Nissan Students Bring Custom Car Creations to the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon

The Tokyo Auto Salon (TAS) has long been a stage for automotive ingenuity, and this year’s event promises to deliver something special thanks to the next generation of Nissan innovators. Students from the Nissan Automobile Technical College’s Aichi and Kyoto campuses are set to unveil three remarkable custom builds: the NEO Skyline, Z Lealia, and Bluebird Kiwami. Each vehicle showcases a unique blend of nostalgia, innovation, and craftsmanship, offering a fresh perspective on classic Nissan models.

A Modern Homage: The NEO Skyline

The NEO Skyline is a love letter to the legendary Kenmary Skyline, brought to life by fourth-year students at Nissan’s Kyoto campus. Using the CV35 Skyline Coupe as a base, these students reimagined the iconic vehicle for today’s automotive enthusiasts. Its exclusive “Tomoaki Blue” paint—a vibrant hue with a pearl finish—nods to the bright metallic blue of the original Kenmary Skyline while delivering a contemporary edge.

The NEO Skyline retains the sleek silhouette that made the Kenmary a fan favorite, but the students incorporated modern enhancements to appeal to a broader audience. From its retro-inspired lines to its cutting-edge details, the NEO Skyline is a masterclass in blending past and present.

The Sports Station Wagon: Z Lealia

Breaking boundaries between performance and practicality, the Z Lealia redefines what a family car can be. Also crafted by Kyoto’s fourth-year students, this build merges the M35 Stagea platform with the rear design of a Nissan LEAF, creating a sports station wagon that turns heads.

The car’s widened rear fenders, inspired by the Fairlady Z, give it an aggressive stance, while the vibrant “Ikazuchi Yellow” finish pays homage to the RZ34 Fairlady Z. The Z Lealia is a statement piece for those who crave the spirit of a sports car without sacrificing utility.

Luxury Meets Sport: Bluebird Kiwami

From Nissan’s Aichi campus comes the Bluebird Kiwami, a reimagined version of the PU11 Bluebird Maxima. This project, crafted by third-year students, exudes sophistication while maintaining a sporty edge. The team spent just 2.5 months meticulously panel-beating and painting the car to achieve its stunning “Aurora Flare Blue Pearl” finish.

The Bluebird Kiwami embodies the modern vision of a luxury sedan, blending premium comfort with driving excitement. Its refined aesthetics and attention to detail reflect the students’ ambition to push the boundaries of what a classic sedan can offer.

A Showcase of Gen Z Creativity

These three vehicles aren’t just cars—they’re works of art that represent the vision and talent of the next generation of automotive enthusiasts. By reimagining classic Nissan models, these students have demonstrated their ability to respect tradition while embracing modern innovation.

The NEO Skyline, Z Lealia, and Bluebird Kiwami reflect the creativity and technical skill of Gen Z, offering a glimpse into the future of automotive design. From the bold paint finishes to the meticulous craftsmanship, each build is a testament to the dedication and passion of Nissan’s young talent.

See the Builds in Person

The 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon will be held from January 10 to 13, giving visitors a chance to see these custom builds up close. For fans of Nissan’s storied legacy and forward-thinking design, these cars are not to be missed.

Whether you’re drawn to the retro-modern flair of the NEO Skyline, the sporty versatility of the Z Lealia, or the luxurious refinement of the Bluebird Kiwami, these student-built vehicles promise to leave a lasting impression.