An SUV Joins the Fleet: Kyosho's BMW X6M (1/18)

Some of the coolest cars come in unexpected forms. The BMW X6, a combination of SUV and hatchback, was a controversial design when released and is still a polarizing machine today. Nonetheless, this odd vehicle type was popular enough to spawn clones from other manufacturers. The Honda Accord Crosstour, Acura ZDX, and most recently the Mercedes-Benz GLE come to mind. I didn't initially like the design of the original X6, but it has grown on me over the years. So much so that I went and got it in scale model form.

Kyosho's 1/18 BMW X6M is the subject for today. This monstrosity was once the fastest production SUV on the planet, so it can definitely go despite what looks to be an overweight and lifted hatchback. It's muscular looks undoubtedly give it road presence, and the more I look at it, the more I'm starting to actually like it. Having the model in hand also helps in that regard.

Speaking of which, this is an older Kyosho release from back when they made dealer models for BMW. I'm assuming this example is not one of the dealer edition colorways as it comes in a Kyosho-branded box. In any case, the model should be the same. Given its age, it's clearly not as exquisite as most of the high-end stuff out there today. I noticed quite a few rough edges between body panels. The Alpine White paint job isn't the best and does not help hide any of the flaws on this model. Most of all, the front wheels are noticeably cambered, a characteristic typically attributed to budget models from the likes of Maisto and Bburago (which is why I now generally avoid them altogether).

Looking past the few bugs, it's a decent model that I think captures the real car very well. As is the case with BMW's of this era, there's not much to note regarding the engine bay and interior details. Even if the tires may be a bit too thick, the wheels here look great and are the standout of this model to me.

For those who like quirky cars, this X6M may be the one for you.

The Subaru Impreza WRX STi S207, from Kyosho's Samurai Line (1/18)

Everyone knows Kyosho for their R/C cars and blind-box 1/64 models, but they occasionally release models in the eighteenth scale as well. In the past, they've been known for their BMW dealer models; in my opinion, those were largely hit or miss. Now, they've shifted focus and have introduced two new lines for their 1/18 models. Their Ousia line, consisting of sealed models made of traditional diecast, focuses primarily on supercars and exotics. Then there's the Samurai line, which are resin models with a collective focus on "everyday" Japanese cars. That means lots of sedans, including this one here.

This S207 STi is part of said Samurai line and is a follow-up to the stock, World Rally Blue STi that Kyosho released last year. Both models are unique in that they are the only examples of the current-generation 'Rex made at this scale. Basically, STi fans, they are your only options. Unfortunately, these also come with a rather hefty price tag. Kyosho knows it has absolute power over an entire fan base, so they can get away with charging a premium. That's how collectibles work and, for the moment, it doesn't look like any other companies are willing to take a plunge at this much-beloved pocket rocket.

I collect with an open mind to all brands and models. This is my first introduction to the Samurai line, and the bar has already been set very high by the multitude of premium resin models on the market, most of which cost only about half of what this one goes for.

Right away, there are no issues to report regarding the overall look of the car. The wheels, stance, and offset are on point - they are the first things I look for when considering whether or not to splurge on a model. The paint is well-applied and looks great, a glossy yellow with a hint of orange. Overall, the details are sharp, with realistic photo-etch badges, a nicely finished exhaust system (the highlight for me), and a carbon fiber wing. One area where you would expect more for the price is the front grille, which is just a solid chunk of plastic with little depth. It's fairly common to see this with resin models, probably because of the way they are constructed - thick plastic shell covering a metal chassis. It's not a deal-breaker for me the way it is for many other collectors, so I'll say it's passable.

The verdict: this S207 is not the most sophisticated model, but it won't disappoint.

Limited to just 600 pieces, I expect they will go rather quickly just like the blue one did. The STi's enormous popularity and the relative rarity of them in the scale model world means there's likely more demand than supply. It's also available in black if bright colors are not your thing.

And it most certainly won't be the last Samurai for me.

The Honda Integra (DC2) Type R, by Ottomobile (1/18)

Honda has officially joined the Ottomobile/GT Spirit lineup, and they chose a good one to start off with. This is the second-generation Integra Type R, otherwise known as the DC2, and it paves the way for the EG Civic hatchback that will arrive in late June.

Japanese cars will always be welcome with open arms around here, and the Type R has a lot of fans excited for the direction that Otto/GT Spirit is heading in. While European cars will always be their bread and butter and arguably the fan favorites, this Integra, among others, proves that they can do JDM just as well. One of the advantages to resin models is the low production cost when compared to diecast models with opening parts. Fewer parts, lower tooling costs. Therefore, as a resin model company, one of their greatest strengths is in their ability to cover all bases with regards to vehicle selection and diversity. Outside of maybe one or two other small brands, this is your go-to option for the DC2, and it does not disappoint.

You can tell right off the bat that Otto nailed the proportions and overall look of the car. The ride height is just perfect, the wheels look great, and the model is well-detailed throughout, with exceptional attention to detail on the lights in particular. They chose the white-on-white color scheme for this general release, which is really the quintessential color combo for Honda sports cars. There is also an Asia-exclusive colorway that is yellow-on-white and is limited to just 300 pieces. I would have to say that one looks just as nice, but it sold out before I even found out about it.

One area of the model I did not like were the front grilles, which are simply painted in. It's the one evidence of cost-cutting, and given the simplicity of the front fascia, I feel it could have been easily done with perforated mesh instead. However, at this price point, it's more or less a non-issue; there are plenty of models out there that cost twice as much and still have solid grilles. Otherwise, there are no other glaring quality issues. This Integra makes a great addition to any JDM fan's collection and is sure to be highly desirable somewhere down the line.