14. Mazda Carol
The Mazda Carol made its debut in 1962, quickly earning attention for its innovative engineering and stylish looks. Notably, it featured independent suspension—an uncommon luxury for kei cars of its era. The Carol competed directly with early icons like the Mitsubishi Minica and Subaru 360, carving out its own niche in a crowded market. Mazda’s commitment to advanced features and distinctive design helped the Carol stand out in the formative years of kei car history. [Source]