Suzuki and Mitsubishi Only Carmakers Implicated in Japanese Fuel Economy Test Irregularities
Japan's transport ministry says only Suzuki and Mitsubishi have so far submitted improper fuel economy data, following a nationwide audit triggered by the Mitsubishi scandal.
Japan’s transport ministry has confirmed that only Suzuki and Mitsubishi have so far been found to have used improper fuel economy testing methods, following a review of data submitted by all domestic automakers. The confirmation came after Suzuki admitted to using non-standard tests for all its 16 models sold in Japan, and after Mitsubishi’s earlier disclosure of manipulated fuel efficiency figures.
The ministry ordered every Japanese carmaker to resubmit fuel economy data by 18 May 2016, after Mitsubishi revealed in April that it had falsified test results for several of its kei cars. The audit aimed to establish whether similar practices were widespread across the industry. By the deadline, only Suzuki and Mitsubishi had reported non-compliance. According to a ministry official, no evidence of wrongdoing was found at other Japanese manufacturers, at least based on the data provided.
Suzuki’s admission and government response
Suzuki’s disclosure followed direct orders from the authorities. The company admitted it had used its own testing methods, rather than the official ones, and submitted incorrect data to regulators. The issue affected 2.1 million vehicles. The ministry described Suzuki’s practices as “outrageous” and demanded further clarification by the end of May 2016. Suzuki’s CEO publicly apologised for the company’s failure to follow national rules.
Mitsubishi’s manipulation of fuel economy figures first came to light in April 2016, leading to a broader investigation. The company admitted to using improper methods for years, affecting hundreds of thousands of vehicles. Mitsubishi later announced it would compensate affected customers, as covered in detail in Mitsubishi to Offer Compensation After Fuel Economy Scandal.
No evidence of wider misconduct among Japanese brands
The ministry’s findings set Suzuki and Mitsubishi apart from other Japanese automakers, at least for the time being. The government’s review did not uncover irregularities at companies such as Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda or Subaru. While the global industry has faced scrutiny over fuel and emissions testing, especially after the Volkswagen diesel scandal, Japan’s investigation has so far implicated only these two firms.
