The latest Hijet Face Kit from JET★GOGO brings a classic 1980s design back to life.
Instead of modern styling, this build focuses on something different: pure retro character.
In this article, we explore how JET★GOGO’s “Mayuge” style transforms a modern Daihatsu Hijet into a nostalgic 6th-generation tribute—while keeping all the daily usability of a contemporary kei truck.
What Is the “Mayuge” Hijet Style?
This kit is inspired by the 6th-generation Daihatsu Hijet (1981–1986).
That model became a design landmark for kei trucks in Japan, known for three unique features:
- Round, expressive headlights
- Simple horizontal grille
- Distinctive “eyebrow” turn signal placement
In Japan, that combination of front-end elements is affectionately called the “Mayuge” (眉毛) face—literally meaning “eyebrows.” The turn signals sitting above the round headlights give the truck a face that looks almost human—friendly, cheerful, and unmistakably retro.
For decades, this look defined what a “cute kei truck” meant in Japan. Now JET★GOGO is bringing it back for modern owners.
Why This Hijet Face Kit Feels So Different
Most kei truck customization today focuses on:
- Aggressive off-road styling
- Modern aero parts
- Lifted stances
- Contemporary color palettes
The JET★GOGO Retro Hijet Face Kit does the opposite.
It brings back a friendly, nostalgic design language that stands out in a market full of hyper-modern builds. Where other kits chase aggression, this one embraces character.
Key visual features:
- Round headlights that reference the original 6th-gen design
- Period-correct horizontal grille
- Retro turn signal placement above the lights
- Vintage-inspired bumper proportions
The result is a kei truck with real personality—not another aggressive off-road clone.
Designed for Modern Hijet Trucks
Even though it looks vintage, this kit is engineered for modern Daihatsu Hijet platforms:
- 500-series Hijet Truck & Jumbo (current generation)
- 200-series Hijet Truck & Jumbo (9th generation)
That coverage is important. Owners of both the newest and the older 25-year-import-eligible Hijets can enjoy the same retro transformation.
Main Components
The kit includes everything needed for a complete front-end conversion:
- Front mask assembly
- Vintage-style grille
- Retro-styled bumper
- Round headlights
- Corner lamps
- Period-correct turn signals
This is not a simple bolt-on accessory. It’s a full front-end transformation that fundamentally changes how the truck looks and feels.
Two Styles: Standard vs. Big Bumper
JET★GOGO offers two versions of the kit for different aesthetic preferences.
Standard Version
- Clean retro style
- Closer to the original 1980s design
- Balanced, subtle presence
- Best for daily drivers wanting authentic vintage feel
Big Bumper Version
- More aggressive presence
- Stronger custom identity
- Deeper front-end proportions
- Best for lifestyle builds and show trucks
Same base concept, different attitude. Both versions maintain the “Mayuge” identity while offering different levels of visual impact.
Pricing (Japanese Market)
500-Series Hijet
| Version | Price (JPY) | USD Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | ¥198,000 | ≈ USD $1,320 |
| Big Bumper | ¥223,300 | ≈ USD $1,490 |
200-Series Hijet
| Version | Price (JPY) | USD Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | ¥236,500 | ≈ USD $1,580 |
| Big Bumper | ¥267,300 | ≈ USD $1,780 |
Note: Prices reflect Japanese domestic market only and are tax-included. USD figures are based on approximate exchange rates as of July 2026. Final U.S. cost includes shipping, import duties, dealer markup, and installation labor.
Optional Parts for Deeper Custom Builds
Owners can take the retro build even further with additional parts:
| Optional Part | Price (JPY) | USD Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Chin spoiler | ¥22,000 | ≈ USD $147 |
| Roof wing | ¥27,500 | ≈ USD $184 |
| Rear wing | ¥27,500 | ≈ USD $184 |
| Side panels | ¥66,000 | ≈ USD $440 |
| Over-fenders | ¥88,000 | ≈ USD $587 |
From mild retro to full custom build—there’s enough flexibility to match any owner’s vision.
