatile mini trucks used in farming, construction, business, and weekend adventures. These light trucks are not only practical work vehicles but have also become an essential part of daily life in Japan. In this article, we rank the top 8 kei truck models of 2025 and introduce their unique features, strengths, and the types of people who choose them.
Top 8 Most Popular Kei Trucks
1st : Daihatsu Hijet Truck
This light truck is the most common work vehicle seen throughout Japan, used by farmers, construction companies, and local governments. Its long bed makes it easy to load long items, and its numerous hooks allow for secure fastening of harvested crops, building materials, and tools. Many models are equipped with CVTs and Smart Assist, making it a popular all-around vehicle for commuting in mountainous areas, shopping, and weekend camping and fishing. The jumbo version offers a good balance of bed space and living space, making it popular for couples to drive or visit roadside stations. It’s especially popular in rural areas.
2nd : Suzuki Carry
This vehicle excels on paddy field paths and narrow alleys, making it a popular delivery vehicle for rice farmers and small businesses. Its low loading platform makes it easy to load and unload heavy bags of rice and beverage cases. Its maneuverability, 4WD, and powerful engine make it resistant to rough roads, making it ideal for mountain villages and port towns. The Super Carry’s spacious interior makes it a popular choice for resting and sleeping in. With a wide range of custom parts available, an increasing number of users are customizing their vehicles for fishing and camping, allowing them to balance work and leisure.
3rd : Nissan NT100 Clipper (Clipper Truck)
This Nissan-branded light truck is a favorite among urban and suburban equipment contractors and small construction companies. Built on the tried-and-true Carry family, it’s highly reliable and boasts reliable parts and maintenance, making it a popular choice among corporate customers. Its compact body and small turning radius make it easy to fit into tight construction sites and multi-story parking garages, making it a beloved “work tool” for cruising around city sites from morning until night. It’s also the preferred choice for fleets of companies seeking a fleet of Nissan company cars, blending seamlessly into the cityscape as a logo-emblazoned sales vehicle.
4th : Subaru Sambar Truck
The Sambar truck is often chosen by those working in harsh environments, such as areas with heavy snowfall or along the coast. While currently an OEM for the Hijet, its rust-prevention measures and 4WD performance make it a reliable choice for snow removal, cargo transport at fishing ports, and other jobs exposed to rust and salt damage. With its characteristically solid suspension and stability, it’s a beloved companion, offering comfort even on long mountain road trips. It’s also a favorite choice for “Subaru farmer” drivers, who have switched from the original Sambar.
5th : Mitsubishi Minicab Truck
The Minicab Truck is a popular choice for mountain-climbing jobs, including farmers, forestry workers, and electrical and communications engineers. It combines the reliability of the Carry-on series with the maneuverability of a short wheelbase, making it easy to handle even on narrow forest roads and sharp curves. Choosing a 4WD or differential-locking model makes it a reliable vehicle for muddy and snowy terrain, earning it recognition as a “light truck with mountain versatility.” The Mitsubishi brand’s tool-like atmosphere is also a reason for its enduring popularity, making it a trusted partner for mountain work.
6th : Toyota Pixis Truck
Available at Toyota dealerships, the Pixis Truck is a light truck often chosen as a company vehicle by farmers and self-employed individuals. While its Hijet-like interior boasts proven practicality, its appeal lies in the peace of mind of knowing it’s cared for at a Toyota dealership alongside other passenger vehicles. Often used for long-term family use, it’s often loaded with cargo during the busy farming season and used as a companion for outdoor activities and DIY projects during the off-season. For corporations, it’s also common to pair it with a Hiace, efficiently covering both sales and on-site duties.
7th : Mazda Scrum Truck
The Scrum Truck enjoys quiet popularity among farmers and construction companies that work with local Mazda dealers. Based on the Carry, it boasts proven reliability and ease of maintenance. Its appeal lies in its simple, timeless design and straightforward construction that prioritizes ease of use in the cargo bed. Rather than flashy customizations, it’s beloved as a “behind-the-scenes” light truck that quietly works as a daily work tool. Many owners keep their used vehicles for a long time.
8th : Honda Acty Truck (Discontinued)
Even though new sales have ended, the Honda Acty Truck remains a firm favorite on the used market. The agile handling and spacious cargo bed, unique to its MR layout with the engine located under the bed, make it a popular choice for a wide range of users, from mountain farms and construction sites to enthusiasts who enjoy forest road driving. Its distinctive Honda engine feel and robust construction make it a popular choice, with many owners cherishing and maintaining it until the very last one. It also makes a strong presence at classic car events and light truck meets.