Why This Matters for U.S. Kei Truck Fans
For North American buyers, this kind of retro build hits a real sweet spot.
It offers:
- Classic Japanese design language
- Modern usability from a current-generation truck
- Unique visual identity in a market full of stock imports
- Affordable customization compared to full restoration
- Bolt-on installation without major bodywork
That combination is exactly why retro kei truck builds are gaining popularity in the U.S. import scene.
The Mayuge face is instantly recognizable to anyone familiar with 1980s Japanese design—but rare enough in North America to genuinely stand out. For owners who want their kei truck to have real character (not just off-road aggression), this kit delivers.
Not Just Style—It Changes the Truck’s Character
This kit doesn’t just add parts. It changes how the truck feels—both to look at and to own.
Before Installation
- Work-focused
- Plain and utilitarian
- Purely functional appearance
After Installation
- Playful and expressive
- Collectible-feeling
- Lifestyle-oriented
Same truck, completely different identity. That transformation is what makes the Retro Hijet Face Kit more than just another aftermarket product.
Final Takeaway
The JET★GOGO Retro Hijet Face Kit proves something important: you don’t need extreme mods to stand out.
A well-designed retro conversion can:
- Add real personality
- Increase visual appeal dramatically
- Preserve everyday usability
- Reference iconic Japanese design history
- Create a truck that feels genuinely unique
That balance between nostalgia and practicality is what makes kei truck culture so interesting today. It’s not about who has the biggest lift or the loudest exhaust—it’s about who has the most character.
The Mayuge look nails that character in a way few other kits can match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What does “Mayuge” mean?
“Mayuge” (眉毛) is the Japanese word for “eyebrows.” The name refers to the distinctive turn signal placement above the round headlights on the 6th-generation Daihatsu Hijet (1981–1986). This layout gives the truck a friendly, expressive face that looks almost human.
Q2. Can I install the Face Kit on any Hijet?
The kit is designed for 500-series (current) and 200-series (9th generation) Daihatsu Hijet Trucks and Jumbo variants. Compatibility with other kei truck brands (Suzuki, Honda, etc.) is not supported. Always verify fitment with JET★GOGO for your exact model year.
Q3. What’s the difference between Standard and Big Bumper versions?
The Standard version stays closer to the original 1980s design with balanced, authentic proportions. The Big Bumper version has a more aggressive, deeper front-end for owners who want stronger visual presence. Both share the same core “Mayuge” identity.
Q4. Is professional installation required?
While mechanically inclined DIY owners can install the kit, professional shop installation is recommended due to the number of components (front mask, grille, bumper, lights, wiring). A typical shop install takes 6–10 hours.
Q5. Is this kit available in the U.S.?
JET★GOGO parts are produced in Japan and typically imported through specialty JDM parts dealers. U.S. pricing includes shipping, import duties, and dealer markup on top of Japanese retail prices. Verify current availability with your preferred kei truck importer.
Next Steps
Want to explore more kei truck customization and retro builds? Continue with these guides:
- Best Kei Truck Wheels: XTREME-J QUAD & Off-Road Style Guide
- Best Kei Truck Styling Parts That Make a Difference
- Why People Enjoy Customizing Kei Trucks
- Why Complete Kei Truck Builds Are Becoming Popular
- Suzuki Carry Retro Build: Sunny Truck Style Conversion
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute installation, mechanical, or safety advice. Product compatibility depends on your exact model year and trim. Pricing reflects Japanese domestic market only and does not include U.S. shipping, import duties, or dealer markup. Always consult a qualified mechanic and your state DMV before installing aftermarket body parts on a U.S.-registered kei truck.
Sources and Verification
- JET GOGO — official retro face-kit specifications
- Daihatsu — Hijet product history
- Editorial archive: Magazine Daichi / Kei Truck Oukoku (licensed source material).
Sources checked: July 24, 2026.
Written by Kie Kotani
Editorial review: Kei Truck Oukoku editorial team
Last updated: July 1, 2026